Warner Music Group Corp. Reports Results for Fiscal Second Quarter Ended March 31, 2024

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Insights

Warner Music Group's recent financial results display a solid performance, particularly noting a 7% increase in total revenue driven largely by growth in Recorded Music and Music Publishing segments. The double-digit surge in Music Publishing revenue by 19% and operating income rise of 33% captures a strong expansion in this area, outweighing a slight 4% dip in operating income in the broader context.

Increased net income from $37 million to $96 million, a noteworthy 160% increase, signals robust financial health, while the substantial growth in net income, primarily attributable to favorable exchange rates and a net gain on divestiture, is commendable. It's important for investors to assess the impact of non-recurring items on net income to understand the sustainability of profit growth. Despite a healthy uptick in OIBDA, a 9% increase and constant cash flow conversion guidance, investors should note the 4% decline in operating income and increased cash usage in operating activities which may signal underlying challenges.

It's paramount to analyze the strategic restructuring plan's long-term benefits against the short-term costs, such as restructuring and impairment charges. For stakeholders, the key takeaway is the company's ability to grow organically and through reinvestments, which can enhance WMG's long-term value proposition.

The shift towards streaming is emphatically underscored by double-digit increases in both Recorded Music and Music Publishing streaming revenues, at 7.1% and 30.3%, respectively. This uptick is consistent with industry trends, where streaming is a major growth driver for music companies. However, the decline in Recorded Music physical and artist services revenue serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing industry shift from traditional physical sales to digital platforms.

The report details a capital expenditure decrease by 26%, indicating a potential alleviation in near-term cash outflows, which could improve free cash flows. The strategic position in artist and songwriter development highlighted by CEO Robert Kyncl could be a differentiating factor in the music industry's competitive environment. However, the increase in cash used in operating activities may imply a need for careful working capital management.

WMG’s commitment to diverse genre representation and their results in both Recorded Music and Music Publishing suggest a strategic edge in adapting to a multifaceted market. As the industry evolves, WMG's ability to nurture talent across various demographics could secure its market position amid changing consumer preferences.

Investors should recognize the nuances of restructuring charges and non-cash impairment charges affecting operating income, which, despite sounding alarming, might be a calculated step towards efficiency. The broad international footprint and the impact of currency fluctuations on the Euro-denominated debt, exhibited through a $21 million gain, demonstrate a complex yet potentially beneficial relationship with the global financial market for a company with an international presence like WMG.

05/09/2024 - 07:30 AM

Financial Highlights

Solid Results Driven by Growth Across Recorded Music and Music Publishing
Recorded Music Results Underpinned by an Acceleration in Subscription Streaming
Music Publishing Delivered Revenue Growth of 19%
Reiterating Full-Year Operating Cash Flow Conversion Guidance of 50-60%

For the three months ended March 31, 2024

Total revenue increased 7%, the same in constant currency
Net income was $96 million versus $37 million in the prior-year quarter
Operating income decreased 4% to $119 million versus $124 million in the prior-year quarter
Adjusted OIBDA increased 9% to $312 million, versus $286 million in the prior-year quarter, the same in constant currency
Cash used in operating activities increased to $31 million, versus $6 million in the prior-year quarter

NEW YORK, May 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Warner Music Group Corp. today announced its second-quarter financial results for the period ended March 31, 2024.

“This quarter we saw a healthy, dynamic mix of hits across a range of genres, geographies, and generations,” said Robert Kyncl, CEO of Warner Music Group. “With our commitment to artist and songwriter development as our guiding principle, we continue to discover great talent, build sustainable careers, champion the value of music, and grow the catalog of tomorrow. We are positioning WMG for long term growth and look forward to delivering successful music in the second half of 2024 and beyond.”

“Our performance in the quarter was driven by an acceleration in Recorded Music subscription streaming growth and continued momentum in Music Publishing,” said Bryan Castellani, CFO, Warner Music Group. “Encouraged by the continued growth in engagement and value of music, we remain focused on delivering on our strategy and driving long-term shareholder value.”

Total WMG

Total WMG Summary Results
(dollars in millions)

	For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2024			For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2023			% Change		For the Six Months Ended March 31, 2024		For the Six Months Ended March 31, 2023		% Change
	(unaudited)			(unaudited)					(unaudited)		(unaudited)
Revenue	$	1,494		$	1,399		7	%	$	3,242	$	2,887	12	%
Recorded Music revenue		1,189			1,143		4	%		2,634		2,382	11	%
Music Publishing revenue		306			257		19	%		610		507	20	%
Operating income		119			124		-4	%		473		389	22	%
Adjusted OIBDA⁽¹⁾		312			286		9	%		763		621	23	%
Net income		96			37		—	%		289		161	80	%
Net cash (used for) provided by operating activities		(31	)		(6	)	—	%		262		203	29	%
Free Cash Flow		(57	)		(41	)	39	%		207		147	41	%

^{(1) See "Supplemental Disclosures Regarding Non-GAAP Financial Measures" at the end of this release for details regarding this measure.}

Revenue was up 6.8% (or 6.9% in constant currency). Consistent with the prior quarter, Recorded Music digital revenue growth was unfavorably impacted by the termination of the distribution agreement with BMG (the “BMG Termination”), which resulted in $22 million less revenue compared to the prior-year quarter, and a $4 million unfavorable impact within Recorded Music streaming revenue due to a renewal with one of the Company’s digital partners (the “Digital License Renewal”), which resulted in upfront revenue recognition in the prior quarter. Excluding the BMG Termination and the Digital License Renewal, total revenue was up 8.8% (or 9.0% in constant currency).

