0000065011 us-gaap:OperatingSegmentsMember mdp:NationalMediaMember 2018-10-01 2018-12-31




 
UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
FORM 10-K

☒ ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended
June 30, 2018
Commission file number 1-51282019
☐ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from __ to __

Commission file number 1-5128
image4a09.jpg
MEREDITH CORPORATION
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
  
Iowa42-0410230
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
 
1716 Locust Street,Des Moines,Iowa50309-3023
(Address of principal executive offices)(ZIP Code)
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:
(515)284-3000
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
 Title of each class Trading SymbolName of each exchange on which registered 
 Common Stock, par value $1MDP New York Stock Exchange 
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
   Title of class   
Class B Common Stock, par value $1


Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. xYesxo  Noo

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. oYes oxNox

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. xYesxo  Noo

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). xYesxo  Noo

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.    o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and emerging growth company in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filerx     Accelerated filer o     Non-accelerated filer o (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
Smaller reporting company o☐     Emerging growth company o☐

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.    o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). ☐Yes ox  Nox

The registrant estimates that the aggregate market value of voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates of the registrant at December 29, 2017,31, 2018, (the last business day of the most recently completed second fiscal quarter) was approximately $2.5$2.0 billion based upon the closing price on the New York Stock Exchange at that date.
Shares of stock outstanding at JulyAugust 31, 20182019
Common shares39,787,77740,136,445

Class B shares5,107,8135,093,245

Total common and Class B shares44,895,59045,229,690






DOCUMENT INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Certain portions of the Registrant’s Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on
 November 14, 2018,13, 2019, are incorporated by reference in Part III to the extent described therein.
     
  TABLE OF CONTENTS  
   Page 
  Part I  
 
Item 1.
Business
1
 
  Description of Business  
       National Media
32
 
       Local Media
76
 
  Executive Officers of the Company
1110
 
  Employees
1110
 
  Other
11
 
  Available Information
1211
 
  Forward-Looking Statements
1211
 
 
Item 1A.
Risk Factors
12
 
 
Item 1B.
Unresolved Staff Comments
2220
 
 
Item 2.
Properties
2220
 
 
Item 3.
Legal Proceedings
2221
 
 
Item 4.
Mine Safety Disclosures
2321
 
     
  Part II  
 
Item 5.
Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Shareholder Matters, and  
     Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
22
Item 6.
Selected Financial Data
24
 
 
Item 6.
Selected Financial Data
26
Item 7.
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and  
     Results of Operations
2725
 
 
Item 7A.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
5048
 
 
Item 8.
Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
5150
 
 
Item 9.
Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and  
     Financial Disclosure
114132
 
 
Item 9A.
Controls and Procedures
114132
 
 
Item 9B.
Other Information
115134
 
     
  Part III  
 
Item 10.
Directors, Executive Officers, and Corporate Governance
115135
 
 
Item 11.
Executive Compensation
115135
 
 
Item 12.
Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and  
     Related Stockholder Matters
116135
 
 
Item 13.
Certain Relationships and Related Transactions and Director Independence
116136
 
 
Item 14.
Principal Accounting Fees and Services
116136
 
     
  Part IV  
 
Item 15.
Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules
117137
 
 
Item 16.
Form 10-K Summary
121
Signatures
122141
 
 
Index to Attached ExhibitsSignatures
E-1142
 
    
Meredith Corporation and its consolidated subsidiaries are referred to in this Annual Report on Form 10-K
 (Form 10-K) as Meredith, the Company, we, our, and us.






  

PART I

 		 






ITEM 1. BUSINESS




GENERAL


Meredith Corporation has been committed to service journalism since its inception in 1902 as an agricultural publisher. In 1924, the Company published the first issue of Better Homes & Gardens. The Company entered the television broadcasting business in 1948. On January 31, 2018, Meredith completed its acquisition of Time Inc. (Time), which is now a wholly ownedwholly-owned subsidiary of Meredith.


Meredith uses multiple media platforms—including print, digital, mobile, video, and broadcast television—to provide consumers with content they desire and to deliver the messages of our advertising and marketing partners. Nationally, Meredith serves over 175180 million unduplicated American consumers and has a readership of more than 120107 million, paid circulation of more than 40 million, and nearly 135over 150 million monthly unique visitors. Meredith’s broadcast television stations reach 11 percent of United States (U.S.) households.


The Company is incorporated under the laws of the State of Iowa. Our common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol MDP.


The companyCompany operates two business segments: national media and local media. Our national media segment includes leading national consumer media brands delivered via multiple media platforms including print magazines, digital and mobile media, brand licensing activities, database-related activities, affinity marketing, and business-to-business marketing products and services. Our focus is on the entertainment, food, lifestyle, parenting, and home categories, which include titles such as People, Better Homes & Gardens, InStyle, Allrecipes, Real Simple, Shape,Southern Living, and Martha Stewart Living among others. In addition to subscription magazines, in 2018fiscal 2019 we published nearly 275over 300 special interest publications. Most of our brands are also available as digital editions on one or more of the major digital newsstands and on major tablet devices. The national media segment’s extensive digital presence consists of more than 60 websites nearly 60 mobile-optimized websites, and 14 applications (apps). The national media segment also includes brand licensing activities, affinity marketing, third-party marketing, a large consumer database, and other related operations.


Our local media segment consists of 17 television stations located across the U.S. concentrated in fast growing markets with related digital and mobile media assets. The television stations include seven CBS affiliates, five FOX affiliates, two MyNetworkTV affiliates, one NBC affiliate, one ABC affiliate, and two independent stations. Local media’s digital presence includes 12 websites, 12 mobile-optimized websites, and approximately 30 apps focused on news, sports, and weather-related information. In addition, the local media segment sells geographic and demographic-targeted digital and print advertising programs sold to third parties.


Financial information about industry segments can be found in Item 7-Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and in Item 8-Financial Statements and Supplementary Data under Note 17.18.


The Company’s largest revenue source is advertising. National and local economic conditions affect the magnitude of our advertising revenues. Both national media and local media revenues and operating results can be affected by changes in the demand for advertising and consumer demand for our products. Magazine circulation revenues are generally affected by national and regional economic conditions and competition from other forms of media.



Television advertising is seasonal and cyclical to some extent, traditionally generating higher revenues in the second and fourth fiscal quarters and during key political contests and major sporting events.


BUSINESS DEVELOPMENTS

On January 31, 2018, Meredith completed its acquisition of Time for $3.2 billion and began operating as a combined company on February 1, 2018. Time was a multi-platform media company with brands such as People, InStyle, Real Simple, Southern Living, and Travel + Leisure. This transaction transformed Meredith into the leading media and marketing company that reaches 175 million unduplicated U.S. consumers monthly. Meredith’s brands now have a readership of more than 120 million and paid circulation of more than 40 million. The acquisition greatly increased our digital scale. We now reach nearly 135 million monthly unique visitors in the U.S.

Subsequent to the acquisition of Time, Meredith completed the sale of the Golf brand in February 2018 and the sale of Time Inc. (UK) Ltd (TIUK) in March 2018. In addition, we initiated a process to sell TIME, Sports Illustrated, Fortune, Money, and affiliated brands as well as the Company’s 60 percent interest in Viant Technology LLC (Viant), which were all acquired in the Time acquisition. These brands each have a different advertising base and target audience than the rest of our magazine portfolio, and therefore, we believe they are better suited for success with a new owner. We anticipate agreements to sell these businesses to be finalized in early fiscal 2019.

In March 2018, Meredith unveiled a new sales and marketing structure for national media. Meredith’s new national media sales structure puts in place strategic account teams comprised of brand, corporate, and digital sellers and marketers, with a principal point of contact for each key account.


In July 2017, we sold a 70 percent interest in Charleston Tennis LLC, which operates the Family Circle Tennis Center. In MaySeptember 2018, wethe Company sold its remaining 30 percent interest in Charleston Tennis LLC.

In July 2018, Real Simple launched the Real Simple Shop, an online shopping site that builds on the brand's digital and licensing momentum. The Real Simple Shop is an e-commerce destination where consumers can purchase a range of Real Simple branded products, in addition to hundreds of curated items for every aspect of the home life-decorating, cleaning and organizing, cooking, skincare and fashion, and more. Additionally, the shop is filled with expert buying guides to help readers make the best buying decisions possible.

In September 2018, the Company announced plans to merge Cooking Light magazine with EatingWell to create the largest high-frequency subscription magazine in the epicurean category under the EatingWell brand. The new and enhanced EatingWell launched with the January/February 2019 issue with a circulation rate base of 1.775 million.

On October 31, 2018, the Company closed on the sale of the TIME media brand and on December 21, 2018, the Company closed on the sale of the Fortune media brand. As part of these transactions, Meredith Xcelerated Marketing (MXM).

The Magnolia Journal, launched in fiscal 2017 as a quarterly newsstand-only title, had continued success. In October 2017, Meredith announced an increaseprovided short-term business continuity services to the rate basebuyers and entered into multi-year agreements to 1.2 million starting withprovide services such as consumer marketing, subscription fulfillment, paper purchasing, and printing.

On February 28, 2019, Meredith acquired 100 percent of the Spring 2018 issue. This increased rate base comparesmembership interests in Linfield Media, LLC, a marketing business focused on online savings and deals.

In March 2019, Meredith was a key partner in the launch of Apple News+, a new digital subscription service that offers 30 Meredith magazines among more than 300 popular titles, leading newspapers, and digital publishers.

In May 2019, the Company completed the first step of a two-step transaction to sell our Sports Illustrated (SI) business. At the time of the first closing, we transferred title to the 400,000 initial rate base at launchSI brand. Simultaneously, we entered into an agreement to license back rights under the SI brand to continue publishing activities associated with SI. The second step of the transaction to complete the sale of the SI brand is expected to close in the Fallfirst quarter of 2016. In December The Magnolia Journal was named to Ad Age’s Magazines of the Year list and in February 2018 was named Magazine Launch of the Year by the Association of Magazine Media.fiscal 2020.


We also celebrated other key milestones and achievements for other brands in fiscal 2018. Martha Stewart Living was also named to Ad Age’s Magazine of the Year List. Allrecipes, the leading global digital food brand, celebrated the 20-year anniversary of its launch in July 1997. In April 2018, we launched a print edition of HelloGiggles, an extension of the popular digital brand. The print magazine is a newsstand-only bi-annual publication with an initial rate base of 500,000.

During fiscal 2018,2019, Meredith debuted redesigns of several of our subscription magazines. The September 20172018 issue of Parents containedFamily Circle featured a fresh, new logo, updated cover design, photography that captures real life, and a new content structure. The January/February 2019 issue of Health Magazine marked the debut of an updated design with a cleaner look includingand bolder typography.

Meredith and Fear Free, LLC, a modern logo, lively layoutsveterinary, pet professional, and photography,pet owner education company, have come together to introduce Happy Paws magazine, a guide to your dog and an evolved personality that reflects the candor, humor, and confidence of today’s mom.cat's best life. The redesign of Rachel Ray Every Day, whichfirst issue debuted in its November 2017 issue, includes a vibrant and elevated approach to photography and visuals, updated layouts and formats, and a revamped editorial lineup. Incorporating both new editorial content and an elevated look and feel, the new Shape debuted with its May 2018 issue. Finally, the June 2018 edition of Food & Wine included new sections, expanded content, and a bolder, more graphic cover.April 2019.


Meredith entered into several new partnerships in fiscal 2018. In January 2018, Meredith announced a partnership with Lisa Lillien to create Hungry Girl Magazine, which includes healthy recipes and lifestyle tips. In November 2017, Allrecipes announced that it now features AmazonFresh as a retailer embedded within the site’s top recipes. This innovation enables home cooks to click to purchase a recipe’s ingredients and, where available, have them delivered the same day through AmazonFresh home grocery delivery service. Also in November 2017, Meredith announced a partnership with Direct Wines, Inc. to launch the “Better Homes & Gardens Wine Club”, which will deliver 12 bottles of wine, tailored to each member’s taste, to its members every three months.


DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS



National Media


National media contributed 6973 percent of Meredith’s consolidated revenues and 3431 percent of the combined
operating profit from national media and local media operations in fiscal 2018. These results reflect the acquired Time business since the date of the acquisition.2019. Better Homes & Gardens and People, our flagship brands, together account for a significant percentage of revenues and operating profit of the national media segment and the Company.



Magazines
Information for our major subscription magazine titles as of June 30, 2018,2019, is as follows:


Title 1
Related WebsitesDescription
Frequency
per Year
Year-end
 Rate Base

2 
TitleRelated WebsitesDescription
Frequency
per Year
Year-end
 Rate Base

1 
      
Better Homes & GardensBHG.comWomen’s service127,600,000
 BHG.comWomen’s service127,600,000
 
Family CircleFamilyCircle.comWomen’s service124,000,000
 FamilyCircle.comWomen’s service124,000,000
 
PeoplePeople.com PeopleenEspanol.comCelebrity533,400,000
 People.com PeopleenEspanol.comCelebrity533,400,000
 
Southern LivingSouthernLiving.comTravel and lifestyle122,800,000
 SouthernLiving.comTravel and lifestyle122,800,000
 
ShapeShape.comWomen’s lifestyle102,500,000
 
Shape.com
Fitnessmagazine.com
Women’s lifestyle102,500,000
 
ParentsParents.comParenting122,200,000
 Parents.comParenting122,200,000
 
FamilyFun 3
Parents.comParenting92,100,000
 
Martha Stewart LivingMarthaStewart.com MarthaStewartWeddings.comWomen’s service102,050,000
 MarthaStewart.com MarthaStewartWeddings.comWomen’s service102,050,000
 
Real SimpleRealSimple.comWomen’s service121,975,000
 RealSimple.comWomen’s service121,975,000
 
Cooking LightCookingLight.com MyRecipes.comWomen’s lifestyle and food111,775,000
 
EatingWellEatingWell.com CookingLight.comFood 81,775,000
 
Rachel Ray Every DayRachaelRayMag.comWomen’s lifestyle and food101,700,000
 RachaelRayMag.comWomen’s lifestyle and food101,700,000
 
InStyleInStyle.comWomen’s lifestyle131,700,000
 InStyle.comWomen’s lifestyle131,700,000
 
Entertainment WeeklyEW.comEntertainment391,500,000
 EW.comEntertainment
  39 2
1,500,000
 
AllrecipesAllRecipes.comFood61,350,000
 AllRecipes.comFood61,400,000
 
HealthHealth.comWomen’s lifestyle101,350,000
 Health.comWomen’s lifestyle101,350,000
 
The Magnolia Journaln/aWomen’s lifestyle41,200,000
 n/aWomen’s lifestyle41,200,000
 
EatingWellEatingWell.comFood61,000,000
 
Midwest LivingMidwestLiving.comTravel and lifestyle6950,000
 MidwestLiving.comTravel and lifestyle6950,000
 
Travel + LeisureTravelandLeisure.comTravel and lifestyle12950,000
 TravelandLeisure.comTravel and lifestyle12950,000
 
Food & WineFoodandWine.comFood12925,000
 FoodandWine.comFood12925,000
 
Traditional HomeTraditionalHome.comHome decorating8850,000
 TraditionalHome.comHome decorating8850,000
 
Coastal LivingCoastalLiving.comTravel and lifestyle10650,000
 
Diabetic LivingDiabeticLivingOnline.comFood and lifestyle4500,000
 DiabeticLivingOnline.comFood and lifestyle4500,000
 
Successful FarmingAgriculture.comFarming business13390,000
 Agriculture.comFarming business13390,000
 
WoodWoodMagazine.comWoodworking7340,000
 
n/a Not applicable as The Magnolia Journal does not have a Meredith-owned related website.
1Titles held-for-sale are excluded from this table and discussion below.
2 Rate base is the circulation guaranteed to advertisers. Actual circulation generally exceeds rate base and for most of the Company’s titles, is tracked by the Alliance for Audited Media, which issues periodic statements for audited magazines.
32 Title transitioned from a subscription magazineIn June 2019, the Company announced that Entertainment Weekly will transition to a newsstand-onlymonthly magazine. The magazine will continue to produce special interest publication subsequentmagazines to June 30, 2018.coincide with big entertainment industry moments.




In addition to these major magazine titles, we published nearly 275over 300 special interest publications under approximately 6880 brands in fiscal 2018.2019. The titles are issued from one to six times annually and sold primarily on newsstands. A limited number of special interest publication subscriptions are also sold.


Magazine Advertising—Advertising revenues are generated primarily from sales to clients engaged in consumer marketing. Many of Meredith’s larger magazines offer regional and demographic editions that contain similar editorial content but allow advertisers to customize messages to specific markets or audiences. The Company sells two primary types of magazine advertising: display and direct-response. Advertisements are either run-of-press (printed along with the editorial portions of the magazine) or inserts (preprinted pages). Most of the national media segment’s advertising revenues are derived from run-of-press display advertising. Meredith also possesses strategic marketing capabilities, which provide clients and their agencies with access to all of Meredith’s media platforms and capabilities, including print, television, digital, video, mobile, consumer events, and custom marketing. Our team of creative and marketing experts delivers innovative solutions across multiple media channels that meet each client’s unique advertising and promotional requirements.


The rates at which we sell print advertising depend on each magazine’s rate base, which is the circulation of the magazine that we guarantee to our advertisers, as well as our audience size. If we are not able to meet our committed rate base, the price paid by advertisers is generally subject to downward adjustments, including in the form of future credits or discounts. Our published rates for each of our magazines are subject to negotiation with each of our advertisers. We sell digital advertising primarily on a flat rate/sponsorship basis or on a cost per thousand, or CPM, basis. Flat rate/sponsorship deals are sold on an exclusive basis to advertisers giving them access to our major events. CPM deals are sold on an impression basis with a guarantee that we will deliver the negotiated volume commitment. If we are not able to meet the impression goal, we will extend the campaign or provide alternative placements.


Magazine Circulation—Most of our U.S. magazines are sold primarily by subscription and delivered to subscribers through the mail. Subscriptions obtained through direct-mail solicitation, agencies, insert cards, the internet, and other means are Meredith’s largest source of circulation revenues. Revenue per subscription and related expenses can vary significantly by source. The majority of subscription magazines are also sold by single copy. Single copies sold on newsstands are distributed primarily through magazine wholesalers, who have the right to receive credit from the Company for magazines returned to them by retailers.


Newsstand sales include sales through traditional newsstands as well as supermarkets, convenience stores, pharmacies and other retail outlets. We also publish branded books, including soft-cover “bookazines.” These are distributed through magazine-style “check-out pockets” at retail outlets and traditional trade book channels. We publish books on a diverse range of topics aligned with our brands, including special commemorative and biographical books. We also publish books under various licensed third-party brands and a number of original titles. Our Oxmoor House imprint publishes a variety of home, cooking, and health books under our lifestyle-oriented brands as well as licensed third-party brands.


Our retail distribution operation, Time Inc. Retail (TIR) provides services relating to wholesale and retail distribution, billing, and marketing. Under arrangements with TIR, third-party wholesalers purchase our magazines and the magazines of our publisher clients, and those wholesalers sell and deliver copies of those magazines to individual retailers. TIR is paid by the wholesalers for magazines they purchase. TIR generally advances funds to our publisher clients based on their anticipated sales. Under the contractual arrangements with our publisher clients, they generally bear the risk of loss for non-payment of any amounts due from wholesalers with respect to their magazines. TIR also administers payments from our publisher clients to retailers for promotional allowances, including for the placement of magazines at retail locations.

Digital and Mobile Media
We have 3531 of our titles available as digital editions, with an audience of approximately 1.61.85 million. Digital subscriptions and single copy sales collectively represent 34.5 percent of our total rate base.



National media’s more than 60 websites and nearly 60 mobile-optimized websites provide ideas and inspiration. These branded websites focus on the topics that women care about most—celebrity, entertainment, food, home, entertaining, and meeting the needs of moms—and on delivering powerful content geared toward lifestyle topics such as health, beauty, style, and wellness. Our Allrecipes brand alone accounts for 18 web and mobilehas 3 omni-channel sites serving 244 countries in 122 languages, one app across multiple platforms, and one Skill for Amazon Alexa. Fiscal 20182019 digital traffic across our various platforms averaged 90more than 150 million unique monthly visitors prior to the acquisition of Time and more than 135 million in the period following the acquisition of Time.visitors. Our brands have a strong social networking presence as well. In fiscal 2018,2019, national media reached 12694 million Facebook fans, nearly 7955 million Twitter followers, just over 40 million Instagram followers, approximately 11over 12 million Pinterest followers, about 42 million GooglePlus followers, and 9.5nearly 8 million YouTube subscribers.


Other Sources of Revenues
Other revenues are derived from digital and customer relationship marketing, other custom publishing projects, brand licensing agreements, and ancillary products and services.


Affinity Marketing—Synapse Group, Inc., a wholly ownedwholly-owned subsidiary of Meredith, that was acquired with Meredith’s acquisition of Time, is an affinity marketing company that partners with publishers, brick and mortar retailers, digital partners, airline frequent flier programs, and customer service and direct response call centers. It is a major marketer of magazine subscriptions in the U.S. Building on its continuity marketing expertise, Synapse has diversified its business to also market other products and services. For example, Synapse manages several branded continuity membership programs and is developing continuity programs for product partners.


Brand Licensing—Meredith Brand Licensing generates revenue through multiple long-term trademark licensing agreements with retailers, manufacturers, publishers, and service providers. Our licensing programs extend the reach of Meredith brands into additional consumer channels in the U.S. and abroad. Currently the world’s second largest global licensor, Meredith has direct-to-retail partnerships with leading companies including Better Homes &


Gardens at Walmart, Southern Living at Dillard’s, Real Simple at Bed Bath & Beyond and TJ Maxx, InStyle brandedand InStyle-branded hair salons at more than 260275 JC Penney stores, Food & Wine for HSN, and 300 Southern Living shop-in-shops inside every Dillard’s department store.stores.


Our largest partnership is Better Homes & Gardens-branded products sold at Walmart stores in the U.S. and at Walmart.com. The brand is represented by more than 3,000 products across multiple categories in the home décor, outdoor living, and garden space. Meredith also has a long-term agreement to license the Better Homes & Gardens brand to Realogy Corporation, which is entering its 1011th year as a residential real estate franchise system operating as Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate, LLC. The real estate network now includes more than 300350 offices and more than 11,00012,000 real estate professionals across the U.S., Canada, Bahamas, Jamaica, and most recently, Australia. Also, in the real estate sector, the Southern Living and Coastal Living brands offer over 1,200 exclusive home plans, 100 custom home builders, 30include networks for 23 Hotel Collection members, 20 inspired residential communities, and more than 8045 interior design professionals.


The EatingWell branded line of healthy frozen foods entrées manufactured and distributed by Bellisio Foods Inc. includes up to 12 frozen entrées and 2 breakfast items to select from at more than 17,000 regional and national grocery locations.

Other licensing agreements include the Southern Living Plant Collection at Home Depot, Lowes, and more than 5,000 independent garden centers; Southern Living and Real Simple with 1800 FLOWERS; plus activewear collectionssunglasses designed for women under the Shape brand. Shape also introduced, in fiscal 2018,brand through a new licensing partnership with FGX International for a line of fashion sunglasses.International.

The EatingWell branded line of healthy frozen food entrées manufactured and distributed by Bellisio Foods Inc. expanded its offering and presence in fiscal 2018. Consumers now have up to 14 frozen entrées to select from at more than 12,000 regional and national grocery locations.


The Company expands its international reach primarily through international licensing agreements. Meredith’s national media brands are currently distributed in nearly 80 countries, including a localized presence in more than 30 countries such as Australia, China, India, Mexico, Russia, and Turkey in print and digitally. The Company continues to pursue activities that will serve consumers and advertisers while also extending and strengthening the reach and vitality of our brands.



Meredith has licensed exclusive global rights to publish and distribute books based on our consumer-leading brands, including the powerful Better Homes & Gardens imprint, to a book publisher. Meredith creates book content and retains all approval and content rights while the publisher is responsible for book layout and design, printing, sales and marketing, distribution, and inventory management. Meredith receives royalties based on sales subject to a guaranteed minimum.


The Foundry—The Foundry is a creative content studio servicing clients across a broad range of industries. The services include using our content creation expertise to develop content marketing programs across multiple platforms, including native advertising that enable clients to engage new consumers and build long-term relationships with existing customers.


Production and Delivery
Paper, printing, and postage costs accounted for 2120 percent of the national media segment’s fiscal 20182019 operating expenses.

Coated and supercalendered publication paper is the major raw material essential to the national media segment. We directly purchase all of the paper for our magazine production and custom publishing business. The Company has contractual agreements with major paper manufacturers to ensure adequate supplies for planned publishing requirements. The price of paper is driven by overall market conditions and is therefore difficult to predict. In fiscal 2018,2019, average paper prices decreased 1increased 10 percent. Paper prices declined 5 percent and 2decreased 1 percent in fiscal 20172018 and 2016, respectively.decreased 5 percent in fiscal 2017. Management anticipates slight increasesdecreases in paper prices in fiscal 2019.2020.


Meredith has multi-year printing contracts with two major domestic printers for the printing of our magazines.


Postage is a significant expense of the national media segment. We continually seek the most economical and effective methods for mail delivery, including cost-saving strategies that leverage work-sharing opportunities offered within the postal rate structure. Periodical postage accounts for over 80 percent of Meredith’s postage costs, while other mail items—direct mail, replies, and bills—account for nearly 20 percent. The Governors of the United States Postal Service (USPS) review prices for mailing services annually and adjust postage rates periodically. In


general, postage rate changes are capped by law at the rate of inflation as measured by the Consumer Price Index. The most recent rate change was an increase of less than twoapproximately 2.5 percent effective January 2018. With the exception of2019. Except for fiscal 2016, postage prices have risen in each of Meredith’s last five fiscal years. In fiscal 2016, we saw a rare reduction in postage prices due to a roll-back of the temporary 4.3 percent exigent increase implemented in January 2014. While we expect postage prices to again increase in January 2019,2020, an ongoing legislatively mandated review of the existing law by the Postal Regulatory Commission could potentially result in adjustments to the current rate setting regime. The impact of any such change could be effective as early as the first quarter of calendar 2019.2020. Meredith continues to work independently and with others to encourage and help the USPS find and implement efficiencies to contain rate increases. We cannot, however, predict future changes in the postal rates or the impact they will have on our national media business.
Subscription fulfillment services for certain of Meredith’sMeredith's national media brands are provided by third parties. While Meredith expects to transition all subscription fulfillment services to third-party providers in fiscal 2019, during fiscal 2018 we provided fulfillment and related services for the national media brands acquired with Time as well as for other publishers’ magazines. Other consumer marketing functions provided include fulfillment, customer service and database management services, including order and payment processing and call-center support.

National magazine newsstand distribution services are also provided by third parties through multi-year agreements as well as through our retail distribution operation TIR.agreements.


Competition
Publishing is a highly competitive business. The Company’s magazines and related publishing products and services compete with other mass media, including the internet and many other leisure-time activities. Competition for advertising dollars is based primarily on advertising rates, circulation levels, reader demographics, advertiser results, and sales team effectiveness. Competition for readers is based principally on editorial content, marketing


skills, price, and customer service. While competition is strong for established titles, gaining readership for newer magazines and specialty publications is especially competitive.




Local Media


Local media contributed 3127 percent of Meredith’s consolidated revenues and 6669 percent of the combined operating profit from national media and local media operations in fiscal 2018. These results reflect the acquired Time business since the date of the acquisition.2019. Information about the Company’s television stations at June 30, 2018,2019, is as follows:


Station,
Market
DMA
National
Rank  1
Network
Affiliation
Related Website
Expiration
Date of Network Affiliation
Virtual
Channel
Expiration
Date of FCC
License
Average
Audience
Share  2
DMA
National
Rank  1
Network
Affiliation
Related Website
Expiration
Date of Network Affiliation
Virtual
Channel
Expiration
Date of FCC
License
Average
Audience
Share  2
  
WGCL-TV9CBScbs46.comAugust 202046April 20214.1 %10CBScbs46.comAugust 202046April 20215.0 %
Atlanta, GA  
  
WPCH-TV9Independentn/a17April 20211.1 %10Independentn/a17April 20211.0 %
Atlanta, GA  
  
KPHO-TV11CBSazfamily.comAugust 20205October 20225.9 %12CBSazfamily.comAugust 20205October 20226.4 %
Phoenix, AZ  
  
KTVK11Independentazfamily.comn/a3October 20223.3 %12Independentazfamily.comn/a3October 20224.2%
Phoenix, AZ  
  
KMOV21CBSkmov.comJune 20204February 202210.8 %21CBSkmov.comJune 20204February 202211.8 %
St. Louis, MO  
  
KPTV22FOXkptv.comDecember 201812February 20235.6 %22FOXkptv.comJuly 202212February 20236.6 %
Portland, OR  
  
KPDX22MyNetworkTVn/aSeptember 202049February 20231.8 %22MyNetworkTVn/aSeptember 202049February 20231.9 %
Portland, OR  
  
WSMV-TV27NBCwsmv.comDecember 20214August 20217.7 %
Nashville, TN 
 
WFSB32CBSwfsb.comJune 20203April 202310.6 %
Hartford, CT 
New Haven, CT 
 
KCTV33CBSkctv5.comAugust 20205February 20229.1 %
Kansas City, MO 
 
KSMO-TV33MyNetworkTVn/aSeptember 202062February 20220.8 %
Kansas City, MO 
 
WHNS38FOXfoxcarolina.comDecember 201821December 20203.3 %
Greenville, SC 
Spartanburg, SC 
Asheville, NC 
Anderson, SC 
 



Station,
Market
DMA
National
Rank  1
Network
Affiliation
Related Website
Expiration
Date of Network Affiliation
Virtual
Channel
Expiration
Date of FCC
License
Average
Audience
Share  2
DMA
National
Rank  1
Network
Affiliation
Related Website
Expiration
Date of Network Affiliation
Virtual
Channel
Expiration
Date of FCC
License
Average
Audience
Share  2
WSMV-TV27NBCwsmv.comDecember 20214August 20216.7 %
Nashville, TN 
 
KCTV32CBSkctv5.comAugust 20205February 202210.0 %
Kansas City, MO 
 
KSMO-TV32MyNetworkTVn/aSeptember 202062February 20220.7 %
Kansas City, MO 
 
WFSB33CBSwfsb.comJune 20203April 202310.8 %
Hartford, CT 
New Haven, CT 
 
WHNS38FOXfoxcarolina.comJuly 202221December 20203.6 %
Greenville, SC 
Spartanburg, SC 
Asheville, NC 
Anderson, SC 
 
KVVU-TV40FOXfox5vegas.comDecember 20185October 20225.1 %39FOXfox5vegas.comJuly 20225October 20225.2 %
Las Vegas, NV  
  
WALA-TV59FOXfox10tv.comDecember 201810April 20216.0 %58FOXfox10tv.comJuly 202210April 20216.4 %
Mobile, AL  
Pensacola, FL  
  
WNEM-TV71CBSwnem.comAugust 20205October 202112.8 %65CBSwnem.comAugust 20205October 202113.1 %
Flint, MI  
Saginaw, MI  
Bay City, MI  
  
WGGB-TV116ABCwesternmassnews.comDecember 201940April 20239.9 %108ABCwesternmassnews.comDecember 201940April 20236.7 %
Springfield, MA FOX December 201840.2 3.0 % FOX July 202240.2 2.7 %
Holyoke, MA  
  
WSHM-LD116CBSwesternmassnews.comJune 20203April 20236.3 %108CBSwesternmassnews.comJune 20203April 20234.6 %
Springfield, MA  
Holyoke, MA  
  
  
n/a Not applicablen/a Not applicable n/a Not applicable 
1 Designated Market Area (DMA) is a registered trademark of, and is defined by, Nielsen Media Research. The national rank is from the 2017-2018
DMA ranking.
2 Average audience share represents the estimated percentage of households using television tuned to the station in the DMA. The percentages shown reflect
the average total day shares (6:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m.) for the November 2017, February 2018, and May 2018 measurement periods.
1 Designated Market Area (DMA) is a registered trademark of, and is defined by, Nielsen Media Research. The national rank is from the 2018-2019
DMA ranking.
1 Designated Market Area (DMA) is a registered trademark of, and is defined by, Nielsen Media Research. The national rank is from the 2018-2019
DMA ranking.
2 Average audience share represents the estimated percentage of households using television tuned to the station in the DMA. The percentages shown reflect
the average total day shares (6:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m.) for the November 2018, February 2019, and May 2019 measurement periods.
2 Average audience share represents the estimated percentage of households using television tuned to the station in the DMA. The percentages shown reflect
the average total day shares (6:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m.) for the November 2018, February 2019, and May 2019 measurement periods.


Operations
The principal sources of the local media segment’s revenues are: 1) local non-political advertising focusing on the immediate geographic area of the stations; 2) national non-political advertising; 3) retransmission of our television signals by cable, satellite, telecommunications, and over-the-top service providers; 4) geographic and demographic-targeted digital and print2) local non-political advertising programs sold to third parties; 5) digital advertisingfocusing on the stations’ websites, mobile-optimized websites, and apps; and 6)immediate geographic area of the stations; 3) national non-political advertising; 4) political advertising which is cyclical with peaks occurring in our odd numbered fiscal years (e.g., fiscal 2015,2017, fiscal 2017)2019) and particularly in our second fiscal quarter of those fiscal years.years; 5) geographic and demographic-targeted digital and print advertising programs sold to third parties; and 6) digital advertising on the stations’ websites, mobile-optimized websites, and apps.


The stations sell commercial time to both local/regional and national advertisers. Rates for spot advertising are influenced primarily by the market size, number of media competitors, including in-market broadcasters, and audience ratings and demographics. TheGenerally, the larger a station’s audience in any particular daypart or program, the more leverage a station has in negotiatinghigher the advertising rates. Generally, asrates it can command. As supply and demand fluctuate in the market, so do a station’s advertising rates. Most national advertising is sold by independent representative firms while local/regional advertising is sold by the sales staff at each station.


Typically 40 to 50 percent of a market’s television advertising revenue is generated during local newscasts. Stations are continually working to increase the number of newscasts and additionally grow their news ratings which in turn increase advertising revenues.


Meredith’s 16 national network affiliations at our television stations also influence advertising rates. Generally, aA network affiliation agreement provides a station the exclusive right to broadcast network programming in its local service area. In return, the network has the right to sell most of the commercial advertising aired during network programs and receives programming fees from the station.




Retransmission consent revenue is generated from cable, satellite, telecommunications, and over-the-top service providers who pay Meredith for access to our television station signals so that they may retransmit our signals and charge their subscribers for this programming. These fees increased in each of the last three fiscal years primarily due to renegotiations of expiring contracts and negotiated contract step-upsrate increases on existing contracts effective during the year.


Programming fees paid to the networks are, in essence, a portion of thethose retransmission consent fees that Meredith receives from cable, satellite, telecommunications, and over-the-top service providers, which pay Meredith to carry our television programming in our markets. In addition to increases in fiscal 2017, programmingfees. Programming fees paid to the networks increased significantly in fiscal 2019 and 2018 due to renegotiations of expired contracts.


Stations generallysometimes also pay networks for certain programming and services such as marquee sports (professional football, college basketball, and Olympics) and news services. While Meredith’s relations with the networks historically have been very good, the Company can make no assurances they will remain so over time.


The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has permitted broadcast television station licensees to use their digital spectrum for a wide variety of services such as high-definition television programming, audio, data, mobile applications, and other types of communication, subject to the requirement that each broadcaster provide at least one free video channel equal in quality to the current technical standards. Most of our stations are broadcasting one or more additional programming streams on their digital channels: two of our markets have MyNetworkTV, nine carry COZI TV, six broadcast the Escape network, three air the Bounce network, and threefour air the LAFF network.


The costs of television programming are significant. In addition to network fees, there are two principal programming costs for Meredith: locally produced programming, including local news, and purchased syndicated programming. The Company continues to increase our locally produced news and entertainment programming to control content and costs and to attract advertisers. Syndicated programming costs are based largely on demand from stations in the market and can fluctuate significantly.


Additionally, in fiscal 2018 as a part of the Time acquisition,Local media’s operations also include MNI Targeted Media (MNI) became a part of local media’s operations.. Through MNI, we provide clients with a single point of contact for a range of targeted digital and print advertising programs primarily on a local and regional level. Our digitalDigital products include programmatic offerings and custom display advertising on local and national websites. Our printPrint products include customized geographic and demographic-targeted advertising programs in approximately 35 top U.S. magazines, including our own national media magazines and those of other leading magazine publishers.


Competition
Meredith’s television stations compete directly for advertising dollars and programming in their respective markets with other local television stations, radio stations, and cable/satellite providers’ programming, and network local sales.systems. The stations further compete against these media competitors’ and other local and national digital and mobile media properties. Other mass media


providers, such as newspapers, outdoor, local magazines, direct mail and their related websites and apps, are also competitors. Advertisers compare audience viewership/consumption, market share, audience demographics, and advertising rates, whether local, network, or syndicated, when making advertising decisions.


Regulation
The ownership, operation, and sale of broadcast television stations, including those licensed to the Company, are subject to the jurisdiction of the FCC, which engages in extensive regulation of the broadcasting industry under authority granted by the Communications Act of 1934, as amended (Communications Act), including authority to promulgate rules and regulations governing broadcasting. The Communications Act requires broadcasters to serve the public interest. Among other things, the FCC assigns frequency bands; determines stations’ locations and operating parameters; issues, renews, revokes, and modifies station licenses; regulates and limits changes in ownership or control of station licenses; regulates equipment used by stations; regulates station employment practices; regulates certain program content, including commercial matters in children’s programming; has the authority to impose penalties for violations of its rules or the Communications Act; and imposes annual fees on


stations. Reference should be made to the Communications Act, as well as to the FCC’s rules, public notices, and rulings for further information concerning the nature and extent of federal regulation of broadcast stations.


Broadcast licenses are granted for eight-year periods. The Communications Act directs the FCC to renew a broadcast license if the station has served the public interest and is in substantial compliance with the provisions of the Communications Act and FCC rules and policies. Management believes the Company is in substantial compliance with all applicable provisions of the Communications Act and FCC rules and policies and knows of no reason why Meredith’s broadcast station licenses will not be renewed.


The FCC has, on occasion, changed the rules related to ownership of media assets, including rules relating to the ownership of one or more television stations in a market. The FCC’s media ownership rules are subject to further review by the FCC, various court appeals, petitions for reconsideration before the FCC, and possible actions by Congress. We cannot predict the impact of any of these developments on our business.


The Communications Act and the FCC also regulate relationships between television broadcasters and cable, satellite, and telecommunications television providers. Under these provisions, most cable systems must devote a specified portion of their channel capacity to the carriage of the signals of local television stations that elect to exercise this right to mandatory carriage. Alternatively, television stations may elect to restrict cable systems from carrying their signals without their written permission, referred to as retransmission consent. Congress and the FCC have established and implemented generally similar market-specific requirements for mandatory carriage of local television stations by satellite television providers when those providers choose to provide a market’s local television signals. These rules, including related rules on exclusivity, good faith bargaining, and over-the-top carriage are subject to further review by the FCC and possible actions by Congress. We cannot predict the impact of any of these developments on our business.


The FCC proposed a plan, called the National Broadband Plan, to increase the amount of spectrum available in the U.S. for wireless broadband use. In furtherance of the National Broadband Plan, Congress enacted, and the President signed into law, legislation authorizingauthorized the FCC to conduct a “reverse auction” for which television broadcast licensees could submit bids to receive compensation in return for relinquishing all or a portion of their rights in the television spectrum of their full service and/or Class A stations. Under the new law, the FCC maywas permitted to hold one reverse auction and a follow-up auction for the newly freed spectrum. The FCC completed both auctions in calendar 2017.


Even if a television licensee did not participate in the reverse auction, the results of the auction could materially impact a station’s operations. The FCC has the authority to force a television station to change channels and/or modify its coverage area to allow the FCC to rededicate certain channels within the television band for wireless broadband use. Last year,Following the incentive auction period, the FCC released a list of television stations that must change their facilities as part of this “repacking” process. Several of our stations are among the hundreds of stations selected for repacking of the television band. TheAll of our stations selected for repacking process will be ongoing for several yearshave moved or are expected to move and may change.commence operations on their new channels on or before the FCC’s deadline. The FCC will reimburse us for certain repacking expenses subject to an overall industry cap on the reimbursed expenses of all repacked


television stations.stations and certain other entities. We cannot predict whether we will receive full reimbursement for our repacking expenses or how this process will ultimately affect the Company or our television stations.


In addition to the National Broadband Plan, Congress, certain States, and the FCC have under consideration, and in the future may adopt, new laws, regulations, and policies regarding a wide variety of other matters that also could affect, directly or indirectly, the operation, ownership transferability, and profitability of the Company’s broadcast stations and affect the ability of the Company to acquire additional stations. In addition to the matters noted above, these could include spectrum usage fees, regulation of political advertising rates, restrictions on the advertising of certain products (such as pharmaceuticals, alcoholic beverages, or gambling), program content restrictions, and ownership rule changes.


Other matters that could potentially affect the Company’s broadcast properties include technological innovations and developments generally affecting competition in the mass communications industry for viewers or advertisers, such as home video recording devices and players, satellite radio and television services, cable television systems,


newspapers, outdoor advertising, and internet-delivered video programming services. For example, the FCC recently approved a proposal to allow the voluntary transition of television broadcasters to ATSC 3.0, known as Next Generation Television. We cannot predict whether or how this process will ultimately affect the Company or our television stations.

Large mass communication transactions have also increased the scrutiny of federal and state antitrust enforcement on the mass communications industry. The Company, along with other major broadcasters, is subject to a Consent Decree with the U.S. Department of Justice entered in 2019 restricting the exchange of pacing and other information between stations. In entering the Consent Decree, the Company did not admit liability and was not required to pay any fine or other penalty. We cannot predict whether or how this Consent Decree will ultimately affect the broadcast industry, the Company, or our television stations.


The information provided in this section is not intended to be inclusive of all regulatory provisions currently in effect. Statutory provisions and FCC regulations are subject to change, and any such changes could affect future operations and profitability of the Company’s local media segment. Management cannot predict what regulations or legislation may be adopted, nor can management estimate the effect any such changes would have on the Company’s television broadcasting operations.




EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE COMPANY


Executive officers are elected to one-year terms each November. The current executive officers of the Company are:


Stephen M. Lacy—Executive Chairman (2018 - present) and a director of the Company since 2004. Formerly Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (2016 - 2018) and Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer (2010 - 2016). Age 64.

Thomas H. Harty—President and Chief Executive Officer (2018 - present) and a director of the Company since 2017. Formerly President and Chief Operating Officer (2016 - 2018) and President, National Media Group (2010 - 2016). Age 55.56.


Jonathan B. Werther—President, National Media Group (2016 - present). Formerly Executive Vice President/President Meredith Digital (2013 - 2016). Age 49.

Patrick J. McCreery—President, Local Media Group (July 1, 2018(2018 - present). Formerly Local Media Group Executive Vice President (2018), Vice President of News and Marketing (2014 - 2018), and Vice President and General Manager, KPTV/KPDX (2008 - 2014). Age 47.48.


Joseph H. Ceryanec—Chief Financial Officer (2008 - present). Age 57.58.


John S. Zieser—Chief Development Officer/General Counsel and Secretary (2006 - present). Age 59.60.




EMPLOYEES


As of June 30, 2018,2019, the Company had approximately 7,5005,560 full-time and 415110 part-time employees, of whom approximately 6,8505,250 were located in the United States, 50 in the Netherlands, 35 in the United Kingdom, 850approximately 400 in India, and 130approximately 20 in other


locations throughout Europe and Asia. Only a small percentage of our workforce is unionized. We have various arrangements with our international employees that we believe to be customary for multinational corporations. We have had no strikes or work stoppages during the last five years and consider relations with our employees to be good.




OTHER


Name recognition and the public image of the Company’s trademarks (e.g., People, Better Homes & Gardens,Parents) and television station call letters are vital to the success of our ongoing operations and to the introduction of new businesses. The Company protects our brands by aggressively defending our trademarks and call letters.




The Company had no material expenses for research and development during the past three fiscal years. Revenues from individual customers and revenues, operating profits, and identifiable assets of foreign operations were not significant. Compliance with federal, state, and local provisions relating to the discharge of materials into the environment and to the protection of the environment had no material effect on capital expenditures, earnings, or the Company’s competitive position.




AVAILABLE INFORMATION


The Company’s corporate website is meredith.com. The content of our website is not incorporated by reference into this Form 10-K. Meredith makes available free of charge through our website our Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to those reports filed or furnished to the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 as soon as reasonably practical after such documents are electronically filed with or furnished to the SEC. Additionally the SEC maintains an internet site that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information. The address of the SEC's website is www.sec.gov. Meredith also makes available on our website our corporate governance information including charters of all of our Board Committees, our Corporate Governance Guidelines, our Code of Ethics, and our Bylaws. Copies of such documents are also available free of charge upon written request.




FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS


This Form 10-K, including the sections titled Item 1-Business, Item 1A-Risk Factors, and Item 7-Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, contains forward-looking statements that relate to future events or our future financial performance. We may also make written and oral forward-looking statements in our SEC filings and elsewhere. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve risks, trends, and uncertainties that could result in actual results that are materially different than those anticipated in any forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to, those items described in Item 1A-Risk Factors below, those identified elsewhere in this document, and other risks and factors identified from time to time in our SEC filings. We have tried, where possible, to identify such statements by using words such as believe, expect, intend, estimate, may, anticipate, will, likely, project, plan, and similar expressions in connection with any discussion of future operating or financial performance. Any forward-looking statements are and will be based upon our then-current expectations, estimates, and assumptions regarding future events and are applicable only as of the dates of such statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements that are part of this filing; actual results may differ materially from those currently anticipated. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.







ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS




In addition to the other information contained or incorporated by reference into this Form 10-K, investors should consider carefully the following risk factors when investing in our securities. In addition to the risks described below, there may be additional risks that we have not yet perceived or that we currently believe are immaterial.


Risks Relating to the Acquisition of Time


We identified material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting. As described in Item 9A - Controls and Procedures of this report, during fiscal 2019 the Company determined that deficiencies existed in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. As a result of these deficiencies, management concluded that we had material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting as of June 30, 2019. A material weakness is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting, such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of the company's annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. A control deficiency exists when the design or operation of a control does not allow management or employees, in the normal course of performing their assigned functions, to prevent or detect misstatements on a timely basis.

Maintaining effective disclosure controls and procedures and effective internal control over financial reporting are necessary for us to produce reliable financial statements. There can be no assurance that other material weaknesses will not arise in the future. The Company maydevelopment of new material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting could result in material misstatements in our consolidated financial statements and cause us to fail to realize allmeet our reporting and financial obligations, which in turn could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and the trading price of our common stock, and/or result in litigation against us. In addition, even though we have strengthened our controls and procedures, those controls and procedures may not be adequate to prevent or identify irregularities or facilitate the anticipated benefitsfair presentation of our consolidated financial statements or our periodic reports filed with the SEC.

The Company’s acquisitions, including our recent acquisition of Time, those benefitssubject us to various risks and may take longer to realize than expected, ornot result in all the Company may encounter significant difficulties in integrating Time’s business into our operations. If the acquisition does not achieve its intended cost savings results, the business, financial condition, and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected. Although the Company currently estimates annual cost synergies in excess of $500 million within the first two full years of


combined operation and incurring costs to achieve those synergies of approximately $300 million spread evenly between the first two years of operation, actual synergies and cost savings could differ materially from our current expectations. Our ability to realize thebenefits anticipated, benefits resulting from the acquisition of Time, including anticipated synergies, will depend, to a large extent, on our ability to integrate Time’s business into our existing operations. In addition, these synergies and cost savings are based on estimates and assumptions made that are inherently uncertain, and are subject to significant business, economic, and competitive uncertainties and contingencies, all of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond our control.

The combination of two independent businesses is a complex, costly, and time-consuming process that will require significant management attention and resources. The integration process may disrupt the businesses and, if implemented ineffectively, would limit the expected benefits to us. The failure to meet the challenges involved in integrating the two businesses and to realize the anticipated benefits could cause an interruption of, or a loss of momentum in, the activities of the Company and could adversely affect the results of operations of the Company.

In addition, the overall integration of the businesses may result in material unanticipated problems, expenses, liabilities, competitive responses, loss of customer and other business relationships, and diversion of management’s attention. The difficulties of combining the operations of the companies include, among others:

the diversion of management’s attention to integration matters;
difficulties in achieving anticipated cost savings, synergies, business opportunities, and growth prospects from the combination;
difficulties in the integration of operations and systems;
conforming standards, controls, procedures, accounting and other policies, business cultures, and
compensation structures between the two companies;
difficulties in the assimilation of employees and corporate cultures; and
challenges in attracting and retaining key personnel.

Many of these factors are outside of our control and any one of these factors could result in increased costs, decreases in the amount of expected revenues, and additional diversion of management’s time and energy, which could materially adversely impact our business, financial condition,conditions and results of operations. In addition, evenJanuary 2018, we completed our acquisition of Time. Since that time, we have performed system conversions and integration procedures. The Company expects to deliver $565 million of net annual cost synergies as a result of the integration with approximately $135 million expected to be realized upon the conclusion of the integration process in the next fiscal year. Even if the operations are integrated successfully, the full benefits, including the synergies, cost savings, revenue growth, or other benefits that are expected, may not be achieved within the anticipated time frame, or at all. Further, additional unanticipated costs may be incurred in the integrationall, as they are subject to significant business, economic, and competitive uncertainties and contingencies, all of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond our businesses. All of these factors could decrease or delay the expected accretive effect of the acquisition, and negatively impact our business, operating results, and financial condition.control. As a result, we cannot provide any assurance that the acquisition of Time will result in the realization of the full benefits that we anticipate.


The successful execution of the post-acquisition integration strategy will involve considerable risks and may not be successful. If management is unable to minimize the potential disruption of the ongoing business and distraction of management during the integration process, the anticipated benefits of the acquisition may not be realized or realized as quickly as we anticipate. Realizing the benefits of the acquisition will depend in part on the integration of technology, operations, and personnel while maintaining adequate focus on core businesses. There may be overlaps in the current offerings of us and Time, which could negate some of the anticipated benefits and enhanced revenue opportunities resulting from the acquisition. There are no assurances that any cost savings, greater economies of scale, and other operational efficiencies, as well as revenue enhancement opportunities anticipated from the combination of the two businesses will occur. Operating expenses may increase significantly in the near term due to the increased headcount, expanded operations, and expense or changes related to post-acquisition integration. To the extent that the Company’s expenses increase but its revenues do not, there are unanticipated expenses related to the integration process, or there are significant costs associated with presently unknown liabilities, our business, operating results, and financial condition may be materially and adversely affected. In addition, failure to minimize the numerous risks associated with the post-acquisition integration strategy also may adversely affect our business, operating results, and financial condition.



Significant costs associated with the acquisition have been and will continue to be incurred. We have incurred and willcontinue to incur substantial expenses as a result ofwe complete the acquisitionintegration of Time including expenses in connection with coordinating the businesses, operations, policies, and procedures. These expenses include expenses we will incur in connectionassociated with achieving synergies, and expenses associated with the new indebtedness that we incurred in connection withas of result of the acquisition.acquisition, unexpected delays and challenges of the integration, additional investment costs to grow the business, and employee related expenses for those employees retained longer than anticipated to complete the final integration. While we have assumed that a certain level of integration expenses will be incurred, factors beyond our control could affect the total amount or the timing of these expenses. Many of the expenses that will be incurred, by their nature, are difficult to estimate accurately.


Employee uncertainty related to the acquisition could harm the Company. Employees may experience uncertainty about their future role with the Company until or after strategies are executed. The integration team that is working on effectively combining the companies’ businesses may streamline operations to achieve cost savings or in response to general economic conditions. The integration process may cause disruptions among employees or erode employee morale. Employee uncertainty may adversely affect the Company’s ability to attract new personnel to fill key positions that may become available upon integration of the two businesses or to retain current employees necessary to implement the Company’s strategies, either of which may disrupt the operations of the Company. We may not succeed in retaining current employees. Management may not be successful in motivating continuing employees and keeping them focused on the strategies and goals of the Company during potential workforce reductions and other distractions relating to the acquisition.

Customers may delay or cancel business arrangements, or seek to modify existing relationships, as a result of concerns over the acquisition or to extract negotiation leverage. The acquisition could cause potential customers to delay or cancel contracts as a result of concerns over the acquisition. In particular, prospective customers could be reluctant to purchase the Company’s products and services due to uncertainty about the direction of the Company. Moreover, existing customers may seek to modify their relationships to extract leverage in connection with current or anticipated contract negotiations. A delay or cancellation of purchases by potential customers or modification of current arrangements by existing customers could have an adverse effect on our business, results of operations, or financial condition.

We have recorded significant goodwill and other intangible assets in connection with the acquisition of Time that could become impaired, resulting in significant non-cash charges against earnings. In connection with the accounting for the acquisition of Time, we recorded a significant amount of intangible assets and goodwill. Under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (U.S. GAAP), the Company must assess, at least annually and potentially more frequently, whether the value of goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets has been impaired. Amortizing intangible assets will be assessed for impairment in the event of an impairment indicator. Any reduction or impairment of the value of goodwill or other intangible assets will result in a non-cash charge against earnings, which could materially adversely affect our results of operations.

Our business could be adversely impacted by the proposed divestiture of our non-core media assets. As previously disclosed,of June 30, 2019, the acquired assets and liabilities from the Time acquisition related to FanSided and Viant


Technology remain unsold. Significant time and expenses have been and will be incurred to divest these non-core media assets which may adversely affect operations as dispositions may require our continued financial involvement, such as through transition service agreements, guarantees, and indemnities or other current or contingent financial obligations and liabilities. While we anticipate agreementscontinue to sell the TIME, Sports Illustrated, Fortune, and Money brands, along with our 60 percent equity investment in Viant, to be finalized in early fiscal 2019. These brands and businesses have different target audiences and advertising bases than the rest of our portfolio, andactively market these non-core media assets, we believe each is better suited for success with a new owner. Divestitures involve risks, including difficulties in the separation of operations, services, products, and personnel; the diversion of management's attention from other business concerns; the disruption of our day-to-day operations; and the potential loss of key employees. We may not receive an acceptable offer, for our non-core media assets andor we may not be able to negotiate an acceptable definitive agreement or consummate a sale transaction in a timely manner or at all. Dispositions may also involve continued financial involvement in the divested business, such as through transition service agreements, guarantees, and indemnities or other current or contingent financial obligations and liabilities, which could adversely affect our future financial results. We cannot assure you that we will be successful in managing these or any other significant risks that we encounter in divesting our non-core media assets.




Risks Relating to Indebtedness and Equity


Our substantial level of indebtedness and our ability to incur significant additional indebtedness could adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations. Our level of indebtedness could have important consequences. For example, it could:


increase our vulnerability to general adverse economic and industry conditions;
limit our ability to obtain additional financing to fund future working capital, capital expenditures, and
other general corporate requirements or to carry out other aspects of our business;
increase our cost of borrowing;
make it more difficult for us to satisfy our obligations with respect to our debt;
require us to dedicate a substantial portion of our cash flow from operations to payments on indebtedness,
thereby reducing the availability of such cash flow to fund working capital, capital expenditures, and other
general corporate requirements or to carry out other aspects of our business;
limit our ability to make material acquisitions or take advantage of business opportunities that may arise;
expose us to fluctuations in interest rates, to the extent our borrowings bear variable rates of interest;
limit our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our business and industry;
place us at a potential disadvantage compared to our competitors that have less debt;
affect our credit ratings; and
limit our ability to pay dividends.


Our ability to make scheduled payments on and to refinance our indebtedness will depend on and be subject to our future financial and operating performance, which in turn is affected by general economic, financial, competitive, business, and other factors beyond our control, including the availability of financing in the banking and capital markets. Our business may fail to generate sufficient cash flow from operations, or we may be unable to efficiently repatriate the portion of our cash flow that is derived from our foreign operations or borrow funds in an amount sufficient to enable us to make payments on our debt, to refinance our debt, or to fund our other liquidity needs. If we were unable to make payments on or refinance our debt or obtain new financing under these circumstances, we would have to consider other options, such as asset sales, equity issuances, or negotiations with our lenders to restructure the applicable debt. The terms of our debt agreements and market or business conditions may limit our ability to take some or all of these actions. In addition, if we incur additional debt, the related risks described above could be exacerbated.


Our indebtedness subjects us to interest rate risk, which could cause our debt service obligations to increase significantly or could prevent us from taking advantage of lower rates. A portion of our indebtedness consists of term loans and revolving credit facility borrowings with variable rates of interest that expose us to interest rate risk. If interest rates increase, our debt service obligations on the variable-rate indebtedness will increase even though the amount borrowed remains the same, and our net income and cash flows will correspondingly decrease. Even if we enter into interest rate swaps in the future in order to reduce future interest rate volatility, we may not elect to maintain such interest rate swaps with respect to any of our variable-rate indebtedness, and any swaps we enter into may not fully mitigate our interest rate risk. In addition, we have significant fixed-rate indebtedness that includes prepayment penalties which could prevent us from taking advantage of any future decrease in interest rates that may otherwise be applicableavailable to us.


To service our indebtedness, we will require a significant amount of cash and our ability to generate cash depends on many factors beyond our control. Our ability to make cash payments on and to refinance our


indebtedness, and to fund planned capital expenditures will depend on our ability to generate significant operating cash flow in the future. Our ability to generate such cash flow is subject to general economic, financial, competitive, legislative, regulatory, and other factors that are beyond our control. Our business may not generate cash flow from operations in an amount sufficient to enable us to pay the principal, premium, if any, and interest on our indebtedness, or to fund our other liquidity needs. If we cannot service our indebtedness, we may have to take actions such as refinancing or restructuring our indebtedness, selling assets, issuing equity, or reducing or delaying capital expenditures, strategic acquisitions, and investments. These actions, if necessary, may not be affected on


commercially reasonable terms or at all. Our ability to refinance or restructure our debt will depend on the condition of the capital markets and our financial condition at the applicable time. Any refinancing of our debt, if we are able to refinance our debt at all, could be at higher interest rates and may require us to comply with more onerous covenants, which could further restrict our business operations. Further, our credit agreements restrict our ability to undertake, or use the proceeds from, such measures. Our ability to repay our indebtedness is largely dependent on the generation of cash flow by our operating subsidiaries and our operating subsidiaries’ ability to make cash available to us by dividend, intercompany loans, advances and other transactions, or otherwise. Our subsidiaries may not be able to, or may not be permitted to, transfer cash to us to enable us to make payments in respect of our indebtedness. Each of our subsidiaries is a distinct legal entity and, under certain circumstances, legal and contractual restrictions, as well as the financial condition and operating requirements of our subsidiaries, may limit our ability to obtain cash from our subsidiaries.


