Welcome to our dedicated page for iHeartMedia news (Ticker: IHRT), a resource for investors and traders seeking the latest updates and insights on iHeartMedia stock.
iHeartMedia, Inc. (Nasdaq: IHRT) is a leading multimedia and entertainment company based in the United States, recognized for its wide-reaching influence in the audio broadcasting industry. With a substantial presence across multiple platforms, iHeartMedia boasts an impressive 245 million monthly listeners in the U.S., 87 million monthly digital uniques, and over 75 million social followers. The company has the largest reach of any radio or television outlet in America, serving over 150 markets through its 858 owned radio stations.
iHeartMedia operates through three primary segments: the Multiplatform Group, the Digital Audio Group, and the Audio & Media Services Group. The Multiplatform Group, which includes the company's broadcast radio, networks, sponsorships, and events businesses, is the company’s prime revenue driver. The Digital Audio Group encompasses iHeartMedia's digital ventures, notably including podcasting, which is a rapidly growing segment for the company. The Audio & Media Services Group includes Katz Media Group, a full-service media representation business, and RCS Sound Software, a provider of scheduling and broadcast software and services.
iHeartMedia's signature digital radio platform, iHeartRadio, is a top-ranking all-in-one digital audio service, boasting over 700 million downloads. It achieved a milestone by reaching its first 20 million registered users faster than any digital service in internet history, and it hit 70 million users quicker than any other radio or digital music service, outperforming even Facebook in terms of growth rate.
Recently, iHeartMedia has engaged in significant partnerships to expand its reach and influence. One notable collaboration is with MundoNow's Oyénos Audio Network. This partnership aims to distribute a diverse range of podcasts, enriching the podcasting landscape with multifaceted Latino experiences. Oyénos has experienced remarkable growth since its launch, averaging 1.5 million downloads per month. This partnership allows iHeartMedia to leverage its vast reach and extensive marketing assets to further grow the platform and bring diverse content to new audiences.
iHeartMedia continues to lead the audio media industry, reaching over 90% of Americans each month with its broadcast radio assets alone, which have more consumer reach in the U.S. than any other media outlet. The company is also the largest podcast publisher according to Podtrac, with more downloads than the next two podcast publishers combined. Its strong audience connection and unparalleled consumer reach enable it to build and innovate new platforms, products, and services.
iHeartMedia (Nasdaq: IHRT) reported Q4 2020 revenue of $936 million, down 9% YoY, but showed improvement from prior quarters. Digital revenue surged 53%, bolstered by a 100% increase in podcasting. GAAP Operating income was $113 million, down from $165 million YoY. Full-year revenue totaled $2.948 billion, a 20% decline. The company announced it will report results by three segments beginning Q1 2021, aiming for better financial visibility. iHeartMedia achieved $250 million in cost savings and improved liquidity with $721 million in cash on hand as of December 31, 2020.
iHeartMedia's Black Information Network (BIN) has teamed up with the Ad Council and COVID Collaborative for the "It’s Up To You" COVID-19 vaccine education initiative. Aiming to combat vaccine hesitancy in the Black community, the initiative will offer tailored programming to address concerns and promote accurate information. Founding Partners like Bank of America and CVS Health will contribute over 1,300 hours of advertising to raise awareness. The campaign includes PSAs and expert interviews, emphasizing the importance of informed decisions regarding vaccinations.
LiveXLive Media has partnered with iHeartMedia to exclusively livestream the 'iHeartCountry Album Release Party with Florida Georgia Line' on February 19, 2021, at 7 PM local time. The online event celebrates Florida Georgia Line's fifth album, Life Rolls On, released on February 12, 2021, featuring performances and exclusive interviews. LiveXLive has accumulated over 118 million views in 2020 and has worked with numerous high-profile artists. This collaboration signals an expanding partnership between LiveXLive and iHeartMedia, aimed at providing global audiences with engaging musical experiences.
The E.W. Scripps Company (NASDAQ: SSP) has signed an agreement to sell Triton Digital to iHeartMedia (NASDAQ: IHRT) for $230 million. This transaction yields a cash-on-cash return of 1.6x and follows Scripps' acquisition of Triton for $150 million in 2018. The sale is part of Scripps' growth strategy in digital audio and is expected to close in the first quarter of 2021, pending regulatory clearance. Proceeds will primarily be used to reduce debt, aiming to restore financial stability.
iHeartMedia (NASDAQ: IHRT) has signed an agreement to acquire Triton Digital for $230 million, enhancing its capabilities in the digital audio and podcasting sector. This acquisition will enable iHeartMedia to offer a comprehensive ad service package across various audio distribution methods, including programmatic audio advertising. Triton Digital's advanced infrastructure and measurement solutions will complement iHeartMedia's existing services, solidifying its leadership in the audio market. The deal is subject to regulatory approval.
iHeartRadio, the leading global podcast publisher, has announced its strategic expansion into binaural podcasting with the launch of iHeart 3D Audio. This innovative audio technology aims to immerse listeners in a captivating soundscape, enhancing the podcast experience significantly. With an expected increase of 30 million new listeners annually, iHeartMedia is committed to evolving its podcast network to meet growing demand. The new slate includes collaborations with Blumhouse Television and seasonally themed franchises, reinforcing iHeartMedia’s position in the podcasting industry.
iHeartRadio, the leading global podcast publisher, has partnered with Paris Hilton to create a new series of Original Podcasts and a unique format called PodPosts that combines social media with podcasting. Launching on February 22, the series 'This is Paris' will feature scripted episodes alongside spontaneous, short audio segments. Hilton's venture aims to engage audiences with candid interviews and personal insights while experimenting with podcasting as a social media platform. The collaboration includes producing six additional podcasts within three years, enhancing iHeartRadio’s extensive network of over 750 original podcasts.
The Empire State Building (ESB) and iHeartMedia New York have launched a contest to gift a couple a socially distanced wedding on Valentine's Day weekend. Couples whose 2020 wedding plans were disrupted by the pandemic can submit their stories online until February 5, 2021. The winner will have their ceremony on February 13, 2021, at the ESB's 86th Floor Observatory, with wedding attire, rings, and a honeymoon provided. This initiative aims to create unforgettable experiences for couples impacted by COVID-19.
iHeartMedia and McClatchy have launched a new podcast titled 'Return Man', which investigates the mysterious death of former NFL player Jim Duncan. The eight-part series begins on January 26, 2021, with episodes released weekly. Duncan, a key player for the Baltimore Colts, died by suicide in a police station in 1972, leading to decades of unanswered questions from his family and community. The series aims to address the significance of his life and death, illustrating local journalism's impact in uncovering important stories.
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