e10vq
UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
Form 10-Q
(Mark One)
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þ |
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QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
FOR THE QUARTERLY PERIOD ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2006.
OR
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o |
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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 333-31929
EchoStar DBS Corporation
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
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Colorado
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
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84-1328967
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.) |
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9601 South Meridian Boulevard |
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Englewood, Colorado
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80112 |
(Address of principal executive offices)
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(Zip code) |
(303) 723-1000
(Registrants telephone number, including area code)
Not Applicable
(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)
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 þ No o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer,
or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of accelerated filer and large accelerated filer in
Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
Large accelerated filer o Accelerated filer o Non-accelerated filer þ
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined by Rule 12b-2 of the
Exchange Act). Yes o No þ
As of October 31, 2006, the Registrants outstanding common stock consisted of 1,015 shares of
Common Stock, $0.01 par value.
The Registrant meets the conditions set forth in General Instruction (H)(1)(a) and (b) of
Form 10-Q and is therefore filing this Form 10-Q with the reduced disclosure format.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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* |
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This item has been omitted pursuant to the reduced
disclosure format as set forth in General Instruction (H) (2) of Form
10-Q. |
DISCLOSURE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
We make forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform
Act of 1995 throughout this report. Whenever you read a statement that is not simply a statement
of historical fact (such as when we describe what we believe, intend, plan, estimate,
expect or anticipate will occur and other similar statements), you must remember that our
expectations may not be correct, even though we believe they are reasonable. We do not guarantee
that any future transactions or events described herein will happen as described or that they will
happen at all. You should read this report completely and with the understanding that actual
future results may be materially different from what we expect. Whether actual events or results
will conform with our expectations and predictions is subject to a number of risks and
uncertainties. The risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the following:
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we face intense and increasing competition from satellite and cable television providers
as well as new competitors, including telephone companies; our competitors are increasingly
offering bundled television and high speed internet access services that consumers may find
attractive and which are likely to further increase competition; |
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as technology changes, and in order to remain competitive, we will have to upgrade or
replace some, or all, subscriber equipment periodically. We will not be able to pass on to
our customers the entire cost of these upgrades; |
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DISH Network subscriber growth may decrease, subscriber turnover may increase and
subscriber acquisition costs may increase; |
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satellite programming signals are subject to theft and will continue to be in the
future; theft of service could cause us to lose subscribers and revenue and could increase
in the future, resulting in higher costs to us; |
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we depend on others to produce programming; programming costs may increase beyond our
current expectations; we may be unable to obtain or renew programming agreements on
acceptable terms or at all; existing programming agreements could be subject to
cancellation; foreign programming is increasingly offered on other platforms which could
cause our subscriber additions and related revenue to decline and could cause our
subscriber turnover to increase; |
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we depend on the Telecommunications Act of 1996 as Amended (Communications Act) and
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) program access rules to secure nondiscriminatory
access to programming produced by others, neither of which assure that we have fair access
to all programming that we need to remain competitive; |
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the regulations governing our industry may change; |
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if we are unable to protect access to distant network channels through judicial,
legislative or other avenues, we will be required by December 1, 2006 to shut off those
channels to all of our approximately 900,000 customers who currently subscribe to that
programming, and we would be prohibited from offering distant network channels to new
subscribers in the future. This would reduce our competitiveness in the market, and would
result, among other things, in a small reduction in average monthly revenue per subscriber
and free cash flow, and a temporary increase in subscriber churn; |
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absent reversal of the jury verdict in our Tivo patent infringement case, and if we are
unable to successfully implement alternative technology, we will be required to pay
substantial damages as well as materially modify or eliminate certain user-friendly digital
video recorder features that we currently offer to consumers, and we could be forced to
discontinue offering digital video recorders to our customers completely, any of which
could have an adverse affect on our business; |
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if our EchoStar X satellite experienced a significant failure we could lose the ability
to deliver local network channels in many markets; |
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our satellite launches may be delayed or fail, or our satellites may fail in orbit prior
to the end of their scheduled lives causing extended interruptions of some of the channels
we offer; |
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we currently do not have commercial insurance covering losses incurred from the failure
of satellite launches and/or in-orbit satellites we own; |