Covenants under the indenture governing our 2026 Senior Notes and our credit agreement may restrict our business and operations in many ways, and if we do not effectively manage our covenants, our financial conditions and results of operations could be adversely affected. The indenture governing our initial $1.4 billion aggregate principal amount of 6.875 percent unsecured senior notes (2026 Senior Notes) and our credit agreement impose various covenants that limit our ability and/or our restricted subsidiaries’ ability to, among other things:


pay dividends or distributions, repurchase equity, prepay, redeem or repurchase certain debt, and make certain investments;
incur additional debt and issue certain preferred stock;
provide guarantees in respect of obligations of other persons;
incur liens on assets;
engage in certain asset sales, including capital stock of our subsidiaries;
merge, consolidate with, or sell all or substantially all of our assets to another person;
enter into transactions with affiliates;
enter into agreements that restrict distributions from our subsidiaries;
designate subsidiaries as unrestricted subsidiaries; and
prohibit certain restrictions on the ability of restricted subsidiaries to pay dividends or make other payments to us.


These covenants may:


limit our ability to borrow additional funds for working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions, or other general business purposes;
limit our ability to use our cash flow or obtain additional financing for future working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions, or other general business purposes;
require us to use a substantial portion of our cash flow from operations to make debt service payments;
limit our flexibility to plan for, or react to, changes in our business and industry;
place us at a competitive disadvantage compared to less leveraged competitors; and
increase our vulnerability to the impact of adverse economic and industry conditions.


If we are unable to successfully manage the limitations and decreased flexibility on our business due to our significant debt obligations, we may not be able to capitalize on strategic opportunities or grow our business to the extent we would be able to without these limitations.



Our failure to comply with any of the covenants could result in a default under the credit agreement or the indenture governing the 2026 Senior Notes, which could permit the administrative agent or the trustee, as applicable, or permit the lenders or the holders of the 2026 Senior Notes to cause the administrative agent or the trustee, as applicable, to declare all or part of any of our outstanding senior secured term loans or revolving loans or the 2026 Senior Notes to be immediately due and payable or to exercise any remedies provided to the administrative agent or the trustee, including, in the case of the credit agreement, proceeding against the collateral granted to secure our obligations under the credit agreement. An event of default under the credit agreement or the indenture governing


the 2026 Senior Notes could also lead to an event of default under the terms of certain of our other agreements. Any such event of default or any exercise of rights and remedies by our creditors could seriously harm our business.


Discontinuation, reform, or replacement of LIBOR may adversely affect our variable rate debt. A substantial portion of our long-term indebtedness bears interest at fluctuating interest rates, primarily based on the London Interbank Offered Rate for deposits of U.S dollars (LIBOR). LIBOR tends to fluctuate based on general interest rates, rates set by the U.S. Federal Reserve Board and other central banks, the supply of and demand for credit in the London interbank market, and general economic conditions. In July 2017, the United Kingdom Financial Conduct Authority (the authority that regulates LIBOR) announced that it intends to stop compelling banks to submit rates for the calculation of LIBOR after 2021. It is unclear whether new methods of calculating LIBOR will be established such that it continues to exist after 2021. The U.S. Federal Reserve Board, in conjunction with the Alternative Reference Rates Committee, is considering replacing U.S. dollar LIBOR with a newly created index, calculated with a broad set of short-term repurchase agreements backed by treasury securities. It is not possible to predict the effect of these changes, other reforms or the establishment of alternative reference rates in the U.S. or elsewhere. To the extent these interest rates increase, our interest expense will increase, in which event we may have difficulties making interest payments and funding our other fixed costs, and our available cash flow for general corporate requirements may be adversely affected.

The holder of our Series A preferred stock has rights that are senior to those of Meredith’s common stockholders, and the terms of the Series A preferred stock may limit our ability to pay dividends. The Series A preferred stock ranks senior to any other class or series of equity, including Meredith’s common stock and class B stock, with respect to dividend rights and rights upon liquidation. Meredith is required to pay dividends on the Series A preferred stock in cash or in kind at an annual rate. Meredith expects to continue to pay dividends on Meredith’s common stock and class B stock, but for so long as the Series A preferred stock remains outstanding, Meredith’s ability to declare or pay dividends or distributions on, or purchase or redeem, shares of Meredith’s common stock and class B stock is subject to compliance with certain covenants. Meredith’s failure to comply with the terms of the Series A preferred stock could restrict Meredith’s ability to pay dividends as expected.


Risks Relating to Income Taxes


The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act could adversely affect the Company’s business and financial condition. On December 22, 2017, the U.S. government enacted comprehensive tax legislation commonly referred to as the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the Tax Reform Act) could adversely affect the Company’s business and financial condition. . The Tax Reform Act which was signed into law on December 22, 2017, includes numerous provisions that will affect businesses and may adversely impactinstituted significant changes to the Company’s business and financial condition. AmongU.S. corporate income tax system including, among other things, lowering the Tax Reform Act includes limitations on a corporation’s ability to deduct certain expenses. Specifically, beginning after December 31, 2017,corporate tax rate, limiting the deduction of net interest expenses for any taxable year, ofimplementing a corporate borrower will generally be capped at 30 percent ofpartial territorial tax system and, beginning in fiscal 2019, implementing changes to limits on the “adjusted taxable income” of such corporate borrowerdeductions for such taxable year. For purposes ofexecutive compensation, the foregoing provision,base erosion anti-abuse tax, and a deduction for foreign-derived intangible income. While the term “adjusted taxable income” generally refers to a corporation’s earnings before interest, taxes, and, inCompany’s accounting for the case of taxable years beginning before January 1, 2022, depreciation, amortization, and depletion. By contrast, prior to the adoptioneffects of the Tax Reform Act interest paid or accrued by a business was generally deductiblecompleted in the computationsecond quarter of taxable income subjectfiscal 2019 and the Company believes those effects have been appropriately recorded, various interpretive issues remain with respect to certain limitations. Accordingly, to the extent that the Tax Reform Act limits the amountand regulatory guidance on many aspects of the Company’s net interest expenses that is permittedTax Reform Act has not been issued. The Company continues to be deducted from the Company’s taxable income in a taxable year, the Company will pay federal income taxes on more taxable income with respect to such taxable year, which could adversely affect the Company’s business and financial condition, including,monitor, among other things, its liquidity and its costchanges in interpretations of capital. However, the Tax Reform Act’s reductionAct, any legislative action arising because of the corporateTax Reform Act, and any changes in accounting standards for income taxes or related interpretations in response to the Tax Reform Act. The Company cannot predict the manner in which provisions of the Tax Reform Act or any related regulations, legislation, or accounting standards may be interpreted or enforced in the future or whether such interpretation or enforcement may have a material adverse effect on its income tax rate may mitigate the effectexpense and/or its business, results of this new limitation on the deductibility of net interest expenses.operations, and financial condition.


The Time business could have an indemnification obligation to Time Warner, which could materially adversely affect our financial condition. The complete legal and structural separation of Time Warner Inc.’s (Time Warner) magazine publishing and related business from Time Warner (the Spin-Off) was completed by way of a pro rata dividend of Time Inc. shares held by Time Warner to its stockholders as of May 23, 2014, based on a distribution ratio of one share of Time Inc. common stock for every eight shares of Time Warner common stock held (the Distribution). If, due to any of Time’s representations being untrue or Time’s covenants being breached, it was determined that the Distribution did not qualify for non-recognition of gain and loss under Section 355 of the Internal Revenue Code, (the Code), or that an excess loss account existed at the date of the Spin-Off, Time could be required to indemnify Time Warner for the resulting taxes and related expenses. Any such indemnification obligation could materially adversely affect our financial condition.


Risks Relating to Business Operations


Advertising representsrelated revenues represent the largest portion of our revenues and advertising demand may fluctuate from period to period. In fiscal 2018, 502019, 53 percent of our revenues were derived from advertising.advertising related sources. Advertising constitutes 48related revenues constitute 49 percent of our national media revenues and 5462 percent of our local media revenues. Demand for advertising is highly dependent upon the strength of the U.S. economy. During an economic downturn, demand for advertising may decrease. The growth in alternative forms of media, particularly electronic media including those based on the internet, has increased the competition for advertising dollars, which could in turn reduce expenditures for magazine and television advertising or suppress advertising rates.




Circulation revenues represent a significant portion of our revenues. Magazine circulation is another significant source of revenue, representing 2227 percent of total revenues and 3137 percent of national media revenues. Preserving the number of copies sold is critical for maintaining advertising sales. Magazines face increasing competition from alternative forms of media and entertainment. As a result, sales of magazines through subscriptions and at the newsstand could decline. As publishers compete for subscribers, subscription prices could decrease and marketing expenditures may increase.


Technology in the media industry continues to evolve rapidly. Advances in technology have led to an increasing number of alternative methods for the delivery of content and have driven consumer demand and expectations in unanticipated directions. If we are unable to exploit new and existing technologies to distinguish our products and services from those of our competitors or adapt to new distribution methods that provide optimal user experiences, our business, financial condition, and prospects may be adversely affected. Technology developments also pose other challenges that could adversely affect our revenues and competitive position. New delivery platforms may lead to pricing restrictions, the loss of distribution control, and the loss of a direct relationship with consumers. For example, the largest broadcast television national networks have sued Locast, an entity that claims to be a non-profit and claims to have found a loophole allowing for uncompensated online streaming of copyrighted television content, for copyright infringement. We may also be adversely affected if the use of technology developed to block the display of advertising on websites proliferates. In addition, technologies such as subscription streaming media services and mobile video are increasing competition for household audiences and advertisers. This competition may make it difficult for us to grow or maintain our broadcasting and print revenues, which we believe may challenge us to expand the contribution of our digital businesses.


Our websites and internal networks may be vulnerable to unauthorized persons accessing our systems, which could disrupt our operations. The Company uses computers and other technology in substantially all aspects of our business operations, and our revenues are increasingly dependent on digital products. Such increases expose us to potential cyber incidents resulting from deliberate attacks or unintentional events. Our website activities involve the storage and transmission of proprietary information, which we strive to protect from unauthorized access. However, it is possible that unauthorized persons may be able to circumvent our protections and misappropriate proprietary information, corrupt data, or cause interruptions or malfunctions in our digital operations. The results of these incidents could include, but are not limited to, business interruption, public disclosure of nonpublic information, decreased advertising revenues, misstated financial data, liability for stolen assets or information,


increased cybersecurity protection costs, litigation, financial consequences, and reputational damage adversely affecting customer or investor confidence, any or all of which could adversely affect our business. We invest in security resources and technology to protect our data and business processes against risk of data security breaches and cyber-attack, but the techniques used to attempt attacks are constantly changing. A breach or successful attack could have a negative impact on our operations or business reputation.


Evolving privacy and information security laws and regulations may impair our ability to market to consumers. Meredith’s consumer database includes first-party data that is used to market our products to our customers and is also rented to or used on behalf of marketing and advertising clients. As public awareness shifts to data gathering and usage, privacy rights, and data protection, new laws and regulations may be passed that would restrict or prevent us from utilizing this data. Such restrictions could reduce or eliminate this resource for generating revenue for the Company.


World events may result in unexpected adverse operating results for our local media segment. Our local media results could be affected adversely by world events such as wars, political unrest, acts of terrorism, and natural disasters. Such events can result in significant declines in advertising revenues as the stations will not broadcast or will limit broadcasting of commercials during times of crisis. In addition, our stations may have higher newsgathering costs related to coverage of the events.


Our local media operations are subject to FCC regulation. Our broadcasting stations operate under licenses granted by the FCC. The FCC regulates many aspects of television station operations including employment practices, political advertising, indecency and obscenity, programming, signal carriage, and various other technical matters. Violations of these regulations could result in penalties and fines. Changes in these regulations could impact the results of our operations. The FCC also regulates the ownership of television stations. Changes in the


ownership rules could adversely affect our ability to consummate future transactions or may favor our competitors. Details regarding regulation and its impact on our local media operations are provided in Item 1-Business beginning on page 9.


Loss of or changes in affiliation agreements could adversely affect operating results for our local media segment. Due to the quality of the programming provided by the networks, stations that are affiliated with a network generally have higher ratings than unaffiliated independent stations in the same market. As a result, it is important for stations to maintain their network affiliations. Most of our stations have network affiliation agreements. Seven are affiliated with CBS, five with FOX, two with MyNetworkTV, one with NBC, and one with ABC. These television networks produce and distribute programming in exchange for each of our stations’ commitment to air the programming at specified times and for commercial announcement time during the programming. We also make cash payments to the networks. These payments are in essence a portion of the retransmission consent fees that Meredith receives from cable, satellite, and telecommunications service providers, which pay Meredith to carry our television programming in our markets. These network relationships may also include terms regarding over-the-top distribution. The non-renewal or termination of any of our network affiliation agreements would prevent us from being able to carry programming of the affiliate network. This loss of programming would require us to obtain replacement programming, which may involve higher costs and/or which may not be as attractive to our audiences, resulting in reduced revenues. Furthermore, the non-renewal of any retransmission consent agreement with a major cable, satellite, or telecommunications service provider could adversely affect the economics of our relationship with the applicable network(s), advertising revenues, and our local brands. If renewed, our network affiliation agreements and our retransmission agreements may be renewed on terms that are less favorable to us. Our CBS affiliation agreements expire in June and August 2020. The MyNetworkTV affiliation agreements expire in September 2020. Our FOX affiliation agreements expire in July 2022. Our ABC affiliation agreement expires in December 2018. Our2019 and our NBC affiliation agreement expires in December 2021 and our ABC affiliation agreement expires in December 2019.2021.


Client relationships are important to our brand licensing and consumer relationship marketing businesses. Our ability to maintain existing client relationships and generate new clients depends significantly on the quality of


our products and services, our reputation, and the continuity of Company and client personnel. Dissatisfaction with our products and services, damage to our reputation, or changes in key personnel could result in a loss of business.


Increases in paper and postage prices, which are difficult to predict and control, could adversely affect our results of operations. Paper and postage represent significant components of our total cost to produce, distribute, and market our printed products. In fiscal 2018,2019, these expenses accounted for 1116 percent of national media’s operating costs. Paper is a commodity and its price can be subject to significant volatility. All of our paper supply contracts currently provide for price adjustments based on prevailing market prices; however, we historically have been able to realize favorable paper pricing through volume discounts. The USPS distributes substantially all of our subscription magazines and many of our marketing materials. Postal rates are dependent on the operating efficiency of the USPS and on legislative mandates imposed upon the USPS. Although we work with others in the industry and through trade organizations to encourage the USPS to implement efficiencies that will minimize rate increases, we cannot predict with certainty the magnitude of future price changes for paper and postage. Further, we may not be able to pass such increases on to our customers.


Acquisitions pose inherent financial and other risks and challenges. As a part of our strategic plan, we have acquired businesses and we expect to continue acquiring businesses in the future. These acquisitions can involve a number of risks and challenges, any of which could cause significant operating inefficiencies and adversely affect our growth and profitability. Such risks and challenges include underperformance relative to our expectations and the price paid for the acquisition; unanticipated demands on our management and operational resources; difficulty in integrating personnel, operations, and systems; retention of customers of the combined businesses; assumption of contingent liabilities; and acquisition-related earnings charges. If our acquisitions are not successful, we may record impairment charges. Our ability to continue to make acquisitions will depend upon our success at identifying suitable targets, which requires substantial judgment in assessing their values, strengths, weaknesses, liabilities, and potential profitability, as well as the availability of suitable candidates at acceptable prices and whether restrictions


are imposed by regulations. Moreover, competition for certain types of acquisitions is significant, particularly in the fields of broadcast stations and digital media. Even if successfully negotiated, closed, and integrated, certain acquisitions may not advance our business strategy and may fall short of expected return on investment targets.


Impairment of goodwill and intangible assets is possible, depending upon future operating results and the value of the Company’s stock. Although the Company wrote down certain of its intangible assets including goodwill and trademarks, by $41.8 million in fiscal 2019, $22.7 million in fiscal 2018, and $5.3 million in fiscal 2017, and $155.8 million in fiscal 2016, further impairment charges are possible. We test our goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment during the fourth quarter of every fiscal year and on an interim basis if indicators of impairment exist. Factors which influence the evaluation include, among many things, the Company’s stock price and expected future operating results. If the carrying value of a reporting unit or an intangible asset is no longer deemed to be recoverable, a potentially material non-cash impairment charge could be incurred. At June 30, 2018,2019, goodwill and intangible assets totaled $3.9$3.8 billion, or 5862 percent of Meredith’s total assets, with $3.0$2.9 billion in the national media segment and $907.1$882.0 million in the local media segment. The review of goodwill is performed at the reporting unit level. The Company has threetwo reporting units – national media and local media excluding MNI, and MNI.media. We performed our most recent annual goodwill impairment test as of May 31, 2018.2019. The fair value of the national media reporting unit exceeded its net assets by 15 percent. The impairment analysis assumed only 50 percent of the synergies expected to be realized from the acquisition of Time. Had 100 percent of the synergies been incorporated into the future cash flows in the impairment analysis, the fair value would have exceeded carrying value by 4316 percent. Qualitative impairment analyses were performed for the local media excluding MNI reporting unit and the MNI reporting unit and resulted in no indications of impairment and thus, no quantitative assessments were necessary. Changes in key assumptions about the economy or business prospects used to estimate fair value or other changes in market conditions could result in additional impairment charges. Although these charges would be non-cash in nature and would not affect the Company’s operations or cash flow, they would reduce stockholders’ equity and reported results of operations in the period charged. Additionally, as goodwill and intangible assets associated with the acquisition of Time are recorded on the balance sheet at their estimated acquisition date fair values, those amounts are more susceptible to risk of impairment if business operating results or macroeconomic conditions deteriorate.

Adverse litigation judgments or settlements resulting from legal proceedings in which we are currently and in the future may be involved could expose us to monetary damages or limit our ability to operate our business. We are currently involved in and may in the future become involved in private actions, collective actions,


investigations, and various other legal proceedings by clients, employees, suppliers, competitors, government agencies, or others. For example, on September 6, 2019, a shareholder filed a putative class action lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York against the Company, its Chief Executive Officer, and its Chief Financial Officer, and on September 12, 2019, a shareholder filed a putative class action lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Iowa against the Company, its Chief Executive Officer, its Chief Financial Officer, and its Chairman of the Board. The results of any such litigation, including the aforementioned class action lawsuits, investigations, and other legal proceedings are inherently unpredictable and expensive. Any claims against us, whether meritorious or not, could be time consuming, result in costly litigation, damage our reputation, require significant amounts of management time, and divert significant resources. If any of these legal proceedings were to be determined adversely to us, or we were to enter into a settlement arrangement, we could be exposed to monetary damages or limits on our ability to operate our business, which could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and operating results.

We have three classes of stock with different voting rights. We have three classes of stock: Series A preferred stock, common stock, and class B stock. The Series A preferred stock is non-voting. Holders of common stock are entitled to one vote per share and account for 44 percent of the voting power. Holders of class B stock are entitled to ten votes per share and account for the remaining 56 percent of the voting power. There are restrictions on who can own class B stock. The majority of Class B shares are held by members of Meredith’s founding family. Control by a limited number of holders may make the Company a less attractive takeover target, which could adversely affect the market price of our common stock. This voting control also prevents other shareholders from exercising significant influence over certain of the Company’s business decisions.


Adverse changes in the equity markets or interest rates, changes in actuarial assumptions and legislative or other regulatory actions could substantially increase our United Kingdom (U.K.) pension costs and could result in a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations. Through one of our U.K. subsidiaries acquired with the acquisition of Time, the Company sponsors the IPC Media Pension Scheme (the IPC Plan), a defined benefit pension plan that is closed both to new participants and to the future accrual of additional benefits for current participants. The majority of pensions in payment and deferred pensions in excess of any guaranteed minimum pension are increased annually in line with the increase in the retail price index up to a maximum of 5 percent. Concurrently with the acquisition of Time, the Company was substituted for Time as the guarantor of all obligations of the statutory employers under the IPC Plan.


The most recent triennial valuation of the IPC Plan under U.K. pension regulations was completed as of April 5, 2015.2018. Under the assumptions used in such valuation, which are more conservative than the assumptions used to determine a pension plan’s funded status in accordance with U.S. GAAP, the IPC Plan was deemed to be underfunded at that time by approximately £156£59 million. A triennial valuation of the IPC Plan is currently in process and once completed, will be as of April 5, 2018.


Under the current deed of guarantee, the Company would be obligated to fund the IPC Plan’s “buyout deficit” (i.e., the amount that would be needed to purchase annuities to discharge the benefits under the plan) under certain


circumstances. Specifically, the Company would be required to deposit the buyout deficit into escrow if its debt in excess of $50 million were not to be paid when due or were to come due prior to its stated maturity as a result of a default (a Major Debt Acceleration) or if a Covenant Breach were to occur (as described below). The Company would be permitted to recoup the escrowed funds under certain circumstances. However, if the Company, as the sponsor, was to become insolvent, or if a Major Debt Acceleration were to occur (without being promptly cured), any escrowed funds would be immediately contributed into the IPC Plan and the Company would be obligated to immediately contribute into the IPC Plan any shortfall in the buyout deficit amount.


In connection with the completion of the sale of all issued shares of TIUKTime Inc. (UK) Ltd (TIUK) on March 15, 2018, and the substitution of another U.K. subsidiary of the Company as the sole sponsor under the IPC Plan, the deed of guarantee was amended to remove requirements to deposit the buyout deficit as a result of certain credit rating triggers. At the same time, the Company agreed that the same subsidiaries of the Company that guarantee the Company’s 2026 Senior Notes would guarantee the obligations of the Company under the IPC Plan on a pari passu basis with the obligations under the 2026 Senior Notes. In addition, the Company agreed to incorporate the terms of


certain covenants under the indenture governing the 2026 Senior Notes into the amended deed of guarantee effective as of March 15, 2018. If a breach of such covenants by the Company or the subsidiary guarantors occurs (after certain notice and cure periods) (a Covenant Breach), the Company would be required to deposit the buyout deficit (less the amount of certain types of security in favor of the IPC Plan, currently provided in the form of a surety bond) into escrow as described above.


If the Company had been required to fund the buyout deficit on June 30, 2018,2019, the amount would have been approximately £138£115 million. The amount of the buyout deficit changes daily and is determined by many factors, including changes in the fair value of the IPC Plan assets and liabilities and interest rates.


It is possible that, following future valuations of the IPC Plan’s assets and liabilities or following future discussions with the IPC Plan trustee, the annual funding obligation and/or the arrangements to ensure adequate funding for the IPC Plan will change. The future valuations under the IPC Plan can be affected by a number of assumptions and factors, including legislative changes, assumptions regarding interest rates, currency rates, inflation, mortality, and retirement rates, the investment strategy and performance of the IPC Plan assets, and (in certain limited circumstances) actions by the U.K. Pensions Regulator. Volatile economic conditions, including the U.K.’s impending exit from the European Union, commonly referred to as Brexit, could increase the risk that the funding requirements increase following the next triennial valuation. The U.K. Pensions Regulator also has powers under the Pensions Act 2004 to impose a contribution notice or a financial support direction on the Company (and other persons connected with the Company or the U.K. subsidiary which sponsors the IPC Plan) if, in the case of a contribution notice, the U.K. Pensions Regulator reasonably believes such person has been party to an act, or deliberate failure to act, intended to avoid pension liabilities or that is materially detrimental to the pension plan, or, in the case of a financial support direction, if a plan employer is a service company or insufficiently resourced and the Pensions Regulator considers it is reasonable to act against such a person. A significant increase in the funding requirements for the IPC Plan or in the calculated “self-sufficiency deficit” or the calculated “risk-free self-sufficiency deficit” could result in a material adverse effect on its business, financial condition, and results of operations.


   
The preceding risk factors should not be construed as a complete list of factors that
may affect our future operations and financial results.
   







ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS




None.






ITEM 2. PROPERTIES




Meredith is headquartered in Des Moines, IA. The Company owns buildingsits headquarters located at 1716 and 1615 Locust Street and(Des Moines Campus), in Des Moines, Iowa. The Company is the sole occupant of these buildings. The Companythe Des Moines Campus and believes these facilities areit is adequate for theirits intended use.


The national media segment operates mainly from the Des Moines officesCampus and from multipleits leased facilitieslocation in New York, NY. The New York facilitiesYork. Other significant leased locations include those in Alabama, California, Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, New Jersey, and Washington. These premises are used primarily as advertising sales offices, for all Meredith magazines and as headquarters for brands including Family Circle, Shape, Parents, Rachael Ray Every Day, and all brands acquired in the Time acquisition. We are in the process of transferring employees and operations from our leased facility at 805 Third Avenue, New York, NY to the leased facility at 225 Liberty Street, New York, NY. We plan to vacate the majority of the leased space at 805 Third Avenue by September 2018 and have entered into agreements with unaffiliated third-party tenants to sublease approximately 70 percent of the leased space at this location.

The national media segment has also entered into leases for magazine editorial offices, national media sales offices, technology centers, warehouses,brand, editorial, and other operational functions in the states of Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Texas, Vermont, and Washington; Washington, D.C.; and in the countries of Canada, China, India, Japan, Netherlands, the Philippines, Singapore, and Switzerland.functions. The Company believes these facilities are sufficient to meet our current and expected future requirements.



With the sale of the Time and Fortune media brands in fiscal 2019, the Company reduced its international presence, while retaining an office in India.

The local media segment operates from facilities in the following locations: Atlanta, GA; Phoenix, AZ; St. Louis, MO; Beaverton, OR; Nashville, TN; Rocky Hill, CT; Fairway, KS; Greenville, SC; Henderson, NV; Mobile, AL; Saginaw, MI; and Springfield, MA. The propertyExcept for the properties in St. Louis, is leased, while the otherMO and Saginaw, MI, all properties are owned by the Company. Each of the broadcast stations also maintains one or more owned or leased transmitter sites.






ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS




In the ordinary course of business, we are defendants in or parties to various legal claims, actions, and proceedings. These claims, actions and proceedings are at varying stages of investigation, arbitration, or adjudication, and involve a variety of areas of law. Time, which is now a wholly-owned subsidiary, previously reported on, and we update below, the following legal proceedings.


On October 26, 2010, the Canadian Minister of National Revenue denied the claims by Time Inc. Retail (formerly Time/Warner Retail Sales & Marketing, Inc.) (TIR) for input tax credits in respect of goods and services tax that TIR had paid on magazines it imported into and had displayed at retail locations in Canada during the years 2006 to 2008, on the basis that TIR did not own those magazines and issued Notices of Reassessment in the amount of approximately C$52 million. On January 21, 2011, TIR filed an objection to the Notices of Reassessment with the Chief of Appeals of the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), arguing that TIR claimed input tax credits only in respect of goods and services tax it actually paid and regardless of whether its payment of the goods and services tax was appropriate or in error, it is entitled to a rebate for such payments. On September 13, 2013, TIR received Notices of Reassessment in the amount of C$26.9 million relating to the disallowancesame type of input tax credits claimed by TIR for goods and services tax that TIR had paid on magazines it imported into and had displayed at retail locations in


Canadasituation during the years 2009 to 2010. On October 22, 2013,2010, and TIR filed an objection to the Notices of Reassessment received on September 13, 2013 with the Chief of Appeals of the CRA, asserting the same arguments made in the objection TIR filed on January 21, 2011. Beginning insimilar objections as for prior years. By letter dated June 19, 2015, the collections department of the CRA requested payment of both assessments plusC$89.8 million, which includes interest accrued interest or the posting of sufficient security. In each instance,and stated that failure to pay may result in legal action. TIR responded by stating that collection should remain stayed pending resolution of the issues raised by TIR’s objection. Including interest accrued, the total of the reassessments claimed by the CRA for the years 2006 to 2010 was C$91 million as of November 30, 2015. On February 8, 2016, the Company filed an application for a remission order with the International Trade Policy Division of Finance Canada to seek relief from the assessments and the CRA’s collection efforts. The matter is currently subject to a proceeding in the Tax Court of Canada to resolve the issue of whether TIR or the publishers are entitled to the input tax credits. On March 31, 2017, the Company and the CRA jointly proposed a timetable for the completion of certain pre-trial steps related to this matter, which was approved by the Tax Court. In accordance with the timetable, on April 28, 2017, TIR filed an Amended Notice of Appeal of the assessments. In June 2017, the CRA filed a Reply to TIR's Amended Notice of Appeal and the Company filed an answer to the CRA reply in July 2017. The parties are currently engaged in discovery. The Company denies liability and intends to vigorously defend itself and pursue all defenses available to eliminate or mitigate liability.mediation.


In July 2017 and November 2017, Time received subpoenas from the Enforcement Division of the staff of the SEC requiring Time to provide documents relating to its accounting for goodwill and asset impairments, restructuring and severance costs, and its analysis and reporting of Time’s segments. In April 2019, the Company received a letter from the SEC Division of Enforcement stating that it has concluded its investigation as to Time and it does not intend to recommend an enforcement action by the SEC against Time.

On September 6, 2019, a shareholder filed a putative class action lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York against the Company, its Chief Executive Officer, and its Chief Financial Officer, seeking to represent a class of shareholders who acquired securities of the Company between May 10, 2018 and September 4, 2019. On September 12, 2019, a shareholder filed a putative class action lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Iowa against the Company, its Chief Executive Officer, its Chief Financial Officer, and its Chairman of the Board seeking to represent a class of shareholders who acquired securities of the Company between January 31, 2018 and September 5, 2019. Both complaints allege that the defendants made materially false and/or misleading statements, and failed to disclose material adverse facts, about the Company’s business, operations, and prospects. Both complaints assert claims under the federal securities laws and seek unspecified monetary damages and other relief. The defendants have not yet responded to either complaint but intend to vigorously oppose them. The Company is cooperating withexpresses no opinion as to the SEC in the investigation. Management cannot at this time predict the eventual scope orultimate outcome of this matter.these matters.





ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES



Not applicable.







  

PART II

 		 






ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED SHAREHOLDER MATTERS, AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES




MARKET INFORMATION, DIVIDENDS, AND HOLDERS


The principal market for trading Meredith’s common stock is the New York Stock Exchange (trading symbol MDP). There is no separate public trading market for Meredith’s class B stock, which is convertible share for share at any time into common stock. Holders of both classes of stock receive equal dividends per share.

The range of trading prices for the Company’s common stock and the dividends per share paid during each quarter of the past two fiscal years are presented below.

 High
 Low
 Dividends
Fiscal 2018     
First Quarter$63.05
 $53.25
 $0.520
Second Quarter72.25
 50.63
 0.520
Third Quarter69.35
 52.35
 0.545
Fourth Quarter54.95
 47.30
 0.545
      
 High
 Low
 Dividends
Fiscal 2017     
First Quarter$57.53
 $49.17
 $0.495
Second Quarter59.70
 43.85
 0.495
Third Quarter66.25
 54.60
 0.520
Fourth Quarter66.15
 51.20
 0.520


Meredith stock became publicly traded in 1946, and quarterly dividends have been paid continuously since 1947. Meredith has increased our dividend for 2526 consecutive years. It is currently anticipated that comparable dividends will continue to be paid in the future.


On JulyAugust 31, 2018,2019, there were approximately 880850 holders of record of the Company’s common stock and 490470 holders of record of class B stock.






COMPARISON OF SHAREHOLDER RETURN


The following graph compares the performance of the Company’s common stock during the period July 1, 2013,2014, to June 30, 2018,2019, with the Standard and Poor’s (S&P) MidCap 400 Index, the Dow Jones US Media Index, and with a peer group of companies engaged in multimedia businesses primarily with publishing and/or television broadcasting in common with the Company.


The S&P MidCap 400This fiscal year, the Company has replaced the peer group with the Dow Jones US Media Index. As such, the Company has shown both the peer group and the Dow Jones US Media Index is comprised of 400 mid-sized U.S. companies with a market cap in the rangefollowing graph in the year of $1.6 billion to $6.8 billionthe change. The Company believes the Dow Jones US Media Index provides a more comparable measure because it includes broadcasters and other companies that we compete with in primarily the information technology, financial, industrial, and consumer discretionary industries weighted by market capitalization. advertising industry which provides a better representation of our peers.
The peer group previously selected by the Company for comparison, which is weighted by market capitalization, is comprised of Media General, Inc. (until its acquisition by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. on January 17, 2017); Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc.; TEGNA Inc.; The E.W. Scripps Company; and Time Inc. (from June 9, 2014, the date its stock began trading to January 31, 2018, when it was acquired by us).


The graph depicts the results for investing $100 in the Company’s common stock, the S&P MidCap 400 Index, the Dow Jones US Media Index, and the peer group at closing prices on June 30, 2013,2014, assuming dividends were reinvested.shareholderreturngraph2018.jpg

mdp2019002002.jpg



ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES


The following table sets forth information with respect to the Company’s repurchases of common stock during the quarter ended June 30, 2018.2019.

Period
(a)
Total number
of shares
purchased 1, 2
(b)
Average price
paid
per share
(c)
Total number of shares
purchased as part of
publicly announced
programs
(d)
Approximate dollar value of shares
 that may yet be
purchased under the
programs
          (in millions)
April 1 to
April 30, 2018		 31,228
  $54.11
  31,228
  $56.9
 
May 1 to
May 31, 2018		 9,218
  50.99
  4,262
  56.6
 
June 1 to
June 30, 2018		 9,982
  52.31
  9,982
  56.1
 
Total 50,428
  

  45,472
    
Period
(a)
Total number
of shares
purchased 1, 2
(b)
Average price
paid
per share
(c)
Total number of shares
purchased as part of
publicly announced
programs
(d)
Approximate dollar value of shares
 that may yet be
purchased under the
programs
          (in millions)
April 1 to
April 30, 2019		 8,656
  $57.69
  1,479
  $50.4
 
May 1 to
May 31, 2019		 2,530
  58.31
  229
  50.4
 
June 1 to
June 30, 2019		 2,348
  52.64
  1,238
  50.3
 
Total 13,534
  

  2,946
    
1 
The number of shares purchased includes 31,2281,479 shares in April 2018, 4,2622019, 229 shares in May 2018,2019, and 9,9821,238 shares in June 20182019 delivered or deemed to be delivered to us in satisfaction of tax withholding on option exercises and the vesting of restricted shares. These shares are included as part of our repurchase program and reduce the repurchase authority granted by our Board.
2 
The number of shares purchased includes 4,9567,177 shares in April 2019, 2,301 shares in May 20182019, and 1,110 shares in June 2019 deemed to be delivered to us on tender of stock in payment for the exercise price of options. These shares do not reduce the repurchase authority granted by our Board.


In May 2014, Meredith announced the Board of Directors had authorized the repurchase of up to $100.0 million in additional shares of the Company’s common and class B stock through public and private transactions.


For more information on the Company’s common and class B share repurchase program, see Item 7-Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, under the heading “Share Repurchase Program” on page 46.45.






ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA




Selected financial data for the fiscal years 20142015 through 20182019 are contained under the heading “Five-Year Financial History with Selected Financial Data” beginning on page 113131 and are primarily derived from consolidated financial statements for those years. Information contained in that table is not necessarily indicative of results of operations in future years and should be read in conjunction with Item 7-Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and Item 8-Financial Statements and Supplementary Data of this Form 10-K.










ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS




Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (MD&A) consists of the following sections:
 Page
  
Executive Overview
2725
  
Results of Operations
3129
  
Liquidity and Capital Resources
4241
  
Critical Accounting Policies
4746
  
Accounting and Reporting Developments
5048


MD&A should be read in conjunction with the other sections of this Form 10-K, including Item 1-Business, Item 6-Selected Financial Data, and Item 8-Financial Statements and Supplementary Data. MD&A contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based upon our current expectations and could be affected by many risks, uncertainties, and changes in circumstances including the uncertainties and risk factors described throughout this filing, particularly in Item 1A-Risk Factors. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements are set forth under the heading “Forward-Looking Statements” in Item 1-Business.




EXECUTIVE OVERVIEW


Meredith has been committed to service journalism for over 115 years. Meredith uses multiple media platforms— including print, digital, mobile, video, and broadcast television—to provide consumers with content they desire and to deliver the messages of its advertising and marketing partners.


Meredith operates two business segments. The national media segment reaches more than 175180 million unduplicated American consumers every month, including more than 80nearly 90 percent of U.S. millennial women. Meredith is the No. 1 U.S. magazine operator, possessing leading positions in entertainment, food, lifestyle, parenting, and home content creation, as well as enhanced positions in the beauty, fashion, and luxury advertising categories through well-known brands such as People, Better Homes & Gardens, InStyle, Allrecipes, Real Simple, Shape, Southern Living, and Martha Stewart Living. The national media segment features robust brand licensing activities, including more than 3,000 SKUs of branded products at 4,000 Walmart stores across the U.S. and at Walmart.com. The national media segment also includes leading affinity marketer Synapse, and The Foundry, the Company’s state-of-the-art creative content studio.


Meredith’s local media segment includes 17 television stations in 12 markets reaching 11 percent of U.S. households. Meredith’s portfolio is concentrated in large, fast-growing markets, with seven stations in the nation’s Top 25 markets—including Atlanta, Phoenix, St. Louis, and Portland—and 13 in Top 50 markets. Meredith’s stations produce over 700 hours of local news and entertainment content each week and operate leading local digital properties. The local media segment also includes MNI Targeted Media, which delivers targeted advertising solutions to more than 1,200 clients on a local, regional, and national level.



Both segments operate primarily in the U.S. and compete against similar media and other types of media on both a local and national basis. In fiscal 2018,2019, the national media segment accounted for 6973 percent of the Company’s $2.2$3.2 billion in revenues while local media segment revenues contributed 3127 percent. These results reflect

Fiscal 2019 marked the first full year of owning and operating the assets acquired from Time, and Meredith has been focused on integrating what is now the largest portfolio of national media brands in the industry.

During fiscal 2019, Meredith’s national media group delivered on many of the key elements of the acquisition plan, including:

Improving the print advertising performance of the acquired Time business sinceproperties to Meredith’s historical levels.

Growing revenue and raising the dateprofit margins of the acquisition.acquired Time digital properties.


Meredith continued to aggressively execute a series of well-defined strategic initiatives in fiscal 2018 to generate growth in revenue and increase shareholder value over time. These included:

The transformational acquisition of Time


◦•Creates
Growing consumer related revenues by leveraging Meredith’s expanded brand portfolio. These consumer revenue activities are diversified, mostly contractual, and include magazine subscriptions, brand licensing, affinity marketing, paid products, and lead generation. As an unparalleled portfolioexample, Meredith was a key partner in the launch of Apple News+, a new digital subscription service that offers 30 Meredith magazines among more than 300 popular titles, leading newspapers, and digital publishers in an innovative, convenient, and curated experience. Consumer related revenues accounted for more than 45 percent of Meredith’s total national media brands with greater scale and efficiency. Combined, Meredith’s brands now reach over 175 million unduplicated American consumers, including 80revenues in fiscal 2019, up from 41 percent of U.S. millennial women. Meredith is the No. 1 U.S. magazine operator, possessing leading positions in entertainment, food, lifestyle, parenting, and home content creation, as well as enhancing positions in the beauty, fashion, and luxury advertising categories.prior year.


◦•Advances
Selling media assets not core to Meredith’s digital position by adding significant scale. With nearly 135 million unique visitors inbusiness. Meredith successfully completed the U.S., Meredith now operatesdivestiture of the largest premium content digital network for U.S. consumers. This includesTime and Fortune brands and reached an agreement to divest the No. 1 position in the key categories of entertainment (People.com), food (Allrecipes.com), and lifestyle (BHG.com and MarthaStewart.com). Meredith now possesses richer and deeper proprietary data, and has greater scale in the high-growth and large video, branded content, and programmatic advertising platforms. National media digital advertising revenues grew more than 50 percentSports Illustrated brand in fiscal 2018, and represented nearly 35 percent of the national media’s total advertising.2019.


Meredith’s local media business continued to deliver record performance in fiscal 2019, including setting new all-time highs for political advertising and consumer related revenues. Additional highlights included:

◦•Provides
Increasing its consumer revenue diversification and growth. Meredith’s national media brands now have a readershipconnection – Meredith delivered strong performance during ratings periods throughout fiscal 2019. During the most recent May rating period, Meredith stations in eight of more than 120 million and paid circulation of more than 40 million magazine subscriptions. Meredith expectsits 12 markets ranked No. 1 or No. 2 from sign-on to increase consumer generated revenue through ownership of affinity marketer Synapse, which it acquired as part of the acquisition of Time, as well as from diversified activities, including bundled circulation, brand licensing, and e-commerce activities.sign-off.


◦•Enhances financial scale and flexibility. Meredith anticipates generating annual cost synergies that exceed $500 million
Rapidly growing its digital platforms – Local media third party sales advertising related revenues increased, reflecting a full year of contribution from MNI. In addition, traffic across the Local media’s digital properties grew in the first two full years of combined operations. Meredith has an excellent track record of achieving cost synergies withlow double digits from the prior acquisitions,year and is confidentaveraged 19 million unique visitors per month in its ability to optimize the cost structure of the combined business.fiscal 2019.

Continued strong and growing contribution from Meredith’s local media operations


◦•Meredith’s portfolio
Successful renewal of 17 high-performing television stations in 12 markets delivered strong revenuekey distribution and network affiliation agreements. During fiscal 2019, Meredith completed retransmission consent agreements with Cox Communications and Charter Communications Inc., as well as network affiliation renewals for all of its FOX-affiliated markets. Consumer related revenues grew more than 15 percent in fiscal 2018.2019.


◦•Performance was driven
Launching new programming to expand Meredith’s reach. This included a new weekly television show based on the strength of Meredith’s People brand. The new show has been well-received by growthaudiences and advertisers alike, and as a result Meredith has committed to launching the show in retransmission revenues, alongdaily syndication in fall 2020 beginning with the additiondistribution across all 12 of WPCH in Atlanta and MNI, which was part of the Time acquisition. MNI offers clients targeted advertising solutions aimed primarily at theMeredith’s local and regional levels.television markets.

Successful execution of asset sales to simplify and focus Meredith’s national media portfolio

◦Meredith closed on the sale of the Golf brand, TIUK and MXM during fiscal 2018. Additionally, Meredith anticipates agreements to sell the Fortune, Money, Sports Illustrated, and TIME brands to be finalized in early fiscal 2019.

◦Discontinued operations in Meredith’s fiscal 2018 include TIME, Sports Illustrated, Fortune, Money, and Viant, along with the Golf brand and TIUK.




Meredith remains committed to strong capital stewardship and delivering top-third performance through its successful Total Shareholder Return strategy. This includes:


Strong generationStrengthening its balance sheet by paying down approximately $825 million of cash flow. Cash flow from operations for the year ended June 30, 2018, was $151.4 million.debt in fiscal 2019.

Return of
Returning capital to shareholders through consistent and ongoing dividend increases. Meredith raised its regular stock dividend by 4.85.5 percent to $2.18$2.30 on an annualized basis in January 2018.2019. This marked the 25th26th straight year of dividend increases for Meredith, which has paid an annual dividend for 7172 consecutive years.

Share repurchases. Meredith’s ongoing share repurchase program has $56.1 million remaining under current authorizations as of June 30, 2018.



NATIONAL MEDIA


Advertising related revenues made up 4850 percent of fiscal 2018 2019 national media revenues. These revenues were generated from the sale of advertising space in our magazines and on our digital properties to clients interested in promoting their brands, products, and services to consumers. consumers as well as revenue we generate selling advertising space on third-party platforms. Changes in advertising related revenues tend to correlate with changes in the level of economic activity in the U.S. Indicators of economic activity include changes in the level of gross domestic product, consumer spending, housing starts, unemployment rates, auto sales, and interest rates. Circulation levels of Meredith’s magazines, reader demographic data, and the advertising rates charged relative to other comparable available advertising opportunities also affect the level of advertising related revenues.


CirculationConsumer related revenues accounted for 3146 percent of fiscal 20182019 national media revenues.Consumer related revenue includes all revenues either driven by or otherwise linked to consumer buying decisions and include circulation activities; magazine subscriptions sales for third-party publishers; brand licensing; digital lead generation; and other e-commerce sales, product sales, and related activities. Circulation revenues result from the sale of magazines to consumers through subscriptions and by single copy sales on newsstands in print form, primarily at major retailers and grocery/drug stores, and in digital form on tablets and other media devices. In the short term, subscription revenues, which accounted for 8064 percent of circulationconsumer related revenues, are less susceptible to economic changes because subscriptions are generally sold for terms of one to three years. The same economic factors that affect advertising related revenues also can influence consumers’ response to subscription offers and result in lower revenues and/or higher costs to maintain subscriber levels over time. Subscription revenues per copy and related costs can also vary significantly by subscription source. Some subscription sources generate lower revenues than other sources but have proportionately lower related costs. A key factor in our subscription success is our industry-leading database. It contains an abundance of attributes on 175 million individuals, which represents 80including 85 percent of U.S. millennial women. The size and depth of our database is a key to our circulation model and allows more precise consumer targeting. NewsstandNewsstand revenues are moremore volatile than subscription revenues and can vary significantly month to month depending on economic and other factors.

The remaining 21 percent of national media revenues came from a variety of activities that included the sale of customer relationship marketing products and services; magazine subscriptions sales for third-party publishers; brand licensing; digital lead generation; and other e-commerce sales, product sales, andconsumer related activities. These other revenues are generally affected by changes in the level of economic activity in the U.S. including changes in the level of gross domestic product, consumer spending, unemployment rates, and interest rates.


The remaining 4 percent of national media revenues came from a variety of activities that included the sale of customer relationship marketing products and services. In addition, for certain sold brands, Meredith continues to provide consumer marketing, subscription fulfillment, paper purchasing, printing, and other services under outsourcing agreements and records such revenue in other revenue.

National media’s major expense categories are employee compensation costs and production and delivery of publications and promotional mailings. Employee compensation, which includes benefits expense, represented 4023 percent of national media’s operating expenses in fiscal 2018. 2019. Compensation expense is affected by salary and incentive levels, the number of employees, the costs of our various employee benefit plans, and other factors.


Paper, postage, and production charges represented 21represented 20 percent of the segment’s operating expenses in fiscal 2018. 2019. The price of paper can vary significantly on the basis of worldwide demand and supply for paper in general and for specific types of paper used by Meredith. The printing of our publications is outsourced. We typically have multi-


yearmulti-year contracts for the printing of our magazines, a practice which reduces price fluctuations over the contract term. Postal rates are dependent on the operating efficiency of the USPS and on legislative mandates imposed on the USPS. The USPS adjusted rates most recently in January 2018,2019, which resulted in an increase of less than twoapproximately 2.5 percent. While we expect postage prices to increase again in January 2019,2020, an ongoing legislatively mandated review of the existing law by the Postal Regulatory Commission could potentially result in adjustments to the


current rate setting regime. Meredith continues to work independently and with others to encourage and help the USPS find and implement efficiencies to contain rate increases.


The remaining 3957 percent of fiscal 20182019 national media expenses included depreciation and amortization, costs for magazine newsstand distribution, advertising and promotional efforts, and overhead costs for facilities and technology services.


LOCAL MEDIA


Local media derives the majority of its revenues—5462 percent in fiscal 20182019—from the sale of advertising both over the air, and on our stations’ digital and mobile media properties. as well as revenue we generate selling advertising space on third-party platforms. The remainder comes from television retransmission consent fees, television production, and other services.


The stations sell advertising to both local/regional and national accounts. Political advertising revenues are cyclical in that they are significantly greater during biennial election campaigns (which take place primarily in odd-numbered fiscal years) than at other times. We generate additional revenues from digital activities and programs focused on local interests such as community events and college and professional sports.


Changes in advertising related revenues tend to correlate with changes in the level of economic activity in the U.S. and in the local markets in which we operate stations, and with the cyclical changes in political advertising discussed previously. Programming content, audience share, audience demographics, and the advertising rates charged relative to other available advertising opportunities also affect advertising revenues. On occasion, unusual events necessitate uninterrupted television coverage and will adversely affect spot advertising revenues.


Local media’s major expense categories are employee compensation and programming fees paid to the networks. Employee compensation represented 3532 percent of local media’s operating expenses in fiscal 2018,2019 and is affected by the same factors noted for national media. Programming fees paid to the networks represented 2731 percent of this segment’s fiscal 20182019 expenses. Sales and promotional activities, costs to produce local news programming, and general overhead costs for facilities and technical resources accounted for most of the remaining 3837 percent of local media’s fiscal 20182019 operating expenses.


FISCAL 20182019 FINANCIAL OVERVIEW


On January 31, 2018, Meredith completed its acquisitionLocal media revenue increased 25 percent as compared to the prior year primarily due to increased political spot advertising revenues, the addition of Time. Time's operations have been includedMNI revenues, and higher retransmission revenues. These increases were partially offset by a decrease in the Company's financial statements since February 1, 2018, the first day of operations for the combined company. The acquisition was financed through the issuance of a combination of debtnon-political spot advertising revenues due in part to increased political spot advertising. Operating profit grew 49 percent primarily due to additional cyclical high-margin political spot advertising revenues and preferred stock.an increased retransmission contribution.

In May 2018, Meredith completed its sale of MXM.


National media revenues increased 4448 percent compared to the prior year primarily due to the addition of Time revenues partially offset by the decrease in Meredith Xcelerated Marketing (MXM) revenues due to its sale in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2018 and declines in the revenues of our magazine operations. National media operating profit decreased 33increased 48 percent primarily due to an increasethe addition of Time operating profit. These increases were partially offset by a decrease in severancethe profit contribution of our magazine operations and related benefit costs of $46.7 million, an increase in the impairment of trademarks of $17.4trademarks.

Unallocated corporate expenses decreased $67.5 million and a decrease in the reduction of the fair value adjustment related to previously accrued contingent consideration payable of $15.0 million.

Local media revenues increased 10 percent as compared to the prior year primarily due to increased retransmission revenuesreductions in severance and the addition of Time revenues. These increases were partially offset by a decrease in political advertising revenues, as expected in a non-political year. Operating profit declined 12


percent primarily due to declines in higher-margin political advertising revenues due to the cyclical nature of political advertising partially offset by increased retransmission consent related profit.

Unallocated corporatebenefit expenses increased $135.3 million primarily due to charges forand lower transaction and integration related costs of $58.3 million and severance and related benefit costs of $52.5 million.costs.


Diluted earnings per common share from continuing operations decreased 5737 percent to $1.79$1.12 from $4.16$1.79 in the prior year. In the prior year, primarilythe Company recorded an income tax benefit due to the acquisition, disposition, and restructuring related activities costs resulting in lower income from operations partially offset by the Company's deferred tax assets, deferred tax liabilities, and tax reserves being remeasured as a result of the Tax Reform Act.
The


decrease was primarily due to the lack of a similar benefit in the current year and increased interest expense partially offset by an increase in income from operations.

In fiscal 2018,2019, we generated $151.4$245.3 million in operating cash flows, invested $2.8 billion$18.4 million in acquisitions of and investments in businesses, and invested $53.2$46.4 million in capital improvements.




RESULTS OF OPERATIONS


Years ended June 30,2018
 Change2017
 Change2016
2019
 Change2018
 Change2017
(In millions except per share data)                  
Total revenues$2,247.4
 31 % $1,713.3
 4 % $1,649.6
$3,188.5
 41 % $2,264.2
 32 % $1,713.3
Costs and expenses(1,952.3) 41 % (1,387.7) 0 % (1,393.9)(2,758.8) 39 % (1,984.5) 43 % (1,388.6)
Acquisition, disposition, and restructuring related activities(173.4) n/m
 (10.3) n/m
 36.4
(100.9) (41)% (170.1) n/m
 (10.3)
Impairment of goodwill and other long-lived assets(22.7) 267 % (6.2) (96)% (161.5)
Impairment of long-lived assets(41.8) 84 % (22.7) n/m
 (6.2)
Total operating expenses(2,148.4) 53 % (1,404.2) (8)% (1,519.0)(2,901.5) 33 % (2,177.3) 55 % (1,405.1)
Income from continuing operations$99.0
 (68)% $309.1
 137 % $130.6
$287.0
 n/m
 $86.9
 (72)% $308.2
Net earnings from continuing operations$114.0
 (40)% $188.9
 457 % $33.9
$129.1
 13 % $114.0
 (40)% $188.9
Net earnings99.4
 (47)% 188.9
 457 % 33.9
46.3
 (53)% 99.4
 (47)% 188.9
Diluted earnings per common share from continuing operations1.79
 (57)% 4.16
 455 % 0.75
1.12
 (37)% 1.79
 (57)% 4.16
Diluted earnings per common share1.47
 (65)% 4.16
 455 % 0.75
Diluted earnings (loss) per common share(0.70) n/m
 1.47
 (65)% 4.16
n/m - Not meaningful                  




OVERVIEW


Following are brief descriptions of recent acquisitions and a discussion of the trends and uncertainties that affected our businesses. Following the Overview is an analysis of the results of operations for the local media and national media segments and an analysis of our consolidated results of operations for the last three fiscal years.


Acquisitions


On January 31, 2018, Meredith acquiredcompleted its acquisition of all of the outstanding shares of Time. As a result, Time on January 31, 2018.became a wholly-owned subsidiary of Meredith. Since February 1, 2018, the first day of operations for the combined company, the operating results of Time have been included in the Company’s consolidated operating results. While the majority of Time’s operations are reported in Meredith’s national media segment, one business unit of Time is reported in Meredith’s local media segment and certain expenses are reported in unallocated corporate. In December 2016, Meredith acquired the assets of a digital lead-generation company in the home services market and completed, in April 2017, the acquisition of Peachtree TV, an independent station in Atlanta, Georgia, which was operated by Meredith prior to its acquisition. The operating results of these acquisitions have been included in the Company’s consolidated operating results since their respective acquisition dates. See Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements for further information.


As the Company continues to integrate Time, the ability to separately track Time-related revenues and expenses, especially unallocated corporate expenses, becomes less feasible. As such, throughout MD&A reasonable estimates of incremental Time revenues and expenses have been disclosed where possible.




Financial Statement Presentation Changes

Since its acquisition as part of Time, the Money brand had been included in discontinued operations as it had been held for sale. In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2019, due to a change in vision, the decision was made to retain the Money brand. As such, the operations of the Money brand have been reclassified as continuing operations and results from the date of acquisition have been adjusted to reflect this change.

During fiscal 2019, the Company adopted Accounting Standards Update 2017-07, Improving the Presentation of Net Periodic Pension Cost and Net Periodic Postretirement Benefit Cost, retrospectively to July 1, 2016, which primarily resulted in the reclassification of amounts between production, distribution, and editorial expenses and selling, general, and administrative expenses, which are part of operating profit, and non-operating income, net, in each of the three years presented.

Trends and Uncertainties


Advertising revenues accounted for 5053 percent of total revenues infiscal 2018.2019. Advertising demand is the Company’s key uncertainty, and its fluctuation from period to period can have a material effect on operating results. Demand for political advertising in the Company’s local media segment is cyclical in nature, generally following the biennial cycle of election campaigns with peaks occurring in our odd fiscal years (e.g., fiscal 2015,2017, fiscal 2017)2019) and particularly in our second fiscal quarter of those fiscal years. Other significant uncertainties that can affect operating results include fluctuations in the cost of paper, postage rates, and over time, television programming rights. The Company’s cash flows from operating activities, our primary source of liquidity, is adversely affected when the advertising market is weak or when costs rise. One of our priorities is to manage our businesses prudently during expanding and contracting economic cycles to maximize shareholder return over time. To manage the uncertainties inherent in our businesses, we prepare monthly internal forecasts of anticipated results of operations and monitor the economic indicators mentioned in the Executive Overview. See Item 1A-Risk Factors in this Form 10-K for further discussion.




NATIONAL MEDIA


The following discussion reviews operating results for our national media segment, which includes magazine publishing, digital and customer relationship marketing, digital and mobile media, affinity marketing, brand licensing, database-related activities, and other related operations. The national media segment contributed 6973 percent of Meredith’s consolidated revenues in fiscal 20182019 and 3431 percent of the combined operating profit from national media and local media operations in fiscal 2018.2019. These results reflect the acquired Time business since the date of the acquisition.


National media revenues increased 4448 percent in fiscal 2018.2019. Operating costs and expenses increased 5148 percent. Acquisition, disposition, and restructuring related activities of $46.5$54.3 million and impairment charges of $41.8 million were recorded in the national media segment. Operating profit increased 48 percent primarily due to having a full year of results of the acquired Time business in fiscal 2019.

Fiscal 2018 national media revenues increased 45 percent. Operating costs and expenses increased 54 percent. Acquisition, disposition, and restructuring related activities of $43.1 million and impairment charges of $22.7 million were recorded in the national media segment. Due to these increased expenses, operating profit declined 33 percent in fiscal 2018.

Fiscal 2017 national media revenues declined 2 percent. Costs and expenses decreased 3 percent and an impairment charge of $5.3 million was recorded. Fiscal 20172018 segment operating profit was $146.5$85.0 million.



National media operating results for the last three fiscal years were as follows:


Years ended June 30,2018 Change2017 Change2016
2019
 Change2018
 Change2017
(In millions)                
Revenues$1,555.8
 44 % $1,083.2
 (2)% $1,101.2
$2,326.6
 48% $1,572.6
 45 % $1,083.2
Operating expenses         
   
  
Costs and expenses(1,389.1) 51 % (922.8) (3)% (954.4)(2,104.5) 48% (1,421.8) 54 % (922.9)
Acquisition, disposition, and restructuring related activities(46.5) 440 % (8.6) (2)% (8.7)(54.3) 26% (43.1) n/m
 (8.6)
Impairment of goodwill and other long-lived assets(22.7) 328 % (5.3) (97)% (155.8)
Impairment of long-lived assets(41.8) 84% (22.7) n/m
 (5.3)
Total operating expenses(1,458.3) 56 % (936.7) (16)% (1,118.9)(2,200.6) 48% (1,487.6) 59 % (936.8)
Operating profit (loss)$97.5
 (33)% $146.5
 n/m
 $(17.7)
Operating profit$126.0
 48% $85.0
 (42)% $146.4
n/m - Not meaningful         ��      




National Media Revenues


The table below presents the components of revenues for the last three fiscal years.


