STARZ ENTERTAINMENT CORP CN

Previous wording

General and administration expenses include salaries and other overhead. Corporate general and administrative expenses include certain corporate executive expense (such as salaries and wages for the office of the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, General Counsel and other corporate officers), investor relations costs, costs of maintaining corporate facilities, and other unallocated common administrative support functions, including corporate accounting, finance and financial reporting, internal and external audit and tax costs, corporate and other legal support functions, and certain information technology and human resources expense.

Current wording

Old Lionsgate’s corporate general and administrative functions and costs, which were retained within New Lionsgate, have historically been provided to both the Starz Business and the LG Studios Business. These functions and costs include, but are not limited to, salaries and wages for certain executives and other corporate officers related to executive oversight, investor relations costs, costs for the maintenance of corporate facilities, and other common administrative support functions, including corporate accounting, finance and financial reporting, audit and tax costs, corporate and other legal support functions, and certain information technology and human resources expense. Accordingly, the combined financial statements of the Company, include allocations of certain general and administrative expenses (inclusive of share-based compensation) from Old Lionsgate related to these corporate and shared service functions historically provided by Old Lionsgate. In connection with the Studio Separation, during the fiscal year ended March 31, 2025, Old Lionsgate and Legacy Lionsgate Studios entered into a shared services and overhead sharing agreement (the “Shared Services Agreement”). The Shared Services Agreement facilitates the allocation to the LG Studios Business of all corporate general and administrative expenses of Old Lionsgate, except for an amount of $10.0 million charged annually to the Company. The $10.0 million charge of Old Lionsgate’s corporate general and administrative expenses to the Company pursuant to the Shared Services Agreement is designed to reflect the portion of corporate expenses expended and reflective of the level of effort and costs incurred related to management oversight and services provided for the Company following the Studio Separation. Prior to the Studio Separation, these expenses were allocated to the Starz Business on the basis of direct usage when identifiable, with the remainder allocated on a pro rata basis of consolidated Old Lionsgate revenue, payroll expense or other measures considered to be a reasonable reflection of the historical utilization levels of these services.

Previous wording

In fiscal 2023, we began a plan to restructure our LIONSGATE+ business, which initially included exiting the business in seven international territories (France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Benelux, the Nordics and Japan), and identifying additional cost-saving initiatives. This plan included a strategic review of content performance across Starz’s domestic and international platforms, resulting in certain programming being removed from those platforms and written down to fair value.

Current wording

In the fiscal year ended March 31, 2023, in connection with its ongoing restructuring activities, the Starz Business performed a strategic review of content performance across Starz’s platforms, resulting in certain programming being removed from those platforms and written down to fair value.

Previous wording

During the fiscal year ended March 31, 2024, the Company continued executing its restructuring plan, including its evaluation of the programming on Starz's domestic and international platforms. In connection with this review, the Company cancelled certain ordered programming, and identified certain other programming with limited strategic purpose which was removed from the Starz platforms and abandoned by the Media Networks segment. In addition, as a result of the continuing review of its international territories, the Company has made the strategic decision to shut down the LIONSGATE+ service in Latin America and the United Kingdom ("U.K.") with the only remaining international operations being in Canada and India, resulting in additional content impairment charges.

Current wording

During the fiscal years ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, the Starz Business continued its evaluation of the programming on Starz's platforms and cancelled certain ordered programming, and identified certain other programming with limited strategic purpose which was removed from the Starz platforms and abandoned by the Company.

Previous wording

As a result of these restructuring initiatives, we recorded content impairment charges related to the Media Networks segment in the fiscal years ended March 31, 2024 and 2023 of $364.5 million and $379.3 million, respectively, which are included in restructuring and other in the consolidated statement of operations (see Note 15 to our consolidated financial statements). We have incurred impairment charges from the inception of the plan through March 31, 2024 amounting to $743.8 million.

Current wording

As a result of these restructuring initiatives in the fiscal years ended March 31, 2025 and 2024 we recorded content impairment charges of $156.4 million and $213.0 million, respectively. These amounts are included in restructuring and other in the combined statement of operations. See Note 13, Restructuring and Other, to our audited combined financial statements for further detail. We have incurred impairment charges from the inception of the plan through March 31, 2025 amounting to $457.0 million.

Previous wording

As the Company continues to evaluate the Media Networks business and its current restructuring plan in relation to the current micro and macroeconomic environment and the announced plan to separate the Company's Starz business (i.e., Media Networks segment) and Studio Business (i.e., Motion Picture and Television Production segments), including further strategic review of content performance and its strategy on a territory-by-territory basis, the Company may decide to expand its restructuring plan and exit additional territories or remove certain content off its platform in the future. Accordingly, the Company may incur additional content impairment and other restructuring charges beyond the estimates above.

