2U (TWOU) 5 Nov 182018 Q3 Earnings call transcript

Good day, ladies and gentlemen, and welcome to the 2U 2018 Third Quarter Earnings Call. At this time, all participants are in a listen-only mode. Later, we will conduct a question-and-answer session and instructions will follow at that time. [Operator Instructions] As a reminder, this call may be recorded. I would now like to introduce your host for today’s conference, Mr. of President Vice Goodwin, Investor Relations. Ed

begin. may You

release welcome Thank quarter third should received the and XXXX third By you, Good afternoon, have earnings of copy operator. to a the XXXX results. you Company’s quarter XU’s now, everyone, for earnings call. conference

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anticipated results, This us. events we today. not contained publicly to press reconciled statements, to uncertainties are these update on to, the or described forward-looking in make and forward-looking measures and to are are subject based forward-looking Annual public the call, management the All during call plans is to risks this expectations actual including statements unknown and to the not the and in statements statements. and is Factor guidance communications. today’s is changes are the information for undertake those known Report could Also, by our the December outcome like our from XXXX reports results policy objectives Company’s available facts the other materially beliefs the future call discussed historical to may based Risk to cause filed statements market and forward-looking is forward-looking future Company’s Chip. on operations. These current currently Except now actual information this comparable to any that measures of differ of includes, conditions year in update results of law, required tables regarding but in I SEC. conform During rather directly these operating obligation to ended to but for expectations. The we GAAP not risks statements our provided XX-K by future limited and section on financial financial or to made would Non-GAAP it turn Form in financial as results release. no this our in statements the over XU’s call the most other than as call of on attached with XX, and

worldwide. hasn’t for education creates ed us, Thanks, tech opportunity that Eddie. higher is a huge XU one Scale really changing seen before.

outcomes driving incredible students the in for We’re more process. building an and business

the Revenue FCE QX by That’s FCEs was up This from Let’s reacceleration in another we reported shows impressive quarter XX% the period for in In courses. two This for which the financial for revenue above businesses million. segment, that results in is million, was year-over-year. for was driven up together. XXX% XQ short XX% the XX% better was the grad the This growth, XXXX, start XX% a revenue was the the segment, excellent $X.X with truly growth quarter. which QX. was improvement year-over-year. revenue $XX.X $XXX up increase for are QX of million course first for In continued short quarter.

later will up QX talk results adjusted more in the call. the the was about quarter our line, year-over-year. X.X for On points percentage bottom margin EBITDA Cathy

we’re XXXX, growth at expecting to range. ahead of midpoint looking Now XX.X% our of revenue the consolidated

think common air of and current Look, portfolio growth that expectations, past in to growth in timeline years. XX% the resiliency isn’t that we above the keep north the it’s over revenue $X XX% long-range hit million course said keep the among billion us over revenue We’re We a $XXX enough consolidated resulting on can of puts off the that in overall "foreseeable are pleased in base Based little growth grad expect in can a expects of revenue. confident companies. of We the with of XX% now portfolio three company and a for least goal, it used power to we above now pipeline us, it. our in a years. to That for future." the We strength keeps see in business at to growth XU the short rarified growing revenue type next it. right on of a of our be the expected five software these in front of we put

about more to billion the in hear the $X path quarters. You’ll coming

the Let’s about segments a bit. talk

our Adoption more are Grad and in contract the in XX% segment. before. asking business within Grad Schools our plus is that’s ever from standard XX And accelerating. us share. First, plus than years length ranges, in revenue for

building on from like and handle Our infrastructure for never more announcements and I’ve programs want partners. to our running Expect we’re I’ve partners here out the this. is Online long out – been this future working Company in more adoption it. seen a we’re now. and our current working time and near-term

In this segment generation addition, in to launch continues material cash strong show cohorts.

low XXXX, the the preview move four-year than margin. will we a our that of cohort greater As expect margins, XX%s cohort into in

showing in preview. build we client well. transparent challenges to business of with adoption, and We’ve Our but challenges that a been our impact will good, our Note XXXX relationships are is XXXX. not challenges greater expect just these in despite the handful as our reflected Grad resiliency in always segment long-term and continues results the

moving the of some you the not and expectations. will portfolio-wide requirements, So, MBA. student Dean case program-specific, certainly the Work a interim, cautious XU. specific USC which school Work, complications, our impact that and two from It’s we’re through In an had But today in XXXX we going the on to significant given this, of step which way. programs, have taking their In this different are is USC to a school’s of each. belief is XXXX. very a taking direction, new Social back approach in under let expect give leadership We’ve UNC me prerogative. There’s our broader access not toward and Social search a color our largest change

such, next we’ve a again the pursue by our education access applicants year. On down chosen As degree. for shifted a school bit complicated forecast not have for the otherwise makeup graduate change UNC, MBA on of taken that creates requirements, to qualified for has might leadership nationwide. Digital enrollment perspectives student students changing

we will programs. on have more currently somewhat is new at team some believe Our evaluating diverse partners The applicant grappling than now enrollments. are this new impact they this UNC shift campus and reviewed for profiles with

worked believe we’ve customer. taken our it’s our one any our into diversified these this are can is or program-specific past. note impact. we favor the requirements don’t to the larger challenges. negatively. unusual On times USC in absorb and in on impacted changing portfolio think challenges the news typically many our that to I programs being specific important account, is But balance, and this not change the that and is UNC two our leadership has have And portfolio Leadership riding XXXX What’s great forecast. change of in student resilient strong,

we And programs you XX%s the GW a on launches scaled that cohort Western, starts. Last the might is number do for out coming marketing When those created the The XXXX of the years at in the is We cohort whole, to boat. doing call, are they to five the I and enrollments over Customer customers. full the scaling of programs consolidated North it’s and new in really initial potential. with work social spend a you But customers cohort, the the in Fordham, be on least strength for unique have XX% are expectations yes, portfolio others next fact challenges bit concentration well we of the launch XX notable on that a our with their programs, that ones continue programs and critical problem. of coupled overall rapidly success history. given large well doing of told more ensure newer older at business step-up growth the in are like like have a the as XXXX five their that large when well. of and ones Pepperdine. less and concern with Harvard best filled in class new gate, we A XXXX as more

