Warner Music Group Corp.
For the period ended Mar 31, 2026. Filed May 7, 2026.
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A company's report for each of its first three quarters. The financial statements are not audited. It shows how the business has moved since the last annual report, and what management says changed.
Mar 31, 2026 · Filed May 7, 2026
WMG$31.30-1.9%Stored close · as of Nov 6, 2026
What changed in Management’s Discussion and Analysis?
Read the current filingPrevious report: 10-Q
Period ended 2025-12-31; filed 2026-02-09.
0001319161-26-000010
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsCurrent report: 10-Q
Period ended 2026-03-31; filed 2026-05-07.
0001319161-26-000022
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsThe baseline is this issuer’s latest earlier reporting period of the same form that was filed before the current report. A previous 10-Q is a different quarter, not a year-over-year comparison. Amendments are excluded.
Compared 230 previous paragraphs and 303 current paragraphs.
152 unchanged; 62 reworded; 72 added; 15 removed; 1 previous and 17 current paragraphs rearranged.
Tables are not compared: 12 previous and 21 current tables excluded. Dates, whitespace, punctuation and numbering changes are ignored; changes to financial figures remain significant.
A changed paragraph is not evidence that risk increased or decreased. An unchanged paragraph does not establish that risk stayed the same.
Added paragraphs (72)
Current report
Recorded Music revenues increased by $205 million, or 17%, to $1,380 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from $1,175 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025. The increase includes $50 million of favorable currency exchange fluctuations. U.S. Recorded Music revenues were $565 million and $497 million, or 41% and 42% of consolidated Recorded Music revenues for each of the three months ended March 31, 2026 and March 31, 2025, respectively. International Recorded Music revenues were $815 million and $678 million, or 59% and 58%, of consolidated Recorded Music revenues for each of the three months ended March 31, 2026 and March 31, 2025, respectively.
Current report
Music Publishing revenues increased by $43 million, or 14%, to $353 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from $310 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025. U.S. Music Publishing revenues were $178 million and $161 million, or 50% and 52% of consolidated Music Publishing revenues, for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and March 31, 2025, respectively. International Music Publishing revenues were $175 million and $149 million, or 50% and 48% of consolidated Music Publishing revenues, for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and March 31, 2025, respectively.
Current report
Distribution expense increased by $13 million to $30 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from $17 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025. Expressed as a percentage of revenue, distribution expense increased to 2% for the three months ended March 31, 2026 compared to 1% for the three months ended March 31, 2025, driven by higher physical and merchandising revenues.
Current report
Adjusted OIBDA increased by $94 million to $397 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from $303 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, driven by the impact of the DSP True-Up and Settlement Payments of $7 million and the BMG Termination of $1 million in the prior-year quarter, as well as revenue mix and savings from the Company’s restructuring plans, a portion of which has been reinvested in the Company’s business, partially offset by unfavorable movements in foreign currency exchange rates of approximately $13 million. Expressed as a percentage of total revenue, Adjusted OIBDA margin increased to 23% for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from 20% for the three months ended March 31, 2025.
Current report
Our non-cash stock-based compensation and other related costs decreased by $2 million to $12 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from $14 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025.
Current report
Loss on extinguishment of debt
Current report
We recorded a loss on extinguishment of debt in the amount of $7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026, which represents the unamortized balances of original issuance discounts and deferred financing costs in connection with the refinancing of our Tranche B Term Loans. There was no loss on extinguishment of debt for the three months ended March 31, 2025.
Current report
Other (income) expense
Current report
There was income attributable to noncontrolling interest of $2 million during the three months ended March 31, 2026. There was no loss or income attributable to noncontrolling interest for the three months ended March 31, 2025.
Current report
Recorded Music revenue increased by $205 million, or 17%, to $1,380 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from $1,175 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025. U.S. Recorded Music revenues were $565 million and $497 million, or 41% and 42% of consolidated Recorded Music revenues, for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and March 31, 2025, respectively. International Recorded Music revenues were $815 million and $678 million, or 59% and 58% of consolidated Recorded Music revenues, for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and March 31, 2025, respectively.
Current report
(1)Includes depreciation expense of $10 million and $13 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and March 31, 2025, respectively.
Current report
Recorded Music Adjusted OIBDA increased by $76 million to $346 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from $270 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, largely driven by savings from the Company’s restructuring plans, of which a portion has been reinvested in the Company’s business, partially offset by the impact of the DSP True-Up and Settlement Payments of $7 million and the BMG Termination of $1 million in the prior-year quarter, as well as unfavorable movements in foreign currency exchange rates of approximately $9 million. Expressed as a percentage of Recorded Music revenue, Recorded Music Adjusted OIBDA margin increased to 25% for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from 23% for the three months ended March 31, 2025 due to the factors noted above.
Current report
Music Publishing revenues increased by $43 million, or 14%, to $353 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from $310 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025. U.S. Music Publishing revenues were $178 million and $161 million, or 50% and 52% of consolidated Music Publishing revenues, for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and March 31, 2025, respectively. International Music Publishing revenues were $175 million and $149 million, or 50% and 48% of consolidated Music Publishing revenues, for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and March 31, 2025, respectively.
Current report
Music Publishing cost of revenues increased by $30 million, or 16%, to $224 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from $194 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025. Expressed as a percentage of Music Publishing revenue, Music Publishing cost of revenues remained constant at 63% for each of the three months ended March 31, 2026 and March 31, 2025.
Current report
(1)Includes depreciation expense of $2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025. There was no depreciation expense for the three months ended March 31, 2026.
Current report
Music Publishing selling, general and administrative expense decreased by $2 million, or 6%, to $33 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from $35 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, primarily due to cost savings from the Company’s restructuring plans, a portion of which has been reinvested into the Company’s business. Expressed as a percentage of Music Publishing revenue, Music Publishing selling, general and administrative expense decreased to 9% for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from 11% for the three months ended March 31, 2025.
Current report
Music Publishing Adjusted OIBDA increased by $12 million, or 14%, to $97 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from $85 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, primarily driven by revenue growth and strong operating performance, as well as savings from the Company’s restructuring plans, a portion of which has been reinvested in the Company’s business, partially offset by unfavorable movements in foreign exchange rates of approximately $4 million. Expressed as a percentage of Music Publishing revenue, Music Publishing Adjusted OIBDA margin remained constant at 27% for each of the three months ended March 31, 2026 and March 31, 2025.
Current report
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Current report
Six Months Ended March 31, 2026 Compared with Six Months Ended March 31, 2025
Current report
Consolidated Results
Current report
Total Revenues
Current report
Recorded Music revenues increased by $340 million to $2,860 million for the six months ended March 31, 2026 compared to $2,520 million for the six months ended March 31, 2025, which includes $93 million of favorable currency exchange fluctuations. U.S. Recorded Music revenues were $1,142 million and $1,029 million, or 40% and 41% of consolidated Recorded Music revenues, for the six months ended March 31, 2026 and March 31, 2025, respectively. International Recorded Music revenues were $1,718 million and $1,491 million, or 60% and 59% of consolidated Recorded Music revenues for the six months ended March 31, 2026 and March 31, 2025, respectively.