Current wording

As the Company continues to evaluate its current restructuring plan in relation to the current micro and macroeconomic environment and the Separation, including further strategic review of content and performance and its strategy on a territory-by-territory basis, the Company may decide to expand its restructuring plan and exit additional territories or remove certain content off its platform in the future. Accordingly, the Company may incur additional content impairment and other restructuring charges beyond the amounts listed above.

Previous wording

•Starz Networks. Starz Networks’ revenues are derived from the domestic distribution of our STARZ branded premium subscription video services through over-the-top ("OTT") streaming platforms and distributors, on a direct-to-consumer basis through the Starz App, and through U.S. multichannel video programming distributors (“MVPDs”) including cable operators, satellite television providers and telecommunications companies (collectively "Distributors") (in the aggregate, the "Starz Domestic Platform").

Current wording

We earn our revenue from the distribution of branded premium subscription video services through OTT streaming platforms and distributors, on a direct-to-consumer basis through the Starz App and through MVPDs, including cable operators, satellite television providers and telecommunications companies.

Previous wording

Our primary operating expenses include direct operating expenses, distribution and marketing expenses and general and administration expenses.

Current wording

Our primary operating expenses include direct operating expenses, distribution and marketing expenses and general and administrative expenses.

Previous wording

Direct operating expenses include amortization of film and television production or acquisition costs, amortization of programming production or acquisition costs and programming related salaries, participation and residual expenses, provision for doubtful accounts, and foreign exchange gains and losses.

Current wording

Direct operating expenses include programming cost amortization, programming related salaries, residual expenses, development costs, provision for doubtful accounts, and foreign exchange gains and losses.

Previous wording

Participation costs represent contingent consideration payable based on the performance of the film or television program to parties associated with the film or television program, including producers, writers, directors or actors. Residuals represent amounts payable to various unions or “guilds” such as the Screen Actors Guild - American Federation of Television and Radio Artists, Directors Guild of America, and Writers Guild of America, based on the performance of the film or television program in certain ancillary markets or based on the individual’s (i.e., actor, director, writer) salary level in the television market.

Current wording

Residuals represent amounts payable to various unions or “guilds” such as the Screen Actors Guild - American Federation of Television and Radio Artists, Directors Guild of America, and Writers Guild of America, based on the performance of the film or television program in certain ancillary markets or based on the individual’s (i.e., actor, director, writer) salary level in the television market.

Previous wording

Distribution and marketing expenses primarily include the costs of theatrical prints and advertising (“P&A”) and premium video-on-demand ("Premium VOD") expense and of DVD/Blu-ray duplication and marketing. Theatrical P&A includes the costs of the theatrical prints delivered to theatrical exhibitors and the advertising and marketing cost associated with the theatrical release of the picture. Premium VOD expense represents the advertising and marketing cost associated with the Premium VOD release of the picture. DVD/Blu-ray duplication represents the cost of the DVD/Blu-ray product and the manufacturing costs associated with creating the physical products. DVD/Blu-ray marketing costs represent the cost of advertising the product at or near the time of its release or special promotional advertising. Marketing costs for Media Networks includes advertising, consumer marketing, distributor marketing support and other marketing costs. In addition, distribution and marketing costs includes our Media Networks segment operating costs for the direct-to-consumer service, transponder expenses and maintenance and repairs.

Current wording

Distribution and marketing expenses primarily include the costs of advertising, consumer marketing, distributor marketing support and other marketing costs, and operating costs for the direct-to-consumer service, transponder expenses and maintenance and repairs.

Previous wording

Our accounting policies are more fully described in Note 1 to our consolidated financial statements. As disclosed in Note 1 to our consolidated financial statements, the preparation of our financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates, judgments and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. The application of the following accounting policies, which are important to our financial position and results of operations, requires significant judgments and estimates on the part of management. As described more fully below, these estimates bear the risk of change due to the inherent uncertainty of the estimate. In some cases, changes in the accounting estimates are reasonably likely to occur from period to period. Accordingly, actual results could differ materially from our estimates. To the extent that there are material differences between these estimates and actual results, our financial condition or results of operations will be affected. We base our estimates on past experience and other assumptions that we believe are reasonable under the circumstances, and we evaluate these estimates on an ongoing basis. We believe that the following discussion addresses our most critical accounting policies, which are those that are most important to the portrayal of our financial condition and results of operations and require management's most difficult, subjective and complex judgments.