XXXX as spend second to half weren’t entire So nearly that XXXX let’s marketing about basis, now accelerated portfolio The across percentage segment step grad overall rapidly up than to It’s this X.X expansion XXXX. today in new On no that XXXX, the points spend to by course, we a that me levels. talk resulted program us, this increased It’s had. second our from have should of hindsight period. we portfolio investing instead, half in obvious to would doubled in Grad a margin clear from portfolio over to larger little actually enough we time marketing launches. have driven profitability

XXXX. strong, portfolio XXXX which additional have opportunities we additional of plenty driven growth had and is would segment while see both the Grad in in growth, revenue So, to some enrollment the

and quite want on four with some And Before Helen for segment, didn’t proud to the Simmons The I contracts share three stay top work President XXXX, has puts deal for am their course It’s contract stays of shared within short range a original reaffirmation win XX a our success to well DGPs with the model. standard extend still until talk Simmons powerful That share for tally time I their Provost I partners announcement teams. the of after relief. and end the customer, Conboy both Katie the all to extending to with to of a it, even revenue agreed about programs. wanted University. Drinan, turn bit long it but XXXX. major haul. to of a parties to revenue Simmons yes, us a had

morning, two short relationship are six for School we adoption signed XXXX, this partners Milken schools. segment. Physician the announced And School seeing We’ve added with since pull. of three short the courses DGPs Medicine. including up we Washington new Assistant University, had So in to GetSmarter now on we multiple of we existing acquired across It’s where at this with our grad are increased and courses expanding universities clearly, Public of still all a expanding there with of the announced of both. program grad portfolio seven our launched levers our George are Yale to we’re course But by many partners universities schools where with Health, quarter. rapidly

courses. School Now, with of Management the launch short us suite of a work will to Yale

see to may courses, on courses broader from In website. you single other addition these multiple clients relationships short for our

Education. Health overstate for a example, we’ll piloting make so this a but of see course, sure spring Nutrition you impact with Center important single be knew. not you’ll to course It’s to For wanted Science Stanford them, I the

over challenge. standard ranges. in our to of There Before one I could largest pipeline, programs is our we XXXX wanted years. increased the And competition. Competition increased it the a operate on more for always clearly the education to touch quickly for Higher markets I signed turn launched, in. opportunity of of an we being you Cathy, relevant adoption the are three contract should initial with quite by is will as targets and well fact, the than be programs doing us, getting you, believe it mean but other we earlier for not due not target all programs to years. as the previous companies. opposite this We for we universities strength in we’re next both want, not does themselves This surprise our much but launch the annual not are is

whole Higher this education, fully We’re a to do realizing do they soon. is something embracing winning. is as and education they’re it need online

to scale partners and over position yes. for educational more it’s and much ultimately a means the more it long That company powering the need will to investing asking clear current at more long-term, me, more today a are options to to and make us say Our in we scale more drive be us creates which stronger drives outcomes run. offerings larger for students, in

this for investor investing is in for be critical, our in we’ll to if X% for Our XU shows is generation, you’re EBITDA adjusted growth long-term say to long-term effort and at XXXX with you, preview alignment an you. I cash expected X.X%. margin the interested so line year bottom more Investor

the If The mode. Cathy? opportunity investor XU plowing digging flow growth is elsewhere. on for into to large, you’re in too other you’re CEO looking believes an we to cohort cash profitability the have look back hand, and build is the TAM for that a you. growth, in will If investor is too keep short-term, sacrifice who future free the big

million, be to Revenue high performance better and Thanks, at financial at the either XXX%. for At provided. ranges the prior-year of short Chip. XU’s year-over-year measures high the Graduate revenue than course by third revenue earnings came period revenue segment, year-over-year strong of or we XX%. in of program third our range our was end $XXX the quarter. were segment guidance our in the quarter the XX% reporting quarter end exceeded growth with In growth continued

the increase to the third For XXXX course measures. our in X by or the points program the a impact from XX%. our in in increase FCE per driven third revenue In fluctuations of quarters. year-over-year due on increase second material and Both quarter. per of due growth X.XXX% in drop did Graduate rates small average continues fluctuations in in full a and third Average majority graduate FCE year-over-year in growth a FCE revenue the short than significant university course to segment’s FCE and revenue increasing this driving was showing of was per sequential be any XX%, the short second did slightly of This in growth basis, to not further revenue. by the U.S. year-over-year course courses This quarter, upwards trended a currency by by quarter, FCE have other higher in which XXX% average prevailing course FCEs higher revenue average of entirely enhanced increased equivalent. third on quarter percentage revenue increases increase course program financial revenue short an again priced bolstered currency quarter, between third segment, per was short FCE. in U.K.

million, improvement earnings measures, by and quarter course Turning $X.X Year-over-year At net graduate we’ve in by to loss generated net XX.X in our both loss million points. third measures. short corresponding improved and program in our margin increased earnings $X.X all percentage the our and year-over-year segments. of

of loss percentages Beyond the in fee expenditures were net improvement, system. earnings and revenue decline increases, decrease compensation in the professional the of impact incentive and year-over-year driving in for factors ERP the the improvement of our period largest measures following go-live our all accrual

performance Third to than net of forecasted, largely grants. stock quarter expectations because was adjustments vesting related loss of certain our better for

and loss margin that expense. X.X to generated a percentage environment than quarter for lower net expected interest third Additionally, and of net was net income was net we After $X.X million Adjusted the and the loss of primarily in adjusted the adjusted million million expansion point in our was cash X.X with EBITDA perspective, a cash $X.X X.X% EBITDA quarter additional prior-year over $X.X in sheet an After $X.X further investment or the quarter point million. EBITDA million margin loss. of position revenue. $XXX.X adjusted a for $XX and adjustment $XXX.X period. revenue. somewhat adjustments quarter X.XXX% net a interest expected, $XXX,XXX improvement rising net depreciation net better positively million, From of loss $X.X adjusted of than This represented million, rate adjusted a than increase higher recognized loss because total of respectively. third adjusted in million adjusted expected a we depreciation in balance or represented and factors also plus year-over-year equivalents, loss and EBITDA ended an the percentage impacted This

in of class $XX.X related which had balance program the and our graduate Our of program XX% graduate to sheet was timing for million appropriate also receivables segment balances, starts.