Current report
The overall increase in Recorded Music revenue was driven by increases in digital, artist services and expanded-rights, physical, and licensing revenues. Digital revenue increased by $237 million for the six months ended March 31, 2026 compared to the six months ended March 31, 2025, which includes a favorable impact of currency exchange fluctuations of $60 million, and reflects the impacts of the DSP True-Up and Settlement Payments of $12 million in the current year and $4 million in the prior year, as well as the BMG Termination of $12 million in the prior year. Revenue from streaming services increased $242 million to $1,921 million for the six months ended March 31, 2026 compared to $1,679 million for the six months ended March 31, 2025, which includes the favorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates of $58 million, and reflects the impacts of the DSP True-Up and Settlement Payments of $12 million in the current year and $4 million in the prior year, as well as the BMG Termination of $12 million in the prior year. Download and other digital revenues decreased by $5 million, or 14%, to $30 million for the six months ended March 31, 2026 from $35 million for the six months ended March 31, 2025, primarily due to the continued shift to streaming services. Artist services and expanded-rights revenue increased by $82 million, or 26%, attributable to higher concert promotion revenue primarily in France, higher merchandising revenue and the favorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates of $15 million. Physical revenue increased by $11 million, or 4%, driven by strong U.S. releases in the current year as well as catalog and carryover success and a favorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates of $9 million, partially offset by strong releases in Japan and Korea the prior year. Licensing revenue increased by $10 million, or 5%, primarily driven by the favorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates of $9 million. Top sellers for the six months ended March 31, 2026 included Alex Warren, sombr, Bruno Mars, Ed Sheeran and Melanie Martinez.
Current report
Music Publishing revenues increased by $82 million, or 13%, to $715 million for the six months ended March 31, 2026 from $633 million for the six months ended March 31, 2025. U.S. Music Publishing revenues were $368 million and $334 million, or 51% and 53% of consolidated Music Publishing revenues, for the six months ended March 31, 2026 and March 31, 2025, respectively. International Music Publishing revenues were $347 million and $299 million, or 49% and 47% of Music Publishing revenues, for the six months ended March 31, 2026 and March 31, 2025, respectively.
Current report
The overall increase in Music Publishing revenue was attributable to increases in digital revenue of $44 million, or 11%, performance revenue of $13 million, or 12%, synchronization revenue of $22 million, or 12%, and mechanical revenue of $5 million, or 17%. The increase in digital revenue was primarily driven by continued growth in streaming revenue, partially offset by the impact of the MLC Historical Matched Royalties of $17 million in the prior year. Revenue from streaming services grew by $44 million, or 11%, to $434 million for the six months ended March 31, 2026 from $390 million for the six months ended March 31, 2025, reflecting the impact of new deals and renewals, continued market growth and a favorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates of $10 million. The growth in performance revenue is attributable to growth from touring, radio and live events primarily in Europe, and the growth in synchronization revenue is attributable to the timing of other copyright infringement settlements, higher television and commercial licensing activity, and the $4 million impact of our acquisition of Tempo. The growth in mechanical revenue is primarily driven by the impact of new deals and the timing of distributions.
Current report
Revenue by Geographical Location
Current report
U.S. revenue increased by $147 million, or 11%, to $1,510 million for the six months ended March 31, 2026 from $1,363 million for the six months ended March 31, 2025. U.S. Recorded Music revenue increased by $113 million, or 11%, primarily driven by an increase in digital revenue of $65 million, or 9%, which reflects higher streaming revenue of $67 million, or 9%, partially offset by lower download and other digital revenue of $2 million, or 11%. The increase in streaming revenue is largely attributable to the impacts of the DSP True-Up and Settlement Payments in both the current and prior years, as well as the BMG Termination in the prior year. The decrease in download and other digital revenue is due to the continued shift to streaming. U.S. Recorded Music physical revenue increased by $25 million, or 20%, driven by strong releases in the current year as well as catalog and carryover success. U.S. Recorded Music artist services and expanded-rights revenue increased by $14 million, or 19%, driven by higher merchandising revenue, and licensing revenue increased by $9 million, or 13%, primarily driven by higher copyright infringement settlements compared to the prior year. U.S. Music Publishing revenue increased by $34 million, or 10%, to $368 million for the six months ended March 31, 2026 from $334 million for the six months ended March 31, 2025. U.S. Music Publishing digital revenue increased by $8 million, attributable to higher streaming revenue of $9 million, or 4%, partially offset by a decrease in download and other digital revenue of $1 million. U.S. Music Publishing synchronization revenue increased by $24 million, or 47%, driven by timing of other copyright infringement settlements, higher television and commercial licensing activity and the impact of acquisitions. U.S. Music Publishing mechanical revenue increased by $1 million, or 14%, and U.S. Music Publishing performance revenue increased $1 million, or 3%, for the six months ended March 31, 2026 compared to the six months ended March 31, 2025.
Current report
International revenue increased by $275 million, or 15%, to $2,065 million for the six months ended March 31, 2026 from $1,790 million for the six months ended March 31, 2025. Excluding the favorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates of $113 million, International revenue increased by $162 million, or 9%. International Recorded Music revenue increased by $227 million, driven by increases in digital revenue of $172 million, artist services and expanded-rights revenue of $68 million, licensing revenue of $1 million, partially offset by a decrease in physical revenue of $14 million. International Recorded Music digital revenue increased by $172 million, attributable to higher streaming revenue of $175 million which includes the impact of certain DSP True-Up and Settlement Payments in the current and prior years, as well as the BMG Termination in the prior year, and a favorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates of $58 million, partially offset by lower download and other digital revenue of $3 million. International Recorded Music artist services and expanded-rights revenue increased by $68 million, primarily due to higher concert promotion revenue in France, and international Recorded Music licensing revenue slightly increased by $1 million. International Recorded Music physical revenue decreased by $14 million, driven by strong releases primarily in Japan and Korea in the prior year, partially offset by a favorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates of $9 million. International Music Publishing revenue increased by $48 million, or 16%, to $347 million for the six months ended March 31, 2026 from $299 million for the six months ended March 31, 2025. This was driven by increases in digital revenue of $36 million, performance revenue of $12 million due to higher concert, touring and live events revenue, and mechanical revenue of $4 million, partially offset by a decrease in synchronization revenue of $2 million. International Music Publishing digital growth is primarily driven by streaming revenue growth of $35 million, or 22%.
Current report
Artist and repertoire costs increased by $156 million, to $1,261 million for the six months ended March 31, 2026 from $1,105 million for the six months ended March 31, 2025. Artist and repertoire costs as a percentage of revenue remained constant at 35% for each of the six months ended March 31, 2026 and March 31, 2025.
Current report
Product costs increased by $76 million, to $656 million for the six months ended March 31, 2026 from $580 million for the six months ended March 31, 2025. Product costs as a percentage of revenue remained constant at 18% for each of the six months ended March 31, 2026 and March 31, 2025.
Current report
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Current report
(1)Includes depreciation expense of $62 million and $57 million for the six months ended March 31, 2026 and March 31, 2025, respectively.
Current report
Total selling, general and administrative expense decreased by $6 million, to $918 million for the six months ended March 31, 2026 from $924 million for the six months ended March 31, 2025, driven by savings from the Company’s restructuring plans, of which a portion has been reinvested into the Company’s business, partially offset by unfavorable movements in foreign currency exchange rates of approximately $22 million. Expressed as a percentage of revenue, total selling, general and administrative expense decreased to 26% for the six months ended March 31, 2026, from 29% for the six months ended March 31, 2025 due to the factors noted below.
