A
T E A M
2 0 1 9 AN NU A L RE P O RT
Letter to our Shareholders
Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc.
Dear Fellow Shareholders,
When I wrote you last year, I expressed my sincere optimism for the future of our Company as we sought to redefine the role of a
broadcaster in the 21st Century. Thanks to a number of strategic acquisitions and initiatives, we have achieved even greater success
in 2019 and transitioned to a more diversified media company. Our Company has never been in a better position to continue to
grow and capitalize on an evolving media marketplace. Our achievements in 2019, not just for our bottom line, but also our strategic
positioning for the future, solidify our commitment to diversify and grow. As the new decade ushers in technology that continues to
revolutionize how we experience live television, engage with consumers, and advance our content offerings, Sinclair is strategically
poised to capitalize on these inevitable changes. From our local news to our sports divisions, all supported by our dedicated and
innovative employees and executive leadership team, we have assembled not only a winning culture but ‘A Winning Team’ that will
serve us well for years to come.
A Winning Team
Sinclair entered 2019 with lofty goals, and the year proved to be anything but ordinary. We achieved numerous wins in key verticals
affirming our status as a leader in the future of media. Our 2019 highlight reel shows exciting and strategic plays, including expanding
our reach into local sports, increasing our focus on investigative reporting, enhancing our vertically specialized marketing services,
advancing the adoption of NEXTGEN TV (previously known as ATSC 3.0), and continuing to expand our digital streaming
offerings. These milestones were only possible thanks to the hardworking talent on our incredible team.
Knocking It Out of the Park
Sinclair’s foray into providing live, local sports coverage began over five years ago, starting with high school sports, then college sports,
and eventually the acquisition of Tennis Channel. It was 2019, however, when we hit a home run, acquiring the 21 FOX regional
sports network brands (RSN) from Disney, launching Marquee Sports Network with the Chicago Cubs, and taking an ownership
stake in the Yankees Entertainment Sports Network (YES). Sinclair’s RSN portfolio now consists of 23 RSN brands, representing
45 professional teams across baseball, basketball, and hockey. As the largest owner of RSNs, we now have an opportunity to innovate
in this arena as well. Our expertise in producing content for multiple screens and launching fast-growing digital assets will drive our
approach and guide our efforts in creating more content that engages fans in new, modern ways.
While the industry continues to welcome technologies that change the way we watch live games, the passion that sports fans have for
their home teams will endure. This unrivaled loyalty is what makes sports media the stalwart in live television programming and why
ratings continue to be impressive. To maximize the potential of these rights, we will focus on creating a more engaging experience for
viewers, including partnering with leaders in content and engagement. This includes our intention to develop a new app that will be
home to additional team-centric content, will allow for more personalization and interactivity, and will offer free-to-play and real-
time legalized sports betting, in addition to streaming live games. While our goal is to provide a winning consumer experience, our
advertising partners also will benefit from our enhanced offerings underpinned by our approximately 5,000 live games per year that
reach some of the most desirable audiences.
Local News Continues to Deliver Results
As we venture further into new industry verticals, we remain committed to the local news that helped establish and solidify our
Company as a leader and innovator in the industry. According to Pew Research, television remains the “most common place for
Americans to get their news, with local TV outpacing cable and network TV.” This bodes well for us as we enter into one of the
biggest news cycles in recent years – the 2020 Presidential Election. While local TV station revenue typically increases during the
election season thanks to political advertising spending, we estimate that 2020 will be a record-setting year due to heightened interest
surrounding the outcome of this particular presidential race and given the amount of campaign funds already raised.
Whether it is election-focused or not, we take our role as advocates for the public seriously. This is why in 2019 we made the
commitment to increase our investment in and focus on investigative journalism. This follows the success of our hard-hitting and
award-winning investigative initiative, Project Baltimore, which has shed light on failures in the Baltimore City and Baltimore
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
David D. Smith
Chairman of the Board,
Executive Chairman
Frederick G. Smith
Vice President
J. Duncan Smith
Vice President, Secretary
Robert E. Smith
Director
Howard E. Friedman
Director
Daniel C. Keith
Director
Martin R. Leader
Director
Benson E. Legg
Director
Lawrence E. McCanna
Director
DIVISIONAL OFFICERS
Mark A. Aitken
President, ONE Media, 3.0 LLC
Stephen R. Altshuler
President, Triangle Sign & Service LLC
W. Gary Dorsch
President, Keyser Capital LLC
Jeffrey Krolik
President, Regional Sports Networks
Kenneth A. Solomon
President, Tennis Channel Inc.
Robert D. Weisbord
President, Local News
and Marketing Services
Andrew H. Whiteside
President, Dielectric LLC and
General Manager,
Acrodyne Technical Services LLC
CORPORATE OFFICERS
David D. Smith
Executive Chairman
Frederick G. Smith
Vice President
J. Duncan Smith
Vice President
Christopher S. Ripley
President & Chief Executive Officer
Barry M. Faber
President, Distribution
& Network Relations
Lucy A. Rutishauser
Executive Vice President,
Chief Financial Officer
Delbert R. Parks III
Executive Vice President,
Chief Technology Officer
Donald H. Thompson
Executive Vice President,
Chief Human Resources Officer
Brian S. Bark
Senior Vice President,
Chief Information Officer
David R. Bochenek
Senior Vice President,
Chief Accounting Officer
& Corporate Controller
David B. Gibber
Senior Vice President,
General Counsel
Scott H. Shapiro
Senior Vice President,
Chief Development Officer
ANNUAL MEETING
The Annual Meeting of stockholders
will be held at Sinclair Broadcast
Group’s corporate offices,
10706 Beaver Dam Road
Hunt Valley, MD 21030
Thursday, June 4, 2020 at 10:00am.
INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC
ACCOUNTING FIRM
PricewaterhouseCoopers, LLP
100 East Pratt Street, Suite 2600
Baltimore, MD 21202-1096
TRANSFER AGENT AND REGISTRAR
Questions regarding stock certificates,
change of address, or other stock
transfer account matters may be
directed to:
American Stock Transfer & Trust
Company, LLC
Operations Center
6201 15th Ave.
Brooklyn, NY 11219
Toll Free: 1-800-937-5449
Email: help@astfinancial.com
Website: www.astfinancial.com
FORM 10-K, ANNUAL REPORT
A copy of the Company’s 2019
Form 10-K, as filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission,
is available, at no charge, on the
Company’s website www.sbgi.net
or upon written request to:
Billie Jo McIntire
Director, Investor Relations
Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc.
10706 Beaver Dam Road
Hunt Valley, MD 21030
410-568-1500
COMMON STOCK
The Company’s Class A Common
Stock trades on the Nasdaq Global
Select Market tier of the NasdaqSM
Stock Market under the symbol SBGI.
County public school systems. Our impactful reporting has resulted in calls for investigations by state lawmakers and a landmark
judicial ruling in a public records case requiring greater transparency by city schools.
We are determined to expand this type of journalism with more than 20 of our news markets expected to launch their own
investigative projects on topics of importance to their communities, including homelessness, the opioid crisis and education. With
more than 2,500 hours of live, local news per week, our work in this area is unrivaled. Our news teams across the country won more
than 385 awards throughout the year, including four coveted National Edward R. Murrow Awards, 30 regional Edward R. Murrow
Awards, 95 regional Emmy Awards and a national investigative reporting award from the Investigative Reporters and Editors Inc.
Pushing Next Generation Broadcast Over the Goal Line
The era of NEXTGEN TV™ (based on the ATSC 3.0 standard) is upon us, thanks in no small part to the incredible Sinclair-backed
teams who, for over 15 years, have been at the forefront of this promising technology. We are excited to say that in 2020, the industry
is poised to officially launch NEXTGEN TV in dozens of markets.
We kicked off 2019 with high-profile partnerships that have allowed us to collaborate on over-the-top (OTT), 5G, and over-the-
air (OTA) technologies. Cast.era, our joint venture with SK Telecom, is focused on products to enable NEXTGEN TV including
cloud media tools and infrastructure, automotive data delivery, and personalized advertising for broadcasting and OTT services.
Our partnership with India-based Saankhya Labs has continued to show promising results as well, with the first NEXTGEN TV-
enabled mobile chips for phones being readied for production. Late in 2019, our efforts were bolstered when the International
Telecommunications Union (ITU) adopted ATSC 3.0 as a recommended global digital broadcast standard. With the backing of
this United Nations-affiliated organization, it is clear that NEXTGEN TV will change the way audiences around the world connect
and interact with broadcast spectrum and television.
With consumer electronics manufacturers expecting to bring 20 NEXTGEN TV-enabled televisions to the market this year, our
goal is to fully realize NEXTGEN TV as the new reality. This incredibly promising technology is poised to greatly improve the value
of the broadcast industry.
STIRRing up the Streaming Wars
Since its launch in early 2019, STIRR, our free ad-supported streaming service, has added over 100 linear channels and 5,000 hours
of video-on-demand (VOD) content. STIRR’s most popular channel, STIRR City, uniquely offers a lineup based on the viewer’s
hometown, or city of choice, anchored by local news, syndicated TV series, movies and lifestyle programming. In 2019, more than
130,000 hours of live, local news were streamed across STIRR City channels, a demonstration of how we are responding to and
competing in the evolving media landscape.
STIRR recently added 2020 LIVE, a new channel dedicated to continuous, live access to daily campaign event feeds from across the
country, including town hall meetings and stump speeches. This channel provides our audience with a transparent, commentary-free
view into the campaign trail. Additionally, STIRR will soon offer on-demand viewing of some of the most popular syndicated shows,
including Judge Judy, Dr. Phil, The Ellen DeGeneres Show, Wheel of Fortune, and Jeopardy, with the intention of fueling
further growth.
Employer of Choice
Not only are we committed to setting new benchmarks to advance and modernize the industry, we are also committed to increasing
employee satisfaction and quality of life, as we strive to be the Employer of Choice. Our goal is to retain and recruit the best employees;
those who share our creativity and leadership culture. We consistently review our benefits, and recently increased the 401(k) company
match and improved paid time off benefits, while also maintaining and enhancing affordable health care. In addition to these positive
changes, we took the bold step to lead the industry in implementing a $15 minimum wage effective for 2020 to applicable employees.
Delivering Growth
Our operating successes and employee passion are apparent in our financial results. In 2019, our total revenue grew approximately
39% and adjusted EBITDA by approximately 25%, in large part due to our transformational acquisition of the RSNs.
While macro concerns relating to cord-cutting continue to exist for pay TV distributors and content providers, we believe that
Sinclair is well-positioned to grow in this environment. We have created a more stable company long-term, having diversified by
revenue generation, geographic location, and platform distribution, and offering the most important content that supports the pay
TV bundle, in addition to having a strong balance sheet and liquidity position.
Next Season
Sinclair’s new position as a diversified media company still honors our legacy – one that has always championed connecting people
with content everywhere and taking on challenges with zeal and forward-thinking creativity. We believe we are well-prepared for any
curveballs the future may throw at us. We are recruiting the brightest minds, adopting technology for the future, providing unique
value propositions across all our segments, and setting new industry benchmarks. Collectively, all signs point to another winning
season for our Company. We thank you, our employees and shareholders, for your continued support and look forward to our
future success.
David D. Smith
Chairman of the Board
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Business
Forward-looking Statements
Selected Financial Data
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure About Market Risk
Market For Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuers Purchases of Equity Securities
Controls and Procedures
Consolidated Balance Sheet
Consolidated Statement of Operations
Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income
Consolidated Statements of Equity
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flow
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
2
9
11
13
30
30
32
34
35
36
37
40
41
89
BUSINESS
We are a diversified television media company with national reach and a strong focus on providing high-quality content on our
local television stations, regional sports networks, and digital platforms. The content, distributed through our broadcast
platform and third-party platforms, consists of programming provided by third-party networks and syndicators, local news,
college and professional sports, and other original programming produced by us. Additionally, we own digital media products
that are complementary to our extensive portfolio of television station and RSN related digital properties. Outside of our media
related businesses, we operate technical services companies focused on supply and maintenance of broadcast transmission
systems as well as research and development for the advancement of broadcast technology, and we manage other non-media
related investments. We are a Maryland corporation founded in 1986. Our principal executive offices are located at 10706 Beaver
Dam Road, Hunt Valley, Maryland 21030. Our telephone number is (410) 568-1500 and our website address is www.sbgi.net.
The information contained on, or accessible through, our website is not part of this annual report and is not incorporated herein
by reference.
Segments
As of December 31, 2019, we have two reportable segments: local news and marketing services and sports. Our local news and
marketing services segment is comprised of all of our television stations. Our sports segment is comprised of our regional sports
networks. We also earn revenues from our owned networks, original content, digital and internet services, technical services, and
non-media investments. These businesses are included within other.
Local News and Marketing Services
As of December 31, 2019, our local news and marketing services segment consists primarily of our broadcast television stations
(stations). We own, provide programming and operating services pursuant to local marketing agreements (LMAs), or provide
sales services and other non-programming operating services pursuant to other outsourcing agreements (such as JSAs and SSAs)
to 191 stations in 89 markets. These stations broadcast 629 channels, including 241 channels affiliated with primary networks or
program service providers comprised of: FOX (59), ABC (41), CBS (30), NBC (24), CW (48), and MyNetworkTV (MNT) (39).
The other 388 channels broadcast programming from programming services including Antenna TV, Azteca, Bounce Network,
CHARGE!, Comet, Dabl, Estrella TV, Get TV, Grit, Me TV, Movies!, Stadium, TBD, Telemundo, This TV, Unimas, Univision,
Weather Nation, and two channels broadcasting independent programming. Solely for the purpose of this report, these 191
stations and 629 channels are referred to as “our” stations and channels, and the use of such term shall not be construed as an
admission that we control such stations or channels. Refer to our Television Markets and Stations table later for more
information.
Our local news and marketing services segment provides free over-the-air programming to television viewing audiences in the
communities we serve through our local television stations. The programming that we provide on our primary channels consists
of network provided programs, locally-produced news, local sporting events, programming from program service arrangements,
syndicated entertainment programs, and internally originated programming. We provide live, local sporting events on many of
our stations by acquiring the local television broadcast rights for these events.
We are one of the nation's largest producers of local news. We produce approximately 2,550 hours of news per week at 129
stations in 81 markets. During 2019, our stations were awarded with 386 journalism awards, including four National Edward R.
Murrow awards.
Our local news and marketing services segment derives revenue primarily from the sale of advertising inventory on our
television stations and fees received from MVPDs for the right to distribute our channels on their distribution platforms. We also
earn revenues by selling digital advertisements on third-party platforms and providing digital content to non-linear devices via
websites, mobile, and social media advertisements. Our objective is to meet the needs of our advertising customers by delivering
significant audiences in key demographics. Our strategy is to achieve this objective by providing quality local news
programming, popular network, syndicated and live sports programs, and other original content to our viewing audience. We
attract most of our national television advertisers through national marketing representation firms which have offices in New
York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, Atlanta, and Dallas. Our local television advertisers are primarily attracted through the use of a
local sales force at each of our television stations, which is comprised of approximately 700 marketing consultants and 100 local
sales managers company-wide.
Our operating results are subject to cyclical fluctuations from political advertising. Political spending has been significantly
higher in the even-number years due to the cyclicality of political elections. In addition, every four years, political spending is
typically elevated further due to the advertising related to the presidential election. Because of the political election cyclicality,
there has been a significant difference in our operating results when comparing even-numbered years’ performance to the odd
numbered years’ performance. Additionally, our operating results are impacted by the number and importance of individual
political races and issues discussed on a national level as well as those within the local communities we serve. We believe
political advertising will continue to be an important advertising category in our industry. Political advertising levels may
increase further as political-activism, around social, political, economic and environmental causes, continues to draw attention
and Political Action Committees (PACs), including so-called Super PACs, continue to increase spending.
2 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
Television Markets and Stations. As of December 31, 2019, our local news and marketing services segment owns and operates or
provides programming and/or sales and other shared services to television stations in the following 89 markets as follows:
Market
Rank (a)
Number of
Channels
Market
Washington, DC
Seattle / Tacoma, WA
Minneapolis / St. Paul, MN
Portland, OR
St. Louis, MO
Pittsburgh, PA
Baltimore, MD
Raleigh / Durham, NC
Nashville, TN
Salt Lake City, UT
San Antonio, TX
Columbus, OH
Milwaukee, WI
West Palm Beach / Fort Pierce, FL
Cincinnati, OH
Asheville, NC / Greenville, SC
Las Vegas, NV
Austin, TX
Norfolk, VA
Oklahoma City, OK
Birmingham / Tuscaloosa, AL
Grand Rapids / Kalamazoo / Battle
Creek, MI
Harrisburg / Lancaster / Lebanon /
York, PA
Greensboro / High Point / Winston
Salem, NC
Buffalo, NY
Richmond, VA
Fresno / Visalia, CA
Providence, RI / New Bedford, MA
Mobile, AL / Pensacola, FL
Tulsa, OK
Albany, NY
Wilkes Barre / Scranton, PA
Little Rock / Pine Bluff, AR
Dayton, OH
Lexington, KY (f)
Green Bay / Appleton, WI
Des Moines, IA
Roanoke / Lynchburg, VA
Spokane, WA
Omaha, NE
Wichita, KS
Charleston / Huntington, WV
7
13
15
22
23
24
26
27
28
30
31
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
42
43
44
45
47
49
52
54
55
56
57
58
59
60
62
63
64
67
68
69
70
71
72
74
Stations
WJLA
KOMO, KUNS
WUCW
KATU, KUNP, KUNP-LD
KDNL
WPGH, WPNT
Network
Affiliation (b)
ABC
ABC
CW
ABC
ABC
FOX, MNT
WBFF, WNUV(c), WUTB(d)
FOX, CW, MNT
WLFL, WRDC
WZTV, WNAB(d), WUXP
KUTV, KMYU, KENV(d), KJZZ
KABB, KMYS(d), WOAI
CW, MNT
FOX, CW, MNT
CBS, MNT, IND
FOX, NBC, CW
WSYX, WTTE(c), WWHO(d)
ABC, FOX, CW, MNT
WVTV
CW, MNT
WPEC, WTVX, WTCN-CA, WWHB-CA
CBS, CW, MNT
WKRC, WSTR(d)
WLOS, WMYA(c)
KSNV, KVCW
KEYE
WTVZ
KOKH, KOCB
CBS, CW, MNT
ABC, MNT
NBC, CW, MNT
CBS
MNT
FOX, CW
4
6
4
10
4
7
8
7
10
10
9
9
3
13
8
9
8
2
4
7
15
WBMA-LD, WDBB(c), WTTO, WABM
ABC, CW, MNT
3
3
7
7
5
12
4
12
4
7
10
4
8
4
8
4
4
3
7
19
7
WWMT
WHP
WXLV, WMYV
WUTV, WNYO
WRLH
KMPH, KMPH-CD, KFRE
WJAR
CBS, CW
CBS, CW, MNT
ABC, MNT
FOX, MNT
FOX, MNT
FOX, CW
NBC
WEAR, WPMI(d), WFGX, WJTC(d)
ABC, NBC, MNT, IND
KTUL
WRGB, WCWN
ABC
CBS, CW
WOLF(c), WSWB(d), WQMY(c)
FOX, CW, MNT
KATV
ABC
WKEF, WRGT(d)
ABC, FOX, MNT
WDKY
WLUK, WCWF
KDSM
WSET
KLEW
FOX
FOX, CW
FOX
ABC
CBS
KPTM, KXVO(c)
FOX, CW, MNT
KSAS, KOCW, KAAS, KAAS-LP, KSAS-
LP, KMTW(c)
WCHS, WVAH(d)
FOX, MNT
ABC, FOX
2019 Annual Report l 3
Market
Columbia, SC
Rochester, NY
Flint / Saginaw / Bay City, MI
Portland, ME
Toledo, OH
Madison, WI
Harlingen / Weslaco / Brownsville /
McAllen, TX (f)
Paducah, KY/ Cape Girardeau, MO
Syracuse, NY
Champaign / Springfield / Decatur, IL
Savannah, GA
Cedar Rapids, IA
Charleston, SC
Chattanooga, TN
El Paso, TX
Myrtle Beach / Florence, SC
South Bend-Elkhart, IN
Tri-Cities, TN-VA
Greenville / New Bern / Washington, NC
Boise, ID
Reno, NV
Johnstown / Altoona, PA
Lincoln and Hasting-Kearney, NE
Tallahassee, FL
Eugene, OR
Yakima / Pasco / Richland / Kennewick,
WA
Macon, GA
Peoria / Bloomington, IL
Traverse City / Cadillac, MI
Bakersfield, CA
Corpus Christi, TX
Chico-Redding, CA
Amarillo, TX
Medford / Klamath Falls, OR
Columbia / Jefferson City, MO
Beaumont / Port Arthur / Orange, TX
Sioux City, IA
Albany, GA
Gainesville, FL
Wheeling, WV / Steubenville, OH
Missoula, MT
Abilene / Sweetwater, TX
Quincy, IL / Hannibal, MO / Keokuk, IA
Butte / Bozeman, MT
4 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
Market
Rank (a)
Number of
Channels
75
76
77
79
80
81
83
84
87
88
89
90
91
92
93
97
98
99
100
102
104
106
107
109
117
118
119
120
121
125
128
131
132
135
137
143
148
154
156
157
163
164
174
186
4
7
11
7
4
4
3
8
7
17
4
8
3
7
8
9
2
7
8
8
9
4
11
8
18
18
3
1
11
8
3
14
8
4
4
8
15
4
8
3
6
4
3
3
Stations
WACH
WHAM(d), WUHF
WSMH, WEYI(d), WBSF(d)
WGME, WPFO(d)
WNWO
WMSN
KGBT
Network
Affiliation (b)
FOX
ABC, FOX, CW
FOX, NBC, CW
CBS, FOX
NBC
FOX
CBS
KBSI, WDKA
FOX, MNT
WTVH(d), WSTM, WSTQ-LP
CBS, NBC, CW
WICS, WICD, WCCU(d), WRSP(d),
WBUI(d)
ABC, FOX, CW
WTGS
KGAN, KFXA(d)
WCIV
WTVC, WFLI(d)
KDBC, KFOX
WPDE, WWMB(c)
WSBT
WEMT(d), WCYB
WCTI, WYDO(d)
KBOI, KYUU-LD
FOX
CBS, FOX
ABC, MNT
ABC, FOX, CW, MNT
CBS, FOX, MNT
ABC, CW
CBS, FOX
FOX, NBC, CW
ABC, FOX
CBS, CW Plus
KRXI, KRNV(d), KNSN (c)
FOX, NBC, MNT
WJAC
KHGI, KHGI-CD, KWNB, KWNB-LD,
KFXL, KHGI-LD
NBC, CW Plus
ABC, FOX
WTWC, WTLF(d)
NBC, FOX, CW Plus
KVAL, KCBY, KPIC(e), KMTR(d),
KMCB(d), KTCW(d)
KIMA, KEPR, KORX, KUNW-CD,
KVVK-CD
CBS, NBC, CW Plus
CBS, CW Plus
WGXA
WHOI
WGTU(d), WGTQ(d), WPBN, WTOM,
KBAK, KBFX-CD
KSCC, KTOV-LP, KXPX-LP
KRCR, KCVU(d), KRVU-LD, KUCO-LP,
KKTF-LD
KVII, KVIH
KTVL
KRCG
ABC, FOX
Comet
ABC, NBC
CBS, FOX
FOX
ABC, FOX, MNT
ABC, CW Plus
CBS, CW Plus
CBS
KFDM, KBTV(d)
CBS, FOX, MNT, CW Plus
KMEG(d), KPTH, KBVK-LP, KPTP-LD
CBS, FOX, MNT
WFXL
FOX
WGFL(c),WNBW(c),
WYME-CD(c)
WTOV
KECI, KCFW
KTXS, KTES-LD
KHQA
KTVM
CBS, NBC, MNT
NBC, FOX
NBC
ABC, CW Plus
ABC, CBS
NBC
Market
San Angelo, TX
Eureka, CA
Ottumwa, IA / Kirksville, MO
Total Television Channels
Market
Rank (a)
Number of
Channels
195
197
201
3
10
3
629
Stations
KTXE-LD
Network
Affiliation (b)
ABC, CW
KAEF, KBVU(d), KECA-LD, KEUV-LP
ABC, FOX, CW, MNT
KTVO
ABC, CBS
(a) Rankings are based on the relative size of a station’s Designated Market Area (DMA) among the 210 generally recognized DMAs in the
United States as estimated by Nielsen Media Research (Nielsen) as of September 2019.
(b) We broadcast programming from the following providers on our channels and the channels of our JSA/LMA partners:
Affiliation
ABC
CBS
CW
FOX
MNT
NBC
Total Major Network Affiliates
Number of
Channels
Number of
Markets
41
30
48
59
39
24
241
30
25
37
43
32
17
Expiration Dates (1)
August 31, 2022
April 30, 2020 through December 31, 2021
August 31, 2021 through August 31, 2024
December 31, 2020 through December 31, 2021
August 31, 2020
December 31, 2021
2019 Annual Report l 5
Affiliation
Antenna TV
Azteca
Bounce Network
CHARGE!
Comet
Dabl
Estrella TV
Get TV
Grit
Independent programming
Me TV
Movies!
Stadium
TBD
Telemundo
This TV
Unimas
Univision
Weather
Total Other Affiliates
Total Television Channels
Number of
Channels
Number of
Markets
20
2
1
58
75
28
1
5
1
2
15
4
48
64
1
1
1
5
4
22
3
1
66
90
29
1
5
1
2
18
5
53
74
1
1
1
9
6
388
629
Expiration Dates (1)
January 1, 2019 through January 1, 2021
February 28, 2018 through August 31, 2020
August 31, 2019
(2)
(2)
October 1, 2022
September 30, 2020
June 30, 2017
December 31, 2019
N/A
February 28, 2018 through August 31, 2021
November 1, 2019 through November 18, 2019
(2)
(2)
December 31, 2022
November 1, 2014 through December 31, 2015
December 31, 2020
February 29, 2020
December 31, 2017
(1) When we negotiate the terms of our network affiliations or program service arrangements, we generally negotiate on behalf of our
owned stations affiliated with that entity simultaneously, except in certain circumstances. This results in substantially similar
terms for our stations, including the expiration date of the network affiliations or program service arrangements. If the affiliation
agreement expires, we may continue to operate under the existing affiliation agreement on a temporary basis while we negotiate a
new affiliation agreement.
(2) An owned and operated network, which is carried on our multi-cast distribution platform or the platform of our JSA/LMA
partners.
(c) The license assets for these stations are currently owned by third parties. We provide programming, sales, operational, and administrative
services to these stations pursuant to certain service agreements, such as LMAs.
(d) The license and programming assets for these stations are currently owned by third parties. We provide certain non-programming related
sales, operational, and administrative services to these stations pursuant to service agreements, such as joint sales and shared services
agreements.
(e) We provide programming, sales, operational, and administrative services to this station, of which 50% is owned by a third party.
(f)
In January 2020, we agreed to sell the license and non-license assets of WDKY-TV in Lexington, KY and certain non-license assets
associated with KGBT-TV in Harlingen, Texas. See Dispositions under Note 2. Acquisitions and Dispositions of Assets within the
Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion.
6 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
Sports
On August 23, 2019, we completed the acquisition of the controlling interests in 21 Regional Sports Network brands and Fox
College Sports (collectively, the Acquired RSNs) from the Walt Disney Company (Disney). See Note 2. Acquisitions and
Dispositions of Assets within the Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion. In February 2019, we announced a
joint venture with the Chicago Cubs (Cubs) that owns and operates Marquee Sports Network (Marquee, and, collectively with the
Acquired RSNs, the RSNs), a regional sports network based in Chicago, Illinois. Marquee debuted February 22, 2020 with the
airing of the Cubs’ first Spring Training game and is the Chicago-region’s exclusive network for fans to view live Cubs games,
exclusive Cubs content, and other local sports programming. On August 29, 2019 we acquired a 20% equity interest in the Yankee
Entertainment and Sports Network (the YES Network).
Through the RSNs and YES Network, we own equity interests in the largest collection of RSNs in the United States,
broadcasting over 4,600 professional sports games and producing over 24,000 hours of new content each year. Our RSNs are
located in attractive, highly-populated geographic areas of the United States with significant local viewership and 45 of the most
exciting professional sports teams. We are a premier destination for local sports viewership, with our premium live sports
content reaching more than 61 million subscribers nationally. We have an extensive footprint that includes exclusive long-term
agreements with 16 Major League Baseball (MLB) teams, 17 National Basketball Association (NBA) teams and 12 National
Hockey League (NHL) teams. Within our RSN portfolio are 23 brands, and 16 networks of separate affiliation agreements. We
generate revenues by distributing our networks to MVPDs and vMVPDs, and from the sale of advertising inventory.
As of December 31, 2019, our RSNs have relationships with the following professional teams:
MLB Teams
Arizona Diamondbacks
Atlanta Braves
Chicago Cubs
Cincinnati Reds
Cleveland Indians
Detroit Tigers
Kansas City Royals
Los Angeles Angels
Miami Marlins
Milwaukee Brewers
Minnesota Twins
San Diego Padres
St. Louis Cardinals
Tampa Bay Rays
Texas Rangers
NBA Teams
Atlanta Hawks
Charlotte Hornets
Cleveland Cavaliers
Dallas Mavericks
Detroit Pistons
Indiana Pacers
Los Angeles Clippers
Memphis Grizzlies
Miami Heat
Milwaukee Bucks
NHL Teams
Anaheim Ducks
Arizona Coyotes
Carolina Hurricanes
Columbus Blue Jackets
Dallas Stars
Detroit Red Wings
Florida Panthers
Los Angeles Kings
Minnesota Wild
Nashville Predators
Minnesota Timberwolves
St. Louis Blues
New Orleans Pelicans
Tampa Bay Lightning
Oklahoma City Thunder
Orlando Magic
Phoenix Suns
San Antonio Spurs
As of December 31, 2019, we also hold a noncontrolling interest in the YES Network, which has long term agreements with the
New York Yankees and Brooklyn Nets. We also own Fox College Sports which offers collegiate programming throughout the
country
Other
Owned Networks and Content
We own and operate Tennis Channel, a cable network which includes coverage of many of tennis' top tournaments and original
professional sport and tennis lifestyle shows; Tennis Magazine, the sport’s largest print publication; and Tennis.com (collectively,
Tennis), the most visited online tennis platform in the world.
We also own and operate various networks carried on distribution platforms owned by us or others including: Comet, our
science fiction multicast network; CHARGE!, our adventure and action-based emerging network; TBD, the first multiscreen TV
network in the U.S. market to bring premium internet-first content to TV homes across America, and Stadium, a network that
brings together professional sports highlights and college games.
2019 Annual Report l 7
Our internally developed content, in addition to our local news, includes Ring of Honor (ROH), our professional wrestling
promotion, Full Measure with Sharyl Attkisson (Full Measure), our national Sunday morning investigative and political analysis
program, and America This Week with Eric Bolling.
Digital and Internet
In January 2019, we launched STIRR, a national free, ad-supported direct-to-consumer streaming app, which offers live and
on-demand content spanning entertainment, sports, and news. With more than 1.6 million app downloads in its first year and
over 100 channel offerings, STIRR offers access to some of the most popular local news, entertainment and digital first channels.
In January 2020, it also added an original channel "2020 LIVE" which will have continuous live coverage featuring campaign
events from around the country, including town hall meetings and stump speeches.
We earn revenues from Compulse Integrated Marketing (Compulse), a full-service digital agency which uses our digital
expertise to help businesses run social media, search, advertising, email marketing, web design, mobile marketing and creative
services, and audience extension, and navigate and compete in a world of constant innovation and changes in consumer behavior.
In August 2018, Compulse expanded its business with the launch of CompulseOTT, a new over-the-top advertising platform
exclusively focused on OTT advertising.
DataSphere Technologies, provides marketing services to small businesses across the country and works in partnership with
multiple media companies, including Sinclair. NewsON is a free, ad-supported app that provides instant access to live or on-
demand local news broadcasts. Sinclair Digital Ventures focuses on investment in emerging digital technologies, ad tech, and
digital content companies that support, compliment, or expand the Company's businesses.