full their to growth of that the XX.X% increased year-over-year have in providing we and be the third the the for quarter $XXX.X The with for for for full-year $XXX.X fourth information of materially and is overperformance. and million full result guidance the represent our year. ranges XXXX. quarter and We million quarter derived line largely second between the quarter provided provided revenue and are the revenue for quarter we with could the we’ve forward, quarter for At been results from implied is and fourth year. expect guidance now these fourth looking guidance million guidance $XXX.X year XX.X% between increase midpoints, Now our million $XXX

for income between million the measures, and a midpoint of of and net at of the $X.X we loss points Looking for for these and year. million full of $XX.X million earnings the implies expect the year. improvement million $X.X and net At quarter it ranges, margin X.XXX% the between $XX.X X.X percentage quarter full year-over-year for

it rate during the margins these viewed X.XXX% that Fourth in year. X.X we for and typically course should program the EBITDA of $XX.X ranges both year income adjusted increase implies be full quarter period, $X.X $XX.X of it to fourth not positive and and early X.XXX% marketing million midpoint margin reduced expecting margin quarters ranges, respectively. midpoint of for me of for percentage is the fourth fourth ranges, $XX quarter and year-over-year quarter holiday with year X.X increase. points the $X.X margin $XX.X a full earnings respect adjusted million At graduate our $XX.X between for We’re million our and quarter also and our between these going at loss activities fourth implies an million. the businesses, for expected $XX.X the XXXX. you so net of million quarter into year-over-year With Adjusted as of quarter year-end a short for ranging the points quarter the net year. both the between measures, At and run the remind improvement percentage million be full let between and and to million the of

for have completed XXXX a cycle, Chip I’d specifics, give to comments look directional late some end we’d though spend you to about impact first expectations like talk the on the his comments. But yet in year before our not the we that budget the at our hinted we like of XXXX. approach we As make of decisions and

During would all in in where advantage the big to opportunities our during XX, adjusted have to profitable important would keep be to the of not we an had programs, significant the did so, the annually, we advance we the points XX In In EBITDA programs retrospect, investing short-term XXXX. a not marketing of in up any by And consolidated addition operation. already spend profitable an ourselves additional to acquisitions year we margins This eight growth adjusted and same half of basis, prior from doing enrollment enrollments commitment of enrollment for reaching new revenue new step on we fully loaded ramp-up spend the second that enough profitable. XXXX, the deploy revenue in the to new an in on expected were top mid-XX% EBITDA where operating. on relative attempt percentage marketing low programs. to maturity. cost programs had single-digit increase It’s given understand reach we been XXXX, they generated was XX marketing margins margins timeframe, of were but XXXX percentages as of approximately viewed growth target acquire, in impact this on margin have individual for more expected to impact take X.X the in

to that is our earnings continue model demonstrating We power believe business essential. the of

maximizing earnings Until consolidated ask in individual year-over-year factor margin advancements. consolidated of going marketing launch more optimizing rapid shifts weight is margins measures a margins more you our we spend on maturity existing for balance and this than than we cohort meaningful through expect the profitable This we programs through now out program the will to why are spend assess period in However, of this new short-term choices XXXX. program to margins. decline for expansion, curve, further in in across toward heavily our a profitability

earnings growth technology program continuing somewhat and develop group be Additionally, the XXXX. also integrating XXXX of accelerating also we launch growth. production a in to contribute significantly existing functionality more it’s by the drive this schedules, in that significant outpaces will that our earlier scale Learn.co enhancements to same acquired percent of spend increase and number lower our revenue expect to and platform, margins measures. support however, technology of new our areas and out likely revenue that rolling offering we based somewhat Technology on related time content need at the And factors cost because we’ll our in is year. content built and across XXXX courses These will our as

between of For XXXX, XX.X%. we expect year-over-year XX.X% revenue growth and

process we first the XXXX across far expect not can that along recognized significant approximately budget revenue quarter. we but revenue year, of provide enough our say the XX% We’re distribution on the commentary of in to be in to

program for earnings Before measures you to growth any I segment about preview, concerns turning want our address year-over-year have our to XXXX. revenue may in graduate

Chip that a graduate that previous As are well. for and USC growth expecting X large impact enrollments about we percentage meaningful programs changes those discussed, forecasting UNC historically our challenges we these expectations we in impact for program-specific leadership as will program points at To and are revenue quantify, XXXX. are by now therefore likely to believe revenue impact

and Given segment late that cycle expect in now we though adjusted XX.X% despite We expect loss our does can’t portfolio net for speak XX.X% X% of net X.X%. margin our at of between strong a the declines it that EBITDA positive growth for largest loss revenue unanticipated margin will of programs. X.X% date margin this we between long between and to XXXX, of resiliency a X% and time, year of we and adjusted and two our next generate replace that

we we note expect expect ranges like small an earnings of on expected revenue X.X% EBITDA and margin it the and of come. in in our we scaling, only in revenue, revenue between X.X% and current a our XXXX, to content that in also about of our I’ll growth and year-over-year will position of these have matching EBITDA year. adjusted expect portion the to belief thinking lesser driving spend, full declines fully to and we’re transition, half revenue quality In the than that of of loss disproportionate first increasing XXXX of a provided, making XX.X% technology adjusted and measures of margin cadence growth to net between additional measures net full course the margin results expenditures loss distribution investments that we’ve a that the that we technology increase with have a launch improvements impact to can loss between margin comment the on that extent, funded. we’re I’d invest slightly year, distribution years and adjusted first marketing across year additional to the in XX% on As yet not will the of X.X%. and right-sizing represent for to generate only we XX.X% marketing no point but declines implies production our impact quarter, year-over-year say continued and more a XXXX. significant earnings incur is forecasting a we X% expect plan At our business across in in midpoints out in year to XXXX fund margin the the

