UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
 
FORM10-K

ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 20202023
OR
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: 001-34177
disca-20201231_g1.jpgWBD_HorizontalLogo_Blue.jpg
Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc.
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware 35-2333914
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
 (I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
8403 Colesville Road230 Park Avenue South 2091010003
Silver Spring,New York, New YorkMaryland(Zip Code)
(Address of principal executive offices) 
(240) 662-2000(212) 548-5555
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
 



Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of Each ClassTrading SymbolsName of Each Exchange on Which Registered
Series A Common Stock par value $0.01 per shareDISCAThe Nasdaq Global Select Market
Series B Common Stock, par value $0.01 per shareDISCBThe Nasdaq Global Select Market
Series C Common Stock, par value $0.01 per shareDISCKWBDThe Nasdaq Global Select Market
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
None
Indicate by check mark if the Registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.    Yes  ý    No  ¨



Indicate by check mark if the Registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.    Yes  ¨    No  ý
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.    Yes  ý    No  ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Registrant was required to submit such files).    Yes  ý    No  ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, smaller reporting company or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer”filer,” “smaller reporting company”company,” and "emerging“emerging growth company"company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer ý  Accelerated filer ¨
Non-accelerated filer ¨  Smaller reporting company 
Emerging growth company

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. ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed a report on and attestation to its management’s assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting under Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the registered public accounting firm that prepared or issued its audit report. ☒
If securities are registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act, indicate by check mark whether the financial statements of the registrant included in the filing reflect the correction of an error to previously issued financial statements. ¨
Indicate by check mark whether any of those error corrections are restatements that required a recovery analysis of incentive-based compensation received by any of the registrant’s executive officers during the relevant recovery period pursuant to §240.10D-1(b). ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).    Yes    No  ý
The aggregate market value of voting and non-voting common stock held by non-affiliates of the Registrant computed by reference to the last sales price of such stock, as of the last business day of the Registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter, which was June 30, 2020,2023, was approximately $10$30 billion.
Total number of shares outstanding of each class of the Registrant’s common stock as of February 8, 20212024 was:
Series A Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share162,490,7522,439,687,237 
Series B Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share6,512,378 
Series C Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share318,331,065 




DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Certain information required in Item 10 through Item 14 of Part III of this Annual Report on Form 10-K is incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s definitive Proxy Statement for its 20212024 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, which shall be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Regulation 14A of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, within 120 days of the Registrant’s fiscal year end.amended.



WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
FORM 10-K
TABLE OF CONTENTS

 Page

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PART I
CAUTIONARY NOTE CONCERNING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
Certain statements in this Annual Report on Form 10-K constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements regarding our business, marketing and operating strategies, integration of acquired businesses, new product and service offerings, financial prospects and anticipated sources and uses of capital. Words such as “anticipate,” “assume,” “believe,” “continue,” “estimate,” “expect,” “forecast,” “future,” “intend,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “strategy,” “target” and similar terms, and future or conditional tense verbs like “could,” “may,” “might,” “should,” “will” and “would,” among other terms of similar substance used in connection with any discussion of future operating or financial performance identify forward-looking statements. Where, in any forward-looking statement, we express an expectation or belief as to future results or events, such expectation or belief is expressed in good faith and believed to have a reasonable basis, but there can be no assurance that the expectation or belief will result or be accomplished. The following is a list of some, but not all, of the factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated:
changesmore intense competitive pressure from existing or new competitors in the distribution and viewing of television programming, including the expanded deployment of personal video recorders, subscription video on demand, internet protocol television, mobile personal devices and personal tablets and their impact on television advertising revenue;industries in which we operate;
continued consolidation of distribution customers and production studios;
a failure to secure affiliate agreements or the renewal of such agreements on less favorable terms;
rapid technological changes;
the inability of advertisers or affiliates to remit payment to us in a timely manner or at all;
general economic and business conditions, including the impact of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic;
industry trends, including the timing of, and spending on, feature film, television and television commercial production;
reduced spending on domestic and foreign television advertising;
disagreements withadvertising, due to macroeconomic, industry or consumer behavior trends or unexpected reductions in our distributors or other business partners over contract interpretation;
fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, political unrest and regulatory changes in international markets;
market demand for foreign first-run and existing content libraries;
the regulatory and competitive environmentnumber of the industries in which we, and the entities in which we have interests, operate;
uncertainties inherent in the development of new business lines and business strategies;
uncertainties regarding the financial performance of our investments in unconsolidated entities;
our ability to complete, integrate, maintain and obtain the anticipated benefits and synergies from our proposed business combinations and acquisitions, on a timely basis or at all;subscribers;
uncertainties associated with product and service development and market acceptance, including the development and provision of programming for new television and telecommunications technologies, and the success of our new discovery+ streaming product;
future financial performance, including availability, terms, and deployment of capital;
the ability of suppliers and vendors to deliver products, equipment, software, and services;
our ability to achieve the efficiencies, savingsmarket demand for foreign first-run and other benefits anticipated from our cost-reduction initiatives;existing content libraries;
the outcome of any pendingnegative publicity or threatened litigation;damage to our brands, reputation or talent;
availabilityrealizing direct-to-consumer subscriber goals;
industry trends, including the timing of, qualified personnel;and spending on, sports programming, feature film, television and television commercial production;
the possibility or duration of an industry-wide strike, such as the strikes of the Writers Guild of America (“WGA”) and Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (“SAG-AFTRA”) in 2023, player lock-outs or other job action affecting a major entertainment industry union;union, athletes or others involved in the development and production of our sports programming, television programming, feature films and interactive entertainment (e.g., games) who are covered by collective bargaining agreements;
disagreements with our distributors or other business partners;
continued consolidation of distribution customers and production studios;
potential unknown liabilities, adverse consequences or unforeseen increased expenses associated with the WarnerMedia Business or our efforts to integrate the WarnerMedia Business;
adverse outcomes of legal proceedings or disputes related to our acquisition of the WarnerMedia Business;
changes in, or failure or inability to comply with, laws and government regulations, including, without limitation, regulations of the Federal Communications Commission ("FCC")and similar authorities internationally and data privacy regulations, and adverse outcomes from regulatory or legal proceedings;
changesinherent uncertainties involved in income taxes duethe estimates and assumptions used in the preparation of financial forecasts;
our level of debt, including the significant indebtedness incurred in connection with the acquisition of the WarnerMedia Business, and our future compliance with debt covenants;
threatened or actual cyber-attacks and cybersecurity breaches;
theft of our content and unauthorized duplication, distribution and exhibition of such content; and
general economic and business conditions, fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, global events such as pandemics, and political unrest in the international markets in which we operate.
Forward-looking statements are subject to regulatory changes or changes in our corporate structure;various risks and uncertainties which change over time, are based on management’s expectations and assumptions at the time the statements are made and are not guarantees of future results.
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changes in the nature of key strategic relationships with partners, distributors and equity method investee partners;
competitor responses to our products and services and the products and services of the entities in which we have interests;
threatened or actual cyber or terrorist attacks and military action;
our level of debt;
reduced access to capital markets or significant increases in costs to borrow; and
a reduction of advertising revenue associated with unexpected reductions in the number of subscribers.
These risks have the potential to impact the recoverability of the assets recorded on our balance sheets, including goodwill or other intangibles. Additionally, manyManagement’s expectations and assumptions, and the continued validity of these risksany forward-looking statements we make, cannot be foreseen with certainty and are currently amplified bysubject to change due to a broad range of factors affecting the U.S. and may, in the future, continueglobal economies and regulatory environments, factors specific to be amplified by the prolonged impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. For additional riskWarner Bros. Discovery and other factors refer todescribed under Item 1A, “Risk Factors.Factors” and elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, including under Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
Actual outcomes and results may differ materially from what is expressed in our forward-looking statements and from our historical financial results due to the factors discussed in this section and elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K or disclosed in our other SEC filings. These forward-looking statements and such risks, uncertainties, and other factors speak only as of the date of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, and we expressly disclaim any obligation or undertaking to disseminate any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statement contained herein, to reflect any change in our expectations with regard thereto, or any other change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based.
ITEM 1. Business.
For convenience, the terms “Discovery,”“Warner Bros. Discovery”, “WBD”, the “Company,” “we,” “us” or “our” are used in this Annual Report on Form 10-K to refer to both Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc. and collectively to Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc. and one or more of its consolidated subsidiaries, unless the context otherwise requires.
Merger with the WarnerMedia Business of AT&T
On March 6, 2018,April 8, 2022 (the “Closing Date”), Discovery, Inc. (“Discovery”) completed its merger (the “Merger”) with the Company acquired Scripps Networks Interactive,WarnerMedia business (the “WarnerMedia Business”, “WM Business” or “WM”) of AT&T Inc. ("Scripps Networks"(“AT&T”) and changed its name from "Discovery Communications,to Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc." On April 11, 2022, the Company’s shares started trading on the Nasdaq Global Select Market (“Nasdaq”) under the trading symbol WBD.
The Merger was executed through a Reverse Morris Trust type transaction, under which WM was distributed to "Discovery, Inc."AT&T’s shareholders via a pro rata distribution, and immediately thereafter, combined with Discovery. (See Note 3 and Note 4 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements.statements). Prior to the Merger, WarnerMedia Holdings, Inc. (“WMH”) distributed $40.5 billion to AT&T (subject to working capital and other adjustments) in a combination of cash, debt securities, and WM’s retention of certain debt. Discovery transferred purchase consideration of $42.4 billion in equity to AT&T shareholders in the Merger. In August 2022, the Company and AT&T finalized the post-closing working capital settlement process, which resulted in the Company receiving a $1.2 billion payment from AT&T in the third quarter of 2022 in lieu of adjusting the equity issued as consideration in the Merger. AT&T shareholders received shares of WBD Series A common stock (“WBD common stock”) in the Merger representing 71% of the combined Company and the Company’s pre-Merger shareholders continued to own 29% of the combined Company, in each case on a fully diluted basis.
Impact of COVID-19
On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization declared the coronavirus disease 2019 (“COVID-19”) outbreakDiscovery was deemed to be a global pandemic. COVID-19 continues to spread throughout the world,accounting acquirer of the WM Business for accounting purposes under U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”); therefore, Discovery is considered the Company’s predecessor and the durationhistorical financial statements of Discovery prior to April 8, 2022, are reflected in this Annual Report on Form 10-K as the Company’s historical financial statements. Accordingly, the financial results of the Company as of and severityfor any periods prior to April 8, 2022 do not include the financial results of its effectsthe WM Business and associated economic disruption remain uncertain. Restrictionscurrent and future results will not be comparable to results prior to the Merger.
Industry Trends
The WGA and SAG-AFTRA went on socialstrike in May and commercial activityJuly 2023, respectively, following the expiration of their respective collective bargaining agreements with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (“AMPTP”). The WGA strike ended on September 27, 2023, and a new collective bargaining agreement was ratified on October 9, 2023. The SAG-AFTRA strike ended on November 9, 2023, and a new collective bargaining agreement was ratified on December 5, 2023.
The strikes had a material impact on the operations and results of the Company, including a pause on certain theatrical and television productions. Effects included a positive impact on cash flow from operations attributed to delayed production spend, and a negative impact on the results of operations attributed to timing and performance of the 2023 film slate, as well as the Company’s ability to produce, license, and deliver content.
Other headwinds in an effort to contain the virusindustry, such as continued pressures on linear distribution and soft advertising markets in the U.S., have had, and are expected to continue to have, a significant adversematerial impact upon many sectorson the operations and results of the U.S. and global economy,Company, including a negative impact on the media industry. results of operations attributed to declines in linear advertising revenue.
We continue to closely monitor the ongoing impact of COVID-19 on all aspects ofindustry trends to our business and geographies, includingbusiness; however, the impact on our customers, employees, suppliers, vendors, distribution and advertising partners, production facilities, and various other third parties.
Beginning in the second quarter of 2020, demand for our advertising products and services decreased due to economic disruptions from limitations on social and commercial activity. These economic disruptions and the resulting effect on the Company slightly eased during the second half of 2020, but the pandemic continued to impact demand through the end of 2020 and this decreased demand is expected to continue into 2021. Many of our third-party production partners that were shut down during most of the second quarter of 2020 due to COVID-19 restrictions came back online in the third quarter of 2020 and, as a result, we have incurred additional costs to comply with various governmental regulations and implement certain safety measures for our employees, talent, and partners.Additionally, certain sporting events that we have rights to were cancelled or postponed, thereby eliminating or deferring the related revenues and expenses, including the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, which were postponed to 2021. The postponement of the Olympic Games deferred both Olympic-related revenues and significant expenses from fiscal year 2020 to fiscal year 2021.
In response to the impact of the pandemic, we employed and continue to employ innovative production and programming strategies, including producing content filmed by our on-air talent and seeking viewer feedback on which content to air. We also implemented remote work arrangements effective mid-March 2020 and, to date, these arrangements have not materially affected our ability to operate our business.
The effects of the pandemic may have further negative impacts on our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows. However, we are unable to predict the ongoing impact that COVID-19 will have on our financial position, operating results, and cash flows due to numerous uncertainties. The nature and extent of COVID-19’sfull effects on our operations and results will depend on future developments, which are highly uncertain and cannot be predicted, including new information that may emerge concerning the severity and the extent of future surges of COVID-19, vaccine distribution and other actions to contain the virus or treat its impact, among others. We will continue to monitor COVID-19 and its impact on our business results and financial condition.predicted.
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OVERVIEWDescription of Business
Warner Bros. Discovery is a premier global media and entertainment company that provides audiences with a differentiated portfolio of content, brands and franchises across television, film, streaming, and gaming. Some of our iconic brands and franchises include Warner Bros. Motion Picture Group, Warner Bros. Television Group, DC, HBO, HBO Max, Max, discovery+, CNN, Discovery Channel, HGTV, Food Network, TNT Sports, TBS, TLC, OWN, Warner Bros. Games, Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, Harry Potter, Looney Tunes, Hanna-Barbera, Game of Thrones, and The Lord of the Rings.
We are a global media company that provides content across multiple distribution platforms, including linear platforms such as pay-television ("pay-TV"), free-to-air ("FTA")home to powerful creative engines and broadcast television, authenticated GO applications, digital distribution arrangements, content licensing arrangements and direct-to-consumer ("DTC") subscription products. As one of the world’s largest pay-TV programmers, we provide original and purchased content and live events to approximately 3.7 billion cumulative subscribers and viewers worldwide through networks that we wholly or partially own. We distribute customizedcollections of owned content in the U.S.world. WBD has one of the strongest hands in the industry in terms of the completeness and over 220 other countriesquality of assets and territoriesintellectual property across sports, news, lifestyle, and entertainment in nearly 50virtually every region of the globe and in most languages. We have an extensive library of contentserve audiences and own most rights to our content and footage, which enables us to leverage our library to quickly launch brands and services into new markets and on new platforms. Our content can be re-edited and updated in a cost-effective manner to provide topical versions of subject matter that can be utilizedconsumers around the world on a variety of platforms.with content that informs, entertains, and, when at its best, inspires.
Our content spans genres including survival, natural history, exploration, sports, generalasset mix positions us to drive a balanced approach to creating long-term value for shareholders. It represents the full entertainment home, food, travel, heroes, adventure, crimeecosystem, and investigation, health,the ability to serve consumers across the entire spectrum of offerings from domestic and kids. Our global portfoliointernational networks, premium pay-TV, streaming, production and release of networks includes prominent nonfiction television brands such as Discovery Channel, our most widely distributed global brand, HGTV, Food Network, TLC, Animal Planet, Investigation Discovery, Travel Channel, Science,feature films and MotorTrend (previously known as Velocity domestically and currently known as Turbo in most international countries). Among other networks in the U.S., Discovery also features two Spanish-language services, Discovery en Español and Discovery Familia. Our international portfolio also includes Eurosport, a leading sports entertainment provider and broadcaster of the Olympic Games (the "Olympics") across Europe (excluding Russia), TVN, a Polish media company, as well as Discovery Kids, a leading children's entertainment brand in Latin America. We participate in joint ventures including Magnolia, the recently formed multi-platform venture with Chip and Joanna Gaines, and Group Nine Media ("Group Nine"), a digital media holding company home to top digital brands including NowThis News, the Dodo, Thrillist, PopSugar, and Seeker. We operate production studios, and prior to the sale of our Education Business in April 2018, we sold curriculum-based educationoriginal series, related consumer products and services. (See Note 3 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements.)
During the fourth quarter of 2020, we announced the global launch of our aggregated DTC product, discovery+, a non-fiction, real life subscription service. In January 2021, we launched discovery+ in the U.S. across several streaming platformsthemed experience licensing, and entered into a partnership with Verizon, which is offering access to discovery+ for up to 12 months to certain of its customers. The global rollout of discovery+ across more than 25 markets has already begun with the U.K. and Ireland, where we have partnered with Sky, and India. We also have a partnership with Vodafone, which will provide discovery+ to existing Vodafone TV and mobile customers in 12 markets across Europe. Upon launch in the U.S., discovery+ included an extensive content library comprised of more than 55,000 episodes and features a wide array of exclusive, original series from the Discovery portfolio of brands that have a strong leadership position. The service is available with ads or on an ad-free tier, providing Discovery with dual revenue streams.interactive gaming.
We aim to generate revenues principallyrevenue from the sale of advertising on our networks and digital products and fromplatforms (advertising revenue); fees charged to distributors that carry our network brands and content, primarilyprogramming, including cable, direct-to-home ("DTH"(“DTH”) satellite, telecommunication and digital service providers, as well as through DTCdirect-to-consumer (“DTC”) subscription services. Other transactions include affiliate and advertising sales representation services production studios content development and services content licenses,(distribution revenue); the release of feature films for initial exhibition in theaters, the licensing of feature films and television programs to various television, subscription video on demand (“SVOD”) and other digital markets, distribution of feature films and television programs in the physical and digital home entertainment markets, sales of console games and mobile in-game content, sublicensing of sports rights, and licensing of intellectual property such as characters and brands (content revenue); and other sources such as studio tours and production services (other revenue).
Segments
As of December 31, 2023, we classified our brandsoperations in three reportable segments:
Studios - Our Studios segment primarily consists of the production and release of feature films for initial exhibition in theaters, production and initial licensing of television programs to our networks/DTC services as well as third parties, distribution of our films and television programs to various third party and internal television and streaming services, distribution through the home entertainment market (physical and digital), related consumer products and in 2018, curriculum-based productsthemed experience licensing, and services. During 2020, advertising, distribution and other revenues were 52%, 46% and 2%, respectively, of consolidated revenues. No individual customer represented more than 10%interactive gaming.
Networks - Our Networks segment primarily consists of our total consolidated revenues for 2020, 2019 or 2018.domestic and international television networks.
We invest in high-quality content for our networks and brands with the objective of building viewership, optimizing distribution revenue, capturing advertising revenue, and creating or repositioning branded channels and business to sustain long-term growth and occupy a desired content niche with strong consumer appeal.DTC - Our strategy is to maximize the distribution, ratings and profit potential of eachDTC segment primarily consists of our branded networks. In addition to growing distributionpremium pay-TV and advertising revenues for our branded networks, we have extended content distribution across new platforms, including brand-aligned websites, online streaming mobile devices, video on demand (“VOD”), and broadband channels, which provide promotional platforms for our television content and serve as additional outlets for advertising and distribution revenue. Audience ratings are a key driver in generating advertising revenue and creating demand on the part of cable television operators, DTH satellite operators, telecommunication service providers, and other content distributors who deliver our content to their customers.services.
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Although we utilize certain brands and content globally, we classify our operations in two reportable segments: U.S. Networks, consisting principally of domestic television networks and digital content services, and International Networks, consisting primarily of international television networks and digital content services. Our segment presentation aligns with our management structure and the financial information management uses to make decisions about operating matters, such as the allocation of resources and business performance assessments. Financial information for our segments and the geographical areas in which we do business is set forth in Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and Note 23 to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Network BrandsStudios
Subscriber statistics set forth in this Annual Report on Form 10-K include both wholly-owned networksWBD’s Studios business includes the Warner Bros. Motion Picture Group (“WBMPG”), DC Studios, Warner Bros. Television Group (“WBTVG”), Consumer Products, Themed Entertainment and networks operated by equity method investees. Domestic subscriber statistics are based on Nielsen Media Research. International subscriberBrand Licensing, DC Comics Publishing, Content Licensing, Home Entertainment, Studio Operations, and viewer statistics are derivedInteractive Gaming.
WBMPG is comprised of Warner Bros. Pictures, New Line Cinema, and Warner Bros. Pictures Animation. WBMPG partners with captivating storytellers to create filmed entertainment for a global audience.
DC Studios, tasked with developing properties licensed from internal data coupled with external sources when available. As used herein,DC Comics for film, television and animation, continues the tradition of high-quality storytelling within the DC Universe, while building a “subscriber” is a single household that receives the applicable network from its cable television operator, DTH satellite operator, telecommunication service provider, or other television provider, including those who receive our networks from pay-TV providers without charge pursuant to various pricing plans that include free periods and/or free carriage. The term “cumulative subscribers” refers to the sumsustainable growth business out of the total number of subscribers to each of our networks or content services. By way of example, two households that each receive five of our networks from their pay-TV provider represent two subscribers, but 10 cumulative subscribers. The term "viewer" is a single household that receives the signal from one of our networks using the appropriate receiving equipment without a subscription to a pay-TV provider.
Our brands consist of the following:

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Discovery Channel had approximately 86 million subscribers in the U.S. as of December 31, 2020. Discovery Channel and the Discovery HD Showcase brand had approximately 277 million cumulative subscribers and viewers in international markets as of December 31, 2020.iconic characters.
WBTVG consists of Discovery Channel is dedicated to creating high-quality, non-fiction content that informs and entertains its viewers aboutWarner Bros. Television, the world in all its wonder, diversity and amazement. The network offers a signature mix of high-endCompany’s flagship television production values and vivid cinematography across genres including science and technology, exploration, adventure, history and in-depth, behind-the-scenes glimpses at the people, places and organizations that shape and share our world.
unit for live-action scripted programming, as well as In the U.S., Discovery Channel audiences can enjoy their favorite programming anytime, anywhere through the Discovery GO app, which features live and on-demand access.
Discovery Channel content includes Gold RushWarner Bros. Unscripted Television, which produces unscripted and alternative programming through its four production units – Naked and AfraidWarner Horizon Unscripted Television, Telepictures, Deadliest Catch, Fast N' Loud, Street Outlaws, Alaskan Bush People,Expedition Unknown, BattleBots, Undercover BillionaireWarner Bros. International Television Production, and Serengeti. Shed MediaDiscovery Channel is. WBTVG also home toincludes Shark WeekWarner Bros. Animation, Cartoon Network Studios,, the network's long-running annual summer TV event.
and Target viewers are adults aged 25 to 54, particularly men.Hanna-Barbera Studios Europe

.
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disca-20201231_g3.gifAmong the Studios segment’s content highlights for 2023 were Barbie, the #1 movie of the year globally based on worldwide gross revenue, Wonka, Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom, and The Nun II on the film side and award-winning TV titles including Abbott Elementary, Ted Lasso, Night Court, Shrinking, Genndy Tartakovsky’s Primal, The Golden Bachelor, and The Voice.
Beyond its production operations, the Studios segment includes various businesses that facilitate consumer interaction with the intellectual property it creates.
Global Consumer Products, Themed Entertainment and Brand Licensing, and world-renowned comic and publishing powerhouse DC Comics, all drive opportunities for consumers to engage with WBD’s leading entertainment brands and franchises.
Global distribution of most of WBD’s content is handled by Content Sales, which provides content for viewers across streaming, cable, satellite and broadcast networks, local television stations, and airlines. Warner Bros. Home Entertainment oversees the global distribution of content through physical goods (Blu-ray Disc™ and DVD) and digital media in the form of electronic sell-through and video-on-demand via cable, satellite, online, and mobile channels.
The Studios segment also includes Warner Bros. Games, a worldwide publisher, developer, licensor, and distributor of content for the interactive space across all platforms, including console, handheld, mobile, and PC-based gaming for both internal and third-party game titles. Based on the Wizarding World of Harry Potter franchise, Warner Bros. Games launched Hogwarts Legacy in 2023, which became the #1 game of the year globally.
Part of the Worldwide Studio Operations group, Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter and Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood attract visitors from around the world, giving fans the opportunity to get closer to the entertainment they love. In June of 2023, the Worldwide Studios Operations group opened the Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo – The Making of Harry Potter, a new experience that was the first Warner Bros. Studio Tour to open in Asia.
For the year ended December 31, 2023, content and other revenues were 93%and 7%, respectively, of total revenues for this segment.
Networks
WBD’s linear network operations include general entertainment, lifestyle, and news networks in the U.S., as well as a host of international media networks and global sports networks.
General entertainment networks in the U.S. include TNT, cable’s #1 entertainment network; TBS, a top-rated destination for television among young adults; and Turner Classic Movies. WBD’s other entertainment networks include OWN, Discovery Channel, Cartoon Network, Adult Swim, and truTV amongmany others.
Leading the lifestyle category are Magnolia Network, comprised of a collection of inspiring original series curated by Chip and Joanna Gaines featuring some of the U.S.’s most talented names in home and design, food, gardening, and the arts; HGTV had approximately 87 million subscribers, with relatable stories, real estate and renovation experts and home transformations; and Food Network, which connects viewers to the power and joy of food. Additional lifestyle networks include Travel Channel, Science Channel, TLC, and Hogar de HGTV amongmany others.
In 2023, CNN, our global news brand, launched CNN Max in the U.S., giving audiences the ability to access a combination of on-air CNN content and exclusive programming on WBD’s streaming service, Max.
WBD Sports (rebranded in January 2024 as TNT Sports) is a global leader in premium sports content across multiple platforms, engaging fans in the U.S. and approximately 166 million subscribersinternationally. TNT Sports’ U.S. sports rights include the National Basketball Association (“NBA”), Major League Baseball (“MLB”), National Collegiate Athletic Association (“NCAA”), National Hockey League (“NHL”), and viewersUnited States Soccer Federation (“USSF”). WBD Sports Europe features Eurosport, a leading sport destination and the home of the Olympic Games in international markets as of December 31, 2020.
HGTV programming content attracts audiences interested specifically in home/lifestyle related topics, including real estate, renovation, restoration, decorating, interior or landscape design and fantasy lifestyles,Europe, as well as docu-seriesthe Global Cycling Network (“GCN”), and reality competitions focused on those genres.Global Mountain Bike Network (“GMBN”).
TNT Sports’ owned-and-operated platforms include In the U.S., HGTV audiences can enjoy their favorite programming anytime, anywhere through the Discovery GO app, which features live and on-demand access.
Bleacher Report, Content on HGTV includes: Property Brothers, Brother vs. Brother, Celebrity IOU, Flip or Flop, Christina on the Coast, Flipping 101 with Tarek El Moussa, Home Town, Good Bones, Rock the Block, Design Star, House Hunters, andEurosport.com, House Hunters International.
of Highlights, HighlightHER,Target viewers are women with higher incomes in the 25 to 54 age range.

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The most widely distributed ad-supported cable network and a full suite of digital and social brands. In 2023, WBD exited its regional sports business (“AT&T SportsNets”) in the U.S., Food Network had approximately 87 million subscribers in the U.S. and approximately 113 million subscribers and viewers in international markets as of December 31, 2020.
Food Network programming content attracts audiences interested in food-related entertainment, including competition and travel, as well as food-related topics such as recipes, food preparation, entertaining, and dining out.
In the U.S., Food Network audiences can enjoy their favorite programming anytime, anywhere through the Discovery GO app, which features live and on-demand access, as well as on the Food Network Kitchen app.
Content on Food Network includes primetime series Beat Bobby Flay, Chopped, Diners, Drive-ins and Dives, The GreatFood Truck Race, Guy’s Grocery Games, Worst Cooks in America, and several seasonal baking championships, as well as daytime series Barefoot Contessa, Giada Entertains, Girl Meets Farm, Guy's Ranch Kitchen, The Kitchen, ThePioneer Woman, Trisha’s Southern Kitchen and Valerie's Home Cooking.
Target viewers are adults with higher incomes in the 25 to 54 age range, particularly women.

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TLC had approximately 85 million subscribers in the U.S. and 5 million subscribers in Canada that are included in the U.S. Networks segment as of December 31, 2020. TLC content had approximately 356 million cumulative subscribers and viewers in international markets as of December 31, 2020 including the Home & Health, Real Time, and Living brands.
Offering real-life stories without judgment, TLC shares everyday heart, humor, hope, and human connection with programming genres that include fascinating families, heartwarming transformations and life's milestone moments.
In the U.S., TLC audiences can enjoy their favorite programming anytime, anywhere through the Discovery GO app, which features live and on-demand access
Content on TLC includes the 90 Day Fiancé franchise, Little People, Big World, I Am Jazz and Outdaughtered.
Target viewers are adults aged 25 to 54, particularly women. 

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Animal Planet had approximately 84 million subscribers in the U.S. and approximately 187 million subscribers and viewers in international markets as of December 31, 2020.
Animal Planet is dedicated to creating high quality content with global appeal delivering on its mission to keep the childhood joy and wonder of animals alive by bringing people up close in every way.
In the U.S., Animal Planet audiences can enjoy their favorite programming anytime, anywhere through the Animal Planet GO app, which features live and on-demand access.
Content and talent on Animal Planet include Crikey! It's the Irwins, The Zoo, The Zoo: San Diego, Pit Bulls & Parolees, Dr. Jeff: Rocky Mountain Vet, The Aquarium and Puppy Bowl.
Target viewers are adults aged 25 to 54.

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Investigation Discovery ("ID") had approximately 84 million subscribers in the U.S. and approximately 90 million subscribers and viewers in international markets as of December 31, 2020.
ID is a leading true crime, mystery and suspense network. From in-depth investigations to heart-breaking mysteries, ID challenges our everyday understanding of culture, society and the human condition.
In the U.S., ID audiences can enjoy their favorite programming anytime, anywhere through the Discovery GO app, which features live and on-demand access.
ID content includes On the Case with Paula Zahn, Homicide Hunter: Lt. Joe Kenda, In Pursuit with John Walsh, and the ID Murder Mystery franchise.
Target viewers are adults aged 25 to 54, particularly women.
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Travel Channel had approximately 83 million subscribers in the U.S. and approximately 46 million subscribers and viewers in international markets as of December 31, 2020.
Travel Channel is for the bold, daring and spontaneous: adventurers who embrace the thrill of the unexpected, risk-takers who aren’t afraid of a little mystery and anyone who loves a great story.
In the U.S., Travel Channel audiences can enjoy their favorite programming anytime, anywhere through the Discovery GO app which, features live and on-demand access.
Content on Travel Channel includes Ghost Adventures, The Osbournes Want to Believe, Expedition Bigfoot and Ghost Nation.
Target viewers are adults aged 25 to 54.

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MotorTrend had approximately 73 million subscribers in the U.S. and approximately 150 million subscribers and viewers in international markets, where the brand is known as Turbo, as of December 31, 2020.
Programming on MotorTrend and the MotorTrend App, the leading subscription streaming service dedicated entirely to the motoring world, is engaging and informative, featuring the best of the automotive world as told by top experts and personalities.
The MotorTrend App offers more than 8,000 episodes and more than 3,600 hours of automotive series and specials including the most complete collection of classic Top Gear (200+ episodes and specials spanning seasons one through 27), the all-new Top Gear America and NASCAR 2020: Under Pressure, plus every season of Speed Racer, Wheeler Dealers, Roadkill, Fast N’ Loud, Bitchin’ Rides, Iron Resurrection, Texas Metal and many more. The MotorTrend App is available on media players and streaming devices including Amazon FireTV, Apple TV, Roku, Google Chromecast and on the web, as well as across iPhone, iPad, and Android mobile devices.
In the U.S., MotorTrend TV audiences can also enjoy their favorite MotorTrend programming anytime, anywhere through the Discovery GO app, which features live and on-demand access.
Target viewers are adults aged 25 to 54, particularly men.

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OWN had approximately 74 million subscribers in the U.S. as of December 31, 2020.
The Oprah Winfrey Network ("OWN") is the first and only network named for, and inspired by a single iconic leader. OWN is a leading destination for premium scripted and unscripted programming from today's most innovative storytellers, with popular series such as Queen Sugar, Greenleaf, Iyanla: Fix My Life, and new dramas Delilah and David Makes Man.
Target viewers are African-American women aged 25 to 54.
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U.S. NETWORKS
U.S. Networks generated revenues of $6.9 billion and adjusted operating income before depreciation and amortization ("Adjusted OIBDA") of $4.0 billion during 2020, which represented 65% and 95% of our total consolidated revenues and Adjusted OIBDA, respectively. Our U.S. Networks segment principally consists of national television networks. Our U.S. Networks segment owns and operates 17 national television networks, including fully distributed television networks such as Discovery Channel, HGTV, Food Network, TLC, and Animal Planet. In addition, we operate the following U.S. Networks: MotorTrend, Investigation Discovery, Travel Channel, Science, Discovery Family, American Heroes Channel, Destination America, Discovery Life, DIY Network, Cooking Channel, Great American Country, and OWN. In 2020, we also provided authenticated U.S. TV Everywhere ("TVE") streaming products that are available to pay-TV subscribers and connect viewers through our GO applications with live and on-demand access to award-winning shows and series from 16 U.S. networks in the Discovery portfolio and from Discovery Familia and Discovery en Español. During 2020, we achieved incremental increases in U.S. digital platform consumption. Furthermore, we provide certain networks to consumers as part of subscription-based over-the-top services provided by DirectTV Now, AT&T Watch, Hulu, SlingTV, fuboTV, and YouTube TV.
U.S. Networks generates revenues from fees charged to distributors of our television networks’ first run content, which includes cable, DTH satellite and telecommunication service providers, referred to as affiliate fees; fees from distributors for licensed content and content to equity method investee networks, referred to as other distribution revenue; fees from advertising sold on our television networks and digital products, which include discovery+, our GO suite of TVE applications and other DTC subscription products; fees from providing sales representation, network distribution services; and revenue from licensing our brands for consumer products. Typically, our television networks are aired pursuant to multi-year carriage agreements that provide for the level of carriage that our networks will receive and for annual graduated rate increases. Carriage of our networks depends on package inclusion, such as whether networks are on the more widely distributed, broader packages or lesser-distributed, specialized packages, also referred to as digital tiers. In the U.S., approximately 95% of distribution revenues come from the top 10 distributors, with whom we have agreements that expire at various times. Distribution fees are typically collected ratably throughout the year. Certain of our DTC products, including the recent launch of our aggregated discovery+ service in January 2021, provide dual revenue streams.
Advertising revenue is generated across multiple platforms and is based on the price received for available advertising spots and is dependent upon a number of factors including the number of subscribers to our channels, viewership demographics, the popularity of our programming, our ability to sell commercial time over a portfolio of channels and leverage multiple platforms to connect advertisers to target audiences. In the U.S., advertising time is sold in the upfront and scatter markets. In the upfront market, advertisers buy advertising time for upcoming seasons and, by committing to purchase in advance, lock in the advertising rates they will pay for the upcoming year. Many upfront advertising commitments include options whereby advertisers may reduce or increase purchase commitments. In the scatter market, advertisers buy advertising closer to the time when the commercials will be run, which often results in a pricing premium compared to the upfront rates. The mix of upfront and scatter market advertising time sold is based upon the economic conditions at the time that upfront sales take place, impacting the sell-out levels management is willing or able to obtain. The demand in the scatter market then impacts the pricing achieved for our remaining advertising inventory. Scatter market pricing can vary from upfront pricing and can be volatile.
During 2020, advertising, distribution and other revenues were 58%, 41% and 1%, respectively, of total net revenues for this segment.
INTERNATIONAL NETWORKS
International Networks generated revenues of $3.7 billion and Adjusted OIBDA of $723 million during 2020, which represented 35% and 17% of our total consolidated revenues and Adjusted OIBDA, respectively. Our International Networks segment principally consists of national and pan-regional television networks and brands that are delivered across multiple distribution platforms. This segment generates revenue from operations in virtually every pay-TV market in the world through an infrastructure that includes operational centers in London, Amsterdam, Warsaw, Milan, Singapore and Miami. Global brands include Discovery Channel, Food Network, HGTV, Animal Planet, TLC, ID, Science and MotorTrend (known as Turbo outside of the U.S.), along with brands exclusive to International Networks, including Eurosport, Discovery Kids, DMAX, Discovery Home & Health, and TVN. TVN was acquired in March 2018, as part of our acquisition of Scripps Networks Interactive, Inc. (the "Scripps Acquisition"). As of December 31, 2020, International Networks operates unique distribution feeds in nearly 50 languages with channel feeds customized according to language needs and advertising sales opportunities. International Networks also has FTA networks in Europe and the Middle East and broadcast networks in Poland, Denmark, Norway, Sweden and Finland, and continues to pursue further international expansion. During 2020, we completed the acquisition of a German free-to-air general entertainment TV channel and completed an acquisition of an independent free-to-air commercial broadcaster in New Zealand.
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FTA and broadcast networks generate a significant portion of International Networks' revenue. The penetration and growth rates of television services vary across countries and territories depending on numerous factors including the dominance of different television platforms in local markets. While pay-TV services have greater penetration in certain markets, FTA or broadcast television is dominant in others. International Networks has a large international distribution platform with more than 80 networks, with as many as 23 networks distributed in any particular country or territory across more than 220 countries and territories around the world. International Networks pursues distribution across all television platforms based on the specific dynamics of local markets and relevant commercial agreements.
With the growing demand for consumer content on digital and mobile devices, a suite of international DTC products has been made available to consumers. dplay, our real-life entertainment streaming service, was rebranded to our new global streaming service, discovery+, in the UK and Ireland during the fourth quarter of 2020. The remainder of the dplay markets, including the Nordics, Italy, Spain, and the Netherlands, are expected to follow in 2021. Discovery expects to expand its DTC offering across more than 25 key markets in 2021 by leveraging its library of local-language content, as well as its broad portfolio of live sports. Eurosport’s existing streaming service, Eurosport Player, offers premium and localized sports to fans in 52 markets in Europe. This service is expected to continue to be available until discovery+ launches and Eurosport Player's content is fully integrated onto the service in those markets.
Beginning with Tokyo 2020, scheduled for the summer of 2021, discovery+ will become the streaming home of the Olympics in Europe (excluding Russia) with live and on-demand access. Eurosport will be an official broadcaster of the Olympics in France and the U.K. for Tokyo 2020.
In Germany, we have partnered with ProSiebenSat.1 to launch the streaming service, Joyn, which offers a collection of free-TV content, with programming and live streams from more than 70 channels. In Poland, we have partnered with Cyfrow Polsat to create a video streaming platform that, when launched, following regulatory clearance, will give viewers a single destination to access Polish content including movies, series, documentaries, sports and entertainment.
Effective September 2020, the Company realigned its International Networks management reporting structure. As a result, Australia and New Zealand, which were previously included in the Europe reporting unit, are now included in the Asia-Pacific reporting unit.
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In addition to the global networks described in the overview section above, we operate networks internationally that utilize the following brands:

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Eurosport is a household name for live sports entertainment, reaching fans across Europe and Asia via Eurosport 1, Eurosport 2, the network's DTC streaming service, Eurosport Player, and Eurosport.com.
Subscribers and viewers for each brand as of December 31, 2020 were as follows: Eurosport 1: 192 million and Eurosport 2: 82 million.
Live, exclusive and premium sports are at the core of what Eurosport does, showcasing sporting events with both local and pan-regional appeal. Viewers in Europe can enjoy live action including coverage of cycling's Grand Tours, all four Grand Slam tennis tournaments, as well as every International Ski Federation World Cup and World Championship event during the winter sports season.
In addition to pan-European rights, Eurosport invests in exclusive and localized rights to drive local audience and commercial relevance. Important local sports rights include soccer leagues such as Eliteserien in Norway, Allsvenskan in Sweden and European Europa League in Sweden, Lega Basket basketball in Italy and year-round ATP World Tour tennis in France, Czech Republic, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Romania, Russia, Slovakia, and Sweden.
In the summer of 2021, Discovery expects to present our first Olympic Summer Games, Tokyo 2020, in 50 markets and 19 languages across Europe. discovery+ will be the exclusive streaming home of the Olympic Games, while Eurosport Player will be the destination in markets where discovery+ has not launched. Discovery channels and platforms, such as our free-to-air networks in a selection of the Nordic markets, will also showcase the Olympics and contribute to bringing the Olympic Summer Games to more people in Europe.
Eurosport Events is the Eurosport Group’s event management division and global promoter of the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (“FIA”) World Touring Car Cup and FIA European Rally Championship together with the sport’s governing body, the FIA. It is also a promoter of the new PURE ETCR series, the world’s first all-electric touring car championship that is set to debut in 2021. In March 2020, Eurosport Events signed a long-term agreement with the UCI, the international federation for cycling, to launch and promote a new world league for Track Cycling – the UCI Track Champions League. Expected to debut in November 2021, the series and cycling will benefit from Discovery’s global scale, media platforms and promotion expertise to help grow cycling around the world.

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DMAX had approximately 139 million subscribers and viewers, according to internal estimates, as of December 31, 2020.
DMAX is a men’s factual entertainment channel in Asia and Europe.

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Discovery Kids had approximately 108 million subscribers and viewers, according to internal estimates, as of December 31, 2020.
Discovery Kids is the leading pre-school network of Pay TV in Latin America.

