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Shaw Announces Second Quarter and Year-to-Date Fiscal 2022 Results

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Shaw Communications reported Q2 fiscal 2022 results with revenues of $1.36 billion, a 2% decline from the previous year. Adjusted EBITDA was $632 million, down 0.8%, and net income decreased 9.7% to $196 million. The company added 16,900 new Wireless customers despite a 3.9% drop in Wireless revenue to $323 million. The combination with Rogers received key regulatory approval, with the deal valued at approximately $26 billion, including $6 billion in debt. The transaction targets a first-half 2022 close, pending final approvals. Free cash flow decreased by 12.5% to $217 million.

Positive
  • Achieved significant milestone with CRTC approval for the transaction with Rogers.
  • Increased adjusted EBITDA in Wireless by 26.8% to $123 million.
  • Positive growth in Wireless service revenue by 9.2% due to subscriber growth.
  • Wireline revenue growth in the business segment increased by 5.5% year-over-year.
Negative
  • Consolidated revenue decreased by 2.0% year-over-year.
  • Net income down 9.7% compared to the previous year.
  • Free cash flow decreased by 12.5% due to reduced adjusted EBITDA.
  • Consumer Wireline RGU losses of approximately 54,300, though improved from the prior year.
  • Second quarter consolidated financial results include adjusted EBITDA1 of $632 million along with free cash flow1 of $217 million
  • The Company continues to focus on balancing growth and profitability while investing in our networks and delivering better customer experiences  
  • Key regulatory approval for the combination of Rogers and Shaw obtained

CALGARY, Alberta, April 13, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Shaw Communications Inc. (“Shaw” or the “Company”) announces consolidated financial and operating results for the quarter ended February 28, 2022. On a year-over-year basis, consolidated revenue decreased by 2.0% to $1.36 billion, adjusted EBITDA decreased 0.8% to $632 million and net income decreased 9.7% to $196 million.

Throughout the second quarter, which experienced the peak of the omicron variant of COVID-19 across Canada, the Company remained focused on the safety of its people, most of whom continue to work from home, compliance with guidelines and requirements issued by various health authorities and government organizations. During the quarter, many restrictions have since subsided and the Company continues to deliver an exceptional customer experience, including fast and ubiquitous connectivity for its customer base, while also working diligently in support of the close of the Rogers transaction.

“Our team continues to execute on our strategic business priorities of delivering profitable growth while continuing to invest in the strength and breadth of our networks. It is this solid and strategic foundation that, combined with Rogers, will deliver new and better technologies to more Canadians. Together, we have achieved a critical milestone regarding our combination with Rogers Communications Inc. (“Rogers”) by the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission’s (“CRTC”) comprehensive review and approval of the transfer of Shaw’s licenced broadcasting undertakings to Rogers. We continue to work with and support Rogers in obtaining the remaining approvals, including Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) and the Competition Bureau, and continue to target closing of the transaction in the first half of 2022. We recognize that we can do so much more by coming together and reiterate our continued commitment to work with Rogers to close the transaction while delivering the benefits that the combined entity will provide to all Canadians,” said Brad Shaw, Executive Chair & Chief Executive Officer.

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1 Adjusted EBITDA and free cash flow are non-GAAP financial measures and should not be considered substitutes or alternatives for GAAP measures. These are not defined terms under IFRS and do not have standardized meanings, and therefore may not be a reliable way to compare us to other companies. Additional information about these measures, including quantitative reconciliations to the most directly comparable financial measures in the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements, is included in “Non-GAAP and additional financial measures” in the management’s discussion and analysis (MD&A) dated April 13, 2022 for the three and six month periods ending February 28, 2022, which section is incorporated by reference herein and is available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.


Shaw and Rogers Transaction

On March 15, 2021, Shaw announced that it entered into an arrangement agreement (the “Arrangement Agreement”) with Rogers, under which Rogers will acquire all of Shaw’s issued and outstanding Class A Participating Shares (“Class A Shares”) and Class B Non-Voting Participating Shares (“Class B Shares”) in a transaction valued at approximately $26 billion, inclusive of approximately $6 billion of Shaw debt (the “Transaction”). Holders of Class A Shares and Class B Shares (other than the Shaw Family Living Trust, the controlling shareholder of Shaw, and related persons (collectively, the “Shaw Family Shareholders”)) will receive $40.50 per share in cash. The Shaw Family Shareholders will receive 60% of the consideration for their shares in the form of Class B Non-Voting Shares of Rogers (the “Rogers Shares”) on the basis of the volume-weighted average trading price for the Rogers Shares for the 10 trading days ending March 12, 2021, and the balance in cash.

The Transaction is being implemented by way of a court-approved plan of arrangement under the Business Corporations Act (Alberta). At the special meeting of Shaw shareholders held on May 20, 2021, the Company obtained approval of the plan of arrangement by the holders of Shaw’s Class A Shares and Class B Shares in the manner required by the interim order granted by the Court of Queen’s Bench of Alberta on April 19, 2021. On May 25, 2021, the Court of Queen’s Bench of Alberta issued a final order approving the plan of arrangement.

On March 24, 2022, the CRTC completed its comprehensive review and approved the transfer of Shaw’s licenced broadcasting undertakings to Rogers, marking an important milestone towards closing of the Transaction. The Transaction remains subject to other customary closing conditions including the remaining approvals from the Competition Bureau and ISED.

As the regulatory reviews progress, Rogers and Shaw continue to work cooperatively and constructively with the government and regulators to close the Transaction and deliver its benefits to all Canadians. By coming together, Rogers and Shaw will make the generational investments in networks and technology that Canada needs to create new jobs, increase competition, and bridge connectivity gaps in rural and remote areas.

Subject to receipt of all required approvals and satisfaction of all closing conditions, closing of the Transaction is expected to occur in the first half of 2022. Rogers has extended the outside date for closing the Transaction from March 15, 2022 to June 13, 2022 in accordance with the terms of the Arrangement Agreement.

Further information regarding the Transaction is contained in the management information circular filed April 23, 2021 on Shaw’s SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com and EDGAR profile at www.sec.gov/edgar.shtml.

Second Quarter Fiscal 2022

In the second quarter, the Company added approximately 16,900 new Wireless customers. Postpaid net additions of approximately 8,600 in the quarter were down compared to the prior year due to factors including increased wireless competition which is typical during the holiday season, a limited supply of key devices and bundle adjustments to Shaw Mobile plans effective mid-November. Second quarter Wireless revenue decreased 3.9% to $323 million and adjusted EBITDA increased 26.8% to $123 million compared to the second quarter of fiscal 2021. Wireless service revenue grew 9.2% due to continued subscriber growth, partially offset by lower ARPU2 as the Company continues to scale its lower revenue Shaw Mobile customer base. Second quarter Wireless ARPU decreased 1.1% from the prior year period to $36.43; however, an increase in customers signing up for bundled offerings and Internet migration to faster speed tiers continues to support Internet revenue growth. Wireless postpaid churn3 of 1.46% increased approximately 21-basis points from the second quarter of fiscal 2021.

Consumer Wireline RGU4 losses of approximately 54,300 improved over the prior year period, including positive Internet additions as customers continue to bundle their Internet and Wireless service together. Second quarter Wireline revenue and adjusted EBITDA decreased 1.3% and 5.7% to $1.04 billion and $509 million, respectively, compared to the second quarter of fiscal 2021. The prior year second quarter adjusted EBITDA benefited from an $8 million employee benefits provision release and a $2 million bad debt provision release based on claims and payment experience, respectively.

________________________
2 ARPU is a supplementary financial measure which may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers.
Additional information about this supplementary financial measure is included in “Key Performance Drivers” in
the MD&A dated April 13, 2022 for the three and six month periods ending February 28, 2022, which section is incorporated by reference herein and is available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.
3 Wireless postpaid churn is a metric used to measure the Company’s success in retaining Wireless subscribers. Additional information about this metric is included in “Key Performance Drivers” in the MD&A dated April 13, 2022 for the three and six month periods ending February 28, 2022, which section is incorporated by reference herein and is available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.
4 RGUs is a metric used to measure the count of subscribers in the Company’s Wireline and Wireless segments. Additional information about this metric is included in “Key Performance Drivers” in the MD&A dated April 13, 2022 for the three and six month periods ending February 28, 2022, which section is incorporated by reference herein and is available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.


Selected Financial Highlights

 Three months ended February 28, Six months ended February 28,
(millions of Canadian dollars except for percentages and per share amounts)2022 2021 Change % 2022 2021 Change %
Revenue1,359 1,387 (2.0) 2,745 2,757 (0.4)
Adjusted EBITDA(1)632 637 (0.8) 1,265 1,244 1.7 
Adjusted EBITDA Margin(2)46.5%45.9%1.3  46.1%45.1%2.2 
Free Cash Flow(1)217 248 (12.5) 453 473 (4.2)
Net income196 217 (9.7) 392 380 3.2 
Earnings per share       
Basic0.39 0.43   0.79 0.74  
Diluted0.39 0.43   0.78 0.74  


(1) See “Non-GAAP and additional financial measures” in the accompanying MD&A.
(2) Adjusted EBITDA margin is a non-GAAP ratio and should not be considered a substitute or alternative for GAAP measures. Adjusted EBITDA margin is not a defined term under IFRS and does not have a standardized meaning, and therefore may not be a reliable way to compare us to other companies. Additional information about this ratio is included in “Non-GAAP and additional financial measures” in the MD&A dated April 13, 2022 for the three and six month periods ending February 28, 2022, which section is incorporated by reference herein and is available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.
   

Second quarter Wireless revenue decreased 3.9% to $323 million and adjusted EBITDA of $123 million increased 26.8% year-over-year. Wireless service revenue increased 9.2% to $238 million due to an increased subscriber base, while Wireless equipment revenue decreased 28.0% to $85 million as the number of devices sold in the quarter decreased compared to the prior year. The increase in adjusted EBITDA is mainly due to continued service revenue growth and improved equipment margins as well as the favorable margin impact from lower equipment sales relative to total wireless revenues in the current quarter.

Wireline RGUs declined by approximately 58,100 in the quarter compared to a loss of approximately 66,000 in the second quarter of fiscal 2021. The current quarter included a modest gain in Consumer Internet, offset with declines in Video, Satellite and Phone resulting in Consumer RGUs declining by 54,300 in the aggregate. In Business, positive Internet RGUs were offset by declines in Video, Satellite and Phone resulting in Business RGUs declining by approximately 3,800.

Second quarter Wireline revenue and adjusted EBITDA of $1.04 billion and $509 million, respectively, decreased 1.3% and 5.7%, respectively, when compared with the prior year. Consumer revenue of $887 million decreased 2.4% compared to the prior year as growth in Internet revenue was offset by declines in Video, Satellite and Phone subscribers and revenue. Business revenue of $153 million increased 5.5% year-over-year with Internet revenue growth and continued demand for the Smart suite of products. The prior year second quarter Wireline adjusted EBITDA benefited from an $8 million employee benefits provision release and a $2 million bad debt provision release based on claims and payment experience, respectively.

Capital expenditures in the second quarter of $249 million compared to $250 million in the prior year. Wireline capital spending increased by approximately $40 million primarily due to higher investments in combined upgrades, enhancements and replacement categories as well as an increase in success-based and new housing development. Wireless spending of $30 million decreased by approximately $41 million year-over-year primarily due to lower planned investment in the quarter.

Free cash flow for the quarter of $217 million decreased 12.5% compared to the prior year. The decrease was due to lower adjusted EBITDA and increased cash taxes.

Net income for the second quarter of fiscal 2022 of $196 million decreased $21 million compared to $217 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2021 primarily due to lower adjusted EBITDA compared to a year ago and a $27 million fair value gain on private investments recorded in the prior quarter, partially offset by lower income tax expense.   

As at the end of February 28, 2022, the Company’s net debt leverage ratio was 2.2x5.

________________________
5 Net debt leverage ratio is a non-GAAP ratio and net debt, which is a component of net debt leverage ratio, is a non-GAAP financial measure. Net debt leverage ratio and net debt are not standardized measures under IFRS and may not be a reliable way to compare us to other companies. For more information about this measure and ratio see “Non-GAAP and additional financial measures” in the MD&A dated April 13, 2022 for the three and six month periods ending February 28, 2022, which section is incorporated by reference herein and is available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.


About Shaw

Shaw Communications Inc. is a leading Canadian connectivity company. The Wireline division consists of Consumer and Business services. Consumer serves residential customers with broadband Internet, Shaw Go WiFi, video and digital phone. Business provides business customers with Internet, data, WiFi, digital phone and video services. The Wireless division provides wireless voice and LTE data services.

Shaw is traded on the Toronto and New York stock exchanges and is included in the S&P/TSX 60 Index (Symbol: TSX – SJR.B, NYSE – SJR, and TSXV – SJR.A). For more information, please visit www.shaw.ca

The accompanying MD&A forms part of this news release and the “Caution concerning forward-looking statements” applies to all the forward-looking statements made in this news release.

For more information, please contact:
Shaw Investor Relations
Investor.relations@sjrb.ca


MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
For the three and six months ended February 28, 2022

April 13, 2022

Contents

Introduction10
Selected financial and operational highlights13
Overview16
Non-GAAP and additional financial measures18
Discussion of operations21
Other income and expense items24
Supplementary quarterly financial information25
Financial position27
Liquidity and capital resources28
Accounting standards30
Related party transactions30
Financial instruments30
Internal controls and procedures31
Risks and uncertainties31
Government regulations and regulatory developments31
  

Advisories

The following Management’s Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) of Shaw Communications Inc. is dated April 13, 2022 and should be read in conjunction with the condensed interim Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes thereto for the three and six months periods ended February 28, 2022 and the 2021 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements, the Notes thereto and related MD&A included in the Company’s 2021 Annual Report. The financial information presented herein has been prepared on the basis of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) for interim financial statements and is expressed in Canadian dollars unless otherwise indicated. References to “Shaw,” the “Company,” “we,” “us” or “our” mean Shaw Communications Inc. and its subsidiaries and consolidated entities, unless the context otherwise requires.