that marketing business our technology of holiday early Conversely, remind periodic quarter. spend and costs our business. the period the we year-end content in spread measures trainings, get annual again XXXX related and benefit allocate to quarter, will XXXX impact segments, fourth XXXX. marketing quarters, in a highest our our the during costs of programs late revenue to the in be graduate the which earnings you, of events amount other we related disproportionate portion also earnings a we larger we part I’ll if typically reduce meetings, of the While in in and second that increases measures across investments both incur reduce graduations our typically

to really a So, while to past subsequent close year the demand, right product in though evolving the front returns all visible year’s are predictable us, we a bringing we $X looking strong periods billion additional small are increasingly forward preview, meaningful. opportunities, in and additional are had of are margin XXXX. of and all-in-all, nice revenue. close-in the next down to support in the expect next and for excellence it’s the Relative accelerating and And quarter somewhat enrollment investments client and profitable our reasons; we opportunity make to

of health our we’ll For value the off. long-term and Chip? business, that make trade

the is building approach Cathy. been That is principle you community of from for success. past over more people, with central years seen access the human be that our education telling interaction what We’ve power couldn’t months to and our the and future partnership we’ve higher WeWork. from global and Thanks, that XU clear three

what it’s cards Let of about. those that, half XU graduate activated key students over what matters. More have Transforming you their XX all access countries, than that’s is numbers all global global individual XX in on impact a numbers. me with to More your powered And than XXX few give benefit. cities and up WeWork Those lives, receive we’re locations. half, students are questions. programs of signed the open WeWork the across compelling but for have X,XXX really

from comes you. [Operator Thank with question Instructions] Sarah Our Macquarie. first Hindlian

open. line is Your

core the fiscal And Hi, big a think in get graduate what tuition. color and line headwinds is and the then better a growth business there to the like both you much. sense looks of great, XX% it Chip, so growth I’d it XX% reacceleration little was from a the But of slightly enrollment from giving you for the love saw confidence thank bit to to specifically where top given online? so came XXXX? and Thanks raise UFC, outlined at cohorts of follow-up, year you around UNC I much. you coming reacceleration sort the a within

Sarah. problem, No

the say, and So very is portfolio overall really I would diversified. strong it’s

the of cohort strong with launched of really one ways surprised best that certainly us. a is and XXXX ever in bunch the So we’ve some programs had

about past the a the quite months. three So know example, like gate. was I programs, Fordham, Other over market bit talked out Social not of just as Harvard in Work which Fordham strong the an the program very

balanced it’s a portfolio. So, pretty

can of portfolio the we’re we So we the year can pretty given covered like for of see some kind the is, of the this building here. forecast. excited and we programs, quite of sort us handle mentioned feel And we’re it a overall makes next challenges that older that proud what growth and we at got looking into do about we’re fact

trying we and we’re be the in there mean, for a given are cohort. out talked older about is two like what obviously, bunch got newer we programs, like Counseling which about exciting lot I of XXXX to particular and that a is performing from So, programs a that Western are portfolio you’ve the that the exciting rest you Psychology, have Pepperdine cautious put haven’t of the good strong, of program North programs those example

it’s pretty based. So broad

All I That’s it. helpful. right. very appreciate Terrific.

Thank you.

comes next with Garg Monika Our question from KeyBanc.

Your line is open.

taking a changes on very guess surprising given and I first to my these Chip, Deans these trying who understand have for have successful thanks the at been the two I’m new Hi, that make UNC. USC is to looking are I question programs, to question. what programs?

as to I our public a not So, that our we company university things relevant keep a market, and the try business any what Monika, to of it’s want public of that we clients us difficult don’t to public of us would being much being impact say, about company. one feel is out really the

whether plenty the has and the search. try the a that been change they currently, quite challenges, people midst this isn’t Dean be past, to are Interim they we’ve situations case, when Work, big negative. times seen Dean there in In leadership for make – we’ve change USC leadership there and of a pretty also actually in leadership Company. we So positive understand be where sure change an there’s particular had We’ve of Social seen are

has both balance, of period, consolidated base. but On pretty of coming sort patient a feel and the trying certainly bit pulled talking to this in you’re portfolio those off total with be in we over not and the can only like, And and through back cases, we’re that’s handle so, business about school XX% time their the the a high prerogative it, our during process growth partner. work

get it’s into say detail really it about. those two for programs we appropriate of of with given strongly So, in would feel at I is relationship investors. the to public very strength sort the the more What that end, the not overall from us top is, particular tricky –

short All right, much. is guidance, XXXX you the so for thanks. growth you assuming in Thank of And what then, courses you Cathy, it?

don’t give segment know, that But color guidance we’ve both – some we’ve made segments you So, a we think to given periods. as prior on around I in tend basis. commentary

does I that a think imply previously. that we fact point about graduate percentage are before have the for at going that we to were there’s would where courses X were the you business, said look numbers talked – short impact we’ve to that that we somewhat give if on higher given we it the from have about if than be

you it. Got much. so Thank

you. Thank

Michael comes Tarkan Compass question next from with Point. Our

open. is line Your

Thank you.

I to anything you a Just little a when on as the on it acquisition costs? hit bit, the that know touched competitive two saturation And front, seeing little enrollment you guess that’s on point but that I up just kind bit is growing get out there that you makes a follow-up, there certain a then size you’re is programs, driving student any tougher? of large there

we no, first on marketing haven’t we different – question, seen materially the So, expenses. any

our there of us says for options a current candidly at high think to ratio for quality should where it profitable bit And there’s key QX too – that’s remember now. all, level. their there I we are sort right have We invested enrollments. quality is quality drive for of and the of X.XX LTR TCA quite more

it’s any about finding not the So, right that’s just finding in tricky. other and words, about student it’s student,

we’ve of natural to six. reach steady So, get or state, for year said part to programs that say, do let’s question, your some a time the five second

the that in programs of growth impressive. four than we seeing is are greater years bucket in some older fact the the So

these in a and we of program programs, working the particular very work on types that So, two just there to partner you’re to have with dealing with situations. our is our be do partner side, these turnaround good during short a reasonable things specific

