UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Form 10-Q
(Mark One) | ||
[X] | QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 FOR THE QUARTERLY PERIOD ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2002 | |
OR | ||
[ ] | TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 | |
|
Commission file number 333-31929
EchoStar DBS Corporation
Colorado (State or Other Jurisdiction of Incorporation or Organization) |
84-1328967 (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.) |
5701 S. Santa Fe Drive Littleton, Colorado (Address of principal executive offices) |
80120 (Zip code) |
(303) 723-1000
(Registrants telephone number, including area code)
Not Applicable
(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes X No .
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an accelerated filer (as defined by Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes X No .
As of November 11, 2002, Registrants outstanding common stock consisted of 3,000 shares of Common Stock.
The Registrant meets the conditions set forth in General Instruction (H)(1)(a) and (b) of Form 10-Q and is therefore filing this Form 10-Q with the reduced disclosure format.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PART I FINANCIAL INFORMATION | ||||||||
Disclosure Regarding Forward-Looking Statements |
i | |||||||
Item 1. Financial Statements |
||||||||
Condensed
Consolidated Balance Sheets
December 31, 2001 and September 30, 2002 (Unaudited) |
1 | |||||||
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the
three and nine months ended September 30, 2001 and 2002 (Unaudited) |
2 | |||||||
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the
nine months ended September 30, 2001 and 2002 (Unaudited) |
3 | |||||||
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) |
4 | |||||||
Item 2. Managements Narrative Analysis of Results of Operations |
26 | |||||||
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk |
* | |||||||
Item 4. Controls and Procedures |
35 | |||||||
PART II OTHER INFORMATION | ||||||||
Item 1. Legal Proceedings |
36 | |||||||
Item 2. Changes in Securities and Use of Proceeds |
* | |||||||
Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities |
* | |||||||
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders |
* | |||||||
Item 5. Other Information |
None | |||||||
Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K |
42 |
* | This item has been omitted pursuant to the reduced disclosure format as set forth in General Instruction (H)(1)(a) and (b) of Form 10-Q. |
DISCLOSURE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
We make forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 throughout this document. Whenever you read a statement that is not simply a statement of historical fact (such as when we describe what we believe, expect or anticipate will occur, and other similar statements), you must remember that our expectations may not be correct, even though we believe they are reasonable. We do not guarantee that the transactions and events described in this document will happen as described or that they will happen at all. You should read this document completely and with the understanding that actual future results may be materially different from what we expect. Whether actual results will conform with our expectations and predictions is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. The risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: EchoStars proposed merger with Hughes Electronics Corporation may not occur as a result of: (1) the failure to obtain necessary federal antitrust clearance, Federal Communications Commission, or FCC, approval or the requisite approval from General Motors stockholders, (2) shareholder, state attorney general or other litigation challenging the merger, or (3) the failure to satisfy other conditions; while EchoStar needs substantial additional financing, EchoStar is highly leveraged and subject to numerous constraints on its ability to raise additional debt; EchoStar may incur unanticipated costs in connection with the Hughes merger financing or any refinancings EchoStar must undertake or consents EchoStar must obtain to enable it to consummate the Hughes merger; regulatory authorities may impose burdensome terms on EchoStar as a condition of granting their approval of the Hughes merger or the acquisition of Hughes interest in PanAmSat, and legislative and regulatory developments may create unexpected challenges for EchoStar; EchoStar may not realize the benefits and synergies it expects from, and may incur unanticipated costs with respect to, the Hughes merger due to delays, burdensome conditions imposed by regulatory authorities, difficulties in integrating the businesses or disruptions in relationships with employees, customers or suppliers; EchoStar may be required to pay a $600 million termination fee to Hughes; EchoStar may be required to purchase Hughes interest in PanAmSat for approximately $2.7 billion, which may be in excess of the fair market value of PanAmSat at the time of the stock purchase, we are party to various lawsuits which, if adversely decided, could have a significant adverse impact on our business; we may be unable to obtain patent licenses from holders of intellectual property or redesign our products to avoid patent infringement; we may be unable to obtain needed retransmission consents, FCC authorizations or export licenses; the regulations governing our industry may change; our satellite launches may be delayed or fail, our satellites may fail prematurely in orbit, we currently do not have traditional commercial insurance covering losses incurred from the failure of launches and/or satellites; and we may be unable to settle outstanding claims with insurers; weakness in the global economy may harm our business generally, and adverse local political or economic developments may occur in some of our markets; service interruptions arising from technical anomalies on some satellites, or caused by war, terrorist activities or natural disasters, may cause customer cancellations or otherwise harm our business; we face intense and increasing competition from the cable television industry, new competitors may enter the subscription television business, and new technologies may increase competition; DISH Network subscriber growth may decrease; subscriber turnover may increase; and subscriber acquisition costs may increase; sales of digital equipment and related services to international direct-to-home service providers may decrease; future acquisitions, business combinations, strategic partnerships and divestitures may involve additional uncertainties; the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks and changes in international political conditions as a result of these events may continue to affect the U.S. and the global economy and may increase other risks; and we may face other risks described from time to time in periodic reports we file with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All cautionary statements made herein should be read as being applicable to all forward-looking statements wherever they appear. In this connection, investors should consider the risks described herein and should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements.
i
ECHOSTAR DBS CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In thousands)
(Unaudited)
December 31, | September 30, | |||||||||
2001 | 2002 | |||||||||
Assets |
||||||||||
Current Assets: |
||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents |
$ | 39,052 | $ | 251,635 | ||||||
Marketable investment securities |
89,019 | 85,008 | ||||||||
Trade accounts receivable, net of allowance for uncollectible accounts of $8,848 and
$10,484, respectively |
313,580 | 324,618 | ||||||||
Insurance receivable |
106,000 | 106,000 | ||||||||
Advances to affiliates, net |
| 10,567 | ||||||||
Inventories |
189,665 | 155,612 | ||||||||
Other current assets |
38,263 | 56,339 | ||||||||
Total current assets |
775,579 | 989,779 | ||||||||
Cash reserved for satellite insurance (Note 5) |
122,068 | 159,448 | ||||||||
Property and equipment, net |
1,502,221 | 1,689,925 | ||||||||
FCC authorizations, net |
696,242 | 696,242 | ||||||||
Other noncurrent assets |
91,629 | 66,695 | ||||||||
Total assets |
$ | 3,187,739 | $ | 3,602,089 | ||||||
Liabilities and Stockholders Deficit |
||||||||||
Current Liabilities: |
||||||||||
Trade accounts payable |
$ | 203,685 | $ | 258,240 | ||||||
Deferred revenue |
356,903 | 417,582 | ||||||||
Accrued expenses |
765,178 | 786,288 | ||||||||
Advances from affiliates, net |
58 | | ||||||||
Current portion of long-term debt |
13,444 | 14,168 | ||||||||
Total current liabilities |
1,339,268 | 1,476,278 | ||||||||
Long-term obligations, net of current portion: |
||||||||||
9 1/4% Seven Year Notes |
375,000 | 375,000 | ||||||||
9 3/8% Ten Year Notes |
1,625,000 | 1,625,000 | ||||||||
10 3/8% Seven Year Notes (Note 10) |
1,000,000 | 1,000,000 | ||||||||
9 1/8% Seven Year Notes |
700,000 | 700,000 | ||||||||
Mortgages and other notes payable, net of current portion |
5,577 | 19,751 | ||||||||
Long-term deferred distribution and carriage payments and other long-term liabilities |
102,454 | 90,892 | ||||||||
Total long-term obligations, net of current portion |
3,808,031 | 3,810,643 | ||||||||
Total liabilities |
5,147,299 | 5,286,921 | ||||||||
Commitments and Contingencies (Note 6) |
||||||||||
Stockholders Deficit: |
||||||||||
Common Stock, $.01 par value, 3,000 shares authorized, issued and outstanding |
| | ||||||||
Additional paid-in capital |
435,590 | 611,301 | ||||||||
Deferred stock-based compensation |
(25,456 | ) | (12,379 | ) | ||||||
Accumulated other comprehensive income |
(642 | ) | 306 | |||||||
Accumulated deficit |
(2,369,052 | ) | (2,284,060 | ) | ||||||
Total stockholders deficit |
(1,959,560 | ) | (1,684,832 | ) | ||||||
Total liabilities and stockholders deficit |
$ | 3,187,739 | $ | 3,602,089 | ||||||
See accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
1
ECHOSTAR DBS CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(In thousands)
(Unaudited)
Three Months Ended September 30, | Nine months ended September 30, | |||||||||||||||||||
2001 | 2002 | 2001 | 2002 | |||||||||||||||||
Revenue: |
||||||||||||||||||||
DISH Network: |
||||||||||||||||||||
Subscription television services |
$ | 919,856 | $ | 1,119,124 | $ | 2,595,441 | $ | 3,204,208 | ||||||||||||
Other |
4,784 | 4,814 | 12,511 | 12,510 | ||||||||||||||||
Total DISH Network |
924,640 | 1,123,938 | 2,607,952 | 3,216,718 | ||||||||||||||||
DTH equipment sales |
72,348 | 76,064 | 158,022 | 199,795 | ||||||||||||||||
Other |
22,347 | 20,480 | 74,267 | 65,162 | ||||||||||||||||
Total revenue |
1,019,335 | 1,220,482 | 2,840,241 | 3,481,675 | ||||||||||||||||
Costs and Expenses: |
||||||||||||||||||||
DISH Network Operating Expenses: |
||||||||||||||||||||
Subscriber-related expenses |
365,647 | 453,158 | 1,046,676 | 1,299,721 | ||||||||||||||||
Customer service center and other |
72,790 | 109,791 | 207,487 | 290,446 | ||||||||||||||||
Satellite and transmission |
10,745 | 14,804 | 27,779 | 40,640 | ||||||||||||||||
Total DISH Network operating expenses
(exclusive of depreciation shown below
Note 7) |
449,182 | 577,753 | 1,281,942 | 1,630,807 | ||||||||||||||||
Cost of sales DTH equipment |
49,304 | 40,311 | 109,205 | 123,482 | ||||||||||||||||
Cost
of sales other |
13,712 | 9,508 | 48,201 | 32,531 | ||||||||||||||||
Cost of sales subscriber promotion
subsidies (exclusive of depreciation shown
below Note 7) |
113,501 | 110,299 | 348,232 | 293,917 | ||||||||||||||||
Other subscriber promotion subsidies |
112,923 | 144,097 | 380,293 | 415,469 | ||||||||||||||||
Advertising and other |
44,800 | 46,924 | 97,838 | 115,387 | ||||||||||||||||
General and administrative |
81,836 | 94,473 | 236,056 | 261,503 | ||||||||||||||||
Non-cash, stock-based compensation |
6,831 | 3,722 | 21,298 | 7,557 | ||||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization (Note 7) |
69,750 | 94,769 | 184,958 | 257,565 | ||||||||||||||||
Total costs and expenses |
941,839 | 1,121,856 | 2,708,023 | 3,138,218 | ||||||||||||||||
Operating income (loss) |
77,496 | 98,626 | 132,218 | 343,457 | ||||||||||||||||
Other Income (Expense): |
||||||||||||||||||||
Interest income |
2,575 | 2,491 | 8,196 | 7,302 | ||||||||||||||||
Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized |
(47,971 | ) | (85,111 | ) | (144,026 | ) | (250,835 | ) | ||||||||||||
Other |
(1,782 | ) | 529 | 1,132 | (1,913 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Total other expense |
(47,178 | ) | (82,091 | ) | (134,698 | ) | (245,446 | ) | ||||||||||||
Income (loss) before income taxes |
30,318 | 16,535 | (2,480 | ) | 98,011 | |||||||||||||||
Income tax provision, net |
| (1,663 | ) | | (13,019 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Net income (loss) |
$ | 30,318 | $ | 14,872 | $ | (2,480 | ) | $ | 84,992 | |||||||||||
See accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
2
ECHOSTAR DBS CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(In thousands)
(Unaudited)
Nine months ended September 30, | |||||||||
2001 | 2002 | ||||||||
Cash Flows From Operating Activities: |
|||||||||
Net income (loss) |
$ | (2,480 | ) | $ | 84,992 | ||||
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash flows from operating activities: |
|||||||||
Realized and unrealized loss (gain) on investments |
| 1,540 | |||||||
Deferred stock-based compensation recognized |
21,298 | 7,557 | |||||||
Deferred tax expense |
| 8,542 | |||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
184,958 | 257,565 | |||||||
Amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs |
2,460 | 4,548 | |||||||
Change in long-term deferred distribution and carriage payments and other
long-term liabilities |
27,688 | 12,800 | |||||||
Other, net |
16,861 | (1,488 | ) | ||||||
Changes in current assets and current liabilities |
160,388 | 159,333 | |||||||
Net cash flows from operating activities |
411,173 | 535,389 | |||||||
Cash Flows From Investing Activities: |
|||||||||
Purchases of marketable investment securities |
(573,648 | ) | (427,044 | ) | |||||
Sales of marketable investment securities |
482,471 | 430,463 | |||||||
Purchases of property and equipment |
(330,244 | ) | (283,568 | ) | |||||
Cash reserved for satellite insurance (Note 5) |
(59,488 | ) | (59,680 | ) | |||||
Change in cash reserved for satellite insurance due to depreciation on
related satellites (Note 5) |
13,663 | 22,300 | |||||||
Other |
| (4,354 | ) | ||||||
Net cash flows from investing activities |
(467,246 | ) | (321,883 | ) | |||||
Cash Flows From Financing Activities: |
|||||||||
Non-interest bearing advances from affiliates |
(26,332 | ) | (58 | ) | |||||
Repayments of mortgage indebtedness and notes payable |
(7,364 | ) | (442 | ) | |||||
Other |
| (423 | ) | ||||||
Net cash flows from financing activities |
(33,696 | ) | (923 | ) | |||||
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents |
(89,769 | ) | 212,583 | ||||||
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period |
91,572 | 39,052 | |||||||
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period |
$ | 1,803 | $ | 251,635 | |||||
Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information: |
|||||||||
Forfeitures of deferred non-cash, stock-based compensation |
$ | 3,471 | $ | 5,520 | |||||
Capitalized interest |
| 20,934 | |||||||
Capital contribution of EchoStar VII from EBC |
| 172,532 | |||||||
Capital distribution of EchoStar VII vendor financing |
| 15,000 |
See accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
3
ECHOSTAR DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
1. Organization and Business Activities
Principal Business
EchoStar DBS Corporation (EDBS, or the Company), is a wholly-owned subsidiary of EchoStar Broadband Corporation (EBC), which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of EchoStar Communications Corporation (ECC and together with its subsidiaries EchoStar), a publicly traded company on the Nasdaq National Market. Unless otherwise stated herein, or the context otherwise requires, references herein to EchoStar shall include ECC, EBC, EDBS and all direct and indirect wholly-owned subsidiaries thereof. EDBS management refers readers of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q to EchoStars Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the nine months ended September 30, 2002. Substantially all of EchoStars operations are conducted by subsidiaries of EDBS. EDBS is dependent on EBC and ECC for the continued funding of its operations, to the extent that EDBS does not engage in its own capital funding efforts. The operations of EchoStar include two interrelated business units:
| The DISH Network a direct broadcast satellite (DBS) subscription television service in the United States; and |
| EchoStar Technologies Corporation (ETC) engaged in the design, development, distribution and sale of DBS set-top boxes, antennae and other digital equipment for the DISH Network (EchoStar receiver systems) and the design, development and distribution of similar equipment for international satellite service providers. |
Since 1994, EchoStar has deployed substantial resources to develop the EchoStar DBS System. The EchoStar DBS System currently consists of EchoStars FCC-allocated DBS spectrum, eight DBS satellites (EchoStar I through EchoStar VIII), EchoStar receiver systems, digital broadcast operations centers, customer service facilities, and other assets utilized in its operations. EchoStars principal business strategy is to continue developing its subscription television service in the United States to provide consumers with a fully competitive alternative to cable television service.
The Proposed Merger of EchoStar with Hughes
During October, 2001, EchoStar, Hughes Electronics Corporation (Hughes) and General Motors (GM), which is Hughes parent company, signed definitive agreements relating to the merger of EchoStar and Hughes in a stock-for-stock transaction.
On October 10, 2002, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced that it declined to approve the transfer of the licenses necessary to allow EchoStars merger with Hughes to close and designated the application for hearing by an administrative law judge. The FCC, however, has given the parties until November 27, 2002 to file an amended application to address the FCCs concerns and to file a petition to suspend the hearing. On October 31, 2002, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), twenty-three states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico filed a complaint for permanent injunctive relief in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia against EchoStar, GM and Hughes. The suit seeks to permanently enjoin EchoStar and Hughes from merging and requests a ruling that the proposed merger violates Section 7 of the Clayton Act. EchoStar, Hughes and GM sought an expedited schedule with a trial date in November. The DOJ and states proposed that the trial commence in June. On November 5, 2002, the District Court denied our petition for an expedited trial and denied plantiffs proposed trial date, suggesting instead a late February or early March trial date. No trial date has yet been set. The merger agreement provides that either party may, in certain circumstances, terminate prior to the trial date suggested by the Court. Hughes and GM have to date been unwilling to agree to an extension of any merger termination date. EchoStar intends to continue to discuss how to proceed with GM and Hughes. However, no assurances can be given that the required regulatory clearances and approvals will be obtained from the DOJ and the FCC within the timeframes required by the merger agreement, or if so obtained, that all other conditions to the transactions will be satisfied such that the merger can be completed.
4
ECHOSTAR DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Continued
(Unaudited)
Assuming consummation, the surviving corporation in the merger would carry the EchoStar name and would provide direct broadcast satellite services in the United States and Latin America, global fixed satellite services and other broadband communication services. The merger is subject to numerous conditions and risks. The agreements among the parties require that EchoStar arrange for the availability of $7.025 billion of cash in connection with the merger and related transactions. EchoStar expects that it will provide about $1.5 billion of this amount from available cash at the time of signing the merger agreement. In addition, EchoStar and Hughes obtained a $5.525 billion bridge financing commitment to assure that the remaining required cash would be available if and to the extent it could not be obtained through traditional capital markets or bank financing transactions. The bridge commitment was reduced to $3.325 billion as a result of the sale of $700 million of EchoStar DBS Corporations 9 1/8% senior notes due 2009 and a $1.5 billion investment by Vivendi Universal (Vivendi) in EchoStar, which resulted in the issuance of 5,760,479 shares of EchoStars Series D convertible preferred stock to a subsidiary of Vivendi. While there can be no assurance, the remaining $3.325 billion bridge commitment is expected to be reduced to zero through a combination of financings by EchoStar, Hughes or a subsidiary of Hughes on or prior to the closing of the Hughes merger through public or private debt or equity offerings, bank debt or a combination thereof. The amount of such cash that could be raised by EchoStar prior to completion of the Hughes merger is severely restricted. EchoStars agreements with GM and Hughes also severely restrict the amount of additional equity capital that can be raised by EchoStar, which restrictions may continue for up to two years following completion of the Hughes merger, absent possible favorable IRS rulings or termination of the Hughes merger.