Caution concerning forward-looking statements

Statements included in this MD&A that are not historic constitute “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws. They can generally be identified by words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “expect,” “plan,” “intend,” “target,” “goal,” and similar expressions (although not all forward-looking statements contain such words). All of the forward-looking statements made in this report are qualified by these cautionary statements. Forward looking statements in this MD&A include, but are not limited to, statements relating to:

  • future capital expenditures;
  • proposed asset acquisitions and dispositions;
  • anticipated benefits of the Transaction (as defined below) to Shaw and its securityholders, including corporate, operational, scale and other synergies and the timing thereof;
  • the timing, receipt and conditions of required regulatory or other third-party approvals, including but not limited to the receipt of applicable approvals under the Competition Act (Canada) and the Radiocommunication Act (Canada) (collectively, the “Key Regulatory Approvals”) related to the Transaction;
  • the ability of the Company and Rogers (as defined below) to satisfy the other conditions to the closing of the Transaction and the anticipated timing for closing of the Transaction;
  • expected cost efficiencies;
  • expectations for future performance;
  • business and technology strategies and measures to implement strategies;
  • expected growth in subscribers and the products/services to which they subscribe;
  • competitive strengths and pressures;
  • expected project schedules, regulatory timelines, and completion/in-service dates for the Company’s capital and other projects;
  • the expected impact of new accounting standards, recently adopted or expected to be adopted in the future;
  • the effectiveness of any changes to the design and performance of the Company’s internal controls and procedures;
  • the expected impact of changes in laws, regulations, decisions by regulators, or other actions by governments or regulators on the Company’s business, operations and/or financial performance or the markets in which the Company operates;
  • timing of new product and service launches;
  • the resiliency and performance of the Company’s wireline and wireless networks;
  • the deployment of (i) network infrastructure to improve capacity and coverage, and (ii) new technologies, including next generation wireless technologies such as 5G;
  • expected changes in the Company’s market share;
  • the cost of acquiring and retaining subscribers and deployment of new services;
  • expansion of and changes in the Company’s business and operations and other goals and plans; and
  • execution and success of the Company’s current and long term strategic initiatives.

Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and analyses made by the Company in light of its experience and its perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments as well as other factors it believes are appropriate in the circumstances as at the current date. The Company’s management believes that its assumptions and analysis in this MD&A are reasonable and that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements contained herein are also reasonable based on the information available on the date such statements are made and the process used to prepare the information.

These assumptions, many of which are confidential, include but are not limited to management expectations with respect to:

  • general economic conditions, including the impact on the economy, financial markets, and sources of supply, resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic and other health risks;
  • the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and other health risks on the Company’s business, operations, capital resources, and/or financial results;
  • anticipated benefits of the Transaction to the Company and its security holders;
  • the timing, receipt and conditions of required regulatory or other third-party approvals, including but not limited to the receipt of the Key Regulatory Approvals related to the Transaction;
  • the ability of the Company and Rogers to satisfy the other conditions to closing of the Transaction in a timely manner and the completion of the Transaction on expected terms;
  • the ability to successfully integrate the Company with Rogers in a timely manner;
  • the impact of the announcement of the Transaction, and the dedication of substantial Company resources to pursuing the Transaction, on the Company’s ability to maintain its current business relationships (including with current and prospective employees, customers and suppliers) and its current and future operations, financial condition and prospects;
  • the ability to satisfy the other expectations and assumptions concerning the Transaction and the operations and capital expenditure plans for the Company following completion of the Transaction;
  • future interest rates;
  • previous performance being indicative of future performance;
  • future income tax rates;
  • future foreign exchange rates;
  • technology deployment;
  • future expectations and demands of our customers;
  • subscriber growth;
  • incremental costs associated with growth in wireless handset sales;
  • pricing, usage and churn rates;
  • availability and cost of programming, content, equipment and devices;
  • industry structure, conditions, and stability;
  • regulation, legislation, or other actions by governments or regulators (and the impact or projected impact on the Company’s business);
  • the implementation or withdrawal of any emergency measures by governments or regulators (and the impact or projected impact on the Company’s business, operations, and/or financial results);
  • access to key suppliers and third-party service providers and their goods and services required to execute on the Company’s current and long term strategic initiatives on commercially reasonable terms;
  • key suppliers performing their obligations within the expected timelines;
  • retention of key employees;
  • the Company being able to successfully deploy (i) network infrastructure required to improve capacity and coverage, and (ii) new technologies, including next generation wireless technologies such as 5G;
  • the Company’s operations not being subject to material disruptions in service or material failures in its networks, systems or equipment;
  • the Company’s access to sufficient retail distribution channels;
  • the Company’s access to the spectrum resources required to execute on its current and long-term strategic initiatives; and
  • the Company being able to execute on its current and long term strategic initiatives.

You should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. Many factors, including those not within the Company’s control, may cause the Company’s actual results to be materially different from the views expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to:

  • changes in general economic, market and business conditions, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and other health risks, on the economy and financial markets which may have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, operations, capital resources and/or financial results;
  • impacts on the availability of components and electronics due to global silicon (microprocessor) supply shortages and logistical/transport issues;
  • the failure of the Company and Rogers to receive, in a timely manner and on satisfactory terms, the necessary regulatory or other third-party approvals, including but not limited to the Key Regulatory Approvals required to close the Transaction;
  • the ability to satisfy, in a timely manner, the other conditions to the closing of the Transaction;
  • the ability to complete the Transaction on the terms contemplated by the Arrangement Agreement (as defined below) between the Company and Rogers;
  • the ability to successfully integrate the Company with Rogers in a timely manner;
  • the Company’s failure to complete the Transaction for any reason could materially negatively impact the trading price of the Company’s securities;
  • the announcement of the Transaction and the dedication of substantial Company resources to pursuing the Transaction may adversely impact the Company’s current business relationships (including with current and prospective employees, customers and suppliers) and its current and future operations, financial condition and prospects;
  • the failure of the Company to comply with the terms of the Arrangement Agreement may, in certain circumstances, result in the Company being required to pay the termination fee to Rogers, the result of which will or could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position and results of operations and its ability to fund growth prospects and current operations;
  • changes in interest rates, income taxes and exchange rates;
  • changes in the competitive environment in the markets in which the Company operates and from the development of new markets for emerging technologies;
  • changing industry trends, technological developments and other changing conditions in the entertainment, information, and communications industries;
  • changes in laws, regulations and decisions by regulators or other actions by governments or regulators that affect the Company or the markets in which it operates;
  • any emergency measures implemented or withdrawn by governments or regulators;
  • technology, privacy, cyber security, and reputational risks;
  • disruptions to service, including due to network, system, or equipment failure or disputes with key suppliers;
  • the Company’s ability to execute its strategic plans and complete its capital and other projects on a timely basis;
  • the Company’s ability to grow subscribers and market share;
  • the Company’s ability to have and/or obtain the spectrum resources required to execute on its current and long-term strategic initiatives;
  • the Company’s ability to gain sufficient access to retail distribution channels;
  • the Company’s ability to access key suppliers and third-party service providers required to execute on its current and long-term strategic initiatives on commercially reasonable terms;
  • the ability of key suppliers to perform their obligations within expected timelines;
  • the Company’s ability to retain key employees;
  • the Company’s ability to achieve cost efficiencies;
  • the Company’s ability to recognize and adequately respond to climate change concerns or public and governmental expectations on environmental matters;
  • the Company’s status as a holding company with separate operating subsidiaries; and
  • other factors described in the Company’s fiscal 2021 annual management’s discussion and analysis (MD&A) under the heading “Known Events, Trends, Risks and Uncertainties.”

The foregoing is not an exhaustive list of all possible risk factors.

Should one or more of these risks materialize, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in the Company’s fiscal 2021 Annual MD&A and this second quarter fiscal 2022 MD&A.

Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it was originally made and, except as required by law, the Company expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to disseminate any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statement to reflect any change in related assumptions, events, conditions or circumstances. All forward-looking statements contained in this MD&A are expressly qualified by this statement.

Additional Information

Additional information concerning the Company, including the Company’s Annual Information Form, is available through the Internet on SEDAR which may be accessed at www.sedar.com. Copies of such information may also be obtained on the Company’s website at www.shaw.ca, or on request and without charge from the Corporate Secretary of the Company, Suite 900, 630 – 3rd Avenue S.W., Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2P 4L4, telephone (403) 750-4500.

Non-GAAP and additional financial measures

Certain measures in this MD&A do not have standard meanings prescribed by GAAP and are therefore considered non-GAAP financial measures. These measures are provided to enhance the reader’s overall understanding of our financial performance or current financial condition. They are included to provide investors and management with an alternative method for assessing our operating results in a manner that is focused on the performance of our ongoing operations and to provide a more consistent basis for comparison between periods. These measures are not in accordance with, or an alternative to, GAAP and do not have standardized meanings. Therefore, they are unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other entities.

Please refer to “Non-GAAP and additional financial measures” in this MD&A for a discussion and reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures, including adjusted EBITDA, free cash flow and net debt as well as net debt leverage ratio and adjusted EBITDA margin, which are non-GAAP ratios.

Introduction

At Shaw, we focus on delivering sustainable long-term growth by connecting customers to the world through a seamless connectivity experience by leveraging our converged network.

While the pandemic has had an impact on our business, Shaw continues to be resilient, delivering solid financial and operating results, and we believe that we are well positioned to meet the rapidly changing and increasing demands of our customers. The financial impacts from COVID-19 in the second quarter were not material.

Shaw and Rogers Transaction

On March 15, 2021, Shaw announced that it entered into an arrangement agreement (the “Arrangement Agreement”) with Rogers Communications Inc. (“Rogers”), under which Rogers will acquire all of Shaw’s issued and outstanding Class A Participating Shares (“Class A Shares”) and Class B Non-Voting Participating Shares (“Class B Shares”) in a transaction valued at approximately $26 billion, inclusive of approximately $6 billion of Shaw debt (the “Transaction”). Holders of Class A Shares and Class B Shares (other than the Shaw Family Living Trust, the controlling shareholder of Shaw, and related persons (collectively, the “Shaw Family Shareholders”)) will receive $40.50 per share in cash. The Shaw Family Shareholders will receive 60% of the consideration for their shares in the form of Class B Non-Voting Shares of Rogers (the “Rogers Shares”) on the basis of the volume-weighted average trading price for the Rogers Shares for the 10 trading days ending March 12, 2021, and the balance in cash.

The Transaction is being implemented by way of a court-approved plan of arrangement under the Business Corporations Act (Alberta). At the special meeting of Shaw shareholders held on May 20, 2021, the Company obtained approval of the plan of arrangement by the holders of Shaw’s Class A Shares and Class B Shares in the manner required by the interim order granted by the Court of Queen’s Bench of Alberta on April 19, 2021. On May 25, 2021, the Court of Queen’s Bench of Alberta issued a final order approving the plan of arrangement.

On March 24, 2022, the CRTC completed its comprehensive review and approved the transfer of Shaw’s licenced broadcasting undertakings to Rogers, marking an important milestone towards closing of the Transaction. The Transaction remains subject to approvals from the Competition Bureau and ISED.

In accordance with the terms of the Arrangement Agreement, Rogers and Shaw filed pre-merger notifications pursuant to Part IX of the Competition Act (Canada) in April 2021 to trigger the Competition Bureau’s review of the Transaction. Since that time, Rogers and Shaw have worked cooperatively and constructively to respond to further requests for information, as required under the Arrangement Agreement.

In accordance with the conditions of the spectrum licences held by the Company, Rogers and Shaw filed joint applications in April 2021 with ISED for approval of the indirect transfer of those spectrum licences by the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry. ISED’s review is ongoing. In a public statement on March 3, 2022, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, Francois-Philippe Champagne, acknowledged the ongoing regulatory reviews and that decisions are expected in due course. He also noted that he will not permit “the wholesale transfer of Shaw’s wireless licences to Rogers.”

As the regulatory reviews progress, Rogers and Shaw continue to work cooperatively and constructively with the government and regulators to close the Transaction and deliver its benefits to all Canadians. By coming together, Rogers and Shaw will make the generational investments in networks and technology that Canada needs to create new jobs, increase competition, and bridge connectivity gaps in rural and remote areas.

Subject to receipt of all required approvals and satisfaction of all closing conditions, closing of the Transaction is expected to occur in the first half of 2022. Rogers has extended the outside date for closing the Transaction from March 15, 2022 to June 13, 2022 in accordance with the terms of the Arrangement Agreement.

Further information regarding the Transaction is contained in the management information circular filed April 23, 2021 on Shaw’s SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com and EDGAR profile at www.sec.gov/edgar.shtml.

Wireless

Our Wireless division currently operates in Ontario, Alberta and British Columbia, covering approximately 50% of the Canadian population.

Shaw Mobile provides Shaw Internet customers with bundling opportunities, combined with the ability to customize their mobile data requirements, and is a powerful example of how facilities-based service providers can compete and innovate.

Second quarter Wireless revenue decreased 3.9% to $323 million and EBITDA1 of $123 million increased 26.8% year-over-year. Wireless service revenue increased 9.2% to $238 million due to an increased subscriber base, while Wireless equipment revenue decreased 28.0% to $85 million as the number of devices sold in the quarter decreased compared to the prior year. The increase in adjusted EBITDA is mainly due to continued service revenue growth and improved equipment margins as well as the favorable margin impact from lower equipment sales relative to total wireless revenues in the current quarter.  

We have approximately 840 wireless retail locations across our operating footprint, including corporate, dealer and national retail, with Shaw Mobile being available in approximately 200 locations.