Current report
General and administrative expense decreased by $25 million to $535 million for the six months ended March 31, 2026 from $560 million for the six months ended March 31, 2025. The decrease in general and administrative expense was driven by savings from the Company’s restructuring plans, of which a portion has been reinvested into the Company’s business and lower non-cash stock-based compensation expense of $1 million, partially offset by higher depreciation expense of $5 million related to technology assets being placed into service, including the core financials component of our new technology platform. Expressed as a percentage of revenue, general and administrative expense decreased to 15% for the six months ended March 31, 2026 from 18% for the six months ended March 31, 2025 due to the factors noted above.
Current report
Selling and marketing expense increased by $7 million, or 2%, to $322 million for the six months ended March 31, 2026 from $315 million for the six months ended March 31, 2025. Expressed as a percentage of revenue, selling and marketing expense decreased to 9% for the six months ended March 31, 2026, from 10% for the six months ended March 31, 2025, due to lower variable marketing spend and savings from the Company’s restructuring plans, of which a portion has been reinvested in the Company’s business, partially offset by higher marketing and advertising spend for key releases.
Current report
Adjusted OIBDA
Current report
Our non-cash stock-based compensation and other related costs decreased by $1 million to $32 million for the six months ended March 31, 2026 from $33 million for the six months ended March 31, 2025.
Current report
Transformation initiatives and other related costs
Current report
Our transformation initiatives and other related costs decreased by $6 million to $29 million for the six months ended March 31, 2026 from $35 million for the six months ended March 31, 2025.
Current report
Restructuring and Impairments
Showing the first 40 of 72 passages. Open the source sections for the rest.
Removed paragraphs (15)
Previous report
Recorded Music revenues increased by $135 million, or 10%, to $1,480 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from $1,345 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024. The increase includes $43 million of favorable currency exchange fluctuations. U.S. Recorded Music revenues were $577 million and $532 million, or 39% and 40% of consolidated Recorded Music revenues for each of the three months ended December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively. International Recorded Music revenues were $903 million and $813 million, or 61% and 60%, of consolidated Recorded Music revenues for each of the three months ended December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively.
Previous report
Music Publishing revenues increased by $39 million, or 12%, to $362 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from $323 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024. U.S. Music Publishing revenues were $190 million and $173 million, or 52% and 54% of consolidated Music Publishing revenues, for the three months ended December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively. International Music Publishing revenues were $172 million and $150 million, or 48% and 46% of consolidated Music Publishing revenues, for the three months ended December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively.
Previous report
Our non-cash stock-based compensation and other related costs increased by $1 million to $20 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from $19 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024.
Previous report
Recorded Music revenue increased by $135 million, or 10%, to $1,480 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from $1,345 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024. U.S. Recorded Music revenues were $577 million and $532 million, or 39% and 40% of consolidated Recorded Music revenues, for the three months ended December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively. International Recorded Music revenues were $903 million and $813 million, or 61% and 60% of consolidated Recorded Music revenues, for the three months ended December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively.
Previous report
Selling, general and administrative expense
Previous report
(1)Includes depreciation expense of $12 million and $15 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively.
Previous report
Operating Income and Adjusted OIBDA
Previous report
Recorded Music Adjusted OIBDA increased by $80 million to $403 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from $323 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024, largely driven by the impact of the DSP True-Up and Settlement Payments of $7 million in the quarter and $4 million in the prior-year quarter, as well as savings from the Company’s restructuring plans, of which a portion has been reinvested in the Company’s business, and favorable movements in foreign currency exchange rates of approximately $18 million. Expressed as a percentage of Recorded Music revenue, Recorded Music Adjusted OIBDA margin increased to 27% for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from 24% for the three months ended December 31, 2024 due to the factors noted above.
Previous report
Music Publishing revenues increased by $39 million, or 12%, to $362 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from $323 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024. U.S. Music Publishing revenues were $190 million and $173 million, or 52% and 54% of consolidated Music Publishing revenues, for the three months ended December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively. International Music Publishing revenues were $172 million and $150 million, or 48% and 46% of consolidated Music Publishing revenues, for the three months ended December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively.
Previous report
Selling, general and administrative expense
Previous report
(1)Includes depreciation expense of $1 million for each of the three months ended December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024.
Previous report
Music Publishing selling, general and administrative expense increased by $3 million, or 9%, to $35 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from $32 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024, which includes the impact of our acquisition of Tempo Music in the prior year. Expressed as a percentage of Music Publishing revenue, Music Publishing selling, general and administrative expense remained constant at 10% for each of the three months ended December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024.
Previous report
Operating Income and Adjusted OIBDA
Previous report
Music Publishing Adjusted OIBDA increased by $19 million, or 23%, to $102 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from $83 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024, primarily driven by revenue mix, the $4 million impact of the MLC Historical Matched Royalties in the prior-year quarter, and favorable movements in foreign exchange rates of approximately $7 million. Expressed as a percentage of Music Publishing revenue, Music Publishing Adjusted OIBDA margin increased to 28% for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from 26% for the three months ended December 31, 2024.
Previous report
On January 18, 2019, we delivered a notice to the trustee under the 2012 Secured Indenture and 2014 Unsecured Indenture changing the Fixed GAAP Date, as defined under the indentures, to October 1, 2018. Under the Senior Term Loan Facility, the Revolving Credit Facility and the Secured Notes Indenture, the Fixed GAAP Date is set for April 3, 2020, other than in respect of capital leases, which are frozen at November 1, 2012.
Reworded paragraphs (62)
Previous wording
•Results of operations. This section provides an analysis of our results of operations for the three months ended December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024. This analysis is presented on both a consolidated and segment basis.
Current wording
•Results of operations. This section provides an analysis of our results of operations for the three and six months ended March 31, 2026 and March 31, 2025. This analysis is presented on both a consolidated and segment basis.
Previous wording
•Financial condition and liquidity. This section provides an analysis of our cash flows for the three months ended December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, as well as a discussion of our financial condition and liquidity as of December 31, 2025. The discussion of our financial condition and liquidity includes recent debt financings and a summary of the key debt covenant compliance measures under our debt agreements.
Current wording
•Financial condition and liquidity. This section provides an analysis of our cash flows for the six months ended March 31, 2026 and March 31, 2025, as well as a discussion of our financial condition and liquidity as of March 31, 2026. The discussion of our financial condition and liquidity includes recent debt financings and a summary of the key debt covenant compliance measures under our debt agreements.
Previous wording
For the three months ended December 31, 2025, total severance and other termination costs recorded in connection with the 2025 Strategic Restructuring Plan were $25 million, of which $13 million of expense was recognized in our Recorded Music segment and $12 million was recognized in Corporate. As of December 31, 2025, total cumulative restructuring and impairment charges recognized in connection with the 2025 Strategic Restructuring Plan were $143 million with $93 million of costs recognized in our Recorded Music segment, $5 million of costs recognized in our Music Publishing segment, and $45 million recognized at Corporate. These costs are composed of $115 million of severance costs and $28 million of non-cash impairment charges primarily related to impairments of operating lease right-of-use assets that are no longer in use and royalty advances based on operational changes in the intended use of these assets.