If the Hughes merger is terminated, under certain circumstances EchoStar may be required to pay a $600 million termination fee to Hughes, and may, under certain circumstances, be required to purchase Hughes interest in PanAmSat for approximately $2.7 billion, either directly or through a merger or tender offer. In the event that only Hughes interest in PanAmSat is initially acquired, EchoStar would also be required to offer to acquire all of the remaining outstanding stock of PanAmSat at $22.47 per share. EchoStar expects that its acquisition of Hughes interest in PanAmSat, which would be at a price of $22.47 per share, together with its assumed purchase of the remaining outstanding PanAmSat shares and its payment of the termination fee to GM would require at least $3.4 billion of cash and approximately $600 million of EchoStars class A common stock (although EchoStar might instead choose to use a greater proportion of cash, and less or no stock for the purchase). EchoStar expects that it would meet this cash requirement by utilizing a portion of its cash, cash equivalents, and marketable investment securities on hand.
As of September 30, 2002, EchoStar has capitalized approximately $43 million in merger related costs. If the Hughes merger is not consummated, EchoStar may be required to record a charge to earnings in future periods equal to all or a portion of this amount, plus remaining deferred bridge commitment fees of approximately $33 million. In addition, EchoStar may be required to record charges to earnings for any amount by which the actual PanAmSat purchase price exceeds the estimated fair value of the investment, and, if applicable, the potential $600 million termination fee discussed above.
2. Significant Accounting Policies
Basis of Presentation
The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X for interim financial information. Accordingly, these statements do not include all of the information and footnotes required by generally accepted accounting principles for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring adjustments) considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. Operating results for the nine months ended September 30, 2002 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending December 31, 2002. For further information, refer to the consolidated financial statements and footnotes thereto included in EchoStars Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2001.
5
ECHOSTAR DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Continued
(Unaudited)
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses for each reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
During the three months ended June 30, 2002, the Company recorded an adjustment to Cost of sales subscriber promotion subsidies of approximately $17 million to reduce accrued royalty expenses related to the production of EchoStar receiver systems. The reduction in accrued royalty expenses primarily resulted from the completion of royalty arrangements with more favorable terms than estimated amounts previously accrued.
During the three months ended September 30, 2002, as a result of favorable litigation developments, the Company recorded a non-recurring reduction in the cost of set-top box equipment. The following details the decrease in the financial statement line items affected by this adjustment (in thousands):
Three Months | ||||
Ended September | ||||
30, 2002 | ||||
Property and equipment, net |
$ | (5,916 | ) | |
Cost of sales DTH equipment |
(5,002 | ) | ||
Cost of sales subscriber promotion subsidies |
(30,872 | ) | ||
Depreciation and amortization |
(1,430 | ) |
Comprehensive Income (Loss)
The components of comprehensive loss, net of tax, are as follows (in thousands):
Nine months ended | ||||||||
September 30, | ||||||||
2001 | 2002 | |||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||
Net income (loss) |
$ | (2,480 | ) | $ | 84,992 | |||
Unrealized holding losses on available-for-sale securities arising during period |
449 | (592 | ) | |||||
Reclassification adjustment for impairment losses on available-for-sale
securities included in net loss |
| 1,540 | ||||||
Comprehensive income (loss) |
$ | (2,031 | ) | $ | 85,940 | |||
Accumulated other comprehensive income presented on the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets consists of the accumulated net unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities, net of deferred taxes.
New Accounting Pronouncements
In July 2001, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of
Financial Accounting Standards No. 142, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
(FAS 142), which requires goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite
useful lives to no longer be amortized but to be tested for impairment at least
annually. Intangible assets that have finite lives will continue to be
amortized over their estimated useful lives. The amortization and
non-amortization provisions of FAS 142 will be applied to all goodwill and
intangible assets acquired after September 30, 2001. Effective January 1, 2002,
EchoStar adopted the provisions of FAS 142 and ceased amortization of its FCC
authorizations, which were determined to have indefinite lives. In accordance
with FAS 142, EchoStar tested its FCC authorizations for impairment as of the
date of adoption and determined that there was no impairment. The following
table reconciles previously reported net income (loss) and basic and diluted
loss
6
ECHOSTAR DBS CORPORATION per common share as if the provisions of FAS 142 were in effect for the
three and nine months ended September 30, 2001 (in thousands).
Table of Contents
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Continued
(Unaudited)
Three Months | Nine months | |||||||
Ended | ended | |||||||
September 30, | September 30, | |||||||
2001 | 2001 | |||||||
Net income (loss), as reported |
$ | 30,318 | $ | (2,480 | ) | |||
Add back: FCC authorization amortization |
4,908 | 14,129 | ||||||
Net income (loss), as adjusted |
$ | 35,226 | $ | 11,649 | ||||
In July 2002, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 146, Accounting for Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities (FAS 146), which will require companies to record exit, including restructuring, or disposal costs when they are incurred and can be measured at fair value, and subsequently adjust the recorded liability for changes in estimated cash flows. FAS 146 also provides specific guidance on accounting for employee and contract terminations that are part of restructuring activities. The new requirements in FAS 146 are effective prospectively for exit or disposal activities initiated after December 31, 2002. EchoStar is currently evaluating the potential impact, if any, the adoption of FAS 146 will have on its financial position and results of operations.
3. Marketable Investment Securities
The Company currently classifies all marketable investment securities as available-for-sale. In accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, the Company adjusts the carrying value of its available-for-sale marketable investment securities to fair market value and reports the related temporary unrealized gains and losses as a separate component of stockholders deficit, net of related deferred income tax, if applicable. Declines in the fair market value of a marketable investment security which are estimated to be other than temporary must be recognized in the statement of operations, thus establishing a new cost basis for such investment. The Company evaluates its marketable investment securities portfolio on a quarterly basis to determine whether declines in the market value of these securities are other than temporary. This quarterly evaluation consists of reviewing, among other things, the fair value of the Companys marketable investment securities compared to the carrying value of these securities, the historical volatility of the price of each security and any market and company specific factors related to each security. Generally, absent specific factors to the contrary, declines in the fair value of investments below cost basis for a period of less than six months are considered to be temporary. Declines in the fair value of investments for a period of six to nine months are evaluated on a case by case basis to determine whether any company or market-specific factors exist which would indicate that such declines are other than temporary. Declines in the fair value of investments below cost basis for greater than nine months are considered other than temporary and are recorded as charges to earnings, absent specific factors to the contrary.
As of September 30, 2002, the Company recorded unrealized losses of approximately $306 thousand as a separate component of stockholders deficit. During the nine months ended September 30, 2002, the Company also recorded an aggregate charge to earnings for other than temporary declines in the fair market value of certain of its marketable investment securities of approximately $2 million, and established a new cost basis for these securities. If the fair market value of the Companys marketable securities portfolio does not increase to cost basis or if the Company becomes aware of any market or company specific factors that indicate that the carrying value of certain of its securities is impaired, the Company may be required to record additional charges to earnings in future periods equal to the amount of the decline in fair value.
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(Unaudited)
4. Inventories
Inventories consist of the following (in thousands):
December 31, | September 30, | |||||||
2001 | 2002 | |||||||
Finished goods DBS |
$ | 126,316 | $ | 94,017 | ||||
Raw materials |
45,460 | 35,011 | ||||||
Finished goods reconditioned and other |
19,541 | 23,417 | ||||||
Work-in-process |
7,924 | 8,760 | ||||||
Consignment |
3,611 | 324 | ||||||
Reserve for excess and obsolete inventory |
(13,187 | ) | (5,917 | ) | ||||
$ | 189,665 | $ | 155,612 | |||||
5. Property and Equipment
EchoStar V
During 2000 and 2001, EchoStar V experienced anomalies resulting in the loss of two solar array strings and during August 2002, EchoStar V experienced anomalies resulting in the loss of an additional solar array string. The satellite has a total of approximately 96 solar array strings and approximately 92 are required to assure full power availability for the 12-year design life of the satellite. An investigation of the solar array anomalies, none of which have impacted commercial operation of the satellite, is continuing. Until the root cause of these anomalies is finally determined, there can be no assurance future anomalies will not cause further losses which could impact commercial operation of the satellite.
EchoStar VI
During 2001, EchoStar VI experienced anomalies resulting in the loss of two solar array strings and during July 2002, EchoStar VI experienced anomalies resulting in the loss of an additional solar array string. The satellite has a total of approximately 112 solar array strings and approximately 106 are required to assure full power availability for the 12-year design life of the satellite. An investigation of the solar array anomalies, none of which have impacted commercial operation of the satellite, is continuing. Until the root cause of these anomalies is finally determined, there can be no assurance future anomalies will not cause further losses which could impact commercial operation of the satellite.
EchoStar VIII
During October 2002, EchoStar VIII, which launched successfully on August 21, 2002 from the Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan, reached its final orbital location at 110 degrees West Longitude and commenced commercial operation after completing in-orbit testing.
During September and October 2002 two of the thrusters on EchoStar VIII experienced anomalous events and are not currently in use. The satellite is equipped with a total of 12 thrusters that help control attitude and pointing. An investigation of the thruster anomalies, none of which have impacted commercial operation of the satellite to date, is continuing. The satellite can operate using a combination of the other 10 thrusters. Until the root cause of these anomalies is finally determined, there can be no assurance future anomalies will not cause further losses which could impact commercial operation of the satellite.
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(Unaudited)
Satellite Insurance
As a result of the failure of EchoStar IV solar arrays to fully deploy and the failure of 38 transponders to date, a maximum of 6 of the 44 transponders on EchoStar IV are available for use at this time. In addition to the transponder and solar array failures, EchoStar IV experienced anomalies affecting its thermal systems and propulsion system. There can be no assurance that further material degradation, or total loss of use, of EchoStar IV will not occur in the immediate future. Currently no programming is being transmitted to customers on EchoStar IV, and the satellite functions as an in-orbit spare.
In September 1998, EchoStar filed a $219.3 million insurance claim for a constructive total loss under the launch insurance policies covering EchoStar IV. The satellite insurance consists of separate substantially identical policies with different carriers for varying amounts that, in combination, create a total insured amount of $219.3 million. The insurance carriers include La Reunion Spatiale; AXA Reinsurance Company (n/k/a AXA Corporate Solutions Reinsurance Company), United States Aviation Underwriters, Inc., United States Aircraft Insurance Group; Assurances Generales De France I.A.R.T. (AGF); Certain Underwriters at Lloyds, London; Great Lakes Reinsurance (U.K.) PLC; British Aviation Insurance Group; If Skaadeforsikring (previously Storebrand); Hannover Re (a/k/a International Hannover); The Tokio Marine & Fire Insurance Company, Ltd.; Marham Space Consortium (a/k/a Marham Consortium Management); Ace Global Markets (a/k/a Ace London); M.C. Watkins Syndicate; Goshawk Syndicate Management Ltd.; D.E. Hope Syndicate 10009 (Formerly Busbridge); Amlin Aviation; K.J. Coles & Others; H.R. Dumas & Others; Hiscox Syndicates, Ltd.; Cox Syndicate; Hayward Syndicate; D.J. Marshall & Others; TF Hart; Kiln; Assitalia Le Assicurazioni DItalia S.P.A. Roma; La Fondiaria Assicurazione S.P.A., Firenze; Vittoria Assicurazioni S.P.A., Milano; Ras Riunione Adriatica Di Sicurta S.P.A., Milano; Societa Cattolica Di Assicurazioni, Verano; Siat Assicurazione E Riassicurazione S.P.A, Genova; E. Patrick; ZC Specialty Insurance; Lloyds of London Syndicates 588 NJM, 1209 Meb AND 861 Meb; Generali France Assurances; Assurance France Aviation; and Ace Bermuda Insurance Ltd.
The insurance carriers offered EchoStar a total of approximately $88 million, or 40% of the total policy amount, in settlement of the EchoStar IV insurance claim. The insurers assert that EchoStar IV was not a constructive total loss, as that term is defined in the policy, and that EchoStar did not abide by the exact terms of the insurance policies. EchoStar strongly disagrees and filed arbitration claims against the insurers for breach of contract, failure to pay a valid insurance claim and bad faith denial of a valid claim, among other things. There can be no assurance that EchoStar will receive the amount claimed or, if EchoStar does, that EchoStar will retain title to EchoStar IV with its reduced capacity. While there can be no assurance, the arbitration is expected to occur during 2003.
At the time EchoStar filed its claim in 1998, EchoStar recognized an impairment loss of $106 million to write-down the carrying value of the satellite and related costs, and simultaneously recorded an insurance claim receivable for the same amount. EchoStar will have to reduce the amount of the receivable if a final settlement is reached for less than this amount.
As a result of the thermal and propulsion system anomalies, EchoStar reduced the estimated remaining useful life of EchoStar IV to approximately 4 years during January 2000. EchoStar will continue to evaluate the performance of EchoStar IV and may modify its loss assessment as new events or circumstances develop.
The indentures related to certain of EchoStar DBS Corporations (EDBS) senior notes contain restrictive covenants that require EchoStar to maintain satellite insurance with respect to at least half of the satellites it owns or leases. In addition, the indenture related to EchoStar Broadband Corporations (EBC) senior notes requires EchoStar to maintain satellite insurance on the lesser of half of its satellites or three of its satellites. All of EchoStars eight in-orbit DBS satellites are currently owned by direct or indirect subsidiaries of EDBS. Insurance coverage is therefore required for at least four of EchoStars eight satellites. The launch and/or in-orbit insurance policies for EchoStar I through EchoStar VII have expired. EchoStar has been unable to obtain insurance on any of these satellites on terms acceptable to EchoStar. As a result, EchoStar is currently self-insuring these satellites. To satisfy insurance covenants related to EDBS and EBCs senior notes, EchoStar has reclassified an amount equal to the depreciated cost of four of
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(Unaudited)
its satellites from cash and cash equivalents to cash reserved for satellite insurance on its balance sheet. As of September 30, 2002, cash reserved for satellite insurance totaled approximately $159 million. The reclassifications will continue until such time, if ever, as EchoStar can again insure its satellites on acceptable terms and for acceptable amounts, or until the covenants requiring the insurance are no longer applicable.
6. Commitments and Contingencies
Fee Dispute
EchoStar had a dispute regarding the contingent fee arrangement with the attorneys who represented EchoStar in prior litigation with The News Corporation, Ltd. In early July 2002, the parties resolved their dispute.
WIC Premium Television Ltd
During July 1998, a lawsuit was filed by WIC Premium Television Ltd., an Alberta corporation, in the Federal Court of Canada Trial Division, against General Instrument Corporation, HBO, Warner Communications, Inc., John Doe, Showtime, United States Satellite Broadcasting Company, Inc., EchoStar, and certain EchoStar subsidiaries.
During September 1998, WIC filed another lawsuit in the Court of Queens Bench of Alberta Judicial District of Edmonton against certain defendants, including EchoStar. WIC is a company authorized to broadcast certain copyrighted work, such as movies and concerts, to residents of Canada. WIC alleges that the defendants engaged in, promoted, and/or allowed satellite dish equipment from the United States to be sold in Canada and to Canadian residents and that some of the defendants allowed and profited from Canadian residents purchasing and viewing subscription television programming that is only authorized for viewing in the United States. The lawsuit seeks, among other things, interim and permanent injunctions prohibiting the defendants from importing satellite receivers into Canada and from activating satellite receivers located in Canada to receive programming, together with damages in excess of $175 million.
The Court in the Alberta action denied EchoStars Motion to Dismiss, and EchoStars appeal of that decision. The Federal action has been stayed pending the outcome of the Alberta action. The case is now in discovery. EchoStar intends to continue to vigorously defend the suit. Recently, the Supreme Court of Canada ruled that the receipt in Canada of programming from United States pay television providers is prohibited. While EchoStar was not a party to that case, the ruling could aversely affect EchoStars defense. It is too early to make an assessment of the probable outcome of the litigation or to determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.
Distant Network Litigation
Until July 1998, EchoStar obtained feeds of distant broadcast network channels (ABC, NBC, CBS and FOX) for distribution to its customers through PrimeTime 24, an independent third party programming provider. In December 1998, the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida entered a nationwide permanent injunction requiring that provider to shut off distant network channels to many of its customers, and henceforth to sell those channels to consumers in accordance with certain stipulations in the injunction.
In October 1998, EchoStar filed a declaratory judgment action against ABC, NBC, CBS and FOX in the United States District Court for the District of Colorado. EchoStar asked the Court to enter judgment declaring that its method of providing distant network programming did not violate the Satellite Home Viewer Act and hence did not infringe the networks copyrights. In November 1998, the networks and their affiliate groups filed a complaint against EchoStar in Miami Federal Court alleging, among other things, copyright infringement. The Court combined the case that EchoStar filed in Colorado with the case in Miami and transferred it to the Miami Federal Court. The case remains pending in Florida. While the networks have not sought monetary damages, they have sought to recover attorney fees if they prevail.
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(Unaudited)
In February 1999, the networks filed a Motion for Temporary Restraining Order, Preliminary Injunction and Contempt Finding against DIRECTV, Inc. in Miami related to the delivery of distant network channels to DIRECTV customers by satellite. DIRECTV settled that lawsuit with the networks. Under the terms of the settlement between DIRECTV and the networks, some DIRECTV customers were scheduled to lose access to their satellite-provided distant network channels by July 31, 1999, while other DIRECTV customers were to be disconnected by December 31, 1999. Subsequently, substantially all providers of satellite-delivered network programming other than EchoStar agreed to this cut-off schedule, although EchoStar does not know if they adhered to this schedule.
In December 1998, the networks filed a Motion for Preliminary Injunction against Echostar in the Florida case and asked the Court to enjoin EchoStar from providing network programming except under limited circumstances. A preliminary injunction hearing was held during September 1999. In March 2000, the networks filed an emergency motion again asking the Court to issue an injunction requiring EchoStar to cease providing network programming to certain of its customers. At that time, the networks also argued that EchoStars compliance procedures violated the Satellite Home Viewer Improvement Act. EchoStar opposed the networks motion and again asked the Court to hear live testimony before ruling upon the networks injunction request.
During September 2000, the Court granted the networks motion for preliminary injunction, denied the networks emergency motion, and denied EchoStars request to present live testimony and evidence. The Courts original order required EchoStar to terminate network programming to certain subscribers no later than February 15, 1999, and contained other dates with which it would be physically impossible to comply. The order imposed restrictions on EchoStars past and future sale of distant ABC, NBC, CBS and FOX channels similar to those imposed on PrimeTime 24 (and, EchoStar believes, on DIRECTV and others). Some of those restrictions go beyond the statutory requirements imposed by the Satellite Home Viewer Act and the Satellite Home Viewer Improvement Act.