Digital revenue increased 9.9% (or 10.2% in constant currency) and streaming revenue increased 10.7% (or 11.1% in constant currency). Recorded Music streaming revenue increased 7.1% (or 7.7% in constant currency); however, adjusted for the impact of the BMG Termination and the Digital License Renewal, Recorded Music streaming revenue was up 10.5% (or 11.1% in constant currency). Music Publishing streaming revenue increased 30.3% (or 29.4% in constant currency). Revenue increases in the quarter were also driven by growth in Recorded Music licensing revenue and Music Publishing performance and synchronization revenue, partially offset by lower Recorded Music physical and artist services and expanded-rights revenue.

Operating income decreased 4.0% (or 3.3% in constant currency) from $124 million to $119 million primarily due to the factors affecting Adjusted OIBDA discussed below, as well as $95 million of restructuring and non-cash impairment charges, which includes severance costs of $46 million and an impairment loss of $50 million due to the exit of certain non-core owned and operated media properties pursuant to the Company’s restructuring plan announced in February 2024 (the “Strategic Restructuring Plan”), compared to $41 million of restructuring charges in the prior-year quarter, and $5 million of incremental expenses related to transformation initiatives and other related costs. The decrease in operating income was partially offset by lower non-cash stock-based compensation of $11 million, lower amortization expenses due to certain intangible assets becoming fully amortized of $4 million, and a $14 million net gain on a divestiture of certain music publishing rights in the quarter.

Adjusted OIBDA increased 9.1% from $286 million to $312 million (the same in constant currency) and Adjusted OIBDA margin increased 0.5 percentage points to 20.9% from 20.4% in the prior-year quarter (or increased 0.4 percentage points to 20.9% from 20.5% in constant currency). Adjusted OIBDA growth was primarily due to strong operating performance and $12 million of savings from the March 2023 restructuring plan (the “2023 Restructuring Plan”), partially offset by the reinvestment of these savings in the Company’s business including $6 million of incremental investment in technology in the quarter.

Net income was $96 million compared to $37 million in the prior-year quarter. The increase in net income was primarily due to the factors described above, and the impact of exchange rates on the Company’s Euro-denominated debt resulting in a gain of $21 million in the quarter compared to a loss of $20 million in the prior-year quarter, partially offset by an increase in interest expense, net, primarily due to increased costs on the Company’s variable rate debt.

Basic and Diluted earnings per share were $0.18 for both the Class A and Class B shareholders due to the net income attributable to the Company in the quarter of $96 million.

As of March 31, 2024, the Company reported a cash balance of $587 million, total debt of $3.984 billion and net debt (defined as total debt, net of deferred financing costs, premiums and discounts, minus cash and equivalents) of $3.397 billion.

Cash used in operating activities increased to $31 million in the quarter compared to $6 million in the prior-year quarter. The increase was largely due to increased artist and repertoire investment and the timing of working capital, partially offset by strong operating performance. Capital expenditures decreased 26% to $26 million from $35 million in the prior-year quarter, driven by the timing of investment in technology. Free Cash Flow, as defined below, decreased to a use of $57 million from a use of $41 million in the prior-year quarter.

Recorded Music

Recorded Music Summary Results
(dollars in millions)

	For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2024		For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2023		% Change		For the Six Months Ended March 31, 2024		For the Six Months Ended March 31, 2023		% Change
	(unaudited)		(unaudited)				(unaudited)		(unaudited)
Revenue	$	1,189	$	1,143	4	%	$	2,634	$	2,382	11	%
Operating income		134		151	-11	%		508		434	17	%
Adjusted OIBDA⁽¹⁾		272		249	9	%		684		548	25	%

^{(1) See "Supplemental Disclosures Regarding Non-GAAP Financial Measures" at the end of this release for details regarding this measure.}

Recorded Music Revenue
(dollars in millions)

	For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2024		For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2023		For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2023		For the Six Months Ended March 31, 2024		For the Six Months Ended March 31, 2023		For the Six Months Ended March 31, 2023
	As reported		As reported		Constant		As reported		As reported		Constant
	(unaudited)		(unaudited)		(unaudited)		(unaudited)		(unaudited)		(unaudited)
Digital	$	848	$	796	$	792	$	1,756	$	1,599	$	1,600
Physical		111		118		119		265		251		255
Total Digital and Physical		959		914		911		2,021		1,850		1,855
Artist services and expanded-rights		126		131		130		330		337		342
Licensing		104		98		99		283		195		198
Total Recorded Music	$	1,189	$	1,143	$	1,140	$	2,634	$	2,382	$	2,395

