Imax Corp - IMAX STOCK NEWS

IMAX Corporation (NYSE: IMAX) reported a successful weekend in China with the re-release of James Cameron's "Avatar," generating $6.2 million at the box office. Remarkably, IMAX captured 30% of the total weekend earnings while representing only 1% of available screens. This performance reinstated "Avatar" as the highest-grossing film of all time, contributing to IMAX's lifetime earnings of $249.5 million from the film. The resurgence underscores the strong demand for blockbuster films in China as theaters reopen.

IMAX Corporation has announced a joint venture with Maximus, focused on A.I.-based video enhancement technologies for home entertainment. Named IMAX AI, this collaboration aims to improve Ultra High Definition (UHD) 4K content for streaming services and smart devices. Dr. Daniel Nadler, founder of Maximus and former CEO of Kensho Technologies, will serve as Special Advisor to the IMAX Board. This venture is expected to leverage IMAX's existing technologies and relationships in the entertainment industry to enhance video content significantly.

IMAX has announced an agreement with Broadway to open four new IMAX theaters in iconic Shanghai locations, enhancing their existing partnership. This expansion will add cutting-edge IMAX with Laser systems, bringing IMAX's total in China to nearly 1,000 screens, including 248 in backlog. The agreement comes as moviegoing rebounds in China, evidenced by IMAX's record-breaking admissions during the recent Chinese New Year, with gross earnings of $155 million since reopening. The deal signifies a commitment to providing premium movie experiences in a leading theatrical market.

IMAX China reported a 2020 revenue of approximately US$52.3 million, down 58% from 2019, primarily due to COVID-19 theatre closures. However, a rebound in the second half saw box office figures return to 80% of prior levels, with revenue of US$45.6 million and adjusted earnings of US$10.9 million. The company maintained its dividend of US$0.02 per share and plans to increase the payout ratio to 50% of net income. IMAX China also expanded its network, signing agreements for 38 new theatre systems, despite a decline in installations due to pandemic disruptions.

IMAX Corporation reported Q4 and full-year 2020 results, highlighting a recovery in Asian box offices, particularly in China and Japan. Q4 revenues reached $56 million, a 54.9% decline year-over-year, with a net loss of $21.2 million. Despite challenges, IMAX installed 33 systems and signed 11 agreements, ending the year with 527 systems in backlog. The company achieved positive EBITDA and free cash flow for the first time since Q1 2020, with cash reserves increasing to $317 million. IMAX remains optimistic about the global film industry's recovery as vaccination efforts accelerate.

IMAX Corporation (NYSE: IMAX) announces that CEO Rich Gelfond will present at the Morgan Stanley Technology, Media, and Telecom Virtual Conference on March 3, 2021, at 3:30 p.m. Eastern Time. The presentation will be available via live webcast at investors.imax.com and archived for 90 days. IMAX, known for its innovative entertainment technology, currently operates 1,632 theaters globally, providing unique cinematic experiences. For more information, visit www.imax.com.

IMAX Corporation achieved a record-breaking $25 million in box office revenue during the Chinese New Year weekend, marking a 45% increase over its previous record in 2019. The film "Detective Chinatown 3" contributed significantly with $23.5 million, setting new records for both opening weekend and day for Chinese films. IMAX's market share surged, capturing 6% of the film's box office despite only 1% of overall screens. Since reopening, IMAX has grossed $126 million in China, with impressive monthly growth rates of 28% in December and 140% in January.

IMAX Corporation (NYSE: IMAX) will hold a quarterly conference call on March 4, 2021, at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time to discuss its fourth-quarter and full-year 2020 financial results. The call will be accessible via webcast and telephone. Investors can dial (800) 437-2398 in the US or (647) 792-1240 internationally. The conference ID is 3139582. IMAX operates 1,632 theater systems globally, emphasizing its status as a key player in cinematic technology.

IMAX China (HKSE: 1970) will hold a quarterly conference call on March 4, 2021, at 7:00 p.m. ET to discuss its full-year 2020 financial results. The call can be accessed by dialing the respective numbers for US, Canada, and international participants. A replay will be available via webcast.

IMAX China focuses on expanding IMAX's business in Greater China and operates 1,632 theater systems globally as of September 30, 2020. The company is a subsidiary of IMAX Corporation, a leader in entertainment technology.