Twice during October 2000, the Court amended its original preliminary injunction order in an effort to fix some of the errors in the original order. The twice amended preliminary injunction order required EchoStar to shut off, by February 15, 2001, all subscribers who were ineligible to receive distant network programming under the Courts order. EchoStar appealed the preliminary injunction orders. During September 2001, the United States Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit vacated the District Courts nationwide preliminary injunction, which the Eleventh Circuit had stayed in November 2000. The Eleventh Circuit also rejected EchoStars First Amendment challenge to the Satellite Home Viewer Act. However, the Eleventh Circuit found that the District Court had made factual findings that were clearly erroneous and not supported by the evidence, and that the District Court had misinterpreted and misapplied the law. The Eleventh Circuit issued an order during January 2002, remanding the case to the Florida District Court. During March 2002, the Florida District Court entered an order setting the trial in the matter for January 13, 2003 and setting a discovery and pretrial schedule. In this order, the District Court denied certain of EchoStars outstanding motions to compel discovery as moot and granted the networks motion to compel. The trial date has now been moved to February 10, 2003. During April 2002, the District Court denied the networks motion for preliminary injunction as moot. In June 2002, EchoStar filed a counterclaim against the networks asking the District Court to find that EchoStar is not violating the Satellite Home Viewer Act and seeking damages resulting from the networks tortious interference with EchoStars business relationships and from the networks conduct amounting to unfair competition. The networks filed a motion to dismiss these claims. In August 2002, the District Court denied the networks motion to dismiss. In September 2002, the networks answered our counterclaim.
In April 2002, EchoStar reached a private settlement with ABC, Inc., one of the plaintiffs in the litigation and jointly filed a stipulation of dismissal. On April 16, 2002, the District Court entered an order dismissing the claims between ABC, Inc. and EchoStar.
If after a trial the District Court enters an injunction against EchoStar, the injunction could force EchoStar to terminate delivery of distant network channels to a substantial portion of its distant network subscriber base, which could also cause many of these subscribers to cancel their subscription to EchoStars other programming services. Any such terminations would result in a small reduction in EchoStars reported average monthly revenue per subscriber and could result in a temporary increase in churn. If EchoStar loses the case at trial, the judge could, as one of many
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(Unaudited)
possible remedies, prohibit all future sales of distant network programming by EchoStar, which would have a material adverse affect on its business.
Gemstar
During October 2000, Starsight Telecast, Inc., a subsidiary of Gemstar-TV Guide International, Inc. (Gemstar), filed a suit for patent infringement against EchoStar and certain of its subsidiaries in the United States District Court for the Western District of North Carolina, Asheville Division. The suit alleges infringement of United States Patent No. 4,706,121 (the `121 Patent) which relates to certain electronic program guide functions. EchoStar has examined this patent and believes that it is not infringed by any of its products or services. This conclusion is supported by findings of the International Trade Commission (ITC) which are discussed below. Gemstar has moved to stay the North Carolina action pending appeal of the ITC decision. EchoStar is opposing Gemstars motion.
In December 2000, EchoStar filed suit against Gemstar-TV Guide (and certain of its subsidiaries) in the United States District Court for the District of Colorado alleging violations by Gemstar of various federal and state anti-trust laws and laws governing unfair competition. The lawsuit seeks an injunction and monetary damages. Gemstar filed counterclaims alleging infringement of United States Patent Nos. 5,923,362 and 5,684,525 that relate to certain electronic program guide functions. EchoStar examined these patents and believe they are not infringed by any of its products or services. In August 2001, the Federal Multi-District Litigation panel combined this suit, for pre-trial purposes, with other lawsuits asserting antitrust claims against Gemstar, which had previously been filed by other parties. In January 2002, Gemstar dropped the counterclaims of patent infringement. During March 2002, the Court denied Gemstars Motion to Dismiss EchoStars antitrust claims, however a recently filed motion for summary judgment based generally on lack of standing, remains pending. In its answer, Gemstar asserted new patent infringement counterclaims regarding United States Patent Nos. 4,908,713 and 5,915,068 (which is expired). These patents relate to onscreen programming of VCRs. EchoStar has examined these patents and believes that they are not infringed by any of its products or services.
In February 2001, Gemstar filed patent infringement actions against EchoStar in the District Court in Atlanta, Georgia and with the ITC. These suits allege infringement of United States Patent Nos. 5,252,066, 5,479,268 and 5,809,204 all of which relate to certain electronic program guide functions. In addition, the ITC action alleges infringement of the `121 Patent which is asserted in the North Carolina case previously discussed. In the Georgia district court case, Gemstar seeks damages and an injunction. The Georgia case was stayed pending resolution of the ITC action and remains stayed at this time. ITC actions typically proceed according to an expedited schedule. In December 2001, the ITC held a 15-day hearing before an administrative judge. Prior to the hearing, Gemstar dropped its allegations regarding United States Patent No. 5,252,066 with respect to which EchoStar had asserted substantial allegations of inequitable conduct. The hearing addressed, among other things, Gemstars allegations of patent infringement and respondents (SCI, Scientific Atlanta, Pioneer and EchoStar) allegations of patent misuse. During June 2002, the Administrative Law Judge issued a Final Initial Determination finding that none of the patents asserted by Gemstar had been infringed. In addition, the Judge found that Gemstar was guilty of patent misuse with respect to the `121 Patent and that the `121 Patent was unenforceable because it failed to name an inventor. The parties then filed petitions for the full ITC to review the Judges Final Initial Determination. On August 29, 2002, the full ITC adopted the Judges findings regarding non-infringement and the unenforceability of the `121 Patent. The ITC did not adopt, but did not overturn, the Judges findings of patent misuse. Gemstar has indicated that it plans to appeal the decision of the ITC to the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit. If the Federal Circuit were to overturn the Judges decision, such an adverse decision in this case could temporarily halt the import of EchoStar receivers and could require EchoStar to materially modify certain user-friendly electronic programming guides and related features it currently offer to consumers. Based upon EchoStars review of these patents, and based upon the ITCs decision, EchoStar continues to believe that these patents are not infringed by any of its products or services. EchoStar intends to continue to vigorously contest the ITC, North Carolina and Georgia suits and will, among other things, continue to challenge both the validity and enforceability of the asserted patents.
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(Unaudited)
During 2000, Superguide Corp. (Superguide) also filed suit against EchoStar, DIRECTV and others in the United States District Court for the Western District of North Carolina, Asheville Division, alleging infringement of United States Patent Nos. 5,038,211, 5,293,357 and 4,751,578 which relate to certain electronic program guide functions, including the use of electronic program guides to control VCRs. Superguide sought injunctive and declaratory relief and damages in an unspecified amount. It is EchoStars understanding that these patents may be licensed by Superguide to Gemstar. Gemstar was added as a party to this case and asserted these patents against EchoStar. EchoStar has examined these patents and believes that they are not infringed by any of its products or services. A Markman ruling interpreting the patent claims was issued by the Court and in response to that ruling EchoStar filed motions for summary judgment of non-infringement for each of the asserted patents. Gemstar filed a motion for summary judgment of infringement with respect to one of the patents. On July 3, 2002, the Court issued a Memorandum of Opinion on the summary judgment motions. In its Opinion, the Court ruled that none of EchoStars products infringe the 5,038,211 and 5,293,357 patents. With respect to the 4,751,578 patent, the Court ruled that none of EchoStars current products infringed that patent and asked for additional information before it could rule on certain low-volume products that are no longer in production. On July 26, 2002, the Court summarily ruled that the aforementioned low-volume products did not infringe any of the asserted patents. Accordingly, the Court dismissed the case and awarded EchoStar its court costs. Superguide and Gemstar are appealing this case to the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit. EchoStar will continue to vigorously defend this case. In the event the Federal Circuit ultimately determines that EchoStar infringes on any of the aforementioned patents, EchoStar may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages and/or an injunction that could require EchoStar to materially modify certain user-friendly electronic programming guide and related features that EchoStar currently offers to consumers. It is too early to make an assessment of the probable outcome of the suits.
IPPV Enterprises
IPPV Enterprises, LLC (IPPV) and MAAST, Inc. filed a patent infringement suit against EchoStar, and our conditional access vendor Nagra, in the United States District Court for the District of Delaware. The suit alleged infringement of five patents. One patent claim was subsequently dropped by plaintiffs. Three of the remaining patents disclose various systems for the implementation of features such as impulse-pay-per-view, parental control and category lock-out. The fourth remaining patent relates to an encryption technique. The Court entered summary judgment in our favor on the encryption patent. Plaintiffs had claimed $80 million in damages with respect to the encryption patent. On July 13, 2001, a jury found that the remaining three patents were infringed and awarded damages of $15 million. The jury also found that one of the patents was willfully infringed, permitting the Judge to increase the award of damages. On post-trial motions, the Judge reduced damages to $7.33 million, found that one of the infringed patents was invalid, and reversed the finding of willful infringement. In addition, the Judge denied IPPVs request for treble damages and attorney fees. EchoStar intends to file an appeal. Any final award of damages would be split between EchoStar and Nagra in percentages to be agreed upon between EchoStar and Nagra.
California Actions
A purported class action was filed against EchoStar in the California State Superior Court for Alameda County during May 2001 by Andrew A. Werby. The complaint, relating to late fees, alleges unlawful, unfair and fraudulent business practices in violation of California Business and Professions Code Section 17200 et seq., false and misleading advertising in violation of California Business and Professions Code Section 17500, and violation of the California Consumer Legal Remedies Act. During September 2001, EchoStar filed an answer denying all material allegations of the complaint, and the Court entered an Order Pursuant to Stipulation for a provisional certification of the class, for an orderly exchange of information and for mediation. The provisional Order specifies that the class will be de-certified upon notice if mediation does not resolve the dispute. A settlement has been reached with plaintiffs counsel and the Court issued its preliminary approval of the settlement on October 18, 2002. The Court has set a March 7, 2003 date for hearing on final approval after notice to the class. If the settlement is not approved, EchoStar intends to deny all liability and to vigorously defend the lawsuit. The settlement confirms that the late fee charged by EchoStar is appropriate and will not change.
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(Unaudited)
A purported class action relating to the use of terms such as crystal clear digital video, CD-quality audio, and on-screen program guide, and with respect to the number of channels available in various programming packages was also filed against EchoStar in the California State Superior Court for Los Angeles County in 1999 by David Pritikin and by Consumer Advocates, a nonprofit unincorporated association. The complaint alleges breach of express warranty and violation of the California Consumer Legal Remedies Act, Civil Code Sections 1750, et seq., and the California Business & Professions Code Sections 17500 & 17200. A hearing on the plaintiffs Motion for Class Certification and EchoStars Motion for Summary Judgment was held on June 28, 2002. At the hearing, the Court issued a preliminary ruling denying the plaintiffs Motion for Class Certification. However, before issuing a final ruling on Class Certification, the Court granted EchoStars Motion for Summary Judgment with respect to all of the plaintiffs claims. The plaintiffs filed a Notice of Appeal of the Courts grant of EchoStars Motion for Summary Judgment. It is too early to make an assessment of the probable outcome of the appeal or to determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.
State Investigation
During April 2002, two state Attorneys General commenced a civil investigation concerning certain of EchoStars business practices. Over the course of the next six months, 11 additional states ultimately joined the investigation. The states allege failure to comply with consumer protection laws based on EchoStars call response times and policies, advertising and customer agreement disclosures, policies for handling consumer complaints, issuing rebates and refunds and charging cancellation fees to consumers, and other matters. EchoStar has cooperated fully in the investigation. It is too early to make an assessment of the probable outcome, or to determine the extent of any damages or injunctive relief which could result.
Retailer Class Actions
EchoStar has been sued by retailers in three separate purported class actions. During October 2000, two separate lawsuits were filed in the Arapahoe County District Court in the State of Colorado and the United States District Court for the District of Colorado, respectively, by Air Communication & Satellite, Inc. and John DeJong, et al. on behalf of themselves and a class of persons similarly situated. The plaintiffs are attempting to certify nationwide classes on behalf of certain of EchoStars satellite hardware retailers. The plaintiffs are requesting the Courts to declare certain provisions of, and changes to, alleged agreements between EchoStar and the retailers invalid and unenforceable, and to award damages for lost incentives and payments, charge backs, and other compensation. EchoStar intends to vigorously defend against the suits and to assert a variety of counterclaims. The United States District Court for the District of Colorado stayed the Federal Court action to allow the parties to pursue a comprehensive adjudication of their dispute in the Arapahoe County State Court. John DeJong, d/b/a Nexwave, and Joseph Kelley, d/b/a Keltronics, subsequently intervened in the Arapahoe County Court action as plaintiffs and proposed class representatives. It is too early to make an assessment of the probable outcome of the litigation or to determine the extent of any potential liability or damages. A class certification hearing for the Arapahoe County Court action is scheduled for November 26, 2002.
Satellite Dealers Supply, Inc. filed a lawsuit in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas during September 2000, on behalf of itself and a class of persons similarly situated. The plaintiff is attempting to certify a nationwide class on behalf of sellers, installers, and servicers of satellite equipment who contract with EchoStar and who allege that EchoStar: (1) charged back certain fees paid by members of the class to professional installers in violation of contractual terms; (2) manipulated the accounts of subscribers to deny payments to class members; and (3) misrepresented, to class members, who owns certain equipment related to the provision of satellite television service. During September 2001, the Court granted EchoStars Motion to Dismiss for Lack of Personal Jurisdiction. The plaintiff moved for reconsideration of the Courts order dismissing the case and the Court denied Plaintiffs Motion for Reconsideration. The plaintiff filed a Notice of Appeal of the Courts denial of Plaintiffs Motion for Reconsideration. It is too early to make an assessment of the probable outcome of the appeal or to determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.
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(Unaudited)
StarBand Shareholder Lawsuit
On August 20, 2002, a shareholder in StarBand Communications Corporation (StarBand) filed an action in the Delaware Court of Chancery against EchoStar and EchoBand Corporation, together with four EchoStar executives who sat on the Board of Directors for StarBand, for alleged breach of the fiduciary duties of due care, good faith and loyalty, and also against EchoStar and EchoBand Corporation for aiding and abetting such alleged breaches. Two of the individual defendants, Charles W. Ergen and David Moskowitz, are members of the Board of Directors of EchoStar. The action stems from the defendants involvement as directors, and EchoBands position as a shareholder in StarBand, a broadband Internet satellite venture that is currently in bankruptcy. Plaintiffs allege that the defendants conspired to ensure StarBands failure in order to guarantee that EchoStars pending merger with Hughes would be successful. Plaintiffs seek an accounting of damages for their $25 million investment in StarBand in addition to costs and disbursements. Defendants deny the allegations in the complaint and intend to defend the litigation vigorously. On October 28, 2002, EchoStar, along with the other defendants filed motions to dismiss the complaint in its entirety. EchoStar and EchoBand filed a motion to dismiss based on lack of personal jurisdiction. It is too early to make an assessment of the probable outcome of the litigation or to determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.
PrimeTime 24 Joint Venture
PrimeTime 24 Joint Venture (PrimeTime 24) filed suit against EchoStar during September 1998 seeking damages in excess of $10 million and alleging breach of contract, wrongful termination of contract, interference with contractual relations, trademark infringement and unfair competition. EchoStar denied all of PrimeTime 24s allegations and asserted various counterclaims. EchoStar has reached a settlement agreement with PrimeTime 24 pursuant to which the parties agreed to release all parties from any liability and dismiss the case with prejudice. The settlement amount is immaterial to EchoStar.
Merger Related Proceedings
A purported shareholder derivative action was filed against EchoStar and all of the current members of its Board of Directors in the United States District Court for Clark County, Nevada during October 2002 by Robert Busch on behalf of EchoStar shareholders. The complaint alleges breach of fiduciary duty, corporate waste and other unlawful acts relating to EchoStars agreement to pay Hughes Electronics Corporation a $600 million termination fee in certain circumstances in the event the merger with DirecTV is not completed by January 21, 2003. No answer is due yet from the defendants. EchoStar and the individual defendants intend to deny all liability and to defend this action vigorously. It is too early to make an assessment of the probable outcome of the litigation or to determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.
The Company is subject to various other legal proceedings and claims which arise in the ordinary course of business. In the opinion of management, the amount of ultimate liability with respect to any of those actions will not materially affect the Companys financial position or results of operations.
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(Unaudited)
7. Depreciation and Amortization Expense
Depreciation and amortization expense consists of the following (in thousands):
For the Three Months Ended | For the Nine Months Ended | |||||||||||||||
September 30, | September 30, | |||||||||||||||
2001 | 2002 | 2001 | 2002 | |||||||||||||
Digital Home Plan equipment |
$ | 18,793 | $ | 35,159 | $ | 34,909 | $ | 93,943 | ||||||||
Satellites |
28,677 | 31,945 | 85,021 | 92,148 | ||||||||||||
Furniture, fixtures and equipment |
15,681 | 25,019 | 46,443 | 66,197 | ||||||||||||
Buildings and improvements |
506 | 678 | 1,487 | 1,937 | ||||||||||||
FCC licenses and other amortizable intangibles |
4,991 | | 14,378 | 167 | ||||||||||||
Tooling and other |
1,102 | 1,968 | 2,720 | 3,173 | ||||||||||||
$ | 69,750 | $ | 94,769 | $ | 184,958 | $ | 257,565 | |||||||||
Cost of sales and operating expense categories included in the Companys accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations do not include depreciation expense related to satellites or digital home plan equipment.
8. Segment Reporting
Financial Data by Business Unit (in thousands)
Statement of Financial Accounting Standard No. 131, Disclosures About Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information (FAS No. 131) establishes standards for reporting information about operating segments in annual financial statements of public business enterprises and requires that those enterprises report selected information about operating segments in interim financial reports issued to shareholders. Operating segments are components of an enterprise about which separate financial information is available and regularly evaluated by the chief operating decision maker(s) of an enterprise. Under this definition, we currently operate as two separate business units. The All Other column consists of revenue and expenses from other operating segments for which the disclosure requirements of FAS No. 131 do not apply.