Years ended June 30,2018
 Change2017
 Change2016
2019 Change2018 Change2017
(In millions)                  
Revenues         
Advertising$746.3
 43% $520.1
 (1)% $527.1
Circulation489.3
 52% 322.0
 (2)% 328.6
Advertising related         
Print$690.1
 37 % $501.9
 40 % $357.9
Digital394.9
 56 % 253.8
 56 % 162.2
Third party sales65.3
 230 % 19.8
 n/m
 —
Total advertising related1,150.3
 48 % 775.5
 49 % 520.1
Consumer related         
Subscription693.7
 65 % 419.9
 45 % 290.1
Newsstand165.5
 69 % 98.1
 119 % 44.7
Affinity marketing83.6
 119 % 38.1
 n/m
 —
Licensing94.4
 29 % 73.0
 35 % 54.0
Digital consumer driven39.9
 87 % 21.3
 25 % 17.0
Total consumer related1,077.1
 66 % 650.4
 60 % 405.8
Other320.2
 33% 241.1
 (2)% 245.5
         
Project based50.5
 (55)% 111.0
 (20)% 138.6
Other48.7
 36 % 35.7
 91 % 18.7
Total other99.2
 (32)% 146.7
 (7)% 157.3
Total revenues$1,555.8
 44% $1,083.2
 (2)% $1,101.2
$2,326.6
 48 % $1,572.6
 45 % $1,083.2
n/m - Not meaningful         



Advertising Related Revenue
The following table presents advertising page information according to Publishers Information Bureau for our major subscription-based magazines for the last three fiscal years:


Years ended June 30,2018
 Change2017
 Change2016
Better Homes & Gardens979
 (6)% 1,043
 3 % 1,009
People 2
962
 100 % —
 —
 —
Family Circle847
 (11)% 954
 1 % 948
Parents803
 (9)% 885
 (11)% 994
Shape / Fitness708
 (20)% 885
 (2)% 905
Martha Stewart Living567
 (6)% 602
 7 % 565
InStyle 2
550
 100 % —
 —
 —
Rachael Ray Every Day423
 (18)% 519
 6 % 491
Traditional Home371
 (16)% 440
 (11)% 496
Midwest Living362
 (13)% 416
 12 % 373
Southern Living 2
325
 100 % —
 —
 —
EatingWell314
 3 % 305
 7 % 286
Allrecipes289
 (3)% 299
 19 % 252
Real Simple 2
286
 100 % —
 —
 —
Travel + Leisure 2
273
 100 % —
 —
 —
Wood217
 5 % 206
 14 % 181
Entertainment Weekly 2
216
 100 % —
 —
 —
Health 2
212
 100 % —
 —
 —
Cooking Light 2
208
 100 % —
 —
 —
FamilyFun183
 (42)% 317
 (24)% 418
Food & Wine 2
182
 100 % —
 —
 —
Coastal Living 2
117
 100 % —
 —
 —
Fit Pregnancy and Baby / American Baby 1
91
 (60)% 229
 (10)% 254
¹ Included as a feature in Parents, rather than published as a standalone title, effective February 2018.
2 Since date of acquisition in fiscal 2018
         
Years ended June 30,2019
 Change2018
 Change2017
People 1
2,147
 123 % 962
 —
 —
InStyle 1
1,050
 91 % 550
 —
 —
Better Homes & Gardens901
 (8)% 979
 (6)% 1,043
Parents817
 2 % 803
 (9)% 885
Family Circle779
 (8)% 847
 (11)% 954
Travel + Leisure 1
719
 164 % 273
 —
 —
Southern Living 1
695
 114 % 325
 —
 —
Shape / Fitness533
 (25)% 708
 (20)% 885
Real Simple 1
693
 142 % 286
 —
 —
Food & Wine 1
557
 206 % 182
 —
 —
Martha Stewart Living530
 (7)% 567
 (6)% 602
Health 1
484
 128 % 212
 —
 —
Entertainment Weekly 1
454
 110 % 216
 —
 —
EatingWell381
 21 % 314
 3 % 305
Rachael Ray Every Day372
 (12)% 423
 (18)% 519
Traditional Home335
 (10)% 371
 (16)% 440
Midwest Living334
 (8)% 362
 (13)% 416
Allrecipes278
 (4)% 289
 (3)% 299
Cooking Light 1, 2
249
 20 % 208
 —
 —
Wood213
 (2)% 217
 5 % 206
Coastal Living 1, 4
64
 (45)% 117
 —
 —
FamilyFun 3
—
 (100)% 183
 (42)% 317
Fit Pregnancy and Baby / American Baby 5
—
 (100)% 91
 (60)% 229
1  Since date of acquisition in fiscal 2018
2  Merged into EatingWell effective January 2019 and became a special interest newsstand-only title in fiscal 2019
3 Family Fun became a newsstand only title during fiscal 2019
4 Coastal Living became a seasonal publication for newsstand only effective March 2019,
5  Included as a feature in Parents, rather than published as a standalone title, effective February 2018


National media advertising related revenue includes all advertising in Meredith owned publications and on Meredith owned websites as well as revenue we generate selling advertising space on third-party platforms. National media advertising related revenue increased 48 percent in fiscal 2019. The increase in print advertising is primarily due to the addition of print advertising revenues of Time partially offset by a 10 percent decline in comparative print advertising revenues. Approximately 30 percent of the decline in comparative print advertising revenue was due to previously announced changes to the marketing of Fit Pregnancy and Baby and Family Fun magazines. While the women’s service category of titles saw a slight increase in print advertising revenues, the lifestyle and parenthood categories saw decline. Digital advertising increased primarily due to the addition of digital advertising revenues of Time. Comparative digital advertising revenues increased 4314 percent in fiscal 2019. The increase in third party sales was primarily due to the addition of Time.

Advertising related revenues increased 49 percent in fiscal 2018 primarily due to the addition of advertising related revenues of Time. These increases wereThe increase in print advertising is primarily due to the addition of print advertising revenues of Time partially offset by a low-double digit percentage decline in comparative print advertising revenues as most titles experienced declines in magazinefiscal 2018. Digital advertising revenues and advertising pages as comparedincreased primarily due to the prior year. Demand was weaker for the majorityaddition of the core advertising categories.digital




National media advertising revenues decreased 1of Time. Comparative digital advertising revenues were flat in fiscal 2018. The increase in third party sales was due to the addition of Time.

Consumer Related Revenues
Consumer related revenue includes all revenues either driven by or otherwise linked to consumer buying decisions. Consumer related revenues increased 66 percent in fiscal 2017. Digital advertising2019. The increases in subscription and newsstand revenues grew 21 percent in fiscal 2017. Growth in digital advertising wasare primarily led by native, engagement-based video, and programmatic advertising, along with shopper marketing revenues. Magazine advertising revenues declined 9 percent and advertising pages decreased 5 percent. Approximately 20 percent of the magazine ad revenues decline and 55 percent of the ad pages decline were due to the closingaddition of MORE magazine. Approximately 50subscription revenues of Time partially offset by approximately 10 percent ofdeclines in comparative subscription and newsstand revenues. Digital consumer driven revenue increased primarily due to the growth in e-commerce revenues. The increases in the remaining decline in magazine ad revenues and mostcategories of the remaining decline in ad pages were due to softness in the parenting titles. Among our core advertising categories, the food and beverage, direct response, and beauty categories showed strength while demand was weaker for the finance, prescription drug, and non-prescription drug categories.

Circulation Revenues
Magazine circulation revenues increased 52 percent in fiscal 2018consumer related revenue are primarily due to the addition of Time circulationrevenues.

Consumer related revenues increased 60 percent in fiscal 2018. The increases in subscription and newsstand revenues are primarily due to the addition of subscription revenues of $190.2 millionTime partially offset by a reduction$16.4 million decline in comparative subscription revenues of $16.4 million and a $6.5 million decline in comparative newsstand revenues of $6.5 million.

Magazine circulation revenues declined 2 percentrevenues. Digital consumer driven revenue increased primarily due to the growth in fiscal 2017. Subscription revenues were downe-commerce revenues. The increases in the low-single digits on a percentage basis. Newsstand revenues declined 1 percent. Subscription and newsstand revenues were affected by the closureremaining categories of MORE magazine. Newsstand revenues benefited from the strong performance of The Magnolia Journal, Meredith’s new quarterly lifestyle magazine based on Joanna and Chip Gaines’ popular Magnolia brand. The subscription revenues decline was also partiallyconsumer related revenue are primarily due to ongoing efforts to source a larger percentagethe addition of magazine subscribers from Meredith’s own database instead of external agent sources. This direct-to-publisher strategy increases circulation profit but lowers revenues over time. The direct-to-publisher strategy is expected to adversely affect subscription revenues for the foreseeable future.Time revenues.


Other Revenues
OtherFiscal 2019 other revenues increased 33decreased 32 percent primarily due to declines of $83.6 million in MXM revenues due to the sale of MXM in fiscal 2018 primarily due topartially offset by the addition of other revenues from Time of $126.1 million partially offset by$20.4 million.

Other revenues decreased 7 percent in fiscal 2018 primarily due to declines of $27.2 million in MXM revenues, primarily due to the sale of MXM in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2018 and of $10.0 million due to the sale of a majorityminority stake in Charleston Tennis at the beginning fiscal 2018.

Other revenues decreased 2 percent in fiscal 2017 primarily due to a decline in MXM revenues of $6.7 million due to certain client losses and project scope reductions and a decrease in brand licensing revenues of $2.4 million.2019. These declines were partially offset by increases in e-commercethe addition of other revenues from Time of $8.2$32.4 million.


National Media Costs and Expenses


Fiscal 2019 national media costs and expenses increased 48 percent primarily due to the addition of Time operating costs and expenses of $767.4 million and an increase in employee compensation and related costs of $24.0 million partially offset by a decrease in operating expenses of MXM of $86.9 million and a reduction in circulation expenses of $18.2 million.

National media costs and expenses increased 5154 percent in fiscal 2018 primarily due to the addition of Time operating costs and expenses of $566.6 million and a decrease in the reduction of the fair value adjustment related to previously accrued contingent consideration payable of $15.0 million. These increases were partially offset by declines in circulation expenses of $22.7 million, decreases in employee compensation costs of $18.4 million, declines in paper expense of $11.6 million, lower postage and other delivery costs of $10.0 million, and a decrease in performance-based incentive accruals of $7.1 million.

Fiscal 2017 national media expenses decreased 3 percent. An increase in the reduction of previously accrued contingent consideration payable of $15.3 million and a decline in paper expense of $10.7 million contributed to the decline. Paper expenses declined due to both a decrease in the volume of paper used and a mid-single digit decline in average paper prices as compared to fiscal 2016. Also contributing to the decline was decreases in postage and other delivery costs of $8.2 million, lower employee compensation costs of $7.6 million, decreases in processing costs of $6.1 million, and declines in non-payroll related editorial costs of $4.9 million. The closing of MORE magazine contributed to the expense declines. These declines were partially offset by higher magazine and digital-related production costs of $14.5 million and increases in circulation expenses of $5.8 million.




National Media Acquisition, Disposition, and Restructuring Related Activities


Fiscal 2019 national media acquisition, disposition, and restructuring related activities increased 26 percent primarily due to an increase in integration costs of $21.8 million partially offset by a decrease in severance and related benefit expenses of $12.3 million.

National media acquisition, disposition, and restructuring related activities increased from $8.6 million in fiscal 2017 to $46.5$43.1 million in fiscal 2018 primarily due to an increase in the severance and benefits related accrualexpenses of $46.7 million partially offset by a gain related to the sale of MXM of $11.5 million, which was recorded as a reduction in expenses.


Fiscal 2017 national media acquisition, disposition, and restructuring related activities decreased 2 percent as the severance and benefits related accrual was approximately the same in both years.


National Media Impairment of Goodwill and Other Long-Lived Assets


The national media segment recorded pre-tax, non-cash impairment charges of $41.8 million in fiscal 2019 and $22.7 million in fiscal 2018 and $5.3 million in fiscal 2017 related to trademarks.


National Media Operating Profit (Loss)


Fiscal 2019 national media operating profit grew to $126.0 million primarily due to operating income from Time of $79.1 million and an increase in the profit contribution of our digital consumer products operations of $7.6 million partially offset by a $33.9 million decrease in the profit contribution of our magazine operations and an increase in the impairment of trademarks of $19.1 million.

National media operating profit decreased to $97.5$85.0 million in fiscal 2018. The decline was primarily due to increased severance and benefits related costs of $46.7 million, an increase in the impairment of trademarks of $17.4 million, and a decrease in the reduction of the fair value adjustment related to previously accrued contingent consideration payable of $15.0 million partially offset by an increase in operating income from Time of $14.4 million.


Fiscal 2017 national media operating profit grew to $146.5 million. The reduction in impairment charges of $150.5 million and an increase in the reduction of previously accrued contingent consideration payable of $15.3 million in fiscal 2017 contributed to the increase. In addition, growth in the operating profit of our digital operations of $21.6 million partially offset declines in the operating profit of our magazine operations of $14.4 million and MXM’s operations of $7.2 million.



LOCAL MEDIA


The following discussion reviews operating results for the Company’s local media segment, which consists of 17 television stations and related digital and mobile media. With the acquisition of Time, the local media segment acquired MNI, which generates revenue through the sale of geographic and demographic-targeted digital and print advertising programs sold to third parties. The local media segment contributed 3127 percent of Meredith’s consolidated revenues in fiscal 20182019 and 6669 percent of the combined operating profit from local media and national media operations in fiscal 2018.2019.


Fiscal 2019 local media revenues rose 25 percent and operating profit grew 49 percent primarily reflecting increased cyclical political advertising and higher retransmission consent revenues.

Local media revenues increased 10 percent in fiscal 2018 as a slight increase in non-political revenues and a strong increase in otherconsumer related revenues more than offset a $46.4 million reduction in political advertising, which is expected in a non-political year. Local media operating profit declined 12 percent in fiscal 2018.

Fiscal 2017 local media revenues rose 15 percent and operating profit grew 36 percent primarily reflecting increased cyclical political advertising and higher retransmission consent revenues.




Local media operating results for the last three fiscal years were as follows:


Years ended June 30,2018
 Change2017
 Change2016
2019
 Change2018
 Change2017
(In millions)                  
Revenues$693.1
 10 % $630.1
 15 % $548.4
$863.8
 25% $693.1
 10 % $630.1
Operating expenses                  
Costs and expenses(503.1) 22 % (413.5) 6 % (391.5)(584.3) 16% (505.5) 21 % (416.8)
Acquisition, disposition, and restructuring related activities(0.9) (47)% (1.7) (206)% 1.6
(1.2) 33% (0.9) (47)% (1.7)
Operating profit$189.1
 (12)% $214.9
 36 % $158.5
$278.3
 49% $186.7
 (12)% $211.6



Local Media Revenues


The table below presents the components of revenues for the last three fiscal years.


Years ended June 30,2018
 Change2017
 Change2016
2019
 Change2018
 Change
 2017
(In millions)                  
Revenues         
Non-political advertising$354.2
 1 % $351.5
 (6)% $374.1
Political advertising16.1
 (74)% 62.5
 381 % 13.0
Advertising related         
Non-political spot$323.3
 (3)% $333.7
 2 % $327.6
Political spot102.9
 n/m
 16.1
 (74)% 62.5
Digital15.8
 4 % 15.2
 (2)% 15.5
Third party sales96.2
 86 % 51.7
 n/m
 8.4
Total advertising related538.2
 29 % 416.7

1 %
414.0
Consumer related316.5
 17 % 270.9
 30 % 207.7
Other322.8
 49 % 216.1
 34 % 161.3
         
Project based—
 n/m
 —
 (100)% 4.0
Other9.1
 65 % 5.5
 25 % 4.4
Total other9.1
 65 % 5.5
 (35)% 8.4
Total revenues$693.1
 10 % $630.1
 15 % $548.4
$863.8
 25 % $693.1

10 %
$630.1
n/m - Not meaningful         


Local media revenues increased 1025 percent in fiscal 2018.2019. Advertising related revenues increased 29 percent. Political advertising revenues increased primarily due to the November 2018 elections. Political spot advertising revenues totaled $16.1$102.9 million in the current fiscal year compared to $62.5with $16.1 million in the prior year. Fluctuations in political spot advertising revenues at our stations and throughout the broadcasting industry generally follow the biennial cycle of election campaigns. Political spot advertising displaces a certain amount of non-political spot advertising; therefore, the revenues are not entirely incremental. Non-political spot advertising revenues decreased 3 percent in fiscal 2019, due primarily to political spot advertising displacement. Local non-political advertising revenues declined 5 percent and national non-political advertising revenues decreased 3 percent in fiscal 2019. Digital advertising revenues increased slightly as compared to the prior year. Third party sales represent revenue generated through selling advertising space on third-party platforms. Third party sales increased primarily due to the addition of revenues from Time.

Local media revenues increased 10 percent in fiscal 2018. Advertising related revenues increased 1 percent. Political spot advertising revenues totaled $16.1 million in fiscal 2018 compared to $62.5 million in fiscal 2017. Non-political spot advertising revenues increased 2 percent in fiscal 2018. Local non-political advertising revenues increased 1 percent in fiscal 2018 while national non-political advertising revenues increased 2 percent in fiscal 2018. Digital advertising revenues, a component of non-political advertising revenues, decreased 4 percent in fiscal 2018.

Local media revenues increased 15 percent in fiscal 2017. The increase was primarily due to higher political advertising related to the November 2016 elections. Political advertising revenues totaled $62.5 million in fiscal 2017 compared with $13.0 million in fiscal 2016. Non-political advertising revenues decreased 6 percent in fiscal 2017, due primarily to political advertising displacement, the Super Bowl moving to FOX from CBS, and the Summer Olympic games on NBC. Local non-political advertising revenues declined 5 percent and national non-political advertising revenues decreased 11 percent in fiscal 2017. Digital advertising increased 17 percentslightly as compared to fiscal 2016 as a series2017. Third party sales increased primarily due to the addition of growth strategies continuedrevenues from Time.

Consumer related revenues represent retransmission consent fees from cable, satellite, and telecommunications operators. Consumer related revenues increased in fiscal 2019 and fiscal 2018 primarily due to drive higher advertising rates across the station group.renegotiated contracts.


Fiscal 2019 other revenues increased 65 percent primarily due to an increase in closed captioning revenues. Other revenues increased 49declined 35 percent in fiscal 2018 primarily due to increased retransmission consent fees of $63.2 million and the addition of revenues from Time of $41.0 million. Other revenues increased 34 percenta decrease in fiscal 2017 primarily due to increased retransmission consentstation management fees.


Local Media Operating Expenses

Fiscal 2019 operating expenses increased 16 percent primarily due to the addition of operating expenses from Time of $44.6 million and the addition of higher programming fees paid to affiliated networks of $30.5 million. Local

Local
media operating expenses increased 21 percent in fiscal 2018 primarily due to higher programming fees paid to affiliated networks of $53.8 million and the addition of operating expenses from Time of $37.8 million. Local media operating expenses increased 6 percent in fiscal 2017 primarily due to higher programming fees paid to affiliated networks.




Local Media Operating Profit


Fiscal 2019 local media operating profit increased 49 percent primarily due to the increase in higher-margin political spot advertising revenues. Local media operating profit decreased 12 percent in fiscal 2018 primarily due to lower political advertising revenues due to the cyclical nature of political advertising partially offset by increased retransmission-related profit. Fiscal 2017 local media operating profit increased 36 percent compared to fiscal 2016 primarily reflecting the increase in higher-margin political advertising and retransmission consent revenues.




UNALLOCATED CORPORATE EXPENSES


Unallocated corporate expenses are general corporate overhead expenses not attributable to the operating groups. These expenses for the last three fiscal years were as follows:


Years ended June 30,2018
 Change2017
 Change2016
2019
 Change2018
 Change2017
(In millions)                  
Costs and expenses$61.5
 20% $51.4
 7 % $48.1
$71.9
 22 % $58.7
 20 % $48.9
Acquisition, disposition, and restructuring related activities126.1
 n/m
 —
 n/m
 (43.5)45.4
 (64)% 126.1
 n/m
 —
Impairment of goodwill and other long-lived assets—
 n/m
 0.9
 (84)% 5.6
—
 n/m
 —
 (100)% 0.9
Unallocated corporate expenses$187.6
 259% $52.3
 413 % $10.2
$117.3
 (37)% $184.8
 271 % $49.8
n/m - Not meaningful                  


Unallocated corporate expenses decreased $67.5 million in fiscal 2019 primarily due to decreases in severance and related benefit expenses of $47.1 million, a reduction in transaction and integration-related costs of $17.2 million, and absence of accelerated share-based compensation expenses of $9.2 million related to Time awards that vested upon acquisition in fiscal 2018 and of $3.5 million in accelerated share-based compensation expense related to involuntary terminations. These decreases were partially offset by an increase of $9.2 million in consulting services expense.

Unallocated corporate expenses of $187.6$184.8 million increased $135.3$135.0 million in fiscal 2018, as a result of transaction and integration related costs of $58.3 million, severance and related benefit costs of $52.5 million, $9.2 million for the cash settlement of certain of Time’s outstanding share-based equity awards recognized as expense, $5.2 million increase in professional services fees, and $3.5 million in accelerated share-based compensation expense related to involuntary terminations.


Unallocated corporate expenses increased $42.1 million to $52.3 million in fiscal 2017 from $10.2 million in fiscal 2016 primarily due to the receipt of $60.0 million in January 2016 related to the termination of a merger agreement with Media General, Inc. entered into in September 2015 which reduced operating expenses, partially offset by $16.5 million of merger-related expenses.





CONSOLIDATED


Consolidated Operating Expenses


Consolidated operating expenses for the last three fiscal years were as follows:


Years ended June 30,2018
 Change2017
 Change2016
2019
 Change2018
 Change2017
(In millions)                  
Production, distribution, and editorial$860.6
 43% $603.0
 (1)% $611.3
$1,161.2
 34 % $868.0
 43% $608.4
Selling, general, and administrative962.7
 32% 730.9
 1 % 723.5
1,350.0
 37 % 987.5
 36% 726.4
Acquisition, disposition, and restructuring related activities173.4
 n/m
 10.3
 n/m
 (36.4)100.9
 (41)% 170.1
 n/m
 10.3
Depreciation and amortization129.0
 139% 53.8
 (9)% 59.1
247.6
 92 % 129.0
 140% 53.8
Impairment of goodwill and other long-lived assets22.7
 267% 6.2
 (96)% 161.5
Impairment of long-lived assets41.8
 84 % 22.7
 266% 6.2
Operating expenses$2,148.4
 53% $1,404.2
 (8)% $1,519.0
$2,901.5
 33 % $2,177.3
 55% $1,405.1
n/m - Not meaningful                  




Production, Distribution, and Editorial Costs
Fiscal 2019 production, distribution, and editorial costs increased 34 percent as compared to fiscal 2018 primarily due to the addition of production, distribution, and editorial costs of Time of $290.5 million and increases in programming fees paid to affiliated networks of $30.5 million. These increases were partially offset by declines in production, distribution, and editorial expenses of MXM of $26.9 million.

Production, distribution, and editorial costs increased 43 percent in fiscal 2018 as compared to fiscal 2017 primarily due to the addition of production, distribution, and editorial costs of Time of $238.4 million and increases in programming fees paid to affiliated networks of $53.8 million. These increases were partially offset by declines in paper costs of $11.6 million, lower postage and other delivery costs of $10.0 million, and a decrease in payroll and related costs of $6.5 million.

Production, distribution, and editorial costs decreased 1 percent in fiscal 2017 as declines in paper expense of $10.7 million, employee compensation costs of $9.3 million, postage and other delivery costs of $8.2 million, processing costs of $6.1 million, non-payroll related editorial costs of $4.9 million, and MXM production costs of $4.4 million more than offset increases in programming fees paid to affiliated networks of $21.1 million and higher magazine and digital-related production costs of $14.5 million.


Selling, General, and Administrative Expenses
Fiscal 2019 selling, general, and administrative expenses increased 37 percent primarily due to an increase in selling, general, and administrative expenses of Time in our national and local media segments of $406.0 million. These increases were partially offset by a decrease in selling, general, and administrative expenses of MXM of $60.0 million.

Selling, general, and administrative expenses increased 3236 percent in fiscal 2018 primarily due to the addition of selling, general, and administrative expenses of Time of $289.1 million and a decrease in the reduction of the fair value adjustment related to previously accrued contingent consideration payable of $15.0 million partially offset by a reduction in circulation expenses of $22.7 million, declines in payroll and related costs of $11.7 million, a decrease in non-payroll related costs in MXM of $6.3 million, and lower performance-based incentive accruals of $6.1 million.

Fiscal 2017 selling, general, and administrative expenses increased 1 percent as increases in MXM selling and general expenses of $8.4 million, higher circulation expenses of $5.8 million, increased employee compensation costs of $4.7 million, higher performance-based incentive accruals of $3.9 million, and the write-down of investments of $3.6 million, were partially offset by an increase in the reduction of previously accrued contingent consideration payable of $15.3 million.


Acquisition, disposition, and restructuring related activities
Fiscal 2019 acquisition, disposition, and restructuring related activities expense primarily includes $51.5 million of severance and related benefit costs and $64.6 million of integration costs primarily for business advisors and software and systems implementations and modifications, and a credit for a gain on the sale of the Company's 30 percent interest in Charleston Tennis of $6.4 million.

Fiscal 2018 acquisition, disposition, and restructuring related activities expense primarily includes $104.9 million of severance and related benefit costs and $59.9 million of transaction costs related to investment banking, legal, accounting, and other professional fees and expenses plus integration costs primarily for business advisors and software and systems implementations and modifications, and a credit for a gain on the sale of MXM of $11.5


million. Fiscal 2017 acquisition, disposition and restructuring related activities expense primarily represented severance and related benefit costs.


Depreciation and Amortization
FiscalThe increases in fiscal 2019 depreciation and amortization expense and in fiscal 2018 depreciation and amortization expense increased to $129.0 million from $53.8 million in fiscal 2017are primarily due to the addition of Time’s depreciation and amortization expense.

Depreciation and amortization expense declined 9 percent in fiscal 2017 primarily due to decreases in depreciation in our local media segment.


Impairment of Goodwill and Other Long-lived Assets
The impairment of long-lived assets recorded in each of the three fiscal 2018 of $22.7 million and in fiscal 2017 of $6.2 millionyears related primarily to pre-tax, non-cash impairments of trademarks in the national media segment.


Operating Expenses
Employee compensation including benefits was the largest component of our operating expenses in fiscal 2018.2019. Employee compensation represented 3826 percent of total operating expenses in fiscal 2018,2019, compared to 38 percent in fiscal 2018, and 34 percent in fiscal 2017, and 31 percent in fiscal 2016.2017. National media paper, production, and postage combined expense was the second largest component of our operating costs in fiscal 2018,2019, representing 1415 percent of the total. These expenses were 14 percent of total operating expense in fiscal 2018 and 18 percent of total operating expense in both fiscal 2017 and fiscal 2016.2017.




Income from Operations


Fiscal 2019 income from operations increased primarily due to the increase in operating profit of our local media segment of $91.7 million resulting from the cyclical nature of political advertising, the addition of operating income from Time of $79.7 million, and a reduction in acquisition, disposition, and restructuring related activities of $69.2 million.

Income from operations decreased 6872 percent in fiscal 2018 primarily due to an increase in acquisition, disposition, and restructuring related activities of $163.1$159.8 million, lower operating profit in our local media operations of $25.8$24.9 million, an increase of $17.4 million in impairment of trademarks, and a decrease in the reduction of the fair value adjustment related to previously accrued contingent consideration payable of $15.0 million.


Non-operating Income, from operations increased 137 percentnet

The increase in fiscal 20172019 non-operating income, net related primarily due to our pension and other postretirement plans benefit credit and a gain on the non-cash impairment charges of $161.5 million recorded in fiscal 2016. Absent the impairment charges, income from operations increased 6 percent in fiscal 2017 primarily due to higher operating profits in our local media segment of $56.4 million, a reduction of $16.5 million in merger-related expenses, and an increase in the reduction of previously accrued contingent consideration payable of $15.3 million partially offset by the absencesale of the $60.0 million received by the CompanyCompany's 30 percent interest in fiscal 2016Charleston Tennis, which was sold in conjunction with the termination of the merger agreement.September 2018.

Non-operating Expense, net


Fiscal 2018 non-operating expense relatesincome, net related primarily to our pension and other postretirement plans benefit credit mostly offset by the write-down of an equity method investment to fair value as the investee was sold to an unrelated third-party in April 2018.


Interest Expense, net


Net interest expense was $96.9$170.6 million in fiscal 2019, $97.2 million in fiscal 2018, and $18.8 million in fiscal 2017, and $20.4 million in fiscal 2016.2017. Average long-term debt outstanding was $2.7 billion in fiscal 2019, $1.9 billion in fiscal 2018, and $678.1 million in fiscal 2017, and $766.4 million in fiscal 2016.2017. The Company’s approximate weighted average interest rate was 7.1 percent in fiscal 2019, 5.1 percent in fiscal 2018, and 2.8 percent in fiscal 2017, and 2.7 percent in fiscal 2016.2017. The weighted average interest rates include the effects of extinguishment losses during fiscal 2019 and 2018, and derivative financial instruments until their termination in January 2018.


On January 31,During fiscal 2019, the Company recorded $10.9 million of extinguishment losses related to the early payment of debt and repricing of its senior secured term loan (Term Loan B). During fiscal 2018, in connection with the Company's acquisition of Time, the Company repaid and terminated Meredith's existing indebtedness. In


connection with the payoff of this indebtedness, Meredith recognized a loss on extinguishment of debt of $2.2 million. In conjunction with the repayment of its debt, the Company also settled the associated interest rate swap agreements and recognized a gain on the settlement of $1.6 million.

On January 31, 2018, Meredith entered into a credit agreement that provided for $1.8 billion aggregate principal amount of senior secured term loan (Term Loan B). The Term Loan B bears interest at the London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) plus 3.00 percent. The interest rate on the Term Loan B was 5.09 percent at June 30, 2018. Also on January 31, 2018, Meredith issued $1.4 billion aggregate principal amount of the 2026 Senior Notes that carry an interest rate of 6.875 percent. In connection with the issuance of this indebtedness, the Company incurred $14.7 million of deferred financing costs and $56.0 million of discount costs that are being amortized into interest expense over the lives of the respective facilities.

In addition, the Company incurred $17.5 million in fees that were recorded in interest expense related to an undrawn bridge loan commitment fee.


Income Taxes


In fiscal 2019, the Company recorded income tax expense of $11.5 million for an effective rate of 8.2 percent. The fiscal 2019 effective tax rate was primarily impacted by a credit to income taxes of $23.5 million related to write-off of worthless stock and related bad debt. For fiscal 2018, Meredith recorded a tax benefit of $123.6 million primarily reflecting the remeasurement of the Company’s deferred tax assets and liabilities and a reduced tax rate as a result of the Tax Reform Act. This tax benefit was offset in part by non-deductible expenses including transaction costs. In fiscal 2017, the Company recorded income tax expense of $101.4 million for an effective rate of 34.9 percent. The fiscal 2017 effective tax rate was primarily impacted by a credit to income taxes of $6.7 million related to the resolution of certain federal and state tax matters recorded in fiscal 2017. The Company’s effective tax rate was 69.2 percent in fiscal 2016. In fiscal 2016, the Company recorded an impairment of goodwill of $116.9 million, of which approximately 20 percent was deductible for income tax purposes.



On December 22, 2017, the U.S. government enacted comprehensive tax legislation commonly referred to as the Tax Reform Act. The Tax Reform Act makesmade broad and complex changes to the U.S. tax code that affected our fiscal year ended June 30, 2018, including, but not limited to, (1) reducing the U.S. federal corporate tax rate, (2) bonus depreciation that allows for full expensing of qualified property and (3) limitations on the deductibility of interest expense and certain executive compensation and (4) a one-time transition tax on certain unrepatriated earnings of foreign subsidiaries. The Tax Reform Act reduced the federal corporate tax rate to 21 percent in the fiscal year ended June 30, 2018. As the Company has a June 30 fiscal year-end, the lower corporate income tax rate was phased in. Pursuant to Section 15 of the Internal Revenue Code, the Company applied a blended corporate tax rate of 28 percent for fiscal 2018, which was based on the applicable tax rates before and after the Tax Reform Act and the number of days in the year.year, and 21 percent for subsequent fiscal years.

The SEC issued Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 118 (SAB 118), which provides guidance on accounting for the tax effects of the Tax Reform Act. SAB 118 provides a measurement period that should not extend beyond one year from the Tax Reform Act enactment date for companies to complete the accounting under Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 740 – Income Taxes (ASC 740). In accordance with SAB 118, a company must reflect the income tax effects of those aspects of the Tax Reform Act for which the accounting under ASC 740 is complete. To the extent that a company’s accounting for certain income tax effects of the Tax Reform Act is incomplete but it can determine a reasonable estimate, it must record a provisional estimate in the consolidated financial statements. If a company cannot determine a provisional estimate to be included in the consolidated financial statements, it should continue to apply ASC 740 on the basis of the provisions of the tax laws that were in effect immediately before the enactment of the Tax Reform Act.


In connection with our initial analysis of the impact of the Tax Reform Act, we recorded a provisional net tax benefit of $133.0 million infor the quarteryear ended December 31, 2017.June 30, 2018. This net benefit primarily consists of a benefit for the corporate rate reduction. As the Company was projecting a net operating loss for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2018, deferred tax assets and liabilities expected to be recognized in the fiscal year ended June 30, 2018, were remeasured using the 21 percent U.S. corporate tax rate. Due to our limited international operations, the impact of the transitional tax was immaterial.

During The transitional impact was finalized during the quarterfiscal year ended June 30, 2018, we did not make any provisional adjustment to the amount. We continue to assess new guidance issued by2019, with no significant impact on income tax authorities as well as our ability to change certain methods of accounting and expect to finalize our accounting for the provision of the Tax Reform Act within the measurement period.expense.


Effective July 1, 2017, the Company adopted new accounting guidance related to share-based compensation. Under this new guidance, excess tax benefits and deficiencies are to be recognized as a discrete component of the income tax provision in the period they occur and not as an adjustment to additional paid-in capital. As such, the Company recognized an excess tax benefit of $2.2 million as a credit to income tax expense in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings in fiscal 2018.


Earnings from Continuing Operations and Earnings per Share from Continuing Operations


Fiscal 2019 earnings from continuing operations were $129.1 million compared to earnings from continuing operations of $114.0 million for fiscal 2018. The increase in earnings from continuing operations is primarily due to the growth in income from operations as discussed above partially offset by the tax benefit recorded in fiscal 2018 due to the Tax Reform Act and an increase in interest expense. Due to the effects of other participating securities, the Company had earnings from continuing operations attributable to common shareholders for fiscal 2019 of $50.8 million ($1.12 per diluted share) compared to earnings from continuing operations attributable to common shareholders of $81.0 million ($1.79 per diluted share) for fiscal 2018.

Earnings from continuing operations were $114.0 million ($1.79 per diluted share) compared to earningsin fiscal 2018, down 40 percent from continuing operations of $188.9 million ($4.16 per diluted share) forin fiscal 2017. The decline in earnings from continuing operations is primarily due to the decline in income from operations as discussed above partially offset by the tax benefit recorded due to the Tax Reform Act.

Earnings from continuing operations were $188.9 million ($4.16 per diluted share) in fiscal 2017, up 457 percent from $33.9 million ($0.75 per diluted share) in fiscal 2016, primarily due to the increase in political advertising and retransmission consent revenues, the reduction in previously accrued contingent consideration payable, and the credit to income taxes. Fiscal 2016 earnings per share was impacted by the goodwill and trademark impairments recorded by the Company.



Loss from Discontinued Operations, Net of Income Taxes


The fiscal 2019 loss from discontinued operations represents the operating results of the TIME and Fortune brands until their respective sale dates; the operations of Sports Illustrated as the Company continues to operate the brand until its second close date, which is expected to be in the first quarter of fiscal 2020, and its related impairment charge; and the operations of the properties that were held-for-sale as of June 30, 2019, including the FanSided brand and the Company’s investment in Viant Technology.

For fiscal 2018, the loss from discontinued operations represents the operating results of Golf Magazine until the date it was sold and the associated loss on its sale; the operating results of TIUK until the date it was sold and the associated loss on its sale; and the operations of the properties that arewere held-for-sale as of June 30, 2018, including TIME, Sports Illustrated Fortune,(including FanSided), and MoneyFortune brands and the Company’s investment in Viant Technology Inc.Technology.


The revenues and expenses for each of these properties have, along with associated income taxes, been removed from continuing operations and reclassified into a single line item on the Consolidated Statements of Earnings titled loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes for the five-month period from the time we acquired the properties throughyears ended June 30, 2019 and 2018, as follows:


Year ended June 30, 2018 
Years ended June 30,2019
2018
(In millions except per share data)  
Revenues$262.0
$423.4
$253.8
Costs and expenses(250.6)(408.5)(242.7)
Impairment of goodwill(8.5)—
Interest expense(12.2)(21.4)(11.9)
Loss on disposal(12.3)
Gain (loss) on disposal2.1
(12.3)
Loss before income taxes(13.1)(12.9)(13.1)
Income taxes(1.5)(69.9)(1.5)
Loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes$(14.6)$(82.8)$(14.6)
Loss per common share from discontinued operations  
Basic$(0.32)$(1.83)$(0.32)
Diluted(0.32)(1.82)(0.32)


Net Earnings and Earnings (Loss) per Share


Net earnings were $46.3 million in fiscal 2019, down 53 percent from net earnings in fiscal 2018 of $99.4 million. The decrease in net earnings was primarily due to there being income tax expense in the current year as compared to an income tax benefit recorded in the prior year, increased interest expense, and an increase in the loss from discontinued operations. Due to the effects of other participating securities, the Company had a net loss attributable to common shareholders of $32.0 million ($0.70 per diluted share) in fiscal 2019 compared to net earnings attributable to common shareholders of $66.4 million ($1.47 per diluted share) for fiscal 2018. Both basic average common shares outstanding and diluted average common shares outstanding increased in fiscal 2019 as compared to fiscal 2018.

Net earnings were $99.4 million ($1.47 per diluted share) in fiscal 2018, down 47 percent from $188.9 million ($4.16 per diluted share) in fiscal 2017. The decrease in net earnings was primarily due to the decline in income from operations and the loss from discontinued operations partially offset by the tax benefit recorded due to the Tax Reform Act. While basic average common shares outstanding increased slightly, diluted average shares outstanding decreased slightly.


Net earnings were $188.9 million ($4.16 per diluted share) in fiscal 2017, up 457 percent from $33.9 million ($0.75 per diluted share) in fiscal 2016, primarily due to the increase in political advertising and retransmission consent revenues, the reduction in previously accrued contingent consideration payable, and the credit to income taxes. Fiscal 2016 earnings per share was impacted by the goodwill and trademark impairments recorded by the Company. Both average basic and diluted shares outstanding increased slightly.






LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES


Years ended June 30,2018
 2017
 2016
2019
 2018
 2017
(In millions)          
Cash flows from operating activities$151.4
 $219.3
 $226.6
$245.3
 $149.9
 $218.6
Cash flows from investing activities(2,617.4) (117.7) (31.4)374.3
 (2,616.7) (117.7)
Cash flows from financing activities2,916.7
 (104.3) (193.0)(1,013.6) 2,917.6
 (103.6)
Effect of exchange rate changes(4.1) —
 —
(1.4) (4.1) —
Change in cash held-for-sale(31.3) —
 —
2.8
 (31.3) —
Net cash flows$415.3
 $(2.7) $2.2
$(392.6) $415.4
 $(2.7)
Cash and cash equivalents$437.6
 $22.3
 $25.0
$45.0
 $437.6
 $22.3
Total long-term debt3,195.5
 700.6
 695.0
2,370.4
 3,195.5
 700.6
Shareholders’ equity1,097.5
 996.0
 889.0
974.6
 1,097.5
 996.0
Debt to total capitalization74%
 41%
 44%
71%
 74%
 41%




OVERVIEW


Meredith’s primary source of liquidity is cash generated by operating activities. Debt financing is typically used for significant acquisitions. Our core businesses—magazine advertising and television broadcasting—have been strong cash generators. Despite the introduction of many new technologies, we believe these businesses will continue to have strong market appeal for the foreseeable future. As is true in any business, changes in the level of demand for magazine and television advertising or our other products as well as changes in costs can have a significant effect on operating results and cash flows.


Historically, Meredith has been able to absorb normal business downturns without significant increases in debt and management believes the Company will continue to do so. We expect cash on hand, internally generated cash flow, and available credit from financing agreements will provide adequate funds for operating and recurring cash needs (e.g., working capital, capital expenditures, debt repayments, and cash dividends) into the foreseeable future. At June 30, 2018,2019, we had up to $346.6$311.4 million available under our revolving credit facility. While there are no guarantees that we will be able to replace current credit agreements when they expire, we expect to be able to do so.




SOURCES AND USES OF CASH


Cash and cash equivalents increased $415.3decreased $392.6 million in fiscal 2018;2019; they increased $415.4 million in fiscal 2018 and decreased $2.7 million in fiscal 2017, and increased$2.2 million in fiscal 2016.2017. Over the three-year period, net cash provided by operating activities was used for acquisitions, debt repayments, dividends, stock repurchases, and capital investments.


Operating Activities


The largest single component of operating cash inflows is cash received from advertising customers. Advertising related revenue accounted for 50 percent or more of total revenues in each of the past three fiscal years. Other sources of operating cash inflows include cash received from magazine circulation sales, and other revenue-generating transactions such as retransmission consent fees, customer relationshipaffinity marketing, brand licensing, and product sales. Operating cash outflows include payments to vendors and employees and payments of interest and income taxes. Our most significant vendor payments are for production and delivery of publications and promotional mailings, network programming fees, employee benefits (including pension plans), broadcast programming rights, and other services and supplies.


Cash provided by operating activities totaled $245.3 million in fiscal 2019 compared with $149.9 million in fiscal 2018. The increase in cash provided by operating activities was primarily due to increased earnings in our local



media segment primarily due to increased political spot advertising and a reduction in transaction costs. These increases were partially offset by increases in cash paid for interest, severance, and integration costs.

Cash provided by operating activities totaled $151.4$149.9 million in fiscal 2018 compared with $219.3$218.6 million in fiscal 2017. The decrease in cash provided by operating activities iswas primarily due to the transaction, integration, and severance-related costs associated with the Time acquisition.

Cash provided by operating activities totaled $219.3 million in fiscal 2017 compared with $226.6 million in fiscal 2016. The decrease in cash provided by operating activities is primarily due to the receipt, in fiscal 2016, of a net $43.5 million reflecting a merger termination fee less merger-related expenses. This one-time receipt of cash is included in cash provided by operating activities in fiscal 2016.


Changes in the Company’s cash contributions to qualified defined benefit pension plans can have a significant effect on cash provided by operations. We did not make a pension contribution to our domestic plans in fiscal 2019 or 2018. During fiscal 2017, we made a $10.0 million contribution to the domestic defined benefit pension plans. We do not anticipate a required contribution for the domestic pension plans in fiscal 2020.

In connection with the sale of TIUK in fiscal 2018, we contributed £60 million to the IPC Plan defined benefit pension plan in the U.K. During fiscal 2017, we contributed $10.0 million to the defined benefit pension plans, and during fiscal 2016From February 2018 through June 2019, we made a $5.0 million contribution. We do not anticipate a required contribution for the domestic pension plans in fiscal 2019; however, we are required to make a £0.9 million per month contribution to the IPC Plan. We expect to continue to make the required £0.9 million per month contribution through fiscal 2020. In the event that on November 25, 2021, the IPC Plan has a funding deficit valuing its liabilities with a gilts plus 50 basis point (bps) discount rate, the Company, as the sponsor of the IPC Plan, will make a contribution equal to that funding deficit. In the event that on November 25, 2025, the IPC Plan has a funding deficit valuing its liabilities with a gilts flat discount rate, the Company will make a contribution equal to 50 percent of that funding deficit. In the event that on November 25, 2026, the IPC Plan has a funding deficit valuing its liabilities with a gilts flat discount rate, the Company will make a contribution equal to 50 percent of that funding deficit. In the event that on November 25, 2027, the IPC Plan has a funding deficit valuing its liabilities with a gilts flat discount rate, the Company will make a contribution equal to that funding deficit. Contributions shall cease to be payable from the date that the IPC Plan is confirmed to be fully funded.


Investing Activities


Investing cash inflows generally include proceeds from the sale of assets or a business. Investing cash outflows generally include payments for the acquisition of new businesses; investments; and additions to property, plant, and equipment.


Net cash provided by investing activities was $374.3 million in fiscal 2019 primarily due to proceeds from the sale of TIME, Fortune, and our remaining interest in Charleston Tennis LLC and proceeds received in advance of the sale of Sports Illustrated. Net cash used in investing activities rose towas $2.6 billion in fiscal 2018 from $117.7 million in fiscal 2017 primarily due to the acquisition of Time partially offset by cash received from the sales of TIUK and MXM.


Net cash used in investing activities increased to $2.6 billion in fiscal 2018 compared to $117.7 million in fiscal 2017 compared to $31.4 million in fiscal 2016 primarily due to the increased cash outflows for acquisitions of businesses in fiscal 2017.2018.


Financing Activities


Financing cash inflows generally include borrowings under debt agreements and proceeds from the exercise of common stock options issued under share-based compensation plans. Financing cash outflows generally include the repayment of long-term debt, repurchases of Company stock, the payment of dividends, and the payment of acquisition-related contingent consideration.

Net cash used in financing activities was $1.0 billion in fiscal 2019, as compared with cash provided by financing activities of $2.9 billion in the prior year. The change in cash flows from financing activities is primarily due to $827.0 million of net debt repayments in fiscal 2019, compared to $2.5 billion of net debt issuances in fiscal 2018. In addition, $631.0 million of preferred equity was issued in the prior year. The debt and preferred equity issuances were related to the acquisition of Time.



Net cash provided by financing activities totaled $2.9 billion in fiscal 2018, compared with net cash used inby financing activities of $104.3$103.6 million in the prior year.fiscal 2017. The change in cash flows from financing activities is primarily due to $2.5 billion of net debt issuances in fiscal 2018 compared to net debt issuances of $5.6 million in fiscal 2017. In addition, $631.0 million of preferred equity was issued in the current year. The new debt and preferred equity issuances were related to the acquisition of Time.fiscal 2018.

Net cash used in financing activities totaled $104.3 million in fiscal 2017, compared with $193.0 million in fiscal 2016. The change in cash flows from financing activities is primarily due to a net $5.6 million of debt issuances in fiscal 2017 compared to a net $100.0 million of debt payments in fiscal 2016.



Long-term Debt


At June 30, 2018,2019, total long-term debt outstanding was $3.2$2.4 billion consisting of $1.8$1.1 billion under a variable-rate term loan and $1.4$1.3 billion in fixed-rate unsecured senior notes.


The variable-rate credit facility includes the Term Loan B with $1.8$1.1 billion of aggregate principal and a five-year senior secured revolving credit facility of $350.0 million, of which $175.0 million is available for the issuance of letters of credit and $35.0 million of swingline loans. On June 30, 20182019, there were nowas $35.0 million of borrowings outstanding under the revolving credit facility. ThereIn addition, there were $3.4$3.6 million of standby letters of credit issued under the revolving credit facility resulting in availability of $346.6$311.4 million at June 30, 2018.2019. The Term Loan B matures in 2025 and amortizes at 1.0 percent per annum in equal quarterly installments until the final maturity date, at which time the remaining principal and interest are due and payable. The interest rate under the Term Loan B is based on LIBOR plus 3.02.75 percent. The Term Loan B bore interest at a rate of 5.095.15 percent at June 30, 2018.2019. The revolving credit facility bears interest at LIBOR plus a spread ranging from 2.5 percent to 3.0 percent, and has a commitment fee ranging from 0.375 percent to 0.500 percent of the unused commitment. All interest rates and commitment fees associated with this variable-rate revolving credit facility are derived from a leverage-based pricing grid. The 2026 Senior Notes have an aggregate principal amount of $1.4$1.3 billion maturing in 2026 with an interest rate of 6.875 percent per annum. Total outstanding principal is due at the final maturity date.


Prior to the acquisition of Time on January 31, 2018, we had $674.4 million of debt outstanding, which was repaid with the proceeds from the new credit agreements.


Our new credit agreements, entered into on January 31, 2018, include a financial covenant that is applicable based on a certain utilization level of the revolving credit line. Failure to comply with this covenant could result in the debt becoming payable on demand. The covenant did not apply at June 30, 2018,2019, as we were below the specified utilization level on the revolving credit line.


Preferred Stock


On January 31, 2018, in exchange for a preferred equity investment of $650.0 million, Meredith issued 650,000 shares of perpetual convertible redeemable non-voting Series A preferred stock (Series A preferred stock) as well as detachable warrants to purchase up to 1,625,000 shares of Meredith's common stock with an exercise price of $1.00 per share and options to purchase up to 875,000 shares of Meredith's common stock with an exercise price of $70.50 per share.


The Series A preferred stock is non-callable during the first three years after issuance provided that Meredith may, at its option, subject to the terms of the preferred stock, redeem all or a portion of the Series A preferred stock in cash during such three-year period, if Meredith declares as a dividend and pays a redemption premium in cash as provided in the Statement of Designation of Series A preferred stock at an amount equal to 6 percent of the Accrued Stated Value of the Series A preferred stock as of the redemption date plus an amount, if any, equal to dividends to the third year present valued at a discount rate based on U.S. Treasury notes with a maturity closest to the date that is three years after the issuance date, plus 50 basis points. The Accrued Stated Value is an amount equal to: (i) the Stated Value ($1,000 multiplied by the number of shares of Series A preferred stock outstanding); plus (ii) any accrued and unpaid dividends thereof (including any accumulated dividends).


From and after the third anniversary of the issuance date of the Series A preferred stock, Meredith may redeem all or a portion of the Series A preferred stock upon payment in cash for an amount equal to (i) the Call Premium (defined below), plus (ii) the Accrued Stated Value of the Series A preferred stock as of the redemption date.


The Call Premium is an amount equal to the difference of (a) (i) the Accrued Stated Value of the Series A preferred stock as of the redemption date, multiplied by (ii) (A) if such redemption occurs during the fourth or fifth year after issuance, 106 percent, (B) if such redemption occurs during the sixth year after issuance, 103 percent, and (C) if such redemption occurs after the sixth year after issuance, 100 percent, minus (b) the Accrued Stated Value as of the redemption date.



In connection with any partial redemption by Meredith, Meredith may not redeem Series A preferred stock in an amount less than $50 millionof the Accrued Stated Value of the Series A preferred stock nor effect any redemption resulting in less than $100 million of the Accrued Stated Value of the Series A preferred stock remaining outstanding.


From and after the seventh anniversary of the issuance date, the holders of the Series A preferred stock may elect to convert some or all of the Series A preferred stock into Meredith common stock at a ratio based on its Accrued Stated Value divided by the volume weighted average price of Meredith common stock for the 30 trading days immediately preceding the written notice of conversion.


Contractual Obligations


The following table summarizes our principal contractual obligations as of June 30, 2018:

2019:
   Payments Due by Period   Payments Due by Period
Contractual obligationsContractual obligationsTotal
 
Less than
1 Year

 
1-3
Years

 
4-5
Years

 
After 5
Years

Contractual obligationsTotal
 
Less than
1 Year

 
1-3
Years

 
4-5
Years

 
After 5
Years

(In millions)(In millions)         (In millions)         
Total long-term debtTotal long-term debt$3,195.5
 $18.0
 $36.0
 $36.0
 $3,105.5
Total long-term debt$2,370.4
 $—
 $35.0
 $—
 $2,335.4
Debt interest 1
Debt interest 1
1,352.9
 187.4
 371.9
 368.3
 425.3
Debt interest 1
918.5
 142.3
 284.6
 284.6
 207.0
Series A preferred stock dividends 2
Series A preferred stock dividends 2
369.0
 55.3
 118.1
 153.9
 41.7
Series A preferred stock dividends 2
409.8
 56.2
 137.1
 166.4
 50.1
Broadcast rights and network programmingBroadcast rights and network programming366.3
 162.1
 196.5
 7.7
 —
Broadcast rights and network programming407.9
 199.0
 196.0
 12.9
 —
Contingent consideration 3
Contingent consideration 3
25.5
 24.6
 —
 0.9
 —
Contingent consideration 3
0.8
 —
 0.8
 —
 —
Operating leasesOperating leases824.3
 72.7
 134.0
 126.3
 491.3
Operating leases745.1
 69.0
 130.4
 123.8
 421.9
Purchase obligations and otherPurchase obligations and other114.9
 60.6
 40.6
 13.1
 0.6
Purchase obligations and other97.4
 52.1
 39.8
 5.0
 0.5
Benefit plansBenefit plans401.2
 43.7
 86.6
 69.7
 201.2
Benefit plans378.7
 59.1
 64.9
 65.5
 189.2
Liability to Time Warner 4
Liability to Time Warner 4
26.0
 26.0
 —
 —
 —
Liability to Time Warner 4
27.5
 —
 27.5
 —
 —
Total contractual cash obligationsTotal contractual cash obligations$6,675.6
 $650.4
 $983.7
 $775.9
 $4,265.6
Total contractual cash obligations$5,356.1
 $577.7
 $916.1
 $658.2
 $3,204.1
  
1Debt interest represents semi-annual interest payments due on fixed-rate unsecured senior notes and estimated interest payments on variable-rate term loan outstanding at June 30, 2018. Interest payments on variable-rate debt is estimated using the interest rate as of June 30, 2018.Debt interest represents semi-annual interest payments due on fixed-rate unsecured senior notes and estimated interest payments on variable-rate term loan outstanding at June 30, 2019. Interest payments on variable-rate debt is estimated using the interest rate as of June 30, 2019.
2Series A preferred stock dividends represent quarterly payments based on a fixed interest rate in years one through three and on variable rates estimated using LIBOR as of June 30, 2018, in years four through six. While it is not certain when the Series A preferred stock will be settled, the table assumes a conversion at the beginning of year seven.Series A preferred stock dividends represent quarterly payments based on a fixed interest rate in years one through three and on variable rates estimated using LIBOR as of June 30, 2019, in years four through six. While it is not certain when the Series A preferred stock will be settled, the table assumes a conversion at the beginning of year seven.
3While it is not certain if or when these contingent acquisition payments will be made, we have included the payments in the table based on our best estimates of the amounts and dates when the contingencies may be resolved.While it is not certain if or when these contingent acquisition payments will be made, we have included the payments in the table based on our best estimates of the amounts and dates when the contingencies may be resolved.
4Represents certain obligations Time had with Time Warner at the time Time spun-off as a separate public company. These liabilities primarily relate to a Tax Matters Agreement in which the Company will be required to indemnify Time Warner for open tax positions at the date of the spin-off. While it is not certain when these payments will be made, we have included the payments in the table based on our best estimates of the amounts and dates when the indemnifications may be resolved.Represents certain obligations Time had with Time Warner at the time Time spun-off as a separate public company. These liabilities primarily relate to a Tax Matters Agreement in which the Company will be required to indemnify Time Warner for open tax positions at the date of the spin-off. While it is not certain when these payments will be made, we have included the payments in the table based on our best estimates of the amounts and dates when the indemnifications may be resolved.


Due to uncertainty with respect to the timing of future cash flows associated with unrecognized tax benefits at June 30, 2018,2019, the Company is unable to make reasonably reliable estimates of the period of cash settlement. Therefore, $58.9$52.4 million of unrecognized tax benefits have been excluded from the contractual obligations table above. See Note 8 to the Consolidated Financial Statementsconsolidated financial statements for further discussion of income taxes.


Purchase obligations represent legally binding agreements to purchase goods and services that specify all significant terms. Outstanding purchase orders, which represent authorizations to purchase goods and services but are not legally binding, are not included in purchase obligations. We believe current cash balances, cash generated by future operating activities, and cash available under current credit agreements will be sufficient to meet our contractual


cash obligations and other operating cash requirements for the foreseeable future. Projections of future cash flows are, however, subject to substantial uncertainty as discussed throughout MD&A and particularly in Item 1A-Risk Factors beginning on page 12. Debt agreements may be renewed or refinanced if we determine it is advantageous to do so. We also have commitments in the form of standby letters of credit totaling $3.4$3.6 million that expireexpire within one year.


Share Repurchase Program


We have maintained a program of Company share repurchases for 3031 years. In fiscal 2018,2019, we spent $31.1$10.0 million to repurchase an aggregate of 520,000190,000 shares of Meredith common and class B stock at then current market prices. We spent $31.1 million to repurchase an aggregate of 520,000 shares in fiscal 2018 and $53.3 million to repurchase an aggregate of 941,000 shares in fiscal 2017 and $31.1 million to repurchase an aggregate of 651,000 shares in fiscal 2016.2017.


We expect to continue repurchasing shares from time to time subject to market conditions. In May 2014, the Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $100.0 million in additional shares of the Company’s stock through public and private transactions.


As of June 30, 2018, $56.12019, $50.3 million remained available under the current authorization for future repurchases. See Item 5-Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities of this Form 10-K for detailed information on share repurchases during the quarter ended June 30, 2018.2019. Pursuant to the terms of our new debt facilities and our Series A preferred stock, we may be subject to certain limitations with respect to our ability to conduct share repurchases, as further discussed under Part I, Item 1A, Risk Factors.


Dividends


Meredith has paid quarterly dividends continuously since 1947 and we have increased our dividend annually for 2526 consecutive years. The last increase occurred in January 2018February 2019 when the Board of Directors approved the quarterly dividend of 54.5057.50 cents per share effective with the dividend payable in March 2018.2019. Given the current number of shares outstanding, the increase will result in additional dividend payments of approximately $4.6$5.6 million annually. In addition, we issued detachable warrants in our third fiscal quarter, which receive dividends at the rate of a common stockholder. At our current dividend rate, we will incur $3.5 million of annual dividend payments in conjunction with these detachable warrants.


Dividend payments on common and class B stock totaled $106.0 million, or $2.240 per share, in fiscal 2019 compared with $98.6 million, or $2.130 per share, in fiscal 2018, compared withand $91.9 million, or $2.030 per share, in fiscal 2017, and $86.1 million, or $1.905 per share, in fiscal 2016.2017.


Our newly designated Series A preferred stock accrues an annual dividend at either (a) to the extent paid in cash, in an amount equal to the Cash Dividend Annual Rate (as set forth in the table below), multiplied by the Stated Value (equal to the number of shares of Series A preferred stock outstanding multiplied by $1,000) or (b) if dividends are not declared and paid in cash, we will deliver additional shares of Series A preferred stock, in kind, by issuing a number of shares equal to (i) the Accrued Dividend Annual Rate (as set forth in the table below), multiplied by the Stated Value for all outstanding shares of Series A preferred stock, divided by (ii) $1,000.