Technical Services
We own subsidiaries which are dedicated to providing technical services to the broadcast industry, including: Acrodyne
Technical Services, a provider of service and support for broadcast transmitters throughout the world; Dielectric, a designer and
manufacturer of broadcast systems including all components from transmitter output to antenna; ONE Media, a technology
innovator at the forefront of developing industry standards and related technologies for NEXTGEN TV, a broadcast standard
encompassing a flexible and enhanced vision for broadcasting; and ONE Media 3.0, a wholly-owned subsidiary whose purpose is
to develop business opportunities, products, and services associated with the NEXTGEN TV broadcast transmission standard
and TV platform. We have also partnered with Saankhya Labs to develop NEXTGEN TV technologies to be used in consumer
devices, and formed a joint venture with SK Telecom focused on cloud infrastructure for broadcasting, ultra-low latency OTT
broadcasting, and targeted advertising.
Non-media Investments
We own various non-media related investments across multiple asset classes including private equity, mezzanine financing,
and real estate investments. Some of the largest investments include: Triangle Sign and Service (Triangle), a sign designer and
fabricator; Jefferson Park, a mixed-use land development project in Frederick, MD; investments in sustainability initiatives; and
a portfolio of apartment complexes.
AVAILABLE INFORMATION
We regularly use our website as a source of company information and it can be accessed at www.sbgi.net. We make available,
free of charge through our website, our Annual Report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on
Form 8-K, and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act as soon as
reasonably practicable after such documents are electronically submitted to the SEC, who also makes these reports available at
http://www.sec.gov. We intend to comply with the requirements of Item 5.05 of Form 8-K regarding amendments to and
waivers under the code of business conduct and ethics applicable to our Chief Executive Officer, Principal Financial Officer and
Principal Accounting Officer by providing such information on our website within four days after effecting any amendment to, or
granting any waiver under, that code, and we will maintain such information on our website for at least twelve months. In
addition, a replay of each of our quarterly earnings conference calls is available on our website until the subsequent quarter’s
earnings call. The information contained on, or otherwise accessible through, our website is not a part of this Annual Report and
is not incorporated herein by reference.
8 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This report includes or incorporates forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of
1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act), and the U.S. Private
Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. When we use any of the words “anticipate,” “assume,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,”
“intend,” or similar expressions, we are making forward-looking statements. Although management believes that the
expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are based upon present expectations and reasonable assumptions, our
actual results could differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. Further, forward-looking statements
speak only as of the date they are made, and we undertake no obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements to reflect
changed assumptions, the occurrence of unanticipated events or changes to future operating results over time, unless required by
law. The following are some of the risks and uncertainties, although not all risks and uncertainties, that could cause our actual
results to differ materially from those presented in our forward-looking statements:
General risks
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•
the impact of changes in national and regional economies and credit and capital markets;
consumer confidence;
the potential impact of changes in tax law;
terrorist acts of violence or war and other geopolitical events;
natural disasters that impact our advertisers, our stations and networks; and
cybersecurity.
Industry risks
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•
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•
the activities of our competitors;
the business conditions of our advertisers, particularly in the political, automotive and service categories;
competition with other broadcast television stations, radio stations, traditional and virtual multi-channel video
programming distributors (MVPDs), internet and broadband content providers, and other print and media outlets
serving in the same markets;
the performance of networks and syndicators that provide us with programming content, sports teams performance, as
well as the performance of internally originated programming;
the loss of appeal of our sports programming, which may be unpredictable, the impact of strikes caused by collective
bargaining between players and sports leagues, and increased programming costs may have a material negative effect on
our business and our results of operations;
the availability and cost of programming from networks and syndicators, as well as the cost of internally originated
programming;
our relationships with networks and sports leagues and teams, and their strategies to distribute their programming via
means other than their local television affiliates or regional sports networks, such as over-the-top (OTT) or direct-to-
consumer content;
the potential for additional governmental regulation of broadcasting or changes in those regulations and court actions
interpreting those regulations, including ownership regulations limiting over-the-air television's ability to compete
effectively (including regulations relating to Joint Sales Agreements (JSA), Shared Services Agreements (SSA), cross
ownership rules, and the national ownership cap), arbitrary or changing enforcement of indecency regulations,
retransmission consent regulations, and political or other advertising restrictions, such as payola rules;
the effects of the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) National Broadband Plan and other initiatives, the
impact of the repacking of our broadcasting spectrum, as a result of the incentive auction, within a limited timeframe
and funding allocated;
the impact of FCC and Congressional efforts which may restrict a television station's retransmission consent
negotiations;
the impact of FCC rules relating to political advertising and other rules requiring broadcast stations to publish, among
other information, political advertising rates online;
the impact of foreign and domestic government rules related to privacy and digital and online assets;
labor disputes and legislation and other union activity associated with film, acting, writing, and other guilds and
professional sports leagues;
the broadcasting community’s ability to develop and adopt a viable mobile digital broadcast television (mobile DTV)
strategy and platform, such as the adoption of NEXTGEN TV (formerly known as ATSC 3.0) broadcast standard, and
the consumer’s appetite for mobile television;
the impact of programming payments charged by networks and teams pursuant to their affiliation agreements with
broadcasters requiring compensation for network programming;
the potential impact from the elimination of rules prohibiting mergers of the four major television networks;
the effects of declining live/appointment viewership as reported through rating systems and local television efforts to
adopt and receive credit for same day viewing plus viewing on-demand thereafter;
changes in television rating measurement methodologies that could negatively impact audience results;
the ability of local MVPDs to coordinate and determine local advertising rates as a consortium;
the ability to negotiate terms at least as favorable as those in existence with MVPDs and others;
2019 Annual Report l 9
•
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•
changes in the makeup of the population in the areas where stations and regional sports networks (RSNs) are located;
the operation of low power devices in the broadcast spectrum, which could interfere with our broadcast signals;
OTT and other direct-to-consumer technologies and offerings and their potential impact on cord-cutting;
the impact of MVPDs and OTTs offering "skinny" programming bundles that may not include television broadcast
stations, regional sports networks, or other programming that we distribute;
the effect of a decline in the number of subscribers to MVPD services;
fluctuations in advertising rates and availability of inventory;
the ability of others to retransmit our signal without our consent; and
the ability to renew media rights agreements with various professional sports teams which have varying durations and
terms that are at least as favorable as those in existence.
Risks specific to us
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the effectiveness of our management;
our ability to attract and maintain local, national, and network advertising and successfully participate in new sales
channels such as programmatic and addressable advertising through business partnership ventures and the
development of technology;
our ability to service our debt obligations and operate our business under restrictions contained in our financing
agreements;
our ability to successfully implement and monetize our own content management system (CMS) designed to provide our
viewers significantly improved content via the internet and other digital platforms;
our ability to successfully renegotiate retransmission consent and affiliation fees (cable network fees) agreements for
our existing and acquired businesses;
the ability of stations which we consolidate, but do not negotiate on their behalf, to successfully renegotiate
retransmission consent and affiliation fees agreements;
our ability to secure distribution of our programming to a wide audience;
our ability to renew our FCC licenses;
our ability to obtain FCC approval for any future acquisitions, as well as, in certain cases, customary antitrust clearance
for any future acquisitions;
our exposure to any wrongdoing by those outside the Company, but which could affect our business or pending
acquisitions;
our ability to identify media business investment opportunities and to successfully integrate any acquired businesses, as
well as the success of our new content and distribution initiatives in a competitive environment, including CHARGE!,
TBD, Comet, STIRR, other original programming, mobile DTV, and our recent acquisition of and investments in the
RSNs;
our ability to maintain our affiliation and programming service agreements with our networks, leagues, teams, and
program service providers and at renewal, to successfully negotiate these agreements with favorable terms;
our joint venture arrangements related to our regional sports networks are subject to a number of operational risks that
could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, and financial condition;
our ability to generate synergies and leverage new revenue opportunities;
our ability to renew contracts with leagues and sports teams;
our ability to effectively respond to technology affecting our industry and to increasing competition from other media
providers;
our ability to deploy a next generation wireless platform (NEXTGEN TV) nationwide;
the strength of ratings for our local news broadcasts including our news sharing arrangements; and
the results of prior year tax audits by taxing authorities.
In addition, we describe risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results and events to differ materially in Quantitative
and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk and Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Conditions and Results
of Operation. However, additional factors and risks not currently known to us or that we currently deem immaterial may also
cause actual results in the future to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. In light of these
risks, uncertainties and assumptions, events described in the forward-looking statements discussed in this report might not
occur.
10 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
The selected consolidated financial data for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, and 2015 have been derived
from our audited consolidated financial statements.The information below should be read in conjunction with Management’s
Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and the Consolidated Financial Statements and
related notes included elsewhere in this Annual Report.
STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS DATA
(In millions, except per share data)
For the Years Ended December 31,
2019
2018
2017
2016
2015
Statements of Operations Data:
Media revenues (a)
Non-media revenues
Total revenues
Media programming and production expenses
Media selling, general and administrative expenses
Depreciation and amortization (b)
Amortization of program contract costs and net realizable value
adjustments
Non-media expenses
Corporate general and administrative expenses
Gain on asset dispositions and other, net of impairment
Operating income
Interest expense and amortization of debt discount and deferred
financing costs
Loss from extinguishment of debt
(Loss) income from equity method investments
Other income, net
Income before income taxes
Income tax benefit (provision)
Net income
Net income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interests
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
Net income attributable to Sinclair Broadcast Group
Earnings Per Common Share Attributable to Sinclair
Broadcast Group:
Basic earnings per share
Diluted earnings per share
Dividends declared per share
Balance Sheet Data:
Cash and cash equivalents
Total assets
Total debt (c)
Redeemable noncontrolling interests
Total equity
$
4,046
$
2,919
$
2,567
$
2,521
$
2,030
102
2,623
96
2,126
194
4,240
2,073
732
424
90
156
387
(92)
470
(422)
(10)
(35)
6
9
96
105
(48)
(10)
136
3,055
1,191
630
280
101
122
111
(40)
660
(292)
—
(61)
3
310
36
346
—
(5)
69
2,636
1,064
534
276
116
75
113
(279)
737
(212)
(1)
(14)
9
519
75
594
—
(18)
956
502
282
128
85
74
(6)
602
(211)
(24)
1
4
372
(122)
250
—
(5)
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
47
$
341
$
576
$
245
$
0.52
0.51
$
$
0.80 $
3.38
3.35
0.74
1,333
$
17,370 $
12,438 $
1,060
6,572
3,893
$
$
$
$
$
$
5.77
5.72
0.72
681
6,784
4,049
$
$
$
$
$
$
2.62
2.60
0.71
260
5,963
4,204
$
$
$
$
$
$
1,078 $
— $
— $
— $
1,694
$
1,600
$
1,534
$
558
$
733
432
265
125
84
64
1
422
(191)
—
1
2
234
(58)
176
—
(5)
171
1.81
1.79
0.66
150
5,432
3,854
—
500
(a) Media revenues include distribution revenue, advertising revenue, and other media related revenues.
(b) Depreciation and amortization includes depreciation and amortization of property and equipment and amortization of definite-lived
intangible assets and other assets.
(c) Total debt is defined as notes payable, finance leases, and commercial bank financing, including the current and long-term portions.
2019 Annual Report l 11
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MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS
OF OPERATIONS
Forward Looking Statements
We make statements in this section that are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. For
a complete discussion of forward-looking statements, see the section in this report entitled “Forward-Looking Statements.”
Certain risks may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by
the following discussion.
Overview
The following Management’s Discussion and Analysis provides qualitative and quantitative information about our financial
performance and condition and should be read in conjunction with the other sections in this Annual Report, including Business,
Selected Financial Data, and our Consolidated Financial Statements including the accompanying notes to those statements.
This discussion consists of the following sections:
Executive Overview — a description of our business, summary of significant events and financial highlights from 2019, and
information about industry trends;
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates — a discussion of the accounting policies that are most important in understanding
the assumptions and judgments incorporated in the consolidated financial statements and a summary of recent accounting
pronouncements;
Results of Operations — a summary of the components of our revenues by category and by network affiliation or program service
arrangement, a summary of other operating data and an analysis of our revenues and expenses for 2019, 2018, and 2017,
including comparisons between years and certain expectations for 2020; and
Liquidity and Capital Resources — a discussion of our primary sources of liquidity, an analysis of our cash flows from or used in
operating activities, investing activities and financing activities, a discussion of our dividend policy, and a summary of our
contractual cash obligations and off-balance sheet arrangements.
EXECUTIVE OVERVIEW
We are a diversified television media company with national reach and a strong focus on providing high-quality content on our
local television stations, regional sports networks, and digital platforms. This content consists of programming provided by third-
party networks and syndicators, local news, college and professional sports, and other original programming produced by us.
Additionally, we own digital and internet media products that are complementary to our extensive portfolio of television station
related digital properties. Outside of our media related businesses, we operate technical services companies focused on supply
and maintenance of broadcast transmission systems as well as research and development for the advancement of broadcast
technology, and we manage other non-media related investments.
We have two reportable segments: local news and marketing services and sports. Our local news and marketing services
segment is comprised of our television stations. Our sports segment is comprised of our regional sports networks. We also earn
revenues from our owned networks, original content, digital and internet services, technical services, and non-media
investments. These businesses are included within other. Corporate and unallocated expenses primarily include our costs to
operate as a public company and to operate our corporate headquarters location. Other and corporate are not reportable
segments.
STG, for which certain assets and results of operations are included in the local news and marketing services segment and
which is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc. (SBG), is the primary obligor under the STG Bank Credit
Agreement, the STG 5.625% Notes, STG 5.125% Notes, STG 5.875% Notes, and STG 5.500% Notes (the STG notes are collectively
referred to as, the “STG Senior Notes"). SBG is a guarantor under all of the STG debt instruments. DSG, for which certain assets
and results of operations are included in the sports segment and which is a wholly owned subsidiary of SBG, is the primary
obligor under the DSG Bank Credit Agreement, the DSG 5.375% Secured Notes, and the DSG 6.625% Notes. Neither SBG, STG,
or any of STG's subsidiaries is a guarantor under any of the DSG debt instruments. Our Class A Common Stock and Class B
Common Stock remain securities of SBG and not obligations or securities of STG or DSG.
2019 Annual Report l 13
Summary of Significant Events and Financial Highlights from 2019
Transactions
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In August 2019, the Company completed the acquisition of controlling equity interests in 21 Regional Sports Networks
and Fox College Sports from Disney for an aggregate purchase price of $9,817 million including certain adjustments.
This is the largest collection of regional sports networks in the United States and expanded the Company's focus on local
sports. The transaction was funded through a combination of debt financing raised by DSG and STG as described in
Note 7. Notes Payable and Commercial Bank Financing within the Consolidated Financial Statements and
Redeemable Subsidiary Preferred Equity under Note 10. Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests within the Consolidated
Financial Statements.
In August 2019, the Company, as part of a consortium led by Yankee Global Enterprises, acquired a 20% equity interest
in the YES Network for $346 million. See YES Network Investment under Note 6. Other Assets within the Consolidated
Financial Statements for further discussion.
In December 2019, the Company increased its investment in Stadium, a multi-platform sports network featuring
exclusive live and on-demand games and events, extensive highlights, and daily live studio programming.
In January 2020, a minority partner in one of our RSNs exercised their right to sell the entirety of their non-controlling
interest to the Company for $376 million.
Television and Digital Content
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In January 2019, the Company launched STIRR, a free, ad-supported streaming app that includes access to national
news, sports, entertainment and digital first channels, a robust video on demand library and a new local channel
featuring programming based on a user's location, ensuring that viewers can access the local news and lifestyle
programming that is relevant to their everyday life.
In January 2019, the Company, the licensees of stations to which the Company provides services, and NBC entered into
multi-year renewals of NBC affiliates in 13 markets.
In February 2019, the Company, the licensees of stations to which the Company provides services, and FOX
Broadcasting Company entered into amendments to multi-year renewals of the 26 FOX affiliations that were previously
renewed as part of the agreement entered in May 8, 2018, revising certain aspects of such agreements and waiving any
termination rights the parties may have had with respect to such agreements.
In February 2019, the Company and the Cubs announced the formation of a joint venture that will own and operate
Marquee. Marquee debuted February 22, 2020 with the airing of the Cubs’ first Spring Training game and is the
Chicago-region’s exclusive network for fans to view live Cubs games, exclusive Cubs content, and other local sports
programming. In addition to the execution of the joint venture agreement, the Cubs simultaneously entered into a long-
term rights agreement with Marquee.
In April 2019, Tennis Channel’s first full-length feature film, Strokes of Genius, was nominated for two Sports Emmy
Awards by the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences. The program was a finalist for the Outstanding Long
Sports Documentary and Outstanding Musical Direction awards.
In July 2019, the Company released its Compulse360 offering, a new daily OTT reported platform for CompulseOTT,
providing advertisers near real-time campaign evaluation so they can optimize their advertising efforts in-flight.
During 2019, the Company’s newsrooms were honored with a total of 386 national and regional journalism awards and
accolades.
In January 2020, STIRR launched an original channel, "2020 LIVE", to offer a continuous stream of live election
coverage, giving viewers live access to daily campaign event feeds from across the country, including town hall meetings
and stump speeches.
14 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
Distribution
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In January 2019, the Company entered into a multi-year retransmission renewal with Mediacom for the carriage of the
Company's stations, Tennis Channel, and the Company's emerging networks on its systems.
In July 2019, the Company announced a multi-year agreement with Charter Communications, Inc. for the continued
carriage of the Company's broadcast television stations and Tennis Channel, as well as carriage of Marquee. The
agreement also provides for a term extension for the carriage of currently carried RSNs that is effective upon the closing
of the RSN acquisition.
In October 2019, the Company announced a multi-year agreement with AT&T for the continued carriage on DIRECTV
and AT&T U-Verse of the Company's broadcast television stations and Tennis Channel, as well as carriage of Marquee.
The companies also agreed to extend the existing carriage agreement for the Acquired RSNs as well as the YES Network
through the same multi-year term.
In October 2019, the Company entered into a multi-year agreement with Mediacom for the carriage of Marquee. The
companies also agreed to extend the existing carriage agreements for the Acquired RSNs, as well as the YES Network,
through the same multi-year term.
In December 2019, Comcast extended its affiliation agreement with Fox Sports Detroit, extending the agreement to be
co-terminus with the Company’s remaining sports segment affiliation agreements with Comcast.
In January 2020, the Company reached an agreement in principle to renew ten affiliation agreements with FOX
Broadcasting Company.
In February 2020, Marquee announced a carriage agreement with Hulu. Including Hulu and previously announced
agreements with over-the top platform AT&T TV Now and traditional MVPDs Charter, AT&T U-Verse, DirecTV, and
Mediacom, Marquee has signed affiliation agreements with 43 distributors.
NEXTGEN TV
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In January 2019, ONE Media 3.0, LLC, a subsidiary of the Company, and Saankhya Labs in collaboration with
VeriSilicon and Samsung Foundry announced the completed design and development of a mobile chip die that supports
NEXTGEN TV and other global standards. The compact design and low power operation make it a preferred receive
device for mobile and portable applications. Reference designs are underway that will be used with cell phones and
tablet devices.
In January 2019, the Company, SK Telecom and Harman signed a Memorandum of Understanding to jointly develop
and commercialize digital broadcasting network-based automotive electronics technology for global markets.
In April 2019, a broad contingent of broadcasters announced the deployment of NEXTGEN TV in approximately 60 U.S.
markets by the end of 2020. This includes dozens of markets in which the Company's stations will be participating in the
deployment.
In July 2019, the Company's ONE Media 3.0 subsidiary announced an agreement with Saankhya Labs to accelerate the
development of a 5G Next Generation Broadcast Offload Platform.
In October 2019, ONE Media and Saankhya Labs demonstrated the expanded capabilities and integration of the
NEXTGEN TV platform with the wireless industry’s deployment of 5G and its existing 4G networks at the India Mobile
Congress and Mobile World Congress.
In January 2020, the Company and SK Telecom announced Cast.era, a joint venture focused on cloud infrastructure for
broadcasting, ultra-low latency OTT broadcasting, and targeted advertising.
In February 2020, the Company became a member of Pearl TV, a business organization of U.S. broadcast companies
with a shared interest in exploring forward-looking broadcasting opportunities, including innovative ways of promoting
local broadcast TV content and developing digital media and wireless platforms for the broadcast industry.
2019 Annual Report l 15
Financing, Capital Allocation, and Shareholder Returns
•
•
•
•
•
•
In August 2019, STG issued a seven-year incremental term loan facility in an aggregate principal amount of $600
million, the proceeds of which were used, with cash on hand, to redeem, in full, $600 million of STG's 5.375% Senior
Unsecured Notes due 2021. The 5.375% Notes were called at 100% of their par value. See STG Bank Credit Agreement
under Note 7. Notes Payable and Commercial Bank Financing within the Consolidated Financial Statements for
further discussion.
In November 2019, STG issued senior notes in an aggregated principal amount of $500 million, which bear interest at a
rate of 5.500% per annum and mature on March 1, 2030. The net proceeds were used, plus cash on hand, to redeem
STG's 6.125% senior unsecured notes due 2022 in an aggregate principal amount of $500 million. See STG Senior
Unsecured Notes under Note 7. Notes Payable and Commercial Bank Financing within the Consolidated Financial
Statements for further discussion.
In December 2019, we redeemed 300,000 units of redeemable subsidiary preferred equity for an aggregate redemption
price equal to $300 million plus accrued and unpaid dividends. See Redeemable Subsidiary Preferred Equity under
Note 10. Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests within the Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion.
For the year ended December 31, 2019, we repurchased approximately 5 million shares of Class A Common Stock for
$145 million.
For the year ended December 31, 2019, we paid dividends of $0.80 per share. In February 2020, we declared a quarterly
cash dividend of $0.20 per share.
In January 2020, we redeemed 200,000 units of redeemable subsidiary preferred equity for an aggregate redemption
price equal to $200 million plus accrued and unpaid dividends. See Redeemable Subsidiary Preferred Equity under
Note 10. Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests within the Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion.
Other Legal and Regulatory
•
•
In March 2019, the Federal Communications Commission's administrative law judge dismissed with prejudice the July
2018 hearing designation order related to the Company’s terminated acquisition of Tribune.
In January 2020, the Company and Nexstar agreed to settle the outstanding lawsuit between the Company and Tribune
Media Company, which Nexstar acquired in September 2019. See Litigation under Note 13. Commitments and
Contingencies within the Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion.
Other Events
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
In January 2019, the Board of Directors voted to increase the size of the Board from eight to nine members and named
the Honorable Benson Everett Legg to serve as its newest independent member.
In March 2019, the Company, in partnership with the Salvation Army, held a day of giving to aid ongoing relief efforts
for the survivors of the severe Midwest weather that brought historic flooding to significant parts of Nebraska and Iowa.
In April 2019, Barry Faber was promoted to President, Distribution & Network Relations and David Gibber was
promoted to Senior Vice President/General Counsel.
In June 2019, at the Company's Annual Shareholders' Meeting, the Company's shareholders re-elected all nine Directors
and ratified the appointment of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP as the Company's independent registered public
accounting firm for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2019.
In June 2019, the Company, in partnership with the Salvation Army, held a nationwide day of giving, with its stations
participating in on-air, digital and social media efforts to encourage viewers to donate and help local communities
recover from damage caused by tornadoes and floods in the Midwest. In total, the initiative raised $56,000, with
Sinclair providing an additional donation of $25,000.
In July 2019, the Company awarded its Broadcast Diversity Scholarship to eight applicants, distributing $25,000 in
aggregate tuition assistance to students demonstrating a promising future in the broadcast industry.
In August 2019, the Company promoted Mark Aitken from Vice President to Senior Vice President of Advanced
Technology, responsible for the Company’s development and deployment of next-gen technologies such as NEXTGEN
TV, and promoted Scott Shapiro from Vice President to Senior Vice President of Corporate Development, responsible
for driving forward the Company's vision through acquisitions and external investments.
In November 2019, the Company named Robert Weisbord President of the Local News & Marketing Services division
effective January 1, 2020 and announced the retirement of Steven Marks, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating
Officer of the Company's TV Group effective December 31, 2019.
In December 2019, and in keeping with the Company’s goal to become the employer of choice, the Company announced
that its minimum hourly wage would increase to $15 for all applicable employees, effective December 29, 2019.
16 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
•
•
In January 2020, Sinclair opened its Broadcast Diversity Scholarship for applications. Since launching the scholarship
program, Sinclair has distributed over $148,000 in financial assistance to students demonstrating a promising future in
the broadcast industry.
In February 2020, the Company promoted Lucy Rutishauser to Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Del
Parks to Executive Vice President & Chief Technology Officer, Don Thompson to Executive Vice President & Chief
Human Resources Officer, Scott Shapiro to Senior Vice President/Chief Development Officer, Brian Bark to Senior Vice
President/Chief Information Officer, and Don Roberts to VP/Sports Engineering and Production Systems.
Industry Trends
•
•
Political spending is significantly higher in the even-numbered years due to the cyclicality of political elections. In
addition, every four years, political spending is typically elevated further due to the advertising related to the
presidential election.
The FCC has permitted broadcast television stations to use their digital spectrum for a wide variety of services including
multi-channel broadcasts. The FCC “must-carry” rules only apply to a station’s primary digital stream.
• Many broadcasters are enhancing / upgrading their websites to use the internet to deliver rich media content, such as
newscasts and weather updates, to attract advertisers and to compete with other internet sites and smart phone and
tablet device applications and other social media outlets.
•
•
•
•
•
•
Seasonal advertising increases occur in the second and fourth quarters due to the anticipation of certain seasonal and
holiday spending by consumers.
Broadcasters have found ways to increase returns on their news programming initiatives while continuing to maintain
locally produced content through the use of news sharing arrangements.
Advertising revenue related to the Olympics occurs in even numbered years and the Super Bowl is aired on a different
network each year. Both of these popularly viewed events can have an impact on our advertising revenues.
The MVPD industry has continued to undergo significant consolidation, which gives top distributors purchase power.
The vMVPDs have continued to gain increasing importance and have quickly become a critical segment of the market.
These vMVPDs offer a limited number of networks at a significantly lower price point as compared to the traditional
cable offering.
The traditional MVPD industry continues to experience a decline in subscribers, which is partially offset by growth in
subscribers of vMVPDs.
2019 Annual Report l 17
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES
This discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations is based on our consolidated financial
statements which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. The
preparation of these financial statements requires us to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amount of assets,
liabilities, revenues and expenses and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. On an on-going basis, we evaluate
our estimates including those related to revenue recognition, goodwill and intangible assets, program contract costs, sports
programming rights, income taxes, variable interest entities, and transactions with related parties. We base our estimates on
historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of
which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from
other sources. These estimates have been consistently applied for all years presented in this report and in the past we have not
experienced material differences between these estimates and actual results. However, because future events and their effects
cannot be determined with certainty, actual results could differ from our estimates and such differences could be material.
We consider the following accounting policies to be the most critical as they are important to our financial condition and
results of operations, and require significant judgment and estimates on the part of management in their application. For a
detailed discussion of the application of these and other accounting policies, see Note 1. Nature of Operations and Summary of
Significant Accounting Policies within the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Revenue Recognition. As discussed in Revenue Recognition under Note 1. Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant
Accounting Policies within the Consolidated Financial Statements, we generate advertising revenue primarily from the sale of
advertising spots/impressions on our broadcast television, RSN, and digital platforms. Advertising revenue is recognized in the
period in which the advertising spots/impressions are delivered. In arrangements where we provide audience ratings guarantees;
to the extent that there is a ratings shortfall, we will defer a proportionate amount of revenue until the ratings shortfall is settled
through the delivery of additional advertising. The term of our advertising arrangements is generally less than one year and the
timing between when an advertisement is aired and when payment is due is not significant. In certain circumstances, we require
customers to pay in advance; payments received in advance of satisfying our performance obligations are reflected as deferred
revenue.
The Company generates distribution revenue through fees received from MVPDs, vMVPDs, and OTT providers for the right to
distribute our broadcast channels and cable networks on their distribution platforms. Distribution arrangements are generally
governed by multi-year contracts and the underlying fees are based upon a contractual monthly rate per subscriber. These
arrangements represent licenses of intellectual property; revenue is recognized as the signal is provided to our customers (as
usage occurs) which corresponds with the satisfaction of our performance obligation. Revenue is calculated based upon the
contractual rate multiplied by an estimated number of subscribers. Our customers will remit payments based upon actual
subscribers a short time after the conclusion of a month, which generally does not exceed 120 days. Historical adjustments to
subscriber estimates have not been material.
Impairment of Goodwill, Intangibles, and Other Long-Lived Assets. We evaluate our goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible
assets for impairment annually, or more frequently, if events or changes in circumstances indicate an impairment may exist. As
of December 31, 2019, our consolidated balance sheet includes $4,716 million and $158 million of goodwill and indefinite-lived
intangible assets, respectively.
In the performance of our annual goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment assessments we have the option to
qualitatively assess whether it is more likely-than-not that the respective asset has been impaired. If we conclude that it is more-
likely-than-not that a reporting unit or an indefinite-lived intangible asset is impaired, we apply the quantitative assessment,
which involves comparing the estimated fair value of the reporting unit or indefinite-lived intangible asset to its respective
carrying value. See Impairment of Goodwill, Intangibles and Other Long-Lived Assets under Note 1. Nature of Operations and
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies within the Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion of the
significant judgments and estimates inherent in both qualitatively assessing whether impairment may exist and estimating the
fair values of the reporting units and indefinite-lived intangible assets if a quantitative assessment is deemed necessary.
For our annual goodwill and indefinite-lived intangibles impairment tests in 2019, 2018, and 2017, we concluded that it was
more-likely-than-not that goodwill was not impaired based on our qualitative assessments. For one reporting unit in 2019, we
elected to perform a quantitative assessment and concluded that its fair value significantly exceeded the carrying value.
We believe we have made reasonable estimates and utilized appropriate assumptions to evaluate whether the fair values of our
reporting units and indefinite-lived intangible assets were less than their carrying values. If future results are not consistent with
our assumptions and estimates, including future events such as a deterioration of market conditions or significant increases in
discount rates, we could be exposed to impairment charges in the future. Any resulting impairment loss could have a material
adverse impact on our consolidated balance sheets, consolidated statements of operations and consolidated statements of cash
flows.
18 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
Program Contract Costs. As discussed in Television Programming under Note 1. Nature of Operations and Summary of
Significant Accounting Policies within the Consolidated Financial Statements, we record an asset and corresponding liability for
programming rights when the program is available for its first showing or telecast. These costs are expensed over the period in
which an economic benefit is expected to be derived. To ensure the related assets for the programming rights are reflected in the
consolidated balance sheets at the lower of unamortized cost or estimated net realizable value (NRV), management estimates
future advertising revenue, net of sales commissions, to be generated by the remaining program material available under the
contract terms. Management’s judgment is required in determining the timing of expense for these costs, which is dependent on
the economic benefit expected to be generated from the program and may significantly differ from the timing of related payments
If our estimates of future advertising revenues decline, amortization expense could be
under the contractual obligation.
accelerated or NRV adjustments may be required.
Sports Programming Rights. As discussed in Sports Programming Rights under Note 1. Nature of Operations and Summary
of Significant Accounting Policies within the Consolidated Financial Statements, we have multi-year program rights agreements
that provide the Company with the right to produce and telecast professional sports games within a specified territory in
exchange for an annual rights fee. A prepaid asset is recorded for rights acquired related to future games upon payment of the
contracted fee. The assets recorded for the acquired rights are classified as current or non-current based on the period when the
games are expected to be aired. Liabilities are recorded for any program rights obligations that have been incurred but not yet
paid at period end. We amortize these programing rights over each season based upon contractually stated rates. Amortization is
accelerated in the event that the stated contractual rates over the term of the rights agreement results in an expense recognition
pattern that is inconsistent with the projected growth of revenue over the contractual term.
Income Tax. As discussed in Income Taxes under Note 1. Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting
Policies within the Consolidated Financial Statements, we recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the differences
between the financial statement carrying amounts and the tax bases of assets and liabilities. We provide a valuation allowance
for deferred tax assets if we determine that it is more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax assets will not be
realized. In evaluating our ability to realize net deferred tax assets, we consider all available evidence, both positive and negative,
including our past operating results, tax planning strategies and forecasts of future taxable income. In considering these sources
of taxable income, we must make certain judgments that are based on the plans and estimates used to manage our underlying
businesses on a long-term basis. As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, a valuation allowance has been provided for deferred tax
assets related to a substantial amount of our available state net operating loss carryforwards based on past operating results,
expected timing of the reversals of existing temporary book/tax basis differences, alternative tax strategies and projected future
taxable income. Future changes in operating and/or taxable income or other changes in facts and circumstances could
significantly impact the ability to realize our deferred tax assets which could have a material effect on our consolidated financial
statements.