EchoStar | Other | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
All | Consolidated | EchoStar | EDBS and | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Dish Network | ETC | Other | Eliminations | Total | Activity | Subsidiaries | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Three Months Ended September
30, 2001 |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Revenue |
$ | 944,274 | $ | 52,526 | $ | 27,066 | $ | (1,360 | ) | $ | 1,022,506 | $ | (3,171 | ) | $ | 1,019,335 | |||||||||||||
Net income (loss) |
2,063 | 1,149 | (117 | ) | | 3,095 | 27,223 | 30,318 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Three Months Ended September
30, 2002 |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Revenue |
$ | 1,149,381 | $ | 50,525 | $ | 24,782 | $ | (1,839 | ) | $ | 1,222,849 | $ | (2,367 | ) | $ | 1,220,482 | |||||||||||||
Net income (loss) |
(184,489 | ) | 6,498 | 10,042 | | (167,949 | ) | 182,821 | 14,872 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Nine months ended September
30, 2001 |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Revenue |
$ | 2,668,855 | $ | 97,014 | $ | 87,908 | $ | (3,069 | ) | $ | 2,850,708 | $ | (10,467 | ) | $ | 2,840,241 | |||||||||||||
Net income (loss) |
(169,005 | ) | (14,108 | ) | 10,486 | | (172,627 | ) | 170,147 | (2,480 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
Nine months ended September
30, 2002 |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Revenue |
$ | 3,297,234 | $ | 124,593 | $ | 78,955 | $ | (4,781 | ) | $ | 3,496,001 | $ | (14,326 | ) | $ | 3,481,675 | |||||||||||||
Net income (loss) |
(192,938 | ) | 4,331 | 22,512 | | (166,095 | ) | 251,087 | 84,992 |
16
ECHOSTAR DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Continued
(Unaudited)
9. Financial Information for Subsidiary Guarantors
With the exception of certain de minimis domestic and foreign subsidiaries (collectively, the Non-Guarantors), the 9 1/4% Seven Year Notes and 9 3/8% Ten Year Notes are fully, unconditionally and jointly and severally guaranteed by all subsidiaries of EDBS (collectively, the Subsidiary Guarantors).
The combined assets, stockholders equity, net loss and operating cash flows of the Non-Guarantors represent less than 1% of the combined and consolidated assets, stockholders equity, net loss and operating cash flows of the combined Subsidiary Guarantors for the nine months ended September 30, 2001 and 2002. As a result, the Subsidiary Guarantors and Non-Guarantors are combined in the following tables. Consolidating financial information is presented for the following entities (in thousands):
EDBS Parent Company Only (referred to as EDBS PC) Subsidiary Guarantors and Other Subsidiaries Consolidating and Eliminating Adjustments (referred to as C&E) Consolidated EDBS (referred to as EDBS) |
17
ECHOSTAR DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Continued
(Unaudited)
Consolidating Balance Sheets As of December 31, 2001
Subsidiary | ||||||||||||||||||
Guarantors | ||||||||||||||||||
EDBS - PC | and Other | C&E | EDBS | |||||||||||||||
Assets |
||||||||||||||||||
Current Assets: |
||||||||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents |
$ | 36,253 | $ | 2,799 | $ | | $ | 39,052 | ||||||||||
Marketable investment securities |
89,019 | | | 89,019 | ||||||||||||||
Trade accounts receivable, net of allowance for
uncollectible accounts of $8,848 |
| 313,580 | | 313,580 | ||||||||||||||
Insurance receivable |
106,000 | | | 106,000 | ||||||||||||||
Inventories |
| 189,665 | | 189,665 | ||||||||||||||
Other current assets |
(21 | ) | 38,284 | | 38,263 | |||||||||||||
Total current assets |
231,251 | 544,328 | | 775,579 | ||||||||||||||
Cash reserved for satellite insurance |
122,068 | | | 122,068 | ||||||||||||||
Property and equipment, net |
| 1,502,221 | | 1,502,221 | ||||||||||||||
FCC authorizations, net |
| 696,242 | | 696,242 | ||||||||||||||
Investment in subsidiaries |
457,358 | 189 | (457,547 | ) | | |||||||||||||
Other noncurrent assets |
40,948 | 50,681 | | 91,629 | ||||||||||||||
Total assets |
$ | 851,625 | $ | 2,793,661 | $ | (457,547 | ) | $ | 3,187,739 | |||||||||
Liabilities and Stockholders Equity (Deficit) |
||||||||||||||||||
Current Liabilities: |
||||||||||||||||||
Trade accounts payable |
$ | | $ | 203,685 | $ | | $ | 203,685 | ||||||||||
Deferred revenue |
| 356,903 | | 356,903 | ||||||||||||||
Accrued expenses |
83,966 | 681,212 | | 765,178 | ||||||||||||||
Advances (to) from affiliates, net |
(972,781 | ) | 972,839 | | 58 | |||||||||||||
Current portion of long-term debt |
| 13,444 | | 13,444 | ||||||||||||||
Total current liabilities |
(888,815 | ) | 2,228,083 | | 1,339,268 | |||||||||||||
Long-term obligations, net of current portion: |
||||||||||||||||||
9 1/4% Seven Year Notes |
375,000 | | | 375,000 | ||||||||||||||
9 3/8% Ten Year Notes |
1,625,000 | | | 1,625,000 | ||||||||||||||
10 3/8% Seven Year Notes |
1,000,000 | | | 1,000,000 | ||||||||||||||
9 1/8% Seven Year Notes |
700,000 | | | 700,000 | ||||||||||||||
Mortgages and other notes payable, net of current
portion |
| 5,577 | | 5,577 | ||||||||||||||
Long-term deferred distribution and carriage payments
and other long-term liabilities |
| 102,454 | | 102,454 | ||||||||||||||
Total long-term obligations, net of current portion |
3,700,000 | 108,031 | | 3,808,031 | ||||||||||||||
Total liabilities |
2,811,185 | 2,336,114 | | 5,147,299 | ||||||||||||||
Stockholders Equity (Deficit): |
||||||||||||||||||
Common Stock, $.01 par value, 3,000 shares authorized,
issued and outstanding |
| 14,379 | (14,379 | ) | | |||||||||||||
Additional paid-in capital |
435,590 | 1,454,087 | (1,454,087 | ) | 435,590 | |||||||||||||
Deferred stock-based compensation |
(25,456 | ) | (25,456 | ) | 25,456 | (25,456 | ) | |||||||||||
Accumulated other comprehensive loss |
(642 | ) | | | (642 | ) | ||||||||||||
Accumulated deficit |
(2,369,052 | ) | (985,463 | ) | 985,463 | (2,369,052 | ) | |||||||||||
Total stockholders equity (deficit) |
(1,959,560 | ) | 457,547 | (457,547 | ) | (1,959,560 | ) | |||||||||||
Total liabilities and stockholders equity (deficit) |
$ | 851,625 | $ | 2,793,661 | $ | (457,547 | ) | $ | 3,187,739 | |||||||||
18
ECHOSTAR DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Continued
(Unaudited)
Consolidating Balance Sheets As of September 30, 2002
Subsidiary | ||||||||||||||||||
Guarantors | ||||||||||||||||||
EDBS - PC | and Other | C&E | EDBS | |||||||||||||||
Assets |
||||||||||||||||||
Current Assets: |
||||||||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents |
$ | 248,884 | $ | 2,751 | $ | | $ | 251,635 | ||||||||||
Marketable investment securities |
85,008 | | | 85,008 | ||||||||||||||
Trade accounts receivable, net of allowance for
uncollectible accounts of $10,484 |
| 324,618 | | 324,618 | ||||||||||||||
Insurance receivable |
106,000 | | | 106,000 | ||||||||||||||
Advances to (from) affiliates, net |
507,631 | (497,064 | ) | | 10,567 | |||||||||||||
Inventories |
| 155,612 | | 155,612 | ||||||||||||||
Other current assets |
(2,049 | ) | 101,289 | (42,901 | ) | 56,339 | ||||||||||||
Total current assets |
945,474 | 87,206 | (42,901 | ) | 989,779 | |||||||||||||
Cash reserved for satellite insurance |
159,448 | | | 159,448 | ||||||||||||||
Property and equipment, net |
| 1,689,925 | | 1,689,925 | ||||||||||||||
FCC authorizations, net |
| 696,242 | | 696,242 | ||||||||||||||
Investment in subsidiaries |
944,751 | 189 | (944,940 | ) | | |||||||||||||
Other noncurrent assets |
67,645 | (43,851 | ) | 42,901 | 66,695 | |||||||||||||
Total assets |
$ | 2,117,318 | $ | 2,429,711 | $ | (944,940 | ) | $ | 3,602,089 | |||||||||
Liabilities and Stockholders Equity (Deficit) |
||||||||||||||||||
Current Liabilities: |
||||||||||||||||||
Trade accounts payable |
$ | 4,353 | $ | 253,887 | $ | | $ | 258,240 | ||||||||||
Deferred revenue |
| 417,582 | | 417,582 | ||||||||||||||
Accrued expenses |
97,797 | 688,491 | | 786,288 | ||||||||||||||
Current portion of long-term debt |
| 14,168 | | 14,168 | ||||||||||||||
Total current liabilities |
102,150 | 1,374,128 | | 1,476,278 | ||||||||||||||
Long-term obligations, net of current portion: |
||||||||||||||||||
9 1/4% Seven Year Notes |
375,000 | | | 375,000 | ||||||||||||||
9 3/8% Ten Year Notes |
1,625,000 | | | 1,625,000 | ||||||||||||||
10 3/8% Seven Year Notes |
1,000,000 | | | 1,000,000 | ||||||||||||||
9 1/8% Seven Year Notes |
700,000 | | | 700,000 | ||||||||||||||
Mortgages and other notes payable, net of current
portion |
| 19,751 | | 19,751 | ||||||||||||||
Long-term deferred distribution and carriage payments
and other long-term liabilities |
| 90,892 | | 90,892 | ||||||||||||||
Total long-term obligations, net of current portion |
3,700,000 | 110,643 | | 3,810,643 | ||||||||||||||
Total liabilities |
3,802,150 | 1,484,771 | | 5,286,921 | ||||||||||||||
Stockholders Equity (Deficit): |
||||||||||||||||||
Common Stock, $.01 par value, 3,000 shares authorized,
issued and outstanding |
| 14,379 | (14,379 | ) | | |||||||||||||
Additional paid-in capital |
611,301 | 1,603,861 | (1,603,861 | ) | 611,301 | |||||||||||||
Deferred stock-based compensation |
(12,379 | ) | (12,379 | ) | 12,379 | (12,379 | ) | |||||||||||
Accumulated other comprehensive income |
306 | | | 306 | ||||||||||||||
Accumulated deficit |
(2,284,060 | ) | (660,921 | ) | 660,921 | (2,284,060 | ) | |||||||||||
Total stockholders equity (deficit) |
(1,684,832 | ) | 944,940 | (944,940 | ) | (1,684,832 | ) | |||||||||||
Total liabilities and stockholders equity (deficit) |
$ | 2,117,318 | $ | 2,429,711 | $ | (944,940 | ) | $ | 3,602,089 | |||||||||
19
ECHOSTAR DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Continued
(Unaudited)
Consolidating Statements of Operations Three Months Ended September 30, 2001
Subsidiary | ||||||||||||||||||
Guarantors | ||||||||||||||||||
EDBS - PC | and Other | C&E | EDBS | |||||||||||||||
Revenue: |
||||||||||||||||||
DISH Network: |
||||||||||||||||||
Subscription television services |
$ | | $ | 919,856 | $ | | $ | 919,856 | ||||||||||
Other |
| 4,784 | | 4,784 | ||||||||||||||
Total DISH Network |
| 924,640 | | 924,640 | ||||||||||||||
DTH equipment sales |
| 72,349 | (1 | ) | 72,348 | |||||||||||||
Other |
| 22,347 | | 22,347 | ||||||||||||||
Total revenue |
| 1,019,336 | (1 | ) | 1,019,335 | |||||||||||||
Costs and Expenses: |
||||||||||||||||||
DISH Network Operating Expenses: |
||||||||||||||||||
Subscriber-related expenses |
| 365,647 | | 365,647 | ||||||||||||||
Customer service center and other |
| 72,790 | | 72,790 | ||||||||||||||
Satellite and transmission |
| 10,745 | | 10,745 | ||||||||||||||
Total DISH Network operating expenses |
| 449,182 | | 449,182 | ||||||||||||||
Cost of sales DTH equipment |
| 49,304 | | 49,304 | ||||||||||||||
Cost of sales other |
| 13,712 | | 13,712 | ||||||||||||||
Cost of sales Subscriber promotion subsidies |
| 226,424 | | 226,424 | ||||||||||||||
Advertising and other |
| 44,800 | | 44,800 | ||||||||||||||
General and administrative |
(4,509 | ) | 86,346 | (1 | ) | 81,836 | ||||||||||||
Non-cash, stock-based compensation |
| 6,831 | | 6,831 | ||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
| 69,750 | | 69,750 | ||||||||||||||
Total costs and expenses |
(4,509 | ) | 946,349 | (1 | ) | 941,839 | ||||||||||||
Operating income |
4,509 | 72,987 | | 77,496 | ||||||||||||||
Other Income (Expense): |
||||||||||||||||||
Interest income |
2,469 | 106 | | 2,575 | ||||||||||||||
Interest expense |
(47,576 | ) | (395 | ) | | (47,971 | ) | |||||||||||
Equity in earnings (loss) of subsidiaries |
(186,203 | ) | | 186,203 | | |||||||||||||
Other |
(1,901 | ) | 119 | | (1,782 | ) | ||||||||||||
Total other income (expense) |
(233,211 | ) | (170 | ) | 186,203 | (47,178 | ) | |||||||||||
Income (loss) before income taxes |
(228,702 | ) | 72,817 | 186,203 | 30,318 | |||||||||||||
Income tax benefit (provision), net |
| | | | ||||||||||||||
Net income (loss) |
$ | (228,702 | ) | $ | 72,817 | $ | 186,203 | $ | 30,318 | |||||||||
20
ECHOSTAR DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Continued
(Unaudited)
Consolidating Statements of Operations Three Months Ended September 30, 2002
Subsidiary | ||||||||||||||||||
Guarantors | ||||||||||||||||||
EDBS - PC | and Other | C&E | EDBS | |||||||||||||||
Revenue: |
||||||||||||||||||
DISH Network: |
||||||||||||||||||
Subscription television services |
$ | | $ | 1,119,124 | $ | | $ | 1,119,124 | ||||||||||
Other |
| 40,293 | (35,479 | ) | 4,814 | |||||||||||||
Total DISH Network |
| 1,159,417 | (35,479 | ) | 1,123,938 | |||||||||||||
DTH equipment sales |
| 76,064 | | 76,064 | ||||||||||||||
Other |
| 20,480 | | 20,480 | ||||||||||||||
Total revenue |
| 1,255,961 | (35,479 | ) | 1,220,482 | |||||||||||||
Costs and Expenses: |
||||||||||||||||||
DISH Network Operating Expenses: |
||||||||||||||||||
Subscriber-related expenses |
| 453,158 | | 453,158 | ||||||||||||||
Customer service center and other |
| 145,270 | (35,479 | ) | 109,791 | |||||||||||||
Satellite and transmission |
| 14,804 | | 14,804 | ||||||||||||||
Total DISH Network operating expenses |
| 613,232 | (35,479 | ) | 577,753 | |||||||||||||
Cost of sales DTH equipment |
| 40,311 | | 40,311 | ||||||||||||||
Cost of sales other |
| 9,508 | | 9,508 | ||||||||||||||
Cost of sales Subscriber promotion subsidies |
| 254,396 | | 254,396 | ||||||||||||||
Advertising and other |
| 46,924 | | 46,924 | ||||||||||||||
General and administrative |
| 94,473 | | 94,473 | ||||||||||||||
Non-cash, stock-based compensation |
| 3,722 | | 3,722 | ||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
| 94,769 | | 94,769 | ||||||||||||||
Total costs and expenses |
| 1,157,335 | (35,479 | ) | 1,121,856 | |||||||||||||
Operating income (loss) |
| 98,626 | | 98,626 | ||||||||||||||
Other Income (Expense): |
||||||||||||||||||
Interest income |
2,484 | 7 | | 2,491 | ||||||||||||||
Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized |
(84,121 | ) | (990 | ) | | (85,111 | ) | |||||||||||
Equity in earnings (loss) of subsidiaries |
95,022 | | (95,022 | ) | | |||||||||||||
Other |
(9 | ) | 538 | | 529 | |||||||||||||
Total other income (expense) |
13,376 | (445 | ) | (95,022 | ) | (82,091 | ) | |||||||||||
Income (loss) before income taxes |
13,376 | 98,181 | (95,022 | ) | 16,535 | |||||||||||||
Income tax benefit (provision), net |
1,496 | (3,159 | ) | | (1,663 | ) | ||||||||||||
Net income (loss) |
14,872 | 95,022 | (95,022 | ) | 14,872 | |||||||||||||
21
ECHOSTAR DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Continued
(Unaudited)
Consolidating Statements of Operations Nine months ended September 30, 2001
Subsidiary | ||||||||||||||||||
Guarantors | ||||||||||||||||||
EDBS - PC | and Other | C&E | EDBS | |||||||||||||||
Revenue: |
||||||||||||||||||
DISH Network: |
||||||||||||||||||
Subscription television services |
$ | | $ | 2,595,441 | $ | | $ | 2,595,441 | ||||||||||
Other |
| 12,511 | | 12,511 | ||||||||||||||
Total DISH Network |
| 2,607,952 | | 2,607,952 | ||||||||||||||
DTH equipment sales |
| 158,025 | (3 | ) | 158,022 | |||||||||||||
Other |
| 74,267 | | 74,267 | ||||||||||||||
Total revenue |
| 2,840,244 | (3 | ) | 2,840,241 | |||||||||||||
Costs and Expenses: |
||||||||||||||||||
DISH Network Operating Expenses: |
||||||||||||||||||
Subscriber-related expenses |
| 1,046,676 | | 1,046,676 | ||||||||||||||
Customer service center and other |
| 207,487 | | 207,487 | ||||||||||||||
Satellite and transmission |
| 27,779 | | 27,779 | ||||||||||||||
Total DISH Network operating expenses |
| 1,281,942 | | 1,281,942 | ||||||||||||||
Cost of sales DTH equipment |
(300 | ) | 109,507 | (2 | ) | 109,205 | ||||||||||||
Cost of sales other |
| 48,201 | | 48,201 | ||||||||||||||
Cost of sales Subscriber promotion subsidies |
| 728,525 | | 728,525 | ||||||||||||||
Advertising and other |
| 97,838 | | 97,838 | ||||||||||||||
General and administrative |
(3,734 | ) | 239,791 | (1 | ) | 236,056 | ||||||||||||
Non-cash, stock-based compensation |
| 21,298 | | 21,298 | ||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
| 184,958 | | 184,958 | ||||||||||||||
Total costs and expenses |
(4,034 | ) | 2,712,060 | (3 | ) | 2,708,023 | ||||||||||||
Operating income (loss) |
4,034 | 128,184 | | 132,218 | ||||||||||||||
Other Income (Expense): |
||||||||||||||||||
Interest income |
5,194 | 3,002 | | 8,196 | ||||||||||||||
Interest expense |
(142,730 | ) | (1,296 | ) | | (144,026 | ) | |||||||||||
Equity in earnings (loss) of subsidiaries |
(129,510 | ) | | 129,510 | | |||||||||||||
Other |
1,512 | (380 | ) | | 1,132 | |||||||||||||
Total other income (expense) |
(265,534 | ) | 1,326 | 129,510 | (134,698 | ) | ||||||||||||
Income (loss) before income taxes |
(261,500 | ) | 129,510 | 129,510 | (2,480 | ) | ||||||||||||
Income tax benefit (provision), net |
| | | | ||||||||||||||
Net income (loss) |
$ | (261,500 | ) | $ | 129,510 | $ | 129,510 | $ | (2,480 | ) | ||||||||
22
ECHOSTAR DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Continued
(Unaudited)
Consolidating Statements of Operations Nine months ended September 30, 2002
Subsidiary | ||||||||||||||||||
Guarantors | ||||||||||||||||||
EDBS - PC | and Other | C&E | EDBS | |||||||||||||||
Revenue: |
||||||||||||||||||
DISH Network: |
||||||||||||||||||
Subscription television services |
$ | | $ | 3,204,208 | $ | | $ | 3,204,208 | ||||||||||
Other |
| 107,765 | (95,255 | ) | 12,510 | |||||||||||||
Total DISH Network |
| 3,311,973 | (95,255 | ) | 3,216,718 | |||||||||||||
DTH equipment sales |
| 199,795 | | 199,795 | ||||||||||||||
Other |
| 65,162 | | 65,162 | ||||||||||||||
Total revenue |
| 3,576,930 | (95,255 | ) | 3,481,675 | |||||||||||||
Costs and Expenses: |
||||||||||||||||||
DISH Network Operating Expenses: |
||||||||||||||||||
Subscriber-related expenses |
| 1,299,721 | | 1,299,721 | ||||||||||||||
Customer service center and other |
| 385,701 | (95,255 | ) | 290,446 | |||||||||||||
Satellite and transmission |
| 40,640 | | 40,640 | ||||||||||||||
Total DISH Network operating expenses |
| 1,726,062 | (95,255 | ) | 1,630,807 | |||||||||||||
Cost of sales DTH equipment |
| 123,482 | | 123,482 | ||||||||||||||
Cost of sales other |
| 32,531 | | 32,531 | ||||||||||||||
Cost of sales Subscriber promotion subsidies |
| 709,386 | | 709,386 | ||||||||||||||
Advertising and other |
| 115,387 | | 115,387 | ||||||||||||||
General and administrative |
147 | 261,356 | | 261,503 | ||||||||||||||
Non-cash, stock-based compensation |
| 7,557 | | 7,557 | ||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
| 257,565 | | 257,565 | ||||||||||||||
Total costs and expenses |
147 | 3,233,326 | (95,255 | ) | 3,138,218 | |||||||||||||
Operating income (loss) |
(147 | ) | 343,604 | | 343,457 | |||||||||||||
Other Income (Expense): |
||||||||||||||||||
Interest income |
7,169 | 133 | | 7,302 | ||||||||||||||
Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized |
(249,651 | ) | (1,184 | ) | | (250,835 | ) | |||||||||||
Equity in earnings (loss) of subsidiaries |
324,542 | | (324,542 | ) | | |||||||||||||
Other |
(1,303 | ) | (610 | ) | | (1,913 | ) | |||||||||||
Total other income (expense) |