Recorded Music revenue was up 4.0% (or 4.3% in constant currency) driven by growth in digital and licensing revenue, partially offset by lower physical and artist services and expanded-rights revenue. Excluding the impact from the BMG Termination and the Digital License Renewal, Recorded Music revenue increased 6.4% (or 6.7% in constant currency). Digital revenue was up 6.5% (or 7.1% in constant currency) and streaming revenue was up 7.1% (or 7.7% in constant currency). Adjusted for the impact of the BMG Termination of $20 million and the Digital License Renewal of $4 million, Recorded Music streaming revenue was up 10.5% (or 11.1% in constant currency). Streaming revenue reflects growth in subscription revenue of 8.3% (or 8.8% in constant currency) and growth in ad-supported revenue of 3.9% (or 4.4% in constant currency). Adjusted for the BMG Termination and the Digital License Renewal, subscription revenue increased 12.8% (or 13.5% in constant currency). Licensing revenue increased 6.1% (or 5.1% in constant currency), driven by an increase in copyright infringement settlements. Physical revenue decreased 5.9% (or 6.7% in constant currency), primarily driven by the timing of new releases. Artist services and expanded-rights revenue decreased 3.8% (or 3.1% in constant currency) primarily due to lower merchandising revenue, partially offset by higher concert promotion revenue in France and Japan. Major sellers included Zach Bryan, Ed Sheeran, Jack Harlow and Green Day.

Recorded Music operating income was $134 million, a decrease from $151 million in the prior-year quarter, and operating margin was down 1.9 percentage points to 11.3% versus 13.2% in the prior-year quarter. The decrease in operating income was primarily driven by severance costs of $42 million and $47 million of impairment losses on unamortized intangibles primarily due to the exit of certain non-core owned and operated media properties in connection with the Strategic Restructuring Plan announced in February 2024, compared to $41 million of restructuring charges in the prior-year quarter, partially offset by lower amortization expenses of $7 million due to certain intangible assets becoming fully amortized.

Adjusted OIBDA increased 9.2% to $272 million from $249 million (the same in constant currency) and Adjusted OIBDA margin increased 1.1 percentage points to 22.9% from 21.8% in the prior-year quarter (the same in constant currency). The increases in Adjusted OIBDA and Adjusted OIBDA margin were driven by strong operating performance and $12 million of savings from the 2023 Restructuring Plan of which a portion has been reinvested in the Company’s business, partially offset by the unfavorable impact of exchange rates.

Music Publishing

Music Publishing Summary Results
(dollars in millions)

	For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2024		For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2023		% Change		For the Six Months Ended March 31, 2024		For the Six Months Ended March 31, 2023		% Change
	(unaudited)		(unaudited)				(unaudited)		(unaudited)
Revenue	$	306	$	257	19	%	$	610	$	507	20	%
Operating income		69		52	33	%		132		101	31	%
Adjusted OIBDA⁽¹⁾		82		76	8	%		168		148	14	%

^{(1) See "Supplemental Disclosures Regarding Non-GAAP Financial Measures" at the end of this release for details regarding this measure.}

Music Publishing Revenue
(dollars in millions)

	For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2024		For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2023		For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2023		For the Six Months Ended March 31, 2024		For the Six Months Ended March 31, 2023		For the Six Months Ended March 31, 2023
	As reported		As reported		Constant		As reported		As reported		Constant
	(unaudited)		(unaudited)		(unaudited)		(unaudited)		(unaudited)		(unaudited)
Performance	$	52	$	45	$	44	$	103	$	90	$	90
Digital		187		146		147		383		295		298
Mechanical		15		16		16		30		30		31
Synchronization		48		46		47		87		85		86
Other		4		4		4		7		7		7
Total Music Publishing	$	306	$	257	$	258	$	610	$	507	$	512

Music Publishing revenue increased 19.1% (or 18.6% in constant currency). The increase was driven by growth in digital, performance and synchronization revenue. Digital revenue increased 28.1% (or 27.2% in constant currency) and streaming revenue increased 30.3% (or 29.4% in constant currency), reflecting the continued growth in streaming, the impact of digital deal renewals and continued investment in the Company’s publishing catalog. Performance revenue increased 15.6% (or 18.2% in constant currency) due to strong artist touring activity in Europe. Mechanical revenue decreased $1 million or 6% (the same in constant currency), primarily driven by lower physical sales. Synchronization revenue grew 4.3% (or 2.1% in constant currency), driven by the timing of copyright infringement settlements.

Music Publishing operating income increased to $69 million compared to $52 million in the prior-year quarter and operating margin increased 2.3 percentage points to 22.5%. The increase in operating income was primarily driven by the same factors affecting Adjusted OIBDA discussed below, as well as a $14 million net gain on a divestiture of certain music publishing rights in the quarter.

Music Publishing Adjusted OIBDA increased 7.9% to $82 million (the same in constant currency) and Adjusted OIBDA margin decreased 2.8 percentage points to 26.8% from 29.6% in the prior-year quarter (or decreased 2.7 percentage points to 26.8% from 29.5% in constant currency). The increase in Adjusted OIBDA was driven by higher revenue, while the decrease in Adjusted OIBDA margin compared to the prior-year quarter is primarily attributable to revenue mix.