Current wording

Our accounting policies are more fully described in Note 1 to our audited combined financial statements. As disclosed in Note 1 to our audited combined financial statements, the preparation of our financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates, judgments and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the combined financial statements and accompanying notes. The application of the following accounting policies, which are important to our financial position and results of operations, requires significant judgments and estimates on the part of management. As described more fully below, these estimates bear the risk of change due to the inherent uncertainty of the estimate. In some cases, changes in the accounting estimates are reasonably likely to occur from period to period. Accordingly, actual results could differ materially from our estimates. To the extent that there are material differences between these estimates and actual results, our financial condition or results of operations will be affected. We base our estimates on past experience and other assumptions that we believe are reasonable under the circumstances, and we evaluate these estimates on an ongoing basis. We believe that the following discussion addresses our most critical accounting policies, which are those that are most important to the portrayal of our financial condition and results of operations and require management's most difficult, subjective and complex judgments.

Previous wording

Finite-Lived Intangible Assets. At March 31, 2024, the carrying value of our finite-lived intangible assets was $991.8 million. Our finite-lived intangible assets primarily relate to customer relationships associated with U.S. MVPDs, including cable operators, satellite television providers and telecommunications companies ("Traditional Affiliate"), which amounted to $909.1 million. The amount of our customer relationship asset related to these Traditional Affiliate relationships reflects the estimated fair value of these customer relationships determined in connection with the acquisition of Starz on December 8, 2016, net of amortization recorded since the date of the Starz acquisition. Beginning October 1, 2023, our finite-lived intangible assets also include the trade names previously accounted for as indefinite-lived intangible assets as discussed above.

Current wording

Finite-Lived Intangible Assets. At March 31, 2025 and March 31, 2024, the carrying value of the Starz Business's finite-lived intangible assets was approximately $816.0 million and $966.1 million, respectively. The Starz Business's finite-lived intangible assets primarily relate to customer relationships associated with U.S. MVPDs, including cable operators, satellite television providers and telecommunications companies (each a “Traditional Affiliate”), which amounted to $748.0 million and $890.1 million at March 31, 2025 and March 31, 2024, respectively. The amount of the Starz Business's customer relationship asset related to these Traditional Affiliate relationships reflects the estimated fair value of these customer relationships determined in connection with Old Lionsgate's acquisition of the Starz Business on December 8, 2016, net of amortization recorded since the date of the Starz Business's acquisition. Beginning October 1, 2023, the Starz Business's finite-lived intangible assets also include the trademarks and trade names previously accounted for as indefinite-lived intangible assets as discussed below. At March 31, 2025, the carrying value of trademarks and trade names was $68.0 million.

Previous wording

Identifiable intangible assets with finite lives are amortized to depreciation and amortization expense over their estimated useful lives, ranging from 5 to 16 years. The Starz Traditional Affiliate customer relationship intangible asset is amortized in the proportion that current period revenues bear to management’s estimate of future revenue over the remaining estimated useful life of the asset, which results in greater amortization in the earlier years of the estimated useful life of the asset than the latter years.

Current wording

Identifiable intangible assets with finite lives are amortized to depreciation and amortization expense over their estimated useful lives, ranging from 10 to 14 years. The Starz Traditional Affiliate customer relationship intangible asset is amortized in the proportion that current period revenue bear to management’s estimate of future revenue over the remaining estimated useful life of the asset, which results in greater amortization in the earlier years of the estimated useful life of the asset than the latter years.

Previous wording

Amortizable intangible assets are tested for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances (triggering events) indicate that the carrying amount of the asset may not be recoverable. If a triggering event has occurred, an impairment analysis is required. The impairment test first requires a comparison of undiscounted future cash flows expected to be generated over the useful life of an asset to the carrying value of the asset. The impairment test is performed at the lowest level of cash flows associated with the asset. If the carrying value of the asset exceeds the undiscounted future cash flows, the asset would not be deemed to be recoverable. Impairment would then be measured as the excess of the asset’s carrying value over its fair value.

Current wording

Amortizable intangible assets are tested for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances (triggering events) indicate that the carrying amount of the asset may not be recoverable. If a triggering event has occurred, an impairment analysis is required. The impairment test first requires a comparison of undiscounted future cash flows expected to be generated over the remaining useful life of an asset to the carrying value of the asset. The impairment test is performed at the lowest level of cash flows associated with the asset. If the carrying value of the asset exceeds the undiscounted future cash flows, the asset would not be deemed to be recoverable. Impairment would then be measured as the excess of the asset’s carrying value over its fair value.