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internationally. TVN operates a portfolio of free-to-air and pay-TV lifestyle, entertainment, and news networks in Poland, including TVN, TVN7, TTV, HGTV, TVN24, TVN Style, TVN Turbo, TVN24 BiS, TVN Fabu³a, Travel Channel, Food Network, iTVN and iTVNExtra.Poland.
The TVN portfolio, excluding HGTV, Travel Channel and Food Network, had approximately 87 million cumulative subscribers and viewers as ofFor the year ended December 31, 2020.2023, distribution, advertising, content, and other revenues were 54%, 39%, 5%, and 2%, respectively, of total revenues for this segment.
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DTC
WBD’s DTC business includes our streaming services, such as Max, HBO Max, and discovery+, and premium pay-TV services, such as HBO.Our International Networks segment also ownsstreaming services are available on most mobile and operates the following television networks, which reached the following number of subscribers and viewers via pay-TV and FTA or broadcast networks, respectively, asconnected TV devices. As of December 31, 2020: 2023, we had 97.7 million DTC subscribers1.
International
Subscribers and Viewers
(millions)
Tele544
Jeet Prime39
Nordic broadcast networks (a)
32
Really29
Quest Red29
Quest29
Giallo25
Frisbee25
K225
Nove25
DKISS19
Discovery HD Theater17
Asian Food Channel16
World15
Metro12
Discovery History10
Discovery Life Poland8
Discovery Family7
Discovery Historia7
Discovery en Español (b)
7
Fine Living Network6
Discovery Familia (b)
6
(a) Number of subscribers and viewers corresponds to the sum of the subscribers and viewers to each of the Nordic broadcast networks in Sweden, Norway, Finland and Denmark subject to retransmission agreements with pay-TV providers. The Nordic broadcast networks include Kanal 5, Kanal 9, and Kanal 11 in Sweden, TVNorge, MAX, FEM and VOX in Norway, TV 5, Kutonen, and Frii in Finland, and Kanal 4, Kanal 5, 6'eren, and Canal 9 in Denmark.
(b) U.S. domestic subscribers data from Nielsen Media Research.
Similar to U.S. Networks, a significant sourceHBO is one of revenue for International Networks relates to fees charged to operators who distribute our linear networks. Such operators primarily include cablethe most respected and DTH satellite service providers. International television markets vary in their stages of development. Some markets, such as the U.K., are more advanced digital television markets, while others remaininnovative entertainment brands in the analog environment with varying degreesworld, serving iconic, award-winning programming through the HBO linear channels and our DTC streaming service, Max.
In May 2023, WBD launched Max, creating a new destination for HBO Originals, Warner Bros. films, Max Originals, the DC universe, the Wizarding World of investmentHarry Potter, CNN, an expansive offering of kids’ content, and among the best programming across food, home, reality, lifestyle and documentaries from operators to expand channel capacity or convert to digital technologies. Common practice in some markets results in long-term contractual distribution relationships, while customers in other markets renew contracts annually. Distribution revenue for our International Networks segment is largely dependent on the number of subscribers that receive our networks or content, the rates negotiatedleading brands like HGTV, Food Network, Discovery Channel, TLC, ID and more. Max initially launched in the distributor agreements,U.S. and will roll out in international territories, starting in Latin America and the market demand forCaribbean in the content that we provide. International Networks additionally generates revenues through DTC subscription services.first quarter of 2024, with more markets in EMEA and APAC to follow later in the year.
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discovery+
The other significant source is WBD’s non-fiction, real-life subscription-based streaming service. discovery+ features a wide range of revenue for International Networks relates to advertising sold on our television networksexclusive, original series across popular passion verticals, including lifestyle and across distribution platforms, similar to U.S. Networks. Advertising revenue is dependent upon a number of factors, including the development of payrelationships; home and FTA television markets, the number of subscribers tofood; true crime; paranormal; adventure and viewers of our channels, viewership demographics, the popularity of our programming, and our ability to sell commercial time over a portfolio of channels on multiple platforms. In certain markets, our advertising sales business operates with in-house sales teams, while we rely on external sales representation services in other markets. Outside the U.S., advertisers typically buy advertising closer to the time when the commercials will be run. In developing pay-TV markets, we expect advertising revenue growth will result from subscriber growth, our localization strategy,natural history; science, tech, and the shiftenvironment; and a slate of high-quality documentaries.
Max, HBO Max, and discovery+ currently feature both ad-free and ad-lite versions.
For the year ended December 31, 2023, distribution, advertising, spending from broadcast to pay-TV. In mature markets, such as Western Europe, high proportions of market penetration and distributioncontent revenues are unlikely to drive rapid revenue growth. Instead, growth in advertising sales comes from increasing viewership86%, 5%, and pricing and launching new services, either in pay-TV, broadcast, or FTA television environments.
During 2020, advertising, distribution and other revenues were 42%, 54% and 3%9%, respectively, of total net revenues for this segment. While we have traditionally operated cable networks, in recent years an increasing portion of our international advertising revenue is generated by FTA or broadcast networks, unlike U.S. Networks. During 2020, pay-TV networks generated 33% of International Networks' advertising revenue and FTA or broadcast networks generated 67% of International Networks' advertising revenue. We also have increased efforts to drive revenue growth from digital products such as the dplay DTC entertainment service in select international markets.
International Networks' largest cost is content expense for localized programming. While our International Networks segment maximizes the use of programming from U.S. Networks, we also develop local programming that is tailored to individual market preferences and license the rights to air films, television series and sporting events from third parties. Content acquired from U.S. Networks and content developed locally airing on the same network is amortized similarly, as amortization rates vary by network.
While International Networks and U.S. Networks have similarities with respect to the nature of operations, the generation of revenue and the categories of expense, International Networks have a lower segment margin due to lower economies of scale from being in over 220 markets which requires additional cost for localization to satisfy market variations. International Networks also include sports and FTA broadcast channels, which drive higher costs from sports rights and production and investment in broad entertainment programming for broadcast networks.
In June 2016, the U.K. held a referendum in which voters approved an exit from the European Union (“E.U.”), commonly referred to as “Brexit.” E.U. law provides for a departing member state to have a two-year notice period to negotiate a term of exit, which the U.K. triggered in March 2017 and subsequently extended. In October 2019, a revised draft withdrawal agreement was published detailing the framework of the future relationship between the U.K. and the E.U. This agreement was ratified by the U.K. and European Parliaments and on January 31, 2020, the U.K. formally left the E.U. Brexit may have an adverse impact on advertising, subscribers, distributors and employees, as described in Item 1A, Risk Factors, below. The withdrawal agreement included a transitional period until December 2020. Discovery, like many international media businesses, sought to mitigate this risk by applying for broadcast licenses in remaining E.U. member states, thereby allowing us continued access to the E.U. single market. We have been operating our E.U. pay-TV channels under Dutch jurisdiction since March 2019. Most of our E.U. free to air channels which were previously operating under the U.K. authority, Ofcom, are operating under German jurisdiction as of January 1, 2021. We continue to monitor the situation for potential effects on our distribution and licensing agreements, unusual foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations, and changes to the legal and regulatory landscape.
CONTENT DEVELOPMENT
Our content development strategy is designed to increase viewership, maintain innovation and quality leadership, and provide value for our network distributors and advertising customers. Our content is sourced from a wide range of third-party producers, which include some of the world’s leading nonfiction production companies, as well as independent producers and wholly-owned production studios.
Our production arrangements fall into three categories: produced, coproduced and licensed. Produced content includes content that we engage third parties or wholly owned production studios to develop and produce. We retain editorial control and own most or all of the rights, in exchange for paying all development and production costs. Production of digital-first content such as virtual reality and short-form video is typically done through wholly-owned production studios. Coproduced content refers to program rights on which we have collaborated with third parties to finance and develop either because world-wide rights are not available for acquisition or we save costs by collaborating with third parties. Licensed content is comprised of films or series that have been produced by third parties. Payments for sports rights made in advance of the event are recognized as prepaid content license assets.
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International Networks maximizes the use of content from our U.S. Networks. Our non-fiction content tends to be culturally neutral and maintains its relevance for an extended period of time. As a result, a significant amount of our non-fiction content translates well across international borders and is made even more accessible through extensive use of dubbing and subtitles in local languages. Our content can be re-edited and updated in a cost-effective manner to provide topical versions of subject matter that can be utilized around the world. International Networks executes a localization strategy by offering content from U.S. Networks, customized content and localized schedules via our distribution feeds. While our International Networks segment maximizes the use of content from U.S. Networks, we also develop local content that is tailored to individual market preferences and license the rights to air films, television series and sporting events from third-party producers. To that end, during 2018, we entered into a 12-year partnership with the PGA Tour that includes TV and online rights to the PGA Tour outside the United States. Effective January 1, 2019, we announced the launch of GOLFTV, a new live and on-demand international video streaming service providing over 2,000 hours of live golf programming each year and extensive premium content on-demand. Discovery expects to invest more than $2 billion over the course of the partnership, including licensing rights and building the GOLFTV platform.
Our largest single expense is content, which includes content amortization, content impairment and production costs. We amortize the cost of capitalized content rights based on the proportion that the current year's estimated revenues bear to the estimated remaining total lifetime revenues, which normally results in an accelerated amortization method over the estimated useful lives. However, certain networks also utilize a straight-line method of amortization over the estimated useful lives of the content. Content is amortized primarily over periods of two to four years. The costs for multi-year sports programming arrangements are expensed when the event is broadcast based on the estimated relative value of each season in the arrangement. Content assets are reviewed for impairment when impairment indicators are present, such as low viewership or limited expected use. Impairment losses are recorded when content asset carrying value exceeds net realizable value.
COMPETITION
Providing content across various distribution platforms is a highly competitive business worldwide. We experience competition for the development and acquisition of content, distribution of our content, sale of commercial time on our networks and viewership. There is competition from other production studios, other television networks, and online-based content providers for the acquisition of content and creative talent such as writers, producers and directors. In addition, the composition of our competitors has evolved with the entrance of new market participants, including companies in adjacent sectors with significant financial, marketing, and other resources, greater efficiencies of scale, fewer regulatory burdens and more competitive pricing. Our ability to produce and acquire popular content is an important competitive factor for the distribution of our content, attracting viewers and the sale of advertising. Our success in securing popular content and creative talent depends on various factors such as the number of competitors providing content that targets the same genre and audience, the distribution of our content, viewership, and the production, marketing and advertising support we provide.
Our networks compete with other television networks, including broadcast, cable and local, for the distribution of our content and fees charged to cable television operators, DTH satellite service providers, and other distributors that carry our content. Our ability to secure distribution agreements is necessary to ensure the retention of our audiences. Our contractual agreements with distributors are renewed or renegotiated from time to time in the ordinary course of business. Growth in the number of networks distributed, consolidation and other market conditions in the cable and satellite distribution industry, and increased popularity of other platforms may adversely affect our ability to obtain and maintain contractual terms for the distribution of our content that are as favorable as those currently in place. The ability to secure distribution agreements is dependent upon the production, acquisition and packaging of original content, viewership, the marketing and advertising support and incentives provided to distributors, the product offering across a series of networks within a region, and the prices charged for carriage.
1Direct-to-Consumer subscriber - We define a “Core DTC Subscription” as:
(i) a retail subscription to discovery+, HBO, HBO Max, Max, or a Premium Sports Product (defined below) for which we have recognized subscription revenue, whether directly or through a third party, from a direct-to-consumer platform; (ii) a wholesale subscription to discovery+, HBO, HBO Max, Max, or a Premium Sports Product for which we have recognized subscription revenue from a fixed-fee arrangement with a third party and where the individual user has activated their subscription; (iii) a wholesale subscription to discovery+, HBO, HBO Max, Max, or a Premium Sports Product for which we have recognized subscription revenue on a per subscriber basis; (iv) a retail or wholesale subscription to an independently-branded, regional product sold on a stand-alone basis that includes discovery+, HBO, HBO Max, Max, and/or a Premium Sports Product, for which we have recognized subscription revenue (as per (i)-(iii) above); and (v) users on free trials who convert to a subscription for which we have recognized subscription revenue within the first seven days of the calendar month immediately following the month in which their free trial expires.
The Company defines a “Premium Sports Product” as a strategically prioritized, sports-focused product sold on a stand-alone basis and made available directly to consumers. The current “independently-branded, regional products” referred to in (iv) above consist of TVN/Player and BluTV. We may refer to the aggregate number of DTC Subscriptions as “subscribers”.
The reported number of “subscribers” included herein and the definition of “DTC Subscription” as used herein excludes: (i) individuals who subscribe to DTC products, other than discovery+, HBO, HBO Max, Max, a Premium Sports Product, and independently-branded, regional products (currently consisting of TVN/Player and BluTV) that may be offered by us or by certain joint venture partners or affiliated parties from time to time; (ii) a limited number of international discovery+ subscribers that are part of non-strategic partnerships or short-term arrangements as may be identified by the Company from time to time; (iii) domestic and international Cinemax subscribers, and international basic HBO subscribers; and (iv) users on free trials except for those users on free trial that convert to a DTC Subscription within the first seven days of the next month as noted above.
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Our networks and digital productsstreaming services, which include Max, HBO Max, and discovery+, compete for the sale of advertising with other television networks, including broadcast, cable, local networks, and other content distribution outlets for their target audiences and the sale of advertising. Our success in selling advertising is a function of the size and demographics of our audiences, quantitative and qualitative characteristics of the audience of each network, the perceived quality of the network and of the particular content, the brand appeal of the network and ratings as determined by third-party research companies, prices charged for advertising and overall advertiser demand in the marketplace.
Our networks and DTC productsstreaming services also compete for their target audiences with all forms of content and other media provided to viewers, including broadcast, cable and local networks, streaming services, pay-per-view and VODvideo-on-demand (“VOD”) services, DVDs, online activities and other forms of news, information and entertainment.
Our production studios compete with other production and media companies for talent.entertainment.
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
We are one of the world’s leading creators, owners and distributors of intellectual property. Our intellectual property assets include copyrights in content,films, television programs, software, comic books and mobile apps; trademarks in brands, names, logos and logos, technology platforms, websites,characters; patents or patent applications for inventions related to products and services; websites; and licenses of intellectual property rights of various kinds from third parties.
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We are fundamentally a content company and the protection of our brands and content is of primary importance. We have also made and will continue to make investments in developing technology platforms to support our digital products and DTC offeringsstreaming services, including Max, HBO Max, and discovery+, and consider these platforms to be oneintellectual property assets as well.
We are a global media and entertainment company and the protection of our intellectual property assets.content and brands is of primary importance. To protect our intellectual property assets, we rely upon a combination of copyright, trademark, patent, unfair competition, trade secret and Internet/internet/domain name statutes and laws, and contract provisions. However, there can be no assurance of the degree to which these measures will be successful. Moreover, effective intellectual property protection may be either unavailable or limited in certain foreign territories. Policing unauthorized use ofterritories, and new legislative or regulatory initiatives could impact our products and services and related intellectual property is difficult and costly. operations.
We seek to limit unauthorized use of our intellectual property through a combination of approaches. However, the steps taken to prevent the infringement of our intellectual property by unauthorized third parties may not be effective.Piracy, which encompasses the theft of our signals, and the unauthorized use of our intellectual property in the digital environment, continues to present a threat to revenues from products and services based on our intellectual property.Piracy also includes the unauthorized use of our intellectual property on physical goods. We have a team dedicated to disrupting and curbing piracy and other forms of intellectual property infringement and use external vendors to detect and remove infringements, whether digital in nature or on physical goods. We also engage with intermediaries that facilitate piracy, leverage our membership in a range of industry groups, and initiate enforcement actions, including litigation, to address piracy issues.In general, policing unauthorized use of our products and services and related intellectual property is difficult and costly. Further, new technologies such as generative AI and their impact on our intellectual property rights remain uncertain, and development of the law in this area could impact our ability to protect against infringing uses or result in infringement claims against us.
Third parties may challenge the validity or scope of our intellectual property from time to time, and the success of any such challenges could result in the limitation or loss of intellectual property rights. Irrespective of their validity, such claims may also result in substantial costs and diversion of resources which could have an adverse effect on our operations. In addition, piracy, which encompasses the theft of our signal, and unauthorized use of our content, in the digital environment continues to present a threat to revenues from products and services based on our intellectual property. We use external vendors to detect and remove infringing content and leverage our membership in a range of industry groups to address piracy issues.
REGULATORY MATTERS
Our businesses are subject to and affected by regulations of U.S. federal, state and local government authorities, and our international operations are subject to laws and regulations of the countries and international bodies, such as the E.U., in which we operate. Content networks, such as those owned by us, are regulated in certain limited respects by the FCCFederal Communications Commission (“FCC”), including some regulations that only apply to content networks affiliated with a cable television operator. Other FCC regulations, although imposed on cable television operators and direct broadcast satellite ("DBS"(“DBS”) operators and other distributors, affect content networks indirectly. The rules, regulations, policies and procedures affecting our businesses are constantly subject to change. These descriptions are summary in nature and describe only the most significant regulations we face; they do not purport to describe all present and proposed laws and regulations affecting our businesses.
Program Access
The Communications Act (the “Act”) and the FCC’s program access rules prevent a satellite-delivered content vendor in which a cable operator has an “attributable” ownership interest from discriminating against unaffiliated multichannel video programming distributors (“MVPDs”), such as cable and DBS operators, in the rates, terms and conditions for the sale or delivery of content.the vendor’s content networks, on the basis of the non-affiliation. These rules permit the unaffiliated MVPD to initiate a complaint to the FCC against the content vendor and content networks if it believes this rule has been violated.
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Program Carriage
The FCC recently made changes toAct and the FCC’s program carriage rules which prohibit distributorsMVPDs from favoring their affiliated content networks over unaffiliated, similarly situated content networks in the rates, terms and conditions of their carriage agreements betweenin a manner that unreasonably restrains the ability of the unaffiliated content networks and cable operators or other MVPDs. Some ofnetwork to compete fairly. These rules permit the unaffiliated content network to initiate a complaint to the FCC against the MVPD if it believes these changes could makerules have been violated, but court decisions interpreting the regulations have made it more difficult for us to challenge a distributor’s decision to decline to carry one of our content networks or a distributor's actions mid-contract that discriminate against one of our content networks.
“Must-Carry”/Retransmission Consent
The Communications Act (the “Act”) imposes “must-carry” regulations on cable systems, requiring them to carry the signals of most local broadcast television stations in their market.market if they elect mandatory carriage. DBS systems are also subject to their own must-carry rules. The FCC’s implementation of “must-carry” obligations requires cable operators and DBS providers to give broadcasters preferential access to channel space and favorable channel positions. This reduces the amount of channel space that is available for carriage of our content networks by cable and DBS operators. The Act also gives certain broadcasters the choice of opting out of must-carry and invoking the right to retransmission consent, which refers to a broadcaster’s right to require MVPDs, such as cable and satellite operators, to obtain the broadcaster'sbroadcaster’s consent before distributing the broadcaster'sbroadcaster’s signal to the MVPDs'MVPDs’ subscribers, often at a substantial cost that reduces the content funds available for independent programmers not affiliated with broadcasters, such as us.
Accessibility, Children'sChildren’s Advertising Restrictions, Emergency Alerts and CALM Act
Certain of our content networks and some of our IP-delivered video content must provide closed-captioning and audio description of some of their programming. programming and comply with other regulations designed to make our content more accessible to persons with disabilities. The U.S. Congress, the FCC, and the U.S. Department of Justice periodically consider proposals to implement additional accessibility requirements, and are considering a number of such proposals now, some of which would increase our obligations substantially.Our content networks and digital productstelevision programming intended primarily for children 12 years of age and under must comply with certain limits on advertising.the amount and type of permissible advertising, and certain regulations extend to our digital products when they are referenced by web address in our television programming. We may not include actual or simulated emergency alert tones or signals in our content. Commercials embedded in our networks’ television content stream also must adhere to certain standards for ensuring that those commercials are not transmitted at louder volumes than our program material.
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Obscenity Restrictions
Network distributorsMVPDs are prohibited from transmitting obscene content, and our distribution agreements generally require us to refrain from including such content on our networks.
Regulation of Digital Products and Services
We operate a variety of free, advertising-based and subscription-based digital products and streaming services providing news, information entertainment, e-commerce and interactive experiencesentertainment to consumers in the U.S. and international markets via web, mobile and connected TV platforms. In some cases, those products and services are provided directly to consumers, and in other cases, they can be used and/or purchased through a third-party distributor, such as Xfinity or Hulu.Our digital products and services are subject to federal and state regulation in the U.S. relating to the privacy and security of personal information collected from our users, including laws pertaining to the acquisition of personal information from children under 13, such as16. Some examples of these laws include the federal Children'sChildren’s Online Privacy Protection Act and(COPPA), the federal Controlling the Assault of Non-Solicited Pornography and Marketing Act, the Video Privacy Protection Act (VPPA), and thatthe California Consumer Privacy Act (“CCPA”). Many additional U.S. state and federal regulations impose data security and securitydata breach obligations on the Company. These laws and their public and private enforcement are continually evolving, with robust new data protection frameworks having beenseveral comprehensive U.S. state privacy laws that took effect in 2023, or that will take effect in 2024, and many more introduced duringand expected to pass in the past few yearscoming year, and novel litigation theories related to privacy advancing in both the U.S. and international markets, such as the California Consumer Privacy Act ("CCPA"), the E.U. General Data Protection Regulation ("GDPR") and Brazil’s General Data Protection Law.courts. Additional federal and state laws and regulations apply or may be adopted with respect to our digital products and services, covering such issues as data privacy and security, child safety, oversight of user-generated content, advertising, competition, pricing, content, copyrights and trademarks, access by persons with disabilities, distribution, taxation and characteristics and quality of products and services. Our digitalThe scope of regulation may differ depending on how these products and services availableare used and/or purchased.In addition, the FCC from time to consumers in international marketstime considers whether some or all digital services should be considered MVPDs and regulated as such.
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Intellectual Property Laws and Regulations
Our intellectual property assets are also subjectdiscussed under “Business – Intellectual Property” above. Our content, whether distributed over broadcast, cable, DBS, wireless, or internet-based services, or through other means, is protected under intellectual property law, including copyright, trademark, patent, unfair competition, and internet/domain name statutes and laws and license agreements. Changes to thethese laws and regulations of foreign jurisdictions, including, without limitation, consumer protection, data privacycould either strengthen or weaken our ability to license and security, advertising, intellectual property,protect our content and content limitations. We must design and operate our digital products and websites in compliance with these laws and regulations.combat its theft or misuse.
Foreign Laws and Regulations
The foreign jurisdictions in which our networksproducts and services are offered have, in varying degrees, laws and regulations governing our businesses.businesses, including relating to the production, monetization and distribution of content.By way of example, our digital offerings available to consumers in international jurisdictions are subject to laws and regulations relating to, without limitation, consumer protection, data privacy and security, advertising, competition, intellectual property, and content limitations.
Similar to the U.S., new laws and regulations in international jurisdictions may be adopted with respect to our intellectual property, products and services.In particular, we face increased efforts in international jurisdictions to regulate streaming services, which may constrain our offerings. Further, international laws and regulations around intellectual property could limit our ability to license and protect our content, as well as impose additional burdens on our business.
HUMAN CAPITAL
As of December 31, 2020,2023, we had approximately 9,80035,300 employees, including full-time and part-time employees of our wholly-owned subsidiaries and consolidated ventures. Our employees are located in 36 different countries,ventures, with 37%53% located in the United StatesU.S. and 63%47% located outside of the United States.U.S.
We are a talent-driven business, aiming to attract, develop, and motivate top talent throughout our company. To support these objectives, our human resources programs are designed to provide competitive, locally-relevant benefits, performance-based pay, and customized nonfinancial support and incentives. We also strive to enhance our culture through efforts aimed at making our workplace diverse, engaging and inclusive, and to develop our talent to prepare them for critical roles and leadership positions for the future. We also provide opportunities for our employees to make an impact in their communities through social good initiatives around the world.
Some examples of our human resources programs and initiatives are described below.
Compensation
Our compensation philosophy is to pay for performance, encourage excellence and reward employees who innovate and deliver high-quality results. Our compensation programs are designed to implement our compensation philosophy by:
paying competitively, across salary grades and geographies;
applying compensation policies in an internally consistent manner; and
incentingincentivizing our employees to deliver on our short- and long-term objectives.
Benefits
We provide an array of benefits and programs that support our employees in their personal and professional lives. Highlights include:
local medical, dental, and vision plans in many countries around the world to support our employees with access to health care, supplementing any state-provided health care;
on-site wellness centers in our New York, Silver Spring, Sterling, KnoxvilleLos Angeles, Atlanta and LondonChiswick (London) offices, a fully-equipped fitness center in our Knoxville office,New York, Los Angeles and Atlanta offices, and access to virtual fitness classes and wellbeing programs;
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family support programs, including on-site childcare in our Knoxville and Warsawcertain offices, childcare locator services, back-up childcare, maternity/paternity leave, adoption assistance and elder care;
tools and resources to support the mental wellbeing of our employees and their families, including mental health counselors in our on-site wellness centers and a confidential, dedicated line for employees to contact and speak with a counselor in the event they need mental health support;
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products and services to support employees’ financial wellbeing, including life, accident, and disability insurance plans, discount benefits, financial planning tools, a 401(k) savings plan in the U.S. and retirement/pension plans in anotherover 20 countries;countries, with competitive contributions from the Company for employees at all levels;
offering an employee stock purchase plan, which allows certain employees globally (where legislation permits) an opportunity to buy Discovery, Inc.WBD common stock at a discounted price through convenient after-tax payroll deductions with no commission charges; and
flexible working arrangements around the globe to enable our employees to better balance work and personal commitments, which were expanded during the COVID-19 pandemic to support our employees’ health and safety.commitments.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion ("(“DE&I"&I”)
Our DE&I objective is to foster a culture of equity, inclusion,promote diversity, remove barriers, and mutual respect. In 2020 we emphasizedcreate space for all to share ideas and be heard. DE&I at WBD is overseen by our Chief Global Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer. We implement our DE&I focusinitiatives and pipeline programs through Mosaic – our Diversity, Equityglobal and Inclusion activation. Mosaic coversregional DE&I team that partners with internal and external stakeholders across our brands, business units and regions. We have established a rangeBusiness and Creative Council, made up of initiatives, including: Unconscious Bias, Respect & Integrity; Allyship; Recruitmentour most senior leaders, to address and Career Development; Content Diversity; Supplier Diversity;champion DE&I in our corporate and Social Impact.
content production businesses. We sponsor over 30 chaptersseek to support our employees through the sponsorship of Employee16 Business Resource Groups (“ERGs”BRGs”) across the globeglobally, comprised of over 40 chapters. BRGs are intended to enable employees with more than 2,500 members. ERGs draw upon their collection of unique experiencesshared pursuits, purpose, identities, and interests to help drive our mission of fostering a diverselead, contribute and inclusive environment and provide important insights to our diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.build community for all.
Learning and Development
Our Global Learning & Development ("(“L&D"&D”) team provides learning opportunities for employees around the world. The L&D team uses a variety of delivery methods suitable to the content and audience, including live in-person sessions, virtual workshops, webinars, and asynchronous online learning through our global learning management platform.
Social Good
We have a department dedicated to social good that builds and oversees consumer and employee-facing initiatives and campaigns. We leverage our platforms, resources, and employee base to make an impact in our communities and with our key nonprofit partners. We have corporate partnerships aimed at addressing childhood hunger, racial injustice and wildlife preservation. Our employee-facing initiatives include matching gift and “dollars The L&D team also provides tuition reimbursement for doers” programs and sponsoring Impact Day, a global day of employee volunteerism that gives back to the communities where we live and work around the world. We are also committed to using our voice to advocate for action around the issues of our time that are important to our employees. In furtherance of this objective, we support various causes and organizations that promote equal rights, and have committed to a two-year social justice project where Discovery employees will have the opportunity to help reinvestigate likely wrongful conviction cases and attempt to secure pro bono legal services to seek exoneration.eligible courses.
AVAILABLE INFORMATION
All of our filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including reports on Form 10-K, Form 10-Q and Form 8-K, and all amendments to such filings are available free of charge at the investor relations section of our website, https://corporate.discovery.com,ir.wbd.com, as soon as reasonably practicable after such material is filed with, or furnished to, the SEC. Our annual report, corporate governance guidelines, code of business ethics, audit committee charter, compensation committee charter, and nominating and corporate governance committee charter are also available on our website. In addition, we will provide a printed copy of any of these documents, free of charge, upon written request to: Investor Relations, Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc., 8403 Colesville Road, Silver Spring, MD 20910.230 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10003. Additionally, the SEC maintains a website at http://www.sec.gov that contains quarterly, annual and current reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC, including the Company.
We also routinely post on our website news releases, announcements and other statements about our business and results of operations, some of which may contain information that may be deemed to be material to investors. Therefore, we encourage investors to monitor our website and review the information we post there. The information contained on our website is not part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K and is not incorporated by reference herein.
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ITEM 1A. Risk Factors.
Investing in our securities involves risk. In addition to the other information contained in this report,Annual Report on Form 10-K, you should consider the following risk factors before investing in our securities. Additional risks and uncertainties not presently known to us or that we currently believe not to be material may also adversely impact our business, results of operations, financial position and cash flows.
Risks Related to Our Business and Industry
Our businesses operate in highly competitive industries. and if we are unable to compete effectively, our business, financial condition and results of operations could suffer.
The entertainmentmedia and media programmingentertainment industries in which we operatecompete for viewers, distribution and advertising are highly competitive. We face increased competitive pressure for talent, content, audiences, subscribers, service providers, advertising spending and production infrastructure. We compete with other programming networks for distribution, viewers and advertising. We face increased competition from subscription based streaming services and DTC offerings, including our recently launched discovery+ product, and we also compete for viewers with other formsa broad range of companies engaged in media, entertainment such as home video, movies, periodicals, on-line and mobile activities. In particular, websitescommunications services, some of whom have interests in multiple media and search engines have seen significant advertising growth, a portion of which has moved from traditional cable network and satellite advertisers. Businesses, including ours,entertainment businesses that offer multiple services, or that may beare often vertically integrated, all vying for consumer time, attention and offer both video distribution and programming content, may face closer regulatory review fromdiscretionary spending. In addition, the competition authorities in the countries in which we currently have operations. If our distributors have to pay higher rates to holders of sports broadcasting rights, it might be difficult for us to negotiate higher rates for distributioncomposition of our networks. Thecompetitors has evolved with the entrance of new market participants, including companies in adjacent sectors with significant financial, marketing and other resources, greater efficiencies of scale, fewer regulatory burdens and more competitive pricing. Such competitors could also have preferential access to important technologies, customer data or other competitive information. Our competitors may also consolidate or enter into business combinations or alliances that strengthen their competitive positions. Our ability of our businesses to compete successfully depends on a number of factors, including our ability to consistently supplyacquire and produce high quality content amidst a rapidly evolving competitive landscape. In addition, new technology, including generative artificial intelligence (“AI”), is evolving rapidly and popular content, access our niche viewership with appealing category-specific content, adaptability to new technologies and distribution platforms and achieve widespread distribution.compete could be adversely affected if our competitors gain an advantage by using such technologies. There can be no assurance that we will be able to compete successfully in the future against existing or new competitors, or that increasing competition in the marketplace will not have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.
Our advertising revenues have been, and may continue to be, adversely impacted by several factors, including the changing landscape of television advertising spending and advertising market conditions.
We derive substantial revenues from the sale of advertising, and a continuing decline in advertising revenues could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.
Shifting consumer preferences toward streaming services and other digital products and the increasing number of entertainment choices has intensified audience fragmentation and reduced content viewership through traditional linear distribution models. This has changed the landscape of traditional television advertising spending, prompting advertisers to shift their strategies, and ultimately advertising spend, toward streaming services and other digital products to reach target audiences. In addition, a number of other streaming services with larger subscriber bases and greater household penetration have recently introduced ad-supported tiers.The increase of digital advertising available in the marketplace, due to both the introduction of ad-supported tiers in competing streaming services and the expansion of free ad-supported television (“FAST”) products, has increased the competition we face for advertising expenditures for both our traditional linear networks and the ad-supported tiers in our streaming services, and also limited our ability to demand higher rates for our linear and digital advertising inventory or even the same rates that we previously charged for our advertising inventory prior to the surge in digital advertising. There can be no assurance that we can successfully navigate the evolving streaming and digital advertising market or that the advertising revenues we generate in that market will replace the declines in advertising revenues generated from our traditional linear business.
The advertising market is also sensitive to general economic conditions and consumer buying patterns. Financial instability or a general decline in economic conditions in the U.S. and other countries where our content is distributed could adversely affect the spending priorities of our advertising partners who might reduce their spending, which could result in a decrease in advertising rates and volume and in our overall advertising revenues. Natural and other disasters, pandemics, acts of terrorism, political uncertainty or hostilities could also lead to a reduction in domestic and international advertising expenditures, which could also have an adverse effect on our advertising revenues.
Our advertising revenues are also dependent on our ability to measure viewership and audience engagement across all platforms and in all geographic regions. Although audience measurement systems have evolved and improved to capture the viewership of programming across multiple platforms, they still do not fully capture all viewership across streaming and other digital platforms and advertisers may not be willing to pay advertising rates based on the viewership that is not being measured. In certain geographic regions, our ability to fully capture viewership information may be limited by local laws and regulations.
As further discussed in other parts of this Item 1a. Risk Factors, our ability to generate advertising revenue is also dependent on our ability to compete in highly competitive, rapidly evolving industries, our ability to respond to changes in consumer behavior and our ability to consistently achieve audience acceptance of our content and brands.
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Changes in consumer behavior, as well as evolving technologies and distribution models, may negatively affect our business, financial condition or results of operations.
Our success depends on our ability to anticipate and adapt to changes in consumer behavior and shifting content consumption patterns. The ways in which viewers consume content, and technology and distribution models in the media and entertainment industries, continue to evolve, and new distribution platforms, as well as increased competition from new entrants and emerging technologies, have added to the complexity of maintaining predictable revenues. Technological advancements have empowered consumers to seek more control over how they consume content and have affected the options available to advertisers for reaching target audiences. This trend has impacted certain traditional distribution models, as demonstrated by industry-wide declines in cable ratings, declines in subscribers to the traditional cable bundle, the development of alternative distribution platforms for content, and reduced theatergoing.
Declines in linear television viewership are expected to continue and possibly accelerate, which could adversely affect our advertising and distribution revenues. In order to respond to this decline, changing consumer behavior, increasing preferences to watch on demand, and changes in content distribution models in the media and entertainment industries, we have invested in, developed and launched streaming services including Max, HBO Max and discovery+. We have incurred and will likely continue to incur significant costs to develop and market our streaming services, including costs related to international expansion, technological enhancements, and subscriber acquisition. There can be no assurance, however, that consumers and advertisers will embrace our offerings, that subscribers will activate or renew a subscription, particularly given the significant number of streaming services in the marketplace, or that our DTC business will be as successful or as profitable as our traditional linear television business.
The film industry has also been impacted by shifting consumer preferences and technological innovation. While restrictions on theatergoing from the COVID-19 pandemic have largely lifted, in some markets, box office performance and movie theater attendance may be slower to rebound to pre-pandemic levels due to, among other things, consumer preferences for consuming movies at home, a vast library of which is available to them through one or more streaming subscriptions, and shorter theatrical release windows. As a response to changing consumer preferences and to return theater attendance towards pre-pandemic levels, film studios such as ours can seek to invest in creating compelling films and seek to promote events in connection with feature films in order to enhance the consumer’s movie theater experience. If the film industry and exhibitors are unable to successfully create and market “event” films and ultimately evolve and enhance the movie theater experience in response to shifting consumer preferences, the profitability, financial condition and results of operations of our studios business may be negatively impacted.
Each distribution model has different risks and economic consequences for us, and the rapid evolution of consumer preferences may have an economic impact that is not ultimately predictable. Further, technology in the media and entertainment industries continues to evolve rapidly. For example, AI is a new technology for which the advantages and risks associated with its use in such industries are currently largely uncertain and unregulated. If we are not able to access our targeted audience with appealing category-specific content and adapt to new technologies, distribution methods, platforms and business models, we may experience a decline in viewership and ultimately a decline in the demand for our programming, which could lead to lower distribution and advertising revenues, materially and adversely affecting our business, financial condition and results of operations.
The success of our business depends on the acceptance of our entertainmentcontent and sports contentbrands by our U.S. and foreigninternational viewers, which may be unpredictable and volatile.
The production and distribution of entertainmenttelevision programs, feature films, sports and sportsnews content are inherently risky businesses because the revenue we derive and our ability to distribute our content depend primarily on consumer tastes and preferences that often change in unpredictable ways. The appeal, success and performance of our content with consumers, as well as with third-party licensees and other distribution partners, are critical factors that can affect the revenue that we receive with respect to our content-related business. Our success depends on our ability to consistently create and acquire content that meets the changing preferences of viewers in general, in special interest groups, in specific demographic categories and in various international marketplaces. AsFor example, generally, feature films that perform well upon initial release also have commercial success in subsequent distribution channels. Therefore, the homeunderperformance of the Olympic Gamesa feature film, especially an “event” film, upon its public release can result in Europe until 2024, we have been developing and innovating new forms of content in connection with the Olympic Games. Our success with the Olympics depends on audience acceptance of this content. If viewers do not findlower-than-expected revenues for our Olympic Games content acceptable, we could see low viewership,business which could leadlimit our ability to low distributioncreate future content. We need to invest substantial amounts in the production or acquisition and advertising revenues. The successmarketing of our partnershiptelevision programs, feature films, sports and news content before we learn whether such content will reach anticipated levels of popularity with the PGA Tour, which runs through 2031, is similarly dependent on audience acceptance and viewership.consumers. Failing to gain the level of audience acceptance we expect for the PGA Tourour content may negatively impact our distributionbusiness, financial condition and advertising revenues over the periodresults of the partnership.operations.
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The commercial success of our content also depends upon the quality and acceptance of competing content available in the applicable marketplace. For example, as some foreign film and filmmaking industries grow and the availability of popular local content rises, the demand from foreign audiences for American films may decrease, which could negatively impact our revenue. Other factors, including the availability of alternative forms of entertainment and leisure time activities, general economic conditions, piracy, and growing competition for consumer discretionary spendingour ability to develop strong brand awareness may also affect the audience demand for our content. Audience sizes for our media networks are critical factors affecting both the volume and pricing of advertising revenue that we receive, and the extent of distribution and the license fees we receive under agreements with our distributors.
Consequently, reduced public acceptance of our entertainmenttelevision programs, feature films, sports and news content or negative publicity regarding individuals or operations associated with our content or brands may decrease our audience share and customer/viewer reach and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
There has been a shift in consumer behavior as a result of technological innovations and changes in the distribution of content, which may affect our viewership and the profitability of our business in unpredictable ways.
Technology and business models in our industry continue to evolve rapidly. Changes to these business models include (a) the presence of streaming services, which are increasing in number and some of which have a significant and growing subscriber base, and (b) the increased video consumption through subscription steaming services and time-delayed or time-shifted viewing of television programming through on-demand services and DVRs. Consumer behavior related to changes in content distribution and technological innovation affect our economic model and viewership in ways that are not entirely predictable.
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Consumers are increasingly viewing content on a time-delayed or on-demand basis from traditional distributors and from streaming services, connected apps and websites and on a wide variety of screens, such as televisions, tablets, mobile phones and other devices. Additionally, devices that allow users to view television programs on a time-shifted basis and technologies that enable users to fast-forward or skip programming, including commercials, such as DVRs and portable digital devices and systems that enable users to store or make portable copies of content may affect the attractiveness of our offerings to advertisers and could therefore adversely affect our revenues. There is increased demand for short-form, user-generated and interactive content, which have different economic models than our traditional content offerings. Likewise, distributors are offering smaller programming packages known as “skinny bundles,” which are delivered at a lower cost than traditional offerings and sometimes allow consumers to create a customized package of networks, that are gaining popularity among consumers. If our networks are not included in these packages or consumers favor alternative offerings, we may experience a decline in viewership and ultimately the demand for our programming, which could lead to lower distribution and advertising revenues.
We have also seen declines in subscribers to the traditional cable bundle. In 2020, total U.S. Networks portfolio subscribers declined 5% while subscribers to our fully distributed networks declined 3%. In order to respond to changes in content distribution models in our industry, we have invested in, developed and launched DTC products including dplay, JOYN, MotorTrend and our new discovery+ product. There can be no assurance, however, that our viewers will respond to our DTC products or that our DTC strategy will be successful, particularly given the increase in DTC products on the market. Each distribution model has different risks and economic consequences for us, so the rapid evolution of consumer preferences may have an economic impact that is not ultimately predictable. Distribution windows are also evolving, potentially affecting revenues from other windows. If we cannot ensure that our distribution methods and content are responsive to our target audiences, our business could be adversely affected.
If our new subscription streaming product, discovery+, failsfail to attract and retain subscribers, our business, financial condition and results of operations may be adversely impacted.
In January 2021, Discovery launched an aggregated DTC product,Our Max, HBO Max and discovery+. We have incurred and will likely continue to incur significant costs to develop and market discovery+ and there can be no assurance that consumers and advertisers will embrace our offering or that subscribers will activate or renew a subscription.
Our discovery+ offering is a offerings are subscription-based streaming product. Theservices and are among many such services in a crowded and highly competitive landscape. Their success and the success of other subscription-based streaming service marketplace is crowded and competitive, and our successservices we may offer in the future will also be largely dependent on our ability to initially attract, and to ultimately retain, subscribers. Competitors to discovery+ include traditional linear programming networks, including our own linear channels, and other subscription-based streaming services and DTC offerings. If we are unable to effectively market discovery+our DTC products or if consumers do not perceive the pricing and related features of discovery+our DTC products to be of value versus our competitors, we may not be able to attract and retain subscribers. OurIn particular, decreases in consumer discretionary spending in the markets where our DTC products are offered may reduce our ability to attract and retain subscribers to discovery+our services, which could have a negative impact on our business. Relatedly, a decrease in viewing subscribers on our advertising-supported DTC products could also have a negative impact on the rates we are able to charge advertisers for advertising-supported services. The ability to attract and retain subscribers will also depend in part on our ability to provide compelling content choices that are differentiated from that of our competitors and that are more attractive than other sources of entertainment that consumers could choose in their free time. Furthermore, our ability to provide a quality subscriber experience and our relative service levels, may also impact our ability to attract and retain subscribers. If existing subscribers, including those who receive subscriptions through wireless and broadband bundling arrangements with third parties or through wholesale arrangements with MVPDs, cancel or discontinue their subscriptions for any reason, including as a result of selecting an alternative wireless or broadband plan that does not bundle our products, canceling or discontinuing their MVPD subscription, or due to the availability of competing offerings that are perceived to offer greater value compared to our DTC products, our business may be adversely affected. We would need to add new subscribers both to replace subscribers who cancel or discontinue their subscriptions and to grow our business. If we are unable to attract and retain subscribers and offset the losses of subscribers who cancel or discontinue their subscriptions to discovery+,our DTC products, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be adversely affected.
Consolidation among cable and satellite providers, both domestically and internationally, could have an adverse effect on our revenue and profitability.
Consolidation among cable and satellite operators has given the largest operators considerable leverage in their relationships with programmers, including us. In the U.S., approximately 95% of our distribution revenues come from the top 10 distributors. We currently have agreements in place with the major cable and satellite operators in U.S. Networks and International Networks which expire at various times through 2023. Some of our largest distributors have combined, and as a result, have gained, or may gain, market power, which could affect our ability to maximize the value of our content through those platforms. In addition, many of the countries and territories in which we distribute our networks also have a small number of dominant distributors. Continued consolidation within the industry could reduce the number of distributors to carry our programming, subject our affiliate fee revenue to greater volume discounts, and further increase the negotiating leverage of the cable and satellite television system operators which could have an adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations.
Failure to renew, renewal with less favorable terms, or termination of our content licenses and similar distribution agreements may cause a decline in our revenue.
Because our content and pay-TV networks are licensed on a wholesale basis to distributors,and distributed through third parties, such as traditional television and pay-TV broadcasters (such as cable and satellite operators) and operators of digital platforms, which in turn distribute themmake such content available, directly and indirectly, to consumers, we are dependent upon the maintenance of such licensing and distribution agreements with these operators.such third parties. These distribution agreements generally provide for the scope of licensed rights, including geographic territory, exploitation rights, holdbacks and/or other restrictions, including exclusivity or non-exclusivity, window(s) of exploitation (including first and second pay-TV and free to air broadcast), for the level of carriage our networks will receive, such as channel placement and programming package inclusion (widely distributed, broader programming packages compared to lesser distributed, specialized programming packages), and for payment of a license fee to us based on thea number of subscribersfactors, including the scope of the rights granted, the popularity of the content (as measured in the case of films, for example, by box office performance for certain downstream exploitation) and the date of its first theatrical or pay-TV exhibition.
Our agreements generally have a limited term which varies by territory and distributor, and there can be no assurance that receivethese agreements will be renewed in the future or that they will be renewed on terms that are favorable to us. Whether or not a distributor is willing to renew an agreement on terms that are favorable to us may be dependent upon our networks.decision to make our content available on both our linear networks and our streaming platforms. Failure to renew an agreement prior to its expiration could lead to service blackout, which could in turn affect both our revenues and our reputation with viewers.
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While the number of subscribers associated with our networks impacts our ability to generate advertising revenue these per subscriber payments(as further described elsewhere in this Item 1A), subscription-based revenue also representrepresents a significant portion of our revenue. Our distribution agreements generally have a limited term which varies by marketThe license fees and distributor, and there can be no assurance that these distribution agreements will be renewed in the future or that they will be renewed onother commercial terms that we receive are favorable to us.dependent, among other factors, on the acceptance and performance of our content with consumers. A reduction in the license fees that we receive per subscriber or in the number of subscribers for which we are paid, including as a result of a loss or reduction in carriage for our networks or a reduction in distributor penetration, or as a result of changes in consumer habits, could adversely affect our distribution revenue. Such a loss or reduction in carriage could also decrease the potential audience for our programs thereby adversely affecting our advertising revenue. Changes in distribution strategy and variations on traditional theatrical distribution and other licensing models, such as shortening traditional windows, may also drive changes in the license fees that distributors and other downstream licensees in the value chain may be willing to pay for content, which may in turn negatively affect our revenue. As a result of industry consolidation, our distributors have become and may continue to become larger, and as a result have gained or could gain additional market power. Such consolidation gives these distributors leverage in negotiating their distribution agreements with us which could subject our affiliate fee revenue to reduction or discounts, which could have an adverse effect on our financial condition.
In addition, ourcontent distribution and license agreements are complex and individually negotiated. If we were to disagree with one of our counterparties on the interpretation of a distribution agreement, our relationship with that counterparty could be damaged and our business could be negatively affected.
Interpretation ofFor example, some terms of our distribution agreements may have an adverse effect on the distribution payments we receive under those agreements.
Some of our distribution agreements contain “most favored nation” clauses. These clauses, which typically provide that if we enter into an agreement with another distributor which contains certain more favorable terms, we must offer some of those terms to our existing distributors. We have entered intoIf we were to disagree with one of the counterparties on the interpretation of a number of distribution agreements with terms that differ in some respects from those contained in other agreements. While we believe that we have appropriately complied with the most favored nation clauses included in our distribution agreements, these agreements are complex and other parties could reach a different conclusion that, if correct, could have an adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations.
We face cybersecurity and similar risks, which could result in the disclosure of confidential information, disruption of our programming services, damage to our brands and reputation, legal exposure and financial losses.
We and our partners rely on various technology systems in connection with the production,content distribution and broadcast oflicense agreement, it could damage our programming, and our on-line, mobile and app offerings,relationship with that counterparty as well as our internal systems, involve the storage and transmission of personal and proprietary information. From time to time, hackers target Discovery and our service providers, and our service providers’ systems may be breached due to employee error, malicious code, hacking and phishing attacks, or otherwise. Any such breach or unauthorized access could result in a loss of our proprietary information, which may include user data, a disruption of our services or a reduction of the revenues we are able to generate from such services, damage to our brands and reputation, a loss of confidence in the security of our offerings and services, and significant legal and financial exposure, each of which could potentially have an adverse effect on our business. Additionally, outside parties may attempt to fraudulently induce employees or users to disclose sensitive or confidential information in order to gain access to data and systems. Because the techniques used to obtain unauthorized access, disable or degrade service, or sabotage systems change frequently and often are not recognized until launched against a target, we may be unable to anticipate these techniques or to implement adequate preventative measures, notwithstanding our ongoing efforts to develop and implement robust data security tools, practices, and protocols. We may not have adequate insurance coverage to compensate us for losses associated with cybersecurity and privacy events.
In addition, we face regulatory risk associated with the acquisition, storage, disclosure, use and protection of personal data, including under the E.U. GDPR, the CCPA, and various other domestic and international privacy and data security laws and regulations, which are continually evolving. These evolving data protection laws may require us to expend significant resources to implement additional data protection measures, and our actual or alleged failure to comply with such laws could result in legal claims, regulatory enforcement actions and significant fines and penalties.
Risks Related to the COVID-19 Pandemic
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted, and is expected to continue to disrupt our business operations and poses risks to our business, results of operations and financial position, the nature and extent of which are highly uncertain, rapidly changing and unpredictable.
The continuing global spread of the coronavirus disease 2019, commonly called “COVID-19,” has created significant worldwide operational volatility, uncertainty and disruption.
Countries throughout the world have imposed stringent restrictions on social and commercial activity in an effort to slow the spread of the illness. These restrictions vary by location and have had a significant adverse impact upon many sectors, including the media industry in which we operate. The extent of the impact to our business, customers, employees, vendors, and our distribution, advertising and production partners will depend on future developments, which are highly uncertain and cannot be predicted, including new information that may emerge concerning the severity and the extent of future surges of COVID-19 and the actions to contain the virus or treat its impact, among others. Any negative effect on these third parties could materially adversely impact us.
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In particular, our advertising revenues, which represented 52% of our consolidated revenues in 2020, may decrease significantly if our advertising partners in certain sectors (such as travel) continue to reduce their advertising spending, or if we are limited in our ability to create and air new content due to prolonged production shutdowns and delays. The COVID-19 pandemic has caused some of our advertisers to reduce their spending, and future declines in the economic prospects of advertisers or the economy in general due to COVID-19 could continue to negatively impact their advertising expenditures in the future. We may continue to experience decreases in advertising revenues related to live sporting events, which have been cancelled or postponed due to the pandemic. For example, the International Olympic Committee and the Tokyo 2020 Organizing Committee agreed to postpone the 2020 Olympic Games to 2021. The postponement of the Olympic Games has delayed our expected Olympic-related revenue. Further, a prolonged, global recession due to COVID-19 may put pressure on household budgets and cause a decrease in consumer discretionary spending, which may decrease our subscriber numbers, distribution revenues and the rates we are able to charge for advertising.
In addition, we continue to implement remote work arrangements in various geographic locations. While these arrangements have not materially affected our ability to maintain our business operations to date, these arrangements may adversely impact our business operations in the future.
The extent to which COVID-19 will adversely impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We invest significant resources to acquire and maintain licenses to produce sports programming and there can be no assurance that we will continue to be successful in our efforts to obtain or maintain licenses to recurring sports events or recoup our investment when the content is distributed.
We face significant competition to acquire and maintain licenses to sports programming, which leads to significant expenditure of funds and resources. As a result of an increasing number of market entrants in the programming space, we have seen upward pressure on programming costs in recent years, particularly in connection with the licensing and acquisition of sports content from third parties. We may also be impacted by such upward pressures driven by increasing investment in programming by competitors. In certain international markets, regulations concerning content quotas or content investment requirements may be a further factor driving increasing programming costs. In addition, businesses, including ours, that offer multiple services or that may be vertically integrated and offer both video distribution and programming content, may face closer regulatory review from the competition authorities in the countries in which we currently have operations. If our distributors have to pay higher rates to other holders of sports broadcasting rights, it might be difficult for us to negotiate higher rates for the distribution of our networks. There can be no assurance that we will be able to compete successfully in the future against existing or new competitors to obtain and/or maintain licenses to recurring sports events, or that increasing competition for programming licenses and regulatory review from competition authorities will not have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.
There can also be no assurance that we will recoup our investment in sports programming, including realizing any anticipated benefits of our joint ventures. The impact of these contracts on our results of operations over the term of the contracts depends on a number of factors, including the strength of advertising markets and subscription levels and rates for programming. Our success with sports programming is highly dependent on consumer acceptance of this content and the size of our viewing audience. If viewers do not find our sports programming content acceptable, we could see low viewership, which could lead to low distribution and advertising revenues and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Our businesses have been, and in the future may be, subject to labor disruption.
We and some of our suppliers and business partners retain the services of writers, directors, actors, announcers, athletes, technicians, trade employees and others involved in the development and production of our television programs, feature films and interactive entertainment (e.g., games) who are covered by collective bargaining agreements. If negotiations to renew expiring collective bargaining agreements are not successful or become unproductive, the affected unions could take, and have taken, actions such as strikes, work slowdowns or work stoppages. Strikes, work slowdowns, work stoppages, or the possibility of such actions, including the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes and potential future strikes by other unions involved in development and production, have resulted in, and could in the future result in, delays in the production of, or the release of, our television programs, feature films, and interactive entertainment. For example, the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes caused delays in the production of our television programs and feature films and in the release of certain programming. The impact of these strike-related delays and other consequences of these strikes have continued, and are expected to continue to, impact our business even after the strikes were ultimately resolved.
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If the media and entertainment industries experience prolonged strikes, work slowdowns or work stoppages, we may be unable to produce, distribute or license programming, feature films, and interactive entertainment, which could result in reduced revenue and have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. For example, the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes had a material impact on the operations and results of the Company. See the discussion under “Business – Industry Trends” that appears above. In addition, the pausing and restarting of certain productions resulted in incremental costs, delayed the completion and release of some of our content (films, television programs, and licensed programs) and could cause an impairment of our investment in film, television programs, or licensed program rights if the incremental costs are significant or we are unable to efficiently complete the production of the film, television show or program or decide to abandon the production.
We may also enter into new collective bargaining agreements or renew collective bargaining agreements on less favorable terms and incur higher costs as a result of prolonged strikes, work slowdowns, or work stoppages. Many of the collective bargaining agreements that cover individuals providing services to the Company are industry-wide agreements, and we may lack practical control over the negotiations and terms of these agreements. Union or labor disputes or player lock-outs relating to certain professional sports leagues may preclude us from producing and telecasting scheduled games or events and could negatively impact our promotional and marketing opportunities. Depending on their duration, union or labor disputes or player lock-outs could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We have recognized, and could continue to recognize, impairment charges related to goodwill and other intangible assets.
We have a significant amount of goodwill and other intangible assets on our consolidated balance sheet. In accordance with U.S. GAAP, management periodically assesses these assets to determine if they are impaired. Significant negative industry or economic trends, including the continued decline of traditional linear television viewership and linear ad revenues, disruptions to our business, inability to effectively integrate acquired businesses, underperformance of our content, unexpected significant changes or planned changes in use of the assets, including in connection with restructuring initiatives, divestitures and market capitalization declines may impair goodwill and other intangible assets. Any charges relating to such impairments could materially adversely affect our results of operations in the periods recognized.
We rely on platforms owned by our competitors for digital and linear distribution of our content.
We rely on platforms owned by third parties, some of which compete directly with us or have investments in competing streaming services, to make our content available to our subscribers and viewers. If these third parties do not continue to provide access to our service on their platforms or are unwilling to do so on terms acceptable to us, our business could be adversely affected. If we are not successful in maintaining existing or creating new relationships with these third parties, our ability to retain subscribers and grow our business could be adversely impacted.
Service disruptions or the failure of communications satellites or transmitter facilities we rely upon could adversely impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We rely on communications satellites and transmitter facilities and other technical infrastructure, including fiber, to transmit programming to affiliates and other distributors. Shutdowns of communications satellites and transmitter facilities or service disruptions will dependpose significant risks to our operations. Such disruptions may be caused by power outages, natural disasters, extreme weather, terrorist attacks, war, failures or impairments of communications satellites or on-ground uplinks or downlinks or other technical facilities and services used to transmit programming, failure of service providers to meet contractual requirements, or other similar events. If a communications satellite or other transmission means (e.g., fiber) is not able to transmit our programming, or if any material component thereof fails or becomes inoperable, we may not be able to secure an alternative communications path in a timely manner because, among other factors, there are a limited number of service providers and other means available for the transmission of programming, and any alternatives may require lead time and additional technical resources and infrastructure to implement. If such an event were to occur, there could be a disruption in the delivery of our programming, which could harm our reputation and materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
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Risks Related to Our Acquisition and Integration of the WarnerMedia Business
We have incurred and expect to continue to incur significant costs relating to the integration of the WarnerMedia business, and we may not realize the anticipated benefits of the Merger because of difficulties related to integration and other challenges faced by the combined Company.
On April 8, 2022, we completed the Merger in which we acquired the business, operations and activities that constitute the WarnerMedia Business from AT&T. We incurred significant costs following the closing of the Merger, including costs relating to organization restructuring, facility consolidation activities and other contract termination costs, which costs we believe were necessary to realize the anticipated cost synergies from the Merger. Additional unanticipated costs may also be incurred in connection with the continued integration of the legacy business, operations and activities of Discovery prior to the Merger (the “Discovery Business”) and the WarnerMedia Business, including due to the resources required for integration. The amount and timing of any such costs could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Prior to the Merger, the Discovery Business and the WarnerMedia Business operated independently, and while we have spent the last 23 months since the closing of the Merger on numerous evolving factors, whichintegration activities, there can be no assurances that our businesses will ultimately be combined in a manner that allows for the achievement of any or all anticipated financial, strategic or other benefits. If we are highly uncertain, rapidly changingnot able to successfully complete the integration of the Discovery Business and cannotthe WarnerMedia Business, the anticipated benefits of the Merger may not be predicted, including:realized fully, if at all, or may take longer than expected to be realized. Our integration efforts could result in a loss of key employees, loss of customers, business disruption or unexpected issues, higher than expected costs and an overall process that takes longer than originally anticipated. Specifically, the following issues, among others, must be addressed in order to realize the anticipated benefits of the Merger:
continuing and finalizing the duration and scopeintegration of the outbreak, includingDiscovery Business and the extent of future surges ofWarnerMedia Business in the disease, vaccine distribution and other actions to contain the virus or treat its impact;time frame currently anticipated;
governmental, businessintegrating the businesses’ administrative, accounting and individual actions that have been and continue to be taken in response to the outbreak, including travel restrictions, quarantines, social distancing, work-at-home, stay-at-home and shelter-in-place orders and shut-downs;information technology infrastructure;
continuing to align and expand the impactgeographic footprint of the outbreak on the financial markets and economic activity generally;
the effect of the outbreak on our investments, customers, vendors and production partners;
the impact of the outbreak on the health, well-being and productivity of our employees and the potentialDTC products for disruption to our ability to conduct our operations;global customers; and
resolving potential unknown liabilities, adverse consequences and unforeseen increased expenses associated with the abilityintegration of our customers to pay for our services duringthe Discovery Business and the WarnerMedia Business.
Even if the integration is completed successfully, the full benefits of the Merger may not be achieved within the anticipated time frame or at all. Further, following the outbreak.
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused substantial disruptionMerger, the size and complexity of the business of the combined Company increased significantly. Our future success depends, in financial markets and economies worldwide, both ofpart, upon our ability to continue to manage this expanded business, which could result in adverse effects on our business, operations, stock price and ability to raise capital.
The COVID-19 pandemic has negatively impacted the global economy and created significant volatility and disruption in the credit and financial markets, and while some economic disruption may ease from time to time, such disruption is expected to continue and may worsenpose substantial challenges for an undetermined period of time. The pandemic and continued spread of COVID-19 has caused a global recession. There is a significant degree of uncertainty and lack of visibility asmanagement, including challenges related to the extentmanagement and durationmonitoring of such slowdown or recession; however, a prolonged slowdown or recession maydiverse, complex operations and associated increased costs. All of these factors could materially adversely affect our credit ratings, stock price, ability to access capital on favorable terms and ability to meet our liquidity needs.
Our actions to limit the adverse effects of COVID-19 on ourbusiness, financial condition, may notresults of operations or cash flows.
We have been engaged in legal proceedings and disputes related to the Merger and could be successful, assubject to additional legal proceedings and disputes related to the extent and durationMerger, the outcomes of the adverse effects of the pandemic is not determinable and depends on future developments, which are highly uncertain and cannot be predicted. Events resulting from the effects of COVID-19 maycould negatively impact our abilitybusiness, financial condition and results of operations.
In connection with the Merger, multiple putative class action lawsuits relating to complythe Merger were filed on behalf of stockholders of the Company against the Company and/or certain of our directors and executive officers seeking damages and other relief, and we have been engaged in other disputes arising out of definitive agreements entered into in connection with the Merger. Additional lawsuits relating to the Merger, or disputes arising out of definitive agreements entered into in connection with the Merger, could arise in the future. The outcomes of Merger-related lawsuits and disputes are uncertain and could negatively and materially impact our business, financial covenants. Also, additional funding may notcondition and results of operations. Even if we ultimately prevail in a lawsuit or dispute, defending against the claim or resolving the dispute could be available to us on acceptable terms or at all. If adequate funding is not available, we may be required to reduce expenditures, including curtailingtime-consuming and costly and divert our growth strategiesmanagement’s attention and reducingresources away from our product development efforts, or forego acquisition opportunities.business, which could negatively and materially impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.
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Risks Related to ourDomestic and Foreign Laws and Regulations; Other Risks Related to International Operations
We are subject toChanges in domestic and foreign laws and regulations and other risks related to international operations could adversely impact our internationalbusiness, financial condition and results of operations.
WeProgramming services like ours, and the distributors of our services, including cable operators, satellite operators and other multi-channel video programming distributors, are regulated by U.S. federal laws and regulations issued and administered by various federal agencies, including the FCC, as well as by state and local governments, in ways that affect the daily conduct of our video content business. These obligations and regulations, among other things, require closed captioning of programming for the hearing impaired, require certain content providers to make available audio descriptions of programming for the visually impaired, limit the amount and content of commercial matter that may be shown during programming aimed primarily at an audience of children aged 12 and under, and require the identification of (or the maintenance of lists of) sponsors of political advertising. See the discussion under “Business – Regulatory Matters” that appears above. The U.S. Congress, the FCC, the Federal Trade Commission (“FTC”), U.S. state legislatures, and the courts currently have under consideration, and may adopt or interpret in the future, new laws, regulations and policies regarding a wide variety of matters that could, directly or indirectly, affect the operations throughof our U.S. media properties or modify the terms under which we offer our services and operate.
In addition, we distribute programming outside the United States.U.S. As a result, our business is, and may increasingly be, subject to certain risks inherent in international business, many of which are beyond our control. These risks include:
laws and policies affecting trade and taxes, including laws and policies relating to the repatriation of funds and withholding taxes, and changes in these laws;
changes in local regulatory requirements (and any changes to such requirements), including restrictions on content, censorship, imposition of local content quotas, local production levies and investment obligations, and restrictions or prohibitions on foreign ownership;ownership, outsourcing, consumer protection, targeted advertising, intellectual property and related rights, including copyright and rightsholder rights and remuneration;
our ability to obtain the appropriate licenses and other regulatory approvals we need to distribute content in foreign countries as well as regulatory intervention on how we currently operate, including how we license and distribute content;
differing degrees of protection for intellectual property and varying attitudes towards the piracy of intellectual property;
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foreign exchange regulations, or significant fluctuations in foreign currency value;value and foreign exchange rates, as further described below in this Item 1A;
capital, currency exchange and central banking controls;
the instability of foreign economies and governments;
the potential for political, social, or economic unrest, terrorism, hostilities, cyber-attacks or war, including the ongoing conflicts in Europe and acts of terrorism;the Middle East;
anti-corruption laws and regulations such as the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and the U.K. Bribery Act that impose stringent requirements on how we conduct our foreign operations and changes in these laws and regulations;
sanction laws and regulations such as those administered by the Office of Foreign Assets Control that restrict our dealings with certain sanctioned countries, territories, individuals and entities; these laws and regulations are complex, frequently changing, and increasing in number, and may impose additional prohibitions or compliance obligations on our dealings in certain countries and territories, including sanctions imposed on Russia and certain Ukrainian territories as well as sanctions imposed on China;
challenges implementing effective controls to monitor business activities across our expanded international operations;
foreign privacy and data protection laws and regulationregulations and changes in these laws;laws and regulations; and
shifting consumer preferences regarding the viewing of video programming.programming and consumption of entertainment content overall.
Events or developments related to these and other risks associated with international trade could adversely affect our revenues from non-U.S. sources as well as our costs, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition operatingand results liquidity and prospects.of operations. Furthermore, some foreign markets where we and our partners operate may be more adversely affected by current economic conditions than the U.S. We also may incur substantial expense as a result of changes, including the imposition of new restrictions, in the existing regulatory, economic or political environment in the regions where we do business. Acts of terrorism, hostilities, or financial, political, economic or other uncertainties could lead to a reduction in revenue or loss of investment, which could adversely affect our results of operations.
Global economic conditions may have an adverse effect on our business.
Our business is significantly affected by prevailing economic conditions and by disruptions to financial markets. We derive substantial revenues from advertisers, and these expenditures are sensitive to general economic conditions and consumer buying patterns. Financial instability or a general decline in economic conditions in the U.S. and other countries where our networks are distributed could adversely affect advertising rates and volume, resulting in a decrease in our advertising revenues.
Decreases in consumer discretionary spending in the U.S. and other countries where our networks are distributed may affect cable television and other video service subscriptions, in particular with respect to digital service tiers on which certain of our programming networks are carried. This could lead to a decrease in the number of subscribers receiving our programming from multi-channel video programming distributors, which could have a negative impact on our viewing subscribers and distribution revenues. Similarly, a decrease in viewing subscribers would also have a negative impact on the number of viewers actually watching the programs on our programming networks, which could also impact the rates we are able to charge advertisers.
Economic conditions affect a number of aspects of our businesses worldwide and impact the businesses of our partners who purchase advertising on our networks and might reduce their spending on advertising. Economic conditions can also negatively affect the ability of those with whom we do business to satisfy their obligations to us. The general worsening of current global economic conditions could adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations, and the worsening of economic conditions in certain parts of the world, specifically, could impact the expansion and success of our businesses in such areas.
As a company that has operations in the United Kingdom, the United Kingdom’s withdrawal from the E.U. could have an adverse impact on our business, results of operations and financial position.
On January 31, 2020, the United Kingdom (“U.K.”) formally withdrew from the E.U., commonly referred to as “Brexit.” The transition period, during which the pre-Brexit rights and obligations on trade, travel and business for the U.K. and the E.U. continued to apply, ended on December 31, 2020. As of January 1, 2021, the relationship between the U.K. and the E.U. is governed by the EU-UK Trade and Co-operation Agreement (“TCA”), which is effective provisionally pending ratification by the European Parliament.
As a result of Brexit, the single market and country of origin principles which have facilitated our cross-border activities from the U.K. into the E.U. have ceased, which could have an adverse impact on our operations and business activities. We have incurred, and may continue to incur, costs, including due to reestablishment of broadcasting entities from the U.K. into the E.U., staff relocations and business travel, to minimize disruption to our businesses in the E.U. There remains potential legal uncertainty and potentially divergent national laws and regulations as the U.K. determines which E.U. laws to replace and/or replicate.
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The announcementThis is of particular concern in Poland, where we own and implementationoperate TVN, a portfolio of Brexitfree-to-air and pay-TV lifestyle, entertainment, and news networks, which faces legislative and regulatory risk. In the past, said risk has caused significant volatilitymanifested itself in global stock marketsdraft legislation, now abandoned, which would have precluded non-EEA ownership of Polish national broadcasters, and currency exchange rate fluctuations. Within delays in renewing broadcast licenses. Such regulatory pressure on TVN and/or similar developments could, directly or indirectly, affect the expansionfuture operations of our Polish media properties and/or modify the terms under which we offer our services and operate in that market in the future.
The evolving regulatory environment in international operations, our exposure to currency exchange rate fluctuation has increased. This increase in exposure could have an adverse effect on ourmarkets may also impact strategy, costs and results of operations, including with respect to local programming levies and net asset balances, due,investment obligations, satisfaction of local content quotas, access to local production incentive schemes, and direct and indirect digital taxes or levies on internet-based programming services.
We are subject to domestic and international privacy and data protection laws, which impact our ability to collect, manage, and use personal information. Our efforts to comply with such laws, which are continually evolving, could impose costly obligations on us and generate additional regulatory and litigation risk.
We are subject to domestic and international laws associated with the acquisition, storage, disclosure, use and protection of personal data, including under the E.U. General Data Protection Regulation, several U.S. federal and state privacy laws, including, but not limited to, the CCPA, and many other international laws and regulations. These laws and regulations are continually evolving and many more U.S. state and federal laws and international laws may pass this year and over the next few years. See the discussion above in part,“Business – Regulatory Matters”. These evolving privacy, security, and data protection laws may require us to currency fluctuations impactingexpend significant resources to implement additional data protection measures, and our actual or alleged failure to comply with such laws could result in legal claims, regulatory enforcement actions and significant fines and penalties.
Environmental, social and governance laws and regulations may adversely impact our businesses.
U.S. state and federal regulators, international regulators, investors, consumers and other stakeholders are increasingly focused on environmental, social, and governance considerations. For example, new domestic and international laws and regulations relating to environmental, social and governance matters, including environmental sustainability and climate change, human capital management, and cybersecurity, are under consideration or have been adopted.Many such laws, including new greenhouse gas emission regulations that have already been adopted in the British poundState of California and in the European Union and have been proposed in other jurisdictions, include specific, quantitative disclosures regarding our global operations, both upstream and downstream. These increased disclosure obligations have required and may continue to require us to implement new practices and reporting processes, and have created and may continue to create additional compliance risk.They may also result in increased costs relating to tracking, reporting and compliance.
Additionally, we have adopted several initiatives and programs focused on environmental, social and governance issues, which may not achieve their intended outcomes. If we are unable to meet our enterprise objectives, or live up to evolving stakeholder expectations and industry standards for environmental, social and governance issues, or if we are perceived by consumers, stockholders or employees to have not responded appropriately with respect to these issues, our reputation, and therefore our ability to sell our products and services, could be negatively impacted. If, as a result of their assessment of our performance on environmental, social, and governance matters, certain investors are unsatisfied with our actions or progress, they may reconsider their investment in our Company. Providers of debt and equity financing may also consider our performance in these areas and the Euro. Brexit may also create global uncertainty,ratings of external firms (which we have limited ability to influence) in their decisions involving our Company, which may cause a decrease in consumer discretionary spending. Decreases in consumer discretionary spending may affect cable television and other video service subscriptions where our networks are distributed. A decrease in the number of subscribers receiving our programming could have a negative impact on our distribution revenues and the rates we are able to charge for advertising. In addition, different market requirements for advertising content may impact our advertising revenues. Anycost of the foregoing factors maycapital and adversely affect our business, results of operations or financial position.business.
Foreign exchange rate fluctuations may adversely affect our operating results and financial conditions.
We have significant operations in a number of foreign jurisdictions and certain of our operations are conducted and certain of our debt obligations are denominated in foreign currencies. The value of these foreign currencies fluctuates relative to the U.S. dollar. As a result, we have exposure to foreign currency risk as we enter into transactions and make investments denominated in multiple currencies. The valueAdverse business performance and financial results from unforeseen changes in foreign currency exchange rates could increase our cost of these currencies fluctuates relativeborrowing or make it more difficult for us to the U.S. dollar. obtain future financing, which could materially adversely affect our operating results and financial conditions. We manage our exposure to foreign currency risk by entering into derivative instruments with counterparty banks, which exposes us to counterparty credit risk.
Our consolidated financial statements are denominated in U.S. dollars, and to prepare those financial statements we must translate the amounts of the assets, liabilities, net sales, other revenues and expenses of our operations outside of the U.S. from local currencies into U.S. dollars using exchange rates for the current period. As we have expanded our international operations, ourThis exposure to exchange rate fluctuations has increased. This increased exposure could have an adverse effect on our reported results of operations and net asset balances. There is no assurance that downward trending currencies will rebound or that stable currencies will remain unchanged in any period or for any specific market.
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Increasing complexity of global tax policy and regulations could increase our tax liability and adversely impact our international business and results of operations.
We continue to face the increasing complexity of operating a global business, asand we are subject to ever-changing tax policy and regulations in multiple non-U.S. jurisdictions.around the world. Many foreign jurisdictions are contemplating additional taxes and/or levies on media advertising, including the recently announced proposed levyover-the-top services, as well as on media companies under consideration byadvertising. Other changes in tax laws and the Polish government.interpretations thereof could have a material impact on our tax liability. In addition, many foreign jurisdictions have increased scrutiny and have either changed, or plan to change, their international tax systems due to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development’s (“OECD”) Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (“BEPS”)recommendations. These recommendations include, among other things, profit reallocation rules and a 15% global minimum corporate income tax rate. Certain countries in which we operate have adopted legislation, and other countries are expected to introduce legislation, to implement these recommendations. The BEPS recommendations call for enhanced transparencyapplication of this legislation is evolving, and reporting relating to companies’ entity structures and transfer pricing policies. These have been implemented through various initiatives including the requirement for taxpayers to comply with global country-by-country reporting and the filing of a global master file as well as the introduction of the multilateral instrument (“MLI”) which allows taxing authorities to better take aim at multinational tax avoidance. Wewe continue to address and comply with these compliance and reporting requirements.assess the potential impact on our future tax liability.
Additional complexity has also arisen inwith respect to state aid:aid; i.e., state resources used to provide recipients an advantage on a selective basis that has or could distort competition and affect trade between European member states. In recent years the European Commission (“EC”) has increased their scrutiny onof state aid and has deviated from the historical E.U. state aid practices. There is great uncertainty about the futureWe receive material amounts of E.U. state aid practices based on the appeals of many significant EC rulings against multinational corporations that are currently being challenged. The potential impact of these rulings is difficult to assess andfinancial incentives for conducting our transfer pricing analyses conducted pursuant to accepted OECD methodologies may not sufficiently mitigate risk associated with our past or current agreements.
In addition, the determination of our worldwide provision for income taxes and current and deferred tax assets and liabilities requires judgment and estimation. Our income taxes could also be materially adversely affected by earnings being lower than anticipatedcontent production activities in various jurisdictions that have lower statutory tax rates and higher than anticipated in jurisdictions that have higher statutory tax rates, by changes inoffer such incentives. If the valuation ofE.U. were to restrict our deferred tax assets and liabilities, or by changes in worldwide tax laws, regulations, or accounting principles.
In the U.S., President Biden put forth several corporate income tax proposals during his campaign, including a significant increase in the corporate income tax rate and changes in the taxation of non-U.S. income. While it is too earlyability to predict the outcome ofreceive these proposals, if enacted, they wouldincentives, such restrictions could have a material impact on our income tax liability.

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results of operations.
Risks Related to Our Business ModelFinancial, Capital and CapitalCorporate Structure
Forecasting our financial results requires us to make judgements and estimates which may differ materially from actual results.
Given the dynamic nature of our business, the current uncertain economic climate and the inherent limitations in predicting the future, forecasts of our revenues, adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (as defined in Note 23 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements, “Adjusted EBITDA”), free cash flow and subscriber growth, and other financial and operating data, may differ materially from actual results, including as a result of events outside of our control and other risks and uncertainties described herein. Such discrepancies could cause a decline in the trading price of our common stock.
We have a significant amount of debt and may incur significant amounts of additional debt, which could adversely affect our financial health and our ability to react to changes in our business.business and our ability to incur debt, and the use of our funds could be limited by the restrictive covenants in the agreements governing our revolving credit facility and senior notes.
AsOur consolidated indebtedness as of December 31, 2020, we had approximately $15.4 billion of consolidated debt,2023 was $41,889 million, of which $335$1,780 million is current. Our substantial level of indebtedness increases the possibility that we may be unable to generate cash sufficient to pay when due the principal of, interest on, or other amounts associated with our indebtedness. In addition, we have the ability to draw down our $2.5on a $6.0 billion revolving credit facility in the ordinary course, which would have the effect of further increasing our indebtedness.debt to the extent drawn. We are also permitted, subject to certain restrictions under our existing indebtedness,debt agreements, to obtain additional long-term debt and working capital lines of credit to meet future financing needs. This would have the effect of further increasing our total leverage.leverage ratio.
Our substantialloan agreements contain restrictive covenants, as well as requirements to comply with certain leverage ratio and other financial maintenance tests. These covenants and requirements could limit our ability to take various actions, including incurring additional debt, guaranteeing indebtedness and engaging in various types of transactions, including mergers, acquisitions and sales of assets, or to take advantage of other opportunities, which could have an adverse effect on our business.
In addition, as a result of our significant indebtedness, our corporate or debt-specific credit rating could be downgraded, which may increase our borrowing costs or subject us to even more restrictive covenants when we incur new debt in the future, which could reduce profitability and diminish operational flexibility.
If we are unable to effectively reduce and sustain our leverage ratio, it could have significant negative consequences on our financial condition and results of operations, including:
impairing our ability to meet one or more of the financial ratio covenants contained in our revolving credit facility or to generate cash sufficient to pay the interest or principal, which could result in an acceleration of some or all of our outstanding debt in the event that an uncured default occurs;
increasing our vulnerability to general adverse economic and market conditions;
limiting our ability to obtain additional debt or equity financing;
requiring the dedication of a substantial portion of our cash flow from operations to service our debt, thereby reducing the amount of cash flow available for other purposes;purposes such as capital expenditures, investments, share repurchases, and mergers and acquisitions;
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requiring us to sell debt or equity securities or to sell some of our core assets, possibly on unfavorable terms, to meet payment obligations;
limiting our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our business and the markets in which we compete; and
placing us at a possible competitive disadvantage with less leveraged competitors and competitors that may have better access to capital resources.
Our ability to incur debt and the use of our funds could be limited by the restrictive covenants in the loan agreement for our revolving credit facility.
The loan agreement for our revolving credit facility contains restrictive covenants, as well as requirements to comply with certain leverage and other financial maintenance tests. These covenants and requirements could limit our ability to take various actions, including incurring additional debt, guaranteeing indebtedness and engaging in various types of transactions, including mergers, acquisitions and sales of assets. These covenants could place us at a disadvantage compared to some of our competitors, who may have fewer restrictive covenants and may not be required to operate under these restrictions. Further, these covenants could have an adverse effect on our business by limiting our ability to take advantage of financing, mergers and acquisitions or other opportunities.
Financial performance for our equity method investments and investments without readily determinable fair value may differ from current estimates.
We have equity investments in several entities and the accounting treatment applied for these investments varies depending on a number of factors, including, but not limited to, our percentage ownership and the level of influence or control we have over the relevant entity. Any losses experienced by these entities could adversely impact our results of operations and the value of our investment. In addition, if these entities were to fail and cease operations, we may lose the entire value of our investment and the stream of any shared profits. Some of our ventures may require additional uncommitted funding. We also have significant investments in entities that we have accounted for as investments without readily determinable fair value. If these entities experience significant losses or were to fail and cease operations, our investments could be subject to impairment and the loss of a part or all of our investment value.
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As a holding company, we could be unable to obtain cash in amounts sufficient to meet our financial obligations or other commitments.
Our ability to meet our financial obligations and other contractual commitments will depend upon our ability to access cash. We are a holding company, and our sources of cash include our available cash balances, net cash from the operating activities of our subsidiaries, any dividends and interest we may receive from our investments, availability under our credit facilityfacilities or any credit facilities that we may obtain in the future and proceeds from any asset sales we may undertake in the future. The ability of our operating subsidiaries, including WarnerMedia Holdings, Inc., Scripps Networks Interactive, Inc., and Discovery Communications, LLC to pay dividends or to make other payments or advances to us will depend on their individual operating results and any statutory, regulatory or contractual restrictions, including restrictions under our credit facility,facilities, to which they may be or may become subject. Under the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, we were subject to U.S. taxes for the deemed repatriation of certain cash balances held by foreign corporations. The Company intends to continue to permanently reinvest these funds outside of the U.S., and current plans do not demonstrate a need to repatriate them to fund our U.S. operations.

Certain of our businesses are conducted through joint ventures or partnerships with one or more third parties, in which we share ownership, management and profits of the business operation to varying degrees.
Risks RelatedCertain of our businesses are conducted through joint ventures or partnerships with one or more third parties, where we have varying degrees of ownership and influence. From time to Corporate Structuretime, we may disagree with our joint venture partners on the strategy or management of a joint venture business but may be constrained in our ability to make decisions unilaterally as a result of legal or contractual obligations to our joint venture partners, which could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, we believe our relationship with our third-party partners is an important factor in the success of any joint venture or partnership. If a partner changes, our relationship may be adversely affected and we may not realize the anticipated benefits from such joint venture or partnership.
We have directors in commonthat are also related persons of Advance/Newhouse Programming Partnership (“Advance/Newhouse”) and that overlap with those of Liberty Media Corporation (“Liberty Media”), Liberty Global plc (“Liberty Global”), Qurate Retail Group f/k/a Liberty Interactive Corporation (“Qurate Retail”), Liberty Broadband Corporation ("(“Liberty Broadband"Broadband”), and Liberty Latin America Ltd ("LLA"(“LLA”), which may lead to conflicting interests for those directors or result in the diversion of business opportunities or other potential conflicts.
Advance/Newhouse owns shares representing approximately 8% of our outstanding common stock. Our board of directors includes Steven A. Miron, the Chief Executive Officer of Advance/Newhouse and Steven O. Newhouse, Co-President of Advance Publications, Inc., which holds interests in Advance/Newhouse and Charter Communications, Inc. (“Charter”). Pursuant to a consent agreement entered into between Advance/Newhouse and the Company in connection with the Merger, the Company designated Mr. Miron and Mr. Newhouse to our board of directors with terms ending in 2025. Mr. Miron is also a member of the board of directors of Charter, of which Liberty Broadband and Advance Publications, Inc. own equity interests.
In addition, Dr. John C. Malone, chairman of Liberty Media, Liberty Global and Liberty Broadband and member of the board of directors of Qurate Retail, serves on our board of directors. Our board of directors also currently includes one other person who is currently a member of the board of directors of Liberty Global, and a member of the board of directors of LLA. The respective parent companies of Advance/Newhouse and of Liberty Media, Liberty Global, Qurate Retail, Liberty Broadband, and LLA (together, the "Liberty Entities"“Liberty Entities”) own interests in various U.S. and international media, communications and entertainment companies, such as Charter, Communications, Inc. ("Charter"), that have subsidiaries that own or operate domestic or foreign content services that may compete with the content services we offer. We have no rights in respect of U.S. or international content opportunities developed by or presented to the subsidiaries of any Liberty Entities, and the pursuit of these opportunities by such subsidiaries may adversely affect our interests and those of our stockholders. Because we and the Liberty Entities have overlapping directors, the pursuit of business opportunities may serve to intensify the conflicts of interest or appearance of conflicts of interest faced by the respective management teams. Our charter provides that none of our directors or officers will be liable to us or any of our subsidiaries for breach of any fiduciary duty by reason of the fact that such individual directs a corporate opportunity to another person or entity (including any Liberty Entities), for which such individual serves as a director or officer, or does not refer or communicate information regarding such corporate opportunity to us or any of our subsidiaries, unless (a) such opportunity was expressly offered to such individual solely in his or her capacity as a director or officer of us or any of our subsidiaries and (b) such opportunity relates to a line of business in which we or any of our subsidiaries is then directly engaged.
We have directors that are also related persons of Advance/Newhouse and that overlap with those of the Liberty Entities, which may lead to conflicting interests for those tasked with the fiduciary duties of our board.
Our twelve-person board of directors includes three designees of Advance/Newhouse Programming Partnership ("Advance/Newhouse"), including Robert J. Miron, who was the Chairman of Advance/Newhouse until December 31, 2010, and Steven A. Miron, the Chief Executive Officer of Advance/Newhouse. In addition, our board of directors includes two persons who are currently members of the board of directors of Liberty Media, three persons who are currently members of the board of directors of Liberty Global, one person who is currently a member of the board of directors of Qurate Retail, two persons who are currently members of the board of directors of Liberty Broadband, one person who is currently a member of the board of directors of Charter, of which Liberty Broadband owns an equity interest, and two persons who are currently members of the board of directors of LLA. John C. Malone is the Chairman of the boards of all of the Liberty Entities other than LLA and Qurate Retail. The parent company of Advance/Newhouse and the Liberty Entities own interests in a range of media, communications and entertainment businesses.
Advance/Newhouse will elect three directors annually for so long as it owns a specified minimum amount of our Series A-1 convertible preferred stock. The Advance/Newhouse Series A-1 convertible preferred stock, which votes with our common stock on all matters other than the election of directors, represents approximately 24% of the voting power of our outstanding shares. The Series A-1 convertible preferred stock also grants Advance/Newhouse consent rights over a range of our corporate actions, including fundamental changes to our business, the issuance of additional capital stock, mergers and business combinations and certain acquisitions and dispositions.
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None of the Liberty Entities own any interest in us. Mr.Dr. Malone beneficially owns: shares of Liberty Media representing approximately 47%48% of the aggregate voting power of its outstanding stock, shares representing approximately 30% of the aggregate voting power of Liberty Global, shares representing approximately 40%6% of the aggregate voting power of Qurate Retail, shares representing approximately 48% of the aggregate voting power of Liberty Broadband and shares representing approximately 21% of the aggregate voting power (otherless than with respect to the election of the common stock directors)1% of our outstanding stock. Mr. Malone controls approximately 27% of our aggregate voting power relating to the election of our nine common stock directors, assuming that the preferred stock owned by Advance/Newhouse has not been converted into shares of our common stock. Our other directors who are also directors of the Liberty Entities hold stock and stock-based compensation in the Liberty Entities and hold our stock and stock-based compensation.
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These ownership interests and/or business positions could create conflicts of interest or appear to create, potentialthe appearance of conflicts of interest when these individuals are faced with decisions that could have different implications for us, Advance/Newhouse and/or the Liberty Entities. For example, there may be the potential for a conflict of interest when we, on the one hand, or Advance/Newhouse and/or one or more of the Liberty Entities, on the other hand, consider acquisitions and other corporate opportunities that may be suitable for the other.
The members of our board of directors have fiduciary duties to us and our stockholders. Likewise, those persons who serve in similar capacities at Advance/Newhouse or a Liberty Entity have fiduciary duties to those companies. Therefore, such persons may have conflicts of interest or the appearance of conflicts of interest with respect to matters involving or affecting both respective companies, and there can be no assurance that the terms of any transactions will be as favorable to us or our subsidiaries as would be the case in the absence of a conflict of interest.
It may be difficult for a third party to acquire us, even if such acquisition would be beneficial to our stockholders.
CertainIn connection with the Merger, we agreed with AT&T that for a two-year period following the Merger, we would not, among other things and subject to certain exceptions, enter into any transaction or series of transactions as a result of which one or more persons would acquire an amount of stock of our Company that, when combined with certain other changes in ownership of our stock (including the Merger), would equal or exceed 45% of the outstanding stock of our Company. Further, certain provisions of our charter and bylaws may discourage, delay or prevent a change in control that a stockholder may consider favorable. These provisions include the following:
authorizing a capital structure with multiple series of common stock: a Series B that entitles the holders to ten votes per share, a Series A-1 that entitles the holders to one vote per share and a Series C that, except as otherwise required by applicable law, entitles the holders to no voting rights;
authorizing the Series A-1 convertible preferred stock with special voting rights, which prohibits us from taking any of the following actions, among others, without the prior approval of the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of such stock:
increasing the number of members of the Board of Directors above ten;
making any material amendment to our charter or by-laws;
engaging in a merger, consolidation or other business combination with any other entity; and
appointing or removing our Chairman of the Board or our Chief Executive Officer;
authorizing the issuance of “blank check” preferred stock without stockholder approval, which could be issued by our Boardboard of Directorsdirectors to increase the number of outstanding shares and thwart a takeover attempt;
classifying our common stockboard of directors with staggered three-year terms and having threeuntil the election of directors elected by the holdersat our 2025 annual meeting of the Series A convertible preferred stock,stockholders, which may lengthen the time required to gain control of our Boardboard of Directors;directors;
limiting who may call special meetings of stockholders;
prohibiting stockholder action by written consent, (subject to certain exceptions), thereby requiring stockholder action to be taken at a meeting of the stockholders;
establishing advance notice requirements for nominations of candidates for election to our Boardboard of Directorsdirectors or for proposing matters that can be acted upon by stockholders at stockholder meetings;
requiring stockholder approval by holders of at least 80% of our voting power or the approval by at least 75% of our Board of Directors with respect to certain extraordinary matters, such as a merger or consolidation, a sale of all or substantially all of our assets or an amendment to our charter;
requiring the consent of the holders of at least 75% of the outstanding Series B common stock (voting as a separate class) to certain share distributions and other corporate actions in which the voting power of the Series B common stock would be diluted by, for example, issuing shares having multiple votes per share as a dividend to holders of Series A common stock; and
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the existence of authorized and unissued stock which would allow our Boardboard of Directorsdirectors to issue shares to persons friendly to current management, thereby protecting the continuity of our management, or which could be used to dilute the stock ownership of persons seeking to obtain control of us.
WeIn addition, under our charter, we have also adoptednot opted out of the protections of Section 203 of the Delaware General Corporation Law (the “DGCL”), and we are therefore governed by Section 203. Accordingly, it is expected that Section 203 will have an anti-takeover effect with respect to transactions that our board of directors does not approve in advance and that Section 203 may discourage takeover attempts that might result in a shareholder rights plan in orderpremium over the market price of WBD capital stock.
These provisions are intended to encourage anyone seeking to acquire usprotect our stockholders from coercive or otherwise unfair takeover tactics by requiring potential acquirers to negotiate with our Boardboard of Directors priordirectors and by providing our board of directors with more time to attempting a takeover. Whileassess any acquisition proposal. These provisions are not intended to make us immune from takeovers. As noted above, these provisions apply even if the planoffer may be considered beneficial by some stockholders and could delay or prevent an acquisition that our board of directors determines is designed to guard against coercive or unfair tactics to gain control of us, the plan may have the effect of making more difficult or delaying any attempts by others to obtain control of us.
Holders of any single series ofnot in our common stock may not have any remedies if any action by our directors or officers has an adverse effect on only that series of common stock.
Principles of Delaware lawbest interests and the provisions of our charter may protect decisions of our Board of Directors that have a disparate impact upon holders of any single series of our common stock. Under Delaware law, the Board of Directors has a duty to act with due care and in the best interests of all of our stockholders, including the holders of all series ofstockholders. Accordingly, if our common stock. Principles of Delaware law established in cases involving differing treatment of multiple classes or series of stock provide that a board of directors owes an equal duty to all common stockholders regardless of class or seriesdetermines that a potential business combination transaction is not in our best interests and does not have separate or additional duties to any group of stockholders. As a result, in some circumstances, our directors may be required to make a decision that is adverse to the holders of one series of common stock. Under the principles of Delaware law referred to above, stockholders may not be able to challenge these decisions if our Board of Directors is disinterested and adequately informed with respect to these decisions and acts in good faith and in the honest belief that it is acting in the best interests of allour stockholders, but certain stockholders believe that such a transaction would be beneficial to us and our stockholders, such stockholders may elect to sell their shares in WBD and the market price of our stockholders.WBD common stock could decrease.
If Advance/Newhouse were to sell its shares following the exercise of its registration rights, it may cause a significant decline in our stock price, even if our business is doing well.
Advance/Newhouse hasand Advance Newhouse Partnership (“ANP”) have been granted registration rights covering all of the shares of common stock issuable upon conversionnow held or hereafter acquired by them. Subject to certain limitations and restrictions, including customary “blackout periods”, Advance/Newhouse and ANP have the right to assign any or all of the convertible preferred stocktheir registration rights to their affiliates and successors, as well as a specified family foundation. The shares held by Advance/Newhouse. Each shareNewhouse and ANP are registered for resale pursuant to our registration statement on Form S-3 filed April 22, 2022. Any future exercise of Advance/Newhouse’s Series A-1 convertible preferred stock is currently convertible into nine shares of our Series A common stock and each share of Advance/Newhouse’s Series C-1 convertible preferred stock is convertible into 19.3648 shares of our Series C common stock, subject to certain anti-dilution adjustments. The registration rights which are immediately exercisable, are transferable with theor sale or transfer by Advance/Newhouse of blocks of shares representing 10% or more of the preferred stock it holds. The exercise of the registration rights, and subsequent sale of possibly large amounts of our common stock in the public market could materially and adversely affect the market price of our common stock.
John C. Malone and Advance/Newhouse each have significant voting power with respect to corporate matters considered by our stockholders.
For corporate matters other than the election of directors, Mr. Malone and Advance/Newhouse each beneficially own shares of our stock representing approximately 21% and 24%, respectively, of the aggregate voting power represented by our outstanding stock. With respect to the election of directors, Mr. Malone controls approximately 27% of the aggregate voting power relating to the election of the nine common stock directors (assuming that the convertible preferred stock owned by Advance/Newhouse (the “A/N Preferred Stock”) has not been converted into shares of our common stock). The A/N Preferred Stock carries with it the right to designate three preferred stock directors to our board (subject to certain conditions) but does not carry voting rights with respect to the election of the nine common stock directors. Also, under the terms of the A/N Preferred Stock, Advance/Newhouse has special voting rights as to certain enumerated matters, including material amendments to the restated charter and bylaws, fundamental changes in our business, mergers and other business combinations, certain acquisitions and dispositions and future issuances of capital stock. Although there is no stockholder agreement, voting agreement or any similar arrangement between Mr. Malone and Advance/Newhouse, by virtue of their respective holdings, Mr. Malone and Advance/Newhouse each have significant influence over the outcome of any corporate transaction or other matter submitted to our stockholders.