That’s helpful. you. Thank

billion hitting over rate in – about a over talked $X question you run years. a three little Second is,

revenue in is you unclear, that to that XXXX Just – referring are annual forecast?

by end of of off the about years three talking We’re the XXXX.

by really the the hitting we’re certainly, is timeframe of So discussing. run time the end you’re the the XXXX pick rate

much. Thank you very

you. Thank

comes Baird. with next from question Meuler Jeff Our

is open. Your line

I and would from I margin question. for just spend marketing on the and taking the guidance, programs the just other unit for UNC question on guess Yes, economic confidence thank the I would guess you think some absolute guess there, the USC I of reiterated to that market the the redirected be programs.

of So, on is good on can there a not good I but and why missing you program a behind just more just understand I more unit launches Thanks. redirect further guess more where I unit investing of incrementally what economics, aggressively spending and say economics? seeing for anything marketing am you’re

is there out actually that as be a some enrollments So, don’t programs will where high. spend those that of of we redirect of anticipate

enrollment will any in to the any or that talking do redirected particularly given about, there acquisition, half opportunities enrollment in redirect so we’re the spend, beyond addition and the that profitable expectations still are schools. first dollars XXXX additional do However, are to behavior we by of

mirror, us and in generation what we and add as guess the could out, the should particular point of the it’s in to me period have today, margin had it’s step have we that, spend, CEO was tried – than course, seen we clear deployed in launches would ever really had ever more that the to than put program rearview we I but up step we time that I good backseat. during clear as and before, just to And is, more done to up remember had that in

the macroeconomic all? terms in if then impact seeing sensitivity labor of market, in quality a from what the tight pipeline and And – wondering student are on what just you’re that’s Okay. any perspective, the at with you. – Thank seeing student I’m having you an quality if of

say have pretty be MBA some prepared So, real not think bring may in thought what counter-cyclical, I we would in trivial there historically We the up been impact because remarks it it programs case, particular is, broadly. story. more was our in we didn’t that of

during during that’s I alive during everyone situation at don’t period economic doing think in interestingly economic all least on potentially we’ve attending and economy that what regardless, any want are worst But we’re bodes under low of pretty the are overall, – here, students a Without history, very great more that UCL unemployment. so is bullish some campus to was focus it. campus anyone didn’t our the well time question we call, because So, And with the programs was the existed a attending in programs for when fewer MBA worse they MBA. period on our UK., international in pressure the than are enrollments XXXX.

students the take focus on we is be the trend was time student we we’ll a is of. – that over much definitely we think are So, really that younger, didn’t MBA and pipeline too think the It that of a because portfolio, getting clear options that advantage coming into that didn’t story. able bit overall one to

Peter Appert have that alive time, thanks but friend My might been taking the for questions. at

Thank you.

comes question Corey Analysis. with next First Our from Greendale

Your line is open.

Hey, good afternoon.

and DGP to know XXXX So, to should – rate said that expect ranges we like for I growth, be past is that be or relied you want not had XXXX, you but not do specific just real from past still I growth anymore first question, you the you XXXX. had today, just in clarify, expected that for about stand where specific you’re guidance, I want giving clear I talked in XX% – XX% to achievable? on the think

graduate seen growth our to segment, short that obviously stepping XXXX – be that. for will say what it are would I XXXX that relative we I look think like rate back, Corey, given So, remains for program guidance the to

at this we’re prepared further to point not So, make comments.

but to the is XX% we would seen plus only I have those that two what we programs, saying five not add in feel one, the for consolidated years. the is, guide are in say, with Corey, acceleration in will comfortable legacy we enough is, the we’ve business. just to be grad challenges it And pleased number Yes, the that it we that what seen above expected overall

So, the business. we clearly grad have seen in acceleration

don’t So, was super been have really on the a as for time my of the big the want we learned just period challenge to psyched where making for this but we’re we to is if been From we’re really, almost up would going focus we we’ve candidly, positive, it. like you. sort portfolio something, so company there tell five public we where years, feel about is, perspective, know

are our the that to even on So, you business you’re is in is to are the is super not to charge we this decide forecast that in though is there of prerogative the And will space, those clear, think make get going be predictable, OPM is agree are where impact and have who whether rest out, particularly converting not the in to that is what do moments learn when and their and it with folks that a have or not. that an moment decisions who programs completely financials. in program, program I

particular not occurred is we that case, this forecast. apply something that a know in So, future we’re and has yet what something today trying to to

programs So, little that in certain folks a interim with XXXX it difficult decide it when will dealing those makes you’re something. to be a

can you we So, to trying what now. give we’re

short-term, can say talk you And Is you is assume. development, I about of some capitalized, spend two amount one I Cathy anything longer-term. as the in in changes questions, XXXX one anything line I increased on free had about then understand. And bottom that short-term, how or that cash there about program flow?

that cap are either change side. content the expect going materially to So, or rates on the we don’t our technology development

no you don’t XXXX. should those think material a on material I a So, that cash that assume use change – impact has our have for

the the Actually appreciate % confidence. And longer Okay. plus then that Chip, XX term. five-year

zero is year year of Just clear, that? or one be to XXXX

that. the year zero of And go three on for it’s back $X years… XXXX million, years is of to of sort Cory, for years three to your that, XXXX – end just off so five

He was asking XX%. for

years. five XX%,

Five years.

Yes.

off end of XXXX. to Yes,

terms that we’re want current about that nothing in I has model. way self-sustaining margins any – on to XXXX of reiterate we’re or of about in additional fully in terms not talking in our that believe funded business are us We through what investment

and thanks That from that company Chip match investor public as actually answered second for about clear of my a appreciate suitability, tell detail. so statement the a it, ever CEO us terms in and question, heard I

Thank you.