Previous wording

The Company monitors its finite-lived intangible assets and changes in the underlying circumstances each reporting period for indicators of possible impairments or a change in the useful life or method of amortization of our finite-lived intangible assets. For fiscal 2023 and fiscal 2024, due to changes in the industry related to the migration from linear to OTT and direct-to-consumer consumption, and continuing difficult macro and microeconomic conditions, we performed an impairment analysis of our amortizable intangible assets. The impairment analysis requires a comparison of undiscounted future cash flows expected to be generated over the useful life of an asset to the carrying value of the asset. Based on our impairment analysis, the estimated undiscounted cash flows exceeded the carrying amount of the assets and therefore no impairment charge was required.

Current wording

The Company monitors its finite-lived intangible assets and changes in the underlying circumstances each reporting period for indicators of possible impairments or a change in the useful life or method of amortization of the finite-lived intangible assets. For fiscal 2025, due to continued changes in the industry related to the migration from linear to OTT and direct-to-consumer consumption, the Company reduced the useful life of its finite-lived intangible assets related to the Starz Tradition Affiliate customer relationships from 16 years to 14 years. This resulted in an increase to amortization expense of $8.3 million for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2025. For the fiscal year ended March 31, 2025, no indicators of impairment were identified. For the fiscal year ended March 31, 2024, due to changes in the industry related to the migration from linear to OTT and direct-to-consumer consumption, we performed an impairment analysis of the amortizable intangible assets. The impairment analysis requires a comparison of undiscounted future cash flows expected to be generated over the useful life of an asset to the carrying value of the asset. Based on the Company's impairment analysis, the estimated undiscounted cash flows exceeded the carrying amount of the asset group by over 50% and therefore no impairment charge was required. The estimated undiscounted cash flow assumed a weighted average growth in revenue over the useful life of approximately 2.5%.

Previous wording

Determining whether an intangible asset is recoverable or impaired requires various estimates and assumptions, including whether events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the asset may not be recoverable, determining estimates of future cash flows for the assets involved and, when applicable, the assumptions applied in determining fair value, including discount rates, growth rates, market risk premiums and other assumptions about the economic environment. Should the revenues from our Traditional Affiliate relationships decline more than the assumed attrition rates used in our current estimates, either as a result of decreases in subscriber rates or changes of the terms of our renewals of our Traditional Affiliate contracts, we may have indicators of impairment which could result in an impairment of our customer relationships intangible assets, or we may need to further shorten the useful life or adopt a more accelerated method of amortization both of which would increase the amount of amortization expense we record.

Current wording

Determining whether an intangible asset is recoverable or impaired requires various estimates and assumptions, including whether events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the asset or asset group may not be recoverable, determining estimates of future cash flows for the assets involved and, when applicable, the assumptions applied in determining fair value, including discount rates, growth rates, market risk premiums and other assumptions about the economic environment. If actual revenue significantly underperforms as compared to the forecasted amounts and cost cannot be sufficiently reduced, the undiscounted cash flows may not exceed the carrying value of the asset group and an impairment charge could result for the difference between the fair value and the carrying value of the asset group.

Previous wording

Film and Television Programs Monetized as a Group. Licensed programming rights may include rights to more than one exploitation window under the Company's output and library agreements. For films with multiple windows, the license fee is allocated between the windows based upon the proportionate estimated fair value of each window which generally results in the majority of the cost allocated to the first window on newer releases.

Current wording

Capitalized Costs. The cost of licensed content is capitalized when the cost is known or reasonably determinable, the license period for programs has commenced, the program materials have been accepted by the Company in accordance with the license agreements, and the programs are available for the first showing. Licensed programming rights may include rights to more than one exploitation window under the Company's output and library agreements. For films with multiple windows, the license fee is allocated between the windows based upon the proportionate estimated fair value of each window which generally results in the majority of the cost allocated to the first window on newer releases.

Previous wording

The cost of licensed program rights for films and television programs (including original series) exhibited by the Media Networks segment are generally amortized on a title-by-title or episode-by-episode basis using an accelerated or straight-line method based on the expected and historical viewership patterns or the current and anticipated number of exhibitions over the license period or estimated life for owned or produced programs. The number of exhibitions is estimated based on the number of exhibitions allowed in the agreement (if specified) and the expected usage of the content. Participations and residuals are expensed in line with the amortization of production costs.

Current wording

Amortization. The cost of licensed program rights for films and television programs (including original series) are generally amortized on a title-by-title or episode-by-episode basis using an accelerated or straight-line method based on the expected and historical viewership patterns or the current and anticipated number of exhibitions over the license period or estimated life for owned or produced programs. The number of exhibitions is estimated based on the number of exhibitions allowed in the agreement (if specified) and the expected usage of the content. Residuals are expensed in line with the amortization of production costs.