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General Risks
We face cybersecurity and similar risks, which could result in the disclosure of confidential information, disruption of our programming services, damage to our brands and reputation, legal exposure and financial losses.
We and our partners rely on various technology systems in connection with the production, distribution and broadcast of our programming, and our online, mobile and app offerings, as well as our internal systems, involve the storage and transmission of personal and proprietary information. In the ordinary course of our business, cyber criminals and other malicious actors consistently target us and our service providers. Our systems and our service providers’ systems have been breached in the past due to cybersecurity attacks. These systems may continue to be breached in the future due to employee error or misconduct, system vulnerabilities, malicious code, hacking and phishing attacks, or otherwise. The risk of cyberattacks may continue to increase as technologies evolve and cyber criminals conduct their attacks using more sophisticated methods, including those which use AI. The risk of cyberattacks has also increased and is expected to continue to increase in connection with geopolitical events and dynamics, including ongoing conflicts in Europe and the Middle East and tensions with Russia, China, North Korea, Iran and other states. State-sponsored parties or their supporters may launch retaliatory cyberattacks, and may attempt to cause supply chain disruptions, or carry out other geopolitically motivated retaliatory actions that may adversely disrupt or degrade our operations and may result in data compromise. Cybersecurity threats originate from a wide variety of sources/malicious actors, including, but not limited to, persons who constitute an insider threat, who are involved with organized crime, or who may be linked to terrorist organizations or hostile foreign governments. Those same parties may also attempt to fraudulently induce employees, customers, or other users of our systems to disclose sensitive information in order to gain access to our data systems or that of our service providers, customers or clients through social engineering, phishing, mobile phone malware, account takeovers, SIM card swapping, or similar methods.
We have implemented processes, strategies and incident response plans designed to identify, assess and manage cyber risks and information security vulnerabilities (as further described in Item 1C. Cybersecurity). However, our procedures may not be sufficient to adequately mitigate the negative impacts of a cyber breach or adverse event. If our or our service providers’ information security systems or data are compromised, such compromises could result in a disruption of services or a reduction of the revenues we are able to generate from such services, damage to our brands and reputation, a loss of confidence in the security of our offerings and services, and significant legal, regulatory and financial exposure, each of which could potentially have an adverse effect on our business.
Theft of our content, including digital copyright theftintellectual property and other unauthorized duplication, distribution and exhibitions of our content,intellectual property may decrease revenue received from our programmingrevenues and adversely affect our businessesbusiness, financial condition, and profitability.results of operations.
The success of our business depends in part on effective and deterrent laws efficiently implemented by law enforcement to enable our ability to maintain and enforce the intellectual property rights tounderlying our entertainment content.content and brands. We are fundamentally a contentglobal media and entertainment company, and piracy or other infringement of our brands,intellectual property (including digital content, feature films, television networks, digital contentprogramming, gaming, and other content), brands and other intellectual property has the potential to significantly andmaterially adversely affect us. Piracy is particularly prevalent in many parts of the world that lack copyrightdo not effectively enforce intellectual property rights and other protections similar to existing lawlaws. Even in territories like the U.S. It is also made easier bythat have stronger intellectual property laws, legal frameworks that are unresponsive to modern realities, combined with the lack of effective technological prevention and enforcement measures, may impede our enforcement efforts. Our enforcement activities depend in part on third parties, including technology and platform providers, whose cooperation and effectiveness cannot be assured to any degree. In addition, technological advances allowingthat allow the conversionalmost instantaneous unauthorized copying and downloading of content into digital formats which facilitateswithout any degradation of quality from the original facilitate the rapid creation, transmission, and sharing of high-quality unauthorized copies. This is also true for broadcast signals, which can be retransmitted without any degradation of quality from the original via unauthorized services. Unauthorized distribution of copyrighted material over the Internetinternet is a threat to copyright owners’ ability to protectmaintain the exclusive control over their copyrighted material and exploitthus the value of their property. The proliferation of unauthorized use of our content may have ana material adverse effect on our business and profitability becauseprofitability. For example, it reducesmay reduce the revenue that we potentially could receive from the legitimate sale and distribution of our content. LitigationWe may be necessaryalso need to enforcespend significant amounts of money on improvement of technological platform security and enforcement activities, including litigation, to protect our intellectual property rights. Further, new technologies such as generative AI and their impact on our intellectual property rights remain uncertain, and development of the law in this area could impact our ability to protect against infringing uses or result in infringement claims against us.
Any impairment of our intellectual property rights, including due to changes in U.S. or foreign laws, the absence of effective legal protections or enforcement measures, or the inability to negotiate license or distribution agreements with third parties, could materially adversely impact our business, financial condition, and results of operations. As a global company, we are subject to laws in the U.S. and abroad, as well as trade secrets oragreements which may limit our ability to determineexploit our intellectual property. For example, in certain countries, including China, laws and regulations limit the number of foreign films exhibited in such countries in a calendar year.
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From time to time, third parties may also challenge the validity or scope of proprietary rights claimed by others.
Domesticour intellectual property and foreign laws and regulations could adversely impact our operating results.
Programming services like ours,may assert infringement claims against us, and the distributorssuccess of our services, including cable operators, satellite operators and other multi-channel video programming distributors, are regulated by U.S. federal laws and regulations issued and administered by various federal agencies, including the FCC, as well as by state and local governments, in ways that affect the daily conduct of our video content business. See the discussion under “Business – Regulatory Matters” above. The U.S. Congress, the FCC and the courts currently have under consideration, and may adopt or interpretany such challenges could result in the future, new laws, regulationslimitation or loss of intellectual property rights. Irrespective of their validity, such claims may result in substantial costs and policies regarding a wide varietydiversion of matters that could, directly or indirectly, affect the operations of our U.S. media properties or modify the terms underresources which we offer our services and operate.
Similarly, the foreign jurisdictions in which our networks are offered have, in varying degrees, laws and regulations governing our businesses. Programming businesses are subject to regulation on a country-by-country basis. Changes in regulations imposed by foreign governments could also adversely affect our business, results of operations and ability to expand our operations beyond their current scope.
Financial markets are subject to volatility and disruptions that may affect our ability to obtain or increase the cost of financing our operations and our ability to meet our other obligations.
Increased volatility and disruptions in the U.S. and global financial and equity markets may make it more difficult for us to obtain financing for our operations or investments or increase the cost of obtaining financing. Our borrowing costs can be affected by short and long-term debt ratings assigned by independent rating agencies which are based, in significant part, on our performance as measured by credit metrics such as interest coverage and leverage ratios. A low rating could increase our cost of borrowing or make it more difficult for us to obtain future financing. Unforeseeable changes in foreign currencies could negatively impact our results of operations and calculations of interest coverage and leverage ratios.
Acquisitions and other strategic transactions present many risks and we may not realize the financial and strategic goals that were contemplated at the time of any transaction.
From time to time we make acquisitions, investments and enter into other strategic transactions, such as the Scripps Acquisition. In connection with such acquisitions and strategic transactions, we may incur unanticipated expenses, fail to realize anticipated benefits, have difficulty incorporating the acquired businesses, disrupt relationships with current and new employees, subscribers, affiliates and vendors, incur significant debt, or have to delay or not proceed with announced transactions. Additionally, regulatory agencies, such as the FCC or U.S. Department of Justice may impose additional restrictions on the operation of our business as a result of our seeking regulatory approvals for any significant acquisitions and strategic transactions. The occurrence of any of these events could have an adverse effect on our business.
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Our inability to successfully acquire and integrate other businesses, assets, products or technologies could harm our operating results.operations.
Our success may dependdepends on opportunities to buy other businessesattracting, developing, motivating and retaining key employees and creative talent within our business. Significant shortfalls in recruitment or technologies that could complement, enhance or expand our current business or products or that might otherwise offer us growth opportunities. We have acquired, and have made strategic investments in, a number of companies (including through joint ventures) in the past, such as the Scripps Acquisition, and we expect to make additional acquisitions and strategic investments in the future. Such transactions may result in dilutive issuances of our equity securities, use of our cash resources, and incurrence of debt and amortization expenses related to intangible assets. Any acquisitions and strategic investments that we are able to identify and complete may be accompanied by a number of risks, including:
the difficulty of assimilating the operations and personnel of acquired companies into our operations;
the potential disruption of our ongoing business and distraction of management;
the incurrence of additional operating losses and operating expenses of the businesses we acquired or in which we invested;
the difficulty of integrating acquired technology and rights into our services and unanticipated expenses related to such integration;
the failure to successfully further develop an acquired business or technology and any resulting impairment of amounts currently capitalized as intangible assets;
the failure of strategic investments to perform as expected or to meet financial projections;
the potential for patent and trademark infringement and data privacy and security claims against the acquired companies, or companies in which we have invested;
litigation or other claims in connection with acquisitions, acquired companies, or companies in which we have invested;
the impairment or loss of relationships with customers and partners of the companies we acquired or in which we invested or with our customers and partners as a result of the integration of acquired operations;
the impairment of relationships with,retention, or failure to retain,adequately motivate or compensate employees of acquired companies or our existing employees as a result of integration of new personnel;
our lack of, or limitations on our, control over the operations of our joint venture companies;
the difficulty of integrating operations, systems, and controls as a result of cultural, regulatory, systems, and operational differences;
in the case of foreign acquisitions and investments, the impact of particular economic, tax, currency, political, legal and regulatory risks associated with specific countries; and
the impact of known potential liabilities or liabilities that may be unknown, including as a result of inadequate internal controls, associated with the companies we acquired or in which we invested.
Our failure to be successful in addressing these risks or other problems encountered in connection with our past or future acquisitions and strategic investments could cause us to fail to realize the anticipated benefits of such acquisitions or investments, incur unanticipated liabilities, and harm our business generally.
The loss of key personnel orcreative talent, could disrupt our business and adversely affect our revenue.ability to compete and achieve our strategic goals.
Attracting, developing, motivating and retaining talented employees are essential to the successful delivery of our products and services and success in the marketplace. Our business depends upon the continued efforts, abilities and expertise of our corporate and divisional executive teams and entertainment personalities. Followingpersonalities, and the completionability to attract and retain these talented employees and personalities is critical in the development and delivery of products and services, which is an integral component of our growth strategy. Competition for employees and personalities can be intense and if we are unable to successfully integrate, motivate and reward our current employees, we may not be able to retain them. If we are unable to retain these employees or attract new employees in the future, our ability to effectively compete with our competitors and to grow our business could be materially adversely affected. Additionally, following the Merger, we have undertaken a merger, like the Scripps Acquisition, currentnumber of restructuring and prospective employees may experience uncertainty about their future roles with Discoverytransformation initiatives, including headcount reduction. This headcount reduction and choose to pursue other opportunities,restructuring initiatives could disrupt our operations, adversely impact employee morale and our reputation as an employer, which could have an adverse effect on Discovery.If keymake it more difficult for us to retain existing employees depart,and hire new employees in the future, distract management and harm our business may be adversely affected. Additionally,overall.
In addition, we employ or contract with entertainment personalitiestalent who may have loyal audiences. These individuals are important to audience endorsement of our programs and other content. There can be no assurance that these individuals will remain with us or retain their current audiences. If we fail to retain or attract key individuals or if our entertainment personalities losetalent loses their current audience base or suffer negative publicity, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially adversely affected.
Global economic conditions and other global events may have an adverse effect on our business.
Our business is significantly affected by prevailing economic conditions and levels of consumer discretionary spending. A downturn in global economic conditions may negatively affect our current and potential customers, particularly advertisers whose expenditures are sensitive to general economic conditions, vendors and others with whom we do business and their ability to satisfy their obligations to us. In addition, inflationary conditions or an increase in price levels generally increases our content production costs and other costs of doing business, which could negatively affect our profitability. Further, a high interest rate environment, whether arising out of a policy response to inflationary conditions or otherwise, increases the costs of our securitization portfolio, which may also negatively affect our results of operations.
Decreases in consumer discretionary spending in the U.S. and other countries where our content is distributed may cause a decrease in cable television subscriptions, subscriptions to our DTC products, or movie theater attendance to view our feature films, among others, all of which may negatively affect our revenues and results of operations.
In addition, our business and operations has been, and in the future could be, disrupted or impacted by other global events, including political, social, or economic unrest, terrorism, hostilities, natural disasters such as earthquakes, or pandemics. For example, the COVID-19 pandemic had numerous effects on our business including a decrease in advertising revenues, a postponement of significant live events, and reduced movie theater attendance. Other global events in the future could disrupt our business and operations in unpredictable ways.
The market price of our common stock has been highly volatile and may continue to be volatile due, in part, to circumstances beyond our control.
The market price of our common stock has fluctuated, and may continue to fluctuate, due to many factors, some of which may be beyond our control. These factors include, without limitation:
actual or anticipated variations in our financial and operating results;
changes in our estimates, guidance or business plans;
variations between our actual results and expectations of securities analysts, or changes in financial estimates and recommendations by securities analysts;
market sentiment about our industry in general or our business in particular, including our level of debt, our leverage ratio, and our ability to effectively compete in the categories and industries in which we operate;
the activities, operating results or stock price of our competitors, or other industry participants;
spending on domestic and foreign television and digital advertising;
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the announcement or completion of significant transactions by us or a competitor;
overall general market fluctuations and other events affecting the stock market generally; and
the economic and political conditions in the U.S. and internationally, as well as other factors described in this Item 1A.
Some of these factors may adversely impact the price of our common stock, regardless of our operating performance. Further, volatility in the price of our common stock may negatively impact our business, including by limiting our financing options for acquisitions and other business expansion.
Strategic transactions and acquisitions present many risks and we may not realize the financial and strategic goals that were contemplated at the time of any transaction.
From time to time we may enter into strategic transactions, make investments or make acquisitions, such as the Merger. Our success may depend on opportunities to buy other businesses or technologies that could complement, enhance or expand our current business or products or that might otherwise offer us growth opportunities. Such transactions may result in dilutive issuances of our equity securities, use of our cash resources, and incurrence of significant debt and amortization expenses related to intangible assets. We may also incur unanticipated expenses, fail to realize anticipated benefits, have difficulty integrating the acquired businesses, disrupt relationships with current and new employees, subscribers, affiliates and vendors, or have to delay or not proceed with announced transactions.
Additionally, regulatory agencies, such as the FCC or U.S. Department of Justice, may impose additional restrictions on the operation of our business as a result of our seeking regulatory approvals for any strategic transactions and significant acquisitions. The occurrence of any of these events could have an adverse effect on our business.
Our participation in multiemployer defined benefit pension plans could subject us to liabilities that could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We contribute to various multiemployer defined benefit pension plans (the “multiemployer plans”) under the terms of collective bargaining agreements that cover certain of our union-represented employees which could subject us to liabilities in certain circumstances. The amount of funds we may be obligated to contribute to multiemployer plans in the future cannot be estimated, as these amounts are based on future levels of work of the union-represented employees covered by the multiemployer plans, investment returns and the funding status of such plans. As of December 31, 2023, we were an employer that provided more than 5% of total contributions to certain of the multiemployer plans in which we participate. If we choose to stop participating or substantially reduce participation in certain of these plans, we may be subject to a withdrawal liability. In addition, actions taken by any other participating employer that lead to a deterioration of the financial health of a multiemployer plan may result in the unfunded obligations of the multiemployer plan being borne by its remaining participating employers, including us. To the extent a multiemployer plan is underfunded or in endangered, seriously endangered or critical status, additional required contributions and benefit reductions may apply. We currently contribute to multiemployer plans that are underfunded, and, as such, under federal law we may be subject to substantial liabilities in the event of a complete or partial withdrawal from, or a voluntary or involuntary withdrawal from, or termination of, such plans. There can be no assurance that we will not be subject to liabilities in the future due to the foregoing or other circumstances that may arise in connection with these plans or that we can adequately mitigate these costs, any of which could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Our business, financial condition and results of operations may be negatively impacted by the outcome of uncertainties related to litigation.
From time to time, we may be involved in a number of legal claims, regulatory investigations, litigation actions (asserted individually and/or on behalf of a class), and arbitration proceedings. We may be subject to a number of lawsuits both in the U.S. and in foreign countries, including, at any particular time, claims relating to antitrust, intellectual property, employment, wage and hour, consumer privacy, regulatory and tax proceedings, contractual and commercial disputes, and the production, distribution, and licensing of our content. We may also spend substantial resources complying with various government standards, which may entail related investigations and litigation. We may incur significant expenses defending such suits or government charges and may be required to pay amounts or otherwise change our operations in ways that could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. This could result in an increase in our cost for defense or settlement of claims or indemnification obligations if we were to be found liable in excess of our historical experience. Even if we believe a claim is without merit, and/or we ultimately prevail, defending against the claim could be time-consuming and costly and divert our management’s attention and resources away from our business.
In addition, our insurance may not be adequate to protect us from all significant expenses related to pending and future claims and our current levels of insurance may not be available in the future at commercially reasonable prices. Any of these factors could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
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ITEM 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments.
None.
ITEM 1C. Cybersecurity.
We have a cybersecurity program to assess and manage risks to the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of our data, networks and technology assets across WBD. Our Chief Information Security Officer (“CISO”) is responsible for cybersecurity risk oversight and oversees a global organization whose responsibilities include proactively managing and monitoring information and content security, cybersecurity risk, and processes to enable secure and resilient access to, and use of, WBD products and services. Since the closing of the Merger in 2022, we have continued to strengthen and enhance our cybersecurity program and integrate it into our overall risk management processes.
Risk Management and Strategy
We have a cybersecurity risk management strategy for safeguarding our digital assets that includes both technical and non-technical cybersecurity controls. Our multi-layered technical defense involves a series of protective measures across various levels of our technology environment. This includes fortifying our network perimeter through intrusion detection and prevention systems, securing individual devices with antivirus solutions and endpoint detection, implementing network security measures, and ensuring the resilience of applications. In addition to these technical security solutions, we also leverage non-technical methods, such as promoting a cybersecurity-conscious culture throughout WBD which includes mandatory annual cybersecurity training for all employees, a regular cadence of cybersecurity messaging to our employees, and frequent phishing simulations. Further, we engage independent third parties to conduct annual internal and external penetration testing and independent assessments of our cybersecurity risk management practices using the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s cybersecurity framework and other leading industry practices as guidelines. We also engage an independent third party to conduct a biennial cybersecurity maturity assessment to evaluate the maturity of our entire cybersecurity program.
We also invest in cybersecurity incident detection and response. Our Cybersecurity Operations Center provides continuous threat monitoring and anomaly detection that is intended to prevent or minimize damage from a cybersecurity attack. We have a Cybersecurity Incident Response Plan that establishes procedures, roles, responsibilities, and communication protocols for WBD executive management and technical staff in the event of a cybersecurity incident. We test the efficacy of the Cybersecurity Incident Response Plan and assess our response capabilities by conducting annual tabletop exercises that simulate cybersecurity threat scenarios.
We have ongoing processes to identify and assess cybersecurity risks associated with current and prospective third-party service providers. These processes include a vendor cybersecurity compliance assessment at the time of onboarding, contract renewal and/or as needed in the event of a cybersecurity incident affecting such third-party vendor. In addition, we require our providers to meet appropriate security requirements, controls and responsibilities and notify us in the event of a cybersecurity incident that impacts us.
We have established cybersecurity information sharing and collaboration practices with both government agencies and industry partners, which we believe enhances our overall cybersecurity resilience.
Governance
We have established a cybersecurity governance structure to engage appropriate stakeholders. Our CISO is informed about and monitors our prevention, detection, mitigation and remediation efforts related to cyber threats through regular communication and reporting from our information security team. Our Chief Financial Officer, our Chief Legal Officer, our Chief Audit and Risk Officer and our Chief Information Officer also have input and involvement in our cybersecurity program. Our Board of Directors has an active role, as a whole and at the committee level, in overseeing the Company’s overall risk management, including cybersecurity risks. Our Board of Directors has delegated responsibility for cybersecurity and information technology risks to our Audit Committee and is regularly informed about such risks through committee reports and other presentations. Our Audit Committee regularly reviews and discusses our cybersecurity risks and is updated by our CISO on how we identify, assess and mitigate those risks. Our Audit Committee receives quarterly updates from our CISO on our cybersecurity risk posture, the status of projects to strengthen and enhance our cybersecurity program, the evolving threat landscape, and cybersecurity incident reports and learnings. The Audit Committee also periodically devotes additional meeting time, as needed, to in-depth discussions on a particularly relevant cybersecurity topic or to education on developments in the realm of cybersecurity. In addition to the quarterly incident reports, cybersecurity incidents meeting pre-determined criteria are reported to the Audit Committee outside of regularly scheduled quarterly updates and to WBD executive management as needed. See Item 1A, “Risk Factors” for details on the risks from cybersecurity threats that we face.
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Our CISO has over 30 years of expertise in global digital and information security, cybersecurity risk management, data privacy and compliance across diverse industries including media and entertainment, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, financial services, and government defense sectors and holds multiple industry-recognized certifications including, among others, a Certificate of Cybersecurity Oversight from the National Association of Corporate Directors and a Certified Information Systems Security Professional certification.
ITEM 2. Properties.
We ownThe Company’s headquarters are located in New York City at 230 Park Ave. South. The Company owns and leaseleases approximately 3.3323 million square feet of building spaceoffices; studios; technical, production and warehouse spaces; and other properties in 120 locations around the world.
In the U.S., we have 29 locations including 405 thousand square feet of owned space and 1.37 million square feet that we lease. Principalnumerous locations in the U.S. include:
(i)    a planned Global headquarters in New York, New York; once completed it will house various business units including Direct-to-Consumer, Corporate functions, U.S. Ad Sales, U.S. Networks and Discovery Digital Studios,
(ii) two leased offices across New York, New York, collectively used to support Corporate functions, U.S. Ad Sales, U.S. Networks, Direct-to-Consumer and Discovery Digital Studios, which will be consolidated intoaround the Global Headquarters after their leases expire in 2021,
(iii) three owned offices in Knoxville, Tennessee, usedworld for general office space, technology support and content production (including studios and production support), and warehouse space, respectively,
(iv) two leased offices in Los Angeles, California, used for general office space by our U.S. Networks, U.S. Ad Sales and Corporate functions, and by our U.S. Networks and content production functions (including production support), respectively,
(v) leased general office space in Miami, Florida, primarily used by our International Networks segment, where work is underway to reduce our real estate footprint in 2021, and
(vi) an owned technical facility in Sterling, Virginia, used to manage all technical aspects of the majority of our global linear and digitalits businesses.
We also own and lease approximately 1.56 million square feet of building space at 91 locations outside of the U.S. and are rationalizing our overall real estate footprint as individual leases expire.
In Poland, our TVN business unit has 34 locations including 299 thousand square feet of owned space and 392 thousand square feet that we lease. The TVN office locations are used for linear and digital news and entertainment content production, including studios, warehouse, production, technology, broadcasting and supporting office space, and are located primarily in Warsaw and Krakow. Other principal locations outside of the U.S. include the Office, Production and Playout space in the U.K. and France, and Office and Production space in New Zealand, Denmark, Norway, Germany, and Italy.
We have undertaken consolidations across our global real estate portfolio, resulting in a reduction of approximately 196 thousand square feet.
Each property is considered to be in good condition, adequate for its purpose, and suitably utilized according to the individual nature and requirements of the relevant operations. Our policy isoperations housed within. The following table sets forth information as of December 31, 2023 with respect to improve and replace property as considered appropriate to meet the needs of the individual operation.Company’s principal properties:
LocationPrincipal UseApproximate
Square Footage
Type of Ownership; Expiration Date of Lease
Burbank, CA
4000 Warner Blvd.
Studios2,600,000 Owned.
New York, NY
30 Hudson Yards
Studios, Networks, DTC, and Corporate1,500,000 Leased; expires in 2034.
Leavesden, UK
Warner Drive (Studios); Studio Tour Drive (Studio Tour); 5 and 6 Hercules Way (Leavesden Park)
Studios1,300,000 Owned.
Atlanta, GA
1050 Techwood Drive
Studios, Networks, DTC, and Corporate1,170,000 Owned.
Atlanta, GA
One CNN Center
Studios, Networks, and Corporate1,150,000 Leased; expires in 2024.
Burbank, CA
3000 West Alameda Avenue
Studios860,000 Owned.
Burbank, CA
100 and 200 South California Street
Studios and Corporate811,000 Leased; Tower 1 expires in 2037 and Tower 2 expires in 2039.
Santiago, Chile
Pedro Montt 2354
Studios and Networks610,000 Owned.
Tokyo, Japan
1-1625-1, Kasuga-cho, Nerima-ku
Studios527,000 Leased; expires in 2052.
Atlanta, GA
3755 Atlanta Industrial Pkwy.
Studios409,000 Leased; expires in 2024.
New York, NY
230 Park Ave. South
Headquarters, Studios, Networks, DTC, and Corporate360,000 Leased; expires in 2037.
Warsaw, Poland
Wiertnicza 166
Studios, Networks, DTC, and Corporate247,000 Owned.
Culver City, CA
8900 Venice Boulevard
Networks and DTC244,000 Leased; expires in 2036.
Cardington, Bedfordshire, UK
Cardington Airfield, Shed 1
Studios220,000 Leased; expires in 2027.
Radlett, UK
Ventura Park, Old Parkbury Lane
Studios198,000 Leased; expires in 2028 and 2034.
Atlanta, GA
3700 Atlanta Industrial Pkwy.
Studios177,000 Leased; expires in 2024.
Krakow, Poland
Plk. Dadka 2
Studios and Networks151,000 Leased; expires in 2026.
London, England
98 Theobalds Road
Networks, DTC, and Corporate135,000 Leased; expires in 2034.
Our facility management response to COVID-19 was immediate and our site teams continue to follow guidelines issued by local, national and regional public and government health authorities. Our enhanced cleaning and disinfecting programs were proactive and are ongoing and we are addressing environmental and building infrastructural components such as air quality, ventilation and filtration.
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LocationPrincipal UseApproximate
Square Footage
Type of Ownership; Expiration Date of Lease
Buenos Aires, Argentina
599 and 533 Defensa Street
Studios, Networks, DTC, and Corporate129,000 Owned.
London, UK
160 Old Street
Studios, Networks, DTC, and Corporate116,000 Leased; expires in 2034.
London, UK
Chiswick Park, Bldg. 2
Studios, Networks, DTC, and Corporate115,000 Leased; expires in 2034.
Seattle, WA
1099 Stewart Street
DTC112,000 Leased; expires in 2025.
Washington, DC
820 First Street
Studios and Networks109,000 Leased; expires in 2031.
Richmond, Canada
13480 Crestwood Place
Studios108,000 Leased; expires in 2030.
Hyderabad, India
Block A, International Tech Park
Corporate89,000 Leased; expires in 2028.
Paris, France
L’Amiral, ZAC Forum Seine
Networks, DTC, and Corporate81,000 Leased; expires in 2031.
Auckland, New Zealand
2 and 3 Flower Street
Studios, Networks, DTC, and Corporate57,000 Leased; expires in 2025.
Sterling, VA
45580 Terminal Drive
Studios, Networks, DTC, and Corporate54,000 Owned.
Silver Spring, MD
8403 Colesville Road
Networks and Corporate47,000 Leased; expires in 2030.
Many of the listed locations are occupied by multiple segments; the most critical (or the principal) occupiers are listed here.
ITEM 3. Legal Proceedings.
TheFrom time to time, in the normal course of its operations, the Company is partysubject to various lawsuitslitigation matters and claims, including claims related to employees, stockholders, vendors, other business partners, government regulations, or intellectual property, as well as disputes and matters involving counterparties to contractual agreements, such as disputes arising out of definitive agreements entered into in connection with the ordinary course of business.Merger. However, a determination as to the amount of the accrual required for such contingencies is highly subjective and requires judgmentsjudgment about future events. The Company may not currently be able to estimate the reasonably possible loss or range of loss for such matters until developments in such matters have provided sufficient information to support an assessment of such loss. In the absence of sufficient information to support an assessment of the reasonably possible loss or range of loss, no accrual for such contingencies is made and no loss or range of loss is disclosed. Although the outcome of these matters cannot be predicted with certainty and the impact of the final resolution of these matters on the Company'sCompany’s results of operations in a particular subsequent reporting period is not known, management does not currently believe that the resolution of these matters will have a material adverse effect on ourthe Company’s future consolidated financial position, future results of operations, or liquidity.cash flows.
Between September 23, 2022 and October 24, 2022, two purported class action lawsuits (Collinsville Police Pension Board v. Discovery, Inc., et al., Case No. 1:22-cv-08171; Todorovski v. Discovery, Inc., et al., Case No. 1:22-cv-09125) were filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York. The complaints named Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc., Discovery, Inc., David Zaslav, and Gunnar Wiedenfels as defendants. The complaints generally alleged that the defendants made false and misleading statements in SEC filings and in certain public statements relating to the Merger, in violation of Sections 11, 12(a)(2), and 15 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and sought damages and other relief. On November 4, 2022, the court consolidated the Collinsville and Todorovski complaints under case number 1:22-CV-8171, and on December 12, 2022, the court appointed lead plaintiffs and lead counsel. On February 15, 2023, the lead plaintiffs filed an amended complaint adding Advance/Newhouse Partnership, Advance/Newhouse Programming Partnership, Steven A. Miron, Robert J. Miron, and Steven O. Newhouse as defendants. The amended complaint asserted violations of Sections 11, 12(a)(2), and 15 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and sought damages and other relief. On February 5, 2024, the court dismissed the amended complaint with prejudice.
ITEM 4. Mine Safety Disclosures.
Not applicable.
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Information about our Executive Officers of Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc.
Pursuant to General Instruction G(3) to Form 10-K,As of February 23, 2024, the information regarding ourfollowing individuals are the executive officers required by Item 401(b) of Regulation S-K is hereby included in Part I of this report. The following table sets forth the nameCompany.
David M. Zaslav, President, Chief Executive Officer, and date of birth of eacha director
Age: 64
Executive Officer since 2007
Mr. Zaslav has served as our President and Chief Executive Officer and a member of our executive officersboard of directors since the closing of the Merger on April 8, 2022. Prior to the closing, Mr. Zaslav served as Discovery’s President and the office held by such officer asChief Executive Officer from January 2007 until April 2022 and a common stock director of February 22, 2021.Discovery from September 2008 until April 2022.
NamePosition
David M. Zaslav
Born January 15, 1960
President, Chief Executive Officer and a common stock director. Mr. Zaslav has served as our President and Chief Executive Officer since January 2007 and a common stock director since September 2008. Mr. Zaslav served as President, Cable & Domestic Television and New Media Distribution of NBC Universal, Inc. ("NBC"), a media and entertainment company, from May 2006 to December 2006. Mr. Zaslav served as Executive Vice President of NBC, and President of NBC Cable, a division of NBC, from October 1999 to May 2006. Mr. Zaslav is a member of the board of Sirius XM Radio Inc., Grupo Televisa S.A.B and LionsGate Entertainment Corp.
Gunnar Wiedenfels
Born September 6, 1977
Chief Financial Officer. Gunnar Wiedenfels, Chief Financial Officer
Age: 46
Executive Officer since 2017
Mr. Wiedenfels has served as our Chief Financial Officer since April 2017. Prior to joining Discovery, Mr. Wiedenfels served as Chief Financial Officer of ProSiebenSat.1 Media SE ("ProSieben") starting in 2015. Prior to that, he served as ProSieben's Deputy Chief Financial Officer from 2014 to 2015 and served as Chief Group Controller from 2013 to 2015. Previously, he served as ProSieben's Deputy Group Controller, responsible for group-wide budget planning, budget controlling, and management reporting and as Chief Financial Officer, National, where he had commercial responsibility for the group's German- speaking free TV segment. Before this, he worked as a management consultant and engagement manager at McKinsey & Company. In May 2019, Mr. Wiedenfels joined the supervisory board of SAP SE and serves as chairman of their audit committee.
Jean-Briac Perrette
Born April 30, 1971
President and CEO of Discovery International. Mr. Perrette became CEO of Discovery International (formerly referred to as Discovery Networks International) in June 2016 and President of Discovery Networks International in March 2014. Prior to that, Mr. Perrette served as our Chief Digital Officer from October 2011 to February 2014. Mr. Perrette served in a number of roles at NBC Universal from March 2000 to October 2011, with the last being President of Digital and Affiliate Distribution.
Adria Alpert Romm
Born March 2, 1955
Chief People and Culture Officer since April 2019. Ms. Romm served as our Chief Human Resources and Diversity Officer from March 2014 to March 2019. Prior to that, Ms. Romm served as our Chief Financial Officer since the closing of the Merger on April 8, 2022. Prior to the closing, Mr. Wiedenfels served as Discovery, Inc.’s Chief Financial Officer from April 2017 until April 2022.
Bruce L. Campbell, Chief Revenue and Strategy Officer
Age: 56
Executive Officer since 2008
Mr. Campbell has served as our Chief Revenue and Strategy Officer since the closing of the Merger on April 8, 2022. Prior to the closing, he served as Discovery’s Chief Development, Distribution and Legal Officer. Mr. Campbell has served in several senior executive roles at Discovery, including as Chief Distribution Officer from October 2015 to April 2022, Chief Development Officer from August 2010 to April 2022, General Counsel from December 2010 to April 2017, Digital Media Officer from August 2014 to October 2015 and President, Digital Media & Corporate Development from March 2007 to August 2010.
Lori Locke, Chief Accounting Officer
Age: 60
Executive Officer since 2019
Ms. Locke has served as our Chief Accounting Officer since the closing of the Merger on April 8, 2022. Prior to the closing, Ms. Locke served as Discovery’s Chief Accounting Officer from June 2019 to April 2022. Prior to joining Discovery, Ms. Locke served as Vice President, Corporate Controller and Principal Accounting Officer for Gannett Co., Inc., a media company, from June 2015 to May 2019.
Jean-Briac Perrette, CEO and President, Global Streaming and Games
Age: 52
Executive Officer since 2014
Mr. Perrette has served as our CEO and President of Global Streaming and Games since the closing of the Merger on April 8, 2022. Prior to the closing, he served as President and CEO of Discovery International (formerly referred to as Discovery Networks International) from June 2016 until April 2022, and served as President of Discovery Networks International from March 2014 to June 2016. Prior to that, Mr. Perrette served as Discovery’s Chief Digital Officer from October 2011 to February 2014.
Adria Alpert Romm, Chief People and Culture Officer
Age: 68
Executive Officer since 2008
Ms. Romm has served as our Chief People and Culture Officer since the closing of the Merger on April 8, 2022. Prior to the closing, Ms. Romm served as Discovery’s Chief People and Culture Officer from April 2019 to April 2022. Prior to that, Ms. Romm served as Discovery’s Chief Human Resources and Diversity Officer from March 2014 to March 2019 and Discovery’s Senior Executive Vice President of Human Resources from March 2007 to February 2014. Ms. Romm served as Senior Vice President of Human Resources of NBC from 2004 to 2007. Prior to 2004, Ms. Romm served as a Vice President in Human Resources for the NBC TV network and NBC staff functions.
Bruce L. Campbell
Born November 26, 1967
Chief Development, Distribution & Legal Officer. Mr. Campbell became our Chief Distribution Officer in October 2015, Chief Development Officer in August 2010 and served as our General Counsel from December 2010 to April 2017. Mr. Campbell served as Digital Media Officer from August 2014 through October 2015. Prior to that, Mr. Campbell served as our President, Digital Media & Corporate Development from March 2007 through August 2010. Mr. Campbell also served as our corporate secretary from December 2010 to February 2012. Mr. Campbell served as Executive Vice President, Business Development of NBC from December 2005 to March 2007, and Senior Vice President, Business Development of NBC from January 2003 to November 2005.
David Leavy
Born December 24, 1969
Chief Corporate Operating Officer. Mr. Leavy served as our Chief Corporate Operations and Communications Officer from March 2016 to June 2019 and became our Chief Corporate Operating Officer in July 2019. Prior to that, Mr. Leavy served as our Chief Communications Officer and Senior Executive Vice President, Corporate Marketing and Business Operations from August 2015 to March 2016. From December 2011 to August 2015, Mr. Leavy served as our Chief Communications Officer and Senior Executive Vice President, Corporate Marketing and Affairs. Prior to that, Mr. Leavy served as our Executive Vice President, Communications and Corporate Affairs and has served in a number of other roles at Discovery since joining in March 2000.
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NamePosition
Lori Locke
Born August 23, 1963
Chief Accounting Officer. Ms. Locke joined Discovery as our Chief AccountingSavalle C. Sims, Chief Legal Officer in June 2019. Prior to joining Discovery, Ms. Locke served as Vice President, Corporate Controller and Principal Accounting Officer for Gannett Co., Inc. (“Gannett”), a media company, from June 2015 to May 2019. Before joining Gannett, Ms. Locke was Vice President and Corporate Assistant Controller for Leidos, Inc. (formerly SAIC, Inc.), a science, engineering and information technology company, from February 2013 to May 2015.
Savalle C. Sims
Born May 21, 1970
Executive Vice President and General Counsel. Ms. Sims became Executive Vice President and General Counsel in April 2017. Ms. Sims served as our Executive Vice President and Deputy General Counsel from December 2014 to April 2017. Prior to that, Ms. Sims served as our Senior Vice President, Litigation and Intellectual Property from August 2011 through December 2014. Prior to joining Discovery, Ms. Sims was a partner at the law firm of Arent Fox LLP.

Age: 53
35
Executive Officer since 2017
Ms. Sims has served as our Chief Legal Officer since October 2023 and was previously Executive Vice President and General Counsel from the closing of the Merger on April 8, 2022 to October 2023. Prior to the closing, Ms. Sims served as Discovery’s Executive Vice President and General Counsel from April 2017 until April 2022. Prior to that, Ms. Sims served as Discovery’s Executive Vice President and Deputy General Counsel from December 2014 to April 2017 and Discovery’s Senior Vice President, Litigation and Intellectual Property from August 2011 to December 2014.

Gerhard Zeiler, President, International

Age: 68
Executive Officer since 2022
Mr. Zeiler has served as our President, International since the closing of the Merger on April 8, 2022. Prior to the closing, Mr. Zeiler served as President of WarnerMedia International from August 2020 to April 2022 and prior to that, Chief Revenue Officer of WarnerMedia from March 2019 to August 2020. Mr. Zeiler was President of Turner Broadcasting System International from May 2012 to February 2019.
PART II
ITEM 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities.
Our Series AWBD common stock Series B common stock and Series C common stock areis listed and traded on The Nasdaq Global Select Market (“NASDAQ”) under the symbols “DISCA,” “DISCB” and “DISCK,” respectively.symbol “WBD”.
As of February 8, 2021,2024, there were approximately 1,106, 64 and 1,629 689,822record holders of our Series AWBD common stock, Series B common stock and Series C common stock, respectively. These amounts dostock. This amount does not include the number of shareholders whose shares are held of record by banks, brokerage houses or other institutions, but includeincludes each such institution as one shareholder.
We have not paid any cash dividends on our Series A common stock, Series B common stock or Series CWBD common stock and we have no present intention to do so. Payment of cash dividends, if any, will be determined by our Boardboard of Directorsdirectors after consideration of our earnings, financial condition and other relevant factors such as our credit facility'sfacility’s restrictions on our ability to declare dividends in certain situations.
31


Stock Performance Graph
The following graph sets forth theshows a comparison of cumulative total shareholder return, calculated on oura dividend-reinvested basis, for (a) WBD common stock (which began trading on April 11, 2022) and Discovery Series A common stock, Series B convertible common stock, and Series C common stock as compared with the cumulative total return of the companies listed in(which ceased trading on April 8, 2022), (b) the Standard and Poor’sPoor's 500 Stock Index (“S&P 500 Index”), and a peer group of companies (the "Peer Group"). The Peer(c) the Standard & Poor’s 500 Media and Entertainment Industry Group is comprised of The Walt Disney Company, ViacomCBS, Inc. Class B common stock, Fox Corporation Class A common stock and AMC Networks Inc. Class A common stock.Index (“S&P 500 Media & Entertainment Index”) for the five years ended December 31, 2023. The graph assumes $100 originallywas invested on December 31, 2015 in each of ourDiscovery Series A common stock, Series B convertible common stock, and Series C common stock, the S&P 500 Index, and the stocks of the Peer Group, including reinvestment of dividends, for the years endedS&P 500 Media & Entertainment Index on December 31, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020.
disca-20201231_g16.jpg
December 31,
2015
December 31, 
2016
December 31, 2017December 31, 2018December 31, 2019December 31, 2020
DISCA$100.00 $102.74 $83.89 $92.74 $122.73 $112.79 
DISCB$100.00 $107.84 $91.75 $123.94 $134.15 $119.87 
DISCK$100.00 $106.19 $83.94 $91.51 $120.90 $103.85 
S&P 500$100.00 $111.96 $136.40 $130.42 $171.49 $203.04 
Peer Group$100.00 $103.66 $107.06 $107.22 $138.63 $164.87 
36


Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities
On December 21, 2020, we issued 1,340,954 shares of our Series Athat $100 was invested in WBD common stock in a private transaction exempt from registration under Section 4(a)(2)on April 11, 2022, the date on which it began trading. Note that historic stock price performance is not necessarily indicative of the Securities Act to Harpo,future stock price performance.
Stock Performance Graph.jpg
Note: Peer group indices use beginning of period market capitalization weighting.
Note: Index Data: Copyright Standard and Poor’s, Inc. (“Harpo”) in exchange for a portion of Harpo’s equity interest in our consolidated subsidiary OWN LLC (“OWN LLC”), a joint venture between Harpo and our wholly-owned indirect subsidiary, Discovery Communications LLC. We received aggregate consideration valued at approximately $35 million in the form of a portion of Harpo’s equity in OWN LLC.Used with permission. All rights reserved.
Purchases of Equity SecuritiesNote: Prepared by Zacks Investment Research, Inc. Used with permission. All rights reserved. Copyright 1980-2024.
The following table presents information about our repurchases of common stock that were made through open market transactions during the three months ended December 31, 2020 (in millions, except per share amounts)
December 31,April 11,December 31,
2018201920202021202220222023
WBD$100.00 $38.26 $45.92 
DISCA$100.00 $132.34 $121.63 $95.15 $98.75 $— $— 
DISCB$100.00 $108.24 $96.72 $88.81 $72.99 $— $— 
DISCK$100.00 $132.11 $113.48 $99.22 $105.81 $— $— 
S&P 500$100.00 $131.49 $155.68 $200.37 $186.24 $164.08 $207.21 
S&P 500 Media & Entertainment Index$100.00 $134.15 $176.47 $224.01 $184.31 $125.65 $208.66 
ITEM 6. [Reserved].
PeriodTotal Number
of Series C Shares
Purchased
Average
Price
Paid per
Share: Series C (a)
Total Number
of Shares
Purchased as
Part of  Publicly
Announced
Plans or
Programs
Approximate
Dollar Value of
Shares that May
Yet Be Purchased
Under the  Plans or Programs
October 1, 2020 - October 31, 20207,116,503 $19.01 7,116,503 $1,477,152,160 
November 1, 2020 - November 30, 20203,808,891 $20.41 3,808,891 $1,399,423,245 
December 1, 2020 - December 31, 2020— $— — $1,399,423,245 
Total10,925,394 10,925,394 

(a) The amounts do not give effect to any fees, commissions or other costs associated with repurchases of shares.

37


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 is a supplement to and should be read in conjunction with the accompanying consolidated financial statements and related notes. This section provides additional information regarding our businesses, current developments, results of operations, cash flows, financial condition, contractual commitments, and critical accounting policies.policies, and estimates that require significant judgment and thus have the most significant potential impact on our consolidated financial statements. This discussion and analysis is intended to better allow investors to view the company from management’s perspective.
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This section provides an analysis of our financial results for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023 compared to the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022. A discussion of our results of operations and liquidity for the fiscal 2019year ended December 31, 2022 compared to the fiscal 2018year ended December 31, 2021 can be found under Item 7 in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019,2022, filed on February 27, 2020,24, 2022, which is available free of charge on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov and our Investor Relations website at ir.corporate.discovery.com.ir.wbd.com. The information contained on our website is not part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K and is not incorporated by reference herein.
BUSINESS OVERVIEW
We areOn April 8, 2022, Discovery, a global media company that provides content across multiple distribution platforms, including linear, platforms such as pay-TV, FTAfree-to-air, and broadcast television, our authenticated GO applications, digital distribution arrangements, content licensing arrangements, and DTC subscription products.products, completed its Merger with the WM Business of AT&T and changed its name from “Discovery, Inc.” to “Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc.” On April 11, 2022, our shares started trading on Nasdaq under the trading symbol WBD. (See Note 3 and Note 4 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements.)
Warner Bros. Discovery is a premier global media and entertainment company that provides audiences with a differentiated portfolio of content, brands and franchises across television, film, streaming, and gaming. Some of our iconic brands and franchises include Warner Bros. Motion Picture Group, Warner Bros. Television Group, DC, HBO, HBO Max, Max, discovery+, CNN, Discovery Channel, HGTV, Food Network, TNT Sports, TBS, TLC, OWN, Warner Bros. Games, Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, Harry Potter, Looney Tunes, Hanna-Barbera, Game of Thrones, and The Lord of the Rings. For a discussion of our global portfolio of networks and joint ventures see our business overview set forth in Item 1, “Business” in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Our content spans genres including survival, natural history, exploration, sports, general entertainment, home, food, travel, heroes, adventure, crime and investigation, health and kids. We have an extensive library of content and own most rights to our content and footage, which enables us to leverage our library to quickly launch brands and services into new markets and on new platforms. Our content can be re-edited and updated in a cost-effective manner to provide topical versions of subject matter that can be utilized around the world on a variety of platforms.
We aim to invest in high-quality content for our networks and brandsIn connection with the objective of building viewership, optimizing distribution revenue, capturing advertising revenue, and creating or repositioning branded channels and business to sustain long-term growth and occupy a desired content niche with strong consumer appeal. Our strategy is to maximize the distribution, ratings and profit potential of each of our branded networks. In addition to growing distribution and advertising revenues for our branded networks,Merger, we have extendedannounced and taken actions to implement projects to achieve cost synergies for the Company. We finalized the framework supporting our ongoing restructuring and transformation initiatives during the year ended December 31, 2022, which includes, among other things, strategic content distribution across new platforms, including brand-aligned websites, online streaming, mobile devices, VOD, and broadband channels, which provide promotional platforms for our television content and serve as additional outlets for advertising and distribution revenue. Audience ratings are a key driver in generating advertising revenue and creating demand on the part of cable television operators, DTH satellite operators, telecommunication service providers,programming assessments, organization restructuring, facility consolidation activities, and other content distributors who delivercontract termination costs. We expect that we will incur approximately $4.1 - $5.3 billion in pre-tax restructuring charges, of which we have incurred $4.2 billion as of December 31, 2023. Of the total expected pre-tax restructuring charges, we expect total cash expenditures to be $1.0 - $1.5 billion. We incurred $0.5 billion of pre-tax restructuring charges during the year ended December 31, 2023 related to this plan. While our contentrestructuring efforts are ongoing, the restructuring program is expected to their customers.be substantially completed by the end of 2024.
AlthoughAs of December 31, 2023, we utilize certain brands and content globally, we classifyclassified our operations in twothree reportable segments: U.S.
Studios - Our Studios segment primarily consists of the production and release of feature films for initial exhibition in theaters, production and initial licensing of television programs to our networks/DTC services as well as third parties, distribution of our films and television programs to various third party and internal television and streaming services, distribution through the home entertainment market (physical and digital), related consumer products and themed experience licensing, and interactive gaming.
Networks - Our Networks consisting principallysegment primarily consists of our domestic television networks and digital content services, and International Networks, consisting primarily of international television networksnetworks.
DTC - Our DTC segment primarily consists of our premium pay-TV and digital contentstreaming services.
Our segment presentation alignswas aligned with our management structure and the financial information management uses to make decisions about operating matters, such as the allocation of resources and business performance assessments.
For further discussion of financial information for our segments and the geographical areas in which we do business, our content development activities, and revenues, see our business overview set forth in Item 1, “Business” and Note 23 to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Impact of COVID-19
On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization declared the COVID-19 outbreak to be a global pandemic. COVID-19 continues to spread throughout the world, and the duration and severity of its effects and associated economic disruption remain uncertain. Restrictions on social and commercial activity in an effort to contain the virus have had, and are expected to continue to have, a significant adverse impact upon many sectors of the U.S. and global economy, including the media industry. We continue to closely monitor the impact of COVID-19 on all aspects of our business and geographies, including the impact on our customers, employees, suppliers, vendors, distribution and advertising partners, production facilities, and various other third parties.
Beginning in the second quarter of 2020, demand for our advertising products and services decreased due to economic disruptions from limitations on social and commercial activity. These economic disruptions and the resulting effect on the Company slightly eased during the second half of 2020, but the pandemic continued to impact demand through the end of 2020 and this decreased demand is expected to continue into 2021. Many of our third-party production partners that were shut down during most of the second quarter of 2020 due to COVID-19 restrictions came back online in the third quarter of 2020 and, as a result, we have incurred additional costs to comply with various governmental regulations and implement certain safety measures for our employees, talent, and partners.Additionally, certain sporting events that we have rights to were cancelled or postponed, thereby eliminating or deferring the related revenues and expenses, including the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, which were postponed to 2021. The postponement of the Olympic Games deferred both Olympic-related revenues and significant expenses from fiscal year 2020 to fiscal year 2021.
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In response to the impact of the pandemic, we employed and continue to employ innovative production and programming strategies, including producing content filmed by our on-air talent and seeking viewer feedback on which content to air. We continue to pursue a number of cost savings initiatives which began during the third and fourth quarters of 2020 and believe will offset a portion of anticipated revenue losses and deferrals, through the implementation of travel, marketing, production and other operating cost reductions, including personnel reductions, restructurings and resource reallocations to align our expense structure to ongoing changes within the industry. We also implemented remote work arrangements effective mid-March 2020 and, to date, these arrangements have not materially affected our ability to operate our business.
In addition, we implemented several measures to preserve sufficient liquidity in the near term. During March 2020, we drew down $500 million under our $2.5 billion revolving credit facility to increase our cash position and maximize flexibility in light of the current uncertainty surrounding the impact of COVID-19. In addition, in April 2020, we entered into an amendment to our revolving credit facility, which increased flexibility under our financial covenants and issued $1.0 billion aggregate principal amount of senior notes due May 2030 and $1.0 billion aggregate principal amount of Senior Notes due May 2050. The proceeds from the notes were used to fund a tender offer for $1.5 billion of certain Senior Notes with maturities ranging from 2021 through 2023 and to repay the $500 million outstanding under our revolving credit facility.
In light of the impact of COVID-19, we assessed goodwill, other intangibles, deferred tax assets, programming assets, and accounts receivable for recoverability based upon latest estimates and judgments with respect to expected future operating results, ultimate usage of content and latest expectations with respect to expected credit losses. We recorded goodwill and other intangible assets impairment charges of $124 million for our Asia-Pacific reporting unit during 2020. Adjustments to reflect increased expected credit losses were not material. Further, hedged transactions were assessed and we have concluded such transactions remain probable of occurrence. Due to significant uncertainty surrounding the impact of COVID-19, management’s judgments could change in the future. The effects of the pandemic may have further negative impacts on our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows. However, the current level of uncertainty over the economic and operational impacts of COVID-19 means the related financial impact cannot be reasonably and fully estimated at this time.
The nature and extent of COVID-19’s effects on our operations and results will depend on future developments, which are highly uncertain and cannot be predicted, including new information that may emerge concerning the severity and the extent of future surges of COVID-19, vaccine distribution and other actions to contain the virus or treat its impact, among others. We will continue to monitor COVID-19 and its impact on our business results and financial condition. Our consolidated financial statements reflect management’s latest estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and related disclosures as of the date of the consolidated financial statements and reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting periods presented. Actual results may differ significantly from these estimates and assumptions.
In the United States, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) was enacted on March 27, 2020, and the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 was enacted on December 27, 2020. As of December 31, 2020, we do not expect the CARES Act or the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 to have a material effect on our financial position and results of operations. We continue to monitor other relief measures taken by the U.S. and other governments around the world.
3933


RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
ItemsThe discussion below compares our actual results for the year ended December 31, 2023 to our pro forma combined results for the year ended December 31, 2022, as if the Merger occurred on January 1, 2021. Management believes reviewing our pro forma combined operating results in addition to actual operating results is useful in identifying trends in, or reaching conclusions regarding, the overall operating performance of our businesses. Our Studios, Networks, DTC, Corporate, and inter-segment eliminations information is based on the historical operating results of the respective segments and include, where applicable, adjustments for (i) additional costs of revenues from the fair value step-up of film and television library, (ii) additional amortization expense related to acquired intangible assets, (iii) additional depreciation expense from the fair value of property and equipment, (iv) transaction costs and other one-time non-recurring costs, (v) additional interest expense for borrowings related to the Merger and amortization associated with fair value adjustments of debt assumed, (vi) changes to align accounting policies, (vii) elimination of intercompany activity, and (viii) associated tax-related impacts of adjustments.
Adjustments do not include costs related to integration activities, cost savings or synergies that have been or may be achieved by the combined businesses. Pro forma amounts are not necessarily indicative of what our results would have been had we operated the combined businesses since January 1, 2021 and should not be taken as indicative of the Company’s future consolidated results of operations.
Actual amounts for the year ended December 31, 2022 include results of operations for Discovery for the entire period and WM for the period subsequent to the completion of the Merger on April 8, 2022.
Foreign Exchange Impacting Comparability
TheIn addition to the Merger, the impact of exchange rates on our business is an important factor in understanding period-to-period comparisons of our results. For example, our international revenues are favorably impacted as the U.S. dollar weakens relative to other foreign currencies, and unfavorably impacted as the U.S. dollar strengthens relative to other foreign currencies. We believe the presentation of results on a constant currency basis (ex-FX)(“ex-FX”), in addition to results reported in accordance with U.S. GAAP provides useful information about our operating performance because the presentation ex-FX excludes the effects of foreign currency volatility and highlights our core operating results. The presentation of results on a constant currency basis should be considered in addition to, but not a substitute for, measures of financial performance reported in accordance with U.S. GAAP.
The ex-FX change represents the percentage change on a period-over-period basis adjusted for foreign currency impacts. The ex-FX change is calculated as the difference between the current year amounts translated at a baseline rate, which is a spot rate for each of our currencies determined early in the fiscal year as part of our forecasting process (the “2020“2023 Baseline Rate”), and the prior year amounts translated at the same 20202023 Baseline Rate. In addition, consistent with the assumption of a constant currency environment, our ex-FX results exclude the impact of our foreign currency hedging activities, as well as realized and unrealized foreign currency transaction gains and losses. Results on a constant currency basis, as we present them, may not be comparable to similarly titled measures used by other companies.
34


Consolidated Results of Operations – 20202023 vs. 20192022
Our consolidated results of operations for 20202023 and 20192022 were as follows (in millions).
Year Ended December 31,
20202019% Change% Change (ex-FX)
Year Ended December 31,
Year Ended December 31,
Year Ended December 31,
2023
2023
20232022% Change
ActualActualActualPro Forma
Adjustments
Pro Forma CombinedActualPro Forma Combined
(Actual)
Pro Forma
Combined
(ex-FX)
Revenues:Revenues:
Distribution
Distribution
Distribution$20,237 $16,142 $4,339 $20,481 25 %(1)%— %
AdvertisingAdvertising$5,583 $6,044 (8)%(7)%Advertising8,700 8,524 8,524 1,412 1,412 9,936 9,936 %(12)%(13)%
Distribution4,866 4,835 %%
ContentContent11,203 8,360 3,297 11,657 34 %(4)%(4)%
OtherOther222 265 (16)%(17)%Other1,181 791 791 230 230 1,021 1,021 49 49 %16 %14 %
Total revenuesTotal revenues10,671 11,144 (4)%(4)%Total revenues41,321 33,817 33,817 9,278 9,278 43,095 43,095 22 22 %(4)%(4)%
Costs of revenues, excluding depreciation and amortizationCosts of revenues, excluding depreciation and amortization3,860 3,819 %%Costs of revenues, excluding depreciation and amortization24,526 20,442 20,442 5,125 5,125 25,567 25,567 20 20 %(4)%(4)%
Selling, general and administrativeSelling, general and administrative2,722 2,788 (2)%(1)%Selling, general and administrative9,696 9,678 9,678 1,745 1,745 11,423 11,423 — — %(15)%(15)%
Depreciation and amortizationDepreciation and amortization1,359 1,347 %%Depreciation and amortization7,985 7,193 7,193 34 34 7,227 7,227 11 11 %10 %10 %
Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets124 155 (20)%(21)%
Restructuring and other chargesRestructuring and other charges91 26 NMNMRestructuring and other charges585 3,757 3,757 (90)(90)3,667 3,667 (84)(84)%(84)%(84)%
Impairment and loss on dispositionsImpairment and loss on dispositions77 117 — 117 (34)%(34)%(37)%
Total costs and expensesTotal costs and expenses42,869 41,187 6,814 48,001 %(11)%(11)%
Operating lossOperating loss(1,548)(7,370)2,464 (4,906)79 %68 %70 %
Interest expense, net
Total costs and expenses8,156 8,135 — %— %
Operating income2,515 3,009 (16)%(15)%
Interest expense, net(648)(677)(4)%
Loss on extinguishment of debt(76)(28)NM
Loss from equity investees, netLoss from equity investees, net(105)(2)NM
Other income (expense), net42 (8)NM
Income before income taxes1,728 2,294 (25)%
Income tax expense(373)(81)NM
Net income1,355 2,213 (39)%
Loss from equity investees, net
Loss from equity investees, net
Other (expense) income, net
Other (expense) income, net
Other (expense) income, net
Loss before income taxes
Loss before income taxes
Loss before income taxes
Income tax benefit
Income tax benefit
Income tax benefit
Net loss
Net loss
Net loss
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interestsNet income attributable to noncontrolling interests(124)(128)(3)%
Net income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interestsNet income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interests(12)(16)(25)%
Net income available to Discovery, Inc.$1,219 $2,069 (41)%
Net income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interests
Net income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interests
Net loss available to Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc.
Net loss available to Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc.
Net loss available to Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc.
NM - Not meaningful
Unless otherwise indicated, the discussion below through operating loss reflects the results for the year ended December 31, 2022 on a pro-forma combined basis, ex-FX, since the actual increases year over year for revenues, cost of revenues, and selling, general and administrative expenses are substantially attributable to the Merger. The percent changes of line items below operating loss in the table above are not included as the activity is principally in U.S. dollars.
Revenues
Distribution revenues are generated from fees charged to network distributors, which include cable, DTH satellite, telecommunications and digital service providers, and DTC subscribers. The largest component of distribution revenue is comprised of linear distribution rights to our networks from cable, DTH satellite, and telecommunication service providers. We have contracts with distributors representing most cable and satellite service providers around the world, including the largest operators in the U.S. and major international distributors. Distribution revenues are largely dependent on the rates negotiated in the agreements, the number of subscribers that receive our networks, the number of platforms covered in the distribution agreement, and the market demand for the content that we provide. From time to time, renewals of multi-year carriage agreements include significant year one market adjustments to reset subscriber rates, which then increase at rates lower than the initial increase in the following years. In some cases, we have provided distributors launch incentives, in the form of cash payments or free periods, to carry our networks.
Distribution revenue was flat in 2023, as declines in linear subscribers and DTC wholesale in the U.S. were offset by higher U.S. contractual affiliate rates, new DTC partnership launches, DTC price increases in the U.S., and inflationary impact in Argentina.
40
35


Revenues
Our advertising revenue isAdvertising revenues are principally generated across multiplefrom the sale of commercial time on linear (television networks and authenticated TVE applications) and digital platforms (DTC subscription services and consists of consumer advertising, which iswebsites), and sold primarily on a national basis in the U.S. and on a pan-regional or local-language feed basis outside the U.S. Advertising contracts generally have a term of one year or less. Advertising revenue is dependent upon a number of factors, including the stage of development of television markets, the popularity of FTA television, the number of subscribers to our channels, viewership demographics, the popularity of our content, and our ability to sell commercial time over a group of channels.channels, the stage of development of television markets, and the popularity of free-to-air television. Revenue from advertising is subject to seasonality, market-based variations, the mix in sales of commercial time between the upfront and scatter markets, and general economic conditions. Advertising revenue is typically highest in the second and fourth quarters. In some cases, advertising sales are subject to ratings guarantees that require us to provide additional advertising time if the guaranteed audience levels are not achieved. We also generate revenue from the sale of advertising through our digital productsplatforms on a stand-alone basis and as part of advertising packages with our television networks.
Advertising revenue decreased 8%13% in 2020. Excluding the impact of foreign currency fluctuations, advertising revenue decreased 7%. The decrease was2023, primarily attributable to audience declines in domestic general entertainment and news networks, soft advertising markets in the U.S., and to a decline in demand stemminglesser extent, certain international markets, and the prior year broadcast of the NCAA March Madness Final Four and Championship, partially offset by higher Max U.S. engagement and ad-lite subscriber growth.
Content revenues are generated from the COVID-19 pandemic at both U.S.release of feature films for initial exhibition in theaters, the licensing of feature films and International Networks.
Distribution revenue consists principally of fees from affiliates for distributing our linear networks, supplemented by revenue earned fromtelevision programs to various television, SVOD content licensing and other emerging formsdigital markets, distribution of digital distribution. The largest component of distribution revenue is comprised of linear distribution services for rights to our networks from cable, DTH satellitefeature films and telecommunication service providers. We have contracts with distributors representing most cable and satellite service providers around the world, including the largest operatorstelevision programs in the U.S.physical and major international distributors. Distribution revenues are largely dependent on the rates negotiateddigital home entertainment market, sales of console games and mobile in-game content, sublicensing of sports rights, and licensing of intellectual property such as characters and brands.
Content revenue decreased 4% in the agreements, the number of subscribers that receive our networks or content, the number of platforms covered in the distribution agreement, and the market demand for the content that we provide. From time to time, renewals of multi-year carriage agreements include significant year one market adjustments to re-set subscriber rates, which then increase at rates lower than the initial increase in the following years. In some cases, we have provided distributors launch incentives, in the form of cash payments or free periods, to carry our networks. Distribution revenue also includes fees charged for bulk content arrangements and other subscription services for episodic content. These digital distribution revenues are impacted by the quantity, as well as the quality, of the content we provide.
As reported and excluding the impact of foreign currency fluctuations, distribution revenue increased 1% in 20202023, primarily attributable to changeslower TV licensing revenue and the prior year broadcast of the Olympics in contractual affiliate rates at U.S. NetworksEurope, partially offset by higher games revenue due to the release of Hogwarts Legacy and International Networks.higher theatrical film rental revenue due to the release of Barbie.
Other revenue decreased 16%primarily consists of studio production services and tours.
Other revenue increased 14% in 2020. Excluding2023, primarily attributable to the impactopening of foreign currency fluctuations, other revenue decreased 17%.Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo in June 2023, continued strong attendance at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London and Hollywood, and services provided to the unconsolidated TNT Sports joint venture.
Costs of Revenues
Our principal component of costs of revenues is content expense. Content expense includes televisiontelevision/digital series, television specials, films, and sporting events and digital products.events. The costs of producing a content asset and bringing that asset to market consist of filmproduction costs, participation costs, exploitation costs and manufacturingexploitation costs.
As reported and excluding the impact of foreign currency fluctuations, costsCosts of revenues increased 1%decreased 4% in 20202023, primarily attributable to increaseslower content expense at our Studios segment for television products and our DTC segment and lower sports networks content expense, due to the prior year broadcast of the Olympics in Europe and our exit from AT&T SportsNets, partially offset by higher games content amortization from investments to support our next generation initiatives at U.S. Networks.expense.
Selling, General and Administrative
Selling, general and administrative expenses consist principally of employee costs, marketing costs, research costs, occupancy, and back office support fees.
Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased 2%15% in 2020. Excluding the impact of foreign currency fluctuations, selling, general and administrative decreased 1%. The decrease was2023, primarily attributable to more efficient marketing-related spend and a reduction in travelpersonnel costs, as a result of COVID-19 and lower marketing-related expenses, partially offset by an increase in personnel costs to support our next generation platforms, including discovery+.higher theatrical and games marketing expense.
Depreciation and Amortization
Depreciation and amortization expense includes depreciation of fixed assets and amortization of finite-lived intangible assets. As reported and excluding the impact of foreign currency fluctuations, depreciationDepreciation and amortization increased 1%10% in 2020.2023, primarily attributable to intangible assets acquired during the Merger that are being amortized using the sum of the months’ digits method, which resulted in lower pro forma amortization in 2022.
Restructuring and Other Charges
In connection with the Merger, the Company has announced and has taken actions to implement projects to achieve cost synergies for the Company. Restructuring and other charges decreased 84% in 2023, primarily attributable to lower content impairments and other content development costs and write-offs, contract terminations, facility consolidation activities, organizational restructuring, and other charges. (See Note 6 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements.)
Impairments and Loss on Dispositions
Impairments and loss on dispositions was a $77 million and $117 million loss in 2023 and 2022, respectively. The increaseloss in 2023 was primarily attributable to an increaselease impairments and costs associated with our exit from AT&T SportsNets. The loss in capital expenditures.
Impairment2022 was primarily attributable to the write-down to the estimated fair value, less costs to sell, of Goodwillthe Ranch Lot and Other Intangible Assets
Impairment of goodwillKnoxville office building and other intangibleland in connection with the classification as assets was $124 million and $155 million in 2020 and 2019.held for sale. (See Note 18 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements.)
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Restructuring and Other Charges
Restructuring and other charges were $91 million and $26 million in 2020 and 2019. Restructuring and other charges primarily include employee termination costs and other cost reduction efforts.
Interest Expense, net
InterestActual interest expense, decreased 4%net increased $444 million in 2020. The decrease was2023, primarily attributable to debt assumed as a lower average debt balance in 2020, a more favorable interest rate profile on our outstanding senior notes,result of the Merger. (See Note 11 and incremental interest income relatedNote 13 to the change in fair value of our cross-currency swaps.
Loss on Extinguishment of Debt
In 2020, we repurchased $1.5 billion aggregate principal amount of DCL's and Scripps Networks' senior notes. The repurchase resulted in a loss on extinguishment of debt of $76 million. The loss included $67 million of net premiums to par value and $9 million of other charges.accompanying consolidated financial statements.)
Loss from Equity Investees, net
We reportedActual losses from our equity method investees of $105were $82 million and $160 million in 2020 compared to losses of $2 million in 2019.2023 and 2022, respectively. The changes are attributable to the Company'sCompany’s share of earnings and losses from its equity investees. (See Note 10 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements.)
Other (Expense) Income, (Expense), net
The table below presents the details of other (expense) income, (expense), net (in millions).
Year Ended December 31,
20202019
Foreign currency (losses) gains, net$(115)$17 
Gain on sale of investment with readily determinable fair value101 — 
Gains (losses) on derivatives not designated as hedges29 (52)
Change in the value of investments with readily determinable fair value28 (26)
Expenses from debt modification(11)— 
Interest income10 22 
Gain on sale of equity method investments13 
Remeasurement gain on previously held equity interest— 14 
Other (expense) income, net(2)
Total other income (expense), net$42 $(8)
Year Ended December 31,
20232022
Foreign currency losses, net$(173)$(150)
Gains on derivative instruments, net28 475 
Change in the value of investments with readily determinable fair value37 (105)
Change in the value of equity investments without readily determinable fair value(73)(142)
Gain on sale of equity method investments— 195 
Gain on extinguishment of debt17 — 
Interest income179 67 
Other (expense) income, net(27)
Total other (expense) income, net$(12)$347 
Income Taxes
The following table reconciles our effective income tax rate to the U.S. federal statutory income tax rate.
Year Ended December 31,
20232022
Pre-tax income at U.S. federal statutory income tax rate$(811)21 %$(1,881)21 %
State and local income taxes, net of federal tax benefit(388)10 %(218)%
Effect of foreign operations342 (9)%246 (3)%
Preferred stock conversion premium charge— — %166 (2)%
Noncontrolling interest adjustment(9)— %(17)— %
Other, net82 (2)%41 — %
Income tax benefit$(784)20 %$(1,663)19 %
Year Ended December 31,
20202019
Pre-tax income at U.S. federal statutory income tax rate$363 21 %$482 21 %
State and local income taxes, net of federal tax benefit(10)— %27 %
Effect of foreign operations— %(21)(1)%
Noncontrolling interest adjustment(29)(2)%(30)(1)%
Impairment of goodwill25 %32 %
Deferred tax adjustment(22)(1)%— — %
Non-deductible compensation17 %22 %
Change in uncertain tax positions17 %— %
Legal entity restructuring, deferred tax impact— — %(445)(19)%
Renewable energy investments tax credits— — %(1)— %
Other, net$— %$12 %
Income tax expense$373 22 %$81 %
Income tax benefit was $(784) million and $(1,663) million, and the Company’s effective tax rate was 20% and 19% for 2023 and 2022, respectively. The decrease in tax benefit for the year ended December 31, 2023 was primarily attributable to a decrease in pre-tax book loss and the effect of foreign operations, including taxation and allocation of income and losses across various foreign jurisdictions. These decreases were partially offset by a state uncertain tax benefit remeasurement following a multi-year tax audit agreement and a favorable state deferred tax adjustment recorded in the year ended December 31, 2023. The decrease for the year ended December 31, 2023 was further offset by a one-time expense incurred in 2022 related to a preferred stock conversion transaction expense that was not deductible for tax purposes.
4237



Income tax expense was $373 million and $81 million, and our effective tax rate was 22% and 4% for 2020 and 2019. The increase in income tax expense in 2020 was primarily attributable to the discrete, one-time, non-cash deferred tax benefit of $445 million from legal entity restructurings that was recorded in 2019. Additionally, the increase in income tax expense in 2020 was attributable to an increase in provision for uncertain tax positions and an increase in the effect of foreign operations. Those increases were partially offset by a decrease in pre-tax book income, a tax benefit from a favorable multi-year state resolution, and a favorable deferred tax adjustment in the U.S. that was recorded in 2020.
Segment Results of Operations – 20202023 vs. 20192022
We evaluateThe Company evaluates the operating performance of ourits operating segments based on financial measures such as revenues and Adjusted OIBDA.EBITDA. Adjusted OIBDAEBITDA is defined as operating income excluding: (i) 
employee share-based compensation, (ii) compensation;
depreciation and amortization, (iii) amortization;
restructuring and other charges, (iv) facility consolidation;
certain impairment charges, (v) charges;
gains and losses on business and asset dispositions, (vi) dispositions;
certain inter-segment eliminations related to production studios, (vii) eliminations;
third-party transaction costs directly related to the acquisition and integration costs;
amortization of Scripps Networkspurchase accounting fair value step-up for content;
amortization of capitalized interest for content; and other transactions, and (viii)
other items impacting comparability, such as the non-cash settlement of a withholding tax claim. We usecomparability.
The Company uses this measure to assess the operating results and performance of ourits segments, perform analytical comparisons, identify strategies to improve performance, and allocate resources to each segment. We believeThe Company believes Adjusted OIBDAEBITDA is relevant to investors because it allows them to analyze the operating performance of each segment using the same metric management uses. We excludeThe Company excludes employee share-based compensation, restructuring, and other charges, certain impairment charges, gains and losses on business and asset dispositions, and acquisitiontransaction and integration costs from the calculation of Adjusted OIBDAEBITDA due to their impact on comparability between periods. WeIntegration costs include transformative system implementations and integrations, such as Enterprise Resource Planning systems, and may take several years to complete. The Company also excludeexcludes the depreciation of fixed assets and amortization of intangible assets, amortization of purchase accounting fair value step-up for content, and amortization of capitalized interest for content, as these amounts do not represent cash payments in the current reporting period. Certain corporate expenses and inter-segment eliminations related to production studios are excluded from segment results to enable executive management to evaluate segment performance based upon the decisions of segment executives.
Adjusted OIBDAEBITDA should be considered in addition to, but not a substitute for, operating income, net income, and other measures of financial performance reported in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”).
43


GAAP.
The table below presents our Adjusted OIBDAEBITDA by segment with a reconciliation of consolidated net income available to Discovery, Inc. to Adjusted OIBDA (in millions).
Year Ended December 31,
20202019% Change
Net income available to Discovery, Inc.$1,219 $2,069 (41)%
Net income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interests12 16 (25)%
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests124 128 (3)%
Income tax expense373 81 NM
Income before income taxes1,728 2,294 (25)%
Other (income) expense, net(42)NM
Loss from equity investees, net105 NM
Loss on extinguishment of debt76 28 NM
Interest expense, net648 677 (4)%
Operating income2,515 3,009 (16)%
Depreciation and amortization1,359 1,347 %
Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets124 155 (20)%
Employee share-based compensation99 137 (28)%
Restructuring and other charges91 26 NM
Transaction and integration costs26 (77)%
Loss on asset disposition— NM
Settlement of a withholding tax claim— (29)NM
Adjusted OIBDA$4,196 $4,671 (10)%
Adjusted OIBDA:
U.S. Networks3,975 4,117 (3)%
International Networks723 1,057 (32)%
Corporate, inter-segment eliminations, and other(502)(503)— %
Adjusted OIBDA$4,196 $4,671 (10)%

 Year Ended December 31,
 20232022% Change
Studios$2,183 $1,772 23 %
Networks9,063 8,725 %
DTC103 (1,596)NM
Corporate(1,242)(1,200)(4)%
Inter-segment eliminations93 17 NM
4438