Management periodically performs a comprehensive review of our tax positions and we record a liability for unrecognized tax
benefits when such tax positions do not meet the “more-likely-than-not” threshold. Significant judgment is required in
determining whether a tax position meets the “more-likely-than-not” threshold, and it is based on a variety of facts and
circumstances, including interpretation of the relevant federal and state income tax codes, regulations, case law and other
authoritative pronouncements. Based on this analysis, the status of ongoing audits and the expiration of applicable statute of
limitations, liabilities are adjusted as necessary. The resolution of audits is unpredictable and could result in tax liabilities that
are significantly higher or lower than for what we have provided. See Note 12. Income Taxes within the Consolidated Financial
Statements, for further discussion of accrued unrecognized tax benefits.
Variable Interest Entities (VIEs). As discussed in Note 14. Variable Interest Entities within the Consolidated Financial
Statements, we have determined that certain third-party licensees of stations for which we perform services pursuant to
arrangements, including LMAs, JSAs, and SSAs, are VIEs and we are the primary beneficiary of those variable interests because,
subject to the ultimate control of the licensees, we have the power to direct the activities which significantly impact the economic
performance of the VIE through the services we provide and because we absorb losses and returns that would be considered
significant to the VIEs. We have determined that certain RSN joint ventures are VIEs. We are the primary beneficiary of those
RSN joint ventures because we have the power to direct the activities which significantly impact the economic performance of
certain regional sports networks, including sales and certain operational services and because we absorb losses and returns that
would be considered significant to the VIEs.
Transactions with Related Parties. We have determined that we conduct certain business-related transactions with related
persons or entities. See Note 15. Related Person Transactions within the Consolidated Financial Statements for discussion of
these transactions.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
See Recent Accounting Pronouncements under Note 1. Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
within the Consolidated Financial Statements for a discussion of recent accounting policies and their impact on our financial
statements.
2019 Annual Report l 19
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The results of the Acquired RSNs and stations are included in our results of operations from their respective dates of
acquisition. See Note 2. Acquisitions and Dispositions of Assets within the Consolidated Financial Statements for further
discussion. Unless otherwise indicated, references in this discussion and analysis to 2019, 2018, and 2017 are to our fiscal years
ended December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017, respectively. Additionally, any references to the first, second, third, or fourth quarters
are to the three months ended March 31, June 30, September 30, and December 31, respectively, for the year being discussed.
We have two reportable segments, local news and marketing services and sports that are disclosed separately from our other and
corporate activities.
Seasonality / Cyclicality
The operating results of our local news and marketing services segment are usually subject to cyclical fluctuations from
political advertising. In even numbered years, political spending is usually significantly higher than in odd numbered years due
to advertising expenditures preceding local and national elections. Additionally, every four years, political spending is usually
elevated further due to advertising expenditures preceding the presidential election. Also, the second and fourth quarter
operating results are usually higher than the first and third quarters’ because advertising expenditures are increased in
anticipation of certain seasonal and holiday spending by consumers.
The operating results of our sports segment are usually subject to cyclical fluctuations based on the timing and overlap of the
seasons for professional baseball, basketball, and hockey. Usually, the second and third quarter operating results are higher than
first and fourth quarters.
Consolidated Operating Data
The following table sets forth certain of our consolidated operating data for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018, and
2017 (in millions). For definitions of terms, see the footnotes to the table in Selected Financial Data.
Media revenues
Non-media revenues
Total revenues
Media programming and production expenses
Media selling, general and administrative expenses
Depreciation and amortization
Amortization of program contract costs and net realizable value adjustments
Non-media expenses
Corporate general and administrative expenses
Gain on asset dispositions and other, net of impairments
Operating income
Net income attributable to Sinclair Broadcast Group
Years Ended December 31,
2019
2018
2017
$
4,046
$
2,919
$
194
4,240
2,073
732
424
90
156
387
$
$
(92)
470 $
47
$
136
3,055
1,191
630
280
101
122
111
(40)
660
341
$
$
2,567
69
2,636
1,064
534
276
116
75
113
(279)
737
576
20 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
LOCAL NEWS AND MARKETING SERVICES SEGMENT
The following table sets forth our revenue and expenses for our local news and marketing services segment, previously referred
to as our broadcast segment, for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017 (in millions):
2019
2018
2017
‘19 vs.‘18
‘18 vs.‘17
Percent Change
Increase / (Decrease)
$
$
$
Revenue:
Distribution revenue
Advertising revenue
Other media revenue (a)
Media revenues
Operating Expenses:
Media programming and production expenses
Media selling, general and administrative expenses
Amortization of program contract costs and net
realizable value adjustments
Corporate general and administrative expenses
Depreciation and amortization expenses
Gain on asset dispositions and other, net of
impairment
Operating income
1,341
$
1,186
$
1,268
46
1,484
45
2,655
$
2,715
$
1,033
1,315
46
2,394
1,173
$
1,081
$
552
90
144
245
530
101
100
251
(62)
(100)
$
513
$
752
$
965
470
116
101
244
(226)
724
13%
(15)%
2%
(2)%
9%
4%
(11)%
44%
(2)%
(38)%
(32)%
15%
13%
(2)%
13%
12%
13%
(13)%
(1)%
3%
(56)%
4%
(a) Excludes $35 million of intercompany revenue related to certain services provided to the sports segment under a management services
agreement as it is eliminated in consolidation.
Revenues
Distribution revenue. Distribution revenue, which includes payments from MVPDs, virtual MVPDs, and OTT distributors for
our broadcast signals, increased $155 million in 2019 when compared to the same period in 2018. The increase was primarily due
to an increase in rates, partially offset by a decrease in subscribers.
Distribution revenue increased $153 million in 2018 when compared to the same period in 2017, of which $28 million was
related to stations not included in the same period of 2017. The remaining increase was primarily due to an increase in rates,
partially offset by a decrease in subscribers.
Advertising revenue. Advertising revenue decreased $216 million in 2019, when compared to 2018. The decrease is primarily
related to a decrease in political advertising revenue of $221 million, as 2018 was a political year. These decreases were partially
offset by increases in certain categories, notably home products and services.
Advertising revenue increased $169 million in 2018, when compared to the same period in 2017. The increase is primarily
related to an increase in political advertising revenue of $221 million, as 2018 was a political year and $33 million related to
stations not included in the same period in 2017. These increases were partially offset by decreases in certain categories, notably
$38 million in automotive, $20 million in food, $18 million in home products, and $7 million in schools due to political crowding
out, the Super Bowl being carried on fewer of our stations than in the prior year, and the Olympics which is carried on NBC.
2019 Annual Report l 21
The following table sets forth our primary types of programming and their approximate percentages of advertising revenue,
excluding digital revenue, for the periods presented:
Local news
Syndicated/Other programming
Network programming (a)
Sports programming
Paid programming
Percent of Advertising Revenue (Excluding Digital) for the
Twelve Months Ended December 31,
2019
33%
29%
24%
11%
3%
2018
34%
28%
25%
10%
3%
2017
32%
30%
25%
10%
3%
(a) Excludes sports programming provided by networks.
The following table sets forth our affiliate percentages of advertising revenue for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018, and
2017:
ABC
FOX
CBS
NBC
CW
MNT
Other (b)
Total
Percent of Advertising Revenue for the
Twelve Months Ended December 31,
Channels (a)
41
59
30
24
48
39
388
629
2019
30%
25%
20%
13%
6%
4%
2%
2018
29%
24%
20%
16%
6%
4%
1%
2017
29%
25%
20%
13%
7%
5%
1%
(a) See Television Markets and Stations within Business for further detail on our channels. We acquired certain television stations during 2017,
with a variety of network affiliations, which affects the year-over-year comparability of revenue by affiliate. See Note 2. Acquisitions and
Dispositions of Assets within the Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion of stations acquired.
(b) We broadcast other programming from the following providers on our channels including: Antenna TV, Azteca, Bounce Network,
CHARGE!, Comet, Dabl, Estrella TV, Get TV, Grit, Me TV, Movies!, Stadium, TBD, Telemundo, This TV, UniMas, Univision, and Weather.
22 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
Expenses
Media programming and production expenses. Media programming and production expenses increased $92 million during
2019 compared to 2018, which is primarily related to increases in fees pursuant to network affiliation agreements.
Media programming and production expenses increased $116 million during 2018 compared to 2017, of which $26 million
related to stations not included in the same period of 2017, $108 million from increases in fees pursuant to network affiliation
agreements, and a $12 million increase in employee compensation cost and retirement benefits. These increases were partially
offset by a $17 million decrease in fees related to rating services and other decreases in marketing and advertising cost,
production cost, and outside services.
Media selling, general and administrative expenses. Media selling, general and administrative expenses increased $22
million during 2019 compared to 2018. The increase is primarily due to a $13 million increase in third-party fulfillment costs
from our digital business due to higher revenues and product mix, a $6 million increase related to regulatory cost, and $10
million increase related to employee compensation cost. These increases were partially offset by a $11 million decrease in
national sales commissions.
Media selling, general and administrative expenses increased $60 million during 2018 compared to 2017. The increase is
primarily due to $13 million of expenses related to stations not included in the same period in 2017, a $11 million increase in
third-party fulfillment costs from our digital business, a $9 million increase related to employee compensation cost and
retirement benefits, a $9 million increase in information technology costs, and a $12 million increase in certain costs related to
higher advertising sales, such as commissions and transaction processing costs.
Amortization of program contract costs and net realizable value adjustments. The amortization of program contract costs
decreased $11 million during 2019 compared to 2018. The decrease is primarily due to $11 million related to the timing of
amortization on long term contracts and reduced renewal costs.
The amortization of program contract costs decreased $15 million during 2018 compared to 2017. The decrease is primarily
due to the timing of amortization on long term contracts and a decrease in program renewal costs, partially offset by $2 million of
amortization related to the stations not included in the same period of 2017.
Corporate general and administrative expenses. See explanation under Corporate and Unallocated Expenses.
Depreciation and amortization expenses. Depreciation of property and equipment and amortization of definite-lived
intangibles and other assets decreased $6 million during 2019 compared to 2018, primarily related to $3 million of depreciation
and amortization related to assets retired during 2019.
Depreciation of property and equipment and amortization of definite-lived intangibles and other assets increased $7 million
during 2018 compared to 2017, primarily related to $12 million from stations not included in the same period of 2017, partially
offset by $6 million of depreciation and amortization related to assets retired during 2018.
Gain on asset dispositions and other, net of impairments. During 2019 and 2018, we recorded a gain of $62 million and $6
million, respectively, primarily related to reimbursements from the FCC spectrum repack. For the year ended 2018, we recorded
a gain of $83 million associated with the sale of broadcast spectrum in the broadcast incentive auction. See Broadcast Incentive
Auction within Note 2. Acquisitions and Dispositions of Assets for further discussion of the broadcast incentive auction and FCC
spectrum repack.
2019 Annual Report l 23
SPORTS SEGMENT
Our sports segment reflects the results of our 21 regional sports network brands acquired during the year ended December 31,
2019, Marquee, and a 20% equity interest in the YES Network. The RSNs and YES Network own the exclusive rights to air,
among other sporting events, the games of 45 professional sports teams.
The following table sets forth our revenue and expenses for our sports segment for the period from August 23, 2019 to
December 31, 2019 (in millions):
Revenue:
Distribution revenue
Advertising revenue
Other media revenue
Media revenue
Operating Expenses:
Media programming and production expenses
Media selling, general and administrative expenses (a)
Depreciation and amortization expenses
Corporate general and administrative
Operating income
Income from equity method investments
2019
$
1,029
103
7
$
1,139
$
$
$
769
55
157
93
65
18
(a) Excludes $35 million of intercompany expense related to certain serviced provided by the local news and marketing services segment under a
management services agreement, as it is eliminated in consolidation.
Media revenue. Media revenue was $1,139 million for the year ended December 31, 2019 and is primarily derived from
distribution and advertising revenue. Distribution revenue is generated through fees received from MVPDs for the right to
distribute our RSNs. Advertising revenue is primarily generated from sales of commercial time within the regional sports
networks' programming.
Media programming and production expenses. Media programming and production expenses were $769 million for the year
ended December 31, 2019 and are primarily related to $673 million of amortization of our sports programming rights with MLB,
NBA, and NHL teams and the costs of producing and distributing content for our brands including live games, pre-game and
post-game shows, and backdrop programming.
Media selling, general, and administrative expenses. Media selling, general, and administrative expenses were $55 million for
the year ended December 31, 2019 and are primarily related to employee compensation cost and advertising expenses.
Depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization expense was $157 million for the year ended December 31,
2019 and is related to the depreciation of definite-lived assets and other assets.
Corporate general and administrative expenses. See explanation under Corporate and Unallocated Expenses.
Income from equity method investments. Income from equity method investments for the year ended December 31, 2019 was
$18 million and is primarily related our investment in YES, which was acquired in August 2019.
24 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
OTHER
The following table sets forth our revenues and expenses for our owned networks and content, non-broadcast digital and
internet solutions, technical services, and non-media investments (collectively, other) for the years ended December 31, 2019,
2018, and 2017 (in millions):
Revenue:
Distribution revenue
Advertising revenue
Other media revenues
Media revenues
Non-media revenues
Operating Expenses:
Media expenses
Non-media expenses
Corporate general and administrative expenses
(Gain) loss on asset dispositions and other, net of
impairments
Operating income (loss)
Loss from equity method investments
n/m — not meaningful
2019
2018
2017
‘19 vs.‘18
‘18 vs.‘17
Percent Change
Increase / (Decrease)
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
130
109
13
252
194
256
156
1
(4)
15
(53)
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
113
$
75
16
204
136
210
122
1
60
(82)
(61)
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
107
54
12
173
69
163
75
1
(53)
25
(14)
15%
45%
(19)%
24%
43%
22%
28%
—%
n/m
118%
(13)%
6%
39%
33%
18%
97%
29%
63%
—%
n/m
(428)%
n/m
Revenue. Media revenue increased $48 million during 2019 compared to 2018. The increase for both periods is primarily
related to an increase in distribution and advertising revenue related to our owned networks. Non-media revenue increased $58
million during 2019 when compared to 2018 and is primarily related to an increase in broadcast equipment sales and services,
partially offset by decreased sales from our real estate development projects. Media revenue increased by $31 million during 2018
compared to 2017. The increase is primarily related to an increase in advertising revenue mostly related to the expansion of our
non-broadcast digital initiatives and certain owned networks, and an increase in Tennis distribution revenues. Non-media
revenue increased $67 million during 2018 when compared to 2017 and is primarily related to an increase in broadcast
equipment sales, partially offset by a decrease associated with the sale of a consolidated investment in an alarm monitoring
business in March 2017.
Expenses. Media expenses increased $46 million for both 2019 and 2018 when compared to the previous year. The increase is
primarily related to our owned networks and our non-broadcast digital initiatives. Non-media expenses increased $34 million
and $47 million during 2019 and 2018, respectively when compared to the previous year. The increase is primarily related to
broadcast equipment business and services, primarily due to higher sales.
Corporate general and administrative expenses. See explanation under Corporate and Unallocated Expenses.
(Gain) loss on asset dispositions and other, net of impairments. During the year ended 2018, we recorded a non-cash
impairment of $60 million related to a real estate development project. During the year ended 2017, we recognized a gain of $53
million related to the sale of Alarm. See Alarm Funding Sale under Note 2. Acquisitions and Dispositions of Assets within our
consolidated financial statements.
Loss from equity method investments. Losses from equity method investments for the year ended December 31, 2018
increased by $47 million when compared to 2017 and is primarily related to investments in sustainability initiatives.
2019 Annual Report l 25
CORPORATE AND UNALLOCATED EXPENSES
The following table presents our corporate and unallocated expenses for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017 (in
millions):
2019
2018
2017
‘19 vs.‘18
‘18 vs.‘17
Percent Change
Increase/ (Decrease)
Corporate general and administrative expenses
Interest expense and amortization of debt discount and
deferred financing costs
Loss from extinguishment of debt
Income tax benefit
Net income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling
interests
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
$
$
$
$
$
$
387
422
$
$
10 $
96
$
(48) $
(10) $
111
292
$
$
— $
36
$
— $
(5) $
113
212
1
75
—
(18)
249%
45%
n/m
167%
n/m
100%
(2)%
38%
n/m
(52)%
n/m
(72)%
n/m — not meaningful
Corporate general and administrative expenses. The table above and the explanation that follows cover total consolidated
corporate general and administrative expenses. Corporate general and administrative expenses increased in total by $276 million
in 2019 compared to 2018. The increase is primarily due to a $187 million increase in legal, litigation, and regulatory costs,
primarily related to the acquisition of the RSNs, $73 million in consulting fees and transaction costs, primarily related to the
financing of the acquisition of the RSNs, and a $14 million increase in employee compensation cost.
Corporate general and administrative expenses decreased by $2 million in 2018 compared to 2017 primarily related to a $7
million decrease to employee compensation cost primarily due to one-time bonuses paid in 2017 as a result of the tax law change,
partially offset by an increase of $6 million to health insurance costs.
We expect corporate general and administrative expenses to decrease in 2020 compared to 2019 primarily as a result of lower
transaction, legal, litigation, and regulatory costs.
Interest expense. The table above and explanations that follows cover total consolidated interest expense. Interest expense
increased by $130 million in 2019 compared to 2018. The increase is primarily related to $211 million of acquisition related
financing, of which $189 million related to the DSG Senior Notes and DSG Bank Credit Agreement, and $22 million related to a
new term loan facility at STG. See Note 7. Notes Payable and Commercial Bank Financing within our Consolidated Financial
Statements for further discussion. The increase was partially offset by $79 million in financing ticking fees for the year ended
December 31, 2018, associated with the Tribune acquisition, which was subsequently terminated in August 2018.
Interest expense increased by $80 million in 2018 compared to 2017. The increase is primarily related to $79 million in ticking
fees and the write-off of previously capitalized debt issuance costs associated with the Tribune acquisition which was
subsequently terminated and increased interest expense of $9 million for term loans primarily related to year-over-year increases
in LIBOR. The increases were partially offset by a $6 million decrease related to debt financing fees expensed in 2017 related to
the amendment of certain terms and extension of the maturity date of Term Loan B under the existing Bank Credit Agreement.
We expect interest expense to increase in 2020 compared to 2019 primarily as a result of the acquisition related financing
discussed under Note 7. Notes Payable and Commercial Bank Financing within our Consolidated Financial Statements.
Income tax benefit (provision). The 2019 income tax benefit for our pre-tax income of $9 million resulted in an effective tax
rate of (1,103.4)%. The 2018 income tax benefit for our pre-tax income (including the effects of noncontrolling interest) of $306
million resulted in an effective tax rate of (11.7)%. The increase in the effective tax rate from 2018 to 2019 is primarily due to
greater impact of federal tax credits related to investments in sustainability initiatives and a 2019 benefit related to a change in
the treatment of the gain from the sale of certain broadcast spectrum in connection with the Broadcast Incentive Auction.
The 2017 income tax benefit for our pre-tax income (including the effects of noncontrolling interest) of $501 million resulted in
an effective tax rate of (15.1)%. The increase in the effective tax rate from 2017 to 2018 is primarily due to the 2017 tax benefit of
the impact of the re-measurement of our deferred tax assets and liabilities related to the reduction of the U.S. federal tax rate
from 35.0% to 21.0% under Tax Cuts and Jobs Act ("Tax Reform") exceeding the tax benefits of the greater 2018 federal tax
credits, lower 2018 federal tax rate, and lower 2018 state taxes due to the impact of a change in apportionment on certain state
deferred tax liabilities.
26 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
As of December 31, 2019, we had a net deferred tax liability of $407 million as compared to a net deferred tax liability of $413
million as of December 31, 2018. The decrease primarily relates to an increase in deferred tax assets associated with settlement
and other accruals, partially offset by an increase in deferred tax liabilities resulting from certain partnership activity.
As of December 31, 2019, we had $11 million of gross unrecognized tax benefits. Of this total, $10 million (net of federal effect
on state tax issues) represents the amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would favorably affect our effective tax
rate. As of December 31, 2018, we had $7 million of gross unrecognized tax benefits. Of this total, $6 million (net of federal
effect on state tax issues) represents the amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would favorably affect our
effective tax rate. We recognized $1 million and $0.3 million of income tax expense for interest related to uncertain tax positions
for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively. See Note 12. Income Taxes within the Consolidated Financial
Statements for further information.
Net income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interests. Net income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling
interests was $48 million for the year ended December 31, 2019 which is primarily related to dividends accrued and distributed
related to our Redeemable Subsidiary Preferred Equity.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
As of December 31, 2019, we had net working capital of approximately $1,779 million, including $1,333 million in cash and
cash equivalent balances. Borrowing capacity under our STG Revolving Credit Facility and DSG Revolving Credit Facility was
$649 million and $650 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2019. Cash generated by our operations and borrowing capacity
under the STG Bank Credit Agreement and DSG Bank Credit Agreement are used as our primary sources of liquidity.
On April 30, 2019, we paid in full the remaining principal balance of $92 million of Term Loan A-2 debt under the STG
Revolving Credit Facility, due July 31, 2021.
On August 13, 2019, the Company redeemed, in full, $600 million of STG's 5.375% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2021. The
5.375% Notes were called at 100.0% of their par value. The redemption was funded through a combination of $600 million of
STG Term Loan B-2b and cash on hand. See STG Bank Credit Agreement under Note 7. Notes Payable and Commercial Bank
Financing within our Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion.
In conjunction with the acquisition of the RSNs, on August 2, 2019, we issued $3,050 million principal amount of the DSG
5.375% Secured Notes and $1,825 million principal amount of the DSG 6.625% Notes. On August 23, 2019 we entered into an
amendment and restatement of the STG Bank Credit Agreement, raising $700 million aggregate principal amount of STG Term
Loan B-2a loans and replacing STG's existing revolving credit facility with a new $650 million five-year revolving credit facility.
On August 23, 2019, we entered into the DSG Bank Credit Agreement, raising $3,300 million aggregate principal amount of the
DSG Term Loans and obtaining a $650 million five-year revolving credit facility. On August 23, 2019, we issued preferred equity
of Diamond Sports Holdings for $1,025 million. See DSG Senior Notes, STG Bank Credit Agreement, and DSG Bank Credit
Agreement under Note 7. Notes Payable and Commercial Bank Financing, and Redeemable Subsidiary Preferred Equity under
Note 10. Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests, within our Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion.
On November 27, 2019, the Company redeemed, in full, $500 million of STG's 6.125% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2022 for a
redemption price, including the outstanding principal amount of the STG 6.125% Notes, accrued and unpaid interest, and a
make-whole premium, of $510 million. The redemption was funded by the issuance of $500 million of senior notes, which bear
interest at a rate of 5.500% per annum and mature on March 1, 2030, plus cash on hand.
On December 13, 2019 and January 21, 2020, we redeemed 300,000 and 200,000 units of redeemable subsidiary preferred
equity for an aggregate redemption price equal to $300 million and $200 million, respectively, plus accrued and unpaid interest.
In January 2020, a minority partner in one of our RSNs exercised their right to sell the entirety of their non-controlling
interest to the Company for $376 million. This transaction closed in January 2020.
We anticipate that existing cash and cash equivalents, cash flow from our operations, and borrowing capacity under the STG
Bank Credit Agreement and DSG Bank Credit Agreement will be sufficient to satisfy our debt service obligations, capital
expenditure requirements, and working capital needs for the next twelve months. For our long-term liquidity needs, in addition
to the sources described above, we may rely upon the issuance of long-term debt, the issuance of equity or other instruments
convertible into or exchangeable for equity, or the sale of non-core assets. However, there can be no assurance that additional
financing or capital or buyers of our non-core assets will be available, or that the terms of any transactions will be acceptable or
advantageous to us.
For the year ended December 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all of the covenants related to the STG Bank Credit
Agreement, DSG Bank Credit Agreement, STG Senior Notes, and DSG Senior Notes.
2019 Annual Report l 27
Sources and Uses of Cash
The following table sets forth our cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017 (in millions):
2019
2018
2017
916
$
647
$
432
Net cash flows from operating activities
Cash flows (used in) from investing activities:
Acquisition of property and equipment
Acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired
Spectrum repack reimbursements and auction proceeds
Proceeds from the sale of assets
Purchases of investments
Distributions from investments
Other, net
Net cash flows (used in) from investing activities
Cash flows (used in) from financing activities:
Proceeds from notes payable and commercial bank financing
$
$
$
$
(156) $
(105) $
(8,999)
62
8
(452)
7
—
—
6
2
(48)
24
3
(9,530) $
(118) $
9,956
$
4
$
Repayments of notes payable, commercial bank financing, and finance leases
(1,236)
Proceeds from the sale of Class A Common Stock
Proceeds from the issuance of redeemable subsidiary preferred equity, net
Repurchase of outstanding Class A Common Stock
Dividends paid on Class A and Class B Common Stock
Dividends paid on redeemable subsidiary preferred equity
Redemption of redeemable subsidiary preferred equity
Debt issuance costs
Distributions to noncontrolling interests
Other, net
—
985
(145)
(73)
(33)
(297)
(199)
(32)
(39)
(167)
—
—
(221)
(74)
—
—
(1)
(9)
3
Net cash flows from (used in) financing activities
$
8,887
$
(465) $
(84)
(271)
311
195
(63)
32
(6)
114
166
(340)
488
—
(30)
(71)
—
—
(1)
(22)
—
190
Operating Activities
Net cash flows from operating activities increased during the year ended December 31, 2019 compared to the same period in
2018. The increase is primarily due to the acquisition of the RSNs in August 2019 and higher distribution revenues.
Net cash flows from operating activities increased during the year ended December 31, 2018 compared to the same period
in 2017. The increase is primarily due to an increase in cash received from customers driven from an increase in political
advertising and distribution revenue.
Investing Activities
Net cash flows used in investing activities increased during the year ended December 31, 2019, compared to the same period in
2018. The increase is primarily related to the acquisition of the RSNs in August 2019, and an increase in net cash invested in debt
and equity investments, primarily related to our investment in YES.
Net cash flows from investing activities decreased during the year ended December 31, 2018, compared to the same period
in 2017. The decrease is primarily due to the proceeds received in 2017 from the spectrum auction and the sale of Alarm. This
decrease was partially offset by the decrease of cash paid related to the acquisition of businesses.
In 2020, we anticipate capital expenditures to increase from 2019. As discussed in Note 2. Acquisitions and Dispositions of
Assets within our Consolidated Financial Statements, certain of our channels have been reassigned in conjunction with the FCC
repacking process. We expect a significant amount of these expenditures will be reimbursed from the fund administered by the
FCC.
28 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
Financing Activities
Net cash flows from financing activities increased during the year ended December 31, 2019, compared to the same period in
2018. The increase is primarily related to the issuance of debt and redeemable subsidiary preferred equity for the acquisition of
the RSNs, offset by the redemption of the STG 5.375% Notes in August 2019, the STG 6.625% Notes in November 2019, and the
redeemable subsidiary preferred equity in December 2019. See Note 7. Notes Payable and Commercial Bank Financing and Note
10. Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests within our Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion.
Net cash flows from financing activities decreased during the year ended December 31, 2018, compared to the same period
in 2017. The decrease is primarily due to a higher volume of Class A Common Stock repurchases in 2018 and the proceeds
received from the public offering of Class A Common Stock during the first quarter of 2017.
Contractual Obligations
We have various contractual obligations which are recorded as liabilities in our consolidated financial statements. Other items,
such as certain purchase commitments and other executory contracts are not recognized as liabilities in our consolidated
financial statements but are required to be disclosed. For example, we are contractually committed to acquire future
programming.
The following table reflects a summary of our contractual cash obligations as of December 31, 2019 and the future periods in
which such obligations are expected to be settled in cash (in millions):
CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS
Total
2020
2021-2022
2023-2024
2025 and
thereafter
Notes payable, finance leases and commercial bank financing (a) $
17,031
$
730
$
1,453
$
3,174
$
11,674
Operating leases
Programming rights and content (b)
Programming services (c)
Other (d)
339
17,798
208
450
51
2,575
91
130
76
4,095
77
146
54
2,913
37
64
158
8,215
3
110
Total contractual cash obligations
$
35,826
$
3,577
$
5,847
$
6,242
$
20,160
(a)
Includes interest on debt and finance leases, including finance leases payable to related parties. Estimated interest on our variable rate debt
has been calculated at an effective weighted interest rate of 4.58% as of December 31, 2019. Variable rate debt represents $6 billion of our
$12 billion total face value of debt as of December 31, 2019. See Note 7. Notes Payable and Commercial Bank Financing within the
Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion of the changes to notes payable, finance leases, and commercial bank financing
during 2019 and Note 15. Related Person Transactions within the Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion of related
parties.
(b) Our programming rights and content includes contractual amounts owed through the expiration date of the underlying agreement for sports
programming rights of $16.2 billion, active and future television program contracts, network programming, and additional advertising
inventory in various dayparts. Active television program contracts are included in the balance sheet as an asset and liability while future
television program contracts are excluded until the cost is known, the program is available for its first showing or telecast, and the licensee
has accepted the program. Industry protocol typically enables us to make payments for television program contracts on a three-month lag,
which differs from the contractual timing within the table. Network programming agreements may include variable fee components such as
subscriber levels, which in certain circumstances have been estimated and reflected in the table above.
(c)
Includes obligations related to rating service fees, music license fees, market research, weather, and news services.
(d) Other includes obligations related to post-retirement benefits, guaranteed payments under a deferred purchase price liability, maintenance
and support, other corporate contracts, other long-term liabilities, commitments to contribute capital to various non-media private equity
investments, and LMA and outsourcing agreements. Excluded from the table are estimated amounts due pursuant to LMAs and outsourcing
agreements where we consolidate the counter-party. The fees that we are required to pay under these agreements total $6 million and $3
million for the periods 2020 and 2021-2022, respectively. Certain station related operating expenses are paid by the licensee and
reimbursed by us under the LMA agreements. Certain of these expenses that are in connection with contracts are included in the table
above.
Off Balance Sheet Arrangements
Off balance sheet arrangements as defined by the SEC means any transaction, agreement or other contractual arrangement to
which an entity unconsolidated with the registrant is a party, under which the registrant has: obligations under certain
guarantees or contracts; retained or contingent interest in assets transferred to an unconsolidated entity or similar
arrangements; obligations under certain derivative arrangements; and obligations arising out of a material variable interest in an
unconsolidated entity. As of December 31, 2019, we do not have any material off balance sheet arrangements.
2019 Annual Report l 29
QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
We are exposed to market risk from changes in interest rates and consider entering into derivative instruments primarily for
the purpose of reducing the impact of changing interest rates on our floating rate debt and to reduce the impact of changing fair
market values on our fixed rate debt. See Note 7. Notes Payable and Commercial Bank Financing within the Consolidated
Financial Statements for further discussion. We did not have any outstanding derivative instruments during the three years
ended December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017.
During the year ended December 31, 2019, we entered into an amended and restated STG Bank Credit Agreement and the DSG
Bank Credit Agreement. We are exposed to risk from the changing interest rates of our variable rate debt issued under these
credit agreements. As of December 31, 2019, our total variable rate debt under these credit agreements was $6 billion. We
estimate that adding 1% to respective interest rates would result in an increase in our interest expense of $59 million.
MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND
ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
Our Class A Common Stock is listed for trading on the NASDAQ stock market under the symbol "SBGI". Our Class B Common
Stock is not traded on a public trading market or quotation system.
As of February 26, 2020, there are approximately 43 shareholders of record of our Class A common stock. Many of our shares
of Class A common stock are held by brokers and institutions on behalf of stockholders, we are unable to estimate the total
number of stockholders represented by these record holders.
We intend to pay regular quarterly dividends to our stockholders, although all future dividends on our common shares, if any,
will be at the discretion of our Board of Directors and will depend on several factors including our results of operations, cash
requirements and surplus, financial condition, covenant restrictions, and other factors that the Board of Directors may deem
relevant.
In February 2020, we declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.20 per share.