Previous wording

Impairment Assessment. A film group or individual film or television program is evaluated for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the fair value of an individual film or film group is less than its unamortized cost. If the result of the impairment test indicates that the carrying value exceeds the estimated fair value, an impairment charge will then be recorded for the amount of the difference.

Current wording

Impairment Assessment. A film group (as defined below) is evaluated for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the fair value of a film group is less than its unamortized cost. If the result of the impairment test indicates that the carrying value exceeds the estimated fair value, an impairment charge will then be recorded for the amount of the difference.

Previous wording

For content that is predominantly monetized as a group (primarily licensed program rights in the Media Networks segment and internally produced programming, as discussed above), the fair value is determined based on the present value of the discounted cash flows of the group using the lowest level for which identifiable cash flows are independent of other produced and licensed content. The Company's film groups are generally aligned with the Company's networks and digital content offerings domestically (i.e., Starz Networks) and internationally by territory or groups of territories, where content assets are shared across the various territories. Content removed from the service and abandoned is written down to its fair value, if any, determined using a discounted cash flow approach.

Current wording

Estimate of Fair Value. A film group is defined as the lowest level at which identifiable cash flows are largely independent of the cash flows of other films and/or license agreements. The Company's film groups are generally aligned with the Company's networks and digital content offerings in North America (i.e., Starz Networks) and internationally by territory or groups of territories, where content assets are shared across the various territories. Content removed from the service and abandoned is written down to its fair value, if any, determined using a discounted cash flow approach.

Previous wording

Media Networks revenues may be based on a variable fee (i.e., a fee based on number of subscribers who receive our networks or other subscriber based factors) or to a lesser extent, may be based on a monthly fixed fee or minimum guarantee, subject to nominal annual escalations. Media Networks revenue is also generated through the distribution of our SVOD service directly to consumer through the Starz App. The variable distribution fee arrangements represent sales or usage based royalties, which are recognized over the period of such sales or usage by our distributor, which is the same period that the content is provided to the distributor. Estimates of revenue generated but not yet reported to us by our distribution partners are made based on the estimated number of subscribers using historical trends and recent reporting. Media Networks fixed fee or minimum guarantee programming revenue is recognized over the contract term based on the continuous delivery of the content to the distributor. Subscribers through the Starz App are billed in advance of the start of their monthly or annual membership and revenues are recognized ratably over each applicable membership period. Payments to distributors for marketing support costs for which Starz receives a discrete benefit are recorded as distribution and marketing costs, and payments to distributors for which Starz receives no discrete benefit are recorded as a reduction of revenue.

Current wording

Revenue Recognition. Revenue may be based on a variable fee (i.e., a fee based on number of subscribers who receive our networks or other subscriber-based factors) or to a lesser extent, may be based on a monthly fixed fee or minimum guarantee, subject to nominal annual escalations. Revenue is also generated through the distribution of our subscription video on demand (“SVOD”) service directly to consumers through the Starz App. The variable distribution fee arrangements represent sales or usage-based royalties, which are recognized over the period of such sales or usage by our distributor, which is the same period that the content is provided to the distributor. Estimates of revenue generated but not yet reported to us by our distribution partners are made based on the estimated number of subscribers using historical trends and recent reporting. We regularly evaluate such assumptions and historically, such estimates have been materially in line with revenue amounts when reported.

Previous wording

Income Taxes. We are subject to federal and state income taxes in the U.S., and in several foreign jurisdictions. We record deferred tax assets related to net operating loss carryforwards and certain temporary differences, net of applicable reserves in these jurisdictions. We recognize a future tax benefit to the extent that realization of such benefit is more likely than not on a jurisdiction-by-jurisdiction basis; otherwise, a valuation allowance is applied. In order to realize the benefit of our deferred tax assets, we will need to generate sufficient taxable income in the future in each of the jurisdictions which have these deferred tax assets. However, the assessment as to whether there will be sufficient taxable income in a jurisdiction to realize our net deferred tax assets in that jurisdiction is an estimate which could change in the future depending primarily upon the actual performance of our Company. We will be required to continually evaluate the more likely than not assessment that our net deferred tax assets will be realized, and if operating results deteriorate in a particular jurisdiction, we may need to record a valuation allowance for all or a portion of our deferred tax assets through a charge to our income tax provision. As of March 31, 2024, we have a valuation allowance of $808.3 million against certain U.S. and foreign deferred tax assets that may not be realized on a more likely than not basis.