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Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP financial measure and should not be considered a substitute or alternative for GAAP measures. This is not a defined term under IFRS and does not have a standardized meaning, and therefore may not be a reliable way to compare us to other companies. See “Non-GAAP and additional financial measures” for more information about this measure including a quantitative reconciliation to the most directly comparable financial measure in the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements.


Wireline

In our Wireline business, gig speed Internet is underpinned by our Fibre+ network. Through our digital transformation, we have made it easier to interact with our customers and are leveraging insights from customer data to better understand their preferences so we can provide them with the services they want. We continue to streamline and simplify manual processes to improve the customer experience and day-to-day operations for our employees.

Our focus remains on the execution and delivery of stable and profitable Wireline results. This includes growth in high quality Internet subscribers and improving overall customer account profitability by attracting and retaining higher value households with our 2-year ValuePlans.

Wireline RGUs declined by approximately 58,100 in the quarter compared to a loss of approximately 66,000 in the second quarter of fiscal 2021. The current quarter included a modest gain in Consumer Internet, offset with declines in Video, Satellite and Phone resulting in Consumer RGUs declining by 54,300 in the aggregate. In Business, positive Internet RGUs were offset by declines in Video, Satellite and Phone resulting in Business RGUs declining by approximately 3,800.

Second quarter Wireline revenue and adjusted EBITDA of $1.04 billion and $509 million, respectively, decreased 1.3% and 5.7%, respectively, when compared with the prior year. Consumer revenue of $887 million decreased 2.4% compared to the prior year as growth in Internet revenue was offset by declines in Video, Satellite and Phone subscribers and revenue. Business revenue of $153 million increased 5.5% year-over-year with Internet revenue growth and continued demand for the Smart suite of products. The prior year second quarter Wireline adjusted EBITDA benefited from an $8 million employee benefits provision release and a $2 million bad debt provision release based on claims and payment experience, respectively.

Our Wireline Business division provides connectivity solutions to its customers by leveraging our Smart suite products which provide cost-effective enterprise grade managed IT and communications solutions that are increasingly valued by businesses of all sizes as the digital economy grows in scope and complexity. In response to the changing needs of its customers, Shaw Business added a suite of collaboration tools and new Smart products, such as Microsoft 365, Smart Remote Office, SmartSecurity and SmartTarget and launched a 1.5 Gig Internet speed tier providing businesses of all sizes the speed and bandwidth to leverage data-heavy applications and cloud services.

Selected financial and operational highlights

Financial Highlights
        
(millions of Canadian dollars except for percentages and per share amounts)Three months ended
February 28,
 Six months ended
February 28,
2022 2021 Change % 2022 2021 Change %
Operations:       
Revenue1,359 1,387 (2.0) 2,745 2,757 (0.4)
Adjusted EBITDA632 637 (0.8) 1,265 1,244 1.7 
Adjusted EBITDA margin(1)46.5%45.9%1.3  46.1%45.1%2.2 
Funds flow from operations(2)496 539 (8.0) 987 1,027 (3.9)
Free cash flow(1)217 248 (12.5) 453 473 (4.2)
Net income196 217 (9.7) 392 380 3.2 
Per share data:       
Earnings per share       
Basic0.39 0.43   0.79 0.74  
Diluted0.39 0.43   0.78 0.74  
Weighted average participating shares for basic earnings per share outstanding during period (millions)499 505   499 509  


(1) Adjusted EBITDA margin and free cash flow are non-GAAP financial measures or non-GAAP ratios and should not be considered substitutes or alternatives for GAAP measures. These are not defined terms under IFRS and do not have standardized meanings, and therefore may not be a reliable way to compare us to other companies. See “Non-GAAP and additional financial measures” for more information about these measures and ratios including quantitative reconciliations to the most directly comparable financial measures in the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements.
(2) Funds flow from operations is before changes in non-cash balances related to operations as presented in the condensed interim Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.
   

Key Performance Drivers

The Company measures the success of its strategies using a number of key performance drivers which are defined and described under “Key Performance Drivers – Statistical Measures” in the 2021 Annual MD&A and in this MD&A below, which includes a discussion as to their relevance, definitions, calculation methods and underlying assumptions. The following key performance indicators are not measurements in accordance with GAAP, should not be considered alternatives to revenue, net income or any other measure of performance under GAAP and may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers.

Subscriber (or revenue generating unit (RGU)) highlights

The Company measures the count of its subscribers in its Consumer, Business, and Wireless divisions. For further details and discussion on subscriber counts or RGUs see “Key Performance Drivers – Statistical Measures – Subscriber counts (or Revenue Generating Units (RGUs))” in the MD&A for the year ended August 31, 2021.

     Change Change
     Three months ended
February 28,
 Six months ended
February 28,
 February 28,
2022
 August 31,
2021
 2022 2021  2022 2021 
Wireline – Consumer         
Video – Cable1,232,362 1,282,879 (24,592)(26,497) (50,517)(60,934)
Video – Satellite542,092 590,578 (15,202)(13,508) (48,486)(47,095)
Internet1,890,798 1,889,752 538 (5,425) 1,046 (20,493)
Phone563,032 595,580 (15,005)(20,418) (32,548)(44,178)
Total Consumer4,228,284 4,358,789 (54,261)(65,848) (130,505)(172,700)
Wireline – Business          
Video – Cable36,039 37,110 (469)330  (1,071)297 
Video – Satellite37,180 40,090 (2,462)(1,903) (2,910)462 
Internet182,961 182,123 338 369  838 1,560 
Phone387,741 390,272 (1,227)1,022  (2,531)3,444 
Total Business643,921 649,595 (3,820)(182) (5,674)5,763 
Total Wireline4,872,205 5,008,384 (58,081)(66,030) (136,179)(166,937)
Wireless         
Postpaid1,784,010 1,739,289 8,632 75,069  44,721 162,365 
Prepaid404,835 377,082 8,260 7,228  27,753 20,961 
Total Wireless2,188,845 2,116,371 16,892 82,297  72,474 183,326 
Total Subscribers7,061,050 7,124,755 (41,189)16,267  (63,705)16,389 
              

In Wireless, the Company added 16,892 net postpaid and prepaid subscribers in the quarter, consisting of 8,632 postpaid additions and 8,260 prepaid additions. Postpaid net additions were down compared to the prior year due to factors including increased wireless competition which is typical during the holiday season, a limited supply of key devices and bundle adjustments to Shaw Mobile plans effective mid-November.

Wireline RGUs declined by 58,081 in the quarter compared to a loss of 66,030 in the second quarter of fiscal 2021. The current quarter included a modest gain in Consumer Internet RGUs, offset with declines in Video, Satellite and Phone resulting in Consumer RGUs declining by 54,261 in the aggregate. In Business, positive Internet RGUs were offset by declines in Video, Satellite and Phone resulting in Business RGUs declining by 3,820.

Wireless Postpaid Churn

Wireless postpaid subscriber churn (“postpaid churn”) measures success in retaining subscribers. Wireless postpaid churn is a measure of the number of postpaid subscribers that deactivated during a period as a percentage of the average postpaid subscriber base during a period, calculated on a monthly basis. It is calculated by dividing the number of Wireless postpaid subscribers that deactivated (in a month) by the average number of postpaid subscribers during the month. When used or reported for a period greater than one month, postpaid churn represents the sum of the number of subscribers deactivating for each period incurred divided by the sum of the average number of postpaid subscribers of each period incurred.

Postpaid churn of 1.46% in the second quarter of fiscal 2022 increased 21-basis points from 1.25% in the second quarter of fiscal 2021.

Wireless average billing per subscriber unit (ABPU)

Wireless ABPU is an industry metric that is useful in assessing the operating performance of a wireless entity. We use ABPU as a measure that approximates the average amount the Company invoices an individual subscriber unit for service on a monthly basis. ABPU helps us to identify trends and measures the Company’s success in attracting and retaining higher lifetime value subscribers. Wireless ABPU is calculated as service revenue (excluding allocations to wireless service revenue under IFRS 15) divided by the average number of subscribers on the network during the period and is expressed as a rate per month.

ABPU of $37.38 in the second quarter of fiscal 2022 decreased by 8.8% from $40.98 in the second quarter of fiscal 2021 as the Company continues to scale its lower revenue Shaw Mobile customer base.

Wireless average revenue per subscriber unit (ARPU)

Wireless ARPU is calculated as service revenue divided by the average number of subscribers on the network during the period and is expressed as a rate per month. This measure is an industry metric that is useful in assessing the operating performance of a wireless entity. ARPU also helps to identify trends and measure the Company’s success in attracting and retaining higher-value subscribers.

ARPU of $36.43 in the second quarter of fiscal 2022 compares to $36.82 in the second quarter of fiscal 2021, representing a decrease of 1.1% as the Company continues to scale its lower revenue Shaw Mobile customer base.

Overview

For detailed discussion of divisional performance see “Discussion of operations.” Highlights of the consolidated second quarter financial results are as follows:

Revenue

Revenue for the second quarter of fiscal 2022 of $1.36 billion decreased $28 million, or 2.0%, from $1.39 billion for the second quarter of fiscal 2021, highlighted by the following:

  • Consumer division revenues of $887 million decreased $22 million, or 2.4%, compared to the prior year period as the growth in Internet revenue was offset by declines in Video, Satellite and Phone subscribers and revenue.
  • The Wireless division contributed $323 million resulting in a $13 million, or 3.9%, decrease over the second quarter of fiscal 2021 reflecting a $33 million, or 28.0%, decrease in equipment revenue as the number of devices sold in the quarter decreased compared to the prior year, partially offset by a $20 million, or 9.2%, increase in service revenue due to an increased subscriber base.
  • The Business division had growth of $8 million, or 5.5%, in comparison to the second quarter of fiscal 2021 due to Internet revenue growth and continued demand for the Smart suite of products.

Compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2022, consolidated revenue for the quarter decreased 1.9%, or $27 million. The decrease in revenue over the prior quarter includes a $9 million decrease in the Wireless division driven by a $8 million decrease in equipment revenue, while the slight decrease in service revenue reflects the impact of the decrease in ABPU (down from $38.67 in the first quarter of fiscal 2022 to $37.38 in the current quarter). Meanwhile, ARPU decreased quarter-over-quarter (from $36.95 in the first quarter of fiscal 2022 to $36.43 in the current quarter). In Wireline, revenues decreased by $17 million over the prior quarter. This was driven by a $9 million decrease in the Consumer division and by a decrease of $8 million in the Business division which included approximately $9 million of revenue related to a financing lease arrangement involving a facility that was designed and built to customer specifications.

Revenue for the six-month period ended February 28, 2022 of $2.75 billion decreased $12 million, or 0.4%, from $2.76 billion for the comparable period in fiscal 2021, highlighted by the following:

  • Consumer division revenues of $1.78 billion decreased $37 million, or 2.0%, compared to the prior year period as the growth in Internet revenue was offset by declines in Video, Satellite and Phone subscribers and revenue.
  • The Wireless division contributed $655 million and included a $44 million, or 10.2%, increase in service revenue compared to the prior year due to an increased subscriber base, partially offset by a $42 million, or 19.1%, decrease in equipment revenue as more consumers took advantage of bring your own device plans.
  • The Business division had growth of $24 million, or 8.3%, in comparison to the prior year period due to Internet revenue growth and continued demand for the Smart suite of products along with the impact of approximately $9 million of revenue related to a financing lease arrangement involving a facility that was designed and built to customer specifications recorded in the first quarter of fiscal 2022.

Adjusted EBITDA

Adjusted EBITDA for the second quarter of fiscal 2022 of $632 million decreased by $5 million, or 0.8%, from $637 million for the comparable period in fiscal 2021, highlighted by the following:

  • The year-over-year increase in the Wireless division of $26 million, or 26.8%, is mainly due to continued service revenue growth and improved equipment margins as well as the favorable margin impact from lower equipment sales relative to total wireless revenues in the current quarter. Wireless adjusted EBITDA margin of 38.1% increased compared to 28.9% in the prior year.
  • The year-over-year decrease in the Wireline division of $31 million, or 5.7%, was primarily due to the decrease in Consumer revenue and the benefit of an $8 million employee benefits provision release and a $2 million bad debt provision release based on claims and payment experience, respectively, recorded in the prior year.

Consistent with the variances noted above, adjusted EBITDA margin for the second quarter of 46.5% increased 60-basis points compared to 45.9% in the second quarter of fiscal 2021.

Compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2022, adjusted EBITDA for the current quarter decreased $1 million, or 0.2%, primarily due to a $15 million decrease in the Wireline division driven by the decrease in both Consumer and Business service revenues in the current quarter. Adjusted EBITDA for the Wireless division increased $14 million, or 12.8%, primarily due to improved equipment margins as well as the favorable margin impact from lower equipment sales relative to total wireless revenues in the current quarter.

Adjusted EBITDA for the six-month period ended February 28, 2022 of $1.27 billion increased by $21 million, or 1.7%, from $1.24 billion for the comparable period in fiscal 2021, highlighted by the following:

  • The year-over-year improvement in the Wireless division of $60 million, or 34.9%, is mainly due to continued service revenue growth and improved equipment margins as well as the favorable margin impact from lower equipment sales relative to total wireless revenues in the current quarter. Wireless adjusted EBITDA margin of 35.4% compared to 26.3% in the prior year.
  • The year-over-year decrease in the Wireline division of $39 million, or 3.6%, was primarily due to a decrease in Consumer revenue and the impact of approximately $12 million in employee benefits and bad debt provision releases based on claims and payment experience, respectively, recorded in the prior year, partially offset by an increase in Business service revenue.

Free cash flow

Free cash flow for the second quarter of fiscal 2022 of $217 million decreased $31 million from $248 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2021, mainly due to a $27 million increase in cash taxes, and a $5 million decrease in adjusted EBITDA.