See Note 3. Stock-Based Compensation Plans within the Consolidated Financial Statements for discussion of our stock-based
compensation plans.
Comparative Stock Performance
The following line graph compares the yearly percentage change in the cumulative total shareholder return on our Class A
Common Stock with the cumulative total return of the NASDAQ Composite Index and the cumulative total return of the
NASDAQ Telecommunications Index (an index containing performance data of radio and television broadcast companies and
communication equipment and accessories manufacturers) from December 31, 2014 through December 31, 2019. The
performance graph assumes that an investment of $100 was made in the Class A Common Stock and in each Index on
December 31, 2014 and that all dividends were reinvested. Total shareholder return is measured by dividing total dividends
(assuming dividend reinvestment) plus share price change for a period by the share price at the beginning of the measurement
period.
Company/Index/Market
12/31/2014
12/31/2015
12/31/2016
12/31/2017
12/31/2018
12/31/2019
Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc.
NASDAQ Composite Index
NASDAQ Telecommunications Index
100.00
100.00
100.00
121.60
106.96
97.52
127.48
116.45
102.36
147.74
150.96
127.62
105.39
146.67
127.16
135.98
200.49
142.60
30 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
Stock Repurchases
The following table summarizes repurchases of our stock in the quarter ended December 31, 2019:
Period
Class A Common Stock: (b)
10/01/19 – 10/31/19
11/01/19 – 11/30/19
12/01/19 – 12/31/19
Total Number of
Shares Purchased
(a)
Average Price
Per Share
Total Number of
Shares Purchased
as Part of a
Publicly
Announced
Program
Approximate Dollar
Value of Shares That
May Yet Be Purchased
Under the Program
(in millions)
— $
449,099
113,194
$
$
—
35.54
34.93
— $
449,099
$
113,194 $
—
727
723
(a) All repurchases were made in open-market transactions.
(b) On August 9, 2018, the Board of Directors authorized an additional $1 billion share repurchase authorization, in addition to the previous
repurchase authorization of $150 million. There is no expiration date and currently, management has no plans to terminate this program. As
of December 31, 2019, the remaining authorization under the program was $723 million.
2019 Annual Report l 31
CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures and Internal Control over Financial Reporting
Our management, under the supervision and with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer,
evaluated the design and effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures and our internal control over financial reporting
as of December 31, 2019.
The term “disclosure controls and procedures,” as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act, means
controls and other procedures of a company that are designed to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be
disclosed by a company in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and
reported, within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without
limitation, controls and procedures designed to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by a
company in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management,
including its principal executive and principal financial officers, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required
disclosure. Management recognizes that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide
only reasonable assurance of achieving their objectives and management necessarily applies its judgment in evaluating the cost-
benefit relationship of possible controls and procedures.
The term “internal control over financial reporting,” as defined in Rules 13a-15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act, means a process
designed by, or under the supervision of our Chief Executive and Chief Financial Officers and effected by our Board of Directors,
management and other personnel, 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 (GAAP)
and includes those policies and procedures that:
•
•
•
pertain to the maintenance of records that in reasonable detail accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and
dispositions of our assets;
provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements
in accordance with GAAP and that our receipts and expenditures are being made in accordance with authorizations of
management or our Board of Directors; and
provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of
our assets that could have a material adverse effect on our financial statements.
Assessment of Effectiveness of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
Based on the evaluation of our disclosure controls and procedures as of December 31, 2019, our Chief Executive Officer and
Chief Financial Officer concluded that, as of such date, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective at the reasonable
assurance level.
Report of Management on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. Under the
supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, we
assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019 based on the criteria set forth
in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission
(2013 framework) (COSO). Based on our assessment, management has concluded that, as of December 31, 2019, our internal
control over financial reporting was effective based on those criteria.
As permitted under Securities and Exchange Commission guidelines for newly acquired businesses, management’s assessment
of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019 excluded the Regional Sports
Networks (as defined in Note 2. Acquisitions and Dispositions of Assets), which were acquired on August 23, 2019. The operating
results of these businesses are included in our consolidated financial statements for the periods subsequent to acquisition and
represent collectively approximately 7% of total assets and 27% of total revenue as of December 31, 2019. The Regional Sports
Networks will be included in management’s assessment of internal control over financial reporting in fiscal year 2020.
The effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019 has been audited by
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report which is included
herein.
32 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under
the Exchange Act) during the quarter ended December 31, 2019, that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to
materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
Limitations on the Effectiveness of Controls
Management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, do not expect that our disclosure controls and
procedures or our internal control over financial reporting will prevent all errors and all fraud. A control system, no matter how
well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the control system are
met. Further, the design of a control system must reflect the fact that there are resource constraints and the benefits of controls
must be considered relative to their costs. Because of the inherent limitations in all control systems, no evaluation of controls can
provide absolute assurance that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, within our company have been detected. These
inherent limitations include the realities that judgments in decision-making can be faulty and that breakdowns can occur because
of simple error or mistake. Additionally, controls can be circumvented by the individual acts of some persons, by collusion of two
or more people, or by management’s override of the control. The design of any system of controls also is based in part upon
certain assumptions about the likelihood of future events and there can be no assurance that any design will succeed in achieving
its stated goals under all potential future conditions; over time, controls may become inadequate because of changes in
conditions, or the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate. Because of the inherent limitations in a
cost-effective control system, misstatements due to error or fraud may occur and not be detected.
2019 Annual Report l 33
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In millions, except share and per share data)
As of December 31,
ASSETS
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $8 and $2, respectively
Current portion of program contract costs
Income taxes receivable
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
Total current assets
Program contract costs, less current portion
Property and equipment, net
Operating lease assets
Goodwill
Indefinite-lived intangible assets
Customer relationships, net
Other definite-lived intangible assets, net
Other assets
Total assets (a)
LIABILITIES , REDEEMABLE NON-CONTROLLING INTERESTS, AND EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Income taxes payable
Current portion of notes payable, finance leases, and commercial bank financing
Current portion of operating lease liabilities
Current portion of program contracts payable
Other current liabilities
Total current liabilities
Notes payable, finance leases, and commercial bank financing, less current portion
Operating lease liabilities, less current portion
Program contracts payable, less current portion
Deferred tax liabilities
Other long-term liabilities
Total liabilities (a)
Commitments and contingencies (See Note 13)
Redeemable noncontrolling interests
Shareholders' Equity:
Class A Common Stock, $.01 par value, 500,000,000 shares authorized, 66,830,110 and 68,897,723 shares
issued and outstanding, respectively
Class B Common Stock, $.01 par value, 140,000,000 shares authorized, 24,727,682 and 25,670,684 shares
issued and outstanding, respectively, convertible into Class A Common Stock
Additional paid-in capital
Retained earnings
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
Total Sinclair Broadcast Group shareholders’ equity
Noncontrolling interests
Total equity
2019
2018
$
1,333
$
1,132
58
103
287
2,913
5
765
223
4,716
158
5,979
1,998
613
1,060
599
64
—
61
1,784
11
683
—
2,124
158
772
855
185
$
$
17,370 $
6,572
782
$
—
71
38
88
155
1,134
12,367
217
39
407
434
330
23
43
—
93
84
573
3,850
—
50
413
86
14,598
4,972
1,078
1
—
1,011
492
(2)
1,502
192
1,694
—
1
—
1,121
518
(1)
1,639
(39)
1,600
6,572
Total liabilities, redeemable noncontrolling interests, and equity
$
17,370 $
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
(a) Our consolidated total assets as of December 31, 2019 and 2018 include total assets of variable interest entities (VIEs) of $228 million and $127
million, respectively, which can only be used to settle the obligations of the VIEs. Our consolidated total liabilities as of December 31, 2019 and 2018
include total liabilities of the VIEs of $27 million and $22 million, respectively, for which the creditors of the VIEs have no recourse to us. See Note
14. Variable Interest Entities.
34 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2019, 2018 AND 2017
(In millions, except share and per share data)
2019
2018
2017
$
4,046
$
2,919
$
REVENUES:
Media revenues
Non-media revenues
Total revenues
OPERATING EXPENSES:
Media programming and production expenses
Media selling, general and administrative expenses
Amortization of program contract costs and net realizable value adjustments
Non-media expenses
Depreciation of property and equipment
Corporate general and administrative expenses
Amortization of definite-lived intangible and other assets
Gain on asset dispositions and other, net of impairment
Total operating expenses
Operating income
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE):
Interest expense and amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs
Loss from extinguishment of debt
Loss from equity method investments
Other income, net
Total other expense, net
Income before income taxes
INCOME TAX BENEFIT
NET INCOME
Net income attributable to the redeemable noncontrolling interests
Net income attributable to the noncontrolling interests
NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO SINCLAIR BROADCAST GROUP
EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE ATTRIBUTABLE TO SINCLAIR BROADCAST
GROUP:
Basic earnings per share
Diluted earnings per share
Weighted average common shares outstanding (in thousands)
Weighted average common and common equivalent shares outstanding (in
thousands)
$
$
$
194
4,240
2,073
732
90
156
97
387
327
(92)
3,770
470
(422)
(10)
(35)
6
(461)
9
96
105
(48)
(10)
136
3,055
1,191
630
101
122
105
111
175
(40)
2,395
660
(292)
—
(61)
3
(350)
310
36
346
—
(5)
47
$
341
$
2,567
69
2,636
1,064
534
116
75
97
113
179
(279)
1,899
737
(212)
(1)
(14)
9
(218)
519
75
594
—
(18)
576
0.52
0.51
$
$
3.38
3.35
$
$
92,015
93,185
100,913
101,718
5.77
5.72
99,844
100,789
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
2019 Annual Report l 35
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2019, 2018 AND 2017
(In millions)
Net income
Adjustments to post-retirement obligations, net of taxes
Comprehensive income
Comprehensive income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interests
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests
2019
2018
2017
$
105
$
346
$
(1)
104
(48)
(10)
1
347
—
(5)
Comprehensive income attributable to Sinclair Broadcast Group
$
46
$
342
$
594
(1)
593
—
(18)
575
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements
36 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EQUITY
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2017
(In millions, except share data)
BALANCE,
December 31, 2016
Issuance of
common stock, net
of issuance costs
Dividends
declared and paid
on Class A and
Class B Common
Stock ($0.72 per
share)
Repurchases of
Class A Common
Stock
Class A Common
Stock issued
pursuant to
employee benefit
plans
Distributions to
noncontrolling
interests, net
Other
comprehensive
income
Net income
BALANCE,
December 31, 2017
Sinclair Broadcast Group Shareholders
Class A
Common Stock
Class B
Common Stock
Shares
Values
Shares
Values
Additional
Paid-In
Capital
(Accumulated
Deficit)
Retained
Earnings
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Loss
Noncontrolling
Interests
Total Equity
64,558,207
$
1
25,670,684 $
— $
844
$
(256) $
(1) $
(30) $
558
12,000,000
—
—
(997,300)
510,238
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
488
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(30)
19
—
—
—
(71)
—
—
—
—
576
—
—
—
—
—
(1)
—
—
—
—
—
488
(71)
(30)
19
(22)
(22)
—
18
(1)
594
76,071,145
$
1
25,670,684 $
— $
1,321
$
249
$
(2) $
(34) $
1,535
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
2019 Annual Report l 37
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EQUITY
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2018
(In millions, except share data)
BALANCE,
December 31, 2017
Cumulative effect
of adoption of new
accounting
standard
Dividends
declared and paid
on Class A and
Class B Common
Stock ($0.74 per
share)
Repurchases of
Class A Common
Stock
Class A Common
Stock issued
pursuant to
employee benefit
plans
Distributions to
noncontrolling
interests, net
Other
comprehensive
income
Net income
BALANCE,
December 31, 2018
Sinclair Broadcast Group Shareholders
Class A
Common Stock
Class B
Common Stock
Shares
Values
Shares
Values
Additional
Paid-In
Capital
Retained
Earnings
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Loss
Noncontrolling
Interests
Total Equity
76,071,145
$
1
25,670,684
$
— $
1,321
$
249
$
(2) $
(34) $
1,535
—
—
(7,761,529)
588,107
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2
—
(74)
(221)
21
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
341
—
—
—
—
—
1
—
—
—
—
—
(10)
—
5
2
(74)
(221)
21
(10)
1
346
68,897,723
$
1
25,670,684
$
— $
1,121
$
518
$
(1) $
(39) $
1,600
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
38 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EQUITY AND REDEEMABLE NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2019
(In millions, except share data)
Redeemable
Noncontrolling
Interests
Class A
Common Stock
Class B
Common Stock
Shares
Values
Shares
Values
Additional
Paid-In
Capital
Retained
Earnings
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Loss
Noncontrolling
Interests
Total Equity
Sinclair Broadcast Group Shareholders
$
—
68,897,723
$
1
25,670,684
$ — $
1,121
$
518
$
(1) $
(39) $
1,600
985
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
943,002
— (943,002)
—
(4,555,487)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(145)
—
1,544,872
—
—
—
35
380
(38)
(297)
—
48
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(73)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
47
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(1)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(73)
—
(145)
35
248
248
(27)
(27)
—
—
10
—
(1)
57
BALANCE,
December 31,
2018
Issuance of
redeemable
subsidiary
preferred equity,
net of issuance
costs
Dividends
declared and
paid on Class A
and Class B
Common Stock
($0.80 per
share)
Class B Common
Stock converted
into Class A
Common Stock
Repurchases of
Class A
Common Stock
Class A
Common Stock
issued pursuant
to employee
benefit plans
Noncontrolling
interests
acquired in a
business
combination
Distributions to
noncontrolling
interests, net
Redemption of
redeemable
subsidiary
preferred equity,
net of fees
Other
comprehensive
income
Net income
BALANCE,
December 31, 2019 $
1,078
66,830,110 $
1
24,727,682 $ — $
1,011
$
492
$
(2) $
192
$
1,694
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
2019 Annual Report l 39
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2019, 2018 AND 2017
(In millions)
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash flows from operating activities:
Depreciation of property and equipment
Amortization of definite-lived intangible and other assets
Amortization of program contract costs and net realizable value adjustments
Loss from extinguishment of debt
Stock-based compensation
Deferred tax benefit
Gain on asset disposition and other, net of impairment
Loss from equity method investments
Amortization of sports programming rights
Additions to sports programming rights
Changes in assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions:
Decrease (increase) in accounts receivable
Increase in prepaid expenses and other current assets
Increase in accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Net change in net income taxes payable/receivable
Decrease in program contracts payable
Other, net
Net cash flows from operating activities
CASH FLOWS (USED IN) FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Acquisition of property and equipment
Acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired
Spectrum repack reimbursements and auction proceeds
Proceeds from the sale of assets
Purchases of investments
Distributions from investments
Other, net
Net cash flows (used in) from investing activities
CASH FLOWS FROM (USED IN) FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Proceeds from notes payable and commercial bank financing
Repayments of notes payable, commercial bank financing, and finance leases
Proceeds from the sale of Class A Common Stock
Proceeds from the issuance of redeemable subsidiary preferred equity, net
Repurchase of outstanding Class A Common Stock
Dividends paid on Class A and Class B Common Stock
Dividends paid on redeemable subsidiary preferred equity
Redemption of redeemable subsidiary preferred equity
Debt issuance costs
Distributions to noncontrolling interests
Other, net
Net cash flows from (used in) financing activities
NET INCREASE IN CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS, AND RESTRICTED CASH
CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS, AND RESTRICTED CASH, beginning of year
2019
2018
2017
$
105
$
346
$
97
327
90
10
33
(5)
(62)
35
637
(578)
70
(27)
334
(127)
(94)
71
916
(156)
(8,999)
62
8
(452)
7
—
(9,530)
9,956
(1,236)
—
985
(145)
(73)
(33)
(297)
(199)
(32)
(39)
8,887
273
1,060
105
175
101
—
26
(103)
(19)
61
—
—
(37)
(10)
24
49
(108)
37
647
(105)
—
6
2
(48)
24
3
(118)
4
(167)
—
—
(221)
(74)
—
—
(1)
(9)
3
(465)
64
996
CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS, AND RESTRICTED CASH, end of year
$
1,333
$
1,060
$
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
40 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
594
97
179
116
1
16
(159)
(279)
14
—
—
(42)
(9)
35
(43)
(111)
23
432
(84)
(271)
311
195
(63)
32
(6)
114
166
(340)
488
—
(30)
(71)
—
—
(1)
(22)
—
190
736
260
996
SINCLAIR BROADCAST GROUP, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
1. NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES:
Nature of Operations
Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc. (the Company) is a diversified television media company with national reach and a strong focus
on providing high-quality content on our local television stations, regional sports networks, and digital platforms. The content,
distributed through our broadcast platform and third-party platforms, consists of programming provided by third-party
networks and syndicators, local news, college and professional sports, and other original programming produced by us.
Additionally, we own digital media products that are complementary to our extensive portfolio of television station related digital
properties. Outside of our media related businesses, we operate technical services companies focused on supply and maintenance
of broadcast transmission systems as well as research and development for the advancement of broadcast technology, and we
manage other non-media related investments.
As of December 31, 2019, we had two reportable segments for accounting purposes, local news and marketing services and
sports. The local news and marketing services segment consists primarily of our 191 broadcast television stations in 89 markets,
which we own, provide programming and operating services pursuant to agreements commonly referred to as local marketing
agreements (LMAs), or provide sales services and other non-programming operating services pursuant to other outsourcing
agreements (such as JSAs and SSAs). These stations broadcast 629 channels as of December 31, 2019. For the purpose of this
report, these 191 stations and 629 channels are referred to as “our” stations and channels. The sports segment consists primarily
of the 21 regional sports network brands acquired during the year ended December 31, 2019, Marquee, and a 20% equity interest
in the YES Network. The RSNs and YES Network own the exclusive rights to air, among other sporting events, the games of 45
professional sports teams.
Principles of Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include our accounts and those of our wholly-owned and majority-owned subsidiaries,
including the operating results of the regional sports networks acquired on August 23, 2019, as discussed in Note 2. Acquisitions
and Dispositions of Assets, and variable interest entities (VIEs) for which we are the primary beneficiary. Noncontrolling
interests represent a minority owner’s proportionate share of the equity in certain of our consolidated entities. Noncontrolling
interests which may be redeemed by the holder, and the redemption is outside of our control, are presented as redeemable
noncontrolling interests. All intercompany transactions and account balances have been eliminated in consolidation.
We consolidate VIEs when we are the primary beneficiary. We are the primary beneficiary of a VIE when we have the power to
direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact the economic performance of the VIE and have the obligation to
absorb losses or the right to receive returns that would be significant to the VIE. See Note 14. Variable Interest Entities for more
information on our VIEs.
Investments in entities over which we have significant influence but not control are accounted for using the equity method of
Income from equity method investments represents our proportionate share of net income generated by equity
accounting.
method investees.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of
America (GAAP) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities,
revenues, and expenses in the consolidated financial statements and in the disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities. Actual
results could differ from those estimates.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
In February 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued new guidance related to accounting for leases,
Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) Topic 842. We adopted the new guidance on January 1, 2019 using the modified
retrospective approach and the optional transition method. Under this adoption method, comparative prior periods were not
adjusted and continue to be reported in accordance with our historical accounting policy. We elected to apply the package of
practical expedients permitted under the transition guidance within the new standard, which, among other things, allowed us to
carryforward our historical assessments of whether contracts are, or contain, leases and lease classification. The primary impact
of adopting this standard was the recognition of $215 million of operating lease liabilities and $196 million of operating lease
assets. The adoption did not have a material impact on how we account for finance leases. See Note 8. Leases for more
information regarding our leasing arrangements.
2019 Annual Report l 41
In June 2016, the FASB issued amended guidance on the accounting for credit losses on financial instruments. Among other
provisions, this guidance introduces a new impairment model for most financial assets and certain other instruments. For trade
and other receivables, held-to-maturity debt securities, loans and other instruments, entities will be required to use a forward-
looking “expected loss” model that will replace the current “incurred loss” model that will generally result in the earlier
recognition of allowances for losses. This guidance is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2019.
We do not expect this guidance to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
In August 2018, the FASB issued guidance which aligns the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred in a
hosting arrangement that is a service contract with the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred to develop or
obtain internal-use software, with the capitalized implementation costs of a hosting arrangement that is a service contract
expensed over the term of the hosting arrangement. The new standard is effective for interim and annual reporting periods
beginning after December 15, 2019, applied either retrospectively or prospectively to all implementation costs incurred after the
date of adoption. We do not expect this guidance to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
In October 2018, the FASB issued guidance for determining whether a decision-making fee is a variable interest. The
amendments require organizations to consider indirect interests held through related parties under common control on a
proportional basis rather than as the equivalent of a direct interest in its entirety (as currently required in GAAP). The new
standard is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2019, applied retrospectively. We do
not expect this guidance to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
In March 2019, the FASB issued guidance which requires that an entity test a film or license agreement within the scope of
Subtopic 920-350 for impairment at the film group level, when the film or license agreement is predominantly monetized with
other films and/or license agreements. The new standard is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after
December 15, 2019, applied prospectively. We do not expect this guidance to have a material impact on our consolidated
financial statements.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
We consider all highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three months or less when purchased to be cash
equivalents.
Accounts Receivable
We regularly review accounts receivable and determine an appropriate estimate for the allowance for doubtful accounts based
upon the impact of economic conditions on the merchant’s ability to pay, past collection experience, and such other factors
which, in management’s judgment, deserve current recognition. In turn, a provision is charged against earnings in order to
maintain the appropriate allowance level.
A rollforward of the allowance for doubtful accounts for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017 is as follows (in
millions):
Balance at beginning of period
Charged to expense
Net write-offs
Balance at end of period
2019
2018
2017
$
$
$
2
9
(3)
$
3
5
(6)
8 $
2
$
2
3
(2)
3
As of December 31, 2019, three customers accounted for 24%, 15%, and 11%, respectively, of our accounts receivable, net. For
purposes of this disclosure, a single customer may include multiple entities under common control.
Television Programming
We have agreements with distributors for the rights to television programming over contract periods, which generally run from
one to seven years. Contract payments are made in installments over terms that are generally equal to or shorter than the
contract period. Pursuant to accounting guidance for the broadcasting industry, an asset and a liability for the rights acquired
and obligations incurred under a license agreement are reported on the balance sheet when the cost of each program is known or
reasonably determinable, the program material has been accepted by the licensee in accordance with the conditions of the license
agreement, and the program is available for its first showing or telecast. The portion of program contracts which becomes
payable within one year is reflected as a current liability in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
42 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
The rights to this programming are reflected in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets at the lower of unamortized cost
or estimated net realizable value. With the exception of one to three-year contracts, amortization of program contract costs is
computed using an accelerated method. Program contract costs are amortized on a straight-line basis for one to three-year
contracts. Program contract costs estimated by management to be amortized in the succeeding year are classified as current
assets. Payments of program contract liabilities are typically made on a scheduled basis and are not affected by adjustments for
amortization or estimated net realizable value.
Estimated net realizable values are based on management’s expectation of future advertising revenues, net of sales
commissions, to be generated by the program material. We perform a net realizable value calculation quarterly for each of our
program contract costs in accordance with the accounting guidance for the broadcasting industry. We utilize sales information to
estimate the future revenue of each commitment and measure that amount against the commitment. If the estimated future
revenue is less than the amount of the commitment, a loss is recorded in amortization of program contract costs and net
realizable value adjustments in the consolidated statements of operations.
Sports Programming Rights
We have multi-year program rights agreements that provide the Company with the right to produce and telecast professional
sports games within a specified territory in exchange for an annual rights fee. A prepaid asset is recorded for rights acquired
related to future games upon payment of the contracted fee. The assets recorded for the acquired rights are classified as current
or non-current based on the period when the games are expected to be aired. Liabilities are recorded for any program rights
obligations that have been incurred but not yet paid at period end. We amortize these programming rights over each season
based upon contractually stated rates. Amortization is accelerated in the event that the stated contractual rates over the term of
the rights agreement results in an expense recognition pattern that is inconsistent with the projected growth of revenue over the
contractual term.
Impairment of Goodwill, Intangibles, and Other Assets
We evaluate our goodwill and indefinite lived intangible assets for impairment annually in the fourth quarter, or more
frequently, if events or changes in circumstances indicate that an impairment may exist. Our goodwill has been allocated to, and
is tested for impairment at, the reporting unit level. A reporting unit is an operating segment or a component of an operating
segment to the extent that the component constitutes a business for which discrete financial information is available and
regularly reviewed by management. Components of an operating segment with similar characteristics are aggregated when
testing goodwill for impairment.
In the performance of our annual assessment of goodwill for impairment, we have the option to qualitatively assess whether it
is more likely than not that a reporting unit has been impaired. As part of this qualitative assessment, we weigh the relative
impact of factors that are specific to the reporting units as well as industry, regulatory, and macroeconomic factors that could
affect the significant inputs used to determine the fair value of the assets. We also consider the significance of the excess fair
value over carrying value in prior quantitative assessments.
If we conclude that it is more likely than not that a reporting unit is impaired, or if we elect not to perform the optional
qualitative assessment, we will determine the fair value of the reporting unit and compare it to the net book value of the reporting
unit. If the fair value is less than the net book value, we will record an impairment to goodwill for the amount of the difference.
We estimate the fair value of our reporting units utilizing a combination of a market-based approach, which considers earnings
and cash flow multiples of comparable businesses and recent market transactions, as well as an income approach involving the
performance of a discounted cash flow analysis. Our discounted cash flow model is based on our judgment of future market
conditions based on our internal forecast of future performance, as well as discount rates that are based on a number of factors
including market interest rates, a weighted average cost of capital analysis, and includes adjustments for market risk and
company specific risk.
2019 Annual Report l 43
Our indefinite-lived intangible assets consist primarily of our broadcast licenses and a trade name. For our annual
impairment test for indefinite-lived intangible assets, we have the option to perform a qualitative assessment to determine
whether it is more likely than not that these assets are impaired. As part of this qualitative assessment we weigh the relative
impact of factors that are specific to the indefinite-lived intangible assets as well as industry, regulatory, and macroeconomic
factors that could affect the significant inputs used to determine the fair value of the assets. We also consider the significance of
the excess fair value over carrying value in prior quantitative assessments. When evaluating our broadcast licenses for
impairment, the qualitative assessment is done at the market level because the broadcast licenses within the market are
complementary and together enhance the single broadcast license of each station. If we conclude that it is more likely than not
that one of our broadcast licenses is impaired, we will perform a quantitative assessment by comparing the aggregate fair value
of the broadcast licenses in the market to the respective carrying values. We estimate the fair values of our broadcast licenses
using the Greenfield method, which is an income approach. This method involves a discounted cash flow model that
incorporates several variables, including, but not limited to, market revenues and long-term growth projections, estimated
market share for the typical participant without a network affiliation, and estimated profit margins based on market size and
station type. The model also assumes outlays for capital expenditures, future terminal values, an effective tax rate assumption
and a discount rate based on a number of factors including market interest rates, a weighted average cost of capital analysis
based on the target capital structure for a television station, and includes adjustments for market risk and company specific risk.
If the carrying amount of the broadcast licenses exceeds the fair value, then an impairment loss is recorded to the extent that the
carrying value of the broadcast licenses exceeds the fair value.
We periodically evaluate our long-lived assets for impairment and continue to evaluate them as events or changes in
circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be fully recoverable. We evaluate the recoverability of
long-lived assets by measuring the carrying amount of the assets against the estimated undiscounted future cash flows associated
with them. At the time that such evaluations indicate that the future undiscounted cash flows of certain long-lived assets are not
sufficient to recover the carrying value of such assets, the assets are tested for impairment by comparing their estimated fair
value to the carrying value. We typically estimate fair value using discounted cash flow models and appraisals. See Note 5.
Goodwill, Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets, and Other Intangible Assets for more information.
When factors indicate that there may be a decrease in value of an equity method investment, we assess whether a loss in value
has occurred. If that loss is deemed to be other than temporary, an impairment loss is recorded accordingly. For any equity
method investments that indicate a potential impairment, we estimate the fair values of those investments using discounted cash
flow models, unrelated third-party valuations, or industry comparables, based on the various facts available to us. See Note 6.
Other Assets for more information.
We recorded an impairment charge of $60 million for the year ended December 31, 2018 to adjust one of our consolidated real
estate development projects to fair value less costs to sell based upon a pending sale transaction. This impairment is reflected in
gain on asset dispositions and other, net of impairment within our statements of operations. The fair value of the real estate
investment was determined based on both observable and unobservable inputs, including the expected sales price as supported
by a discounted cash flow model.
Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities
Accrued liabilities consisted of the following as of December 31, 2019 and 2018 (in millions):
2019
2018
$
136
$
154
191
186
115
$
782
$
100
42
80
9
99
330
Compensation and employee benefits
Interest
Programming related obligations
Legal, litigation, and regulatory
Accounts payable and other operating expenses
Total accounts payable and accrued liabilities
We expense these activities when incurred.
44 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
Income Taxes
We recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and
the tax bases of assets and liabilities. We provide a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets if we determine that it is more
likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. In evaluating our ability to realize net deferred tax
assets, we consider all available evidence, both positive and negative, including our past operating results, tax planning strategies
and forecasts of future taxable income. In considering these sources of taxable income, we must make certain judgments that are
based on the plans and estimates used to manage our underlying businesses on a long-term basis. As of December 31, 2019 and
2018, a valuation allowance has been provided for deferred tax assets related to a substantial amount of our available state net
operating loss carryforwards based on past operating results, expected timing of the reversals of existing temporary book/tax
basis differences, alternative tax strategies and projected future taxable income. Future changes in operating and/or taxable
income or other changes in facts and circumstances could significantly impact the ability to realize our deferred tax assets which
could have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements.
Management periodically performs a comprehensive review of our tax positions and we record a liability for unrecognized tax
benefits when such tax positions do not meet the “more-likely-than-not” threshold. Significant judgment is required in
determining whether a tax position meets the “more-likely-than-not” threshold, and it is based on a variety of facts and
circumstances, including interpretation of the relevant federal and state income tax codes, regulations, case law and other
authoritative pronouncements. Based on this analysis, the status of ongoing audits and the expiration of applicable statute of
limitations, liabilities are adjusted as necessary. The resolution of audits is unpredictable and could result in tax liabilities that
are significantly higher or lower than for what we have provided. See Note 12. Income Taxes, for further discussion of accrued
unrecognized tax benefits.
Supplemental Information — Statements of Cash Flows
During the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017, we had the following cash transactions (in millions):
Income taxes paid
Income tax refunds
Interest paid
2019
2018
2017
$
$
$
32
2
283
$
$
$
17
$
— $
285
$
128
2
204
Non-cash investing activities included property and equipment purchases of $10 million, $11 million, and $10 million for the
years ended December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017, respectively.
2019 Annual Report l 45
Revenue Recognition
The following table presents our revenue disaggregated by type and segment (in millions):
For the year ended December 31,
2019
Local News and
Marketing Services
Sports
Other
Total
Distribution revenue
Advertising revenue
Other media and non-media revenues
Total revenues
$
$
1,341
$
1,029
$
130 $
1,268
46
103
7
109
207
2,655
$
1,139
$
446
$
For the year ended December 31,
2018
Local News and
Marketing Services
Sports
Other
Total
Distribution revenue
Advertising revenue
Other media and non-media revenues
Total revenues
$
$
1,186
$
1,484
45
2,715
$
— $
—
—
— $
113
$
75
152
340
$
For the year ended December 31,
2017
Local News and
Marketing Services
Sports
Other
Total
Distribution revenue
Advertising revenue
Other media and non-media revenues
Total revenues
$
$
1,033
$
1,315
46
2,394
$
— $
—
—
— $
107
$
54
81
242
$
2,500
1,480
260
4,240
1,299
1,559
197
3,055
1,140
1,369
127
2,636
Distribution Revenue. We generate distribution revenue through fees received from MVPDs and vMVPDs for the right to
distribute our stations, RSNs, and other properties. Distribution arrangements are generally governed by multi-year contracts
and the underlying fees are based upon a contractual monthly rate per subscriber. These arrangements represent licenses of
intellectual property; revenue is recognized as the signal or network programming is provided to our customers (as usage occurs)
which corresponds with the satisfaction of our performance obligation. Revenue is calculated based upon the contractual rate
multiplied by an estimated number of subscribers. Our customers will remit payments based upon actual subscribers a short time
after the conclusion of a month, which generally does not exceed 120 days. Historical adjustments to subscriber estimates have
not been material.