Current wording
For the three months ended March 31, 2026, total severance and other termination costs recorded in connection with the 2025 Strategic Restructuring Plan were $5 million, all of which was recognized in our Recorded Music segment. For the six months ended March 31, 2026, total severance and other termination costs recorded in connection with the 2025 Strategic Restructuring Plan were $30 million, of which $18 million of expense was recognized in our Recorded Music segment and $12 million was recognized in Corporate. As of March 31, 2026, total cumulative restructuring and impairment charges recognized in connection with the 2025 Strategic Restructuring Plan were $148 million with $98 million of costs recognized in our Recorded Music segment, $5 million of costs recognized in our Music Publishing segment, and $45 million recognized in Corporate. These costs are composed of $120 million of severance costs and $28 million of non-cash impairment charges primarily related to impairments of operating lease right-of-use assets that are no longer in use and royalty advances based on operational changes in the intended use of these assets.
Previous wording
The cost savings under the 2024 Strategic Restructuring Plan will be achieved through a combination of the disposal or winding down of non-core operations, continuing to manage overhead, sharpening focus, expanding shared services, and implementing previously disclosed expected operational efficiencies made possible by the Company’s financial transformative initiative. The Company allocated a majority of the costs savings to increase investment in the Company’s core Recorded Music and Music Publishing businesses, new skill sets and tech capabilities.
Current wording
The cost savings under the 2024 Strategic Restructuring Plan will be achieved through a combination of the disposal or winding down of non-core operations, continuing to manage overhead, sharpening focus, expanding shared services, and implementing previously disclosed expected operational efficiencies made possible by the Company’s financial transformation initiative. The Company allocated a majority of the costs savings to increase investment in the Company’s core Recorded Music and Music Publishing businesses, new skill sets and tech capabilities.
Previous wording
As of September 30, 2025, total cumulative restructuring and impairment charges recognized in connection with the 2024 Strategic Restructuring Plan were $216 million with $206 million of costs recognized in our Recorded Music segment and $10 million recognized at Corporate. These costs are composed of $134 million of severance and other contract termination costs, of which $7 million was non-cash, and $82 million of non-cash impairment charges. There were no restructuring costs recognized for the three months ended December 31, 2025 related to the 2024 Strategic Restructuring Plan.
Current wording
As of March 31, 2026, total cumulative restructuring and impairment charges recognized in connection with the 2024 Strategic Restructuring Plan were $215 million with $206 million of costs recognized in our Recorded Music segment and $9 million recognized in Corporate. These costs are composed of $133 million of severance and other contract termination costs, of which $7 million was non-cash, and $82 million of non-cash impairment charges. There was a $1 million benefit recognized for the three and six months ended March 31, 2026 related to the 2024 Strategic Restructuring Plan.
Previous wording
For the three months ended December 31, 2025, the Company recognized an impairment charge of $9 million within the Recorded Music segment for long-lived assets associated with EMP, which was the result of remeasuring the carrying value to fair value as it has been classified as held for sale since September 30, 2025.
Current wording
For the three and six months ended March 31, 2026, the Company recognized an impairment charge of $2 million and $11 million, respectively, within the Recorded Music segment for long-lived assets associated with EMP, which was the result of remeasuring the carrying value to fair value as it has been classified as held for sale since September 30, 2025.
Previous wording
Total digital revenues after intersegment eliminations increased by $108 million, or 10%, to $1,190 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from $1,082 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024. Total streaming revenue increased by $113 million, driven by growth in Recorded Music and Music Publishing. Total streaming revenue includes $30 million of favorable currency exchange fluctuations. Prior to intersegment eliminations, total digital revenues for the three months ended December 31, 2025 were composed of U.S. revenues of $534 million and international revenues of $657 million, or 45% and 55% of total digital revenues, respectively. Prior to intersegment eliminations, total digital revenues for the three months ended December 31, 2024 were composed of U.S. revenues of $508 million and international revenues of $572 million, or 47% and 53% of total digital revenues, respectively.
Current wording
Total digital revenues after intersegment eliminations increased by $172 million, or 17%, to $1,199 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from $1,027 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025. Total streaming revenue increased by $173 million, driven by growth in Recorded Music and Music Publishing. Total streaming revenue includes $38 million of favorable currency exchange fluctuations. Prior to intersegment eliminations, total digital revenues for the three months ended March 31, 2026 were composed of U.S. revenues of $537 million and international revenues of $662 million, or 45% and 55% of total digital revenues, respectively. Prior to intersegment eliminations, total digital revenues for the three months ended March 31, 2025 were composed of U.S. revenues of $490 million and international revenues of $539 million, or 48% and 52% of total digital revenues, respectively.
Previous wording
The overall increase in Recorded Music revenue was driven by increases in digital, artist services and expanded-rights and licensing revenues, partially offset by a decrease in physical revenue. Digital revenue increased by $103 million, or 12%, which includes a favorable impact of currency exchange fluctuations of $26 million, primarily due to growth in streaming revenue as a result of the continued growth in streaming services, including growth in subscription and ad-supported revenues. Revenue from streaming services increased by $106 million, or 12%, to $960 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from $854 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024. Adjusted for the impacts of the DSP True-Up and Settlement Payments in the current and prior-year quarters and the BMG Termination in the prior-year quarter, Recorded Music streaming revenue increased $93 million, or 11%, to $948 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from $855 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024. Download and other digital revenues decreased by $3 million, or 16%, to $16 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from $19 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024. Artist services and expanded-rights revenue increased by $35 million, or 18%, due to higher concert promotion revenue primarily in France, and a favorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates of $9 million. Licensing revenue increased by $11 million, or 10%, driven by higher licensing activity, a $2 million increase in copyright infringement settlements in the quarter, and a favorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates of $3 million. Physical revenue, which includes a favorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates of $5 million, decreased by $14 million, or 8%, primarily driven by strong releases in Japan and Korea in the prior-year quarter. Top sellers in the quarter included Alex Warren, sombr, Cardi B, Ed Sheeran, and Teddy Swims.
Current wording
The overall increase in Recorded Music revenue was driven by increases in digital, artist services and expanded-rights and physical revenues, partially offset by a decrease in licensing revenue. Digital revenue increased by $134 million, or 16%, which includes a favorable impact of currency exchange fluctuations of $34 million, primarily due to growth in streaming revenue as a result of the continued growth in streaming services, including growth in subscription and ad-supported revenues. Revenue from streaming services increased by $136 million, or 16%, to $961 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from $825 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025. Adjusted for the impacts of the DSP True-Up and Settlement Payments and the BMG Termination in the prior-year quarter, Recorded Music streaming revenue increased $153 million, or 19%, to $961 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from $808 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025. Download and other digital revenues decreased by $2 million, or 13%, to $14 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from $16 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025. Artist services and expanded-rights revenue increased by $47 million, or 40%, due to higher concert promotion revenue primarily in France, higher merchandising revenue, and a favorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates of $6 million. Physical revenue increased by $25 million, or 22%, primarily driven by strong releases in the quarter as well as catalog and carryover success, and a favorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates of $4 million. Licensing revenue decreased by $1 million, or 1%. Top sellers in the quarter included Bruno Mars, Alex Warren, sombr, Ed Sheeran and Melanie Martinez.