80,757 | (1,661 | ) | (324,542 | ) | (245,446 | ) | |||||||||||
Income (loss) before income taxes |
80,610 | 341,943 | (324,542 | ) | 98,011 | |||||||||||||
Income tax benefit (provision), net |
4,382 | (17,401 | ) | | (13,019 | ) | ||||||||||||
Net income (loss) |
84,992 | 324,542 | (324,542 | ) | 84,992 | |||||||||||||
23
ECHOSTAR DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Continued
(Unaudited)
Consolidating Statements of Cash Flows Nine months ended September 30, 2001
Subsidiary | |||||||||||||||||
Guarantors | |||||||||||||||||
EDBS - PC | and Other | C&E | EDBS | ||||||||||||||
Cash Flows From Operating Activities: |
|||||||||||||||||
Net income (loss) |
$ | (2,480 | ) | $ | 129,510 | $ | (129,510 | ) | $ | (2,480 | ) | ||||||
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash flows from operating activities: |
|||||||||||||||||
Equity in losses of subsidiaries |
(129,510 | ) | | 129,510 | | ||||||||||||
Deferred stock-based compensation (forfeitures) recognized |
| 21,298 | | 21,298 | |||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
| 184,958 | | 184,958 | |||||||||||||
Amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs |
2,457 | 3 | | 2,460 | |||||||||||||
Change in long-term deferred satellite services revenue and other
long-term liabilities |
| 27,688 | | 27,688 | |||||||||||||
Other, net |
| 16,861 | | 16,861 | |||||||||||||
Changes in current assets and current liabilities |
(50,134 | ) | 210,522 | | 160,388 | ||||||||||||
Net cash flows from operating activities |
(179,667 | ) | 590,840 | | 411,173 | ||||||||||||
Cash Flows From Investing Activities: |
|||||||||||||||||
Purchases of marketable investment securities |
(573,648 | ) | | | (573,648 | ) | |||||||||||
Sales of marketable investment securities |
482,471 | | | 482,471 | |||||||||||||
Purchases of property and equipment |
| (330,244 | ) | | (330,244 | ) | |||||||||||
Cash reserved for satellite insurance |
(59,488 | ) | | | (59,488 | ) | |||||||||||
Change in cash reserved for satellite insurance due to depreciation on
related satellites |
13,663 | | | 13,663 | |||||||||||||
Net cash flows from investing activities |
(137,002 | ) | (330,244 | ) | | (467,246 | ) | ||||||||||
Cash Flows From Financing Activities: |
|||||||||||||||||
Non-interest bearing advances from affiliates |
399,188 | (425,520 | ) | | (26,332 | ) | |||||||||||
Repayments of mortgage indebtedness and other notes payable |
| (7,364 | ) | | (7,364 | ) | |||||||||||
Net cash flows from financing activities |
399,188 | (432,884 | ) | | (33,696 | ) | |||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents |
82,519 | (172,288 | ) | | (89,769 | ) | |||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year |
(79,319 | ) | 170,891 | | 91,572 | ||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year |
$ | 3,200 | $ | (1,397 | ) | $ | | $ | 1,803 | ||||||||
24
ECHOSTAR DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Continued
(Unaudited)
Consolidating Statements of Cash Flows Nine months ended September 30, 2002
Subsidiary | |||||||||||||||||
Guarantors | |||||||||||||||||
EDBS - PC | and Other | C&E | EDBS | ||||||||||||||
Cash Flows From Operating Activities: |
|||||||||||||||||
Net income (loss) |
$ | 84,992 | $ | 324,542 | $ | (324,542 | ) | $ | 84,992 | ||||||||
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash flows from operating activities: |
|||||||||||||||||
Equity in losses of subsidiaries |
(324,542 | ) | | 324,542 | | ||||||||||||
Realized and unrealized loss (gain) on investments |
1,540 | | | 1,540 | |||||||||||||
Deferred stock-based compensation (forfeitures) recognized |
| 7,557 | | 7,557 | |||||||||||||
Deferred tax (benefit) expense |
(29,570 | ) | 38,112 | | 8,542 | ||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
| 257,565 | | 257,565 | |||||||||||||
Amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs |
4,545 | 3 | | 4,548 | |||||||||||||
Change in long-term deferred distribution and carriage payments and other
long-term liabilities |
| 12,800 | | 12,800 | |||||||||||||
Other, net |
800 | (2,288 | ) | | (1,488 | ) | |||||||||||
Changes in current assets and current liabilities |
44,100 | 115,233 | | 159,333 | |||||||||||||
Net cash flows from operating activities |
(218,135 | ) | 753,524 | | 535,389 | ||||||||||||
Cash Flows From Investing Activities: |
|||||||||||||||||
Purchases of marketable investment securities |
(427,044 | ) | | | (427,044 | ) | |||||||||||
Sales of marketable investment securities |
430,463 | | | 430,463 | |||||||||||||
Purchases of property and equipment |
| (283,568 | ) | | (283,568 | ) | |||||||||||
Cash reserved for satellite insurance |
(59,680 | ) | | | (59,680 | ) | |||||||||||
Change in cash reserved for satellite insurance due to depreciation on
related satellites |
22,300 | | | 22,300 | |||||||||||||
Other |
| (4,354 | ) | | (4,354 | ) | |||||||||||
Net cash flows from investing activities |
(33,961 | ) | (287,922 | ) | | (321,883 | ) | ||||||||||
Cash Flows From Financing Activities: |
|||||||||||||||||
Non-interest bearing advances from affiliates |
465,150 | (465,208 | ) | | (58 | ) | |||||||||||
Repayments of mortgage indebtedness and other notes payable |
| (442 | ) | | (442 | ) | |||||||||||
Other |
(423 | ) | | | (423 | ) | |||||||||||
Net cash flows from financing activities |
464,727 | (465,650 | ) | | (923 | ) | |||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents |
212,631 | (48 | ) | | 212,583 | ||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year |
36,253 | 2,799 | | 39,052 | |||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year |
$ | 248,884 | $ | 2,751 | $ | | $ | 251,635 | |||||||||
10. Subsequent Events
Effective November 5, 2002, EDBS completed its offer to exchange all of the $1 billion principal outstanding of EBCs 10 3/8% Senior Notes due 2007 (the EBC Notes) for substantially identical notes of EDBS. Tenders were received from holders of over 99% of the EBC Notes. Per the terms of the indenture related to the EBC Notes, if at least 90% in aggregate principal amount of the outstanding EBC Notes have accepted the exchange offer, then all of the then outstanding EBC Notes shall be deemed to have been exchanged for the EDBS Notes. Pursuant to the agreement between EBC and EDBS related to this debt exchange, the aggregate benefit received by EDBS from the use of proceeds of the 10 3/8% Seven Year Notes is required to be equal to the aggregate principal balance of the 10 3/8% Seven Year Notes exchanged. EBC currently expects that EDBS will receive this benefit through contribution of the benefit of the EchoStar VII and EchoStar VIII satellites by EBC to EDBS. EBC transferred ownership of EchoStar VII and EchoStar VIII to EDBS during March and October of 2002, respectively.
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Item 2. MANAGEMENTS NARRATIVE ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
In this document, the words we, our, us, and EDBS refer to EchoStar DBS Corporation and its subsidiaries, unless the context otherwise requires. EBC refers to EchoStar Broadband Corporation, our parent company, and its subsidiaries. EchoStar Communications Corporation is referred to herein as ECC or, together with ECCs subsidiaries, as EchoStar, General Motors or GM refers to General Motors Corporation, Hughes refers to Hughes Electronics Corporation, or a holding company that is expected to be formed to hold all of the stock of Hughes, and PanAmSat refers to PanAmSat Corporation, in each case including their respective subsidiaries, unless the context otherwise requires. We expect that consummation of the Hughes merger and related transactions and consummation of the PanAmSat acquisition described in EchoStars Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2001 would have material effects on our results of operations and liquidity and capital resources. Our historical financial information contained in this document does not give effect to either of these transactions, on a pro forma or any other basis, and our liquidity and capital resources discussions do not take these transactions into account. The amended EchoStar information statement, which we filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 30, 2002 and expects to distribute to its common stockholders this summer, includes pro forma financial information of the combined company as if the Hughes merger was consummated and for us as if the Pan AmSat acquisition was consummated, each in accordance with the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission. Please see EchoStars Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2001 for a description of how you can obtain a copy of the EchoStar information statement from the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Principal Business
Our operations include two interrelated business units:
| The DISH Network a direct broadcast satellite (DBS) subscription television service in the United States; and |
| EchoStar Technologies Corporation (ETC) engaged in the design, development, distribution and sale of DBS set-top boxes, antennae and other digital equipment for the DISH Network (EchoStar receiver systems) and the design, development and distribution of similar equipment for international satellite service providers. |
Since 1994, we have deployed substantial resources to develop the EchoStar DBS System. The EchoStar DBS System currently consists of EchoStars FCC-allocated DBS spectrum, eight DBS satellites (EchoStar I through EchoStar VIII), EchoStar receiver systems, digital broadcast operations centers, customer service facilities, and other assets utilized in its operations. Our principal business strategy is to continue developing our subscription television service in the United States to provide consumers with a fully competitive alternative to cable television service.
Results of Operations
Three Months Ended September 30, 2002 Compared to Three Months Ended September 30, 2001.
Revenue. Total revenue for the three months ended September 30, 2002 was $1.220 billion, an increase of $201 million compared to Total revenue for the three months ended September 30, 2001 of $1.019 billion. The increase in Total revenue was primarily attributable to continued DISH Network subscriber growth. As discussed below, in order to attract new subscribers, certain of our promotions currently include free or reduced price programming. We expect to continue these promotions at least through the remainder of this year. Consequently, assuming a continued slow economy, we currently expect that our revenues will increase approximately 20% in 2002 compared to 2001 as the number of DISH Network subscribers increases.
DISH Network Subscription television services revenue totaled $1.119 billion for the three months ended September 30, 2002, an increase of $199 million compared to the same period in 2001. DISH Network Subscription television services revenue principally consists of revenue from basic, premium, local, international and pay-per-view subscription television services. This increase was attributable to continued DISH Network subscriber growth. DISH Network added approximately 320,000 net new subscribers for the three months ended September 30, 2002
26
Item 2. MANAGEMENTS NARRATIVE ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS Continued
compared to approximately 360,000 net new subscribers during the same period in 2001. We believe the reduction in net new subscribers for the three months ended September 30, 2002, compared to the same period in 2001, resulted from a number of factors, including the continued weak U.S. economy and stronger competition from advanced digital cable and cable modems. Additionally, as the size of our subscriber base continues to increase, even if percentage churn remains constant, increasing numbers of gross new subscribers are required to sustain net subscriber growth. As of September 30, 2002, we had approximately 7.78 million DISH Network subscribers compared to approximately 6.43 million at September 30, 2001, an increase of approximately 21%. DISH Network Subscription television services revenue will continue to increase to the extent we are successful in increasing the number of DISH Network subscribers and maintaining or increasing revenue per subscriber. While there can be no assurance, notwithstanding our expectation of a continued slow U.S. economy, we expect to end 2002 with more than 8.1 million DISH Network subscribers, and increase compared to our prior guidance.
Monthly average revenue per subscriber was approximately $49.04 during the three months ended September 30, 2002 and approximately $49.26 during the same period in 2001. The decrease in monthly average revenue per subscriber is primarily attributable to certain promotions, discussed below, under which new subscribers received free programming for the first three months of their term of service, and other promotions under which subscribers received discounted programming for 12 months. While there can be no assurance, since we expect to continue free and reduced price programming promotions at least through the end of the year, and as a result of other factors, we currently expect that monthly average revenue per subscriber for 2002 will be near current levels, but that it will not reach or exceed average revenue per subscriber levels achieved during 2001.
Impacts from our litigation with the networks in Florida, FCC rules governing the delivery of superstations and other factors could cause us to terminate delivery of distant network channels and superstations to a material portion of our subscriber base, which could cause many of those customers to cancel their subscription to our other services. Any such terminations could result in a small reduction in average monthly revenue per subscriber and could result in an increase in our percentage churn.
Commencing January 1, 2002, we were required to comply with the statutory requirement to carry all qualified over the air television stations by satellite in any market where we carry any local network channels by satellite. In April 2002, the Media Bureau of the FCC (the Bureau) concluded that our must carry implementation methods were not in compliance with the must carry rules. While we continue to believe our practices comply with the law, the Bureau offered a number of remedial actions we could implement in order to meet the FCCs standards. We have implemented many such remedial actions which we believe should satisfy the Bureau and have filed compliance reports with the FCC describing our must carry implementation measures made in response to the Bureaus order. We have not received a ruling from the Bureau either accepting or rejecting those measures. There can be no assurance that our remedial actions will ultimately be deemed satisfactory by the FCC. In the event that our remedial actions are found to be unsatisfactory by the FCC, we could be forced to reduce the number of markets in which we provide local channels in order to meet the FCCs interpretation of must carry obligations. Any reduction in the number of markets we serve in order to comply with must carry requirements for other markets would adversely affect our operations and could result in a temporary increase in churn. In combination, these resulting subscriber terminations would result in a small reduction in average monthly revenue per subscriber and could increase our percentage churn.
For the three months ended September 30, 2002, DTH equipment sales revenue totaled $76 million, an increase of $4 million compared to the same period during 2001. DTH equipment sales consist of sales of digital set-top boxes and other digital satellite broadcasting equipment to international DTH service operators and sales of DBS accessories in the United States. The increase in DTH equipment sales revenue principally resulted from an increase in sales of DBS accessories to DISH Network subscribers. This increase was partially offset by a decrease in sales of digital set-top boxes to our international DTH customers discussed below.
A significant portion of DTH equipment sales revenue through 2001 resulted from sales to Via Digital and Bell ExpressVu. Our future revenue from the sale of DTH equipment in international markets depends largely on the success of these DTH operators and continued demand for our digital set-top boxes. For 2002, we have binding purchase orders from Bell ExpressVu and we are actively trying to secure new orders from Via Digital. However, we
27
Item 2. MANAGEMENTS NARRATIVE ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS Continued
cannot guarantee at this time that those negotiations will be successful. Further, Via Digital has signed a merger agreement with Canal Satelite, and may cease commercial operations in 2003 if Spanish authorities approve the merger. While there can be no assurance, we expect total DTH equipment sales revenue in 2002 to approximate 2001 levels. Although we continue to actively pursue additional distribution and integration service opportunities internationally, no assurance can be given that any such efforts will be successful.
DISH Network Operating Expenses. DISH Network operating expenses totaled $578 million during the three months ended September 30, 2002, an increase of $129 million or 29% compared to the same period in 2001. The increase in DISH Network operating expenses in total was consistent with, and primarily attributable to, the increase in the number of DISH Network subscribers. DISH Network operating expenses represented 52% and 49% of Subscription television services revenue during the three months ended September 30, 2002 and 2001, respectively. The increase in DISH Network operating expenses as a percentage of Subscription television services revenue primarily resulted from the expansion of our installation and service business, the opening of a new call center, increased costs in order to meet the demands of current must carry requirements and costs associated with offering additional markets where we carry local channels. While there can be no assurance, we expect operating expenses as a percentage of Subscription television services revenue to remain near current levels during the remainder of 2002.
Subscriber-related expenses totaled $453 million during the three months ended September 30, 2002, an increase of $87 million compared to the same period in 2001. The increase in total Subscriber-related expenses is primarily attributable to the increase in DISH Network subscribers. Such expenses, which include programming expenses, copyright royalties, residuals currently payable to retailers and distributors, and billing, lockbox and other variable subscriber expenses, represented 40% of Subscription television services revenues during the each of the three months ended September 30, 2002 and 2001. While there can be no assurance, we expect Subscriber-related expenses as a percentage of Subscription television services revenue to remain near current levels during the remainder of 2002.
