GRAHAM HOLDINGS COMPANY - GHC STOCK NEWS

Graham Holdings Company (NYSE: GHC) announced its agreement to acquire Leaf Group Ltd. (NYSE: LEAF) at $8.50 per share, totaling approximately $323 million. Leaf Group, based in Santa Monica, specializes in creator-driven brands within the lifestyle sector, including fitness and home design. Both companies express optimism about the acquisition, with Graham Holdings seeking to leverage Leaf Group's potential for growth. The deal is expected to close by mid-2021, pending shareholder and regulatory approvals.

The Kaplan Educational Foundation (KEF) has welcomed its newest cohort of scholars into the Kaplan Leadership Program, which supports low-income, underrepresented community college students. Established in 2006, this program helps students complete their associate's degrees and transfer to prestigious four-year institutions. The 2021 cohort includes 13 scholars from various community colleges, with 87% of previous scholars earning bachelor's degrees. KEF emphasizes its commitment to diversity and accessibility in education, particularly in light of challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The University of Dubuque has partnered with the College for Financial Planning, a Kaplan Company, to offer programs aimed at enhancing financial education for students. This collaboration enables students to earn industry-recognized credentials alongside their traditional degrees, improving their job readiness and marketability. The courses will be integrated into UD's Master in Management – Holistic Wealth Management program, which requires 30 credit hours. This initiative aligns with a growing trend in alternative credentialing, addressing the skills gap and boosting employment opportunities for graduates.

Kaplan has partnered with Phi Alpha Delta, enhancing academic and career support for members of the largest law fraternity in the U.S. The collaboration offers Phi Alpha Delta members discounts on LSAT and bar exam prep courses, alongside full scholarships based on financial need. Pre-law members gain free access to Kaplan's series of events, while law students receive essential academic resources. This partnership aims to guide students through evolving legal education and admissions processes, particularly in light of changes prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Graham Holdings Company (GHC) reported a net income of $300.4 million ($58.13 per share) for the year ended December 31, 2020, down from $327.9 million ($61.21 per share) in 2019. The net income for Q4 2020 was $237.1 million ($47.34 per share), significantly higher than $145.9 million ($27.25 per share) in Q4 2019. Revenue decreased by 1% to $2,889.1 million, with notable declines in education and manufacturing due to COVID-19. The company expects persistent adverse impacts from the pandemic into 2021. Non-GAAP net income was $158.1 million ($30.60 per share) for 2020, reflecting ongoing restructuring and impairment charges.

Graham Holdings Company (NYSE: GHC) has elected Tony Allen to its Board of Directors. Allen is the President of Delaware State University, managing over 5,000 students and overseeing a $144 million budget. His experience includes leading the Corporate Reputation Group at Bank of America, and he served as a special assistant to Senator Joseph R. Biden, Jr.

Chairman Donald E. Graham praised Allen's diverse background in public service and education, highlighting his expertise as a valuable asset to the board.

Graham Holdings Company (NYSE: GHC) has declared a quarterly dividend of $1.51 per share. This dividend is set to be paid on May 13, 2021, to shareholders recorded on April 16, 2021. This announcement reflects the company's ongoing commitment to returning value to its shareholders.

The University of Montana has partnered with Kaplan to introduce Kaplan Credegree programs across over 30 technology fields. This initiative aims to enhance job readiness for students by combining traditional four-year degrees with industry-recognized credentials. Programs will focus on high-demand areas like cybersecurity and data science. A 2019 survey indicates that 70% of respondents value this blended education model. With Montana's tech sector growing significantly, these offerings are seen as vital for student success and employability.