Previous wording
The overall increase in Music Publishing revenue was driven by increases in digital, synchronization, performance, and mechanical revenues. Digital revenue increased by $8 million, or 4%, driven by an increase in streaming revenue. Revenue from streaming services grew by $7 million, or 3%, to $212 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from $205 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024, driven by the impact of new deals and renewals and a favorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates of $4 million, partially offset by the $17 million impact of the MLC Historical Matched Royalties in the prior-year quarter. Adjusted for this item, Music Publishing streaming revenue increased $24 million, or 13%, to $212 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from $188 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024. Synchronization revenue increased by $21 million, or 54%, attributable to higher television and commercial licensing activity, a $3 million increase in copyright infringement settlements in the quarter, and the $3 million impact of our acquisition of Tempo Music. Performance revenue increased by $8 million, or 14%, driven by growth from concerts, radio and live events, and a favorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates of $2 million. Mechanical revenue increased by $4 million, or 29%, driven by the timing of distributions and includes a favorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates of $1 million.
Current wording
The overall increase in Music Publishing revenue was driven by increases in digital, performance, synchronization, and mechanical revenues. Digital revenue increased by $36 million, or 19%, driven by an increase in streaming revenue. Revenue from streaming services grew by $37 million, or 20%, to $222 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from $185 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, driven by the impact of new deals and renewals, continued market growth and a favorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates of $6 million. Performance revenue increased by $5 million, or 9%, driven by growth from touring and live events primarily in Europe, and a favorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates of $3 million. Synchronization revenue increased by $1 million, or 2%, attributable to a favorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates of $2 million. Mechanical revenue increased by $1 million, or 6%, driven by the timing of distributions.
Previous wording
U.S. revenue increased by $62 million, or 9%, to $767 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from $705 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024. U.S. Recorded Music revenue increased by $45 million, or 8%. U.S. Recorded Music digital revenue increased by $36 million, or 9%, driven by higher streaming revenue of $36 million, or 10%, including the impacts of the DSP True-Up and Settlement Payments in the current and prior-year quarters, and the BMG Termination in the prior-year quarter. U.S. Recorded Music licensing revenue increased by $7 million, or 20%, driven by higher copyright infringement settlements. U.S. Recorded Music physical revenue increased $2 million, or 3%, driven by strong releases in the quarter and carryover success. US. Recorded Music artist services and expanded-rights revenues remained constant for the three months ended December 31, 2025 compared to the three months ended December 31, 2024. U.S. Music Publishing revenue increased by $17 million, or 10%, to $190 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from $173 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024. U.S. Music Publishing digital revenue decreased by $10 million, or 8%, attributable to lower streaming revenue of $10 million, or 8%, which includes the impact of the MLC Historical Matched Royalties in the prior-year quarter. U.S. Music Publishing synchronization revenue increased by $21 million, or 95%, driven by timing of certain copyright infringement settlements, higher television and commercial licensing activity and the impact of acquisitions. U.S. Music Publishing performance increased by $4 million, or 21%, due to radio activity, and mechanical revenue increased by $2 million driven by the timing of distributions.
Current wording
U.S. revenue increased by $85 million, or 13%, to $743 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from $658 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025. U.S. Recorded Music revenue increased by $68 million, or 14%. U.S. Recorded Music digital revenue increased by $29 million, or 8%, driven by higher streaming revenue of $31 million, or 8%, including the impact of the BMG Termination in the prior-year quarter. U.S. Recorded Music licensing revenue increased by $2 million, or 5%, driven by higher copyright infringement settlements. U.S. Recorded Music physical revenue increased $23 million, or 43%, driven by strong releases in the quarter as well as catalog and carryover success. U.S. Recorded Music artist services and expanded-rights revenues increased by $14 million, or 61%, driven by higher merchandising revenue. U.S. Music Publishing revenue increased by $17 million, or 11%, to $178 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from $161 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025. U.S. Music Publishing digital revenue increased by $18 million, or 17%, attributable to higher streaming revenue of $19 million, or 18%. U.S. Music Publishing synchronization revenue increased by $3 million, or 10%, driven by timing of certain copyright infringement settlements and the impact of acquisitions. U.S. Music Publishing performance decreased by $3 million, or 16%, and mechanical revenue decreased by $1 million driven by the timing of distributions.
Previous wording
International revenue increased by $112 million, or 12%, to $1,075 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from $963 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024. Excluding the favorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates of $51 million, International revenue increased by $61 million, or 6%. International Recorded Music revenue increased by $90 million, which includes a favorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates of $43 million, driven by growth across digital, artist services and expanded rights and licensing revenues, partially offset by a decrease in physical revenue. International Recorded Music digital revenue increased by $67 million, attributable to higher streaming revenue of $70 million, or 14%, which includes the impacts of the DSP True-Up and Settlement Payments in the current and prior-year quarters, and the BMG Termination in the prior-year quarter, and reflects a favorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates of $26 million. International Recorded Music artist services and expanded-rights revenue increased by $35 million, or 24%, driven by higher concert promotion revenue primarily in France, and the favorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates of $9 million. International Recorded Music licensing revenue increased by $4 million, or 5%, primarily driven by favorable movements in foreign currency exchange rates of $3 million. These increases were partially offset by a decrease in physical revenue of $16 million driven by strong releases in Japan and Korea in the prior-year quarter, partially offset by the favorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates of $5 million. International Music Publishing revenue increased by $22 million, or 15%, to $172 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from $150 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024. International Music Publishing revenue growth was driven by increases in digital revenue of $18 million due to growth in streaming, performance revenue of $4 million due to growth from concerts and live events primarily in Europe, and mechanical revenue of $2 million driven by the timing of distributions. Synchronization revenue remained constant for the three months ended December 31, 2025 compared to the three months ended December 31, 2024.
Current wording
International revenue increased by $163 million, or 20%, to $990 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from $827 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025. Excluding the favorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates of $62 million, International revenue increased by $101 million, or 11%. International Recorded Music revenue increased by $137 million, which includes a favorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates of $50 million, driven by growth across digital, artist services and expanded rights and physical revenues, partially offset by a decrease in licensing revenue. International Recorded Music digital revenue increased by $105 million, attributable to higher streaming revenue of $105 million, or 23%, which includes the impacts of the DSP True-Up and Settlement Payments and the BMG Termination in the prior-year quarter, and a favorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates of $32 million. International Recorded Music artist services and expanded-rights revenue increased by $33 million, or 35%, driven by higher concert promotion revenue primarily in France, and the favorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates of $6 million. International Recorded Music physical revenue increased by $2 million driven by the favorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates of $4 million. These increases were partially offset by a decrease in licensing revenue of $3 million, or 4%. International Music Publishing revenue increased by $26 million, or 17%, to $175 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from $149 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025. International Music Publishing revenue growth was driven by increases in digital revenue of $18 million due to growth in streaming, performance revenue of $8 million due to growth from concerts and live events primarily in Europe, and mechanical revenue of $2 million driven by the timing of distributions. Synchronization revenue decreased by $2 million, or 10%.