Current wording

Income Taxes. We are subject to federal and state income taxes in the U.S., and in several foreign jurisdictions. We record deferred tax assets related to net operating loss carryforwards and certain temporary differences, net of applicable reserves in these jurisdictions. We recognize a future tax benefit to the extent that realization of such benefit is more likely than not on a jurisdiction-by-jurisdiction basis; otherwise, a valuation allowance is applied. In order to realize the benefit of our deferred tax assets, we will need to generate sufficient taxable income in the future in each of the jurisdictions which have these deferred tax assets. However, the assessment as to whether there will be sufficient taxable income in a jurisdiction to realize our net deferred tax assets in that jurisdiction is an estimate which could change in the future depending primarily upon the actual performance of the Company. We performed an analysis of the four sources of taxable income (taxable income in prior carryback year(s) if carryback is permitted under the tax law, future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences, tax-planning strategies that would, if necessary, be implemented, and future taxable income exclusive of reversing temporary differences and carryforwards) to determine whether a valuation allowance was needed in the various jurisdictions in which the Company operates. Due to cumulative pretax losses incurred in recent years and lack of other positive evidence, we concluded that valuation allowances were primarily required in Canada, Luxembourg, and India for our fiscal years ended March 31, 2025, 2024, and 2023, and against US deferred tax assets beginning in our fiscal year ended March 31, 2024. As of March 31, 2025, we have a valuation allowance of $177.5 million against certain U.S. and foreign deferred tax assets that may not be realized on a more likely than not basis.

Previous wording

Our income tax benefit (provision) differs from the U.S. federal statutory income tax rate of 21% and is affected by many factors, including the overall level of income (loss) before taxes and its mix across the jurisdictions in which we conduct operations, changes in tax laws and regulations, changes in valuation allowances against our deferred tax assets, changes in unrecognized tax benefits, tax planning strategies available to us, and other discrete items.

Current wording

Our income tax benefit differs from the U.S. federal statutory income tax rate of 21% and is affected by many factors, including the overall level of income (loss) before taxes and its mix across the jurisdictions in which we conduct operations, changes in tax laws and regulations, changes in valuation allowances against our deferred tax assets, changes in unrecognized tax benefits, tax planning strategies available to us, and other discrete items.

Previous wording

See Note 1 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements for a discussion of recent accounting guidance.

Current wording

See Note 1, Description of Business, Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies, to our audited combined financial statements for a discussion of recent accounting guidance.

Previous wording

Subscriber Data. The number of period-end service subscribers is a key metric which management uses to evaluate a non-ad supported subscription video service. We believe this key metric provides useful information to investors as a growing or decreasing subscriber base is a key indicator of the health of the overall business. Service subscribers may impact revenue differently depending on specific distribution agreements we have with our distributors which may include fixed fees, rates per basic video household or a rate per STARZ subscriber. The table below sets forth, for the periods presented, subscriptions to our Media Networks and STARZPLAY Arabia services.

Current wording

Subscriber Data. The number of period-end service subscribers is a key metric which management uses to evaluate a non-ad supported subscription video service. We believe this key metric provides useful information to investors as a growing or decreasing subscriber base is a key indicator of the health of the overall business. Service subscribers may impact revenue differently depending on specific distribution agreements we have with our distributors which may include a rate per STARZ subscriber, rates per basic video household or fixed fees. The table below sets forth, for the periods presented, subscriptions to our Starz Networks and International services.

Previous wording

Direct Operating Expenses. Direct operating expenses by segment were as follows for the fiscal years ended March 31, 2024 and 2023:

Current wording

Direct Operating Expenses. Direct operating expenses by segment and outside our segments were as follows for the fiscal years ended March 31, 2025 and 2024:

Previous wording

Distribution and Marketing Expenses. Distribution and marketing expenses by segment were as follows for the fiscal years ended March 31, 2024 and 2023:

Current wording

Distribution and Marketing Expenses. Distribution and marketing expenses by segment and outside our segment were as follows for the fiscal years ended March 31, 2025 and March 31, 2024:

Previous wording

General and Administrative Expenses. General and administrative expenses by segment were as follows for the fiscal years ended March 31, 2024 and 2023:

Current wording

General and Administrative Expenses. General and administrative expenses by segment and outside our segment were as follows for the fiscal years ended March 31, 2025 and 2024:

Previous wording

(1)Represents share-based compensation expense included in restructuring and other expenses reflecting the impact of the acceleration of vesting schedules for equity awards pursuant to certain severance arrangements.

Current wording

(2)Represents share-based compensation expense included in restructuring and other expenses reflecting the impact of the acceleration of certain vesting schedules for equity awards pursuant to certain severance arrangements.

Previous wording

(2)Severance costs were primarily related to restructuring activities and other cost-saving initiatives. In the fiscal year ended March 31, 2024, amounts were due to restructuring activities including integration of the acquisition of eOne, LIONSGATE+ international restructuring and our Motion Picture and Television Production segments.