Advertising Revenue. We generate advertising revenue primarily from the sale of advertising spots/impressions within our
broadcast television, RSN, and digital platforms. Advertising revenue is recognized in the period in which the advertising spots/
impressions are delivered. In arrangements where we provide audience ratings guarantees, to the extent that there is a ratings
shortfall, we will defer a proportionate amount of revenue until the ratings shortfall is settled through the delivery of additional
advertising. The term of our advertising arrangements is generally less than one year and the timing between when an
advertisement is aired and when payment is due is not significant. In certain circumstances, we require customers to pay in
advance; payments received in advance of satisfying our performance obligations are reflected as deferred revenue.
Practical Expedients and Exemptions. We expense sales commissions when incurred because the period of benefit for these
costs is one year or less. These costs are recorded within media selling, general and administrative expenses. In accordance with
ASC 606, we do not disclose the value of unsatisfied performance obligations for (i) contracts with an original expected length of
one year or less and (ii) distribution arrangements which are accounted for as a sales/usage based royalty.
Arrangements with Multiple Performance Obligations. Our contracts with customers may include multiple performance
obligations. For such arrangements, we allocate revenues to each performance obligation based on its relative standalone selling
price, which is generally based on the prices charged to customers.
Deferred Revenues. We record deferred revenue when cash payments are received or due in advance of our performance,
including amounts which are refundable. Deferred revenue was $54 million, $83 million, and $50 million as of December 31,
2019, 2018, and 2017, respectively. Deferred revenue recognized during the year ended December 31, 2019 and 2018 that was
included in the deferred revenue balance as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 was $76 million and $39 million, respectively.
For the year ended December 31, 2019, three customers accounted for 16%, 13%, and 10%, respectively, of our total revenues.
For purposes of this disclosure, a single customer may include multiple entities under common control.
46 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
Advertising Expenses
Promotional advertising expenses are recorded in the period when incurred and are included in media production and other
non-media expenses. Total advertising expenses, net of advertising co-op credits, were $25 million, $19 million, and $21 million
for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017, respectively.
Financial Instruments
Financial instruments, as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, consisted of cash and cash equivalents, trade accounts receivable,
accounts payable, accrued liabilities, and notes payable. The carrying amounts approximate fair value for each of these financial
instruments, except for the notes payable. See Note 18. Fair Value Measurements for additional information regarding the fair
value of notes payable.
Post-retirement Benefits
We maintain a supplemental executive retirement plan (SERP) which we inherited upon the acquisition of certain stations. As
of December 31, 2019, the estimated projected benefit obligation was $20 million, of which $2 million is included in accrued
expenses and $18 million is included in other long-term liabilities on our consolidated balance sheets. At December 31, 2019, the
projected benefit obligation was measured using a 3.04% discount rate compared to a discount rate of 4.11% for the year ended
December 31, 2018. For both years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, we made $2 million in benefit payments and recognized
$2 million of actuarial losses and $1 million of actuarial gains, respectively, through other comprehensive income. For both years
ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, we recognized $1 million of periodic pension expense, reported in other income, net on our
consolidated statements of operations.
We also maintain other post-retirement plans provided to certain employees. The plans are voluntary programs that primarily
allow participants to defer eligible compensation and they may also qualify to receive a discretionary match on their deferral. As
of December 31, 2019, the assets and liabilities included on our consolidated balance sheets related to deferred compensation
plans were $36 million and $33 million, respectively.
Reclassifications
Certain reclassifications have been made to prior years’ consolidated financial statements to conform to the current year’s
presentation.
2019 Annual Report l 47
2. ACQUISITIONS AND DISPOSITIONS OF ASSETS:
During the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2017, we acquired certain businesses for an aggregate purchase price, net of
cash acquired, of $9.3 billion, including working capital adjustments and other adjustments.
The following summarizes the material acquisition activity during the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2017:
2019 Acquisitions
RSN Acquisition. In May 2019, DSG entered into a definitive agreement to acquire controlling interests in 21 Regional Sports
Network brands and Fox College Sports (collectively, the Acquired RSNs), from Disney for $9.6 billion plus certain adjustments.
On August 23, 2019, we completed the acquisition for an aggregate preliminary purchase price, including cash acquired, and
subject to an adjustment based upon finalization of working capital, net debt, and other adjustments, of $9,817 million,
accounted for as a business combination under the acquisition method of accounting. The acquisition provides an expansion to
our premium sports programming including the exclusive regional distribution rights to 42 professional teams consisting of 14
Major League Baseball teams, 16 National Basketball Association teams, and 12 National Hockey League teams. The Acquired
RSNs are reported within Sports, a reportable segment within Note 17. Segment Data.
The transaction was funded through a combination of debt financing raised by DSG and STG as described in Note 7. Notes
Payable and Commercial Bank Financing and redeemable subsidiary preferred equity described in Note 10. Redeemable
Noncontrolling Interests.
The following table summarizes our current allocation of the fair value of acquired assets, assumed liabilities, and
noncontrolling interests of the Acquired RSNs (in millions):
Cash and cash equivalents
Accounts receivable, net
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
Property and equipment, net
Definite-lived intangible assets, net
Other assets
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Other long-term liabilities
Goodwill
Fair value of identifiable net assets acquired
Redeemable noncontrolling interests
Noncontrolling interests
Gross purchase price
Purchase price, net of cash acquired
Initial
Allocation (a) Adjustments
Updated
Allocation
$
$
$
$
$
823
604
176
25
7,676
52
(261)
(579)
1,924
10,440
$
(380)
(231)
9,829
9,006
$
$
$
$
1
2
(1)
—
(951)
—
80
183
691
5
—
(17)
(12) $
(13) $
824
606
175
25
6,725
52
(181)
(396)
2,615
10,445
(380)
(248)
9,817
8,993
(a) As reported in our September 30, 2019 Form 10-Q.
The preliminary purchase price allocation presented above is based upon management's estimates of the fair value of the
acquired assets, assumed liabilities, and noncontrolling interest using valuation techniques including income and cost
approaches. The fair value estimates are based on, but not limited to, projected revenue, projected margins, and discount rates
used to present value future cash flows. The adjustments to the initial purchase price are based on more detailed information
obtained about the specific assets acquired and liabilities assumed. The adjustments made to the initial allocation did not result
in material changes to the amortization expense recorded in previous quarters. The allocation is preliminary pending a final
determination of the fair value of the assets and liabilities.
The definite-lived intangible assets of $6,725 million includes $5,439 million of customer relationships, primarily relating to
MVPDs, $1,271 million of favorable contracts with sports teams, and $15 million of tradenames/trademarks. The intangible
assets will be amortized on a straight-line basis over a weighted average useful life of 2 years for tradenames/trademarks, 12
years for contracts with sports teams and 13 years for customer relationships. Acquired property and equipment will be
depreciated on a straight-line basis over the respective estimated remaining useful lives. Goodwill is calculated as the excess of
the consideration transferred over the fair value of the identifiable net assets acquired and represents the future economic
benefits expected to arise from other intangible assets acquired that do not qualify for separate recognition, as well as expected
future synergies. We estimate that $2,340 million of goodwill, which represents our interest in the Acquired RSNs, will be
deductible for tax purposes.
48 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
2017 Acquisitions
Bonten. On September 1, 2017, we acquired the stock of Bonten Media Group Holdings, Inc. (Bonten) and Cunningham
Broadcasting Corporation (Cunningham) acquired the membership interest of Esteem Broadcasting LLC for an aggregate
purchase price of $240 million plus a working capital adjustment, excluding cash acquired, of $2 million accounted for as a
business combination under the acquisition method of accounting. As a result of the transaction, we added 14 television stations
in 8 markets: Tri-Cities, TN/VA; Greensville/New Bern/Washington, NC; Chico/Redding, CA; Abilene/Sweetwater, TX;
Missoula, MT; Butte/Bozeman, MT; San Angelo, TX; and Eureka, CA. Cunningham assumed the joint sales agreements under
which we will provide services to 4 additional stations. The transaction was funded with cash on hand. The acquisition will
expand our regional presence in several states where we already operate and help us bring improvements to small market
stations.
The following table summarizes the allocated fair value of acquired assets and assumed liabilities (in millions):
Accounts receivable
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
Program contract costs
Property and equipment
Definite-lived intangible assets
Other assets
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Program contracts payable
Deferred tax liability
Other long term liabilities
Fair value of identifiable, net assets acquired
Goodwill
Total purchase price, net of cash acquired
$
$
15
1
1
27
162
3
(9)
(1)
(66)
(12)
121
121
242
The final purchase price allocation presented above is based upon management’s estimate of the fair value of the acquired
assets and assumed liabilities using valuation techniques including income, cost, and market approaches. The fair value estimates
are based on, but not limited to, expected future revenue and cash flows, expected future growth rates, and estimated discount
rates.
During the year ended December 31, 2018, we made certain measurement period adjustments to the initial Bonten purchase
price allocation resulting in reclassifications between certain non-current assets and liabilities, including an increase to goodwill
of $2 million.
The definite-lived intangible assets of $162 million are comprised of network affiliations of $53 million and customer
relationships of $109 million. These intangible assets will be amortized over a weighted average useful life of 15 and 14 years for
network affiliations and customer relationships, respectively. Acquired property and equipment will be depreciated on a straight-
line basis over the respective estimated remaining useful lives. Goodwill is calculated as the excess of the consideration
transferred over the fair value of the identifiable net assets acquired and represents the future economic benefits expected to arise
from other intangible assets acquired that do not qualify for separate recognition,
including assembled workforce and
noncontractual relationships, as well as expected future synergies. We expect that goodwill deductible for tax purposes will be
approximately $6 million.
Other 2017 Acquisitions. During 2017, we acquired certain media assets for an aggregate purchase price of $27 million, less
working capital of $3 million. The transactions were funded with cash on hand.
2019 Annual Report l 49
Financial Results of Acquisitions
The following tables summarize the results of the net revenues and operating income (loss) included in the financial
statements of the Company beginning on the acquisition date of each acquisition as listed below (in millions):
Revenues
RSN
Bonten
Other 2017 acquisitions
Total net revenues
Operating Income (Loss)
RSN (a)
Bonten
Other 2017 acquisitions
Total operating income
2019
2018
2017
1,139
$
— $
96
17
101
18
1,252
$
119
$
2019
2018
2017
70 $
— $
19
(4)
21
(2)
85
$
19
$
—
31
11
42
—
7
—
7
$
$
$
$
(a) Operating income (loss) includes transaction costs discussed below and excludes $35 million selling, general, and administrative expenses,
respectively, for services provided by local news and marketing services to sports, which are eliminated in consolidation.
In connection with the 2019 and 2017 acquisitions, for the years ended December 31, 2019, and 2017, we recognized $96
million and $1 million, respectively, of transaction costs which we expensed as incurred and classified as corporate general and
administrative expenses on our consolidated statements of operations.
Pro Forma Information
The following table sets forth unaudited pro forma results of operations, assuming that the RSN Acquisition, along with
transactions necessary to finance the acquisition, occurred at the beginning of the year preceding the year of acquisition (in
millions, except per data share):
Total revenues
Net income
Net income attributable to Sinclair Broadcast Group
Basic earnings per share attributable to Sinclair Broadcast Group
Diluted earnings per share attributable to Sinclair Broadcast Group
Unaudited
2019
2018
6,689
$
6,874
328 $
130 $
1.41
1.39
$
$
732
524
5.20
5.16
$
$
$
$
$
This pro forma financial information is based on historical results of operations, adjusted for the allocation of the purchase
price and other acquisition accounting adjustments, and is not indicative of what our results would have been had we operated
the Acquired RSNs for the period presented because the pro forma results do not reflect expected synergies. The pro forma
adjustments reflect depreciation expense and amortization of intangible assets related to the fair value adjustments of the assets
acquired and any adjustments to interest expense to reflect the debt financing of the transactions. Depreciation and amortization
expense are higher than amounts recorded in the historical financial statements of acquiree due to the fair value adjustments
recorded for long-lived tangible and intangible assets in purchase accounting.
50 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
Termination of Material Definitive Agreement.
In August 2018, we received a termination notice from Tribune Media Company (Tribune), terminating the Agreement and
Plan of Merger entered into on May 8, 2017, between the Company and Tribune (Merger Agreement), which provided for the
acquisition by the Company of the outstanding shares of Tribune Class A common stock and Tribune Class B common stock
(Merger). On January 27, 2020, the Company and Nexstar, which acquired Tribune in September 2019, agreed to settle the
Tribune Complaint. See Litigation under Note 13. Commitments and Contingencies for further discussion on our settlement with
Nexstar.
For the year ended December 31, 2018, we incurred $100 million of costs in connection with this acquisition, of which $21
million primarily related to legal and other professional services, that we expensed as incurred and classified as corporate general
and administrative expenses on our consolidated statements of operations; and $79 million of ticking fees and the write-off of
previously capitalized debt issuance costs associated with the Tribune acquisition which was subsequently terminated, which are
recorded as interest expense on our consolidated statements of operations. For the year ended December 31, 2017, we incurred
$21 million of costs in connection with this acquisition, primarily related to legal and other professional services, that we
expensed as incurred and classified as corporate general and administrative expenses on our consolidated statements of
operations.
Dispositions
Broadcast Incentive Auction. Congress authorized the FCC to conduct so-called "incentive auctions" to auction and re-purpose
broadcast television spectrum for mobile broadband use. Pursuant to the auction, television broadcasters submitted bids to
receive compensation for relinquishing all or a portion of its rights in the television spectrum of their full-service and Class A
stations. Low power stations were not eligible to participate in the auction and are not protected and therefore may be displaced
or forced to go off the air as a result of the post-auction repacking process.
For the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, we recognized a gain of $83 million and $225 million, respectively, which
was included within gain on asset dispositions and other, net of impairment on our consolidated statements of operations. These
gains relate to the auction proceeds associated with three markets where the underlying spectrum was vacated during the first
quarter of 2018 and fourth quarter of 2017. The results of the auction are not expected to produce any material change in
operations of the Company as there is no change in on air operations.
In the repacking process associated with the auction, the FCC has reassigned some stations to new post-auction channels.
We do not expect reassignment to new channels to have a material impact on our coverage. We have received notification from
the FCC that 100 of our stations have been assigned to new channels. Legislation has provided the FCC with a $2.75 billion fund
to reimburse reasonable costs incurred by stations that are reassigned to new channels in the repack. We expect that the
reimbursements from the fund will cover the majority of our expenses related to the repack. We recorded gains related to
reimbursements for the spectrum repack costs incurred of $62 million and $6 million for the years ended December 31, 2019 and
2018, respectively, which are recorded within gain on asset dispositions and other, net of impairment on our consolidated
statements of operations. During 2019 and 2018, capital expenditures related to the spectrum repack were $66 million and $31
million, respectively.
Alarm Funding Sale. In March 2017, we sold Alarm Funding Associates LLC (Alarm) for $200 million less working capital
and transaction costs of $5 million. We recognized a gain on the sale of Alarm of $53 million of which $12 million was
attributable to noncontrolling interests which is included in the gain on asset dispositions and other, net of impairments and net
income attributable to the noncontrolling interest, respectively, on our consolidated statements of operations.
Broadcast Sales. In January 2020, we agreed to sell the license and non-license assets of WDKY-TV in Lexington, KY and
certain non-license assets associated with KGBT-TV in Harlingen, Texas for an aggregate purchase price of $36 million. The
KGBT-TV transaction closed during the first quarter of 2020 and we expect the WDKY-TV transaction to close during the second
half of 2020, pending customary closing conditions and approval by the FCC. The carrying value of these assets was not material
as of December 31, 2019.
2019 Annual Report l 51
3. STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION PLANS:
In June 1996, our Board of Directors adopted, upon approval of the shareholders by proxy, the 1996 Long-Term Incentive Plan
(LTIP). The purpose of the LTIP is to reward key individuals for making major contributions to our success and the success of
our subsidiaries and to attract and retain the services of qualified and capable employees. Under the LTIP, we have issued
restricted stock awards (RSAs), stock grants to our non-employee directors, stock-settled appreciation rights (SARs), and stock
options. A total of 14,000,000 shares of Class A Common Stock are reserved for awards under this plan. As of December 31,
2019, 4,968,511 shares were available for future grants. Additionally, we have the following arrangements that involve stock-
based compensation: employer matching contributions (the Match) for participants in our 401(k) plan, an employee stock
purchase plan (ESPP), and subsidiary stock awards. Stock-based compensation expense has no effect on our consolidated cash
flows. For the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017, we recorded stock-based compensation of $33 million, $26
million, and $19 million, respectively. Below is a summary of the key terms and methods of valuation of our stock-based
compensation awards:
RSAs. RSAs issued in 2019, 2018, and 2017 have certain restrictions that lapse over two years at 50% and 50%, respectively. As
the restrictions lapse, the Class A Common Stock may be freely traded on the open market. Unvested RSAs are entitled to
dividends, and therefore, are included in weighted shares outstanding, resulting in a dilutive effect on basic and diluted earnings
per share. The fair value assumes the closing value of the stock on the measurement date.
The following is a summary of changes in unvested restricted stock:
Unvested shares at December 31, 2018
2019 Activity:
Granted
Vested
Forfeited
Unvested shares at December 31, 2019
RSAs
280,315
$
Weighted-Average
Price
34.73
287,550
(164,423)
(2,000)
401,442
$
33.54
34.59
34.48
33.93
For the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017, we recorded compensation expense of $9 million, $5 million, and $3
million, respectively. The majority of the unrecognized compensation expense of $8 million as of December 31, 2019 will be
recognized in 2020.
Stock Grants to Non-Employee Directors. In addition to directors fees paid, on the date of each annual meetings of
shareholders, each non-employee director receives a grant of unrestricted shares of Class A Common Stock. We issued 24,000
shares in 2019 and 20,000 shares in 2018 and 2017. We recorded expense of $1 million for each of the years ended December 31,
2019, 2018, and 2017, which was based on the average share price of the stock on the date of grant. Additionally, these shares are
included in the total shares outstanding, which results in a dilutive effect on our basic and diluted earnings per share.
Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs). These awards entitle holders to the appreciation in our Class A Common Stock over the
base value of each SAR over the term of the award. The SARs have a 10-year term with vesting periods ranging from zero to four
years. The base value of each SAR is equal to the closing price of our Class A Common Stock on the date of grant. For the years
ended December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017, we recorded compensation expense of $4 million, $3 million, and $7 million,
respectively.
The following is a summary of the 2019 activity:
Outstanding SARs at December 31, 2018
2019 Activity:
Granted
Exercised
Outstanding SARs at December 31, 2019
SARs
3,060,000
$
Weighted-Average
Price
24.29
500,000
(1,479,968)
2,080,032
$
32.81
33.00
20.14
The aggregate intrinsic value of the 2,080,032 outstanding as of December 31, 2019 was $27 million and the outstanding
SARs have a weighted average remaining contractual life of 4 years as of December 31, 2019.
52 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
Valuation of SARS. Our SARs were valued using the Black-Scholes pricing model utilizing the following assumptions:
Risk-free interest rate
Expected years to exercise
Expected volatility
Annual dividend yield
2019
2018
2017
2.5 %
5 years
33.8 %
2.5 %
2.6 %
5 years
36.2 %
2.1% - 2.2%
2.1 %
5 years
37.0 %
2.0 %
The risk-free interest rate is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve, in effect at the time of grant, for U.S. Treasury STRIPS
that approximate the expected life of the award. The expected volatility is based on our historical stock prices over a period equal
to the expected life of the award. The annual dividend yield is based on the annual dividend per share divided by the share price
on the grant date.
Options. As of December 31, 2019, there were options outstanding to purchase 375,000 shares of Class A Common Stock.
These options are fully vested and have a weighted average exercise price of $31.08, a weighted average remaining contractual
term of 6 years, and an aggregate intrinsic value of $1 million. There was no grant, exercise, or forfeiture activity during the year
ended December 31, 2019. There was no expense recognized during the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017.
During 2019, 2018, and 2017, outstanding SARs and options increased the weighted average shares outstanding for purposes
of determining dilutive earnings per share.
401(k) Match. The Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc. 401(k) Profit Sharing Plan and Trust (the 401(k) Plan) is available as a
benefit for our eligible employees. Contributions made to the 401(k) Plan include an employee elected salary reduction amount
with a match calculation (The Match). The Match and any additional discretionary contributions may be made using our Class A
Common Stock, if the Board of Directors so chooses. Typically, we make the Match using our Class A Common Stock.
The value of the Match is based on the level of elective deferrals into the 401(k) Plan. The number of our Class A Common
shares granted under the Match is determined based upon the closing price on or about March 1st of each year for the previous
calendar year’s Match. For the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017, we recorded $17 million, $16 million, and $7
million, respectively, of stock-based compensation expense related to the Match. A total of 7,000,000 shares of Class A Common
Stock are reserved for matches under the plan. As of December 31, 2019, 3,575,958 shares were available for future grants.
ESPP. The ESPP allows eligible employees to purchase Class A Common Stock at 85% of the lesser of the fair value of the
common stock as of the first day of the quarter and as of the last day of that quarter, subject to certain limits as defined in the
ESPP. The stock-based compensation expense recorded related to the ESPP for each of the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018,
and 2017 was $1 million. A total of 3,200,000 shares of Class A Common Stock are reserved for awards under the plan. As of
December 31, 2019, 520,052 shares were available for future purchases.
2019 Annual Report l 53
4. PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT:
Property and equipment are stated at cost, less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is generally computed under the
straight-line method over the following estimated useful lives:
Buildings and improvements
Operating equipment
Office furniture and equipment
Leasehold improvements
Automotive equipment
Property and equipment under finance leases
10 - 30 years
5 - 10 years
5 - 10 years
Lesser of 10 - 30 years or lease term
3 - 5 years
Lease term
Acquired property and equipment as discussed in Note 2. Acquisitions and Dispositions of Assets, is depreciated on a straight-
line basis over the respective estimated remaining useful lives.
Property and equipment consisted of the following as of December 31, 2019 and 2018 (in millions):
Land and improvements
Real estate held for development and sale
$
Buildings and improvements
Operating equipment
Office furniture and equipment
Leasehold improvements
Automotive equipment
Finance lease assets
Construction in progress
Less: accumulated depreciation
2019
2018
$
75
26
293
781
114
36
64
53
116
1,558
(793)
$
765
$
77
35
279
744
107
24
63
53
71
1,453
(770)
683
54 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
5. GOODWILL, INDEFINITE-LIVED INTANGIBLE ASSETS, AND OTHER
INTANGIBLE ASSETS:
Goodwill, which arises from the purchase price exceeding the assigned value of the net assets of an acquired business,
represents the value attributable to unidentifiable intangible elements being acquired. Goodwill totaled $4,716 million and
$2,124 million at December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively. The change in the carrying amount of goodwill was as follows (in
millions):
Balance at December 31, 2017
Measurement period adjustments related to prior year acquisitions
Balance at December 31, 2018 (a)
Acquisition (b)
Assets held for sale
Balance at December 31, 2019 (a)
Local News
and
Marketing
Services
Sports
Other
Consolidated
$
$
$
2,053
$
2
2,055
—
(29)
— $
—
— $
2,615
—
71
$
(2)
69
$
6
—
2,124
—
2,124
2,621
(29)
2,026
$
2,615
$
75
$
4,716
(a) Approximately $1 million of goodwill relates to consolidated VIEs as of December 31, 2019 and 2018.
(b) See Note 2. Acquisitions and Dispositions of Assets for discussion of acquisitions made during 2019.
For our annual goodwill impairment tests in 2019, 2018, and 2017, we concluded that it was more-likely-than-not that
goodwill was not impaired for the reporting units in which we performed a qualitative assessment. The qualitative factors
reviewed during our annual assessments indicated stable or improving margins and favorable or stable forecasted economic
conditions including stable discount rates and comparable or improving business multiples. For one reporting unit in 2019, we
elected to perform a quantitative assessment and concluded that its fair value significantly exceeded the carrying value.
Additionally, the results of prior quantitative assessments supported significant excess fair value over carrying value of our
reporting units. We did not have any indicators of impairment in any interim period in 2019, 2018, or 2017, and therefore did
not perform interim impairment tests for goodwill during those periods. Our accumulated goodwill impairment as of
December 31, 2019 and 2018 was $0.4 million.
As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the carrying amount of our indefinite-lived intangible assets was as follows (in millions):
Balance at December 31, 2017 (b)
Disposition of assets (a)
Balance at December 31, 2018 (b) (c)
Balance at December 31, 2019 (b) (c)
Local News and
Marketing
Services
$
$
$
132
$
(1)
131
131
$
$
Other
Consolidated
27
—
27
27
$
$
$
159
(1)
158
158
(a) See Note 2. Acquisitions and Dispositions of Assets for discussion of divestitures made during 2018.
(b) Approximately $14 million of indefinite-lived intangible assets relate to consolidated VIEs as of December 31, 2019 and 2018.
(c) Our indefinite-lived intangible assets in our local news and marketing services segment relate to broadcast licenses and our indefinite-lived
intangible assets in our other segment relate to trade names.
We did not have any indicators of impairment for our indefinite-lived intangible assets in any interim period in 2019 or 2018,
and therefore did not perform interim impairment tests during those periods. We performed our annual impairment tests for
indefinite-lived intangibles in 2019 and 2018 and as a result of our qualitative assessments, we recorded no impairment.
2019 Annual Report l 55
The following table shows the gross carrying amount and accumulated amortization of definite-lived intangibles (in millions):
Amortized intangible assets:
Customer relationships (a)
Network affiliation (a)
Favorable sports contracts (a)
Other (a)
As of December 31, 2019
Gross
Carrying
Value
Accumulated
Amortization
Net
$
6,548 $
(569) $
5,979
1,441
1,271
46
(689)
(43)
(28)
752
1,228
18
1,998
Total other definite-lived intangible assets, net (b)
$
2,758 $
(760) $
Amortized intangible assets:
Customer relationships
Network affiliation
Other
Total other definite-lived intangible assets, net (b)
As of December 31, 2018
Gross
Carrying
Value
Accumulated
Amortization
Net
$
$
1,113
$
(341) $
1,452
33
(604)
(26)
1,485
$
(630) $
772
848
7
855
(a) As a result of our 2019 acquisitions, we acquired $6.7 billion of definite-lived assets as discussed in Note 2. Acquisitions and Dispositions of
Assets.
(b) Approximately $93 million and $68 million of definite-lived intangible assets relate to consolidated VIEs as of December 31, 2019 and 2018.
Definite-lived intangible assets and other assets subject to amortization are being amortized on a straight-line basis over their
estimated useful lives. The definite-lived intangible assets amortized over a weighted average useful life of 13 years for customer
relationships, 15 years for network affiliations, and 12 years for favorable sports contracts. The total weighted average useful life
of definite-lived intangible assets and other assets subject to amortization acquired as a result of the acquisitions discussed in
Note 2. Acquisitions and Dispositions of Assets is 13 years. The amortization expense of the definite-lived intangible and other
assets for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017 was $327 million, $175 million, and $179 million, respectively. We
analyze specific definite-lived intangibles for impairment when events occur that may impact their value in accordance with the
respective accounting guidance for long-lived assets. There were no impairment charges recorded for the years ended December
31, 2019, 2018, and 2017.
The following table shows the estimated annual amortization expense of the definite-lived intangible assets for the next five
years (in millions):
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
2025 and thereafter
$
$
742
707
690
670
656
4,512
7,977
56 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
6. OTHER ASSETS:
Other assets as of December 31, 2019 and 2018 consisted of the following (in millions):
Equity method investments
Other equity investments
Post-retirement plan assets
Other
Total other assets
Equity Method Investments
2019
2018
$
$
459
$
52
38
64
613
$
72
45
28
40
185
We have a portfolio of investments, including our investment in the YES Network and entities that are primarily focused on the
development of real estate, sustainability initiatives, and other non-media businesses. For the years ended December 31, 2019,
2018, and 2017 none of our investments were individually significant.
Summarized Financial Information. As described under Principles of Consolidation within Note 1. Nature of Operations and
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, we record our proportionate share of net income generated by equity method
investees in loss from equity method investments on our consolidated statements of operations. The summarized results of
operations and financial position of the investments accounted for under the equity method are as follows (in millions):
For the Years Ended December 31,
2019
2018
2017
Revenues, net
Operating income (loss)
Net income (loss)
As of December 31,
Current assets
Noncurrent assets
Current liabilities
Noncurrent liabilities
$
$
$
386
47
13
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
145
$
(58) $
(82) $
2019
2018
369
4,056
$
$
118 $
2,313
$
115
(17)
(42)
28
711
53
544
YES Network Investment. On August 29, 2019, an indirect subsidiary of DSG, an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of the
Company, acquired a 20% equity interest in the YES Network for cash consideration of $346 million as part of a consortium led
by Yankee Global Enterprises. We account for our investment in the YES Network as an equity method investment, which is
recorded within other assets on our consolidated balance sheets, and in which our proportionate share of the net income
generated by the investment is represented within loss from equity method investments on our consolidated statements of
operations. For the year ended December 31, 2019, we recorded income of $16 million related to our investment.
Other Equity Investments
We measure our investments, excluding equity method investments, at fair value or, in situations where fair value is not readily
determinable, we have the option to value investments at cost plus observable changes in value less impairment. Investments
accounted for utilizing the measurement alternative were $28 million, net of $7 million of cumulative impairments, as of
December 31, 2019, and $25 million as of December 31, 2018. We recorded a $7 million impairment related to two investments
for the year ended December 31, 2019 and a $10 million impairment related to one investment for the year ended December 31,
2018, which are reflected in other income, net on our consolidated statements of operations.
As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, our unfunded commitments related to certain equity investments totaled $32 million and
$29 million, respectively.
2019 Annual Report l 57
7. NOTES PAYABLE AND COMMERCIAL BANK FINANCING:
Notes payable, finance leases, and commercial bank financing (including finance leases to affiliates) consisted of the following
as of December 31, 2019 and 2018 (in millions):
STG Bank Credit Agreement:
Term Loan A, due July 31, 2021 (a)
Term Loan B, due January 3, 2024
Term Loan B-2, due September 30, 2026 (b)
DSG Bank Credit Agreement:
Term Loan, due August 24, 2026 (b)
STG Senior Unsecured Notes:
5.375% Notes, due April 1, 2021 (c)
6.125% Notes, due October 1, 2022 (c)
5.625% Notes, due August 1, 2024
5.875% Notes, due March 15, 2026
5.125% Notes, due February 15, 2027
5.500% Notes due March 1, 2030 (b)
DSG Senior Notes:
5.375% Secured Notes, due August 15, 2026 (b)
6.625% Unsecured Notes, due August 15, 2027 (b)
Debt of variable interest entities
Debt of non-media subsidiaries
Finance leases
Finance leases - affiliate
Total outstanding principal
Less: Deferred financing costs and discounts
Less: Current portion
Less: Finance leases - affiliate, current portion
Net carrying value of long-term debt
2019
2018
$
— $
1,329
1,297
3,291
—
—
550
350
400
500
3,050
1,825
21
18
27
11
12,669
(231)
(69)
(2)
$
12,367
$
96
1,343
—
—
600
500
550
350
400
—
—
—
25
20
29
13
3,926
(33)
(41)
(2)
3,850
(a) On April 30, 2019, we paid in full the remaining principal balance of $92 million of Term Loan A debt under the STG Bank Credit
Agreement, due July 31, 2021.
(b) The STG Term Loan B-2, DSG Term Loan, and DSG Senior Notes were issued in August 2019 and the STG 5.500% Notes were issued in
November 2019, as more fully described below.
(c) The STG 5.375% Notes and STG 6.125% Notes were redeemed, in full, in August 2019 and November 2019, respectively, as more fully
described below.
58 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
Indebtedness under the STG Bank Credit Agreement, DSG Bank Credit Agreement, notes payable, and finance leases as of
December 31, 2019 matures as follows (in millions):
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
2025 and thereafter
Total minimum payments
Less: Deferred financing costs and discounts
Less: Amount representing future interest
Notes and
Bank Credit
Agreements
$
$
66
67
68
61
1,871
10,498
12,631
(231)
—
Net carrying value of debt
$
12,400
$
Finance Leases
Total
$
8
8
7
7
6
16
52
—
(14)
38
$
74
75
75
68
1,877
10,514
12,683
(231)
(14)
12,438
Interest expense on our consolidated statements of operations was $422 million, $292 million, and $212 million for the years
ended December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017, respectively. Interest expense included amortization of deferred financing costs and
debt discounts of $17 million for the year ended December 31, 2019 and $8 million for both the years ended December 31, 2018
and 2017 and ticking fees and the write-off of previously capitalized debt issuance costs associated with the Tribune acquisition,
which was subsequently terminated, of $79 million for the year ended December 31, 2018.