Net income (loss)

Net income of $196 million and $392 million for the three and six months ended February 28, 2022 respectively, compared to a net income of $217 and $380 for the same periods in fiscal 2021. The changes in net income are outlined in the following table:

     
 February 28, 2022 net income compared to:
 Three months ended Six months ended
(millions of Canadian dollars)November 30, 2021February 28, 2021 February 28, 2021
Increased adjusted EBITDA(1)(1)(5) 21 
Decreased restructuring costs(2)- 1  13 
Decreased amortization(4)(2) 3 
Change in net other costs and revenue(3)(1)(29) (30)
Decreased income taxes6 14  5 
 - (21) 12 


(1) See “Non-GAAP and additional financial measures.”
(2) During the first quarter of fiscal 2021, the Company made a number of changes to its organizational structure in an effort to streamline the business, consolidate certain functions, and reduce redundancies between the Wireless and Wireline segments. In connection with the restructuring, the Company recorded costs of $12 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2021 and $1 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2021, related to severance and employee related costs. There were no restructuring activities in fiscal 2022.
(3) Net other costs and revenue include accretion of long-term liabilities and provisions, interest, debt retirement costs, realized and unrealized foreign exchange differences, fair value adjustments of private investments, and other losses as detailed in the unaudited Consolidated Statements of Income. In the first and second quarters of fiscal 2022, the Company recorded $2 million and $3 million, respectively, in Transaction-related advisory, legal, financial, and other professional costs.
   

Non-GAAP and additional financial measures

The Company’s continuous disclosure documents may provide discussion and analysis of non-GAAP financial measures or ratios. These financial measures or ratios do not have standard definitions prescribed by IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures disclosed by other companies. The Company’s continuous disclosure documents may also provide discussion and analysis of additional financial measures. Additional financial measures include line items, headings and sub-totals included in the financial statements.

The Company utilizes these measures in making operating decisions and assessing its performance. Certain investors, analysts and others utilize these measures in assessing the Company’s operational and financial performance and as an indicator of its ability to service debt and return cash to shareholders. The non-GAAP financial measures, ratios and additional financial measures have not been presented as an alternative to revenue, net income or any other measure of performance required by GAAP.

Below is a discussion of the non-GAAP financial measures, ratios and additional financial measures used by the Company and provides a reconciliation to the nearest GAAP measure or provides a reference to such reconciliation.

Adjusted EBITDA

Adjusted earnings before interest, income taxes, depreciation and amortization (“adjusted EBITDA”) is calculated as revenue less operating, general and administrative expenses. It is intended to indicate the Company’s ongoing ability to service and/or incur debt and is therefore calculated before items such as restructuring costs, other gains (losses), amortization (a non-cash expense), taxes and interest. Adjusted EBITDA is one measure used by the investing community to value the business.

Adjusted EBITDA has no directly comparable GAAP financial measure. Alternatively, the following table provides a reconciliation of net income to adjusted EBITDA:

 Three months ended
February 28,
Six months ended
February 28,
(millions of Canadian dollars)2022 2021 2022 2021 
Net income196 217 392 380 
Add back (deduct):    
Restructuring costs- 1 - 13 
Amortization:    
Deferred equipment revenue(3)(3)(5)(6)
Deferred equipment costs9 12 19 25 
Property, plant and equipment, intangibles and other299 294 591 589 
Amortization of financing costs – long-term debt- - 1 1 
Interest expense65 67 130 133 
Other losses (gains)5 (26)9 (24)
Current income tax expense83 44 173 80 
Deferred income tax expense(22)31 (45)53 
Adjusted EBITDA632 637 1,265 1,244 
     

Adjusted EBITDA margin

Adjusted EBITDA margin is a non-GAAP ratio that is calculated by dividing adjusted EBITDA by revenue. Adjusted EBITDA margin is also one of the measures used by the investing community to value the business.

 Three months ended
February 28,
 Six months ended
February 28,
 2022 2021 Change % 2022 2021 Change %
Wireline48.9%51.2%(4.5) 49.3%50.8%(3.0)
Wireless38.1%28.9%31.8  35.4%26.3%34.6 
Combined Wireline and Wireless46.5%45.9%1.3  46.1%45.1%2.2 
              

Net debt

The Company uses this measure to perform valuation-related analysis and make decisions about the Company’s capital structure. We believe this measure aids investors in analyzing the value of the business and assessing our leverage. Refer to “Liquidity and capital resources” for further detail.

Net debt leverage ratio

The Company uses this non-GAAP ratio to determine its optimal leverage ratio. Refer to “Liquidity and capital resources” for further detail.

Free cash flow

The Company utilizes this measure to assess the Company’s ability to repay debt and pay dividends to shareholders.

Free cash flow is comprised of adjusted EBITDA and then deducting capital expenditures (on an accrual basis and net of proceeds on capital dispositions) and equipment costs (net), interest, cash taxes paid or payable, interest on lease liabilities, lease payments relating to lease liabilities, dividends paid on the preferred shares, and recurring cash funding of pension amounts net of pension expense and adjusted to exclude share-based compensation expense or recovery.

Free cash flow has not been reported on a segmented basis. Certain components of free cash flow, including adjusted EBITDA, continue to be reported on a segmented basis. Capital expenditures and equipment costs (net) are also reported on a segmented basis. Other items, including interest and cash taxes, are not generally directly attributable to a segment, and are reported on a consolidated basis.

Free cash flow is calculated as follows:
        
 Three months ended February 28, Six months ended February 28,
(millions of Canadian dollars)2022 2021 Change % 2022 2021 Change %
Revenue       
Consumer887 909 (2.4) 1,783 1,820 (2.0)
Business153 145 5.5  314 290 8.3 
Wireline1,040 1,054 (1.3) 2,097 2,110 (0.6)
Service238 218 9.2  477 433 10.2 
Equipment and other85 118 (28.0) 178 220 (19.1)
Wireless323 336 (3.9) 655 653 0.3 
 1,363 1,390 (1.9) 2,752 2,763 (0.4)
Intersegment eliminations(4)(3)33.3  (7)(6)16.7 
 1,359 1,387 (2.0) 2,745 2,757 (0.4)
Adjusted EBITDA       
Wireline509 540 (5.7) 1,033 1,072 (3.6)
Wireless123 97 26.8  232 172 34.9 
 632 637 (0.8) 1,265 1,244 1.7 
Capital expenditures and equipment costs (net): (1)       
Wireline219 179 22.3  409 340 20.3 
Wireless30 71 (57.7) 69 144 (52.1)
 249 250 (0.4) 478 484 (1.2)
Free cash flow before the following383 387 (1.0) 787 760 3.6 
Less:       
Interest on debt and provisions(55)(54)1.9  (109)(109) 
Interest on lease liabilities(10)(11)(9.1) (21)(22)(4.5)
Cash taxes(76)(49)55.1  (152)(98)55.1 
Lease payments relating to lease liabilities(28)(27)3.7  (58)(58) 
Other adjustments:       
Non-cash share-based compensation1 1   1 1  
Pension adjustment2 3 (33.3) 5 3 66.7 
Preferred share dividends (2)(100.0)  (4)(100.0)
Free cash flow217 248 (12.5) 453 473 (4.2)


(1) Per Note 3 to the unaudited interim Consolidated Financial Statements.
   

Discussion of operations

Wireline

 Three months ended February 28, Six months ended February 28,
(millions of Canadian dollars)2022 2021 Change % 2022 2021 Change %
Consumer887 909 (2.4) 1,783 1,820 (2.0)
Business153 145 5.5  314 290 8.3 
Wireline revenue1,040 1,054 (1.3) 2,097 2,110 (0.6)
Adjusted EBITDA(1)509 540 (5.7) 1,033 1,072 (3.6)
Adjusted EBITDA margin(1)48.9%51.2%(4.5) 49.3%50.8%(3.0)


(1) See “Non-GAAP and additional financial measures.”
   

In the second quarter of fiscal 2022, Wireline RGUs declined by 58,081 in the quarter compared to a loss of 66,030 in the second quarter of fiscal 2021. The current quarter included a modest gain in Consumer Internet RGUs, offset with declines in Video, Satellite and Phone resulting in Consumer RGUs declining by 54,261 in the aggregate. In Business, positive Internet RGUs were offset by declines in Video, Satellite and Phone resulting in Business RGUs declining by 3,820.

Revenue highlights include:

  • Consumer revenue for the second quarter of fiscal 2022 decreased by $22 million, or 2.4%, compared to the second quarter of fiscal 2021 as the growth in Internet revenue was offset by declines in Video, Satellite and Phone subscribers and revenue.
    • As compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2022, the current quarter revenue decreased by $9 million, or 1.0%.
  • Business revenue of $153 million for the second quarter of fiscal 2022 increased $8 million, or 5.5%, compared to the second quarter of fiscal 2021, due to Internet revenue growth and continued demand for the Smart suite of products.
    • As compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2022, the current quarter revenue decreased by $8 million, or 5.0%, as the prior quarter included approximately $9 million of revenue related to a financing lease arrangement involving a facility that was designed and built to customer specifications.
  • Wireline revenue for the first six months of fiscal 2022 decreased $13 million, or 0.6%, compared to the first six months of fiscal 2021, primarily due to a $37 million decrease in Consumer revenue as the growth in Internet revenue was offset by declines in Video, Satellite and Phone subscribers and revenue. This was partially offset by a $24 million increase in Business revenue which includes approximately $9 million of revenue related to a financing lease arrangement involving a facility that was designed and built to customer specifications in the current year.

Adjusted EBITDA highlights include:

  • Adjusted EBITDA for the second quarter of fiscal 2022 of $509 million decreased 5.7%, or $31 million, from $540 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2021. The decrease was primarily due to the decrease in Consumer revenue and the benefit of an $8 million employee benefits provision release and a $2 million bad debt provision release based on claims and payment experience, respectively, recorded in the prior year.
    • As compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2022, Wireline adjusted EBITDA for the current quarter decreased by $15 million, or 2.9%, driven primarily by the decrease in both Consumer and Business service revenues in the current quarter.
  • Adjusted EBITDA for the first six months of fiscal 2022 of $1.03 billion decreased 3.6%, or $39 million, from $1.07 billion compared to the first six months of fiscal 2021. The decrease was primarily due to a decrease in Consumer revenue and the impact of approximately $12 million of favorable provisions related to employee benefits and bad debt released in the prior year, partially offset by an increase in Business service revenue.
Wireless       
 Three months ended February 28, Six months ended February 28,
(millions of Canadian dollars)2022 2021 Change % 2022 2021 Change %
Service238 218 9.2  477 433 10.2 
Equipment and other85 118 (28.0) 178 220 (19.1)
Wireless revenue323 336 (3.9) 655 653 0.3 
Adjusted EBITDA(1)123 97 26.8  232 172 34.9 
Adjusted EBITDA margin(1)38.1%28.9%31.8  35.4%26.3%34.6 


(1) See “Non-GAAP and additional financial measures.”
   

The Wireless division added 16,892 net postpaid and prepaid subscribers in the quarter, consisting of 8,632 postpaid additions and 8,260 prepaid additions. Postpaid net additions were down compared to the prior year due to factors including increased wireless competition which is typical during the holiday season, a limited supply of key devices and bundle adjustments to Shaw Mobile plans effective mid-November.

Revenue highlights include:

  • Revenue of $323 million for the second quarter of fiscal 2022 decreased $13 million, or 3.9%, over the second quarter of fiscal 2021. This was primarily due to a $33 million, or 28.0%, decrease in equipment revenue, as more consumers took advantage of bring your own device plans partially offset by a $20 million, or 9.2%, increase in service revenue due to an increased subscriber base. There was a 8.8% and 1.1% year-over-year decrease in ABPU to $37.38 and ARPU to $36.43, respectively.
    • As compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2022, the current quarter revenue decreased $9 million, or 2.7%, due to decreased equipment sales of $8 million while service revenues were essentially flat. ABPU of $37.38 decreased by $1.29, or 3.3% (ABPU of $38.67 in the first quarter of fiscal 2022), and ARPU of $36.43 decreased by $0.52, or 1.4% (ARPU of $36.95 in the first quarter of fiscal 2022).
  • Revenue of $655 million for the first six months of fiscal 2022 increased $2 million, or 0.3%, over the first six months of fiscal 2021. This was primarily due to a $44 million, or 10.2%, increase in service revenue due to an increased subscriber base, partially offset by a $42 million, or 19.1%, decrease in equipment revenue as more consumers took advantage of bring your own device plans.

Adjusted EBITDA highlights include:

  • Adjusted EBITDA of $123 million for the second quarter of fiscal 2022 improved by $26 million, or 26.8%, over the second quarter of fiscal 2021. The increase is mainly due to continued service revenue growth and improved equipment margins as well as the favorable margin impact from lower equipment sales relative to total wireless revenues in the current quarter. Wireless adjusted EBITDA margin of 38.1% compared to 28.9% in the prior year.   
    • As compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2022, adjusted EBITDA for the current quarter increased $14 million, or 12.8%, primarily due to improved equipment margins as well as the favorable margin impact from lower equipment sales relative to total wireless revenues in the current quarter.
  • Adjusted EBITDA for the first six months of fiscal 2022 increased $60 million, or 34.9%, compared to the first six months of fiscal 2021. The increase is mainly due to continued service revenue growth and improved equipment margins as well as the favorable margin impact from lower equipment sales relative to total wireless revenues in the current quarter. Wireless adjusted EBITDA margin of 35.4% compared to 26.3% in the prior year.   
Capital expenditures and equipment costs
            
 Three months ended February 28, Six months ended February 28,
(millions of Canadian dollars)2022 2021 Change % 2022 2021 Change %
Wireline           
New housing development33 27 22.2  62 50 24.0 
Success-based50 34 47.1  98 78 25.6 
Upgrades and enhancements112 92 21.7  200 173 15.6 
Replacement9 8 12.5  17 15 13.3 
Building and other15 18 (16.7) 32 24 33.3 
Total as per Note 3 to the unaudited interim consolidated financial statements219 179 22.3  409 340 20.3 
Wireless           
Total as per Note 3 to the unaudited interim consolidated financial statements30 71 (57.7) 69 144 (52.1)
Consolidated total as per Note 3 to the unaudited interim consolidated financial statements249 250 (0.4) 478 484 (1.2)
              

In the second quarter of fiscal 2022, capital investment of $249 million decreased $1 million from the comparable period in fiscal 2021. There was a $40 million increase in Wireline spending due to higher investments in combined upgrades, enhancements and replacement categories as well as an increase in new housing development and success-based capital, which was fully offset by a $41 million decrease in Wireless spending as a result of lower planned capital expenditures.