Financial details for the quarter can be found in the Company’s current Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2024, which will be filed this morning with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

This morning management will be hosting a conference call to discuss the results at 8:30 A.M. EST. The call will be webcast on www.wmg.com.

About Warner Music Group

With a legacy extending back over 200 years, Warner Music Group today is home to an unparalleled family of creative artists, songwriters, and companies that are moving culture across the globe. At the core of WMG’s Recorded Music division are four of the most iconic companies in history: Atlantic, Elektra, Parlophone and Warner Records. They are joined by renowned labels such as TenThousand Projects, 300 Entertainment, Asylum, Big Beat, Canvasback, East West, Erato, FFRR, Fueled by Ramen, Nonesuch, Reprise, Rhino, Roadrunner, Sire, Spinnin’ Records, Warner Classics and Warner Music Nashville. Warner Chappell Music – which traces its origins back to the founding of Chappell & Company in 1811 – is one of the world’s leading music publishers, with a catalog of more than one million copyrights spanning every musical genre from the standards of the Great American Songbook to the biggest hits of the 21st century.

“Safe Harbor” Statement under Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995

This communication includes forward-looking statements that reflect the current views of Warner Music Group about future events and financial performance. Words such as “estimates,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “projects,” “plans,” “intends,” “believes,” “forecasts” and variations of such words or similar expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends, or that do not relate to historical matters, identify forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements are made as of today, and we disclaim any duty to update such statements. Our expectations, beliefs and projections are expressed in good faith and we believe there is a reasonable basis for them. However, we cannot assure you that management’s expectations, beliefs and projections will result or be achieved. Investors should not rely on forward-looking statements because they are subject to a variety of risks, uncertainties, and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from our expectations. Please refer to our Form 10-K, Form 10-Qs and our other filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission concerning factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in our forward-looking statements.

We maintain an Internet site at www.wmg.com. We use our website as a channel of distribution for material company information. Financial and other material information regarding Warner Music Group is routinely posted on and accessible at http://investors.wmg.com. In addition, you may automatically receive email alerts and other information about Warner Music Group by enrolling your email address through the “email alerts” section at http://investors.wmg.com. Our website and the information posted on it or connected to it shall not be deemed to be incorporated by reference into this communication.

Figure 1. Warner Music Group Corp. – Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations, Three and Six Months Ended March 31, 2024 versus March 31, 2023
(dollars in millions)

	For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2024			For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2023			% Change
	(unaudited)			(unaudited)
Revenue	$	1,494		$	1,399		7	%
Cost and expenses:
Cost of revenue		(791	)		(721	)	10	%
Selling, general and administrative expenses		(446	)		(452	)	-1	%
Restructuring and impairments		(95	)		(41	)	—	%
Amortization expense		(57	)		(61	)	-7	%
Total costs and expenses	$	(1,389	)	$	(1,275	)	9	%
Net gain on divestiture		14			—		—	%
Operating income	$	119		$	124		-4	%
Loss on extinguishment of debt		—			—		—	%
Interest expense, net		(42	)		(35	)	20	%
Other income (expense), net		37			(31	)	—	%
Income before income taxes	$	114		$	58		97	%
Income tax expense		(18	)		(21	)	-14	%
Net income	$	96		$	37		—	%
Less: Income attributable to noncontrolling interest		—			(3	)	-100	%
Net income attributable to Warner Music Group Corp.	$	96		$	34		—	%

Net income per share attributable to common stockholders:
Class A – Basic and Diluted	$	0.18		$	0.06
Class B – Basic and Diluted	$	0.18		$	0.06

	For the Six Months Ended March 31, 2024			For the Six Months Ended March 31, 2023			% Change
	(unaudited)			(unaudited)
Revenue		3,242			2,887		12	%
Cost and expenses:
Cost of revenue		(1,671	)		(1,482	)	13	%
Selling, general and administrative expenses		(922	)		(892	)	3	%
Restructuring and impairments		(95	)		(41	)	—	%
Amortization expense		(112	)		(124	)	-10	%
Total costs and expenses		(2,800	)		(2,539	)	10	%
Net gain on divestiture		31			41		-24	%
Operating income		473			389		22	%
Loss on extinguishment of debt		—			—		—	%
Interest expense, net		(81	)		(67	)	21	%
Other expense, net		(13	)		(92	)	-86	%
Income before income taxes		379			230		65	%
Income tax expense		(90	)		(69	)	30	%
Net income		289			161		80	%
Less: Income attributable to noncontrolling interest		(34	)		(5	)	—	%
Net income attributable to Warner Music Group Corp.		255			156		63	%

Net income per share attributable to common stockholders:
Class A – Basic and Diluted	$	0.49		$	0.30
Class B – Basic and Diluted	$	0.49		$	0.30

Figure 2. Warner Music Group Corp. – Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets at March 31, 2024 versus September 30, 2023
(dollars in millions)