Previous wording
Artist and repertoire costs increased by $70 million, to $644 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from $574 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024. Artist and repertoire costs as a percentage of revenue increased to 35% for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from 34% for the three months ended December 31, 2024, primarily due to revenue mix.
Current wording
Artist and repertoire costs increased by $86 million, to $617 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from $531 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025. Artist and repertoire costs as a percentage of revenue remained constant at 36% for each of the three months ended March 31, 2026 and March 31, 2025.
Previous wording
Product costs increased by $23 million, to $343 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from $320 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024. Product costs as a percentage of revenue remained constant at 19% for each of the three months ended December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024.
Current wording
Product costs increased by $53 million, to $313 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from $260 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025. Product costs as a percentage of revenue remained constant at 18% for each of the three months ended March 31, 2026 and March 31, 2025.
Previous wording
(1)Includes depreciation expense of $31 million and $29 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively.
Current wording
(1)Includes depreciation expense of $31 million and $28 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and March 31, 2025, respectively.
Previous wording
Total selling, general and administrative expense decreased by $16 million, to $458 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from $474 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024. Expressed as a percentage of revenue, total selling, general and administrative expense decreased to 25% for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from 28% for the three months ended December 31, 2024 due to the factors noted below.
Current wording
Total selling, general and administrative expense increased by $10 million, to $460 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from $450 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, primarily driven by unfavorable movements in foreign currency exchange rates of $12 million. Expressed as a percentage of revenue, total selling, general and administrative expense decreased to 27% for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from 30% for the three months ended March 31, 2025 due to the factors noted below.
Previous wording
General and administrative expense decreased by $12 million to $272 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from $284 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024. The decrease in general and administrative expense was primarily driven by cost savings from the Company’s restructuring plans, of which a portion has been reinvested in the Company’s business, partially offset by higher depreciation expense of $2 million due to the core financials component of our new technology platform being placed into service, and the impact of acquisitions of $2 million. Expressed as a percentage of revenue, general and administrative expense decreased to 15% for the three months ended December 31, 2025 compared to 17% for the three months ended December 31, 2024.
Current wording
General and administrative expense decreased by $13 million to $263 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from $276 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025. The decrease in general and administrative expense was primarily driven by cost savings from the Company’s restructuring plans, of which a portion has been reinvested in the Company’s business, partially offset by higher depreciation expense of $3 million due to the core financials component of our new technology platform being placed into service. Expressed as a percentage of revenue, general and administrative expense decreased to 15% for the three months ended March 31, 2026 compared to 19% for the three months ended March 31, 2025.
Previous wording
Selling and marketing expense decreased by $3 million, or 2%, to $155 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from $158 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024. Expressed as a percentage of revenue, selling and marketing expense decreased to 8% for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from 9% for the three months ended December 31, 2024 due to savings from the Company’s restructuring plans, of which a portion has been reinvested in the Company’s business.
Current wording
Selling and marketing expense increased by $10 million, or 6%, to $167 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from $157 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025. Expressed as a percentage of revenue, selling and marketing expense decreased to 10% for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from 11% for the three months ended March 31, 2025 due to savings from the Company’s restructuring plans, of which a portion has been reinvested in the Company’s business, partially offset by higher marketing and advertising spend for key releases.
Previous wording
Our transformation initiative costs, which include costs associated with our finance transformation, remained constant at $17 million for each of the three months ended December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024.
Current wording
Our transformation initiative costs, which include costs associated with our finance transformation, decreased by $6 million to $12 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from $18 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025.
Previous wording
Our restructuring and impairment charges increased to $34 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from $27 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024. The three months ended December 31, 2025 includes an impairment charge of
Current wording
Our restructuring and impairment charges decreased to $6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from $13 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025. The three months ended March 31, 2026 includes an impairment charge of $2 million for long-lived assets associated with EMP, which was the result of remeasuring the carrying value to fair value as it has been classified as held for sale since September 30, 2025.
Previous wording
Our depreciation expense increased by $2 million to $31 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from $29 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024. The increase is primarily driven by the core financials and global revenue solution components of our new technology platform being placed into service.
Current wording
Our depreciation expense increased by $3 million to $31 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from $28 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025. The increase is primarily driven by the core financials and global revenue solution components of our new technology platform being placed into service.
Previous wording
Our amortization expense increased by $11 million, to $68 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from $57 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024. The increase is driven by incremental amortization related to acquisitions of music-related assets, partially offset by EMP intangible assets, which have been classified as held for sale.
Current wording
Our amortization expense increased by $10 million, to $72 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from $62 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025. The increase is driven by incremental amortization related to acquisitions of music-related assets, partially offset by EMP intangible assets, which have been classified as held for sale.
Previous wording
Our operating income increased by $74 million to $288 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from $214 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024, primarily due to the factors impacting Adjusted OIBDA described above. The increase in operating income was partially offset by higher amortization expenses of $11 million, an increase in restructuring and impairment charges of $7 million, and the impact of a $5 million net loss on divestitures for the three months ended December 31, 2025 compared to the three months ended December 31, 2024.
Current wording
Our operating income increased by $96 million to $264 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from $168 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, primarily due to the factors impacting Adjusted OIBDA described above and a decrease in restructuring and impairment charges of $7 million. The increase in operating income was partially offset by higher amortization expenses of $10 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026.
Previous wording
Our interest expense, net, increased to $45 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from $37 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024 due to incremental debt related to the Tempo Asset-Based Notes acquired in connection with the acquisition of Tempo Music in the prior year, partially offset by lower interest rates on variable rate debt in the quarter.
Current wording
Our interest expense, net, increased to $41 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from $39 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025 due to incremental debt related to the Tempo Asset-Based Notes acquired in connection with the acquisition of Tempo Music in the prior year as well as incremental debt related to the Beethoven Credit Agreement in the quarter, partially offset by lower interest rates on variable rate debt in the quarter.
Previous wording
Our income tax expense decreased by $18 million to $71 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from $89 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024. The decrease of $18 million in income tax expense is primarily due to a decrease in pre-tax income in the quarter.
Current wording
Our income tax expense increased by $44 million to $73 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from $29 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025. The increase of $44 million in income tax expense is primarily due to an increase in pre-tax income in the quarter and a taxable gain on the Company’s sale of certain recorded music catalog rights to Beethoven JV, partially offset by the tax benefit associated with partial release of valuation allowance on EMP.
Previous wording
Net income decreased by $66 million to $175 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from $241 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024 as a result of the factors described above.
Current wording
Net income increased by $145 million to $181 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from $36 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025 as a result of the factors described above.
Previous wording
Revenues, operating income (loss) and Adjusted OIBDA by business segment were as follows (in millions):
Current wording
Results by business segment were as follows (in millions):
Previous wording
The overall increase in Recorded Music revenue was driven by higher revenue across digital, artist services and expanded-rights and licensing, partially offset by a decrease in physical revenue, as described in the “Total Revenues” and “Revenue by Geographical Location” sections above.
Current wording
The overall increase in Recorded Music revenue was driven by higher revenue across digital, artist services and expanded-rights and physical, partially offset by a decrease in licensing revenue, as described in the “Total Revenues” and “Revenue by Geographical Location” sections above.