YearCash Dividend Annual RateAccrued Dividend Annual Rate
Years 1 through 38.5%9.0%
Year 4LIBOR plus 850 bpsLIBOR plus 900 bps
Year 5LIBOR plus 950 bpsLIBOR plus 1000 bps
Year 6 through redemptionLIBOR plus 1050 bpsLIBOR plus 1100 bps



Dividend payments on the Series A preferred stock totaled $55.9 million in fiscal 2019 and $22.9 million in fiscal 2018.



Pursuant to the terms of our new debt facilities and Series A preferred stock, we may be subject to certain limitations with respect to our ability to pay dividends on our stock, as further discussed under Part I, Item 1A, Risk Factors. However, we do not expect that such limitations will affect our ability to continue to pay regular dividends consistent with past practice.


Capital Expenditures


Spending for property, plant, and equipment totaled $46.4 million in fiscal 2019, $53.2 million in fiscal 2018, and $34.8 million in fiscal 2017, and $25.0 million in fiscal 2016.2017. Spending for all fiscal years primarily related to assets acquired in the normal course of business. In fiscal 2018, theThe Company incurred $6.0 million and $6.3 million in fiscal 2019 and 2018, respectively, related to the spectrum repack required by the FCC. We anticipate spending an additional $11.5$2.8 million in fiscal 20192020 to complete the conversion.repack. We expect that the reimbursementreceived reimbursements from the FCC’s special fund willof $6.1 million in fiscal 2019 and expect to receive additional reimbursements to cover the majority of our capital costs and expense related to the repacking. However,While we expect to receive all reimbursements submitted, we cannot currently predict the effect of the repacking, whetherthat the fund will be sufficient to reimburse all of our expenses related to the repacking and the timing of reimbursement or any spectrum-related FCC regulatory action. We have no material commitments for future capital expenditures. We expect funds for future capital expenditures to come from operating activities or, if necessary, borrowings under credit agreements.



Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
We did not have during the years presented, and we do not currently have, any off-balance sheet arrangements.


CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES


Meredith’s consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Our significant accounting policies are summarized in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements. The preparation of our consolidated financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Some of these estimates and assumptions are inherently difficult to make and subjective in nature. We base our estimates on historical experience, recent trends, our expectations for future performance, and other assumptions as appropriate. We reevaluate our estimates on an ongoing basis; actual results, however, may vary from these estimates.


The following are the accounting policies that management believes are most critical to the preparation of our consolidated financial statements and require management’s most difficult, subjective, or complex judgments. In addition, there are other items within the consolidated financial statements that require estimation but are not deemed to be critical accounting policies. Changes in the estimates used in these and other items could have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements.


BUSINESS COMBINATIONS

Accounting for acquisitions during fiscal 2018 required us to recognize assets acquired and liabilities assumed at their acquisition date fair values. Estimates of fair value require judgments about future events and uncertainties. In determining fair value, Meredith utilizes various forms of the income, cost, and market approaches depending on the asset or liability being fair valued. The estimation of fair value requires significant judgments related to future net cash flows, discount rates reflecting the risk inherent in each cash flow stream, market comparables, and other factors. Inputs were generally determined by considering historical data, supplemented by current and anticipated market conditions, strategy, and growth rates. The estimates and assumptions used to determine the preliminary estimated fair value assigned to each class of assets and liabilities, as well as asset lives, may have a material impact to the Company's consolidated financial statements, and were based upon assumptions believed to be reasonable but that are inherently uncertain. Third-party valuation specialists have been engaged to assist in the valuation of certain of these assets and liabilities. Goodwill as of the acquisition date is measured as the excess of consideration transferred over the net of the acquisition date fair values of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed. During the measurement period, which may be up to one year from the acquisition date, we record adjustments to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed with the corresponding offset to goodwill. Upon the conclusion of the measurement period or final determination of the values of assets acquired or liabilities assumed, whichever comes first, any


subsequent adjustments will be recorded to our Consolidated Statements of Earnings. See Note 2 for a discussion of the acquisition of Time.



GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS


The Company has a significant amount of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets that are reviewed at least annually for impairment. At June 30, 2018,2019, goodwill and intangible assets totaled $3.9$3.8 billion, or 5862 percent of Meredith’s total assets, with $3.0$2.9 billion in the national media segment and $907.1$882.0 million in the local media segment. The impairment analysisanalyses of these assets isare considered critical because of their significance to the Company and our national media and local media segments.


Management is required to evaluate goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite lives for impairment on an annual basis or when events occur or circumstances change that would indicate the carrying value exceeds the fair value. In


reviewing goodwill for impairment, the Company may first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount.


FairManagement last performed an annual review of impairment of goodwill and intangible assets, at May 31, 2019. A qualitative impairment analysis was performed for the local media reporting unit which resulted in no indication of impairment. A quantitative goodwill impairment test was performed for the national media reporting unit, which involves comparing the fair value is determined using aof the reporting unit to its carrying value.

Meredith uses the discounted cash flow and guideline public company methods for determining fair value. The Company selected equal weighting of the discounted cash flow and guideline public company methods as the valuation approach to estimate fair value. The discounted cash flow model which requires us to make significant estimates and assumptions to estimate the future cash flows expected to be generated by the reporting unit or to result from the use of the assets. These estimates depend upon assumptions about future revenues (including projections of overall market growth and our share of market), estimated costs (including our ability to achieve synergies as a result of the acquisition of Time), and appropriate discount rates where applicable.rates. Our assumptions are based on historical data, various internal estimates, and a variety of external sources and are consistent with the assumptions used in both our short-term financial forecasts and long-term strategic plans. Depending on the assumptions and estimates used, futureFuture cash flow projections can vary within a range of outcomes. outcomes depending on the assumptions and estimates used.

The fair value of the national media reporting unit exceeded its net assets by 16 percent. Holding all other assumptions constant, a 100-basis point increase in the discount rate would result in an estimated fair value that continues to exceed net assets by 11 percent. Holding all other assumptions constant, a 100-basis point decrease in the terminal growth rate would result in an estimated fair value that continues to exceed net assets by 11 percent.

Changes in key assumptions about the national media and local media businesses and their prospects or changes in market conditions could result in an impairment charge. See Item 1A.-Risk Factors for other factors which could affect our assumptions.


At May 31, 2018,2019, the date that management last performed our annual review of impairment of goodwill and intangible assets, management performed a quantitative goodwill impairment test for the national media reporting unit, which involves comparing the fair value of the reporting unit to its carrying value. ForCompany also evaluated other indefinite-lived intangible assets fairfor impairment using either qualitative or quantitative impairment analyses. Fair values were calculated using the discounted cash flow model. For the goodwill impairment test,As a result, the Company selected equal weightingidentified several impaired trademarks. Accordingly, the national media segment recorded a non-cash impairment charge of $41.8 million to fully impair the discounted cash flowMoney and guideline public company methods asCoastal Living brand trademarks and to partially impair the valuation approachShape and Family Circle brand trademarks. The Company’s decision to estimate fair value.discontinue the print publication of Money and transition Coastal Living from a subscription magazine to a newsstand only title resulted in the impairment of these trademarks. The fairlack of sales growth resulted in the carrying value of the national media reporting unit exceeded its net assets by 15 percent. Holding other assumptions constant, a 100-basis point increasetrademarks for the Shape and Family Circle brands to exceed their fair values. The fair values of the trademarks are determined based on significant inputs not observable in the discount rate would result in an estimated fair value that exceeds net assets by 9 percent. Holding other assumptions constant, a 100-basis point decrease in the terminal growth rate would result in an estimated fair value that exceeds net assets by 10 percent. The impairment analysis assumed only 50 percent of the synergies expected to be realized from the acquisition of Time. Had 100 percent of the synergies been incorporated into the future cash flowsmarket. These charges were recorded in the impairment analysis,of long-lived assets line in the fair value would have exceeded carrying value by 43 percent.Consolidated Statements of Earnings. No other impairments of indefinite-lived intangible assets were recorded as a result of the Company’s fiscal 2019 annual impairment tests.


Qualitative impairment analyses were performed for the local media excluding MNI and the MNI reporting units and resulted in no indications of impairment.

During fiscal 2018, Meredith made the strategic decision to no longer publish Fit Pregnancy and Baby magazine as a standalone title, rather to include it as a feature within Parents magazine and to discontinue FamilyFun as a subscription title and instead publish it only for sale on the newsstand. These decisions were determined to be triggering events requiring Meredith to evaluate the trademarks within our Parents Network for impairment. As a result of those analyses, the Company recorded pre-tax non-cash impairment charges of $22.7 million related to those trademarks. In fiscal 2017, the Company recorded a pre-tax non-cash impairment charge of $5.3 million to write-off the national media segment’s Mywedding trademark.

See Note 5 to the consolidated financial statements for additional information.





PENSION AND POSTRETIREMENT PLANS

Meredith has U.S. noncontributory pension plans covering substantially all employees who were employed by Meredith prior to the Time acquisition. In connection with the acquisition, the Company assumed the obligations under Time’s various international pension plans including plans in the U.K., Netherlands, and Germany. These domestic and international plans include qualified (funded) plans as well as nonqualified (unfunded) plans. These plans provide participating employees with retirement benefits in accordance with benefit provision formulas. The nonqualified plans provide retirement benefits only to certain highly compensated employees. Meredith also sponsors defined healthcare and life insurance plans that provide benefits to eligible retirees.

The accounting for pension and postretirement plans is actuarially based and includes assumptions regarding expected returns on plan assets, discount rates, and the rate of increase in healthcare costs. We consider the accounting for pension and postretirement plans critical to Meredith and both of our segments because of the number of significant judgments required in accounting for the plans. More information on our assumptions and our methodology in arriving at these assumptions can be found in Note 11 to the consolidated financial statements. Changes in key assumptions could materially affect the associated assets, liabilities, and benefit expenses. Depending on the assumptions and estimates used, these balances could vary within a range of outcomes. We monitor trends in the marketplace and rely on guidance from employee benefit specialists to arrive at reasonable estimates. These estimates are reviewed annually and updated as needed. Nevertheless, the estimates are subjective and may vary from actual results.

Meredith will use a long-term rate of return on plan assets of 8.0 percent for the U.S. pension plans, the same for the U.S. pension plans as used in fiscal 2018, and 4.9 percent for the international pension plans in developing fiscal 2019 pension costs. The fiscal 2018 rates were based on various factors that include but are not limited to the plans’ asset allocations, a review of historical capital market performance, historical plan performance, current market factors such as inflation and interest rates, and a forecast of expected future asset returns. The U.S. pension plan assets earned 9.0 percent in fiscal 2018 and 15.4 in fiscal 2017, while the international pension plans lost 0.8 percent for the five-month period ended June 30, 2018. If we had decreased our expected long-term rate of return on plan assets by 0.5 percent in fiscal 2018, our pension expense would have increased by $0.7 million for the U.S. pension plans and $1.8 million for the international pension plans.

Meredith will use a weighted average discount rate of 4.03 percent in developing the fiscal 2019 pension costs for the U.S pension plans, up from a rate of 3.41 percent used in fiscal 2018, and 2.57 percent for the international pension plans. If we had decreased the discount rate by 0.5 percent in fiscal 2018, our pension expense would have increased by $0.1 million for the U.S. pension plans and decreased by $1.0 million for the international pension plans.

Assumed rates of increase in healthcare cost levels have a significant effect on postretirement benefit costs. A one- percentage-point increase in the assumed healthcare cost trend rate would have resulted in an increase of $0.4 million in the postretirement benefit obligation at June 30, 2018, and no increase in the aggregate service and interest cost components of fiscal 2018 expense.


INCOME TAXES


Income taxes are recorded for the amount of taxes payable for the current year and include deferred tax assets and liabilities for the effect of temporary differences between the financial and tax basis of recorded assets and liabilities


using enacted tax rates. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance if it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.


As a result of the reduction in tax rates due to the Tax Reform Act signed into law on December 22, 2017,during fiscal 2018 and a blended federalcredit to income taxes of related to write-off of a bad debt, Meredith’s tax rate of 28 percent applies retroactively to the beginning of Meredith’sfor fiscal 2018.2019 was 8.2 percent. Net deferred tax liabilities totaled $432.5$504.6 million, or 811 percent of total liabilities, at June 30, 2018.2019.



We consider accounting for income taxes critical to our operations because management is required to make significant subjective judgments in developing our provision for income taxes, including the determination of deferred tax assets and liabilities, any valuation allowances that may be required against deferred tax assets, and reserves for uncertain tax positions.


The Company operates in numerous taxing jurisdictions and is subject to audit in each of these jurisdictions. These audits can involve complex issues that tend to require an extended period of time to resolve and may eventually result in an increase or decrease to amounts previously paid to the taxing jurisdictions. Any such audits are not expected to have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.




ACCOUNTING AND REPORTING DEVELOPMENTS



ADOPTED OR PENDING ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS


There were no new accounting pronouncements issued or effective during the fiscal year which have had or are expected to have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements in fiscal 2018.2019 except for the adoption of the new revenue recognition standard which had a significant impact on consolidated financial statement disclosures. In fiscal 20192020, we expect that the adoption of the new revenue recognitionlease standard will have a material impact on ourboth the consolidated balance sheet as it recognizes right-of-use assets and related liabilities for operating leases and the consolidated financial statement disclosures.disclosures due to significant new disclosures about leasing activities. See Note 1 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements for information related to our adoption of new accounting standards and for information on our anticipated adoption of recently issued accounting standards.






ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK




Meredith is exposed to certain market risks as a result of our use of financial instruments, in particular the potential market value loss arising from adverse changes in interest rates. The Company does not utilize financial instruments for trading purposes and does not hold any derivative financial instruments that could expose the Company to significant market risk. There have been no significant changes in the market risk exposures since June 30, 2017.2018.


Interest Rates


We generally manage our risk associated with interest rate movements through the use of a combination of variable and fixed-rate debt. At June 30, 2018,2019, Meredith had $1.4$1.3 billion in fixed-rate long-term debt outstanding. There were no earnings or liquidity risks associated with the Company’s fixed-rate debt. The fair value of the fixed-rate debt varies with fluctuations in interest rates. A 10 percent decrease100-basis point change in interest rates would have changednot materially change the fair value of the fixed-rate debt to $1.5 billion fromof $1.4 billion at June 30, 2018.2019.


At June 30, 2018, $1.82019, $1.1 billion of our debt was variable-rate debt. The Company is subject to earnings and liquidity risks for changes in the interest rate on this debt. A 10 percent100-basis point increase in LIBOR would increase annual interest expense by $3.8$11.0 million.



Because the United Kingdom Financial Conduct Authority, which regulates LIBOR, announced the desire to phase out the use of LIBOR by the end of 2021, future borrowings under our Term Loan B and future dividend payments on the Series A preferred stock could be subject to reference rates other than LIBOR.

Broadcast Rights Payable


The Company enters into broadcast rights contracts for our television stations. As a rule, these contracts are on a market-by-market basis and subject to terms and conditions of the seller of the broadcast rights. These procured rights generally are sold to the highest bidder in each market, and the process is very competitive. There are no earnings or liquidity risks associated with broadcast rights payable. Fair values are determined using discounted cash flows. At June 30, 2018,2019, a 10 percent decrease in interest rates would have resulted in a $0.4$0.2 million increase in the fair value of the available broadcast rights payable and the unavailable broadcast rights commitments.




ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA


Index to Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
  
Page
  
Report of Management
52
Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
53
  
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting FirmFinancial Statements
54
 
Financial Statements
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of June 30, 20182019 and 2017
2018
5658
Consolidated Statements of Earnings for the Years Ended June 30, 2019, 2018, 2017, and 2016
2017
5860
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the Years Ended June 30, 2019, 2018, 2017, and 2016
2017
5961
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity for the Years Ended June 30, 2019, 2018, 2017, and 2016
2017
6062
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended June 30, 2019, 2018, 2017, and 2016
2017
6163
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
6365
  
Financial Statement Schedule 
Schedule II-Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
112130
  
Five-Year Financial History with Selected Financial Data
113131








































(This page has been left blank intentionally.)








REPORT OF MANAGEMENT








To the Shareholders of Meredith Corporation:


Meredith management is responsible for the preparation, integrity, and objectivity of the financial information included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended June 30, 2018.2019. We take this responsibility very seriously as we recognize the importance of having well-informed, confident investors. The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America and include amounts based on our informed judgments and estimates. We have adopted appropriate accounting policies and are fully committed to ensuring that those policies are applied properly and consistently. In addition, we strive to report our consolidated financial results in a manner that is relevant, complete, and understandable. We welcome any suggestions from those who use our reports.


To meet our responsibility for financial reporting, our internal control systems and accounting procedures are designed to provide reasonable assurance as to the reliability of financial records. In addition, our internal audit staff monitors and reports on compliance with Company policies, procedures, and internal control systems.


The consolidated financial statements and the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting have been audited by an independent registered public accounting firm in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Due to our acquisition of Time Inc. during fiscal 2018, we are in the process of evaluating Time Inc.’s existing controls and procedures, and integrating Time Inc. into the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. In accordance with Securities and Exchange Commission staff guidance permitting a company to exclude an acquired business from management’s assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting for the year in which the acquisition is completed, we have excluded Time Inc. from our assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting as of June 30, 2018. The independent registered public accounting firm was given unrestricted access to all financial records and related information, including all Board of Directors and Board committee minutes to complete their assessment of internal control over financial reporting.minutes.


The Audit Committee of the Board of Directors is responsible for reviewing and monitoring the Company’s accounting policies, internal controls, and financial reporting practices. The Audit Committee is also directly responsible for the appointment, compensation, and oversight of the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm. The Audit Committee consists solely of independent directors who regularly meet with the independent registered public accounting firm, management, and internal auditors to review accounting, auditing, and financial reporting matters. To ensure complete independence, the independent registered public accounting firm has direct access to the Audit Committee without the presence of management representatives.


At Meredith, we have always placed a high priority on good corporate governance and will continue to do so in the future.




/s/ Joseph Ceryanec


Joseph Ceryanec
Chief Financial Officer












Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm




TheTo the Board of Directors and Shareholders
Meredith Corporation:


OpinionsOpinion on the Consolidated Financial Statements and Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Meredith Corporation and subsidiaries (the Company) as of June 30, 20182019 and 2017,2018, the related consolidated statements of earnings, comprehensive income, shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended June 30, 2018,2019, and the related notes and financial statement schedule II-Valuation and Qualifying Accounts (collectively, the consolidated financial statements). We also have audited the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of June 30, 2018, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework(2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of June 30, 20182019 and 2017,2018, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended June 30, 2018,2019, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Also

We also have audited, in our opinion,accordance with the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of June 30, 2018, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizationsstandards of the Treadway Commission.
ThePublic Company acquired Time Inc. and subsidiaries (Time) during fiscal 2018, and management excluded from its assessment of the effectiveness ofAccounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of June 30, 2018, Time’s2019, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission, and our report dated September 13, 2019 expressed an adverse opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting associated with 59 percent of the Company’s total assetsreporting.

Change in Accounting Principle

As discussed in Notes 1 and 28 percent of revenue included in11 to the consolidated financial statements, as of and for the year ended June 30, 2018. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting of the Company also excluded an evaluationchanged its method of accounting for revenue in fiscal 2019 due to the internal control over financial reportingadoption of Time.ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, and the related amendments.

Basis for OpinionsOpinion
The Company’s management is responsible for these
These consolidated financial statements for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, and for its assessmentare the responsibility of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Controls Over Financial Reporting.Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’sthese consolidated financial statements and an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB)PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the auditsaudit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud, and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.
fraud. Our audits of the consolidated financial statements included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

Critical Audit Matters

The critical audit matters communicated below are matters arising from the current period audit of the consolidated financial statements that were communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that: (1)


relate to accounts or disclosures that are material to the consolidated financial statements and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The communication of critical audit matters does not alter in any way our opinion on the consolidated financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matters below, providing separate opinions on the critical audit matters or on the accounts or disclosures to which they relate.

Evaluation of sufficiency of audit evidence over revenue

As discussed in Notes 1 and 11 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company had $3,188.5 million in revenues for the year ended June 30, 2019, of which $1,686.6 million was advertising related, $1,393.6 million was consumer related and $108.3 million was related to other revenue streams. Each of these categories of revenue has multiple revenue streams, and the Company’s process for revenue recognition differs between these discrete revenue streams.

We identified the evaluation of the sufficiency of audit evidence over revenue as a critical audit matter. This matter required especially subjective auditor judgment because of the number of revenue streams, the related revenue recognition processes, the number of information technology (IT) applications involved in the revenue recognition processes, and the identified material weakness. This matter also included determining the revenue streams over which procedures were performed, the nature and extent of audit evidence obtained over each revenue stream, and the need to involve IT professionals to assist with the performance of certain procedures.

The primary procedures we performed to address this critical audit matter included the following. Based on our knowledge of the Company, we applied auditor judgment to determine the nature and extent of procedures to be performed over revenue, including the determination of the revenue streams over which those procedures were performed. For each revenue stream where procedures were performed, we:

tested certain internal controls over the Company’s revenue recognition process,
assessed the recorded revenue by selecting a sample of transactions and comparing the amounts recognized for consistency with underlying documentation, and
involved IT professionals with specialized skills and knowledge, who assisted in testing certain IT applications that are used by the Company in its revenue recognition process.

After completion of these procedures, we evaluated the overall sufficiency of the audit evidence obtained over revenue.

Evaluation of the goodwill impairment analysis for the national media reporting unit

As discussed in Note 5 to the consolidated financial statements, the goodwill balance as of June 30, 2019, was $1,979.4 million, $1,862.8 million of which related to the national media reporting unit. The Company performs goodwill impairment testing on an annual basis and whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of a reporting unit might exceed its fair value.

We identified the evaluation of the goodwill impairment analysis for the national media reporting unit as a critical audit matter because it involved a high degree of subjectivity and auditor judgment. This evaluation included assessing key assumptions used in estimating the fair value of the reporting unit, such as forecasted revenue growth rates, estimated costs, and the discount rate.

The primary procedures we performed to address this critical audit matter included the following. We tested certain internal controls over the Company’s goodwill impairment assessment process, including controls over the development of key assumptions of forecasted revenue growth rates, estimated costs, and the discount rate. We performed sensitivity analyses over forecasted revenue growth rates, estimated costs, and the discount rate to assess their impact on the Company’s determination of the fair value of the reporting unit. We evaluated the Company’s forecasted revenue growth rates and estimated costs by comparing the projections to the Company’s historic results,


underlying business strategies, and growth plans. In addition, we involved a valuation professional with specialized skills and knowledge, who assisted in:

evaluating the discount rate by comparing it against a discount rate range that was independently developed using publicly available market data for comparable entities, and
assessing the valuation methodology used by the Company to estimate the fair value of the reporting unit.

/s/ KPMG LLP

We or our predecessor firms have served as the Company’s auditor since 1948.

Des Moines, Iowa
September 13, 2019





Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm


To the Board of Directors and Shareholders
Meredith Corporation:

Opinion on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

We have audited Meredith Corporation and subsidiaries (the Company) internal control over financial reporting as of June 30, 2019, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. In our opinion, because of the effect of the material weaknesses, described below, on the achievement of the objectives of the control criteria, the Company has not maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of June 30, 2019, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the consolidated balance sheets of the Company as of June 30, 2019 and 2018, the related consolidated statements of earnings, comprehensive income, shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended June 30, 2019, and the related notes and financial statement schedule II-Valuation and Qualifying Accounts (collectively, the consolidated financial statements), and our report dated September 13, 2019 expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements.

A material weakness is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting, such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of the company’s annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. The following material weaknesses have been identified and included in management’s assessment:

ineffective controls over the completeness, existence and accuracy of digital advertising revenue, related accounts receivable and selling expense.
ineffective controls over the completeness, existence, accuracy and valuation of internal pension assets.

The material weaknesses were considered in determining the nature, timing, and extent of audit tests applied in our audit of the 2019 consolidated financial statements, and this report does not affect our report on those consolidated financial statements.

Basis for Opinion

The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audits


audit also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provideaudit provides a reasonable basis for our opinions.opinion.



Definition and Limitations of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
We or our predecessor firms have served as the Company’s auditor since 1948.


/s/ KPMG LLP


Des Moines, Iowa
August 31, 2018September 13, 2019






FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA


Meredith Corporation and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Balance Sheets


AssetsJune 30,2018
 2017
June 30,2019
 2018
(In millions)(In millions)   (In millions)   
Current assetsCurrent assets   Current assets   
Cash and cash equivalentsCash and cash equivalents$437.6
 $22.3
Cash and cash equivalents$45.0
 $437.6
Accounts receivable
(net of allowances of $14.4 in 2018 and $8.0 in 2017)
542.0
 289.1
Accounts receivable
(net of allowances of $20.5 in 2019 and $14.4 in 2018)		Accounts receivable
(net of allowances of $20.5 in 2019 and $14.4 in 2018)		609.1
 545.2
InventoriesInventories44.2
 21.9
Inventories62.7
 44.4
Current portion of subscription acquisition costsCurrent portion of subscription acquisition costs118.1
 145.0
Current portion of subscription acquisition costs242.0
 145.0
Current portion of broadcast rightsCurrent portion of broadcast rights9.8
 7.8
Current portion of broadcast rights7.1
 9.8
Assets held-for-saleAssets held-for-sale713.1
 —
Assets held-for-sale321.0
 719.8
Other current assetsOther current assets114.3
 19.3
Other current assets63.2
 114.9
Total current assetsTotal current assets1,979.1
 505.4
Total current assets1,350.1
 2,016.7
Property, plant, and equipmentProperty, plant, and equipment   Property, plant, and equipment   
LandLand24.6
 24.7
Land24.7
 24.6
Buildings and improvementsBuildings and improvements153.5
 153.7
Buildings and improvements157.2
 153.5
Machinery and equipmentMachinery and equipment359.8
 316.6
Machinery and equipment296.5
 359.8
Leasehold improvementsLeasehold improvements177.4
 14.3
Leasehold improvements177.5
 177.4
Capitalized softwareCapitalized software125.9
 38.5
Capitalized software204.7
 125.9
Construction in progressConstruction in progress20.2
 1.7
Construction in progress37.3
 20.2
Total property, plant, and equipmentTotal property, plant, and equipment861.4
 549.5
Total property, plant, and equipment897.9
 861.4
Less accumulated depreciationLess accumulated depreciation(377.6) (359.7)Less accumulated depreciation(447.6) (377.7)
Net property, plant, and equipmentNet property, plant, and equipment483.8
 189.8
Net property, plant, and equipment450.3
 483.7
Subscription acquisition costsSubscription acquisition costs61.1
 79.7
Subscription acquisition costs273.9
 66.3
Broadcast rightsBroadcast rights18.9
 21.8
Broadcast rights6.0
 18.9
Other assetsOther assets263.3
 69.6
Other assets263.6
 263.3
Intangible assets, netIntangible assets, net2,005.2
 955.9
Intangible assets, net1,813.6
 2,006.2
GoodwillGoodwill1,915.8
 907.5
Goodwill1,979.4
 1,915.8
Total assetsTotal assets$6,727.2
 $2,729.7
Total assets$6,136.9
 $6,770.9
       
See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial StatementsSee accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements   See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements   







Meredith Corporation and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Balance Sheets (continued)


Liabilities, Redeemable Convertible Preferred Stock, and Shareholders’ EquityJune 30,2018
 2017
June 30,2019
 2018
(In millions except per share data)
(In millions except per share data)
   
(In millions except per share data)
   
Current liabilitiesCurrent liabilities   Current liabilities   
Current portion of long-term debtCurrent portion of long-term debt$17.7
 $62.5
Current portion of long-term debt$—
 $17.7
Current portion of long-term broadcast rights payableCurrent portion of long-term broadcast rights payable8.9
 9.2
Current portion of long-term broadcast rights payable6.6
 8.9
Accounts payableAccounts payable194.7
 66.6
Accounts payable242.6
 195.1
Accrued expensesAccrued expenses   Accrued expenses   
Compensation and benefitsCompensation and benefits122.3
 69.0
Compensation and benefits151.9
 122.3
Distribution expensesDistribution expenses10.0
 5.3
Distribution expenses5.4
 10.0
Other taxes and expensesOther taxes and expenses277.9
 28.1
Other taxes and expenses143.3
 278.3
Total accrued expensesTotal accrued expenses410.2
 102.4
Total accrued expenses300.6
 410.6
Current portion of unearned revenuesCurrent portion of unearned revenues360.4
 219.0
Current portion of unearned revenues458.9
 393.5
Liabilities associated with assets held-for-saleLiabilities associated with assets held-for-sale198.4
 —
Liabilities associated with assets held-for-sale252.1
 200.0
Total current liabilitiesTotal current liabilities1,190.3
 459.7
Total current liabilities1,260.8
 1,225.8
Long-term debtLong-term debt3,117.9
 635.7
Long-term debt2,333.3
 3,117.9
Long-term broadcast rights payableLong-term broadcast rights payable20.8
 22.5
Long-term broadcast rights payable8.4
 20.8
Unearned revenuesUnearned revenues124.1
 106.5
Unearned revenues318.6
 132.3
Deferred income taxesDeferred income taxes437.0
 384.7
Deferred income taxes506.2
 437.0
Other noncurrent liabilitiesOther noncurrent liabilities217.0
 124.6
Other noncurrent liabilities194.8
 217.0
Total liabilitiesTotal liabilities5,107.1
 1,733.7
Total liabilities4,622.1
 5,150.8
       
Redeemable, convertible Series A preferred stock, par value $1 per share, $1,000 per share liquidation preference, authorized 2.5 shares, issued 0.7 sharesRedeemable, convertible Series A preferred stock, par value $1 per share, $1,000 per share liquidation preference, authorized 2.5 shares, issued 0.7 shares522.6
 —
Redeemable, convertible Series A preferred stock, par value $1 per share, $1,000 per share liquidation preference, authorized 2.5 shares, issued 0.7 shares540.2
 522.6
       
Shareholders’ equityShareholders’ equity   Shareholders’ equity   
Series preferred stock, par value $1 per shareSeries preferred stock, par value $1 per share   Series preferred stock, par value $1 per share   
Authorized 2.5 shares; none issuedAuthorized 2.5 shares; none issued—
 —
Authorized 2.5 shares; none issued—
 —
Common stock, par value $1 per shareCommon stock, par value $1 per share   Common stock, par value $1 per share   
Authorized 80.0 shares; issued and outstanding 39.8 shares in 2018 (excluding 24.8 treasury shares) and 39.4 shares in 2017 (excluding 24.8 treasury shares)39.8
 39.4
Authorized 80.0 shares; issued and outstanding 40.1 shares in 2019 (excluding 24.8 treasury shares) and 39.8 shares in 2018 (excluding 24.8 treasury shares)Authorized 80.0 shares; issued and outstanding 40.1 shares in 2019 (excluding 24.8 treasury shares) and 39.8 shares in 2018 (excluding 24.8 treasury shares)40.1
 39.8
Class B stock, par value $1 per share, convertible to common stockClass B stock, par value $1 per share, convertible to common stock   Class B stock, par value $1 per share, convertible to common stock   
Authorized 15.0 shares; issued and outstanding 5.1 shares in 2018 and 5.1 shares in 20175.1
 5.1
Authorized 15.0 shares; issued and outstanding 5.1 shares in 2019 and 5.1 shares in 2018Authorized 15.0 shares; issued and outstanding 5.1 shares in 2019 and 5.1 shares in 20185.1
 5.1
Additional paid-in capitalAdditional paid-in capital199.5
 54.8
Additional paid-in capital216.7
 199.5
Retained earningsRetained earnings889.8
 915.7
Retained earnings759.0
 889.8
Accumulated other comprehensive lossAccumulated other comprehensive loss(36.7) (19.0)Accumulated other comprehensive loss(46.3) (36.7)
Total shareholders’ equityTotal shareholders’ equity1,097.5
 996.0
Total shareholders’ equity974.6
 1,097.5
Total liabilities, redeemable convertible preferred stock, and shareholders’ equityTotal liabilities, redeemable convertible preferred stock, and shareholders’ equity$6,727.2
 $2,729.7
Total liabilities, redeemable convertible preferred stock, and shareholders’ equity$6,136.9
 $6,770.9
       
See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial StatementsSee accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements   See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements   






Meredith Corporation and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Earnings


Years ended June 30,2018
 2017
 2016
2019
 2018
 2017
(In millions except per share data)          
Revenues          
Advertising$1,116.6
 $934.1
 $914.2
Circulation489.3
 322.0
 328.6
All other641.5
 457.2
 406.8
Advertising related$1,686.6
 $1,190.7
 $934.1
Consumer related1,393.6
 921.3
 613.5
Other108.3
 152.2
 165.7
Total revenues2,247.4
 1,713.3
 1,649.6
3,188.5
 2,264.2
 1,713.3
Operating expenses    
    
Production, distribution, and editorial860.6
 603.0
 611.3
1,161.2
 868.0
 608.4
Selling, general, and administrative962.7
 730.9
 723.5
1,350.0
 987.5
 726.4
Acquisition, disposition, and restructuring related activities173.4
 10.3
 (36.4)100.9
 170.1
 10.3
Depreciation and amortization129.0
 53.8
 59.1
247.6
 129.0
 53.8
Impairment of goodwill and other long-lived assets22.7
 6.2
 161.5
Impairment of long-lived assets41.8
 22.7
 6.2
Total operating expenses2,148.4
 1,404.2
 1,519.0
2,901.5
 2,177.3
 1,405.1
Income from operations99.0
 309.1
 130.6
287.0
 86.9
 308.2
Non-operating expenses, net(11.7) —
 —
Non-operating income, net24.2
 0.7
 0.9
Interest expense, net(96.9) (18.8) (20.4)(170.6) (97.2) (18.8)
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes(9.6) 290.3
 110.2
140.6
 (9.6) 290.3
Income tax benefit (expense)123.6
 (101.4) (76.3)(11.5) 123.6
 (101.4)
Earnings from continuing operations114.0
 188.9
 33.9
129.1
 114.0
 188.9
Loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes(14.6) —
 —
(82.8) (14.6) —
Net earnings$99.4
 $188.9
 $33.9
$46.3

$99.4
 $188.9
          
Earnings attributable to common shareholders$66.4
 $188.9
 $33.9
Earnings (loss) attributable to common shareholders$(32.0) $66.4
 $188.9
          
Basic earnings per share attributable to common shareholders     
Basic earnings (loss) per share attributable to common shareholders     
Continuing operations$1.80
 $4.23
 $0.76
$1.12
 $1.80
 $4.23
Discontinued operations(0.32) —
 —
(1.83) (0.32) —
Basic earnings per share$1.48
 $4.23
 $0.76
Basic earnings (loss) per common share$(0.71) $1.48
 $4.23
Basic average common shares outstanding44.9
 44.6
 44.6
45.3
 44.9
 44.6
          
Diluted earnings per share attributable to common shareholders     
Diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to common shareholders     
Continuing operations$1.79
 $4.16
 $0.75
$1.12
 $1.79
 $4.16
Discontinued operations(0.32) —
 —
(1.82) (0.32) —
Diluted earnings per share$1.47
 $4.16
 $0.75
Diluted average shares outstanding45.2
 45.4
 45.4
     
Dividends paid per share$2.130
 $2.030
 $1.905
Diluted earnings (loss) per common share$(0.70) $1.47
 $4.16
Diluted average common shares outstanding45.5
 45.2
 45.4
          
See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements          








Meredith Corporation and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income


Years ended June 30,2018
 2017
 2016
2019
 2018
 2017
(In millions)          
Net earnings$99.4
 $188.9
 $33.9
$46.3
 $99.4
 $188.9
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes          
Pension and other postretirement benefit plans activity(0.8) 5.3
 (12.8)(6.8) (0.8) 5.3
Unrealized foreign currency translation loss, net(12.9) —
 —
(2.8) (12.9) —
Unrealized gain (loss) on interest rate swaps—
 4.2
 (3.1)
Unrealized gain on interest rate swaps—
 —
 4.2
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes(13.7) 9.5
 (15.9)(9.6) (13.7) 9.5
Comprehensive income$85.7
 $198.4
 $18.0
$36.7
 $85.7
 $198.4


See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.






Meredith Corporation and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity
(In millions except per share data)
Common
Stock - $1
par value
Class B
Stock - $1
par value
Additional
Paid-in
Capital
Retained
Earnings
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
 Income (Loss)
 Total
Common
Stock - $1
par value
Class B
Stock - $1
par value
Additional
Paid-in
Capital
Retained
Earnings
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
 Income (Loss)
 Total
Balance at June 30, 2015$37.7
$6.9
$49.0
$870.9

$(12.6) $951.9
Balance at June 30, 2016$39.3
$5.2
$54.3
$818.7
 $(28.5) $889.0
Net earnings—
—
—
33.9
 —
 33.9
—
—
—
188.9
 —
 188.9
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax—
—
—
—
 (15.9) (15.9)
Stock issued under various incentive plans, net of forfeitures0.6
—
20.3
—
 —
 20.9
Other comprehensive income, net of tax—
—
—
—
 9.5
 9.5
Shares issued under various incentive plans, net of forfeitures0.9
—
37.1
—
 —
 38.0
Purchases of Company stock(0.7)—
(30.4)—
 —
 (31.1)(0.9)—
(52.4)—
 —
 (53.3)
Share-based compensation—
—
12.8
—
 —
 12.8
—
—
12.8
—
 —
 12.8
Conversion of class B to common stock1.7
(1.7)—
—
 —
 —
0.1
(0.1)—
—
 —
 —
Dividends paid, $1.905 per share     
Common stock—
—
—
(72.9) —
 (72.9)
Class B stock—
—
—
(13.2) —
 (13.2)
Tax benefit from incentive plans—
—
2.6
—
 —
 2.6
Balance at June 30, 201639.3
5.2
54.3
818.7
 (28.5) 889.0
Net earnings—
—
—
188.9
 —
 188.9
Other comprehensive income, net of tax—
—
—
—
 9.5
 9.5
Stock issued under various incentive plans, net of forfeitures0.9
—
37.1
—
 —
 38.0
Purchases of Company stock(0.9)—
(52.4)—
 —
 (53.3)
Share-based compensation—
—
12.8
—
 —
 12.8
Conversion of class B to common stock0.1
(0.1)—
—
 —
 —
Dividends paid, $2.030 per share     
Common stock—
—
—
(81.4) —
 (81.4)
Class B stock—
—
—
(10.5) —
 (10.5)
Dividends paid    
Common stock, $2.03 per share—
—
—
(81.4) —
 (81.4)
Class B stock, $2.03 per share—
—
—
(10.5) —
 (10.5)
Tax benefit from incentive plans—
—
3.0
—
 —
 3.0
—
—
3.0
—
 —
 3.0
Balance at June 30, 201739.4
5.1
54.8
915.7
 (19.0) 996.0
39.4
5.1
54.8
915.7

(19.0)
996.0
Net earnings—
—
—
99.4
 —
 99.4
—
—
—
99.4
 —
 99.4
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax—
—
—
—
 (13.7) (13.7)—
—
—
—
 (13.7) (13.7)
Stock issued under various incentive plans, net of forfeitures0.9
—
18.4
—
 —
 19.3
Shares issued under various incentive plans, net of forfeitures0.9
—
18.4
—
 —
 19.3
Issuance of replacement Time share-based compensation awards—
—
9.8
—
 —
 9.8
—
—
9.8
—
 —
 9.8
Purchases of Company stock(0.5)—
(30.6)—
 —
 (31.1)(0.5)—
(30.6)—
 —
 (31.1)
Share-based compensation—
—
30.4
—
 —
 30.4
—
—
30.4
—
 —
 30.4
Issuance of warrants and options—
—
115.6
—
 —
 115.6
—
—
115.6
—
 —
 115.6
Dividends paid, $2.130 per share     
Common stock—
—
—
(87.8) —
 (87.8)
Class B stock—
—
—
(10.8) —
 (10.8)
Series A preferred stock—
—
—
(22.9) —
 (22.9)
Dividends paid    
Common stock, $2.13 per share—
—
—
(87.8) —
 (87.8)
Class B stock, $2.13 per share—
—
—
(10.8) —
 (10.8)
Series A preferred stock, $35.18 per share—
—
—
(22.9) —
 (22.9)
Accretion of Series A preferred stock—
—
—
(7.2) —
 (7.2)—
—
—
(7.2) —
 (7.2)
Cumulative effect adjustment for adoption of Accounting Standards Update 2016-09—
—
1.1
(0.6) —
 0.5
—
—
1.1
(0.6) —
 0.5
Reclassification adjustment for adoption of Accounting Standards Update 2018-02—
—
—
4.0
 (4.0) —
—
—
—
4.0
 (4.0) —
Balance at June 30, 2018$39.8
$5.1
$199.5
$889.8
 $(36.7) $1,097.5
39.8
5.1
199.5
889.8
 (36.7) 1,097.5
Net earnings—
—
—
46.3
 —
 46.3
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax—
—
—
—
 (9.6) (9.6)
Shares issued under various incentive plans, net of forfeitures0.5
—
4.1
—
 —
 4.6
Purchases of Company stock(0.2)—
(9.8)—
 —
 (10.0)
Share-based compensation—
—
22.9
—
 —
 22.9
Dividends paid    
Common stock, $2.24 per share—
—
—
(94.6) —
 (94.6)
Class B stock, $2.24 per share—
—
—
(11.4) —
 (11.4)
Series A preferred stock, $85.94 per share—
—
—
(55.9) —
 (55.9)
Accretion of Series A preferred stock—
—
—
(17.6) —
 (17.6)
Cumulative effect adjustment for adoption of Accounting Standards Update 2014-09—
—
—
2.4
 —
 2.4
Balance at June 30, 2019$40.1
$5.1
$216.7
$759.0
 $(46.3) $974.6
See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial StatementsSee accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.




Meredith Corporation and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows


Years ended June 30,2018
 2017
 2016
2019
 2018
 2017
(In millions)          
Cash flows from operating activities          
Net earnings$99.4
 $188.9
 $33.9
$46.3
 $99.4
 $188.9
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided by operating activities          
Depreciation54.2
 34.8
 39.4
92.5
 54.2
 34.7
Amortization74.8
 19.1
 19.7
155.1
 74.8
 19.1
Share-based compensation30.4
 12.8
 12.8
22.9
 30.4
 12.8
Amortization of original issue discount and debt issuance costs6.1
 —
 —
7.8
 6.1
 —
Deferred income taxes(116.5) 42.5
 9.1
66.0
 (116.5) 42.5
Amortization of broadcast rights19.2
 17.6
 16.7
20.0
 19.2
 17.6
Payments for broadcast rights(20.7) (17.0) (16.9)(19.1) (20.7) (17.0)
Write-down of impaired assets23.0
 9.8
 162.0
50.3
 23.0
 9.8
Loss on extinguishment of debt18.4
 —
 —
Fair value adjustment to contingent consideration(4.8) (19.5) (4.1)(5.3) (4.8) (19.5)
Excess tax benefits from share-based payments—
 (6.8) (4.2)—
 —
 (6.8)
Other operating activities, net13.1
 —
 —
(10.2) 13.1
 —
Changes in assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions/dispositions          
Accounts receivable12.6
 (15.2) 10.7
(69.3) 9.5
 (15.2)
Inventories(0.3) (1.2) 3.5
(18.4) (0.5) (1.2)
Other current assets(4.3) 4.7
 (0.5)57.4
 (4.9) 4.7
Subscription acquisition costs45.4
 4.7
 (3.1)(312.0) 13.4
 4.7
Other assets(101.1) (2.1) 4.9
(21.9) (101.8) (2.1)
Assets and liabilities held-for-sale28.4
 —
 —
(18.6) 22.3
 —
Accounts payable(13.0) (15.5) (11.9)36.2
 (12.6) (15.5)
Accrued expenses and other liabilities73.6
 8.3
 (16.6)(99.5) 73.2
 7.6
Unearned subscription revenues(68.7) (16.9) (31.3)251.6
 (27.3) (16.9)
Other noncurrent liabilities0.6
 (29.7) 2.5
(4.9) 0.4
 (29.6)
Net cash provided by operating activities151.4
 219.3
 226.6
245.3
 149.9
 218.6
Cash flows from investing activities          
Acquisitions of and investments in businesses, net of cash acquired(2,786.5) (84.4) (8.2)(18.4) (2,786.5) (84.4)
Proceeds from disposition of assets, net of cash sold219.2
 1.5
 1.8
349.1
 219.2
 1.5
Proceeds received in advance of sale of business90.0
 —
 —
Additions to property, plant, and equipment(53.2) (34.8) (25.0)(46.4) (53.2) (34.8)
Other3.1
 —
 —
—
 3.8
 —
Net cash used in investing activities(2,617.4) (117.7) (31.4)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities374.3
 (2,616.7) (117.7)
Cash flows from financing activities          
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt3,260.0
 380.0
 167.5
210.0
 3,260.0
 380.0
Repayments of long-term debt(765.1) (374.4) (267.5)(1,037.0) (765.1) (374.4)
Issued preferred stock, warrants, and options proceeds, net of issuance costs631.0
 —
 —
—
 631.0
 —
Dividends paid(121.5) (91.9) (86.1)(161.9) (121.5) (91.9)
Purchases of Company stock(31.1) (53.3) (31.1)(10.0) (31.1) (53.3)
Proceeds from common stock issued19.3
 38.0
 20.9
4.6
 19.3
 38.0
Excess tax benefits from share-based payments—
 6.8
 4.2
—
 —
 6.8
Payment of acquisition related contingent consideration(5.1) (8.0) (0.8)(19.3) (4.3) (7.3)
Debt acquisition costs(70.8) (1.5) (0.1)—
 (70.8) (1.5)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities2,916.7
 (104.3) (193.0)(1,013.6) 2,917.5
 (103.6)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents(4.1) —
 —
(1.4) (4.1) —
Change in cash held-for-sale(31.3) —
 —
2.8
 (31.3) —
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents415.3
 (2.7) 2.2
(392.6) 415.3
 (2.7)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year22.3
 25.0
 22.8
437.6
 22.3
 25.0
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year$437.6
 $22.3
 $25.0
$45.0
 $437.6
 $22.3
          
See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements          



Meredith Corporation and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (continued)


Years ended June 30,2018
 2017
 2016
2019
 2018
 2017
(In millions)          
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information          
Cash paid     
Cash paid (received)     
Interest$66.3
 $22.0
 $20.2
$171.9
 $66.3
 $22.0
Income taxes24.0
 73.1
 73.0
(11.7) 24.0
 73.1
Non-cash transactions          
Broadcast rights financed by contracts payable18.8
 15.4
 19.3
4.3
 18.8
 15.4
          
See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements          






Meredith Corporation and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements


1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies


Nature of Operations—Meredith Corporation (Meredith or the Company) is a diversified media company. The Company has two2 reporting segments: national media and local media. The Company’s national media segment includes print magazines, digital and mobile media, brand licensing activities, affinity marketing, database-related activities, business-to-business marketing products, and other related operations. The local media segment includes 17 television stations and related digital and mobile media operations. Meredith’s operations are diversified geographically primarily within the United States (U.S.) but also abroad in a limited number of locations in Europe and Asia. The Company has a broad customer base.


Basis of Presentation—The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Meredith and its wholly-owned and majority-owned subsidiaries, after eliminating all significant intercompany balances and transactions. The results of operations include those of Time Inc. (Time) since the date of acquisition (the Acquisition). See Note 2 for further discussion. Meredith does not have any off-balance sheet arrangements. The Company’s use of special-purpose entities was limited to Meredith Funding Corporation, whose activities were fully consolidated in Meredith’s consolidated financial statements until the termination of its asset lending facility on January 31, 2018.


The financial position and operating results of the Company’s foreign operations are consolidated using primarily the local currency as the functional currency. Local currency assets and liabilities are translated at the rates of exchange as of the balance sheet date, and local currency revenues and expenses are translated at average rates of exchange during the period. Translation gains or losses on assets and liabilities are included as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss.


Use of Estimates—The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (U.S. GAAP) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements. The Company bases its estimates on historical experience, management expectations for future performance, and other assumptions as appropriate. Key areas affected by estimates include the allowance for doubtful accounts, which is based on historical experience and management’s views on trends in the overall receivable aging, the assessment of the recoverability of long-lived assets, including goodwill and other intangible assets, which is based on such factors as estimated future cash flows; the determination of the net realizable value of broadcast rights, which is based on estimated future revenues; pension and postretirement benefit expenses, which are determined based, in large part, on actuarial assumptions regarding discount rates, expected returns on plan assets, and healthcare costs; and share-based compensation expense, which is based on numerous assumptions including future stock price volatility and employees’ expected exercise and post-vesting employment termination behavior. While the Company re-evaluates its estimates on an ongoing basis, actual results may vary from those estimates.


Reclassifications—Certain prior years’ amounts have been reclassified to conform to fiscal 20182019 presentation.


Cash and Cash Equivalents—Cash and short-term investments with original maturities of 3 months or less are considered to be cash and cash equivalents. Cash and cash equivalents are stated at cost, which approximates fair value.


Concentration of Credit Risk—Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk are primarily cash and cash equivalent deposits. Cash equivalent balances consist of money market mutual funds with original maturities of 3three months or less. These cash and cash equivalent deposits are maintained with several financial institutions. The deposits held at the various financial institutions may exceed federally insured limits. Exposure to this credit risk is reduced by placing such deposits with major financial institutions and monitoring their credit ratings and, therefore, these deposits bear minimal credit risk. There is also limited credit



limited credit risk with respect to the money market mutual funds in which the Company invests as these funds all have issuers, guarantors, and/or other counterparties of reputable credit.


At June 30, 2018, $411.12019, $34.2 million of cash and cash equivalents were held domestically, of which $370.2$6.8 million were held in money market mutual funds. Of the total cash and cash equivalents, $26.5$10.8 million were held internationally, primarily in Europe. Cash equivalents at June 30, 2018,2019, were $373.1$9.7 million, which approximates fair value due to their short-term nature, and is considered a Level 1 measurement as defined in Note 10.


Accounts Receivable—The Company’s accounts receivable are primarily due from advertisers. Credit is extended to clients based on an evaluation of each client’s creditworthiness and financial condition; collateral is not required. The Company maintains allowances for uncollectible accounts, rebates, rate adjustments, returns, and discounts. The allowance for uncollectible accounts is based on the aging of such receivables and any known specific collectability exposures. Accounts are written off when deemed uncollectible. Allowances for rebates, rate adjustments, returns, and discounts are generally based on historical experience and current market conditions. Concentration of credit risk with respect to accounts receivable is generally limited due to the large number of geographically diverse clients and individually small balances.


Inventories—Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value. Effective January 1, 2018, the Company changed its method of accounting for paper inventory in the national media segment from the last-in, first-out (LIFO) method to the weighted average cost method. The Company believes that the weighted average cost method of accounting for paper inventory is preferable because it provides a better match of production costs with revenues considering the limited volatility in paper prices due to the short production cycle.


The effect of the change was not considered material to the previously issued consolidated financial statements and, as such, was adopted prospectively as of January 1, 2018. The cumulative effect of the change recorded in the third quarter of fiscal 2018 was $1.3 million representing the removal of the LIFO costs reserve. This adjustment was recorded to the production, distribution, and editorial line within the Consolidated Statements of Earnings.


Cost is determined on the first-in first-out or average basis for all other inventories.


Subscription Acquisition Costs—Subscription acquisition costs primarily represent magazine agency commissions. These costs are deferred and amortized over the related subscription term, typically one to two years. In addition, direct-response advertising costs that are intended to solicit subscriptions and are expected to result in probable future benefits are capitalized. These costs are amortized over the period during which future benefits are expected to be received. The asset balance of the capitalized direct-response advertising costs is reviewed quarterly to ensure the amount is realizable. Any write-downs resulting from this review are expensed as subscription acquisition advertising costs in the current period. Capitalized direct-response advertising costs were $8.2 million at June 30, 2019 and $7.6 million at June 30, 2018 and $6.0 million at June 30, 2017.2018. There were no material write-downs of capitalized direct-response advertising costs in any of the fiscal years in the three-yearthree-year period ended June 30, 2018.2019.


Property, Plant, and Equipment—Property, plant, and equipment are stated at cost with the exception of the property, plant, and equipment that was recorded at estimated fair value as of January 31, 2018, as a result of the Acquisition. Additions to that acquired property, plant, and equipment since January 31, 2018, are stated at cost. Costs of replacements and major improvements are capitalized, while costs of maintenance and repairs are charged to operations as incurred. Depreciation expense is determined primarily using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets: 5-45 years for buildings and improvements, 3-6 years for capitalized software, and 3-20 years for machinery and equipment. The costs of leasehold improvements are amortized over the lesser of the useful lives of the improvements or the terms of the respective leases. Depreciation and amortization of property, plant, and equipment was $92.5 million in fiscal 2019, $54.2 million in fiscal 2018, $34.8and $34.7 million in fiscal 2017, and $39.4 million in fiscal 2016.2017.


In fiscal 2016, management committed to a plan to sell the Company’s two corporate airplanes and classified them as held-for-sale at June 30, 2017 and 2016. The airplanes were sold in early fiscal 2018. The estimated fair value of


these airplanes of $1.9 million was included in the machinery and equipment line in the Consolidated Balance Sheets at June 30, 2017. Losses resulting from fair value adjustments to these assets of $0.9 million and $5.6 million were recorded in the impairment of goodwill and other long-lived assets line in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings in fiscal 2017 and 2016, respectively.

Broadcast Rights—Broadcast rights consist principally of rights to broadcast syndicated programs, sports, and feature films. The total cost of these rights is recorded as an asset and as a liability when programs become


available for broadcast. The current portion of broadcast rights represents those rights available for broadcast that are expected to be amortized in the succeeding year. These rights are valued at the lower of unamortized cost or estimated net realizable value, and are generally charged to operations on an accelerated basis over the contract period. Impairments of unamortized costs to net realizable value are included in production, distribution, and editorial expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings. There were no material impairments of unamortized costs in fiscal years 2019, 2018, 2017, or 2016.2017. Future write-offs can vary based on changes in consumer viewing trends and the availability and costs of other programming.


Intangible Assets and Goodwill—Amortizable intangible assets consist primarily of advertiser relationships, publisher relationships, network affiliation agreements, partner relationships, customer relationships, and retransmission agreements. Intangible assets with finite lives are amortized over their estimated useful lives. The useful life of an intangible asset is the period over which the asset is expected to contribute directly or indirectly to future cash flows. Network affiliation agreements are amortized over the period of time the agreements are expected to remain in place, assuming renewals without material modifications to the original terms and conditions (generally 25 to 40 years from the original acquisition date). Other intangible assets are amortized over their estimated useful lives, ranging from 1 to 10 years.


Intangible assets with indefinite lives include trademarks and Federal Communications Commission (FCC) broadcast licenses. These licenses are granted for a term of up to eight years but are renewable if the Company provides at least an average level of service to its customers and complies with the applicable FCC rules and policies and the Communications Act of 1934. The Company has been successful in every one of its past license renewal requests and has incurred only minimal costs in the process. The Company expects the television broadcasting business to continue indefinitely; therefore, the cash flows from the broadcast licenses are also expected to continue indefinitely.


The Company has acquired trademark brands that have been determined to have indefinite lives. Those assets are evaluated annually for impairment. The Company evaluates a number of factors to determine whether an indefinite life is appropriate, including the competitive environment, market share, brand history, and operating plans. In addition, when certain events or changes in operating conditions occur, an additional impairment assessment is performed, and indefinite-lived assets may be adjusted to a determinable life.


Goodwill and intangible assets which have indefinite lives, are not amortized but are tested for impairment annually or when events occur or circumstances change that indicate the carrying value may exceed the fair value. Goodwill impairment testing is performed at the reporting unit level. The Company has three2 reporting units – national media, and local media excluding MNI Targeted Media (MNI), and MNI.media. The Company also assesses, at least annually, whether assets classified as indefinite-lived intangible assets continue to have indefinite lives.


The Company performs its goodwill impairment analysis annually as of May 31. At May 31, 2018,2019, the date the Company last performed its annual evaluation of impairment of goodwill, management elected to perform qualitative impairment tests for the local media excluding MNI and the MNI reporting unitsunit and a quantitative goodwill impairment test for the national media reporting unit. A quantitative impairment test, performed for a goodwill reporting unit or indefinite-lived intangible assets, involves determining the fair value of the reporting unit or asset which is then compared to its carrying value.
Fair value to which carrying value is compared in the quantitative analysis is determined using a discounted cash flow model, which requires us to estimate the future cash flows expected to be generated by the reporting unit or to result from the use of the asset. These estimates include assumptions about future revenues (including projections of


overall market growth and share of market), estimated costs, and appropriate discount rates where applicable. These assumptions are based on historical data, various internal estimates, and a variety of external sources and are consistent with the assumptions used in both short-term financial forecasts and long-term strategic plans. Depending on the assumptions and estimates used, future cash flow projections can vary within a range of outcomes. Changes in key assumptions used and their prospects or changes in market conditions could result in an impairment charge.


Additional information regarding intangible assets and goodwill including a discussion of impairment charges taken on goodwill and other long-lived intangible assets is provided in Note 5.


Impairment of Long-lived Assets—Long-lived assets (primarily property, plant, and equipment and amortizable intangible assets) are reviewed for impairment whenever events and circumstances indicate the carrying value of an asset may not be recoverable. Recoverability is measured by comparison of the forecasted undiscounted cash flows of the operation to which the assets relate to the carrying amount of the assets. Tests for impairment or recoverability require significant management judgment, and future events affecting cash flows and market conditions could result in impairment losses.


Derivative Financial Instruments—Meredith does not engage in derivative or hedging activities, except at times to hedge interest rate risk on debt. Prior to the Acquisition, Meredith held interest rate swaps designated and accounted for as cash flow hedges in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 815, Derivatives and Hedging. In connection with the repayment of the variable-rate private placement senior notes and bank term loans on January 31, 2018, as further described in Note 7, the Company terminated these swaps. Refer to Note 7 for further discussion on the gain recognized on this termination.


Prior to their termination, the effective portion of the change in the fair value of interest rate swaps was reported in other comprehensive income (loss). The gain or loss included in other comprehensive income (loss) was subsequently reclassified into net earnings on the same line in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings as the hedged item in the same period that the hedge transaction affected net earnings. There were no material gains or losses recognized in earnings for hedge ineffectiveness in fiscal 2018 2017, or 2016.2017.


Revenue Recognition—The Company’s primary source of revenue is advertising.advertising related. Other sources include circulationconsumer related and other revenues.


Advertising related revenues—Advertising related revenues are recognized when advertisements are published (defined as an issue’s on-sale date) or aired by the broadcasting station, net of provisions for estimated rebates, rate adjustments, and discounts. Barter revenues are included in advertising revenue and are also recognized when the advertisements are published or the commercials are broadcast. Barter advertising revenues and the offsetting expense are recognized at the fair value of the advertising surrendered, as determined by similar cash transactions. Barter advertising revenues were not material in any period. Digital advertising revenues are recognized ratably over the contract period or as services are delivered. Third party advertising revenues are recognized when the advertisement is run by the third parties, or a print product is placed on-sale.