	March 31, 2024			September 30, 2023			% Change
	(unaudited)
Assets
Current assets:
Cash and equivalents	$	587		$	641		-8	%
Accounts receivable, net		1,197			1,120		7	%
Inventories		97			126		-23	%
Royalty advances expected to be recouped within one year		456			413		10	%
Prepaid and other current assets		113			102		11	%
Total current assets	$	2,450		$	2,402		2	%
Royalty advances expected to be recouped after one year		759			688		10	%
Property, plant and equipment, net		462			458		1	%
Operating lease right-of-use assets, net		233			245		-5	%
Goodwill		2,007			1,993		1	%
Intangible assets subject to amortization, net		2,318			2,353		-1	%
Intangible assets not subject to amortization		150			149		1	%
Deferred tax assets, net		30			32		-6	%
Other assets		322			225		43	%
Total assets	$	8,731		$	8,545		2	%
Liabilities and Equity
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	$	306		$	300		2	%
Accrued royalties		2,409			2,219		9	%
Accrued liabilities		465			533		-13	%
Accrued interest		18			18		—	%
Operating lease liabilities, current		43			41		5	%
Deferred revenue		234			371		-37	%
Other current liabilities		58			57		2	%
Total current liabilities	$	3,533		$	3,539		—	%
Long-term debt		3,984			3,964		1	%
Operating lease liabilities, noncurrent		239			255		-6	%
Deferred tax liabilities, net		236			216		9	%
Other noncurrent liabilities		154			141		9	%
Total liabilities	$	8,146		$	8,115		—	%
Equity:
Class A common stock	$	—		$	—		—	%
Class B common stock		1			1		—	%
Additional paid-in capital		2,043			2,015		1	%
Accumulated deficit		(1,310	)		(1,387	)	-6	%
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net		(301	)		(322	)	-7	%
Total Warner Music Group Corp. equity	$	433		$	307		41	%
Noncontrolling interest		152			123		24	%
Total equity		585			430		36	%
Total liabilities and equity	$	8,731		$	8,545		2	%

Figure 3. Warner Music Group Corp. – Summarized Statements of Cash Flows, Three and Six Months Ended March 31, 2024 versus March 31, 2023
(dollars in millions)

	For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2024			For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2023
	(unaudited)			(unaudited)
Net cash used in operating activities	$	(31	)	$	(6	)
Net cash used in investing activities		(33	)		(41	)
Net cash used in financing activities		(97	)		(73	)
Effect of foreign currency exchange rates on cash and equivalents		(6	)		1
Net decrease in cash and equivalents	$	(167	)	$	(119	)

	For the Six Months Ended March 31, 2024			For the Six Months Ended March 31, 2023
	(unaudited)			(unaudited)
Net cash provided by operating activities	$	262		$	203
Net cash used in investing activities		(125	)		(51	)
Net cash used in financing activities		(190	)		(143	)
Effect of foreign currency exchange rates on cash and equivalents		(1	)		8
Net (decrease) increase in cash and equivalents	$	(54	)	$	17

Figure 4. Warner Music Group Corp. – Digital Revenue Summary, Three and Six Months Ended March 31, 2024 versus March 31, 2023
(dollars in millions)

	For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2024		For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2023		% Change
	(unaudited)		(unaudited)
Recorded Music
Subscription	$	615	$	568	8	%
Ad-Supported		213		205	4	%
Streaming	$	828	$	773	7	%
Downloads and Other Digital		20		23	-13	%
Total Recorded Music Digital Revenue	$	848	$	796	7	%

Music Publishing
Streaming	$	185	$	142	30	%
Downloads and Other Digital		2		4	-50	%
Total Music Publishing Digital Revenue	$	187	$	146	28	%

Consolidated
Streaming	$	1,013	$	915	11	%
Downloads and Other Digital		22		27	-19	%
Intersegment Eliminations		—		—	—	%
Total Digital Revenue	$	1,035	$	942	10	%

	For the Six Months Ended March 31, 2024		For the Six Months Ended March 31, 2023		% Change
	(unaudited)		(unaudited)
Recorded Music
Subscription	$	1,259	$	1,127	12	%
Ad-Supported		456		426	7	%
Streaming	$	1,715	$	1,553	10	%
Downloads and Other Digital		41		46	-11	%
Total Recorded Music Digital Revenue	$	1,756	$	1,599	10	%

Music Publishing
Streaming	$	378	$	288	31	%
Downloads and Other Digital		5		7	-29	%
Total Music Publishing Digital Revenue	$	383	$	295	30	%

Consolidated
Streaming	$	2,093	$	1,841	14	%
Downloads and Other Digital		46		53	-13	%
Intersegment Eliminations		—		—	—	%
Total Digital Revenue	$	2,139	$	1,894	13	%

Supplemental Disclosures Regarding Non-GAAP Financial Measures

We evaluate our operating performance based on several factors, including the following non-GAAP financial measure:

Adjusted OIBDA

We evaluate our operating performance based on several factors, including our primary financial measure of operating income (loss) before non-cash depreciation of tangible assets and non-cash amortization of intangible assets adjusted to exclude the impact of non-cash stock-based compensation and other related expenses and certain items that affect comparability including but not limited to gains or losses on divestitures and expenses related to restructuring and transformation initiatives (“Adjusted OIBDA”). We consider Adjusted OIBDA to be an important indicator of the operational strengths and performance of our businesses. However, a limitation of the use of Adjusted OIBDA as a performance measure is that it does not reflect the periodic costs of certain capitalized tangible and intangible assets used in generating revenues in our businesses. Accordingly, Adjusted OIBDA should be considered in addition to, not as a substitute for, operating income (loss), net income (loss) attributable to Warner Music Group Corp. and other measures of financial performance reported in accordance with United States generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”). In addition, our definition of Adjusted OIBDA may differ from similarly titled measures used by other companies.