Wireline highlights for the quarter include:

  • For the quarter, investment in combined upgrades, enhancements and replacement categories was $112 million which is an increase of $20 million, or 21.7%, over the prior year period.
  • Investments in new housing development were $33 million, a $6 million, or 22.2%, increase over the prior year period, driven by higher residential and commercial customer network growth and acquisition in the current year.
  • Success-based capital for the quarter of $50 million was $16 million, or 47.1%, higher than the second quarter of fiscal 2021 primarily due to higher capitalized labour and higher equipment purchases in the period.
  • Investments in buildings and other in the amount of $15 million was $3 million lower year-over year primarily due to higher back office related costs in the comparable period.

Wireless highlights for the quarter include:

  • Capital investment of $30 million in the second quarter decreased relative to the second quarter of fiscal 2021 by $41 million, primarily due to lower planned network related investment in the quarter.

Other income and expense items

Restructuring costs

Restructuring costs generally include severance, employee related costs and other costs directly associated with a restructuring program. During the first quarter of fiscal 2021, the Company made a number of changes to its organizational structure in an effort to streamline the business, consolidate certain functions, and reduce redundancies between the Wireless and Wireline segments. In connection with the restructuring, the Company recorded costs of $12 million and $1 million in the first and second quarters of fiscal 2021, respectively, related to severance and employee related costs. There were no restructuring activities in fiscal 2022.

Amortization       
 Three months ended February 28, Six months ended February 28,
(millions of Canadian dollars)2022 2021 Change % 2022 2021 Change %
Amortization revenue (expense)       
Deferred equipment revenue3 3 -  5 6 (16.7)
Deferred equipment costs(9)(12)(25.0) (19)(25)(24.0)
Property, plant and equipment, intangibles and other(299)(294)1.7  (591)(589)0.3 
              

Amortization for the three and six months ended February 28, 2022, increased 0.7% and decreased 0.5%, respectively, when compared to the same periods in fiscal 2021. The increase in amortization reflects the amortization of new expenditures exceeding the amortization of assets that became fully amortized during the period.

Amortization of financing costs and interest expense      
 Three months ended February 28, Six months ended February 28,
(millions of Canadian dollars)2022 2021 Change % 2022 2021 Change %
Amortization of financing costs – long-term debt- - -  1 1 - 
Interest expense65 67 (3.0) 130 133 (2.3)
              

Interest expense for the three and six months ended February 28, 2022 decreased 3.0% and 2.3%, respectively, over the comparable periods which primarily reflects the lower average outstanding debt balances in the period and the decrease in the weighted average interest rate.

Other gains/losses

This category generally includes realized and unrealized foreign exchange gains and losses on U.S. dollar denominated current assets and liabilities, gains and losses on disposal of property, plant and equipment, realized and unrealized gains and losses on private investments, and the Company’s share of the operations of Burrard Landing Lot 2 Holdings Partnership. In the first and second quarters of fiscal 2022, the Company recorded $2 million and $3 million, respectively, in Transaction-related advisory, legal, financial, and other professional costs.

Income taxes

Income taxes are lower in the quarter compared to the second quarter of fiscal 2021 due mainly to the decrease in net income.

Supplementary quarterly financial information
 2022 2021 2020 
(millions of Canadian dollars except per share amounts)Q2Q1Q4Q3Q2Q1Q4Q3
         
Revenue1,359 1,386 1,377 1,375 1,387 1,370 1,349 1,312 
Adjusted EBITDA(1)632 633 614 642 637 607 594 609 
Restructuring costs   (1)(1)(12) (14)
Amortization(305)(300)(310)(300)(303)(305)(312)(302)
Amortization of financing costs (1) (1) (1)(1) 
Interest expense(65)(65)(67)(31)(67)(66)(68)(67)
Other income (expense)(5)(4)(6)(21)26 (2)(1)7 
Income taxes(61)(67)21 66 (75)(58)(37)(49)
Net income(2)196 196 252 354 217 163 175 184 
Earnings per share        
Basic0.39 0.39 0.50 0.71 0.43 0.31 0.34 0.35 
Diluted0.39 0.39 0.50 0.70 0.43 0.31 0.34 0.35 
Other Information        
Cash flows from operating activities487 362 590 560 473 300 632 588 
Free cash flow(1)217 236 180 308 248 225 152 221 
Capital expenditures and equipment costs249 229 287 233 250 234 307 268 


(1) See “Non-GAAP and additional financial measures.”
(2) Net income attributable to both equity shareholders and non-controlling interests.


F22 Q2
vs
F22 Q1
 In the second quarter of fiscal 2022, net income was flat compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2022 mainly due to a $6 million decrease in income taxes and a decrease in adjusted EBITDA of $1 million, partially offset by an increase in amortization of $5 million and an increase in Transaction-related costs of $1 million, all in the second quarter. 
F22 Q1
vs
F21 Q4
 In the first quarter of fiscal 2022, net income decreased $56 million compared to the fourth quarter of fiscal 2021 mainly due to an $88 million increase in taxes in the first quarter as a result of the recognition of a tax benefit associated with previously unrecognized tax losses in the fourth quarter partially offset by a $19 million increase in adjusted EBITDA and a $10 million decrease in amortization expense, all in the first quarter. 
F21 Q4
vs
F21 Q3
  In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2021, net income decreased $102 million compared to the third quarter of fiscal 2021 mainly due to a $36 million increase in interest expense and a $126 million increase in current taxes in the fourth quarter as a result of a revision to liabilities for uncertain tax positions which reduced these expenses by $35 million and $125 million respectively in the third quarter as well as a $28 million decrease in adjusted EBITDA partially offset by an $81 million decrease in deferred taxes resulting mainly from the recognition of a tax benefit associated with previously unrecognized tax losses and a decrease of $15 million in other expenses mainly due to lower Transaction-related costs, all in the fourth quarter. 
F21 Q3
vs
F21 Q2
 In the third quarter of fiscal 2021, net income increased $137 million compared to the second quarter of fiscal 2021 mainly due to a $131 million decrease in current income taxes expense and a $36 million decrease in interest expense mainly due to a revision to liabilities for uncertain tax positions that became statute barred in the period, which reduced these expenses by $125 million and $35 million respectively, a $9 million decrease in deferred taxes, and a $5 million increase in adjusted EBITDA, partially offset by $18 million in Transaction-related advisory, legal, financial, and other professional fees in the quarter and the impact of the $27 million fair value gain on private investments recorded in the second quarter. 
F21 Q2
vs
F21 Q1
 In the second quarter of fiscal 2021, net income increased $54 million compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2021 mainly due to a $30 million increase in adjusted EBITDA, an $11 million decrease in restructuring costs, and a $27 million fair value gain on private investments recorded in the second quarter, partially offset by a $9 million increase in deferred taxes and an $8 million increase in current taxes, all in the second quarter. 
F21 Q1
vs
F20 Q4
 In the first quarter of fiscal 2021, net income decreased $12 million compared to the fourth quarter of fiscal 2020 mainly due to a $12 million increase in restructuring costs in the first quarter and a $27 million increase in deferred taxes, partially offset by a $13 million increase in adjusted EBITDA and a $6 million decrease in current taxes, all in the first quarter. 
F20 Q4
vs
F20 Q3
 In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2020, net income decreased $9 million compared to the third quarter of fiscal 2020 mainly due to an $15 million decrease in adjusted EBITDA and a $23 million increase in current taxes in the fourth quarter as well an $8 million decrease in other gains (losses) as a result of an insurance claim recovery in the third quarter, partially offset by a $35 million decrease in deferred taxes and a $14 million decrease in restructuring costs in the fourth quarter. 
F20 Q3
vs
F20 Q2
 In the third quarter of fiscal 2020, net income increased $17 million compared to the second quarter of fiscal 2020 mainly due to a $26 million increase in other gains (losses), which includes the impact of the $17 million payment related to the early redemption of $800 million in senior notes in the second quarter, a $6 million insurance claim recovery, a $9 million increase in adjusted EBITDA in the third quarter and a $4 million decrease in current taxes, partially offset by an $8 million increase in deferred taxes, also in the third quarter. 
    

Financial position

Total assets were $15.7 billion at February 28, 2022 compared to $15.8 billion at August 31, 2021. The following is a discussion of significant changes in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position since August 31, 2021.  

Current assets decreased $4 million primarily due to decreases in cash of $4 million, income taxes recoverable of $76 million, and the current portion of contract assets of $23 million, partially offset by increases in inventories of $6 million, accounts receivables of $60 million and other current assets of $33 million. Cash decreased primarily due to the payment of $296 million in dividends and cash outlays for investing activities, partially offset by funds flow from operations. Refer to “Liquidity and capital resources” for more information.

Accounts receivable increased $60 million mainly due to timing and the impact of the Company continuing to migrate customers from two-month advance billing to one-month advance billing.

The current portion of contract assets decreased $23 million over the period due to a $3 million decrease in deferred Wireline costs as a result of lower onboarding promotional activity for new subscribers over the past year and a $20 million decrease due to a decrease in Wireless subscribers participating in the Company’s discretionary wireless handset discount program over the past year. Under IFRS 15, up-front promotional offers, such as onboarding or switch credits, offered to new two-year value-plan customers are recorded as a contract asset and amortized over the life of the contract against future service revenues while the portion of the Wireless discount relating to the handset is applied against equipment revenue at the point in time that the handset is transferred to the customer while the portion relating to service revenue is recorded as a contract asset and amortized over the life of the contract against future service revenues.

Property, plant and equipment decreased $127 million as the amortization of capital and right-of-use assets exceeded the capital investments and additions to right-of-use assets in the period.  

Current liabilities decreased $139 million during the period primarily due to a decrease in accounts payable of $131 million, current portion of contract liabilities of $9 million, and current portion of derivatives of $2 million. This decrease was partially offset by a $2 million increase in current portion of lease liabilities and a $1 million increase in current provisions.

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities decreased due to the timing of payments and fluctuations in various payables including capital expenditures, interest and employee incentive plans.

Lease liabilities decreased $47 million mainly due to principal repayments of $58 million in the period, partially offset by and an increase of $11 million in net new lease liabilities.

Shareholders’ equity increased $136 million mainly due to an increase in retained earnings. Retained earnings increased as the current period net income of $392 million was greater than the dividends of $296 million. Share capital increased $7 million due to the issuance of 251,880 and 10,085 Class B Shares under the Company’s stock option plan and RSU plan, respectively. Accumulated other comprehensive loss decreased $33 million primarily due to the remeasurement recorded on employee benefit plans.

As at March 31, 2022, there were 476,854,952 Class B Shares and 22,372,064 Class A Shares issued and outstanding. As at March 31, 2022, 7,149,432 Class B Shares were issuable on exercise of outstanding options. Shaw is traded on the Toronto and New York stock exchanges and is included in the S&P/TSX 60 Index (Trading Symbols: TSX – SJR.B, NYSE – SJR, and TSXV – SJR.A). For more information, please visit www.shaw.ca.

Liquidity and capital resources

In the six-month period ended February 28, 2022, the Company generated $453 million of free cash flow. Shaw used its free cash flow along with cash of $4 million and proceeds from the issuance of Class B Shares of $7 million to pay common share dividends of $296 million, pay $5 million in Transaction-related costs, and fund the net working capital change.  

Debt structure and financial policy

The Company has an accounts receivable securitization program with a Canadian financial institution which allows it to sell certain trade receivables into the program. As at February 28, 2022, the proceeds of the sales were committed up to a maximum of $200 million (with $200 million drawn under the program as at February 28, 2022). The Company continues to service and retain substantially all of the risks and rewards relating to the trade receivables sold, and therefore, the trade receivables remain recognized on the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Financial Position and the funding received is recorded as a current liability (revolving floating rate loans) secured by the trade receivables. The buyer’s interest in the accounts receivable ranks ahead of the Company’s interest and the program restricts it from using the trade receivables as collateral for any other purpose. The buyer of the trade receivable has no claim on any of the Company’s other assets. The Company’s accounts receivable securitization program expires May 29, 2022.

As at February 28, 2022, the net debt leverage ratio for the Company was 2.2x. The terms of the Arrangement Agreement require Shaw to obtain Rogers’ consent prior to incurring certain types of indebtedness.

The Company calculates net debt leverage ratio as follows(1):
    
(millions of Canadian dollars)February 28, 2022  August 31, 2021 
Short-term borrowings200  200 
Current portion of long-term debt1  1 
Current portion of lease liabilities112  110 
Long-term debt4,550  4,549 
Lease liabilities1,086  1,135 
Cash and cash equivalents(351) (355)
(A) Net debt(2)5,598  5,640 
(B) Adjusted EBITDA(2)2,521  2,500 
(A/B) Net debt leverage ratio(3)2.2x 2.3x


(1) The following contains a breakdown of the components in the calculation of net debt leverage ratio, which is a non-GAAP ratio.
(2) See “Non-GAAP and additional financial measures.”
(3) Net debt leverage ratio is a non-GAAP ratio and should not be considered as a substitute or alternative for a GAAP measure and may not be a reliable way to compare us to other companies. See “Non-GAAP and additional financial measures” for further information about this ratio.
   