CirculationConsumer related revenues—Circulation revenues include magazine single copy and subscription revenue. Single copy revenue is recognized on the publication’s on-sale date, net of provisions for estimated returns. The Company bases its estimates for returns on historical experience and current marketplace conditions. Revenues from magazine subscriptions are deferred and recognized proportionately as products are distributed to subscribers.

Other revenues—Revenues from content creation and other custom programs are recognized when the products or services are delivered. In addition, the Company participates in certain arrangements containing multiple deliverables. The guidance for accounting for multiple-deliverable arrangements requires that overall arrangement consideration be allocated to each deliverable (unit of accounting) in the revenue arrangement based on the relative selling price as determined by vendor specific objective evidence, third-party evidence, or estimated selling price. The related revenue is recognized when each specific deliverable of the arrangement is delivered. Brand licensing-based revenues are accrued generally monthly or quarterly based on the specific mechanisms of each contract. Payments are generally made by the Company’s partners on a quarterly basis. Generally, revenues are accrued


based on estimated sales and adjusted as actual sales are reported by partners. These adjustments are typically recorded within three months of the initial estimates and have not been material. Any minimum guarantees are typically earned evenly over the fiscal year. Retransmission consent revenues are recognized over the contract period based on the negotiated fee and generally on a per subscriber basis. Revenues earned for placing magazines with subscribers on behalf of third-party publishers is recognized once the subscriber’s name is transferred to the publisher, on a net basis, with a reserve for estimated cancellations.

Other revenues—Revenues from content creation and other custom programs are recognized when the products or services are delivered. In addition, the Company participates in certain arrangements containing multiple deliverables. The guidance for accounting for multiple-deliverable arrangements requires that overall arrangement consideration be allocated to each deliverable (unit of accounting) in the revenue arrangement based on the relative


selling price as determined by vendor specific objective evidence, third-party evidence, or estimated selling price. The related revenue is recognized when each specific deliverable of the arrangement is delivered.

In certain instances, revenues are recorded gross in accordance with U.S. GAAP although the Company receives cash for a lesser amount due to the netting of certain expenses. Amounts received from customers in advance of revenue recognition are deferred as liabilities and recognized as revenue in the period earned.


Contingent Consideration—The Company estimates and records the acquisition date estimated fair value of contingent consideration as part of purchase price consideration for acquisitions. Additionally, each reporting period, the Company estimates changes in the fair value of contingent consideration, and any change in fair value is recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings. An increase in the earn-out expected to be paid will result in a charge to operations in the quarter that the anticipated fair value of contingent consideration increases, while a decrease in the earn-out expected to be paid will result in a credit to operations in the quarter that the anticipated fair value of contingent consideration decreases. The estimate of the fair value of contingent consideration requires subjective assumptions to be made regarding future operating results, discount rates, and probabilities assigned to various potential operating result scenarios. Future revisions to these assumptions could materially change the estimate of the fair value of contingent consideration and, therefore, materially affect the Company’s future financial results. Additional information regarding contingent consideration is provided in Note 2.


Advertising Expenses—The majority of the Company’s advertising expenses relate to direct-mail costs for magazine subscription acquisition efforts. Advertising costs that are not capitalized are expensed the first time the advertising takes place. Total advertising expenses included in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings were $122.8$193.3 million in fiscal 2019, $86.3 million in fiscal 2018, $63.9and $63.5 million in fiscal 2017, and $72.6 million in fiscal 2016.2017.


Deferred Financing Costs—Costs incurred to obtain financing are deferred and amortized to interest expense, net on the Consolidated Statements of Earnings over the related financing period using the effective interest method. The Company records deferred financing costs as a direct reduction of the carrying value of the related debt. Financing costs related to revolving debt instruments or lines of credit are included in other assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.


Income Taxes—The income tax provision is calculated under the liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax basis and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in earnings in the period when such a change is enacted. The Company recognizes the effect of income tax positions only if those positions are more likely than not of being sustained. Recognized income tax positions are measured at the largest amount that is greater than 50 percent likely of being realized. Changes in recognition or measurement are reflected in the period in which the change in judgment occurs.


Self-Insurance—The Company self-insures for certain medical claims, and its responsibility generally is capped through the use of a stop loss contract with an insurance company at a certain dollar level. The dollar level varies based on the insurance plan, and ranges between $350 thousand andis generally $500 thousand. Third-party administrators are used to process claims. The Company uses actual claims data and estimates of claims incurred-but-not-reported to calculate estimated liabilities for unsettled claims on an undiscounted basis. Although management re-evaluates the assumptions and reviews the claims experience on an ongoing basis, actual claims paid could vary significantly from estimated claims.




Pensions and Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions—Retirement benefits are provided to employees through pension plans sponsored by the Company. Pension benefits are generally based on formulas that reflect interest credits allocated to participants’ accounts based on years of benefit service and annual pensionable earnings. It is the Company’s policy to fund the qualified pension plans to at least the extent required to maintain their fully


funded status. In addition, the Company provides health care and life insurance benefits for certain retired employees, the expected costs of which are accrued over the years that the employees render services. It is the Company’s policy to fund postretirement benefits as claims are paid. Additional information is provided in Note 11.12.


Share-based Compensation—The Company establishes fair value for its equity awards to determine their cost and recognizes the related expense over the appropriate vesting period. The Company recognizes expense for stock options, restricted stock, restricted stock units, and shares issued under the Company’s employee stock purchase plan. See Note 1213 for additional information related to share-based compensation expense.


Redeemable Preferred Stock—The Company has outstanding 650,000 shares of perpetual convertible redeemable non-voting preferred stock, par value $1.00 per share, each share having an initial stated value of $1,000 per share (the Series A preferred stock). Proceeds from the issuance were allocated on a relative fair value basis between the preferred stock and other freestanding financial instruments issued with the preferred stock. The preferred stock is classified as mezzanine equity and is accreted to its redemption value. Additional information is provided in Note 13.14.


Comprehensive Income—Comprehensive income consists of net earnings and other gains and losses affecting shareholders’ equity that, under U. S.U.S. GAAP, are excluded from net earnings. Other comprehensive income (loss) includes changes in prior service costs and net actuarial losses from pension and postretirement benefit plans, net of taxes,taxes; unrealized gains or losses resulting from foreign currency translation, net of taxes; and changes in the fair value of interest rate swap agreements, net of taxes, to the extent that they are effective. As of June 30, 2018,2019, there were no amounts in other comprehensive income (loss) related to the interest rate swaps as such were settled in fiscal 2018, and all previously unrealized changes in other comprehensive income (loss) were recognized in earnings. Refer to Note 7 for additional discussion on the swap termination.


Earnings Per Share—Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing net earnings attributable to common shareholders by the weighted average common and Class B shares outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings per share calculation incorporatedincorporates the shares utilized in the basic calculation but also includedincludes the dilutive effect, if any, of the assumed exercise or conversion of securities, including the effect of shares issuable under the Company’s share-based incentive plans. In connection with the issuance of the Series A preferred stock and detachable warrants on January 31, 2018, the Company now has a two-class capital structure and applies the two-class method in the calculation of earnings per share. The two-class method adjusts earnings to incorporate dividends declared on common stock, preferred stock, and other securities in distributed earnings. In addition, it also incorporates participating rights in other securities in undistributed earnings. Additional information is provided in Note 15.16.


Adopted Accounting Pronouncements—


ASU 2016-07—2014-09—In March 2016,May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued an Accounting Standards Update (ASU) simplifying the transition to the equity method of accounting. The new guidance eliminates the requirement to apply the equity method of accounting retrospectively when a reporting entity obtains significant influence over a previously held investment. The Company adopted this standard effective July 1, 2017. This guidance was applied to one investment during the fiscal year, which simplified the transition2014-09, Revenue from the cost method to equity method. The application did not have any other impact on the Company’s results of operations, cash flows, or disclosures.

ASU 2016-09—In March 2016, as a part of its simplification initiative, the FASB issued guidance on the accounting for employee share-based payments. The new guidance is intended to simplify several aspects of the accounting for share-based payment transactions, including the income tax treatment, classification of awards as


either equity or liabilities,Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) (ASC 606) that updated and classification on the statement of cash flows. The Company adopted this standard effective July 1, 2017.

The adoption of this guidance resulted in the prospective recognition of realized excess tax benefits related to the exercise or vesting of share-based awards in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings instead of in additional paid-in capital within the Consolidated Balance Sheets. See Note 8 for discussion of the credits to income tax expense recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings. Using a modified retrospective application, the Company has elected to recognize forfeitures as they occur and recorded a $1.1 million increase to additional paid-in capital, a $0.6 million reduction to retained earnings, and a $0.5 million reduction to deferred taxes to reflect the incremental share-based compensation expense, net of the related tax impacts, that would have been recognized in prior years under the modified guidance. Presentation requirements for cash flows related to employee taxes paid using withheld shares had no impact to all periods presented as such cash flows have historically been presented as financing activities. The Company no longer classifies excess tax benefits related to share-based awards as a financing cash inflow and an operating cash outflow. This classification requirement was adopted prospectively and, as such, the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows have not been retrospectively adjusted.

ASU 2018-02—In February 2018, the FASB issued guidance regarding the reclassification of certain tax effects from accumulated other comprehensive loss. This amended guidance allows a reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive loss to retained earnings for stranded tax effects resulting from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (the Tax Reform Act) which was signed into law on December 22, 2017. The Company early adopted this amended guidance on January 1, 2018, and as a result, elected to reclassify $4.0 million of stranded tax effects from accumulated other comprehensive loss to retained earnings using a specific identification approach. The adoption of this guidance did not have an impact on the Company’s results of operations, cash flows, or disclosures.

ASU 2018-05—In March 2018, the FASB issued guidance which incorporates into ASC 740 – Income Taxes (ASC 740), various United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) guidance pursuant to the issuance of SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 118 (SAB 118), which was effective immediately. In December 2017, the SEC issued SAB 118 to address concerns about reporting entities’ ability to timely comply with the accounting requirements to recognize all of the effects of the Tax Reform Act in the period of enactment. SAB 118 allows for calculations of the impacts of the Tax Reform Act to be considered provisional and subject to remeasurement upon further collection, preparation, and analysis of relevant data and disclosure regarding the impacts of the Tax Reform Act for which accounting under ASC 740 is incomplete. As the Company accounted for the tax effects of the Tax Reform Act on a provisional basis under the guidance of SAB 118 prior to this update, the adoption of this guidance did not have an impact on the consolidated financial statements.

Pending Accounting Pronouncements—

ASU 2014-09—In May 2014, the FASB issued an accounting standards update that replacesreplaced existing revenue recognition guidance. The new standard requires a company to recognize revenue for the transfer of promised goods or services equal to the amount it expects to receive in exchange for those goods or services. The standardguidance includes a five-step framework to determine the timing and amount of revenue to recognize related to contracts with customers. Additionally, the standardguidance requires new and significantly enhanced disclosures about the nature, amount, timing, and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows from customer contracts as well as judgments made by a company when following the framework.


The Company will adoptadopted the standard, beginningincluding all updates made to the standard since original issuance, on July 1, 2018, (fiscal 2019). The two permitted transition methods are the full retrospective method, in which case the standard would be applied to each prior reporting period presented and the cumulative effect of applying the standard would be recognized in the earliest period shown; or the modified retrospective method, in which case the cumulative effect of applying the standard would be recognized at the date of initial application. The Company will adopt the standard using the modified retrospective method. The standard was applied to all contracts open as of July 1, 2018. The cumulative prior period effect of applying ASC 606 was $2.4 million, which resulted in an increase to retained earnings upon adoption.

The Company is in the process of assessing and documenting the effect of the adoption of this standard on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures related to advertising, circulation, and other revenues, and


completing the design and implementation of related controls. Based on our assessment to date, the Company does not believe the adoption of the standard will change the timing or pattern of revenue recognition for most of ourthe Company's revenue contracts except for thosewith the exception of contracts with value-added items or those that require combination under the standard. We do not anticipate thoseRefer to Note 11 for further discussion on the impacts willof the adoption of this accounting standard.



The Company utilized various practical expedients offered by the guidance in our implementation. For the Company's contracts that have a material effect on our consolidated revenues subject to completionan original duration of our evaluation. Whiletwelve months or less, the Company does not expect material changesimpute interest to the amountaccount for a financing element. For all contracts with an original term of twelve months or timing of our revenue recognition,less and for performance obligations tied to sales-based or usage-based royalties, the Company will significantly expand our future disclosures on both a quarterly and annual basishas not disclosed the transaction price for the remaining performance obligations as required underof the standard.end of each reporting period or when the Company expects to recognize this revenue. Finally, consistent with historical practice, the Company excludes amounts collected from customers for sales taxes from its transaction prices.


ASU 2016-01—In January 2016, the FASB issued guidance to improve and simplify accounting for financial instruments. The updated guidance includes several provisions that are not applicable to the Company’s consolidated financial statements with the exception of changes to fair value disclosure.disclosures. Under the new guidance, public entities are no longer required to disclose the methods and significant assumptions used to estimate fair value of financial instruments measured at amortized cost on the consolidated balance sheets.sheet. It also requires public entities to use the exit price when measuring the fair value of financial instruments for disclosure purposes. The guidance is effective for the Companywas adopted in the first quarter of fiscal 2019. The adoption of this guidance requiresrequired a change in ourthe Company's disclosures only and it isdid not expected to have an impact on ourthe Company's financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.

ASU 2016-15—In August 2016, the FASB issued an accounting standards update clarifying the classification of certain cash receipts and payments in the statement of cash flows. The update is intended to reduce the diversity in practice regarding how certain transactions are classified within the statement of cash flows. The update was effective beginning in the first quarter of fiscal 2019 and was adopted retrospectively as required by the ASU.

As a result of the update, the Company reclassified a cash outflow of $0.8 million and $0.7 million for the years ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively, from financing activities to operating activities related to contingent considerations paid in excess of that recognized as a liability on the date of acquisition. For the year ended June 30, 2018, the Company also reclassified a cash inflow of $0.7 million from operating activities to investing activities related to cash proceeds from corporate owned life insurance. The update is not expected to have a material impact on the classification of future cash flows.

ASU 2017-01—In January 2017, the FASB issued an accounting standards update that clarifies the definition of a business and adds guidance to assist entities in the determination of whether an acquisition (or disposal) represents assets or a business. The update provides a test to determine whether or not an acquisition is a business. If substantially all of the fair value of the assets acquired is concentrated in a single asset or a group of similar identifiable assets, the acquired assets do not represent a business. If this test is not met, the update provides further guidance to evaluate if the acquisition represents a business. The Company prospectively adopted the guidance in the first quarter of fiscal 2019. The adoption did not have an impact to the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

ASU 2017-07—In March 2017, the FASB issued an accounting standards update on the presentation of net periodic pension and postretirement benefit costs. This guidance revises how employers that sponsor defined benefit pension and other postretirement plans present the net periodic benefit costs in their income statement and requires that the service cost component of net periodic benefit costs be presented in the same line items as other employee compensation costs. The other components of net periodic benefit costs must be presented separately from the line items that include the service cost and outside of the income from operations subtotal.

As required by the standard, the Company adopted the update on July 1, 2018, retrospectively to July 1, 2016, which resulted in an increase in production, distribution, and editorial expenses of $5.5 million; a decrease in selling, general, and administrative expenses of $4.6 million; and an increase in non-operating income, net of $0.9 million for the year ended June 30, 2017. For the year ended June 30, 2018, the adoption of this update resulted in an increase in production, distribution, and editorial expenses of $3.2 million; an increase in selling, general, and administrative expenses of $9.1 million; and an increase in non-operating income, net of $12.3 million. The Company elected the practical expedient allowed by the update and utilized previously disclosed components of net periodic benefit costs from the pension and other postretirement benefit plan note in the June 30, 2018, Form 10-K.


For the year ended June 30, 2019, the implementation of this guidance resulted in an increase in production, distribution, and editorial expenses of $2.6 million; an increase in selling, general, and administrative expenses of $12.9 million; and an increase in non-operating income, net of $15.5 million, compared to that which would have been reported under previous guidance.

ASU 2017-09—In May 2017, the FASB issued additional guidance that clarifies when changes to the terms or conditions of a share-based payment award must be accounted for as modifications. Under this guidance, an entity does not apply modification accounting to a share-based payment award if the award's fair value, vesting conditions, and classification as an equity or liability instrument are the same immediately before and after the change. This guidance was adopted in the first quarter of fiscal 2019. The adoption of this guidance did not have an impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.

ASU 2018-15—In August 2018, the FASB issued guidance on accounting for costs of implementation activities performed in a cloud computing arrangement that is a service contract. The amendments in the update align the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred in a hosting arrangement that is a service contract with the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred to develop or obtain internal-use software and hosting arrangements that include an internal-use software license. The guidance is effective for the Company beginning in the first quarter of fiscal 2021 with early adoption permitted. The amendments in the update can be applied either retrospectively or prospectively to all implementation costs incurred after the date of adoption. The Company adopted this guidance prospectively, effective July 1, 2018. The adoption did not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.

In August 2018, the SEC issued a final rule that amends certain of its disclosure requirements. Specifically, the final rule modifies or eliminates disclosures that are redundant, duplicative, overlapping, outdated, or superseded in light of other SEC or U.S. GAAP disclosure requirements or changes in the information environment. Several aspects of the final rule are applicable to the Company but did not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements. The amendments were effective November 5, 2018, and were implemented in the first quarter of fiscal 2019.

Pending Accounting Pronouncements—

ASU 2016-02—In February 2016, the FASB issued an accounting standards update that replaces existing lease accounting standards. The new standard requires lessees to recognize on the balance sheet a right-of use asset, representing its right to use the underlying asset for the lease term, and a lease liability for all leases with terms greater than 12 months. The guidance also requires qualitative and quantitative disclosures designed to assess the amount, timing, and uncertainty of cash flows arising from leases. Treatment of lease payments in the statement of earnings and statement of cash flows is relatively unchanged from previous guidance. TheThis standard is required to be applied under theusing a modified retrospective method, with elective reliefs,approach, which requires applicationgives the option of applying the new guidance as of the effective date with enhanced disclosure requirements for allcomparative periods presented under prior lease guidance or applying the new standard at the beginning of the earliest comparative period presented. The FASB continues to issueissued amendments to further clarify provisions of this guidance. The standard, including the amendments made since initial issuance, is effective for the Company beginning July 1, 2019, with early adoption permitted.

The Company will adopt this standard on July 1, 2019, using the effective date as the date of initial application. Consequently, prior-period financial information will not be updated and disclosures required under the new standard will not be provided for dates and periods before July 1, 2019. The Company intends to elect the practical expedient package permitted under transition guidance, which allows prior conclusions about lease identification and initial direct costs to not be reassessed and historical lease classification to be carried forward. The Company also currently does not expect to elect the use of the hindsight practical expedient and will make accounting policy elections to exempt leases with an initial term of twelve months or less from balance sheet recognition and not separate lease and non-lease components for certain asset classes of leases.



The Company is currently in the process of finalizing its implementation efforts which include evaluating ourthe existing lease portfolios, including accumulating all of the necessary information required to properly account for the leases under theportfolio and implementing a new standard. As such,lease accounting and administration system. While the Company is currently evaluatingstill quantifying the effect of adoption, it does expect a material impact on the guidance will haveConsolidated Balance Sheet due to the recognition of the right-of-use assets and related liabilities for operating leases and the inclusion of significantly new disclosures about leasing activities on our consolidated financial statements.both a quarterly and annual basis.


ASU 2016-13—In June 2016, the FASB issued a standard that replaces the current incurred loss methodology for recognizing credit losses with a current expected credit loss methodology. Under this standard, the establishment of an allowance for credit losses reflects all relevant information about past events, current conditions, and reasonable supportable forecasts rather than delaying the recognition of the full amount of a credit loss until the loss is probable of occurring. The new standard changes the impairment model for most financial assets and certain other instruments, including trade receivables. A modified retrospective implementation of this standard is effective in the Company’s first quarter of fiscal 2021, with early adoption permitted in the first quarter of fiscal 2020. The Company is currently evaluating the impact this guidance will have on our consolidated financial statements.

ASU 2016-15—In August 2016, the FASB issued an accounting standards update clarifying the classification of certain cash receipts and payments in the statement of cash flows. The update is intended to reduce the diversity in practice around how certain transactions are classified within the statement of cash flows. Retrospective adoption is required in our first quarter of fiscal 2019 with early adoption permitted, including adoption in an interim period. The Company is currently evaluating the impact this update will have on its consolidated financial statements; however, the adoption is not expected to have a material impact in the presentation of our Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.

ASU 2017-01—In January 2017, the FASB issued an accounting standards update that clarifies the definition of a business and adds guidance to assist entities in the determination of whether an acquisition (or disposal) represents assets or a business. The update provides a test to determine whether or not an acquisition is a business. If substantially all of the fair value of the assets acquired is concentrated in a single asset or a group of similar identifiable assets, the acquired assets do not represent a business. If this test is not met, the update provides further


guidance to evaluate if the acquisition represents a business. Prospective adoption is required in the first quarter of fiscal 2019. Early adoption is permitted if certain transaction criteria are met. The Company does not believe the adoption of this update will have a material impact prospectively, to the Company’s consolidated financial statements.


ASU 2017-04—In January 2017, the FASB issued an accounting standards update that simplifies the subsequent measurement of goodwill by eliminating Step 2 of the goodwill impairment test. The Step 2 test requires an entity to calculate the implied fair value of goodwill to measure a goodwill impairment charge. Instead, an entity will record an impairment charge based on the excess of a reporting unit’s carrying value over its fair value determined in Step 1. This update also eliminates the qualitative assessment requirements for a reporting unit with zero or negative carrying value. Prospective adoption is required in the first quarter of fiscal 2021, with early adoption permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact this update will have on its consolidated financial statements.


ASU 2017-07—2018-13—In March 2017,August 2018, the FASB issued an accounting standards update onwhich changes the presentation of net periodic pension and postretirement benefit costs. This guidance revises how employers that sponsor defined benefit pension and other postretirement plans present the net periodic benefit costs in their income statement and requires that the service cost component of net periodic benefit costs be presented in the same line items as other employee compensation costs for the related employees. Of the components of net periodic benefit costs, only the service cost component will be eligible for asset capitalization. The other components of net periodic benefit costs must be presented separately from the line items that include the service cost and outside of the income from operations subtotal.fair value measurement disclosure requirements. The update isremoves, modifies, and adds certain additional disclosures. The effective fordate is the first quarter of fiscal 2019,2021, with early adoption permitted.permitted for any eliminated or modified disclosures. The adoption is expected to require reclassification of expensesthis guidance requires a change in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings; however, itdisclosures only and is not expected to have an impact on the Company’s operating results or cash flows.Company's consolidated financial statements.


ASU 2017-09—2018-14—In May 2017,August 2018, the FASB issued guidance to clarify guidancean accounting standards update which adds, removes, and modifies disclosure requirements related to changesdefined benefit pension and other postretirement plans. The update amends only annual disclosure requirements. Retrospective adoption of the update is required in terms or conditions of a share-based payment award.fiscal 2022 with early adoption permitted. The purposeadoption of this guidance requires a change in disclosures only and is not expected to have an impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.

ASU 2019-02—In March 2019, the FASB issued an accounting standards update which aligns the accounting for production costs of episodic television series with the accounting for production costs of films. In addition, the update modifies certain aspects of the capitalization, impairment, presentation, and disclosure requirements in the accounting standards for entities in the film and broadcast entertainment industries. The update is to provide guidance about which changes toeffective for the terms or conditions of a share-based payment award require an entity to apply modification accountingCompany in ASC 718 – Compensation – Stock Compensation. The effective date is the first quarter of fiscal 2019 with early2021 and must be applied prospectively. Early adoption is permitted. The Company does not expectis currently assessing the adoption ofimpact this guidance toupdate will have a material impact on our results of operations, cash flows, or disclosures.the Company's consolidated financial statements.


ASU 2017-12—In August 2017, the FASB issued guidance amending hedge accounting requirements. The purpose of this guidance is to better align a company’s risk management activities and financial reporting requirements, and to simplify the application of hedge accounting. The effective date is the first quarter of fiscal 2020, with early adoption permitted. The Company does not expect the adoption of this guidance to have a material impact on our results of operations, cash flows, or disclosures.



2. Acquisitions

Fiscal 2019
On February 28, 2019, Meredith acquired 100 percent of the membership interests in Linfield Media, LLC (Linfield Media), a marketing business focused on online savings and deals, for $16.6 million in cash. The results of Linfield Media have been included in the consolidated financial statements since that date.



The following table summarizes the fair value of total consideration transferred and the recognized amounts of identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed for the national media segment during the year ended June 30, 2019:

(In millions) 
Consideration 
Cash$16.6
  
Recognized amounts of identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed 
Total identifiable assets acquired$6.0
Total liabilities assumed—
Total identified net assets6.0
Goodwill10.6
Net assets acquired$16.6


The following table provides details of the identifiable acquired intangible assets in the acquisition:

(In millions) 
Intangible assets subject to amortization 
Partner relationships$3.2
Other1.2
Total intangible assets$4.4


The useful life of the partnership relationships is 10 years, and other intangible assets' useful lives range between one year and six years. The goodwill is attributable primarily to expected synergies and the assembled workforces. Goodwill, with an assigned value of $10.6 million, is expected to be fully deductible for tax purposes.

During fiscal 2019, there were $0.1 million acquisition related costs incurred. These costs are included in the acquisition, disposition, and restructuring related activities line in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings.

Fiscal 2018

On January 31, 2018, Meredith completed its acquisition of all the outstanding shares of Time for $18.50 per share, for a total transaction value of $3.2 billion, including the repayment of Time’s outstanding debt. As part of the Acquisition, Meredith also repaid its outstanding debt. These transactions were funded through a combination of borrowings under the Company’s new $1.8 billion secured term loan facility, the issuance of $1.4 billion of senior unsecured notes, the issuance of preferred equity, and cash on hand (refer to Note 7 for additional information on the long-term debt and Note 1314 for additional information on the preferred equity).


In accordance with the merger agreement, certain of Time’s outstanding restricted stock units, performance stock units, and in-the-money stock options were immediately vested, converted into the right to receive $18.50 per share, and paid in cash. The value of these awards was apportioned between total purchase price consideration and


immediate expense. This expense is included in the acquisition, disposition, and restructuring related activities line on the Consolidated Statements of Earnings. Additionally, certain of Time’s outstanding stock options and restricted stock units were converted into mirror awards exercisable or earned in Meredith common stock. The conversion was based on a ratio of $18.50 to the volume-weighted average per share closing price for Meredith’s stock on the ten consecutive trading days ended on the complete trading day immediately prior to the acquisition closing date. The value of these awards was apportioned between total purchase price consideration and unearned compensation to be recognized over the remaining original vesting periods of the awards.



The following table summarizes the aggregate purchase price consideration paid to acquire Time:


(In millions) 
Consideration paid to Time shareholders$1,860.7
Repayment of Time’s outstanding debt, including prepayment penalty1,327.9
Cash consideration issued to settle outstanding share-based equity awards37.6
Total cash consideration3,226.2
Share-based equity awards issued to settle outstanding share-based equity awards33.8
Total consideration issued3,260.0
Portion of cash settlement of outstanding share-based equity awards recognized as expense(9.2)
Portion of share-based equity awards issued to be recognized as an expense, primarily through fiscal 2021(24.0)
Total purchase price consideration$3,226.8

(In millions) 
Consideration paid to Time shareholders$1,860.7
Repayment of Time’s outstanding debt, including prepayment penalty1,327.9
Cash consideration issued to settle outstanding share-based equity awards37.6
Total cash consideration3,226.2
Share-based equity awards issued to settle outstanding share-based equity awards33.8
Total consideration issued3,260.0
Portion of cash settlement of outstanding share-based equity awards recognized as expense(9.2)
Portion of share-based equity awards issued to be recognized as an expense, primarily through fiscal 2021(24.0)
Total purchase price consideration$3,226.8


This transaction created a premier media and marketing company serving 175 million American consumers. Meredith’sAt Acquisition close, the combined portfolio of brands now havehad a readership of more than 120 million and paid circulation of more than 40 million. The acquisition also increased Meredith’s digital position with nearly 135 million monthly unique visitors in the U.S. While the majority of Time’s operations are reported in Meredith’s national media segment, one1 business unit of Time is reported in Meredith’s local media segment and certain expenses are reported in unallocated corporate.





The Company accounted for this acquisition as a business combination under the acquisition method of accounting. The following table summarizes the preliminary purchase price allocation of fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition. The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed were based on management’s preliminary estimates of the fair values of Time’s net assets. The estimated fair values of net assets and resulting goodwill are subject toIn fiscal 2019, the Company finalizing its analysis of the fair value of Time’s assets and liabilities as of the acquisition date, and are subjectrecorded purchase price allocation adjustments relating to change pending the final valuation of these assets and liabilities. In addition, information unknown at the time of the Time acquisition could result in adjustments to the respective fair values and resulting goodwill. Differences between the preliminary and final estimated fair values could be material. As additional information is obtained about these assets and liabilities within the measurement period (not to exceed one year from the date of acquisition), the Company will refine its estimates of fair value and reallocate the purchase price.

(In millions) 
Cash and cash equivalents$399.9
Accounts receivable290.9
Inventory22.8
Assets held-for-sale1,006.1
Other current assets60.0
Total current assets1,779.7
Property, plant, and equipment300.8
Other assets98.0
Intangible assets1,146.8
Total identifiable assets acquired3,325.3
Accounts payable140.0
Accrued liabilities195.6
Current portion of unearned revenues192.1
Liabilities associated with assets held-for-sale315.7
Total current liabilities843.4
Unearned revenues41.7
Deferred income taxes172.2
Other noncurrent liabilities104.4
Total liabilities assumed1,161.7
Total identified net assets2,163.6
Goodwill1,063.2
Net assets acquired$3,226.8

The gross contractual amount of trade receivables acquired was $357.4 million and the contractual amount not expected to be collected was $66.5 million at the acquisition date.

Subsequent to the initial purchase price allocation, the Company recorded adjustments that in the aggregate, increased goodwill by $17.8 million. The net change was due primarily to a decrease in the estimated fair value of$24.6 million, reduced assets held-for-sale partially offset by a decrease in$19.9 million and increased deferred income tax liabilities and an increase in intangible assets.by $4.7 million. These adjustments resulted from new information about facts and circumstances that existed at the time of the acquisition. The measurement period is now closed.



(In millions) 
Cash and cash equivalents$399.9
Accounts receivable293.4
Inventory22.8
Assets held-for-sale962.2
Other current assets60.5
Total current assets1,738.8
Property, plant, and equipment300.8
Other assets98.0
Intangible assets1,147.8
Total identifiable assets acquired3,285.4
Accounts payable140.3
Accrued liabilities195.8
Current portion of unearned revenues198.5
Liabilities associated with assets held-for-sale305.5
Total current liabilities840.1
Unearned revenues45.0
Deferred income taxes176.9
Other noncurrent liabilities104.4
Total liabilities assumed1,166.4
Total identified net assets2,119.0
Goodwill1,107.8
Net assets acquired$3,226.8



The gross contractual amount of trade receivables acquired was $360.3 million and the contractual amount not expected to be collected was $66.9 million at the acquisition date.

The following table provides details of the identifiable acquired intangible assets (based on the preliminary assessment of the fair value of assets acquired):assets:

(In millions) 
Intangible assets subject to amortization 
Advertiser relationships$223.5
Publisher relationships125.0
Partner relationships95.0
Customer relationships63.3
Total506.8
Intangible assets not subject to amortization 
Trademarks641.0
Intangible assets, net$1,147.8



(In millions) 
Intangible assets subject to amortization 
Advertiser relationships$223.5
Publisher relationships125.0
Partner relationships95.0
Customer relationships63.3
Total506.8
Intangible assets not subject to amortization 
Trademarks640.0
Intangible assets, net$1,146.8


The weighted average useful life of advertiser relationships is 3 years, publisher relationships is 7 years, partner relationships is 6 years, and customer relationships is 2 years. Due to the timing of the acquisition and the complexities involved with determining fair value of the intangible assets acquired, the Company has not yet completed the valuation of the identified intangibles. The preliminary purchase price allocation has been developed based on preliminary estimates of fair values. Therefore, there may be adjustments made to the purchase price allocation that could result in changes to the preliminary fair values allocated, assigned useful lives, and associated amortization recorded.


Goodwill is attributable primarily to expected synergies and the assembled workforces. Of total goodwill recorded of $1.1 billion, $93.6 million is expected to be deductible for income tax purposes.


Transaction and integration costs incurred by Meredith were $59.9 million in fiscal 2018. These costs are included in the acquisition, disposition, and restructuring related activities line in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings.


The following table presents the amounts of Time’s revenue and earnings included in Meredith’s Consolidated Statements of Earnings since the date of the acquisition for the years ended June 30, 20182019 and 2017. Also2018. As the Company continues to integrate Time, the ability to separately track Time-revenues and expenses, especially unallocated corporate expenses, becomes less feasible. As such, the Time revenues and expenses as presented below are limited to the unaudited pro-formacombined results from the national media and local media segments and do not include discontinued operations, which are separately presented in Note 4.

Years ended June 30,2018
(In millions except per share data) 
Time total revenues$625.3
Time net earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income tax(74.4)


In preparing its condensed consolidated results of operations – revenues, net earnings (loss),financial statements for the three and diluted net earnings (loss) per sharenine months ended March 31, 2019, the Company identified errors in the accounting for certain magazine subscriptions in prior periods beginning at the time of the combined entity foracquisition of Time. The errors were due to the yearsincorrect coding of certain magazine subscriptions by Time, which resulted in the subscriptions being recorded on a net basis instead of a gross basis in the Company's national media segment.

As a result of these errors, consumer related revenue and selling, general, and administrative expense were understated on the Company's Consolidated Statements of Earnings and subscription acquisition costs and unearned revenues were understated on the Company's Consolidated Balance Sheets. As these errors also affected certain of the brands held-for-sale (see Note 4), assets held-for-sale and liabilities associated with assets held-for-sale were also understated on the Company's Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Also, in the quarter ended June 30, 2018March 31, 2019, the Company recorded an out-of-period adjustment to correct the impact on the opening Time balance sheet of these coding errors. The effect of the adjustment was to reduce selling, general, and 2017, as ifadministrative expenses by $10.0 million, and increase goodwill by $7.4 million and income tax expense by $2.6 million.

In accordance with Staff Accounting Bulletin (SAB) No. 99, Materiality, the acquisition had occurred on July 1, 2016,Company calculated the beginningeffect of these errors and determined that they were not material, individually or in the aggregate, to previously issued financial statements and, therefore, amendment of previously filed reports was not required. As permitted by SAB No. 108, Considering the Effects of Prior Year Misstatements when Quantifying Misstatements in Current Year Financial Statements, the Company corrected, in the third quarter of fiscal 2017:2019, previously reported results. The amounts shown below differ from amounts reported in the third quarter of fiscal 2019 due to the reclassification of the Money brand from discontinued operations to continuing operations (See Note 4).



In accordance with Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 250, Accounting Changes and Error Corrections, the effect of the correction on each financial statement line item for each period affected is as follows:

Years ended June 30,2018 2017
(In millions except per share data)   
Actual Time total revenues$625.3
 $—
Actual Time net loss(74.4) —
    
Pro-forma total revenue3,115.5
 3,669.9
Pro-forma net earnings (loss)223.2
 (28.6)
Pro-forma diluted net earnings (loss) per share3.16
 (2.37)
Consolidated Balance Sheet as of June 30, 2018As ReportedAdjustmentAs Adjusted
(in millions)   
Current portion of subscription acquisition costs$118.3
$26.7
$145.0
Assets held-for-sale708.0
11.8
719.8
Subscription acquisition costs61.1
5.2
66.3
Current portion of unearned revenues366.8
26.7
393.5
Liabilities associated with assets held-for-sale188.2
11.8
200.0
Unearned revenues127.1
5.2
132.3


The unaudited pro-forma consolidated results above are based on the historical financial statements of Meredith and Time and are not necessarily indicative of the results of operations that would have been achieved if the acquisition was completed on July 1, 2016 (the beginning of the 2017 fiscal year), and are not indicative of the future operating results of the combined company. This pro-forma financial information is based upon preliminary purchase price allocations and various assumptions and estimates. The pro-forma consolidated results of operations include the effects of purchase accounting adjustments, including amortization charges related to the finite-lived intangible assets acquired. The pro-forma totals above also reflect the impact of transactions made to finance the acquisition
Consolidated Statements of EarningsAs ReportedAdjustmentAs Adjusted
(in millions)   
For the twelve months ended June 30, 2018   
Consumer related revenue$912.3
$9.0
$921.3
Selling, general, and administrative expense978.5
9.0
987.5
    
For the three months ended September 30, 2018   
Consumer related revenue303.6
12.5
316.1
Selling, general, and administrative expense337.8
12.5
350.3
    
For the three months ended December 31, 2018   
Consumer related revenue342.6
15.7
358.3
Selling, general, and administrative expense330.3
15.7
346.0



(see Note 7 and Note 13) and exclude historical interest of each entity and the prepayment penalty. The impact of the discontinued operations have been removed from pro-forma revenue for each of the periods presented. Historical intercompany transactions between Meredith and Time have also been removed. Transaction and integration costs related to the acquisition of Time have been excluded from the above pro-forma consolidated results of operations due to their non-recurring nature. The pro-forma net earnings (loss) were also adjusted for the tax effects related to the other pro-forma adjustments.

Included within the pro-forma results above, are $26.4 million and $202.6 million of impairment charges for long-lived assets for the years ended June 30, 2018, and 2017, respectively. The pro-forma results above also include restructuring charges related to the Time transaction of $150.6 million for the year ended June 30, 2018. There were no restructuring charges related to the acquisition recorded in the year ended June 30, 2017.


Fiscal 2017
During fiscal 2017, Meredith paid $84.4 million for the acquisitions of WPCH-TV (Peachtree TV), an independent television station in Atlanta, Georgia, and the assets of a digital lead-generation company in the home services market.

On December 7, 2016, Meredith acquired the assets of a digital lead-generation company in the home services market, which has been rebranded Meredith Performance Marketing by the Company. The acquisition-date fair value of the consideration was $21.1 million, which consisted of $13.4 million of cash and $7.7 million of contingent consideration. The contingent consideration arrangement requiresrequired the Company to paymake contingent payments based on the achievement of certain operational targets in fiscal 2017 and on financial performance during fiscal 2017 through fiscal 2021 measured in terms of earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) as defined in the acquisition agreement. The contingent consideration is not dependent on the continued employment of the sellers. The Company estimated the fair value of the contingent consideration using a probability-weighted discounted cash flow model. The fair value is based on significant inputs not observable in the market and thus represents a Level 3 measurement as defined in Note 10. The Company paid no0 contingent consideration in fiscal 2018, and paid $2.6 million in contingent consideration in 2017. Although operating performance for the brand has been positive, revised projections in revenues resulted in lower projected EBITDA than anticipated at acquisition. Therefore, the Company recognized non-cash credits to operations of $3.8 million and $0.4 million in fiscal 2018 and 2017, respectively, to reduce the estimated contingent consideration payable. These credits are recorded in the selling, general, and administrative expense line on the Consolidated Statements of Earnings. A payment of $0.3 million was made during fiscal 2019 related to the fiscal 2018 EBITDA performance. As of June 30, 2018,2019, the Company estimates the future payments will range from $0.9$0.6 million to $1.5$1.1 million.


Effective April 21, 2017, Meredith acquired Peachtree TV,WPCH-TV (Peachtree TV), which was operated by Meredith prior to its acquisition. The results of Peachtree TV’s operations have been included in the consolidated financial statements since that date. The cash purchase price was $70.0 million.



The following table summarizes the fair value of total consideration transferred and the recognized amounts of identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed by segment during the year ended June 30, 2017:

(In millions)National Media Acquisition Local
Media
Acquisition		 Total
Consideration     
Cash$11.8
 $70.0
 $81.8
Payment in escrow1.6
 —
 1.6
Contingent consideration arrangements7.7
 —
 7.7
Fair value of total consideration transferred$21.1
 $70.0
 $91.1
      
Recognized amounts of identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed     
Total identifiable assets acquired$8.6
 $81.6
 $90.2
Total liabilities assumed—
 (23.4) (23.4)
Total identified net assets8.6
 58.2
 66.8
Goodwill12.5
 11.8
 24.3
 $21.1
 $70.0
 $91.1

The following table provides details of the acquired intangible assets by acquisition:

(In millions)National Media Acquisition 
Local
Media Acquisition
 Total
Intangible assets subject to amortization     
Retransmission agreements$—
 $6.7
 $6.7
Customer list4.2
 —
 4.2
Other4.4
 0.7
 5.1
Total8.6
 7.4
 16.0
Intangible assets not subject to amortization     
FCC licenses—
 50.4
 50.4
Intangible assets$8.6
 $57.8
 $66.4

The useful life of the customer list is 10 years, and other national media intangible assets’ useful life is 5 years. The useful lives of the retransmission agreements are 10 years and local media other intangible assets’ useful life is 4 years.


For these acquisitions, goodwill is attributable primarily to expected synergies and the assembled workforces. Goodwill, with an assigned value of $24.3 million, is expected to be fully deductible for tax purposes.


During fiscal 2017, acquisition related costs of $0.3 million were incurred. These costs are included in the acquisition, disposition, and restructuring related activities line in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings.


Prior
On December 30, 2014, Meredith acquired 100 percent of the outstanding stock of Selectable Media. The contingent consideration arrangement requires the Company to pay contingent payments based on certain financial targets over three fiscal years, primarily based on revenue, as defined in the acquisition agreement. The final payment of $4.0 million was paid in fiscal 2018.



Fiscal 2017
In February 2015, Meredith completed its acquisition of Shape. The acquisition agreement included a contingent consideration arrangement requiresthat required the Company to pay contingent payments based on certain financial targets over three fiscal years, primarily based on operating profit, as defined in the acquisition agreement. Revised projections in advertising revenue have resulted in lower projected operating profits and therefore lower estimates toThe final payment of $19.0 million was made during fiscal year 2019.

On November 13, 2014, Meredith acquired Mywedding. The acquisition agreement included a contingent consideration payable than originally expected. Thearrangement that would require the Company to pay a contingent payment based on the achievement of certain financial targets. Due to the business having failed to achieve certain key targets, the Company reduced the value of the contingent consideration in fiscal 2017. In fiscal 2019, the Company reversed the remaining recorded contingency and as a result recognized a non-cash creditscredit to operations of $2.0$5.1 million in fiscal 2018, $1.3 million in fiscal 2017, and $4.9 million in fiscal 2016, to reduce the estimated contingent consideration payable. These credits were recorded in the selling, general, and administrative expense line on the Consolidated Statements of Earnings. As of June 30, 2018, the Company estimates future payments to be $19.2 million.




3. Inventories


Inventories consist mainly of paper stock, editorial content, books, and other merchandise and are stated at the lower of cost or estimated net realizable value. Cost is determined using the first-in, first-out method for books and weighted average cost method for paper and other merchandise.


Effective January 1, 2018, the Company prospectively changed its method of accounting for paper inventory from the last-in, first-out (LIFO) method to the weighted average cost method. Of total net inventory values shown 65 percent at June 30, 2017, were determined using the LIFO method. LIFO inventory income included in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings was $1.3 million infiscal 2018,$1.7 millionin fiscal 2017,2018 and $0.7$1.7 million infiscal 2016.2017.


June 30,2019 2018
(In millions)   
Raw materials$42.7
 $32.3
Work in process15.4
 9.6
Finished goods4.6
 2.5
Inventories$62.7
 $44.4

June 30,2018 2017
(In millions)   
Raw materials$32.1
 $13.4
Work in process9.6
 8.7
Finished goods2.5
 1.1
 44.2
 23.2
Reserve for LIFO cost valuation—
 (1.3)
Inventories$44.2
 $21.9




4. Assets Held-for-Sale, Discontinued Operations, and Dispositions


Assets Held-for-Sale


The Company classifies assetsan asset as being held-for-sale when the following criteria are met: management has committed to a plan to sell the asset; the asset is available for immediate sale in its present condition; an active program to locate a buyer and other actions required to complete the plan to sell the asset have been initiated; the sale of the asset is probable, and transfer of the asset is expected to qualify for recognition as a completed sale within one year; the asset is being actively marketed for sale at a price that is reasonable in relation to its current fair value; and actions required to complete the plan indicate that it is unlikely that significant changes to the plan will be made or that the plan will be withdrawn. Long-lived assets that are classified as held-for-sale are recorded at the lower of carrying value or fair value less costs to sell. Fair value is based on current market values or discounted future cash flows usingsell, and are considered to be Level 3 inputs determined based on the Company’s experience and knowledge of the market, including the use of advisers.measurements as defined in Note 10. Fair value is preliminary and is expected to be finalized upon completion of the sales, which are expected to occur within calendar 2018. The key assumptions used to determine the fair value include discount rates, estimated cash flows, royalty rates, and revenue growth rates. The discount rate used is based on several factors including a weighted average cost of capital analysis, and adjustments for market risk and company specific risk. Estimated cash flows are based upon internally developed estimates of the undiscounted cash flows attributable to the assets and include only future cash flows that are directly associated with and that are expected to arise as a direct result of the use and eventual disposition of the assets. Royalty rates are based on


comparable licensing agreements and revenue growth rates are based on industry knowledge and historical performance.2019. Property and equipment are not depreciated, and intangibles assets are not amortized


once classified as held-for-sale. The assets and liabilities that are deemed held-for-sale are classified as current based on the anticipated disposal date.


The following table presents the major components which are included in assets held-for-sale and liabilities associated with assets held-for-sale (including TIME,which include Sports Illustrated; FanSided, a Sports Illustrated Fortune, Money,affiliated brand that is being marketed separately from Sports Illustrated; and its investment in Viant Technology LLC (Viant)):, as of June 30, 2019. The balances as of June 30, 2018, include TIME, Fortune, Sports Illustrated (including FanSided), and Viant:


(in millions)June 30,2019
 2018
Current assets    
Cash and cash equivalents$5.1
 $2.3
Accounts receivable, net78.1
 91.4
Inventories0.1
 0.9
Current portion of subscription acquisition costs34.4
 10.4
Other current assets0.8
 5.9
Total current assets118.5
 110.9
Net property, plant, and equipment14.3
 14.1
Subscription acquisition costs—
 4.2
Other assets20.2
 1.0
Intangible assets, net43.9
 112.1
Goodwill124.1
 477.5
Total assets held-for-sale$321.0
 $719.8
     
Current liabilities    
Accounts payable$45.2
 $44.9
Accrued expenses and other liabilities27.8
 14.7
Current portion of unearned revenues67.9
 110.6
Deferred sale proceeds73.2
 —
Total current liabilities214.1
 170.2
Unearned revenues37.6
 29.1
Other noncurrent liabilities0.4
 0.7
Total liabilities associated with assets held-for-sale$252.1
 $200.0

(in millions)June 30,
2018
Current assets 
Cash and cash equivalents$2.3
Accounts receivable, net94.6
Inventories1.1
Other current assets9.4
Total current assets107.4
Net property, plant, and equipment14.1
Other assets1.0
Intangible assets, net113.1
Goodwill477.5
Total assets held-for-sale$713.1
  
Current liabilities 
Accounts payable$45.2
Accrued expenses and other liabilities15.1
Current portion of unearned revenues109.4
Total current liabilities169.7
Unearned revenues28.0
Other noncurrent liabilities0.7
Total liabilities associated with assets held-for-sale$198.4


Discontinued Operations


A disposal of a component of an entity or a group of components of an entity is required to be reported as discontinued operations if the disposal represents a strategic shift that has (or will have) a major effect on an entity’s operations and financial results when the components of an entity meets the criteria to be classified as held-for-sale. When all of the criteria to be classified as held-for-sale are met, including management having the authority to approve the action and committing to a plan to sell the entity, the major assets and liabilities are to be reported as components of total assets and liabilities separate from those balances of the continuing operations. The Consolidated Statements of Earnings reported for current and prior periods shall report the results of operations of the discontinued operations, including any gain or loss recognized, in the period in which a discontinued operation either has been disposed of or is classified as held-for-sale. The results of all discontinued operations, less applicable income taxes (benefit), shall be reported as a component of net earnings separate from the net earnings from continuing operations.


The Company announced after the Acquisition that it iswas exploring the sale of the TIME, Sports Illustrated (including FanSided), Fortune, and Money affiliated brands and its investment in Viant. Management expects theseoriginally


expected those sales to close during calendar 2018. In accordance with accounting guidance, a business that, on acquisition, or within a short period following the acquisition (usually within three months), meets the criteria to be classified as held-for-sale is also considered a


discontinued operation. As all of the required criteria for held-for-sale classification were met, the assets and liabilities related to these operations have been included as assets held-for-sale and liabilities associated with assets held–for-saleheld-for-sale in the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of June 30, 2018. The required criteria for held-for-sale classification continued to be met at June 30, 2019, for Sports Illustrated, FanSided, and Viant and as such, the assets and liabilities related to these operations have been included as assets held-for-sale and liabilities associated with assets held-for-sale in the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of June 30, 2019. The revenue and expenses, along with associated taxes, for these operations, were included in the loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes line on the Consolidated Statements of Earnings.Earnings in fiscal 2019 and 2018. All discontinued operations relate to the national media segment.


In April 2019, a decision was made to retain the Money brand. As this decision was made in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2019, the operations of the Money brand have been classified as continuing operations and the prior-year comparative periods have been recast to reflect Money as a continuing operation since the date of acquisition.

On October 31, 2018, Meredith closed on the sale of the TIME brand to an unrelated third party for $190.0 million in cash. On December 21, 2018, Meredith closed on the sale of the Fortune brand to an unrelated third party for $150.0 million in cash. There was a gain of $2.1 million recognized on the sales. The results of TIME and Fortune were included in the loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes line on the Consolidated Statements of Earnings until the date of sale. Meredith provided accounting, finance, human resources, information technology, and other similar support services for a period of time under Transition Services Agreements (TSA) with each buyer. Both TSAs were completed during fiscal 2019. In addition, Meredith continues to provide consumer marketing, subscription fulfillment, paper purchasing, printing, and other services under Outsourcing Agreements (OA) with each buyer. The services performed under the OAs have varying terms ranging from 1 to 5 years. Revenue of $4.8 million was earned from performing services under the OAs and is recorded in other revenue in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings for fiscal 2019. An $18.9 million reduction of selling, general, and administrative expenses was recorded for performing services under the TSAs in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings for fiscal 2019.

In May 2019, the first step of a two-step transaction to sell Sports Illustrated was completed. At the time of first close, $90.0 million was received from the buyer. Simultaneously, the Company entered into an agreement to license back a portion of the Sports Illustrated brand to continue operating the publishing business. Although, under the agreement certain assets of the brand were sold for legal and tax purposes, because the Company retains control of the publishing business until the second close, the legal transfer of those assets has not been presented as a sale within the consolidated financial statements. At the time of the second close, Meredith will owe the buyer $11.6 million for accounts receivable and accounts payable retained by Meredith, and a working capital true-up estimated to be approximately $1.2 million (subject to adjustment). Based on the selling price of Sports Illustrated, an impairment of goodwill for the Sports Illustrated brand of $8.5 million was recognized during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2019. The agreement for the sale of Sports Illustrated includes an earn-out provision whereby the buyer would pay Meredith up to $20.0 million should certain revenue targets (as defined in the agreement) be achieved by the buyer by July 1, 2027. As receipt of such amounts is not deemed probable or estimable as of June 30, 2019, no receivable amount has been recorded as of June 30, 2019. No significant additional gain or loss is expected upon the second close, which is anticipated to occur in September 2019. Meredith expects to enter into a TSA with the buyer upon second close.

Prior to the Acquisition, Time entered into an agreement to sell the Golf brand. This sale closed in February 2018. Revenue and expenses from the date of the acquisition until disposal along with associated taxes for the Golf brand were included in the loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes line on the Consolidated Statements of Earnings.


In February 2018, the Company entered into an agreement to sell Time Inc. (UK) Ltd (TIUK), a United Kingdom (U.K.) multi-platform publisher with approximately 60 brands. The sale closed in March 2018. Revenue and


expenses from the date of acquisition until disposal along with associated taxes for TIUK were included in the loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes line on the Consolidated Statements of Earnings.


In connection with the sale of TIUK, a liability of $9.2 million was recorded in other liabilities in connection with a lease guarantee by Time. The guarantee is related to a lease of office space by TIUK in the U.K. through December 31, 2025. The carrying value of the lease guarantee was $8.0 million and $8.7 million at June 30, 2018.2019 and 2018, respectively. The Company is only obligated to pay for the lease guarantee in the event that TIUK fails to perform under the lease agreement. If TIUK fails to perform under the lease agreement, the maximum lease guarantee obligation for which the Company would be liable is approximately $78.8$66.9 million as of June 30, 2018.2019. The Company has assessed that it is unlikely that TIUK will not perform its obligations under the lease.


The Company does not allocate interest to discontinued operations unless the interest is directly attributable to the discontinued operations or is interest on debt that is required to be repaid as a result of the disposal transaction. Interest expense included in discontinued operations reflects an estimate of interest expense related to the debt that willhas been or is expected to be repaid with the proceeds from the sale of the TIME, Fortune, Sports Illustrated, Fortune, Money,FanSided, and affiliated brands and of Viant.


Amounts applicable to discontinued operations in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings are as follows:


Years ended June 30,2019 2018
(In millions except per share data)   
Revenues$423.4
 $253.8
Costs and expenses(408.5) (242.7)
Impairment of goodwill(8.5) —
Interest expense(21.4) (11.9)
Gain (loss) on disposal2.1
 (12.3)
Loss before income taxes(12.9) (13.1)
Income tax expense(69.9) (1.5)
Loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes$(82.8) $(14.6)
Loss per share from discontinued operations   
Basic$(1.83) $(0.32)
Diluted(1.82) (0.32)

Year ended June 30,2018
(In millions except per share data) 
Revenues$262.0
Costs and expenses(250.6)
Interest expense(12.2)
Loss on disposal(12.3)
Loss before income taxes(13.1)
Income taxes(1.5)
Loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes$(14.6)
Loss per share from discontinued operations 
Basic$(0.32)
Diluted(0.32)


The discontinued operations did not have depreciation, amortization, capital expenditures or significant non-cash investing items for the period from acquisition throughyears ended June 30, 2019 and 2018. Share-based compensation expense related to discontinued operations of $0.5 million and $3.7 million is included in the calculation of net cash provided by operating activities in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.Flows for June 30, 2019 and 2018, respectively.



Dispositions


On July 1, 2017, Meredith's national media segment sold a 70 percent interest in Charleston Tennis LLC, which operates the Family Circle Tennis Center, to an unrelated third party. In return, Meredith received $0.6 million in cash and a note receivable for $8.5 million. The Company has announced the closurenote receivable was due in annual installments over a period of Time Customer Service (TCS) in Tampa, Florida. As of8 years. At June 30, 2018, TCS did not meetthere was $3.2 million in unamortized discount and an allowance of $3.0 million recorded against the criteria abovenote. This transaction generated a gain of $3.3 million, which was recorded in acquisition, disposition, and restructuring related activities in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings. Of this gain, $1.0 million related to the remeasurement of the retained investment. As Meredith retained a 30 percent interest, had a seat on the board, and had approval rights over certain limited matters, Meredith accounted for held-for-sale or discontinued operations treatment.this investment under the equity method of accounting.


Dispositions

In September 2018, Meredith sold its remaining 30 percent interest in Charleston Tennis LLC to an unrelated third party. In return, Meredith received cash of $13.3 million, of which $5.1 million was for the Company's remaining 30 percent interest and $8.2 million was repayment of the principal and interest accrued on the note receivable recorded upon the Company's sale of its 70 percent interest in July 2017. The Company recognized a gain on the sale of $10.4 million, of which $4.1 million represented a gain on the Company's 30 percent interest and is recorded in non-operating income, net in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings, while the remainder is recorded in acquisition, disposition, and restructuring related activities in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings, as such represents recovery of a previously impaired note receivable.

In March 2018, the Company announced an agreement to sell Meredith Xcelerated Marketing (MXM). This transaction closed in May 2018. The Company did not report the operations of MXM as discontinued operations as the sale does not represent a strategic shift that will have a major effect on the Company’s operations and financial results. The results of MXM, as well as the gain of $11.5 million on the sale, which is included as a credit in the acquisition, disposition, and restructuring related activities line, are included within continuing operations in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings. A loss of $0.8 million and a profit of $11.2 million and $18.5 million were included in earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes related to MXM for the years ended June 30, 2018 2017, and 2016,2017, respectively.


Effective July 1, 2017, Meredith’s national media segment sold a 70 percent interest in Charleston Tennis LLC, which operates the Family Circle Tennis Center, to an unrelated third party. In return, Meredith received $0.6 million in cash and a note receivable for $8.5 million. The note receivable is due in annual installments over a period of 8 years. At June 30, 2018, there was $3.2 million in unamortized discount and an allowance of $3.0 million recorded against the note. This transaction generated a gain of $3.3 million, which was recorded in the selling, general, and administrative line of the Consolidated Statements of Earnings. Of this gain, $1.0 million related to the remeasurement of the retained investment. As Meredith retains a 30 percent interest, has a seat on the board, and has approval rights over certain limited matters, Meredith now accounts for this investment under the equity method of accounting.