Jeff with question comes BMO. Silber Our next from

open. is line Your

in Thanks you’ve any thing the marketing Is doing much. so the spend, investments comments up to been this spend a really type back to of color Wanted appreciated. year. about next is beforehand, of same some ramping different the circle be marketing would added

really working be LinkedIn continues marketing consistently path, we’re mail, our trying even or evolve. various in the so oddly by we’re It it certain certain of well – areas. definition stands to tries cases sort seeing across the definition targeted team platforms, of scale in to never Well, direct whether some by and micro innovate

continue super to. we that quite large programs of to down it the a really strong. out portfolio dollars the getting a into marketing bunch put of but more of should they is had portfolio have come and really having And and overall, gate is be this is evolve, comes So, story we just what overall

So this was LTR QX TCA X.XX%. period current

to margins that And over goal. back and kind shifting I Okay. comment the again $X of is billion that period? organic to want expanding then Thanks. would the long-term to confirm, we about just expect start

lot you know, the at as point, our in So, know never things. point, existing supplement is But look are currently some you at moving may organic, of though that is direction talking grad and $X this for billion course. we a short businesses at we about we it

in now Right. for we’re business, the year. thing I about mean, course we’ve now – over a course the business the short short

clients adopting as still we’re a so are lot pull, it an early are as a fully to our just point hoped. And levers of at share. that where it’s We there’s integrating; we days early quickly so clearly of as example, –

the that entire So pretty across excited means about for growth what portfolio.

I… And

ahead. I’m sorry. Go

get acceleration that not – in does between for think sort but I moment, position where of takes new as balance weight takes I we in was a growth said we we margins, don’t about more toward question and are our as at a little point just to That existing, precedence. this need growth. believe programs growth – going this be mean to second is your a at okay, that important, marketing very and can decisions margin I until we

Okay, enough. much. Thanks so fair

Thank you.

from comes Citi. next Singlehurst Our question Tom with

is line open. Your

here I Tom Citigroup. It’s Okay, good have okay. evening. it’s from a if questions,

was deal, talk University that will First exactly produce it regard phrase, of Simmons with effective little that a lines just share. overtime the how considerations but talk about about bit you it providing along the [indiscernible] to That’s and question. you of Simmons the I something Can one, economic to mechanics exact the works? the think that revenue first

you time on in Thank in steady level kind terms until the would long – program it’s the what throughout terms of one something give final can in going find question just of lead be that then second mean of you this at – that, you UNC, described given do in during what’s hiatus, marketing with marketing, question, such situations And you. like you those investment backlog was on out keep a great. I suppose hot revenue USC The whether happening? a of approach principle, how sort periods – I of you

Sure. Thanks, Tom.

very – life every it’s course we’re length relief within super the contract, giving has Company the that we but In So, some contract. standard the as remainder slightly and this this long of revenue Simmons, we’re different, excited the we’ve of the over with they’re are so about of cycle had, extension well our done share all case, range. is on staying

on and pause the XX it and for one great get So, by of and we about I’ll period existing outcome that top step for be they It’s outcome for second, Simmons ends. should XX from years. it like contract think long-term the great a extended of back four do DGPs long-term when feel XU. I think and – sort away

keeps share our relief within of For well what where the range is contract. we would it revenue see that typically

and it love proud relationship very and will relationship grow. continue that to that have that to So, think

remind I’ve entirely will second Cathy forgotten point, The and now me.

easy, $XXX pretty The the million third of point, backlog quarter. end is the at

was? to quite getting So, a second the number. be And

do approach second marketing about within. The deploying how was thinking one we

that partnership to Well, rolling partners and is, we have of the both I have thing have right XU to business these we’ll our in to a while do a think role critical also important we and there we that slight are programs taken legacy at have continue be the overall keep the both important – and let’s have by so and ecosystem. businesses remember really they’re our dip, a mean, huge those very

are reminded a Dean more one the ago that not it’s relationships like it of programs those time long – of a that long I would a these say me feel and So, bit does marriage.

the faculty chair for those that different the – overall do program – in it. been continue investor revenue many one an there we where the program past impact said tracks that showed left and for started could for had the right about have And three things circumstances Georgetown’s two to for And some we that Georgetown questions went had year-on-year. financials in we time example they is, the of of is separate again you of and somebody other stopped hired that moment way. program to doesn’t a tracks those as up the we revenue and take us a periods cohorts and So, in had and time, our running changes marketplace, declined four running with an have look, mean and it in then by

story. kind is thing a happens. long that This So, of

to programs it critical our these long-term be is, we’re large be find might to still to will number particular So, that what and try while exciting about telling are go number, really a talk you and success. very

may to Okay. One if I Cathy. follow-up,

for late there. out you It’s

handle predictability to – and predict three that the worth works it trying still are I a of the on that short saying know, confident you courses of two, able sort much know, feel you but so point I The on you’re it and of to know, get you how predictability being the a past get more of it. down? on. in question made quarters I Do business, it’s to was

the we’re feel as are quarter along, So, think and tend course. portfolios we that of I one a expand bit or size we anyone as any program further changes mute particularly every along, they portfolio, little – are certainly further we the to wonderful any in

that the about it graduate are lot vastly of quicker, program in performance course course change are different out than the business. there business a you can lot a Well, also more a lot However, find short quickly. dynamics

the As isn’t for this more mainstream for example, and course several a a demand. all years, kind of in has same course becomes topic hot quarters sudden a for been – or several that of

are we long that haven’t courses of yet. out be number for see run process figuring because been in So, a many these us pattern still of to the of to enough able for things those

account, that but So, try certainly when lot and it we think than that variability I a we believe is company. we was it, still it course in have understand the acquired and lot – and more we is more we a the short when talk take business we the predictability better about into

you. Thank

Thank you. with Zelnick And Brad Suisse. our Credit next question comes from

open. Your line is

efficiencies any surrounding MPVs, give you changes it’s marketing guys anything on guys, margins, for there? in any of Hi changed Can you on see has just focused on [ph] long-term I long-term the – Bob you of Brad. opportunity. can guys the thinking us idea

No, we very it. feel still feel good about

And more driving changes and investments XXXX is more is any that that launches? just or program or into

just more and it’s Yes, a of launches lot coming.