Customer service center and other expenses principally consist of costs incurred in the operation of our DISH Network customer service centers, such as personnel and telephone expenses, as well as other operating expenses related to our service and installation business. Customer service center and other expenses totaled $110 million during the three months ended September 30, 2002, an increase of $37 million as compared to the same period in 2001. Customer service center and other expenses totaled 10% and 8% of Subscription television services revenue during the three months ended September 30, 2002 and 2001, respectively. The increase in Customer service center and other expenses in total and as a percentage of Subscription television services revenue primarily resulted from increased personnel and telephone expenses to support the growth of the DISH Network, the opening of a new call center, increased operating expenses related to the expansion of our installation and service business and increased installation costs due to second-dish installations in order to meet the demands of must carry. While there can be no assurance, we expect these expenses in total and as a percentage of Subscription television services revenue to remain near current levels during the remainder of 2002. These expenses and percentages could temporarily increase in the future as additional infrastructure is added to meet future growth. We intend to continue to implement the automation of simple telephone responses, and to increase Internet and satellite receiver-based customer assistance in the future, in order to better manage customer service costs.
Satellite and transmission expenses include expenses associated with the operation of our digital broadcast centers, and contracted satellite telemetry, tracking and control services. Satellite and transmission expenses totaled $15 million during the three months ended September 30, 2002, a $4 million increase compared to the same period in 2001. The increase in Satellite and transmission expenses primarily resulted from increased operations at our digital broadcast centers in order to meet the demands of current must carry requirements and offer additional markets where we carry local channels. During the three months ended September 30, 2002, we launched eight additional local markets. Satellite and transmission expenses totaled 1% of Subscription television services revenue during each of the three months ended September 30, 2002 and 2001. We expect Satellite and transmission expenses in total and as a percentage of Subscription television services revenue to increase in the future as additional satellites are placed in service, to the extent we successfully obtain commercial in-orbit insurance and to the extent we increase the operations at our digital broadcast centers in order, among other reasons, to meet the demands of current must carry requirements.
28
Item 2. MANAGEMENTS NARRATIVE ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS Continued
Cost of sales DTH equipment. Cost of sales DTH equipment totaled $40 million during the three months ended September 30, 2002, a decrease of $9 million compared to the same period in 2001. Cost of sales DTH equipment principally includes costs associated with digital set-top boxes and related components sold to international DTH operators and DBS accessories. DTH equipment represented 53% and 68% of DTH equipment revenue, during the three months ended September 30, 2002 and 2001, respectively. The decrease, both in aggregate and as a percentage of revenue, primarily related to reductions in the cost of manufactured equipment, increased sales of higher-margin DBS accessories and favorable litigation developments resulting in a non-recurring reduction in the cost of set-top box equipment of approximately $5 million.
Subscriber Promotions. During the three months ended September 30, 2002, our marketing promotions included our Free Dish, 1-2-3 Great TV, free installation program, Free for All and Digital Home Plan, which are described below.
Free Dish Our Free Dish promotion, under which subscribers receive a free base-level EchoStar receiver system, commenced during August 2001. To be eligible, subscribers must provide a valid major credit card and make a one-year commitment to subscribe to a qualified programming package. Effective July 13, 2002, eligible subscribers are able to purchase a second receiver for $49.99. Although there can be no assurance as to the ultimate duration of the Free Dish promotion, we expect it to continue through at least January 2003.
1-2-3 Great TV During January 2002, we commenced our 1-2-3 Great TV promotion. Under this promotion, subscribers who purchased one or more receivers, provided a valid major credit card and made a one-year commitment, received the first three months of qualified programming and installation of up to two receivers for free. This promotion expired on July 31, 2002.
Free Installation Under our free installation program all subscribers who purchased an EchoStar receiver system from September 2000 to December 2001, were eligible to receive a free professional installation of one EchoStar receiver system. Effective December 2001, all subscribers who purchase an EchoStar receiver system are eligible to receive free professional installation of up to two receivers. Although there can be no assurance as to the ultimate duration of the Free Installation promotion, we expect it to continue through at least January 2003.
Free for All Effective August 1, 2002, we commenced our Free for All promotion. Under this promotion, subscribers who purchase up to two receivers for $149 or more, depending on the models chosen, and subscribe to a qualifying programming package, receive free installation, together with credits of $12.50 or $17.00 applied to their programming bill each month for a year. Although there can be no assurance as to the ultimate duration of the Free For All promotion, we expect it to continue through at least January 2003.
Digital Home Plan Our Digital Home Plan promotion, introduced during July 2000, offers several choices to consumers, ranging from the use of one EchoStar receiver system and our Americas Top 50 CD programming package for $27.99 per month, to providing consumers our Americas Top 150 programming package and two or more EchoStar receiver systems for $50.99 to $60.99 per month. Each plan includes in-home service, and the consumer must agree to a one-year commitment and incur a one-time set-up fee of $49.99. During July 2002, the promotion also included the first three months of qualified programming free for qualified Digital Home Plan programming packages. Effective August 1, 2002, the one-time set-up fee includes only the first months qualified programming payment. For an additional $50.00, consumers can also choose to include a Dish PVR in the Digital Home Plan. Dish PVR receivers include a built-in hard drive that allows viewers to pause and record live programming without the need for videotape. Since we retain ownership of equipment installed pursuant to the Digital Home Plan promotion, equipment costs are capitalized and depreciated over a period of three to four years. Although there can be no assurance as to the ultimate duration of the Digital Home Plan promotion, we expect it to continue through at least January 2003.
Subscriber Acquisition Costs. Generally, under most promotions, we subsidize the installation and all or a portion of the cost of EchoStar receiver systems in order to attract new DISH Network subscribers. There is no clear industry standard used in the calculation of subscriber acquisition costs. Our subscriber acquisition costs include Cost of sales subscriber promotion subsidies, Other subscriber promotion subsidies and DISH Network acquisition marketing expenses. Cost of sales subscriber promotion subsidies includes the cost related to the distribution of
29
Item 2. MANAGEMENTS NARRATIVE ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS Continued
EchoStar receiver systems to retailers and other distributors of our equipment. Other subscriber promotion subsidies includes net costs related to our free installation promotion and other promotional incentives.
During the three months ended September 30, 2002, our subscriber acquisition costs totaled approximately $298 million, or approximately $413 per new subscriber activation. Comparatively, our subscriber acquisition costs during the three months ended September 30, 2001 totaled approximately $268 million, or approximately $392 per new subscriber activation. The increase in total subscriber acquisition costs primarily resulted from an increase in Other subscriber promotion subsidies related to additional subsidies on second receiver installations, an increase in Advertising and other expense related to our 2002 marketing promotions, and a decrease in Digital Home Plan penetration compared to 2001. The increase in subscriber acquisition costs was partially offset during the three months ended September 30, 2002 by favorable litigation developments resulting in a non-recurring reduction in the cost of set-top box equipment of approximately $31 million. The increase was also partially offset by a decrease in Cost of sales subscriber promotion subsidies due to reductions in the cost and sales price of manufactured equipment.
While there can be no assurance, we currently expect per subscriber acquisition costs for the full year to be approximately $430. Anticipated per subscriber acquisition costs for the full year take into consideration, among other things, anticipated advertising costs, and promotions targeting subscribers who want multiple receivers. Those promotions result in higher equipment subsidies and increased dealer commissions compared to our typical historical promotions. While there can be no assurance, we believe heightened credit procedures we implemented during the first quarter, together with promotions tailored towards subscribers with multiple receivers, will attract better long-term subscribers than could be obtained through less costly promotions.
Since we retain ownership of the equipment, amounts capitalized under our Digital Home Plan are not included in our calculation of these subscriber acquisition costs. Capital expenditures under our Digital Home Plan promotion totaled approximately $74 million and $109 million for the three months ended September 30, 2002 and 2001, respectively. Cash and returned equipment received as a result of Digital Home Plan customer disconnects totaling approximately $10 million and $8 million during the three months ended September 30, 2002 and 2001, respectively, also is not included in our calculation of subscriber acquisition costs.
Our subscriber acquisition costs, both in the aggregate and on a per new subscriber activation basis, may materially increase to the extent that we introduce other more aggressive promotions if we determine that they are necessary to respond to competition, or for other reasons.
General and Administrative Expenses. General and administrative expenses totaled $94 million during the three months ended September 30, 2002, an increase of $12 million compared to the same period in 2001. The increase in G&A expenses was primarily attributable to increased personnel and infrastructure expenses to support the growth of the DISH Network. This increase was partially offset by a decrease in legal expenses. G&A expenses represented 8% of Total revenue during each of the three months ended September 30, 2002 and 2001. While there can be no assurance, we expect G&A expenses as a percentage of Total revenue for the remainder of 2002 to be consistent with the expense to revenue ratio for the nine months ended September 30, 2002.
Non-cash, Stock-based Compensation. During 1999, we adopted an incentive plan which provided certain key employees with incentives including stock options. The payment of these incentives was contingent upon our achievement of certain financial and other goals. We met certain of these goals during 1999. Accordingly, during 1999 we recorded approximately $179 million of deferred compensation related to post-grant appreciation of stock options granted pursuant to the 1999 incentive plan. The related deferred compensation will be recognized over the five-year vesting period. Accordingly, during the three months ended September 30, 2002 we recognized $4 million of compensation under this performance-based plan, a decrease of $3 million compared to the same period in 2001. This decrease is primarily attributable to stock option forfeitures. The remaining deferred compensation of $12 million, which will be reduced by future forfeitures, if any, will be recognized over the remaining vesting period.
We report all non-cash compensation based on stock option appreciation as a single expense category in our accompanying statements of operations. The following table represents the other expense categories in our statements of operations that would be affected if non-cash, stock-based compensation was allocated to the same
30
Item 2. MANAGEMENTS NARRATIVE ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS Continued
expense categories as the base compensation for key employees who participate in the 1999 incentive plan (in thousands):
Three Months Ended September 30, | |||||||||
2001 | 2002 | ||||||||
Customer service center and other |
$ | 311 | $ | 182 | |||||
Satellite and transmission |
388 | 183 | |||||||
General and administrative |
6,132 | 3,357 | |||||||
Total non-cash, stock-based compensation |
$ | 6,831 | $ | 3,722 | |||||
Options to purchase an additional 9.1 million shares are outstanding as of September 30, 2002 and were granted at fair market value during 1999, 2000 and 2001 pursuant to our Long Term Incentive Plan. The weighted-average exercise price of these options is $9.02. Vesting of these options is contingent upon meeting certain longer-term goals, which would be achieved following consummation of the proposed merger with Hughes. The vesting of these options will not accelerate as a result of the proposed merger with Hughes. Since the merger has not yet occurred, the goals have not yet been achieved. Consequently, no compensation was recorded during the three months ended September 30, 2001 and 2002 related to these long-term options. We will record the related compensation at the earlier of achievement of the performance goals or consummation of the proposed merger with Hughes. Such compensation, if recorded, would result in material non-cash, stock-based compensation expense in our statements of operations.
Pre-Marketing Cash Flow. Pre-marketing cash flow is comprised of EBITDA, as defined below, plus Cost of sales subscriber promotion subsidies, Other subscriber promotion subsidies and Advertising and other expenses. Pre-marketing cash flow was $498 million during the three months ended September 30, 2002, an increase of $73 million or 17% compared to the same period in 2001. Our pre-marketing cash flow as a percentage of Total revenue was approximately 41% and 42% during the three months ended September 30, 2002 and 2001, respectively. While there can be no assurance, during the remainder of 2002 we expect pre-marketing cash flow as a percentage of Total revenue to be generally consistent with year to date percentages.
Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization. EBITDA is defined as Operating income (loss) plus Depreciation and amortization, and is adjusted for Non-cash, stock-based compensation. EBITDA was $197 million during the three months ended September 30, 2002, compared to $154 million during the same period in 2001. The improvement in EBITDA was directly attributable to the increase in the number of DISH Network subscribers, which continues to result in revenue sufficient to support the cost of new and existing subscribers, and to favorable litigation developments resulting in a non-recurring reduction in the cost of set-top box equipment totaling approximately $36 million. The improvement was partially offset by a decrease in Digital Home Plan penetration compared to the same period in 2001, resulting in a reduction in capitalized costs for the period. Our calculation of EBITDA for the three months ended September 30, 2002 and 2001 does not include approximately $4 million and $7 million, respectively, of non-cash compensation expense resulting from post-grant appreciation of employee stock options. In addition, EBITDA does not include the impact of capital expenditures under our Digital Home Plan promotion of approximately $74 million and $109 million during 2002 and 2001, respectively. While there can be no assurance, we currently expect to end 2002 with EBITDA of approximately $750-$800 million, based upon our increased subscriber addition expectation and as a result of anticipated lower penetration rates in our Digital Home Plan promotion. As previously discussed, to the extent we introduce more aggressive marketing promotions and our subscriber acquisition costs materially increase, our EBITDA results will be negatively impacted because subscriber acquisition costs are generally expensed as incurred.
It is important to note that EBITDA and pre-marketing cash flow do not represent cash provided or used by operating activities. We use EBITDA and pre-marketing cash flow as a few of the key measurements of operating efficiency and overall financial performance and believe these can be helpful measures for those evaluating companies in the multi-channel video programming distribution industry. Conceptually, EBITDA measures the amount of income generated each period that could be used to service debt, pay taxes and fund capital expenditures because EBITDA is independent of the actual leverage and capital expenditures employed by the business. Pre-
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Item 2. MANAGEMENTS NARRATIVE ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS Continued
marketing cash flow measures EBITDA before costs incurred to acquire subscribers to help assess the amount of income generated each period to be used to service debt and acquire subscribers. EBITDA and pre-marketing cash flow should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
Depreciation and Amortization. Depreciation and amortization expense totaled $95 million during the three months ended September 30, 2002, a $25 million increase compared to the same period in 2001. The increase in Depreciation and amortization expense principally resulted from an increase in depreciation related to the commencement of commercial operation of EchoStar VII in April 2002 and Digital Home Plan equipment and other depreciable assets placed in service during late 2001 and thereafter. This increase was partially offset by a reduction of approximately $5 million of amortization expense as a result of our adoption of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 142 (FAS 142). In accordance with FAS 142, effective January 2002 we ceased amortization of our FCC authorizations. During October 2002, in connection with the commencement of commercial operations, we began depreciating EchoStar VIII.
Other Income and Expense. Other expense, net, totaled $82 million during the three months ended September 30, 2002, an increase of $35 million compared to the same period in 2001. This increase is primarily attributable to an increase in Interest expense as a result of the issuance of our 9 1/8% Senior Notes in December 2001 and due to EDBS recording the indebtedness of the 10 3/8% Seven Year Notes at December 31, 2001.
Net income (loss). Net income was $15 million during the three months ended September 30, 2002, a decrease of $15 million compared to Net income of $30 million for the same period in 2001. This decrease is primarily attributable to increases in operating and other expenses discussed above and an increase in Other income (expense) discussed above. This decrease was partially offset by favorable litigation developments resulting in a non-recurring reduction in the cost of set-top box equipment of approximately $36 million.
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2002 Compared to Nine Months Ended September 30, 2001.
Revenue. Total revenue for the nine months ended September 30, 2002 was $3.482 billion, an increase of $642 million compared to Total revenue for the nine months ended September 30, 2001 of $2.840 billion. The increase in Total revenue was primarily attributable to continued DISH Network subscriber growth.
DISH Network Subscription television services revenue totaled $3.204 billion for the nine months ended September 30, 2002, an increase of $609 million compared to the same period in 2001. This increase was directly attributable to continued DISH Network subscriber growth.
For the nine months ended September 30, 2002, DTH equipment sales revenue totaled $200 million, an increase of $42 million compared to the same period during 2001. The increase in DTH equipment sales revenue principally resulted from an increase in sales of digital set-top boxes to Bell ExpressVu and an increase in sales of DBS accessories to DISH Network subscribers. This increase was partially offset by a decrease in sales of digital set-top boxes to Via Digital.
DISH Network Operating Expenses. DISH Network operating expenses totaled $1.631 billion during the nine months ended September 30, 2002, an increase of $349 million or 27% compared to the same period in 2001. The increase in DISH Network operating expenses in total was consistent with, and primarily attributable to, the increase in the number of DISH Network subscribers. DISH Network operating expenses represented 51% and 49% of Subscription television services revenue during the nine months ended September 30, 2002 and 2001, respectively. The increase in DISH Network operating expenses as a percentage of Subscription television services revenue primarily resulted from the expansion of our installation and service business, the opening of a new call center, increased costs in order to meet the demands of current must carry requirements and costs associated with offering additional markets where we carry local channels.
Subscriber-related expenses totaled $1.300 billion during the nine months ended September 30, 2002, an increase of $253 million compared to the same period in 2001. The increase in total Subscriber-related expenses
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Item 2. MANAGEMENTS NARRATIVE ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS Continued
is primarily attributable to the increase in DISH Network subscribers. Such expenses represented 41% and 40% of Subscription television services revenues during the nine months ended September 30, 2002 and 2001, respectively.
Customer service center and other expenses totaled $290 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2002, an increase of $83 million as compared to the same period in 2001. Customer service center and other expenses totaled 9% and 8% of Subscription television services revenue during the nine months ended September 30, 2002 and 2001, respectively. The increase in Customer service center and other expenses in total and as a percentage of Subscription television services revenue primarily resulted from increased personnel and telephone expenses to support the growth of the DISH Network, the opening of a new call center, increased operating expenses related to the expansion of our installation and service business and increased installation costs due to second-dish installations in order to meet the demands of must carry.
Satellite and transmission expenses totaled $41 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2002, a $13 million increase compared to the same period in 2001. The increase in Satellite and transmission expenses primarily resulted from increased operations at our digital broadcast centers in order to meet the demands of current must carry requirements and offer additional markets where we carry local channels. During the nine months ended September 30, 2002, we launched 11 additional local markets. Satellite and transmission expenses totaled 1% of Subscription television services revenue during each of the nine months ended September 30, 2002 and 2001.
Cost of sales DTH equipment. Cost of sales DTH equipment totaled $124 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2002, an increase of $15 million compared to the same period in 2001. The increase in Cost of sales DTH equipment principally resulted from a increase in sales of digital set-top boxes to Bell ExpressVu. Cost of sales DTH equipment represented 62% and 69% of DTH equipment sales revenue, during the nine months ended September 30, 2002 and 2001, respectively. The decrease in Cost of sales DTH equipment as a percentage of DTH equipment sales revenue primarily related to increased sales of higher-margin DBS accessories and favorable litigation developments resulting in a non-recurring reduction in the cost of set-top box equipment of approximately $5 million.