Current wording

(2)Severance costs were primarily related to restructuring activities and other cost-saving initiatives attributable to continuing operations.

Previous wording

Interest Expense. Interest expense of $269.8 million in fiscal 2024 increased $48.6 million from fiscal 2023 due to higher average interest rates and balances on variable rate corporate debt and film related obligations, partially offset by a larger benefit from the interest rate swaps and lower expense from the Senior Notes due to repurchases in fiscal 2024. The following table sets forth the components of interest expense for the fiscal years ended March 31, 2024 and 2023:

Current wording

Interest Expense. Interest expense of $45.6 million in fiscal 2025 decreased $1.6 million from fiscal 2024 due primarily to lower interest expense on the 5.5% Senior Notes due to reductions in the amounts outstanding as discussed under Gain (Loss) on Extinguishment of Debt below. The following table sets forth the components of interest expense for the fiscal years ended March 31, 2025 and March 31, 2024:

Previous wording

Interest and Other Income. Interest and other income of $22.1 million for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2024 increased as compared to interest and other income of $6.4 million for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2023, due to certain insurance recoveries in fiscal 2024.

Current wording

Interest and Other Income. Interest and other income of $4.9 million for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2025 increased by $1.4 million compared to interest and other income of $3.5 million for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2024, related to guarantee fees received in the fiscal year ended March 31, 2025.

Previous wording

Other Expense. Other expense of $26.9 million for fiscal 2024 was comparable to other expense of $26.9 million for fiscal 2023, and represented the loss recorded related to our monetization of accounts receivable programs (see Note 19 to our consolidated financial statements).

Current wording

Other Expense. Other expense of $7.2 million for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2025 decreased by $0.3 million compared to other expense of $7.5 million for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2024, and represented the loss recorded related to our monetization of accounts receivable program. See Note 16, Additional Financial Information, to our audited combined financial statements for further details.

Previous wording

We also present below our total segment profit for all of our segments and the sum of our Motion Picture and Television Production segment profit as our "Studio Business" segment profit. Total segment profit and Studio Business segment profit, when presented outside of the segment information and reconciliations included in Note 16 to our consolidated financial statements, is considered a non-GAAP financial measure, and should be considered in addition to, not as a substitute for, or superior to, measures of financial performance prepared in accordance with United States GAAP. We use this non-GAAP measure, among other measures, to evaluate the aggregate operating performance of our business.

Current wording

Overall: This measure is a non-GAAP financial measure as defined in Regulation G promulgated by the SEC and is in addition to, not a substitute for, or superior to, measures of financial performance prepared in accordance with United States GAAP.

Previous wording

The Company believes the presentation of total segment profit and Studio Business segment profit is relevant and useful for investors because it allows investors to view total segment performance in a manner similar to the primary method used by the Company's management and enables them to understand the fundamental performance of the Company's businesses before non-operating items. Total segment profit and Studio Business segment profit is considered an important measure of the Company’s performance because it reflects the aggregate profit contribution from the Company's segments, both in total and for the Studio Business and represents a measure, consistent with our segment profit, that eliminates amounts that, in management’s opinion, do not necessarily reflect the fundamental performance of the Company’s businesses, are infrequent in occurrence, and in some cases are non-cash expenses. Not all companies calculate segment profit or total segment profit in the same manner, and segment profit and total segment profit as defined by the Company may not be comparable to similarly titled measures presented by other companies due to differences in the methods of calculation and excluded items.

Current wording

We use this non-GAAP measure, among other measures, to evaluate the operating performance of our business. We believe this measure provides useful information to investors regarding our results of operations before non-operating items. Adjusted OIBDA is considered an important measure of the Company’s performance because this measure eliminates amounts that, in management’s opinion, do not necessarily reflect the fundamental performance of the Company’s businesses, are infrequent in occurrence, and in some cases are non-cash expenses.

Previous wording

Revenue. Media Networks revenue increased $29.9 million and reflected increased revenue at LIONSGATE+ of $60.3 million, partially offset by a decrease of $30.4 million at Starz Networks. Starz Networks' revenue decreased $30.4 million primarily because of declines in revenue of $81.0 million from traditional linear services, which were offset by higher OTT revenue of $52.4 million resulting from a price increase initiated at the end of June 2023 and fully implemented during the quarter ended September 30, 2023, and growth in OTT subscribers of 0.34 million since March 31, 2023. The LIONSGATE+ revenue of $211.0 million for fiscal 2024 includes $166.4 million from the LIONSGATE+ territories exited, or to be exited in Australia, Continental Europe, Japan, Latin America and the U.K. (the "Exiting Territories"). The increase in revenue at LIONSGATE+, was primarily due to an increase in revenue from the Exiting Territories of approximately $44.4 million, which was primarily the result of a modification to shorten a long-term distribution contract in Latin America resulting from the decision to exit the Latin American markets. In addition, the increase was due to revenue from the distribution of certain Starz Originals and licensed content to third-party distributors outside of the Starz Platforms in ancillary markets of approximately $15.6 million.