Previous wording
Recorded Music cost of revenues increased by $74 million, to $760 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from $686 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024. Expressed as a percentage of Recorded Music revenue, Recorded Music artist and repertoire costs increased to 28% for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from 27% for the three months ended December 31, 2024 primarily due to revenue mix. Expressed as a percentage of Recorded Music revenue, Recorded Music product costs decreased to 23% for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from 24% for the three months ended December 31, 2024, driven by revenue and deal mix.
Current wording
Recorded Music cost of revenues increased by $108 million, to $707 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from $599 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025. Expressed as a percentage of Recorded Music revenue, Recorded Music artist and repertoire costs remained constant at 29% for each of the three months ended March 31, 2026 and March 31, 2025. Expressed as a percentage of Recorded Music revenue, Recorded Music product costs increased to 23% for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from 22% for the three months ended March 31, 2025, driven by revenue and deal mix.
Previous wording
Recorded Music selling, general and administrative expense decreased by $28 million, to $335 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from $363 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024. The decrease in general and administrative expense was largely driven by cost savings from the Company’s restructuring plans, a portion of which has been reinvested into the Company’s business. The decrease in selling and marketing expense was also driven by savings from the Company’s restructuring plans, as well as lower variable marketing spend. The decrease in distribution expense was primarily driven by revenue mix. Expressed as a percentage of Recorded Music revenue, Recorded Music selling, general and administrative expense decreased to 23% for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from 27% for the three months ended December 31, 2024.
Current wording
Recorded Music selling, general and administrative expense increased by $15 million, to $342 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from $327 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, primarily driven by unfavorable movements in foreign currency exchange rates of $12 million. The decrease in general and administrative expense was largely driven by cost savings from the Company’s restructuring plans, a portion of which has been reinvested into the Company’s business. The increase in selling and marketing expense was driven by higher variable marketing spend for key releases. The increase in distribution expense was primarily driven by revenue mix from higher merchandising and physical revenues. Expressed as a percentage of Recorded Music revenue, Recorded Music selling, general and administrative expense decreased to 25% for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from 28% for the three months ended March 31, 2025.
Previous wording
Recorded Music operating income increased by $91 million to $329 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from $238 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024. In addition to the factors impacting Adjusted OIBDA described below, the increase in operating income was driven by decreases in restructuring and impairment charges of $6 million and depreciation expense of $3 million compared to the prior-year quarter, partially offset by higher amortization expenses of $4 million related to acquisitions of music-related assets.
Current wording
Recorded Music operating income increased by $85 million to $288 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from $203 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025. In addition to the factors impacting Adjusted OIBDA described below, the increase in operating income was driven by decreases in restructuring and impairment charges of $7 million and depreciation expense of $3 million compared to the prior-year quarter, partially offset by higher amortization expenses of $4 million related to acquisitions of music-related assets.
Previous wording
The overall increase in Music Publishing revenue was driven by growth in digital, synchronization, performance, and mechanical revenues, as described in the “Total Revenues” and “Revenue by Geographical Location” sections above.
Current wording
The overall increase in Music Publishing revenue was driven by growth in digital, performance, synchronization, and mechanical revenues, as described in the “Total Revenues” and “Revenue by Geographical Location” sections above.
Previous wording
Music Publishing operating income increased by $10 million to $65 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from $55 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024, driven by the same factors affecting Adjusted OIBDA discussed below, partially offset by an increase in amortization expense of $8 million related to the impact of acquisitions for the three months ended December 31, 2025 compared to the three months ended December 31, 2024.
Current wording
Music Publishing operating income increased by $9 million to $61 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from $52 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025. The increase is driven by the same factors affecting Adjusted OIBDA discussed below, as well as lower depreciation expenses of $2 million, partially offset by an increase in amortization expense of $6 million related to the impact of acquisitions.
Previous wording
Our operating loss from corporate expenses and eliminations increased by $27 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 to $106 million from $79 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024, driven by an increase in restructuring and impairment costs of $13 million, an increase in non-cash stock-based compensation and other related expenses of $6 million, higher depreciation expense of $5 million driven by the core financials and global revenue solution components of our new technology platform being placed into service, and a net loss on divestitures of $5 million in the quarter.
Current wording
Our operating loss from corporate expenses and eliminations decreased by $2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 to $85 million from $87 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, driven by savings from the Company’s restructuring plans, of which a portion has been reinvested in the Company’s business, partially offset by higher depreciation expense of $8 million driven by the core financials and global revenue solution components of our new technology platform being placed into service, and higher non-cash stock-based compensation and other related expenses of $2 million.
Previous wording
Our Adjusted OIBDA loss from corporate expenses and eliminations decreased by $1 million to $42 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from $43 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024, primarily due to the factors discussed above, as well as savings from the Company’s restructuring plans, of which a portion has been reinvested into the Company’s business.
Current wording
Our Adjusted OIBDA loss from corporate expenses and eliminations decreased by $6 million to $46 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from $52 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, primarily due to savings from the Company’s restructuring plans, of which a portion has been reinvested in the Company’s business.
Previous wording
Total revenues increased by $174 million, or 10%, to $1,840 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from $1,666 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024. Revenue growth was impacted by a digital revenue settlement of $12 million in the quarter and a $7 million downward revenue true-up in the prior-year quarter (the “DSP True-Up and Settlement Payments”). Recorded Music revenue growth was also unfavorably impacted by the BMG Termination, which resulted in $6 million less Recorded Music digital revenue compared to the prior-year quarter. Music Publishing revenue was impacted by $17 million of revenue in the prior-year quarter recognized in connection with historical matched royalties that were processed to date by the Mechanical Licensing Collective (the “MLC Historical Matched Royalties”). Adjusted for these items, total revenues increased by $178 million, or 11%, which includes $52 million of favorable currency exchange fluctuations. Prior to intersegment eliminations, Recorded Music and Music Publishing revenues represented 80% and 20% of total revenue for the three months ended December 31, 2025, respectively, and 81% and 19% of total revenue for the three months ended December 31, 2024, respectively. Prior to intersegment eliminations, U.S. and international revenues represented 42% and 58% of total revenues for each of the three months ended December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024.
Current wording
Total revenues increased by $422 million, or 13%, to $3,572 million for the six months ended March 31, 2026 from $3,150 million for the six months ended March 31, 2025. Revenue growth was impacted by $12 million of Recorded Music digital revenue from the DSP True-Up and Settlement Payments in the current year and $4 million in the prior year. Revenue growth was also unfavorably impacted by the BMG Termination, which resulted in $12 million lower Recorded Music streaming revenue compared to the six months ended March 31, 2025. Music Publishing revenue was impacted by $17 million of revenue in the prior year recognized in connection with historical matched royalties that were processed to date by the Mechanical Licensing Collective (the “MLC Historical Matched Royalties”). Prior to intersegment eliminations, Recorded Music and Music Publishing revenues represented 80% and 20% of total revenues for each of the six months ended March 31, 2026 and March 31, 2025. Prior to intersegment eliminations, U.S. and international revenues represented 42% and 58% for the six months ended March 31, 2026, respectively, and 43% and 57% for the six months ended March 31, 2025, respectively.
Previous wording
Distribution expense decreased by $1 million to $31 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from $32 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024. Expressed as a percentage of revenue, distribution expense remained constant at 2% for each of the three months ended December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024.