Figure 5. Warner Music Group Corp. – Reconciliation of Net Income to Adjusted OIBDA, Three and Six Months Ended March 31, 2024 versus March 31, 2023
(dollars in millions)

	For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2024			For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2023			% Change
	(unaudited)			(unaudited)
Net income attributable to Warner Music Group Corp.	$	96		$	34		—	%
Income attributable to noncontrolling interest		—			3		-100	%
Net income	$	96		$	37		—	%
Income tax expense		18			21		-14	%
Income including income taxes	$	114		$	58		97	%
Other (income) expense, net		(37	)		31		—	%
Interest expense, net		42			35		20	%
Loss on extinguishment of debt		—			—		—	%
Operating income	$	119		$	124		-4	%
Amortization expense		57			61		-7	%
Depreciation expense		26			22		18	%
OIBDA	$	202		$	207		-2	%
Restructuring and impairments		95			41		—	%
Transformation initiatives and other related costs		19			14		36	%
Net gain on divestitures		(14	)		—		—	%
Executive transition costs		—			3		-100	%
Non-cash stock-based compensation and other related costs		10			21		-52	%
Adjusted OIBDA	$	312		$	286		9	%

Operating income margin		8.0	%		8.9	%
Adjusted OIBDA margin		20.9	%		20.4	%

	For the Six Months Ended March 31, 2024			For the Six Months Ended March 31, 2023			% Change
	(unaudited)			(unaudited)
Net income attributable to Warner Music Group Corp.	$	255		$	156		63	%
Income attributable to noncontrolling interest		34			5		—	%
Net income	$	289		$	161		80	%
Income tax expense		90			69		30	%
Income including income taxes	$	379		$	230		65	%
Other expense, net		13			92		-86	%
Interest expense, net		81			67		21	%
Loss on extinguishment of debt		—			—		—	%
Operating income	$	473		$	389		22	%
Amortization expense		112			124		-10	%
Depreciation expense		52			43		21	%
OIBDA	$	637		$	556		15	%
Restructuring and impairments		95			41		—	%
Transformation initiatives and other related costs		38			26		46	%
Executive transition costs		—			3		-100	%
Net gain on divestitures		(31	)		(41	)	-24	%
Non-cash stock-based compensation and other related costs		24			36		-33	%
Adjusted OIBDA	$	763		$	621		23	%

Operating income margin		14.6	%		13.5	%
Adjusted OIBDA margin		23.5	%		21.5	%

Figure 6. Warner Music Group Corp. – Reconciliation of Segment Operating Income to Adjusted OIBDA, Three and Six Months Ended March 31, 2024 versus March 31, 2023
(dollars in millions)

	For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2024			For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2023			% Change
	(unaudited)			(unaudited)
Total WMG operating income – GAAP	$	119		$	124		-4	%
Depreciation and amortization expense		(83	)		(83	)	—	%
Total WMG OIBDA	$	202		$	207		-2	%
Restructuring and impairments		95			41		—	%
Transformation initiatives and other related costs		19			14		36	%
Net gain on divestitures		(14	)		—		—	%
Executive transition costs		—			3		-100	%
Non-cash stock-based compensation and other related costs		10			21		-52	%
Total WMG Adjusted OIBDA	$	312		$	286		9	%
Total WMG Adjusted OIBDA margin		20.9	%		20.4	%

Recorded Music operating income – GAAP	$	134		$	151		-11	%
Depreciation and amortization expense		(45	)		(52	)	-13	%
Recorded Music OIBDA	$	179		$	203		-12	%
Restructuring and impairments	$	88		$	41		—	%
Net gain on divestitures	$	—		$	—		—	%
Non-cash stock-based compensation and other related costs	$	5		$	5		—	%
Recorded Music Adjusted OIBDA	$	272		$	249		9	%
Recorded Music Adjusted OIBDA margin		22.9	%		21.8	%

Music Publishing operating income – GAAP	$	69		$	52		33	%
Depreciation and amortization expense		(26	)		(23	)	13	%
Music Publishing OIBDA	$	95		$	75		27	%
Net gain on divestitures	$	(14	)	$	—		—	%
Non-cash stock-based compensation and other related costs	$	1		$	1		—	%
Music Publishing Adjusted OIBDA	$	82		$	76		8	%
Music Publishing Adjusted OIBDA margin		26.8	%		29.6	%

	For the Six Months Ended March 31, 2024			For the Six Months Ended March 31, 2023			% Change
	(unaudited)			(unaudited)
Total WMG operating income – GAAP	$	473		$	389		22	%
Depreciation and amortization expense		(164	)		(167	)	-2	%
Total WMG OIBDA	$	637		$	556		15	%
Restructuring and impairments		95			41		—	%
Transformation initiatives and other related costs		38			26		46	%
Executive transition costs		—			3		-100	%
Net gain on divestitures		(31	)		(41	)	-24	%
Non-cash stock-based compensation and other related costs		24			36		-33	%
Total WMG Adjusted OIBDA	$	763		$	621		23	%
Total WMG Adjusted OIBDA margin		23.5	%		21.5	%