5. Intangible Assets and Goodwill


Intangible assets consist of the following:

June 30,2019  2018
(In millions)Gross Amount Accumulated Amortization Net Amount  
Gross
Amount
 
Accumulated
Amortization
 
Net
Amount
Intangible assets
   subject to amortization
            
National media            
Advertiser relationships$213.3
 $(102.0) $111.3
  $212.3
 $(41.1) $171.2
Publisher relationships125.0
 (25.4) 99.6
  125.0
 (7.4) 117.6
Partner relationships98.2
 (22.7) 75.5
  95.0
 (6.6) 88.4
Customer lists67.5
 (46.3) 21.2
  67.5
 (14.0) 53.5
Other23.2
 (14.9) 8.3
  22.0
 (11.9) 10.1
Local media       
 
 
Network229.3
 (155.1) 74.2
  229.3
 (148.6) 80.7
Advertiser relationships12.5
 (5.8) 6.7
  25.0
 (3.5) 21.5
Retransmission agreements27.9
 (19.1) 8.8
  27.9
 (14.9) 13.0
Other1.7
 (1.2) 0.5
  1.7
 (0.8) 0.9
Total$798.6
 $(392.5) 406.1
  $805.7
 $(248.8) 556.9
Intangible assets not
   subject to amortization
            
National media            
Trademarks    724.5
      766.3
Internet domain names    7.8
      7.8
Local media            
FCC licenses    675.2
      675.2
Total    1,407.5
      1,449.3
Intangible assets, net    $1,813.6
      $2,006.2



June 30,2018  2017
(In millions)Gross Amount Accumulated Amortization Net Amount  
Gross
Amount
 
Accumulated
Amortization
 
Net
Amount
Intangible assets
   subject to amortization
            
National media            
Advertiser relationships$212.3
 $(41.1) $171.2
  $18.6
 $(15.5) $3.1
Publisher relationships125.0
 (7.4) 117.6
  —
 —
 —
Partner relationships95.0
 (6.6) 88.4
  —
 —
 —
Customer lists67.5
 (14.0) 53.5
  7.3
 (3.4) 3.9
Other22.0
 (11.9) 10.1
  22.3
 (9.8) 12.5
Local media       
 
 
Network229.3
 (148.6) 80.7
  229.3
 (142.2) 87.1
Advertiser relationships25.0
 (3.5) 21.5
  —
 —
 —
Retransmission agreements27.9
 (14.9) 13.0
  27.9
 (10.7) 17.2
Other1.7
 (0.8) 0.9
  1.7
 (0.5) 1.2
Total$805.7
 $(248.8) $556.9
  $307.1
 $(182.1) $125.0
Intangible assets not
   subject to amortization
            
National media            
Trademarks    765.3
      147.9
Internet domain names    7.8
      7.8
Local media            
FCC licenses    675.2
      675.2
Total    1,448.3
      830.9
Intangible assets, net    $2,005.2
      $955.9


Amortization expense was $155.1 million in fiscal 2019, $74.8 million in fiscal 2018, and $19.1 million in fiscal 2017, and $19.7 million in fiscal 2016.2017. Future amortization expense for intangible assets is expected to be as follows: $155.0 million in fiscal 2019, $140.3$140.8 million in fiscal 2020, $86.9$84.2 million in fiscal 2021, $41.0$41.4 million in fiscal 2022, and $40.2$39.6 million in fiscal 2023.2023, and $32.5 million in fiscal 2024. Actual future amortization expense could differ from these estimates as a result of future acquisitions, dispositions, and other factors.


During the Company’s annual impairment tests performed as of May 31, 2019, it identified several impaired trademarks. As a result, the national media segment recorded a non-cash impairment charge of $41.8 million to fully impair the Money and Coastal Living brand trademarks and to partially impair the Shape and Family Circle brand trademarks. The Company’s decision to discontinue the print publication of Money and transition Coastal Living from a subscription magazine to a newsstand only title resulted in the impairment of these trademarks. The lack of sales growth resulted in the carrying value of the trademarks for the Shape and Family Circle brands to exceed their fair values. The fair values of the trademarks are determined based on significant inputs not observable in the market. These charges were recorded in the impairment of long-lived assets line in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings. No other impairments of indefinite-lived intangible assets were recorded as a result of the Company’s fiscal 2019 annual impairment tests.

During fiscal 2018, Meredith made the strategic decision to no longer publish Fit Pregnancy and Baby magazine as a standalone title, rather to include it as a feature within Parents magazine and to discontinue FamilyFun as a subscription title and instead publish it only for sale on newsstand. These decisions were determined to be triggering events requiring Meredith to evaluate the trademarks within the Company’s Parents Network for impairment. The fair values of the trademarks are determined based on significant inputs not observable in the market. The reduction in advertising revenue caused by the discontinuation of Fit Pregnancy and Baby and the change in FamilyFun to a newsstand only title, as well as updated revenue projections for the Parents Network resulted in an impairment of the trademarks. As such, during fiscal 2018, the national media segment recorded a non-cash impairment charge of $22.7 million to partially impair the trademarks within the Company’s Parents Network. This impairment charge iswas recorded in the impairment of goodwill and other long-lived assets line in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings. No other impairments of indefinite-lived intangible assets were recorded as a result of the Company’s annual impairment tests performed as of May 31, 2018.




Due to continued weakness in the Mywedding.com revenue forecasts and a lack of sales growth from brand support efforts, the annual impairment analysis performed as of May 31, 2017, of the Mywedding trademark indicated an impairment. As such, during fiscal 2017, the national media segment recorded a non-cash impairment charge of $5.3 million to fully impair the Mywedding trademark. No other impairments of indefinite-lived intangible assets were recorded as a result of the Company’s annual impairment tests performed as of May 31, 2017.


During fiscal 2016, the Company recorded a non-cash impairment charge of $38.9 million on the national media segment’s American Baby trademark. Management determined that this trademark was fully impaired as part of management’s decision to discontinue the use of the American Baby brand following its combination with the Fit Pregnancy brand. These impairment charges are recorded in the impairment of goodwill and other long-lived assets line in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings. No other impairments of indefinite-lived intangible assets were recorded as a result of the Company’s annual impairment tests performed as of May 31, 2016.


Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill were as follows:


 (In millions)National
Media		 Local
Media		 Total
Balance at June 30, 2017    

Goodwill$943.8
 $80.6
 $1,024.4
Accumulated impairment losses(116.9) —
 (116.9)
  826.9
 80.6
 907.5
Acquisitions1,028.0
 35.2
 1,063.2
Disposals 1
(54.9) —
 (54.9)
Balance at June 30, 2018
   
Goodwill1,800.0
 115.8
 1,915.8
Accumulated impairment losses—
 —
 —
  1,800.0
 115.8
 1,915.8
Acquisitions10.6
 0.8
 11.4
Acquisition adjustments52.2
 —
 52.2
Balance at June 30, 2019

 

  
Goodwill1,862.8
 116.6
 1,979.4
Accumulated impairment losses—
 —
 —
  $1,862.8
 $116.6
 $1,979.4
       
1 
In connection with the sale of MXM, goodwill was reduced by $171.8 million and accumulated
impairment losses was reduced by $116.9 million.

(In millions)National
Media		 Local
Media		 Total
Balance at June 30, 2016    

Goodwill$931.3
 $68.8
 $1,000.1
Accumulated impairment losses(116.9) —
 (116.9)
 814.4
 68.8
 883.2
Acquisitions12.5
 11.8
 24.3
Balance at June 30, 2017
   
Goodwill943.8
 80.6
 1,024.4
Accumulated impairment losses(116.9) —
 (116.9)
 826.9
 80.6
 907.5
Acquisitions1,028.0
 35.2
 1,063.2
Disposals 1
(54.9) —
 (54.9)
Balance at June 30, 2018

 

  
Goodwill1,800.0
 115.8
 1,915.8
Accumulated impairment losses—
 —
 —
 $1,800.0
 $115.8
 $1,915.8
      
1  In connection with the sale of MXM, goodwill was reduced by $171.8 million and accumulated
impairment losses was reduced by $116.9 million.


Historically,During fiscal 2017, the Company’s goodwill reporting units were national media magazine brands, MXM, and local media. Due to the sale of MXM and acquisition of Time management reevaluated its goodwill reporting units. As a result,in fiscal 2018, the Company’s reporting units are nowwere national media, local media excluding MNI, and MNI. With changes in the discrete financial information presented to the Chief Operating Decision Maker, during fiscal 2019 the Company’s reporting units were national media and local media. No reallocation of existing goodwill was required as a result of the change in reporting units as the goodwill attributable to the previous MXM reporting unit was disposed of in the sale of MXM and the goodwill attributable to MNI results from the acquisition of Time.

The national media reporting unit aligns to our national media operating segment. The local media excluding MNI and MNI segments, which have $80.6 million and $35.2 million of goodwill, respectively, at June 30, 2018, are bothTime is within our local media operating segment.


DuringFor fiscal 2019 and fiscal 2018, the Company performed its annual impairment reviews as of May 31, 2018, management performed a quantitative goodwill impairment testreview for the national media reporting unit.unit as of May 31 using a quantitative goodwill impairment test. Based on the results of this analysis,the analyses, the fair value exceeded the carrying value and thus resulted in no indication of impairment.impairment for fiscal 2019 or fiscal 2018.





The Company performed qualitative assessments forFor fiscal 2019, the local media reporting unit performed qualitative assessment as of its measurement date of May 31, 2019, which indicated no impairment. For fiscal 2018, the local media reporting unit excluding MNI reporting unit and the MNI reporting unit during its annualperformed qualitative assessments that did not indicate impairment reviews asfor either reporting unit. With no indications of May 31, 2018, neither of which indicated impairment. Therefore,impairment, quantitative goodwill impairment analyses for the local media excluding MNI reporting unitfiscal 2019 and the MNI reporting unitfiscal 2018 were not deemed necessary in fiscal 2018.necessary.


In fiscal 2017, the Company performed its annual goodwill impairment analysis on the magazine brands, MXM, and local media reporting units as of May 31, 2017. NoNaN impairments were recorded as a result of these reviews.


In fiscal 2016, the Company determined that triggering events, including reduced operating and cash flow forecasts, required the Company to perform an evaluation of goodwill for the MXM reporting unit for impairment. Due to the timing of the triggering events, this testing was performed in conjunction with the Company’s annual impairment testing as of May 31, 2016. This evaluation indicated that the carrying value of MXM’s goodwill exceeded its estimated fair value. As a result, the Company recorded a pre-tax non-cash impairment charge of $116.9 million to reduce the carrying value of MXM’s goodwill in fiscal 2016. The Company recorded an income tax benefit of $9.5 million related to this charge. This impairment charge is recorded in the impairment of goodwill and other long-lived assets line in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings.

Meredith performed a goodwill impairment analysis on the magazine brands and local media reporting units as of May 31, 2016. No impairments were recorded as a result of these reviews.



6. Restructuring Accruals

During fiscal 2019, management committed to several performance improvement plans related primarily to business realignments, including continuing those related to the integration of Time that began in fiscal 2018. Improvement plans that were made and executed upon during fiscal 2019 related to the strategic decision to merge Cooking Light magazine with EatingWell, transition Coastal Living from a subscription magazine to a special


interest publication, to change Entertainment Weekly from a weekly to a monthly publication, to consolidate much of the local media's digital advertising functions with MNI Targeted Media, and to outsource newsstand sales and marketing operations. During fiscal 2019, the Company also incurred restructuring costs related to the consolidation of office space including closing the Time Customer Service facility in Tampa, Florida and other office locations in Brooklyn, New York and Birmingham, Alabama. The fiscal 2019 performance improvement plans affected approximately 300 people, approximately 225 in the national media segment, approximately 25 in the local media segment, and the remainder in unallocated corporate. In connection with these plans, the Company recorded a pre-tax restructuring charge of $56.3 million for severance and related benefit costs related to the involuntary termination of employees and other write-downs of $31.1 million, mainly related to the closing of office locations in Tampa, Brooklyn, and Birmingham, which are recorded in the acquisition, disposition, and restructuring related activities line of the Consolidated Statements of Earnings. The majority of the severance costs are expected to be paid out over a 12-month period.

Details of the severance and related benefit costs by segment for the performance improvement plans are as follows:

 
Amount Accrued
 in the Period
Total Amount Expected to be Incurred
Years ended June 30,20192018
(in millions)    
National media$39.2
$51.5
 $39.6
Local media2.0
0.9
 2.0
Unallocated corporate15.1
52.5
 15.1
 $56.3
$104.9
 $56.7


During fiscal 2018, management committed to and executed upon several performance improvement plans, including those related to the integration of Time as well as other smaller restructurings.

As part of the Company’s plan to realize cost synergies from the Acquisition, management committed to a performance improvement plan to reduce headcount. In addition to the Acquisition related plan, smaller performance improvement plans took place during the year that were related to the strategic decisions to no longer publish Fit Pregnancy and Baby magazine as a standalone title, but instead to include it as a feature within Parents magazine, and to no longer publish FamilyFun and Martha Stewart Weddings as subscription titles, but rather to sell them on the newsstand as special interest publications. The fiscal 2018 performance improvement plans affected approximately 1,800 employees, primarily in the national media and unallocated corporate departments. In connection with these plans, the Company recorded a pre-tax restructuring charge of $104.9 million for severance and related benefit costs related to the involuntary termination of employees and other write-downs of $0.5 million, which are recorded in the acquisition, disposition, and restructuring related activities line of the Consolidated Statements of Earnings. The headcount reductions are expected to be substantially completed by January 2019.majority of severance costs have been paid out.

Details of the severance and related benefit costs by segment for the performance improvement plans are as follows:

Year ended June 30, 2018Amount AccruedTotal Amount Expected to be Incurred
(in millions)    
National media $51.5
 $52.5
Local media 0.9
 0.9
Unallocated Corporate 52.5
 54.0
  $104.9
 $107.4


During fiscal 2017, management committed to several performance improvement plans related primarily to business realignments. These actions resulted in selected workforce reductions. In connection with these plans, the


Company recorded pre-tax restructuring charges totaling $12.4 million including $11.9 million for severance and related benefit costs related to the involuntary termination of employees and other accruals of $0.3 million. The majority of severance costs have been paid out. The plans affected approximately 215 employees. The Company also wrote down manuscript and art inventory by $0.2 million. These costs and expenses are recorded in the acquisition, disposition, and restructuring related activities line of the Consolidated Statements of Earnings.

During fiscal 2016, management committed to several performance improvement plans that resulted in selected workforce reductions related primarily to business realignments from recent acquisitions and the closing of MORE magazine effective following the publication of the April 2016 issue. In connection with these plans, the Company recorded pre-tax restructuring charges of $10.3 million. The restructuring charges included severance and related benefit costs of $9.8 million related to the involuntary termination of employees. These plans affected approximately 150 employees. The Company also wrote down related manuscript and art inventory by $0.5 million, These costs and expenses are recorded in the acquisition, disposition, and restructuring related activities of the Consolidated Statements of Earnings.


During the years ended June 30, 2019, 2018, 2017, and 2016,2017, the Company recorded reversals of $6.0 million, $0.8 million, $1.8 million, and $3.2$1.8 million, respectively, of excess restructuring reserves accrued in prior fiscal years. The reversals of excess restructuring reserves are recorded as a credit in the acquisition, disposition, and restructuring related activities line of the Consolidated Statements of Earnings.



Details of changes in the Company’s restructuring accrual are as follows:


Years ended June 30,2019  2018
(in millions)Employee TerminationsOther Exit CostsTotal  Employee TerminationsOther Exit CostsTotal
Balance at beginning of year$101.3
$6.3
$107.6
  $8.7
$—
$8.7
Accrual on Time’s opening balance sheet—
—
—
  38.5
6.6
45.1
Accruals56.3
31.1
87.4
  104.9
1.4
106.3
Cash payments(109.5)(13.0)(122.5)  (49.9)(1.7)(51.6)
Other accruals—
—
—
  (0.1)—
(0.1)
Reversal of excess accrual(4.4)(1.6)(6.0)  (0.8)—
(0.8)
Balance at end of year$43.7
$22.8
$66.5
  $101.3
$6.3
$107.6

Years ended June 30,2018 2017
(in millions)Employee TerminationsOther Exit CostsTotal Employee Terminations
Balance at beginning of year$8.7
$—
$8.7
 $7.4
Accrual on Time’s opening balance sheet38.5
6.6
45.1
 —
Accruals104.9
1.4
106.3
 11.9
Cash payments(49.9)(1.7)(51.6) (8.8)
Other accruals(0.1)—
(0.1) —
Reversal of excess accrual(0.8)—
(0.8) (1.8)
Balance at end of year$101.3
$6.3
$107.6
 $8.7


As of June 30, 2018,2019, of the $107.6$66.5 million liability, $91.6$48.4 million was classified as current liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, with the remaining $16.0$18.1 million classified as noncurrent liabilities. Amounts classified as noncurrent liabilities are expected to be paid through 20202031 and relate primarily to severance costs.lease payments for space that has been vacated.




7. Long-term Debt


Long-term debt consists of the following:


 June 30, 2019
(In millions)Principal BalanceUnamortized Discount and Debt Issuance CostsCarrying
Value
Variable-rate credit facility   
Senior credit facility term loan, due 1/31/2025$1,062.5
$(15.6)$1,046.9
Revolving credit facility of $350 million, due 1/31/202335.0
—
35.0
Senior Unsecured Notes   
6.875% senior notes, due 2/1/20261,272.9
(21.5)1,251.4
Total long-term debt2,370.4
(37.1)2,333.3
Current portion of long-term debt—
—
—
Long-term debt$2,370.4
$(37.1)$2,333.3

 June 30, 2018
(In millions)Principal BalanceUnamortized Discount and Debt Issuance CostsCarrying
Value
Variable-rate credit facility   
Senior credit facility term loan, due 1/31/2025$1,795.5
$(33.4)$1,762.1
Revolving credit facility of $350 million, due 1/31/2023—
—
—
Senior Unsecured Notes   
6.875% senior notes, due 2/1/20261,400.0
(26.5)1,373.5
Total long-term debt3,195.5
(59.9)3,135.6
Current portion of long-term debt(18.0)0.3
(17.7)
Long-term debt$3,177.5
$(59.6)$3,117.9


 June 30, 2017
(In millions)Principal BalanceUnamortized Discount and Debt Issuance CostsCarrying
Value
Variable-rate credit facilities   
Asset-backed bank facility of $100 million, due 10/20/2017$75.0
$—
$75.0
Revolving credit facility of $200 million, due 11/30/202185.0
—
85.0
Term loan due 11/30/2021240.6
(2.0)238.6
Private placement notes   
3.04% senior notes, due 3/1/201850.0
—
50.0
Floating rate senior notes, due 12/19/2022100.0
(0.2)99.8
Floating rate senior notes, due 2/28/2024150.0
(0.2)149.8
Total long-term debt700.6
(2.4)698.2
Current portion of long-term debt(62.5)—
(62.5)
Long-term debt$638.1
$(2.4)$635.7

The following table shows principal payments on the debt due in succeeding fiscal years:


 June 30, 2018
(In millions)Principal BalanceUnamortized Discount and Debt Issuance CostsCarrying
Value
Variable-rate credit facility   
Senior credit facility term loan, due 1/31/2025$1,795.5
$(33.4)$1,762.1
Revolving credit facility of $350 million, due 1/31/2023—
—
—
Senior Unsecured Notes   
6.875% senior notes, due 2/1/20261,400.0
(26.5)1,373.5
Total long-term debt3,195.5
(59.9)3,135.6
Current portion of long-term debt(18.0)0.3
(17.7)
Long-term debt$3,177.5
$(59.6)$3,117.9

Years ending June 30, 
(In millions) 
2019$18.0
202018.0
202118.0
202218.0
202318.0
Thereafter3,105.5
Total long-term debt$3,195.5


On January 31, 2018, inIn connection with the Acquisition, in January 2018, the Company repaid and terminated its existing indebtedness. In connection with the payoff of this indebtedness, Meredith recognized a loss on extinguishment of


debt of $2.2 million. Also in conjunctionmillion related to this termination. Additionally, with the repayment of debt, the Company settled the associated interest rate swap agreements and recognized a gain on the settlement of $1.6 million. The loss on extinguishment of debt and gain on the settlement of the swaps recorded during fiscal 2018 are both presented in the interest expense, net line in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings.


InAlso, in connection with the Acquisition, onin January 31, 2018, the Company entered into new credit arrangements with a total capacity of $3.6 billion comprised of a variable-rate credit facility and senior unsecured notes. The variable- ratevariable-rate credit facility includes a secured term loan (Term Loan B) with $1.8 billion of original aggregate principal and a five-year5-year senior secured revolving credit facility of $350.0 million, of which $175.0 million is available for the issuance of letters of credit and $35.0 million of swingline loans. On June 30, 20182019, there were nowas $35.0 million of borrowings outstanding under the revolving credit facility. ThereIn addition, there were $3.4$3.6 million of standby letters of credit issued under the revolving credit facility resulting in availability of $346.6$311.4 million at June 30, 2018.2019. The Term Loan B matures in 2025 and amortizesoriginally amortized at 1.0 percent per annum in equal quarterly installments until the final maturity date, at which time the remaining principal and interest are due and payable.

The interest rate under However, as $200.0 million was paid on the Term Loan B is based on LIBOR plus a spreadin the first quarter of 3.0 percent whilefiscal 2019, there are no future amortization requirements under the revolving credit facility bears interest at LIBOR plus a spread ranging from 2.5 percent to 3.0 percent. The Term Loan B bore interest at a rate of 5.09 percent at June 30, 2018. The revolving credit facility has a commitment fee ranging from 0.375 percent to 0.500 percent of the unused commitment. All interest rates and commitment fees associated with this variable-rate revolving credit facility are derived from a leverage-based pricing grid. agreement.

The senior unsecured notes havehad an aggregate original principal balance of $1.4 billion maturing in 2026 (2026 Senior Notes) with an interest rate of 6.875 percent per annum. Total outstanding principal is due at the final maturity date.

Principal payments on debt due in the succeeding fiscal years include $35.0 million due in fiscal 2023, $1.1 billion due in fiscal 2025, and $1.3 billion due in fiscal 2026.

The original interest rate under the Term Loan B was based on the London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) plus a spread of 3.0 percent. The Company repriced the Term Loan B effective October 26, 2018. The new interest rate under the Term Loan B is based on LIBOR plus a spread of 2.75 percent as of the repricing date until maturity or when the Company's leverage ratio drops below 2.25 to 1, at which time the spread will decrease to 2.5 percent. The revolving credit facility bears interest at LIBOR plus a spread ranging from 2.5 percent to 3.0 percent. The Term Loan B bore interest at a rate of 5.15 percent at June 30, 2019. The revolving credit facility has a commitment fee ranging from 0.375 percent to 0.500 percent of the unused commitment. All interest rates and commitment fees associated with this variable-rate revolving credit facility are derived from a leverage-based pricing grid.

The accounting for the repricing of the Term Loan B was evaluated on a creditor-by-creditor basis to determine whether the transaction should be accounted for as a modification or extinguishment. Certain creditors chose not to participate in the repricing and ceased being creditors of the Company. As a result of these extinguishments, the Company recorded a debt extinguishment loss of $2.1 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2019 to write off the pro-rata amount of unamortized debt discount and deferred issuance costs related to these creditors. For the


remainder of the creditors, this transaction was accounted for as a modification because on a creditor-by-creditor basis, the difference between the present value of the cash flows to those creditors before and after the repricing was less than 10 percent.

Payments totaling $733.0 million were made on the Term Loan B during fiscal 2019. In addition to the Term Loan B repayments, the Company repurchased $127.1 million of its 2026 Senior Notes. These payments were all made in advance of scheduled maturities and thus were considered extinguishments of the debt. Therefore, as a result of these prepayments, extinguishment losses of $18.4 million were recognized during fiscal 2019. The extinguishment loss included a premium paid on the repurchase of the 2026 Senior Notes of $1.8 million.

Of the total debt extinguishment loss of $18.4 million incurred during fiscal 2019, $10.9 million was recorded in interest expense, net and the remaining $7.5 million was recorded in loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings. The portion of the extinguishment loss that was recorded in the loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes line was related to debt repaid with the proceeds from the sale of assets held-for-sale. Refer to Note 4 for further discussion.

In connection with the issuance of this indebtedness,fiscal 2018, the Company incurred $14.7 million of deferred financing costs and $56.0 million of discount costs that are being amortized into interest expense over the lives of the respective facilities.

During the third quarter of fiscal 2018, the The Company also incurred a $17.5 million bridge loan commitment fee. The fee is presented in the interest expense, net line in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings.


Interest expense related to long-term debt and the amortization of the associated debt issuance costs totaled $196.1 million in fiscal 2019, $92.9 million in fiscal 2018, and $18.8 million in fiscal 2017,2017. As further discussed in Note 4, a portion of interest expense and $20.3 millionamortization of debt issuance costs related to long-term debt is recorded in fiscal 2016.the loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes line in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings.




8. Income Taxes


Income taxes are recognized for the amount of taxes payable for the current year and for the impact of deferred tax assets and liabilities, which represent future tax consequences of events that have been recognized differently in the financial statements than for tax purposes. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are established using the enacted statutory tax rates and are adjusted for any changes in such rates in the period of change.

On December 22, 2017, the U.S. government enacted comprehensive tax legislation commonly referred to as the Tax Reform Act. The Tax Reform Act makesmade broad and complex changes to the U.S. tax code that affected our fiscal year ended June 30, 2018, including, but not limited to, (1) reducing the U.S. federal corporate tax rate, (2) bonus depreciation that allows for full expensing of qualified property and (3) limitations on the deductibility of interest expense and certain executive compensation and (4) a one-time transition tax on certain unrepatriated earnings of foreign subsidiaries. The Tax Reform Act reduced the federal corporate tax rate to 21 percent in the fiscal year ended June 30, 2018. As the Company has a June 30 fiscal year-end, the lower corporate income tax rate was phased in. Pursuant to Section 15 of the Internal Revenue Code, the Company applied a blended corporate tax rate of 2828.1 percent for fiscal 2018, which was based on the applicable tax rates before and after the Tax Reform Act and the number of days in the year.year, and 21 percent for subsequent fiscal years.

The SEC issued SAB 118, which provides guidance on accounting for the tax effects of the Tax Reform Act. SAB 118 provides a measurement period that should not extend beyond one year from the Tax Reform Act enactment date for companies to complete the accounting under ASC 740. In accordance with SAB 118, a company must reflect the income tax effects of those aspects of the Tax Reform Act for which the accounting under ASC 740 is complete. To the extent that a company’s accounting for certain income tax effects of the Tax Reform Act is incomplete but it can determine a reasonable estimate, it must record a provisional estimate in the consolidated financial statements. If a company cannot determine a provisional estimate to be included in the consolidated


financial statements, it should continue to apply ASC 740 on the basis of the provisions of the tax laws that were in effect immediately before the enactment of the Tax Reform Act.


In connection with our initial analysis of the impact of the Tax Reform Act, we recorded a provisional net tax benefit of $133.0 million infor the quarteryear ended December 31, 2017.June 30, 2018. This net benefit primarily consists of a benefit for the corporate rate reduction. As the Company was projecting a net operating loss for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2018, deferred tax assets and liabilities expected to be recognized in the fiscal year ended June 30, 2018, were remeasured using the 21 percent U.S. corporate tax rate. Due to our limited international operations, the impact of the transitional tax was immaterial.

During The transitional impact was finalized during the quarterfiscal year ended June 30, 2018, we did not make any provisional adjustment to2019, with no significant impact on income tax expense.



Beginning with the amount. We continue to assess new guidance issued by tax authoritiesfiscal year ended June 30, 2019, a 21 percent rate federal rate is applicable for the full year and future years until additional legislation is enacted. Any legislative changes, as well as our abilityany other new or proposed Treasury regulations to change certain methods of accounting and expect to finalize our accounting for the provisionaddress questions that arise because of the Tax Reform Act, withinmay result in additional income tax impacts which could be material in the measurement period.period any such changes are enacted.


Effective July 1, 2017, the Company adopted new accounting guidance related to share-based compensation. Under this new guidance, excess tax benefits and deficiencies are to be recognized as a discrete component of the income tax provision in the period they occur and not as an adjustment to additional paid-in capital. As such, the Company recognized an excess tax benefit of $2.2 million as a credit to income tax expense in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings in fiscal 2018.


The following table shows income tax expense (benefit) attributable to earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes:


Years ended June 30,2018
 2017
 2016
2019
 2018
 2017
(In millions)          
Currently payable     
Current     
Federal$1.8
 $62.2
 $59.2
$(29.8) $1.8
 $62.2
State1.2
 0.4
 7.3
(2.8) 1.2
 0.4
Foreign0.2
 —
 —
0.6
 0.2
 —
3.2
 62.6
 66.5
(32.0) 3.2
 62.6
Deferred          
Federal(129.9) 33.0
 8.3
42.0
 (129.9) 33.0
State3.2
 5.8
 1.5
1.6
 3.2
 5.8
Foreign(0.1) —
 —
(0.1) (0.1) —
(126.8) 38.8

9.8
43.5
 (126.8)
38.8
Income taxes$(123.6) $101.4
 $76.3
Income tax expense (benefit)$11.5
 $(123.6) $101.4


The differences between the statutory U.S. federal income tax rate and the effective tax rate were as follows:


Years ended June 30,2019
 2018
 2017
U.S. statutory tax rate21.0 % 28.1 % 35.0 %
State income taxes, less federal income tax benefits(0.7) 27.8
 3.0
Foreign operations(13.3) (74.2) —
Rate change(0.1) 1,312.5
 —
Settlements - audits / tax litigation(2.5) 10.4
 (2.3)
Sale of domestic subsidiary—
 67.3
 —
Nondeductible compensation3.7
 (176.4) 0.3
Other0.1
 86.9
 (1.1)
Effective income tax rate8.2 % 1,282.4 % 34.9 %
Years ended June 30,2018
 2017
 2016
U.S. statutory tax rate28.1 % 35.0 % 35.0 %
State income taxes, less federal income tax benefits27.8
 3.0
 3.6
Foreign operations(74.2) —
 —
Rate change1,312.5
 —
 —
Settlements - audits / tax litigation10.4
 (2.3) (0.4)
Impairment of goodwill—
 —
 29.3
Sale of domestic subsidiary67.3
 —
 —
Other(89.5) (0.8) 1.7
Effective income tax rate1,282.4 % 34.9 % 69.2 %




The Company’s effective tax rate was 8.2 percent in fiscal 2019, 1,282.4 percent in fiscal 2018, and 34.9 percent in fiscal 2017,2017. The fiscal 2019 effective tax rate was primarily impacted by a credit to income taxes of $23.5 million related to the write-off of worthless stock and 69.2 percent in fiscal 2016.related bad debt. The fiscal 2018 effective tax rate was primarily impacted by a credit to income taxes of $133.0 million related to tax reform. The fiscal 2017 effective tax rate was primarily impacted by a credit to income taxes of $6.7$4.4 million related to the resolution of certain federal and state tax uncertainties recorded in fiscal 2017. In fiscal 2016, the Company recorded an impairment of goodwill of $116.9 million, of which approximately 20 percent was deductible for income tax purposes.


The tax effects of temporary differences that gave rise to deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities were as follows:


June 30,2019
 2018
(In millions)   
Deferred tax assets   
Accounts receivable allowances and return reserves$19.3
 $6.8
Compensation and benefits29.6
 44.0
Indirect benefit of uncertain state and foreign tax positions6.8
 6.4
Investment in foreign subsidiary—
 62.1
Investment in partnerships15.4
 8.4
Tax loss carryforwards57.7
 127.8
Accelerated gains from dispositions18.2
 —
All other assets16.9
 8.8
Total deferred tax assets163.9
 264.3
Valuation allowance(21.7) (21.1)
Net deferred tax assets142.2

243.2
Deferred tax liabilities   
Subscription acquisition costs66.9
 43.4
Accumulated depreciation and amortization559.2
 612.0
Deferred gains from dispositions15.8
 15.7
All other liabilities4.9
 4.6
Total deferred tax liabilities646.8

675.7
Net deferred tax liability$504.6

$432.5

June 30,2018
 2017
(In millions)   
Deferred tax assets   
Accounts receivable allowances and return reserves$6.8
 $11.0
Compensation and benefits44.0
 47.2
Indirect benefit of uncertain state and foreign tax positions6.4
 5.1
Investment in foreign subsidiary62.1
 —
Tax loss carryforwards128.5
 —
All other assets8.0
 7.7
Total deferred tax assets255.8
 71.0
Valuation allowance(21.1) —
Net deferred tax assets234.7

71.0
Deferred tax liabilities   
Subscription acquisition costs43.4
 86.4
Accumulated depreciation and amortization600.9
 329.8
Deferred gains from dispositions15.7
 29.8
All other liabilities7.2
 9.7
Total deferred tax liabilities667.2

455.7
Net deferred tax liability$432.5

$384.7


The Company has $102.4$56.1 million of net operating loss carryforwards for federal purposes and $137.2$161.6 million for state purposes, which, if unused, have expiration dates through fiscal 2038. The Company has $251.4 million of capital loss carryforwards. It is expected that all federal net operating loss carryforwards and all capital loss carryforwards will be utilized prior to expiration.


There was an increase in the valuation allowance of approximately $21.1$0.6 million during the fiscal 2018,2019, which was recorded in connection with the Acquisition and which related primarily to foreign and state net operating losses.





A reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of the total amounts of gross unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:


Years ended June 30,2019
 2018
(In millions)   
Balance at beginning of year$60.2
 $29.5
Increase in positions acquired in business combination—
 31.9
Increases in tax positions for prior years0.2
 0.4
Decreases in tax positions for prior years(0.7) —
Increases in tax positions for current year0.6
 5.6
Settlements(0.1) (4.2)
Lapse in statute of limitations(6.5) (3.0)
Balance at end of year$53.7
 $60.2

Years ended June 30,2018
 2017
(In millions)   
Balance at beginning of year$29.5
 $37.9
Increase in positions acquired in business combination31.9
 —
Increases in tax positions for prior years0.4
 0.8
Decreases in tax positions for prior years—
 (3.1)
Increases in tax positions for current year5.6
 2.9
Settlements(4.2) (0.2)
Lapse in statute of limitations(3.0) (8.8)
Balance at end of year$60.2
 $29.5


The total amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would impact the effective tax rate was $44.5 million as of June 30, 2019, and $49.7 million as of June 30, 2018, and $18.2 million as of June 30, 2017.2018. The Company recognizes interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of income tax expense. The amount of accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits was $8.4$12.0 million and $6.0$8.4 million as of June 30, 20182019 and 2017,2018, respectively.


The total amount of unrecognized tax benefits at June 30, 2018,2019, may change significantly within the next 12 months, decreasing by an estimated range of $24.5$15.3 million to $6.7$4.4 million. The change, if any, may result primarily from foreseeable federal and state examinations, ongoing federal and state examinations, anticipated state settlements, expiration of various statutes of limitation, the results of tax cases, or other regulatory developments.


The Company’s federal tax returns for fiscal years prior to fiscal 20132016 are no longer subject to IRS examination. However, certainCertain items from completed examinations of fiscal 2006 through fiscal 2012 are still pending final resolutionoutcome of litigation in Federal District Court as of June 30, 2018. Fiscal 2013 through fiscal 2015 are under IRS examination.2019. In addition, Time is under IRS examination for the period 2008 - 2014 (pre-spin). The Company has various state income tax examinations ongoing and at various stages of completion, but generally the state income tax returns have been audited or closed to audit through fiscal 2005.


The complete legal and structural separation of Time Warner Inc.’s (Time Warner) magazine publishing and related business from Time Warner (the Spin-Off) was completed by way of a pro rata dividend of Time Inc. shares held by Time Warner to its stockholders as of May 23, 2014, based on a distribution ratio of one share of Time Inc. common stock for every eight shares of Time Warner common stock held (the Distribution). In connection with the acquisition of Time, the Company assumed the Tax Matters Agreement (TMA) entered into with Time Warner that requires Time to indemnify Time Warner for certain tax liabilities for periods prior to the Spin-Off from Time Warner, which was completed on June 6, 2014. With respect to taxes other than those incurred in connection with the Spin-Off, the TMA provides that the Company will indemnify Time Warner for (1) any taxes of Time and its subsidiaries for all periods after the Distribution and (2) any taxes of the Time Warner group for periods prior to the Distribution to the extent attributable to Time or its subsidiaries. For purposes of the indemnification described in clause (2), however, Time will generally be required to indemnify Time Warner only for any such taxes that are paid in connection with a tax return filed after the Distribution or that result from an adjustment made to such taxes after the Distribution. In these cases, Time’s indemnification obligations generally would be computed based on the amount by which the tax liability of the Time Warner group is greater than it would have been absent Time’s inclusion in its tax returns (or absent the applicable adjustment). Time and Time Warner will generally have joint control over tax authority audits or other tax proceeding related to Time specific tax matters. As of June 30, 2019 and 2018, the Company has recorded a liability in connection with the TMA of $27.5 million and $26.0 million.million, respectively.








9. Commitments and Contingent Liabilities


The Company has commitments under certain firm contractual arrangements (firm commitments) to make future payments. These firm commitments secure the future rights to various assets and services to be used in the normal course of operations. Commitments not recorded on the Consolidated Balance Sheets consist primarily of operating lease arrangements, talent commitments, and purchase obligations for goods and services. Other commitments, which are recorded on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, consist primarily of debt and pension obligations. Commitments expected to be paid over the next five years and thereafter are as follow:follows:


 Payments Due In 
Years ending June 30,2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
Thereafter
Total
(in millions)       
Operating leases$61.3
$57.5
$54.9
$52.4
$52.8
$397.7
$676.6
Broadcast rights payable       
Recorded commitments6.5
3.7
2.8
1.7
0.3
—
15
Unavailable rights11.2
2.9
0.2
—
—
—
14.3
Total commitments$79.0
$64.1
$57.9
$54.1
$53.1
$397.7
$705.9

 Payments Due In 
Years ending June 30,2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
Thereafter
Total
(in millions)       
Operating leases$66.8
$62.2
$58.9
$55.2
$54.6
$459.5
$757.2
Broadcast rights payable       
    Recorded commitments8.9
6.1
5.6
4.7
3.7
0.7
29.7
    Unavailable rights11.3
12.8
2.3
—
—
—
26.4
Total commitments$87.0
$81.1
$66.8
$59.9
$58.3
$460.2
$813.3


The Company occupies certain facilities and uses certain equipment under long-term, non-cancelable operating lease agreements through 2032. Future minimum operating lease payments have been reduced by future minimum sublease income of $6.6 million in fiscal 2019, $6.6$7.7 million in fiscal 2020, $7.4$8.7 million in fiscal 2021, $8.2$9.3 million in fiscal 2022, $8.4$9.1 million in fiscal 2023, $9.5 million in fiscal 2024 and $32.8$24.2 million thereafter. Non-cancellable sublease income is committed through 2026. Rent expense under such leases was $45.9$67.6 million in fiscal2019, $45.9 million in fiscal 2018, and $20.1 million in fiscal 2017, and $20.9 million in fiscal 2016.2017.


The Company has recorded commitments for broadcast rights payable in future fiscal years. The Company also is obligated to make payments under contracts for broadcast rights not currently available for use and therefore not included in the consolidated financial statements. Such unavailable rights amounted to $26.4$14.3 million at June 30, 20182019. The fair value of these commitments for unavailable broadcast rights, determined by the present value of future cash flows discounted at the Company’s current borrowing rate, was $24.4 $13.6 million at June 30, 2018.2019.


Lease Guarantees

In March 2018, the Company sold TIUK, a U.K. multi-platform publisher. In connection with the sale of TIUK, the Company recognized a liability in other noncurrent liabilities in connection with a lease of office space in the U.K. through December 31, 2025, which is guaranteed by the Company. The lease guarantee liability is being amortized into earnings over the life of the lease. The carrying value of the lease guarantee was $8.0 million at June 30, 2019. The Company is only obligated to pay for the lease guarantee in the event that TIUK fails to perform under the lease agreement. If TIUK fails to perform under the lease agreement, the maximum lease guarantee obligation for which the Company would be liable is approximately $66.9 million as of June 30, 2019. The Company has assessed that it is unlikely that TIUK will not perform its obligations under the lease.

The Company guarantees two other leases of entities previously sold, one through January 2023 and another through November 2030. The carrying value of those guarantees, which are recorded in other noncurrent liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, was $2.6 million at June 30, 2019, and the maximum obligation for which the Company would be liable if the primary obligors fail to perform under the lease agreements is $15.3 million as of June 30, 2019.

Legal Proceedings


In the ordinary course of business, Meredith is a defendant in or party to various legal claims, actions, and proceedings. These claims, actions and proceedings are at varying stages of investigation, arbitration, or


adjudication, and involve a variety of areas of law. Time Inc. (now known as TI Gotham Inc.), which is now a wholly-owned subsidiary, previously reported on, and the Company updates below, the following legal proceedings.


On October 26, 2010, the Canadian Minister of National Revenue denied the claims by Time Inc. Retail (formerly Time/Warner Retail Sales & Marketing, Inc.) (TIR) for input tax credits in respect of goods and services tax that TIR had paid on magazines it imported into and had displayed at retail locations in Canada during the years 2006 to 2008, on the basis that TIR did not own those magazines and issued Notices of Reassessment in the amount of approximately C$52 million. On January 21, 2011, TIR filed an objection to the Notices of Reassessment with the Chief of Appeals of the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), arguing that TIR claimed input tax credits only in respect of goods and services tax it actually paid and regardless of whether its payment of the goods and services tax was appropriate or in error, it is entitled to a rebate for such payments. On September 13, 2013, TIR received Notices of Reassessment in the amount of C$26.9 million relating to the disallowancesame type of input tax credits claimed by TIR for goods and services tax that TIR had paid on magazines it imported into and had displayed at retail locations in Canadasituation during the years 2009 to 2010. On October 22, 2013,2010, and TIR filed an objection to the Notices of Reassessment received on September 13, 2013 with the Chief of Appeals of the CRA, asserting the same arguments made in the objection TIR filed on January 21, 2011. Beginning insimilar objections as for prior years. By letter dated June 19, 2015 the collections department of the CRA requested payment of both assessments plusC$89.8 million, which includes interest accrued interest or the posting of sufficient security. In each instance,and stated that failure to pay may result in legal action. TIR


responded by stating that collection should remain stayed pending resolution of the issues raised by TIR’s objection. Including interest accrued, the total of the reassessments claimed by the CRA for the years 2006 to 2010 was C$91 million as of November 30, 2015. On February 8, 2016, the Company filed an application for a remission order with the International Trade Policy Division of Finance Canada to seek relief from the assessments and the CRA’s collection efforts. The matter is currently subject to a proceeding in the Tax Court of Canada to resolve the issue of whether TIR or the publishers are entitled to the input tax credits. On March 31, 2017, the Company and the CRA jointly proposed a timetable for the completion of certain pre-trial steps related to this matter, which was approved by the Tax Court. In accordance with the timetable, on April 28, 2017, TIR filed an Amended Notice of Appeal of the assessments. In June 2017, the CRA filed a Reply to TIR's Amended Notice of Appeal and the Company filed an answer to the CRA reply in July 2017. The parties are currently engaged in discovery. The Company denies liability and intends to vigorously defend itself and pursue all defenses available to eliminate or mitigate liability.mediation.

In July 2017 and November 2017, Time received subpoenas from the Enforcement Division of the staff of the SEC requiring Time to provide documents relating to its accounting for goodwill and asset impairments, restructuring and severance costs, and its analysis and reporting of Time’s segments. The Company is cooperating with the SEC in the investigation. Management cannot at this time predict the eventual scope or outcome of this matter.


The Company establishes an accrued liability for specific matters, such as a legal claim, when the Company determines both that a loss is probable, and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. Once established, accruals are adjusted from time to time, as appropriate, in light of additional information. The amount of any loss ultimately incurred in relation to matters for which an accrual has been established may be higher or lower than the amounts accrued for such matters. Due to the inherent difficulty of predicting the outcome of litigation, claims and other matters, the Company often cannot predict what the eventual outcome of a pending matter will be, or what the timing or results of the ultimate resolution of a matter will be. Accordingly, for the matters described above, the Company is unable to predict the outcome or reasonably estimate a range of possible loss.



On September 6, 2019, a shareholder filed a putative class action lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York against the Company, its Chief Executive Officer, and its Chief Financial Officer, seeking to represent a class of shareholders who acquired securities of the Company between May 10, 2018 and September 4, 2019. On September 12, 2019, a shareholder filed a putative class action lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Iowa against the Company, its Chief Executive Officer, its Chief Financial Officer, and its Chairman of the Board seeking to represent a class of shareholders who acquired securities of the Company between January 31, 2018 and September 5, 2019. Both complaints allege that the defendants made materially false and/or misleading statements, and failed to disclose material adverse facts, about the Company’s business, operations, and prospects. Both complaints assert claims under the federal securities laws and seek unspecified monetary damages and other relief. The defendants have not yet responded to either complaint but intend to vigorously oppose them. The Company expresses no opinion as to the ultimate outcome of these matters.


10. Fair Value Measurements


Accounting standards defineThe Company estimates the fair value asof financial instruments using available market information and valuation methodologies the price thatCompany believes to be appropriate for these purposes. Considerable judgment and a high degree of subjectivity are involved in developing these estimates and, accordingly, they are not necessarily indicative of amounts the Company would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. Specifically, it establishes arealize upon disposition.



The fair value hierarchy prioritizing the useconsists of three broad levels of inputs in valuation techniques. The defined levels within the hierarchythat may be used to measure fair value, which are as follows:described below:


• Level 1Quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities;
• Level 2Inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are either directly or indirectly
observable; and
• Level 3Assets or liabilities for which fair value is based on valuation models with significant unobservable
pricing inputs and which result in the use of management estimates.


The following table sets forth the carrying value and the estimated fair value of the Company’s financial instruments not measured at fair value on a recurring basis:


 June 30, 2019  June 30, 2018
(In millions)Carrying Value Fair Value  Carrying Value Fair Value
Broadcast rights payable$15.0
 $13.6
  $29.7
 $27.4
Long-term debt2,333.3
 2,452.9
  3,135.6
 3,179.8

 June 30, 2018  June 30, 2017
(In millions)Carrying Value Fair Value  Carrying Value Fair Value
Broadcast rights payable$29.7
 $27.4
  $31.7
 $30.5
Long-term debt3,135.6
 3,179.8
  698.2
 700.7


The fair value of broadcast rights payable was determined using the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the Company’s current borrowing rate with inputs included inutilizing Level 3.3 inputs. The fair value of total long-term debt is based on pricing from observable market information inobtained from a non-active market, therefore is included in
as a Level 2.



As of June 30, 2018,2019, the Company had assets related to its qualified pension plans measured at fair value. The required disclosures regarding such assets are presented within Note 11.12. In addition, the Company has liabilities related to contingent consideration payables that are valued at estimated fair value as discussed in Note 2.


The following table sets forth the assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis:


(In millions)June 30, 2019  June 30, 2018
Accrued expenses and other liabilities    
Contingent consideration$—
  $24.6
Deferred compensation plans4.7
  8.4
Other noncurrent liabilities    
Contingent consideration0.8
  0.8
Deferred compensation plans16.2
  21.0

(In millions)June 30, 2018  June 30, 2017
Machinery and equipment    
Corporate airplanes, held-for-sale$—
  $1.9
Other assets    
Interest rate swaps—
  0.2
Accrued expenses and other liabilities    
Contingent consideration24.6
  4.0
Interest rate swaps—
  0.6
Deferred compensation plans8.4
  0.3
Other noncurrent liabilities    
Contingent consideration0.8
  30.2
Deferred compensation plans21.0
  2.1


The fair value of interest rate swaps was determined based on discounted cash flows derived using market observable inputs including swap curves that were included in Level 2. The fair value of deferred compensation plans is derived from quotes from observable market information, and thus represent Level 2 measurements. The fair valuesvalue of the contingent consideration and corporate airplanes areis based on significant inputs not observable in the market and thus represent a Level 3 measurements.measurement.


At
The following table represents the changes in the fair value of assets and liabilities subject to Level 3 remeasurement during the years ended June 30, 2018,2019 and 2018.

Years ended June 30,2019 2018
(in millions)   
Contingent consideration   
Balance at beginning of year$25.4
 $34.2
Accrual on Time’s opening balance sheet 1
—
 1.1
Payments(19.3) (5.1)
Fair value adjustment of contingent consideration(5.3) (4.8)
Balance at end of year$0.8
 $25.4
    
Trademarks   
Balance at beginning of year 2
$69.0
 $55.7
Impairment(41.8) (22.7)
Balance at end of year$27.2
 $33.0
    
Investment in Next Issue Media   
Balance at beginning of year 3
$—
 $11.0
Additions due to investment and acquisition—
 3.3
Equity method investment losses—
 (3.6)
Impairment—
 (9.3)
Sale—
 (1.4)
Balance at end of year$—
 $—
    
Lease guarantee   
Balance at beginning of year$—
 $—
Accrual on Time’s opening balance sheet—
 3.6
Issuance of new guarantees—
 9.2
Fair market value adjustment of lease guarantees—
 (0.4)
Foreign currency exchange impact—
 (0.5)
Balance at end of year$—
 $11.9
    
1   Of this amount, $0.5 million was classified in liabilities associated with assets held-for-sale on the opening balance
sheet, and was subsequently paid in fiscal 2018.
2   Book value of trademarks impaired during the year.
3   Book value of investment impaired during the year.


The fair value adjustment of contingent consideration is the change in the estimated earn out payments based on projections of performance and the amortization of the present value discount. The fair value adjustment of contingent consideration is included in selling, general, and administrative in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings.

Meredith recorded impairment on certain national media trademarks at its annual impairment measurement date of May 31, 2019. Therefore, the $27.2 million of impaired trademarks are considered to be held at fair value at June 30, 2019, on a non-recurring basis. Certain national media trademarks were partially impaired during fiscal 2018 and thus deemed to be measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis, which totaled $33.0 million. Those trademarks were not considered to be measured at fair value as of June 30, 2017. The fair values of the trademarks are determined based on significant inputs not observable in the market and thus represents a Level 3 measurement. The key assumptions used to determine the fair value include discount rates, estimated cash flows, royalty rates, and revenue growth rates. The discount rate used is based on several factors including market interest


rates, a weighted average cost of capital analysis based on the target capital structure, and includes adjustments for market risk and Company specific risk. Estimated cash flows are based upon internally developed estimates and the revenue growth rates are based on industry knowledge and historical performance. For further discussion of the impairment of these trademarks, refer to Note 5.




The following table represents the changes in the fair value of Level 3 contingent consideration, corporate airplanes, trademarks, investment in Next Issue Media, and lease guarantees for the years ended June 30, 2018 and 2017.

Years ended June 30,2018 2017
(in millions)   
Contingent consideration   
Balance at beginning of year$34.2
 $56.6
Accrual on Time’s opening balance sheet 1
1.1
 —
Additions due to acquisitions—
 7.7
Payments 1
(5.1) (10.6)
Fair value adjustment of contingent consideration(4.8) (19.5)
Balance at end of year$25.4
 $34.2
    
Corporate airplanes held-for-sale   
Balance at beginning of year$1.9
 $2.8
Fair value adjustment of corporate airplanes—
 (0.9)
Sale(1.9) —
Balance at end of year$—
 $1.9
    
Trademarks   
Balance at beginning of year 2
$55.7
 $5.3
Impairment(22.7) (5.3)
Balance at end of year$33.0
 $—
    
Investment in Next Issue Media   
Balance at beginning of year 3
$11.0
 $—
Additions due to investment and acquisition3.3
 —
Equity method investment losses(3.6) —
Impairment(9.3) —
Sale(1.4) —
Balance at end of year$—
 $—
    
Lease guarantee   
Balance at beginning of year$—
 $—
Accrual on Time’s opening balance sheet3.6
 —
Issuance of new guarantees9.2
 —
Fair market value adjustment of lease guarantees(0.4) —
Foreign currency exchange impact(0.5) —
Balance at end of year$11.9
 $—
    
1   Of this amount, $0.5 million was classified in liabilities associated with assets held-for-sale on the opening balance
    sheet, and was subsequently paid in fiscal 2018.
2   Book value of trademarks impaired during the year.
3   Book value of investment impaired during the year.

The fair value adjustment of contingent consideration is the change in the estimated earn out payments based on projections of performance and the amortization of the present value discount. The fair value adjustment of contingent consideration is included in selling, general, and administrative line on the Consolidated Statements of Earnings.


In fiscal 2016, the Company committed to a plan to sell the Company’s two corporate airplanes. In conjunction with that plan, the Company classified the airplanes as held-for-sale and wrote the assets down to fair value. The airplanes were recorded at fair value until their sale in fiscal 2018.
The fair value adjustment of corporate airplanes and impairment of trademarks areis included in the impairment of goodwill and other long-lived assets line in the Consolidated StatementStatements of Earnings. Next Issue Media was reported as a cost method investment as of June 30, 2017, and the impairment of this investment is recorded in non-operating expense, net in the Consolidated StatementStatements of Earnings.


In the Acquisition, the Company assumed lease guarantees related to space leased by various former Time subsidiaries. The fair value of the lease guarantees was derived using a probability weighted present value of expected future payments using the with-and-without approach, for which the Company used unobservable inputs that are classified as Level 3 under the fair value hierarchy. The lease guarantee liabilities are being amortized into earnings on a straight-line basis over the lives of the respective leases, the longest of which extends through November 2030. The lease guarantees are not considered to be measured at fair value at June 30, 2019 or 2018.




11. Revenue Recognition

Meredith disaggregates revenue from contracts with customers by types of goods and services. A reconciliation of disaggregated revenue to segment revenue (as provided in Note 18) is as follows.
June 30, 2019
National
Media
Local
Media
Intersegment
Elimination
Total
(In millions)    
Advertising related    
Print$690.1
$—
$—
$690.1
Non-political spot—
323.3
—
323.3
Political spot—
102.9
—
102.9
Digital394.9
15.8
—
410.7
Third party sales65.3
96.2
(1.9)159.6
Total advertising related1,150.3
538.2
(1.9)1,686.6
Consumer related    
Subscription693.7
—
—
693.7
Retransmission—
316.5
—
316.5
Newsstand165.5
—
—
165.5
Affinity marketing83.6
—
—
83.6
Licensing94.4
—
—
94.4
Digital consumer driven39.9
—
—
39.9
Total consumer related1,077.1
316.5
—
1,393.6
Other    
Projects based50.5
—
—
50.5
Other48.7
9.1
—
57.8
Total other99.2
9.1
—
108.3
Total revenues$2,326.6
$863.8
$(1.9)$3,188.5


As a result of the adoption of ASC 606, the Company determined that certain barter revenue and expense will no longer be recognized. As a result, $1.9 million of the current portion of broadcast rights and the current portion of broadcast rights payable and $8.2 million of the noncurrent portion of broadcast rights and the noncurrent portion of


broadcast rights payable were written off in the first quarter of fiscal 2019. Other impacts from the adoption of ASC 606 on the consolidated financial statements were immaterial.

CONTRACT BALANCES

The timing of Meredith’s performance under its various contracts often differs from the timing of the customer’s payment, which results in the recognition of a contract asset or a contract liability. A contract asset is recognized when a good or service is transferred to a customer and the Company does not have the contractual right to bill for the related performance obligations. A contract liability is recognized when consideration is received from the customer prior to the transfer of goods or services. Current portion of contract liabilities were $394.0 million at July 1, 2018 and $458.9 million at June 30, 2019, and are presented as current portion of unearned revenues on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Noncurrent contract liabilities were $132.3 million and $318.6 million at July 1, 2018 and June 30, 2019, respectively, and are reflected as unearned revenues on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Subscription revenue of $371.4 million recognized in the year ended June 30, 2019, was in contract liabilities at the beginning of the period. An additional $13.2 million of revenue recognized in fiscal 2019 was related to the liability balance as of the beginning of the period.

NATURE OF PERFORMANCE OBLIGATIONS

At contract inception, Meredith assesses the obligations promised in its contracts with customers and identifies a performance obligation for each promise to transfer a good or service or bundle that is distinct. To identify the performance obligations, the Company considers all the promises in the contract, whether explicitly stated or implied based on customary business practices. For a contract that has more than one performance obligation, the Company allocates the total contract consideration to each distinct performance obligation on a relative standalone selling price basis. Revenue is recognized when, or as, the performance obligations are satisfied and control is transferred to the customer.

Print Advertising—The Company provides advertisement placements in print media directly to advertisers or through advertising agencies. The Company’s performance obligations related to print advertising are satisfied when the magazine in which an advertisement appears is published, which is defined as an issue’s on-sale date. The customer is invoiced the agreed-upon price when the advertisements are published under normal industry trade terms. The agreed upon price is adjusted for estimated provisions for rebates, rate adjustments, and discounts. As part of the Company’s customary business practices, print advertising contracts include guaranteed circulation levels of magazines, referred to as rate base, and a number of sales incentives to its customers including volume discounts, rebates, bonus pages, etc. For all such contracts that include these types of variable consideration, the Company estimates such when determining the transaction price.

Non-political and Political Spot Advertising—The Company sells commercial time directly to political and non-political advertisers or through advertising agencies. The Company’s performance obligations related to spot advertising are satisfied when the advertisement is aired by the broadcasting station. Rates for spot advertising are influenced primarily by the market size, number and type of competitors, audience share, and audience demographics. The customer is invoiced the agreed-upon price at the end of the month in which the advertisements were aired under normal trade terms. Political spot advertisements require payment in advance of airing. The agreed upon price may be adjusted for estimated provisions for rebates, rate adjustments, and discounts. As part of the Company’s customary business practices, broadcast television advertising contracts may include gross rating points goals and/or sales incentives to its customers. For all such contracts that include these types of variable consideration, the Company estimates the variable consideration and factors in such an estimate when determining the transaction price.

Digital Advertising—The Company sells digital advertising inventory on its websites directly to advertisers or through advertising agencies. The Company’s performance obligations related to digital advertising are generally satisfied when the advertisement is run on owned or operated websites. The price for digital advertising is determined by an agreed-upon pricing model such as CPC (cost per click), CPM (cost per 1,000 impressions), or


flat fees. Revenue from the sale of digital advertising space is recognized when the advertisements are delivered based on the respective pricing model or ratably over the contract period for flat fee advertisements. The customer is invoiced the agreed-upon price in the month following the month that the advertisements are delivered with normal trade terms. The agreed upon price is adjusted for estimated provisions for rebates, rate adjustments, and discounts. As part of the Company’s customary business practices, digital advertising contracts may include a guaranteed number of impressions and sales incentives to its customers including volume discounts, rebates, value added impressions, etc. For all such contracts that include these types of variable consideration, the Company estimates the variable consideration and factors in such an estimate when determining the transaction price.

Third-Party Sales—The Company sells a variety of advertising products to our advertising customers that are placed on third-party platforms. The Company’s performance obligations related to these sales are generally satisfied, and revenue is recognized, when the advertisement is run by the third parties, or a print product is placed on-sale, due to the Company's obligation to reach a targeted audience demographic. The transaction price represents the cost of the purchased media plus a mark-up. The customer is invoiced the agreed-upon price shortly after the advertisements appear under normal trade terms. The agreed upon price is adjusted for estimated provisions for rebates, rate adjustments, and discounts. As part of the Company’s customary business practices, contracts may include guaranteed audience targets and a number of sales incentives to its customers including volume discounts, rebates, value added impressions, etc. For all such contracts that include these types of variable consideration, the Company estimates the variable consideration in determining the transaction price.