 Studios Segment
The following table below presents, the calculationfor our Studios segment, revenues by type, certain operating expenses, Adjusted EBITDA and a reconciliation of Adjusted OIBDAEBITDA to operating income (loss) (in millions).
 Year Ended December 31,
 20232022% Change
ActualActualPro Forma
Adjustments
Pro Forma
Combined
ActualPro Forma Combined
(Actual)
Pro Forma
Combined
(ex-FX)
Revenues:
Distribution$17 $12 $$18 42 %(6)%(6)%
Advertising15 15 24 — %(38)%(38)%
Content11,358 9,156 3,898 13,054 24 %(13)%(13)%
Other802 548 154 702 46 %14 %13 %
Total revenues12,192 9,731 4,067 13,798 25 %(12)%(12)%
Costs of revenues, excluding depreciation and amortization7,296 6,310 2,392 8,702 16 %(16)%(16)%
Selling, general and administrative2,713 1,649 698 2,347 65 %16 %16 %
Adjusted EBITDA2,183 1,772 977 2,749 23 %(21)%(21)%
Depreciation and amortization667 501 39 540 
Employee share-based compensation— 26 27 
Restructuring and other charges225 1,050 (38)1,012 
Transaction and integration costs— 
Amortization of fair value step-up for content995 1,370 (785)585 
Amortization of capitalized interest for content46 — — — 
Inter-segment eliminations31 — 
Impairments and loss on dispositions30 — 30 
Operating income (loss)$211 $(1,194)$1,735 $541 
Year Ended December 31,
20202019% Change
Revenue:
U.S. Networks$6,949 $7,092 (2)%
International Networks3,713 4,041 (8)%
Corporate, inter-segment eliminations, and other11 (18)%
Total revenue10,671 11,144 (4)%
Costs of revenues, excluding depreciation and amortization3,860 3,819 %
Selling, general and administrative (a)
2,615 2,654 (1)%
Adjusted OIBDA$4,196 $4,671 (10)%
(a) Selling, general and administrative expenses exclude employee share-based compensation, third-party transaction and integration costs related to the acquisition of Scripps Networks and other transactions, and for 2019, exclude the settlement of a withholding tax claim.
The discussion below reflects the results for the year ended December 31, 2022 on a pro forma combined basis, ex-FX, since the actual increases year over year for revenues, cost of revenue, selling, general and administrative expenses and Adjusted EBITDA are substantially attributable to the Merger.
U.S.Revenues
Content revenue decreased 13% in 2023, primarily attributable to lower TV licensing revenue, partially offset by higher games revenue due to the release of Hogwarts Legacy and higher theatrical film rental revenue due to the release of Barbie. TV licensing revenue decreased due to the timing of TV production, including the impact of the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes, certain large TV licensing deals in the prior year, fewer series sold to our owned platforms, and fewer CW series.
Other revenue increased 13% in 2023, primarily attributable to the opening of Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo in June 2023 and continued strong attendance at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London and Hollywood, partially offset by lower studio production services due to the impact of the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes.
Costs of Revenues
Costs of revenues decreased 16% in 2023, primarily attributable to lower television product content expense, including the impact of the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes, partially offset by higher content expense for games and theatrical products commensurate with higher revenues.
Selling, General and Administrative
Selling, general and administrative expenses increased 16% in 2023, primarily attributable to higher theatrical marketing expense due to the increased quantity of films released and higher games marketing expense to support the release of Hogwarts Legacy.
Adjusted EBITDA
Adjusted EBITDA decreased 21% in 2023.
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 Networks Segment
The table below presents, for our U.S. Networks segment, revenues by type, certain operating expenses, Adjusted EBITDA and a reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to operating income (in millions).
 Year Ended December 31,
 20232022% Change
ActualActualPro Forma
Adjustments
Pro Forma
Combined
ActualPro Forma Combined
(Actual)
Pro Forma
Combined
(ex-FX)
Revenues:
Distribution$11,521 $9,759 $2,183 $11,942 18 %(4)%(2)%
Advertising8,342 8,224 1,380 9,604 %(13)%(13)%
Content1,005 1,120 220 1,340 (10)%(25)%(24)%
Other376 245 55 300 53 %25 %21 %
Total revenues21,244 19,348 3,838 23,186 10 %(8)%(8)%
Costs of revenues, excluding depreciation and amortization9,342 8,006 2,148 10,154 17 %(8)%(7)%
Selling, general and administrative2,839 2,617 364 2,981 %(5)%(4)%
Adjusted EBITDA9,063 8,725 1,326 10,051 %(10)%(9)%
Depreciation and amortization4,961 4,687 4,691 
Employee share-based compensation— — 
Restructuring and other charges201 1,003 (5)998 
Transaction and integration costs— 
Amortization of fair value step-up for content473 73 425 498 
Inter-segment eliminations90 17 — 17 
Impairments and loss on dispositions13 24 — 24 
Operating income$3,322 $2,919 $893 $3,812 
The discussion below reflects the results for the year ended December 31, 2022 on a pro forma combined basis, ex-FX, since the actual increases year over year for revenues, cost of revenue, selling, general and administrative expenses and Adjusted OIBDA (in millions).
Year Ended December 31,
20202019Change %
Revenues:
Advertising$4,012 $4,245 (5)%
Distribution2,852 2,739 %
Other85 108 (21)%
Total revenues6,949 7,092 (2)%
Costs of revenues, excluding depreciation and amortization1,843 1,800��%
Selling, general and administrative1,131 1,175 (4)%
Adjusted OIBDA3,975 4,117 (3)%
Depreciation and amortization899 950 
Restructuring and other charges41 15 
Inter-segment eliminations
Operating income$3,031 $3,145 
EBITDA are substantially attributable to the Merger.
Revenues
AdvertisingDistribution revenue decreased 5%2% in 20202023, primarily attributable to softer demand stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic, secular declinesa decline in linear subscribers in the pay-TV ecosystemU.S., and to a lesser extent, lower overall ratingssports related revenue due to our exit from AT&T SportsNets and a decline in inventory,the TNT Sports Chile shift to DTC, partially offset by increases in pricing and the continued monetization of content offerings on our next generation platforms (such as our GO suite of TVE applications and DTC subscription products).
Distribution revenue increased 4% in 2020 primarily attributable to increases inhigher U.S. contractual affiliate rates and inflationary impact in Argentina.
Advertising revenue decreased 13% in 2023, primarily attributable to audience declines in domestic general entertainment and news networks, soft linear advertising markets in the U.S., and to a lesser extent, certain non-recurring items,international markets, as well as the impact of broadcast of the NCAA March Madness Final Four and Championship in 2022.
Content revenue decreased by 24% in 2023, primarily attributable to lower international sports sublicensing due to the prior year broadcast of the Olympics in Europe, and lower third-party content licensing deals in the U.S., partially offset by a decline in linear subscribers. Excluding these non-recurring items, distribution revenue increased 3% in 2020. Total portfolio subscribers at December 31, 2020 were 5% lower than at December 31, 2019, while subscribershigher inter-segment licensing of content to our fully distributed networks were 3% lower than the prior year.DTC.
Other revenue decreased $23 millionincreased 21% in 2020.2023, primarily attributable to services provided to the unconsolidated TNT Sports UK joint venture.
Costs of Revenues
Costs of revenues increased 2%decreased 7% in 20202023, primarily attributable to increaseslower sports content expense, including the prior year broadcast of the Olympics in content amortizationEurope and the NCAA March Madness Final Four and Championship and our exit from investments to support our next generation initiatives,AT&T SportsNets, lower domestic general entertainment and news related expense, partially offset by a reductionunfavorable expenses from inflationary impact in production projects as a result of COVID-19Argentina and a non-recurring reserve release established in purchase accounting. Content expense was $1.6 billion and $1.5 billion in 2020 and 2019.
45


costs associated with the unconsolidated TNT Sports UK joint venture.
Selling, General and Administrative
Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased 4% in 20202023, primarily attributable to a reduction in travel costs as a result of COVID-19lower marketing and lower marketing-related expenses, partially offset by an increase in personnel costs to support our next generation platforms, including discovery+.expenses.
Adjusted OIBDAEBITDA
Adjusted OIBDAEBITDA decreased 3%9% in 2020.2023.
International Networks
40


 DTC Segment
The following table presents, for our International NetworksDTC segment, revenues by type, certain operating expenses, Adjusted EBITDA and a reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to operating loss (in millions).
 Year Ended December 31,
 20232022% Change
ActualActualPro Forma
Adjustments
Pro Forma
Combined
ActualPro Forma Combined
(Actual)
Pro Forma
Combined
(ex-FX)
Revenues:
Distribution$8,703 $6,371 $2,150 $8,521 37 %%%
Advertising548 371 36 407 48 %35 %35 %
Content886 522 230 752 70 %18 %17 %
Other17 10 13 70 %31 %31 %
Total revenues10,154 7,274 2,419 9,693 40 %%%
Costs of revenues, excluding depreciation and amortization7,623 6,211 1,977 8,188 23 %(7)%(7)%
Selling, general and administrative2,428 2,659 909 3,568 (9)%(32)%(32)%
Adjusted EBITDA103 (1,596)(467)(2,063)NMNMNM
Depreciation and amortization2,063 1,733 31 1,764 
Employee share-based compensation— (1)— (1)
Restructuring and other charges66 1,551 (3)1,548 
Transaction and integration costs— 
Amortization of fair value step-up for content460 390 (52)338 
Inter-segment eliminations72 — 
Impairments and loss on dispositions13 — 13 
Operating loss$(2,565)$(5,293)$(443)$(5,736)
The discussion below reflects the results for the year ended December 31, 2022 on a pro forma combined basis, ex-FX, since the actual increases year over year for revenues, cost of revenue, selling, general and administrative expenses and Adjusted OIBDA (in millions).
Year Ended December 31,
20202019Change %Change % (ex-FX)
Revenues:
Advertising$1,571 $1,799 (13)%(12)%
Distribution2,014 2,096 (4)%(3)%
Other128 146 (12)%(15)%
Total revenues3,713 4,041 (8)%(7)%
Costs of revenues, excluding depreciation and amortization2,004 2,016 (1)%(1)%
Selling, general and administrative986 968 %%
Adjusted OIBDA723 1,057 (32)%(28)%
Depreciation and amortization374 328 
Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets124 155 
Restructuring and other charges29 20 
Transaction and integration costs— 
Inter-segment eliminations20 
Settlement of a withholding tax claim— (29)
Operating income$191 $563 
EBITDA are substantially attributable to the Merger.
Revenues
As of December 31, 2023, we had 97.7 million DTC subscribers (as defined under Item 1. “Business”).
Distribution revenue increased 2% in 2023, primarily attributable to new partnership launches, price increases in the U.S. and most international markets, the launch of the Ultimate tier for Max in the U.S., and the TNT Sports Chile shift to DTC, partially offset by U.S. wholesale declines.
Advertising revenue decreased 13%increased 35% in 2020. Excluding the impact of foreign currency fluctuations, advertising2023, primarily attributable to higher Max U.S. engagement and ad-lite subscriber growth.
Content revenue decreased 12%.The decreases wereincreased 17% in 2023, primarily attributable to a declinehigher volume of licensing deals.
Costs of Revenues
Cost of revenues decreased 7% in demand stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic and the discontinuation of pay-TV distribution with certain European operators.
Distribution revenue decreased 4% in 2020. Excluding the impact of foreign currency fluctuations, distribution revenue decreased 3%. The decreases were2023, primarily attributable to lower contractual affiliate rates,content expense and the discontinuationshutdown of pay-TV distribution with certain European operators, and a disruptionCNN+ in the number of sporting events in Europe due to COVID-19,prior year, partially offset by increased content licensing costs commensurate with higher next generation revenues due to subscriber growth.
Other revenue decreased $18 million in 2020. Excluding the impact of foreign currency fluctuations, other revenue decreased $22 million.
Costs of Revenues
As reported and excluding the impact of foreign currency fluctuations, costs of revenues decreased 1% in 2020. The decreases were primarily attributable to a reduction in the number of sporting events in Europe due to COVID-19. Content expense, excluding the impact of foreign currency fluctuations, was $1.3 billion for 2020 and 2019.content revenue.
Selling, General, and Administrative Expenses
Selling, general and administrative expenses increased 2%decreased 32% in 2020. Excluding the impact of foreign currency fluctuations, selling, general, and administrative expenses increased 3%. The increases were2023, primarily attributable to higher personnel costs to support our next generation platforms, partially offset by a reductionmore efficient marketing-related spend.
Adjusted EBITDA
Adjusted EBITDA increased $2,150 million in travel costs as a result of COVID-19.2023.
4641


Adjusted OIBDACorporate
Adjusted OIBDA decreased 32% in 2020. Excluding the impact of foreign currency fluctuations, adjusted OIBDA decreased 28%.
Corporate, Inter-segment Eliminations, and Other
The following table presents our unallocated corporate amounts including certainAdjusted EBITDA and a reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to operating expenses, and Adjusted OIBDAloss (in millions).
Year Ended December 31,
20202019% Change
Revenues$$11 (18)%
Costs of revenues, excluding depreciation and amortization13 NM
Selling, general and administrative498 511 (3)%
Adjusted OIBDA(502)(503)— %
Employee share-based compensation99 137 
Depreciation and amortization86 69 
Restructuring and other charges21 (9)
Transaction and integration costs26 
Loss on asset disposition— 
Inter-segment eliminations(5)(27)
Operating loss$(707)$(699)
:
 Year Ended December 31, 
 20232022% Change
ActualActualPro Forma
Adjustments
Pro Forma
Combined
ActualPro Forma Combined
(Actual)
Pro Forma
Combined
(ex-FX)
Adjusted EBITDA$(1,242)$(1,200)$(353)$(1,553)(4)%20 %20 %
Employee share-based compensation488 410 (11)399 
Depreciation and amortization294 272 (40)232 
Restructuring and other charges95 195 (44)151 
Transaction and integration costs148 1,182 (564)618 
Impairments and loss on dispositions60 50 — 50 
Facility consolidation costs32 — — — 
Amortization of fair value step-up for content(6)— — — 
Inter-segment eliminations(193)(31)— (31)
Operating loss$(2,160)$(3,278)$306 $(2,972)
Corporate operations primarily consist of executive management and administrative support services, which are recorded in selling, general and administrative expense, as well as substantially all of our share-based compensation and third-party transaction and integration costs.
As reported transaction and integration costs for 2022 included the impact of the issuance of additional shares of WBD common stock to Advance/Newhouse Programming Partnership of $789 million upon the closing of the Merger. (See Note 3 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements.)
Adjusted EBITDA improved 20% in 2023, primarily attributable to reductions to personnel costs, lower technology-related operating expenses, and lower securitization expense.
Inter-segment Eliminations
The following table presents our inter-segment eliminations by revenue and expense, Adjusted EBITDA and a reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to operating loss (in millions):
 Year Ended December 31, 
 20232022% Change
ActualActualPro Forma
Adjustments
Pro Forma
Combined
ActualPro Forma Combined
(Actual)
Pro Forma
Combined
(ex-FX)
Inter-segment revenue eliminations$(2,269)$(2,566)$(1,065)$(3,631)12 %38 %38 %
Inter-segment expense eliminations(2,362)(2,583)(1,038)(3,621)%35 %35 %
Adjusted EBITDA93 17 (27)(10)NMNMNM
Restructuring and other charges(2)(42)— (42)
Amortization of fair value step-up for content451 583 — 583 
Operating loss$(356)$(524)$(27)$(551)
Inter-segment revenue and expense eliminations primarily represent inter-segment content transactions and marketing and promotion activity between reportable segments. In our current segment structure, in certain instances, production and distribution activities are in different segments. Inter-segment content transactions are presented “gross” (i.e. the segment producing and/or licensing the content reports revenue and profit from inter-segment transactions in a manner similar to the reporting of third-party transactions, and the required eliminations are reported on the separate “Eliminations” line when presenting our summary of segment results). Generally, timing of revenue recognition is similar to the reporting of third-party transactions. The segment distributing the content, e.g. via our DTC or linear services, capitalizes the cost of inter-segment content transactions, including “mark-ups” and amortizes the costs over the shorter of the license term, if applicable, or the expected period of use. The content amortization expense related to the acquisitioninter-segment profit is also eliminated on the separate “Eliminations” line when presenting our summary of Scripps Networks and other transactions.segment results.
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LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
Liquidity
Sources of Cash
Historically, we have generated a significant amount of cash from operations. During 2020,2023, we funded our working capital needs primarily through cash flows from operations. As of December 31, 2020,2023, we had $2.1$3.8 billion of cash and cash equivalents on hand. We are a well-known seasoned issuer and have the ability to conduct registered offerings of securities, including debt securities, common stock and preferred stock, on short notice, subject to market conditions. Access to sufficient capital from the public market is not assured. We also have a $2.5$6.0 billion revolving credit facility and commercial paper program described below. We also participate in a revolving receivables program and an accounts receivable factoring program described below.
Beginning in February 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic began adversely affecting the availability of borrowings in the commercial paper market. In addition, duringDebt
Senior Notes
During the year ended December 31, 2020,2023, we implemented several measures that we believed would preserve sufficient liquidity in the near term in response to the impactissued $1.5 billion of COVID-19, as discussed further below.
Debt
2020 Senior Notes Activity
During 2020, we commenced five separate private offers to exchange (the “Exchange Offers”) any and all of Discovery Communications, LLC's ("DCL"), our wholly-owned subsidiary, outstanding 5.000% Senior Notes due 2037, 6.350% Senior Notes due 2040, 4.950% Senior Notes due 2042, 4.875% Senior Notes due 2043 and 5.200% Senior Notes due 2047 (collectively, the “Old Notes”) for one new series of DCL 4.000% Senior Notes due September 2055 (the “New Notes”). We completed the Exchange Offers in September 2020, by exchanging $1.4 billion aggregate principal amount of the Old Notes validly tendered and accepted by us pursuant to the Exchange Offers, for $1.7 billion aggregate principal amount of the New Notes (before debt discount of $318 million). The New Notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by us and Scripps Networks on an unsecured and unsubordinated basis. The Exchange Offers were accounted for as a debt modification and, as a result, third-party issuance costs totaling $11 million were expensed as incurred.
47


Also during 2020, we completed offers to purchase for cash (the “Cash Offers”) the Old Notes. Approximately $22 million aggregate principal amount of the Old Notes were validly tendered and accepted for purchase by us pursuant to the Cash Offers, for total cash consideration of $27 million, plus accrued interest. The Cash Offers resulted in a loss on extinguishment of debt of $5 million.
Finally, during 2020, DCL issued $2.0 billion aggregate principal amount of6.412% fixed rate senior notes due in 2030 and 2050. All of DCL's outstandingMarch 2026. After March 2024, the senior notes are fullyredeemable at par plus accrued and unconditionally guaranteed on an unsecured and unsubordinated basis by Discovery and Scripps Networks and contain certain covenants, events of default and other customary provisions. DCL used the proceeds from the offering to fund a tender offer for $1.5 billion aggregate principal amount of DCL's and Scripps Networks' senior notes, which resulted in a loss on extinguishment of debt of $71 million, and to repay the $500 million outstanding under our revolving credit facility described below.unpaid interest.
2019 Senior Notes Activity
During 2019, DCL issued $1.5 billion aggregate principal of senior notes (the "2029 Notes and 2049 Notes").
Revolving Credit Facility and Commercial Paper
We have access to a $2.5 billionmulticurrency revolving credit facility. Borrowingagreement (the “Revolving Credit Agreement”) and have the capacity under this credit facility is reduced by the outstanding borrowings under our commercial paper program. During March 2020, we drew down $500 millionto borrow up to $6.0 billion under the revolving credit facility to increase our cash position and maximize flexibility in light of the uncertainty surrounding the impact of COVID-19 and such amount was repaid during the second quarter of 2020. All obligations of DCL and the other borrowers under the revolving credit facility are unsecured and are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by Discovery.
The credit agreement governing the revolving credit facilityRevolving Credit Agreement (the “Credit Agreement”Facility”). We may also request additional commitments up to $1.0 billion from the lenders upon the satisfaction of certain conditions. The Revolving Credit Agreement contains customary representations warranties and events of default,warranties as well as affirmative and negative covenants. In the second quarter of 2020, to preserve flexibility in the current environment, we amended certain provisions of the Credit Agreement, including modifying the financial covenants to reset the Maximum Consolidated Leverage Ratio. (See Note 8 to the accompany consolidated financial statements.) As of December 31, 2020,2023, we were in compliance with all covenants and there were no events of default under the Revolving Credit Agreement.
UnderAdditionally, our commercial paper program and subject to market conditions, DCLis supported by the Credit Facility. Under the commercial paper program, we may issue unsecured commercial paper notes guaranteed by Discovery and Scripps Networks from time to time up to an aggregate principal amount outstanding at any given time of $1.5 billion, including up to $500 million of Euro-denominatedeuro-denominated borrowings. The maturities of these notes vary but may not exceed 397 days. The notes may be issued at a discount or at par,Borrowing capacity under the Credit Facility is effectively reduced by any outstanding borrowings under the commercial paper program.
During the year ended December 31, 2023, we borrowed and interest rates vary based on market conditionsrepaid $5,207 million and the credit rating assigned to the notes at the time of issuance.$5,214 million, respectively, under our Credit Facility and commercial paper program. As of December 31, 2020, we2023 and 2022, the Company had no outstanding commercial paper borrowings. Borrowingsborrowings under the Credit Facility or the commercial paper program reduceprogram.
Revolving Receivables Program
We have a revolving agreement to transfer up to $5,500 million of certain receivables through our bankruptcy-remote subsidiary, Warner Bros. Discovery Receivables Funding, LLC, to various financial institutions on a recurring basis in exchange for cash equal to the borrowinggross receivables transferred. We service the sold receivables for the financial institution for a fee and pay fees to the financial institution in connection with this revolving agreement. As customers pay their balances, our available capacity under this revolving agreement increases and typically we transfer additional receivables into the revolving credit facility described above.program. In some cases, we may have collections that have not yet been remitted to the bank, resulting in a liability. The outstanding portfolio of receivables derecognized from our consolidated balance sheets was $5,200 million as of December 31, 2023.
Accounts Receivable Factoring
We have a factoring agreement to sell certain of our non-U.S. trade accounts receivable on a limited recourse basis to a third-party financial institution. For the year ended December 31, 2023, total trade accounts receivable sold under our factoring arrangement was $383 million.
Derivatives
We received investing proceeds of $121 million during the year ended December 31, 2023 from the unwind and settlement of derivative instruments. (See Note 13 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements.)
Uses of Cash
Our primary uses of cash include the creation and acquisition of new content, capital expenditures, business acquisitions, repurchases of our capital stock, income taxes, personnel costs, costs to develop and market our streaming service Max, principal and interest payments on our outstanding senior notes and term loan, funding for various equity method and other investments, including next generation initiatives.and repurchases of our capital stock.
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Content Acquisition
We plan to continue to invest significantly in the creation and acquisition of new content.content, as well as certain sports rights. Additional information regarding contractual commitments to acquire content is set forth in "Commitments“Material Cash Requirements from Known Contractual and Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements"Other Obligations” in this Item 7, "Management's“Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations."
Debt
Term Loan
During the year ended December 31, 2023, we repaid $4.0 billion of aggregate principal amount outstanding of our term loan prior to the due date of April 2025.
Floating Rate Notes
During the year ended December 31, 2023, we completed a tender offer and purchased $460 million of aggregate principal amount of our floating rate notes prior to the due date of March 2024.
Senior Notes
During the year ended December 31, 2023, we purchased or repaid $2,420 million of aggregate principal amount outstanding of our senior notes due in 2023 and 2024. In addition, we have $1,781 million of senior notes coming due in 2024.
We may from time to time seek to prepay, retire or purchase our other outstanding indebtedness through prepayments, redemptions, open market purchases, privately negotiated transactions, tender offers or otherwise. Any such purchases or exchanges will be dependent upon several factors, including our liquidity requirements, contractual restrictions, and general market conditions, as well as applicable regulatory, legal and accounting factors. Whether or not we purchase or exchange any of our debt and the size and timing of any such purchases or exchanges will be determined at our discretion.
Capital Expenditures and Investments in Next Generation Initiatives
We effected capital expenditures of $402$1,316 million in 2020,2023, including amounts capitalized to support our next generation platforms, such as discovery+.Max. In addition, we expect to continue to incur significant costs to develop and market discovery+ in the future.Max.
Investments and Business Combinations
We made business acquisitions of $39 million and $73 million in 2020 and 2019.
During 2020, we purchased $250 million of time deposit investments.
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Our uses of cash have included investments in various equity investments.method investments and equity investments without readily determinable fair value. (See Note 10 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements.) We also provide funding to our investees from time to time. We contributed $181$112 million and $254$168 million in 20202023 and 2019,2022, respectively, for investments in and advances to our investees.
We previously held a 35% interest in BluTV, an SVOD platform entity and content distributor in Turkey that was accounted for as an equity method investment. In December 2023, we acquired the remaining 65% of BluTV for $50 million.
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest and Noncontrolling Interest
Due to business combinations, we also havehad redeemable equity balances of $383$165 million at December 31, 2023, which may require the use of cash in the event holders of noncontrolling interests put their interests to us. In 2022, GoldenTree exercised its put right requiring us to purchase GoldenTree’s noncontrolling interest. In 2023, we paid GoldenTree $49 million for the Company beginning in 2021.redemption of their noncontrolling interest. (See Note 19 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements.) Distributions to noncontrolling interests and redeemable noncontrolling interests and noncontrolling interests totaled $254$301 million and $250$300 million in 20202023 and 2019.2022, respectively.
Common Stock Repurchases
Historically, we have funded our stock repurchases through a combination of cash on hand, cash generated by operations and the issuance of debt. In February 2020, our Boardboard of Directorsdirectors authorized additional stock repurchases of up to $2 billion upon completion of our existing $1 billion authorization announced in May 2019. Under the new stock repurchase authorization, management is authorized to purchase shares from time to time through open market purchases at prevailing prices or privately negotiated purchases subject to market conditions and other factors. (See Note 123 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements.) During 2020 and 2019, we repurchased $969 million and $633 million of our Series CThere were no common stock.stock repurchases during 2023 or 2022.
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Income Taxes and Interest
We expect to continue to make payments for income taxes and interest on our outstanding senior notes.During 20202023 and 2019,2022, we made cash payments of $641$1,440 million and $562$1,027 million for income taxes and $673$2,237 million and $708$1,539 million for interest on our outstanding debt.
Debt
2020 Debt Activity
In addition to the tender offers for $1.5 billion aggregate principal amount of DCL's and Scripps Networks' senior notes and repayment of the $500 million outstanding under our revolving credit facility described above, during 2020 we repaid $600 million of senior notes as they came due. We have an additional $335 million of senior notes coming due in June 2021, which will be redeemed on March 21, 2021.
2019 Debt Activity
During 2019, we used the net proceeds from the issuance of the 2029 Notes and 2049 Notes to redeem and repurchase $1.3 billion aggregate principal amount of senior notes. The repayment resulted in a loss on extinguishment of debt, of $23 million.
Also during 2019, we redeemed $411 million aggregate principal senior notes, made open market bond repurchases of $55 million, resulting in a loss on extinguishment of debt of $5 million, and redeemed $900 million of senior notes and floating rate notes as they came due.respectively.
Cash Flows
ChangesThe following table presents changes in cash and cash equivalents were as follows (in millions).
Year Ended December 31,
20202019
Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash, beginning of period$1,552 $986 
Cash provided by operating activities2,739 3,399 
Cash used in investing activities(703)(438)
Cash used in financing activities(1,549)(2,357)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash83 (38)
Net change in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash570 566 
Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash, end of period$2,122 $1,552 
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Year Ended December 31,
20232022
Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash, beginning of period$3,930 $3,905 
Cash provided by operating activities7,477 4,304 
Cash (used in) provided by investing activities(1,259)3,524 
Cash used in financing activities(5,837)(7,742)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash(61)
Net change in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash389 25 
Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash, end of period$4,319 $3,930 
Operating Activities
Cash provided by operating activities was $2.7 billion$7,477 million and $3.4 billion$4,304 million in 20202023 and 2019.2022, respectively. The decreaseincrease in cash provided by operating activities was primarily attributable to a decreasean increase in net income, excluding non-cash items, and, to a lesser extent,partially offset by a negative fluctuation in working capital activity, primarily due to the timing of payments, partially offset by an increase in receivables collected.activity.
Investing Activities
Cash used in(used in) provided by investing activities was $703$(1,259) million and $438$3,524 million in 20202023 and 2019.2022, respectively. The increasedecrease in cash used inprovided by investing activities was primarily driven byattributable to cash acquired from the purchaseMerger in the prior year, less proceeds received from the unwind and settlement of $250 million in time depositderivative instruments and sale of investments, in 2020 and to a lesser extent, an increase inincreased purchases of property and equipment to support our next generation platforms, including discovery+, partially offset by a reduction in investments in and advances to equity investments.during the year ended December 31, 2023.
Financing Activities
Cash used in financing activities was $1.5 billion$5,837 million and $2.4 billion$7,742 million in 20202023 and 2019.2022, respectively. The decrease in cash used in financing activities was primarily attributable to lowerless net repayments and incremental borrowings of senior notes anddebt activity during the change in net activity under the revolving credit facility, partially offset by an increase in repurchases of stock.year ended December 31, 2023.
Capital Resources
As of December 31, 2020,2023, capital resources were comprised of the following (in millions).
December 31, 2020December 31, 2023
Total
Capacity
Outstanding
Letters of
Credit
Outstanding
Indebtedness
Unused
Capacity
Total
Capacity
Outstanding
Indebtedness
Unused
Capacity
Cash and cash equivalentsCash and cash equivalents$2,091 $— $— $2,091 
Revolving credit facility and commercial paper programRevolving credit facility and commercial paper program2,500 — — 2,500 
Senior notes (a)
Senior notes (a)
Senior notes (a)
Senior notes (a)
15,848 — 15,848 — 
TotalTotal$20,439 $— $15,848 $4,591 
(a) Interest on senior notes is paid annually, semi-annually or quarterly. Our senior notes outstanding as of December 31, 2020 had interest rates that ranged from 1.90% to 6.35% and will mature between 2021 and 2055.
(a) Interest on senior notes is paid annually, semi-annually, or quarterly. Our senior notes outstanding as of December 31, 2023 had interest rates that ranged from 1.90% to 8.30% and will mature between 2024 and 2062.
(a) Interest on senior notes is paid annually, semi-annually, or quarterly. Our senior notes outstanding as of December 31, 2023 had interest rates that ranged from 1.90% to 8.30% and will mature between 2024 and 2062.
(a) Interest on senior notes is paid annually, semi-annually, or quarterly. Our senior notes outstanding as of December 31, 2023 had interest rates that ranged from 1.90% to 8.30% and will mature between 2024 and 2062.
We expect that our cash balance, cash generated from operations, and availability under the Credit Agreement will be sufficient to fund our cash needs for both the next twelve months.short-term and the long-term. Our borrowing costs and access to capital markets can be affected by short and long-term debt ratings assigned by independent rating agencies which are based, in part, on our performance as measured by credit metrics such as interest coverage and leverage ratios.
As of December 31, 2020, we held $161 million of our $2.1 billion of cash and cash equivalents in our foreign subsidiaries.
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The 2017 Tax Act features a participation exemption regime with current taxation of certain foreign income and imposes a mandatory repatriation toll tax on unremitted foreign earnings. Notwithstanding the U.S. taxation of these amounts, we intend to continue to reinvest these funds outside of the U.S. Our current plans do not demonstrate a need to repatriate them to the U.S. However, if these funds arewere to be needed in the U.S., we would be required to accrue and pay non-U.S. taxes to repatriate them. The determination of the amount of unrecognized deferred income tax liability with respect to these undistributed foreign earnings is not practicable.
Summarized Guarantor Financial Information
Basis of Presentation
Each of the Company, DCL, Discovery Communications Holding LLC (“DCH”) and/or Scripps Networks has the ability to conduct registered offerings of debt securities under the Company’s shelf registration statement. As of December 31, 2020, all of the Company’s outstanding registered senior notes have been issued by DCL, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company and guaranteed by the Company and Scripps Networks, except for $32 million of senior notes outstanding as of December 31, 2020 that have been issued by Scripps Networks and are not guaranteed. (See Note 8 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements.) DCL primarily includes the Discovery Channel and TLC networks in the U.S. DCL is a wholly owned subsidiary of DCH. The Company wholly owns DCH through a 33 1/3% direct ownership interest and a 66 2/3% indirect ownership interest through Discovery Holding Company (“DHC”), a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company. Scripps Networks is 100% owned by the Company.
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The tables below present the summarized financial information as combined for Discovery, Inc. (the “Parent”), Scripps Networks and DCL (collectively, the “Obligors”). All guarantees of DCL's senior notes (the “Note Guarantees”) are full and unconditional, joint and several and unsecured, and cover all payment obligations arising under the senior notes. DCH currently is not an issuer or guarantor of any securities and therefore is not included in the summarized financial information included herein.
Note Guarantees issued by Scripps Networks or any subsidiary of the Parent that in the future issues a Note Guarantee (each, a “Subsidiary Guarantor”) may be released and discharged (i) concurrently with any direct or indirect sale or disposition of such Subsidiary Guarantor or any interest therein, (ii) at any time that such Subsidiary Guarantor is released from all of its obligations under its guarantee of payment by DCL, (iii) upon the merger or consolidation of any Subsidiary Guarantor with and into DCL or the Parent or another Subsidiary Guarantor, or upon the liquidation of such Subsidiary Guarantor and (iv) other customary events constituting a discharge of the Obligors’ obligations.
Summarized Financial Information
During 2020, the Company early adopted Rule 13-01 of the SEC's Regulation S-X. In lieu of providing separate unaudited financial statements for the Parent and Scripps Networks as a Subsidiary Guarantor, the Company has included the accompanying summarized combined financial information of the Obligors after the elimination of intercompany transactions and balances among the Obligors and the elimination of equity in earnings from and investments in any subsidiary of the Parent that is a non-guarantor (in millions).
December 31, 2020
Current assets$2,308 
Non-guarantor intercompany trade receivables, net217 
Noncurrent assets5,905 
Current liabilities915 
Noncurrent liabilities16,500 

Year Ended December 31, 2020
Revenues$2,036 
Operating income1,041 
Net income162 
Net income available to Discovery, Inc.146 

Additional information regarding the changes in our outstanding indebtedness and the significant terms and provisions of our revolving credit facility and outstanding indebtedness is discussed in Note 8 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements included in Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
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COMMITMENTSMATERIAL CASH REQUIREMENTS FROM KNOWN CONTRACTUAL AND OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS
ObligationsOTHER OBLIGATIONS
As of December 31, 2020,2023, our significant contractual and other obligations including related payments due by period, were as follows (in millions).
Payments Due by Period
TotalLess than 1 
Year
1-3 Years3-5 YearsMore than 
5 Years
Long-term debt:
Principal payments$15,848 $335 $1,587 $2,293 $11,633 
Interest payments10,646 646 1,242 1,111 7,647 
Finance lease obligations263 64 103 54 42 
Operating lease obligations859 91 145 121 502 
Content5,053 1,698 1,105 1,113 1,137 
Other1,297 576 567 85 69 
Total$33,966 $3,410 $4,749 $4,777 $21,030 
The above table does not include certain long-term obligations as the timing or the amount of the payments cannot be predicted. The current portion of the liability for cash-settled share-based compensation awards was $37 million as of December 31, 2020. Additionally, reserves for unrecognized tax benefits have been excluded from the above table because we are unable to predict reasonably the ultimate amount or timing of settlement. Our unrecognized tax benefits totaled $348 million as of December 31, 2020.
The above table also does not include DCL's revolving credit facility that allows DCL and certain designated foreign subsidiaries of DCL to borrow up to $2.5 billion, including a $100 million sublimit for the issuance of standby letters of credit and a $50 million sublimit for Euro-denominated swing line loans. Borrowing capacity under this agreement is reduced by the outstanding borrowings under the commercial paper program. As of December 31, 2020, the revolving credit facility agreement provided for a maturity date of August 2022and the option for up to two additional 364-day renewal periods.
From time to time we may provide our equity method investees additional funding that has not been committed to as of December 31, 2020 based on unforeseen investee opportunities or cash flow needs.
TotalShort-termLong-term
Long-term debt:
Principal payments$43,953 $1,781 $42,172 
Interest payments33,177 2,007 31,170 
Purchase obligations:
Content24,072 7,077 16,995 
Other3,242 1,386 1,856 
Finance lease obligations296 85 211 
Operating lease obligations4,360 462 3,898 
Pension and other employee obligations1,526 531 995 
Total$110,626 $13,329 $97,297 
Long-term Debt
Principal payments on long-term debt reflect the repayment of our outstanding senior notes, at face value, assuming repayment will occur upon maturity. Interest payments on our outstanding senior notes are projected based on their contractual rateinterest rates and maturity.maturity dates.
Additionally, we have a multicurrency Revolving Credit Agreement and have the capacity to borrow up to $6.0 billion under the Credit Facility. We may also request additional commitments up to $1.0 billion from the lenders upon the satisfaction of certain conditions. Additionally, our commercial paper program is supported by the Credit Facility. Under the commercial paper program, we may issue up to $1.5 billion, including up to $500 million of euro-denominated borrowings. Borrowing capacity under the Credit Facility is effectively reduced by any outstanding borrowings under the commercial paper program. As of December 31, 2023, we had no outstanding borrowings under the Credit Facility or the commercial paper program. (See Note 11 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements.)
Purchase Obligations
Content purchase obligations include commitments associated with third-party producers and sports associations for content that airs on our television networks and DTC services. Production and licensing contracts generally require the purchase of a specified number of episodes and payments during production or over the term of a license, and include both programs that have been delivered and are available for airing and programs that have not yet been produced or sporting events that have not yet taken place. If the content is ultimately never produced, our commitments expire without obligation. We expect to enter into additional production contracts and content licenses to meet our future content needs.
Other purchase obligations include agreements with certain vendors and suppliers for the purchase of goods and services whereby the underlying agreements are enforceable, legally binding and specify all significant terms. Significant purchase obligations include transmission services, television rating services, marketing commitments and research, equipment purchases, and information technology and other services. Some of these contracts do not require the purchase of fixed or minimum quantities and generally may be terminated with a 30-day to 60-day advance notice without penalty, and are not included in the table above past the 30-day to 60-day advance notice period. Other purchase obligations also include future funding commitments to equity method investees. Although the Company had funding commitments to equity method investees as of December 31, 2023, the Company may also provide uncommitted additional funding to its equity method investments in the future. (See Note 10 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements.)
Content and other purchase obligations presented above exclude liabilities recognized on our consolidated balance sheets.
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Finance Lease Obligations
We acquire satellite transponders and other equipment through multi-year finance lease arrangements. Principal payments on finance lease obligations reflect amounts due under our finance lease agreements. Interest payments on our outstanding finance lease obligations are based on the stated or implied rate in our finance lease agreements. (See Note 12 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements.)
Operating Lease Obligations
We obtain office space and equipment under multi-year lease arrangements. Most operating leases are not cancelablecancellable prior to their expiration. Payments for operating leases represent the amounts due under the agreements assuming the agreements are not canceled prior to their expiration. (See Note 12 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements.)
PurchasePension and Other Employee Obligations
Content purchaseThe Company participates in and/or sponsors a qualified defined benefit pension plan that covers certain U.S. based employees and several U.S. and non-U.S. nonqualified defined benefit pension plans that are noncontributory (“Pension Plans”). The Company’s Pension Plans consist of both funded and unfunded plans. (See Note 17 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements.)
Contractual commitments include payments to meet minimum funding requirements of our Pension Plans in 2024 and estimated benefit payments. Benefit payments have been estimated over a ten-year period. While benefit payments under the Pension Plans are expected to continue beyond 2033, we believe it is not practicable to estimate payments beyond this period.
We are unable to reasonably predict the ultimate amount of any payments due to cash-settled share-based compensation awards. As of December 31, 2023, the current portion of the liability for cash-settled share-based compensation awards was $10 million.
Unrecognized Tax Benefits
We are unable to reasonably predict the ultimate amount or timing of settlement of our unrecognized tax benefits because, until formal resolutions are reached, reasonable estimates of the amount and timing of cash settlements with the respective taxing authorities are not practicable. Our unrecognized tax benefits totaled $2,147 million as of December 31, 2023.
Six Flags Guarantee
In connection with WM’s former investment in the Six Flags (as defined below) theme parks located in Georgia and Texas (collectively, the “Parks”), in 1997, certain subsidiaries of the Company agreed to guarantee (the “Six Flags Guarantee”) certain obligations include commitmentsof the partnerships that hold the Parks (the “Partnerships”) for the benefit of the limited partners in such Partnerships, including, annual payments made to the Parks or to the limited partners and liabilities associated with third-party producersadditional obligations at the end of the respective terms for the Partnerships in 2027 and sports associations for content that airs2028 (the “Guaranteed Obligations”). The aggregate gross undiscounted estimated future cash flow requirements covered by the Six Flags Guarantee over the remaining term (through 2028) are $521 million. To date, no payments have been made by us pursuant to the Six Flags Guarantee.
Six Flags Entertainment Corporation (formerly known as Six Flags, Inc. and Premier Parks Inc.) (“Six Flags”), which has the controlling interest in the Parks, has agreed, pursuant to a subordinated indemnity agreement (the “Subordinated Indemnity Agreement”), to guarantee the performance of the Guaranteed Obligations when due and to indemnify the Company, among others, if the Six Flags Guarantee is called upon. If Six Flags defaults on its indemnification obligations, we have the right to acquire control of the managing partner of the Parks. Six Flags’ obligations to us are further secured by its interest in all limited partnership units held by Six Flags.
Based on our television networks. Production contracts generally require: purchase of a specified number of episodes; payments over the termevaluation of the license;current facts and circumstances surrounding the Guaranteed Obligations and the Subordinated Indemnity Agreement, we are unable to predict the loss, if any, that may be incurred under the Guaranteed Obligations, and no liability for the arrangements has been recognized as of December 31, 2023. Because of the specific circumstances surrounding the arrangements and the fact that no active or observable market exists for this type of financial guarantee, we are unable to determine a current fair value for the Guaranteed Obligations and related Subordinated Indemnity Agreement.
Other Contingent Commitments
Other contingent commitments primarily include both programs that have been deliveredcontingent payments for post-production term advance obligations on a certain co-financing arrangement, as well as operating lease commitment guarantees, letters of credit, bank guarantees, and are availablesurety bonds, which generally support performance and payments for airinga wide range of global contingent and programs that have not yet been produced or sporting events that have not yet taken place. If the content is ultimately never produced, our commitments expire without obligation. The commitments disclosed above exclude content liabilities recognized on the consolidated balance sheet. We expect to enter into additional production contractsfirm obligations, including insurance, litigation appeals, real estate leases, and content licenses to meet our future contentother operational needs.
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Other purchaseThe Company’s other contingent commitments at December 31, 2023 were $395 million, with $367 million estimated to be due in 2024. For other contingent commitments where payment obligations include agreements with certain vendors and suppliers forare outside our control, the purchasetiming of goods and services wherebyamounts represents the underlying agreements are enforceable, legally binding and specify all significant terms. Significant purchase obligations include transmission services, television rating services, marketing research, employment contracts, equipment purchases, and information technology andearliest period in which the payment could be requested. For the remaining other services. We have contractscontingent commitments, the timing of the amounts presented represents when the maximum contingent commitment will expire but does not mean that we expect to incur an obligation to make any payments within that time period. In addition, these amounts do not requirereflect the purchaseeffects of fixed or minimum quantities and generally may be terminated with a 30-day to 60-day advance notice without penalty, and are not included in the table above past the 30-day to 60-day advance notice period. Amounts related to employment contracts include base compensation and do not include compensation contingent on future events.any indemnification rights we might possess.
Put Rights
We have granted put rights to certain consolidated subsidiaries, which have been excluded from the table above sincebut we are unable to reasonably predict the ultimate amount or timing of any payment. We recorded the carrying value of the noncontrolling interest in the equity associated with the put rights as a component of redeemable noncontrolling interest in the amount of $383$165 million. (See Note 1119 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements.)
Pension Obligations
We sponsor a qualified defined benefit pension plan (“Pension Plan”) that covers certain U.S.-based employees. We also have a non-qualified Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan (“SERP”).
Contractual commitments summarized in the contractual obligations table include payments to meet minimum funding requirements of our Pension Plan in 2021 and estimated benefit payments for our SERP. Payments for the SERP have been estimated over a ten-year period. While benefit payments under these plans are expected to continue beyond 2030, we believe it is not practicable to estimate payments beyond this period.
Noncontrolling Interest
The Food Network and Cooking Channel are operated and organized under the terms of the TV Food Network Partnership (the "Partnership"“Partnership”). We hold interests in the Partnership, along with another noncontrolling owner. During the fourth quarter of 2020, theThe Partnership agreement was extended and specifies a dissolution date of December 31, 2022.2024. If the term of the Partnership is not extended prior to that date, the Partnership agreement permits us, as holder of 80% of the applicable votes, to reconstitute the Partnership and continue its business. If for some reason the Partnership is not continued, it will be required to limit its activities to winding up, settling debts, liquidating assets and distributing proceeds to the partners in proportion to their partnership interests.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
We have no material off-balance sheet arrangements (as definedSummarized Guarantor Financial Information
Basis of Presentation
As of December 31, 2023, the Company has outstanding senior notes issued by DCL, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, and guaranteed by the Company, Scripps Networks Interactive, Inc. (“Scripps Networks”), and WMH; senior notes issued by WMH and guaranteed by the Company, Scripps Networks, and DCL; senior notes issued by the legacy WarnerMedia Business (not guaranteed); and senior notes issued by Scripps Networks (not guaranteed). (See Note 11 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements.) DCL primarily includes the Discovery Channel and TLC networks in the U.S. DCL is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company. Scripps Networks is also wholly owned by the Company.
The tables below present the summarized financial information as combined for Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc. (the “Parent”), Scripps Networks, DCL, and WMH (collectively, the “Obligors”). All guarantees of DCL and WMH’s senior notes (the “Note Guarantees”) are full and unconditional, joint and several and unsecured, and cover all payment obligations arising under the senior notes.
Note Guarantees issued by Scripps Networks, DCL or WMH, or any subsidiary of the Parent that in the future issues a Note Guarantee (each, a “Subsidiary Guarantor”) may be released and discharged (i) concurrently with any direct or indirect sale or disposition of such Subsidiary Guarantor or any interest therein, (ii) at any time that such Subsidiary Guarantor is released from all of its obligations under its guarantee of payment, (iii) upon the merger or consolidation of any Subsidiary Guarantor with and into DCL, WMH or the Parent or another Subsidiary Guarantor, as applicable, or upon the liquidation of such Subsidiary Guarantor and (iv) other customary events constituting a discharge of the Obligors’ obligations.
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Summarized Financial Information
The Company has included the accompanying summarized combined financial information of the Obligors after the elimination of intercompany transactions and balances among the Obligors and the elimination of equity in earnings from and investments in any subsidiary of the Parent that is a non-guarantor (in millions).
December 31, 2023
Current assets$1,539 
Non-guarantor intercompany trade receivables, net336 
Noncurrent assets5,709 
Current liabilities2,847 
Noncurrent liabilities42,157 
Year Ended December 31, 2023
Revenues$1,940 
Operating income307 
Net loss(1,436)
Net loss available to Discovery, Inc.(1,447)
Additional information regarding the changes in our outstanding indebtedness and the significant terms and provisions of our revolving credit facility and outstanding indebtedness is discussed in Note 11 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements included in Item 303(a)(4) of Regulation S-K) that have or are reasonably likely to have a current or future effect8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” in this Annual Report on our financial condition, changes in financial condition, revenues or expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources.Form 10-K.
RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
In the ordinary course of business, we enter into transactions with related parties, primarily the Liberty Entities and our equity method investees. Information regarding transactions and amounts with related parties is discussed in Note 21 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements included in Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
NEW ACCOUNTING AND REPORTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
We adopted certain accounting and reporting standards during 2020.2023. Information regarding our adoption of new accounting and reporting standards is discussed in Note 2 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements included in Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
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CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES
Our consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP, which requires management to make estimates, judgments and assumptions that affect the reported amounts reported inof assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities.
On an ongoing basis, we evaluate our estimates and assumptions, including those related to uncertain tax positions, goodwill and intangible assets, content rights, consolidation and revenue recognition. We base our estimates on historical experience, current developments and on various other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable under these circumstances, the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8, "Financial Statementsresults of which form the basis for making judgments about carrying values of assets and Supplementary Data" in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and accompanying notes. liabilities that cannot readily be determined from other sources. There can be no assurance that actual results will not differ from those estimates.
Management considers an accounting policyestimate to be critical if it isrequired assumptions to be made that were uncertain at the time the estimate was made and changes in the estimate or different estimates could have a material to reportingeffect on our financial condition and results of operations, and if it requires significant judgment and estimates on the part of management in its application. operations.
The development and selection of these critical accounting policiesestimates have been determined by management and the related disclosures have been reviewed with the Audit Committee of the Boardboard of Directorsdirectors of the Company. We believe the following accounting policiesestimates are critical to our business operations and the understanding of our results of operations and involve the more significant judgments and estimates used in the preparation of our consolidated financial statements.
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Uncertain Tax Positions
We are subject to income taxes in numerous U.S. and foreign jurisdictions. From time to time, we engage in transactions or takestake filing positions in which the tax consequences may be uncertain and may recognize tax liabilities based on estimates of whether additional taxes and interest will be due. We establish a reserve for uncertain tax positions unless we determine that such positions are more likely than not to be sustained upon examination based on their technical merits, including the resolution of any appeals or litigation processes. We include interest and where appropriate, potential penalties, in ouras a component of income tax reserves.expense on the consolidated statement of operations. This assessment relies on estimates and assumptions and may involve a series of complex judgments about future events including the status and results of income tax audits with the relevant tax authorities. Significant judgment is exercised in evaluating all relevant information, the technical merits of the tax positions, and the accurate measurement of uncertain tax positions when determining the amount of reserve and whether positions taken on our tax returns are more likely than not to be sustained. This also involves the use of significant estimates and assumptions with respect to the potential outcome of positions taken on tax returns that may be reviewed by tax authorities. At December 31, 2023, the reserve for uncertain tax positions was $2,147 million, and it is reasonably possible that the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits related to certain of our uncertain tax positions could decrease by as much as $84 million within the next twelve months as a result of ongoing audits, foreign judicial proceedings, lapses of statutes of limitations or regulatory developments.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets
Goodwill is allocated to our reporting units, which are our operating segments or one level below our operating segments (the component level). Reporting units are determined by the discrete financial information available for the component and whether it is regularly reviewed by segment management. Components are aggregated into a single reporting unit if they share similar economic characteristics. Our reporting units are as follows: U.S.Studios, Networks, Europe, Latin America, and Asia-Pacific.DTC.
We evaluate our goodwill for impairment annually as of October 1 or earlier upon the occurrence of substantive unfavorable changes in economic conditions, industry trends, costs, cash flows, or ongoing declines in market capitalization. If we believe that as a result of our qualitative assessment it is not more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is greater than its carrying amount, a quantitative impairment test is required. The quantitative impairment test requires significant judgment in determining the fair value of the reporting units. We determine the fair value of our reporting units by using a combination of the income approach, which incorporates the use of the discounted cash flow (“DCF”) method and the market multiple approach, which incorporates the use of EBITDA and revenue multiples based on market data. For the DCF method, we use projections specific to the reporting unit, as well as those based on general economic conditions, which require the use of significant estimates and assumptions. Determining fair value specific to each reporting unit requires the Companyus to exercise judgment when selecting the appropriate discount rates, control premiums, terminal growth rates, assumed tax rates, relevant comparable company earnings multiples and the amount and timing of expected future cash flows, including revenue growth rates and profit margins. The cash flows employed in the DCF analysis for each reporting unit are based on the reporting unit'sunit’s budget, long range plan, and recent operating performance. Discount rate assumptions are based on an assessment of the risk inherent in the future cash flows of the respective reporting unit and market conditions.
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20202023 Impairment Analysis
We concluded thatAs of October 1, 2023, the continued impacts of COVID-19 on the operating results of the Europe reporting unit represented a triggering event in the second quarter of 2020. During the second quarter, weCompany performed a quantitative goodwill impairment analysisassessment for our Europeall reporting unit using a DCF valuation model. A market-based valuation model was not weighted in the analysis given the significant volatility in the equity markets. Significant judgments and assumptions in the DCF model included the amount and timing of future cash flows, including revenue growth rates, long-term growth rates of 2%, and a discount rate ranging from 10% to 10.5%.units. The estimated fair value of the Europeeach reporting unit exceeded its carrying value and, therefore, no impairment was recorded.
Also during The Studios reporting unit, which had headroom of 15%, and the second quarterNetworks reporting unit, which had headroom of 2020, we determined that it was more likely than not that the5%, both had fair value was greater than thein excess of carrying value for all other reporting units withof less than 20%. During our annual impairment testing, we evaluated the exceptionsensitivity of our most critical assumption, the Asia-Pacific reporting unit. We performed a quantitative goodwill impairment analysis for the Asia-Pacific reporting unitdiscount rate, and determined that the estimated fair value did not exceed its carrying value, which resulted in a pre-tax impairment charge to write-off the remaining $36 million goodwill balance during the second quarter of 2020. The impairment charge was not deductible for tax purposes. Significant judgments and assumptions included the amount and timing of future cash flows, including revenue growth rates, long-term growth rates ranging from 2% to 2.5%, and a discount rate of 11%. The cash flows employed in the DCF analysis for the Asia-Pacific reporting unit were based on the reporting unit’s budget and long-term business plan. The determination of fair value of our Asia-Pacific reporting unit represents a Level 3 fair value measurement in the fair value hierarchy due to its use of internal projections and unobservable measurement inputs. The goodwill impairment charge did not have an impact on the calculation of our financial covenants under our debt arrangements.
During the third quarter of 2020, we realigned our International Networks management reporting structure. As a result, Australia and New Zealand, which were previously included in the Europe reporting unit, are now included in the Asia-Pacific reporting unit, including the associated goodwill. As a result of this realignment, we performed a quantitative goodwill impairment analysis for our Europe and Asia-Pacific reporting units using a DCF valuation model. A market-based valuation model was not weighted in the analysis given the significant volatility in the equity markets. Significant judgments and assumptions in the DCF model included the amount and timing of future cash flows, including revenue growth rates, long-term growth rates of 2% for Europe and 2% to 2.5% for Asia-Pacific, and a discount rate ranging from 10% to 10.5% for Europe and 11% for Asia-Pacific. The estimated fair value of both the Europe and Asia-Pacific reporting units exceeded their carrying values and, therefore, no impairment was recorded.
During the fourth quarter of 2020, we performed our annual qualitative goodwill impairment assessment for all reporting units and we determined that it was more likely than not that the fair value of those reporting units exceeded their carrying values, except for our Europe and Asia-Pacific reporting units. Given limited headroom of below 20% in its Europe and Asia-Pacific reporting units during the third quarter of 2020, we performed a quantitative goodwill impairment analysis for each of these reporting units using a DCF valuation model. A market-based valuation model was not weighted in the analysis due to significant volatility in the reporting units' equity markets.
The quantitative goodwill impairment analysis for our Europe reporting unit indicated that the estimated fair value exceeded its carry value by approximately 20% and, therefore, no impairment was recorded. Significant judgments and assumptions included the amount and timing of future cash flows, including revenue growth rates, long-term growth rate of 2%, and discount rates ranging from 10.5% to 11%. We noted that a 1.0%50 basis point increase in the discount rate and a 0.5% decrease in the long-term growth rateselected would not have resulted in an impairment loss. As of December 31, 2020,impacted the carrying value of goodwill assigned totest results. Additionally, the Europe reporting unit was $1.9 billion.
The quantitative impairment analysis for our Asia-Pacific reporting unit indicated that estimated fair value did not exceed its carrying value, which resulted in a pre-tax impairment charge to write-offCompany could reduce the remaining $85 million goodwill balance. The impairment was a result of increased cost projections for this region committed to duringterminal growth rate by 100 basis points, and the fourth quarter of 2020 as part of our global discovery+ rollout strategy. The impairment charge was not deductible for tax purposes. Significant judgments and assumptions included the amount and timing of future cash flows, including revenue growth rates, long-term growth rates ranging from 2% to 2.5%, and a discount rate of 11%. The cash flows employed in the DCF analysis for the Asia-Pacific reporting unit were based on the reporting unit’s budget and long-term business plan. The determination of fair value of our Asia-Pacificthe reporting units would still exceed their carrying value. The fair values of the reporting units were determined using a combination of DCF and market valuation methodologies. Due to declining levels of global GDP growth, soft advertising markets in the U.S. associated with the Company’s Networks reporting unit, represents a Level 3 fair value measurementcontent licensing trends in our Studios reporting unit, and execution risk associated with anticipated growth in the fair value hierarchy dueCompany’s DTC reporting unit, the Company will continue to monitor its use of internal projectionsreporting units for changes that could impact recoverability.
Content Rights
We capitalize the costs to produce or acquire feature films and unobservable measurement inputs. The goodwilltelevision programs, and we amortize costs and test for impairment charge did not have an impactbased on whether the calculation of our financial covenants under our debt arrangements.content is predominantly monetized individually, or as a group.
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Content Rights
Content rights principally consist of television series, specials,For films and sporting events. Coststelevision programs predominantly monetized individually, the amount of producedcapitalized film and coproduced content consist of development costs, acquiredtelevision production costs direct production costs, certain production overhead(net of incentives) amortized and the amount of participations and residuals to be recognized as expense in a particular period are determined using the individual film forecast method. Under this method, the amortization of capitalized costs and participation coststhe accrual of participations and is capitalized if we have previously generatedresiduals are based on the proportion of the film’s or television program’s revenues fromrecognized for such period to the film’s or television program’s estimated remaining ultimate revenues (i.e., the total revenue to be received throughout a film’s or television program’s remaining life cycle).
For theatrical films, which are monetized on an individual basis, the process of estimating ultimate revenues requires us to make a series of judgments related to future revenue-generating activities associated with a particular film. Prior to the theatrical release of a film, our estimates are based on factors such as the historical performance of similar content in established marketsfilms, the star power of the lead actors, the rating and genre of the film, pre-release market research (including test market screenings), international distribution plans and the contentexpected number of theaters in which the film will be usedreleased. Subsequent to release, ultimate revenues are updated to reflect initial performance, which is often predictive of future performance.
For television programs that are monetized on an individual basis, ultimate revenues are estimated based on factors including the performance of similar programs in each applicable market, firm commitments in hand from customers that license the program in the future, and revenues will be generatedthe popularity of the program in its initial markets.
For a film or television program that is predominantly monetized on its own but also monetized with other films and/or programs (such as on our DTC or linear services), we make a reasonable estimate of the value attributable to the film or program’s exploitation while monetized with other films/programs, based on relative market rates, and expense such costs as the film or television program is exhibited.
Ultimates for content monetized on an individual basis are reviewed and updated (as applicable) on a periodquarterly basis; any adjustments are applied prospectively as of at least one year.the beginning of the fiscal year of the change.
Linear contentFor programs monetized as a group, including licensed programming, amortization expense for each periodnetwork programs is recognizedgenerally based on projected usage, generally resulting in an accelerated or straight-line amortization pattern. Adjustments for projected usage are applied prospectively in the revenue forecast model, which approximatesperiod of the proportion that estimated distributionchange. Streaming and advertising revenues for the current period represent in relation to the estimated remaining total lifetime revenues. Digitalpremium pay-TV content amortization for each period is recognized based on estimated viewing patterns, as there are generally limited to no direct revenues to associate to the individual content assets and therefore,for premium pay-TV. As such, number of views is most representative of the use of the title.
Judgment is required to determine the useful lives and amortization patterns of our content assets.
assets that are predominantly monetized as a group. Critical assumptions used in determining content amortization include: (i) the grouping of content with similar characteristics, (ii) the application of a quantitative revenue forecast model or historical viewership model based on the adequacy of historical data, and (iii) determining the appropriate historical periods to utilize and the relative weighting of those historical periods in the forecast model, (iv) assessing the accuracy of our forecasts and (v) incorporating secondary streams.model. We then consider the appropriate application of the quantitative assessment given forecasted content use, expected content investment and market trends. Content use and future revenues may differ from estimates based on changes in expectations related to market acceptance, network affiliate fee rates, advertising demand, the number of cable and satellite television subscribers receiving our networks, the number of subscribers to our digitalstreaming services, and program usage. Accordingly, we continually review our estimates and planned usage at least quarterly and revise our assumptions if necessary.
Consolidation
We have ownership and other interests in and contractual arrangements with various entities, including corporations, partnerships, and limited liability companies. For each such entity, we evaluate our ownership, other interests and contractual arrangements to determine whether we should consolidate the entity or account for its interest as an investment at inception and upon reconsideration events. As part of its evaluation, we initially determine whether the entity is a variable interest entity ("VIE"(“VIE”). Management evaluates key considerations through a qualitative and quantitative analysis in determining whether an entity is a VIE including whether (i) the entity has sufficient equity to finance its activities without additional financial support from other parties, (ii) the ability or inability to make significant decisions about the entity’s operations, and (iii) the proportionality of voting rights of investors relative to their obligations to absorb the expected losses (or receive the expected returns) of the entity. If the entity is a VIE and if we have a variable interest in the entity, we use judgment in determining if we are the primary beneficiary and are thus required to consolidate the entity. In making this determination, we evaluate whether we or another party involved with the VIE (1) has the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact the VIE’s economic performance and (2) has the obligation to absorb losses of or receive benefits from the VIE that could be significant to the VIE.
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If it is concluded that an entity is not a VIE, we consider our proportional voting interests in the entity and consolidate majority-owned subsidiaries in which a controlling financial interest is maintained. A controlling financial interest is determined by majority ownership and the absence of substantive third-party participation rights. Key factors we consider in determining the presence of substantive third-party participation rights include, but are not limited to, control of the board of directors, budget approval or veto rights, or operational rights that significantly impact the economic performance of the business such as programming, creative development, marketing, and selection of key personnel. Ownership interests in unconsolidated entities for which we have significant influence are accounted for as equity method.
We evaluated reconsideration events during the year ended December 31, 2023 and concluded there were no changes to our consolidation assessments.
Revenue Recognition
As described in Note 2, revenue is recognized upon transfer of control of promised services or goods to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration that we generate advertising revenues primarily from advertising sold on our television networksexpect to receive in exchange for those services or goods. Significant estimates and websites and distribution revenues from fees charged to distributorsjudgements are applied in determining the timing of its network content, which include cable, direct-to-home satellite, telecommunications and digital service providers and bundled long-term content arrangements, as well as through DTC subscription services.
Revenue contracts with our advertising customers may include multiple distinct performance obligations. For example, linear and digital advertising contracts may include the airingrevenue recognition for certain types of spots and/or the satisfaction of an audience guarantee. For such contracts, judgment is required in allocating the contract value to the individual performance obligations based on their relative standalone selling prices. Various factorstransactions, such as prior transactions, rate cardsbundled arrangements for advertising sales and other market indicators are used to determine the standalone selling price of each performance obligation and accordingly, how much revenue is allocated to each performance obligation. For these contracts, revenue recorded when each performance obligation has been satisfied and value has been transferred to the customer.
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content licensing arrangements.
A substantial portion of the advertising contracts in the U.S. and certain international markets guarantee the advertiser a minimum audience level that either the program in which their advertisements are aired or the advertisement will reach. These advertising campaigns are considered to represent a single, distinct performance obligation. For such contracts, judgementjudgment is required in measuring progress across the Company’sour single performance obligation. Various factors such as pricing specific to the channel, daypart and targeted demographic, as well as estimated audience guarantees, are considered in determining how to appropriately measure progress across the campaigns. Revenues are ultimately recognized based on the guaranteed audience level delivered multiplied by the average price per impression.
Our content licensing arrangements often include fixed license fees from the licensing of feature films and television programs in the off-network cable, premium pay, syndication, streaming, and international television and streaming markets. For arrangements that include multiple titles and/or staggered availabilities across geographical regions, the availability of each title and/or each region is considered a separate performance obligation, and the fixed fee is allocated to each title/region based on comparable market rates and recognized as revenue when the title is available for use by the licensee.
See Item 1A, "Risk Factors"“Risk Factors” for details on all significant risks that could impact our ability to successfully grow our cash flows.
For an in-depth discussion of each of our significant accounting policies, including our critical accounting policies and further information regarding estimates and assumptions involved in their application, see Note 2 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements included in Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
ITEM 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk.
Our financial position, earnings and cash flows are exposed to market risks and can be affected by, among other things, economic conditions, interest rate changes, foreign currency fluctuations, and changes in the market values of investments. We have established policies, procedures and internal processes governing our management of market risks and the use of financial instruments to manage our exposure to such risks.
Interest Rates
We are exposed to the impact of interest rate changes primarily through our actual and potential borrowing activities. During the year ended December 31, 2020,2023, we had access to a $2.5$6.0 billion multicurrency revolving credit facility, whichfacility. We had no outstanding borrowings as of December 31, 2020.2023. We also have access to a commercial paper program, which had no outstanding borrowings as of December 31, 2020.2023. The interest rate on borrowings under the revolving credit facility is variable based on an underlying index and DCL's then-current credit rating for its publicly traded debt.a floating rate based on the applicable currency of the borrowing plus a margin. The revolving credit facility matures in August 2022 andJune 2026, with the option for up to two additional 364-day renewal periods. As of December 31, 2020,2023, we had outstanding debt with a book value$43.9 billion of $15.8 billion under various publicfixed-rate senior notes, with fixed interest rates.at par value.
Our current objectives in managing exposure to interest rate changes are to limit the impact of interest rates on earnings and cash flows. To achieve these objectives, we may enter into variable interest rate swaps,derivative instruments, effectively converting fixed rate borrowings to variable rate borrowings indexed to LIBORbenchmark interest rates in order to reduce the amount of interest paid. We may also enter into fixed rate forward starting swapspaid, or to limit the impact of volatility in interest rates foron future issuances of fixed rate debt. As of December 31, 2020, we had entered into forward starting interest rate swap agreements with a notional value of $2 billion for(See Note 13 to the future issuances of fixed rate debt.accompanying consolidated financial statements.)
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As of December 31, 2020,2023, the fair value of our outstanding public senior notes, including accrued interest, was $18.7$40.5 billion. The fair value of our long-term debt may vary as a result of market conditions and other factors. A change in market interest rates will impact the fair market value of our fixed rate debt. The potential change in fair value of these senior notes from a 100 basis-point increase in quoted interest rates across all maturities, often referred to as a parallel shift in the yield curve, would be a decrease in fair value of approximately $1.7$2.9 billion as of December 31, 2020.2023.
Foreign Currency Exchange Rates
We transact business globally and are subject to risks associated with changing foreign currency exchange rates. Market risk refers to the risk of loss arising from adverse changes in foreign currency exchange rates. The risk of loss can be assessed from the perspective of adverse changes in fair values, cash flows, and future earnings. Our International Networks segment operatesWe operate from hubs in EMEA, Latin America, and Asia. Cash is primarily managed from five global locationsAsia, with net earnings reinvested locally and working capital requirements met from existing liquid funds. To the extent such funds are not sufficient to meet working capital requirements, drawdowns in the appropriate local currency are available from intercompany borrowings or drawdowns from our revolving credit facility. The earnings of certain international operations are expected to be reinvested in those businesses indefinitely.
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The functional currency of most of our international subsidiaries is the local currency. We are exposed to foreign currency risk to the extent that we enter into transactions denominated in currencies other than our subsidiaries’ respective functional currencies ("(“non-functional currency risk"risk”). Such transactions include affiliate and ad sales arrangements, content arrangements, equipment and other vendor purchases, and intercompany transactions. Changes in exchange rates with respect to amounts recorded in our consolidated balance sheets related to these items will result in unrealized foreign currency transaction gains and losses based upon period-end exchange rates. We also record realized foreign currency transaction gains and losses upon settlement of the transactions. Moreover, we will experience fluctuations in our revenues costs and expenses solely as a result of changes in foreign currency exchange rates.
We also are exposed to unfavorable and potentially volatile fluctuations of the U.S. dollar, which is our reporting currency, against the currencies of our operating subsidiaries when their respective financial statements are translated into U.S. dollars for inclusion in our consolidated financial statements. Cumulative translation adjustments are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss as a separate component of equity. Any increase or decrease in the value of the U.S. dollar against any foreign functional currency of one of our operating subsidiaries will cause us to experience unrealized foreign currency translation gains or losses with respect to amounts already invested in such foreign currencies. Accordingly, we may experience a negative impact on our net income, (loss), other comprehensive (loss) income (loss) and equity with respect to our holdings solely as a result of changes in foreign currency.
The majority of our foreign currency exposure is tied to the Euro, Polish zloty,Europe and the British Pound.Latin America. We may enter into spot, forward and option contractsderivative instruments that change in value as foreign currency exchange rates change to hedge certain exposures associated with affiliate revenue, the cost forof producing or acquiring content, certain intercompany transactions, or in connection with forecasted business combinations. These contracts hedge forecasted foreign currency transactions in order to mitigate fluctuations in our earnings and cash flows associated with changes in foreign currency exchange rates. Our objective in managing exposure to foreign currency fluctuations is to reduce volatility of earnings and cash flows. The net fair market value of our foreign currency derivative instruments intended to hedge future cash flows held at December 31, 2020 was a liability value of $24 million. Most of our non-functional currency risks related to our revenue, operating expenses and capital expenditures were not hedged as of December 31, 2020.2023. We generally do not hedge against the risk that we may incur non-cash losses upon the translation of the financial statements of our subsidiaries and affiliates into U.S. dollars. (See Note 13 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements.)
Derivatives
We may use derivative financial instruments to modify our exposure to exogenous events and market risks from changes in foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates, and the fair value of investments with readily determinable fair values.rates. We do not use derivative financial instrumentsderivatives unless there is an underlying exposure. While derivatives are used to mitigate cash flow risk and the risk of declines in fair value, they also limit potential economic benefits to our business in the event of positive shifts in foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates and market values.rates. We do not hold or enter into financial instruments for speculative trading purposes. (See Note 13 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements.)
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Market Values of Investments and Liabilities
In addition to derivatives, we had investments in entities accounted for as equity method investments, equity investments, and other highly liquid instruments, such as money market funds and mutual funds, that are accounted for at fair value.We also have liabilities, such as deferred compensation, that are accounted for at fair value (See Note 410 and Note 514 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements.)statements). Investments in mutual funds include both fixed ratefixed- and floating ratefloating-rate interest earning securities that carry a degree of interest rate risk. Fixed rateFixed-rate securities may have their fair market value adversely impacted due toby a rise in interest rates, while floating ratefloating-rate securities may produce less income than predicted if interest rates fall. Due in part to these factors, our income from such investments may decrease in the future. Liabilities carried at fair value, such as deferred compensation, may experience capital gains that result in increased liabilities and expenses as the capital gains occur. We may enter into derivative financial instruments to hedge the risk of these market value changes. (See Note 13 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements.)
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ITEM 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.
 Page

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MANAGEMENT’S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING
Management of Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc. (the “Company”) is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Rule 13a-15(f) and Rule 15d-15(f) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The Company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and disposition of the assets of the Company; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and provide reasonable assurance that receipts and expenditures of the Company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and the directors of the Company; and (iii) 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 consolidated financial statements.
Internal control over financial reporting is designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements prepared for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Because of theits inherent limitations, in any internal control, no matter how well designed, 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.
The Company’s management, with the participation of its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of the Company’s system of internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 20202023 based on the framework set forth in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on its evaluation, management concluded that, as of December 31, 2020,2023, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting was effective at ato provide reasonable assurance level based onregarding the specified criteria.reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
The effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 20202023 has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report in Item 8 of Part II of this Annual Report on Form 10-K under the caption “Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.”
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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc.
Opinions on the Financial Statements and Internal Control over Financial Reporting
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc. and its subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 20202023 and 2019,2022, and the related consolidated statements of operations, of comprehensive (loss) income, (loss), of equity and of cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2020,2023, including the related notes and schedule of valuation and qualifying accounts for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 20202023 appearing under Item 15(a)(2) (collectively referred to as the “consolidated financial statements”). We also have audited the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2020,2023, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 20202023 and 2019,2022, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 20202023 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2020,2023, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the COSO.
Changes in Accounting Principles
As discussed in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company changed the manner in which it accounts for goodwill impairment and content in 2020, the manner in which it accounts for leases in 2019, and the manner in which it accounts for revenue from contracts with customers in 2018.
Basis for Opinions
The Company's management is responsible for these consolidated financial statements, 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 overOver Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express opinions on the Company’s consolidated financial statements and 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) 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 audits 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.
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. 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 also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.
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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 (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (ii) 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 (iii) 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.
57


Critical Audit Matters
The critical audit mattersmatter communicated below are mattersis a matter arising from the current period audit of the consolidated financial statements that werewas communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that (i) relaterelates to accounts or disclosures that are material to the consolidated financial statements and (ii) 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 mattersmatter below, providing a separate opinionsopinion on the critical audit mattersmatter or on the accounts or disclosures to which they relate.it relates.
Certain Reserves for Uncertain Tax PositionsGoodwill Impairment Assessments - Networks and DTC Reporting Units
As described in Notes 2 and 18 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company’s reserves for uncertain tax positions were $348 million as of December 31, 2020. Management establishes a reserve for uncertain tax positions unless management determines that such positions are more likely than not to be sustained upon examination based on their technical merits, including the resolution of any appeals or litigation processes. As disclosed by management, significant judgment is exercised in evaluating all relevant information, the technical merits of the tax positions, and the accurate measurement of uncertain tax positions when determining the amount of the reserve and whether positions taken on the Company’s tax returns are more likely than not to be sustained. This also involves the use of significant estimates and assumptions with respect to the potential outcome of positions taken on tax returns that may be reviewed by tax authorities.
The principal considerations for our determination that performing procedures relating to certain reserves for uncertain tax positions is a critical audit matter are (i) the significant judgment by management when determining certain reserves for uncertain tax positions, including a high degree of estimation uncertainty when determining the reserves and (ii) a high degree of auditor judgment, subjectivity and effort in performing procedures and evaluating audit evidence relating to management’s determination of certain reserves for uncertain tax positions, the technical merits of the tax positions, and the accurate measurement of the uncertain tax positions.
Addressing the matter involved performing procedures and evaluating audit evidence in connection with forming our overall opinion on the consolidated financial statements. These procedures included testing the effectiveness of controls relating to the recognition, measurement, and completeness of uncertain tax positions. These procedures also included, among others (i) testing the information used in the determination of certain reserves for uncertain tax positions, including international and federal filing positions and the related final tax returns; (ii) testing the calculation of liability for certain reserves for uncertain tax positions by jurisdiction, including evaluating management’s assessment of the technical merits of tax positions and estimates of the amount of tax benefit expected to be sustained, as well as the likelihood of the possible estimated outcome; (iii) testing the completeness of management’s assessment of uncertain tax positions and possible outcomes of certain tax positions, and (iv) evaluating the status and results of income tax audits with the relevant tax authorities.
62


Goodwill Quantitative Impairment Assessments for the Europe Reporting Unit
As described in Notes 2 and 75 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company’s consolidated goodwill balance was $13.1$35.0 billion as of December 31, 2020,2023, and the goodwill associated with the EuropeNetworks and DTC reporting unitunits was $1.9 billion. The Company$17.6 billion and $8.1 billion, respectively. Management evaluates goodwill for impairment annually as of October 1, or earlier if an event or other circumstance indicates that theyit may not recover the carrying value of the asset. Management concludedIf a qualitative assessment indicates that it is more likely than not that the continued impactscarrying value of COVID-19 on the operating results of the Europea reporting unit representedgoodwill exceeds its fair value, a triggering event in the second quarter of 2020.quantitative impairment test is performed. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds the fair value of the reporting unit, an impairment charge is recorded for the amount by which the carrying amount exceeds the fair value, not to exceed the amount of goodwill recorded for that reporting unit. ManagementAs of October 1, 2023, the Company performed a quantitative goodwill impairment analyses during the second and fourth quartersassessment for all reporting units. The estimated fair value of 2020 for the Europeeach reporting unit exceeded its carrying value and, therefore, no impairment was recorded. Management determines the fair value of the reporting units by using a combination of discounted cash flow (“DCF”) model.and market valuation methodologies. Significant judgments and assumptions by management infor the DCF model specific to the Europe reporting unit includedquantitative goodwill tests performed include discount rates, control premiums, terminal growth rates, relevant comparable company earnings multiples, and the amount and timing of expected future cash flows, including the revenue growth rates, long-term growth ratesprojections and discount rates.profit margins.
The principal considerations for our determination that performing procedures relating to the goodwill quantitative impairment assessments forof the EuropeNetworks and DTC reporting unitunits is a critical audit matter are (i) the significant judgment by management when developing the fair value measurementsestimate of the Networks and DTC reporting unit;units, (ii) a high degree of auditor judgment, subjectivity, and effort in performing procedures and evaluating management’s significant assumptions used in the discounted cash flow method related to revenue growth rates, long-term growth rates,projections for the Networks and DTC reporting units and discount rates;rate for the Networks reporting unit, and (iii) the audit effort involved the use of professionals with specialized skill and knowledge.
Addressing the matter involved performing procedures and evaluating audit evidence in connection with forming our overall opinion on the consolidated financial statements. These procedures included testing the effectiveness of controls relating to management’s goodwill quantitative impairment assessments, including controls over the valuation of the Company’sNetworks and DTC reporting units. These procedures also included, among others, (i) testing management’s process for developing the fair value measurementsestimate of the EuropeNetworks and DTC reporting unit,units, (ii) evaluating the appropriateness of the discounted cash flow model,method used by management, (iii) testing the completeness and accuracy of underlying data used in the modeldiscounted cash flow method, and (iv) evaluating the reasonableness of the significant assumptions used by management related to revenue growth rates, long-term growth rates,projections and discount rates.rate. Evaluating management’s assumptions related to revenue growth rates and long-term growth ratesprojections involved evaluating whether the assumptions used by management wereare reasonable considering (i) the current and past performance of the Networks and DTC reporting unit;units, (ii) the consistency with external market and industry data;data, and (iii) whether thesethe assumptions were consistent with evidence obtained in other areas of the audit. Professionals with specialized skill and knowledge were used to assist in evaluating (i) the evaluationappropriateness of the discounted cash flow method and (ii) the reasonableness of the discount rates and long-term growth rates.



rate assumption.
/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
McLean, VirginiaWashington, District of Columbia
February 22, 202123, 2024

We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2008.