Recorded Music operating income – GAAP	$	508		$	434		17	%
Depreciation and amortization expense		(92	)		(106	)	-13	%
Recorded Music OIBDA	$	600		$	540		11	%
Restructuring and impairment		88			41		—	%
Transformation initiative and other related costs		—			—		—	%
Executive transition costs		—			—		—	%
Net gain on divestitures		(17	)		(41	)	-59	%
Non-cash stock-based compensation and other related costs		13			8		63	%
Recorded Music Adjusted OIBDA	$	684		$	548		25	%
Recorded Music Adjusted OIBDA margin		26.0	%		23.0	%

Music Publishing operating income – GAAP	$	132		$	101		31	%
Depreciation and amortization expense		(48	)		(46	)	4	%
Music Publishing OIBDA	$	180		$	147		22	%
Net gain on divestitures		(14	)		—		—	%
Non-cash stock-based compensation and other related costs		2			1		100	%
Music Publishing Adjusted OIBDA	$	168		$	148		14	%
Music Publishing Adjusted OIBDA margin		27.5	%		29.2	%

Constant Currency

As exchange rates are an important factor in understanding period-to-period comparisons, we believe the presentation of revenue and Adjusted OIBDA on a constant-currency basis in addition to reported results helps improve the ability to understand our operating results and evaluate our performance in comparison to prior periods. Constant-currency information compares revenue and Adjusted OIBDA between periods as if exchange rates had remained constant period over period. We use revenue and Adjusted OIBDA on a constant-currency basis as one measure to evaluate our performance. We calculate constant-currency by calculating prior-year revenue and Adjusted OIBDA using current-year foreign currency exchange rates. Revenue and Adjusted OIBDA on a constant-currency basis should be considered in addition to, not as a substitute for, revenue and Adjusted OIBDA reported in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Revenue and Adjusted OIBDA on a constant-currency basis, as we present them, may not be comparable to similarly titled measures used by other companies and are not a measure of performance presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP.

Figure 7. Warner Music Group Corp. – Revenue by Geography and Segment, Three and Six Months Ended March 31, 2024 versus March 31, 2023 As Reported and Constant Currency
(dollars in millions)

	For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2024			For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2023			For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2023			% Change
	As reported			As reported			Constant			Constant
	(unaudited)			(unaudited)			(unaudited)			(unaudited)
U.S. revenue
Recorded Music	$	508		$	522		$	522		(3	)%
Music Publishing		170			135			135		26	%
International revenue
Recorded Music		681			621			618		10	%
Music Publishing		136			122			123		11	%
Intersegment eliminations		(1	)		(1	)		(1	)	—	%
Total Revenue	$	1,494		$	1,399		$	1,397		7	%

Revenue by Segment:
Recorded Music
Digital	$	848		$	796		$	792		7	%
Physical		111			118			119		(7	)%
Total Digital and Physical		959			914			911		5	%
Artist services and expanded-rights		126			131			130		(3	)%
Licensing		104			98			99		5	%
Total Recorded Music		1,189			1,143			1,140		4	%
Music Publishing
Performance		52			45			44		18	%
Digital		187			146			147		27	%
Mechanical		15			16			16		(6	)%
Synchronization		48			46			47		2	%
Other		4			4			4		—	%
Total Music Publishing		306			257			258		19	%
Intersegment eliminations		(1	)		(1	)		(1	)	—	%
Total Revenue	$	1,494		$	1,399		$	1,397		7	%

Total Digital Revenue	$	1,035		$	942		$	939		10	%

	For the Six Months Ended March 31, 2024			For the Six Months Ended March 31, 2023			For the Six Months Ended March 31, 2023			% Change
	As reported			As reported			Constant			Constant
	(unaudited)			(unaudited)			(unaudited)			(unaudited)
U.S. revenue
Recorded Music	$	1,135		$	1,061		$	1,061		7	%
Music Publishing		342			268			268		28	%
International revenue
Recorded Music		1,499			1,321			1,334		12	%
Music Publishing		268			239			244		10	%
Intersegment eliminations		(2	)		(2	)		(2	)	—	%
Total Revenue	$	3,242		$	2,887		$	2,905		12	%

Revenue by Segment:
Recorded Music
Digital	$	1,756		$	1,599		$	1,600		10	%
Physical		265			251			255		4	%
Total Digital and Physical	$	2,021		$	1,850		$	1,855		9	%
Artist services and expanded-rights		330			337			342		(4	)%
Licensing		283			195			198		43	%
Total Recorded Music	$	2,634		$	2,382		$	2,395		10	%
Music Publishing
Performance	$	103		$	90		$	90		14	%
Digital		383			295			298		29	%
Mechanical		30			30			31		(3	)%
Synchronization		87			85			86		1	%
Other		7			7			7		—	%
Total Music Publishing	$	610		$	507		$	512		19	%
Intersegment eliminations		(2	)		(2	)		(2	)	—	%
Total Revenue	$	3,242		$	2,887		$	2,905		12	%