Subscription—Meredith sells magazines and books to consumers through subscriptions. Each copy of a magazine and book is determined to be a distinct performance obligation that is satisfied when the publication is sent to the customer. The majority of the Company’s subscription sales are prepaid at the time of order.Subscriptions may be canceled at any time for a refund of the price paid for remaining issues. As the contract may be canceled at any time for a full refund of the unserved copies, the contract term is determined to be on an issue-to-issue basis as these contracts do not have substantive termination penalties. Revenues from subscriptions are deferred and recognized proportionately as subscribers are served. Some magazine subscription offers contain more than one magazine title in a bundle. Meredith allocates the total contract consideration to each distinct performance obligation, or magazine title, based on a standalone-selling price basis.

Retransmission—Meredith's local media segment has entered into agreements with cable, satellite, and telecommunications service providers for licenses to access Meredith’s television station signals for retransmission. These licenses are functional licenses under which revenue is recognized at a point-in-time when access to the completed content is granted to the service provider. The transaction price for retransmission agreements generally are on a per subscriber basis. The recognition pattern for retransmission contracts mirrors over-time revenue recognition as Meredith delivers the signal to the service provider, which represents completed content, on an on-going basis during the license period.

Newsstand—Meredith sells single copy magazines, or bundles of single copy magazines, to wholesalers for ultimate resale on newsstands primarily at major retailers and grocery/drug stores, and in digital form on tablets and other electronic devices. Publications sold to magazine wholesalers are sold with the right to receive credit from the Company for magazines returned to the wholesaler by retailers. Revenue is recognized on the issue's on-sale date as the date aligns most closely with the date that control is transferred to the customer. The Company bases its estimates for returns on historical experience and current marketplace conditions.

Affinity Marketing—Meredith partners with third parties to market and place magazine subscriptions for both Meredith titles and third-party publisher magazine titles. Meredith acts as an agent in sales of third-party magazine subscriptions and recognizes revenue in the net amount of consideration retained after paying the third-party publishers. Meredith assumes credit risk related to refunds on these sales, for which a reserve is established. The reserve is based on historical statistics at the time the cash is collected, which is after a risk-free trial period is over. Revenue from the acquisition of a subscriber is recognized when the subscriber name has been provided to the publisher and after any risk-free trial period has expired, if applicable.



Licensing—Meredith has entered into various licensing agreements that provide third-party partners the right to utilize the Company’s intellectual property. Licensing agreements include both symbolic and functional licenses. Symbolic licenses include direct-to-retail partnerships that create branded products based on the national media brands, a branded real estate program, and international magazine partnerships. Functional licenses in national media consist of content licensing. Revenues from symbolic licenses are in the form of a royalty based on the sale or usage of the branded product, which is recognized over time when the sale or use occurs under the sales or usage-based royalty exception. Revenues from functional licenses are recognized at a point-in-time when access to the completed content is granted to the partner.

Digital Consumer Driven—Various digital consumer products utilize Meredith brands to drive responses from individual customers resulting in the generation of revenue. Digital consumer driven revenue is primarily commission-based. It is earned as consumer responses are generated through various programs and delivered to the program's third-party sponsor. Revenue is recognized at the point-in-time Meredith has fully satisfied the obligations to the third-party sponsor.

Projects Based—Meredith’s national media segment contains several business lines that are business-to-business and project based. Such revenue may relate to any one or combination of the following activities; custom publishing, content strategy and development, email marketing, social media, database marketing, and search engine optimization. Revenue earned under the OA with the purchasers of the TIME and Fortune brands is also considered to be projects based. The products and services delivered under these contracts are customized to each client and therefore, do not have alternative uses to Meredith or other clients. As a result, revenue under such contracts are generally recognized over time based on project milestones until the delivery of the final product to the customer.

Other—Other revenue primarily includes revenues derived from third-party magazine fulfillment and third-party newsstand sales and marketing support, both of these services are expected to cease by the end of the fiscal year. The remaining revenues within this category are management fees and revenues from other small programs, which are generally recognized at a point-in-time as the performance obligations are transferred to the customer.

TIMING OF SATISFACTION OF PERFORMANCE OBLIGATIONS

Point-in-Time Performance Obligations—For performance obligations related to sales of print, political and non-political spot, and certain digital advertising space, the Company determines that the customer can direct the use of and obtain substantially all the benefits from the advertising products on the issue’s on-sale date, when aired by the broadcasting station, or as the digital impressions are served. For performance obligations related to sales of magazines through subscriptions, the customer obtains control when each magazine issue is mailed to the customer on or before the issue’s on-sale date. For sales of single copy magazines on newsstands, revenue is recognized on the issue’s on-sale date as the date aligns most closely with the date that control is transferred to the customer. Exclusive content licensing is a functional license under which revenue is recognized at a point-in-time when the access is granted to the customer as that is the point at which the customer gains access to completed content. Retransmission agreements also represent a functional license and are recognized at a point-in-time. However, as the content licensed is continuously added, the revenue recognition pattern mimics an over-time recognition.

Finally, revenue from acquisition of subscribers to non-Meredith magazine titles by the Company's affinity marketers is recognized at a point-in-time, once the subscriber name has been provided to the third-party publisher. Similarly, revenue from commission-based digital consumer generated sources is recognized at a point-in-time once Meredith has fulfilled its obligation to connect a consumer to a third-party product or service.

Determining when control transfers requires management to make judgments that affect the timing of revenue recognized. The Company has determined that recognition of revenue at a point-in-time for these products and services provides a faithful depiction of the transfer of control to the customer.



Over-Time Performance Obligations—For performance obligations related to sales of project based and certain digital advertising space, the Company transfers control and recognizes revenue over time by measuring progress towards complete satisfaction using the most appropriate method, i.e. either the "Input Method" or the "Output Method."

For performance obligations related to digital advertising, the Company satisfies its performance obligations on some flat-fee digital advertising placements over time using a time-elapsed output method.

Determining a measure of progress requires management to make judgments that affect the timing of revenue recognized. The Company has determined that the above method provides a faithful depiction of the transfer of goods or services to the customer. For performance obligations recognized using a time-elapsed output method, the Company’s efforts are expended evenly throughout the period.

TRANSACTION PRICE AND AMOUNTS ALLOCATED TO PERFORMANCE OBLIGATIONS

Determining the Transaction Price—Certain advertising contracts contain variable components of the transaction price, such as volume discounts and rebates. Meredith has sufficient historical data and has established processes to reliably estimate these variable components of the transaction price.

Certain spot advertising contracts contain a guarantee of ratings performance that requires Meredith to compensate the advertiser with additional advertising if the guaranteed ratings are not met. Meredith has established a reserve based on the rating points due to advertisers at the end of each fiscal quarter valued at the average station cost per point.

The Company typically does not offer any type of variable consideration in standard magazine subscription contracts. For these contracts, the transaction price is fixed upon establishment of the contract that contains the final terms of the sale including description, quantity and price of each subscription purchased. Therefore, the Company does not estimate variable consideration or perform a constraint analysis for these contracts.

A right of return exists for newsstand contracts. Meredith has sufficient historical data to estimate the final amount of returns and reduces the transaction price at contract inception for the expected return reserve.

Revenue from symbolic licenses is based on a percentage of revenue generated through the sale of the branded products representing a sales-or-usage-based royalty. Therefore, revenue is recorded based on actual results when the sale or usage occurs rather than estimated at contract inception. Revenue under contracts that contain minimum guarantees to be paid by the retailer to Meredith is recognized straight line each month until the royalty exceeds the guarantee at which time the excess is recognized. There is no variable consideration related to functional licenses.

Variable consideration related to project based revenue is limited to discounts for overages and reimbursement of out of pocket costs that are not separable from the performance obligation. Both are evaluated or estimated at contract inception and throughout the contract, based on similar projects and historical experience and are considered in the transaction price.

Estimating Standalone-Selling Prices—For contracts that contain multiple performance obligations, the Company allocates the transaction price to each performance obligation on a relative standalone-selling price basis. The standalone-selling price is the price at which the Company would sell a promised good or service separately to the customer. In situations in which an obligation is bundled with other obligations and the total amount of consideration does not reflect the sum of individual observable prices, the Company allocates the discount to (1) a single obligation if the discount is attributable to that obligation or (2) prorates across all obligations if the discount relates to the bundle. When standalone-selling price is not directly observable, the Company estimates and considers all the information that is reasonably available to the Company, including market conditions, entity-specific factors, customer information, etc. The Company maximizes the use of observable inputs and applies estimation methods consistently in similar circumstances.


Measuring Obligations for Returns and Refunds—The Company accepts product returns in some cases. The Company establishes provisions for estimated returns concurrently with the recognition of revenue. The provisions are established based upon consideration of a variety of factors, including, among other things, recent and historical return rates for both specific products and distributors and the impact of any new product releases and projected economic conditions.

CONTRACT COSTS

Assets Recognized from Contract Costs—The Company recognizes an asset for the incremental costs of obtaining a contract with a customer, paid to external parties, if it expects to recover those costs. The Company has determined that sales commissions paid on all third-party agent sales of subscriptions are direct and incremental and therefore meet the capitalization criteria. These capitalized costs are amortized as revenue is recognized or over the term of the agreement. Direct mail costs also meet the requirements to be capitalized as assets if they are proven to be recoverable. As of June 30, 2019, the balances recognized from the costs incurred to obtain contracts with customers was $515.9 million, $242.0 million of which was recorded in current portion of subscription acquisition costs and $273.9 million was recorded in subscription acquisition costs on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The amount of amortization that the Company recognized during fiscal 2019 was $319.5 million. There were no impairments of contract assets recognized during the year ended June 30, 2019.


12. Pension and Postretirement Benefit Plans


Defined Contribution Plans


The Company sponsors a defined contribution saving plansplan for most of its U.S. based employees. Eligible Company employees may participate in the Meredith Savings and Investment Plan. In connection with the Acquisition, certain employees still participate in thePlan, a defined contribution savings plan that Time had in place for their employees in the U.S., the Time Inc. Savings Plan. The Company’s existing and assumed Time defined contribution plans allowallows eligible employees to contribute a percentage of their salary, commissions, and bonuses in accordance with plan limitations and provisions of Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code (Section 401(k)) and the Company makes matching contributions to eachthe plan subject to the limits of the respective 401(k) Plans.

For the Meredith Savings and Investment Plan, theplan. The Company currently matches 100 percent of the first 4 percent and 50 percent of the next 1 percent of employee contributions.

In connection with the Acquisition, certain employees continued to participate, through December 31, 2018, in the defined contribution savings plan that Time had in place for its employees in the U.S., the Time Inc. Savings Plan. For the Time Inc. Savings Plan, the Company matchesmatched 100 percent of the first 4 percent and 50 percent of the next 2 percent of eligible compensation. In addition to the annual employer contribution made to the Time Inc. Savings Plan,, following the plan year, the Company makesmade an employer match contribution of up to 5 percent of each participant’s compensation less any employer matching contribution made within the plan year to those participants who contributed up to 6 percent of their compensation for the plan year. The Time Inc. Savings Plan merged into the Meredith Savings and Investment Plan effective for the 2019 calendar plan year.


Both plans allow employeesEmployees are allowed to choose among various investment options. The Meredith Savings and Investment Plan also includesincluded an investment option in the Company’s common stock.stock until December 31, 2018. Matching contributions are invested in the same manner as the participants’ pre-tax contributions. Company contribution expense under these plans totaled $22.6 million in fiscal 2019, $19.6 million in fiscal2018, and $10.9 million in fiscal 2017 and $9.6 million in fiscal 2016..

In connection with the Acquisition, the Company assumed responsibility for sponsoring The Time Inc. Supplemental Savings Plan (Supplemental Plan). The Supplemental Plan permits eligible employees who participate in the Time Inc. Savings Plan and are limited in the amount they can contribute under Section 401(k) to defer a percentage of eligible compensation and receive a company matching deferral of up to 5 percent of eligible compensation. The matching contributions vest after two years of Company service pursuant to Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code and limitations described in the Supplemental Plan.


The Company sponsors the Meredith Corporation Deferred Compensation Plan. In connection with the Acquisition, the Company assumed responsibility for sponsoring The Time Inc. Deferred Compensation Plan, which is a frozen plan (collectively the Deferred Compensation Plans). The Deferred Compensation Plans allow participants to defer certain bonuses and salaries. No actual monies are set aside in respect of the Deferred Compensation Plans and participants have no rights to Company assets in respect of plan liabilities in excess of general unsecured creditors.



The liabilities associated with the plans fluctuate with hypothetical yields of the underlying investments. Liabilities for the uncollateralized plans were approximately $20.9 million and $29.4 million at June 30, 2019 and 2018,


respectively, of which approximately $4.7 million was reflected in accrued compensation and benefits and approximately $16.2 million was reflected in other noncurrent liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets at June 30, 2019 and approximately $8.4 million was reflected in accrued compensation and benefits and approximately $21.0 million was reflected withinin other noncurrent liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.Sheets at June 30, 2018.


Pension and Postretirement Plans


Meredith has U.S. noncontributory pension plans covering substantially all employees who were employed by Meredith prior to the Acquisition. In connection with the Acquisition, the Company assumed the obligations under Time’s various international pension plans including plans in the U.K., Netherlands, and Germany. These domestic and international plans include qualified (funded) plans as well as nonqualified (unfunded) plans. These plans provide participating employees with retirement benefits in accordance with benefit provision formulas. The nonqualified plans provide retirement benefits only to certain highly compensated employees. The Company also sponsors defined healthcare and life insurance plans that provide benefits to eligible retirees.



Obligations and Funded Status
The following tables present changes in, and components of, the Company’s net assets/liabilities for pension and other postretirement benefits:


Pension  PostretirementPension  Postretirement
Domestic  
Inter-
national
  DomesticDomestic  International  Domestic
June 30,2018 2017   2018  2018 201720192018  20192018  20192018
(In millions)                  
Change in benefit obligation                  
Benefit obligation, beginning of year$170.9
 $161.9
  $—
  $9.3
 $9.7
$179.4
$170.9
  $721.5
$—
  $8.4
$9.3
Acquisitions 1
—
 —
  836.6
  —
 —
—
—
  —
836.6
  —
—
Service cost13.0
 12.5
  —
  0.1
 0.1
11.5
13.0
  0.1
—
  —
0.1
Interest cost5.9
 4.9
  8.0
  0.3
 0.3
6.5
5.9
  16.9
8.0
  0.3
0.3
Participant contributions—
 —
  —
  0.8
 0.8
—
—
  —
—
  0.9
0.8
Plan amendments1.2
 0.5
  —
  —
 —
—
1.2
  7.1
—
  —
—
Net actuarial loss (gain)2.4
 3.6
  (21.0)  (0.8) (0.2)10.3
2.4
  35.8
(21.0)  (0.4)(0.8)
Benefits paid (including lump sums)(12.9) (12.5)  (44.1)  (1.3) (1.4)(13.1)(12.9)  (17.0)(44.1)  (0.9)(1.3)
Settlements(8.4)—
  (12.7)—
  —
—
Contractual termination benefits1.3
—
  —
—
  —
—
Curtailments(1.1) —
  —
  —
 —
—
(1.1)  —
—
  —
—
Foreign currency exchange rate impact—
 —
  (58.0)  —
 —
—
—
  (26.4)(58.0)  —
—
Benefit obligation, end of year$179.4
 $170.9
  $721.5
  $8.4
 $9.3
$187.5
$179.4
  $725.3
$721.5
  $8.3
$8.4
                  
Change in plan assets                  
Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year$139.2
 $122.6
  $—
  $—
 $—
$139.0
$139.2
  $841.5
$—
  $—
$—
Acquisitions 1
—
 —
  867.7
  —
 —
—
—
  —
867.7
  —
—
Actual return on plan assets12.0
 18.5
  (6.7)  —
 —
9.2
12.0
  75.5
(6.7)  —
—
Employer contributions0.7
 10.6
  88.9
  0.5
 0.6
8.7
0.7
  16.2
88.9
  0.1
0.5
Participant contributions—
 —
  —
  0.8
 0.8
—
—
  —
—
  0.8
0.8
Benefits paid (including lump sums)(12.9) (12.5)  (44.1)  (1.3) (1.4)(13.1)(12.9)  (17.0)(44.1)  (0.9)(1.3)
Settlements(8.4)—
  (12.7)—
  —
—
Foreign currency exchange rate impact—
 —
  (64.3)  —
 —
—
—
  (31.4)(64.3)  —
—
Fair value of plan assets, end of year$139.0
 $139.2
  $841.5
  $—
 $—
$135.4
$139.0
  $872.1
$841.5
  $—
$—
                   
Over (under) funded status, end of year$(40.4) $(31.7)  $120.0

  $(8.4) $(9.3)$(52.1)$(40.4)  $146.8
$120.0
  $(8.3)$(8.4)
              
1 The International pension plans were acquired with the acquisition of Time Inc. on January 31, 2018.
1 The International pension plans were acquired with the acquisition of Time Inc. on January 31, 2018.
1 The International pension plans were acquired with the acquisition of Time Inc. on January 31, 2018.



Benefits paid directly from Meredith assets are included both in employer contributions and benefits paid.


In connection with the sale of TIUK, during fiscal 2018, the Company contributed £60.0 million to the IPC Media Pension Scheme (IPC Plan) defined benefit pension plan in the U.K. We retained the IPC Plan in the sale of TIUK.


The following amounts are recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets:


 PensionPostretirement
 Domestic  International  Domestic
June 30,20192018  20192018  20192018
(In millions)          
Other assets          
Prepaid benefit cost$11.2
$16.9
  $157.1
$137.4
  $—
$—
Accrued expenses-compensation and benefits

         
Accrued benefit liability(28.0)(9.9)  (0.2)(0.2)  (0.6)(0.6)
Other noncurrent liabilities
         
Accrued benefit liability(35.3)(47.4)  (10.1)(17.2)  (7.7)(7.8)
Net amount recognized, end of year$(52.1)$(40.4)  $146.8
$120.0
  $(8.3)$(8.4)

 PensionPostretirement
 Domestic International  Domestic
June 30,2018 2017  2018   2018 2017
(In millions)            
Other assets            
Prepaid benefit cost$16.9
 $16.9
  $137.4
   $—
 $—
Accrued expenses-compensation and benefits            
Accrued benefit liability(9.9) (5.8)  (0.2)   (0.6) (0.7)
Other noncurrent liabilities            
Accrued benefit liability(47.4) (42.8)  (17.2)   (7.8) (8.6)
Net amount recognized, end of year$(40.4) $(31.7)  $120.0
   $(8.4) $(9.3)


The accumulated benefit obligation for the domestic defined benefit pension plans was $171.1 million and $164.7 million and $154.0 million atJune 30, 20182019 and 2017,2018, respectively. The accumulated benefit obligation for the international defined benefit pension plans was $725.3 million and $721.5 million at June 30, 2018.2019 and 2018, respectively.


The following table provides information about pension plans with projected benefit obligations and accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets:


DomesticInternationalDomestic  International
June 30,2018 2017 2018 2019 2018  2019 2018
(In millions)              
Projected benefit obligation$57.3
 $48.7
 $28.4
 $63.4
 $57.3
  $10.3
 $28.4
Accumulated benefit obligation51.6
 42.6
 28.4
 57.1
 51.6
  10.3
 28.4
Fair value of plan assets0.1
 0.1
 11.0
 0.1
 0.1
  —
 11.0





Costs
The components of net periodic benefit costs recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings were as follows:


PensionPostretirementPension  Postretirement
Domestic 
Inter-
national
DomesticDomestic  International  Domestic
Years ended June 30,
2018 2017 2016  2018 2018 2017 2016201920182017  20192018  201920182017
(In millions)                     
Components of net periodic benefit costsComponents of net periodic benefit costs             Components of net periodic benefit costs       
Service cost$13.0
 $12.5
 $11.9
  $—
 $0.1
 $0.1
 $0.1
$11.5
$13.0
$12.5
  $0.1
$—
  $—
$0.1
$0.1
Interest cost5.9
 4.9
 5.9
  8.0
 0.3
 0.3
 0.4
6.5
5.9
4.9
  16.9
8.0
  0.3
0.3
0.3
Expected return on plan assets(10.5) (9.2) (11.0)  (17.9) —
 —
 —
(9.7)(10.5)(9.2)  (31.5)(17.9)  —
—
—
Prior service cost (credit) amortization0.3
 0.2
 0.2
  —
 (0.4) (0.4) (0.4)0.5
0.3
0.2
  —
—
  —
(0.4)(0.4)
Actuarial loss (gain) amortization2.0
 3.6
 0.6
  —
 (0.3) (0.3) (0.7)1.9
2.0
3.6
  —
—
  (0.6)(0.3)(0.3)
Settlement charge—
 —
 5.6
  0.2
 —
 —
 —
Settlement charge (credit)2.7
—
—
  (4.1)0.2
  —
—
—
Contractual termination benefits1.3
—
—
  —
—
  —
—
—
Net periodic benefit costs (credit)$10.7
 $12.0
 $13.2
  $(9.7) $(0.3) $(0.3) $(0.6)$14.7
$10.7
$12.0
  $(18.6)$(9.7)  $(0.3)$(0.3)$(0.3)


The components of net periodic benefit costs (credit), other than the service cost component, are included in non-operating income, net in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings. The amortization of amounts related to unrecognized prior service costs/credit and net actuarial gain/loss were reclassified out of other comprehensive income as components of net periodic benefit costs.

The pension settlement charge recorded in fiscal 2016 related to cash distributions paid by the pension plan during fiscal 2016 exceeding a prescribed threshold. This required that a portion of pension losses within accumulated other comprehensive loss be realized in the period that the related pension liabilities were settled.


Amounts recognized in the accumulated other comprehensive loss component of shareholders’ equity for Company-sponsored plans were as follows:


 Pension  Postretirement
 Domestic  International  Domestic
June 30,20192018  20192018  20192018
(In millions)          
Unrecognized net actuarial losses (gains), net of taxes$25.3
$20.7
  $(0.6)$2.6
 
$(1.7)$(1.8)
Unrecognized prior service cost (credit), net of taxes1.1
1.5
  5.6
—
 
—
—
Total$26.4
$22.2
  $5.0
$2.6
 
$(1.7)$(1.8)

 Pension Postretirement
 DomesticInternational Domestic
June 30,2018 2017 2018  2018 2017
(In millions)          
Unrecognized net actuarial losses (gains), net of taxes$20.7
 $18.5
 $2.6
 
$(1.8) $(1.2)
Unrecognized prior service cost (credit), net of taxes1.5
 0.7
 —
 
—
 (0.2)
Total$22.2
 $19.2
 $2.6
 
$(1.8) $(1.4)


During fiscal 2019,2020, the Company expects to recognize as part of its net periodic benefit costs $1.9$2.5 million of net actuarial losses and $0.5$0.7 million of prior service costs for the pension plans, and $0.6$0.5 million of net actuarial gains and no0 prior service costs for the postretirement plan, net of taxes, in the accumulated other comprehensive loss component of shareholders’ equity at June 30, 2018.2019.





Assumptions
Benefit obligations were determined using the following weighted average assumptions:


PensionPostretirementPension Postretirement
Domestic International  DomesticDomestic  International  Domestic
June 30,2018 2017  2018   2018 201720192018  20192018  20192018
Weighted average assumptions                   
Discount rate4.03% 3.41%  2.57%   4.10% 3.65%3.39%4.03%  2.24%2.57%  3.45%4.10%
Rate of compensation increase3.50% 3.50%  n/a
   3.50% 3.50%3.09%3.50%  n/a
n/a
  3.50%3.50%
n/a - Not applicable              


Net periodic benefit costs were determined using the following weighted average assumptions:



Pension
PostretirementPension 
Postretirement

Domestic
Inter-
national

DomesticDomestic
International 
Domestic
Years ended June 30,2018
2017
2016

2018

2018
2017
2016201920182017

20192018 
201920182017
Weighted average assumptions


















 

Discount rate3.41%
2.98%
3.75%

2.57%

3.65%
3.40%
4.20%4.03%3.41%2.98%

2.57%2.57% 
4.10%3.65%3.40%
Expected return on plan assets8.00%
8.00%
8.00%

4.87%

n/a

n/a

n/a
8.00%8.00%8.00%

3.89%4.87% 
n/a
n/a
n/a
Rate of compensation increase3.50%
3.50%
3.50%

3.50%

3.50%
3.50%
3.50%3.50%3.50%3.50%

n/a
3.50% 
3.50%3.50%3.50%
n/a - Not applicable















 



Plan trend rates are the annual rates of increase expected for medical benefits payable from the Plan. The assumed health care trend rates used to measure the expected cost of benefits were as follows:
  Postretirement
Assumed healthcare cost trend rates as of June 30, 2019 2018 2017
Rate of increase in health care cost levels      
Initial level 6.00% 6.50% 7.00%
Ultimate level 5.00% 5.00% 5.00%
Years to ultimate level 3 years
 4 years
 5 years

  Postretirement
Assumed healthcare cost trend rates as of June 30, 2018 2017 2016
Rate of increase in health care cost levels      
Initial level 6.50% 7.00% 7.00%
Ultimate level 5.00% 5.00% 5.00%
Years to ultimate level 4 years
 5 years
 6 years


Pension expense is calculated using a number of actuarial assumptions, including an expected long-term rate of return on assets and a discount rate. In developing the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets, the Company considered long-term historical rates of return, plan asset allocations as well as the opinions and outlooks of investment professionals and consulting firms. Returns projected by such consultants and economists are based on broad equity and bond indices. The objective is to select an average rate of earnings expected on existing plan assets and expected contributions to the plan during the year. The Company reviews this long-term assumption on a periodic basis.


The value (market-related value) of plan assets is multiplied by the expected long-term rate of return on assets to compute the expected return on plan assets, a component of net periodic pension cost. The market-related value of plan assets is a calculated value that recognizes changes in fair value over three years.





Assumed rates of increase in healthcare cost have a significant effect on the amounts reported for the healthcare plans. A change of one percentage point in the assumed healthcare cost trend rates would have the following effects:


 
One
Percentage
Point Increase
 
One
Percentage
Point Decrease
(In millions)       
Effect on service and interest cost components for fiscal 2018 $—
   $—
 
Effect on postretirement benefit obligation as of June 30, 2018 0.4
   (0.3) 
 
One
Percentage
Point Increase
 
One
Percentage
Point Decrease
(In millions)       
Effect on service and interest cost components for fiscal 2019 $—
   $—
 
Effect on postretirement benefit obligation as of June 30, 2019 0.4
   (0.3) 


Plan Assets
The targeted and weighted average asset allocations by asset category for investments held by the Company’s pension plans are as follows:


 Domestic  International
 2019 Allocation  2018 Allocation  2019 Allocation  2018 Allocation
June 30,Target
 Actual
  Target
 Actual
  Target
 Actual
  Target
 Actual
Equity securities70% 68%  70% 70%  7% 7%  32% 18%
Fixed-income securities30% 32%  30% 30%  80% 79%  17% 29%
Other securities 1
—% —%  —% —%  13% 14%  51% 53%
Total100% 100%  100% 100%  100% 100%  100% 100%
                   
1  Other primarily includes pooled investment funds.

 Domestic International 
 2018 Allocation  2017 Allocation 2018 Allocation 
June 30,Target
 Actual
  Target
 Actual
 Target
 Actual
 
Equity securities70% 70%  70% 71% 32% 18% 
Fixed-income securities30% 30%  30% 29% 17% 29% 
Other securities 1
—% —%  —% —% 51% 53% 
Total100% 100%  100% 100% 100% 100% 
              
1  Other primarily includes pooled investment funds.


Meredith’s investment policy for domestic plans seeks to maximize investment returns while balancing the Company’s tolerance for risk. The plan fiduciaries oversee the investment allocation process. This includes selecting investment managers, setting long-term strategic targets, and monitoring asset allocations. Target allocation ranges are guidelines, not limitations, and plan fiduciaries may occasionally approve allocations above or below a target range, or elect to rebalance the portfolio within the targeted range. The investment portfolio contains a diversified blend of equity and fixed-income investments. Furthermore, equity investments are diversified across domestic and international stocks and between growth and value stocks and small and large capitalizations. The primary investment strategy currently employed is a dynamic target allocation method that periodically rebalances among various investment categories depending on the current funded position. This program is designed to actively move from return-seeking investments (such as equities) toward liability-hedging investments (such as long-duration fixed-income) as funding levels improve. The reverse effect occurs when funding levels decrease.


The trustees of the IPC Plan have delegated the day-to-day investment decisions of the IPC Plan to a large international fiduciary manager—and utilize an investment manager to monitor investment performance and the reporting of the fiduciary manager. The investment objective of the IPC Plan is to invest the assets prudently with the intention that the benefits promised to the members are provided. Funding level based de-risking triggers have been established such that the investment strategy evolves as the funding level moves along an agreed glide path. As the funding level improves, the investment strategy will de-risk. Each trigger level specifies a minimum interest rate and hedge rate ratio and a maximum allocation to growth assets—which target a diversified portfolio using specialist managers and asset classes.


Equity securities did not include any Meredith Corporation common or class B stock at June 30, 20182019 or 2017.2018.





Fair value measurements for domestic pension plan assets were as follows:


June 30, 2018
Total
Fair Value
 
Quoted Prices
(Level 1)
Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs (Level 3)
June 30, 2019
Total
Fair Value
 
Quoted Prices
(Level 1)
Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs (Level 3)
(In millions)                
Investments in registered investment companies                
Equity$97.0
 $74.0
 $23.0
 $—
 $91.8
 $68.4
 $23.4
 $—
 
Fixed Income40.4
 —
 40.4
 —
 43.0
 —
 43.0
 —
 
Pooled separate accounts1.6
 —
 1.6
 —
 0.6
 —
 0.6
 —
 
Total assets at fair value$139.0
 $74.0
 $65.0
 $—
 $135.4
 $68.4
 $67.0
 $—
 
                
June 30, 2017        
June 30, 2018        
Investments in registered investment companies                
Equity$98.2
 $76.8
 $21.4
 $—
 $97.0
 $74.0
 $23.0
 $—
 
Fixed Income40.7
 —
 40.7
 —
 40.4
 —
 40.4
 —
 
Pooled separate accounts0.3
 —
 0.3
 —
 1.6
 —
 1.6
 —
 
Total assets at fair value$139.2
 $76.8
 $62.4
 $—
 $139.0
 $74.0
 $65.0
 $—
 


Fair value measurements for international pension plan assets which were acquired in the Time acquisition, were as follows:


June 30, 2019
Total
Fair Value
 
Quoted Prices
(Level 1)
Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs (Level 3)
(In millions)           
Cash and cash equivalents$121.8
  $119.5
  $2.3
  $—
 
Pooled investments           
Equity60.0
  —
  60.0
  —
 
Fixed Income393.9
  —
  393.9
  —
 
Other296.4
  —
  296.4
  —
 
Guaranteed investment contract—
  —
  —
  —
 
Total assets at fair value$872.1
  $119.5
  $752.6
  $—
 
            
June 30, 2018           
Cash and cash equivalents$17.6
  $5.2
  $12.4
  $—
 
Pooled investments           
Equity155.1
  —
  155.1
  —
 
Fixed Income242.0
  —
  242.0
  —
 
Other415.8
  —
  415.8
  —
 
Guaranteed investment contract11.0
  —
  11.0
  —
 
Total assets at fair value$841.5
  $5.2
  $836.3
  $—
 

June 30, 2018
Total
Fair Value
 
Quoted Prices
(Level 1)
Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs (Level 3)
(In millions)
          
Cash and cash equivalents$17.6
  $5.2
  $12.4
  $—
 
Pooled investments           
Equity155.1
  —
  155.1
  —
 
Fixed Income242.0
  —
  242.0
  —
 
Other415.8
  —
  415.8
  —
 
Guaranteed investment contract11.0
  —
  11.0
  —
 
Total assets at fair value$841.5
  $5.2
  $836.3
  $—
 


The international pension plans hold investments in liability matching funds whose objective is to provide leveraged returns equal to that of the liabilities. In order to do so, these funds invest in the respective UK Treasury Gilt bonds, Gilt Total Return Swaps, Repurchase Transactions, and cash or money markets to provide liquidity to meet payment obligations or post as collateral in the derivative transactions they enter into. These liability matching funds are included in Other pooled investments in the fair value level table above.



The Company primarily utilizes the market approach for determining recurring fair value. The fair value of the guaranteed investment contract has been determined based on the higher of the surrender value of the contract or the present value of the underlying bonds based on a discounted cash flow model. Refer to Note 10 for a discussion of the three levels in the hierarchy of fair values.


Cash Flows
Although the Company does not have a minimum funding requirement for the domestic pension plans in fiscal 2019,2020, the Company is currently determining what voluntary pension plan contributions, if any, will be made in fiscal 20192020 to the domestic plan. Actual contributions will be dependent upon investment returns, changes in pension obligations,


and other economic and regulatory factors. Meredith expects to contribute $0.6 million to its postretirement plan in fiscal 2019.2020.


Monthly contributions of £0.9 million are required to be made to the IPC Plan. In the event that on November 25, 2021, the IPC Plan has a funding deficit valuing its liabilities with a gilts plus 50 basis point (bps) discount rate, the Company, as the sponsor of the IPC Plan, will make a contribution equal to that funding deficit. In the event that on November 25, 2025, the IPC Plan has a funding deficit valuing its liabilities with a gilts flat discount rate, the Company will make a contribution equal to 50 percent of that funding deficit. In the event that on November 25, 2026, the IPC Plan has a funding deficit valuing its liabilities with a gilts flat discount rate, the Company will make a contribution equal to 50 percent of that funding deficit. In the event that on November 25, 2027, the IPC Plan has a funding deficit valuing its liabilities with a gilts flat discount rate, the Company will make a contribution equal to that funding deficit. Contributions shall cease to be payable from the date that the IPC Plan is confirmed to be fully funded.


The following benefit payments, which reflect expected future service as appropriate, are expected to be paid:


Years ending June 30,
Pension
Benefits
 
Postretirement
Benefits
(In millions) Domestic  International  Domestic 
2020 $43.4
  $15.0
  $0.6
 
2021 17.3
  16.2
  0.6
 
2022 12.6
  17.6
  0.6
 
2023 13.1
  18.1
  0.6
 
2024 13.9
  19.1
  0.6
 
2025-2029 72.9
  113.7
  2.6
 

Years ending June 30,
Pension
Benefits
 
Postretirement
Benefits
(In millions) Domestic International  Domestic 
2019 $29.8
 $13.3
  $0.6
 
2020 31.6
 14.4
  0.7
 
2021 22.9
 16.3
  0.7
 
2022 15.9
 17.9
  0.6
 
2023 16.4
 18.3
  0.6
 
2024-2028 87.6
 110.9
  2.7
 


Other
The Company maintains collateral assignment split-dollar life insurance arrangements on certain key officers and retirees. The net periodic pension cost for fiscal 2019, 2018, and 2017 and 2016 was $0.2 million, $0.6 million, $0.5 million, and $0.4$0.5 million, respectively, and the accrued liability at June 30, 2019 and 2018, was $3.2 million and 2017, was $3.1 million, and $4.3 million, respectively.




12.13. Share-based Compensation


Meredith has a shareholder-approved stock incentive plan. More detailed descriptions of these plans follow. Compensation expense recognized for these plans was $22.9 million in fiscal 2019, $30.4 million in fiscal 2018, $12.8 million in fiscal 2017, and $12.8 million in fiscal 2016.2017. The total income tax benefit recognized in earnings was $4.9 million in fiscal 2019, $6.9 million in fiscal 2018, and $4.8 million in fiscal 2017, and $4.6 million in fiscal 2016.2017.



Stock Incentive Plan


Meredith has a stock incentive plan that permits the Company to issue stock options, restricted stock, stock equivalent units, restricted stock units, and performance shares to key employees and directors of the Company. Approximately 8.07.4 million shares remained available for future awards under the plan as of June 30, 2018.2019. Forfeited awards, shares deemed to be delivered to us on tender of stock in payment for the exercise price of options, and shares reacquired pursuant to tax withholding on option exercises and the vesting of restricted shares and restricted stock units increase shares available for future awards. The plan is designed to provide an incentive to contribute to the achievement of long-range corporate goals; provide flexibility in motivating, attracting, and retaining employees; and to align more closely the employees’ interests with those of shareholders.




The Company has awarded restricted stock and restricted stock units to eligible key employees and to non-employee directors under the plan. In addition, certain awards are granted based on specified levels of Company stock ownership. All awards have restriction periods tied primarily to employment and/or service. The awards granted to employees generally vest over three3 or five5 years and the awards granted to directors vest one-third each year during the three-year period from date of grant. The grant date of awards is the date the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors approves the granting of the awards. The awards are recorded at the market value of traded shares on the date of the grant as unearned compensation. The initial values of the grants are amortized over the vesting periods.


The Company’s restricted stock activity during the year ended June 30, 2018,2019, was as follows:


Restricted StockShares  
Weighted Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
 
Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value
(Shares in thousands and Aggregate Intrinsic Value in millions)          
Nonvested at June 30, 201820.6
   $48.94
     
Granted11.6
   58.76     
Vested(13.5)   48.02     
Nonvested at June 30, 201918.7
   55.72
   $1.0
 

Restricted StockShares  
Weighted Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
 
Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value
(Shares in thousands and Aggregate Intrinsic Value in millions)          
Nonvested at June 30, 201738.4
   $41.85
     
Granted8.5
   52.00     
Vested(26.3)   39.57     
Nonvested at June 30, 201820.6
   48.94
   $1.0
 


As of June 30, 2018,2019, there was no0 unearned compensation cost related to restricted stock granted under the plan. The weighted average grant date fair value of restricted stock granted during the years ended June 30, 2019, 2018, and 2017, was $58.76, $52.00, and 2016 was $52.00, $47.65, and $47.01, respectively. The total fair value of shares vested during the years ended June 30, 2019, 2018, and 2017 and 2016, was $0.8 million, $1.5 million, and $7.9 million,, and $8.5 million, respectively.


The Company’s restricted stock unit activity during the year ended June 30, 2018,2019, was as follows:


Restricted Stock UnitsUnits  
Weighted Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
 
Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value
(Units in thousands and Aggregate Intrinsic Value in millions)          
Nonvested at June 30, 2018565.7
   $49.78
     
Granted266.6
   52.55
     
Vested(250.9)   45.24
     
Forfeited(99.7)   51.42
     
Nonvested at June 30, 2019
481.7
   53.34
   $26.5
 

Restricted Stock UnitsUnits  
Weighted Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
 
Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value
(Units in thousands and Aggregate Intrinsic Value in millions)          
Nonvested at June 30, 2017431.1
   $47.80
     
Granted 1
555.6
   47.26     
Vested(370.7)   43.47     
Forfeited(50.3)   51.43     
Nonvested at June 30, 2018
565.7
   49.78   $28.9
 
1 Includes restricted stock units previously granted under the Time incentive plan and converted into 409 restricted stock units upon acquisition.


As of June 30, 2018,2019, there was $9.7$7.2 million of unearned compensation cost related to restricted stock units granted under the plan. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 2.01.8 years. The weighted average grant date fair value of restricted stock units granted during the years ended June 30, 2019, 20182017, and 20162017


was $52.55, $47.26, $52.97, and $44.44,$52.97, respectively. The total fair value of shares vested during the years ended June 30, 2019, 20182017, and 20162017 was $13.0 million, $20.4 million, and $0.2 million, and $0.1 million,respectively.


Meredith also has outstanding stock equivalent units resulting from the deferral of compensation of employees and directors under various deferred compensation plans. The period of deferral is specified when the deferral election is made. These stock equivalent units are issued at the market price of the underlying stock on the date of deferral. In addition, shares of restricted stock and restricted stock units may be converted to stock equivalent units upon vesting.


The following table summarizes the activity for stock equivalent units during the year ended June 30, 20182019:


Stock Equivalent UnitsUnits 
Weighted Average
Issue Date
Fair Value
 Aggregate Intrinsic Value
(Units in thousands and Aggregate Intrinsic Value in millions)         
Balance at June 30, 2018319.1
  $38.92
     
Additions15.3
  54.84
     
Converted to common stock(92.2)  38.92
     
Balance at June 30, 2019242.2
  39.92
   $3.7
 

Stock Equivalent UnitsUnits 
Weighted Average
Issue Date
Fair Value
 Aggregate Intrinsic Value
(Units in thousands and Aggregate Intrinsic Value in millions)         
Balance at June 30, 2017296.1
  $37.81
     
Additions26.1
  50.97     
Converted to common stock(3.1)  35.16     
Balance at June 30, 2018319.1
  38.92   $3.9
 


The total intrinsic value of stock equivalent units converted to common stock was $1.7 million in fiscal 2019, $0.1 million in fiscal 2018, $0.2 million in fiscal 2017, and $0.1$0.2 million for fiscal year 2016.2017.


Meredith has granted nonqualified stock options to certain employees and directors under the plan. The grant date of options issued is the date the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors approves the granting of the options or a date thereafter as specified by the Committee. The exercise price of options granted is set at the fair value of the Company’s common stock on the grant date. All options granted under the plan expire at the end of 10 years. Options granted to employees vest three3 years from the date of grant and options granted to directors vest one-third each year during the three-year period from date of grant.


A summary of stock option activity and weighted average exercise prices follows:


Stock OptionsOptions 
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
 
Weighted
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term
 
Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value
(Options in thousands and Aggregate Intrinsic Value in millions)          
Outstanding July 1, 20182,421.2
  $50.56
      
Granted674.3
  52.85
      
Exercised(109.8)  40.13
      
Forfeited(180.8)  52.29
      
Outstanding June 30, 20192,804.9
  51.40
  7.3 $12.6
 
Exercisable June 30, 20191,418.3
  $48.25
  6.3 $10.4
 

Stock OptionsOptions 
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
 
Weighted
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term
 
Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value
(Options in thousands and Aggregate Intrinsic Value in millions)          
Outstanding July 1, 20171,836.7
  $44.34
      
Granted 1
1,237.8
  55.89
      
Exercised(485.5)  39.36      
Forfeited(167.8)  54.18      
Outstanding June 30, 20182,421.2
  50.56  7.7 $7.6
 
Exercisable June 30, 2018714.1
  $43.63
  5.7 $5.7
 
1 Includes options previously granted under the Time incentive plan and converted into 374 options upon acquisition.


The fair value of each option is estimated as of the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. The expected volatility was based on historical volatility of the Company’s common stock, Meredith’s new capital structure (for options granted on or subsequent to January 31, 2018), and other factors. The expected life of options granted incorporates historical employee exercise and termination behavior. Different expected lives are used for separate groups of employees who have similar historical exercise patterns. The risk-free rate for periods that coincide with the expected life of the options is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant.





The following summarizes the assumptions used in determining the fair value of options granted:


Years ended June 30,2019 2018 2017
Risk-free interest rate2.3-3.0%
 1.8-2.6%
 1.3-2.1%
Expected dividend yield4% 4% 4%
Expected option life6-6.5 yrs
 4.9-7 yrs
 7 yrs
Expected stock price volatility33-35%
 28-36%
 29%

Years ended June 30,2018 2017 2016
Risk-free interest rate1.8-2.6%
 1.3-2.1%
 1.8-2.0%
Expected dividend yield4% 4% 4%
Expected option life4.9-7 yrs
 7 yrs
 7 yrs
Expected stock price volatility28-36%
 29% 36%


The weighted average grant date fair value of options granted during the years ended June 30, 2019, 20182017, and 20162017, was $12.26, $13.58, $9.35, and $10.80$9.35, respectively. The total intrinsic value of options exercised during the years ended June 30, 20182019, 2018, and 2017 and 2016 was $1.7 million, $10.9 million, $15.2 million, and $8.0$15.2 million, respectively. As of June 30, 20182019, there was $7.7 $4.8 million in unrecognized compensation cost for stock options granted under the plan. This cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 2.01.5 years.


Cash received from option exercises under all share-based payment plans for the years ended June 30, 20182019, 2018, and 2017 and 2016 was $4.4 million, $19.1 million, $37.9 million, and $18.2$37.9 million, respectively. The actual tax benefit realized for the tax deductions from option exercises totaled $2.7$0.4 million, $5.92.7 million, and $3.0$5.9 million, respectively, for the years ended June 30, 20182019, 2017,2018, and 2016.2017.


Employee Stock Purchase Plan

As of January 1, 2016, the ESPP was suspended indefinitely. The ESPP allowed employees to purchase shares of Meredith common stock through payroll deductions at the lesser of 85 percent of the fair market value of the stock on either the first or last trading day of an offering period. The ESPP had quarterly offering periods. One million five hundred thousand common shares were authorized and approximately 0.2 million shares remained available for issuance under the ESPP. Compensation cost for the ESPP was based on the present value of the cash discount and the fair value of the call option component as of the grant date using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. The term of the option was 3 months, the term of the offering period, and the expected stock price volatility was 36 percentin fiscal 2016. In fiscal 2016 the Company issued 45,000 ESPP shares that had an average market price of $42.91, an average purchase price of $35.94, and an average fair value of $6.77.



13.14. Redeemable Series A Preferred Stock


Effective January 30, 2018, out of the total authorized 5,000,000 shares of preferred stock, par value $1.00 per share, the Company designated a series of 2,500,000 shares, which was issued in and constituteconstitutes a single series known as “Series A Preferred Stock” with each share having an initial stated value of $1,000 per share (the Series A preferred stock).


On January 31, 2018, in exchange for a preferred equity investment of $650.0 million, Meredith issued 650,000 shares of perpetual convertible redeemable non-voting Series A preferred stock as well as detachable warrants to purchase up to 1,625,000 shares of Meredith’s common stock with an exercise price of $1.00 per share and options to purchase up to 875,000 shares of Meredith’s common stock with an exercise price of $70.50 per share.


The Company has classified the Series A preferred stock as temporary equity in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The Company allocated the net proceeds of $631.0 million ($650.0 million aggregate gross proceeds received less $19.0 million in transaction costs) based on the relative aggregate fair values on the date of issuance as follows: $103.1 million to the warrants, $12.5 million to the options, and $515.4 million to the Series A preferred stock. The discount on the Series A preferred stock is being accreted using the effective interest method to retained earnings as a deemed dividend from the date of issuance through the seventh anniversary of the issuance date (i.e., the date the Series A preferred stock becomes convertible).



The Series A preferred stock is non-callable during the first three3 years after issuance provided that Meredith may, at its option, subject to the terms of the Series A preferred stock, redeem all or any portion of the Series A preferred stock in cash during such three-year period, if Meredith declares as a dividend and pays a redemption premium in cash an amount equal to 6 percent of the Accrued Stated Value of the Series A preferred stock as of the redemption date plus an amount, if any, equal to dividends to the third year present valued at a discount rate based on U.S. Treasury notes with a maturity closest to the date that is three years after the issuance date, plus 50 basis points. The Accrued Stated Value is an amount equal to: (i) the Stated Value ($1,000(1,000 multiplied by the number of shares of Series A preferred stock outstanding); plus (ii) any accrued and unpaid dividends thereof (including any accumulated dividends).



From and after the third anniversary of the issuance date of the Series A preferred stock, Meredith may redeem all or any portion of the Series A preferred stock in cash for an amount equal to (i) the Call Premium (defined below), plus (ii) the Accrued Stated Value of the Series A preferred stock as of the redemption date.


The Call Premium is an amount equal to the difference of (A) (i) the Accrued Stated Value of the Series A preferred stock as of the redemption date, multiplied by (ii) (a) if such redemption occurs during the fourth or fifth year after issuance, 106 percent, (b) if such redemption occurs during the sixth year after issuance, 103 percent, and (c) if such redemption occurs after the sixth year after issuance, 100 percent, minus (B) the Accrued Stated Value as of the redemption date.


In connection with any partial redemption by Meredith, Meredith may not redeem Series A preferred stock in an amount less than $50.0 millionof the Accrued Stated Value of the Series A preferred stock nor effect any redemption resulting in less than $100.0 million of the Accrued Stated Value of the Series A preferred stock remaining outstanding.


From and after the seventh anniversary of the issuance date, the holders of the Series A preferred stock may elect to convert some or all of the Series A preferred stock into Meredith common stock at a ratio based on its Accrued Stated Value divided by the volume weighted average price of Meredith common stock for the 30 trading days immediately preceding the written notice of conversion.


The Series A preferred stock accrues an annual dividend at either (a) to the extent paid in cash, an amount equal to the Cash Dividend Annual Rate (as set forth in the table below), multiplied by the Stated Value (equal to the number of shares of Series A preferred stock outstanding multiplied by $1,000) or (b) if dividends are not declared and paid in cash, the Company will deliver additional shares of Series A preferred stock, in kind, by issuing a number of shares equal to (i) the Accrued Dividend Annual Rate (as set forth in the table below), multiplied by the Stated Value for all outstanding shares of Series A preferred stock, divided by (ii) $1,000.


YearCash Dividend Annual RateAccrued Dividend Annual Rate
Years 1 through 38.5%9%
Year 4LIBOR plus 850 bpsLIBOR plus 900 bps
Year 5LIBOR plus 950 bpsLIBOR plus 1000 bps
Year 6 through redemptionLIBOR plus 1050 bpsLIBOR plus 1100 bps

YearCash Dividend Annual RateAccrued Dividend Annual Rate
Years 1 through 38.5%9%
Year 4LIBOR plus 850 bpsLIBOR plus 900 bps
Year 5LIBOR plus 950 bpsLIBOR plus 1000 bps
Year 6 through redemptionLIBOR plus 1050 bpsLIBOR plus 1100 bps


The Series A preferred stock ranks senior to any other class or series of equity, including Meredith’s common stock and class B stock, with respect to dividend rights and rights upon liquidation. Dividends with respect to any quarter may only be paid all in cash or all in additional shares of Series A preferred stock, and may not be paid in a combination of cash and shares of Series A preferred stock. All Series A preferred stock dividends (regardless of whether paid in additional shares of Series A preferred stock or cash) are prior to and in preference over any dividend on any common stock or class B stock and will be declared and fully paid before any dividends are declared and paid, or any other distributions or redemptions are made, on any common stock or class B stock.





14.15. Common Stock


The Company has two2 classes of common stock outstanding: common and class B. Each class receives equal dividends per share. Class B stock, which has 10 votes per share, is not transferable as class B stock except to family members of the holder or certain other related entities. At any time, class B stock is convertible, share for share, into common stock with one vote per share. Class B stock transferred to persons or entities not entitled to receive it as class B stock will automatically be converted and issued as common stock to the transferee. The principal market for trading the Company’s common stock is the New York Stock Exchange (trading symbol MDP). No separate public trading market exists for the Company’s class B stock.


From time to time, the Company’s Board of Directors has authorized the repurchase of shares of the Company’s common stock and class B stock. In May 2014, the Board approved the repurchase of $100.0 million of shares. As of June 30, 2018, $56.12019, $50.3 million remained available under the current authorizations for future repurchases.


Repurchases of the Company’s common and class B stock are as follows:


Years ended June 30,2019
 2018
 2017
(In millions)     
Number of shares0.2
 0.5

0.9
Cost at market value$10.0
 $31.1
 $53.3

Years ended June 30,2018
 2017
 2016
(In millions)     
Number of shares0.5
 0.9

0.7
Cost at market value$31.1
 $53.3
 $31.1


Shares deemed to be delivered to the Company on tender of stock in payment for the exercise price of options do not reduce the repurchase authority granted by the Board. Shares tendered for the exercise price of stock options were 0.1 million shares at a cost of $4.1 million in fiscal 2019, 0.3 million shares at a cost of $19.1 million in fiscal 2018, and 0.6 million shares at a cost of $37.5 million in fiscal 2017, and 0.4 million shares at a cost of $18.0 million in fiscal 2016.2017.




15.16. Earnings (Loss) Per Common Share


The calculation of basic earnings (loss) per common share for each periodyear is based on the weighted average number of common and class B shares outstanding during the period.year. The calculation of diluted earnings (loss) per common share for each periodyear is based on the weighted average number of common and class B shares outstanding during the periodyear plus the effect, if any, of dilutive common stock equivalent shares.


The following table presents the calculations of basic earnings (loss) per common share:


Years ended June 30,201820172016201920182017
(In millions except per share data)  
Net earnings$99.4
$188.9
$33.9
$46.3
$99.4
$188.9
Participating warrant dividend(1.8)—
—
Participating warrants dividend(3.6)(1.8)—
Preferred stock dividend(22.9)—
—
(55.9)(22.9)—
Accretion of Series A preferred stock(7.2)—
—
(17.6)(7.2)—
Other securities dividends(1.1)—
—
(1.2)(1.1)—
Basic earnings attributable to common shareholders$66.4
$188.9
$33.9
Basic earnings (loss) attributable to common shareholders$(32.0)$66.4
$188.9
  
Basic weighted-average common shares outstanding44.9
44.6
44.6
Basic earnings per share$1.48
$4.23
$0.76
Basic weighted average common shares outstanding45.3
44.9
44.6
Basic earnings (loss) per common share$(0.71)$1.48
$4.23




Diluted earnings (loss) per common share reflects the potential dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue common stock were exercised or converted into common stock. The dilutive effects of these share-based awards were computed using the two-class method.



Years ended June 30,201820172016
(In millions except per share data)   
Basic weighted-average common shares outstanding44.9
44.6
44.6
Dilutive effect of stock options and equivalents0.3
0.8
0.8
Diluted weighted-average shares outstanding45.2
45.4
45.4
    
Diluted earnings attributable to common shareholders$66.4
$188.9
$33.9
Diluted earnings per share1.47
4.16
0.75
Years ended June 30,201920182017
(In millions except per share data)   
Basic weighted average common shares outstanding45.3
44.9
44.6
Dilutive effect of stock options and equivalents0.2
0.3
0.8
Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding45.5
45.2
45.4
    
Diluted earnings (loss) attributable to common shareholders$(32.0)$66.4
$188.9
Diluted earnings (loss) per common share(0.70)1.47
4.16



For the year ended June 30, 2019, 0.2 million options were included in the computation of dilutive loss per common share while being antidilutive (the diluted loss per share becoming less negative than basic loss per share). These securities are dilutive (the dilutive earnings per common share becoming less than basic earnings per common share) when calculating the dilutive earnings per common share for income from continuing operations, which is the control number when determining the dilutive impact of securities in all earnings (loss) per common share calculations. Therefore, these securities are included in all diluted earnings (loss) per common share calculations for the year ended June 30, 2019. In addition, 0.7 million convertible preferred shares, 1.6 million warrants, 0.3 million common stock equivalents, and 0.1 million shares of restricted stock were not included in the computation of dilutive earnings per common share. These securities have an antidilutive effect on the loss per common share calculation (the dilutive loss per common share becoming less negative than the basic loss per common share). Therefore, these securities are not taken into account in determining the weighted average number of common shares for the calculation of diluted earnings (loss) per common share for the year ended June 30, 2019.

For the year ended June 30, 2018, 0.7 million convertible preferred shares, 0.7 million warrants, 0.3 million common stock equivalents, and 0.2 million shares of restricted stock were not included in the computation of dilutive lossearnings per common share. These securities have an antidilutive effect on the earnings per common share calculation (the diluted earnings per common share becoming higher than basic earnings per common share). Therefore, these securities are not taken into account in determining the weighted average number of common shares for the calculation of diluted earnings per share for the year ended June 30, 2018.


In addition, antidilutive options excluded from the above calculations totaled 2.5 million options for the year ended June 30, 2019 ($63.86 weighted average exercise price), 0.8 million options for the year ended June 30, 2018 ($62.71 weighted average exercise price), and 0.3 million options for the year ended June 30, 2017 ($54.28 weighted average exercise price), and 1.3 million options for the year ended June 30, 2016 ($49.02 weighted average exercise price).


In the years ended June 30, 2019, 2018 2017 and 2016,2017, options were exercised to purchase 0.50.1 million, 0.90.5 million, and 0.50.9 million common shares, respectively.




16.17. Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)


Comprehensive income (loss) is defined as the change in equity during a period from transactions and other events and circumstances from nonowner sources. Comprehensive income (loss) includes net earnings as well as items of other comprehensive income (loss).





The following table summarizes the items of other comprehensive income (loss) and the accumulated other comprehensive loss balances:



Minimum
Pension/Post
Retirement
Liability
Adjustments

Foreign Currency Translation Interest
Rate
Swaps
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
(In millions)           
Balance at June 30, 2016 $(24.1)  $—
  $(4.4)  $(28.5)
Current-year adjustments, pre-tax 8.6
  —
  6.8
  15.4
Tax expense (3.3)  —
  (2.6)  (5.9)
Other comprehensive income 5.3
  —
  4.2
  9.5
Balance at June 30, 2017 (18.8)  —
  (0.2)  (19.0)
Current-year adjustments, pre-tax (0.5)  (12.9)  0.4
  (13.0)
Tax expense (0.3)  —
  (0.4)  (0.7)
Other comprehensive loss (0.8)  (12.9)  —
  (13.7)
Reclassification to retained earnings 1
 (4.2)  —
  0.2
  (4.0)
Balance at June 30, 2018 (23.8)  (12.9)  —
  (36.7)
Current-year adjustments, pre-tax (9.1)  (2.8)  —
  (11.9)
Tax benefit 2.3
  —
  —
  2.3
Other comprehensive loss (6.8)  (2.8)  —
  (9.6)
Balance at June 30, 2019 $(30.6)

$(15.7)

$—


$(46.3)
1  Reclassification related to a one-time adjustment for the adoption of ASU 2018-02, Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from
   Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income.


Minimum
Pension/Post
Retirement
Liability
Adjustments

Foreign Currency Translation Interest
Rate
Swaps
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
(In millions)           
Balance at June 30, 2015 $(11.3)  $—
  $(1.3)  $(12.6)
Current-year adjustments, pre-tax (20.8)  —
  (5.0)  (25.8)
Tax benefit 8.0
  —
  1.9
  9.9
Other comprehensive loss (12.8)  —
  (3.1)  (15.9)
Balance at June 30, 2016 (24.1)  —
  (4.4)  (28.5)
Current-year adjustments, pre-tax 8.6
  —
  6.8
  15.4
Tax expense (3.3)  —
  (2.6)  (5.9)
Other comprehensive income 5.3
  —
  4.2
  9.5
Balance at June 30, 2017 (18.8)  —
  (0.2)  (19.0)
Current-year adjustments, pre-tax (0.5)  (12.9)  0.4
  (13.0)
Tax expense (0.3)  —
  (0.4)  (0.7)
Other comprehensive loss (0.8)  (12.9)  —
  (13.7)
Reclassification to retained earnings 1
 (4.2)  —
  0.2
  (4.0)
Balance at June 30, 2018 $(23.8)  $(12.9)  $—
  $(36.7)
1  Reclassification relates to the one-time adjustment for the adoption of ASU 2018-02.