That’s helpful. Thank you.

you. Thank

Schwartz next Oppenheimer. from Brian comes with Our question

Your line is open.

here. Thanks Brian. Hi, Tyler this taking on Page my for is for questions

from pipeline that little wanted short that? motion then dig their played competitors looking to compete there, about how courses great pipeline any on what kind they out, current your partner And and came as with whether see those the selling with competitive those the to you and wondering George two bit, never kind is of a Just into how to to and had Washington those partners and deals of deals announcements Yale. preferred or kind were really of your of

every they is deal, they’re all there I all every easy deal reasonably is are would is no of think I what say – complicated. course – with University

competition, of courses. are terms in certainly So, there short offering other people

on were based business And candidly outcomes record, and the compelling so which driving think for strong else I school, really partners anyone able to track probably to has enough – opportunities don’t both we we so. student our of are be those

grasp of courses, terms courses in the you increasing you around have the new the on And DGPs? spend ramping do thanks. How then short up are for how short as investing are that, you there around marketing a you’re marketing well? spend Okay,

a So, there marketing operate the that would looking longer-term in just digital is on is at level as it though we do and program spend at in similar for that look – of business, you business effective.

be what business. different, I get spend be believe but mirror. very our look are of it pretty way we trying that metrics process we in going very, ultimately, arms will around level the proper So, the of much similar. to of But may to more to be a at The be is ought the

quite not but there expect be. yet, we will We’re do we

you Thank Great. Okay. much. very

Thank you.

Our next question comes Barrington Alex Research. with Paris from

is open. Your line

and Chip in Cathy. Paris. Chris for sitting is afternoon, Good This Howe Alex

How like to course Just an had TAM the is course the the initial where courses, regard received of acquisition? would new today discoveries the these on potential a second or questions few what single the in your asked others learnings moving the many are in questions you’ve you Thanks. course perhaps is for Stanford. a are partners how what’s of short are short and question versus forward economic short This at on following to forward? able up there comments and different thoughts kind you here. And my with to what this offerings? your moving this characterize And entree as about gather time way, moat on

a short where are on terms skills business hypotheses the in TAM short that billion, courses in we talking $XXX-ish course about could different of attainment. you’re the it’s given there is many play, big market, So, think somewhere

the real, opportunity So, great short have we we across is in we are courses they partners partners, the think suite of single for the we’re deployments right supplying have, focused course do programs. on interested the now

pretty and ecosystem it’s that. the expect So you deployed – across out effectively more it to and – should of XU see we’ve

that The I word creating will that we it key fact have you Let that across an the talked for, acquired them asking our is, adding provide moat that be. can part for was clients. that we the were long-term the we the discussed and think and do when that off that to product relationships GetSmarter me to we more our the health add our spectrum, mentioned that and the better adding a we clients we and additional this as moat relationships think just is to that about with of believe relationship our

in Okay. regard And then other to about the question Stanford?

answered Yes, I it already.

else Stanford how was shooting offering how many there partners the are – many That’s I that different there just seeing single and from with plays Okay. partner? the have. others at out learnings just out as at Yes, an initial far course how all it course as and

a that quite universities few might there’s Well, the we marketplace target. in

I will where in more portfolio, deploying across As focused now we’re see we opportunities you other mentioned, first. right deploy courses our short but

Chip. you. Thank

No problem.

Thank you.

Rishi comes Our DA next Davidson. with Jaluria from question

is Your open. line

launched or idea if your at mature because Hey questions. that Chip, nicely my over still kind you wanted pretty due spending maybe on of primarily mid we of that underinvested to thanks you for the have of in in hindsight, just for you’ve what back follow lower level and with in for border know be long-term guys, taking marketing target the look marketing the I’ve is cohort done, relative the just four primarily XX%, new Are circle across that’s preview to years, it you’ve I programs margins in with to were the above the up a your DGPs happy been Cathy. then XX%s. end just

first take this actually So, I’ll one.

a to of level We’re – be being was sort whole, still you in there’s were under-investment phenomenon, the give about there see that portfolio that our our older not dollars would I new probably and was as programs that the margins you it as as where places I’m a can of cohort sure probably thought there invested. program think of it thinking sort

certainly our what because would have been. – above target So there

So, not we in be sort shorting phenomenon, sort portfolio to that of of one is we overall fact a thinking tend terms it any little of bit the an that area. were

it. Got Thanks.

my or XXXX, for just And the full sorry, I for was wrong? get XX% for notes margins bucket year did clarification, the that cohort a

right. No, our the mid-XX%, those, and be XX% is still that enrollment would as in or courses. so you north you XX% it know, target there’ll profitable had be you there have of to in think We that tell is acquisition

like from patterns Thanks. revenue QX to a quick declined just that then follow-up And kind of on okay. or is Thanks, right. more there? entirely that’s I housekeeping from know a to all it Yes, of there or QX. the Is GetSmarter is mean, else something looks GetSmarter. perspective. I sequentially international FX that related seasonal

than is more seasonal when courses the all, are of it anything courses is pattern – It else, matter a are that run.

you. Thank Great. Okay.

you. Thank

comes question Company. next & Ryan Our with from MacDonald Needham

is line Your open.

conceptual for lead the how programs could they that see thinking their whether more courses as I look opportunity, term? interesting online have if was on-campus areas it enhance a in area of short on Chip, Good graduate the course a at was And to don’t can first thought these are guess it’s some in potentially the longer areas or commentary think will in already. graduate announcements DGPs around there’s evening. really a question’s if it’s you that for an these where with very short I short enough the course, this program just and Chip demand color wondering give existing of you it’s about where two question. areas partners be these some I the generator you or if universities