On November 2, 2020, the Company announced that it had received approval from the TSX to establish an NCIB program. The program commenced on November 5, 2020 and ended November 4, 2021. As approved by the TSX, the Company had the ability to purchase for cancellation up to 24,532,404 Class B Shares representing approximately 5% of all of the issued and outstanding Class B Shares as at October 22, 2020. In connection with the announcement of the Transaction on March 15, 2021, the Company suspended share buybacks under its NCIB program.

Shaw’s credit facilities are subject to customary covenants which include maintaining minimum or maximum financial ratios.

 Covenant as at
February 28, 2022
 Covenant Limit
Shaw Credit Facilities   
Total Debt to Operating Cash Flow(1) Ratio1.86:1 < 5.00:1
Operating Cash Flow(1) to Fixed Charges(2) Ratio10.96:1 > 2.00:1


(1) Operating Cash Flow, for the purposes of the covenants, is calculated as net earnings before interest expense, depreciation, amortization, restructuring, and current and deferred income taxes, excluding profit or loss from investments accounted for on an equity basis, less payments made with regards to lease liabilities for the most recently completed fiscal quarter multiplied by four, plus cash dividends and other cash distributions received in the most recently completed four fiscal quarters from investments accounted for on an equity basis.
(2) Fixed Charges are broadly defined as the aggregate interest expense, excluding the interest related to lease liabilities, for the most recently completed fiscal quarter multiplied by four.
   

As at February 28, 2022, Shaw is in compliance with these covenants and based on current business plans, the Company is not aware of any condition or event that would give rise to non-compliance with the covenants over the life of the borrowings which currently mature in December of 2024.

As at February 28, 2022, the Company had $351 million of cash on hand and its $1.5 billion bank credit facility was fully undrawn.

Based on the aforementioned financing activities, available credit facilities and forecasted free cash flow, the Company expects to have sufficient liquidity to fund operations, obligations and working capital requirements, including maturing debt, during the upcoming year. The terms of the Arrangement Agreement require that the Company maintain sufficient liquidity to pay an $800 million termination fee payable by Shaw in certain circumstances.

Cash Flow

Operating Activities       
 Three months ended February 28, Six months ended February 28,
(millions of Canadian dollars)2022 2021 Change % 2022 2021 Change %
Funds flow from operations496 539 (8.0) 987 1,027 (3.9)
Net change in non-cash balances related to operations(9)(66)86.4  (138)(254)45.7 
 487 473 3.0  849 773 9.8 
              

For the three months ended February 28, 2022, the cash received from operating activities increased over the comparable period in fiscal 2021 primarily due to a smaller decrease in the net change in non-cash balances related to operations in the funds flow from operations, partially offset by a decrease in funds flow from operations. The net change in non-cash balances related to operations fluctuated over the comparative period due to changes in accounts receivable, inventory and other current asset balances, and the timing of payments of current income taxes payable and accounts payable and accrued liabilities.

Investing Activities         
 Three months ended February 28, Six months ended February 28,
(millions of Canadian dollars)2022 2021 Increase
 2022 2021 Increase
Cash used in investing activities(256)(254)2  (506)(486)20 
              

For the three months ended February 28, 2022, the cash used in investing activities increased by $2 million over the comparable period in fiscal 2021 primarily due to an increase in additions to intangible assets of $12 million, partially offset by a decrease in additions to property, plant and equipment of $10 million.

Financing Activities     
The changes in financing activities during the comparative periods were as follows:
 Three months ended
February 28,
 Six months ended
February 28,
(millions of Canadian dollars)2022 2021  2022 2021 
Payment of lease liabilities [note 6](28)(27) (58)(58)
Issue of Class B Shares [note 11]4 1  7 1 
Purchase of Class B Shares- (225) - (300)
Dividends paid on Class A Shares and Class B Shares(148)(149) (296)(301)
Dividends paid on Preferred Shares- (2) - (4)
 (172)(402) (347)(662)
          

Contractual Obligations

There has been no material change in the Company’s contractual obligations, including commitments for capital expenditures, between August 31, 2021 and February 28, 2022.

Accounting standards

The MD&A included in the Company’s Annual Report for the year ended August 31, 2021 outlined critical accounting policies, including key estimates and assumptions that management has made under these policies, and how they affect the amounts reported in the 2021 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements. The MD&A also describes significant accounting policies where alternatives exist. See “Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates” in the Company’s MD&A for the year ended August 31, 2021. The condensed interim Consolidated Financial Statements follow the same accounting policies and methods of application as the 2021 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.

Related party transactions

The Company’s transactions with related parties are discussed in its MD&A for the year ended August 31, 2021 under “Related Party Transactions” and under Note 29 of the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company for the year ended August 31, 2021.

There has been no material change in the Company’s transactions with related parties between August 31, 2021 and February 28, 2022.

Financial instruments

There has been no material change in the Company’s risk management practices with respect to financial instruments between August 31, 2021 and February 28, 2022. See “Known Events, Trends, Risks and Uncertainties – Interest Rates, Foreign Exchange Rates and Capital Markets” in the Company’s MD&A for the year ended August 31, 2021 and the section entitled “Financial Instruments” under Note 30 of the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company for the year ended August 31, 2021.

Internal controls and procedures

Details relating to disclosure controls and procedures, and internal control over financial reporting (ICFR), are discussed in the Company’s MD&A for the year ended August 31, 2021 under “Certification.” As at February 28, 2022, there have been no changes in the Company’s ICFR that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s ICFR in fiscal 2022.

Risks and uncertainties

The significant risks and uncertainties affecting the Company and its business are discussed in the Company’s MD&A for the year ended August 31, 2021 under “Known Events, Trends, Risks and Uncertainties.” There have been no material changes in the significant risks and uncertainties since that date.

Government regulations and regulatory developments

See the Company’s MD&A for the year ended August 31, 2021 for a discussion of the significant regulations that affected our operations as of October 29, 2021. The following is a list of the significant regulatory developments since that date.

For a discussion of the regulatory approval processes related to the Transaction in the Annual Report, see “About our Business – Shaw and Rogers Transaction” and “Risks and uncertainties – Risks Related to the Transaction – The Key Regulatory Approvals necessary to complete the Transaction may not be obtained or may only be obtained after substantial delay”.

Broadcasting Act

Legislative Changes and Other Government Actions

On December 16, 2021, the Federal Government issued Ministerial mandate letters. The Minister of Canadian Heritage has been directed to “reintroduce legislation to reform the Broadcasting Act to ensure foreign web giants contribute to the creation and promotion of Canadian stories and music.” The fulfillment of the foregoing Ministerial mandate could lead to legislative changes and the introduction of new regulatory measures that result in new costs and fees payable by the Company in connection with its provision of digital media services, result in new competition in the provision of broadcasting distribution services, and/or negatively impact the Company’s financial results from broadcasting.

On February 2, 2022, the Minister of Heritage introduced a bill to amend the Broadcasting Act (Bill C-11). While Bill C-11 does not introduce material new obligations applicable to or fees payable by the Company’s cable, Direct-to-Home (DTH), Satellite Relay Distribution or digital media services, the Bill remains subject to amendment prior to its passage, pursuant to the parliamentary process. In addition, the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (“CRTC” or “Commission”) will, subsequent to any royal assent to Bill C-11, engage in one or more proceedings to align Canadian broadcasting regulation with the amended Broadcasting Act. Furthermore, the Minister of Heritage has indicated that the Commission’s subsequent regulatory processes will be subject to a Direction by the Governor-in-Council that sets out the Government’s expectations with respect to how the newly-incorporated amendments to the Broadcasting Act should be reflected in regulation, which Direction may also specify the requirement that new regulations be brought into force within a relatively short timeframe.

The implementation of new regulatory measures in connection with Bill C-11 could impact the Company’s cable and DTH services if regulatory fees and obligations are not applied symmetrically as between licensed and unlicensed entities.

Radiocommunication Act

Consultation on a Policy and Licensing Framework for Spectrum in the 3800 MHz Band

Parties have filed their initial and reply comments in connection with Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada’s (ISED) consultation on the policy and licensing framework for the 3800 MHz spectrum band (3650-4200 MHz). The consultation considered the implementation of pro-competitive measures, in the form of a set-aside, a cross-band cap applicable to cumulative 3500 MHz and 3800 MHz holdings, or a combination of both. ISED also sought comments on, among other things, licence tier sizes and conditions, and auction format and rules. The consultation is now closed and ISED is expected to render its decision in the second half of 2022. The 3800 MHz auction is anticipated to take place in early 2023. The outcome of this auction could increase competition in the wireless sector.

New Licence-Exempt Spectrum Consultations

On February 24, 2022, ISED commenced two consultations on the potential release of additional spectrum for licence-exempt use. This includes spectrum in the 5850-5895 MHz range and various high-frequency ranges above 95 GHz. These consultations could result in additional spectrum being made available for licence-exempt technologies including Wi-Fi and the Internet of Things.

Copyright Act

Legislative Changes and Other Government Actions

The Minister of Canadian Heritage and the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry were directed, pursuant to mandate letters issued December 16, 2021, “to amend the Copyright Act to further protect artists, creators and copyright holders, including to allow resale rights for artists.” Any amendments to the Copyright Act that modify the terms and conditions applicable to the use of content, including new rights and/or the scope of flexibility pursuant to exceptions under the Copyright Act, could create increased fees and negatively impact the business practices of the Company, as well as the ability to serve our customers.

Judicial Review of the Distant Television Signal Retransmission Tariff Rates (2014-2018)

On December 18, 2018, the Copyright Board released a rate decision for the Distant Television Signal Retransmission Tariff (the “Tariff”) for the past tariff period of 2014-2018, inclusive, which introduced a rate increase that applied retroactively, and established an interim tariff for the 2019-2023 period based on the 2018 rate. Both the collective societies representing distant television signal retransmission rightsholders (the “Collectives”) and Objectors – including the Company – filed a Notice of Application for judicial review with the FCA on November 4, 2019. On July 23, 2021, the FCA dismissed the Objectors’ application on all grounds, and granted the Collectives’ application on two grounds, for the years 2016-2018, requiring the Copyright Board to redetermine two valuation issues related to the Tariff. On September 29, 2021, the Objectors filed an application for leave to appeal the FCA decision with the Supreme Court of Canada (“SCC”). On March 24, 2022, the SCC leave application was dismissed. The Board’s redetermination of the valuation issues could subject the Company to significantly increased royalty rates for the 2016-2018 period.

Privacy and Anti-Spam Legislation

The Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry was directed, pursuant to a mandate letter issued December 16, 2021, to introduce legislation to advance the Digital Charter, strengthen privacy protections for consumers and provide a clear set of rules that ensure fair competition in the online marketplace.
Changes to privacy laws and regulations resulting from the reinstatement and passage of Digital Charter Implementation Act, 2020 or the introduction of a new privacy bill will require the Company to incur costs to adjust its policies and practices related to privacy, as well as data collection, management, disposal and access practices. Such changes could: result in significant new costs payable by the Company to ensure compliance; limit the Company’s ability to utilize data in support of its business, as well as preserve and expand its customer base; and expose the Company to the risk of significant penalties and claims (including pursuant to a proposed right of private action) in connection with any non-compliance.


CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION
(unaudited)

(millions of Canadian dollars)February 28, 2022
 August 31, 2021
       
ASSETS     
Current     
 Cash and cash equivalents351  355 
 Accounts receivable361  301 
 Income taxes recoverable11  87 
 Inventories69  63 
 Other current assets [note 4]364  331 
 Current portion of contract assets [note 13]74  97 
  1,230  1,234 
Investments and other assets [note 18]70  70 
Property, plant and equipment5,892  6,019 
Other long-term assets [note 5]183  163 
Deferred income tax assets2  2 
Intangibles8,005  7,996 
Goodwill280  280 
Contract assets [note 13]25  28 
  15,687  15,792 
       
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY     
Current     
 Short-term borrowings [note 7]200  200 
 Accounts payable and accrued liabilities857  988 
 Provisions [note 8]47  46 
 Current portion of contract liabilities [note 13]204  213 
 Current portion of long-term debt [notes 9 and 18]1  1 
 Current portion of lease liabilities [note 6]112  110 
 Current portion of derivatives-  2 
  1,421  1,560 
Long-term debt [notes 9 and 18]4,550  4,549 
Lease liabilities [note 6]1,086  1,135 
Other long-term liabilities [note 10]11  26 
Provisions [note 8]78  77 
Deferred credits381  389 
Contract liabilities [note 13]17  15 
Deferred income tax liabilities1,964  1,998 
  9,508  9,749 
Shareholders' equity [notes 11 and 16]     
Common and preferred shareholders6,179  6,043 
  15,687  15,792 
       
See accompanying notes.     
      


CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(unaudited)

   Three months ended
February 28,
 Six months ended
February 28,
(millions of Canadian dollars)2022 2021  2022 2021 
Revenue [notes 3 and 13]1,359 1,387  2,745 2,757 
Operating, general and administrative expenses [note 14](727)(750) (1,480)(1,513)
Restructuring costs [note 14]- (1) - (13)
Amortization:     
 Deferred equipment revenue3 3  5 6 
 Deferred equipment costs(9)(12) (19)(25)
 Property, plant and equipment, intangibles and other(299)(294) (591)(589)
Operating income327 333  660 623 
  Amortization of financing costs – long-term debt- -  (1)(1)
  Interest expense [note 9](65)(67) (130)(133)
  Other gains (losses) [note 15](5)26  (9)24 
Income before income taxes257 292  520 513 
  Current income tax expense [note 3]83 44  173 80 
  Deferred income tax (recovery) expense(22)31  (45)53 
Net income196 217  392 380 
Net income attributable to:     
Equity shareholders196 217  392 380 
        
Earnings per share: [note 12]     
Basic0.39 0.43  0.79 0.74 
Diluted0.39 0.43  0.78 0.74 
        
See accompanying notes.     
      


CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(unaudited)

   Three months ended
February 28,
 Six months ended
February 28,
(millions of Canadian dollars)2022 2021  2022 2021 
Net income196 217  392 380 
         
Other comprehensive income [note 16]      
Items that may subsequently be reclassified to income:      
  Change in unrealized fair value of derivatives designated as cash flow hedges(1)(1) 1 (2)
  Adjustment for hedged items recognized in the period- 1  1 2 
   (1)-  2 - 
Items that will not subsequently be reclassified to income:      
Remeasurements on employee benefit plans19 28  31 23 
   18 28  33 23 
Comprehensive income214 245  425 403 
Comprehensive income attributable to:      
 Equity shareholders214 245  425 403 
         
See accompanying notes.      
       


CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
(unaudited)

Six months ended February 28, 2022      
 Attributable to equity shareholders 
(millions of Canadian dollars)Share
capital
Contributed
surplus
Retained
earnings
Accumulated
other
comprehensive
loss
Total
equity
Balance as at September 1, 20214,199 27 1,876 (59)6,043 
Net income- - 392 - 392 
Other comprehensive income- - - 33 33 
Comprehensive income- - 392 33 425 
Dividends- - (296)- (296)
Shares issued under stock option plan7 (1)- - 6 
Share-based compensation- 1 - - 1 
Balance as at February 28, 20224,206 27 1,972 (26)6,179 


Six months ended February 28, 2021      
 Attributable to equity shareholders 
(millions of Canadian dollars)Share
capital
Contributed
surplus
Retained
earnings
Accumulated
other
comprehensive
loss
Total
equity
Balance as at September 1, 20204,602 27 1,703 (99)6,233 
Net income- - 380 - 380 
Other comprehensive income- - - 23 23 
Comprehensive income- - 380 23 403 
Dividends- - (300)- (300)
Shares issued under stock option plan1 - - - 1 
Shares repurchased(116)- (184)- (300)
Balance as at February 28, 20214,487 27 1,599 (76)6,037 
       
See accompanying notes.      
       


CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(unaudited)

 Three months ended
February 28,
 Six months ended
February 28,
(millions of Canadian dollars)2022 2021  2022 2021 
OPERATING ACTIVITIES     
Funds flow from operations [note 17]496 539  987 1,027 
Net change in non-cash balances(9)(66) (138)(254)
 487 473  849 773 
INVESTING ACTIVITIES     
Additions to property, plant and equipment [note 3](208)(218) (415)(414)
Additions to equipment costs (net) [note 3](4)(5) (8)(12)
Additions to other intangibles [note 3](46)(34) (86)(76)
Net additions to investments and other assets(1)-  (1)(1)
Proceeds on disposal of property, plant and equipment3 3  4 17 
 (256)(254) (506)(486)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES     
Payment of lease liabilities [note 6](28)(27) (58)(58)
Issue of Class B Shares [note 11]4 1  7 1 
Purchase of Class B Shares- (225) - (300)
Dividends paid on Class A Shares and Class B Shares(148)(149) (296)(301)
Dividends paid on Preferred Shares- (2) - (4)
 (172)(402) (347)(662)
Increase (Decrease) in cash59 (183) (4)(375)
Cash, beginning of the period292 571  355 763 
Cash, end of the period351 388  351 388 
      
See accompanying notes.     
      


NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(unaudited)

February 28, 2022 and February 28, 2021
[all amounts in millions of Canadian dollars, except share and per share amounts]

1.   CORPORATE INFORMATION

Shaw Communications Inc. (the “Company”) is a diversified Canadian connectivity company whose core operating business is providing: Cable telecommunications, Satellite video services and data networking to residential customers, businesses and public-sector entities (“Wireline”); and wireless services for voice and data communications (“Wireless”). The Company’s shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX), TSX Venture Exchange (TSXV) and New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) (Symbol: TSX - SJR.B, NYSE - SJR, and TSXV - SJR.A).

On March 15, 2021, the Company announced that it had entered into an arrangement agreement (the “Arrangement Agreement”) with Rogers Communications Inc. (“Rogers”), under which Rogers will acquire all of Shaw’s issued and outstanding Class A Participating Shares (“Class A Shares”) and Class B Non-Voting Participating Shares (“Class B Shares”) in a transaction valued at approximately $26 billion, inclusive of approximately $6 billion of Shaw debt (the “Transaction”). Holders of Shaw Class A Shares and Class B Shares (other than the Shaw Family Living Trust, the controlling shareholder of Shaw, and related persons (collectively the “Shaw Family Shareholders”)) will receive $40.50 per share in cash. The Shaw Family Shareholders will receive 60% of the consideration for their shares in the form of Class B Non-Voting Shares of Rogers (the “Rogers Shares”) on the basis of the volume-weighted average trading price for the Rogers Shares for the 10 trading days ending March 12, 2021, and the balance in cash.

The Transaction is being implemented by way of a court-approved plan of arrangement under the Business Corporations Act (Alberta). At the special meeting of Shaw shareholders held on May 20, 2021, the Company obtained approval of the plan of arrangement by the holders of Shaw’s Class A Shares and Class B Shares in the manner required by the interim order granted by the Court of Queen’s Bench of Alberta on April 19, 2021. On May 25, 2021, the Court of Queen’s Bench of Alberta issued a final order approving the plan of arrangement.

On March 24, 2022, the Canadian Radio television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) completed its comprehensive review and approved the transfer of Shaw’s licenced broadcasting undertakings to Rogers, marking an important milestone towards closing of the Transaction. The Transaction remains subject to other customary closing conditions including approvals from the Competition Bureau and Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED). Subject to the receipt of all required approvals, and the satisfaction of all closing conditions, the Transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2022.

2.   BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Statement of compliance

These condensed interim consolidated financial statements of the Company have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and in compliance with International Accounting Standard (IAS) 34 Interim Financial Reporting as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB).

The condensed interim consolidated financial statements of the Company for the three and six months ended February 28, 2022 were authorized for issue by the Board of Directors on April 12, 2022.

Basis of presentation

These condensed interim consolidated financial statements have been prepared primarily under the historical cost convention except as detailed in the significant accounting policies disclosed in the Company’s consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 2021 and are expressed in millions of Canadian dollars unless otherwise indicated. The condensed interim consolidated statements of income are presented using the nature classification for expenses.

The notes presented in these condensed interim consolidated financial statements include only significant events and transactions occurring since the Company’s last fiscal year end and are not fully inclusive of all matters required to be disclosed by IFRS in the Company’s annual consolidated financial statements. As a result, these condensed interim consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the Company’s consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 2021.

The condensed interim consolidated financial statements follow the same accounting policies and methods of application as the most recent annual consolidated financial statements.

3.   BUSINESS SEGMENT INFORMATION

The Company’s chief operating decision makers are the Executive Chair & Chief Executive Officer, the President, and the Executive Vice President, Chief Financial & Corporate Development Officer and they review the operating performance of the Company by segments, which are comprised of Wireline and Wireless. The chief operating decision makers utilize adjusted earnings before interest, income taxes, depreciation and amortization (“adjusted EBITDA”) for each segment as a key measure in making operating decisions and assessing performance.

The Wireline segment provides Cable telecommunications services including Video, Internet, WiFi, Phone, Satellite Video and data networking through a national fibre-optic backbone network to Canadian consumers, North American businesses and public-sector entities. The Wireless segment provides wireless services for voice and data communications serving customers in Ontario, British Columbia and Alberta through Freedom Mobile and in British Columbia and Alberta through Shaw Mobile.

Both of the Company’s reportable segments are substantially located in Canada. Information on operations by segment is as follows:

Operating information

  Three months ended
February 28,
 Six months ended
February 28,
  2022 2021  2022 2021 
Revenue     
 Wireline1,040 1,054  2,097 2,110 
 Wireless323 336  655 653 
  1,363 1,390  2,752 2,763 
Intersegment eliminations(4)(3) (7)(6)
  1,359 1,387  2,745 2,757 
Adjusted EBITDA(1)     
 Wireline509 540  1,033 1,072 
 Wireless123 97  232 172 
  632 637  1,265 1,244 
Restructuring costs- (1) - (13)
Amortization(305)(303) (605)(608)
Operating income327 333  660 623 
       
Current taxes     
 Operating81 43  168 78 
 Other/non-operating2 1  5 2 
  83 44  173 80 


(1) Adjusted EBITDA does not have any standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and is therefore unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers; the Company defines adjusted EBITDA as revenues less operating, general and administrative expenses.
   


Capital expenditures     
  Three months ended
February 28,
 Six months ended
February 28,
  2022 2021  2022 2021 
Capital expenditures accrual basis     
 Wireline214 174  400 328 
 Wireless30 71  69 144 
  244 245  469 472 
Equipment costs (net of revenue)     
 Wireline5 5  9 12 
       
Capital expenditures and equipment costs (net)     
 Wireline219 179  409 340 
 Wireless30 71  69 144 
  249 250  478 484 
       
Reconciliation to Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows     
 Additions to property, plant and equipment208 218  415 414 
 Additions to equipment costs (net)4 5  8 12 
 Additions to other intangibles46 34  86 76 
 Total of capital expenditures and equipment costs (net) per
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
258 257  509 502 
 Increase/(decrease) in working capital and other     
 liabilities related to capital expenditures(6)(4) (27)(1)
 Less: Proceeds on disposal of property, plant and equipment(3)(3) (4)(17)
 Total capital expenditures and equipment costs (net) reported
by segments
249 250  478 484 
           

4.   OTHER CURRENT ASSETS

  February 28, 2022
August 31, 2021
Prepaid expenses112 103 
Costs incurred to obtain or fulfill a contract with a customer(1)63 59 
Wireless handset receivables(2)187 168 
Current portion of derivatives2 1 
  364 331 


(1) Costs incurred to obtain or fulfill a contract with a customer are capitalized and subsequently amortized as an expense over the average life of a customer.
(2) As described in the revenue and expenses accounting policy detailed in the significant accounting policies disclosed in the Company’s consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 2021, these amounts relate to the current portion of wireless handset receivables.
   

5.   OTHER LONG-TERM ASSETS

  February 28, 2022
August 31, 2021
Equipment costs subject to a deferred revenue arrangement40 49 
Long-term Wireless handset receivables56 45 
Costs incurred to obtain or fulfill a contract with a customer35 33 
Credit facility arrangement fees2 3 
Pension assets(1)22 - 
Other28 33 
  183 163 


(1) In the first and second quarters of the fiscal year, the accumulated benefit obligation of the Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan was adjusted by $17 and $25, respectively, as a result of a 80 bps increase in the discount rate from August 31, 2021, resulting in the plan being in a net asset position as at February 28, 2022.
   

6.   LEASE LIABILITIES

Below is a summary of the activity related to the Company’s lease liabilities.

August 31, 20211,245 
Net additions11 
Interest on lease liabilities21 
Interest payments on lease liabilities(21)
Principal payments of lease liabilities(58)
Balance as at February 28, 20221,198 
  
Current110 
Long-term1,135 
Balance as at August 31, 20211,245 
Current112 
Long-term1,086 
Balance as at February 28, 20221,198 
   

7.   SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS

A summary of our accounts receivable securitization program is as follows:

 Three months ended
February 28,
 Six months ended
February 28,
 2022 2021  2022 2021 
Accounts receivable securitization program, beginning of period200 200  200 200 
Accounts receivable securitization program, end of period200 200  200 200 


 February 28, 2022August 31, 2021
Trade accounts receivable sold to buyer as security450 416 
Short-term borrowings from buyer(200)(200)
Over-collateralization250 216 
   

8.   PROVISIONS

 Asset
    
 retirement
Restructuring   
 obligations
(1)Other
Total
 $
$$
$
Balance as at August 31, 202177 2 44 123 
Additions- - 2 2 
Accretion1 - - 1 
Payments- (1)- (1)
Balance as at February 28, 202278 1 46 125 
       
Current- 2 44 46 
Long-term77 - - 77 
Balance as at August 31, 202177 2 44 123 
       
Current- 1 46 47 
Long-term78 - - 78 
Balance as at February 28, 202278 1 46 125 


(1) During fiscal 2018 the Company offered a voluntary departure program to a group of eligible employees as part of a total business transformation initiative and in fiscal 2021 made a number of changes to its organizational structure in an effort to streamline the business, consolidate certain functions, and reduce redundancies between the Wireless and Wireline segments. A total of $1 has been paid in fiscal 2022 relating to these initiatives. The remaining costs are expected to be paid out within the next 11 months.
   

9.   LONG-TERM DEBT

  February 28, 2022 August 31, 2021
  Effective
interest
rates
Long-term
debt at
amortized
cost(1)
Adjustment
for finance
costs (1)
Long-term
debt
repayable
at maturity
 Long-term
debt at
amortized
cost(1)
Adjustment
for finance
costs (1)
Long-term
debt
repayable
at maturity
  %$$$ $$$
Corporate        
Cdn fixed rate senior notes-        
 3.80% due November 2, 20233.804991500 4991500
 4.35% due January 31, 20244.354991500 4991500
 3.80% due March 1, 20273.842991300 2991300
 4.40% due November 2, 20284.404964500 4973500
 3.30% due December 10, 20293.414964500 4964500
 2.90% due December 9, 20302.924973500 4964500
 6.75% due November 9, 20396.891,422281,450 1,421291,450
 4.25% due December 9, 20494.332964300 2964300
   4,504464,550 4,503474,550
Other        
Burrard Landing Lot 2 Holdings
Partnership
Various47-47 47-47
Total consolidated debt 4,551464,597 4,550474,597
Less current portion(2) 1-1 1-1
   4,550464,596 4,549474,596


(1) Long-term debt is presented net of unamortized discounts and finance costs.
(2) Current portion of long-term debt includes amounts due within one year in respect of the Burrard Landing loans.
   