Subscriber Acquisition Costs. During the nine months ended September 30, 2002, our subscriber acquisition costs totaled approximately $812 million, or approximately $409 per new subscriber activation. Comparatively, our subscriber acquisition costs during the nine months ended September 30, 2001 totaled approximately $816 million, or approximately $403 per new subscriber activation. Total subscriber acquisition costs for the nine months ended September 30, 2002 include adjustments which reduce the costs related to the production of EchoStar receiver systems. During the second quarter of 2002, we recorded an adjustment of approximately $17 million resulting from the completion of royalty arrangements with more favorable terms than estimated amounts previously accrued. During the third quarter of 2002, as a result of favorable litigation developments we recorded a non-recurring reduction in the cost of set-top box equipment of approximately $31 million. The increase in total subscriber acquisition costs, absent these adjustments, primarily resulted from an increase in Other subscriber promotion subsidies primarily related to additional subsidies on second receiver installations, an increase in Advertising and other expense related to our 2002 marketing promotions, and a decrease in Digital Home Plan penetration compared to 2001. The increase was partially offset by a decrease in Cost of sales subscriber promotion subsidies due to reductions in the cost and sales price of manufactured equipment.
Since we retain ownership of the equipment, amounts capitalized under our Digital Home Plan are not included in our calculation of these subscriber acquisition costs. Capital expenditures under our Digital Home Plan promotion totaled approximately $240 million and $258 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2002 and 2001, respectively. Cash and returned equipment received as a result of Digital Home Plan customer disconnects totaling approximately $30 million and $10 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2002 and 2001, respectively, also is not included in our calculation of subscriber acquisition costs.
General and Administrative Expenses. General and administrative expenses totaled $262 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2002, an increase of $26 million as compared to the same period in 2001. The increase in G&A expenses was principally attributable to increased personnel and infrastructure expenses to support
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Item 2. MANAGEMENTS NARRATIVE ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS Continued
the growth of the DISH Network. G&A expenses represented 8% of Total revenue during each of the nine months ended September 30, 2002 and 2001.
Non-cash, Stock-based Compensation. As a result of substantial post-grant appreciation of stock options, during the nine months ended September 30, 2002 we recognized $8 million of compensation under the 1999 incentive plan, a decrease of $13 million compared to the same period in 2001. This decrease is primarily attributable to stock option forfeitures resulting from employee terminations. The remaining deferred compensation of $12 million, which will be reduced by future forfeitures, if any, will be recognized over the remaining vesting period.
We report all non-cash compensation based on stock option appreciation as a single expense category in our accompanying statements of operations. The following table represents the other expense categories in our statements of operations that would be affected if non-cash, stock-based compensation was allocated to the same expense categories as the base compensation for key employees who participate in the 1999 incentive plan (in thousands):
Nine Months Ended September 30, | |||||||||
2001 | 2002 | ||||||||
Customer service center and other |
$ | 932 | $ | 547 | |||||
Satellite and transmission |
1,165 | (189 | ) | ||||||
General and administrative |
19,201 | 7,199 | |||||||
Total non-cash, stock-based compensation |
$ | 21,298 | $ | 7,557 | |||||
Pre-Marketing Cash Flow. Pre-marketing cash flow is comprised of EBITDA, as defined below, plus Cost of sales subscriber promotion subsidies, Other subscriber promotion subsidies and Advertising and other expenses. Pre-marketing cash flow was $1.433 billion during the nine months ended September 30, 2002, an increase of $268 million or 23% compared to the same period in 2001. Our pre-marketing cash flow as a percentage of Total revenue was approximately 41% during each of the nine months ended September 30, 2002 and 2001.
Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization. EBITDA is defined as Operating income (loss) plus Depreciation and amortization, and is adjusted for Non-cash, stock-based compensation. EBITDA was $609 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2002, compared to $338 million during the same period in 2001. The improvement in EBITDA was directly attributable to the increase in the number of DISH Network subscribers, which continues to result in revenue sufficient to support the cost of new and existing subscribers, and to previously discussed adjustments totaling approximately $53 million which reduce the costs related to the production of EchoStar receiver systems. The improvement was partially offset by a decrease in Digital Home Plan penetration compared to the same period in 2001, resulting in a reduction in capitalized costs for the period. Our calculation of EBITDA for the nine months ended September 30, 2002 and 2001 does not include approximately $8 million and $21 million, respectively, of non-cash compensation expense resulting from post-grant appreciation of employee stock options. In addition, EBITDA does not include the impact of capital expenditures under our Digital Home Plan promotion of approximately $240 million and $258 million during 2002 and 2001, respectively.
It is important to note that EBITDA and pre-marketing cash flow do not represent cash provided or used by operating activities. We use EBITDA and pre-marketing cash flow as a few of the key measurements of operating efficiency and overall financial performance and believe these can be helpful measures for those evaluating companies in the multi-channel video programming distribution industry. Conceptually, EBITDA measures the amount of income generated each period that could be used to service debt, pay taxes and fund capital expenditures because EBITDA is independent of the actual leverage and capital expenditures employed by the business. Pre-marketing cash flow measures EBITDA before costs incurred to acquire subscribers to help assess the amount of income generated each period to be used to service debt and acquire subscribers. EBITDA and pre-marketing cash flow should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
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Item 2. MANAGEMENTS NARRATIVE ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS Continued
Depreciation and Amortization. Depreciation and amortization expense aggregated $258 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2002, a $73 million increase compared to the same period in 2001. The increase in Depreciation and amortization expense principally resulted from an increase in depreciation related to the commencement of commercial operations of EchoStar VII in April 2002 and Digital Home Plan equipment and other depreciable assets placed in service during late 2001 and thereafter. This increase was partially offset by a reduction of approximately $14 million of amortization expense as a result of our adoption of FAS 142. In accordance with FAS 142, effective January 2002 we ceased amortization of our FCC authorizations. During October 2002, in connection with the commencement of commercial operations, we began depreciating EchoStar VIII.
Other Income and Expense. Other expense, net, totaled $246 million
during the nine months ended September 30, 2002, an increase of $111 million
compared to $135 million for the same period in 2001. This increase is
primarily attributable to an increase in Interest expense as a result of the
issuance of our 9 1/8% Senior Notes in December 2001 and due to EDBS recording
the indebtedness of the
10 3/8% Seven Year Notes at December 31, 2001.
Net income (loss). Net income was $85 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2002, a $87 million improvement compared to a Net loss of $2 million for the same period in 2001. This improvement is primarily attributable to the increase in the number of DISH Network subscribers which continues to result in revenue sufficient to support the cost of new and existing subscribers and to previously discussed adjustments totaling approximately $53 million which reduce the costs related to the production of EchoStar receiver systems.
Item 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
(a) | Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, we conducted an evaluation of our disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Rule 13a-14(c) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, within 90 days of filing this report. Based on their evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the design and operation of EchoStars disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the date of the evaluation. |
(b) | There have been no significant changes (including corrective actions with regard to significant deficiencies or material weaknesses) in our internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect these controls subsequent to the date of the evaluation referenced in paragraph (a) above. |
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PART II OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
Fee Dispute
EchoStar had a dispute regarding the contingent fee arrangement with the attorneys who represented EchoStar in prior litigation with The News Corporation, Ltd. In early July 2002, the parties resolved their dispute.
WIC Premium Television Ltd
During July 1998, a lawsuit was filed by WIC Premium Television Ltd., an Alberta corporation, in the Federal Court of Canada Trial Division, against General Instrument Corporation, HBO, Warner Communications, Inc., John Doe, Showtime, United States Satellite Broadcasting Company, Inc., EchoStar, and certain EchoStar subsidiaries.
During September 1998, WIC filed another lawsuit in the Court of Queens Bench of Alberta Judicial District of Edmonton against certain defendants, including EchoStar. WIC is a company authorized to broadcast certain copyrighted work, such as movies and concerts, to residents of Canada. WIC alleges that the defendants engaged in, promoted, and/or allowed satellite dish equipment from the United States to be sold in Canada and to Canadian residents and that some of the defendants allowed and profited from Canadian residents purchasing and viewing subscription television programming that is only authorized for viewing in the United States. The lawsuit seeks, among other things, interim and permanent injunctions prohibiting the defendants from importing satellite receivers into Canada and from activating satellite receivers located in Canada to receive programming, together with damages in excess of $175 million.
The Court in the Alberta action denied EchoStars Motion to Dismiss, and EchoStars appeal of that decision. The Federal action has been stayed pending the outcome of the Alberta action. The case is now in discovery. EchoStar intends to continue to vigorously defend the suit. Recently, the Supreme Court of Canada ruled that the receipt in Canada of programming from United States pay television providers is prohibited. While EchoStar was not a party to that case, the ruling could aversely affect EchoStars defense. It is too early to make an assessment of the probable outcome of the litigation or to determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.
Distant Network Litigation
Until July 1998, EchoStar obtained feeds of distant broadcast network channels (ABC, NBC, CBS and FOX) for distribution to its customers through PrimeTime 24, an independent third party programming provider. In December 1998, the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida entered a nationwide permanent injunction requiring that provider to shut off distant network channels to many of its customers, and henceforth to sell those channels to consumers in accordance with certain stipulations in the injunction.
In October 1998, EchoStar filed a declaratory judgment action against ABC, NBC, CBS and FOX in the United States District Court for the District of Colorado. EchoStar asked the Court to enter judgment declaring that its method of providing distant network programming did not violate the Satellite Home Viewer Act and hence did not infringe the networks copyrights. In November 1998, the networks and their affiliate groups filed a complaint against EchoStar in Miami Federal Court alleging, among other things, copyright infringement. The Court combined the case that EchoStar filed in Colorado with the case in Miami and transferred it to the Miami Federal Court. The case remains pending in Florida. While the networks have not sought monetary damages, they have sought to recover attorney fees if they prevail.
In February 1999, the networks filed a Motion for Temporary Restraining Order, Preliminary Injunction and Contempt Finding against DIRECTV, Inc. in Miami related to the delivery of distant network channels to DIRECTV customers by satellite. DIRECTV settled that lawsuit with the networks. Under the terms of the settlement between DIRECTV and the networks, some DIRECTV customers were scheduled to lose access to their satellite-provided distant network channels by July 31, 1999, while other DIRECTV customers were to be disconnected by December 31, 1999. Subsequently, substantially all providers of satellite-delivered network programming other than EchoStar agreed to this cut-off schedule, although EchoStar does not know if they adhered to this schedule.
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PART II OTHER INFORMATION
In December 1998, the networks filed a Motion for Preliminary Injunction against Echostar in the Florida case and asked the Court to enjoin EchoStar from providing network programming except under limited circumstances. A preliminary injunction hearing was held during September 1999. In March 2000, the networks filed an emergency motion again asking the Court to issue an injunction requiring EchoStar to cease providing network programming to certain of its customers. At that time, the networks also argued that EchoStars compliance procedures violated the Satellite Home Viewer Improvement Act. EchoStar opposed the networks motion and again asked the Court to hear live testimony before ruling upon the networks injunction request.
During September 2000, the Court granted the networks motion for preliminary injunction, denied the networks emergency motion, and denied EchoStars request to present live testimony and evidence. The Courts original order required EchoStar to terminate network programming to certain subscribers no later than February 15, 1999, and contained other dates with which it would be physically impossible to comply. The order imposed restrictions on EchoStars past and future sale of distant ABC, NBC, CBS and FOX channels similar to those imposed on PrimeTime 24 (and, EchoStar believes, on DIRECTV and others). Some of those restrictions go beyond the statutory requirements imposed by the Satellite Home Viewer Act and the Satellite Home Viewer Improvement Act.
Twice during October 2000, the Court amended its original preliminary injunction order in an effort to fix some of the errors in the original order. The twice amended preliminary injunction order required EchoStar to shut off, by February 15, 2001, all subscribers who were ineligible to receive distant network programming under the Courts order. EchoStar appealed the preliminary injunction orders. During September 2001, the United States Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit vacated the District Courts nationwide preliminary injunction, which the Eleventh Circuit had stayed in November 2000. The Eleventh Circuit also rejected EchoStars First Amendment challenge to the Satellite Home Viewer Act. However, the Eleventh Circuit found that the District Court had made factual findings that were clearly erroneous and not supported by the evidence, and that the District Court had misinterpreted and misapplied the law. The Eleventh Circuit issued an order during January 2002, remanding the case to the Florida District Court. During March 2002, the Florida District Court entered an order setting the trial in the matter for January 13, 2003 and setting a discovery and pretrial schedule. In this order, the District Court denied certain of EchoStars outstanding motions to compel discovery as moot and granted the networks motion to compel. The trial date has now been moved to February 10, 2003. During April 2002, the District Court denied the networks motion for preliminary injunction as moot. In June 2002, EchoStar filed a counterclaim against the networks asking the District Court to find that EchoStar is not violating the Satellite Home Viewer Act and seeking damages resulting from the networks tortious interference with EchoStars business relationships and from the networks conduct amounting to unfair competition. The networks filed a motion to dismiss these claims. In August 2002, the District Court denied the networks motion to dismiss. In September 2002, the networks answered our counterclaim.
In April 2002, EchoStar reached a private settlement with ABC, Inc., one of the plaintiffs in the litigation and jointly filed a stipulation of dismissal. On April 16, 2002, the District Court entered an order dismissing the claims between ABC, Inc. and EchoStar.
If after a trial the District Court enters an injunction against EchoStar, the injunction could force EchoStar to terminate delivery of distant network channels to a substantial portion of its distant network subscriber base, which could also cause many of these subscribers to cancel their subscription to EchoStars other programming services. Any such terminations would result in a small reduction in EchoStars reported average monthly revenue per subscriber and could result in a temporary increase in churn. If EchoStar loses the case at trial, the judge could, as one of many possible remedies, prohibit all future sales of distant network programming by EchoStar, which would have a material adverse affect on its business.
Gemstar
During October 2000, Starsight Telecast, Inc., a subsidiary of Gemstar-TV Guide International, Inc. (Gemstar), filed a suit for patent infringement against EchoStar and certain of its subsidiaries in the United States District Court for the Western District of North Carolina, Asheville Division. The suit alleges infringement of United States Patent No. 4,706,121 (the `121 Patent) which relates to certain electronic program guide functions. EchoStar
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PART II OTHER INFORMATION
has examined this patent and believes that it is not infringed by any of its products or services. This conclusion is supported by findings of the International Trade Commission (ITC) which are discussed below. Gemstar has moved to stay the North Carolina action pending appeal of the ITC decision. EchoStar is opposing Gemstars motion.
In December 2000, EchoStar filed suit against Gemstar-TV Guide (and certain of its subsidiaries) in the United States District Court for the District of Colorado alleging violations by Gemstar of various federal and state anti-trust laws and laws governing unfair competition. The lawsuit seeks an injunction and monetary damages. Gemstar filed counterclaims alleging infringement of United States Patent Nos. 5,923,362 and 5,684,525 that relate to certain electronic program guide functions. EchoStar examined these patents and believe they are not infringed by any of its products or services. In August 2001, the Federal Multi-District Litigation panel combined this suit, for pre-trial purposes, with other lawsuits asserting antitrust claims against Gemstar, which had previously been filed by other parties. In January 2002, Gemstar dropped the counterclaims of patent infringement. During March 2002, the Court denied Gemstars Motion to Dismiss EchoStars antitrust claims, however a recently filed motion for summary judgment based generally on lack of standing, remains pending. In its answer, Gemstar asserted new patent infringement counterclaims regarding United States Patent Nos. 4,908,713 and 5,915,068 (which is expired). These patents relate to onscreen programming of VCRs. EchoStar has examined these patents and believes that they are not infringed by any of its products or services.
In February 2001, Gemstar filed patent infringement actions against EchoStar in the District Court in Atlanta, Georgia and with the ITC. These suits allege infringement of United States Patent Nos. 5,252,066, 5,479,268 and 5,809,204 all of which relate to certain electronic program guide functions. In addition, the ITC action alleges infringement of the `121 Patent which is asserted in the North Carolina case previously discussed. In the Georgia district court case, Gemstar seeks damages and an injunction. The Georgia case was stayed pending resolution of the ITC action and remains stayed at this time. ITC actions typically proceed according to an expedited schedule. In December 2001, the ITC held a 15-day hearing before an administrative judge. Prior to the hearing, Gemstar dropped its allegations regarding United States Patent No. 5,252,066 with respect to which EchoStar had asserted substantial allegations of inequitable conduct. The hearing addressed, among other things, Gemstars allegations of patent infringement and respondents (SCI, Scientific Atlanta, Pioneer and EchoStar) allegations of patent misuse. During June 2002, the Administrative Law Judge issued a Final Initial Determination finding that none of the patents asserted by Gemstar had been infringed. In addition, the Judge found that Gemstar was guilty of patent misuse with respect to the `121 Patent and that the `121 Patent was unenforceable because it failed to name an inventor. The parties then filed petitions for the full ITC to review the Judges Final Initial Determination. On August 29, 2002, the full ITC adopted the Judges findings regarding non-infringement and the unenforceability of the `121 Patent. The ITC did not adopt, but did not overturn, the Judges findings of patent misuse. Gemstar has indicated that it plans to appeal the decision of the ITC to the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit. If the Federal Circuit were to overturn the Judges decision, such an adverse decision in this case could temporarily halt the import of EchoStar receivers and could require EchoStar to materially modify certain user-friendly electronic programming guides and related features it currently offer to consumers. Based upon EchoStars review of these patents, and based upon the ITCs decision, EchoStar continues to believe that these patents are not infringed by any of its products or services. EchoStar intends to continue to vigorously contest the ITC, North Carolina and Georgia suits and will, among other things, continue to challenge both the validity and enforceability of the asserted patents.
During 2000, Superguide Corp. (Superguide) also filed suit against EchoStar, DIRECTV and others in the United States District Court for the Western District of North Carolina, Asheville Division, alleging infringement of United States Patent Nos. 5,038,211, 5,293,357 and 4,751,578 which relate to certain electronic program guide functions, including the use of electronic program guides to control VCRs. Superguide sought injunctive and declaratory relief and damages in an unspecified amount. It is EchoStars understanding that these patents may be licensed by Superguide to Gemstar. Gemstar was added as a party to this case and asserted these patents against EchoStar. EchoStar has examined these patents and believes that they are not infringed by any of its products or services. A Markman ruling interpreting the patent claims was issued by the Court and in response to that ruling EchoStar filed motions for summary judgment of non-infringement for each of the asserted patents. Gemstar filed a motion for summary judgment of infringement with respect to one of the patents. On July 3, 2002, the Court issued a Memorandum of Opinion on the summary judgment motions. In its Opinion, the Court ruled that none of EchoStars products infringe the 5,038,211 and 5,293,357 patents. With respect to the 4,751,578 patent, the Court ruled that none
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PART II OTHER INFORMATION
of EchoStars current products infringed that patent and asked for additional information before it could rule on certain low-volume products that are no longer in production. On July 26, 2002, the Court summarily ruled that the aforementioned low-volume products did not infringe any of the asserted patents. Accordingly, the Court dismissed the case and awarded EchoStar its court costs. Superguide and Gemstar are appealing this case to the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit. EchoStar will continue to vigorously defend this case. In the event the Federal Circuit ultimately determines that EchoStar infringes on any of the aforementioned patents, EchoStar may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages and/or an injunction that could require EchoStar to materially modify certain user-friendly electronic programming guide and related features that EchoStar currently offers to consumers. It is too early to make an assessment of the probable outcome of the suits.