The stated and weighted average effective interest rates on the above obligations are as follows, for the periods stated:
Stated Rate
2019
2018
Weighted Average Effective Rate
STG Bank Credit Agreement:
Term Loan B
Term Loan B-2
Revolving Credit Facility (a)
DSG Bank Credit Agreement:
Term Loan
Revolving Credit Facility (b)
STG Senior Unsecured Notes:
5.625% Notes
5.875% Notes
5.125% Notes
5.500% Notes
DSG Senior Notes:
5.375% Secured Notes
6.625% Unsecured Notes
LIBOR plus 2.25%
LIBOR plus 2.50%
LIBOR plus 2.00%
LIBOR plus 3.25%
LIBOR plus 3.00%
5.63%
5.88%
5.13%
5.50%
5.38%
6.63%
4.62%
4.36%
—%
5.31%
—%
5.83%
6.09%
5.33%
5.66%
5.73%
7.00%
4.34%
—%
—%
—%
—%
5.83%
6.09%
5.33%
—%
—%
—%
(a) We incur a commitment fee on undrawn capacity of 0.25%, 0.375%, or 0.50% if our first lien indebtedness ratio is less than or equal to
2.75x, less than or equal to 3.0x but greater than 2.75x, or greater than 3.0x, respectively. As of December 31, 2019, there were no
outstanding borrowings, $1 million in letters of credit outstanding, and $649 million available under the STG Revolving Credit Facility. As of
December 31, 2018, there were no outstanding borrowings, $1 million in letters of credit outstanding, and $485 million available under the
STG Revolving Credit Facility.
(b) We incur a commitment fee on undrawn capacity of 0.25%, 0.375%, or 0.50% if our first lien indebtedness ratio is less than or equal to
3.25x, less than or equal to 3.75x but greater than 3.25x, or greater than 3.75x, respectively. As of December 31, 2019, there were no
outstanding borrowings, no letters of credit outstanding, and $650 million available under the DSG Revolving Credit Facility.
2019 Annual Report l 59
We recorded $222 million of debt issuance costs and original issuance discounts during the year ended December 31, 2019 and
$1 million of debt issuance costs during both the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017. Debt issuance costs and original
issuance discounts are presented as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of an associated debt liability, except for debt
issuance costs related to our STG Revolving Credit Facility and DSG Revolving Credit Facility, which are presented within other
assets on our consolidated balance sheets.
STG Bank Credit Agreement
On August 13, 2019, we issued a seven-year incremental term loan facility in an aggregate principal amount of $600 million
(the STG Term Loan B-2b) with an original issuance discount of $3 million, which bears interest at LIBOR plus 2.50%. The
proceeds from the Term Loan B-2b were used, together with cash on hand, to redeem, at par value, $600 million aggregate
principal amount of STG's 5.375% Senior Notes due 2021 (the STG 5.375% Notes). We recognized a loss on the extinguishment of
the STG 5.375% Notes of $2 million for the year ended December 31, 2019.
On August 23, 2019, we amended and restated the STG Bank Credit Agreement which provided additional operating flexibility
and revisions to certain restrictive covenants. Concurrent with the amendment, we raised a seven-year incremental term loan
facility of $700 million (the STG Term Loan B-2a, and, together with the STG Term Loan B-2b, the STG Term Loan B-2) with an
original issuance discount of $4 million, which bears interest at LIBOR plus 2.50%.
Prior to February 23, 2020, if we repay, refinance, or replace the STG Term Loan B-2, we are subject to a prepayment premium
of 1% of the aggregate principal balance of the repayment. The STG Term Loan B-2 amortizes in equal quarterly installments in
an aggregate amount equal to 1% of the original amount of such term loans, with the balance being payable on the maturity date.
Additionally, in connection with the amendment, we replaced STG's existing revolving credit facility with a new $650 million
five-year revolving credit facility (the STG Revolving Credit Facility), priced at LIBOR plus 2.00%, which includes capacity for up
to $50 million of letters of credit and for borrowings of up to $50 million under swingline loans.
The STG Bank Credit Agreement contains covenants that, subject to certain exceptions, qualifications, ratios, and "baskets",
generally limit the ability of the borrower and its restricted subsidiaries to incur debt, create liens, make fundamental changes,
enter into asset sales, make certain investments, pay dividends or distribute or redeem certain equity interests, prepay or redeem
certain debt, and enter into certain transactions with affiliates. Also, the STG Revolving Credit Facility is subject to compliance
with a first lien net leverage ratio test that will be tested at the end of each fiscal quarter if certain borrowings under the STG
Revolving Credit Facility exceed 35% of the total commitments under the STG Revolving Credit Facility on such date. As of
December 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all covenants.
STG Senior Unsecured Notes
On November 27, 2019, we issued $500 million principal amount of senior notes, which bear interest at a rate of 5.500% per
annum and mature on March 1, 2030 (the STG 5.500% Notes). The net proceeds of the STG 5.500% Notes were used, plus cash
on hand, to redeem $500 million aggregate principal amount of STG's 6.125% senior unsecured notes due 2022 (the STG 6.125%
Notes) for a redemption price, including the outstanding principal amount of the STG 6.125% Notes, accrued and unpaid interest,
and a make-whole premium, of $510 million. We recognized a loss on the extinguishment of the STG 6.125% Notes of $8 million
for the year ended December 31, 2019.
Prior to December 1, 2024, we may redeem the STG 5.500% Notes, in whole or in part, at any time or from time to time at a
price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the STG 5.500% Notes plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the redemption
date, plus a “make-whole” premium. In addition, on or prior to December 1, 2022, we may redeem up to 40% of the Notes using
the proceeds of certain equity offerings. Beginning on December 1, 2024, we may redeem some or all of the STG 5.500% Notes at
any time or from time to time at certain redemption prices, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of redemption. If
the notes are redeemed during the twelve-month period beginning December 1, 2024, 2025, 2026, and 2027 and thereafter, then
the redemption prices for the STG 5.500% Notes are 102.750%, 101.833%, 100.917%, and 100%, respectively. Upon the sale of
certain of STG’s assets or certain changes of control, the holders of the STG 5.500% Notes may require us to repurchase some or
all of the STG 5.500% Notes.
STG’s obligations under the STG 5.500% Notes are guaranteed, jointly and severally, on a senior unsecured basis, by the
Company and each wholly-owned subsidiary of STG or the Company that guarantees the STG Bank Credit Agreement and rank
equally with all of STG’s other senior unsecured indebtedness.
Upon issuance, the STG 5.625% Notes, STG 5.875% Notes, and STG 5.125% Notes were redeemable up to 35%. We may
redeem 100% of these notes upon the date set forth in the indenture of each note. The price at which we may redeem the notes is
set forth in the indenture of each note. Also, if we sell certain of our assets or experience specific kinds of changes of control, the
holders of these notes may require us to repurchase some or all of the outstanding notes.
60 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
DSG Bank Credit Agreement
On August 23, 2019, DSG and Diamond Sports Intermediate Holdings LLC (DSIH), an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of the
Company and an indirect parent of DSG, entered into a credit agreement (the DSG Bank Credit Agreement). Pursuant to the DSG
Bank Credit Agreement, DSG raised a seven-year $3,300 million aggregate amount term loan (the DSG Term Loan), with an
original issuance discount of $17 million, which bears interest at LIBOR plus 3.25%.
Prior to February 23, 2020, if we repay, refinance, or replace the DSG Term Loan, we are subject to a prepayment premium
of 1% of the aggregate principal balance of the repayment. The DSG Term Loan amortizes in equal quarterly installments in an
aggregate amount equal to 1% of the original amount of such term loan, with the balance being payable on the maturity date.
Following the end of each fiscal year, beginning with the fiscal year ending December 31, 2020, we are required to prepay the
DSG Term Loan in an aggregate amount equal to (a) 50% of excess cash flow for such fiscal year if the first lien leverage ratio is
greater than 3.75 to 1.00, (b) 25% of excess cash flow for such fiscal year if the first lien leverage ratio is greater than 3.25 to 1.00
but less than or equal to 3.75 to 1.00, and (c) 0% of excess cash flow for such fiscal year if the first lien leverage ratio is equal to or
less than 3.25 to 1.00.
Additionally, in connection with the DSG Bank Credit Agreement, DSG obtained a $650 million five-year revolving credit
facility (the DSG Revolving Credit Facility, and, together with the DSG Term Loan, the DSG Credit Facilities), priced at LIBOR
plus 3.00%, subject to reduction based on a first lien net leverage ratio, which includes capacity for up to $50 million of letters of
credit and for borrowings of up to $50 million under swingline loans.
The DSG Bank Credit Agreement contains covenants that, subject to certain exceptions, qualifications, ratios, and "baskets",
generally limit the ability of the borrower and its restricted subsidiaries to incur debt, create liens, make fundamental changes,
enter into asset sales, make certain investments, pay dividends or distribute or redeem certain equity interests, prepay or redeem
certain debt, and enter into certain transactions with affiliates. Also, the DSG Revolving Credit Facility is subject to compliance
with a first lien net leverage ratio test that will be tested at the end of each fiscal quarter if certain borrowings under the DSG
Revolving Credit Facility exceed 35% of the total commitments under the DSG Revolving Credit Facility on such date. As of
December 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all covenants.
DSG's obligations under the DSG Bank Credit Agreement are (i) jointly and severally guaranteed by DSIH and DSG’s direct
and indirect, existing and future wholly-owned domestic restricted subsidiaries, subject to certain exceptions, and (ii) secured by
first-priority lien on substantially all tangible and intangible assets (whether now owned or hereafter arising or acquired) of DSG
and the guarantors, subject to certain permitted liens and other agreed upon exceptions. The DSG Credit Facilities are not
guaranteed by the Company, STG, or any of STG’s subsidiaries.
DSG Senior Notes
On August 2, 2019, DSG issued $3,050 million principal amount of senior secured notes, which bear interest at a rate
of 5.375% per annum and mature on August 15, 2026 (the DSG 5.375% Secured Notes) and issued $1,825 million principal
amount of senior notes, which bear interest at a rate of 6.625% per annum and mature on August 15, 2027 (the DSG 6.625%
Notes and, together with the DSG 5.375% Secured Notes, the DSG Senior Notes). The proceeds of the DSG Senior Notes were
used, in part, to fund the RSN Acquisition.
Prior to August 15, 2022, we may redeem the DSG Senior Notes, in whole or in part, at any time or from time to time, at a price
equal to 100% of the principal amount of the applicable DSG Senior Notes plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of
redemption, plus a ‘‘make-whole’’ premium. Beginning on August 15, 2022, we may redeem the DSG Senior Notes, in whole or
in part, at any time or from time to time at certain redemption prices, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of
redemption. In addition, on or prior to August 15, 2022, we may redeem up to 40% of each series of the DSG Senior Notes using
the proceeds of certain equity offerings. If the notes are redeemed during the twelve-month period beginning August 15, 2022,
2023, and 2024 and thereafter, then the redemption prices for the DSG 5.375% Secured Notes are 102.688%, 101.344%, and
100%, respectively, and the redemption prices for the DSG 6.625% Notes are 103.313%, 101.656%, and 100%, respectively.
DSG’s obligations under the DSG Senior Notes are jointly and severally guaranteed by DSIH, DSG’s direct parent, and certain
wholly-owned subsidiaries of DSIH. The RSNs wholly-owned by DSIH and its subsidiaries will also jointly and severally
guarantee the Issuers' obligations under the DSG Senior Notes. The DSG Senior Notes are not guaranteed by the Company, STG,
or any of STG’s subsidiaries.
2019 Annual Report l 61
Debt of variable interest entities and guarantees of third-party debt
We jointly, severally, unconditionally, and irrevocably guarantee $57 million and $77 million of debt of certain third parties as
of December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively, of which $20 million and $24 million, net of deferred financing costs, related to
consolidated VIEs is included on our consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively. These
guarantees primarily relate to the debt of Cunningham as discussed under Cunningham Broadcasting Corporation within Note
15. Related Person Transactions. The credit agreements and term loans of these VIEs each bear interest of LIBOR plus 2.50%. As
of December 31, 2019, we have determined that it is not probable that we would have to perform under any of these guarantees.
Finance leases
For more information related to our finance leases and affiliate finance leases see Note 8. Leases and Note 15. Related Person
Transactions, respectively.
8. LEASES:
As described in Note 1. Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, we adopted new lease
accounting guidance effective January 1, 2019.
We determine if a contractual arrangement is a lease at inception. Our lease arrangements provide the Company the right to
utilize certain specified tangible assets for a period of time in exchange for consideration. Our leases primarily relate to building
space, tower space, and equipment. We do not separate non-lease components from our building and tower leases for the
purposes of measuring our lease liabilities and assets. Our leases consist of operating leases and finance leases which are
presented separately on our consolidated balance sheets. Leases with an initial term of 12 months or less are not recorded on the
balance sheet.
We recognize a lease liability and a right of use asset at the lease commencement date based on the present value of the future
lease payments over the lease term discounted using our incremental borrowing rate. Implicit interest rates within our lease
arrangements are rarely determinable. Right of use assets also include, if applicable, prepaid lease payments and initial direct
costs, less incentives received.
We recognize operating lease expense on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease within operating expenses. Expense
associated with our finance leases consists of two components, including interest on our outstanding finance lease obligations
and amortization of the related right of use assets. The interest component is recorded in interest expense and amortization of
the finance lease asset is recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease in depreciation of property and equipment.
Our leases do not contain any material residual value guarantees or material restrictive covenants. Some of our leases include
optional renewal periods or termination provisions which we assess at inception to determine the term of the lease, subject to
reassessment in certain circumstances.
The following table presents lease expense we have recorded on our consolidated statements of operations for the year ended
December 31, 2019 (in millions):
Finance lease expense:
Amortization of finance lease asset
Interest on lease liabilities
Total finance lease expense
Operating lease expense (a)
Total lease expense
2019
3
4
7
47
54
$
$
(a) Includes variable and short-term lease expense of $5 million and $1 million, respectively, for the year ended December 31, 2019.
62 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
The following table summarizes our outstanding operating and finance lease obligations as of December 31, 2019 (in millions):
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
2025 and thereafter
Total undiscounted obligations
Less imputed interest
Present value of lease obligations
Operating
Leases
Finance Leases
Total
$
$
51
43
33
30
24
158
339
(84)
$
8
8
7
7
6
16
52
(14)
$
255
$
38
$
Future minimum payments under operating leases as of December 31, 2018 were as follows (in millions):
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024 and thereafter
Total
$
$
59
51
40
37
30
174
391
(98)
293
32
31
30
27
24
158
302
The following table summarizes supplemental balance sheet information related to leases as of December 31, 2019 (in millions,
except lease term and discount rate):
Lease assets, non-current
Lease liabilities, current
Lease liabilities, non-current
Total lease liabilities
Weighted average remaining lease term (in years)
Weighted average discount rate
Operating
Leases
Finance Leases
$
$
$
223
38
217
255
$
$
$
9.55
5.7 %
14
(a)
5
33
38
7.18
8.8 %
(a) Finance lease assets are reflected in property and equipment, net on our consolidated balance sheets.
The following table presents other information related to leases for the year ended December 31, 2019 (in millions):
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:
Operating cash flows from operating leases
Operating cash flows from finance leases
Financing cash flows from finance leases
Leased assets obtained in exchange for new lease liabilities
2019
$
38
4
5
35
2019 Annual Report l 63
9. PROGRAM CONTRACTS:
Future payments required under television program contracts as of December 31, 2019 were as follows (in millions):
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
Total
Less: Current portion
Long-term portion of program contracts payable
$
$
88
14
12
9
4
127
88
39
Each future period’s film liability includes contractual amounts owed, but what is contractually owed does not necessarily
reflect what we are expected to pay during that period. While we are contractually bound to make the payments reflected in the
table during the indicated periods, industry protocol typically enables us to make film payments on a three-month lag. Included
in the current portion amount are payments due in arrears of $23 million. In addition, we have entered into non-cancelable
commitments for future television program rights aggregating to $115 million as of December 31, 2019.
10. REDEEMABLE NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS:
We account for redeemable noncontrolling interests in accordance with ASC 480, Distinguishing Liabilities from Equity, and
classify them as mezzanine equity on our consolidated balance sheets because their possible redemption is outside of the control
of the Company. Our redeemable non-controlling interests consist of the following:
Redeemable Subsidiary Preferred Equity. On August 23, 2019, DSH, an indirect parent of DSG and indirect wholly-owned
subsidiary of the Company, issued preferred equity (the Redeemable Subsidiary Preferred Equity) for $1,025 million.
The Redeemable Subsidiary Preferred Equity is redeemable by the holder in the following circumstances (1) in the event of a
change of control with respect to DSH, the holder will have the right (but not the obligation) to require the redemption of the
securities at a per unit amount equal to the liquidation preference per share plus accrued and unpaid dividends (2) in the event of
the sale of new equity interests in DSG or direct and indirect subsidiaries to the extent of proceeds received and (3) beginning on
August 23, 2027, so long as any Redeemable Subsidiary Preferred Equity remains outstanding, the holder, subject to certain
minimum holding requirements, or investors holding a majority of the outstanding Redeemable Subsidiary Preferred Equity,
may compel DSH and DSG to initiate a process to sell DSG and/or conduct an initial public offering.
We may redeem some or all of the Redeemable Subsidiary Preferred Equity from time to time thereafter at a price equal to
$1,000 per unit plus the amount of dividends per unit previously paid in kind (the Liquidation Preference), multiplied by the
applicable premium as follows (presented as a percentage of the Liquidation Preference): (i) on or after November 22, 2019 until
February 19, 2020: 100%; (ii) on or after February 20, 2020 until August 22, 2020: 102%; (iii) on or after August 23, 2020 but
prior to August 23, 2021: at a customary "make-whole" premium representing the present value of 103% plus all required
dividend payments due on such Redeemable Subsidiary Preferred Equity through August 23, 2021; (iv) on or after August 23,
2021 until August 22, 2022: 103%; (v) on or after August 23, 2022 until August 22, 2023: 101%; and (vi) August 23, 2023 and
thereafter: 100%, in each case, plus accrued and unpaid dividends.
The Redeemable Subsidiary Preferred Equity accrues an initial quarterly dividend commencing on August 23, 2019 equal to 1-
Month LIBOR (0.75% floor) plus 7.5% (8% if paid in kind) per annum on the sum of (i) $1,025 million (the Aggregate Liquidation
Preference) plus (ii) the amount of aggregate accrued and unpaid dividends as of the end of the immediately preceding dividend
accrual period, payable, at DSH's election, in cash or, to the extent not paid in cash, by automatically increasing the Aggregate
Liquidation Preference, whether or not such dividends have been declared and whether or not there are profits, surplus, or other
funds legally available for the payment of dividends. The Redeemable Subsidiary Preferred Equity dividend rate is subject to rate
step-ups of 0.5% per annum, beginning on August 23, 2022; provided that, and subject to other applicable increases in the
dividend rate described below, the cumulative dividend rate will be capped at 1-Month LIBOR plus 10.5% per annum until (a) on
February 23, 2028, the Redeemable Subsidiary Preferred Equity dividend rate will increase by 1.50% with further increases of
0.5% on each six month anniversary thereafter and (b) the Redeemable Subsidiary Preferred Equity dividend rate will increase by
2% if we do not redeem the Redeemable Subsidiary Preferred Equity, to the extent elected by holders of the Redeemable
Subsidiary Preferred Equity, upon a change of control; provided, in each case, that the cumulative dividend rate will be capped at
1-Month LIBOR plus 14% per annum.
64 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
Subject to limited exceptions, DSH shall not, and shall not permit its subsidiaries, directly or indirectly, to pay a dividend or
make a distribution, unless DSH applies 75% of the amount of such dividend or distribution payable to DSH or its subsidiaries
(with the amount payable calculated on a pro rata basis based on their direct or indirect common equity ownership by DSH) to
make an offer to the holders of Redeemable Subsidiary Preferred Equity to redeem the Redeemable Subsidiary Preferred Equity
(subject to certain redemption restrictions) at a price equal to 100% of the Liquidation Preference of such Redeemable Subsidiary
Preferred Equity, plus accrued and unpaid dividends.
Dividends accrued during the year ended December 31, 2019 were $33 million and are reflected in net income attributable to
the redeemable noncontrolling interests on our consolidated statements of operations. The balance of the Redeemable Subsidiary
Preferred Equity as of December 31, 2019 was $700 million, net of issuance costs.
On December 13, 2019, we redeemed 300,000 units of the Redeemable Subsidiary Preferred Equity for an aggregate
redemption price equal to $300 million plus accrued and unpaid dividends, representing 100% of the unreturned capital
contribution with respect to the units redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid dividends with respect to the units redeemed up to, but
not including, the redemption date, and after giving effect to any applicable rebates.
On January 21, 2020, we redeemed 200,000 units of the Redeemable Subsidiary Preferred Equity for an aggregate redemption
price equal to $200 million plus accrued and unpaid dividends, representing 100% of the unreturned capital contribution with
respect to the units redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid dividends with respect to the units redeemed up to, but not including, the
redemption date, and after giving effect to any applicable rebates.
In connection with the Redeemable Subsidiary Preferred Equity, the Company provides a guarantee of collection of
distributions.
Subsidiary Equity Put Right. A noncontrolling equity holder of one of our subsidiaries has the right to sell their interest to the
Company at a fair market sale value of $376 million, plus any undistributed income, at any time during the 30-day period
following January 2, 2020. As of December 31, 2019, this redeemable noncontrolling interest was recorded at $378 million which
represents the $376 million plus $2 million of undistributed noncontrolling interest income. In January 2020, the noncontrolling
equity holder exercised their right to sell their interest to the Company for $376 million. This transaction closed in January 2020.
11. COMMON STOCK:
Holders of Class A Common Stock are entitled to one vote per share and holders of Class B Common Stock are entitled to ten
votes per share, except for votes relating to “going private” and certain other transactions. Substantially all of the Class B
Common Stock is held by David D. Smith, Frederick G. Smith, J. Duncan Smith and Robert E. Smith who entered into a
stockholders’ agreement pursuant to which they have agreed to vote for each other as candidates for election to our board of
directors until December 31, 2025. The Class A Common Stock and the Class B Common Stock vote together as a single class,
except as otherwise may be required by Maryland law, on all matters presented for a vote. Holders of Class B Common Stock may
at any time convert their shares into the same number of shares of Class A Common Stock. During 2019, 943,002 Class B
Common Stock shares were converted into Class A Common Stock shares. During 2018, no Class B Common Stock shares were
converted into Class A Common Stock shares.
Our Bank Credit Agreements and some of our subordinate debt instruments have restrictions on our ability to pay dividends
on our common stock unless certain specific conditions are satisfied, including but not limited to:
•
•
no event of default then exists under each indenture or certain other specified agreements relating to our
indebtedness; and
after taking into account the dividends payment, we are within certain restricted payment requirements contained
in each indenture.
During 2019 and 2018, our Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend in the months of February, May, August, and
November which were paid in March, June, September, and December, respectively. The quarterly dividend per share was
increased from $0.18 to $0.20 in November 2018. Total dividend payments for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018
were $0.80 and $0.74 per share, respectively. In February 2020, our Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend of $0.20
per share. Future dividends on our common shares, if any, will be at the discretion of our Board of Directors and will depend on
several factors including our results of operations, cash requirements and surplus, financial condition, covenant restrictions, and
other factors that the Board of Directors may deem relevant. The Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock holders
have the same rights related to dividends.
On August 9, 2018, the Board of Directors approved an additional $1 billion share repurchase authorization, in addition to the
previous repurchase authorization of $150 million. There is no expiration date and currently, management has no plans to
terminate this program. For the year ended December 31, 2019, we repurchased approximately 5 million shares of Class A
Common Stock for $145 million. As of December 31, 2019, the total remaining repurchase authorization was $723 million.
2019 Annual Report l 65
12. INCOME TAXES:
The (benefit) provision for income taxes consisted of the following for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017 (in
millions):
Current (benefits) provision for income taxes:
Federal
State
Deferred (benefit) provision for income taxes:
Federal
State
2019
2018
2017
$
(89) $
59
$
(2)
(91)
(4)
(1)
(5)
8
67
(69)
(34)
(103)
(Benefit) provision for income taxes
$
(96) $
(36) $
The following is a reconciliation of federal income taxes at the applicable statutory rate to the recorded provision:
77
7
84
(196)
37
(159)
(75)
Federal statutory rate
Adjustments:
Federal tax credits (a)
Spectrum sales (b)
Valuation allowance (c)
Nondeductible items (d)
Noncontrolling interest (e)
Change in unrecognized tax benefits (f)
State income taxes, net of federal tax benefit (g)
Effect of consolidated VIEs (h)
Capital loss carryback (i)
Stock-based compensation
Federal tax reform (j)
Other
Effective income tax rate
2019
2018
2017
21.0 %
21.0 %
35.0 %
(684.6)%
(386.7)%
(237.1)%
192.7 %
(138.9)%
72.2 %
56.6 %
46.3 %
(26.0)%
(15.9)%
— %
(3.0)%
(1,103.4)%
(19.9)%
(5.8)%
0.7 %
0.4 %
(0.3)%
— %
(8.8)%
1.6 %
— %
0.5 %
(1.4)%
0.3 %
(11.7)%
(2.2)%
— %
— %
1.7 %
(0.8)%
0.5 %
5.2 %
1.0 %
— %
(0.2)%
(54.3)%
(1.0)%
(15.1)%
(a) Our 2019, 2018, and 2017 income tax provisions include a benefit of $57 million, $58 million, and $8 million, respectively, related to
investments in sustainability initiatives whose activities qualify for federal income tax credits through 2021.
(b) Our 2019 and 2018 income tax provisions include a benefit of $34 million and $18 million, respectively, related to the treatment of the gain
from the sale of certain broadcast spectrum in connection with the Broadcast Incentive Auction.
(c) Our 2019 income tax provision includes a $16 million benefit related to a release of valuation allowance on certain state net operating losses
where utilization is now expected as a result of the RSN Acquisition.
(d) Our 2019 income tax provision includes a $19 million addition primarily related to regulatory costs, executive compensation and other
nondeductible expenses.
(e) Our 2019 income tax provision includes a $12 million benefit related to noncontrolling interest of various partnerships.
(f) Our 2019 income tax provision includes a $4 million addition related to tax positions of prior tax years.
(g)
Included in state income taxes are deferred income tax effects related to certain acquisitions, intercompany mergers and/or impact of
changes in apportionment.
(h) Certain of our consolidated VIEs incur expenses that are not attributable to non-controlling interests because we absorb certain related
losses of the VIEs. These expenses are nondeductible by us, and since these VIEs are treated as pass-through entities for income tax
purposes, deferred income tax benefits are not recognized.
(i) Our 2019 income tax provision includes a $2 million benefit related to capital losses that will be carried back to tax years with 35% federal
income tax rate.
(j) Our 2018 and 2017 income tax provisions include a non-recurring benefit of $4 million and $272 million, respectively, to reflect the effect of
the Tax Reform enacted on December 22, 2017.
66 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
Temporary differences between the financial reporting carrying amounts and the tax bases of assets and liabilities give rise to
deferred taxes. Total deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities as of December 31, 2019 and 2018 were as follows (in
millions):
2019
2018
Deferred Tax Assets:
Net operating losses:
Federal
State
Goodwill and intangible assets
Accruals
Other
Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets
Total deferred tax assets
Deferred Tax Liabilities:
Goodwill and intangible assets
Property & equipment, net
Other
Total deferred tax liabilities
Net deferred tax liabilities
$
$
$
$
$
22
92
10
39
28
191
(65)
126
$
(415) $
(90)
(28)
(533)
(407) $
29
74
13
6
41
163
(66)
97
(427)
(80)
(3)
(510)
(413)
At December 31, 2019, the Company had approximately $106 million and $1.9 billion of gross federal and state net operating
losses, respectively. Those losses will expire during various years from 2020 to 2039, and some of them are subject to annual
limitations under the Internal Revenue Code Section 382 and similar state provisions. As discussed in Income Taxes under Note
1. Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, we establish valuation allowances in accordance with
the guidance related to accounting for income taxes. As of December 31, 2019, a valuation allowance has been provided for
deferred tax assets related to a substantial portion of our available state net operating loss carryforwards based on past operating
results, expected timing of the reversals of existing temporary book/tax basis differences, alternative tax strategies and projected
future taxable income. Although realization is not assured for the remaining deferred tax assets, we believe it is more likely than
not that they will be realized in the future. During the year ended December 31, 2019, we decreased our valuation allowance by
$1 million to $65 million. The decrease in valuation allowance was primarily due to the change in the realizability of certain state
deferred tax assets as a result of a business combination in 2019. During the year ended December 31, 2018, we increased our
valuation allowance by $3 million to $66 million. The increase in valuation allowance was primarily due to uncertainty in the
realizability of a state deferred tax asset generated by a subsidiary in 2018.
The following table summarizes the activity related to our accrued unrecognized tax benefits (in millions):
Balance at January 1,
Additions related to prior year tax positions
Additions related to current year tax positions
Reductions related to prior year tax positions
Reductions related to settlements with taxing authorities
Reductions related to expiration of the applicable statute of limitations
Balance at December 31,
2019
2018
2017
$
$
7
4
—
—
—
—
11
$
$
$
7
—
2
(1)
—
(1)
7
$
5
2
1
—
(1)
—
7
We are subject to U.S. federal income tax as well as income tax of multiple state jurisdictions. Our 2013 through 2015 federal
tax returns are currently under audit, and several of our subsidiaries are currently under state examinations for various years.
Our 2015 and subsequent federal and/or state tax returns remain subject to examination by various tax authorities. We do not
anticipate the resolution of these matters will result in a material change to our consolidated financial statements. In addition,
we believe it is reasonably possible that our liability for unrecognized tax benefits related to continuing operations could be
reduced by up to $4 million, in the next twelve months, as a result of expected statute of limitations expirations, the application
of limits under available state administrative practice exceptions, and the resolution of examination issues and settlements with
federal and certain state tax authorities.
2019 Annual Report l 67
13. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES:
Sports Programming Rights
We are contractually obligated to make payments to purchase sports programming rights. The following table presents our
annual non-cancellable commitments relating to the sports segment's sports programming rights agreements as of December 31,
2019 (in millions):
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
2025 and thereafter
Total
$
$
1,828
1,783
1,529
1,478
1,409
8,215
16,242
Other Liabilities
In connection with the RSN Acquisition, we assumed certain fixed payment obligations which are payable through 2027. We
recorded these obligations in purchase accounting at estimated fair value. As of December 31, 2019, $56 million was recorded
within other current liabilities and $145 million was recorded within other long-term liabilities on our consolidated balance
sheets. Imputed interest expense of $4 million was recorded for the year ended December 31, 2019.
In connection with the RSN Acquisition, we assumed certain variable payment obligations which are payable through 2030.
These contractual obligations are based upon the excess cash flow of certain RSNs. We recorded these obligations in purchase
accounting at estimated fair value. As of December 31, 2019, $34 million was recorded within other current liabilities and $205
million was recorded within other long-term liabilities on our consolidated balance sheets. These obligations are recorded at fair
value on a recurring basis. Total measurement adjustments of $8 million were recorded for the year ended December 31, 2019.
For further information, see Note 18. Fair Value Measurements.
Litigation
We are a party to lawsuits, claims, and regulatory matters from time to time in the ordinary course of business. Actions
currently pending are in various stages and no material judgments or decisions have been rendered by hearing boards or courts
in connection with such actions. Except as noted below, we do not believe the outcome of these matters, individually or in the
aggregate, will have a material effect on the Company's financial statements.
On December 21, 2017, the FCC issued a Notice of Apparent Liability for Forfeiture proposing a $13 million fine for alleged
violations of the FCC's sponsorship identification rules by the Company and certain of its subsidiaries. We have responded to
dispute the Commission's findings and the proposed fine; however, we cannot predict the outcome of any potential FCC action
related to this matter. We do not believe that the ultimate outcome of this matter will have a material effect on the Company's
financial statements.