6358


WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(in millions, except per share amounts)
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Revenues:
Distribution$20,237 $16,142 $5,202 
Advertising8,700 8,524 6,194 
Content11,203 8,360 737 
Other1,181 791 58 
Total revenues41,321 33,817 12,191 
Costs and expenses:
Costs of revenues, excluding depreciation and amortization24,526 20,442 4,620 
Selling, general and administrative9,696 9,678 4,016 
Depreciation and amortization7,985 7,193 1,582 
Restructuring and other charges585 3,757 32 
Impairments and loss (gain) on dispositions77 117 (71)
Total costs and expenses42,869 41,187 10,179 
Operating (loss) income(1,548)(7,370)2,012 
Interest expense, net(2,221)(1,777)(633)
Loss from equity investees, net(82)(160)(18)
Other (expense) income, net(12)347 72 
(Loss) income before income taxes(3,863)(8,960)1,433 
Income tax benefit (expense)784 1,663 (236)
Net (loss) income(3,079)(7,297)1,197 
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests(38)(68)(138)
Net income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interests(9)(6)(53)
Net (loss) income available to Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc.$(3,126)$(7,371)$1,006 
Net (loss) income per share available to Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc. Series A common stockholders:
Basic$(1.28)$(3.82)$1.55 
Diluted$(1.28)$(3.82)$1.54 
Weighted average shares outstanding:
Basic2,436 1,940 588 
Diluted2,436 1,940 664 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
59


WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE (LOSS) INCOME
(in millions)
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Net (loss) income$(3,079)$(7,297)$1,197 
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Currency translation
Change in net unrealized gains (losses)799 (651)(290)
Less: Reclassification adjustment for net (gains) losses included in net income— (2)— 
Net change, net of income tax benefit (expense) of $30, $(53) and $9799 (653)(290)
Pension plans, net of income tax benefit (expense) of $(3), $21 and $(1)(21)(26)
Derivatives
Change in net unrealized gains (losses)16 134 
Less: Reclassification adjustment for net (gains) losses included in net income(12)(18)(25)
Net change, net of income tax benefit (expense) of $(2), $2 and $(27)(14)109 
Comprehensive (loss) income(2,297)(7,990)1,018 
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests(38)(68)(138)
Comprehensive income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interests(9)(6)(53)
Comprehensive (loss) income attributable to Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc.$(2,344)$(8,064)$827 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
60


WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(in millions, except par value) 


December 31,
20202019
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents$2,091 $1,552 
Receivables, net2,537 2,633 
Content rights and prepaid license fees, net532 579 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets970 453 
Total current assets6,130 5,217 
Noncurrent content rights, net3,439 3,129 
Property and equipment, net1,206 951 
Goodwill13,070 13,050 
Intangible assets, net7,640 8,667 
Equity method investments507 568 
Other noncurrent assets2,095 2,153 
Total assets$34,087 $33,735 
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable$397 $463 
Accrued liabilities1,793 1,678 
Deferred revenues557 489 
Current portion of debt335 609 
Total current liabilities3,082 3,239 
Noncurrent portion of debt15,069 14,810 
Deferred income taxes1,534 1,691 
Other noncurrent liabilities2,019 2,029 
Total liabilities21,704 21,769 
Commitments and contingencies (See Note 22)00
Redeemable noncontrolling interests383 442 
Equity:
Discovery, Inc. stockholders’ equity:
Series A-1 convertible preferred stock: $0.01 par value; 8 shares authorized, issued and outstanding0 
Series C-1 convertible preferred stock: $0.01 par value; 6 shares authorized; 5 shares issued and outstanding0 
Series A common stock: $0.01 par value; 1,700 shares authorized; 163 and 161 shares issued; and 162 and 158 shares outstanding
Series B convertible common stock: $0.01 par value; 100 shares authorized; 7 shares issued and outstanding
Series C common stock: $0.01 par value; 2,000 shares authorized; 547 shares issued; and 318 and 360 shares outstanding
Additional paid-in capital10,809 10,747 
Treasury stock, at cost: 230 and 190 shares(8,244)(7,374)
Retained earnings8,543 7,333 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss(651)(822)
Total Discovery, Inc. stockholders’ equity10,464 9,891 
Noncontrolling interests1,536 1,633 
Total equity12,000 11,524 
Total liabilities and equity$34,087 $33,735 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

December 31,
20232022
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents$3,780 $3,731 
Receivables, net6,047 6,380 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets4,391 3,888 
Total current assets14,218 13,999 
Film and television content rights and games21,229 26,652 
Property and equipment, net5,957 5,301 
Goodwill34,969 34,438 
Intangible assets, net38,285 44,982 
Other noncurrent assets8,099 8,629 
Total assets$122,757 $134,001 
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable$1,260 $1,454 
Accrued liabilities10,368 11,504 
Deferred revenues1,924 1,694 
Current portion of debt1,780 365 
Total current liabilities15,332 15,017 
Noncurrent portion of debt41,889 48,634 
Deferred income taxes8,736 11,014 
Other noncurrent liabilities10,328 10,669 
Total liabilities76,285 85,334 
Commitments and contingencies (See Note 22)
Redeemable noncontrolling interests165 318 
Equity:
Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc. stockholders’ equity:
Series A common stock: $0.01 par value; 10,800 and 10,800 shares authorized; 2,669 and 2,660 shares issued; and 2,439 and 2,430 shares outstanding27 27 
Preferred stock: $0.01 par value; 1,200 and 1,200 shares authorized, 0 shares issued and outstanding — 
Additional paid-in capital55,112 54,630 
Treasury stock, at cost: 230 and 230 shares(8,244)(8,244)
(Accumulated deficit) retained earnings(928)2,205 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss(741)(1,523)
Total Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc. stockholders’ equity45,226 47,095 
Noncontrolling interests1,081 1,254 
Total equity46,307 48,349 
Total liabilities and equity$122,757 $134,001 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
6461


DISCOVERY, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(in millions, except per share amounts)

Year Ended December 31,
202020192018
Revenues:
Advertising$5,583 $6,044 $5,514 
Distribution4,866 4,835 4,538 
Other222 265 501 
Total revenues10,671 11,144 10,553 
Costs and expenses:
Costs of revenues, excluding depreciation and amortization3,860 3,819 3,935 
Selling, general and administrative2,722 2,788 2,620 
Depreciation and amortization1,359 1,347 1,398 
Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets124 155 
Restructuring and other charges91 26 750 
Gain on disposition(84)
Total costs and expenses8,156 8,135 8,619 
Operating income2,515 3,009 1,934 
Interest expense, net(648)(677)(729)
Loss on extinguishment of debt(76)(28)
Loss from equity investees, net(105)(2)(63)
Other income (expense), net42 (8)(120)
Income before income taxes1,728 2,294 1,022 
Income tax expense(373)(81)(341)
Net income1,355 2,213 681 
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests(124)(128)(67)
Net income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interests(12)(16)(20)
Net income available to Discovery, Inc.$1,219 $2,069 $594 
Net income per share available to Discovery, Inc. Series A, B and C common stockholders:
Basic$1.82 $2.90 $0.86 
Diluted$1.81 $2.88 $0.86 
Weighted average shares outstanding:
Basic505 529 498 
Diluted672 711 688 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

65


DISCOVERY, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
(in millions)

Year Ended December 31,
202020192018
Net income$1,355 $2,213 $681 
Other comprehensive income (loss) adjustments, net of tax:
Currency translation292 (15)(189)
Pension plan and SERP(8)(10)
Derivatives(113)18 12 
Comprehensive income1,526 2,206 507 
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests(124)(127)(67)
Comprehensive income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interests(12)(17)(20)
Comprehensive income attributable to Discovery, Inc.$1,390 $2,062 $420 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

66


WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(in millions)

 Year Ended December 31,
 202020192018
Operating Activities
Net income$1,355 $2,213 $681 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided by operating activities:
Content rights amortization and impairment2,956 2,853 3,288 
Depreciation and amortization1,359 1,347 1,398 
Deferred income taxes(186)(504)(131)
Equity in losses of equity method investee companies, including cash distributions167 62 138 
Loss on extinguishment of debt76 28 
Share-based compensation expense110 142 80 
Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets124 155 
(Gain) loss from derivative instruments, net(36)48 (15)
Realized gain on sale of investments(103)(10)
Remeasurement gain on previously held equity interests(14)
Loss (gain) on disposition(84)
Other, net14 52 141 
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions and dispositions:
Receivables, net105 (7)(84)
Content rights and payables, net(3,053)(3,060)(2,883)
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities(131)122 (74)
Foreign currency, prepaid expenses and other assets, net(20)(28)121 
Cash provided by operating activities2,739 3,399 2,576 
Investing Activities
Purchases of property and equipment(402)(289)(147)
Purchases of investments(250)
Investments in and advances to equity investments(181)(254)(61)
Proceeds from dissolution of joint venture and sale of investments69 125 
Business acquisitions, net of cash acquired(39)(73)(8,565)
Proceeds from dispositions, net of cash disposed107 
Other investing activities, net100 53 73 
Cash used in investing activities(703)(438)(8,593)
Financing Activities
Principal repayments of debt, including discount payment(2,193)(2,658)(16)
Borrowings from debt, net of discount and issuance costs1,979 1,479 
Repurchases of stock(969)(633)
Principal repayments of revolving credit facility(500)(225)(200)
Borrowings under revolving credit facility500 
Distributions to noncontrolling interests and redeemable noncontrolling interests(254)(250)(76)
Borrowings under term loan facilities2,000 
Principal repayments of term loans(2,000)
Other financing activities, net(112)(70)
Cash used in financing activities(1,549)(2,357)(283)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash83 (38)(23)
Net change in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash570 566 (6,323)
Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash, beginning of period1,552 986 7,309 
Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash, end of period$2,122 $1,552 $986 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 Year Ended December 31,
 202320222021
Operating Activities
Net (loss) income$(3,079)$(7,297)$1,197 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided by operating activities:
Content rights amortization and impairment16,024 14,161 3,501 
Content restructuring impairments and write-offs115 2,808 — 
Depreciation and amortization7,985 7,193 1,582 
Deferred income taxes(2,344)(2,842)(511)
Preferred stock conversion premium— 789 — 
Equity in losses of equity method investee companies and cash distributions157 211 63 
Share-based compensation expense500 412 178 
Impairments and loss (gain) on dispositions— 116 (71)
(Gain) loss from derivative instruments, net(151)(501)49 
Gain on sale of investments— (199)(19)
Other, net259 435 66 
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions and dispositions:
Receivables, net312 181 47 
Film and television content rights, games and payables, net(12,305)(12,562)(3,381)
Accounts payable, accrued liabilities, deferred revenues and other noncurrent liabilities(820)1,529 185 
Foreign currency, prepaid expenses and other assets, net824 (130)(88)
Cash provided by operating activities7,477 4,304 2,798 
Investing Activities
Purchases of property and equipment(1,316)(987)(373)
Cash (used for) acquired from business acquisitions and working capital settlement(50)3,612 (2)
Purchases of investments— — (103)
Investments in and advances to equity investments(112)(168)(184)
Proceeds from sales and maturities of investments— 306 599 
Proceeds from (payments for) derivative instruments, net121 752 (86)
Other investing activities, net98 93 
Cash (used in) provided by investing activities(1,259)3,524 (56)
Financing Activities
Principal repayments of term loans(4,000)(6,000)— 
Principal repayments of debt, including premiums to par value and discount payment(2,860)(1,315)(574)
Borrowings from debt, net of discount and issuance costs1,496 — — 
Repayments under revolving credit facility(1,350)(125)— 
Borrowings under revolving credit facility1,350 125 — 
Distributions to noncontrolling interests and redeemable noncontrolling interests(301)(300)(251)
Purchase of redeemable noncontrolling interest(49)— — 
Borrowings under commercial paper program3,857 2,268 — 
Repayments under commercial paper program(3,864)(2,270)— 
Other financing activities, net(116)(125)(28)
Cash used in financing activities(5,837)(7,742)(853)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash(61)(106)
Net change in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash389 25 1,783 
Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash, beginning of period3,930 3,905 2,122 
Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash, end of period$4,319 $3,930 $3,905 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
6762


WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EQUITY
(in millions)

Discovery, Inc.
Preferred Stock
Discovery, Inc.
Common Stock
Warner Bros.
Discovery, Inc.
Common Stock
Additional
Paid-In
Capital
Treasury
Stock
Retained
Earnings
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Loss
Warner Bros. Discovery,
Inc. 
Stockholders’
Equity
Noncontrolling
Interests
Total
Equity
SharesPar ValueSharesPar ValueSharesPar Value
December 31, 202013 $— 717 $— $— $10,809 $(8,244)$8,543 $(651)$10,464 $1,536 $12,000 
Net income available to Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc. and attributable to noncontrolling interests— — — — — — — — 1,006 — 1,006 138 1,144 
Other comprehensive loss— — — — — — — — — (179)(179)— (179)
Share-based compensation— — — — — — 158 — — — 158 — 158 
Preferred stock conversion(1)— 11 — — — — — — — — — — 
Tax settlements associated with share-based plans— — — — — — (71)— — — (71)— (71)
Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests— — — — — — — — — — — (240)(240)
Issuance of stock in connection with share-based plans— — — — — 198 — — — 198 — 198 
Redeemable noncontrolling interest adjustments to redemption value— — — — — — (8)— 31 — 23 — 23 
December 31, 202112 — 736 — — 11,086 (8,244)9,580 (830)11,599 1,434 13,033 
Net (loss) income available to Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc. and attributable to noncontrolling interests— — — — — — — — (7,371)— (7,371)68 (7,303)
Other comprehensive loss— — — — — — — — — (693)(693)— (693)
Share-based compensation— — — — — — 399 — — — 399 — 399 
Conversion and issuance of common stock and noncontrolling interest in connection with the acquisition of the WarnerMedia Business(12)— (739)(7)2,658 27 43,173 — — — 43,193 43,195 
Tax settlements associated with share-based plans— — — — — — (54)— — — (54)— (54)
Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests— — — — — — — — — — — (250)(250)
Issuance of stock in connection with share-based plans— — — — 26 — — — 26 — 26 
Redeemable noncontrolling interest adjustments to redemption value— — — — — — — — (4)— (4)— (4)
December 31, 2022— — — — 2,660 27 54,630 (8,244)2,205 (1,523)47,095 1,254 48,349 
Net (loss) income available to Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc. and attributable to noncontrolling interests— — — — — — — — (3,126)— (3,126)38 (3,088)
Other comprehensive income— — — — — — — — — 782 782 — 782 
Share-based compensation— — — — — — 452 — — — 452 — 452 
Reclassification of redeemable noncontrolling interest to noncontrolling interest and change in noncontrolling interest ownership (See Note 19)— — — — — — — — — 60 62 
Tax settlements associated with share-based plans— — — — — — (70)— — — (70)— (70)
Redemption of redeemable noncontrolling interest— — — — — — 73 — — — 73 — 73 
Preferred StockCommon StockAdditional
Paid-In
Capital
Treasury
Stock
Retained
Earnings
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Loss
Discovery,
Inc. Stockholders’
Equity
Noncontrolling
Interests
Total
Equity
SharesPar ValueSharesPar Value
December 31, 201714 $547 $$7,295 $(6,737)$4,632 $(585)$4,610 $$4,610 
Cumulative effect of accounting changes— — — — — — 33 (26)— 
Net income available to Discovery, Inc. and attributable to noncontrolling interests— — — — — — 594 — 594 67 661 
Other comprehensive loss— — — — — — — (174)(174)— (174)
Share-based compensation— — — — 82 — — — 82 — 82 
Tax settlements associated with share-based plans— — — — (18)— — — (18)— (18)
Issuance of stock and noncontrolling interest in connection with the acquisition of Scripps Networks Interactive, Inc. ("Scripps Networks")— — 139 3,217 — — — 3,218 1,700 4,918 
Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests— — — — — — — — — (51)(51)
Redeemable noncontrolling interest adjustments to redemption value— — — — — — (5)— (5)— (5)
Issuance of stock in connection with share-based plans— — 71 — — — 72 — 72 
December 31, 201814 691 10,647 (6,737)5,254 (785)8,386 1,716 10,102 
Cumulative effect of accounting changes— — — — — — 34 (30)— 
Net income available to Discovery, Inc. and attributable to noncontrolling interests— — — — — — 2,069 — 2,069 128 2,197 
Other comprehensive loss— — — — — — — (7)(7)— (7)
Preferred stock conversion(1)— 22 — — — — — — — 
Share-based compensation— — — — 73 — — — 73 — 73 
Repurchases of stock— — — — (637)— — (637)— (637)
Settlement of common stock repurchase contract— — — — — — — — 
Tax settlements associated with share-based plans— — — — (22)— — — (22)— (22)
Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests— — — — — — — — — (211)(211)
Issuance of stock in connection with share-based plans— — 44 — — — 44 — 44 
Redeemable noncontrolling interest adjustments to redemption value— — — — — — (24)— (24)— (24)
December 31, 201913 715 10,747 (7,374)7,333 (822)9,891 1,633 11,524 
Cumulative effect of an accounting change (See Note 2)— — — — — — — 
Cumulative effect of accounting changes of an equity method investee— — — — — — (3)— (3)— (3)
Net income available to Discovery, Inc. and attributable to noncontrolling interests— — — — — — 1,219 — 1,219 124 1,343 
Other comprehensive income— — — — — — — 171 171 — 171 
Share-based compensation— — — — 94 — — — 94 — 94 
Repurchases of stock— — — — (965)— — (965)— (965)
Equity exchange with Harpo for step acquisition of OWN (See Note 11)— — — — (45)95 — 59 — 59 
Tax settlements associated with share-based plans— — — — (32)— — — (32)— (32)
Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests— — — — — — — — — (223)(223)
Issuance of stock in connection with share-based plans— — 43 — — — 43 — 43 
Redeemable noncontrolling interest adjustments to redemption value— — — — — — (17)— (17)— (17)
Other adjustments to stockholders' equity— — — — — — — 
December 31, 202013 $717 $$10,809 $(8,244)$8,543 $(651)$10,464 $1,536 $12,000 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EQUITY
(in millions)
Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests— — — — — — — — — — — (271)(271)
Issuance of stock in connection with share-based plans— — — — — 26 — — — 26 — 26 
Redeemable noncontrolling interest adjustments to redemption value— — — — — — — (5)— (4)— (4)
Other adjustments to stockholders' equity— — — — — — (2)— (2)— (4)— (4)
December 31, 2023— $— — $— 2,669 $27 $55,112 $(8,244)$(928)$(741)$45,226 $1,081 $46,307 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
68
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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS AND BASIS OF PRESENTATION
Description of Business
Warner Bros. Discovery is a premier global media and entertainment company that provides audiences with a differentiated portfolio of content, brands and franchises across television, film, streaming, and gaming. Some of our iconic brands and franchises include Warner Bros. Motion Picture Group, Warner Bros. Television Group, DC, HBO, HBO Max, Max, discovery+, CNN, Discovery Channel, HGTV, Food Network, TNT Sports, TBS, TLC, OWN, Warner Bros. Games, Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, Harry Potter, Looney Tunes, Hanna-Barbera, Game of Thrones, and The Lord of the Rings.
As of December 31, 2023, we classified our operations in three reportable segments:
Studios - Our Studios segment primarily consists of the production and release of feature films for initial exhibition in theaters, production and initial licensing of television programs to our networks/DTC services as well as third parties, distribution of our films and television programs to various third party and internal television and streaming services, distribution through the home entertainment market (physical and digital), related consumer products and themed experience licensing, and interactive gaming.
Networks - Our Networks segment primarily consists of our domestic and international television networks.
DTC - Our DTC segment primarily consists of our premium pay-TV and streaming services.
Merger with the WarnerMedia Business of AT&T
On April 8, 2022 (the “Closing Date”), Discovery, Inc. (“Discovery”) completed its merger (the “Merger”) with the WarnerMedia business (the “WarnerMedia Business”, the “Company”, "we", "us"“WM Business” or "our"“WM”) is a global media company that provides content across multiple distribution platforms, including linear platforms such as pay-television ("pay-TV"), free-to-air ("FTA"of AT&T, Inc. (“AT&T”) and broadcastchanged its name to Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc. On April 11, 2022, the Company’s shares started trading on Nasdaq under the trading symbol WBD.
The Merger was executed through a Reverse Morris Trust type transaction, under which WM was distributed to AT&T’s shareholders via a pro rata distribution, and immediately thereafter, combined with Discovery. (See Note 3 and Note 4). Prior to the Merger, WarnerMedia Holdings, Inc. (“WMH”) distributed $40.5 billion to AT&T (subject to working capital and other adjustments) in a combination of cash, debt securities, and WM’s retention of certain debt. Discovery transferred purchase consideration of $42.4 billion in equity to AT&T shareholders in the Merger. In August 2022, the Company and AT&T finalized the post-closing working capital settlement process, which resulted in the Company receiving a $1.2 billion payment from AT&T in the third quarter of 2022 in lieu of adjusting the equity issued as purchase consideration in the Merger. AT&T shareholders received shares of WBD Series A common stock (“WBD common stock”) in the Merger representing 71% of the combined Company and the Company’s pre-Merger shareholders continued to own 29% of the combined Company, in each case on a fully diluted basis.
Discovery was deemed to be the accounting acquirer of the WM Business for accounting purposes under U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”); therefore, Discovery is considered the Company’s predecessor and the historical financial statements of Discovery prior to April 8, 2022, are reflected in this Annual Report on Form 10-K as the Company’s historical financial statements. Accordingly, the financial results of the Company as of and for any periods prior to April 8, 2022 do not include the financial results of the WM Business and current and future results will not be comparable to results prior to the Merger.
Labor Disruption
The Writers Guild of America (“WGA”) and Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (“SAG-AFTRA”) went on strike in May and July 2023, respectively, following the expiration of their respective collective bargaining agreements with the AMPTP. The WGA strike ended on September 27, 2023, and a new collective bargaining agreement was ratified on October 9, 2023. The SAG-AFTRA strike ended on November 9, 2023, and a new collective bargaining agreement was ratified on December 5, 2023. As a result of the strikes, we paused certain theatrical and television authenticated GO applications, digital distribution arrangements, content licensing arrangementsproductions, which resulted in delayed production spending amongst other impacts.
The strikes had a material impact on the operations and direct-to-consumer (DTC) subscription products. The Company also operatesresults of the Company. This included a positive impact on cash flow from operations attributed to delayed production studios. The Company has organized itsspend, and a negative impact on the results of operations into 2 reportable segments: U.S. Networks, consisting principallyattributed to timing and performance of domestic television networksthe 2023 film slate, as well as the Company’s ability to produce, license, and digital content services, and International Networks, consisting primarily of international television networks and digital content services.deliver content.
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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Basis of Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Discoverythe Company and its majority-owned subsidiaries in which a controlling interest is maintained, including variable interest entities ("VIE"(“VIE”) for which the Company is the primary beneficiary.
For each non-wholly owned subsidiary, the Company evaluates its ownership and other interests to determine whether it should consolidate the entity or account for its ownership interest as an unconsolidated investment. As part of its evaluation, the Company makes judgments in determining whether the entity is a VIE and, if so, whether it is the primary beneficiary of the VIE and is thus required to consolidate the entity. (See Note 4.10.) If it is concluded that an entity is not a VIE, then the Company considers its proportional voting interests in the entity. The Company consolidates majority-owned subsidiaries in which a controlling financial interest is maintained. A controlling financial interest is determined by majority ownership and the absence of significant third-party participating rights. Ownership interests in entities for which the Company has significant influence that are not consolidated are accounted for as equity method investments.
Intercompany accounts and transactions between consolidated entities have been eliminated.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”)GAAP requires management to make estimates, judgments and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results may differ from these estimates.
Significant estimates and judgments inherent in the preparation of the consolidated financial statements include accounting for asset impairments, revenue recognition, estimated credit losses, content rights, leases, depreciation and amortization, the determination of ultimate revenues as they relate to amortization of capitalized content rights and accruals of participations and residuals, business combinations, share-based compensation, defined benefit plans, income taxes, other financial instruments, contingencies, estimated defined benefit plan liabilities, and the determination of whether the Company should consolidate certain entities.
Impact of COVID-19
On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization declared the coronavirus disease 2019 (“COVID-19”) outbreak to be a global pandemic. COVID-19 continues to spread throughout the world, and the duration and severity of its effects and associated economic disruption remain uncertain. Restrictions on social and commercial activity in an effort to contain the virus have had, and are expected to continue to have, a significant adverse impact upon many sectors of the U.S. and global economy, including the media industry. The Company continues to closely monitor the impact of COVID-19 on all aspects of its business and geographies, including the impact on its customers, employees, suppliers, vendors, distribution and advertising partners, production facilities, and various other third parties.
Beginning in the second quarter of 2020, demand for the Company’s advertising products and services decreased due to economic disruptions from limitations on social and commercial activity. These economic disruptions and the resulting effect on the Company slightly eased during the second half of 2020, but the pandemic continued to impact demand through the end of 2020 and this decreased demand is expected to continue into 2021. Many of the Company’s third-party production partners that were shut down during most of the second quarter of 2020 due to COVID-19 restrictions came back online in the third quarter of 2020 and, as a result, the Company has incurred additional costs to comply with various governmental regulations and implement certain safety measures for the Company's employees, talent, and partners.Additionally, certain sporting events that the Company has rights to were cancelled or postponed, thereby eliminating or deferring the related revenues and expenses, including the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, which were postponed to 2021. The postponement of the Olympic Games deferred both Olympic-related revenues and significant expenses from fiscal year 2020 to fiscal year 2021.
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DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
In response to the impact of the pandemic, the Company employed and continues to employ innovative production and programming strategies, including producing content filmed by its on-air talent and seeking viewer feedback on which content to air. The Company continues to pursue a number of cost savings initiatives which began during the third and fourth quarters of 2020 and believes will offset a portion of anticipated revenue losses and deferrals, through the implementation of travel, marketing, production and other operating cost reductions, including personnel reductions, restructurings and resource reallocations to align its expense structure to ongoing changes within the industry. The Company also implemented remote work arrangements effective mid-March 2020 and, to date, these arrangements have not materially affected the Company's ability to operate its business.
In addition, the Company implemented several measures to preserve sufficient liquidity in the near term. As described further in Note 8, during March 2020, the Company drew down $500 million under its $2.5 billion revolving credit facility to increase its cash position and maximize flexibility in light of the current uncertainty surrounding the impact of COVID-19. In addition, in April 2020, the Company entered into an amendment to its revolving credit facility, which increased flexibility under its financial covenants and issued $1.0 billion aggregate principal amount of Senior Notes due May 2030 and $1.0 billion aggregate principal amount of Senior Notes due May 2050. The proceeds from the notes were used to fund a tender offer for $1.5 billion of certain senior notes with maturities ranging from 2021 through 2023 and to repay the $500 million outstanding under its revolving credit facility. (See Note 8.)
In light of the impact of COVID-19, the Company assessed goodwill, other intangibles, deferred tax assets, programming assets, and accounts receivable for recoverability based upon latest estimates and judgments with respect to expected future operating results, ultimate usage of content and latest expectations with respect to expected credit losses. The Company recorded goodwill and other intangible assets impairment charges of $124 million for its Asia-Pacific reporting unit during the year ended December 31, 2020. (See Note 7.) Adjustments to reflect increased expected credit losses were not material. Further, hedged transactions were assessed and the Company has concluded such transactions remain probable of occurrence. Due to significant uncertainty surrounding the impact of COVID-19, management’s judgments could change in the future. The effects of the pandemic may have further negative impacts on the Company’s financial position, results of operations, and cash flows. However, the current level of uncertainty over the economic and operational impacts of COVID-19 means the related financial impact cannot be reasonably and fully estimated at this time.
The nature and extent of COVID-19’s effects on the Company’s operations and results will depend on future developments, which are highly uncertain and cannot be predicted, including new information that may emerge concerning the severity and the extent of future surges of COVID-19, vaccine distribution and other actions to contain the virus or treat its impact, among others. The Company will continue to monitor COVID-19 and its impact on the Company’s business results and financial condition. These consolidated financial statements reflect management’s latest estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and related disclosures as of the date of the consolidated financial statements and reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting periods presented. Actual results may differ significantly from these estimates and assumptions.
In the United States, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) was enacted on March 27, 2020, and the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 was enacted on December 27, 2020. As of December 31, 2020, the Company does not expect the CARES Act or the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 to have a material effect on its financial position and results of operations. The Company continues to monitor other relief measures taken by the U.S. and other governments around the world.
NOTE 2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Foreign Currency
The reporting currency of the Company is the U.S. dollar. The functional currency of most of the Company’s international subsidiaries is the local currency. Financial statements of subsidiaries whose functional currency is not the U.S. dollar are translated at exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date for assets and liabilities and at average exchange rates for revenues and expenses for the respective periods. Translation adjustments are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss. Cash flows from the Company'sCompany’s operations in foreign countries are generally translated at the weighted average rate for the applicable period in the consolidated statements of cash flows. Such translation adjustments are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income.
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DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
respective periods.
The Company is exposed to foreign currency risk to the extent that it enters into transactions denominated in currencies other than its subsidiaries’ respective functional currencies. Transactions denominated in currencies other than subsidiaries’ functional currencies are recorded based on exchange rates at the time such transactions arise. Such transactions include affiliate and ad sales arrangements, content licensing arrangements, equipment and other vendor purchases and intercompany transactions. Changes in exchange rates with respect to amounts recorded in the Company'sCompany’s consolidated balance sheets related to these items will result in unrealized foreign currency transaction gains and losses based upon period-end exchange rates. The Company also records realized foreign currency transaction gains and losses upon settlement of the transactions. Foreign currency transaction gains and losses resulting from the conversion of the transaction currency to functional currency are included in other (expense) income, (expense), net.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand and highly liquid investments with original maturities of 90 days or less.
Receivables
The Company’s accounts receivable balances and the related credit losses arise primarily from distribution, advertising and content revenue. Receivables include amounts billed and currently due from customers and are presented net of an estimate for credit losses. To assess collectability, the Company analyzes market trends, economic conditions, the aging of receivables and customer specific risks, and reserves an amount that it estimates may not be collected.records a provision for estimated credit losses expected over the lifetime of receivables. The corresponding expense for the expected credit losses is reflected in selling, general and administrative expenses. The Company does not require collateral with respect to trade receivables.
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WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Revolving Receivables Program
The Company has a revolving agreement to transfer up to $5,500 million of certain receivables through its bankruptcy-remote subsidiary, Warner Bros. Discovery Receivables Funding, LLC, to various financial institutions on a recurring basis in exchange for cash equal to the gross receivables transferred. The Company services the sold receivables for the financial institution for a fee and pays fees to the financial institution in connection with this revolving agreement. The agreement is a continuation of the agreement the WarnerMedia Business had in place prior to the Merger. This agreement is subject to renewal on an annual basis and the transfer limit may be expanded or reduced from time to time. As customers pay their balances, the Company’s available capacity under this revolving agreement increases and typically the Company transfers additional receivables into the program.
The gross value of the proceeds received results in derecognition of receivables and the obligations assumed are recorded at fair value. Cash received is reflected as cash provided by operating activities in the consolidated statements of cash flows. The obligations assumed when proceeds are received relate to expected credit losses on sold receivables and estimated fee payments made on outstanding sold receivables already transferred. The obligations are subsequently adjusted for changes in estimated expected credit losses and interest rates, which are considered Level 3 fair value measurements since the inputs are unobservable (See Note 8). In some cases, the Company may have collections that have not yet been remitted to the bank, resulting in a liability. Increases to accounts payable and subsequent payments are reported as financing activities in the consolidated statements of cash flows.
Accounts Receivable Factoring
The Company has a factoring agreement to sell certain of its non-U.S. trade accounts receivable on a limited recourse basis to a third-party financial institution. The Company accounts for these transactions as sales in accordance with ASC 860, “Transfers and Servicing”, as its continuing involvement subsequent to the transfer is limited to providing certain servicing and collection actions on behalf of the purchaser of the designated trade accounts receivable. Proceeds from amounts factored are recorded as an increase to cash and cash equivalents and a reduction to receivables, net in the consolidated balance sheets. Cash received is also reflected as cash provided by operating activities in the consolidated statements of cash flows. The accounts receivable factoring program is separate and distinct from the revolving receivables program.
Film and Television Content Rights
ContentThe Company capitalizes costs to produce television programs and feature films, including direct production costs, production overhead, interest, acquisition costs and development costs, as well as advances for live programming rights, principally consist ofsuch as sports. Costs to acquire licensed television series specials,and feature film programming rights are capitalized when the license period has begun and the program is accepted and available for airing. Production incentives received from various jurisdictions where the Company produces content are recorded as a reduction to capitalized production costs. All capitalized content and prepaid license fees are classified as noncurrent assets, with the exception of content acquired with an initial license period of 12 months or less and prepaid sports rights expected to air within 12 months.
The Company groups its film and television content rights by monetization strategy: content that is predominantly monetized individually, and content that is predominantly monetized as a group.
Content Monetized Individually
For films and sporting events. Content airedtelevision programs predominantly monetized individually, the amount of capitalized film and television production costs (net of incentives) amortized and the amount of participations and residuals to be recognized as expense in a particular period are determined using the individual film forecast method. Under this method, the amortization of capitalized costs and the accrual of participations and residuals are based on the proportion of the film’s or television program’s revenues recognized for such period to the film’s or television program’s estimated remaining ultimate revenues (i.e., the total revenue to be received throughout a film’s or television program’s remaining life cycle).
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WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The process of estimating ultimate revenues requires us to make a series of judgments related to future revenue-generating activities associated with a particular film. Prior to the theatrical release of a film, the Company’s estimates are based on factors such as the historical performance of similar films, the star power of the lead actors, the rating and genre of the film, pre-release market research (including test market screenings), international distribution plans and the expected number of theaters in which the film will be released. Subsequent to release, ultimate revenues are updated to reflect initial performance, which is often predictive of future performance. For a film or television program that is predominantly monetized on its own but also monetized with other films and/or programs (such as on the Company’s DTC or linear services), the Company makes a reasonable estimate of the value attributable to the film or program’s exploitation while monetized with other films/programs and expenses such costs as the film or television program is exhibited. For theatrical films, the period over which ultimate revenues from all applicable sources and exhibition windows are estimated does not exceed 10 years from the date of the film’s initial release. For television programs, the ultimate period does not exceed 10 years from delivery of the first episode, or, if still in production, five years from delivery of the most recent episode, if later. For games, the ultimate period does not exceed two years from the date of the game’s initial release. Ultimates for produced content monetized on an individual basis are reviewed and updated (as applicable) on a quarterly basis; any adjustments are applied prospectively as of the beginning of the fiscal year of the change.
Content Monetized as a Group
For programs monetized as a group, including licensed programming, the Company’s film groups are generally aligned along the Company’s networks and digital content offerings, is sourced from a wide range of third-party producers, wholly-owned and equity method investee production studios, and sports associations. Content is classified either as produced, coproducedexcept for certain international territories wherein content assets are grouped by genre or licensed.
The Company owns most or allterritory. Adjustments for projected usage are applied prospectively in the period of the rights to produced content. The Company collaborates with third parties to financechange. Participations and develop coproduced content, and it retains significant rights to exploit the programs. Prepaid licensed content includes advance payments for rights to air sporting events that will take place in the future and advance payments for acquired films and television series.
Costs of produced and coproduced content consist of development costs, acquired production costs, direct production costs, certain production overhead costs and participation costs. The Company’s coproduction arrangementsresiduals are generally provide for the sharing of production costs. The Company records its costs but does not record the costs borne by the other party as the Company does not share any associated economics of exploitation.
Licensed content is comprised of films or series that have been previously produced by third parties and the Company retains limited airing rights over a contractual term. Program licenses typically have fixed terms and require payments during the term of the license. The cost of licensed content is capitalized when the cost is known or reasonably determinable, the license period for the programs has commenced, the program materials have been accepted by the Company in accordance with the license agreements, and the programs are available for the first showing. The Company pays in advance of delivery for television series, specials, films and sports rights. Payments made in advance of when the right to air the content is received are recognized as prepaid licensed content. Participation costs are expensed in line with the amortizationpattern of production costs. Content distribution, advertising, marketing, generalusage. Streaming content and administrative costs are expensed as incurred.
Linear content amortization expense for each period is recognized based on the revenue forecast model, which approximates the proportion that estimated distribution and advertising revenues for the current period represent in relation to the estimated remaining total lifetime revenues. Digital contentpremium pay-TV amortization for each period is recognized based on estimated viewing patterns as there are generally little to no direct revenues to associate to the individual content assets and therefore,assets. As such, number of views is most representative of the use of the title. Judgment is requiredLicensed rights to determinefilm and television programming are typically amortized over the useful lives and amortization patternslife of the program’s license period on a straight-line basis (or per-play basis, if greater, for certain programming on the Company’s ad-supported networks), or accelerated basis for licensed original programs. The Company allocates the cost of multi-year sports programming arrangements over the contract period to each event or season based on its projected advertising revenue and an allocation of distribution revenue (estimated relative value). If annual contractual payments related to each season approximate each season’s estimated relative value, the Company expenses the related contractual payments during the applicable season. Amortization of sports rights takes place when the content assets.
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DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
airs.
Quarterly, the Company prepares analyses to support its content amortization expense. Critical assumptions used in determining content amortization for programming predominantly monetized as a group include: (i) the grouping of content with similar characteristics, (ii) the application of a quantitative revenue forecast model or historical viewership model based on the adequacy of historical data, and (iii) determining the appropriate historical periods to utilize and the relative weighting of those historical periods in the forecast model, (iv) assessing the accuracy of the Company's forecasts and (v) incorporating secondary streams.model. The Company then considers the appropriate application of the quantitative assessment given forecasted content use, expected content investment and market trends. Content use and future revenues may differ from estimates based on changes in expectations related to market acceptance, network affiliate fee rates, advertising demand, the number of cable and satellite television subscribers receiving the Company’s networks, the number of subscribers to its digitalstreaming services, and program usage. Accordingly, the Company continually reviews its estimates and planned usage at least quarterly and revises its assumptions if necessary. As part of the Company's assessment of its amortization rates, the Company compares the calculated amortization rates to those that have been utilized during the year. If the calculated rates do not deviate materially from the applied amortization rates, no adjustment is recorded. Any material adjustments from the Company’s review of the amortization rates for assets in film groups are applied prospectively in the period of the change.
Unamortized Film Costs Impairment Assessment
Unamortized film costs are tested for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the fair value of a film (or television program) predominantly monetized on its own, or a film group, may be less than its unamortized costs. In addition, a change in the predominant monetization strategy is considered a triggering event for assetsimpairment testing before a title is accounted for as part of a film group. If the carrying value of an individual feature film or television program, or film group, exceeds the estimated fair value, an impairment charge will be recorded in the amount of the difference. For content that is predominantly monetized individually, the Company utilizes estimates including ultimate revenues and additional costs to be incurred (including exploitation and participation costs), in order to determine whether the carrying value of a film groups, which representor television program is impaired.
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WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Game Development Costs
Game development costs are expensed as incurred before the largestapplicable game reaches technological feasibility, or for online hosted arrangements, before the preliminary project phase is complete and it is probable the project will be completed and the software will be used to perform the function intended. Commencing upon a title’s release, the capitalized game development costs are amortized based on the proportion of the Company's content assets.
The result ofgame’s revenues recognized for such period to the content amortization analysis is either an accelerated methodgame’s total current and anticipated revenues, or, if greater, for non-hosted games, on a straight-line amortization methodbasis over the title’s estimated useful lives of generally two to four years. Amortization ofeconomic life. Unamortized capitalized costs for producedgame production and coproduced content begins when a program has been aired. Amortization of capitalized costs for licensed content generally commences when the license period begins and the program is available for use. The Company allocates the cost of multi-year sports programming arrangements over the contract period of each event or season based on the estimated relative value of each event or season. Amortization of sports rights takes place when the content airs.
Capitalized contentdevelopment costs are stated at the lower of cost, less accumulated amortization, or fair value. Content assets (produced, coproducednet realizable value and licensed) are predominantly monetized as a group on the Company’s linear networksreported in “Film and digital content offerings. For content assets that are predominantly monetized within film groups, the Company evaluates the fair value of content in aggregate at the group level by considering expected future revenue generation typically by using a discounted cash flow analysis when an event or change in circumstances indicates a change in the expected usefulness of the content or that the fair value may be less than unamortized costs. Estimates of future revenues consider historical airing patterns and future plans for airing content, including any changes in strategy. Given the significant estimates and judgments involved, actual demand or market conditions may be less favorable than those projected, requiring a write-down to fair value. Programming and development costs for programs that the Company has determined will not be produced, are fully expensed in the period the determination is made. The Company’s film groups are generally aligned along the Company’s networks and digital content offerings except for certain international territories wherein content assets are shared across the various networks in the territory and therefore, the territory is the film group. The Company’s rights to the Olympic Games are predominantly monetized on their own as the sublicensing of the rights in certain territories is a significant component of the monetization strategy. Beginning in 2020, alltelevision content rights and prepaid license fees are classified as a noncurrent asset, withgames” on the exception of content acquired with an initial license period of 12 months or less and prepaid sports rights expected to air within 12 months. (See "Accounting and Reporting Pronouncements Adopted" below and Note 6.)consolidated balance sheets.
Investments
The Company holds investments in equity method investees and equity investments with and without readily determinable fair values. (See Note 10.)
Equity Method Investments
Investments in equity method investees are those for which the Company has the ability to exercise significant influence but does not control and is not the primary beneficiary.beneficiary or the entity is not a VIE and the Company does not have a controlling financial interest. Under this method of accounting, the Company typically records its proportionate share of the net earnings or losses of equity method investees in loss from equity investees, net and a corresponding increase or decrease to the investment balances. Cash payments to equity method investees such as additional investments, loans and advances and expenses incurred on behalf of investees, as well as payments from equity method investees such as dividends, distributions and repayments of loans and advances are recorded as adjustments to investment balances.
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DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For certain of the Company's equity method investments, such as investments in renewable energy limited liability companies where the capital structure of the equity investment results in different liquidation rights and priorities than what is reflected by the underlying percentage ownership interests, the Company's proportionate share of net earnings is accounted for using the Hypothetical Liquidation at Book Value ("HLBV") methodology available under the equity method of accounting. When applying HLBV, the Company determines the amount that would be received if the investment were to liquidate all of its assets and distribute the resulting cash to the investors based on contractually defined liquidation priorities. The change in the Company's claim on the investee's book value in accordance with GAAP at the beginning and the end of the reporting period, after adjusting for any contributions or distributions, is the Company's share of the earnings or losses for the period.
The Company evaluates its equity method investments for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts of such investments may not be recoverable. (See "Asset“Asset Impairment Analysis"Analysis” below.)
Equity Investments with Readily Determinable Fair Values
Investments in entities or other securities in which the Company has no control or significant influence and is not the primary beneficiary, and have a readily determinable fair value are recorded at fair value based on quoted market prices and are classified as equity securities or equity investments with readily determinable fair value. (See Note 4.) For equity securities with readily determinableThe investments are measured at fair value realized gainsbased on a quoted market price per unit in active markets multiplied by the number of units held without consideration of transaction costs (Level 1). Gains and losses are recorded in other (expense) income, (expense), net.neton the consolidated statements of operations. (See Note 20.10 and Note 18.)
Equity Investments without Readily Determinable Fair Values
Equity investments without readily determinable fair valuevalues include ownership rights that either (i) do not meet the definition of in-substance common stock or (ii) do not provide the Company with control or significant influence and these investments do not have readily determinable fair values. Equity investments without readily determinable fair valuevalues are recorded at cost less any impairment, and adjusted for subsequent observable price changes as of the date that an observable transaction takes place andplace. Adjustments for observable price changes are recorded in other (expense) income, (expense), net. (See Note 20.10 and Note 18.)
Property and Equipment
Property and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and impairments. Internal use software costs are capitalized during the application development stage. Softwarestage; software costs incurred during the preliminary project and post implementation stages are expensed as incurred. Repairs and maintenance expenditures that do not enhance the use or extend the life of property and equipment are expensed as incurred. Depreciation for most property and equipment is recognized using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. (See Note 20.18.)
Leases
The Company determines if an arrangement is a lease at its inception. Operating lease right-of-use ("ROU"(“ROU”) assets are included in "Otherother noncurrent assets" and operating lease liabilities are included in “Accrued liabilities” and “Other noncurrent liabilities” in the consolidated balance sheets.assets. Finance lease ROU assets are included in "Propertyproperty and equipment, net"net. Operating and finance lease liabilities are included in “Accrued liabilities”accrued liabilities and “Otherother noncurrent liabilities”liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets. The Company elected the short-term lease recognition exemption and leases with initial terms of one year or less are not recorded in the consolidated balance sheets.
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A rate implicit in the lease when readily determinable is used in arriving at the present value of lease payments. As most of the Company'sCompany’s leases do not provide an implicit rate, the Company uses an incremental borrowing rate based on information available at lease commencement date for most of its leases. The incremental borrowing rate is based on the Company's U.S. dollar denominated senior unsecured borrowing curves using public credit ratings adjusted down to a collateralized basis using a combination of recovery rate and credit notching approaches and translated into major contract currencies as applicable.
The Company'sCompany’s lease terms may include options to extend or terminate the lease when it is reasonably certain that it will exercise that option. The Company does not separate lease components from non-lease components across all lease categories. Instead, each separate lease component and non-lease component are accounted for as a single lease component. In addition, variable lease payments that are based on an index or rate are included in the measurement of ROU assets and lease liabilities at lease inception. All other variable lease payments are expensed as incurred and are not included in the measurement of ROU assets and lease liabilities. Lease expense for operating leases and short-term leases is recognized on a straight-line basis. For finance leases, the Company recognizes interest expense on lease liabilities using the effective interest method and amortization of ROU assets on a straight-line basis.
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DISCOVERY, INC.Defined Benefit Plans
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The Company maintains defined benefit pension plans covering certain U.S. employees and several non-U.S. pension plans. Defined benefit plan obligations are based on various assumptions used by the Company’s actuaries in calculating these amounts. These assumptions include discount rates, compensation rate increases, expected return on plan assets, retirement rates and mortality rates. Actual results that differ from the assumptions and changes in assumptions could affect future expenses and obligations.
Asset Impairment Analysis
Goodwill and Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets
Goodwill is allocated to the Company'sCompany’s reporting units, which are its operating segments or one level below its operating segments. The Company evaluates goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment annually as of October 1, or earlier if an event or other circumstance indicates that it may not recover the carrying value of the asset. If the Company believes that, as a result of its qualitative assessment, it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit or other indefinite-lived intangible asset is greater than its carrying amount, thea quantitative impairment test is not required. If a qualitative assessment indicates that it is more likely than not that the carrying value of a reporting unit goodwill or other indefinite-lived intangible asset exceeds its fair value, a quantitative impairment test is performed. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds the fair value of the reporting unit, an impairment charge is recorded for the amount by which the carrying amount exceeds the fair value, not to exceed the amount of goodwill recorded for that reporting unit. The Company has applied the provisions of ASU 2017-04 to quantitative goodwill impairment assessments performed in 2020. (See "Accounting and Reporting Pronouncements Adopted" below and Note 7.)
The Companytypically performs a quantitative impairment test every three years, irrespective of the outcome of the Company'sCompany’s qualitative assessment. During 2019, the Company changed its annual impairment testing date from November 30 to October 1. The Company believes the new date is preferable because it aligns the impairment test with the budgeting and quarter-end closing processes. The Company determined it was impracticable to apply the change in accounting principle retrospectively because it could not determine the goodwill estimate for each reporting unit at the new annual goodwill impairment testing date without the use of hindsight. Accordingly, the Company applied the change in accounting principle prospectively. The change in the annual impairment testing date did not delay, accelerate or avoid an impairment charge.
Long-lived Assets
Long-lived assets such as amortizing trademarks customer lists,and trade names; affiliate, advertising, and subscriber relationships; franchises and other intangible assets,assets; and property and equipment are not required to be tested for impairment annually, but rather are tested for impairment whenever circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the asset may not be recoverable. If an impairment analysis is required, the impairment test employed is based on whether the Company’s intent is to hold the asset for continued use or to hold the asset for sale.
If the intent is to hold the asset for continued use, the impairment test requires a comparison of undiscounted future cash flows to the carrying value of the asset.asset group. If the carrying value of the asset group exceeds the undiscounted cash flows, an impairment loss would be recognized equal to the excess of the asset’sasset group’s carrying value over its fair value, which is typically determined by discounting the future cash flows associated with that asset. asset group.
If the intent is to hold the asset for sale and certain other criteria are met, the impairment test involves comparing the asset’s carrying value to its estimated fair value less costs to sell. If the carrying value of the asset exceeds the fair value, an impairment loss would be recognized equal to the difference.
Significant judgments used for long-lived asset impairment assessments include identifying the appropriate asset groupings that represent the lowest level for which cash flows are largely independent and primary assets within those groupings, determining whether events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the asset may not be recoverable, determining the future cash flows for the assets involved and assumptions applied in determining fair value, which include reasonable discount rates, growth rates, market risk premiums and other assumptions about the economic environment.
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Equity Method Investments and Equity Investments Without Readily Determinable Fair Value
Equity method investments are reviewed for indicators of other-than-temporary impairment on a quarterly basis. Equity method investments are written down to fair value if there is evidence of a loss in value that is other-than-temporary. The Company may estimate the fair value of its equity method investments by considering recent investee equity transactions, discounted cash flowDCF analysis, recent operating results, comparable public company operating cash flow multiples and, in certain situations, balance sheet liquidation values. If the fair value of the investment has dropped below theits carrying amount, management considers several factors when determining whether an other-than-temporary decline has occurred, such as the length of the time and the extent to which the estimated fair value or market value has been below the carrying value, the financial condition and the near-term prospects of the investee, the intent and ability of the Company to retain its investment in the investee for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in market value, and general market conditions. The estimation of fair value and whether an other-than-temporary impairment has occurred requires the application of significant judgment and future results may vary from current assumptions. If declines in the value of the equity method investments are determined to be other-than-temporary, a loss is recorded in earnings in the current period as a component of loss from equity investees, net on the consolidated statements of operations.
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For equity investments without readily determinable fair value, investments are recorded at cost less impairment,and adjusted for subsequent observable price changes as of the date that an observable transaction takes place. The Company performs a qualitative assessment on a quarterly basis to determine if an investment is impaired.any observable price changes have occurred. If the qualitative assessment indicates that an investment is impaired,observable price change has occurred, a gain or loss is recorded equal to the difference between the fair value and carrying value in the current period as a component of other (expense) income, (expense), net. (See Note 4.10.)
Derivative Instruments
The Company uses derivative financial instruments to modify its exposure to market risks from changes in foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates, and from market volatility related to certain equity investments measured at fair value. At the inception of a derivative contract, the Company designates the derivative as one of three types based on the Company'sCompany’s intentions and expectations as to the likely effectiveness as a hedge. The three types are:hedge (see Note 13), as follows:
(1) a hedge of a forecasted transaction or the variability of cash flows to be received or paid related to a recognized asset or liability ("(“cash flow hedge"hedge”);
(2) a hedge of net investments in foreign operations ("(“net investment hedge"hedge”);
a hedge of the fair value of a recognized asset or liability or of an unrecognized firm commitment (“fair value hedge”); or
(3) an instrument with no hedging designation. (See Note 10.)
Cash Flow Hedges
The Company designates foreign currency forward and option contractsmay designate derivative instruments as cash flow hedges to mitigate foreign currency risk arising from third-party revenue andagreements, intercompany licensing agreements. The Company also designates interest rate contracts usedagreements, production expenses and rebates, or to hedge the interest rate risk for certain senior notes and forecasted debt issuances as cash flow hedges.issuances. For foreign exchange forward contractsinstruments accounted for as cash flow hedges, the entire change in the fair value of the forward contract is recorded in other comprehensive income (loss)loss and reclassified into the statementstatements of operations in the same line item in which the hedged item is recorded and in the same period as the hedged item affects earnings.
Net Investment Hedges
The Company designates cross-currency swaps and foreign currency forward contractsmay designate derivative instruments as hedges of net investments in foreign operations. The Company assesses the effectiveness forof net investment hedges utilizing the spot-method. The entire change in the fair value of derivatives that qualify as net investment hedges is initially recorded in the currency translation adjustment component of other comprehensive income.loss. While the change in fair value attributable to hedge effectiveness remains in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)loss until the net investment is sold or liquidated, the change in fair value attributable to components excluded from the assessment of hedge effectiveness (e.g., forward points, cross currency basis, etc.) is reflected as a component of interest expense, net in the current period.
Fair Value Hedges
The Company may designate derivative instruments as fair value hedges to mitigate the variability in the fair value of a recognized asset or liability or of an unrecognized firm commitment. For those derivative instruments designated as fair value hedges, the changes in fair value of the derivative instruments, including offsetting changes in fair value of the hedged items are recorded in the statements of operations in the same line item where the hedged risk occurs.
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No Hedging Designation
The Company may also enter into derivative financial instruments that do not qualify for hedge accounting andor are not designated as hedges. These instruments are intended to mitigate economic exposures due to exogenous events and changes in foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates, and interest rates.from market volatility related to certain investments measured at fair value. The changes in fair value of derivatives not designated as hedges are recorded in other income (expense), net.the statements of operations in the same line item where the hedged risk occurs.
Financial Statement Presentation
Unsettled derivative contracts are recorded at their gross fair values on the consolidated balance sheets. The portion of the fair value that represents cash flows occurring within one year is classified as current, and the portion related to cash flows occurring beyond one year is classified as noncurrent. Gains and losses on designated cash flow and net investment hedges are initially recognized as components of accumulated other comprehensive loss on the consolidated balance sheets and reclassified into the statements of operations in the same line item in which the hedged item is recorded and in the same period as the hedged item affects earnings. The Company records gains and losses for instruments that receive no hedging designation, as a component of other expense, net on the consolidated statements of operations.
Cash flows from designated derivative instruments used as hedges are classified in the consolidated statements of cash flows in the same section as the cash flows of the hedged item. Cash flows from periodic settlement of interest on cross currency swaps and derivative contracts not designated as hedges are reported as investing activities in the consolidated statements of cash flows.
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Effective July 1, 2018, the Company early adopted ASU 2017-12. As a result, the Company changed the method by which it assesses effectiveness for net investment hedges from the forward-method to the spot-method. Previous net losses of $87 million incurred under the forward method related to net investment hedges will remain in other comprehensive loss under the currency translation component and will be reclassified to earnings when the net investment is sold or liquidated.
Treasury Stock
When stock is acquired for purposes other than formal or constructive retirement, the purchase price of the acquired stock is recorded in a separate treasury stock account, which is separately reported as a reduction of equity. Treasury stock held by Discovery prior to the Merger was not retired.
When stock is retired or purchased for formal or constructive retirement, the purchase price is initially recorded as a reduction to the par value of the shares repurchased, with any excess purchase price over par value recorded as a reduction to additional paid-in capital related to the series of shares repurchased and any remainderremaining excess purchase price recorded as a reduction to retained earnings. If the purchase price exceeds the amounts allocated to par value and additional paid-in capital related to the series of shares repurchased and retained earnings, the remainder is allocated to additional paid-in capital related to other series of shares.
To determine the cost of treasury stock that is either sold or reissued, the Company uses the last in, first out method. If the proceeds from the re-issuance of treasury stock are greater than the cost, the excess is recorded as additional paid-in capital. If the proceeds from re-issuance of treasury stock are less than the cost, the excess cost first reduces any additional paid-in capital arising from previous treasury stock transactions for that class of stock, and any additional excess is recorded as a reduction of retained earnings.
Revenue Recognition
The Company generates revenues principally from: (i) advertising revenue from advertising sold on its television networks, authenticated TVE applications and websites, (ii) distribution revenues from fees charged to distributors of its network content, which include cable, direct-to-home ("DTH") satellite, telecommunications and digital service providers and bundled long-term content arrangements, as well as through DTC subscription services and (iii) other revenue related to several items including: (a) unbundled rights to sales of network content, including sports rights, (b) production studios content development and services, (c) the licensing of the Company's brands for consumer products and (d) affiliate and advertising sales representation services.
Revenue is recognized upon transfer of control of promised services or goods to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration that the Company expects to receive in exchange for those services or goods. Revenues do not include taxes collected from customers on behalf of taxing authorities such as sales tax and value-added tax. However, certain revenues include taxes that customers pay to taxing authorities on the Company’s behalf, such as foreign withholding tax. Revenue recognition for each source of revenue is also based on the following policies.
Advertising
Advertising revenues are principally generated from the sale of commercial time on linear (television networks and authenticated TVE applications) and digital platforms.platforms (DTC subscription services and websites). A substantial portion of the linear and digital advertising contracts in the U.S. and certain international markets guarantee the advertiser a minimum audience level that either the program in which their advertisements are aired or the advertisement will reach. On the linear platform, the Company provides a service to deliver an advertising campaign which is satisfied by the provision of a minimum number of advertising spots in exchange for a fixed fee over a contract period of one year or less. The Company delivers spots in accordance with these contracts during a variety of day parts and programs. In the agreements governing these advertising campaigns, the Company has also promised to deliver to its customers a guaranteed minimum number of viewers (“impressions”) on a specific television network within a particular demographic (e.g. men aged 18-35). These advertising campaigns are considered to represent a single, distinct performance obligation. Revenues are recognized based on the guaranteed audience level delivered multiplied by the average price per impression. The Company provides the advertiser with advertising until the guaranteed audience level is delivered, and invoiced advertising revenue receivables may exceed the value of the audience delivery. As such, revenues are deferred until the guaranteed audience level is delivered or the rights associated with the guarantee lapse, which is typically less than one year. Audience guarantees are initially developed internally, based on planned programming, historical audience levels, the success of pilot programs, and market trends. Actual audience and delivery information is published by independent ratings services.
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Digital advertising contracts typically contain promises to deliver guaranteed impressions in specific markets against a targeted demographic during a stipulated period of time. If the specified number of impressions is not delivered, the transaction price is reduced by the number of impressions not delivered multiplied by the contractually stated price per impression. Each promise is considered a separate performance obligation. For digital contracts with an audience guarantee, advertising revenues are recognized as impressions are delivered. Actual audience delivery is typically reported by independent third parties.
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For contracts without an audience guarantee, advertising revenues are recognized as each spot airs. The airing of individual spots without a guaranteed audience level are each distinct, individual performance obligations. The Company allocates the consideration to each spot based on its relative standalone selling price. Advertising revenues from digital platforms are recognized as impressions are delivered or the services are performed.
Distribution
Distribution revenues are generated from fees charged to network distributors, which include cable, direct-to-home (“DTH”) satellite, telecommunications and digital service providers, and DTC subscribers. Cable operators, DTH satellite operators and telecommunications service providers typically pay royalties via a per-subscriber fee for the right to distribute the Company’s programming under the terms of distribution contracts. The majority of the Company’s distribution fees are collected monthly throughout the year and distribution revenue is recognized over the term of the contracts based on contracted programming rates and reported subscriber levels. The amount of distribution fees due to the Company is reported by distributors based on actual subscriber levels. Such information is generally not received until after the close of the reporting period. In these cases, the Company estimates the number of subscribers receiving the Company’s programming to estimate royalty revenue. Historical adjustments to recorded estimates have not been material. Distribution revenue from fixed-fee contracts is recognized over the contract term based on the continuous delivery of the content to the affiliate. Any monetary incentives provided to distributors other than for distinct goods or services acquired at fair value are recognized as a reduction of revenue over the service term.
Although the delivery of linear feeds and digital DTC products, such as video-on-demand (“VOD”) and authenticated TVE applications, are considered distinct performance obligations within a distribution arrangement, on demandon-demand offerings generally match the programs that are airing on the linear network. Therefore, the Company recognizes revenue for licensing arrangements as the license fee is earned and based on continuous delivery for fixed fee contracts.
For DTC subscription services, the Company recognizes revenue as the license fee is earned over the subscription period.
Revenues associated with digital distribution arrangements are recognized when the Company transfers control of the contentprogramming and the rights to distribute the contentprogramming to the customer.
OtherFor DTC subscription services, the Company recognizes revenue as the service fee is earned over the subscription period.
License feesContent
Content revenues are generated from the release of feature films for initial exhibition in theaters, the licensing of feature films and television programs to various television, SVOD and other digital markets, distribution of feature films and television programs in the physical and digital home entertainment market, sales of console games and mobile in-game content, sublicensing of sports rights, and licensing of intellectual property such as characters and brands.
In general, fixed payments for the licensing of intellectual property are recognized as revenue at either the inception of the license term or as sales-based royalties as underlying sales occur if the intellectual property has significant standalone functionality (“functional IP,” such as a produced film or television series), or over the corresponding license term if the licensee’s ability to derive utility is dependent upon our continued support of the intellectual property throughout the license term (“symbolic IP,” such as a character or a brand). Feature films may be produced or acquired for initial exhibition in theaters or direct release on our streaming service. Arrangements with theaters for exhibiting a film over a certain period are generally sales-based royalties and recorded as revenue as the underlying sales of the exhibitors occur.
Television programs are initially produced for broadcast networks, cable networks, premium pay services, first-run syndication or streaming services; revenues are recognized when the rights becomeprograms are available for airing. Revenue from production studios is recognized when the content is delivered and available for airing by the customer. Royalties from brand licensing arrangements are earned as products are solduse by the licensee. AffiliateFixed license fee revenues from the subsequent licensing of feature films and ad sales representation servicestelevision programs in the off-network cable, premium pay, syndication, streaming and international television and streaming markets are also recognized as services are provided.
Multiple Performance Obligations
Contracts with customers mayupon availability of the content for use by the licensee. For television/streaming service licenses that include multiple distinct performance obligations. Advertising contracts may include sponsorship, production, or product integration in addition totitles with a fixed license fee across all titles, the airingavailability of spots and/or the satisfaction of an audience guarantee. For such contracts, the contract valueeach title is allocated to individual performance obligations and recorded as revenue when eachconsidered a separate performance obligation, has been satisfied and value has been transferred to the customer. Distribution contracts also include multiple performance obligations. The Company also enters into certain distribution contracts that include promises to deliver content libraries. There are generally two types of such arrangements: 1) content licensing arrangements that include subscription video on demand (“SVOD”) licensing arrangements and 2) digital DTC content (such as VOD and authenticated TVE applications), which is a performance obligation within the Company's linear distribution arrangements. These contracts vary by customer and in certain instances include a promise by the Company to deliver existing content and new content. For SVOD arrangements, revenuefixed fee is allocated to each performance obligation based on that performance obligation's relative standalone selling price. Intitle and recognized as revenue when the case of VOD and digital DTC content, contenttitle is regularly refreshed overavailable for use by the licensee. When the term of an existing agreement is renewed or extended, revenues are recognized when the agreement, as new titleslicensed content becomes available under the renewal or extension. Certain arrangements (e.g., certain pay-TV/SVOD licenses) may include variable license fees that are added and older titles are removed. Consequently, satisfactionbased on sales of the performance obligationslicensee; these are recognized as revenue as the applicable underlying sales occur.
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Revenues from home entertainment sales of feature films and television programs in physical format are generally occursrecognized at the later of the delivery date or the date when made widely available for sale or rental by retailers (“street date”) based on gross sales less a provision for estimated returns, rebates and pricing allowances. The provision is based on management’s estimates by analyzing vendor sales of our product, historical return trends, current economic conditions and changes in customer demand. Revenues from the licensing of television programs and films for electronic sell-through or video-on-demand are recognized when the product has been purchased by and made available to the consumer to either download or stream.
Revenues from sales of console games generally follow the same recognition methods as film and television programs in the same patternhome entertainment market. Revenues from digital sales of in-game purchases are assessed for deferral based on type of digital item purchased (e.g., consumable vs. durable) and estimated life of consumer game play and recognized upon purchase or
over time as applicable.
Revenues from the licensing of intellectual property such as characters or brands (e.g., for merchandising or theme parks) are
recognized either straight-line over the license term or as the deliverylicensee’s underlying product sales occur (sales-based royalty) depending on which method is most reflective of the linear feed.earnings process.
Deferred RevenueContract Assets and Liabilities
A contract asset is recorded when revenue is recognized in advance of the Company’s right to bill and receive consideration and that right is conditioned upon something other than the passage of time. A contract liability, such as deferred revenue, is recorded when the Company has recorded billings in conjunction with its contractual right or when cash is received in advance of the Company’s performance.
Deferred revenue primarily consists of TV/SVOD content licensing arrangements where the content has not yet been made available to the customer, consumer products and themed experience licensing arrangements with fixed payments, advance payment for DTC subscriptions, cash billed/received for television advertising in advance or for which the guaranteed viewership has not been provided, product licensing arrangements in which fee collections are in excess of the license value provided, and advancedadvance fees received related to the sublicensing of Olympic rights. The amounts classified as current are expected to be earned within the next year.
Payment terms vary by the type and location of the customer and the products or services offered. The term between invoicing and when payment is due is not significant. For certain products or services and customer types, the Company requires payment before the products or services are delivered to the customer.
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DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Share-Based Compensation Expense
The Company has incentive plans under which performance-based restricted stock units (“PRSUs”), service-based restricted stock units (“RSUs”), and stock options and stock appreciation rights (“SARs”) aremay be issued. In addition, the Company offers an Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the "ESPP"“ESPP”). Share-based compensation expense for all awards is recorded as a component of selling, general and administrative expense. Forfeitures for all awards are recognized as incurred. Excess tax benefits realized from the exercise of stock options and vested RSUs, PRSUs and the ESPP are reported as cash inflows from operating activities on the consolidated statements of cash flows.
PRSUs
VestingPRSUs represent the contingent right to receive shares of WBD common stock, and vest over one year based on continuous service and the attainment of qualitative and quantitative performance targets. The number of PRSUs that vest typically ranges from 0% to 100% based on a sliding scale where achieving or exceeding the performance target will result in 100% of the PRSUs vesting and achieving 70% or less of the target will result in no portion of the PRSUs vesting. Additionally, for certain PRSUs, is subject to satisfying objective operating performance conditions orthe Company’s Compensation Committee has discretion in determining the final number of units that vest, but may not increase the amount of any PRSU award above 100%. Upon vesting, each PRSU becomes convertible into one share of WBD common stock. Holders of PRSUs do not receive payments of dividends in the event the Company pays a combinationcash dividend until such PRSUs are converted into shares of objective and subjective operating performance conditions. WBD common stock.
Compensation expense for PRSUs is based on the fair value of the Company’s Series A and CWBD common stock on the date of grant. Compensation expense for PRSUs that vest based on achieving subjective operating performance conditions or in situations where the executive is able tomay withhold taxes in excess of the maximum statutory requirement, is remeasured at fair value each reporting period until the award is settled. Compensation expense for all PRSUs is recognized ratably following a graded vesting pattern duringover the vesting period only when it is probable that the operating performance conditions will be achieved. The Company records a cumulative adjustment to compensation expense for PRSUs if there is a change in the determination of the probability that the operating performance conditions will be achieved.
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RSUs
RSUs represent the contingent right to receive shares of WBD common stock, substantially all of which vest ratably each year over periods of three to five years based on continuous service. Compensation expense for RSUs is based on the fair value of the award on the date of grant and is recognized ratably during the vesting period. RSU awards generally provide for accelerated vesting upon retirement or after reaching a specified age and years of service.
SARs and Stock Options
Compensation expense for SARs isStock options are granted with an exercise price equal to or in excess of the closing market price of WBD common stock on the date of grant. Stock options vest ratably over four years from the grant date based on continuous service and expire seven years from the fair valuedate of the award. Because certain SARs are cash-settled, the Company remeasures the fair valuegrant. Stock option awards generally provide for accelerated vesting upon retirement or after reaching a specified age and years of these awards each reporting period until settlement. Compensation expense for SARs, including changes in fair value, is recognized during the vesting period in proportion to the requisite service that has been rendered as of the reporting date. For awards with graded vesting, the Company measures fair value and records compensation expense separately for each vesting tranche.
service. Compensation expense for stock options is based on the fair value of the award on the date of grant and is recognized ratably during the vesting period.
The fair values of SARs and stock options are estimated using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. Because the Black-Scholes option-pricing model requires the use of subjective assumptions, changes in these assumptions can materially affect the fair value of awards. For SARs, the expected term is the period from the grant date to the end of the contractual term of the award unless the terms of the award allow for cash-settlement automatically on the date the awards vest, in which case the vesting date is used. For stock options the simplified method is utilized to calculate the expected term, since the Company does not have sufficient historical exercise data to provide a reasonable basis upon which to estimate the expected term. The simplified method considers the period from the date of grant through the mid-point between the vesting date and the end of the contractual term of the award. Expected volatility is based on a combination of implied volatilities from traded options on the Company’sWBD common stock and historical realized volatility of the Company’sWBD and peer group common stock. The dividend yield is assumed to be 0zero because the Company has no history of paying cash dividends and no present intention to pay dividends. The risk-free interest rate is based on U.S. Treasury zero-coupon issues with a remaining term equal to the expected term of the award.
ESPP
The ESPP enables eligible employees to purchase shares of the Company’sWBD common stock through payroll deductions or other permitted means. The Company recognizes the fair value of the discount associated with shares purchased under the ESPP as share-based compensation expense.
Advertising Costs
Advertising costs are expensed as promotional services are deliveredincurred and are presented in selling, general and administrative expenses. Advertising costs paid to third parties totaled $412$2,428 million, $390$2,519 million and $355$1,247 million for years ended December 31, 2020, 20192023, 2022 and 2018,2021, respectively.
Collaborative Arrangements
The Company’s collaborative arrangements primarily relate to arrangements entered into with third parties to jointly finance and distribute certain theatrical and television productions and an arrangement entered into with CBS Broadcasting, Inc. (“CBS”) surrounding The National Collegiate Athletic Association (the “NCAA”).
Co-financing arrangements generally represent the assignment of an economic interest in a film or television series to a producing partner. The Company generally records the amounts received for the assignment of an interest as a reduction of production cost, as the partner assumes the risk for their share of the film or series asset. The substance of these arrangements is that the third-party partner owns an interest in the film or series; therefore, in each period, the Company reflects in the consolidated statements of operations either a charge or benefit to cost of revenues, excluding depreciation and amortization to reflect the estimate of the third-party partner’s interest in the profits or losses incurred on the film or series using the individual film forecast method, based on the terms of the arrangement. On occasion, the Company acquires the economic interest in a film from a producing partner; in this case, the Company capitalizes the acquisition cost as a content asset in film and television content rights and games and accounts for the third-party partner’s share in applicable distribution results as described above.
The arrangement among Turner, CBS and the NCAA provides Turner and CBS with rights to the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championship Tournament (the “NCAA Tournament”) in the U.S. and its territories and possessions through 2032. The aggregate programming rights fee, production costs, advertising revenues and sponsorship revenues related to the NCAA Tournament and related programming are shared equally by the Company and CBS. However, if the amount paid for the programming rights fee and production costs in any given year exceeds advertising and sponsorship revenues for that year, CBS’ share of such shortfall is limited to specified annual caps. The amounts recorded pursuant to the loss cap were not material during the year ended December 31, 2023. No amounts were recorded pursuant to the loss cap during the year ended December 31, 2022 since the 2022 cap was finalized prior to the Merger. In accounting for this arrangement, the Company records advertising revenue for the advertisements aired on its networks and amortizes its share of the programming rights fee based on the estimated relative value of each season over the term of the arrangement.
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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For our collaborative arrangements entered into with third parties to jointly finance and distribute certain theatrical and television productions, net participation costs of$393 million and$276 millionwere recorded in cost of revenues, excluding depreciation and amortization for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
Income Taxes
Income taxes are recorded using the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes. Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effect of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. Deferred taxes are measured using rates the Company expects to apply to taxable income in years in which those temporary differences are expected to reverse. A valuation allowance is provided for deferred tax assets if it is more likely than not such assets will be unrealized. The Company also engaged in transactions that make the Company eligible for federal investment tax credits. The Company accounts for federal investment tax credits under the flow-through method, under which the tax benefit generated from an investment tax credit is recorded in the period the credit is generated.
From time to time, the Company engages in transactions in which the tax consequences may be uncertain. Significant judgment is required in assessing and estimating the tax consequences of these transactions. The Company prepares and files tax returns based on its interpretation of tax laws and regulations. In the normal course of business, the Company'sCompany’s tax returns are subject to examination by various taxing authorities. Such examinations may result in future tax and interest assessments by these taxing authorities.
In determining the Company'sCompany’s tax provision for financial reporting purposes, the Company establishes a reserve for uncertain tax positions unless the Company determines that such positions are more likely than not to be sustained upon examination based on their technical merits, including the resolution of any appeals or litigation processes. The Company includes interest and where appropriate, penalties, in itsas a component of income tax reserves.expense on the consolidated statements of operations. There is significant judgment involved in determining the amount of reserve and whether positions taken on the Company'sCompany’s tax returns are more likely than not to be sustained, which involve the use of significant estimates and assumptions with respect to the potential outcome of positions taken on tax returns that may be reviewed by tax authorities. The Company adjusts its tax reserve estimates periodically because of ongoing examinations by, and settlements with, various taxing authorities, as well as changes in tax laws, regulations and interpretations.
In connection with the Merger, the Company entered into a tax matters agreement (“TMA”) with AT&T. Pursuant to the TMA, the Company is responsible for tax liabilities of the WM Business related to the periods prior to AT&T’s ownership of the WM Business (June 14, 2018), and AT&T is responsible for tax liabilities of the WM Business related to the period for which they owned the WM Business (June 15, 2018 through April 8, 2022). With respect to uncertain tax positions related to jurisdictions that have joint and several liability among members of the AT&T tax filing group during the AT&T ownership period, the Company has not recorded any liabilities for uncertain tax positions or indemnification receivables related to matters that were attributable to jurisdictions that have joint and several liability among members of the AT&T filing group since AT&T was determined to be the primary obligor.
Concentrations Risk
Customers
The Company has long-term contracts with distributors around the world. For the U.S. Networks segment, 95% of distribution revenue comes from the 10 largest distributors. Agreements in place with the 10 largest cable and satellite operators with the U.S. Networks expire at various times from 2021 through 2023. Although the Company seeks to renew its agreements with its distributors prior to expiration of a contract, a delay in securing a renewal that results in a service disruption, a failure to secure a renewal or a renewal on less favorable terms may have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition and results of operations. Not only could the Company experience a reduction in distribution revenue, but it could also experience a reduction in advertising revenue, as viewership is impacted by affiliate subscriber levels.
No individual customer accounted for more than 10% of total consolidated revenues for 2020, 20192023, 2022 or 2018.2021. The Company had two customers that represented more than 10% of distribution revenue in 2023, which in aggregate totaled 24%. As of December 31, 20202023 and 2019,2022, the Company’s trade receivables do not represent a significant concentration of credit risk as the customers and markets in which the Company operates are varied and dispersed across many geographic areas.
Financial Institutions
Cash and cash equivalents are maintained with several financial institutions. The Company has deposits held with banks that exceed the amount of insurance provided on such deposits. Generally, these deposits may be redeemed upon demand and are maintained with financial institutions of reputable credit and, therefore, bear minimal credit risk.
Counterparty Credit Risk
The Company is exposed to the risk that the counterparties to outstanding derivative financial instruments will default on their obligations. The Company manages these credit risks through the evaluation and monitoring of the creditworthiness of, and concentration of risk with, the respective counterparties. In this regard, credit risk associated with outstanding derivative financial instruments is spread across a relatively broad counterparty base of banks and financial institutions. The Company also has a limited number of arrangements where collateral is required to be posted in the instance that certain fair value thresholds are exceeded. The Company also has cash posted as collateral related to the Company’s revolving receivables program. As of December 31, 2020,2023, the Company had posted $31$539 million of collateral under these arrangements. As of December 31, 2020, the Company's exposure to counterparty credit risk included derivative assets with an aggregate fair value of $97 million. (See Note 10.)
.
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WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Accounting and Reporting Pronouncements Adopted
ContentSupplier Finance Programs
In March 2019,September 2022, the Financial Accounting Standards Accounting Board ("FASB"(“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2019-02, which generally alignsguidance updating the accounting for production costs of episodic television series with the accounting for production costs of films. In addition, ASU 2019-02 modifies certain aspects of the capitalization, impairment, presentation and disclosure requirements for supplier finance program obligations. This guidance provides specific authoritative guidance for disclosure of supplier finance programs, including key terms of such programs, amounts outstanding, and where the obligations are presented in Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 926-20 and the impairment, presentation and disclosure requirements in ASC 920-350.statement of financial position. The Company adopted this ASU onthe guidance effective January 1, 20202023 and has provided the required disclosures in Note 18.
Accounting and Reporting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted
Segment Reporting
In November 2023, the FASB issued guidance updating the disclosure requirements for reportable segments, primarily through enhanced disclosures about significant segment expenses. The amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, and for interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024. Early adoption is permitted. The amendments should be applied retrospectively to all prior periods presented in the financial statements. The Company is currently evaluating the impact this guidance will applyhave on its disclosures.
Income Taxes
In December 2023, the provisions prospectively. FASB issued guidance updating the disclosure requirements for income taxes, primarily through standardization and disaggregation of rate reconciliation categories and income taxes paid by jurisdiction. The amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024, with early adoption permitted. The amendments should be applied prospectively; however, retrospective application is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact this guidance will have on its disclosures.
NOTE 3. EQUITY AND EARNINGS PER SHARE
Common Stock Issued in Connection with the WarnerMedia Merger
In connection with this adoption, the Company elected to treat all contentMerger, each issued and outstanding share of Discovery Series A common stock, Discovery Series B convertible common stock, and Discovery Series C common stock, was reclassified and automatically converted into one share of WBD common stock, and each issued and outstanding share of Discovery Series A-1 convertible preferred stock (“Series A-1 Preferred Stock”) and Series C-1 convertible preferred stock was reclassified and automatically converted into 13.1135 and 19.3648 shares of WBD common stock, respectively.
The Merger required the consent of Advance/Newhouse Programming Partnership under Discovery’s certificate of incorporation as the sole holder of the Series A-1 Preferred Stock. In connection with Advance/Newhouse Programming Partnership’s entry into the consent agreement and related forfeiture of the significant rights and prepaid license fees as a noncurrent asset, with the exception of content acquired with an initial license period of 12 months or less and prepaid sports rights expected to air within 12 months. As of December 31, 2020 and 2019, $532 million and $579 million, respectively, of content rights and prepaid license fees were reflected as a current asset. The Company determined that most of its content is exploited as part of film groups. For such content assets, the unit of account for the impairment assessment is the respective film group. There was no material impact upon adoptionattached to the Consolidated Statements of Operations orSeries A-1 Preferred Stock in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. (See Note 6.)
Goodwill
In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04, which simplifies the subsequent measurement of goodwill by eliminating Step 2 from the former two-step goodwill impairment test and eliminating the requirements for any reporting unit with a zero or negative carrying amount to perform a qualitative assessment. Therefore, an entity will recognize impairment charges for the amount by which the carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit's fair value not to exceed the amount of goodwill recorded for that reporting unit. Goodwill impairment will no longer be measured as the excessreclassification of the carrying amountshares of goodwill over its implied fair value determined by assigning the fair value of a reporting unit to all of its assets and liabilities as ifSeries A-1 Preferred Stock into common stock, it had been acquired in a business combination. The Company adopted this ASU on January 1, 2020 and has applied the provisions to quantitative goodwill impairment assessments performed in 2020. (See Note 7.)
Financial Instruments - Credit Losses
In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, which changes the impairment model for most financial assets and certain other instruments, including trade and other receivables, held-to-maturity debt securities and loans and replaces the incurred loss methodology with a new, forward-looking “expected loss” model that considers the risk of loss over the asset’s contractual life, even if remote, historical experience, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts of future relevant events. The Company adopted this ASU on January 1, 2020 using a modified retrospective approach and recorded a noncash cumulative effect of adoption asreceived an increase to retained earningsthe number of $2shares of common stock of the Company into which the Series A-1 Preferred Stock converted. The impact of the issuance of such additional shares of common stock was $789 million to align its credit loss methodology withand was recorded as a transaction expense in selling, general and administrative expense upon the new standard.closing of the Merger in the year ended December 31, 2022.
On April 8, 2022, the Company issued 1.7 billion shares of WBD common stock as consideration paid for the acquisition of WM. (See Note 14.)4).
LeasesRepurchase Programs
In February 2016,Common Stock
Under the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, which requires lesseesCompany’s stock repurchase program, management is authorized to recognize almost allpurchase shares of their leases on the balance sheetWBD common stock from time to time through open market purchases, privately negotiated transactions at prevailing prices, pursuant to one or more accelerated stock repurchase agreements, or other derivative arrangements as permitted by recording a right-of-use assetsecurities laws and lease liability. The guidance also requires improved disclosuresother legal requirements, and subject to help users of the financial statements better understand the amount, timing,stock price, business and uncertainty of cash flows arising from leases. The Company adopted ASU 2016-02 effective January 1, 2019market conditions and elected to apply the guidance at the effective date without recasting the comparative periods presented. Additionally, the Company elected to apply practical expedients allowing it to not reassess: 1) whether any expired or existing contracts previously assessed as not containing leases are, or contain, leases; 2) the lease classification for any expired or existing leases; and 3) initial direct costs for any existing leases. The Company also elected to not separate lease components from non-lease components across all lease categories. Instead, each separate lease component and non-lease component are accounted for as a single lease component. The Company did not elect to apply the practical expedient to use hindsight in determining the lease term and in assessing the right-of-use assets for impairment. Additionally, the Company did not elect to apply the short-term lease scope exemption.
Revenue from Contracts with Customers
In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers ("Topic 606"), which updates numerous requirements in U.S. GAAP, eliminates industry-specific guidance, and provides companies with a single model for recognizing revenue from contracts with customers. The core principle of Topic 606 is that a company should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The guidance also addresses the accounting for costs incurred as part of obtaining or fulfilling a contract with a customer by adding ASC Subtopic 340-40, Other Assets and Deferred Costs: Contracts with Customers, and requiring that costs of obtaining a contract be recognized as an asset and amortized as goods and services are transferred to the customer, as long as the costs are expected to be recovered.other factors.
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WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
On January 1, 2018,In February 2020, the Company’s board of directors authorized additional stock repurchases of up to $2 billion upon completion of its existing $1 billion repurchase authorization announced in May 2019. All common stock repurchases, including prepaid common stock repurchase contracts, have been made through open market transactions and have been recorded as treasury stock on the consolidated balance sheets. During the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, the Company adopted Topic 606 usingdid not repurchase any of its common stock. Over the modified retrospective method applied to contracts not completed aslife of January 1, 2018. Revenues do not include taxes collected from customers on behalf of taxing authorities such as sales tax and value-added tax. However, certain revenues include taxes that customers pay to taxing authorities on the Company’s behalf, such as foreign withholding tax.repurchase programs and prior to the Merger and conversion of Discovery common stock to WBD common stock, the Company had repurchased 3 million and 229 million shares of Discovery Series A and Discovery Series C common stock, respectively, for the aggregate purchase price of $171 million and $8.2 billion, respectively.
AccountingEarnings Per Share
All share and Reporting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted
LIBOR
In March 2020,per share amounts have been retrospectively adjusted to reflect the FASB issued ASU 2020-04,reclassification and automatic conversion into WBD common stock, except for Series A-1 Preferred Stock, which provides temporary optional expedients and exceptions for applying U.S. GAAP to contract modifications, hedging relationships, and other transactions if certain criteria are methas not been recast because the conversion of Series A-1 Preferred Stock into WBD common stock in order to ease the potential accounting and financial reporting burden associatedconnection with the expected market transition away fromMerger was considered a discrete event and treated prospectively.
The table below sets forth the London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) and other interbank offered rates to alternative reference rates. Additionally, in January 2021, the FASB issued ASU 2021-01, which clarifies the scope of Topic 848 and allows entities to elect certain optional expedients and exceptions when accounting for derivative contracts and certain hedging relationships affected by changes in the interest rates. These ASUs are effective as of March 12, 2020 through December 31, 2022. The Company is currently assessing the impact ASU 2020-04 and ASU 2021-01 will have on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures, if elected.
Convertible Instruments
In August 2020, the FASB issued ASU 2020-06, which simplifies the accounting for convertible instruments by reducing the number of accounting models available for convertible debt instruments and convertible preferred stock. ASU 2020-06 also amends the guidance for the derivatives scope exception for contracts in an entity’s own equity to reduce form-over-substance-based accounting conclusions, requires the use of the if-converted method for calculatingCompany’s calculated earnings per share for convertible instruments, and makes targeted improvements(in millions). Earnings per share amounts may not recalculate due to rounding.
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Numerator:
Net (loss) income$(3,079)$(7,297)$1,197 
Less:
Allocation of undistributed income to Series A-1 convertible preferred stock— (49)(110)
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests(38)(68)(138)
Net income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interests(9)(6)(53)
Redeemable noncontrolling interest adjustments of carrying value to redemption value (redemption value does not equal fair value)— — 16 
Net (loss) income allocated to Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc. Series A common stockholders for basic and diluted net (loss) income per share$(3,126)$(7,420)$912 
Add:
Allocation of undistributed income to Series A-1 convertible preferred stockholders— — 110 
Net (loss) income allocated to Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc. Series A common stockholders for diluted net (loss) income per share$(3,126)$(7,420)$1,022 
Denominator — weighted average:
Common shares outstanding — basic2,436 1,940 588 
Impact of assumed preferred stock conversion— — 71 
Dilutive effect of share-based awards— — 
Common shares outstanding — diluted2,436 1,940 664 
Basic net (loss) income per share allocated to common stockholders$(1.28)$(3.82)$1.55 
Diluted net (loss) income per share allocated to common stockholders$(1.28)$(3.82)$1.54 
The table below presents the disclosures for convertible instruments and relateddetails of share-based awards that were excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share guidance. This ASU is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2021. Early adoption is permitted, but no earlier than fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2020. The Company is currently assessing the impact ASU 2020-06 will have on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.(in millions).
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Anti-dilutive share-based awards69 49 17 
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WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 3.4. ACQUISITIONS AND DISPOSITIONS
Acquisitions
UKTV - Lifestyle BusinessWarnerMedia
On June 11, 2019,April 8, 2022, the Company and BBC Studios (“BBC”) dissolved their 50/50 joint venture, UKTV, a British multi-channel broadcaster,completed its Merger with the WarnerMedia Business of AT&T. The Merger was executed through a Reverse Morris Trust type transaction, under which WM was distributed to AT&T’s shareholders via a pro-rata distribution, and immediately thereafter, combined with Discovery. Discovery was deemed to be the accounting acquirer of WM.
The Merger combined WM’s content library and valuable intellectual property with Discovery’s global footprint, collection of local-language content and deep regional expertise across more than 220 countries and territories. The Company taking full controlexpects this broad, worldwide portfolio of UKTV’s three lifestyle channels (the “Lifestyle Business”) and BBC taking full control of UKTV’s seven entertainment channels (the "Entertainment Business"). Prior to the transaction, the Company held a note receivable from UKTV of $118 million, which was included in equity method investments in the Company’s consolidated balance sheets. Concurrentbrands, coupled with the transaction, the note was settled.
To compensate Discovery for the note receivable and for the difference in fair value between the Lifestyle Businessits DTC potential and the Entertainment Business retained by BBC, Discovery received cash of $88 million at closing and a note receivable from BBC of $130 million, payable in 2 equal installments. The first installment was received in June 2020 and the second installment is due in June 2021. The Company used a market-based valuation model to determine the fair valueattractiveness of the previously held 50% equity method investmentcombined assets, to result in the Lifestyle Business and recognized a gain of $5 million during the year ended December 31, 2019 for the difference between the carrying value and the fair value of the of the previously held equity interest.increased market penetration globally. The gainMerger is included in other income (expense), net in the Company's consolidated statement of operations.
The Company applied the acquisition method of accountingalso expected to the Lifestyle Business, whereby the excess of the fair value of the business over the fair value of identifiable net assets was allocated to goodwill. The goodwill reflects the workforce and synergies expected from broader exposure to the lifestyle entertainment sector in the U.K. The goodwill recorded as part of this acquisition is included in the International Networks reportable segment and is not amortizable for tax purposes. Intangible assets consist of electronic program guide slots and trademarks and have a weighted average useful life of 6 years. The Company used discounted cash flow ("DCF") analyses, which represent Level 3 fair value measurements, to assess certain components of its purchase price allocation. The measurement period closed in June 2020, with no material adjustments recorded.
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DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The final fair value of Lifestyle Business assets acquired and liabilities assumed, as well as a reconciliation to total assets received in dissolution of the UKTV joint venture, is presented in the table below (in millions).
Cash$17 
Content rights18 
Intangible assets34 
Goodwill121 
Accrued liabilities(12)
Total assets acquired and liabilities assumed in Lifestyle Business178 
Note receivable from BBC130 
Cash received88 
Net assets received in dissolution of UKTV joint venture$396 
A summary of total assets derecognized in connection with the dissolution of the UKTV joint venture is presented in the table below (in millions).
Carrying value of UKTV equity method investment$278 
Settlement of note receivable118 
Total assets derecognized in dissolution of UKTV joint venture$396 
In connection with the above transaction, the Company contemporaneously entered into a ten-year content licensing arrangement with BBC in exchange for license fees over the term.
Scripps Networks
On March 6, 2018, Discovery acquired Scripps Networks. The acquisition of Scripps Networks allows the Company to offer complementary brands with an extensive library of original programming to consumers and to become a scale player with the ability to compete for audiences and advertising revenue. The acquisition is intended to extend Scripps Networks' content to a broader international audience through Discovery's global distribution infrastructure. Finally, the acquisition of Scripps Networks has createdcreate significant cost synergies for the Company.
The consideration paid for the acquisition of Scripps Networks consisted of the following:
(i)     for Scripps Networks shareholders that did not make an election or elected to receive the mixed consideration, $65.82 in cash and 1.0584 shares of Discovery Series C common stock for each Scripps Networks share,
(ii)    for Scripps Networks shareholders that elected to receive the cash consideration, $90.00 in cash for each Scripps Networks share,
(iii) for Scripps Networks shareholders that elected to receive the stock consideration, 3.9392 shares of Discovery Series C common stock for each Scripps Networks share, and
(iv) transaction costs that Discovery paid for costs incurred by Scripps Networks in conjunction with the acquisition.
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DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Purchase Price
The following table summarizes the components of the aggregate purchase consideration paid for the acquisition of Scripps Networksto acquire WM (in millions of dollars and shares, except for per share amounts, share conversion ratio and stock option conversion ratio)millions).
Scripps Networks equityFair value of WBD common stock issued to AT&T shareholders (1)
Scripps Networks shares outstanding131 
Cash consideration per Scripps Networks share$65.8242,309 
Estimated fair value of share-based compensation awards attributable to pre-combination services (2)
94 
Settlement of preexisting relationships (3)
(27)
Cash portion ofPurchase consideration$8,59042,376 
Scripps Networks shares outstanding131 
Share conversion ratio per Scripps Networks share1.0584
Discovery Series C common stock138 
Discovery Series C common stock price per share$23.01 
Equity portion of consideration$3,179 
Shares awarded under Scripps Networks share-based compensation programs
Scripps Networks share-based compensation awards converting to cash
Average cash consideration per share awarded less applicable exercise price$46.90 
Cash portion of consideration$88 
Scripps Networks share-based compensation awards
Share-based compensation conversion ratio (based on intrinsic value per award)
Discovery Series C common stock issued (1) or share-based compensation converted (2)
Average equity value (intrinsic value of Discovery Series C common stock or options to be issued)$15.19 
Share-based compensation equity value$51 
Less: post-combination compensation expense(12)
Equity portion of consideration39 
Scripps Networks transaction costs paid by Discovery117 
Total consideration paid$12,013 
(1)The fair value of WBD common stock issued to AT&T shareholders represents approximately 1,732 million shares of WBD common stock multiplied by the closing share price for Discovery Series A common stock of $24.43 on Nasdaq on the Closing Date. The number of shares of WBD common stock issued in the Merger was determined based on the number of fully diluted shares of Discovery, Inc. common stock immediately prior to the closing of the Merger, multiplied by the quotient of 71%/29%.
(2)This amount represents the value of AT&T restricted stock unit awards that were not vested and were replaced by WBD restricted stock unit awards with similar terms and conditions as the original AT&T awards. The conversion was based on the ratio of the volume-weighted average per share closing price of AT&T common stock on the ten trading days prior to the Closing Date and the volume-weighted average per share closing price of WBD common stock on the ten trading days following the Closing Date. The fair value of replacement equity-based awards attributable to pre-Merger service was recorded as part of the consideration transferred in the Merger. See Note 15 for additional information.
(3)The amount represents the effective settlement of outstanding payables and receivables between the Company and WM. No gain or loss was recognized upon settlement as amounts were determined to be reflective of fair market value.
Balances reflect rounding of dollar and share amounts to millions, which may result in differences for recalculated standalone amounts compared with the amounts presented above. In August 2022, the Company and AT&T finalized the post-closing working capital settlement process, which resulted in the Company receiving a $1.2 billion payment from AT&T in the third quarter of 2022. AT&T has raised certain claims associated with the merger that the Company believes are without merit.
Purchase Price Allocation
The Company applied the acquisition method of accounting to Scripps Networks' business,WM, whereby the excess of the fair value of the businesspurchase price paid over the fair value of identifiable net assets acquired and liabilities assumed was allocated to goodwill. Goodwill reflects the assembled workforce and synergies expected fromof WM as well as revenue enhancements, cost savings operations and revenue enhancements of the combined companyoperating synergies that are expected to result from the acquisition.Merger. The goodwill recorded as part of this acquisition wasthe Merger has been allocated to the U.S.Studios, Networks and International NetworksDTC reportable segments in the amounts of $5.3 billion$9,308 million, $7,074 million and $817$5,727 million, respectively, and is not amortizabledeductible for tax purposes.
The Company used DCF analyses, which represent Level 3 fair value measurements, to assess certain components of its purchase price allocation. The fair value of equity interests previously held by Scripps Networks was determined using the discounted cash flow and market value methods. The fair value of trade-names and trademarks was determined using an income approach based on the relief from royalty method; the remaining intangibles were determined using an income approach based on the excess earnings method. The fair value of interest-bearing debt was determined using publicly-traded prices. For the fair value estimates, the Company used: (i) projected discounted cash flows, (ii) historical and projected financial information, (iii) synergies including cost savings, and (iv) attrition rates, as relevant, that market participants would consider when estimating fair values. In March 2019,
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WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
During 2023, the Company finalized the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed. Measurement period adjustments were reflected in the periodsperiod in which the adjustments occurred. The adjustments resulted from the receipt of additional financial projections associated with certain equity method investments, contingent liability estimates,Adjustments recorded in 2023 were $368 million, primarily related to taxes, and were recorded in other noncurrent assets, deferred income tax adjustments,taxes, and true-ups for estimated working capital balances.other noncurrent liabilities, with an offset to goodwill. The fair valueallocation of the purchase price to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, measurement period adjustments, as well asand a reconciliation to total consideration paidtransferred is presented in the table below (in millions).
Preliminary
April 8, 2022
Measurement Period
Adjustments
Final
April 8, 2022
Cash$2,419 $(10)$2,409 
Accounts receivable4,224 (60)4,164 
Other current assets4,619 (133)4,486 
Film and television content rights and games28,729 (344)28,385 
Property and equipment4,260 13 4,273 
Goodwill21,513 596 22,109 
Intangible assets44,889 100 44,989 
Other noncurrent assets5,206 283 5,489 
Current liabilities(10,544)12 (10,532)
Debt assumed(41,671)(9)(41,680)
Deferred income taxes(13,264)492 (12,772)
Other noncurrent liabilities(8,004)(940)(8,944)
Total consideration paid$42,376 $— $42,376 
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DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
PreliminaryMeasurement Period AdjustmentsFinal
Accounts receivable$783 $$783 
Other current assets421 (9)412 
Content rights1,088 (14)1,074 
Property and equipment315 315 
Goodwill6,003 154 6,157 
Intangible assets9,175 9,175 
Equity method investments, including note receivable870 (157)713 
Other noncurrent assets111 115 
Current liabilities assumed(494)(105)(599)
Debt assumed(2,481)(2,481)
Deferred income taxes(1,695)123 (1,572)
Other noncurrent liabilities(383)(379)
Noncontrolling interests(1,700)(1,700)
Total consideration paid$12,013 $$12,013 