Interest Expense

 Three months ended
February 28,
 Six months ended
February 28,
 2022 2021  2022 2021 
Interest expense – long-term debt55 56  110 111 
Interest income – short-term (net)- -  (1)- 
Interest on lease liabilities (note 6)10 11  21 22 
 65 67  130 133 
          

10.   OTHER LONG-TERM LIABILITIES

  February 28, 2022
August 31, 2021
Pension liabilities(1)7 21 
Post retirement liabilities4 5 
  11 26 


(1) In the first and second quarters of the fiscal year, the accumulated benefit obligation of the Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan was adjusted by $17 and $25, respectively, as a result of a 80 bps increase in the discount rate from August 31, 2021, resulting in the plan being in a net asset position as at February 28, 2022.
   

11.   SHARE CAPITAL

Changes in share capital during the six months ended February 28, 2022 are as follows:

 Class A
Shares
 Class B
Shares
 Number
$
 Number
$
August 31, 202122,372,064 2  476,537,262 4,197 
Issued upon stock option plan exercises- -  251,880 7 
Issued upon restricted share unit exercises- -  10,085 - 
February 28, 202222,372,064 2  476,799,227 4,204 
          

Normal Course Issuer Bid

On November 2, 2020, the Company announced that it had received approval from the TSX to establish a normal course issuer bid (NCIB) program. The program commenced on November 5, 2020 and ended November 4, 2021. As approved by the TSX, the Company had the ability to purchase for cancellation up to 24,532,404 Class B Shares representing approximately 5% of all of the issued and outstanding Class B Shares as at October 22, 2020. In connection with the announcement of the Transaction on March 15, 2021 (as discussed in more detail in Note 1), the Company suspended share buybacks under its NCIB program.

12.   EARNINGS PER SHARE

Earnings per share calculations are as follows:

 Three months ended
February 28,
 Six months ended
February 28,
 2022 2021  2022 2021 
Numerator for basic and diluted earnings per share ($)       
Net income196 217  392 380 
Deduct: dividends on Preferred Shares- (2) - (4)
Net income attributable to common shareholders196 215  392 376 
Denominator (millions of shares)       
Weighted average number of Class A Shares and Class B Shares for basic earnings per share499 505  499 509 
Effect of dilutive securities (1)2 -  2 - 
Weighted average number of Class A Shares and Class B Shares for diluted earnings per share501 505  501 509 
Earnings per share ($)       
Basic0.39 0.43  0.79 0.74 
Diluted0.39 0.43  0.78 0.74 


(1) The earnings per share calculation does not take into consideration the potential dilutive effect of certain stock options since their impact is anti-dilutive. For the three and six months ended February 28, 2022, nil (February 28, 2021 – 8,199,698) and nil (February 28, 2021 – 7,852,637) options were excluded from the diluted earnings per share calculation, respectively.
   

13.   REVENUE

Contract assets and liabilities

The table below provides a reconciliation of the significant changes to the current and long-term portion of contract assets and liabilities balances during the year.

 Contract Contract
 Assets Liabilities
Balance as at August 31, 2021125  228 
Increase in contract assets from revenue recognized during the year50  - 
Contract assets transferred to trade receivables(65) - 
Contract terminations transferred to trade receivables(11) - 
Revenue recognized included in contract liabilities at the beginning of the year-  (217)
Increase in contract liabilities during the year-  210 
Balance as at February 28, 202299  221 


 Contract Contract
 Assets Liabilities
Current97  213 
Long-term28  15 
Balance as at August 31, 2021125  228 
Current74  204 
Long-term25  17 
Balance as at February 28, 202299  221 
      

Deferred commission cost assets

The table below provides a summary of the changes in the deferred commission cost assets recognized from the incremental costs incurred to obtain contracts with customers during the six months ended February 28, 2022. We believe these amounts to be recoverable through the revenue earned from the related contracts. The deferred commission cost assets are presented within other current assets (when they will be amortized into net income within twelve months of the date of the financial statements) or other long-term assets.

August 31, 202192 
Additions to deferred commission cost assets46 
Amortization recognized on deferred commission cost assets(40)
Balance as at February 28, 202298 
  
Current59 
Long-term33 
Balance as at August 31, 202192 
Current63 
Long-term35 
Balance as at February 28, 202298 
   

Commission costs are amortized over a period ranging from 24 to 36 months.

Disaggregation of revenue

  Three months ended
February 28,
 Six months ended
February 28,
  2022 2021  2022 2021 
Services     
 Wireline - Consumer887 909  1,783 1,820 
 Wireline - Business153 145  314 290 
 Wireless238 218  477 433 
  1,278 1,272  2,574 2,543 
Equipment and other      
 Wireless85 118  178 220 
  85 118  178 220 
Intersegment eliminations(4)(3) (7)(6)
Total revenue1,359 1,387  2,745 2,757 
          

Remaining performance obligations

The following table includes revenues expected to be recognized in the future related to performance obligations that are unsatisfied (or partially unsatisfied) as at February 28, 2022.

 WithinWithinWithinWithinWithin  
 1 year2 years3 years4 years5 yearsThereafterTotal
Wireline1,762822169912842,876
Wireless345111----456
Total2,107933169912843,332
        

When estimating minimum transaction prices allocated to the remaining unfilled, or partially unfulfilled, performance obligations, Shaw applied the practical expedient to not disclose information about remaining performance obligations that have original expected duration of one year or less and for those contracts where we bill the same value as that which is transferred to the customer. The estimated amounts disclosed are based upon contractual terms and maturities. Revenues recognized based on actual minimum transaction price, and the timing thereof, will differ from these estimates due to the frequency with which the actual durations of contracts with customers do not match their contractual maturities.

14.   OPERATING, GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES AND RESTRUCTURING COSTS

 Three months ended
February 28,
 Six months ended
February 28,
 2022 2021  2022 2021 
Employee salaries and benefits(1)170 154  334 307 
Purchase of goods and services557 597  1,146 1,219 
 727 751  1,480 1,526 


(1) For the three and six months ended February 28, 2022, employee salaries and benefits include $nil (February 28, 2021 - $1) and $nil (February 28, 2021 - $13) in restructuring costs, respectively.
   

15.   OTHER GAINS (LOSSES)

 Three months ended
February 28,
 Six months ended
February 28,
 2022 2021  2022 2021 
Gain on disposal of fixed assets2 1  2 1 
Fair value adjustment for private investments 27   27 
Transaction costs (1)(3)  (5) 
Other (2)(4)(2) (6)(4)
 (5)26  (9)24 


(1) The Company has incurred a number of Transaction-related advisory, legal, financial, and other professional fees in connection with the proposed acquisition of Shaw by Rogers. As these costs do not relate to ongoing operations, they have been classified as non-operating expenses. Please refer to Note 1 for further details on the Transaction.
(2) Other gains (losses) generally includes realized and unrealized foreign exchange gains and losses on US dollar denominated current assets and liabilities and the Company’s share of the operations of Burrard Landing Lot 2 Holdings Partnership.
   

16.   OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME AND ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE LOSS

Components of other comprehensive income and the related income tax effects for the three months ended February 28, 2022 are as follows:

   AmountIncome taxesNet
Items that may subsequently be reclassified to income   
  Change in unrealized fair value of derivatives designated as cash flow hedges(2)1 (1)
  Adjustment for hedged items recognized in the period- - - 
   (2)1 (1)
Items that will not be subsequently reclassified to income   
 Remeasurements on employee benefit plans26 (7)19 
   24 (6)18 
         

Components of other comprehensive income and the related income tax effects for the six months ended February 28, 2022 are as follows:

   Amount
Income taxesNet
Items that may subsequently be reclassified to income     
  Change in unrealized fair value of derivatives designated as cash flow hedges1 - 1 
  Adjustment for hedged items recognized in the period1 - 1 
   2 - 2 
Items that will not be subsequently reclassified to income     
 Remeasurements on employee benefit plans42 (11)31 
   44 (11)33 
         

Components of other comprehensive income and the related income tax effects for the three months ended February 28, 2021 are as follows:

  AmountIncome taxesNet
Items that may subsequently be reclassified to income   
 Change in unrealized fair value of derivatives designated as cash flow hedges(1)- (1)
 Adjustment for hedged items recognized in the period1 - 1 
  - - - 
Items that will not be subsequently reclassified to income   
 Remeasurements on employee benefit plans38 (10)28 
  38 (10)28 
        

Components of other comprehensive income and the related income tax effects for the six months ended February 28, 2021 are as follows:

  AmountIncome taxesNet
Items that may subsequently be reclassified to income   
 Change in unrealized fair value of derivatives designated as cash flow hedges(2)- (2)
 Adjustment for hedged items recognized in the period2 - 2 
  - - - 
Items that will not be subsequently reclassified to income   
 Remeasurements on employee benefit plans31 (8)23 
  31 (8)23 
        

Accumulated other comprehensive loss is comprised of the following:

   February 28, 2022 August 31, 2021
Items that may subsequently be reclassified to income   
  Change in unrealized fair value of derivatives designated as cash flow hedges1  (1)
      
Items that will not be subsequently reclassified to income   
 Remeasurements on employee benefit plans(27) (58)
   (26) (59)
        

17.   CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(i)         Funds flow from operations

  Three months ended
February 28,
 Six months ended
February 28,
  2022 2021  2022 2021 
Net income from operations196 217  392 380 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to funds flow from operations:     
 Amortization305 303  606 609 
 Deferred income tax expense (recovery)(22)31  (45)53 
 Share-based compensation1 1  1 1 
 Defined benefit pension plans2 3  5 3 
 Net change in contract asset balances12 13  25 8 
 Fair value adjustments for private investments- (27) - (27)
 Other2 (2) 3 - 
Funds flow from operations 496 539  987 1,027 
       

(ii)         Interest and income taxes paid and interest received and classified as operating activities are as follows:

 Three months ended
February 28,
 Six months ended
February 28,
 2022 2021  2022 2021 
Interest paid34 35  112 110 
Income taxes paid (net of refunds)43 64  97 158 
Interest received- 1  1 3 
          

18.   FAIR VALUE

Fair value estimates are made at a specific point in time, based on relevant market information and information about the financial instrument. These estimates are subjective in nature and involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgment and, therefore, cannot be determined with precision. Changes in assumptions could significantly affect the estimates.

Financial instruments

The fair value of financial instruments has been determined as follows:

(i)  Current assets and current liabilities

The fair value of financial instruments included in current assets and current liabilities approximates their carrying value due to their short-term nature.

(ii) Investments and other assets and other long-term assets

The fair value of publicly traded investments is determined by quoted market prices. Investments in private entities which do not have quoted market prices in an active market and whose fair value cannot be readily measured are carried at approximate fair value. No published market exists for such investments. These equity investments have been made as they are considered to have the potential to provide future benefit to the Company and accordingly, the Company has no current intention to dispose of these investments in the near term. The fair value of long-term receivables approximates their carrying value as they are recorded at the net present values of their future cash flows, using an appropriate discount rate.

(iii) Long-term debt

The carrying value of long-term debt is at amortized cost based on the initial fair value as determined at the time of issuance or at the time of a business acquisition. The fair value of publicly traded notes is based upon current trading values. The fair value of finance lease obligations is determined by discounting future cash flows using a rate for loans with similar terms, conditions and maturity dates. The carrying value of bank credit facilities approximates fair value as the debt bears interest at rates that fluctuate with market values. Other notes and debentures are valued based upon current trading values for similar instruments.

The carrying value and estimated fair value of long-term debt are as follows:

 February 28, 2022 August 31, 2021
 Carrying
value
Estimated
fair value
 Carrying
value
Estimated
fair value
Liabilities         
Long-term debt (including current portion)(1)4,551 4,896  4,550 5,263 


(1) Level 2 fair value – determined by valuation techniques using inputs based on observable market data, either directly or indirectly, other than quoted prices.
   

(iv) Derivative financial instruments

The fair value of US currency forward purchase contracts is determined by an estimated credit-adjusted mark-to-market valuation using observable forward exchange rates at the end of reporting periods and contract forward rates.

19.        INTANGIBLES AND GOODWILL

Impairment testing of indefinite-life intangibles and goodwill

The Company performs its annual impairment test on goodwill and indefinite-life intangibles as at February 1 each year. There have been no changes to the assets and liabilities making up the CGUs since the last test performed as at February 1, 2021. The prior test also resulted in a recoverable amount that exceeded the carrying amount by a substantial margin. The Company performed a qualitative assessment of the factors impacting the determination of recoverable amount and concluded that the likelihood that a recoverable amount calculation as at February 1, 2022, would be less than the carrying amount of the CGUs is remote. As such, the key assumptions used in the impairment test remain consistent with those disclosed for the February 1, 2021 test.


FAQ

What were Shaw Communications' total revenues for Q2 fiscal 2022?

Shaw Communications reported total revenues of $1.36 billion for Q2 fiscal 2022.

How much did Shaw's adjusted EBITDA decrease in Q2 fiscal 2022?

Shaw's adjusted EBITDA decreased by 0.8% to $632 million in Q2 fiscal 2022.

What is the status of the Rogers-Shaw transaction?

The Rogers-Shaw transaction received key regulatory approval from the CRTC and aims to close in the first half of 2022, pending additional approvals.

What is Shaw's net income for the second quarter?

Shaw's net income for Q2 fiscal 2022 was $196 million, a decrease of 9.7% from the previous year.

How much did Shaw's free cash flow decrease in Q2 fiscal 2022?

Shaw's free cash flow decreased by 12.5% to $217 million for Q2 fiscal 2022.

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