Current wording

Revenue. Combined revenue decreased $30.1 million reflecting a decrease of $30.4 million at Starz Networks, partially offset by an increase of $0.3 million at International. The decrease in Starz Networks revenue reflects declines in revenue of $81.5 million from traditional linear services, which were offset by higher OTT revenue of $52.9 million resulting from a price increase initiated at the end of June 2023 and fully implemented during the quarter ended September 30, 2023, and growth in OTT subscribers of 0.43 million since March 31, 2023.

Previous wording

During fiscal 2024 and fiscal 2023, the following original series premiered on STARZ:

Current wording

During the fiscal years ended March 31, 2024 and March 31, 2023, the following original series premiered on STARZ:

Previous wording

Direct Operating and Distribution and Marketing Expenses. Direct operating and distribution and marketing expenses primarily represent programming cost amortization and advertising and marketing costs, respectively. The level of programming cost amortization and advertising and marketing costs and thus the gross contribution margin for the Media Networks' segment can fluctuate from period to period depending on the number of new original series and first-run output theatrical movies premiering on the network during the period. Programming cost amortization and advertising and marketing costs generally increase in periods where new original series premiere. In addition, the shutdown, and planned shutdown, of the LIONSGATE+ international service in the Exiting Territories will result in a decrease in expenses going forward.

Current wording

Direct Operating and Distribution and Marketing Expenses. Direct operating expenses primarily represent programming cost amortization, programming related salaries, residual expenses and development. Distribution and marketing expenses primarily includes advertising and marketing costs and operating costs for the distribution of the services. The level of programming cost amortization and advertising and marketing costs and thus the gross contribution margin for Starz Networks can fluctuate from period to period depending on the number of new original series and first-run output theatrical movies premiering on the network during the period. Programming cost amortization and advertising and marketing costs generally increase in periods where new original series premiere.

Previous wording

The decrease in Media Networks direct operating expenses is due to decreases at Starz Networks of $29.4 million and LIONSGATE+ of $21.9 million in fiscal 2024. The decrease in Starz Networks direct operating expense was due primarily to lower programming cost amortization of $27.8 million related to library content, $16.3 million related to theatrical releases under our programming output agreements, partially offset by an increase of $9.7 million related to our Starz Originals, and a benefit in fiscal 2023 of $10.0 million associated with the modification of a content licensing arrangement. Direct operating expenses at LIONSGATE+ decreased in the Exiting Territories as a result of lower programming cost amortization and operating costs of approximately $31.9 million and lower expense of approximately $6.1 million related to foreign exchange gains in fiscal 2024 compared to foreign exchange losses in fiscal 2023, partially offset by higher amortization of investment in films and television programs of $11.5 million associated with the distribution of Starz Originals and licensed content to third-party distributors outside of the Starz Platforms in ancillary markets. The LIONSGATE+ direct operating expense of $129.4 million for fiscal 2024 includes $92.8 million from the Exiting Territories.

Current wording

Direct operating expenses decreased in the fiscal year ended March 31, 2024, due to decreases at Starz Networks of $26.6 million, partially offset by an increase in International of $2.1 million. The decrease in Starz Networks direct operating expenses was due primarily to lower programming cost amortization of $27.9 million related to library content, $16.3 million related to theatrical releases under our programming output agreements, partially offset by an increase of $12.0 million related to our Starz Originals, and a benefit in the fiscal year ended March 31, 2023 of $10.0 million associated with the modification of a content licensing arrangement.

Previous wording

Depreciation and Amortization Expense. Depreciation and amortization of $192.2 million for fiscal 2024 increased $11.9 million from $180.3 million in fiscal 2023 due to increased depreciation expense related to software in fiscal 2024 and increased amortization expense of $4.0 million associated with the change in estimated useful life of the Starz trade names, as described in Part II, Item 7. "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Critical Accounting Policies", Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets.

Current wording

Depreciation and Amortization Expense. Depreciation and amortization of $161.8 million for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2024 increased $6.1 million from $155.7 million in the fiscal year ended March 31, 2023 due to increased amortization expense of $4.0 million associated with the change in estimated useful life of the Starz trade names.