The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed were determined using several valuation approaches including, but not limited to, various cost approaches and income approaches, such as relief from royalty, multi-period excess earnings, and with-or-without methods.
The table below presents a summary of intangible assets acquired, exclusive of content assets, and the weighted average estimated useful life of these assets.
Fair ValueWeighted Average Useful Life in Years
Trademarks and trade names$1,225 10
Advertiser relationships4,995 10
Advertising backlog280 1
Affiliate relationships2,455 12
Broadcast licenses220 6
Total intangible assets acquired$9,175 
Fair ValueWeighted Average Useful Life in Years
Trade names$21,084 34
Affiliate, advertising and subscriber relationships14,800 6
Franchises7,900 35
Other intangible assets1,205 
Total intangible assets acquired$44,989 

Magnolia Discovery Ventures
On July 19, 2019,The Company incurred acquisition-related costs of $162 million and $406 million for the Company contributed its linear cable network focusedyears ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. These costs were associated with legal and professional services and integration activities and were recognized as operating expenses on home improvement, DIY Network, to a new joint venture, Magnolia Discovery Ventures, LLC ("Magnolia"), with Chip and Joanna Gaines acting as Chief Creative Officersthe consolidated statement of operations. Additionally, the expense related to the joint venture. The joint venture is expected to replaceissuance of additional shares of common stock in connection with the conversion of Advance/Newhouse Programming’s Series A-1 Preferred Stock was $789 million and rebrandwas recorded as a transaction expense in selling, general and administrative expense upon the DIY Network, and include a TVE app and a subscription streaming service planned for a future date.
Upon formation of Magnolia, Discovery received a 75% ownership interest in the joint venture. In exchange for providing services and exclusivity to the joint venture, the Gaines received a 25% ownership interest in the joint venture, a put right after 6.5 years at fair value, potential for an additional 5% incentive equity, and certain guaranteed payments. Discovery consolidated the joint venture under the voting interest consolidation model. Payments to the Gaines for rendering services in their capacity as the Chief Creative Officersclosing of the joint venture will be accounted for as liability-classified share-based awards to non-employees as services are rendered.
Golf Digest
On May 13, 2019, the Company paid $36 million in cash to acquire Golf Digest, a leading golf brand whose content is available across multiple platforms, including print and social media. The Company applied the acquisition method of accounting to Golf Digest, and recorded net assets of $36 million, including net working capital liabilities of $12 million, intangible assets of $25 million and goodwill of $23 million. The measurement period closed in May 2020, with no material adjustments recorded. Intangible assets consist of trademarks and trade names and licensing agreements and have a weighted average useful life of 9 years. The goodwill reflects the workforce and synergies expected from broader exposure to the golf entertainment sector. The goodwill recorded as part of this acquisition is included in the International Networks reportable segment and is not amortizable for tax purposes.Merger. (See Note 3.)
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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Play Sports Group Limited
On January 8, 2019, the Company acquiredAs a controlling interest in Play Sports Group Limited, increasing Discovery's ownership stake from 20.1% to 70.7%. The Company recognized a gain of $8 million during the year ended December 31, 2019, which represents the difference between the carrying value and the fair valueresult of the previously held 20.1% equity method investment. The gain isMerger, WM’s assets, liabilities, and operations were included in other income (expense), net in the Company'sCompany’s consolidated statement of operations.financial statements from the Closing Date. The measurement period closed in January 2020, with no material adjustments recorded.following table presents WM revenue and earnings as reported within the consolidated financial statements (in millions).
Other
During 2018, 2019, and 2020, the Company completed other immaterial acquisitions.
Year Ended December 31, 2022
Revenues:
Advertising$2,849 
Distribution10,980 
Content10,001 
Other720 
Total revenues24,550 
Inter-segment eliminations(2,225)
Net revenues$22,325 
Net loss available to Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc.$(7,202)
Pro Forma Combined Financial Information
The following unaudited pro forma combined financial information has been presentedpresents the combined results of the Company and WM as if the acquisitionMerger had been completed on January 1, 2021. The unaudited pro forma combined financial information is presented for informational purposes and is not indicative of Scripps Networksthe results of operations that would have been achieved if the Merger had occurred on January 1, 2017. Pro2021, nor is it indicative of future results. The following table presents the Company’s pro forma combined revenues and net loss (in millions).
Year Ended December 31, 2022
Revenues$43,095 
Net loss available to Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc.(5,359)
The unaudited pro forma combined financial information includes, where applicable, adjustments for (i) additional costs of revenues from the Company's other acquisitions was not material. The information is based on the historical resultsfair value step-up of operations of the acquired businesses, adjusted for:
1.The allocation of purchase pricefilm and related adjustments, including adjustments totelevision library, (ii) additional amortization expense related to acquired intangible assets, (iii) additional depreciation expense from the fair value of intangible assets acquiredproperty and equipment, (iv) transaction costs and other one-time non-recurring costs, (v) additional interest expense for borrowings related to the recognition of the noncontrolling interests;
2.Impacts of debt financing, including interest for debt issuedMerger and amortization associated with the fair value adjustments of debt assumed;
3.The movementassumed, (vi) changes to align accounting policies, (vii) elimination of intercompany activity, and allocation of all acquisition-related costs incurred during the year ended December 31, 2018 to the year ended December 31, 2017;
4.Associated(viii) associated tax-related impacts of adjustments; and
5.Changes to align accounting policies.
The pro forma results do not necessarily represent what would have occurred if the acquisition of Scripps Networks had taken place on January 1, 2017, nor do they represent the results that may occur in the future. Theadjustments. These pro forma adjustments wereare based on available information as of the date hereof and upon assumptions that the Company believes are reasonable to reflect the impact of this acquisitionthe Merger with WM on the Company'sCompany’s historical financial information on a supplemental pro forma basis (in millions). basis. Adjustments do not include costs related to integration activities, cost savings or synergies that have been or may be achieved by the combined business.
BluTV
The following table presentsCompany previously held a 35% interest in BluTV, a SVOD platform entity and content distributor in Turkey that was accounted for as an equity method investment. In December 2023, the Company's pro forma combined revenuesCompany acquired the remaining 65% of BluTV for $50 million.
Dispositions
During 2023, the Company sold or exited all of the AT&T SportsNets.
In October 2022, the Company sold its 49% stake in Golden Maple Limited (known as Tencent Video VIP) for proceeds of $143 million and net income (in millions, except perrecorded a gain of $55 million, and in April 2022 completed the sale of its minority interest in Discovery Education for proceeds of $138 million and recorded a gain of $133 million.
Also, in September 2022, the Company sold 75% of its interest in The CW Network to Nexstar Media Inc. (“Nexstar”), in exchange for Nexstar agreeing to fund a majority of The CW Network’s expenses and the retention of the Company’s share value). Pro forma results forof certain receivables that existed prior to the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 are not presented below because the results for Scripps Networks are includedtransaction. There was no cash consideration exchanged in the Company's consolidated statement of operationstransaction. The Company recorded an immaterial gain and retained a 12.5% ownership interest in The CW Network, which is accounted for those years.
Year Ended December 31, 2018
Revenues$11,176 
Net income available to Discovery, Inc.823 
Net income per share - basic1.15 
Net income per share - diluted1.15 
Impact of Business Combination
The operations of Scripps Networks discussed above were included in the consolidated financial statements as of the acquisition date of March 6, 2018. The following table presents the revenue and earnings for Scripps Networks as reported within the consolidated financial statements (in millions).
Year ended December 31, 2018
Revenues:
Advertising$2,163 
Distribution795 
Other90 
Total revenues$3,048 
Net income available to Discovery, Inc.$204 
an equity method investment.
8581

WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Dispositions
Education Business
In 2018,June 2021, the Company sold an 88% controlling equity stake incompleted the sale of its education businessGreat American Country network to FranciscoHicks Equity Partners for a sale price of $113 million. The Company$90 million and recorded a gain of $84 million based on net assets disposed of $44 million, including $40 million of goodwill. The impact of the education business on the Company's income before income taxes was a loss of $2 million for the year ended December 31, 2018. Discovery retained a 12% ownership interest in the education business, which is accounted for as an equity method investment. Discovery has long-term trade name license agreements with the education business that are royalty arrangements at fair value.$76 million.
NOTE 4. INVESTMENTS
The Company’s equity investments consisted of the following (in millions).
CategoryBalance Sheet LocationOwnershipDecember 31, 2020December 31, 2019
Equity method investments:
nC+Equity method investments32%$164 $182 
Discovery Solar Ventures, LLC (a)
Equity method investmentsN/A83 92 
All3MediaEquity method investments50%76 75 
OtherEquity method investments184 219 
Total equity method investments507 568 
Investments with readily determinable fair valuesPrepaid expenses and other current assets32 
Investments with readily determinable fair valuesOther noncurrent assets54 51 
Equity investments without readily determinable fair values:
Group Nine Media (b)
Other noncurrent assets25%276 256 
Formula E (c)
Other noncurrent assets25%65 65 
OtherOther noncurrent assets200 193 
Total equity investments without readily determinable fair values541 514 
Total equity investments$1,134 $1,133 
(a) Discovery Solar Ventures, LLC invests in limited liability companies that sponsor renewable energy projects related to solar energy. These investments are considered VIEs of the Company and are accounted for under the equity method of accounting using the HLBV methodology for allocating earnings.
(b) Overall ownership percentage for Group Nine Media is calculated on an outstanding shares basis. The amount shown herein includes a $20 million note receivable balance presented within Prepaid expenses and other current assets on the Company's consolidated balance sheets.
(c) Ownership percentage for Formula E includes holdings accounted for as an equity method investment and holdings accounted for as an equity investment without a readily determinable fair value.

Equity Method Investments
Investments in equity method investees are those for which the Company has the ability to exercise significant influence but does not control and is not the primary beneficiary. The Company recorded impairment losses of $8 million, $4 million and $29 million for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively, because the change in value was considered other-than-temporary. The impairment losses are reflected as a component of loss from equity investees on the Company's consolidated statement of operations.
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DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
With the exception of nC+, the carrying values of the Company’s equity method investments are consistent with its ownership in the underlying net assets of the investees. A portion of the Scripps Networks purchase price associated with the investment in nC+ was attributed to amortizable intangible assets. This basis difference is included in the carrying value of nC+ and is amortized over time as a reduction of earnings from nC+. Earnings from nC+ were reduced by the amortization of these intangibles of$10 million, $9 million, and $9 million during the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively. Amortization that reduces the Company's equity in earnings of nC+ for future periods is expected to be $51 million.
Certain of the Company's other equity method investments are VIEs, for which the Company is not the primary beneficiary. As of December 31, 2020, the Company’s maximum exposure for all its unconsolidated VIEs, including the investment carrying values and unfunded contractual commitments made on behalf of VIEs, was approximately $250 million. The Company's maximum estimated exposure excludes the non-contractual future funding of VIEs. The aggregate carrying values of these VIE investments were $123 million as of December 31, 2020 and $160 million as of December 31, 2019. The Company recognized its portion of VIE operating results with net losses of $91 million, $14 million, and $52 million for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively, in loss from equity investees, net on the consolidated statements of operations.
Investments with Readily Determinable Fair Value
Investments in entities or other securities in which the Company has no control or significant influence, is not the primary beneficiary, and have a readily determinable fair value are classified as equity investments with readily determinable fair value. The investments are measured at fair value based on a quoted market price per unit in active markets multiplied by the number of units held without consideration of transaction costs (Level 1). Gains and losses are recorded in other income (expense), net on the consolidated statements of operations.
The Company owns shares of common stock of Lions Gate Entertainment Corp. ("Lionsgate"), an entertainment company. Formerly, the Company hedged 50% of the Lionsgate shares with an equity collar (the "Lionsgate Collar") and pledged those shares as collateral to the derivative counterparty with changes in fair value reflected as a component of other income (expense), net on the consolidated statements of operations. (See Note 10.) During the year ended December 31, 2020, the Company terminated the Lionsgate Collar. The Company received cash of $44 million and recognized a gain of $7 million, which represents the difference between the carrying value and the fair value of the hedged shares, upon termination. The gain is included in other income (expense), net on the consolidated statements of operations.
During the fourth quarter of 2020, fuboTV Inc., an investment that was formerly determined to not have a readily determinable fair value, was listed on the New York Stock Exchange. As a result, the Company recognized a total gain of $126 million, including a realized gain and receivable of $101 million pertaining to the Company's sale of 4 million fuboTV Inc. shares. Such gain and receivable are recorded in other income (expense), net on the consolidated statements of operations and prepaid expenses and other current assets on the consolidated balance sheets, respectively. (See Note 20.)
The gains and losses related to the Company's investments with readily determinable fair values for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018 are summarized in the table below (in millions).
Year Ended December 31,
202020192018
Net gains (losses) recognized during the period on equity securities$129 $(26)$(88)
Less: Net gains recognized on equity securities sold101 
Unrealized gains (losses) recognized during reporting period on equity securities still held at the reporting date$28 $(26)$(88)

Equity investments without readily determinable fair values assessed under the measurement alternative
Equity investments without readily determinable fair value include ownership rights that either (i) do not meet the definition of in-substance common stock or (ii) do not provide the Company with control or significant influence and these investments do not have readily determinable fair values.
During the year ended December 31, 2020, the Company invested $39 million in various equity investments without readily determinable fair values and concluded that its other equity investments without readily determinable fair values had no indicators that a change in fair value had taken place. As of December 31, 2020, the Company had recorded cumulative upward adjustments of $9 million for its equity investments without readily determinable fair values.
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DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 5. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
Fair value is defined as the amount that would be received for selling an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants. Assets and liabilities carried at fair value are classified in the following three categories:
Level 1Quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets.
Level 2Quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs and significant value drivers are observable in active markets.
Level 3Valuations derived from techniques in which one or more significant inputs are unobservable.
The table below presents assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis (in millions).
December 31, 2020
CategoryBalance Sheet LocationLevel 1Level 2Level 3Total
Assets
Cash equivalents:
Time depositsCash and cash equivalents$$$$
Treasury securitiesCash and cash equivalents500 500 
Equity securities:
Money market fundsCash and cash equivalents150 150 
Time depositsPrepaid expenses and other current assets250 250 
Mutual fundsPrepaid expenses and other current assets14 14 
Company-owned life insurance contractsPrepaid expenses and other current assets
Mutual fundsOther noncurrent assets200 200 
Company-owned life insurance contractsOther noncurrent assets48 48 
Total$714 $459 $$1,173 
Liabilities
Deferred compensation planAccrued liabilities$28 $$$28 
Deferred compensation planOther noncurrent liabilities220 220 
Total$248 $$$248 

December 31, 2019
CategoryBalance Sheet LocationLevel 1Level 2Level 3Total
Assets
Cash equivalents:
Time depositsCash and cash equivalents$$10 $$10 
Equity securities:
Mutual fundsPrepaid expenses and other current assets11 11 
Company-owned life insurance contractsPrepaid expenses and other current assets
Mutual fundsOther noncurrent assets192 192 
Company-owned life insurance contractsOther noncurrent assets45 45 
Total$203 $59 $$262 
Liabilities
Deferred compensation planAccrued liabilities$24 $$$24 
Deferred compensation planOther noncurrent liabilities209 209 
Total$233 $$$233 

88

DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Equity securities include money market funds, time deposits, investments in mutual funds held in separate trusts, which are owned as part of the Company’s supplemental retirement plans, and company-owned life insurance contracts. (See Note 16.) The fair value of Level 1 equity securities was determined by reference to the quoted market price per share in active markets multiplied by the number of shares held without consideration of transaction costs. The fair value of the deferred compensation plan liability was determined based on the fair value of the related investments elected by employees. Changes in the fair value of the investments are offset by changes in the fair value of the deferred compensation obligation. (See Note 16.) Company-owned life insurance contracts are recorded at their cash surrender value, which approximates fair value (Level 2).
In addition to the financial instruments listed in the tables above, the Company holds other financial instruments, including cash deposits, accounts receivable, accounts payable, and senior notes. The carrying values for such financial instruments, other than the senior notes, each approximated their fair values as of December 31, 2020 and 2019. The estimated fair value of the Company’s outstanding senior notes using quoted prices from over-the-counter markets, considered Level 2 inputs, was $18.7 billion and $17.1 billion as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
The Company's derivative financial instruments are discussed in Note 10.
NOTE 6. CONTENT RIGHTS
The following table presents the components of content rights (in millions).
 December 31,
 20202019
Produced content rights:
Completed$8,576 $6,976 
In-production731 582 
Coproduced content rights:
Completed888 882 
In-production78 50 
Licensed content rights:
Acquired1,312 1,101 
Prepaid556 249 
Content rights, at cost12,141 9,840 
Accumulated amortization(8,170)(6,132)
Total content rights, net3,971 3,708 
Current portion(532)(579)
Noncurrent portion$3,439 $3,129 

Content expense consisted of the following (in millions).
Year Ended December 31,
202020192018
Content amortization$2,908 $2,786 $2,858 
Other production charges334 412 471 
Content impairments
48 67 430 
Total content expense$3,290 $3,265 $3,759 

Content expense is generally a component of costs of revenue on the consolidated statements of operations. NaN content impairments were recorded as a component of restructuring and other charges during the years ended December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019. Content impairments of $405 million for the year ended December 31, 2018 were due to the strategic programming changes following the acquisition of Scripps Networks and are reflected in restructuring and other charges as further described in Note 17.
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DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
As of December 31, 2020, the Company expects to amortize approximately 59%, 26% and 12% of its produced and co-produced content, excluding content in-production, and 55%, 21% and 9% of its licensed content rights in the next three twelve-month operating cycles ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively.
NOTE 7. GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Goodwill
The carrying value and changesChanges in the carrying value of goodwill attributable to each business unit were as follows (in millions).
U.S.
Networks
International
Networks
Total
December 31, 2018$10,785 $2,221 $13,006 
Acquisitions (Note 3)191 194 
Impairment of goodwill(155)(155)
Foreign currency translation and other adjustments25 (20)
December 31, 2019$10,813 $2,237 $13,050 
Acquisitions (Note 3)25 25 
Impairment of goodwill(121)(121)
Foreign currency translation and other adjustments116 116 
December 31, 2020$10,813 $2,257 $13,070 

U.S.
Networks
International
Networks
StudiosNetworksDTCTotal
December 31, 2021$10,813 $2,099 $— $— $— $12,912 
Segment recast(10,813)(2,059)— 10,555 2,317 — 
Acquisitions (See Note 4)— — 9,047 7,081 5,618 21,746 
Foreign currency translation and other adjustments— (40)(84)(79)(17)(220)
December 31, 2022$— $— $8,963 $17,557 $7,918 $34,438 
Acquisitions (See Note 4)— — 245 (24)127 348 
Foreign currency translation and other adjustments— — 64 97 22 183 
December 31, 2023$— $— $9,272 $17,630 $8,067 $34,969 
The carrying amount of goodwill at the U.S. Networks segment included accumulated impairments of $20 million as of December 31, 2020 and 2019. The carrying amount of goodwill at the International Networks segment included accumulated impairments of $1.6 billion and $1.5 billion as of December 31, 20202023 and 2019, respectively.2022. The Studios and DTC segments did not include any accumulated impairments as of December 31, 2023 and 2022.
Intangible Assets
Finite-lived intangible assets subject to amortization consisted of the following (in millions, except years).
 Weighted
Average
Amortization
Period (Years)
December 31, 2023December 31, 2022
GrossAccumulated 
Amortization
NetGrossAccumulated
Amortization
Net
Trademarks and trade names32$22,935 $(2,688)$20,247 $22,876 $(1,494)$21,382 
Affiliate, advertising and subscriber relationships824,335 (14,730)9,605 24,136 (9,458)14,678 
Franchises357,900 (426)7,474 7,900 (164)7,736 
Character rights14995 (125)870 995 (53)942 
Other6591 (502)89 568 (324)244 
Total$56,756 $(18,471)$38,285 $56,475 $(11,493)$44,982 
 Weighted
Average
Amortization
Period (Years)
December 31, 2020December 31, 2019
GrossAccumulated 
Amortization
NetGrossAccumulated
Amortization
Net
Intangible assets subject to amortization:
Trademarks10$1,751 $(715)$1,036 $1,708 $(515)$1,193 
Customer relationships109,551 (3,338)$6,213 9,446 (2,408)$7,038 
Other8421 (191)230 400 (128)272 
Total$11,723 $(4,244)$7,479 $11,554 $(3,051)$8,503 

Straight-line amortizationAmortization expense for finite-lived intangible assets reflects the pattern in which the assets'assets’ economic benefits are consumed over their estimated useful lives. For assets whose economic benefits are anticipated to be consumed evenly, a straight-line method is utilized. For assets in which the economic benefits are expected to be recognized unevenly over the useful life of the asset, an accelerated method such as the sum-of-the-months’ digits method is utilized. Amortization expense related to finite-lived intangible assets was $1.1$6.9 billion, $1.1$6.2 billion and $1.2$1.3 billion for the years ended December 31, 2020, 20192023, 2022 and 2018,2021, respectively.
90

DISCOVERY, INC.During 2023, the Company reassessed the useful lives and amortization methods for its linear networks and HBO trademarks and trade names, and its DC franchise, and concluded the pattern of amortization should be accelerated. Accordingly, the Company has changed the amortization method for these assets from the straight-line method to the sum-of-the-months’ digits method. This change was considered a change in estimate, was accounted for prospectively, and resulted in incremental amortization expense of $368 millionfor the year ended December 31, 2023.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Amortization expense relating to intangible assets subject to amortization for each of the next five years and thereafter is estimated to be as follows (in millions).
20212022202320242025Thereafter
Amortization expense$1,079 $1,048 $1,014 $928 $901 $2,509 

Indefinite-lived intangible assets not subject to amortization (in millions):
 December 31,
 20202019
Trademarks$161 $164 

20242025202620272028Thereafter
Amortization expense$5,757 $4,245 $3,122 $2,369 $1,782 $21,010 
Impairment Analysis
2020 Impairment Analysis
The Company concluded that the continued impacts of COVID-19 on the operating results of the Europe reporting unit represented a triggering event in the second quarter of 2020. During the second quarter, the Company performed a quantitative goodwill impairment analysis for its Europe reporting unit using a DCF valuation model. A market-based valuation model was not weighted in the analysis given the significant volatility in the equity markets. Significant judgments and assumptions in the DCF model includedfor all quantitative goodwill tests performed include discount rates, control premiums, terminal growth rates, relevant comparable company earnings multiples and the amount and timing of expected future cash flows, including revenue growth rates long-term growth rates of 2%, and a discount rate ranging from 10% to 10.5%. The estimated fair value of the Europe reporting unit exceeded its carrying value and, therefore, no impairment was recorded.profit margins.
Also during the second quarter of 2020, the Company determined that it was more likely than not that the fair value was greater than the carrying value for all other reporting units with the exception of the Asia-Pacific reporting unit. The Company performed a quantitative goodwill impairment analysis for the Asia-Pacific reporting unit and determined that the estimated fair value did not exceed its carrying value, which resulted in a pre-tax impairment charge to write-off the remaining $36 million goodwill balance during the second quarter of 2020. The impairment charge was not deductible for tax purposes. Significant judgments and assumptions included the amount and timing of future cash flows, including revenue growth rates, long-term growth rates ranging from 2% to 2.5%, and a discount rate of 11%. The cash flows employed in the DCF analysis for the Asia-Pacific reporting unit were based on the reporting unit’s budget and long-term business plan. The determination of fair value of the Company’s Asia-Pacific reporting unit represents a Level 3 fair value measurement in the fair value hierarchy due to its use of internal projections and unobservable measurement inputs. The goodwill impairment charge did not have an impact on the calculation of the Company’s financial covenants under the Company’s debt arrangements.
During the third quarter of 2020, the Company realigned its International Networks management reporting structure. As a result, Australia and New Zealand, which were previously included in the Europe reporting unit, are now included in the Asia-Pacific reporting unit, including the associated goodwill. As a result of this realignment, the Company performed a quantitative goodwill impairment analysis for its Europe and Asia-Pacific reporting units using a DCF valuation model. A market-based valuation model was not weighted in the analysis given the significant volatility in the equity markets. Significant judgments and assumptions in the DCF model included the amount and timing of future cash flows, including revenue growth rates, long-term growth rates of 2% for Europe and 2% to 2.5% for Asia-Pacific, and a discount rate ranging from 10% to 10.5% for Europe and 11% for Asia-Pacific. The estimated fair value of both the Europe and Asia-Pacific reporting units exceeded their carrying values and, therefore, no impairment was recorded.
During the fourth quarter of 2020, the Company performed its annual qualitative goodwill impairment assessment for all reporting units and it determined that it was more likely than not that the fair value of those reporting units exceeded their carrying values, except for its Europe and Asia-Pacific reporting units. Given limited headroom of below 20% in its Europe and Asia-Pacific reporting units during the third quarter of 2020, the Company performed a quantitative goodwill impairment analysis for each of these reporting units using a DCF valuation model. A market-based valuation model was not weighted in the analysis due to significant volatility in the reporting units' equity markets.
The quantitative goodwill impairment analysis for the Company’s Europe reporting unit indicated that the estimated fair value exceeded its carry value by approximately 20% and, therefore, 0 impairment was recorded. Significant judgments and assumptions included the amount and timing of future cash flows, including revenue growth rates, long-term growth rate of 2%, and discount rates ranging from 10.5% to 11%. The Company noted that a 1.0% increase in the discount rate and a 0.5% decrease in the long-term growth rate would not have resulted in an impairment loss. As of December 31, 2020, the carrying value of goodwill assigned to the Europe reporting unit was $1.9 billion.
91

DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The quantitative impairment analysis for the Company’s Asia-Pacific reporting unit indicated that estimated fair value did not exceed its carrying value, which resulted in a pre-tax impairment charge to write-off the remaining $85 million goodwill balance. The impairment was a result of increased cost projections for this region committed to during the fourth quarter of 2020 as part of our global discovery+ rollout strategy. The impairment charge was not deductible for tax purposes. Significant judgments and assumptions included the amount and timing of future cash flows, including revenue growth rates, long-term growth rates ranging from 2% to 2.5%, and a discount rate of 11%. The cash flows employed in the DCF analysis for the Asia-Pacific reporting unit were based on the reporting unit’s budget and long-term business plan. The determination of fair value of the Company’s Asia-Pacific reporting unit represents a Level 3 fair value measurement in the fair value hierarchy due to its use of internal projections and unobservable measurement inputs. The goodwill impairment charge did not have an impact on the calculation of the Company’s financial covenants under the Company’s debt arrangements.
20192023 Impairment Analysis
During the third quarter of 2019, due to an increasingly challenging business environment in the Asia-Pacific region, which included 1) moderating revenue growth projections, 2) underperformance of certain sports investments, 3) heightened volatility in China and surrounding economies, and 4) a decline in Asia-Pacific stock price multiples for peer media companies, the Company believed the increased risk required it to perform an interim impairment test as of August 31, 2019. The results of the step 1 test indicated that the carrying value of the net assets in the Asia-Pacific reporting unit exceeded its fair value. Given these results, the Company then applied the hypothetical purchase price analysis required by the step 2 test and recognized a pre-tax goodwill impairment charge of $155 million during the year ended December 31, 2019, which was not deductible for tax purposes. The determination of fair value of the Company's Asia-Pacific reporting unit represents a Level 3 fair value measurement in the fair value hierarchy due to its use of internal projections and unobservable measurement inputs.
As of October 1, 2019,2023, the Company performed a quantitative goodwill impairment assessment for all reporting units consistent with the Company's accounting policy.units. The estimated fair value of each reporting unit exceeded its carrying value and, therefore, 0no impairment was recorded. The EuropeStudios reporting unit, which had headroom of 19%15%, wasand the onlyNetworks reporting unit, withwhich had headroom of 5%, both had fair value in excess of carrying value of less than 20%. The fair values of the reporting units were determined using a combination of DCF and market-basedmarket valuation models. Cash flows were determined based onmethodologies. Due to declining levels of global GDP growth, soft advertising markets in the U.S. associated with the Company’s Networks reporting unit, content licensing trends in our Studios reporting unit, and execution risk associated with anticipated growth in the Company’s DTC reporting unit, the Company estimates of future operating results and discounted using an internal rate of return based on an assessment of the risk inherent in future cash flows of the respectivewill continue to monitor its reporting unit. The market-based valuation models utilized multiples of earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization. Both the DCF and market-based models resulted in substantially similar fair values.units for changes that could impact recoverability.
20182022 Impairment Analysis
As of November 30, 2018,For the 2022 annual impairment test, the Company performed a quantitative goodwill impairment assessment for all reporting units consistent with the Company’s accounting policy. The estimated fair value of each reporting unit exceeded its carrying value and, therefore, no impairment was recorded.
2021 Impairment Analysis
For the 2021 annual impairment test, the Company performed a qualitative goodwill impairment assessment for all reporting units and determined that it was more likely than not that the fair value of those reporting units exceeded their carrying values, excepttherefore, no quantitative goodwill impairment analysis was performed.
NOTE 6. RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER CHARGES
In connection with the Merger, the Company has announced and has taken actions to implement projects to achieve cost synergies for the Company. The Company finalized the framework supporting its Asia-Pacific reporting unit. Basedongoing restructuring and transformation initiatives during the year ended December 31, 2022, which include, among other things, strategic content programming assessments, organization restructuring, facility consolidation activities, and other contract termination costs. While the Company’s restructuring efforts are ongoing, the restructuring program is expected to be substantially completed by the end of 2024. The Company also initiated a strategic realignment plan associated with its Warner Bros. Pictures Animation group during the year ended December 31, 2023.
Restructuring and other charges by reportable segment and corporate and inter-segment eliminations were as follows (in millions).
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Studios$225 $1,050 $— 
Networks201 1,003 30 
DTC66 1,551 
Corporate and inter-segment eliminations93 153 — 
Total restructuring and other charges$585 $3,757 $32 
During the year ended December 31, 2023, restructuring and other charges primarily included content impairments and other content development costs and write-offs of $115 million, contract terminations and facility consolidation activities of $111 million, and organization restructuring costs of $359 million.
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WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
During the year ended December 31, 2022, restructuring and other charges primarily included charges related to strategic content programming initiatives, inclusive of content impairments, content development costs and write-offs, content contract terminations, and other content related charges of $3,133 million. In addition, there wererestructuring charges related to organization restructuring of $607 millionand facility consolidation activities and other contract terminations of $17 million.
Changes in restructuring liabilities recorded in accrued liabilities and other noncurrent liabilities by major category and by reportable segment and corporate and inter-segment eliminations were as follows (in millions).
StudiosNetworksDTCCorporate and Inter-Segment EliminationsTotal
December 31, 2021 (a)
$— $15 $— $$19 
Acquisitions (See Note 4 )40 — 14 55 109 
Contract termination accruals, net36 168 121 — 325 
Employee termination accruals, net114 213 87 184 598 
Cash paid(34)(35)(34)(84)(187)
December 31, 2022156 361 188 159 864 
Contract termination accruals, net48 16 15 87 
Employee termination accruals, net47 175 60 78 360 
Other accruals— — — 
Cash paid(153)(352)(176)(172)(853)
December 31, 2023$98 $202 $80 $80 $460 
(a) Prior period balances have been recast to conform to the current period presentation as a result of the Merger and segment recast.
NOTE 7. REVENUES
Disaggregated Revenue
The following table presents the Company’s revenues disaggregated by revenue source (in millions).
Year Ended December 31, 2023
StudiosNetworksDTCCorporate and Inter-segment EliminationsTotal
Revenues:
Distribution$17 $11,521 $8,703 $(4)$20,237 
Advertising15 8,342 548 (205)8,700 
Content11,358 1,005 886 (2,046)11,203 
Other802 376 17 (14)1,181 
Totals$12,192 $21,244 $10,154 $(2,269)$41,321 
Year Ended December 31, 2022
StudiosNetworksDTCCorporate and Inter-segment EliminationsTotal
Revenues:
Distribution$12 $9,759 $6,371 $— $16,142 
Advertising15 8,224 371 (86)8,524 
Content9,156 1,120 522 (2,438)8,360 
Other548 245 10 (12)791 
Totals$9,731 $19,348 $7,274 $(2,536)$33,817 
83

WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Year Ended December 31, 2021
StudiosNetworksDTCCorporate and Inter-segment EliminationsTotal
Revenues:
Distribution$— $4,486 $716 $— $5,202 
Advertising— 6,063 131 — 6,194 
Content20 706 11 — 737 
Other— 56 — 58 
Totals$20 $11,311 $860 $— $12,191 
Accounts Receivable and Credit Losses
The allowance for credit losses was not material at December 31, 2023 and 2022.
Contract Assets and Liabilities
The following table presents contract liabilities on the resultsconsolidated balance sheets (in millions).
CategoryBalance Sheet LocationDecember 31, 2023December 31, 2022
Contract liabilitiesDeferred revenues$1,924 $1,694 
Contract liabilitiesOther noncurrent liabilities160 361 
The change in deferred revenue for the year ended December 31, 2023 primarily reflects cash payments received or contracted billings recorded for which the performance obligations were not satisfied prior to the end of the qualitative assessment,period, partially offset by $1,354 million of revenues recognized that were included in the deferred revenue balance at December 31, 2022. Revenue recognized for the year ended December 31, 2022 related to the deferred revenue balance at December 31, 2021 was $411 million. Contract assets were not material as of December 31, 2023 and 2022.
Transaction Price Allocated to Remaining Performance Obligations
Most of the Company’s distribution contracts are licenses of functional intellectual property where revenue is derived from royalty-based arrangements, for which revenues are recorded as a function of royalties earned to date instead of estimating incremental royalty contract revenue. However, there are certain other distribution arrangements that are fixed price or contain minimum guarantees that extend beyond one year. The Company recognizes revenue for fixed fee distribution contracts on a monthly basis based on minimum monthly fees by calculating one twelfth of annual license fees specified in its distribution contracts, or based on the pro-rata fees earned calculated on the license fees specified in the distribution contract.
The Company’s content licensing contracts and sports sublicensing deals are licenses of functional intellectual property.
The Company’s brand licensing contracts are licenses of symbolic intellectual property.
The Company’s advertising contracts are principally generated from the sale of advertising campaigns comprised of multiple commercial units. In contracts with guaranteed impressions, we have identified the overall advertising campaign as the performance obligation to be satisfied over time, and impressions delivered against the satisfaction of our guarantee as the measure of progress. Certain of these arrangements extend beyond one year.
The following table presents a summary of remaining performance obligations by contract type (in millions).
Contract TypeDecember 31, 2023Duration
Distribution - fixed price or minimum guarantee$3,513 Through 2031
Content licensing and sports sublicensing5,361 Through 2030
Brand licensing2,264 Through 2043
Advertising892 Through 2027
Total$12,030 
84

WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The value of unsatisfied performance obligations disclosed above does not include: (i) contracts involving variable consideration for which revenues are recognized in accordance with the sales or usage-based royalty exception, and (ii) contracts with an original expected length of one year or less, such as most advertising contracts; however for content licensing revenues, including revenues associated with the licensing of theatrical and television product for television and streaming services, the Company performedhas included all contracts regardless of duration.
NOTE 8. SALES OF RECEIVABLES
Revolving Receivables Program
During 2023, the Company amended its revolving receivables program to reduce the facility limit to $5,500 million and extend the program to August 2024. The Company’s bankruptcy-remote consolidated subsidiary held $3,088 million of pledged receivables as of December 31, 2023 in connection with the Company’s revolving receivables program. For the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company recognized $79 million and $256 million, respectively, in selling, general and administrative expenses from the revolving receivables program in the consolidated statements of operations (net of non-designated derivatives in 2023). (See Note 13.) The outstanding portfolio of receivables derecognized from our consolidated balance sheets was $5,200 million and $5,366 million as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
The following table presents a quantitative step 1 impairment test (comparisonsummary of fair valuereceivables sold (in millions).
Year Ended December 31,
20232022
Gross receivables sold/cash proceeds received$13,340 $9,857 
Collections reinvested under revolving agreement(13,506)(10,491)
Net cash proceeds remitted$(166)$(634)
Net receivables sold$13,178 $9,797 
Obligations recorded$405 $377 
The following table presents a summary of the amounts transferred or pledged (in millions).
December 31, 2023December 31, 2022
Gross receivables pledged as collateral$3,088 $3,468 
Restricted cash pledged as collateral$500 $150 
Balance sheet classification:
Receivables, net$2,780 $3,015 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets$500 $150 
Other noncurrent assets$308 $453 
Accounts Receivable Factoring
Total trade accounts receivable sold under the Company’s factoring arrangement was $383 million and $477 million for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The impact to carrying value)the consolidated statements of operations was immaterial for its Asia-Pacific reporting unit, which indicated that the estimated fair value exceeded its carrying value by approximately 10%years ended December 31, 2023 and therefore, no impairment was recorded.2022. This accounts receivable factoring agreement is separate and distinct from the revolving receivables program.
9285

WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 8.9. CONTENT RIGHTS
For purposes of amortization and impairment, capitalized content costs are grouped based on their predominant monetization strategy: individually or as a group. Programming rights are presented as two separate captions: licensed content and advances and live programming and advances. Live programming includes licensed sports rights and related advances. The prior year presentation has been recast to conform to the current period’s presentation. The table below presents the components of content rights (in millions).
December 31, 2023
Predominantly Monetized IndividuallyPredominantly Monetized as a GroupTotal
Theatrical film production costs:
Released, less amortization$2,823 $— $2,823 
Completed and not released107 — 107 
In production and other1,300 — 1,300 
Television production costs:
Released, less amortization1,471 5,317 6,788 
Completed and not released380 606 986 
In production and other417 2,624 3,041 
Total theatrical film and television production costs$6,498 $8,547 $15,045 
Licensed content and advances, net4,519 
Live programming and advances, net1,943 
Game development costs, less amortization565 
Total film and television content rights and games22,072 
Less: Current content rights and prepaid license fees, net(843)
Total noncurrent film and television content rights and games$21,229 
December 31, 2022
Predominantly Monetized IndividuallyPredominantly Monetized as a GroupTotal
Theatrical film production costs:
Released, less amortization$3,544 $— $3,544 
Completed and not released507 — 507 
In production and other1,795 — 1,795 
Television production costs:
Released, less amortization2,200 6,143 8,343 
Completed and not released939 401 1,340 
In production and other457 3,386 3,843 
Total theatrical film and television production costs$9,442 $9,930 $19,372 
Licensed content and advances, net4,961 
Live programming and advances, net2,214 
Game development costs, less amortization650 
Total film and television content rights and games27,197 
Less: Current content rights and prepaid license fees, net(545)
Total noncurrent film and television content rights and games$26,652 
86

WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Content amortization consisted of the following (in millions).
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Predominantly monetized individually$5,165 $5,175 $541 
Predominantly monetized as a group10,648 8,935 2,955 
Total content amortization$15,813 $14,110 $3,496 
Content expense includes amortization, impairments, and development expense and is generally a component of costs of revenues on the consolidated statements of operations. For the year ended December 31, 2023, total content impairments were $326 million, of which content impairments and other content development costs and write-offs of $115 million were primarily due to the abandonment of certain films in connection with the third quarter 2023 strategic realignment plan associated with the Warner Bros. Pictures Animation group and are reflected in restructuring and other charges in the Studios segment. For the year endedDecember 31, 2022, total content impairments were $2,807 million. Content impairments of $2,756 million and content development write-offs of $377 million were due to the abandonment of certain content categories in connection with the strategic realignment of content following the Merger and are reflected in restructuring and other charges in the Studios, Networks and DTC segments. (See Note 6.)No content impairments were recorded as a component of restructuring for the year ended December 31, 2021.
The table below presents the expected future amortization expense of the Company’s film and television content rights, licensed content and advances, live programming rights and advances, and games as of December 31, 2023 (in millions).
Year Ending December 31,
202420252026
Released investment in films and television content:
Monetized individually$1,712 $868 $600 
Monetized as a group2,483 1,242 774 
Licensed content and advances1,751 813 524 
Live programming and advances1,258 471 34 
Games87 16 — 
Completed and not released investment in films and television content:
Monetized individually$411 
Monetized as a group238 
At December 31, 2023, acquired film and television libraries are being amortized using straight-line or other accelerated amortization methods through 2033.
87

WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 10. INVESTMENTS
The Company’s equity investments consisted of the following, net of investments recorded in other noncurrent liabilities (in millions).
CategoryBalance Sheet LocationOwnershipDecember 31, 2023December 31, 2022
Equity method investments:
The Chernin Group (TCG) 2.0-A, LPOther noncurrent assets44%$249 $313 
nC+Other noncurrent assets32%142 135 
TNT SportsOther noncurrent assets50%102 96 
OtherOther noncurrent assets503 518 
Total equity method investments996 1,062 
Investments with readily determinable fair valuesOther noncurrent assets53 28 
Investments without readily determinable fair values
Other noncurrent assets (a)
438 498 
Total investments$1,487 $1,588 
(a) Investments without readily determinable fair values included $17 million as of December 31, 2023 and $10 million as of December 31, 2022 that were included in prepaid expenses and other current assets.
Equity Method Investments
During the year ended December 31, 2022, the Company entered into an agreement with British Telecommunications Plc (“BT”) to form a 50:50 joint venture to create a new premium sports offering for the United Kingdom and Ireland. The Company has determined the joint venture is a VIE and accounts for its investment in the joint venture as an equity method investment. Additionally, the Company has a call option to obtain the remaining 50% equity interest in September 2024 and September 2026, at the then fair market value plus the expected earnings that BT would have received in the two years following the call option. As of December 31, 2023, the carrying value of the joint venture was $102 million.
As of December 31, 2023, the Company’s maximum exposure for all its unconsolidated VIEs, including the investment carrying values and unfunded contractual commitments made on behalf of VIEs, was approximately $734 million. The Company’s maximum estimated exposure excludes the non-contractual future funding of VIEs. The aggregate carrying values of these VIE investments were $697 million and $720 million as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The Company recognized its portion of VIE operating results with losses of $75 million, $87 million, and $35 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, in loss from equity investees, net, on the consolidated statements of operations.
Equity Investments Without Readily Determinable Fair Values Assessed Under the Measurement Alternative
During 2023, the Company concluded that its other equity method investments without readily determinable fair values had decreased $73 million in fair value as a result of observable price changes in orderly transactions for the identical or similar investment of the same issuer. The decrease in fair value as a result of observable price change is recorded in other (expense) income, net on the consolidated statements of operations. (See Note 18.) As of December 31, 2023, the Company had recorded cumulative impairments of $238 million for its equity method investments without readily determinable fair values.
88

WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 11. DEBT
The table below presents the components of outstanding debt (in millions).
December 31,
Weighted-Average
Interest Rate as of
December 31, 2023
20232022
Term loans with maturities of 3 years or less— %$— $4,000 
Floating rate senior notes with maturities of 5 years or less7.13 %40 500 
Senior notes with maturities of 5 years or less4.00 %13,664 12,759 
Senior notes with maturities between 5 and 10 years4.28 %8,607 10,373 
Senior notes with maturities greater than 10 years5.11 %21,644 21,644 
Total debt43,955 49,276 
Unamortized discount, premium, debt issuance costs, and fair value adjustments for acquisition accounting, net(286)(277)
Debt, net of unamortized discount, premium, debt issuance costs, and fair value adjustments for acquisition accounting43,669 48,999 
Current portion of debt(1,780)(365)
Noncurrent portion of debt$41,889 $48,634 
December 31,
20202019
2.800% Senior Notes, semi-annual interest, due June 2020$$600 
4.375% Senior Notes, semi-annual interest, due June 2021335 640 
2.375% Senior Notes, euro denominated, annual interest, due March 2022369 336 
3.300% Senior Notes, semi-annual interest, due May 2022168 496 
3.500% Senior Notes, semi-annual interest, due June 202262 400 
2.950% Senior Notes, semi-annual interest, due March 2023796 1,167 
3.250% Senior Notes, semi-annual interest, due April 2023192 350 
3.800% Senior Notes, semi-annual interest, due March 2024450 450 
2.500% Senior Notes, sterling denominated, annual interest, due September 2024545 525 
3.900% Senior Notes, semi-annual interest, due November 2024497 497 
3.450% Senior Notes, semi-annual interest, due March 2025300 300 
3.950% Senior Notes, semi-annual interest, due June 2025500 500 
4.900% Senior Notes, semi-annual interest, due March 2026700 700 
1.900% Senior Notes, euro denominated, annual interest, due March 2027739 673 
3.950% Senior Notes, semi-annual interest, due March 20281,700 1,700 
4.125% Senior Notes, semi-annual interest, due May 2029750 750 
3.625% Senior Notes, semi-annual interest, due May 20301,000 
5.000% Senior Notes, semi-annual interest, due September 2037548 1,250 
6.350% Senior Notes, semi-annual interest, due June 2040664 850 
4.950% Senior Notes, semi-annual interest, due May 2042285 500 
4.875% Senior Notes, semi-annual interest, due April 2043516 850 
5.200% Senior Notes, semi-annual interest, due September 20471,250 1,250 
5.300% Senior Notes, semi-annual interest, due May 2049750 750 
4.650% Senior Notes, semi-annual interest, due May 20501,000 
4.000% Senior Notes, semi-annual interest, due September 20551,732 
Program financing line of credit, quarterly interest based on adjusted LIBOR or variable prime rate10 
Total debt15,848 15,544 
Unamortized discount, premium and debt issuance costs, net (a)
(444)(125)
Debt, net of unamortized discount, premium and debt issuance costs15,404 15,419 
Current portion of debt(335)(609)
Noncurrent portion of debt$15,069 $14,810 
(a) Current portion of unamortized discount, premium, and debt issuance costs, net is less than $1 million.
Senior Notes
On February 19, 2021,During the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company’s wholly-owned subsidiaries, Warner Media, LLC (“WML”), Historic TW Inc. (“TWI”), Discovery Communications, LLC (“DCL”), and WMH, commenced cash tender offers to purchase for cash any and all of (i) WML’s outstanding 4.050% Senior Notes due 2023 and 3.550% Senior Notes due 2024, (ii) TWI’s outstanding 7.570% Senior Notes due 2024, (iii) DCL’s outstanding 3.800% Senior Notes due 2024, and (iv) WMH’s outstanding 3.528% Senior Notes due 2024 and 3.428% Senior Notes due 2024. The Company completed the tender offers in August 2023 by purchasing senior notes in the amount of $1.9 billion validly tendered and accepted for purchase pursuant to the offers. During the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company also commenced a wholly owned subsidiarytender offer to purchase for cash any and all of Discovery, Inc., issued a noticeits outstanding Floating Rate Notes due in 2024. The Company completed the tender offer in June 2023, by purchasing Floating Rate Notes in the amount of $460 million validly tendered and accepted for purchase pursuant to the redemption in fulloffer.
During the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company also repaid $4.0 billion of all $335 million aggregate principal amount outstanding of its 4.375% Notes due June 2021 (the “Notes”) in accordance with the terms of the indenture governing the Notes. The Notes will be redeemed on March 21, 2021 (the “Redemption Date”), at a redemption price with respect to each Note equalterm loan prior to the greaterdue date of (i) 100%April 2025; repaid in full at maturity $42 million of theaggregate principal amount outstanding of the Notes being redeemedits senior notes due December 2023, $178 million of aggregate principal amount outstanding of its senior notes due September 2023, and (ii) the sum$106 million of the present valuesaggregate principal amount outstanding of the remaining scheduled paymentsits senior notes due February 2023; and completed open market purchases for $183 million of aggregate principal and interest thereon (exclusiveamount outstanding of interest accrued to the Redemption Date) discounted to the Redemption Date on a semi-annual basis at a comparable treasury rate plus 25 basis points, plus accrued interest thereon to the Redemption Date.its senior notes.
93

DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
ForDuring the year ended December 31, 2020, Discovery, Inc. commenced 5 separate private offers to exchange (the “Exchange Offers”) any and all of Discovery Communications, LLC's ("DCL"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of2023, the Company outstanding 5.000% Senior Notesissued $1.5 billion of 6.412% fixed rate senior notes due 2037, 6.350% Senior Notes due 2040, 4.950% Senior Notes due 2042, 4.875% Senior Notes due 2043March 2026. After March 2024, the senior notes are redeemable at par plus accrued and 5.200% Senior Notes due 2047 (collectively, the “Old Notes”) for one new series of DCL 4.000% Senior Notes due September 2055 (the “New Notes”). Discovery, Inc. completed the Exchange Offers in September 2020, by exchanging $1.4 billion aggregate principal amount of the Old Notes validly tendered and accepted by Discovery pursuant to the Exchange Offers, for $1.7 billion aggregate principal amount of the New Notes (before debt discount of $318 million). The New Notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by the Company and Scripps Networks on an unsecured and unsubordinated basis. The Exchange Offers were accounted for as a debt modification and, as a result, third-party issuance costs totaling $11 million were expensed as incurred.unpaid interest.
Also, forDuring the year ended December 31, 2020,2022, the Company completed offers to purchase for cash (the “Cash Offers”) the Old Notes. Approximately $22 millionrepaid $6.0 billion of aggregate principal amount outstanding of the Old Notes were validly tendered and accepted for purchase by Discovery pursuantits term loans prior to the Cash Offers, for total cash considerationdue dates of $27October 2023 and April 2025 and repaid in full at maturity $327 million plus accrued interest. The Cash Offers resulted in a loss on extinguishment of debt of $5 million.
Finally, for the year ended December 31, 2020, DCL issued $1.0 billion aggregate principal amount outstanding of senior notesits 2.375% Euro Denominated Senior Notes due May 2030March 2022. In addition, the Company redeemed in full and $1.0 billionprior to maturity all $192 million of aggregate principal amount outstanding of Senior Notes due May 2050. The proceeds received by DCL were net of a $1 million issuance discount and $20 million of debt issuance costs. DCL used the proceeds from the offering to repurchase $1.5 billion aggregate principal amount of DCL's and Scripps Networks' senior notes in a cash tender offer. The repurchase resulted in a loss on extinguishment of debt of $71 million. The loss included $62 million of net premiums to par value and $9 million of other charges. As further described below, the Company used the remaining proceeds and cash on hand to fully repay the $500 million that was outstanding under its revolving credit facility.
For the year ended December 31, 2019, DCL issued $750 million aggregate principal amount of Senior Notes due 2029 and $750 million due 2049. The proceeds received by DCL were net of a $6 million issuance discount and $12 million of debt issuance costs. DCL used the proceeds from the offering to redeem and repurchase approximately $1.3 billion aggregate principal amount of DCL's and Scripps Networks' senior notes. The redemptions and repurchase resulted in a loss on extinguishment of debt of $23 million for the year ended December 31, 2019. The loss included $20 million of net premiums to par value and $3 million of other non-cash charges.
Also, for the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company redeemed $411 million aggregate principal amount of3.250% senior notes due in 20192023 and made open market bond repurchasesall $796 million of $55aggregate principal amount outstanding of its 2.950% senior notes due 2023 (collectively the “2023 Notes”). The 2023 Notes were redeemed in December 2022 for an aggregate redemption price of $988 million, resultingplus accrued interest.
The redemptions during 2023 and 2022 resulted in a lossan immaterial gain on extinguishment of debt of $5 million.debt. (See Note 18.)
As of December 31, 2020,2023, all senior notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by the Company, and Scripps Networks Interactive, Inc. (“Scripps Networks”), DCL (to the extent it is not the primary obligor on such senior notes), and WMH (to the extent it is not the primary obligor on such senior notes), except for $32$1.1 billion of senior notes of the legacy WarnerMedia Business assumed by the Company in connection with the Merger and $23 million of un-exchanged Scripps Networks senior notes acquired in conjunction with the acquisition ofissued by Scripps Networks.
89

WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Revolving Credit Facility and Commercial Paper Programs
DCLThe Company has a multicurrency revolving credit agreement (the “Revolving Credit Agreement”) and certain designated foreign subsidiaries of DCL havehas the capacity to borrow up to $2.5$6.0 billion revolving credit facilityunder the Revolving Credit Agreement (the "Credit Facility"“Credit Facility”), including. The Revolving Credit Agreement includes a $100$150 million sublimit for the issuance of standby letters of creditcredit. The Company may also request additional commitments up to $1.0 billion from the lenders upon the satisfaction of certain conditions. Obligations under the Revolving Credit Agreement are unsecured and a $50 million sublimit for Euro-denominated swing line loans.are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by the Company, Scripps Networks, and WMH. The Credit Facility matures in August 2022will be available on a revolving basis until June 2026, with thean option for up to 2two additional 364-day renewal periods and is subject to a maximum consolidated leverage ratio financial covenant of 5.50 to 1.00 at December 31, 2020. As further described below, during the year ended December 31, 2020, the Company entered into an amendment to the Credit Facility. As of December 31, 2020, DCL was in compliance with all covenants and there were no events of default under the Credit Facility.lenders’ consent.
Additionally, the Company's commercial paper program is supported by the Credit Facility. Under the commercial paper program, the Company may issue up to $1.5 billion, including up to $500 million of Euro-denominatedeuro-denominated borrowings. Borrowing capacity under the Credit Facility is effectively reduced by any outstanding borrowings under the commercial paper program.
As of December 31, 20202023 and 2019,2022, the Company had 0no outstanding borrowings under the Credit Facility or the commercial paper program.
All obligations of DCL and the other borrowers under the Credit Facility are unsecured and are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by Discovery and Scripps.Agreement Financial Covenants
94

DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Amendment toThe Revolving Credit Facility
To preserve flexibility in the current environment, in the second quarter of 2020,Agreement includes financial covenants that require the Company amended certain provisionsto maintain a minimum consolidated interest coverage ratio of its revolving credit facility, including the following:
The financial covenants were modified3.00 to reset the Maximum Consolidated Leverage Ratio as set forth below:
Measurement Period EndingMaximum Consolidated Leverage Ratio
March 31, 20201.00 and June 30, 20205.00:1.00
September 30, 2020 through March 31, 20215.50:1.00
June 30, 20215.00:1.00
September 30, 2021 and thereafter4.50:1.00

In addition, the restricted payments covenant was modified to add a limitation on restricted payments made in cash unless after giving pro forma effect thereto, themaximum adjusted consolidated leverage ratio is less than or equalof 5.75 to 4.50:1.00. Finally,1.00 following the minimum LIBOR rateclosing of the Merger, with step-downs to 5.00 to 1.00 and 4.50 to 1.00 upon completion of the minimum base ratefirst full quarter following the first and second anniversaries of the closing, respectively. As of December 31, 2023, DCL and WMH were each increased from 0% to 0.50% per annum.in compliance with all covenants and there were no events of default under the Revolving Credit Agreement.
Long-term Debt Repayment Schedule
The following table presents a summary of scheduled debt and estimated debtinterest payments, excluding the revolving credit facility and commercial paper borrowings, for the next five years based on the amount of the Company'sCompany’s debt outstanding as of December 31, 20202023 (in millions).
20212022202320242025Thereafter
Long-term debt repayments$335 $599 $988 $1,493 $800 $11,633 

20242025202620272028Thereafter
Long-term debt repayments$1,781 $3,147 $2,289 $4,719 $1,767 $30,250 
Interest payments$2,007 $1,904 $1,778 $1,634 $1,510 $24,344 
NOTE 9.12. LEASES
The Company has operating and finance leases for transponders, office space, studio facilities, software, and other equipment. The Company'sCompany’s leases were reflected in the Company’s consolidated balance sheets as follows (in millions).
December 31,
20232022
Operating LeasesLocation on Balance Sheet
Operating lease right-of-use assetsOther noncurrent assets$3,074 $3,189 
Operating lease liabilities (current)Accrued liabilities$332 $345 
Operating lease liabilities (noncurrent)Other noncurrent liabilities3,019 2,990 
Total operating lease liabilities$3,351 $3,335 
Finance Leases
Finance lease right-of-use assetsProperty and equipment, net$249 $244 
Finance lease liabilities (current)Accrued liabilities$74 $82 
Finance lease liabilities (noncurrent)Other noncurrent liabilities191 186 
Total finance lease liabilities$265 $268 
90

WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Supplemental information related to leases was as follows.
December 31,
20232022
Weighted average remaining lease term (in years):
Operating leases1112
Finance leases55
Weighted average discount rate
Operating leases4.42 %4.13 %
Finance leases4.17 %3.23 %
The Company’s leases have remaining lease terms of up to 1629 years, some of which include multiple options to extend the leases for up to 10 a total of 20years. Most leases are not cancellable prior to their expiration.
The components of lease cost were as follows (in millions):
Year Ended December 31,
20202019
Year Ended December 31,Year Ended December 31,
202320232022
Operating lease costOperating lease cost$116 $114 
Finance lease cost:Finance lease cost:
Finance lease cost:
Finance lease cost:
Amortization of right-of-use assets
Amortization of right-of-use assets
Amortization of right-of-use assetsAmortization of right-of-use assets$52 $44 
Interest on lease liabilitiesInterest on lease liabilities
Total finance lease costTotal finance lease cost$60 $53 
Variable lease cost$$10 
Variable fees and other(a)
Variable fees and other(a)
Variable fees and other(a)
Total lease cost

(a)
95

DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Includes variable lease payments related to our operating and finance leases and costs of leases with initial terms of less than one year.
Supplemental cash flow information related to leases was as follows (in millions):
Year Ended December 31,
20202019
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:
Operating cash flows from operating leases$(101)$(98)
Operating cash flows from finance leases$(8)$(9)
Financing cash flows from finance leases$(54)$(44)
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for lease obligations:
Operating leases$51 $369 
Finance leases$36 $38 

Supplemental balance sheet information related to leases was as follows (in millions):
December 31,
20202019
Operating LeasesLocation on Balance Sheet
Operating lease right-of-use assetsOther noncurrent assets$575 $613 
Operating lease liabilities (current)Accrued liabilities$71 $82 
Operating lease liabilities (noncurrent)Other noncurrent liabilities592 621 
Total operating lease liabilities$663 $703 
Finance Leases
Finance lease right-of-use assetsProperty and equipment, net$220 $231 
Finance lease liabilities (current)Accrued liabilities$57 $47 
Finance lease liabilities (noncurrent)Other noncurrent liabilities184 203 
Total finance lease liabilities$241 $250 

December 31,
20202019
Weighted average remaining lease term (in years):
Operating leases1213
Finance leases56
Weighted average discount rate
Operating leases3.37 %3.77 %
Finance leases3.80 %3.56 %

Year Ended December 31,
20232022
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:
Operating cash flows from operating leases$(501)$(360)
Operating cash flows from finance leases$(19)$(15)
Financing cash flows from finance leases$(74)$(70)
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for lease obligations:
Operating leases$364 $490 
Finance leases$95 $39 
9691

WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Maturities of lease liabilities as of December 31, 20202023 were as follows (in millions):
Operating LeasesFinance Leases
2021$91 $64 
202276 55 
202369 48 
Operating LeasesOperating LeasesFinance Leases
2024202463 31 
2025202558 23 
2026
2027
2028
ThereafterThereafter502 42 
Total lease paymentsTotal lease payments859 263 
Less: Imputed interestLess: Imputed interest(196)(22)
TotalTotal$663 $241 

During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company recorded approximately $370 million of operating lease liabilities associated with its new global headquarters in New York City. As of December 31, 2020,2023, the Company hasCompany’s total minimum lease payments for additional leases that have not yet commenced with total minimum lease payments of approximately $6 million, primarily related to equipment leases. The remaining leases will commence in fiscal year 2021, have lease terms of 4 to 16 years, and include options to extend the terms for up to 10 additional years.
Supplemental Information for Comparative Periods
Rent expense under operating leases was $205 million for the year ended December 31, 2018.were not material.
NOTE 10.13. DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
TheIn the normal course of business, the Company is exposed to foreign currency exchange rate market risk and interest rate fluctuations. As part of its risk management strategy, the Company uses derivative financial instruments, to modify its exposure to market risks from changes in foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates. In addition to the Company's normal course of business cash flow hedging program, the Company entered into the following arrangements:
Cash Flow Hedges
During the year ended December 31, 2020, the Company unwound certain foreign exchange forward contracts designated as cash flow hedges with an aggregate notional amount of $255 million. The Company received cash of $19 million in settlement and expects to realize the unrealized gain in accumulated other comprehensive loss between 2025 and 2030.
Also, during the year ended December 31, 2020, the Company executed forward starting interest rate swap contracts designated as cash flow hedges with a total notional value of $1.6 billion. These contracts will mitigate interest rate risk associated with the forecasted issuance of future fixed-rate public debt. The Company also issued and settled interest rate cash flow hedges with a total notional value of $1 billion following the pricing of its offering of 3.625% Senior Notes due May 2030 and 4.650% Senior Notes due May 2050. (See Note 8.) The $7 million pretax accumulated other comprehensive loss at the termination date will be amortized as an adjustment to interest expense over the respective terms of the newly issued notes.
During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company executed foreign exchange forward contracts with an aggregate notional amount of $798 million. The forwards were designated as cash flow hedges and will mitigate exposure to foreign exchange rate volatility and the associated impact on earnings related to a portion of forecasted foreign currency revenues from PGA Golf from 2023 through 2030.
Also, during the year ended December 31, 2019, terminated and settled its interest rate cash flow hedges with a total notional value of $500 million following the pricing of its offering of 4.125% senior notes due May 2029. (See Note 8.) The $18 million pretax accumulated other comprehensive loss at the termination date will be amortized as an adjustment to interest expense over the ten-year term of the newly issued notes.
Finally, during the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company executed a forward starting interest rate swap contract designated as a cash flow hedge with a total notional value of $400 million. This contract will mitigate interest rate risk associated with the forecasted issuance of future fixed rate public debt.
97

DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Net Investment Hedges
During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company entered into 2 fixed-to-fixed cross-currency swaps with an aggregate notional amount of $201 million. The swaps were designated as net investment hedges of NOK assets and GBP assets. The maturity date of both swaps is February 2024. The objective of these swaps is to protect the company against the risk of changes in the foreign currency-equivalent of net investments in the foreign operations due to movements in foreign currency. Contemporaneously, the Company unwound an existing $100 million notional fixed-to-fixed cross currency swap that was designated as a net investment hedge of NOK assets and recorded a gain of $5 million as a cumulative translation adjustment under other comprehensive income (loss).
During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company entered into aprimarily foreign currency forward contract with a notionalcontracts, fixed-to-fixed currency swaps, total return swaps and interest rate swaps, to hedge certain foreign currency, market value of 35.6 billion Chilean Pesos (equivalent to $53 million) at execution date and with a due date of December 15, 2021. This was designated a net investment hedge, hedging against changes in the foreign currency-equivalent of the net investment in the foreign operation due to movements in exchange rates.
Also, during the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company entered into 6 fixed-to-fixed cross-currency swaps with an aggregate notional amount of $1.7 billion.interest rate exposures. The swaps were all designated as net investment hedges of Euro assets and GBP assets. The maturity dates of the swaps are 2022 and 2027. TheCompany’s objective of these swaps is to protectreduce earnings volatility by offsetting gains and losses resulting from these exposures with losses and gains on the company against the risk of changes in the foreign currency-equivalent of net investments in the foreign operations duederivative contracts used to movements in foreign currency.
No Hedging Designation
During the year ended December 31, 2018, thehedge them. The Company entereddoes not enter into 3 foreign exchange forwards contracts with a notional value of $860 million. The objective of these contracts is to protect the Company against adverse revaluation impact on its Euro denominated debt.
The following table summarizes the impact ofor hold derivative financial instruments on the Company's consolidated balance sheets (in millions). for speculative trading purposes.
There were 0no amounts eligible to be offset under master netting agreements as of December 31, 20202023 and 2019.2022. The fair value of the Company'sCompany’s derivative financial instruments at December 31, 20202023 and 20192022 was determined using a market-based approach (Level 2). The Company’s derivative financial instruments were reflected in the Company’s consolidated balance sheets as follows (in millions).
December 31, 2023December 31, 2023December 31, 2022
Fair ValueFair Value
NotionalNotionalPrepaid expenses and other current assetsOther non-
current assets
Accrued liabilitiesOther non-
current liabilities
NotionalPrepaid expenses and other current assetsOther non-
current assets
Accrued liabilitiesOther non-
current liabilities
Cash flow hedges:
Foreign exchange
Foreign exchange
Foreign exchange
Cross-currency swaps
Net investment hedges: (a)
Net investment hedges: (a)
Net investment hedges: (a)
Cross-currency swaps
Cross-currency swaps
Cross-currency swaps
Fair value hedges:
Fair value hedges:
Fair value hedges:
Interest rate swaps
Interest rate swaps
Interest rate swaps
No hedging designation:
Foreign exchange
Foreign exchange
Foreign exchange
Cross-currency swaps
Total return swaps
Total return swaps
Total return swaps
December 31, 2020December 31, 2019
Fair ValueFair Value
NotionalPrepaid expenses and other current assetsOther non-
current assets
Accrued liabilitiesOther non-
current liabilities
NotionalPrepaid expenses and other current assetsOther non-
current assets
Accrued liabilitiesOther non-
current liabilities
Cash flow hedges:
Foreign exchange$1,082 $$$14 $17 $1,631 $29 $$$16 
Interest rate swaps2,000 11 89 400 38 
Net investment hedges: (a)
Cross-currency swaps3,544 34 41 154 3,535 37 70 94 
Foreign exchange44 52 
No hedging designation:
Foreign exchange1,035 26 1,177 13 50 
Cross-currency swaps139 13 279 
Equity (Lionsgate collar)65 19 18 
Total
TotalTotal$40 $57 $16 $299 $88 $137 $25 $165 
Total
(a) Excludes £400€164 million of sterlingeuro-denominated notes ($545174 million equivalent at December 31, 2020)2022) designated as a net investment hedge.hedge and £402 million of sterling notes re-designated as a net investment hedge in 2023 ($513 million equivalent at December 31, 2023. (See Note 8.11.)
9892

WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Derivatives Designated for Hedge Accounting
Cash Flow Hedges
The Company is exposed to foreign currency risk related to revenues, production rebates and production expenses. As such, we have entered into foreign exchange forward contracts designated as cash flow hedges to mitigate this risk. These cash flow hedges are carried at fair market value on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets. Hedge effectiveness is assessed using the spot method, with fair market value changes recorded in other comprehensive loss until the hedged item affects earnings. Excluded components, including forward points, are included in current earnings.
The Company is exposed to foreign currency risk associated with its British Pound Sterling denominated debt and executed a fixed-to-fixed cross-currency swap in 2022 to mitigate this risk. During the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company unwound the cross-currency swaps related to its Sterling debt and recognized a gain of $76 million as an adjustment to other comprehensive income. The Sterling debt was subsequently re-designated as a net investment hedge effective May 2023.
The Company is exposed to interest rate risk associated with future issuances of debt and unwound the forward starting swap derivatives designated as hedging instruments to mitigate this risk in 2022. The realized gain from these derivatives will remain in other comprehensive loss until the debt is issued during the hedging window, which extends through 2025, and interest payments are made.
The following table presents the pretax impact of derivatives designated as cash flow hedges on income and other comprehensive income (loss)loss (in millions).
Year Ended December 31,
202020192018
Gains (losses) recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss:
Foreign exchange - derivative adjustments$14 $17 $34 
Interest rate - derivative adjustments(124)21 
Gains (losses) reclassified into income from accumulated other comprehensive loss:
Foreign exchange - advertising revenue(1)
Foreign exchange - distribution revenue30 
Foreign exchange - costs of revenues11 
Interest rate - interest expense(2)
Foreign exchange - other expense, net (dedesignated portion)

Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Gains (losses) recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss:
Foreign exchange - derivative adjustments$23 $$57 
Interest rate - derivative adjustments— — 112 
Gains (losses) reclassified into income from accumulated other comprehensive loss:
Foreign exchange - distribution revenue(5)(1)
Foreign exchange - advertising revenue
Foreign exchange - costs of revenues25 — 
Foreign exchange - other (expense) income, net18 — 30 
Interest rate - interest expense, net(1)(2)(2)
 Interest rate - other (expense) income, net— — 
If current fair values of designated cash flow hedges as of December 31, 20202023 remained static over the next twelve months, the amount the Company would reclassify $14 million of net deferred losses from accumulated other comprehensive loss into income in the next twelve months.months would not be material for the current fiscal year. The maximum length of time the Company is hedging exposure to the variability in future cash flows is 3532 years.
Net Investment Hedges
The Company is exposed to foreign currency risk associated with the net assets of non-USD functional entities and uses fixed-to-fixed cross currency swaps to mitigate this risk. During the year ended December 31, 2023, to mitigate the risk associated with the net assets of non-USD functional entities, the Company re-designated its Sterling denominated debt due in 2024 as a net investment hedge after the unwind of the cash flow hedge previously noted.
The Company is also exposed to foreign currency risk stemming from foreign denominated debt. During the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company settled its Euro denominated debt that was acquired in connection with the Merger and was designated as the hedging instrument in a net investment hedge.
93

WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The following table presents the pretax impact of derivatives designated as net investment hedges on other comprehensive income (loss)loss (in millions). Other than amounts excluded from effectiveness testing, there were no other material gains (losses) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss to income during the years ended December 31, 2020, 20192023, 2022 and 2018.2021.
Year Ended December 31,
Amount of gain (loss) recognized in AOCILocation of gain (loss) recognized in income on derivative (amount excluded from effectiveness testing)Amount of gain (loss) recognized in income on derivative (amount excluded from effectiveness testing)
202020192018202020192018
Year Ended December 31,
Year Ended December 31,
Year Ended December 31,
Amount of gain (loss) recognized in AOCI
Amount of gain (loss) recognized in AOCI
Amount of gain (loss) recognized in AOCILocation of gain (loss) recognized in income on derivative (amount excluded from effectiveness testing)Amount of gain (loss) recognized in income on derivative (amount excluded from effectiveness testing)
2023202320222021202320222021
Cross currency swapsCross currency swaps$(61)$93 $43 Interest expense, net$43 $44 $14 
Foreign exchange contractsForeign exchange contracts(2)Other income (expense), net
Sterling notes (foreign denominated debt)(20)(17)30 N/A
Euro denominated notes (foreign denominated debt)
Sterling denominated notes (foreign denominated debt)
TotalTotal$(83)$80 $73 $43 $44 $14 

Fair Value Hedges
During the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company issued $1.5 billion of 6.412% fixed rate senior notes due March 2026. Simultaneously, the Company entered into a fixed-to-floating interest rate swap designated as a fair value hedge to allow the Company to mitigate the variability in the fair value of its senior notes due to fluctuations in the benchmark interest rate. Changes in the fair value of the senior note and the interest rate swap are recorded in interest expense, net.
The following table presents fair value hedge adjustments to hedged borrowings (in millions).
Carrying Amount of
Hedged Borrowings
Cumulative Amount of Fair Value Hedging Adjustments Included in Hedged Borrowings
Balance Sheet LocationDecember 31, 2023December 31, 2022December 31, 2023December 31, 2022
Noncurrent portion of debt$1,502 $— $$— 
The following table presents the pretax impact of derivatives designated as fair value hedges on income, including offsetting changes in fair value of the hedged items (in millions).
Year Ended December 31,
20232022
(Loss) gain on changes in fair value of hedged fixed rate debt (1)
$(2)$— 
Gain (loss) on changes in the fair value of derivative contracts (1)
— 
Total in interest expense, net$— $— 
(1) Accrued interest expense related to the hedged debt and derivative contracts is excluded from the amounts above and was $27 million as of December 31, 2023.
Derivatives Not Designated for Hedge Accounting
The Company has deferred compensation plans that have risk related to the fair market value gains and losses on investments and has entered into total return swaps to mitigate this risk. The gains and losses associated with these swaps are recorded to selling, general and administrative expenses, offsetting the deferred compensation investment gains and losses.
The Company is exposed to risk of secured overnight financing rate changes in connection with securitization interest paid on the receivables securitization program. To mitigate this risk, the Company entered into and unwound and settled $6.0 billion notional of non-designated interest rate swaps for a total realized gain of $63 million during the year ended December 31, 2023. The gains and losses on these derivatives are recorded to selling, general and administrative expenses, offsetting securitization interest expense.
Forward contracts designated as cash flow hedges are de-designated as production spend occurs or when rebate receivables are recognized. After de-designation, gains and losses on these derivatives directly impact earnings in the same line as the hedged risk.
94

WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The following table presents the pretax gains (losses) on derivatives not designated as hedges and recognized in selling, general and administrative expense and other (expense) income, (expense), net in the consolidated statements of operations (in millions).
Year Ended December 31,Year Ended December 31,
Year Ended December 31, 202320222021
Interest rate swaps
Total return swaps
Total in selling, general and administrative expense
202020192018
Interest rate swaps
Interest rate swaps
Interest rate swapsInterest rate swaps$$$
Cross-currency swapsCross-currency swaps(10)
Foreign exchange derivativesForeign exchange derivatives32 (65)18 
Credit contracts(1)
Equity13 29 
Total in other income (expense), net$29 $(51)$50 
Total in other (expense) income, net
Total in other (expense) income, net
Total in other (expense) income, net
Total
NOTE 14. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
Fair value is defined as the amount that would be received for selling an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants. Assets and liabilities carried at fair value are classified in the following three categories:
Level 1 - Quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets.
Level 2 - Quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs and significant value drivers are observable in active markets.
Level 3 - Valuations derived from techniques in which one or more significant inputs are unobservable.
The table below presents assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis (in millions).

December 31, 2023
CategoryBalance Sheet LocationLevel 1Level 2Level 3Total
Assets
Cash equivalents:
Time depositsCash and cash equivalents$— $105 $— $105 
Equity securities:
Money market fundCash and cash equivalents— — 
Mutual fundsPrepaid expenses and other current assets42 — — 42 
Company-owned life insurance contractsPrepaid expenses and other current assets— — 
Mutual fundsOther noncurrent assets233 — — 233 
Company-owned life insurance contractsOther noncurrent assets— 97 — 97 
Total$276 $203 $— $479 
Liabilities
Deferred compensation planAccrued liabilities$67 $— $— $67 
Deferred compensation planOther noncurrent liabilities614 — — 614 
Total$681 $— $— $681 
9995

WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 11. REDEEMABLE NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS
December 31, 2022
CategoryBalance Sheet LocationLevel 1Level 2Level 3Total
Assets
Cash equivalents:
Time depositsCash and cash equivalents$— $50 $— $50 
Equity securities:
Money market fundsCash and cash equivalents20 — — 20 
Mutual fundsPrepaid expenses and other current assets14 — — 14 
Company-owned life insurance contractsPrepaid expenses and other current assets— — 
Mutual fundsOther noncurrent assets243 — — 243 
Company-owned life insurance contractsOther noncurrent assets— 94 — 94 
Time depositsOther noncurrent assets— — 
Total$277 $153 $— $430 
Liabilities
Deferred compensation planAccrued liabilities$73 $— $— $73 
Deferred compensation planOther noncurrent liabilities590 — — 590 
Total$663 $— $— $663 
Redeemable noncontrolling interestsEquity securities include money market funds, time deposits, investments in mutual funds held in separate trusts, which are presented outside of permanent equity on the Company's consolidated balance sheet when the put right is outsideowned as part of the Company's control. Redeemable noncontrolling interests reflected as of the balance sheet date are the greater of the noncontrolling interest balances adjusted for comprehensive income itemsCompany’s supplemental retirement plans, and distributions or the redemption values remeasured at the period end foreign exchange rates. Adjustments to the carrying amount of redeemable noncontrolling interests to redemption value as a result of changes in exchange rates are reflected in currency translation adjustments, a component of other comprehensive income (loss); however, such currency translation adjustments to redemption value are allocated to Discovery stockholders only. Redeemable noncontrolling interest adjustments of carrying value to redemption value are reflected in retained earnings. The adjustment of carrying value to the redemption value that reflects a redemption in excess of fair value is included as an adjustment to income from continuing operations available to Discovery, Inc. stockholders in the calculation of earnings per share.company-owned life insurance contracts. (See Note 19.17.) The table below summarizes the Company's redeemable noncontrolling interests balances (in millions).
December 31,
20202019
Discovery Family$206 $206 
MotorTrend Group LLC ("MTG")112 118 
Oprah Winfrey Network ("OWN")10 64 
Other55 54 
Total$383 $442 

The table below presents the reconciliation of changes in redeemable noncontrolling interests (in millions).
December 31,
202020192018
Beginning balance$442 $415 $413 
Initial fair value of redeemable noncontrolling interests of acquired businesses25 
Cash distributions to redeemable noncontrolling interests(31)(39)(25)
Equity exchange with Harpo for step acquisition of OWN(50)
Comprehensive income adjustments:
Net income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interests12 16 20 
Currency translation on redemption values
Retained earnings adjustments:
Adjustments of carrying value to redemption value (redemption value does not equal fair value)14 
Adjustments of carrying value to redemption value (redemption value equals fair value)
OWN interest adjustment
Ending balance$383 $442 $415 
The significant arrangements for redeemable noncontrolling interests are described below:
Discovery Family
Hasbro Inc. ("Hasbro") has the right to put the entirety of its remaining 40% interest in Discovery Family to Discovery at any time during the one-year period beginning December 31, 2021, or in the event a Discovery performance obligation related to Discovery Family is not met. Embedded in the redeemable noncontrolling interest is also a Discovery call right that is exercisable for one year after December 31, 2021. Upon the exercise of the put or call options, the price to be paid for the redeemable noncontrolling interest is a function of the then-current fair market value of the redeemable noncontrolling interest, to which certain discounts and redemption values may apply in specified situations depending upon the party exercising the put or call and the basis for the exercise of the put or call.
100

DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
MTG
Discovery and GoldenTree created the MTG joint venture in 2017. GoldenTree acquired a put right exercisable during 30-day windows beginningdeferred compensation plan liability was determined based on each of March 25, 2021, September 25, 2022 and March 25, 2024, that requires Discovery to either purchase all of GoldenTree's noncontrolling 32.5% interest in the joint venture at fair value or participate in an initial public offering for the joint venture.
OWN
Harpo has the right to require the Company to purchase Harpo's remaining noncontrolling interest in OWN at fair value during 4 90-day windows beginning on July 1, 2018 and every two and a half years thereafter through January 1, 2026. Harpo exercised the first of such remaining put rights in August 2018. In November 2018, the Company and Harpo entered into an amendment to the limited liability company ("LLC") agreement whereby Harpo agreed to withdraw its August 2018 put notice and upon any succeeding redemption, the put payment value will equal the fair value of Harpo's equity interestthe related investments elected by employees. Company-owned life insurance contracts are recorded at their cash surrender value, which approximates fair value (Level 2).
In addition to the financial instruments listed in OWN plus an incremental 9.337% per annum for the 2.5 year period between the July 1, 2018 put right date and the January 1, 2021 put right date. In December 2020,tables above, the Company holds other financial instruments, including cash deposits, accounts receivable, accounts payable, term loans, and Harpo completed an equity exchange and amendedsenior notes. The carrying values for such financial instruments, other than the LLC agreement whereby the Company acquired an additional 20.2% ownership interest in OWN from Harpo in exchange for $35 million of the Company's Series A common stock, which was issued from treasury stock. As a result of the exchange, the Company's ownership in OWN increased to approximately 94%. Harpo's remaining put rights are currently exercisable on July 1, 2023 and January 1, 2026.
NOTE 12. EQUITY
Common Stock
The Company has 3 series of common stock authorized, issued and outstandingsenior notes, each approximated their fair values as of December 31, 2020: Series A common stock, Series B common stock2023 and Series C common stock. Holders of these 3 series of common stock have equal rights, powers and privileges, except as otherwise noted. Holders of Series A common stock are entitled to 1 vote per share and holders of Series B common stock are entitled to 10 votes per share on all matters voted on by stockholders, except for directors to be elected by holders2022. The estimated fair value of the Company’s Series A-1 convertible preferred stock. Holders of Series C common stock are not entitled to any voting rights, except as required by Delaware law. Generally, holders of Series A common stockoutstanding senior notes, including accrued interest, using quoted prices from over-the-counter markets, considered Level 2 inputs, was $40.5 billion and Series B common stock and Series A-1 convertible preferred stock vote as one class, except for certain preferential rights afforded to holders of Series A-1 convertible preferred stock.
Holders of Series A common stock, Series B common stock and Series C common stock will participate equally in cash dividends if declared by the Board of Directors, subject to preferential rights of outstanding preferred stock.
Each share of Series B common stock is convertible, at the option of the holder, into 1 share of Series A common stock. Series A and Series C common stock are not convertible.
Generally, distributions made in shares of Series A common stock, Series B common stock or Series C common stock will be made proportionally to all common stockholders. In the event of a reclassification, subdivision or combination of any series of common stock, the shares of the other series of common stock will be equally reclassified, subdivided or combined.
In the event of a liquidation, dissolution, or winding up of Discovery, after payment of Discovery’s debts and liabilities and subject to preferential rights of outstanding preferred stock, holders of Series A common stock, Series B common stock and Series C common stock and holders of Series A-1 and Series C-1 convertible preferred stock will share equally in any assets available for distribution to holders of common stock.
Convertible Preferred Stock
The Company has 2 series of preferred stock authorized, issued and outstanding$38.0 billion as of December 31, 2020: Series A-1 convertible preferred stock2023 and Series C-1 convertible preferred stock. Series A-1 convertible preferred stock is convertible into 9 shares of the Company's Series A common stock and Series C-1 convertible preferred stock is convertible into 19.3648 shares of the Company's Series C common stock, subject to certain anti-dilution adjustments. Shares of Series A-1 and Series C-1 convertible preferred stock may be independently converted into Series A common stock and Series C common,2022, respectively.
101

DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
As of December 31, 2020, all outstanding shares of Series A-1 and Series C-1 convertible preferred stock were held by Advance/Newhouse. Holders of Series A-1 and Series C-1 convertible preferred stock have equal rights, powers and privileges, except as otherwise noted. Except for the election of common stock directors, the holders of Series A-1 convertible preferred stock are entitled to vote on matters to which holders of Series A and Series B common stock are entitled to vote, and holders of Series C-1 convertible preferred stock are entitled to vote on matters to which holders of Series C common stock, which is generally non-voting, are entitled to vote pursuant to Delaware law. Series A-1 convertible preferred stockholders vote on an as converted to common stock basis together with the Series A and Series B common stockholders as a single class on all matters except the election of directors. Series C-1 convertible preferred stock is considered the economic equivalent of Series C common stock and is subject to certain transfer restrictions.
Additionally, through its ownership of the Series A-1 convertible preferred stock, Advance/Newhouse has special voting rights on certain matters and the right to elect 3 directors. Holders of the Company’s common stock are not entitled to vote in the election of such directors. Advance/Newhouse retains these rights so long as it or its permitted transferees own or have the right to vote such shares that equal at least 80% of the shares of Series A convertible preferred stock issued to Advance/Newhouse in connection with the formation of Discovery, as converted to Series A-1 convertible preferred stock, plus any Series A-1 convertible preferred stock released from escrow, as may be adjusted for certain capital transactions. Holders of Series A-1 convertible preferred stock are subject to a right of first offer in favor of Discovery should Advance/Newhouse desire to sell 80% or more of the Series A-1 convertible preferred stock in a “Permitted Transfer” (as defined in the Discovery charter).
Subject to the prior preferences and other rights of any senior stock, holders of Series A-1 and Series C-1 convertible preferred stock will participate equally with common stockholders on an as converted to common stock basis in any cash dividends declared by the Board of Directors.
In the event of a liquidation, dissolution or winding up of Discovery, after payment of Discovery’s debts and liabilities and subject to the prior payment with respect to any stock ranking senior to Series A-1 and Series C-1 convertible preferred stock, the holders of Series A-1 and Series C-1 convertible preferred stock will receive, before any payment or distribution is made to the holders of any common stock or other junior stock, an amount (in cash or property) equal to $0.01 per share. Following payment of such amount and the payment in full of all amounts owing to the holders of securities ranking senior to Discovery’s common stock, holders of Series A-1 and Series C-1 convertible preferred stock will share equally on an as converted to common stock basis with the holders of common stock with respect to any assets remaining for distribution to such holders.
NaN Series A-1 or C-1 convertible preferred stock was converted during the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2018. During the year ended December 31, 2019, Advance Newhouse Programming Partnership converted 1.1 million of its Series C-1 convertible preferred stock into 22.0 million shares of Series C common stock.
Common Stock Issued in Connection with Scripps Networks Acquisition
In March 2018, the Company issued 139 million shares of Series C common stock as part of the consideration paid for the acquisition of Scripps Networks, inclusive of the conversion of 1 million Scripps Networks share-based compensation awards. (See Note 3.)
Repurchase Programs
Common Stock
The Company has a stock repurchase program that was implementedCompany’s derivative financial instruments are discussed in 2010. Under the program, management was authorized to purchase shares of the Company's common stock from time to time through open market purchases, privately negotiated transactions at prevailing prices, pursuant to one or more accelerated stock repurchase agreements, or other derivative arrangements as permitted by securities laws and other legal requirements, and subject to stock price, business and market conditions and other factors. The Company's authorization under this program expired in October 2017.
In February 2020, the Company's Board of Directors authorized additional stock repurchases of up to $2 billion upon completion ofNote 13, its existing $1 billion repurchase authorization announced in May 2019. All common stock repurchases, including prepaid common stock repurchase contracts, have been made through open market transactions and have been recorded as treasury stock on the consolidated balance sheets. Over the life of the Company's repurchase programs and as of December 31, 2020, the Company had repurchased 3 millionand 229 million shares of Series A and Series C common stock, respectively, for the aggregate purchase price of $171 million and $8.2 billion, respectively. The table below presents a summary of common stock repurchases (in millions).
102

DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Year Ended December 31,
202020192018
Series C Common Stock:
Shares repurchased41.6 23.2 
Purchase price$965 $637 $

In May 2019, the Company made an upfront cash payment of $96 million to enter into 2 prepaid common stock repurchase contracts for the Company’s Series C common stock. Both contracts settled in cash for $50 million each during June 2019 and August 2019, as the price of Discovery’s Series C common stock was above the strike price at expiration for each contract. The contracts were accounted for as equity transactions.
Convertible Preferred Stock
There were 0 convertible preferred stock repurchases during 2020, 2019 or 2018. As of December 31, 2020, the Company had repurchased 0.2 million shares of Series C-1 convertible preferred stock for $102 million.
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
The table below presents the tax effects related to each component of other comprehensive (loss) income and reclassifications made into the consolidated statements of operations (in millions).
Year Ended December 31, 2020Year Ended December 31, 2019Year Ended December 31, 2018

Pretax
Tax Benefit (Expense)

Net-of-tax

Pretax
Tax Benefit (Expense)

Net-of-tax

Pretax
Tax Benefit (Expense)

Net-of-tax
Currency translation adjustments:
Unrealized gains (losses):
Foreign currency$357 $33 $390 $(95)$14 $(81)$(246)$(6)$(252)
Net investment hedges(109)11 (98)56 60 59 59 
Reclassifications:
Gain on disposition
Total currency translation adjustments248 44 292 (33)18 (15)(183)(6)(189)
Derivative adjustments:
Unrealized gains (losses)(110)24 (86)38 (9)29 34 (8)26 
Reclassifications from other comprehensive income to net income(34)(27)(14)(11)(19)(14)
Total derivative adjustments(144)31 (113)24 (6)18 15 (3)12 
Pension plan and SERP liability:
Unrealized gains (losses)(10)(8)(13)(10)
Other comprehensive income (loss) adjustments$94 $77 $171 $(22)$15 $(7)$(165)$(9)$(174)

103

DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
The table below presents the changes in the components of accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of taxes (in millions).
Currency Translation
AFS (a)
Derivative AdjustmentsPension Plan and SERP LiabilityAccumulated
Other
Comprehensive Income (Loss)
December 31, 2017$(615)$26 $$$(585)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications(193)26 (164)
Reclassifications from accumulated other comprehensive loss to net income(14)(10)
Other comprehensive income (loss)(189)12 (174)
Reclassifications to retained earnings resulting from the adoption of ASU 2016-01(26)(26)
December 31, 2018(804)16 (785)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications(20)29 (10)(1)
Reclassifications from accumulated other comprehensive loss to net income(11)(5)
Other comprehensive income (loss)(14)18 (10)(6)
Other comprehensive loss attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interests(1)(1)
Reclassifications to retained earnings resulting from the adoption of ASU 2018-02(28)(2)(30)
December 31, 2019(847)32 (7)(822)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications292 (86)(8)198 
Reclassifications from accumulated other comprehensive loss to net income(27)(27)
Other comprehensive income (loss)292 (113)(8)171 
December 31, 2020$(555)$$(81)$(15)$(651)
(a)Effective January 1, 2018, unrealized gains and losses on equity investments with readily determinable fair valuesvalue are recordeddiscussed in other income (expense), net. (See Note 4.)10, and the obligation for its revolving receivable program is discussed in Note 8.
NOTE 13. NONCONTROLLING INTEREST
The Company has a controlling interest in the TV Food Network Partnership (the "Partnership"), which includes the Food Network and Cooking Channel. Food Network and Cooking Channel are operated and organized under the terms of the Partnership. The Company holds 80% of the voting interest and 68.7% of the economic interest in the Partnership. During the fourth quarter of 2020, the Partnership agreement was extended and specifies a dissolution date of December 31, 2022. If the term of the Partnership is not extended prior to the dissolution date of December 31, 2022, the Partnership agreement permits the Company, as holder of 80% of the applicable votes, to reconstitute the Partnership and continue its business. If for some reason the Partnership is not continued, it will be required to limit its activities to winding up, settling debts, liquidating assets and distributing proceeds to the partners in proportion to their partnership interests. Ownership interests attributable to the noncontrolling owner are presented as noncontrolling interests on the Company's consolidated financial statements. Under the terms of the Partnership agreement, the noncontrolling owner cannot force a redemption outside of the Company's control. As such, the noncontrolling interests in the Partnership are reflected as a component of permanent equity in the Company's consolidated financial statements.
104

DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 14. REVENUES AND ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE
Disaggregated Revenue
The following table presents the Company’s revenues disaggregated by revenue source (in millions). Management uses these categories of revenue to evaluate the performance of its businesses and to assess its financial results and forecasts.
Year Ended December 31, 2020
U.S. NetworksInternational NetworksCorporate, inter-segment eliminations, and otherTotal
Revenues:
Advertising$4,012 $1,571 $$5,583 
Distribution2,852 2,014 4,866 
Other85 128 222 
Totals$6,949 $3,713 $$10,671 
Year Ended December 31, 2019
U.S. NetworksInternational NetworksCorporate, inter-segment eliminations, and otherTotal
Revenues:
Advertising$4,245 $1,799 $$6,044 
Distribution2,739 2,096 4,835 
Other108 146 11 265 
Totals$7,092 $4,041 $11 $11,144 
Year Ended December 31, 2018
U.S. NetworksInternational NetworksCorporate, inter-segment eliminations, and otherTotal
Revenues:
Advertising$3,749 $1,765 $$5,514 
Distribution2,456 2,082 4,538 
Other145 302 54 501 
Totals$6,350 $4,149 $54 $10,553 

Accounts Receivable and Credit Losses
Receivables include amounts currently due from customers and are presented net of an estimate for lifetime expected credit losses. Allowance for credit losses is measured using historical loss rates for the respective risk categories and incorporating forward-looking estimates. To assess collectability, the Company analyzes market trends, economic conditions, the aging of receivables and customer specific risks, and records a provision for estimated credit losses expected over the lifetime of receivables. The corresponding expense for the expected credit losses is reflected in selling, general and administrative expenses. The Company does not require collateral with respect to trade receivables.
The Company’s accounts receivable balances and the related credit losses arise primarily from distribution and advertising revenue. The Company monitors ongoing credit exposure through active review of customers’ financial conditions, aging of receivable balances, historical collection trends, and expectations about relevant future events that may significantly affect collectability.
105

DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Changes in allowance for credit losses consisted of the following (in millions):
December 31, 2019Impact of adoption of ASU 2016-13Provisions for credit lossesWrite-offsDecember 31, 2020
Distribution customers$19 $$$(11)$18 
Advertising and other customers35 (3)21 (12)41 
Total$54 $(2)$30 $(23)$59 

Contract Liability
A contract liability, such as deferred revenue, is recorded when cash is received in advance of the Company's performance. Total deferred revenues, including both current and noncurrent, were $649 million and $597 million at December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively. Noncurrent deferred revenue is a component of other noncurrent liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets. The change in deferred revenue for the year ended December 31, 2020 reflects cash payments received for which the performance obligation was not satisfied prior to the end of the period, partially offset by $309 million of revenues recognized that were included in deferred revenue at December 31, 2019, which was primarily due to an increase in the delivery of advertising commitments during the period. Revenue recognized for the year ended December 31, 2019 related to the deferred revenue balance at December 31, 2018 was $177 million.
Transaction Price Allocated to Remaining Performance Obligations
Most of the Company's distribution contracts are licenses of functional intellectual property where revenue is derived from royalty-based arrangements, for which the guidance allows the application of a practical expedient to record revenues as a function of royalties earned to date instead of estimating incremental royalty contract revenue. Accordingly, in these instances revenue is recognized based upon the royalties earned to date. However, there are certain other distribution arrangements that are fixed price or contain minimum guarantees that extend beyond one year. The Company recognizes revenue for fixed fee distribution contracts on a monthly basis based on minimum monthly fees or by calculating one twelfth of annual license fees specified in its distribution contracts. The transaction price allocated to remaining performance obligations within these fixed price or minimum guarantee distribution revenue contracts was $1.3 billion as of December 31, 2020 and is expected to be recognized over the next five years.
The Company's content licensing contracts and sports sublicensing deals are licenses of functional intellectual property. Certain of these arrangements extend beyond one year. The transaction price allocated to remaining performance obligations on these long-term contracts was $807 million as of December 31, 2020 and is expected to be recognized over the next four years.
The Company's brand licensing contracts are licenses of symbolic intellectual property. Certain of these arrangements extend beyond one year. The transaction price allocated to remaining performance obligations on these long-term contracts was $99 million as of December 31, 2020 and is expected to be recognized over the next 11 years.
The value of unsatisfied performance obligations disclosed above does not include: (i) contracts involving variable consideration for which revenues are recognized in accordance with the usage-based royalty exception, and (ii) contracts with an original expected length of one year or less, such as advertising contracts.
Capitalized Contract Costs
Sales commissions are generally expensed as incurred because contracts for which the sales commissions are generated are one year or less or are not material. Sales commissions are recorded as a component of cost of revenues on the consolidated statements of operations. The financing component of content licensing arrangements is not capitalized, because the period between delivery of the license and customer payment is one year or less or is not material.
NOTE 15. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION
The Company has various incentive plans under which PRSUs, RSUs, and stock options and SARs have been issued. As of December 31, 2020, the Company has reserved a total of 96 million shares of its Series A and Series C common stock for future exercises, vestings and grants of stock options, stock-settled SARs, PRSUs and RSUs. Upon exercise or vesting of stock awards, the Company issues new shares from its existing authorized but unissued shares. ThereAs of December 31, 2023, there were 58138 million shares of common stock in reserves that were available for future issuance under the incentive plans as of December 31, 2020.
106

DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
plans.
Share-Based Compensation Expense
The table below presents the components of share-based compensation expense (in millions).
Year Ended December 31,
202020192018
Year Ended December 31,Year Ended December 31,
2023202320222021
PRSUsPRSUs$$46 $24 
RSUsRSUs76 41 27 
Stock optionsStock options30 33 22 
SARsSARs(4)22 
ESPP and other(1)
Total share-based compensation expense
Total share-based compensation expense
Total share-based compensation expenseTotal share-based compensation expense$110 $142 $80 
Tax benefit recognizedTax benefit recognized$18 $17 $13 

96

WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Liability-classified share-based compensation awards include certain PRSUs and SARs.PRSUs. The Company recorded total liabilities for cash-settled and other liability-classified share-based compensation awards of $55$36 million and $93$6 million as of December 31, 20202023 and 2019,2022, respectively. The current portion of the liability for cash-settled and other liability-classified awards was $37$10 million and $47$4 million as of December 31, 20202023 and 2019,2022, respectively.
Share-Based Award Activity
PRSUs
The table below presents PRSU activity (in millions, except years and weighted-average grant price).
PRSUsWeighted-
Average
Grant
Date Fair Value
Weighted-Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term
(years)
Aggregate
Fair
Value
Outstanding as of December 31, 20192.2 $26.89 0.5$71 
Granted0.5 $25.70 
Converted(1.2)$26.79 $33 
Forfeited$
Outstanding as of December 31, 20201.5 $26.57 0.0$45 
Vested and expected to vest as of December 31, 20201.5 $26.57 0.0$45 
Convertible as of December 31, 20200.9 $26.80 0.0$28 
The Company has granted PRSUs to certain senior level executives. PRSUs represent the contingent right to receive shares of the Company’s Series A or C common stock, substantially all of which vest over three to four years based on continuous service and whether the Company achieves certain operating performance targets. The performance targets for substantially all PRSUs are cumulative measures of the Company’s adjusted operating income before depreciation and amortization (as defined in Note 23), free cash flows and revenues over a three-year period. The number of PRSUs that vest principally range from 0% to 100% based on a sliding scale where achieving or exceeding the performance target will result in 100% of the PRSUs vesting and achieving less than 80% of the target will result in no portion of the PRSUs vesting. Additionally, for certain PRSUs, the Company’s Compensation Committee has discretion in determining the final amount of units that vest, but may not increase the amount of any PRSU award above 100%. Upon vesting, each PRSU becomes convertible into one share of the Company’s Series A or Series C common stock as applicable. Holders of PRSUs do not receive payments of dividends in the event the Company pays a cash dividend until such PRSUs are converted into shares of the Company’s common stock.
PRSUsWeighted-
Average
Grant
Date Fair Value
Weighted-Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term
(years)
Aggregate
Fair
Value
Outstanding as of December 31, 20220.7 $32.80 0.0$
Granted4.0 $15.41 
Converted(0.5)$31.09 $
Outstanding as of December 31, 20234.2 $16.36 1.4$48 
Vested and expected to vest as of December 31, 20234.2 $16.36 1.4$48 
Convertible as of December 31, 20230.2 $37.41 0.0$
As of December 31, 2020,2023, there was $53 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to PRSUs was immaterial.
107

DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
PRSUs.
RSUs
The table below presents RSU activity (in millions, except years and weighted-average grant price).