IPPV Enterprises
IPPV Enterprises, LLC (IPPV) and MAAST, Inc. filed a patent infringement suit against EchoStar, and our conditional access vendor Nagra, in the United States District Court for the District of Delaware. The suit alleged infringement of five patents. One patent claim was subsequently dropped by plaintiffs. Three of the remaining patents disclose various systems for the implementation of features such as impulse-pay-per-view, parental control and category lock-out. The fourth remaining patent relates to an encryption technique. The Court entered summary judgment in our favor on the encryption patent. Plaintiffs had claimed $80 million in damages with respect to the encryption patent. On July 13, 2001, a jury found that the remaining three patents were infringed and awarded damages of $15 million. The jury also found that one of the patents was willfully infringed, permitting the Judge to increase the award of damages. On post-trial motions, the Judge reduced damages to $7.33 million, found that one of the infringed patents was invalid, and reversed the finding of willful infringement. In addition, the Judge denied IPPVs request for treble damages and attorney fees. EchoStar intends to file an appeal. Any final award of damages would be split between EchoStar and Nagra in percentages to be agreed upon between EchoStar and Nagra.
California Actions
A purported class action was filed against EchoStar in the California State Superior Court for Alameda County during May 2001 by Andrew A. Werby. The complaint, relating to late fees, alleges unlawful, unfair and fraudulent business practices in violation of California Business and Professions Code Section 17200 et seq., false and misleading advertising in violation of California Business and Professions Code Section 17500, and violation of the California Consumer Legal Remedies Act. During September 2001, EchoStar filed an answer denying all material allegations of the complaint, and the Court entered an Order Pursuant to Stipulation for a provisional certification of the class, for an orderly exchange of information and for mediation. The provisional Order specifies that the class will be de-certified upon notice if mediation does not resolve the dispute. A settlement has been reached with plaintiffs counsel and the Court issued its preliminary approval of the settlement on October 18, 2002. The Court has set a March 7, 2003 date for hearing on final approval after notice to the class. If the settlement is not approved, EchoStar intends to deny all liability and to vigorously defend the lawsuit. The settlement confirms that the late fee charged by EchoStar is appropriate and will not change.
A purported class action relating to the use of terms such as crystal clear digital video, CD-quality audio, and on-screen program guide, and with respect to the number of channels available in various programming packages was also filed against EchoStar in the California State Superior Court for Los Angeles County in 1999 by David Pritikin and by Consumer Advocates, a nonprofit unincorporated association. The complaint alleges breach of express warranty and violation of the California Consumer Legal Remedies Act, Civil Code Sections 1750, et seq., and the California Business & Professions Code Sections 17500 & 17200. A hearing on the plaintiffs Motion for Class Certification and EchoStars Motion for Summary Judgment was held on June 28, 2002. At the hearing, the Court issued a preliminary ruling denying the plaintiffs Motion for Class Certification. However, before issuing a final ruling on Class Certification, the Court granted EchoStars Motion for Summary Judgment with respect to all of the plaintiffs claims. The plaintiffs filed a Notice of Appeal of the Courts grant of EchoStars Motion for Summary Judgment. It is too early to make an assessment of the probable outcome of the appeal or to determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.
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PART II OTHER INFORMATION
State Investigation
During April 2002, two state Attorneys General commenced a civil investigation concerning certain of EchoStars business practices. Over the course of the next six months, 11 additional states ultimately joined the investigation. The states allege failure to comply with consumer protection laws based on EchoStars call response times and policies, advertising and customer agreement disclosures, policies for handling consumer complaints, issuing rebates and refunds and charging cancellation fees to consumers, and other matters. EchoStar has cooperated fully in the investigation. It is too early to make an assessment of the probable outcome, or to determine the extent of any damages or injunctive relief which could result.
Retailer Class Actions
EchoStar has been sued by retailers in three separate purported class actions. During October 2000, two separate lawsuits were filed in the Arapahoe County District Court in the State of Colorado and the United States District Court for the District of Colorado, respectively, by Air Communication & Satellite, Inc. and John DeJong, et al. on behalf of themselves and a class of persons similarly situated. The plaintiffs are attempting to certify nationwide classes on behalf of certain of EchoStars satellite hardware retailers. The plaintiffs are requesting the Courts to declare certain provisions of, and changes to, alleged agreements between EchoStar and the retailers invalid and unenforceable, and to award damages for lost incentives and payments, charge backs, and other compensation. EchoStar intends to vigorously defend against the suits and to assert a variety of counterclaims. The United States District Court for the District of Colorado stayed the Federal Court action to allow the parties to pursue a comprehensive adjudication of their dispute in the Arapahoe County State Court. John DeJong, d/b/a Nexwave, and Joseph Kelley, d/b/a Keltronics, subsequently intervened in the Arapahoe County Court action as plaintiffs and proposed class representatives. It is too early to make an assessment of the probable outcome of the litigation or to determine the extent of any potential liability or damages. A class certification hearing for the Arapahoe County Court action is scheduled for November 26, 2002.
Satellite Dealers Supply, Inc. filed a lawsuit in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas during September 2000, on behalf of itself and a class of persons similarly situated. The plaintiff is attempting to certify a nationwide class on behalf of sellers, installers, and servicers of satellite equipment who contract with EchoStar and who allege that EchoStar: (1) charged back certain fees paid by members of the class to professional installers in violation of contractual terms; (2) manipulated the accounts of subscribers to deny payments to class members; and (3) misrepresented, to class members, who owns certain equipment related to the provision of satellite television service. During September 2001, the Court granted EchoStars Motion to Dismiss for Lack of Personal Jurisdiction. The plaintiff moved for reconsideration of the Courts order dismissing the case and the Court denied Plaintiffs Motion for Reconsideration. The plaintiff filed a Notice of Appeal of the Courts denial of Plaintiffs Motion for Reconsideration. It is too early to make an assessment of the probable outcome of the appeal or to determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.
StarBand Shareholder Lawsuit
On August 20, 2002, a shareholder in StarBand Communications Corporation (StarBand) filed an action in the Delaware Court of Chancery against EchoStar and EchoBand Corporation, together with four EchoStar executives who sat on the Board of Directors for StarBand, for alleged breach of the fiduciary duties of due care, good faith and loyalty, and also against EchoStar and EchoBand Corporation for aiding and abetting such alleged breaches. Two of the individual defendants, Charles W. Ergen and David Moskowitz, are members of the Board of Directors of EchoStar. The action stems from the defendants involvement as directors, and EchoBands position as a shareholder in StarBand, a broadband Internet satellite venture that is currently in bankruptcy. Plaintiffs allege that the defendants conspired to ensure StarBands failure in order to guarantee that EchoStars pending merger with Hughes would be successful. Plaintiffs seek an accounting of damages for their $25 million investment in StarBand in addition to costs and disbursements. Defendants deny the allegations in the complaint and intend to defend the litigation vigorously. On October 28, 2002, EchoStar, along with the other defendants filed motions to dismiss the complaint in its entirety. EchoStar and EchoBand filed a motion to dismiss based on lack of personal jurisdiction. It is too early to make an assessment of the probable outcome of the litigation or to determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.
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PART II OTHER INFORMATION
PrimeTime 24 Joint Venture
PrimeTime 24 Joint Venture (PrimeTime 24) filed suit against EchoStar during September 1998 seeking damages in excess of $10 million and alleging breach of contract, wrongful termination of contract, interference with contractual relations, trademark infringement and unfair competition. EchoStar denied all of PrimeTime 24s allegations and asserted various counterclaims. EchoStar has reached a settlement agreement with PrimeTime 24 pursuant to which the parties agreed to release all parties from any liability and dismiss the case with prejudice. The settlement amount is immaterial to EchoStar.
Merger Related Proceedings
A purported shareholder derivative action was filed against EchoStar and all of the current members of its Board of Directors in the United States District Court for Clark County, Nevada during October 2002 by Robert Busch on behalf of EchoStar shareholders. The complaint alleges breach of fiduciary duty, corporate waste and other unlawful acts relating to EchoStars agreement to pay Hughes Electronics Corporation a $600 million termination fee in certain circumstances in the event the merger with DirecTV is not completed by January 21, 2003. No answer is due yet from the defendants. EchoStar and the individual defendants intend to deny all liability and to defend this action vigorously. It is too early to make an assessment of the probable outcome of the litigation or to determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.
Satellite Insurance
In September 1998, EchoStar filed a $219.3 million insurance claim for a constructive total loss under the launch insurance policies covering EchoStar IV. The satellite insurance consists of separate substantially identical policies with different carriers for varying amounts that, in combination, create a total insured amount of $219.3 million. The insurance carriers include La Reunion Spatiale; AXA Reinsurance Company (n/k/a AXA Corporate Solutions Reinsurance Company), United States Aviation Underwriters, Inc., United States Aircraft Insurance Group; Assurances Generales De France I.A.R.T. (AGF); Certain Underwriters at Lloyds, London; Great Lakes Reinsurance (U.K.) PLC; British Aviation Insurance Group; If Skaadeforsikring (previously Storebrand); Hannover Re (a/k/a International Hannover); The Tokio Marine & Fire Insurance Company, Ltd.; Marham Space Consortium (a/k/a Marham Consortium Management); Ace Global Markets (a/k/a Ace London); M.C. Watkins Syndicate; Goshawk Syndicate Management Ltd.; D.E. Hope Syndicate 10009 (Formerly Busbridge); Amlin Aviation; K.J. Coles & Others; H.R. Dumas & Others; Hiscox Syndicates, Ltd.; Cox Syndicate; Hayward Syndicate; D.J. Marshall & Others; TF Hart; Kiln; Assitalia Le Assicurazioni DItalia S.P.A. Roma; La Fondiaria Assicurazione S.P.A., Firenze; Vittoria Assicurazioni S.P.A., Milano; Ras Riunione Adriatica Di Sicurta S.P.A., Milano; Societa Cattolica Di Assicurazioni, Verano; Siat Assicurazione E Riassicurazione S.P.A, Genova; E. Patrick; ZC Specialty Insurance; Lloyds of London Syndicates 588 NJM, 1209 Meb AND 861 Meb; Generali France Assurances; Assurance France Aviation; and Ace Bermuda Insurance Ltd.
The insurance carriers offered EchoStar a total of approximately $88 million, or 40% of the total policy amount, in settlement of the EchoStar IV insurance claim. The insurers assert that EchoStar IV was not a constructive total loss, as that term is defined in the policy, and that EchoStar did not abide by the exact terms of the insurance policies. EchoStar strongly disagrees and filed arbitration claims against the insurers for breach of contract, failure to pay a valid insurance claim and bad faith denial of a valid claim, among other things. There can be no assurance that EchoStar will receive the amount claimed or, if EchoStar does, that EchoStar will retain title to EchoStar IV with its reduced capacity. While there can be no assurance, the arbitration is expected to occur during 2003.
We are subject to various other legal proceedings and claims which arise in the ordinary course of business. In the opinion of management, the amount of ultimate liability with respect to those actions will not materially affect our financial position or results of operations.
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PART II OTHER INFORMATION
Item 6. EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K
(a) Exhibits.
* 10.1 | License and OEM Manufacturing Agreement, dated July 1, 2002, between EchoStar Satellite Corporation, EchoStar Technologies Corporation and Thomson multimedia, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of EchoStar Communications Corporation for the quarter ended September 30, 2002, Commission File No.0-26176).** | |
* 10.2 | Amendment No. 1 to License and OEM Manufacturing Agreement, dated July 1, 2002, between EchoStar Satellite Corporation, EchoStar Technologies Corporation and Thomson multimedia, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of EchoStar Communications Corporation for the quarter ended September 30, 2002, Commission File No.0-26176) | |
* 10.3 | Amendment No. 2 to License and OEM Manufacturing Agreement, dated July 1, 2002, between EchoStar Satellite Corporation, EchoStar Technologies Corporation and Thomson multimedia, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of EchoStar Communications Corporation for the quarter ended September 30, 2002, Commission File No.0-26176) | |
* 10.4 | Amendment No. 3 to License and OEM Manufacturing Agreement, dated July 1, 2002, between EchoStar Satellite Corporation, EchoStar Technologies Corporation and Thomson multimedia, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of EchoStar Communications Corporation for the quarter ended September 30, 2002, Commission File No.0-26176) | |
* 10.5 | Amendment No. 4 to License and OEM Manufacturing Agreement, dated July 1, 2002, between EchoStar Satellite Corporation, EchoStar Technologies Corporation and Thomson multimedia, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of EchoStar Communications Corporation for the quarter ended September 30, 2002, Commission File No.0-26176) | |
* 10.6 | Amendment No. 5 to License and OEM Manufacturing Agreement, dated July 1, 2002, between EchoStar Satellite Corporation, EchoStar Technologies Corporation and Thomson multimedia, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of EchoStar Communications Corporation for the quarter ended September 30, 2002, Commission File No.0-26176) | |
* 10.7 | Amendment No. 6 to License and OEM Manufacturing Agreement, dated July 1, 2002, between EchoStar Satellite Corporation, EchoStar Technologies Corporation and Thomson multimedia, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of EchoStar Communications Corporation for the quarter ended September 30, 2002, Commission File No.0-26176) | |
* 10.8 | Amendment No. 7 to License and OEM Manufacturing Agreement, dated July 1, 2002, between EchoStar Satellite Corporation, EchoStar Technologies Corporation and Thomson multimedia, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.8 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of EchoStar Communications Corporation for the quarter ended September 30, 2002, Commission File No.0-26176) |
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PART II OTHER INFORMATION
* 10.9 | Amendment No. 8 to License and OEM Manufacturing Agreement, dated July 1, 2002, between EchoStar Satellite Corporation, EchoStar Technologies Corporation and Thomson multimedia, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.9 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of EchoStar Communications Corporation for the quarter ended September 30, 2002, Commission File No. 0-26176) | |
* 10.10 | Amendment No. 9 to License and OEM Manufacturing Agreement, dated July 1, 2002, between EchoStar Satellite Corporation, EchoStar Technologies Corporation and Thomson multimedia, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.10 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of EchoStar Communications Corporation for the quarter ended September 30, 2002, Commission File No. 0-26176) | |
* 10.11 | Amendment No. 10 to License and OEM Manufacturing Agreement, dated July 1, 2002, between EchoStar Satellite Corporation, EchoStar Technologies Corporation and Thomson multimedia, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.11 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of EchoStar Communications Corporation for the quarter ended September 30, 2002, Commission File No. 0-26176) | |
* 10.12 | Amendment No. 11 to License and OEM Manufacturing Agreement, dated July 1, 2002, between EchoStar Satellite Corporation, EchoStar Technologies Corporation and Thomson multimedia, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.12 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of EchoStar Communications Corporation for the quarter ended September 30, 2002, Commission File No. 0-26176) | |
* 10.13 | Amendment No. 12 to License and OEM Manufacturing Agreement, dated July 1, 2002, between EchoStar Satellite Corporation, EchoStar Technologies Corporation and Thomson multimedia, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.13 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of EchoStar Communications Corporation for the quarter ended September 30, 2002, Commission File No. 0-26176) |
* | Incorporated by reference. | |
** | Certain provisions have been omitted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to a request for confidential treatment. A conforming electronic copy is being filed herewith. |
(b) Reports on Form 8-K.
On August 14, 2002, we filed a Current Report on Form 8-K in connection with the filing of our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2002 stating that our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer certified our report pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350, as adopted pursuant to § 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
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SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
ECHOSTAR DBS CORPORATION | ||||
By: | /s/ Charles W. Ergen Charles W. Ergen Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (Duly Authorized Officer) |
|||
By: | /s/ Michael R. McDonnell Michael R. McDonnell Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer) |
Date: November 14, 2002
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CERTIFICATION OF CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Section 302 Certification
I, Charles W. Ergen, certify that:
1. | I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of EchoStar DBS Corporation; | |
2. | Based on my knowledge, this quarterly report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this quarterly report; | |
3. | Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this quarterly report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this quarterly report; | |
4. | The registrants other certifying officers and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14) for the registrant and we have: |
a) | designed such disclosure controls and procedures to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this quarterly report is being prepared; |
b) | evaluated the effectiveness of the registrants disclosure controls and procedures as of a date within 90 days prior to the filing date of this quarterly report (the Evaluation Date); and |
c) | presented in this quarterly report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures based on our evaluation as of the Evaluation Date; |
5. | The registrants other certifying officers and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation, to the registrants auditors and the audit committee of registrants board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent function): |
a) | all significant deficiencies in the design or operation of internal controls which could adversely affect the registrants ability to record, process, summarize and report financial data and have identified for the registrants auditors any material weaknesses in internal controls; and |
b) | any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrants internal controls; and |
6. | The registrants other certifying officers and I have indicated in this quarterly report whether or not there were significant changes in internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect internal controls subsequent to the date of our most recent evaluation, including any corrective actions with regard to significant deficiencies and material weaknesses. |
Date: November 14, 2002
/s/ Charles W. Ergen
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
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CERTIFICATION OF CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Section 302 Certification
I, Michael R. McDonnell, certify that:
1. | I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of EchoStar DBS Corporation; |
2. | Based on my knowledge, this quarterly report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this quarterly report; |
3. | Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this quarterly report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this quarterly report; |
4. | The registrants other certifying officers and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14) for the registrant and we have: |
a) | designed such disclosure controls and procedures to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this quarterly report is being prepared; |
b) | evaluated the effectiveness of the registrants disclosure controls and procedures as of a date within 90 days prior to the filing date of this quarterly report (the Evaluation Date); and |
c) | presented in this quarterly report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures based on our evaluation as of the Evaluation Date; |
5. | The registrants other certifying officers and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation, to the registrants auditors and the audit committee of registrants board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent function): |
a) | all significant deficiencies in the design or operation of internal controls which could adversely affect the registrants ability to record, process, summarize and report financial data and have identified for the registrants auditors any material weaknesses in internal controls; and |
b) | any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrants internal controls; and |
6. | The registrants other certifying officers and I have indicated in this quarterly report whether or not there were significant changes in internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect internal controls subsequent to the date of our most recent evaluation, including any corrective actions with regard to significant deficiencies and material weaknesses. |
Date: November 14, 2002
/s/ Michael R. McDonnell
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
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