Total Digital Revenue	$	2,139		$	1,894		$	1,898		13	%

Figure 8. Warner Music Group Corp. – Adjusted OIBDA by Segment, Three and Six Months Ended March 31, 2024 versus March 31, 2023 As Reported and Constant Currency
(dollars in millions)

	For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2024			For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2023			For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2023			Change %
	As reported			As reported			Constant			Constant
	(unaudited)			(unaudited)			(unaudited)			(unaudited)
Total WMG Adjusted OIBDA	$	312		$	286		$	286		9.1	%
Adjusted OIBDA margin		20.9	%		20.4	%		20.5	%

Recorded Music Adjusted OIBDA	$	272		$	249		$	249		9.2	%
Recorded Music Adjusted OIBDA margin		22.9	%		21.8	%		21.8	%

Music Publishing Adjusted OIBDA	$	82		$	76		$	76		7.9	%
Music Publishing Adjusted OIBDA margin		26.8	%		29.6	%		29.5	%

	For the Six Months Ended March 31, 2024			For the Six Months Ended March 31, 2023			For the Six Months Ended March 31, 2023			Change %
	As reported			As reported			Constant			Constant
	(unaudited)			(unaudited)			(unaudited)			(unaudited)
Total WMG Adjusted OIBDA	$	763		$	621		$	625		22.1	%
Adjusted OIBDA margin		23.5	%		21.5	%		21.5	%

Recorded Music Adjusted OIBDA	$	684		$	548		$	551		24.1	%
Recorded Music Adjusted OIBDA margin		26.0	%		23.0	%		23.0	%

Music Publishing Adjusted OIBDA	$	168		$	148		$	149		12.8	%
Music Publishing Adjusted OIBDA margin		27.5	%		29.2	%		29.1	%

Free Cash Flow

Our definition of Free Cash Flow is defined as cash flow provided by operating activities less capital expenditures. We use Free Cash Flow, among other measures, to evaluate our operating performance. Management believes Free Cash Flow provides investors with an important perspective on the cash available to fund our debt service requirements, ongoing working capital requirements, capital expenditure requirements, strategic acquisitions and investments, and any dividends, prepayments of debt or repurchases or retirement of our outstanding debt or notes in open market purchases, privately negotiated purchases, any repurchases of our common stock or otherwise. As a result, Free Cash Flow is a significant measure of our ability to generate long-term value. It is useful for investors to know whether this ability is being enhanced or degraded as a result of our operating performance. We believe the presentation of Free Cash Flow is relevant and useful for investors because it allows investors to view performance in a manner similar to the method management uses.

Free Cash Flow is not a measure of performance calculated in accordance with U.S. GAAP and therefore it should not be considered in isolation of, or as a substitute for, net income (loss) as an indicator of operating performance or cash flow provided by operating activities as a measure of liquidity. Free Cash Flow, as we calculate it, may not be comparable to similarly titled measures employed by other companies. In addition, Free Cash Flow does not necessarily represent funds available for discretionary use and is not necessarily a measure of our ability to fund our cash needs. Because Free Cash Flow deducts capital expenditures from “net cash provided by operating activities” (the most directly comparable U.S. GAAP financial measure), users of this information should consider the types of events and transactions that are not reflected. We provide below a reconciliation of Free Cash Flow to the most directly comparable amount reported under U.S. GAAP, which is “net cash provided by operating activities.”

Figure 9. Warner Music Group Corp. – Calculation of Free Cash Flow, Three and Six Months Ended March 31, 2024 versus March 31, 2023
(dollars in millions)

	For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2024			For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2023
	(unaudited)			(unaudited)
Net cash used in operating activities	$	(31	)	$	(6	)
Less: Capital expenditures		26			35

Free Cash Flow	$	(57	)	$	(41	)

	For the Six Months Ended March 31, 2024			For the Six Months Ended March 31, 2023
	(unaudited)			(unaudited)
Net cash provided by operating activities	$	262		$	203
Less: Capital expenditures		55			56

Free Cash Flow	$	207		$	147

______________________________________


Media Contact:	Investor Contact:
James Steven	Kareem Chin
(212) 275-2213
James.Steven@wmg.com	Investor.Relations@wmg.com

FAQ

What was Warner Music Group Corp.'s net income for the fiscal second quarter ending March 31, 2024?

Warner Music Group Corp. reported a net income of $96 million for the fiscal second quarter ending March 31, 2024.

How did Recorded Music revenue perform in the same period?

Recorded Music revenue saw a 4% growth in the fiscal second quarter ending March 31, 2024.

What were the key drivers of revenue growth for Music Publishing?

The revenue growth of 19% in Music Publishing was driven by growth in digital, performance, and synchronization revenue.

Warner Music Group Corp. Reports Results for Fiscal Second Quarter Ended March 31, 2024

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Warner Music Group Corp. Reports Results for Fiscal Second Quarter Ended March 31, 2024

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What was Warner Music Group Corp.'s net income for the fiscal second quarter ending March 31, 2024?

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