Current wording
Distribution expense increased by $12 million to $61 million for the six months ended March 31, 2026 from $49 million for the six months ended March 31, 2025. Expressed as a percentage of revenue, distribution expense remained constant at 2% for each of the six months ended March 31, 2026 and March 31, 2025.
Previous wording
Adjusted OIBDA increased by $100 million to $463 million for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from $363 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024, driven by the impact of the DSP True-Up and Settlement Payments of $7 million in the quarter and $4 million in the prior-year quarter, and the MLC Historical Matched Royalties of $4 million in the prior-year quarter, as well as revenue mix, savings from the Company’s restructuring plans, a portion of which has been reinvested in the Company’s business, and favorable movements in currency exchange rates of approximately $25 million compared to the prior-year quarter. Expressed as a percentage of total revenue, Adjusted OIBDA margin increased to 25% for the three months ended December 31, 2025 from 22% for the three months ended December 31, 2024.
Current wording
Adjusted OIBDA increased by $194 million to $860 million for the six months ended March 31, 2026 as compared to $666 million for the six months ended March 31, 2025, driven by the impacts of the DSP True-Up and Settlement Payments of $7 million in the current year and $3 million in the prior year, and the $4 million impact of the MLC Historical Matched Royalties and the $1 million impact of the BMG Termination in the prior year, as well as revenue mix, savings from the Company’s strategic restructuring plans, a portion of which has been reinvested in the Company’s business, and favorable movements in currency exchange rates of approximately $13 million. Expressed as a percentage of total revenue, Adjusted OIBDA margin increased to 24% for the six months ended March 31, 2026 from 21% for the six months ended March 31, 2025.
Previous wording
Net loss on divestitures during the three months ended December 31, 2025 includes a pre-tax loss of $5 million in connection with the divestiture of certain assets. There was no net loss on divestitures during the three months ended December 31, 2024.
Current wording
Net loss on divestitures during the six months ended March 31, 2026 includes a pre-tax loss of $5 million in connection with the divestiture of certain assets. There was no net loss on divestitures during the six months ended March 31, 2025.
Previous wording
Other income for the three months ended December 31, 2025 primarily includes income earned on equity method investments of $2 million and a currency exchange gain on our intercompany loans of $1 million, partially offset by a foreign currency loss on our Euro-denominated debt of $1 million, and a realized and unrealized loss on hedging activity of $1 million. This compares to foreign currency gains on our Euro-denominated debt of $61 million, currency exchange gains on our intercompany loans of $46 million, and realized and unrealized gains on hedging activity of $15 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024.
Current wording
Other income for the six months ended March 31, 2026 primarily includes foreign currency gains on our Euro-denominated debt of $21 million, currency exchange gains on our intercompany loans of $13 million, and realized and unrealized losses on hedging activity of $1 million. This compares to foreign currency gains on our Euro-denominated debt of $27 million, currency exchange gains on our intercompany loans of $19 million, realized gains on the sale of an investment of $29 million, and realized and unrealized gains on hedging activity of $9 million for the six months ended March 31, 2025.
Previous wording
There was a loss attributable to noncontrolling interest of $1 million during the three months ended December 31, 2025 compared to income of $5 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024.
Current wording
There was income attributable to noncontrolling interest of $3 million for the six months ended March 31, 2026 compared to a loss of $5 million for the six months ended March 31, 2025.
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Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
Total revenues increased by $248 million, or 17%, to $1,732 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 from $1,484 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025. Revenue growth was impacted by a digital revenue settlement of $11 million in the prior-year quarter (the “DSP True-Up and Settlement Payments”). Recorded Music revenue growth was also unfavorably impacted by the BMG Termination, which resulted in $6 million less Recorded Music digital revenue compared to the prior-year quarter. Adjusted for these items, total revenues increased by $265 million, or 18%, which includes $61 million of favorable currency exchange fluctuations. Prior to intersegment eliminations, Recorded Music and Music Publishing revenues represented 80% and 20% of total revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2026, respectively, and 79% and 21% of total revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2025, respectively. Prior to intersegment eliminations, U.S. and international revenues represented 43% and 57% of total revenues for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 44% and 56% of total revenues for the three months ended March 31, 2025.
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
Other income for the three months ended March 31, 2026 primarily includes foreign currency gains on our Euro-denominated debt of $22 million and a currency exchange gain on intercompany loans of $12 million. This compares to foreign currency losses on our Euro-denominated debt of $34 million, currency exchange losses on our intercompany loans of $27 million, and realized and unrealized losses on hedging activity of $6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025.
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
Our revenues were composed of the following amounts (in millions):
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
Total digital revenues after intersegment eliminations increased by $280 million, or 13%, to $2,389 million for the six months ended March 31, 2026 from $2,109 million for the six months ended March 31, 2025. Total streaming revenue increased 14% primarily driven by an increase in streaming revenue at Recorded Music. Total digital revenues remained constant at 67% of consolidated revenues for each of the six months ended March 31, 2026 and March 31, 2025. Prior to intersegment eliminations, total digital revenues for the six months ended March 31, 2026 were composed of U.S. revenues of $1,071 million and international revenues of $1,319 million, or 45% and 55% of total digital revenues, respectively. Prior to intersegment eliminations, total digital revenues for the six months ended March 31, 2025 were composed of U.S. revenues of $998 million and international revenues of $1,111 million, or 47% and 53% of total digital revenues, respectively.
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
Our cost of revenues was composed of the following amounts (in millions):
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
Our selling, general and administrative expenses were composed of the following amounts (in millions):
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
Reconciliation of Net Income Attributable to Warner Music Group Corp. and Operating Income to Consolidated Adjusted OIBDA
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
As previously described, we use Adjusted OIBDA as our primary measure of financial performance. The following table reconciles operating income to Adjusted OIBDA, and further provides the components from net income attributable to Warner Music Group Corp. to operating income for purposes of the discussion that follows (in millions):
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
Non-cash stock-based compensation and other related costs
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
Our amortization expense increased by $21 million, or 18%, to $140 million for the six months ended March 31, 2026 from $119 million for the six months ended March 31, 2025. The increase is driven by incremental amortization related to acquisitions of music-related assets, partially offset by EMP intangible assets, which have been classified as held for sale.
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
Our interest expense, net, increased to $86 million for the six months ended March 31, 2026 from $76 million for the six months ended March 31, 2025, primarily due to incremental debt related to the Tempo Asset-Based Notes acquired in connection with the acquisition of Tempo Music in the prior year, as well as incremental debt related to the Beethoven Credit Agreement, partially offset by lower interest rates on variable rate debt in the quarter.
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
Results by business segment were as follows (in millions):
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
Recorded Music cost of revenues was composed of the following amounts (in millions):
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
Recorded Music selling, general and administrative expenses were composed of the following amounts (in millions):
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
The overall increase in Music Publishing revenue was driven by growth across digital, synchronization, performance and mechanical revenues, as described in the “Total Revenues” and “Revenue by Geographical Location” sections above.
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
Music Publishing cost of revenues were composed of the following amounts (in millions):
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
Music Publishing selling, general and administrative expenses were composed of the following amounts (in millions):
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Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
$9 million for long-lived assets associated with EMP, which was the result of remeasuring the carrying value to fair value as it has been classified as held for sale since September 30, 2025.