On November 6, 2018, the Company agreed to enter into a proposed consent decree with the Department of Justice (DOJ).
This consent decree resolves the Department of Justice’s investigation into the sharing of pacing information among certain
stations in some local markets. The DOJ filed the consent decree and related documents in the U.S. District Court for the District
of Columbia on November 13, 2018. The U.S District Court for the District of Columbia entered the consent decree on May 22,
2019. The consent decree is not an admission of any wrongdoing by the Company and does not subject Sinclair to any monetary
damages or penalties. The Company believes that even if the pacing information was shared as alleged, it would not have
impacted any pricing of advertisements or the competitive nature of the market. The consent decree requires the Company to
adopt certain antitrust compliance measures, including the appointment of an Antitrust Compliance Officer, consistent with what
the Department of Justice has required in previous consent decrees in other industries. The consent decree also requires the
Company's stations not to exchange pacing and certain other information with other stations in their local markets, which the
Company’s management has already instructed them not to do.
68 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
The Company is aware of twenty-two putative class action lawsuits that were filed against the Company following published
reports of the DOJ investigation into the exchange of pacing data within the industry. On October 3, 2018, these lawsuits were
consolidated in the Northern District of Illinois. The consolidated action alleges that the Company and thirteen other
broadcasters conspired to fix prices for commercials to be aired on broadcast television stations throughout the United States and
engaged in unlawful information sharing, in violation of the Sherman Antitrust Act. The consolidated action seeks damages,
attorneys’ fees, costs and interest, as well as injunctions against adopting practices or plans that would restrain competition in
the ways the plaintiffs have alleged. Defendants in this action filed a motion to dismiss the consolidated action, and that motion
is now fully briefed. The Company believes the lawsuits are without merit and intends to vigorously defend itself against all such
claims.
On July 19, 2018, the FCC released a Hearing Designation Order (HDO) to commence a hearing before an Administrative Law
Judge (ALJ) with respect to the Company’s proposed acquisition of Tribune. The HDO directed the FCC's Media Bureau to hold
in abeyance all other pending applications and amendments thereto related to the proposed Merger with Tribune until the issues
that are the subject of the HDO have been resolved with finality. The HDO asked the ALJ to determine (i) whether Sinclair was
the real party in interest to the sale of WGN-TV, KDAF(TV), and KIAH(TV), (ii) if so, whether the Company engaged in
misrepresentation and/or lack of candor in its applications with the FCC and (iii) whether consummation of the overall
transaction would be in the public interest and compliance with the FCC’s ownership rules. The Company maintains that the
overall transaction and the proposed divestitures complied with the FCC’s rules, and strongly rejects any allegation of
misrepresentation or lack of candor. The Merger Agreement was terminated by Tribune on August 9, 2018, on which date the
Company subsequently filed a letter with the FCC to withdraw the merger applications and have them dismissed with prejudice
and filed with the ALJ a Notice of Withdrawal of Applications and Motion to Terminate Hearing (Motion). On August 10, 2018,
the FCC's Enforcement Bureau filed a responsive pleading with the ALJ stating that it did not oppose dismissal of the merger
applications and concurrent termination of the hearing proceeding. The ALJ granted the Motion and terminated the hearing on
March 5, 2019. As part of a discussion initiated by the Company to respond to allegations raised in the HDO, the FCC’s Media
Bureau sent the Company a confidential letter of inquiry, which was inadvertently posted to the FCC’s online docket and removed
by FCC staff shortly thereafter. The FCC subsequently released a statement that said the Media Bureau is in the process of
resolving an outstanding issue regarding Sinclair’s conduct as part of the last year's FCC’s review of its proposed merger with
Tribune and that the Bureau believes that delaying consideration of this matter would not be in anyone's interest. We cannot
predict the outcome of the FCC's inquiry or whether or how the issues raised in the now-terminated HDO might impact the
Company's ability to acquire additional TV stations in the future.
On August 9, 2018, Edward Komito, a putative Company shareholder, filed a class action complaint (the "Initial Complaint") in
the United States District Court for the District of Maryland (the "District of Maryland") against the Company, Christopher
Ripley and Lucy Rutishauser, which action is now captioned In re Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc. Securities Litigation, case No.
1:18-CV-02445-CCB (the "Securities Action"). On March 1, 2019, lead counsel in the Securities Action filed an amended
complaint, adding David Smith and Steven Marks as defendants, and alleging that defendants violated the federal securities laws
by issuing false or misleading disclosures concerning (a) the Merger prior to the termination thereof; and (b) the DOJ
investigation concerning the alleged exchange of pacing information. The Securities Action seeks declaratory relief, money
damages in an amount to be determined at trial, and attorney’s fees and costs. On May 3, 2019, Defendants filed a motion to
dismiss the amended complaint, which motion has been opposed by lead plaintiff. On February 4, 2020, the Court issued a
decision granting the motion to dismiss in part and denying the motion to dismiss in part. On February 18, 2020, plaintiffs filed
a motion for reconsideration or, in the alternative, to certify dismissal as final and appealable. The Company believes that the
allegations in the Securities Action are without merit and intends to vigorously defend against the allegations.
In addition, beginning in late July 2018, Sinclair received letters from two putative Company shareholders requesting that the
Board of Directors of the Company investigate whether any of the Company’s officers and directors committed nonexculpated
breaches of fiduciary duties in connection with, or gross mismanagement with respect to: (i) seeking regulatory approval of the
Tribune Merger and (ii) the HDO, and the allegations contained therein. A committee consisting of independent members of the
board of directors has been formed to respond to these demands (the "Special Litigation Committee"). The members of the
Special Litigation Committee are Martin R. Leader, Larry E. McCanna, and the Honorable Benson Everett Legg, with Martin
Leader as its designated Chair.
2019 Annual Report l 69
On November 29, 2018, putative Company shareholder Fire and Police Retiree Health Care Fund, San Antonio filed a
shareholder derivative complaint in the District of Maryland against the members of the Company’s Board of Directors, Mr.
Ripley, and the Company (as a nominal defendant), which action is captioned Fire and Police Retiree Health Care Fund, San
Antonio v. Smith, et al., Case No. 1:18-cv-03670-RDB (the "San Antonio Action"). On December 26, 2018, putative Company
shareholder Teamsters Local 677 Health Services & Insurance Plan filed a shareholder derivative complaint in the Circuit Court
of Maryland for Baltimore County (the "Circuit Court") against the members of the Company’s Board of Directors, Mr. Ripley,
and the Company (as a nominal defendant), which action is captioned Teamsters Local 677 Health Services & Insurance Plan v.
Friedman, et al., Case No. 03-C-18-12119 (the "Teamsters Action"). A defendant in the Teamsters Action removed the Teamsters
action to the District of Maryland, and the plaintiff in that case has moved to remand the case back to the Circuit Court. That
motion is fully briefed and awaiting decision. On December 21, 2018, putative Company shareholder Norfolk County Retirement
System filed a shareholder derivative complaint in the District of Maryland against the members of the Company’s Board of
Directors, Mr. Ripley, and the Company (as a nominal defendant), which action is captioned Norfolk County Retirement System
v. Smith, et al., Case No. 1:18-cv-03952-RDB (the "Norfolk Action," and together with the San Antonio Action and the Teamsters
Action, the "Derivative Actions"). The plaintiffs in each of the Derivative Actions allege breaches of fiduciary duties by the
defendants in connection with (i) seeking regulatory approval of the Tribune Merger and (ii) the HDO, and the allegations
contained therein. The plaintiffs in the Derivative Actions seek declaratory relief, money damages to be awarded to the Company
in an amount to be determined at trial, corporate governance reforms, equitable or injunctive relief, and attorney’s fees and costs.
Additionally, the plaintiffs in the Teamsters and Norfolk Actions allege that the defendants were unjustly enriched, in the form of
their compensation as directors and/or officers of the Company, in light of the alleged breaches of fiduciary duty, and seek
restitution to be awarded to the Company. These allegations are the subject matter of the review being conducted by the Special
Litigation Committee, as noted above. On April 30, 2019, the Special Litigation Committee moved to dismiss and, in the
alternative, to stay the San Antonio and Norfolk Actions, which motion has been opposed by the plaintiffs. The Company and the
remaining individual defendants joined in this motion. On October 23, 2019, the court granted the plaintiff’s motion in the
Teamsters Action to remand that action back to the Circuit Court. On December 9, 2019, the court denied defendants’ motions to
dismiss and, in the alternative, to stay the San Antonio and Norfolk Actions without prejudice, subject to potential renewal
following limited discovery.
On August 9, 2018, Tribune filed a complaint (the "Tribune Complaint") in the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware
against the Company, which action is captioned Tribune Media Company v. Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc, Case No. 2018-0593-
JTL. The Tribune Complaint alleges that the Company breached the Merger Agreement by, among other things, failing to use its
reasonable best efforts to secure regulatory approval of the Merger, and that such breach resulted in the failure of the Merger to
obtain regulatory approval and close. The Tribune Complaint seeks declaratory relief, money damages in an amount to be
determined at trial (but which the Tribune Complaint suggests could be in excess of $1 billion), and attorney's fees and costs. On
August 29, 2018, the Company filed its Answer, Affirmative Defenses, and Verified Counterclaim to the Verified Complaint. In its
counterclaim, the Company alleges that Tribune breached the Merger Agreement and seeks declaratory relief, money damages in
an amount to be determined at trial, and attorneys' fees and costs. The Company intends to continue its vigorous defense of this
matter, while exploring opportunities to resolve it on reasonable terms. Based on a review of the current facts and circumstances,
and while no finding of liability or damages against the Company has been made, management has provided for what is believed
to be a reasonable estimate of the potential loss exposure for this matter. On January 27, 2020, the Company and Nexstar, which
acquired Tribune in September 2019, agreed to settle the Tribune Complaint. As part of this settlement, the companies agreed to
dismiss with prejudice the Tribune Complaint and release each other from any current and future claims relating to the
terminated merger. Neither party has admitted any liability or wrongdoing in connection with the terminated merger; both
parties have settled the lawsuit to avoid the costs, distraction, and uncertainties of continued litigation. On January 28, 2020,
Tribune and Sinclair filed a stipulation voluntarily dismissing this litigation.
For the year ended December 31, 2019, we recorded a liability of $175 million for certain of the above legal matters, which is
reflected within corporate general and administrative expenses and selling, general, and administrative expenses on our
consolidated statements of operations.
Changes in the Rules of Television Ownership, Local Marketing Agreements, Joint Sales Agreements,
Retransmission Consent Negotiations, and National Ownership Cap
Certain of our stations have entered into what have commonly been referred to as local marketing agreements or LMAs. One
typical type of LMA is a programming agreement between two separately owned television stations serving the same market,
whereby the licensee of one station programs substantial portions of the broadcast day and sells advertising time during such
programming segments on the other licensee’s station subject to the latter licensee’s ultimate editorial and other controls. We
believe these arrangements allow us to reduce our operating expenses and enhance profitability.
In 1999, the FCC established a new local television ownership rule that made certain LMAs attributable. The FCC adopted
policies to grandfather LMAs that were entered into prior to November 5, 1996 and permitted the applicable stations to continue
operations pursuant to the LMAs until the conclusion of the FCC’s 2004 biennial review. The FCC stated it would conduct a case-
by-case review of grandfathered LMAs and assess the appropriateness of extending the grandfathering periods. The FCC did not
initiate any review of grandfathered LMAs in 2004 or as part of its subsequent quadrennial reviews. We do not know when, or if,
the FCC will conduct any such review of grandfathered LMAs. Currently, all LMAs are grandfathered under the local television
ownership rule because they were entered into prior to November 5, 1996. If the FCC were to eliminate the grandfathering of
these LMAs, we would have to terminate or modify these LMAs.
70 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
In February 2015, the FCC issued an order implementing certain statutorily required changes to its rules governing the duty to
negotiate retransmission consent agreements in good faith. With these changes, a television broadcast station is prohibited from
negotiating retransmission consent jointly with another television station in the same market unless the “stations are directly or
indirectly under common de jure control permitted under the regulations of the Commission.” During a 2015 retransmission
consent negotiation, a MVPD filed a complaint with the FCC accusing us of violating this rule. Although we reached agreement
with the MVPD, the FCC initiated an investigation. In order to resolve the investigation and all other pending matters before the
FCC's Media Bureau (including the grant of all outstanding renewals and dismissal or cancellation of all outstanding adversarial
pleadings or forfeitures before the Media Bureau), the Company, on July 29, 2016, without any admission of liability, entered
into a consent decree with the FCC pursuant to which the Company paid a settlement and agreed to be subject to ongoing
compliance monitoring by the FCC for a period of 36 months.
In September 2015, the FCC released a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in response to a Congressional directive in STELAR to
examine the “totality of the circumstances test” for good-faith negotiations of retransmission consent. The proposed rulemaking
seeks comment on new factors and evidence to consider in its evaluation of claims of bad faith negotiation, including service
interruptions prior to a “marquee sports or entertainment event,” restrictions on online access to broadcast programming during
negotiation impasses, broadcasters’ ability to offer bundles of broadcast signals with other broadcast stations or cable networks,
and broadcasters’ ability to invoke the FCC’s exclusivity rules during service interruptions. On July 14, 2016, the FCC’s Chairman
at the time announced that the FCC would not, at that time, proceed to adopt additional rules governing good faith negotiations
of retransmission consent. No formal action has yet been taken on this Proposed Rulemaking, and we cannot predict if the full
Commission will agree to terminate the Rulemaking without action.
In August 2016, the FCC completed both its 2010 and 2014 quadrennial reviews of its media ownership rules and issued an
order (Ownership Order) which left most of the existing multiple ownership rules intact, but amended the rules to provide for the
attribution of JSAs where two television stations are located in the same market, and a party with an attributable interest in one
station sells more than 15% of the advertising time per week of the other station. JSAs existing as of March 31, 2014, were
grandfathered until October 1, 2025, at which point they would have to be terminated, amended or otherwise come into
compliance with the JSA attribution rule. On November 20, 2017, the FCC released an Ownership Order on Reconsideration that,
among other things, eliminated the JSA attribution rule. The rule changes adopted in the Ownership Order on Reconsideration
became effective on February 7, 2018. Petitions for Review of the Ownership Order on Reconsideration, including the elimination
of the JSA attribution rule, were filed before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit. On September 23, 2019, the court
vacated and remanded the Ownership Order on Reconsideration. Petitions for rehearing en banc were filed by the FCC and
industry intervenors (including the Company) on November 7, 2019. The Third Circuit denied the petitions for rehearing on
November 20, 2019 and the court’s mandate issued on November 29, 2019. On February 7, 2020, the FCC and industry
intervenors filed applications to extend the time to file petitions for writ of certiorari with the Supreme Court from February 18,
2020 to March 19, 2020, which applications were granted on February 12, 2020. We cannot predict whether the Supreme Court
will grant a writ of certiorari or what the outcome of the proceeding would be. If we are required to terminate or modify our
LMAs or JSAs, our business could be adversely affected in several ways, including loss of revenues, increased costs, losses on
investments, and termination penalties.
On September 6, 2016, the FCC released the UHF Discount Order, eliminating the UHF discount. The UHF discount allowed
television station owners to discount the coverage of UHF stations when calculating compliance with the FCC’s national
ownership cap, which prohibits a single entity from owning television stations that reach, in total, more than 39% of all the
television households in the nation. All but 34 of the stations we currently own and operate, or to which we provide
programming services are UHF. On April 20, 2017, the FCC acted on a Petition for Reconsideration of the UHF Discount Order
and adopted the UHF Discount Order on Reconsideration which reinstated the UHF discount, which became effective June 15,
2017 and is currently in effect. A Petition for Review of the UHF Discount Order on Reconsideration was filed in the U.S. Court
of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit on May 12, 2017. The court dismissed the Petition for Review on July 25, 2018. On December 18,
2017, the Commission released a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to examine the national audience reach cap, including the UHF
discount. We cannot predict the outcome of the rulemaking proceeding. With the application of the UHF discount counting all
our present stations we reach approximately 25% of U.S. households. Changes to the national ownership cap could limit our
ability to make television station acquisitions.
On December 13, 2018, the FCC released a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to initiate the 2018 Quadrennial Regulatory Review
of the FCC’s broadcast ownership rules. The NPRM seeks comment on whether the Local Radio Ownership Rule, the Local
Television Ownership Rule, and the Dual Network Rule continue to be necessary in the public interest or whether they should be
modified or eliminated. With respect to the Local Television Ownership Rule specifically, among other things, the NPRM seeks
comment on possible modifications to the rule’s operation, including the relevant product market, the numerical limit, the top-
four prohibition; and the implications of multicasting, satellite stations, low power stations and the next generation standard. In
addition, the NPRM examines further several diversity related proposals raised in the last quadrennial review proceeding. The
public comment period began on April 29, 2019, and reply comments were due by May 29, 2019. We cannot predict the outcome
of the rulemaking proceeding. Changes to these rules could impact our ability to make radio or television station acquisitions.
2019 Annual Report l 71
14. VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES:
Certain of our stations provide services to other station owners within the same respective market through agreements, such as
LMAs, where we provide programming, sales, operational, and administrative services, and JSAs and SSAs, where we provide
non-programming, sales, operational, and administrative services.
In certain cases, we have also entered into purchase
agreements or options to purchase the license related assets of the licensee. We typically own the majority of the non-license
assets of the stations, and in some cases where the licensee acquired the license assets concurrent with our acquisition of the non-
license assets of the station, we have provided guarantees to the bank for the licensee’s acquisition financing. The terms of the
agreements vary, but generally have initial terms of over five years with several optional renewal terms. Based on the terms of
the agreements and the significance of our investment in the stations, we are the primary beneficiary when, subject to the
ultimate control of the licensees, we have the power to direct the activities which significantly impact the economic performance
of the VIE through the services we provide and we absorb losses and returns that would be considered significant to the VIEs.
The fees paid between us and the licensees pursuant to these arrangements are eliminated in consolidation.
We are party to a joint venture associated with Marquee. Marquee is party to a long term telecast rights agreement which
provides the rights to air certain live game telecasts and other content, which we guarantee. In connection with the RSN
Acquisition, we became party to a joint venture associated with one other regional sports network. We participate significantly in
the economics and have the power to direct the activities which significantly impact the economic performance of these regional
sports networks, including sales and certain operational services. We consolidate these regional sports networks because they are
variable interest entities and we are the primary beneficiary.
The carrying amounts and classification of the assets and liabilities of the VIEs mentioned above which have been included on
our consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2019 and 2018 were as follows (in millions):
2019
2018
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents
Accounts receivable, net
Other current assets
Total current asset
Program contract costs, less current portion
Property and equipment, net
Operating lease assets
Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets
Definite-lived intangible assets, net
Other assets
Total assets
LIABILITIES
Current liabilities:
Other current liabilities
Notes payable, finance leases, and commercial bank financing, less current portion
Operating lease liabilities, less current portion
Program contracts payable, less current portion
Other long term liabilities
Total liabilities
$
39
39
16
94
1
15
8
15
93
2
—
28
7
35
2
5
—
15
68
2
228 $
127
$
$
$
19
$
15
6
7
1
$
48 $
18
19
—
8
1
46
The amounts above represent the consolidated assets and liabilities of the VIEs described above, for which we are the primary
beneficiary. Total liabilities associated with certain outsourcing agreements and purchase options with certain VIEs, which are
excluded from above, were $127 million and $125 million as of December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, respectively, as these
amounts are eliminated in consolidation. The assets of each of these consolidated VIEs can only be used to settle the obligations
of the VIE. As of December 31, 2019, all of the liabilities are non-recourse to us except for the debt of certain VIEs. See Debt of
variable interest entities and guarantees of third-party debt under Note 7. Notes Payable and Commercial Bank Financing for
further discussion. The risk and reward characteristics of the VIEs are similar.
72 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
Other VIEs
We have several investments in entities which are considered VIEs. However, we do not participate in the management of
these entities, including the day-to-day operating decisions or other decisions which would allow us to control the entity, and
therefore, we are not considered the primary beneficiary of these VIEs.
The carrying amounts of our investments in these VIEs for which we are not the primary beneficiary were $71 million as of
December 31, 2019 and 2018 and are included in other assets on our consolidated balance sheets. See Note 6. Other Assets for
more information related to our equity investments. Our maximum exposure is equal to the carrying value of our investments.
The income and loss related to equity method investments and other equity investments are recorded in (loss) income from
equity method investments and other income, net, respectively, on our consolidated statements of operations. We recorded
losses of $50 million, $45 million, and $5 million for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017, respectively, related to
these investments.
15. RELATED PERSON TRANSACTIONS:
Transactions with our controlling shareholders
David, Frederick, J. Duncan and Robert Smith (collectively, the controlling shareholders) are brothers and hold substantially
all of the Class B Common Stock and some of our Class A Common Stock. We engaged in the following transactions with them
and/or entities in which they have substantial interests:
Leases. Certain assets used by us and our operating subsidiaries are leased from entities owned by the controlling
shareholders. Lease payments made to these entities were $5 million for each of the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and
2017.
Finance leases payable related to the aforementioned relationships were $11 million, net of $3 million interest, and $13 million,
net of $4 million interest, as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively. The finance leases mature in periods through 2029.
For further information on finance leases to affiliates, see Note 7. Notes Payable and Commercial Bank Financing.
Charter Aircraft. We lease aircraft owned by certain controlling shareholders. For all leases, we incurred expenses of $2
million for each of the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017.
Cunningham Broadcasting Corporation
Cunningham owns a portfolio of television stations, including: WNUV-TV Baltimore, Maryland; WRGT-TV Dayton, Ohio;
WVAH-TV Charleston, West Virginia; WMYA-TV Anderson, South Carolina; WTTE-TV Columbus, Ohio; WDBB-TV
Birmingham, Alabama; WBSF-TV Flint, Michigan; WGTU-TV/WGTQ-TV Traverse City/Cadillac, Michigan; WEMT-TV Tri-
Cities, Tennessee; WYDO-TV Greenville, North Carolina; KBVU-TV/KCVU-TV Eureka/Chico-Redding, California; WPFO-TV
Portland, Maine; and KRNV-DT/KENV-DT Reno, Nevada/Salt Lake City, Utah (collectively, the Cunningham Stations). Certain
of our stations provide services to these Cunningham Stations pursuant to LMAs or JSAs and SSAs. See Note 14. Variable
Interest Entities, for further discussion of the scope of services provided under these types of arrangements. As of December 31,
2019, we have jointly, severally, unconditionally, and irrevocably guaranteed $46 million of Cunningham debt, of which $9
million, net of $1 million deferred financing costs, relates to the Cunningham VIEs that we consolidate, as discussed further
below.
The voting stock of the Cunningham Stations was owned by the estate of Carolyn C. Smith, the mother of our controlling
shareholders, until January 2018, when the voting stock was purchased by an unrelated party after receiving FCC approval. All of
the non-voting stock is owned by trusts for the benefit of the children of our controlling shareholders. We consolidate certain
subsidiaries of Cunningham with which we have variable interests through various arrangements related to the Cunningham
Stations, as discussed further below.
2019 Annual Report l 73
The services provided to WNUV-TV, WMYA-TV, WTTE-TV, WRGT-TV and WVAH-TV are governed by a master agreement
which has a current term that expires on July 1, 2023 and there are two additional 5-year renewal terms remaining with final
expiration on July 1, 2033. We also executed purchase agreements to acquire the license related assets of these stations from
Cunningham, which grant us the right to acquire, and grant Cunningham the right to require us to acquire, subject to applicable
FCC rules and regulations, 100% of the capital stock or the assets of these individual subsidiaries of Cunningham. Pursuant to the
terms of this agreement we are obligated to pay Cunningham an annual fee for the television stations equal to the greater of (i)
3% of each station’s annual net broadcast revenue or (ii) $5 million. The aggregate purchase price of these television stations
increases by 6% annually. A portion of the fee is required to be applied to the purchase price to the extent of the 6% increase. The
cumulative prepayments made under these purchase agreements were $51 million and $47 million as of December 31, 2019 and
2018, respectively. The remaining aggregate purchase price of these stations, net of prepayments, as of both December 31, 2019
and 2018 was approximately $54 million. Additionally, we provide services to WDBB-TV pursuant to an LMA, which expires
April 22, 2025, and have a purchase option to acquire for $0.2 million. We paid Cunningham, under these agreements, $8
million, $10 million, and $9 million for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017, respectively.
The agreements with KBVU-TV/KCVU-TV, KRNV-DT/KENV-DT, WBSF-TV, WEMT-TV, WGTU-TV/WGTQ-TV, WPFO-TV,
and WYDO-TV expire between December 2020 and August 2025, and certain stations have renewal provisions for successive
eight-year periods. Cunningham assumed the joint sales agreement under which we provide services to WEMT-TV, WYDO-TV,
and KBVU-TV/KCVU-TV in September 2017 with the acquisition of the membership interest of Esteem Broadcasting LLC in
connection with our acquisition of Bonten Media Group, as discussed in Note 2. Acquisitions and Dispositions of Assets.
As we consolidate the licensees as VIEs, the amounts we earn or pay under the arrangements are eliminated in consolidation
and the gross revenues of the stations are reported on our consolidated statements of operations. Our consolidated revenues
include $155 million, $171 million, and $125 million for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017, respectively, related
to the Cunningham Stations.
In December 2017, Cunningham repaid, in its entirety, a January 2016 promissory note to borrow $20 million from us.
Interest income from the note receivable was $1 million for the year ended December 31, 2017.
In April 2016, we entered into an agreement with Cunningham to provide master control equipment and provide master
control services to a station in Johnstown, PA with which Cunningham has an LMA that expires in June 2022. Under the
agreement, Cunningham paid us an initial fee of $1 million and pays us $0.2 million annually for master control services plus the
cost to maintain and repair the equipment. In August 2016, we entered into an agreement, expiring in October 2021, with
Cunningham to provide a news share service with the Johnstown, PA station beginning in October 2016 for an annual fee of $1
million.
Atlantic Automotive Corporation
We sell advertising time to Atlantic Automotive Corporation (Atlantic Automotive), a holding company that owns automobile
dealerships and an automobile leasing company. David D. Smith, our Executive Chairman, has a controlling interest in, and is a
member of the Board of Directors of, Atlantic Automotive. We received payments for advertising totaling $0.2 million for both
the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, and $0.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2017.
Leased property by real estate ventures
Certain of our real estate ventures have entered into leases with entities owned by members of the Smith Family. Total rent
received under these leases was $1 million for each of the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017.
Equity method investees
YES Network. In August 2019, YES Network, an equity method investee, entered into a management services agreement with
the Company, in which the Company provides certain services for an initial term that expires on August 29, 2025. The agreement
will automatically renew for two 2-year renewal terms, with a final expiration on August 29, 2029. Pursuant to the terms of the
agreement, YES Network paid us a management services fee of $2 million for the year ended December 31, 2019.
In conjunction with the acquisition of the RSNs on August 23, 2019, as discussed in Note 2. Acquisitions and Dispositions of
Assets, we assumed a minority interest in certain mobile production businesses, which we account for as equity method
investments. During the year ended December 31, 2019, we made payments to these businesses totaling $12 million for
production services.
Programming Rights
The Company has rights agreements covering the broadcast of regular season games with five professional teams, that have
affiliates which have non-controlling equity interests in certain of our RSNs. These agreements expire on various dates during the
fiscal years ended 2030 through 2033. Program rights fees paid by the Company to these teams, in total, were $150 million for
the year ended December 31, 2019.
74 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
16. EARNINGS PER SHARE:
The following table reconciles income (numerator) and shares (denominator) used in our computations of earnings per share
for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017 (in millions, except share amounts which are reflected in thousands):
Income (Numerator)
Net income
Net income attributable to the redeemable noncontrolling interests
Net income attributable to the noncontrolling interests
Numerator for diluted earnings available to common shareholders
2019
2018
2017
$
$
105
$
346
$
(48)
(10)
—
(5)
47
$
341
$
594
—
(18)
576
Shares (Denominator)
Weighted-average common shares outstanding
Dilutive effect of outstanding stock settled appreciation rights and stock options
Weighted-average common and common equivalent shares outstanding
92,015
1,170
93,185
100,913
805
101,718
99,844
945
100,789
The net earnings per share amounts are the same for Class A and Class B Common Stock because the holders of each class are
legally entitled to equal per share distributions whether through dividends or in liquidation.
The following table shows the weighted-average stock-settled appreciation rights and outstanding stock options (in thousands)
that are excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per common share as the inclusion of such shares would be anti-
dilutive.
Weighted-average stock-settled appreciation rights and outstanding stock
options excluded
238
1,325
450
2019
2018
2017
2019 Annual Report l 75
17. SEGMENT DATA:
We measure segment performance based on operating income (loss). We have two reportable segments: local news and
marketing services and sports. Our local news and marketing services segment, previously disclosed as our broadcast segment,
provides free over-the-air programming to television viewing audiences and includes stations in 89 markets located throughout
the continental United States. Our sports segment provides viewers with live professional sports content and includes 23 regional
sports network brands. Other and corporate are not reportable segments but are included for reconciliation purposes. Other
primarily consists of original networks and content, including Tennis, non-broadcast digital and internet solutions, technical
services, and other non-media investments. Corporate costs primarily include our costs to operate as a public company and to
operate our corporate headquarters location. All of our businesses are located within the United States.
For the year ended December 31, 2019, local news and marketing services and sports excluded from the below table is $35
million of revenue and selling, general, and administrative expenses, respectively, for services provided by local news and
marketing services to sports, which are eliminated in consolidation. We had $13 million, $15 million, and $19 million in
intercompany interest expense related to intercompany loans between other and corporate for the years ended December 31,
2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively. All other intercompany transactions are immaterial.
Segment financial information is included in the following tables for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017 (in
Local News
and
Marketing
Services
$
2,026
4,866
139
Local News
and
Marketing
Services
$
2,055
4,797
95
Local News
and
Marketing
Services
Sports
Other
Corporate Consolidated
$
2,615
$
11,237
9
75
693
4
$
— $
574
4
4,716
17,370
156
Sports
Other
Corporate Consolidated
$
— $
—
—
69
721
5
$
— $
1,054
5
2,124
6,572
105
Sports
Other
Corporate Consolidated
$
2,655
$
1,139
$
446
$
— $
4,240
245
—
90
144
(62) (b)
513 (b)
5
—
157
637
—
93
—
65
200
18
22
—
—
1
(4)
15
1
(53)
—
—
—
149
(26)
(123)
216
—
424
637
90
387
(92)
470
422
(35)
millions):
As of December 31, 2019
Goodwill
Assets
Capital expenditures
As of December 31, 2018
Goodwill
Assets
Capital expenditures
For the year ended December 31, 2019
Revenue
Depreciation of property and equipment and
amortization of definite-lived intangible assets and
other assets
Amortization of sports programming rights (a)
Amortization of program contract costs and net
realizable value adjustments
Corporate general and administrative overhead
expenses
Gain on asset dispositions and other, net of
impairment
Operating income (loss)
Interest expense and amortization of debt discount and
deferred financing costs
Income (loss) from equity method investments
76 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
For the year ended December 31, 2018
Revenue
Depreciation of property and equipment and
amortization of definite-lived intangible assets and
other assets
Amortization of program contract costs and net
realizable value adjustments
Corporate general and administrative overhead
expenses
(Gain) loss on asset dispositions and other, net of
impairment
Operating income (loss)
Interest expense and amortization of debt discount and
deferred financing costs
Loss from equity method investments
For the year ended December 31, 2017
Revenue
Depreciation of property and equipment and
amortization of definite-lived intangible assets and
other assets
Amortization of program contract costs and net
realizable value adjustments
Corporate general and administrative overhead
expenses
Gain on asset dispositions and other, net of
impairment
Operating income (loss)
Interest expense and amortization of debt discount and
deferred financing costs
Loss from equity method investments
Local News
and
Marketing
Services
Sports
Other
Corporate Consolidated
$
2,715
$
— $
340
$
— $
3,055
251
101
100
(100) (c)
752 (c)
6
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
29
—
1
60 (d)
(82) (d)
1
(61)
—
—
10
—
(10)
285
—
280
101
111
(40)
660
292
(61)
Local News
and
Marketing
Services
Sports
Other
Corporate Consolidated
$
2,394
$
— $
242
$
— $
2,636
244
116
101
(226)
724
5
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
31
—
1
(53) (e)
25 (e)
2
(14)
1
—
11
—
(12)
205
—
276
116
113
(279)
737
212
(14)
(a) The amortization of sports programming rights is included within media programming and production expenses on our consolidated
statements of operations.