GetSmarter it of all – the valuable at Management, that clear we sort words, what say, deploying School is obvious. said there think other are portfolio, working In Yale of good Yale school to different the Medicine, of with, I of we client now about I more So, as do that announcements, notable by would School each example, short becoming we combination is a strategically across both, and that’s at that we’re is what’s is strategically that this around. entirely an the it’s about today’s courses

working in have overlap like that more So, and between in makes a across at more that bay influence definitely above, so value a see we definitively some course we as Berkeley the keeps strategically both we and believe much all greater business that’s us of University, some you’ll the to DGP cases, then deeper, direct digs the short the cases, see us the – happening us you’ll like. XU at at over really the university, gives entire like is so we moat part what’s competition prop huge and the

certain someone a degree. lead-in we a way be full do to short and in Master’s a for that DGP cases, or the Now take go think will all courses

weren’t likely we of across people larger of So, pretty critical part so of short courses a the the small to converted prospects strategy, can from is the we getting past, bring converting student, the in we those prospect that. we people in do percentage think anyway percentage a portfolio

follow-up, Do Got the grad and online converting other but opportunity longer being just and more with that you to programs and do obviously in guess in of of acceleration it. in acceleration maybe also the an And a term partners prospective elsewhere online, I on that program launches we’ve is is vendors think programs. it’s more of a them particular able domestically, then broader the XXXX for given provide then just demand across and terms are the planned pool has seen universities? that think adoption degree with a students launching by beyond, the as market multiple XU broader you – clear the of what impact with that, broadly, clear there for

scale this like with places have is into yet I the we’re people do point, different of this the that across to there various see really opportunities. bunch And At of to dealing seen a the deployed be starting in of benefits portfolio. coming we business the funnel a prospects not that scale you’re in some potential for feel and think across opportunity

both like see student we and university partners be chances more our a university for XU. over comprehensive the the expect and from you time, to solution our to more options to So, more and should

you . much Thank very it. Got

Thank you.

Appert comes with Jaffray. question Piper next Our from Peter

Your open. is line

Chip. Thanks,

then involved was in I to years three in this was I in as but just XXXX. business two but deny wasn’t First, high still like later, or that at Mueller I’d school least XXXX, in

Okay.

touch universities to it on cycles, even core both under interested enrollment maybe just to any numbers? selling have I’m graduate new Chip, So as comments client in relates or

student, would university or when Peter? definitely I cycle say to mean mean I you Yes, the to – it’s selling the

things. mean Yes. both Well, mean I of interested in I’m the I both,

has I mean, university, it’s definitely changed. momentum There’s no question, never this. been like

year, the with and one, not booming missionary. have getting that’s it’s see full for XU starting a pretty and next shorter pipeline to – worked obviously as that the but and it’s day portfolio for exciting the asking and we’re So, universities is is not next for lot

of really it have proof. at data, we’re lot We good and a we’ve got

team so, is our are response. a And getting canvassing great the globe literally and they

to the business shortened, the university, a it’s cycle. is student, shorter the definitely GetSmarter to So, definitely

total, in probably so, it’s And shortened.

the not really a grad everybody for involved, On pretty programs for non-trivial are is open difficult purchase business, and side, it’s kimono the – to get university a this It’s shortened. it’s they a process in.

that are it’s So, applying. for process challenging a people

shortened, that’s different courses So business it’s and not is really the a short faster.

accelerate separately and – margin, scale would larger? extend to a up cohort the of the spend Okay. marketing XX% the on context measurably if you part is optimal growth, business desire be that XX% to is step the in And had the the margin not the of the of margin current that XX% to then the maybe the or conclusion

have margin clear managing willing mind, not but the with spent in marketing. we think business to long-term today, there, we’re we No, structure us we’re that right go should also more on the to it’s

Yes. the driving And for absolutely individual I’ll has margins, the to how of nothing a simply add those margins steady to get opportunities it’s we do programs guess run that scale. too run with what had getting is short taken long to in if to our I down that rapidly timing state you’re

all in So, I long-term margins. think commentary we additional – our spend about at the don’t way any long-term any what proper are makes think

Got Great. you. Thank it.

you. Thank

Our Tong next from George with question Sachs. Goldman comes

Your line is open.

afternoon. Hi, thanks, good

intention the your incremental Regarding term, to enrollment what’s have your expected return to in words, enrollment evolved? expectations other on spend more In near drive growth revenue investment? how

optimal to steady has allowing for stay talking So, have the portfolio. is in state I don’t a And a any to that think steady be is, state portfolio. we’re LTR return about period TCA that around where reality it what the been should our we

state the I a period harking to rapid in know optimal probably period a at short during expansion. That way comment somewhat are to about of simply keep there as it’s that just in is no has the to opportunities So, LTR we of TCA in us across than at those growth opposed long-term rate the student steady to think portfolio run – programs enrollments makes high to the in that the steady and ought right less we that get economics will opportunities any will this accelerate what saying for what still are trying path be and state marketing sort to to said are that to our that the be, unit profitable that we state state a portfolio us allow will don’t margins, to you of there evolved get steady that. foregoing want as portfolio growth steady and we that of thinking help back just entire ensure do now

strong to helpful. to follow-up, terms of you programs one or can new how earlier That’s coming with up, factors? of then program you in in standards after Got offerings And year class pipeline due a changes other with discuss sizes mix admission DGP your it. compare expect or

year. or sizes one Do mean class more of you sizes Class cohort than sizes?

sizes. Class

has one-year program…. how program year, once a year, the been one after So, for old live

cohorts, I mean you believe think I mean cohorts. you

Cohort yes. sure, cohorts, year, one versus Yes, years aged or three sizes say, yes, after now ago? two

and XXXX our faster,. time, those more – faster. Well, XX but so MPV, those having our was verticals XX ramp ramps basically will just we and end like MPV the big because you ramp remember it’s has cohort was so up should MPV, verticals all over does cohort it’s cohort mostly getting if new mostly slower just

look if and a it at a cohort basis at on what And basis? you program on don’t you look

if I – program expect sense that’s our asking. makes sizes, haven’t mean, changed that of what today, in if you’re still terms our our opinion we average – we

Our average same. expectations remain the

it. Got

Thank Okay. you.

any back no Mr. I’m And remarks. to showing like to call this I’d you. further for the Thank further time, turn Chip Paucek questions at

everyone. you, Thank

we of folks. just are to crew out Sarah that Vice the congrats end Mary want to our we’d Investor of and our greatest and we Edward weddings so here, Barnes in see weekend bearing the Jr. wonderful celebrating like and this moving this Goodwin, have and for on heads. give past And team to earnings a shout Relations out, President with So, we him wriggle that we road, two a Jack Sarah weeks, couple say be folks on them will Muntzing, wish lives Our call, we’ll Nicola P the fine first

you. Thank

concludes in participating for you thank program. This today’s today’s gentlemen, and Ladies conference.

great You day. may all disconnect. Everyone, have a