17.18. Financial Information about Industry Segments


Meredith is a diversified media company focused primarily on service journalism. On the basis of products and services, the Company has established two2 reportable segments: national media and local media. The national media segment focuses on the distribution of our nationally recognized brands through magazine publishing, digital and mobile media, brand licensing, database-related activities, and other related operations. The local media segment consists primarily of the operations of network-affiliated television stations. Virtually all of the Company’s revenues are generated in the U.S. and substantially all of the assets reside within the U.S. Intersegment transactions are eliminated.


There are two2 principal financial measures reported to the chief executive officer (the chief operating decision maker) for use in assessing segment performance and allocating resources. Those measures are operating profit and EBITDA. Operating profit for segment reporting, disclosed below, is revenues less operating costs and unallocated corporate expenses. Segment operating expenses include allocations of certain centrally incurred costs such as employee benefits, occupancy, information systems, accounting services, internal legal staff, and human resources administration. These costs are allocated based on actual usage or other appropriate methods, primarily number of employees. Unallocated corporate expenses are corporate overhead expenses not attributable to the operating groups. Interest income and expense are not allocated to the segments. In accordance with authoritative guidance on disclosures about segments of an enterprise and related information, EBITDA is not presented below.


Significant non-cash items included in segment operating expenses other than depreciation and amortization of fixed and intangible assets include impairments of national media trademarks and goodwill and the amortization of broadcast rights in the local media segment. Impairments of national media trademarks and goodwill were $22.7$41.8 million in fiscal 2019,


$22.7 million in fiscal 2018, and $5.3 million in fiscal 2017, and $155.82017. Broadcast rights amortization totaled $20.0 million in fiscal 2016. Broadcast rights amortization totaled2019, $19.2 million in fiscal 2018, and $17.6 million in fiscal 2017, and $16.7 million in fiscal 2016.2017.



Segment assets include intangible, fixed, and all other non-cash assets identified with each segment. Jointly used assets such as office buildings and information technology equipment are allocated to the segments by appropriate methods, primarily number of employees. Unallocated corporate assets consist primarily of cash and cash items, assets allocated to or identified with corporate staff departments, and other miscellaneous assets not assigned to a segment.


The following table presents financial information by segment:

Years ended June 30,2019 2018 2017
(In millions)     
Revenues     
National media$2,326.6
 $1,572.6
 $1,083.2
Local media863.8
 693.1
 630.1
Total revenues, gross3,190.4
 2,265.7
 1,713.3
Intersegment revenue elimination(1.9) (1.5) —
Total revenue$3,188.5
 $2,264.2
 $1,713.3
      
Segment profit     
National media$126.0
 $85.0
 $146.4
Local media278.3
 186.7
 211.6
Unallocated corporate(117.3) (184.8) (49.8)
Income from operations287.0
 86.9
 308.2
Non-operating income, net24.2
 0.7
 0.9
Interest expense, net(170.6) (97.2) (18.8)
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes$140.6
 $(9.6) $290.3
      
Depreciation and amortization     
National media$206.5
 $92.9
 $17.5
Local media36.6
 33.2
 34.8
Unallocated corporate4.5
 2.9
 1.5
Total depreciation and amortization$247.6
 $129.0
 $53.8
      
Assets     
National media$4,606.8
 $5,202.0
 $1,487.1
Local media1,192.3
 1,204.6
 1,124.9
Unallocated corporate337.8
 364.3
 117.7
Total assets$6,136.9
 $6,770.9
 $2,729.7
      
Capital expenditures     
National media$13.0
 $11.0
 $4.5
Local media25.1
 21.0
 12.2
Unallocated corporate8.3
 21.2
 18.1
Total capital expenditures$46.4
 $53.2
 $34.8




19. Issuer, Guarantor and Non-Guarantor Condensed Consolidating Financial Information

The 2026 Senior Notes are general unsecured senior obligations of Meredith Corporation (Parent Issuer) and are guaranteed on a full, unconditional, joint, and several basis, by the combined “Guarantor Subsidiaries.” Other subsidiaries (the Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries) largely represent the international operations of the Company and subsidiaries that have been disposed of prior to June 30, 2018, which do not guarantee the Senior Notes. Under the terms of the indentures, Meredith Corporation and the Guarantor Subsidiaries each fully and unconditionally, jointly and severally, guarantee the payment of interest, principal and premium, if any, on each of the notes included in the 2026 Senior Notes.

The following condensed consolidating financial information presents the condensed consolidated balance sheets as of June 30, 2019 and 2018, and the related condensed consolidated statements of comprehensive income and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended June 30, 2019, for Meredith Corporation (Parent Issuer), Guarantor Subsidiaries, and Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries. The condensed consolidating financial information is presented using the equity method of accounting for all periods presented. The Guarantor Subsidiaries are presented on a combined basis. Elimination entries relate primarily to elimination of investments in subsidiaries and associated intercompany balances and transactions.



Meredith Corporation and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet
As of June 30, 2019

Years ended June 30,2018 2017 2016
(In millions)     
Revenues     
National media$1,555.8
 $1,083.2
 $1,101.2
Local media693.1
 630.1
 548.4
Total revenues, gross2,248.9
 1,713.3
 1,649.6
Intersegment revenue elimination(1.5) —
 —
Total revenue$2,247.4
 $1,713.3
 $1,649.6
      
Segment profit (loss)     
National media$97.5
 $146.5
 $(17.7)
Local media189.1
 214.9
 158.5
Unallocated corporate(187.6) (52.3) (10.2)
Income from operations99.0
 309.1
 130.6
Non-operating expenses, net(11.7) —
 —
Interest expense, net(96.9) (18.8) (20.4)
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes$(9.6) $290.3
 $110.2
      
Depreciation and amortization     
National media$92.9
 $17.5
 $18.7
Local media33.2
 34.8
 38.3
Unallocated corporate2.9
 1.5
 2.1
Total depreciation and amortization$129.0
 $53.8
 $59.1
      
Assets     
National media$5,158.3
 $1,487.1
 $1,478.2
Local media1,204.6
 1,124.9
 1,054.4
Unallocated corporate364.3
 117.7
 94.2
Total assets$6,727.2
 $2,729.7
 $2,626.8
      
Capital expenditures     
National media$11.0
 $4.5
 $4.7
Local media22.1
 12.2
 17.3
Unallocated corporate21.2
 18.1
 3.0
Total capital expenditures$54.3
 $34.8
 $25.0


 
Meredith Corporation
(Parent Issuer)
Guarantor
Subsidiaries
Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries
EliminationsConsolidated
(In millions)     
Current assets  ��  
Cash and cash equivalents$30.3
$3.2
$11.5
$—
$45.0
Accounts receivable, net327.5
267.4
14.2
—
609.1
Inventories53.7
8.9
0.1
—
62.7
Current portion of subscription acquisition costs91.5
156.8
—
(6.3)242.0
Current portion of broadcast rights4.9
2.2
—
—
7.1
Assets held-for-sale—
208.8
112.2
—
321.0
Other current assets46.5
14.1
2.6
—
63.2
Total current assets554.4
661.4
140.6
(6.3)1,350.1
Net property, plant, and equipment340.8
107.8
1.7
—
450.3
Subscription acquisition costs152.3
121.6
—
—
273.9
Broadcast rights4.8
1.2
—
—
6.0
Other assets55.8
28.8
179.0
—
263.6
Intangible assets, net627.7
1,181.0
4.9
—
1,813.6
Goodwill614.8
1,317.6
47.0
—
1,979.4
Intercompany receivable470.5
10,352.3
7,958.6
(18,781.4)—
Intercompany notes receivable—
215.5
0.2
(215.7)—
Investment in subsidiaries3,874.5
983.0
—
(4,857.5)—
Total assets$6,695.6
$14,970.2
$8,332.0
$(23,860.9)$6,136.9
      
Liabilities, Redeemable Convertible Preferred Stock, and Shareholders’ Equity     
Current liabilities     
Current portion of long-term broadcast rights payable$4.5
$2.1
$—
$—
$6.6
Accounts payable141.5
90.4
10.7
—
242.6
Accrued expenses190.9
105.1
4.6
—
300.6
Current portion of unearned revenues183.2
277.7
3.8
(5.8)458.9
Liabilities associated with assets held-for-sale—
190.8
61.3
—
252.1
Total current liabilities520.1
666.1
80.4
(5.8)1,260.8
Long-term debt2,333.3
—
—
—
2,333.3
Long-term broadcast rights payable6.7
1.7
—
—
8.4
Unearned revenues155.7
162.9
—
—
318.6
Deferred income taxes221.8
266.2
18.2
—
506.2
Other noncurrent liabilities91.0
84.2
19.6
—
194.8
Investment in subsidiaries—
—
74.8
(74.8)—
Intercompany payable1,852.2
9,105.0
7,824.2
(18,781.4)—
Intercompany notes payable—
0.2
215.5
(215.7)—
Total liabilities5,180.8
10,286.3
8,232.7
(19,077.7)4,622.1
      
Redeemable, convertible Series A preferred stock540.2
—
—
—
540.2
      
Shareholders’ equity974.6
4,683.9
99.3
(4,783.2)974.6
Total liabilities, redeemable convertible preferred stock, and shareholders’ equity$6,695.6
$14,970.2
$8,332.0
$(23,860.9)$6,136.9

18.
Meredith Corporation and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet
As of June 30, 2018

Assets
Meredith Corporation
(Parent Issuer)
Guarantor
Subsidiaries
Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries
EliminationsConsolidated
(In millions)     
Current assets     
Cash and cash equivalents$195.0
$202.8
$39.8
$—
$437.6
Accounts receivable, net223.5
333.2
—
(11.5)545.2
Inventories23.6
20.7
0.1
—
44.4
Current portion of subscription acquisition costs107.0
38.0
—
—
145.0
Current portion of broadcast rights7.7
2.1
—
—
9.8
Assets held-for-sale—
654.6
65.2
—
719.8
Other current assets55.3
37.6
22.0
—
114.9
Total current assets612.1
1,289.0
127.1
(11.5)2,016.7
Net property, plant, and equipment162.4
318.1
3.2
—
483.7
Subscription acquisition costs57.1
9.2
—
—
66.3
Broadcast rights16.9
2.0
—
—
18.9
Deferred income taxes—
—
6.3
(6.3)—
Other assets60.4
5.4
197.5
—
263.3
Intangible assets, net676.2
1,329.0
1.0
—
2,006.2
Goodwill614.7
1,266.9
34.2
—
1,915.8
Intercompany receivable11.8
8,086.1
7,773.2
(15,871.1)—
Intercompany note receivable—
204.7
—
(204.7)—
Investment in subsidiaries3,844.5
1,050.6
—
(4,895.1)—
Total assets$6,056.1
$13,561.0
$8,142.5
$(20,988.7)$6,770.9
      
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity     
Current liabilities     
Current portion of long-term debt$17.7
$—
$—
$—
$17.7
Current portion of long-term broadcast rights payable6.9
2.0
—
—
8.9
Accounts payable67.2
95.4
44.0
(11.5)195.1
Accrued expenses142.6
263.4
4.6
—
410.6
Current portion of unearned revenues171.5
213.4
7.7
0.9
393.5
Liabilities associated with assets held-for-sale—
125.8
74.2
—
200.0
Total current liabilities405.9
700.0
130.5
(10.6)1,225.8
Long-term debt3,117.9
—
—
—
3,117.9
Long-term broadcast rights payable18.3
2.5
—
—
20.8
Unearned revenues82.3
50.2
(0.2)—
132.3
Deferred income taxes209.5
233.8
—
(6.3)437.0
Other noncurrent liabilities99.4
97.8
19.8
—
217.0
Investment in subsidiaries—
—
58.8
(58.8)—
Intercompany payable502.7
7,846.4
7,522.0
(15,871.1)—
Intercompany notes payable—
—
204.7
(204.7)—
Total liabilities4,436.0
8,930.7
7,935.6
(16,151.5)5,150.8
      
Redeemable, convertible Series A preferred stock522.6
—
—
—
522.6
      
Shareholders’ equity1,097.5
4,630.3
206.9
(4,837.2)1,097.5
Total liabilities, redeemable convertible preferred stock, and shareholders’ equity$6,056.1
$13,561.0
$8,142.5
$(20,988.7)$6,770.9



Meredith Corporation and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income
For the Year Ended June 30, 2019

 Meredith Corporation
(Parent Issuer)		Guarantor
Subsidiaries		Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries		EliminationsConsolidated
(In millions)     
Revenues     
Advertising related$602.2
$1,077.0
$7.8
$(0.4)$1,686.6
Consumer related536.9
884.0
42.7
(70.0)1,393.6
All other49.0
77.5
13.8
(32.0)108.3
Total revenues1,188.1
2,038.5
64.3
(102.4)3,188.5
Operating expenses     
Production, distribution, and editorial510.8
712.9
28.5
(91.0)1,161.2
Selling, general, and administrative555.0
800.9
5.9
(11.8)1,350.0
Acquisition, disposition, and restructuring related activities34.0
56.8
10.1
—
100.9
Depreciation and amortization44.0
201.0
2.6
—
247.6
Impairment of long-lived assets39.8
2.0
—
—
41.8
Total operating expenses1,183.6
1,773.6
47.1
(102.8)2,901.5
Income from operations4.5
264.9
17.2
0.4
287.0
Non-operating income, net3.6
9.5
11.1
—
24.2
Interest income (expense), net(172.2)14.9
(13.3)—
(170.6)
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes(164.1)289.3
15.0
0.4
140.6
Income tax benefit (expense)34.4
(42.5)(3.4)—
(11.5)
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations(129.7)246.8
11.6
0.4
129.1
Gain (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income taxes—
(104.1)21.3
—
(82.8)
Earnings (loss) before equity income (loss)(129.7)142.7
32.9
0.4
46.3
Earnings (loss) from equity in subsidiaries176.0
(65.5)(13.7)(96.8)—
Net earnings$46.3
$77.2
$19.2
$(96.4)$46.3
      
Total comprehensive income$41.6
$77.2
$14.3
$(96.4)$36.7




Meredith Corporation and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income
For the Year Ended June 30, 2018

 Meredith Corporation
(Parent Issuer)		Guarantor
Subsidiaries		Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries		EliminationsConsolidated
(In millions)     
Revenues     
Advertising related$625.7
$561.3
$3.7
$—
$1,190.7
Consumer related545.9
414.8
21.6
(61.0)921.3
All other33.2
58.5
87.3
(26.8)152.2
Total revenues1,204.8
1,034.6
112.6
(87.8)2,264.2
Operating expenses     
Production, distribution, and editorial488.7
420.4
42.1
(83.2)868.0
Selling, general, and administrative509.5
432.1
49.7
(3.8)987.5
Acquisition, disposition, and restructuring related activities58.4
111.7
—
—
170.1
Depreciation and amortization33.3
94.4
1.3
—
129.0
Impairment of long-lived assets22.7
—
—
—
22.7
Total operating expenses1,112.6
1,058.6
93.1
(87.0)2,177.3
Income (loss) from operations92.2
(24.0)19.5
(0.8)86.9
Non-operating income (expense), net(9.1)0.6
9.2
—
0.7
Interest income (expense), net(95.4)7.2
(9.0)—
(97.2)
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes(12.3)(16.2)19.7
(0.8)(9.6)
Income taxes benefit (expense)116.6
8.4
(1.4)—
123.6
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations104.3
(7.8)18.3
(0.8)114.0
Gain (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income taxes(12.2)18.6
(21.0)—
(14.6)
Earnings (loss) before equity income (loss)92.1
10.8
(2.7)(0.8)99.4
Earnings (loss) from equity in subsidiaries7.3
6.9
(10.7)(3.5)—
Net earnings (loss)$99.4
$17.7
$(13.4)$(4.3)$99.4
      
Total comprehensive income (loss)$101.5
$17.7
$(29.2)$(4.3)$85.7



Meredith Corporation and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income
For the Year Ended June 30, 2017

 Meredith Corporation
(Parent Issuer)		Guarantor
Subsidiaries		Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries		EliminationsConsolidated
(In millions)     
Revenues     
Advertising related$671.6
$260.7
$1.8
$—
$934.1
Consumer related524.6
78.6
10.3
—
613.5
All other42.9
1.8
121.0
—
165.7
Total revenues1,239.1
341.1
133.1
—
1,713.3
Operating expenses     
Production, distribution, and editorial477.1
100.2
31.1
—
608.4
Selling, general, and administrative538.6
105.4
82.4
—
726.4
Acquisition, disposition, and restructuring related activities8.3
—
2.0
—
10.3
Depreciation and amortization37.6
15.7
0.5
—
53.8
Impairment of goodwill and other long-lived assets0.9
5.3
—
—
6.2
Total operating expenses1,062.5
226.6
116.0
—
1,405.1
Income from operations176.6
114.5
17.1
—
308.2
Non-operating income, net0.9
—
—
—
0.9
Interest expense, net(14.2)—
(4.6)—
(18.8)
Earnings before income taxes163.3
114.5
12.5
—
290.3
Income tax expense(51.7)(45.5)(4.2)—
(101.4)
Earnings before equity income111.6
69.0
8.3
—
188.9
Earnings from equity in subsidiaries77.3
—
—
(77.3)—
Net earnings$188.9
$69.0
$8.3
$(77.3)$188.9
      
Total comprehensive income$198.4
$69.0
$8.3
$(77.3)$198.4



Meredith Corporation and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows
For the Year Ended June 30, 2019

 Meredith Corporation
(Parent Issuer)		Guarantor
Subsidiaries		Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries		EliminationsConsolidated
(In millions)     
Cash flows from operating activities$(0.3)$403.8
$(158.2)$—
$245.3
Cash flows from investing activities     
Acquisition of and investments in businesses, net of cash acquired(18.4)—
—
—
(18.4)
Proceeds from disposition of assets, net of cash sold13.3
334.5
1.3
—
349.1
Proceeds received in advance of sale of business—
90.0
—
—
90.0
Additions to property, plant, and equipment(37.5)(8.8)(0.1)—
(46.4)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities(42.6)415.7
1.2
—
374.3
Cash flows from financing activities     
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt210.0
—
—
—
210.0
Repayments of long-term debt(1,037.0)—
—
—
(1,037.0)
Dividends paid(161.9)—
—
—
(161.9)
Purchases of Company stock(10.0)—
—
—
(10.0)
Proceeds from common stock issued4.6
—
—
—
4.6
Payment of acquisition related contingent consideration(19.3)—
—
—
(19.3)
Net increase (decrease) in intercompany obligations891.8
(1,019.1)127.3
—
—
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities(121.8)(1,019.1)127.3
—
(1,013.6)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents—
—
(1.4)—
(1.4)
Change in cash held-for-sale—
—
2.8
—
2.8
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents(164.7)(199.6)(28.3)—
(392.6)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year195.0
202.8
39.8
—
437.6
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year$30.3
$3.2
$11.5
$—
$45.0



Meredith Corporation and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows
For the Year Ended June 30, 2018

 Meredith Corporation
(Parent Issuer)		Guarantor
Subsidiaries		Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries		EliminationsConsolidated
(In millions)     
Cash flows from operating activities$(465.4)$515.3
$100.0
$—
$149.9
Cash flows from investing activities     
Acquisition of and investments in businesses, net of cash acquired(2,786.5)—
—
—
(2,786.5)
Proceeds from disposition of assets, net of cash sold86.4
—
132.8
—
219.2
Additions to property, plant, and equipment(41.2)(11.6)(0.4)—
(53.2)
Other3.8
—
—
—
3.8
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities(2,737.5)(11.6)132.4
—
(2,616.7)
Cash flows from financing activities     
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt3,260.0
—
—
—
3,260.0
Repayments of long-term debt(689.7)—
(75.4)—
(765.1)
Issued preferred stock, warrants, and options proceeds, net of issuance costs631.0
—
—
—
631.0
Dividends paid(121.5)—
—
—
(121.5)
Purchases of Company stock(31.1)—
—
—
(31.1)
Proceeds from common stock issued19.3
—
—
—
19.3
Payment of acquisition related contingent consideration(3.2)(1.1)—
—
(4.3)
Debt acquisition costs(70.8)—
—
—
(70.8)
Net increase (decrease) in intercompany obligations382.1
(299.8)(82.3)—
—
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities3,376.1
(300.9)(157.7)—
2,917.5
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents—
—
(4.1)—
(4.1)
Change in cash held for sale—
—
(31.3)—
(31.3)
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents173.2
202.8
39.3
—
415.3
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year21.8
—
0.5
—
22.3
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year$195.0
$202.8
$39.8
$—
$437.6



Meredith Corporation and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows
For the Year Ended June 30, 2017

 Meredith Corporation
(Parent Issuer)		Guarantor
Subsidiaries		Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries		EliminationsConsolidated
(In millions)     
Cash flows from operating activities$240.0
$22.8
$(44.2)$—
$218.6
Cash flows from investing activities     
Acquisition of and investments in businesses, net of cash acquired(84.4)—
—
—
(84.4)
Proceeds from disposition of assets, net of cash sold1.5
—
—
—
1.5
Additions to property, plant, and equipment(28.8)(6.0)—
—
(34.8)
Net cash used in investing activities(111.7)(6.0)—
—
(117.7)
Cash flows from financing activities     
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt365.0
—
15.0
—
380.0
Repayments of long-term debt(354.4)—
(20.0)—
(374.4)
Dividends paid(91.9)—
—
—
(91.9)
Purchases of Company stock(53.3)—
—
—
(53.3)
Proceeds from common stock issued38.0
—
—
—
38.0
Excess tax benefits from share-based payments6.8
—
—
—
6.8
Payment of acquisition related contingent consideration(7.3)—
—
—
(7.3)
Debt acquisition costs(1.5)—
—
—
(1.5)
Net increase (decrease) in intercompany obligations(32.1)(16.8)48.9
—
—
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities(130.7)(16.8)43.9
—
(103.6)
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents(2.4)—
(0.3)—
(2.7)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year24.2
—
0.8
—
25.0
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year$21.8
$—
$0.5
$—
$22.3




20. Selected Quarterly Financial Data (unaudited)


Year ended June 30, 2019
First
Quarter
 
Second 
Quarter
 
Third  
Quarter
 
Fourth 
Quarter
 Total   
(In millions except per share data)         
Revenues         
National media$560.6
 $616.2
 $562.3
 $587.5
 $2,326.6
Local media214.4
 262.4
 188.4
 198.6
 863.8
Intersegment elimination(0.6) (0.2) (0.6) (0.5) (1.9)
Total revenues$774.4
 $878.4
 $750.1
 $785.6
 $3,188.5
Operating profit         
National media$18.1
 $47.0
 $54.5
 $6.4
 $126.0
Local media67.5
 106.6
 41.6
 62.6
 278.3
Unallocated corporate(31.4) (19.9) (20.5) (45.5) (117.3)
Income from operations$54.2
 $133.7
 $75.6
 $23.5
 $287.0
          
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations$16.2
 $88.1
 $28.4
 $(3.6) 129.1
Discontinued operations0.8
 (69.5) (4.7) (9.4) (82.8)
Net earnings (loss)$17.0
 $18.6
 $23.7
 $(13.0) $46.3
          
Basic earnings (loss) per share attributable to common shareholders         
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations$(0.07) $1.50
 $0.20
 $(0.51) $1.12
Net earnings (loss)(0.06) (0.03) 0.10
 (0.72) (0.71)
         

Diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to common shareholders         
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations(0.07) 1.46
 0.20
 (0.51) 1.12
Net earnings (loss)(0.06) (0.01) 0.10
 (0.72) (0.70)
          
Dividends per share0.545
 0.545
 0.575
 0.575
 2.240

Year ended June 30, 2018
First
Quarter
 
Second 
Quarter
 
Third  
Quarter
 
Fourth 
Quarter
 Total   
(In millions except per share data)         
Revenues         
National media$239.0
 $247.5
 $479.3
 $590.0
 $1,555.8
Local media153.8
 170.2
 170.2
 198.9
 693.1
Intersegment elimination—
 —
 (0.7) (0.8) (1.5)
Total revenues$392.8
 $417.7
 $648.8
 $788.1
 $2,247.4
Operating profit         
National media$28.3
 $12.2
 $9.0
 $48.0
 $97.5
Local media40.9
 50.5
 38.9
 58.8
 189.1
Unallocated corporate(12.4) (25.4) (116.0) (33.8) (187.6)
Income (loss) from operations$56.8
 $37.3
 $(68.1) $73.0
 $99.0
          
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations$33.4
 $159.3
 $(95.4) $16.7
 $114.0
Discontinued operations—
 —
 (14.7) 0.1
 (14.6)
Net earnings (loss)$33.4
 $159.3
 $(110.1) $16.8
 $99.4
          
Basic earnings per share attributable to common shareholders         
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations$0.75
 $3.55
 $(2.41) $(0.06) $1.80
Net earnings (loss)0.75
 3.55
 (2.74) (0.06) 1.48
          
Diluted earnings per share attributable to common shareholders         
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations0.73
 3.49
 (2.41) (0.06) 1.79
Net earnings (loss)0.73
 3.49
 (2.74) (0.06) 1.47
          
Dividends per share0.520
 0.520
 0.545
 0.545
 2.130

In the first quarter of fiscal 2019, the Company recorded $23.4 million related to acquisition, disposition, and restructuring related costs. These charges were partially offset by a gain on the sale the Company’s remaining 30 percent interest in Charleston Tennis LLC of $10.4 million.

The Company recorded $27.7 million related to acquisition, disposition, and restructuring related costs and a loss on the extinguishment of debt of $9.8 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2019.

In the third quarter of fiscal 2019, the Company recorded $16.8 million related to acquisition, disposition, and restructuring related costs.

The Company recorded an additional $39.3 million in acquisition, disposition, and restructuring related costs, and a $41.8 million impairment of trademarks in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2019.

Since its acquisition on January 31, 2018, as part of Time, the Money brand had been included in discontinued operations as it had been held for sale. In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2019, due to a change in vision, the decision was made to retain the Money brand. As such, the operations of the Money brand have been reclassified as continuing operations and results from the date of acquisition have been adjusted to reflect this change.




Year ended June 30, 2018
First
Quarter
 
Second 
Quarter
 
Third  
Quarter
 
Fourth 
Quarter
 Total   
(In millions except per share data)         
Revenues         
National media$239.0
 $247.4
 $485.6
 $600.6
 $1,572.6
Local media153.8
 170.3
 170.1
 198.9
 693.1
Intersegment elimination—
 —
 (0.7) (0.8) (1.5)
Total revenues$392.8

$417.7

$655.0

$798.7
 $2,264.2
Operating profit         
National media$27.5
 $11.6
 $4.5
 $41.4
 $85.0
Local media40.3
 49.9
 38.3
 58.2
 186.7
Unallocated corporate(11.6) (24.8) (115.3) (33.1) (184.8)
Income (loss) from operations$56.2
 $36.7
 $(72.5) $66.5
 $86.9
          
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations$33.4
 $159.4
 $(95.4) $16.6
 $114.0
Discontinued operations—
 —
 (14.9) 0.3
 (14.6)
Net earnings (loss)$33.4
 $159.4
 $(110.3) $16.9
 $99.4
          
Basic earnings (loss) per share attributable to common shareholders        

Earnings (loss) from continuing operations$0.75
 $3.55
 $(2.41) $(0.06) $1.80
Net earnings (loss)0.75
 3.55
 (2.74) (0.06) 1.48
          
Diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to common shareholders        

Earnings (loss) from continuing operations0.73
 3.49
 (2.41) (0.06) 1.79
Net earnings (loss)0.73
 3.49
 (2.74) (0.06) 1.47
          
Dividends per share0.520
 0.520
 0.545
 0.545
 2.130


In the second quarter of fiscal 2018, the Company recorded an impairment of a trademark of $19.8 million, transaction expenses associated with the Acquisition of $12.1 million, and a $3.1 million pre-tax restructuring charge.


In the third quarter of fiscal 2018, the Company recorded$153.0 $153.0 millionin costs related to acquisition, disposition, and restructuring related costs associated with the Acquisition, and a$12.9 $12.9 millionloss on an equity method investment. In addition, the quarter’s results include two-months of contribution from the acquired Time properties.


The fourth quarter was the first full quarter in which the acquired Time properties’ operations were included in the results. The Company recorded an additional $31.1 million in acquisition, disposition, and restructuring related costs, and a $2.9 million impairment of a trademark. These charges were partially offset by a gain on the sale of MXM of $11.5 million.


As a result of changes in shares outstanding during the year as well as the issuance of Series A preferred stock on January 31, 2018, the sum of the four quarters’ earnings per share may not necessarily equal the earnings per share for the year. See Note 1314 for additional information on the Series A preferred stock and Note 1516 for detail on the calculation of earnings per share.





Year ended June 30, 2017
First
Quarter
 
Second 
Quarter
 
Third  
Quarter
 
Fourth 
Quarter
 Total   
(In millions except per share data)         
Revenues         
National media$247.3
 $259.4
 $283.3
 $293.2
 $1,083.2
Local media152.6
 183.2
 142.1
 152.2
 630.1
Total revenues$399.9
 $442.6
 $425.4
 $445.4
 $1,713.3
Operating profit         
National media$24.1
 $46.8
 $41.3
 $34.3
 $146.5
Local media50.6
 76.8
 41.2
 46.3
 214.9
Unallocated corporate(13.9) (13.8) (12.5) (12.1) (52.3)
Income from operations$60.8
 $109.8
 $70.0
 $68.5
 $309.1
          
Earnings from continuing operations$34.0
 $71.8
 $39.8
 $43.3
 $188.9
Discontinued operations—
 —
 —
 —
 —
Net earnings$34.0
 $71.8
 $39.8
 $43.3
 $188.9
          
Basic earnings per share attributable to common shareholders        

Earnings from continuing operations$0.76
 $1.61
 $0.89
 $0.97
 $4.23
Net earnings0.76
 1.61
 0.89
 0.97
 4.23
          
Diluted earnings per share attributable to common shareholders        

Earnings from continuing operations0.75
 1.58
 0.87
 0.95
 4.16
Net earnings0.75
 1.58
 0.87
 0.95
 4.16
          
Dividends per share0.495
 0.495
 0.520
 0.520
 2.030

In the second quarter of fiscal 2017, the Company recorded a reduction in contingent consideration payable of $19.6 million, a pre-tax restructuring charge of $8.1 million, and $1.7 million for the write-down of an investment.

In the third quarter of fiscal 2017, the Company recorded a reduction in contingent consideration payable of $1.1 million.

In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2017, the Company recorded a non-cash impairment charge of $5.3 million to fully impair the Mywedding trademark, a pre-tax restructuring charge of $4.3 million, the write-down of an investment of $1.9 million, and the reversal of excess restructuring reserves accrued in prior fiscal years of $1.8 million.

As a result of changes in shares outstanding during the year, the sum of the four quarters’ earnings per share may not necessarily equal the earnings per share for the year.




Meredith Corporation and Subsidiaries
SCHEDULE II-VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS


   Additions  
Reserves Deducted from Receivables in the Consolidated Financial Statements:
Balance at
beginning of
period
 Acquired
Charged to
costs and
expenses
Charged to
other
accounts
 Deductions 
Balance at
end of
period
(In millions)         
Fiscal year ended June 30, 2019         
Reserve for doubtful accounts$12.2
 $—
$4.8
$—
 $(1.6) $15.4
Reserve for returns2.2
 —
8.8
3.4
1 
(9.3) 5.1
Income tax valuation allowance21.1
 —
0.6
—
 —
 21.7
Total$35.5
 $—
$14.2
$3.4
 $(10.9) $42.2
Fiscal year ended June 30, 2018         
Reserve for doubtful accounts$6.5
 $—
$12.5
$—
 $(6.8) $12.2
Reserve for returns1.5
 —
3.1
—
 (2.4) 2.2
Income tax valuation allowance—
 21.4
—
—
 (0.3) 21.1
Total$8.0
 $21.4
$15.6
$—
 $(9.5) $35.5
Fiscal year ended June 30, 2017         
Reserve for doubtful accounts$7.0
 $—
$4.5
$—
 $(5.0) $6.5
Reserve for returns1.3
 —
4.0
—
 (3.8) 1.5
Total$8.3
 $—
$8.5
$—
 $(8.8) $8.0
1 As a result of the Company's adoption of ASC 606 effective July 1, 2018, the Company recorded a reserve for underperformance of spot advertising of $3.4 million using the modified retrospective method. See Note 1 and Note 11 for further information on the adoption of ASC 606.





   Additions  
Reserves Deducted from Receivables in the Consolidated Financial Statements:
Balance at
beginning of
period
 Acquired
Charged to
costs and
expenses
Charged to
other
accounts
 Deductions 
Balance at
end of
period
(In millions)         
Fiscal year ended June 30, 2018         
Reserve for doubtful accounts$6.5
 $—
$12.5
$—
 $(6.8) $12.2
Reserve for returns1.5
 —
3.1
—
 (2.4) 2.2
Income tax valuation allowance—
 21.4
—
—
 (0.3) 21.1
Total$8.0
 $21.4
$15.6
$—
 $(9.5) $35.5
Fiscal year ended June 30, 2017         
Reserve for doubtful accounts$7.0
 $—
$4.5
$—
 $(5.0) $6.5
Reserve for returns1.3
 —
4.0
—
 (3.8) 1.5
Total$8.3
 $—
$8.5
$—
 $(8.8) $8.0
Fiscal year ended June 30, 2016         
Reserve for doubtful accounts$6.5
 $—
$4.8
$—
 $(4.3) $7.0
Reserve for returns2.0
 —
3.8
—
 (4.5) 1.3
Total$8.5
 $—
$8.6
$—
 $(8.8) $8.3
 






Meredith Corporation and Subsidiaries
FIVE-YEAR FINANCIAL HISTORY WITH SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA


Years ended June 30,2018
 2017
 2016
 2015
 2014
2019
 2018
 2017
 2016
 2015
(In millions except per share data)                  
Results of operations                  
Revenues$2,247.4
 $1,713.3
 $1,649.6
 $1,594.2
 $1,468.7
$3,188.5
 $2,264.2
 1,713.3
 $1,649.6
 $1,594.2
Costs and expenses1,823.3
 1,333.9
 1,334.8
 1,276.8
 1,204.9
2,511.2
 1,855.5
 1,334.8
 1,334.8
 1,276.8
Acquisition, disposition, and restructuring related activities173.4
 10.3
 (36.4) 17.5
 17.4
100.9
 170.1
 10.3
 (36.4) 17.5
Depreciation and amortization129.0
 53.8
 59.1
 56.5
 48.7
247.6
 129.0
 53.8
 59.1
 56.5
Impairment of goodwill and other long-lived assets22.7
 6.2
 161.5
 1.3
 11.2
41.8
 22.7
 6.2
 161.5
 1.3
Income from operations99.0
 309.1
 130.6
 242.1
 186.5
287.0
 86.9
 308.2
 130.6
 242.1
Non-operating expenses, net(11.7) —
 —
 —
 —
Net interest expense(96.9) (18.8) (20.4) (19.3) (12.2)
Income taxes123.6
 (101.4) (76.3) (86.0) (60.8)
Non-operating income, net24.2
 0.7
 0.9
 —
 —
Interest expense, net(170.6) (97.2) (18.8) (20.4) (19.3)
Income tax benefit (expense)(11.5) 123.6
 (101.4) (76.3) (86.0)
Earnings from continuing operations114.0
 188.9
 33.9
 136.8
 113.5
129.1
 114.0
 188.9
 33.9
 136.8
Discontinued operations(14.6) —
 —
 —
 —
(82.8) (14.6) —
 —
 —
Net earnings$99.4
 $188.9
 $33.9
 $136.8
 $113.5
$46.3
 $99.4
 $188.9
 $33.9
 $136.8
                  
Basic earnings per share information                  
Earnings from continuing operations$1.80
 $4.23
 $0.76
 $3.07
 $2.54
$1.12
 $1.80
 $4.23
 $0.76
 $3.07
Discontinued operations(0.32) —
 —
 —
 —
(1.83) (0.32) —
 —
 —
Net earnings$1.48
 $4.23
 $0.76
 $3.07
 $2.54
$(0.71) $1.48
 $4.23
 $0.76
 $3.07
                  
Diluted earnings per share information                  
Earnings from continuing operations$1.79
 $4.16
 $0.75
 $3.02
 $2.50
$1.12
 $1.79
 $4.16
 $0.75
 $3.02
Discontinued operations(0.32) —
 —
 —
 —
(1.82) (0.32) —
 —
 —
Net earnings$1.47
 $4.16
 $0.75
 $3.02
 $2.50
$(0.70) $1.47
 $4.16
 $0.75
 $3.02
Average diluted shares outstanding45.2
 45.5
 45.4
 45.3
 45.4
45.5
 45.2
 45.5
 45.4
 45.3
                  
Other per share information                  
Dividends$2.130
 $2.030
 $1.905
 $1.780
 $1.680
$2.240
 $2.130
 $2.030
 $1.905
 $1.780
Stock price-high72.25
 66.25
 53.11
 57.22
 53.84
62.40
 72.25
 66.25
 53.11
 57.22
Stock price-low47.30
 43.85
 35.03
 41.95
 40.11
47.46
 47.30
 43.85
 35.03
 41.95
Financial position at June 30,                  
Current assets$1,979.1
 $505.4
 $481.2
 $482.5
 $493.1
$1,350.1
 $2,016.7
 $505.4
 $481.2
 $482.5
Working capital788.8
 45.7

3.3

(48.5) 10.0
89.3
 790.9

45.7

3.3
 (48.5)
Total assets6,727.2
 2,729.7
 2,626.8
 2,843.3
 2,543.8
6,136.9
 6,770.9
 2,729.7
 2,626.8
 2,843.3
Long-term obligations (including current portion)3,165.3
 729.9
 703.6
 802.8
 723.8
2,348.3
 3,165.3
 729.9
 703.6
 802.8
Redeemable, convertible Series A preferred stock522.6
 —
 —
 —
 —
540.2
 522.6
 —
 —
 —
Shareholders’ equity1,097.5
 996.0
 889.0
 951.9
 891.7
974.6
 1,097.5
 996.0
 889.0
 951.9
Number of employees at June 30,7,924
 3,653
 3,790
 3,878
 3,639
5,899
 7,924
 3,653
 3,790
 3,878


This selected financial data should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related notes included in Item 8-Financial Statements and Supplementary Data of this Form 10-K. Over the last five fiscal years, we have acquired a number of companies, the most significant of which was the acquisition of Time on January 31, 2018. The results of our acquired companies have been included in our consolidated financial statements since their respective dates of acquisition. Long-term obligations include broadcast rights payable and Company debt associated with continuing operations.








ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE




None.






ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES




Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures


Meredith maintains disclosure controls and procedures, as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act), that are designed to provide reasonable assurance that (1) information that is required to be disclosed in Exchange Act reports is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC rules and forms and (2) such information is accumulated and communicated to management, including the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosures.

An evaluation was conducted an evaluation under the supervision and with the participation of management, including the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer of the effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 as amended (the Exchange Act)) as of June 30, 2018. On the basis of2019. Based on this evaluation, Meredith’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures arewere not effective as of June 30, 2019, the end of the period covered by this Form 10-K because of the material weaknesses in ensuring that information requiredinternal control over financial reporting described below and in Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting.

The material weaknesses as of June 30, 2019, relate to be discloseddigital revenues and the international pension assets acquired with the Time acquisition. While we believe these areas were closely managed and controlled from an operations standpoint, we ultimately determined there were control deficiencies from a COSO Framework (as defined below) standpoint.

Notwithstanding such material weaknesses in the reports that Meredith files or submits under the Exchange Act are (i) recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms and (ii) accumulated and communicated to Meredith’sinternal control over financial reporting, our management, including the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosures.has concluded that our consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, our financial position, results of operations and cash flows for the years presented in this Form 10-K, in conformity with U.S. GAAP. The material weaknesses did not result in any material restatements of our consolidated financial statements or disclosures for any prior period.


Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting


The Company’sMeredith’s management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in RuleRules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act. The Company’s internal control over financial reporting is designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the Securities Exchange Actpreparation of 1934, as amended. Underfinancial statements for external purposes in accordance with U. S. GAAP. All internal control systems, no matter how well designed, have inherent limitations. Therefore, even those systems that were determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation and they may not prevent or detect misstatements.

The Company, under the supervision and with the participation of management, including the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer and the Companyoversight of the Board of Directors, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of the design and operation of internal control over financial reporting as of June 30, 2019, based on the criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013 framework)(2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO)(COSO Framework).

On January 31, 2018,
Based upon this evaluation, the Company completed its acquisitionhas identified the following deficiencies as of Time. ManagementJune 30, 2019, related to ineffective risk assessment under the COSO Framework, including the documentation of controls:

The Company did not properly design or maintain effective controls over the completeness, existence and accuracy of digital advertising revenue, related accounts receivable, and selling expense.
The Company did not properly design or maintain effective controls over the completeness, existence, accuracy, and valuation of international pension assets.

The Company did not identify any misstatements to the consolidated financial statements related to the above noted control deficiencies. These deficiencies, if not effectively remediated, could result in unprevented or undetected misstatements of accounts or disclosures. Such misstatements could result in a material misstatement of the annual or interim consolidated financial statements. Accordingly, these deficiencies constitute material weaknesses and the Company has concluded that our internal control over financial reporting is not effective as of June 30, 2019.

A material weakness is a deficiency, or combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting, such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis.

The Company’s independent registered public accounting firm, KPMG LLP, who audited the processconsolidated financial statements included in this Form 10-K, has expressed an adverse report on the operating effectiveness of evaluating Time’s existing controls and procedures, and integrating Time into the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. In accordance with SEC staff guidance permitting a companyKPMG LLP's report appears on page 56 of this Form 10-K.

Remediation Steps to exclude an acquired business from management’s assessmentAddress Material Weaknesses in the Current Year

The Company’s remediation plan has been developed and is in the process of being implemented including the documentation and communication of the effectivenesspolicies and procedures necessary to implement new or modified controls to address the material weaknesses. In order to remediate the identified material weaknesses described herein, the Company will modify our risk assessment procedures and documentation of controls and implement new or modified controls to address the following:

the completeness, existence, and accuracy of digital advertising revenue, related accounts receivable, and selling expense.
the completeness, existence, accuracy, and valuation of international pension assets.

The Company will monitor the operation of any new or modified controls, so we can conclude that they are designed appropriately and operating effectively, and the material weaknesses are remediated. In addition, as we continue to work to improve our internal control over financial reporting, we may find it necessary to modify the remediation plan described above.

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

Remediation of Material Weakness in Internal Control from the Prior Year

As previously disclosed under Item 9A-Controls and Procedures in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K/A for the year ended June 30, 2018, the Company concluded that its internal control over financial reporting was not effective as of June 30, 2018, as a result of a material weakness in our internal controls over financial reporting related to the opening balance sheet of an acquired business.

These control deficiencies relating to the opening balance sheet of an acquired business created a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement in the opening balance sheet or subsequent consolidated financial statements would not have been prevented or detected on a timely basis. Accordingly, management concluded that the control deficiencies constitute a material weakness in the Company’s internal controls over financial reporting and, as a result, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting was not effective as of June 30, 2018. These control


deficiencies resulted in immaterial misstatements discovered in subsequent periods relating to subscription acquisition costs; unearned revenues; consumer related revenues; and selling, general, and administrative expenses, which were not corrected in the acquisitionconsolidated financial statements as of June 30, 2018.

The Company developed and implemented a remediation plan, which addressed the ineffective risk assessment process over the measurement and recognition of certain assets acquired and liabilities assumed in an acquisition. The enhanced risk assessment process is completed, management has excluded Time fromalso designed to identify and address risks related to other non-standard business transactions and events. We have also updated the design of our internal controls over future acquisitions, including the valuation of assets acquired and liabilities assumed.

The Company, after completing its assessmenttesting of the design and operating effectiveness of the controls included in the remediation plan, has concluded that it has remediated the previously identified material weakness as of June 30, 2019.

Other Changes in Internal Control

During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2019, we identified a material weakness related to ineffective controls over the existence of subscription revenue acquired through loyalty programs and related offsetting commission expense and deferred revenue and the related offsetting deferred acquisition costs. This material weakness was attributable to ineffective risk assessment. This material weakness resulted in immaterial misstatements to interim periods in fiscal 2019 which had no impact on fiscal 2019 net earnings.

During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2019, we reperformed our risk assessment procedures and successfully designed, implemented, and tested the operation of the controls necessary to properly account for subscription transactions acquired through loyalty programs. We conclude that the material weakness has been remediated as of June 30, 2019.

Except as noted above, there has been no change in the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of June 30, 2018. Time represents 59 percent of the Company’s total assets as of June 30, 2018 and 28 percent of revenue for the year ended June 30, 2018.

On the basis of the evaluation performed, management concluded2019, that internal control over financial reporting was effective as of June 30, 2018.

KPMG LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, has issued an audit report on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. This report appears on page 54.

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

There have been no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended June 30, 2018, that have materially affected, or areis reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’sCompany's internal control over financial reporting.






ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION




Not applicable.








 
 
PART III
 
 






ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS, AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE




The information required by this Item is set forth in Registrant’s Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on November 14, 2018,13, 2019, under thethe captions “Election of Directors,” “Corporate Governance,” “Meetings and Committees of the Board” and “Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance,” and in Part I of this Form 10-K beginning on page 1110 under the caption “Executive Officers of the Company” and is incorporated herein by reference.


The Company has adopted a Code of Business Conduct and Ethics and a Code of Ethics for CEO and Senior Financial Officers. These codes are applicable to the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Controller, and any persons performing similar functions. The Company’s Code of Business Conduct and Ethics and the Company’s Code of Ethics for CEO and Senior Financial Officers are available free of charge on the Company’s corporate website at meredith.com. Copies of the codes are also available free of charge upon written request to the Secretary of the Company. The Company will post any amendments to the Code of Business Conduct and Ethics and the Code of Ethics for CEO and Senior Financial Officers, as well as any waivers that are required to be disclosed by the rules of either the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission or the New York Stock Exchange on the Company’s corporate website.


There have been no material changes to the procedures by which shareholders of the Company may recommend nominees to the Company’s Board of Directors.






ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION




The information required by this Item is set forth in Registrant’s Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on November 14, 2018,13, 2019, under thethe captions “Compensation Discussion and Analysis,” “Compensation Committee Report,” “Summary Compensation Table,” “Director Compensation,” and “Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation” and is incorporated herein by reference.








ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS




Certain information required by this Item is set forth in Registrant’s Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be heldheld on November 14, 2018, under13, 2019, under the captions “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management” and “Equity Compensation Plans” is incorporated herein by reference.








ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE




The information required by this Item is set forth in Registrant’s Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on November 14, 2018, under the captions “Related Person Transaction Policy and Procedures” and “Corporate Governance - Director Independence” and is incorporated herein by reference.



ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES


The information required by this Item is set forth in Registrant’s Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held onNovember 14, 2018,13, 2019, under the captions “Related Person Transaction Policy and Procedures” and “Corporate Governance - Director Independence” and is incorporated herein by reference.



ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES


The information required by this Item is set forth in Registrant’s Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on November 13, 2019, under the caption “Audit Committee Disclosure” and is incorporated herein by reference.










 
 
PART IV
 
 






ITEM 15. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES




The following consolidated financial statements listed under (a) 1. and the financial statement schedule listed under (a) 2. of the Company and its subsidiaries are filed as part of this report as set forth in the Index on page 5150 (Item 8).


(a)Financial Statements, Financial Statement Schedule, and Exhibits
   
 1.Financial Statements
   
  ReportReports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
  Consolidated Balance Sheets as of June 30, 20182019 and 20172018
  Consolidated Statements of Earnings for the Years Ended June 30, 2019, 2018, 2017, and 20162017
  Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the Years Ended June 30, 2019, 2018, 2017, and 20162017
  Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’Shareholders' Equity for the Years Ended June 30, 2019, 2018, 2017, and 20162017
  Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended June 30, 2019, 2018, 2017, and 20162017
  Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
  Five-Year Financial History with Selected Financial Data
    
 2.Financial Statement Schedule for the years ended June 30, 2019, 2018, 2017, and 20162017
   
  Schedule II-Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
    
  All other Schedules have been omitted because the items required by such schedules are not present in the consolidated financial statements, are covered in the consolidated financial statements or notes thereto, or are not significant in amount.
    
 3.Exhibits
   
  Certain of the exhibits to this Form 10-K are incorporated herein by reference, as specified:
  
(See Index to Attached Exhibits on page E-1 of this Form 10-K.)
    
  
2.1
Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of November 26, 2017, by and among Meredith Corporation, Gotham Merger Sub, Inc. and Time Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed November 27, 2017.
    
  
2.2
Separation and Distribution Agreement, dated June 4, 2014, between Time Warner Inc. and Time Inc., incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to Time Inc.’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 5, 2014. #
    
  
3.1
The Company's Restated Articles of Incorporation, as amended, are incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended December 31, 2003.
    



  
3.2
Articles of Amendment to the Restated Articles of Incorporation of Meredith Corporation, including the Statement of Designation of Series A Preferred Stock of Meredith Corporation attached as Appendix I is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed January 31, 2018.
    
  
3.3
The Restated Bylaws, as amended, are incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2015.
    
  
4.1
Indenture, dated as of January 31, 2018, by and among Meredith Corporation, the Guarantors, and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed January 31, 2018.
    
  
4.2
Form of Note (included in Exhibit 4.1)
    
  
4.3
First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of January 31, 2018, by and among Meredith Corporation, the Guarantors, and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed January 31, 2018.
    
  
4.4
Sale and Purchase Agreement dated as of October 30, 2015 among the Time Inc, Time Inc. (UK) Blue Fin Holdings Limited, and Blue Fin UK Limited is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Time Inc.’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed October 30, 2015.
    
  10.1Indemnification Agreement in the form entered into between the Company and its officers and directors is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended December 31, 1988. *
    
  10.2Meredith Corporation Deferred Compensation Plan, dated as of November 8, 1993, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended December 31, 1993. *
    
  
10.3
Meredith Corporation Employee Stock Purchase Plan of 2002, as amended, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed November 13, 2012. *
    
  
10.4
Amended and Restated Replacement Benefit Plan effective January 1, 2001, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.17 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2003. *
    
  
10.5
Amended and Restated Supplemental Benefit Plan effective January 1, 2001, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.18 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2003. *
    
  
10.6
Meredith Corporation 2004 Stock Incentive Plan is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.14 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2008. *
    
  
10.7
Form of Nonqualified Stock Option Award Agreement between Meredith Corporation and the named employee for the 2004 Stock Incentive Plan is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended December 31, 2004. *
    



  
10.8
Form of Continuing Nonqualified Stock Option Award Agreement for Non-Employee Directors under the Company’s Amended and Restated 2004 Stock Incentive Plan is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended December 31, 2011. *
    
  
10.9
Employment Agreement dated January 20, 2006, and re-executed August 24, 2009, between Meredith Corporation and Stephen M. Lacy is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.15 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2009. First amendment to the aforementioned agreement is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed November 10, 2009. *
10.10
Employment Agreement dated August 10, 2016, between Meredith Corporation and Thomas H. Harty is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed August 12, 2016. *
    
  
10.11
Employment Agreement dated August 10, 2016, between Meredith Corporation and Jonathan B. Werther is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed August 12, 2016. *
10.1210.10
Employment Agreement dated August 14, 2008, and re-executed August 24, 2009, between Meredith Corporation and John S. Zieser is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.17 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2009. *
    
  
10.1310.11
Employment Agreement dated June 1, 2015, between Meredith Corporation and Joseph H. Ceryanec is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed June 5, 2015. *
    
  
10.1410.12
Employment Agreement dated May 9, 2018 and effective July 1, 2018, between Meredith Corporation and Patrick McCreery.McCreery is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.14 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed September 4, 2018. *
    
  
10.1510.13
Amended and Restated Severance Agreement in the form entered into between the Company and its executive officers is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10 to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended December 31, 2016. *
    
  
10.1610.14
Meredith Corporation 2014 Stock Incentive Plan is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed November 18, 2014. *
    
  
10.1710.15
Form of the Nonqualified Stock Option Award Agreement for Employees for the 2014 Stock Incentive Plan is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.20 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10–K filed on August 29, 2017. *
    
  
10.1810.16
Form of the Nonqualified Stock Option Award Agreement for Non-Employee Directors for the 2014 Stock Incentive Plan is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.21 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10–K filed on August 29, 2017. *
    
  
10.1910.17
Form of the Restricted Stock Award Agreement for Employees for the 2014 Stock Incentive Plan is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.22 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10–K filed on August 29, 2017. *
    
  
10.2010.18
Form of the Restricted Stock Award Agreement for Non-Employee Directors for the 2014 Stock Incentive Plan is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.23 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10–K filed on August 29, 2017. *
    


  
10.2110.19
Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement - Time Vested for the 2014 Stock Incentive Plan is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.24 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10–K filed on August 29, 2017. *
    
  
10.2210.20
Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement - Performance-Based for the 2014 Stock Incentive Plan is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.25 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10–K filed on August 29, 2017. *
    


  
10.2310.21
Credit Agreement, dated as of January 31, 2018, by and among Meredith Corporation, the Guarantors, the lenders party thereto from time to time and Royal Bank of Canada, as administrative agent and collateral agent, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed January 31, 2018. Amendment No. 1 to Credit Agreement, dated as of October 26, 2018, by and among Meredith Corporation, the Guarantors, the lenders party thereto from time to time and Royal Bank of Canada, as administrative agent and collateral agent is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed November 9, 2018.
    
  
10.2410.22
Deed of Guarantee in Relation to the IPC Media Pension Scheme, dated as of January 31, 2018, by and among Meredith Corporation, Time Inc. (UK) Ltd, IPC Media Pension Trustee Limited and Time Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Current report on Form 8-K filed January 31, 2018.
    
  
10.2510.23
Amended and Restated Deed of Guarantee in Relation to the IPC Media Pension Scheme, dated as of March 15, 2018, by and among Meredith Corporation, IPC Media Pension Trustee Limited, and International Publishing Corporation Limited, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed March 21, 2018.
    
  
10.2610.24
Warrant to Purchase Class A Common Stock, dated as of January 31, 2018, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed January 31, 2018.
    
  
10.2710.25
Option to Purchase Class A Common Stock, dated as of January 31, 2018, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed January 31, 2018.
    
  
10.2810.26
Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of January 31, 2018, by and between Meredith Corporation and KED MDP Investments, LLC, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed January 31, 2018.
    
  
10.2910.27
Tax Matters Agreement, dated June 4, 2014, between Time Warner Inc. and Time Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Time Inc.’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 5, 2014.
    
  
10.3010.28
Time Inc. Supplemental Savings Plan, dated and effective January 1, 2011, restated January 1, 2014, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.17 to Amendment No. 2 to Time Inc.’s Registration Statement on Form 10 filed on March 7, 2014. *
    
  
10.3110.29
Time Inc. Deferred Compensation Plan, dated and effective November 18, 1998, restated January 1, 2014, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.18 to Amendment No. 2 to Time Inc.’s Registration Statement on Form 10 filed on March 7, 2014. *
    
  
10.3210.30
Time Inc. Deferred Compensation Plan, dated and effective November 18, 1998, restated January 1, 2014 and applicable to amounts deferred prior to January 1, 2005, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.19 to Amendment No. 2 to Time Inc.’s Registration Statement on Form 10 filed on March 7, 2014. *
    
  
18.1
Letter from KPMG LLP regarding change in inventory costing, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 18.1 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2018.


21
Subsidiaries of the Registrant
    
  
23
Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
    
  
31.1
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and Rule 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act, as amended.
    


  
31.2
Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and Rule 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act, as amended.
    
  
32
Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. †
    
  101.INSInline XBRL Instance Document - the instance document does not appear in the Interactive Data File because its XBRL tags are embedded within the Inline XBRL document.
    
  101.SCHInline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
    
  101.CALInline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
    
  101.DEFInline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
    
  101.LABInline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
    
  101.PREInline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document
104Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted as Inline XBRL (included in Exhibits 101)


The Company agrees to furnish to the Commission, upon request, a copy of each agreement with respect to long-term debt of the Company for which the amount authorized thereunder does not exceed 10 percent of the total assets of the Company on a consolidated basis.


*Management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement
#Confidential treatment has been granted with respect to portions of this exhibit (indicated by asterisks) and those portions have been separately filed with the SEC.
†These certifications are being furnished solely to accompany this Annual Report on Form 10-K pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, and are not being filed for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and are not to be incorporated by reference into any filing of the registrant, whether made before or after the date hereof, regardless of any general incorporation language in such filing.






ITEM 16. FORM 10-K SUMMARY




None.










SIGNATURES




Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.


MEREDITH CORPORATION
 
/s/  John S. Zieser
John S. Zieser,
Chief Development Officer/
General Counsel and Secretary


Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.


/s/  Joseph Ceryanec /s/  Thomas H. Harty
Joseph Ceryanec,
Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial and Accounting
Officer)
 
Thomas H. Harty, President,
Chief Executive Officer, and Director
(Principal Executive Officer)
   
/s/  Stephen M. Lacy /s/  D. Mell Meredith Frazier
Stephen M. Lacy,
Executive Chairman of the Board and Director
 D. Mell Meredith Frazier,

Vice Chairman of the Board and Director
   
/s/  Donald A. Baer /s/  Donald C. Berg
Donald A. Baer, Director Donald C. Berg, Director
   
/s/  Frederick B. Henry /s/  Joel W. JohnsonBeth J. Kaplan
Frederick B. Henry, Director Joel W. Johnson,Beth J. Kaplan, Director
   
/s/  Beth J. KaplanPaula A. Kerger /s/  Philip A. Marineau
Beth J. Kaplan,Paula A. Kerger, Director Philip A. Marineau, Director
   
/s/  Christopher Roberts III/s/  Elizabeth E. Tallett
Christopher Roberts III, Director 
Elizabeth E. Tallett, Director




Each of the above signatures is affixed as of August 31, 2018.

September 13, 2019.

INDEX TO ATTACHED EXHIBITS



142
Exhibit
Number
Item
10.14
Employment Agreement effective July 1, 2018, between Meredith Corporation and Patrick McCreery.
21
Subsidiaries of the Registrant.
23
Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.
31.1
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and Rule 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act, as amended.
31.2
Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and Rule 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act, as amended.
32 *
Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
101.INSXBRL Instance Document
101.SCHXBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
101.CALXBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
101.DEFXBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
101.LABXBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
101.PREXBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document

*These certifications are being furnished solely to accompany this Annual Report on Form 10-K pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, and are not being filed for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and are not to be incorporated by reference into any filing of the registrant, whether made before or after the date hereof, regardless of any general incorporation language in such filing.



E-1