RSUs
Weighted-
Average
Grant
Date Fair Value
Weighted-Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term
(years)
Aggregate
Fair
Value
Outstanding as of December 31, 20196.5 $27.14 1.5$213 

RSUs

RSUs
Weighted-
Average
Grant
Date Fair Value
Weighted-Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term
(years)
Aggregate
Fair
Value
Outstanding as of December 31, 2022
GrantedGranted4.6 $25.50 
VestedVested(1.7)$26.82 $45 
Vested
Vested
ForfeitedForfeited(0.8)$27.13 
Outstanding as of December 31, 20208.6 $26.31 2.8$259 
Vested and expected to vest as of December 31, 20208.6 $26.31 2.8$259 
Outstanding as of December 31, 2023
Outstanding as of December 31, 2023
Outstanding as of December 31, 2023
Vested and expected to vest as of December 31, 2023
RSUs represent the contingent right to receive shares of the Company's Series A or C common stock, substantially all of which vest ratably each year over periods of one to four years based on continuous service. As of December 31, 2020,2023, there was $204$489 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to RSUs, of which $59$29 million is related to cash settled RSUs. Stock settled RSUs are expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.21.8 years, and cash settled RSUs are expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 3.02.0 years.
97

WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Stock Options
The table below presents stock option activity (in millions, except years and weighted-average exercise price).
Stock OptionsWeighted-
Average
Exercise
Price
Weighted-
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term
(years)
Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value
Outstanding as of December 31, 201921.4 $29.24 4.7$83 
Granted1.3 $25.70 
Exercised(0.4)$19.75 $
Forfeited(1.3)$32.66 
Outstanding as of December 31, 202021.0 $29.00 4.0$41 
Vested and expected to vest as of December 31, 202021.0 $29.00 4.0$41 
Exercisable as of December 31, 20206.5 $27.90 2.6$20 
Stock OptionsWeighted-
Average
Exercise
Price
Weighted-
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term
(years)
Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value
Outstanding as of December 31, 202230.5 $34.95 4.0$— 
Granted2.2 $15.02 
Forfeited(0.6)$28.22 
Outstanding as of December 31, 202332.1 $33.73 3.3$— 
Vested and expected to vest as of December 31, 202332.1 $33.73 3.3$— 
Exercisable as of December 31, 202315.8 $30.89 2.0$— 
Stock options are granted with an exercise price equal to or in excess of the closing market price of the Company’s Series A or Series C common stock on the date of grant. Substantially all stock options vest ratably over three to four years from the grant date based on continuous service and expire seven to ten years from the date of grant. Stock option awards generally provide for accelerated vesting upon retirement or after reaching a specified age and years of service. The Company received cash payments from the exercise of stock options totaling $8$0 million, $17$1 million, and $68$159 million during 2020, 20192023, 2022 and 2018,2021, respectively. As of December 31, 2020,2023, there was $65$114 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to stock options, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.82.7 years.
The fair value of stock options is estimated using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. The weighted-average assumptions used to determine the fair value of stock options as of the date of grant during 2020, 20192023, 2022 and 20182021 were as follows.
Year Ended December 31,
202020192018
Risk-free interest rate0.89 %2.67 %2.74 %
Expected term (years)55.55.5
Expected volatility31.86 %30.44 %29.57 %
Dividend yield
108

DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Risk-free interest rate4.35 %1.46 %1.03 %
Expected term (years)4.55.05.9
Expected volatility54.80 %42.15 %42.45 %
The weighted-average grant date fair value of options granted during 2020, 20192023, 2022 and 20182021 was $7.57, $8.43$7.43, $9.60 and $7.95,$14.08, respectively, per option. The total intrinsic value of options exercised during 2020, 20192023, 2022 and 20182021 was $3$0 million, $4$0 million and $30$145 million, respectively.
SARs
NOTE 16. INCOME TAXES
The table below presents SAR award activitydomestic and foreign components of (loss) income before income taxes were as follows (in millions, except years and weighted-average grant price)millions).
SARsWeighted-
Average
Grant
Price
Weighted-
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term
(years)
Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value
Outstanding as of December 31, 20194.9 $24.44 0.8$35 
Granted$
Settled(2.3)$24.88 $14 
Forfeited$
Outstanding as of December 31, 20202.6 $24.01 0.5$12 
Vested and expected to vest as of December 31, 20202.6 $24.01 0.5$12 
 Year Ended December 31,
 202320222021
Domestic$(4,702)$(8,747)$1,598 
Foreign839 (213)(165)
(Loss) income before income taxes$(3,863)$(8,960)$1,433 
SAR award grants include cash-settled SARs
98

WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The components of the provision for income taxes were as follows (in millions).
 Year Ended December 31,
 202320222021
Current:
Federal$753 $629 $451 
State and local57 143 130 
Foreign750 407 166 
1,560 1,179 747 
Deferred:
Federal(1,845)(2,367)(250)
State and local(548)(418)
Foreign49 (57)(267)
(2,344)(2,842)(511)
Income tax (benefit) expense$(784)$(1,663)$236 
The following table reconciles the Company’s effective income tax rates to the U.S. federal statutory income tax rates.
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Pre-tax income at U.S. federal statutory income tax rate$(811)21 %$(1,881)21 %$301 21 %
State and local income taxes, net of federal tax benefit(388)10 %(218)%108 %
Effect of foreign operations342 (9)%246 (3)%25 %
Preferred stock conversion premium charge— — %166 (2)%— — %
UK Finance Act legislative change— — %— — %(155)(11)%
Noncontrolling interest adjustment(9)— %(17)— %(40)(3)%
Other, net82 (2)%41 — %(3)— %
Income tax (benefit) expense$(784)20 %$(1,663)19 %$236 16 %
Income tax benefit was $(784) million and stock-settled SARs. Cash-settled SARs entitle$(1,663) million, and the holder to receive a cash paymentCompany’s effective tax rate was 20% and 19% for 2023 and 2022, respectively. The decrease in tax benefit for the amountyear ended December 31, 2023 was primarily attributable to a decrease in pre-tax book loss and the effect of foreign operations, including taxation and allocation of income and losses across various foreign jurisdictions. These decreases were partially offset by whicha state uncertain tax benefit remeasurement following a multi-year tax audit agreement and a favorable state deferred tax adjustment recorded in the price ofyear ended December 31, 2023. The decrease for the year ended December 31, 2023 was further offset by a one-time expense incurred in 2022 related to a preferred stock conversion transaction expense that was not deductible for tax purposes. (See Note 3.)
Income tax (benefit) expense was $(1,663) million and $236 million, and the Company’s Series A or Series C commoneffective tax rate was 19% and 16% for 2022 and 2021, respectively. The decrease in the tax expense for the year ended December 31, 2022, was primarily attributable to a decrease in pre-tax book income, partially offset by a one-time expense incurred in 2022 related to a preferred stock exceedsconversion transaction expense that was not deductible for tax purposes (see Note 3), as well as the base price established oneffect of foreign operations, including taxation and allocation of income and losses across multiple foreign jurisdictions. The decrease for the grant date. Cash-settled SARs are granted withyear ended December 31, 2022 was further offset by a base price equal to or greater thandeferred tax benefit of $155 million recorded in the closing market priceyear ended December 31, 2021 resulting from the UK Finance Act 2021 enacted in June 2021.
99

WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Components of the Company’s Series A or Series C common stock on the date of grant. Stock-settled SARs entitle the holder to shares of Series A or Series C common stock in accordance with the award agreement terms.
The fair value of outstanding SARs is estimated using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. The weighted-average assumptions used to determine the fair value of outstanding SARsdeferred income tax assets and liabilities were as follows.follows (in millions).
Year Ended December 31,
202020192018
Risk-free interest rate0.10 %1.60 %2.53 %
Expected term (years)0.50.81.2
Expected volatility42.13 %30.54 %36.52 %
Dividend yield
 December 31,
 20232022
Deferred income tax assets:
Accounts receivable$(86)$(78)
Tax attribute carry-forward2,908 2,557 
Accrued liabilities and other1,770 1,274 
Total deferred income tax assets4,592 3,753 
Valuation allowance(2,191)(1,849)
Net deferred income tax assets2,401 1,904 
Deferred income tax liabilities:
Intangible assets(7,988)(9,509)
Content rights(685)(1,389)
Equity method and other investments in partnerships(411)(522)
Other(1,356)(809)
Total deferred income tax liabilities(10,440)(12,229)
Net deferred income tax liabilities$(8,039)$(10,325)
As of December 31, 20202023, the company maintains a valuation allowance of $2,191 million to offset deferred tax assets attributable to certain foreign net operating losses, and 2019,to a lesser extent U.S. federal and state tax attribute carryforwards.
The Company’s net deferred income tax assets and liabilities were reported on the weighted-average fair valueconsolidated balance sheets as follows (in millions).
 December 31,
 20232022
Noncurrent deferred income tax assets (included within other noncurrent assets)$697 $689 
Deferred income tax liabilities(8,736)(11,014)
Net deferred income tax liabilities$(8,039)$(10,325)
The Company’s loss carry-forwards were reported on the consolidated balance sheets as follows (in millions).
FederalStateForeign
Loss carry-forwards$53 $1,640 $8,636 
Deferred tax asset related to loss carry-forwards11 93 2,131 
Valuation allowance against loss carry-forwards(6)(64)(1,652)
Earliest expiration date of loss carry-forwards202820242024
100

WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
A reconciliation of SARs outstanding was $5.48the beginning and $8.28 per award. ending amounts of unrecognized tax benefits (without related interest and penalty amounts) is as follows (in millions).
 Year Ended December 31,
 202320222021
Beginning balance$1,929 $420 $348 
Additions based on tax positions related to the current year147 302 68 
Additions for tax positions of prior years195 35 64 
Additions for tax positions acquired in business combinations247 1,353 — 
Reductions for tax positions of prior years(275)(114)(27)
Settlements(46)(20)(5)
Reductions due to lapse of statutes of limitations(62)(34)(25)
Changes due to foreign currency exchange rates12 (13)(3)
Ending balance$2,147 $1,929 $420 
The balances as of December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021 included $2,147 million, $1,929 million, and $420 million, respectively, of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would reduce the Company’s income tax expense and effective tax rate after giving effect to interest deductions and offsetting benefits from other tax jurisdictions.
The Company made cash payments of$11 millionand $2 million to settle exercised SARs during 2020its subsidiaries file income tax returns in the U.S. and 2019, respectively.various state and foreign jurisdictions. The Company made 0 cash paymentsis currently under audit by the Internal Revenue Service for its 2012 to settle exercised SARs during 2018. 2019 consolidated federal income tax returns. It is difficult to predict the final outcome or timing of resolution of any particular tax matter. With few exceptions, the Company is no longer subject to audit by any jurisdiction for years prior to 2008. Adjustments that arose from the completion of audits for certain tax years have been included in the change in uncertain tax positions in the table above.
It is reasonably possible that the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits related to certain of the Company’s uncertain tax positions could decrease by as much as $84 million within the next twelve months as a result of ongoing audits, foreign judicial proceedings, lapses of statutes of limitations, or regulatory developments.
As of December 31, 2020, there was $22023, 2022, and 2021, the Company had accrued approximately $571 million, $413 million, and $60 million, respectively, of total interest and penalties payable related to unrecognized tax benefits. The increase in the accrual for interest and penalties payable at December 31, 2023 includes interest and penalty accruals recorded in 2023 through purchase price accounting related to the Merger. The Company recognizes interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of income tax expense.
The 2017 Tax Act features a participation exemption regime with current taxation of certain foreign income and imposes a mandatory repatriation toll tax on unremitted foreign earnings. Notwithstanding the U.S. taxation of these amounts, we intend to continue to reinvest these funds outside of the U.S. Our current plans do not demonstrate a need to repatriate them to the U.S. However, if these funds were to be needed in the U.S., we would be required to accrue and pay non-U.S. taxes to repatriate them. The determination of the amount of unrecognized compensation cost relateddeferred income tax liability with respect to SARs, whichthese undistributed foreign earnings is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 0.7 years.not practicable.
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
NOTE 17. RETIREMENT SAVINGS PLANS
The ESPP enables eligibleCompany has defined contribution, defined benefit, and other savings plans for the benefit of its employees that meet eligibility requirements.
Defined Contribution Plans
Eligible employees may contribute a portion of their compensation to purchase sharesthe plans, which may be subject to certain statutory limitations. For these plans, the Company also makes contributions, including discretionary contributions, subject to plan provisions, which vest immediately. The Company made total contributions of the Company’s common stock through payroll deductions or other permitted means. Unless otherwise determined by the Company’s Compensation Committee, the purchase price$210 million, $188 million, and $50 million for shares offered under the ESPP is 85% of the closing price of the Company’s Series A common stock on the purchase date. The Company’s Board of Directors has authorized 8 million shares of the Company’s common stock to be issued under the ESPP. During the years ended December 31, 2020, 20192023, 2022 and 20182021, respectively. The Company’s contributions were recorded in cost of revenues and selling, general and administrative expense on the consolidated statements of operations.
101

WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Executive Deferred Compensation Plans
The Company has deferred compensation plans through which certain senior-level employees may elect to defer a portion of their eligible compensation. Distributions from the deferred compensation plans are generally made following separation from service or other events as specified in the plan. In certain plans, the Company issued 254 thousand, 142 thousandmay make discretionary contributions to employee accounts. While these plans are unfunded, the Company has established separate rabbi trusts used to provide for certain of these benefits. The accounts of the separate rabbi trusts are included in the Company’s consolidated financial statements. The investments are included in prepaid expenses and 133 thousand sharesother current assets and other noncurrent assets on the consolidated balance sheets. The deferred compensation obligation is included in accrued liabilities and other noncurrent liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets. The values of the investments and deferred compensation obligation are recorded at fair value. Changes in the fair value of the investments are included as a component of other (expense) income, net, on the consolidated statements of operations. Changes in the fair value of the deferred compensation obligation are included as a component of selling, general and administrative expenses on the consolidated statements of operations. (See Note 14 and Note 18.)
Multiemployer Benefit Plans
The Company contributes to various multiemployer defined benefit pension plans under the ESPP,terms of collective-bargaining agreements that cover certain of our union-represented employees. The risks of participating in multiemployer pension plans are different from single-employer pension plans in that (i) contributions made by the Company to the multiemployer pension plans may be used to provide benefits to employees of other participating employers; (ii) if the Company chooses to stop participating in the multiemployer pension plans, it may be required to pay those plans an amount based on the underfunded status of the plan, which is referred to as a withdrawal liability; and (iii) actions taken by a participating employer that lead to a deterioration of the financial health of a multiemployer pension plan may result in the unfunded obligations of the multiemployer pension plan being borne by its remaining participating employers. The Company also contributes to various other multiemployer benefit plans that provide health and welfare benefits to both active and retired participants. The Company does not participate in any multiemployer benefit plans that are individually significant to the Company.
The following table summarizes the Company’s contributions to multiemployer pension and health and welfare benefit plans (in millions).
Year Ended December 31,
20232022
Pension benefits$128 $112 
Health and welfare benefits153 182 
Total contributions$281 $294 
Since these plans were acquired as part of the Merger, there were no contributions for the year ended December 31, 2021.
Defined Benefit Plans
The Company participates in and/or sponsors a qualified defined benefit pension plan that covers certain U.S. based employees and several U.S. and non-U.S. nonqualified defined benefit pension plans that are noncontributory. The Company’s pension plans consist of both funded and unfunded plans.
The Company also holds net assets and net liabilities on behalf of other U.S. and non-U.S. pension plans. The plan provisions vary by plan and by country. Some of these plans are unfunded and all are noncontributory. Assets are recorded in other noncurrent assets, and liabilities are recorded in accrued liabilities and other noncurrent liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets.
Discount rates, long-term rate of return on plan assets, increases in compensation levels, and mortality rates are key assumptions used in determining the benefit obligation. The table below describes how the assumptions are determined.
AssumptionDescription
Discount rateBased on a bond portfolio approach that includes high-quality debt instruments with maturities matching the Company’s expected benefit payments from the plans.
Long-term rate of return on plan assetsBased on the weighted-average expected rate of return and capital market forecasts for each asset class employed and also considers the Company’s historical compounded return on plan assets for 10 and 15-year periods.
Increase in compensation levelsBased on past experience and the near-term outlook.
MortalityVarious mortality tables adjusted and projected using mortality improvement rates.
102

WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Net Periodic Pension Cost
Expense recognized for the pension plans is based upon actuarial valuations. Inherent in those valuations are key assumptions, including discount rates and, where applicable, expected returns on assets. The service cost component of net periodic pension cost is recorded in operating expenses on the consolidated statements of operations, while the remaining components are recorded in other (expense) income, net. Net periodic pension cost was not material for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021.
Obligations and Funded Status
The following tables present information about plan assets and obligations of the pension plans based upon a valuation as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively (in millions).
December 31, 2023December 31, 2022
Pension PlansPension Plans
Accumulated benefit obligation$753 $762 
Change in projected benefit obligation:
Projected benefit obligation at beginning of year$762 $104 
Amounts assumed upon acquisition (See Note 4)— 908 
Service cost
Interest cost35 21 
Benefits paid(40)(36)
Actuarial gains— (231)
Settlement charges(11)(6)
Effects of foreign currency exchange rate changes and other— 
Projected benefit obligation at end of year753 762 
Plan assets:
Fair value at beginning of year533 63 
Amounts assumed upon acquisition (See Note 4)— 756 
Actual return on plan assets(268)
Company contributions33 24 
Benefits paid(40)(36)
Settlement charges(11)(6)
Effects of foreign currency exchange rate changes and other16 — 
Fair value at end of year540 533 
Under funded status$(213)$(229)
Amounts recognized as assets and liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets:
Other noncurrent assets$82 $92 
Accrued liabilities(31)(29)
Other noncurrent liabilities(264)(292)
Total$(213)$(229)
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss consist of:
Net loss$79 $94 
103

WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations were as follows.
December 31, 2023December 31, 2022
Pension PlansPension Plans
Discount rate4.62 %4.70 %
Rate of compensation increases3.18 %3.05 %
Plan Assets
The Company’s investment policy is to maximize the total rate of return on plan assets to meet the long-term funding obligations of the pension plans. There are no restrictions on the types of investments held in the pension plans, which are invested using a combination of active management and passive investment strategies. Risk is controlled through diversification among multiple asset classes, managers, styles, and securities. Risk is further controlled both at the manager and asset class levels by assigning return targets and evaluating performance against these targets. The following table presents the weighted average pension plans asset allocations by asset category (in millions).
December 31, 2023
Investment TypeTargetActual
Equity securities12 %12 %
Fixed income securities75 %75 %
Multi-asset credit fund%%
Real assets%%
Hedge funds%%
Cash%%
Total100 %100 %
Fair Value Measurements
Fair value is an exit price, representing the amount that would be received cash totaling $5 million, $3 million and $3 million, respectively.to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. See Note 14 for a discussion of the fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to the valuation techniques used to measure fair value (in millions).
December 31, 2023
TotalLevel 1Level 2Level 3
Equity securities$64 $36 $28 $— 
Fixed income securities541 12 453 76 
Multi-asset credit fund24 — 24 — 
Cash— — 
Total plan assets measured at fair value$638 $57 $505 $76 
Assets held at net asset value practical expedient
Real assets$18 
Hedge funds22 
Total assets held at net asset value practical expedient$40 
Liabilities:
Derivatives(138)
Total plan assets$540 
104

WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The table below sets forth a summary of changes in the fair value of the Level 3 pension assets for the year ended December 31, 2023 (in millions).
Fixed Income Funds
Fair value at beginning of year$72 
Unrealized gains
Transfers out(5)
Balance at end of year$76 
December 31, 2022
TotalLevel 1Level 2Level 3
Equity Securities$69 $34 $35 $— 
Fixed income securities532 14 446 72 
Multi-asset credit fund21 — 21 — 
Cash— — 
Total plan assets measured at fair value$627 $53 $502 $72 
Assets held at net asset value practical expedient
Real assets$22 
Hedge funds20 
Total assets held at net asset value practical expedient$42 
Liabilities:
Derivatives(136)
Total plan assets$533 
The table below sets forth a summary of changes in the fair value of the Level 3 pension assets for the year ended December 31, 2022 (in millions).
Fixed Income Funds
Fair value at beginning of year$98 
Unrealized losses(26)
Balance at end of year$72 
Estimated Benefit Payments
The following table presents the estimated future benefit payments expected to be paid out for the defined benefits plans over the next ten years (in millions).
Pension Plans
2024$50 
202546 
202646 
202746 
202849 
Thereafter234 
105

WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 16. RETIREMENT SAVINGS PLANS18. SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES
Property and equipment
Property and equipment consisted of the following (in millions).
 December 31,
 Useful Lives20232022
Equipment, furniture, fixtures and other (a)
3 - 7 years$2,056 $1,682 
Capitalized software costs1 - 5 years2,629 1,855 
Land, buildings and leasehold improvements (b)
15- 30 years4,013 3,251 
Property and equipment, at cost8,698 6,788 
Accumulated depreciation(3,085)(2,055)
5,613 4,733 
Assets under construction344 568 
Property and equipment, net$5,957 $5,301 
(a) Property and equipment includes assets acquired under finance lease arrangements. Assets acquired under finance lease arrangements are generally amortized using the straight-line method over the lesser of the estimated useful lives of the assets or the terms of the related leases. (See Note 12.)
(b) Land has an indefinite life and is not depreciated. Leasehold improvements generally have an estimated useful life equal to the lease term.
Capitalized software costs are for internal use. The Company has defined contribution, defined benefit,net book value of capitalized software costs was $1,301 million and $949 million as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
Depreciation expense for property and equipment totaled $1,097 million,$957 million and $311 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
Prepaid expenses and other savings plans forcurrent assets
Prepaid expenses and other current assets consisted of the benefitfollowing (in millions).
December 31,
20232022
Production receivables$1,265 $1,231 
Prepaid content rights843 545 
Other current assets2,283 2,112 
Total prepaid expenses and other current assets$4,391 $3,888 
Accrued liabilities
Accrued liabilities consisted of its employees that meet eligibility requirements.the following (in millions).
December 31,
20232022
Accrued participation and residuals$3,071 $2,986 
Accrued production and content rights payable2,118 3,153 
Accrued payroll and related benefits1,541 2,292 
Other accrued liabilities3,638 3,073 
Total accrued liabilities$10,368 $11,504 
109106

WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Defined Contribution PlansOther (Expense) Income, net
Eligible employees may contribute a portion of their compensation to the plans, which may be subject to certain statutory limitations. For these plans, the Company also makes contributions, including discretionary contributions, subject to plan provisions, which vest immediately. The Company made total contributions of $47 million, $37 million and $44 million for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively. The Company's contributions were recorded in cost of revenues and selling, general and administrative expense in the consolidated statements of operations.
Executive Deferred Compensation Plans
The Company’s savings plans also include a deferred compensation plan through which membersOther (expense) income, net, consisted of the Company’s executive team in the U.S. may elect to defer a portion of their eligible compensation. The amounts deferred are invested in various mutual funds at the direction of the executive, which are used to finance payment of the deferred compensation obligation. Distributions from the deferred compensation plan are made upon termination or other events as specified in the plan. The Company has established separate rabbi trusts to hold the investments that finance the deferred compensation obligation. The accounts of the separate rabbi trusts are included in the Company’s consolidated financial statements. The investments are included in prepaid expenses and other current assets and other noncurrent assets in the consolidated balance sheets. The deferred compensation obligation is included in accrued liabilities and other noncurrent liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets. The values of the investments and deferred compensation obligation are recorded at fair value. Changes in the fair value of the investments are offset by changes in the fair value of the deferred compensation obligation and are recorded in earnings as a component of other income (expense), net, on the consolidated statements of operations. (See Note 5.)
Defined Benefit Plans
As a result of the acquisition of Scripps Networks in 2018, the Company assumed a defined benefit pension plan (“Pension Plan”) that covers certain U.S. based employees and a non-qualified unfunded Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan (“SERP”) that provides defined pension benefits to eligible executives. Expense recognized in relation to the Pension Plan and SERP is based upon actuarial valuations. Inherent in those valuations are key assumptions including discount rates and, where applicable, expected returns on assets. Discount rates are based on a bond portfolio approach that includes high-quality debt instruments with maturities matching the Company's expected benefit payments from the plans. Expected returns on assets are based on the weighted-average expected rate of return and capital market forecasts for each asset class employed and also consider the Company's historical compounded return on plan assets for 10 and 15-year periods. Benefits are generally based on the employee’s compensation and years of service. Since December 31, 2009, no additional service benefits have been earned by participants under the Pension Plan. The amount of eligible compensation that is used to calculate a plan participant’s pension benefit includes compensation earned by the employee through December 31, 2019, after which time all plan participants have a frozen pension benefit. Net periodic pension cost was not material for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018.
The projected benefit obligation, fair value of plan assets and discount rate used in determining the projected benefit obligations were as followsfollowing (in millions).
Pension PlanSERP
December 31,
2020201920202019
Projected benefit obligation$94 $90 $25 $26 
Fair value of plan assets (Level 1)$70 $68 $$
Discount rate1.92 %2.82 %1.58 %2.61 %
 Year Ended December 31,
 202320222021
Foreign currency (losses) gains, net$(173)$(150)$93 
Gains (losses) on derivative instruments, net28 475 (33)
Gain on sale of investment with readily determinable fair value— — 15 
Change in the value of investments with readily determinable fair value37 (105)(6)
Change in the value of equity investments without readily determinable fair value(73)(142)(13)
Gain on sale of equity method investments— 195 
Gain (loss) on extinguishment of debt17 — (10)
Interest income179 67 18 
Other (expense) income, net(27)
Total other (expense) income, net$(12)$347 $72 

Supplemental Cash Flow Information
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Cash paid for taxes, net$1,440 $1,027 $643 
Cash paid for interest2,237 1,539 664 
Non-cash investing and financing activities:
Non-cash consideration related to the sale of the Ranch Lot175 — — 
Non-cash consideration related to the purchase of the Burbank Studios Lot175 — — 
Non-cash consideration transferred related to the transaction agreements with JCOM68 — — 
Non-cash consideration paid related to the transaction agreements with JCOM— — 
Non-cash consideration related to MegaMedia put exercise36 — — 
Non-cash settlement of PRSU awards35 — — 
Equity issued for the acquisition of WarnerMedia— 42,309 — 
Non-cash consideration related to the sale of The CW Network— 126 — 
Accrued consideration for the joint venture with BT— 90 — 
Accrued purchases of property and equipment41 66 34 
Assets acquired under finance lease and other arrangements235 53 134 
NOTE 17. RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER CHARGESCash, Cash Equivalents, and Restricted Cash
Restructuring and other charges by reportable segment and corporate, inter-segment eliminations, and other were as follows (in millions).
Year Ended December 31,
202020192018
U.S. Networks$41 $15 $322 
International Networks29 20 307 
Corporate, inter-segment eliminations, and other21 (9)121 
Total restructuring and other charges$91 $26 $750 
 December 31, 2023December 31, 2022
Cash and cash equivalents$3,780 $3,731 
Restricted cash - other current assets (a)
539 199 
Total cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash$4,319 $3,930 
(a) Restricted cash primarily includes cash posted as collateral related to the Company’s revolving receivables and hedging programs. (See Note 8 and Note 13.)
110107

WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Restructuring chargesAssets Held for Sale
In 2022, the Company classified its Ranch Lot and Knoxville office building and land as assets held for sale. The Company reclassified $209 million to prepaid expenses and other current assets on the consolidated balance sheet during 2022 and stopped recording depreciation on the assets. The Knoxville office building and land and the Ranch Lot were sold during 2023. The Burbank Studios Lot was purchased during 2023 in exchange for the years endedRanch Lot and cash.
Supplier Finance Programs
Consistent with customary industry practice, the Company generally pays certain content producers at or near the completion of the production cycle. In these arrangements, content producers may earn fees upon contractual milestones to be invoiced at or near completion of production. In these instances, the Company accrues the content in progress in accordance with the contractual milestones. Certain of the Company’s content producers sell their related receivables to a bank intermediary who provides payments that coincide with these contractual production milestones upon confirmation with the Company of our obligation to the content producer. This confirmation does not involve a security interest in the underlying content or otherwise result in the payable receiving seniority with respect to other payables of the Company. As of December 31, 20202023 and 2019 primarily include charges related to employee termination costs and other cost reduction efforts. During 2020,December 31, 2022, the Company implemented various cost-savings initiatives including personnel reductions, restructuringshas confirmed $338 million and resource reallocations$273 million, respectively, of accrued content producer liabilities. These amounts were outstanding and unpaid by the Company and were recorded in accrued liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets, given the principal purpose of the arrangement is to align its expense structureallow producers access to ongoing changes withinfunds prior to the typical payment due date and the arrangement does not significantly change the nature of the payables and does not significantly extend the payment terms beyond the industry including economic challenges resulting fromnorms. Invoices processed through the COVID-19 pandemic. These actionsprogram are intendedsubject to enablea one-year maximum tenor. The Company does not incur any fees or expenses associated with the paying agent services, and this service may be terminated by the Company to more efficiently operateor the financial institution upon 30 days’ notice. At, or near, the production completion date (invoice due date), the Company pays the financial institution the stated amounts for confirmed producer invoices. These payments are reported as cash flows from operating activities.
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
The table below presents the changes in a leaner and more directed cost structure and are expected to continue into 2021; however, all such amounts cannot be reasonably estimated at this time as the restructuring plans have not been finalized. Restructuring charges for year ended December 31, 2018 include employee terminations, facility closures, and contract terminations, which include costs to terminate certain production commitments, lifecomponents of series production and content licensing contracts. Other restructuring charges for the year ended December 31, 2018 consistedaccumulated other comprehensive loss, net of $405 million of content write-offs, which resulted from a global strategic review of content following the acquisition of Scripps Networks.
Changes in restructuring and other liabilities recorded in accrued liabilities by reportable segment and corporate, inter-segment eliminations, and other were as followstaxes (in millions).
U.S. NetworksInternational NetworksCorporate, inter-segment eliminations, and otherTotal
December 31, 2018$16 $46 $46 $108 
Net contract termination accruals(6)(6)
Employee termination accruals, net15 20 (10)25 
Other accruals, net
Cash paid(27)(61)(22)(110)
December 31, 201918 
Net contract termination accruals
Employee termination accruals, net41 29 13 83 
Other accruals, net
Cash paid(22)(14)(15)(51)
December 31, 2020$23 $20 $15 $58 

NOTE 18. INCOME TAXES
The domestic and foreign components of income before income taxes were as follows (in millions).
 Year Ended December 31,
 202020192018
Domestic$1,916 $1,910 $1,125 
Foreign(188)384 (103)
Income before income taxes$1,728 $2,294 $1,022 
Currency TranslationDerivative AdjustmentsPension PlansAccumulated
Other
Comprehensive Income (Loss)
December 31, 2020$(555)$(81)$(15)$(651)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications(290)134 (154)
Reclassifications from accumulated other comprehensive loss to net income— (25)— (25)
Other comprehensive income (loss)(290)109 (179)
December 31, 2021(845)28 (13)(830)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications(651)(26)(673)
Reclassifications from accumulated other comprehensive loss to net income(2)(18)— (20)
Other comprehensive income (loss)(653)(14)(26)(693)
December 31, 2022(1,498)14 (39)(1,523)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications799 16 (21)794 
Reclassifications from accumulated other comprehensive loss to net income— (12)— (12)
Other comprehensive income (loss)799 (21)782 
December 31, 2023$(699)$18 $(60)$(741)
111108

WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 19. REDEEMABLE NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS
The componentsRedeemable noncontrolling interests are presented outside of permanent equity on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets when the put right is outside of the provisionCompany’s control. Redeemable noncontrolling interests reflected as of the balance sheet date are the greater of the noncontrolling interest balances adjusted for comprehensive income taxes wereitems and distributions or the redemption values remeasured at the period end foreign exchange rates. Adjustments to the carrying amount of redeemable noncontrolling interests to redemption value as followsa result of changes in exchange rates are reflected in currency translation adjustments, a component of other comprehensive loss. Such currency translation adjustments to redemption value are allocated to the Company’s stockholders only. Redeemable noncontrolling interest adjustments of carrying value to redemption value are reflected in retained earnings, unless there is an accumulated deficit, in which case the adjustments are reflected in additional paid-in capital. The adjustment of carrying value to the redemption value that reflects a redemption in excess of fair value is included as an adjustment to income from continuing operations available to the Company’s stockholders in the calculation of earnings per share. (See Note 3.) The table below summarizes the Company’s redeemable noncontrolling interests balances (in millions).
 Year Ended December 31,
 202020192018
Current:
Federal$422 $411 $323 
State and local12 42 30 
Foreign125 132 119 
559 585 472 
Deferred:
Federal(14)(54)(113)
State and local(24)(8)(21)
Foreign(148)(442)
(186)(504)(131)
Income taxes$373 $81 $341 

December 31,
20232022
Discovery Family$156 $173 
MotorTrend Group LLC (“MTG”)— 112 
Other33 
Total$165 $318 
The following table reconcilesbelow presents the Company's effective income tax ratesreconciliation of changes in redeemable noncontrolling interests (in millions).
December 31,
202320222021
Beginning balance$318 $363 $383 
Cash distributions to redeemable noncontrolling interests(30)(50)(11)
Reclassification of redeemable noncontrolling interest to noncontrolling interest(22)— — 
Redemption of redeemable noncontrolling interest(111)— (26)
Comprehensive income adjustments:
Net income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interests53 
Currency translation on redemption values(3)(5)(5)
Retained earnings adjustments:
Adjustments of carrying value to redemption value (redemption value does not equal fair value)— (16)
Adjustments of carrying value to redemption value (redemption value equals fair value)(15)
Ending balance$165 $318 $363 
The Company’s significant redeemable noncontrolling interests are described below.
Discovery Family
Hasbro Inc. (“Hasbro”) had the right to put the entirety of its remaining 40% interest in Discovery Family to the U.S. federal statutory income tax rates.
Year Ended December 31,
202020192018
Pre-tax income at U.S. federal statutory income tax rate$363 21 %$482 21 %$215 21 %
State and local income taxes, net of federal tax benefit(10)%27 %10 %
Effect of foreign operations%(21)(1)%111 11 %
Noncontrolling interest adjustment(29)(2)%(30)(1)%(18)(2)%
Impairment of goodwill25 %32 %%
Deferred tax adjustment(22)(1)%%%
Non-deductible compensation17 %22 %20 %
Change in uncertain tax positions17 %%37 %
Legal entity restructuring, deferred tax impact%(445)(19)%%
Renewable energy investments tax credits%(1)%(12)(1)%
U.S. legislative changes%%(19)(2)%
Other, net%12 %(3)%
Income tax expense$373 22 %$81 %$341 33 %

Income tax expenseCompany at any time during the one-year period beginning December 31, 2021, or in the event the Company’s performance obligation related to Discovery Family is not met. Embedded in the redeemable noncontrolling interest is also a Warner Bros. Discovery call right that is exercisable for one year after December 31, 2021. Neither the put nor call was $373 millionexercised in 2022. In December 2022, Hasbro and $81 million,WBD signed an amendment to the previous agreement extending the put-call election to the period January 31, 2025 to March 31, 2025.Upon the exercise of the put or call options, the price to be paid for the redeemable noncontrolling interest is a function of the then-current fair market value of the redeemable noncontrolling interest, to which certain discounts and redemption floor values may apply in specified situations depending upon the party exercising the put or call and the Company's effective tax rate was 22% and 4% for 2020 and 2019, respectively. The increase in income tax expensebasis for the year ended December 31, 2020 was primarily attributable toexercise of the discrete, one-time, non-cash deferred tax benefit of $445 million from legal entity restructurings that was recorded during the year ended December 31, 2019. Additionally, the increase in income tax expense was attributable to an increase in provision for uncertain tax positions and an increase in the effect of foreign operations. Those increases were partially offset by a decrease in pre-tax book income, a tax benefit from a favorable multi-year state resolution, and a favorable deferred tax adjustment in the U.S. that was recorded during the year ended December 31, 2020.put or call.
112109

WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Income tax expense was $81 millionMTG
GoldenTree acquired a put right exercisable during 30-day windows beginning on each of March 25, 2021, September 25, 2022 and $341 million, andMarch 25, 2024, that requires the Company's effective tax rate was 4% and 33% for 2019 and 2018, respectively. The decreaseCompany to either purchase all of GoldenTree’s noncontrolling 32.5% interest in income tax expensethe joint venture at fair value or participate in an initial public offering for the year ended December 31, 2019 was primarily attributablejoint venture. In 2022, GoldenTree exercised its irrevocable put right and in 2023, the Company finalized its purchase of GoldenTree’s 32.5% noncontrolling interest for $49 million.
Other
In August 2023, the Company and JCOM Co., Ltd. (“JCOM”) executed a series of transaction agreements to which the Company and JCOM each contributed to Discovery Japan, Inc. (“JVCo”), an existing 80/20 joint venture between the Company and JCOM, certain rights, liabilities, or rights via license agreements in exchange for new common shares of JVCo, resulting in the Company and JCOM owning 51% and 49% of JVCo, respectively. Retaining controlling financial interest subsequent to the discrete, one-time, non-cash deferred tax benefittransaction, the Company continues to consolidate the joint venture. As the terms of $445 million from legal entity restructurings. Additionally, the decrease in income tax expense was attributableagreement no longer incorporate JCOM’s option to a decrease in the provision for uncertain tax positions and a decrease in the effect of foreign operations, which was mainly driven by the establishment of certain valuation allowances during the year ended December 31, 2018 that did not recur in 2019, and a tax benefit realized during the year ended December 31, 2019 from the final regulations relatedput its noncontrolling interest to the determinationCompany, JCOM’s noncontrolling interest was reclassified from redeemable noncontrolling interest to noncontrolling interest outside of the foreign tax credit released by the U.S. Treasury department and IRS in December 2019. This decrease was partially offset by an increase in income and the impact of a goodwill impairment charge that was non-deductible for tax purposes during the year ended December 31, 2019. Finally, the income tax expense for the year ended December 31, 2018 included a one-time discrete tax benefit from U.S. legislative changes that extended the accelerated deduction of qualified film productions.
Components of deferred income tax assets and liabilities were as follows (in millions).
 December 31,
 20202019
Deferred income tax assets:
Accounts receivable$$12 
Tax attribute carry-forward354 311 
Accrued liabilities and other471 342 
Total deferred income tax assets832 665 
Valuation allowance(257)(307)
Net deferred income tax assets575 358 
Deferred income tax liabilities:
Intangible assets(654)(849)
Content rights(163)(148)
Equity method and other investments in partnerships(470)(471)
Noncurrent portion of debt(85)
Other(140)(106)
Total deferred income tax liabilities(1,512)(1,574)
Net deferred income tax liabilities$(937)$(1,216)

The Company’s net deferred income tax assets and liabilities were reportedstockholders’ equity on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets as follows (in millions).
 December 31,
 20202019
Noncurrent deferred income tax assets (included within other noncurrent assets)$597 $475 
Deferred income tax liabilities(1,534)(1,691)
Net deferred income tax liabilities$(937)$(1,216)

The Company’s loss carry-forwards were reported on the consolidated balance sheets as follows (in millions).
FederalStateForeign
Loss carry-forwards$$315 $2,303 
Deferred tax asset related to loss carry-forwards16 269 
Valuation allowance against loss carry-forwards(15)(138)
Earliest expiration date of loss carry-forwards203420212021
113

DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amounts of unrecognized tax benefits (without related interest and penalty amounts) is as follows (in millions).
 Year Ended December 31,
 202020192018
Beginning balance$375 $378 $189 
Additions based on tax positions related to the current year31 54 43 
Additions for tax positions of prior years11 52 
Additions for tax positions acquired in business combinations47 169 
Reductions for tax positions of prior years(5)(47)(9)
Settlements(9)(19)(6)
Reductions due to lapse of statutes of limitations(51)(50)(52)
Changes due to foreign currency exchange rates(8)
Ending balance$348 $375 $378 

The balances as of December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018 included $348 million, $375 million and $378 million, respectively, of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would reduce the Company’s income tax expense and effective tax rate after giving effect to interest deductions and offsetting benefits from other tax jurisdictions. For the year ended December 31, 2020, decreases in unrecognized tax benefits related to multiple audit resolutions and the lapse of statutes of limitations were offset by the uncertainty of allocation and taxation of income among multiple jurisdictions.
The Company and its subsidiaries file income tax returns in the U.S. and various state and foreign jurisdictions. The Company is currently under audit by the Internal Revenue Service for its 2012 to 2015 consolidated federal income tax returns. It is difficult to predict the final outcome or timing of resolution of any particular tax matter. Accordingly, an estimate of any related impact to the reserve for uncertain tax positions cannot currently be determined. With few exceptions, the Company is no longer subject to audit by any jurisdiction for years prior to 2006. Adjustments that arose from the completion of audits for certain tax years have been included in the change in uncertain tax positions in the table above.
It is reasonably possible that the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits related to certain of the Company's uncertain tax positions could decrease by as much as $71 million within the next twelve months as a result of ongoing audits, foreign judicial proceedings, lapses of statutes of limitations or regulatory developments.
As of December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, the Company had accrued approximately $53 million, $58 million, and $51 million, respectively, of total interest and penalties payable related to unrecognized tax benefits. The Company recognizes interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of income tax expense.sheet.
NOTE 19. EARNINGS PER SHARE
In calculating earnings per share, the Company follows the two-class method, which distinguishes between classes of securities based on the proportionate participation rights of each security type in the Company's undistributed income. The Company's Series A, B and C common stock is treated as one class and the Series C-1 convertible preferred stock is treated as a separate class for purposes of applying the two-class method. The Company's Series C-1 convertible preferred stock is an in-substance common stock equivalent as it has substantially equal rights and shares equally on an as-converted basis with respect to income available to Discovery, Inc. The Company's Series A-1 convertible preferred stock is also a separate class but is not considered a common stock equivalent and therefore is not presented separately in the calculation of earnings per share. Series A-1 convertible preferred stock is currently convertible into 9 shares of the Company's Series A common stock and Series C-1 convertible preferred stock is convertible into 19.3648 shares of the Company's Series C common stock, subject to certain anti-dilution adjustments. During the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2018, 0 Series A-1 or C-1 convertible preferred stock was converted. During the year ended December 31, 2019, Advance Newhouse Programming Partnership converted 1.1 million of its Series C-1 convertible preferred stock into 22.0 million shares of Series C common stock.
114

DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Net income allocated to Discovery, Inc. Series C-1 convertible preferred stockholders for diluted net income per share is included in net income allocated to Discovery, Inc. Series A, B and C common stockholders for diluted net income per share. The weighted average number of diluted shares outstanding adjusts the weighted average number of shares of Series A, B and C common stock outstanding for the potential dilution that would occur if common stock equivalents, including convertible preferred stock and share-based awards, were converted into common stock or exercised, calculated using the treasury stock method. The computation of the diluted earnings per share of Series A, B and C common stockholders assumes the conversion of Series A-1 and C-1 convertible preferred stock, while the diluted earnings per share amounts of Series C-1 convertible preferred stock does not assume conversion of those shares.
The table below sets forth the computation for income (loss) available to Discovery, Inc. stockholders (in millions). Earnings per share amounts may not recalculate due to rounding.
Year Ended December 31,
202020192018
Numerator:
Net income$1,355 $2,213 $681 
Less:
Allocation of undistributed income to Series A-1 convertible preferred stock(128)(204)(60)
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests(124)(128)(67)
Net income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interests(12)(16)(20)
Redeemable noncontrolling interest adjustments to redemption value(20)(5)
Net income available to Discovery, Inc. Series A, B and C common and Series C-1 convertible preferred stockholders for basic net income per share$1,091 $1,845 $529 
Allocation of net income:
Series A, B and C common stockholders919 1,531 429 
Series C-1 convertible preferred stockholders172 314 100 
Total1,091 1,845 529 
Add:
Allocation of undistributed income to Series A-1 convertible preferred stockholders128 204 60 
Net income available to Discovery, Inc. Series A, B and C common stockholders for diluted net income per share$1,219 $2,049 $589 
Denominator — weighted average:
Series A, B and C common shares outstanding — basic505 529 498 
Impact of assumed preferred stock conversion165 179 187 
Dilutive effect of share-based awards
Series A, B and C common shares outstanding — diluted672 711 688 
Series C-1 convertible preferred stock outstanding — basic and diluted
Basic net income per share allocated to:
Series A, B and C common stockholders$1.82 $2.90 $0.86 
Series C-1 convertible preferred stockholders$35.24 $56.07 $16.65 
Diluted net income per share allocated to:
Series A, B and C common stockholders$1.81 $2.88 $0.86 
Series C-1 convertible preferred stockholders$35.12 $55.80 $16.58 

115

DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The table below presents the details of share-based awards that were excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share (in millions).
Year Ended December 31,
202020192018
Anti-dilutive share-based awards24 17 15 
PRSUs whose performance targets have not yet been achieved01
Only outstanding PRSUs whose performance targets have been achieved as of the last day of the most recent period are included in the dilutive effect calculation.
NOTE 20. SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURESNONCONTROLLING INTEREST
PropertyThe Company has a controlling interest in the TV Food Network Partnership (the “Partnership”), which includes the Food Network and equipment
PropertyCooking Channel. Food Network and equipment consistedCooking Channel are operated and organized under the terms of the following (in millions). 
 December 31,
 Useful Lives20202019
Broadcast equipment (a)
3 - 5 years$744 $676 
Office equipment, furniture, fixtures and other3 - 5 years734 606 
Capitalized software costs2 - 5 years757 519 
Land, buildings and leasehold improvements (b)
39 years334 298 
Property and equipment, at cost2,569 2,099 
Accumulated depreciation(1,363)(1,148)
Property and equipment, net$1,206 $951 
(a) Property and equipment includes assets acquired under finance lease arrangements, primarily satellite transponders classified as broadcast equipment. Assets acquired under finance lease arrangements are amortized using the straight-line method over the lesser of the estimated useful lives of the assets or the terms of the related leases. (See Note 9.)
(b) Land has an indefinite life and is not depreciated. Leasehold improvements have an estimated useful life of the shorter of five years or the lease term.

Capitalized software costs are for internal use.Partnership. The net book valueCompany holds 80% of capitalized software coststhe voting interest and 68.7% of the economic interest in the Partnership. During the fourth quarter of 2023, the Partnership agreement was $309 millionextended and $176 million asspecifies a dissolution date of December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The related accumulated amortization was $448 million and $343 million as2024. If the term of the Partnership is not extended prior to the dissolution date of December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
Depreciation expense for property and equipment totaled $267 million,$207 million and $229 million for2024, the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively.
Accrued Liabilities
Accrued liabilities consistedPartnership agreement permits the Company, as holder of 80% of the following (in millions):
December 31,
20202019
Accrued payroll and related benefits$494 $425 
Content rights payable528 456 
Other accrued liabilities771 797 
Total accrued liabilities$1,793 $1,678 
116

DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Other income (expense), net
Other income (expense), net, consistedapplicable votes, to reconstitute the Partnership and continue its business. If for some reason the Partnership is not continued, it will be required to limit its activities to winding up, settling debts, liquidating assets and distributing proceeds to the partners in proportion to their partnership interests. Ownership interests attributable to the noncontrolling owner are presented as noncontrolling interests on the Company's consolidated financial statements. Under the terms of the following (in millions):
 Year Ended December 31,
 202020192018
Foreign currency (losses) gains, net$(115)$17 $(93)
Gain on sale of investment with readily determinable fair value101 
Gains (losses) on derivatives not designated as hedges29 (52)50 
Change in the value of investments with readily determinable fair value28 (26)(88)
Expenses from debt modification(11)
Interest income10 22 15 
Gain on sale of equity method investments13 
Remeasurement gain on previously held equity interest14 
Other (expense) income, net(2)(4)
Total other income (expense), net$42 $(8)$(120)

Supplemental Cash Flow Information
Year Ended December 31,
202020192018
Cash paid for taxes, net$641 $562 $389 
Cash paid for interest673 708 740 
Non-cash investing and financing activities:
Receivable from sale of fuboTV Inc. shares124 
Equity issued for the acquisition of Scripps Networks3,218 
Disposal of UKTV investment and acquisition of Lifestyle Business291 
Accrued purchases of property and equipment48 47 39 
Assets acquired under finance lease and other arrangements91 38 58 
Equity exchange with Harpo for step acquisition of OWN59 
Unsettled stock repurchases

Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Restricted Cash
 December 31, 2020December 31, 2019
Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash:
Cash and cash equivalents$2,091 $1,552 
Restricted cash - other current assets (a)
31 
Total cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash$2,122 $1,552 
(a) Restricted cash includes cash posted as collateral related to forward starting interest rate swap contracts that were executed during years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019. (See Note 10.)

117
Partnership agreement, the noncontrolling owner cannot force a redemption outside of the Company’s control. As such, the noncontrolling interests in the Partnership are reflected as a component of permanent equity in the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 21. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
In the normal course of business, the Company enters into transactions with related parties. Related parties include entities that share common directorship, such as Liberty Global plc (“Liberty Global”), Liberty Broadband Corporation ("(“Liberty Broadband"Broadband”) and their subsidiaries and equity method investees (together(collectively the “Liberty Group”). Discovery’s BoardThe Company’s board of Directorsdirectors includes Mr.Dr. John Malone, who is Chairman of the Board of Liberty Global and beneficially owns approximately 30% of the aggregate voting power with respect to the election of directors of Liberty Global. Mr. Malone is also Chairman of the Board of Liberty Broadband and beneficially owns approximately 30% and 48% of the aggregate voting power with respect to the election of directors of Liberty Broadband.Global and Liberty Broadband, respectively. The majority of the revenue earned from the Liberty Group relates to multi-year network distribution arrangements. Related party transactions also include revenues and expenses for content and services provided to or acquired from equity method investees, or minority partners of consolidated subsidiaries.

The table below presents a summary of the transactions with related parties (in millions).
Year Ended December 31,
2020
2019 (a)
2018 (a)
Year Ended December 31,Year Ended December 31,
2023202320222021
Revenues and service charges:Revenues and service charges:
Liberty Group
Liberty Group
Liberty GroupLiberty Group$686 $668 $640 
Equity method investeesEquity method investees223 210 270 
OtherOther103 111 134 
Total revenues and service chargesTotal revenues and service charges$1,012 $989 $1,044 
Interest income$$$
Expenses
Expenses
ExpensesExpenses$(244)$(224)$(257)
Distributions to noncontrolling interests and redeemable noncontrolling interestsDistributions to noncontrolling interests and redeemable noncontrolling interests$(254)$(250)$(76)

110

WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The table below presents amountsreceivables due from and payables due to related parties (in millions).
December 31,
2020
2019 (a)
December 31,December 31,
202320232022
ReceivablesReceivables$177 $161 
PayablesPayables43 105 
(a) Amounts have been revised to adjust for classification between lines and excluded balances solely within this footnote disclosure. Revised amounts are not material to the previously issued financial statements.

In September 2022, the Company sold 75% of its interest in The CW Network to Nexstar, a related party, and recorded an immaterial gain not included in the table above. (See Note 4.)
NOTE 22. COMMITMENTS, CONTINGENCIES, AND GUARANTEES
Commitments
In the normal course of business, the Company enters into various commitments, which primarily include programming and talent arrangements, operating and finance leases (see Note 9)12), arrangements to purchase various goods and services, long-term debt (see Note 11), pension funding and payments (see Note 17), and future funding commitments to equity method investees.investees (see Note 10) (in millions).
Year Ending December 31,Year Ending December 31,ContentOtherTotalYear Ending December 31,ContentOther Purchase ObligationsOther Employee ObligationsTotal
2021$1,698 $576 $2,274 
2022626 345 971 
2023479 222 701 
20242024777 53 830 
20252025336 32 368 
2026
2027
2028
ThereafterThereafter1,137 69 1,206 
TotalTotal$5,053 $1,297 $6,350 

118

DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The commitments disclosed above exclude liabilities recognized on the consolidated balance sheets.
Content purchase obligations include commitments and liabilities associated with third-party producers and sports associations for content that airs on our television networks.networks and DTC services. Production and licensing contracts generally require:require the purchase of a specified number of episodes;episodes and payments during production or over the term of the license;a license, and include both programs that have been delivered and are available for airing and programs that have not yet been produced or sporting events that have not yet taken place. If the content is ultimately never produced, our commitments expire without obligation. The commitments disclosed above exclude content liabilities recognized on the consolidated balance sheet.
Other purchase obligations include agreements with certain vendors and suppliers for the purchase of goods and services whereby the underlying agreements are enforceable, legally binding and specify all significant terms. Significant purchase obligations include transmission services, television rating services, marketing commitments and research, employment contracts, equipment purchases, and information technology and other services. Some of these contracts do not require the purchase of fixed or minimum quantities and generally may be terminated with a 30-day to 60-day advance notice without penalty, and are not included in the table above past the 30-day to 60-day advance notice period. Amounts relatedOther purchase obligations also include future funding commitments to employment contracts include base compensation, but do not include compensation contingent on future events.
equity method investees. Although the Company had funding commitments to equity method investees as of December 31, 2020,2023, the Company may also provide uncommitted additional funding to its equity method investments in the future. (See Note 4.10.)
Other employee obligations are primarily related to employment agreements with creative talent for certain broadcast networks.
Six Flags Guarantee
In connection with WM’s former investment in the Six Flags (as defined below) theme parks located in Georgia and Texas (collectively, the “Parks”), in 1997, certain subsidiaries of the Company agreed to guarantee (the “Six Flags Guarantee”) certain obligations of the partnerships that hold the Parks (the “Partnerships”) for the benefit of the limited partners in such Partnerships, including annual payments made to the Parks or to the limited partners and additional obligations at the end of the respective terms for the Partnerships in 2027 and 2028 (the “Guaranteed Obligations”). The aggregate gross undiscounted estimated future cash flow requirements covered by the Six Flags Guarantee over the remaining term (through 2028) are $521 million. To date, no payments have been made by the Company pursuant to the Six Flags Guarantee.
111

WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Six Flags Entertainment Corporation (formerly known as Six Flags, Inc. and Premier Parks Inc.) (“Six Flags”), which has the controlling interest in the Parks, has agreed, pursuant to a subordinated indemnity agreement (the “Subordinated Indemnity Agreement”), to guarantee the performance of the Guaranteed Obligations when due and to indemnify the Company, among others, if the Six Flags Guarantee is called upon. If Six Flags defaults on its indemnification obligations, the Company has the right to acquire control of the managing partner of the Parks. Six Flags’ obligations to the Company are further secured by its interest in all limited partnership units held by Six Flags.
Based on the Company’s evaluation of the current facts and circumstances surrounding the Guaranteed Obligations and the Subordinated Indemnity Agreement, it is unable to predict the loss, if any, that may be incurred under the Guaranteed Obligations, and no liability for the arrangements has been recognized as of December 31, 2023. Because of the specific circumstances surrounding the arrangements and the fact that no active or observable market exists for this type of financial guarantee, the Company is unable to determine a current fair value for the Guaranteed Obligations and related Subordinated Indemnity Agreement.
Contingencies
Other Contingent Commitments
Other contingent commitments primarily include contingent payments for post-production term advance obligations on a certain co-financing arrangement, as well as operating lease commitment guarantees, letters of credit, bank guarantees, and surety bonds, which generally support performance and payments for a wide range of global contingent and firm obligations, including insurance, litigation appeals, real estate leases, and other operational needs.
The Company’s other contingent commitments at December 31, 2023 were $395 million, with $367 million estimated to be due in 2024. For other contingent commitments where payment obligations are outside of our control, the timing of amounts represents the earliest period in which the payment could be requested. For the remaining other contingent commitments, the timing of the amounts presented represents when the maximum contingent commitment will expire but does not mean that we expect to incur an obligation to make any payments within that time period. In addition, these amounts do not reflect the effects of any indemnification rights we might possess.
Put Rights
The Company has granted put rights to non-controlling interest holders in certain consolidated subsidiaries.subsidiaries, but the Company is unable to reasonably predict the ultimate amount or timing of any payment. (See Note 11.19.)
Legal Matters
TheFrom time to time, in the normal course of its operations, the Company is partysubject to various lawsuitslitigation matters and claims, in the ordinary course of business, including claims related to employees, stockholders, vendors, other business partners, government regulations, or patent issues. intellectual property, as well as disputes and matters involving counterparties to contractual agreements, such as disputes arising out of definitive agreements entered into in connection with the Merger. However, a determination as to the amount of the accrual required for such contingencies is highly subjective and requires judgment about future events. The Company may not currently be able to estimate the reasonably possible loss or range of loss for such matters until developments in such matters have provided sufficient information to support an assessment of such loss. In the absence of sufficient information to support an assessment of the reasonably possible loss or range of loss, no accrual for such contingencies is made and no loss or range of loss is disclosed. Although the outcome of these matters cannot be predicted with certainty and the impact of the final resolution of these matters on the Company'sCompany’s results of operations in a particular subsequent reporting period is not known, management does not currently believe that the resolution of these matters will have a material adverse effect on the Company'sCompany’s future consolidated financial position, future results of operations, or cash flows.
During the year ended December 31, 2019, a withholding tax claim recorded as part of the Scripps Networks purchase accounting was settled with a portion of the claim being resolved subsequent to the measurement period, which resulted in a reversal of the remaining accrual and a reduction in selling, general, and administrative expense of $29 million.
Guarantees
There were 0no guarantees recorded under ASC 460 as of December 31, 20202023 and 2019.2022.
In the normal course of business, the Company may provide or receive indemnities that are intended to allocate certain risks associated with business transactions. Similarly, the Company may remain contingently liable for certain obligations of a divested business in the event that a third party does not fulfill its obligations under an indemnification obligation. The Company records a liability for its indemnification obligations and other contingent liabilities when probable and estimable. There were 0no material amounts for indemnifications or other contingencies recorded as of December 31, 20202023 and 2019.2022.

112

WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 23. REPORTABLE SEGMENTS
The Company’s operating segments are determined based on: (i) financial information reviewed by its chief operating decision maker, ("CODM"), the Chief Executive Officer ("CEO"(“CEO”), (ii) internal management and related reporting structure, and (iii) the basis upon which the CEO makes resource allocation decisions. During the fourth quarter of 2023, the Company updated its DTC subscriber definition to include Premium Sports Products, which were previously included in the Networks segment. Prior period segment results were not recast to reflect this change because the impact was not material.
The accounting policies of the reportable segments are the same as the Company’s, except that certain inter-segment transactions that are eliminated for consolidation are not eliminated at the segment level. Inter-segment transactions primarily include advertising and content purchases.licenses. The Company records inter-segment transactions of content licenses at the gross amount. The Company does not report assets by segment because thisit is not used to allocate resources or evaluate segment performance.
119

DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The Company evaluates the operating performance of its operating segments based on financial measures such as revenues and adjusted operating income before depreciation and amortization (“Adjusted OIBDA”).EBITDA. Adjusted OIBDAEBITDA is defined as operating income excluding: (i) 
employee share-based compensation, (ii) compensation;
depreciation and amortization, (iii) amortization;
restructuring and other charges, (iv) facility consolidation;
certain impairment charges, (v) charges;
gains and losses on business and asset dispositions, (vi) dispositions;
certain inter-segment eliminations related to production studios, (vii) eliminations;
third-party transaction costs directly related to the acquisition and integration costs;
amortization of Scripps Networkspurchase accounting fair value step-up for content;
amortization of capitalized interest for content; and other transactions, and (viii)
other items impacting comparability, such as the non-cash settlement of a withholding tax claim. (See Note 22.) comparability.
The Company uses this measure to assess the operating results and performance of its segments, perform analytical comparisons, identify strategies to improve performance, and allocate resources to each segment. The Company believes Adjusted OIBDAEBITDA is relevant to investors because it allows them to analyze the operating performance of each segment using the same metric management uses. The Company excludes employee share-based compensation, restructuring, and other charges, certain impairment charges, gains and losses on business and asset dispositions, and acquisitiontransaction and integration costs from the calculation of Adjusted OIBDAEBITDA due to their impact on comparability between periods. Integration costs include transformative system implementations and integrations, such as Enterprise Resource Planning systems, and may take several years to complete. The Company also excludes the depreciation of fixed assets and amortization of intangible assets, amortization of purchase accounting fair value step-up for content, and amortization of capitalized interest for content, as these amounts do not represent cash payments in the current reporting period. Certain corporate expenses and inter-segment eliminations related to production studios are excluded from segment results to enable executive management to evaluate segment performance based upon the decisions of segment executives. Adjusted OIBDA and Total Adjusted OIBDAEBITDA should be considered in addition to, but not a substitute for, operating income, net income, and other measures of financial performance reported in accordance with U.S. GAAP.
Effective January 1, 2019, the Company's definition of Adjusted OIBDA was modified to exclude all employee share-based compensation, whereas only mark-to-market share-based compensation was previously excluded. Over time, the Company has moved to a higher percentage of equity classified awards (in lieu of liability classified awards, which require mark-to-market accounting) under its stock incentive plans and expects to continue this practice in future periods. Since most equity classified awards are non-cash expenses not entirely under management control, the Company has elected to exclude all employee share-based compensation from Adjusted OIBDA beginning in 2019. The revised definition of Adjusted OIBDA will be used by the Company's CODM in evaluating segment performance in 2019. Accordingly, prior period amounts have been recast to reflect the current definition.
The tables below present summarized financial information for each of the Company’s reportable segments, corporate, and corporate, inter-segment eliminations, and other (in millions).
Revenues
Year Ended December 31,
202020192018
U.S. Networks$6,949 $7,092 $6,350 
International Networks3,713 4,041 4,149 
Corporate, inter-segment eliminations, and other11 54 
Total revenues$10,671 $11,144 $10,553 
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Studios$12,192 $9,731 $20 
Networks21,244 19,348 11,311 
DTC10,154 7,274 860 
Corporate— 30 — 
Inter-segment eliminations(2,269)(2,566)— 
Total revenues$41,321 $33,817 $12,191 
120113

WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Adjusted EBITDA
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Studios$2,183 $1,772 $14 
Networks9,063 8,725 5,533 
DTC103 (1,596)(1,345)
Corporate(1,242)(1,200)(385)
Inter-segment eliminations93 17 — 
Adjusted EBITDA$10,200 $7,718 $3,817 
Reconciliation of Net Income (Loss) Available to Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc.Inc, to Adjusted OIBDAEBITDA
Year Ended December 31,
202020192018
Net income available to Discovery, Inc.$1,219 $2,069 $594 
Net income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interests12 16 20 
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests124 128 67 
Income tax expense373 81 341 
Income before income taxes1,728 2,294 1,022 
Other (income) expense, net(42)120 
Loss from equity investees, net105 63 
Loss on extinguishment of debt76 28 
Interest expense, net648 677 729 
Operating income2,515 3,009 1,934 
Depreciation and amortization1,359 1,347 1,398 
Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets124 155 
Employee share-based compensation99 137 80 
Restructuring and other charges91 26 750 
Transaction and integration costs26 110 
Loss (gain) on disposition(84)
Settlement of a withholding tax claim(29)
Adjusted OIBDA$4,196 $4,671 $4,188 
Adjusted OIBDA
Year Ended December 31,
202020192018
U.S. Networks$3,975 $4,117 $3,500 
International Networks723 1,057 1,077 
Corporate, inter-segment eliminations, and other(502)(503)(389)
Adjusted OIBDA$4,196 $4,671 $4,188 
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Net (loss) income available to Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc.$(3,126)$(7,371)$1,006 
Net income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interests53 
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests38 68 138 
Income tax (benefit) expense(784)(1,663)236 
(Loss) income before income taxes(3,863)(8,960)1,433 
Other expense (income), net12 (347)(72)
Loss from equity investees, net82 160 18 
Interest expense, net2,221 1,777 633 
Operating (loss) income(1,548)(7,370)2,012 
Impairments and loss (gain) on dispositions77 117 (71)
Restructuring and other charges585 3,757 32 
Depreciation and amortization7,985 7,193 1,582 
Employee share-based compensation488 410 167 
Transaction and integration costs162 1,195 95 
Facility consolidation costs32 — — 
Amortization of fair value step-up for content2,373 2,416 — 
Amortization of capitalized interest for content46 — — 
Adjusted EBITDA$10,200 $7,718 $3,817 
Content Amortization and Impairment Expense
Year Ended December 31,
202020192018
U.S. Networks$1,647 $1,548 $1,702 
International Networks1,307 1,303 1,584 
Corporate, inter-segment eliminations, and other
Total content amortization and impairment expense$2,956 $2,853 $3,288 

Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Studios$5,074 $5,950 $— 
Networks6,630 6,171 2,991 
DTC6,138 6,800 510 
Corporate(6)(1)— 
Inter-segment eliminations(1,697)(1,951)— 
Total content amortization and impairment expense$16,139 $16,969 $3,501 
Content expense is generally a component of costs of revenue on the consolidated statements of operations (seeoperations. (See Note 6). NaN content impairments were recorded as a component of restructuring and other charges during the years ended December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019. Content impairments of $405 million for the year ended December 31, 2018 were due to the strategic programming changes following the acquisition of Scripps Networks and are reflected in restructuring and other charges as further described in Note 17.9.)
121114

WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Revenues by Geography
Year Ended December 31, Year Ended December 31,
202020192018 202320222021
U.S.U.S.$7,025 $7,152 $6,415 
Non-U.S.Non-U.S.3,646 3,992 4,138 
Total revenuesTotal revenues$10,671 $11,144 $10,553 

Distribution and advertising revenuesRevenues are attributed to each country based on the customer or viewer location. Other revenues are attributed to each country based on customer location.
Property and Equipment by Geography
December 31, December 31,
20202019 20232022
U.S.U.S.$645 $432 
Poland180 184 
U.K.U.K.149 157 
Other non-U.S.
Other non-U.S.
Other non-U.S.Other non-U.S.232 178 
Total property and equipment, netTotal property and equipment, net$1,206 $951 

NOTE 24. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
In February 2024, the Company finalized an agreement to sell its 50% stake in All3Media.
122115


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
Our management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of December 31, 2020.2023. The term “disclosure controls and procedures,” as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) of the Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), means controls and other procedures of a company that are designed to ensureprovide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by a company in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensureprovide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by a company in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to the company’s management, including its principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. Management recognizes that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving their objectives and management necessarily applies its judgment in evaluating the cost-benefit relationship of
possible controls and procedures. Based on the evaluation of our disclosure controls and procedures as of December 31, 2020,2023, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that, as of such date, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective.effective at the reasonable assurance level.
Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Management’s report on internal control over financial reporting is set forth in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K under the caption “Management’s Report on Internal Control overOver Financial Reporting,” which is incorporated herein by reference.
Report of the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
The report of our independent registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over financial reporting is set forth in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K under the caption “Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm,” which is incorporated herein by reference.
Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
During the three months ended December 31, 2020,2023, there were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting, as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(f), that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
ITEM 9B. Other Information.
None.
ITEM 9C. Disclosure Regarding Foreign Jurisdictions that Prevent Inspections.
Not applicable.
116


PART III
Certain information required in Item 10 through Item 14 of Part III of this Annual Report on Form 10-K is incorporated herein by reference to our definitive Proxy Statement for our 20212024 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (“20212024 Proxy Statement”), which shall be filed with the SEC pursuant to Regulation 14A of the Exchange Act within 120 days of our fiscal year end.
ITEM 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance.
Information regarding our directors, compliance with Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act, and our Audit Committee, including committee members and its financial expert, will be set forth in our 20212024 Proxy Statement under the captions “Proposal One:1: Election of Directors,” “Delinquent“Stock Ownership - Delinquent Section 16(a)16 Reports,” if applicable, and “Corporate Governance – Board Meetings and Committees – Board Committee Structure – Audit Committee,” respectively, which are incorporated herein by reference.
Information regarding our executive officers is set forth in Part I of this Annual Report on Form 10-K under the caption “Executive Officers of Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc.” as permitted by General Instruction G(3) to Form 10-K.
We have adopted a Code of Ethics (the “Code”) that is applicable to all of our directors, officers and employees. Our Boardboard of Directorsdirectors approved an updated Code in January 20192023 and reviews it regularly. A copy of the Code and any amendments or waivers that would be required to be disclosed under applicable SEC rules are available free of charge at the investor relations section ofour Investor Relations website at ir.wbd.com. The information contained on our website https://corporate.discovery.com.is not part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K and is not incorporated by reference herein. In addition, we will provide a printed copy of the Code, free of charge, upon written request to: Investor Relations, Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc., 8403 Colesville Road, Silver Spring, MD 20910.
123
230 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10003.


ITEM 11. Executive Compensation.
Information regarding executive compensation will be set forth in our 20212024 Proxy Statement under the captions “Executive Compensation – Compensation Discussion and Analysis” and “Executive Compensation – Executive Compensation Tables,” which are incorporated herein by reference.
Information regarding compensation policies and practices as they relate to our risk management, director compensation, and compensation committee interlocks and insider participation will be set forth in our 20212024 Proxy Statement under the captions “Executive Compensation – Compensation Discussion and Analysis – Other Compensation RelatedCompensation-Related Matters – Risk Considerations in our Compensation Programs,” “Corporate Governance – Director Compensation,” and “Corporate Governance – Board Meetings and Committees – Board Committee Structure – Compensation Committee,” respectively, which are incorporated herein by reference.
Information regarding the compensation committee report will be set forth in our 20212024 Proxy Statement under the caption “Executive Compensation – Compensation Committee Report” which is incorporated herein by reference.
ITEM 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters.
Information regarding securities authorized for issuance under equity compensation plans will be set forth in our 20212024 Proxy Statement under the caption “Securities Authorized for Issuance Underunder Equity Compensation Plans,” which is incorporated herein by reference.
Information regarding security ownership of certain beneficial owners and management will be set forth in our 20212024 Proxy Statement under the captions “Security“Stock Ownership Information of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management – Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners” and “Security“Stock Ownership Information of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management– Security Ownership of Management,” which are incorporated herein by reference.
ITEM 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence.
Information regarding certain relationships and related transactions, and director independence will be set forth in our 20212024 Proxy Statement under the captions “Corporate Governance – Transactions with Related Persons” and “Corporate Governance – Director Independence,” respectively, which are incorporated herein by reference.
ITEM 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services.
Information regarding principal accountant fees and services will be set forth in our 20212024 Proxy Statement under the captions “Audit Matters – Audit Firm Fees and Services” and “Audit Matters – Audit Committee Pre-Approval Policy,Procedures,” which are incorporated herein by reference.
117

124


PART IV
ITEM 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules.
(a) The following documents are filed as part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K:
(1) The following consolidated financial statements of Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc. are filed as part of Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K:
 Page
(2) Financial Statement Schedule
Schedule II: Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
Changes in valuation and qualifying accounts consisted of the following (in millions):
Beginning
of Year
Additions
Other (a)
Write-offsEnd
of Year
2020
Beginning
of Year
Beginning
of Year
Beginning
of Year
2023
2023
2023
Allowance for credit losses
Allowance for credit losses
Allowance for credit lossesAllowance for credit losses$54 30 (2)(23)$59 
Deferred tax valuation allowanceDeferred tax valuation allowance$307 51 — (101)$257 
2019
Deferred tax valuation allowance
Deferred tax valuation allowance
2022
2022
2022
Allowance for credit losses (a)
Allowance for credit losses (a)
Allowance for credit losses (a)
Deferred tax valuation allowance (b)
Deferred tax valuation allowance (b)
Deferred tax valuation allowance (b)
2021
2021
2021
Allowance for credit losses
Allowance for credit losses
Allowance for credit lossesAllowance for credit losses$46 15 — (7)$54 
Deferred tax valuation allowanceDeferred tax valuation allowance$336 37 — (66)$307 
2018
Allowance for credit losses$55 — (15)$46 
Deferred tax valuation allowance (b)
$105 283 — (52)$336 
Deferred tax valuation allowance
Deferred tax valuation allowance
(a) Amount relates to the impact of the adjustment recorded for adoption of ASU 2016-13.
(b) Additions to the valuation allowance for deferred tax assets of $195 million relate to balances acquired through acquisitions in 2018, with the remainder charged to income tax expense.
(a) Increase in the allowance for credit losses is related to the acquisition of WM in the prior year.
(a) Increase in the allowance for credit losses is related to the acquisition of WM in the prior year.
(a) Increase in the allowance for credit losses is related to the acquisition of WM in the prior year.
(b) Additions to the deferred tax valuation allowance include $343 million related to the acquisition of WM in the prior year.
(b) Additions to the deferred tax valuation allowance include $343 million related to the acquisition of WM in the prior year.
(b) Additions to the deferred tax valuation allowance include $343 million related to the acquisition of WM in the prior year.
All other financial statement schedules required to be filed pursuant to Item 8 and Item 15(c) of Form 10-K have been omitted as the required information is not applicable, not material, or is set forth in the consolidated financial statements or notes thereto.
118


(3) The following exhibits are filed or furnished as part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K pursuant to Item 601 of SEC Regulation S-K and Item 15(b) of Form 10-K:


125


EXHIBITS INDEX
Exhibit No.Description
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
2.6
2.7
2.8
2.9
3.1
3.2
3.33.2
3.4
3.5
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
4.5
4.6
4.7
4.8
126


EXHIBITS INDEX
Exhibit No.Description
4.94.2
4.3
4.104.4
4.114.5
4.124.6
4.13
4.14
4.154.7
4.16
4.174.8
4.184.9
4.194.10
4.204.11
127


EXHIBITS INDEX
Exhibit No.4.12Description
4.21
4.224.13
120


EXHIBITS INDEX
4.23Exhibit No.
4.244.14
4.254.15
4.264.16
4.274.17
4.284.18
4.19
4.20
4.21
4.22
4.23
10.1
10.2
121


EXHIBITS INDEX
Exhibit No.Description
10.3
10.4
10.5
10.6
10.7
10.8
10.9
4.2910.10
10.11
4.3010.12
10.13
128122


EXHIBITS INDEX
Exhibit No.Description
10.14
10.15
10.16
10.17
10.18
10.19
10.20
10.21
10.22
10.23
10.24
10.25
10.26
123


EXHIBITS INDEX
Exhibit No.Description
4.3110.27
10.28
4.3210.29
10.30
10.31
10.32
10.33
10.34
4.3310.35
10.1
10.2
10.310.36
10.4
10.5
10.6
10.7
10.810.37
10.910.38
10.10
10.1110.39
10.1210.40
129124


EXHIBITS INDEX
Exhibit No.Description
10.1310.41
10.42
10.43
10.44
10.45
10.1410.46
10.1510.47
10.48
10.1610.49
10.50
10.51
10.52
10.53
10.54
125


EXHIBITS INDEX
10.17Exhibit No.Description
10.55
10.56
10.57
10.58
10.18

10.1910.59
10.20
10.2110.60
10.2210.61
10.62
10.23
10.24
10.25
130


EXHIBITS INDEX
Exhibit No.Description
10.26
10.27
21
22
23
31.1
31.2
32.1
126


EXHIBITS INDEX
Exhibit No.Description
32.2
97
101.INSXBRL 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 (filed herewith)†
101.CALInline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document (filed herewith)†
101.DEFInline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document (filed herewith)†
101.LABInline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document (filed herewith)†
101.PREInline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document (filed herewith)†
104Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted as inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101)
* Indicates management contract or compensatory plan, contract or arrangement.
131(1) Other instruments defining the rights of holders of long-term debt of the registrant and its consolidated subsidiaries may be omitted from Exhibit 4 in accordance with Item 601(b)(4)(iii)(A) of Regulation S-K. Copies of any such agreements will be supplementally provided to the SEC upon request.


(2)
Exhibits, schedules and annexes have been omitted pursuant to Item 601(a)(5) of Regulation S-K and will be supplementally provided to the SEC upon request.
(3) Certain provisions of this exhibit have been omitted pursuant to Item 601(b)(10)(iv) of Regulation S-K and will be supplementally provided to the SEC upon request.
†Attached as Exhibit 101 to this Annual Report on Form 10-K are the following formatted in Inline XBRL (Extensible Business Reporting Language): (i) Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 20202023 and December 31, 2019,2022, (ii) Consolidated Statements of Operations for the Years Ended December 31, 2020, 2019,2023, 2022, and 2018,2021, (iii) Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the Years Ended December 31, 2020, 2019,2023, 2022, and 2018,2021, (iv) Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended December 31, 2020, 2019,2023, 2022, and 2018,2021, (v) Consolidated Statements of Equity for the Years Ended December 31, 2020, 2019,2023, 2022, and 2018,2021, and (vi) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
ITEM 16. Form 10-K Summary
Not Applicable.
132127



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.
 
WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY, INC.
(Registrant)
Date: February 22, 202123, 2024 By: /s/ David M. Zaslav
  David M. Zaslav
  President and Chief Executive Officer
133128


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 date indicated.
SignatureTitle Date
/s/ David M. Zaslav
President and Chief Executive Officer, and Director
(Principal Executive Officer)
 February 22, 202123, 2024
David M. Zaslav 
/s/ Gunnar WiedenfelsSenior Executive Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer)
 February 22, 202123, 2024
Gunnar Wiedenfels 
/s/ Lori C. LockeExecutive Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer
(Principal Accounting Officer)
 February 22, 202123, 2024
Lori C. Locke 
/s/ Robert R. BeckLi Haslett ChenDirectorFebruary 22, 202123, 2024
Robert R. BeckLi Haslett Chen
/s/ Robert R. BennettSamuel A. Di Piazza, Jr.Director February 22, 202123, 2024
Robert R. BennettSamuel A. Di Piazza, Jr.
/s/ Richard W. FisherDirector February 23, 2024
Richard W. Fisher 
/s/ Paul A. GouldDirector February 22, 202123, 2024
Paul A. Gould 
/s/ RobertDebra L. JohnsonLeeDirector February 22, 202123, 2024
RobertDebra L. JohnsonLee 
/s/ Kenneth W. LoweDirector February 22, 202123, 2024
Kenneth W. Lowe 
/s/ Dr. John C. MaloneDirector February 22, 202123, 2024
Dr. John C. Malone 
/s/ Robert J. MironFazal MerchantDirector February 22, 202123, 2024
Robert J. MironFazal Merchant 
/s/ Steven A. MironDirectorFebruary 23, 2024
Steven A. Miron
/s/ Steven O. NewhouseDirector February 22, 202123, 2024
Steven A. MironO. Newhouse 
/s/ Daniel E. SanchezPaula A. PriceDirectorFebruary 22, 2021
Daniel E. Sanchez
/s/ Susan M. SwainDirector February 22, 202123, 2024
Susan M. SwainPaula A. Price 
/s/ J. David WargoGeoffrey Y. YangDirectorFebruary 22, 202123, 2024
J. David WargoGeoffrey Y. Yang