(b)
Includes a gain of $62 million related to reimbursements for the spectrum repack costs. See Note 2. Acquisitions and Dispositions of Assets.
(c)
Includes a gain of $83 million related to the auction proceeds. See Note 2. Acquisitions and Dispositions of Assets.
(d)
(e)
Includes a $60 million impairment to the carrying value of a consolidated real estate venture. See Note 1. Nature of Operations and
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies.
Includes a gain on the sale of Alarm of $53 million, of which $12 million was attributable to noncontrolling interests. See Note 2.
Acquisitions and Dispositions of Assets.
2019 Annual Report l 77
18. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS:
Accounting guidance provides for valuation techniques, such as the market approach (comparable market prices), the income
approach (present value of future income or cash flow), and the cost approach (cost to replace the service capacity of an asset or
replacement cost). A fair value hierarchy using three broad levels prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure
fair value. The following is a brief description of those three levels:
•
•
•
Level 1: Observable inputs such as quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
Level 2: Inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. These
include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets and quoted prices for identical or similar assets or
liabilities in markets that are not active.
Level 3: Unobservable inputs that reflect the reporting entity’s own assumptions.
The following table sets forth the carrying value and fair value of our financial assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2019
and 2018 (in millions):
Level 1:
STG:
2019
2018
Carrying Value
Fair Value
Carrying Value
Fair Value
Money market funds
$
913
$
913
$
961
$
26
24
500
350
550
—
600
400
96
961
26
24
504
326
516
—
599
353
92
1,343
1,275
—
—
—
—
25
20
—
—
—
—
—
25
20
—
Deferred compensation assets
Deferred compensation liabilities
Level 2 (a):
STG:
6.125% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2022 (b)
5.875% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2026
5.625% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2024
5.500% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2030 (c)
5.375% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2021 (b)
5.125% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2027
Term Loan A (d)
Term Loan B
Term Loan B-2 (c)
DSG:
6.625% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2027 (c)
5.375% Senior Secured Notes due 2026 (c)
Term Loan (c)
Debt of variable interest entities
Debt of non-media subsidiaries
Level 3:
DSG:
36
33
—
350
550
500
—
400
—
1,329
1,297
1,825
3,050
3,292
21
18
36
33
—
368
566
511
—
411
—
1,326
1,300
1,775
3,085
3,284
21
18
Variable payment obligations (e)
239
239
78 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
(a) Amounts are carried on our consolidated balance sheets net of debt discount and deferred financing costs, which are excluded in the above
table, of $231 million and $33 million as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively.
(b) The STG 6.125% Notes and STG 5.375% Notes were redeemed, in full, in November 2019 and August 2019, respectively. See Note 7. Notes
Payable and Commercial Bank Financing for additional information.
(c) The STG Term Loan B-2, DSG Term Loan, and DSG Senior Notes were issued in August 2019 and the STG 5.500% Notes were issued in
November 2019. See Note 7. Notes Payable and Commercial Bank Financing for additional information.
(d) On April 30, 2019, we paid in full the remaining principal balance of $92 million of Term Loan A debt under the STG Bank Credit
Agreement, due July 31, 2021.
(e) The Company records its variable payment obligations at fair value on a recurring basis. These liabilities are further described in Other
Liabilities within Note 13. Commitments and Contingencies. Significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement are
projected future operating income before depreciation and amortization; and weighted average discount rate of 9%. Significant increases
(decreases) in projected future operating income would generally result in a significantly higher (lower) fair value measurement. Significant
increases (decreases) in discount rates, would result in a significantly (lower) higher fair value measurement.
The following table summarizes the changes in financial liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis and categorized
as Level 3 under the fair value hierarchy (in millions):
Variable Payment Obligations
Fair value at December 31, 2018
Liabilities acquired in the acquisition of the RSNs
Payments
Measurement adjustments
Fair value at December 31, 2019
$
$
—
264
(33)
8
239
19. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL STATEMENTS:
Sinclair Television Group, Inc. (STG), a wholly-owned subsidiary and the television operating subsidiary of Sinclair Broadcast
Group, Inc. (SBG), is the primary obligor under STG's Bank Credit Agreement, 5.625% Notes, 5.875% Notes, 5.125% Notes,
5.500% Notes and, until they were redeemed, STG's 5.375% Notes and 6.125% Notes. STG’s 5.625% Notes were publicly
registered in a Registration Statement on Form S-3ASR (No. 333-203483), effective April 17, 2015, and, until they were
redeemed, STG’s 6.125% Notes were publicly registered in a Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-187724), effective
April 16, 2013. Our Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock as of December 31, 2019, were obligations or securities of
SBG and not obligations or securities of STG. SBG is a guarantor under STG's Bank Credit Agreement, 5.625% Notes, 5.875%
Notes, 5.125% Notes, 5.500% Notes and, until they were redeemed, STG's 5.375% Notes and 6.125% Notes. As of December 31,
2019, our consolidated total debt of $12,438 million included $4,433 million of debt related to STG and its subsidiaries of which
SBG guaranteed $4,395 million.
SBG, KDSM, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of SBG, and STG’s wholly-owned subsidiaries (guarantor subsidiaries), have fully
and unconditionally guaranteed, subject to certain customary automatic release provisions, all of STG’s obligations. Those
guarantees are joint and several. There are certain contractual restrictions on the ability of SBG, STG or KDSM, LLC to obtain
funds from their subsidiaries in the form of dividends or loans.
The following condensed consolidating financial statements present the consolidated balance sheets, consolidated statements
of operations and comprehensive income, and consolidated statements of cash flows of SBG, STG, KDSM, LLC and the guarantor
subsidiaries, the direct and indirect non-guarantor subsidiaries of SBG and the eliminations necessary to arrive at our
information on a consolidated basis.
These statements are presented in accordance with the disclosure requirements under SEC Regulation S-X, Rule 3-10.
2019 Annual Report l 79
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2019
(In millions)
Sinclair
Broadcast
Group, Inc.
Sinclair
Television
Group, Inc.
Guarantor
Subsidiaries
and KDSM,
LLC
Non-
Guarantor
Subsidiaries Eliminations
Sinclair
Consolidated
$
— $
357
$
3
$
973
$
Investment in consolidated subsidiaries
2,270
3,558
—
5
5
1
—
41
398
31
—
—
—
82
—
—
—
1,611
561
264
828
659
—
2,091
144
1,426
279
571
188
1,732
96
—
2,625
14
6,598
618
—
—
(50)
(50)
1,333
1,132
448
2,913
(22)
765
(5,828)
—
—
(47)
(1,749)
—
4,716
158
7,977
841
2,358 $
5,598 $
5,427
$
11,683
$
(7,696) $
17,370
142
$
109
$
286
$
296
$
(51) $
—
—
142
700
13
855
—
1,503
27
1
137
4,348
53
4,538
—
1,060
4
133
423
32
1,418
1,873
—
3,554
41
147
484
8,317
547
9,348
1,078
1,069
(1)
—
(52)
(1,030)
(934)
(2,016)
—
(5,684)
—
—
—
188
4
782
71
281
1,134
12,367
1,097
14,598
1,078
1,502
192
$
2,358 $
5,598 $
5,427
$
11,683
$
(7,696) $
17,370
Cash and cash equivalents
Accounts receivable, net
Other current assets
Total current assets
Property and equipment, net
Goodwill
Indefinite-lived intangible assets
Definite-lived intangible assets
Other long-term assets
Total assets
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Current portion of long-term debt
Other current liabilities
Total current liabilities
$
$
Long-term debt
Other liabilities
Total liabilities
Redeemable noncontrolling interests
Total Sinclair Broadcast Group equity
Noncontrolling interests in consolidated
subsidiaries
Total liabilities, redeemable noncontrolling
interests, and equity
80 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2018
(In millions)
Sinclair
Broadcast
Group,
Inc.
Sinclair
Television
Group, Inc.
Guarantor
Subsidiaries
and KDSM,
LLC
Non-
Guarantor
Subsidiaries Eliminations
Sinclair
Consolidated
$
— $
962
$
19
$
$
— $
1,060
Investment in consolidated subsidiaries
1,604
3,654
Cash and cash equivalents
Accounts receivable, net
Other current assets
Total current assets
Property and equipment, net
Goodwill
Indefinite-lived intangible assets
Definite-lived intangible assets
Other long-term assets
Total assets
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Current portion of long-term debt
Other current liabilities
Total current liabilities
$
$
Long-term debt
Other liabilities
Total liabilities
—
3
3
1
—
6
968
32
—
—
—
31
—
—
—
851
— $
—
—
—
—
—
—
78
31
1
110
3,776
40
3,926
531
103
653
594
4
2,120
144
1,609
119
4
144
385
36
1,169
1,590
1,639
$
5,505
$
5,243
$
508
$
(6,323) $
$
237
$
40
$
(25) $
—
(24)
(24)
(14)
(5,262)
—
—
(52)
(971)
—
—
(25)
(345)
(833)
(1,203)
599
125
1,784
683
—
2,124
158
1,627
196
6,572
330
43
200
573
3,850
549
4,972
79
68
37
184
70
—
4
14
70
166
8
55
103
383
173
659
(108)
(43)
Total Sinclair Broadcast Group equity
1,639
1,579
3,653
Noncontrolling interests in consolidated
subsidiaries
—
—
—
Total liabilities and equity
$
1,639
$
5,505
$
5,243
$
508
$
(6,323) $
(5,124)
1,639
4
(39)
6,572
2019 Annual Report l 81
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2019
(In millions)
Net revenue
$
— $
35
$
2,841
$
1,487
$
(123) $
4,240
Sinclair
Broadcast
Group, Inc.
Sinclair
Television
Group, Inc.
Guarantor
Subsidiaries
and KDSM,
LLC
Non-
Guarantor
Subsidiaries Eliminations
Sinclair
Consolidated
Media programming and production expenses
Selling, general and administrative
Depreciation, amortization and other
operating expenses
Total operating expenses
—
147
—
147
—
147
(20)
127
1,238
663
278
2,179
Operating (loss) income
(147)
(92)
662
894
202
334
1,430
57
—
(216)
24
(192)
19
(116)
(48)
(10)
(59)
(40)
(14)
(113)
2,073
1,119
578
3,770
(10)
470
(742)
19
(5)
(728)
—
(738)
—
—
—
(422)
(39)
(461)
96
105
(48)
(10)
47
104
577
(216)
(7)
354
66
328
—
—
—
(4)
(53)
(57)
(21)
584
—
—
$
$
328 $
327
$
584
584
$
$
(174) $
(116) $
(738) $
(738) $
Equity in earnings of consolidated subsidiaries
Interest expense
Other income (expense)
Total other income (expense)
Income tax benefit (provision)
Net income (loss)
Net income attributable to the redeemable
noncontrolling interests
Net income attributable to the noncontrolling
interests
Net income (loss) attributable to Sinclair
Broadcast Group
Comprehensive income (loss)
$
$
165
(5)
2
162
32
47
—
—
47
47
82 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2018
(In millions)
Net revenue
$
— $
— $
2,856
$
293
$
(94) $
3,055
Sinclair
Broadcast
Group, Inc.
Sinclair
Television
Group, Inc.
Guarantor
Subsidiaries
and KDSM,
LLC
Non-
Guarantor
Subsidiaries Eliminations
Sinclair
Consolidated
Media programming and production expenses
Selling, general and administrative
Depreciation, amortization and other
operating expenses
Total operating expenses
—
10
—
10
—
100
5
105
1,131
613
258
2,002
Operating (loss) income
(10)
(105)
854
Equity in earnings of consolidated subsidiaries
Interest expense
Other income (expense)
Total other income (expense)
Income tax benefit (provision)
Net income (loss)
Net income attributable to the noncontrolling
interests
Net income (loss) attributable to Sinclair
Broadcast Group
Comprehensive income (loss)
348
—
2
350
2
342
—
724
(285)
(2)
437
90
422
—
—
(4)
(58)
(62)
(62)
730
—
141
20
207
368
(75)
—
(18)
—
(18)
6
(87)
(5)
(81)
(2)
(7)
(90)
(4)
(1,072)
15
—
(1,057)
—
(1,061)
—
1,191
741
463
2,395
660
—
(292)
(58)
(350)
36
346
(5)
341
347
$
$
342
347
$
$
422
422
$
$
730
730
$
$
(92) $
(87) $
(1,061) $
(1,065) $
2019 Annual Report l 83
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2017
(In millions)
Net revenue
$
— $
— $
2,507
$
210
$
(81) $
2,636
Sinclair
Broadcast
Group, Inc.
Sinclair
Television
Group, Inc.
Guarantor
Subsidiaries
and KDSM,
LLC
Non-
Guarantor
Subsidiaries Eliminations
Sinclair
Consolidated
Media programming and production
expenses
Selling, general and administrative
Depreciation, amortization and other
operating expenses
Total operating expenses
—
9
1
10
—
103
6
109
1,013
522
132
1,667
Operating (loss) income
(10)
(109)
840
124
15
51
190
20
—
(22)
(7)
(29)
—
(9)
(18)
(73)
(2)
(2)
(77)
(4)
(1,373)
19
—
(1,354)
—
(1,358)
—
1,064
647
188
1,899
737
—
(212)
(6)
(218)
75
594
(18)
576
593
794
(205)
5
594
100
585
—
—
(4)
(6)
(10)
(30)
800
—
$
$
585
584
$
$
800
800
$
$
(27) $
(9) $
(1,358) $
(1,375) $
Equity in earnings of consolidated
subsidiaries
Interest expense
Other income (expense)
Total other income (expense)
Income tax benefit (provision)
Net income (loss)
Net income attributable to the noncontrolling
interests
Net income (loss) attributable to Sinclair
Broadcast Group
Comprehensive income (loss)
$
$
579
—
2
581
5
576
—
576
593
84 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2019
(In million)
NET CASH FLOWS (USED IN) FROM
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
CASH FLOWS (USED IN) FROM
INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Acquisition of property and equipment
Acquisition of businesses, net of cash
acquired
Proceeds from the sale of assets
Purchases of investments
Distributions from investments
Spectrum repack reimbursements
Other, net
Net cash flows (used in) from investing
activities
CASH FLOWS FROM (USED IN)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Proceeds from notes payable and
commercial bank financing
Repayments of notes payable, commercial
bank financing and finance leases
Proceeds from the issuance of redeemable
subsidiary preferred equity, net
Dividends paid on Class A and Class B
Common Stock
Dividends paid on redeemable subsidiary
preferred equity
Repurchases of outstanding Class A
Common Stock
Redemption of redeemable subsidiary
preferred equity
Debt issuance costs
Distributions to noncontrolling interests
Increase (decrease) in intercompany
payables
Other, net
Net cash flows from (used in) financing
activities
NET (DECREASE) INCREASE IN CASH,
CASH EQUIVALENTS, AND RESTRICTED
CASH
CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS, AND
RESTRICTED CASH, beginning of period
CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS, AND
RESTRICTED CASH, end of period
Sinclair
Broadcast
Group, Inc.
Sinclair
Television
Group, Inc.
Guarantor
Subsidiaries
and KDSM,
LLC
Non-
Guarantor
Subsidiaries Eliminations
Sinclair
Consolidated
$
(5) $
(210) $
734
$
396
$
1
$
916
—
—
—
(6)
—
—
—
(6)
—
—
—
(73)
—
(145)
—
—
—
227
2
11
—
—
(4)
—
—
(39)
3
—
—
(152)
(11)
—
—
(54)
—
62
(1)
(8,999)
8
(353)
4
—
1
(40)
(145)
(9,350)
1,793
(1,213)
—
—
—
—
—
(25)
—
(905)
(5)
—
(4)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(601)
—
8,163
(19)
985
—
(33)
—
(297)
(174)
(32)
1,291
(36)
(355)
(605)
9,848
(605)
962
(16)
19
894
79
11
—
—
—
—
—
—
11
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(12)
—
(12)
—
—
(156)
(8,999)
8
(452)
7
62
—
(9,530)
9,956
(1,236)
985
(73)
(33)
(145)
(297)
(199)
(32)
—
(39)
8,887
273
1,060
$
— $
357
$
3
$
973
$
— $
1,333
2019 Annual Report l 85
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2018
(In millions)
Sinclair
Broadcast
Group, Inc.
Sinclair
Television
Group, Inc.
Guarantor
Subsidiaries
and KDSM,
LLC
Non-
Guarantor
Subsidiaries Eliminations
Sinclair
Consolidated
NET CASH FLOWS (USED IN) FROM
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
CASH FLOWS FROM (USED IN)
INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Acquisition of property and equipment
Spectrum repack reimbursements
Proceeds from the sale of assets
Purchases of investments
Distributions from investments
Other, net
Net cash flows from (used in) investing
activities
CASH FLOWS FROM (USED IN)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Proceeds from notes payable and
commercial bank financing
Repayments of notes payable, commercial
bank financing and finance leases
Debt issuance costs
Dividends paid on Class A and Class B
Common Stock
Repurchase of outstanding Class A
Common Stock
Distributions to noncontrolling interests
Increase (decrease) in intercompany
payables
Other, net
Net cash flows from (used in) financing
activities
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH,
CASH EQUIVALENTS, AND RESTRICTED
CASH
CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS, AND
RESTRICTED CASH, beginning of period
CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS, AND
RESTRICTED CASH, end of period
$
(9) $
(253) $
936
$
(40) $
—
—
—
(2)
6
—
4
—
—
—
(74)
(221)
—
297
3
5
—
—
(7)
—
—
(14)
—
—
(21)
—
(148)
—
—
—
—
738
—
590
316
646
(98)
6
2
(29)
—
3
(116)
—
(4)
—
—
—
—
(1,117)
(3)
(1,124)
(304)
323
(4)
—
—
(3)
18
—
11
4
(15)
(1)
—
—
(9)
100
2
81
52
27
13
4
—
—
—
—
—
4
—
—
—
—
—
—
(18)
1
(17)
—
—
647
(105)
6
2
(48)
24
3
(118)
4
(167)
(1)
(74)
(221)
(9)
—
3
(465)
64
996
$
— $
962
$
19
$
79
$
— $
1,060
86 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2017
(In millions)
NET CASH FLOWS (USED IN) FROM
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
CASH FLOWS FROM (USED IN)
INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Acquisition of property and equipment
Acquisition of businesses, net of cash
acquired
Proceeds from the sale of assets
Purchases of investments
Distributions from investments
Spectrum auction proceeds
Other, net
Net cash flows from (used in) investing
activities
CASH FLOWS FROM (USED IN)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Proceeds from notes payable and
commercial bank financing
Repayments of notes payable, commercial
bank financing and finance leases
Debt issuance costs
Proceeds from sale of Class A Common
Stock
Dividends paid on Class A and Class B
Common Stock
Repurchase of outstanding Class A
Common Stock
Distributions to noncontrolling interests
(Decrease) increase in intercompany
payables
Other, net
Net cash flows from (used in) financing
activities
NET INCREASE IN CASH, CASH
EQUIVALENTS, AND RESTRICTED CASH
CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS, AND
RESTRICTED CASH, beginning of period
CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS, AND
RESTRICTED CASH, end of period
Sinclair
Broadcast
Group, Inc.
Sinclair
Television
Group, Inc.
Guarantor
Subsidiaries
and KDSM,
LLC
Non-
Guarantor
Subsidiaries Eliminations
Sinclair
Consolidated
$
(8) $
(181) $
600
$
12
$
9
$
432
—
—
—
(1)
6
—
—
5
—
(2)
—
488
(71)
(30)
—
(382)
—
3
—
—
(15)
(8)
—
(8)
20
—
—
(11)
159
(214)
(1)
—
—
—
—
661
1
606
414
232
(68)
(263)
—
(21)
—
311
—
(41)
—
(3)
—
—
—
—
—
(243)
(1)
(247)
312
11
(3)
—
195
(33)
6
—
(6)
159
7
(121)
—
—
—
—
(22)
(25)
—
(161)
10
17
2
—
—
—
—
—
—
2
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(11)
—
(11)
—
—
$
— $
646
$
323
$
27
$
— $
(84)
(271)
195
(63)
32
311
(6)
114
166
(340)
(1)
488
(71)
(30)
(22)
—
—
190
736
260
996
2019 Annual Report l 87
QUARTERLY FINANCIAL INFORMATION (UNAUDITED):
(In millions, except per share data)
Total revenues
Operating income (loss)
Net income (loss)
Net income (loss) attributable to Sinclair Broadcast Group
Basic earnings (loss) per common share
Diluted earnings (loss) per common share
Total revenues
Operating income
Net income
Net income attributable to Sinclair Broadcast Group
Basic earnings per common share
Diluted earnings per common share
For the Quarter Ended
3/31/2019
6/30/2019
9/30/2019
12/31/19
722
93
23
21
0.23
0.23
$
$
$
$
$
$
771
106
43
42
0.46
0.45
$
$
$
$
$
$
1,125
$
1,622
(6) $
(49) $
(60) $
(0.65) $
(0.64) $
277
88
44
0.47
0.47
For the Quarter Ended
3/31/2018
6/30/2018
9/30/2018
12/31/2018
665
107
44
43
0.42
0.42
$
$
$
$
$
$
730
132
29
28
0.27
0.27
$
$
$
$
$
$
766
158
65
64
0.63
0.62
$
$
$
$
$
$
894
263
208
206
2.12
2.10
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
88 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc.
Opinions on the Financial Statements and Internal Control over Financial Reporting
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc. and its subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of
December 31, 2019 and 2018, and the related consolidated statements of operations, of comprehensive income, of equity and of cash flows for
each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2019, including the related notes (collectively referred to as the “consolidated financial
statements”). We also have audited the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019, based on criteria established
in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the
Company as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended
December 31, 2019 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also in our opinion, the
Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019, based on criteria
established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the COSO.
Change in Accounting Principle
As discussed in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company changed the manner in which it accounts for leases in 2019.
Basis for Opinions
The Company's management is responsible for these consolidated financial statements, for maintaining effective internal control over financial
reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in Report of Management on Internal
Control over Financial Reporting appearing under Controls and Procedures. Our responsibility is to express opinions on the Company’s
consolidated financial statements and on the Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our audits. We are a public accounting
firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (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 audits to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud, and
whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.
Our audits of the consolidated financial statements included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the
consolidated 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 consolidated 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 consolidated financial statements. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal
control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating
effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered
necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.
As described in the Report of Management on Internal Control over Financial Reporting, management has excluded 21 Regional Sports Network
brands and Fox College Sports (collectively referred to as the “Regional Sports Networks”) from its assessment of internal control over financial
reporting as of December 31, 2019 because they were acquired by the Company in a purchase business combination during 2019. We have also
excluded the Regional Sports Networks from our audit of internal control over financial reporting. The Regional Sports Networks are subsidiaries
whose total assets and total revenues excluded from management’s assessment and our audit of internal control over financial reporting
collectively represent approximately 7% and 27%, respectively, of the related consolidated financial statement amounts as of and for the year
ended December 31, 2019.
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 (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in
reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (ii) 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 (iii) 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.
Critical Audit Matters
The critical audit matter communicated below is a matter arising from the current period audit of the consolidated financial statements that was
communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that (i) relates to accounts or disclosures that are material to the
2019 Annual Report l 89
consolidated financial statements and (ii) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The communication of critical
audit matters does not alter in any way our opinion on the consolidated financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating
the critical audit matter below, providing a separate opinion on the critical audit matter or on the accounts or disclosures to which it relates.
Valuation of the Multi-Channel Video Programming Distributors (“MVPD”) customer relationships intangible assets acquired in the Regional
Sports Networks acquisition
As described in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company completed the Regional Sports Networks acquisition in 2019, which
resulted in $5.4 billion of customer relationship intangible assets being recorded, primarily relating to MVPD customer relationships.
Management estimated the fair value of the MVPD customer relationships intangible assets acquired using the income approach, which involved
the use of significant estimates and assumptions with respect to the projected revenue, projected margins, and the discount rate used to present
value future cash flows.
The principal considerations for our determination that performing procedures relating to the valuation of the MVPD customer relationships
intangible assets acquired in the Regional Sports Networks acquisition is a critical audit matter are there was significant judgment by
management when developing the fair value measurement of the MVPD customer relationships intangible assets. This in turn led to a high
degree of auditor judgment, subjectivity and effort in performing procedures and evaluating audit evidence related to the significant
assumptions used by management, including projected revenue and the discount rate. The audit effort involved the use of professionals with
specialized skill and knowledge to assist in performing these procedures and evaluating the audit evidence obtained.
Addressing the matter involved performing procedures and evaluating audit evidence in connection with forming our overall opinion on the
consolidated financial statements. These procedures included testing the effectiveness of controls relating to the acquisition accounting,
including controls over management’s valuation of the MVPD customer relationships intangible assets and controls over the development of
the assumptions related to the valuation of the intangible assets, including projected revenue and the discount rate. These procedures also
included, among others, (i) reading the purchase agreement, (ii) testing management’s process for estimating the fair value of the MVPD
customer relationships intangible assets, (iii) evaluating the appropriateness of the income approach used to value the intangible assets, (iv)
testing the completeness, accuracy, and relevance of underlying data used in the income approach, and (v) evaluating the significant
assumptions used by management, which included projected revenue and the discount rate. Evaluating the reasonableness of the projected
revenue used in the fair value estimate involved considering the past performance of the acquired business, as well as economic and industry
forecasts. The discount rate was evaluated by considering the cost of capital of comparable businesses as well as other industry factors.
Professionals with specialized skill and knowledge were used to assist in the evaluation of the Company's income approach and the discount
rate significant assumption.
Baltimore, Maryland
March 2, 2020
We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2009.
90 l Sinclair Broadcast Group
Letter to our Shareholders
Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc.
Dear Fellow Shareholders,
When I wrote you last year, I expressed my sincere optimism for the future of our Company as we sought to redefine the role of a
broadcaster in the 21st Century. Thanks to a number of strategic acquisitions and initiatives, we have achieved even greater success
in 2019 and transitioned to a more diversified media company. Our Company has never been in a better position to continue to
grow and capitalize on an evolving media marketplace. Our achievements in 2019, not just for our bottom line, but also our strategic
positioning for the future, solidify our commitment to diversify and grow. As the new decade ushers in technology that continues to
revolutionize how we experience live television, engage with consumers, and advance our content offerings, Sinclair is strategically
poised to capitalize on these inevitable changes. From our local news to our sports divisions, all supported by our dedicated and
innovative employees and executive leadership team, we have assembled not only a winning culture but ‘A Winning Team’ that will
serve us well for years to come.
A Winning Team
Sinclair entered 2019 with lofty goals, and the year proved to be anything but ordinary. We achieved numerous wins in key verticals
affirming our status as a leader in the future of media. Our 2019 highlight reel shows exciting and strategic plays, including expanding
our reach into local sports, increasing our focus on investigative reporting, enhancing our vertically specialized marketing services,
advancing the adoption of NEXTGEN TV (previously known as ATSC 3.0), and continuing to expand our digital streaming
offerings. These milestones were only possible thanks to the hardworking talent on our incredible team.
Knocking It Out of the Park
Sinclair’s foray into providing live, local sports coverage began over five years ago, starting with high school sports, then college sports,
and eventually the acquisition of Tennis Channel. It was 2019, however, when we hit a home run, acquiring the 21 FOX regional
sports network brands (RSN) from Disney, launching Marquee Sports Network with the Chicago Cubs, and taking an ownership
stake in the Yankees Entertainment Sports Network (YES). Sinclair’s RSN portfolio now consists of 23 RSN brands, representing
45 professional teams across baseball, basketball, and hockey. As the largest owner of RSNs, we now have an opportunity to innovate
in this arena as well. Our expertise in producing content for multiple screens and launching fast-growing digital assets will drive our
approach and guide our efforts in creating more content that engages fans in new, modern ways.
While the industry continues to welcome technologies that change the way we watch live games, the passion that sports fans have for
their home teams will endure. This unrivaled loyalty is what makes sports media the stalwart in live television programming and why
ratings continue to be impressive. To maximize the potential of these rights, we will focus on creating a more engaging experience for
viewers, including partnering with leaders in content and engagement. This includes our intention to develop a new app that will be
home to additional team-centric content, will allow for more personalization and interactivity, and will offer free-to-play and real-
time legalized sports betting, in addition to streaming live games. While our goal is to provide a winning consumer experience, our
advertising partners also will benefit from our enhanced offerings underpinned by our approximately 5,000 live games per year that
reach some of the most desirable audiences.
Local News Continues to Deliver Results
As we venture further into new industry verticals, we remain committed to the local news that helped establish and solidify our
Company as a leader and innovator in the industry. According to Pew Research, television remains the “most common place for
Americans to get their news, with local TV outpacing cable and network TV.” This bodes well for us as we enter into one of the
biggest news cycles in recent years – the 2020 Presidential Election. While local TV station revenue typically increases during the
election season thanks to political advertising spending, we estimate that 2020 will be a record-setting year due to heightened interest
surrounding the outcome of this particular presidential race and given the amount of campaign funds already raised.
Whether it is election-focused or not, we take our role as advocates for the public seriously. This is why in 2019 we made the
commitment to increase our investment in and focus on investigative journalism. This follows the success of our hard-hitting and
award-winning investigative initiative, Project Baltimore, which has shed light on failures in the Baltimore City and Baltimore
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
David D. Smith
Chairman of the Board,
Executive Chairman
Frederick G. Smith
Vice President
J. Duncan Smith
Vice President, Secretary
Robert E. Smith
Director
Howard E. Friedman
Director
Daniel C. Keith
Director
Martin R. Leader
Director
Benson E. Legg
Director
Lawrence E. McCanna
Director
DIVISIONAL OFFICERS
Mark A. Aitken
President, ONE Media, 3.0 LLC
Stephen R. Altshuler
President, Triangle Sign & Service LLC
W. Gary Dorsch
President, Keyser Capital LLC
Jeffrey Krolik
President, Regional Sports Networks
Kenneth A. Solomon
President, Tennis Channel Inc.
Robert D. Weisbord
President, Local News
and Marketing Services
Andrew H. Whiteside
President, Dielectric LLC and
General Manager,
Acrodyne Technical Services LLC
CORPORATE OFFICERS
David D. Smith
Executive Chairman
Frederick G. Smith
Vice President
J. Duncan Smith
Vice President
Christopher S. Ripley
President & Chief Executive Officer
Barry M. Faber
President, Distribution
& Network Relations
Lucy A. Rutishauser
Executive Vice President,
Chief Financial Officer
Delbert R. Parks III
Executive Vice President,
Chief Technology Officer
Donald H. Thompson
Executive Vice President,
Chief Human Resources Officer
Brian S. Bark
Senior Vice President,
Chief Information Officer
David R. Bochenek
Senior Vice President,
Chief Accounting Officer
& Corporate Controller
David B. Gibber
Senior Vice President,
General Counsel
Scott H. Shapiro
Senior Vice President,
Chief Development Officer
ANNUAL MEETING
The Annual Meeting of stockholders
will be held at Sinclair Broadcast
Group’s corporate offices,
10706 Beaver Dam Road
Hunt Valley, MD 21030
Thursday, June 4, 2020 at 10:00am.
INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC
ACCOUNTING FIRM
PricewaterhouseCoopers, LLP
100 East Pratt Street, Suite 2600
Baltimore, MD 21202-1096
TRANSFER AGENT AND REGISTRAR
Questions regarding stock certificates,
change of address, or other stock
transfer account matters may be
directed to:
American Stock Transfer & Trust
Company, LLC
Operations Center
6201 15th Ave.
Brooklyn, NY 11219
Toll Free: 1-800-937-5449
Email: help@astfinancial.com
Website: www.astfinancial.com
FORM 10-K, ANNUAL REPORT
A copy of the Company’s 2019
Form 10-K, as filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission,
is available, at no charge, on the
Company’s website www.sbgi.net
or upon written request to:
Billie Jo McIntire
Director, Investor Relations
Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc.
10706 Beaver Dam Road
Hunt Valley, MD 21030
410-568-1500
COMMON STOCK
The Company’s Class A Common
Stock trades on the Nasdaq Global
Select Market tier of the NasdaqSM
Stock Market under the symbol SBGI.
A
T E A M
2 0 1 9 AN NU A L RE P O RT