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service interruptions arising from technical anomalies on satellites or on-ground
components of our direct broadcast satellite (DBS) system, or caused by war, terrorist
activities or natural disasters, may cause customer cancellations or otherwise harm our
business; |
i
DISCLOSURE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
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we are heavily dependent on complex information technologies; weaknesses in our
information technology systems could have an adverse impact on our business; we may have
difficulty attracting and retaining qualified personnel to maintain our information
technology infrastructure; |
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we rely on key personnel including Charles W. Ergen, our chairman and chief executive
officer, and other executives; |
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we may be unable to obtain needed retransmission consents, FCC authorizations or export
licenses, and we may lose our current or future authorizations; |
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we are party to various lawsuits which, if adversely decided, could have a significant
adverse impact on our business; |
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we may be unable to obtain patent licenses from holders of intellectual property or
redesign our products to avoid patent infringement; |
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sales of digital equipment and related services to international direct-to-home service
providers may decrease; |
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we depend on telecommunications providers, independent retailers and others to solicit
orders for DISH network services. Certain of these providers account for a significant
percentage of our total new subscriber acquisitions. If we are unable to continue our
arrangements with these resellers, we cannot guarantee that we would be able to obtain
other sales agents, thus adversely affecting our business; |
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we are highly leveraged and subject to numerous constraints on our ability to raise
additional debt; |
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we may pursue acquisitions, business combinations, strategic partnerships, divestitures
and other significant transactions that involve uncertainties; these transactions may
require us to raise additional capital, which may not be available on acceptable terms; |
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weakness in the global or U.S. economy may harm our business generally, and adverse
political or economic developments may occur in some of our markets; |
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terrorist attacks, the possibility of war or other hostilities, natural and man-made
disasters, and changes in political and economic conditions as a result of these events may
continue to affect the U.S. and the global economy and may increase other risks; |
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EchoStar Communications Corporation (EchoStar), our ultimate parent company,
periodically evaluates and tests its internal control over financial reporting in order to
satisfy the requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. This evaluation and
testing of internal control over financial reporting includes our operations. Although
EchoStars management concluded that its internal control over financial reporting was
effective as of December 31, 2005, and while no change in EchoStars internal control over
financial reporting occurred during EchoStars most recent fiscal quarter that has
materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, EchoStars internal
control over financial reporting, if in the future EchoStar is unable to report that its
internal control over financial reporting is effective (or if EchoStars auditors do not
agree with EchoStar managements assessment of the effectiveness of, or are unable to
express an opinion on, EchoStars internal control over financial reporting), investors,
customers and business partners could lose confidence in our financial reports, which could
have a material adverse effect on our business; and |
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we may face other risks described from time to time in periodic and current reports we
file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). |
All cautionary statements made herein should be read as being applicable to all forward-looking
statements wherever they appear. In this connection, investors should consider the risks described
herein and should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements.
We assume no responsibility for updating forward-looking information contained or incorporated by
reference herein or in other reports we file with the SEC.
In this report, the words we, our, us and EDBS refer to EchoStar DBS Corporation and its
subsidiaries, unless the context otherwise requires. EchoStar and ECC refer to EchoStar
Communications Corporation and its subsidiaries, including us.
ii
ECHOSTAR DBS CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)
(Unaudited)
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As of |
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September 30, |
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December 31, |
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2006 |
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2005 |
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Assets |
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Current Assets: |
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Cash and cash
equivalents
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$ |
1,698,700 |
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$ |
582,386 |
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Marketable investment securities |
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747,729 |
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417,142 |
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Trade accounts receivable, net of allowance for uncollectible accounts
of $12,125 and $8,799,
respectively
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582,949 |
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477,216 |
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Advances to
affiliates
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166,105 |
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172,658 |
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Inventories, net (Note
4)
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268,107 |
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221,279 |
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Current deferred tax
assets
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200,911 |
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416,787 |
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Other current
assets
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129,849 |
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113,576 |
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Total current
assets
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3,794,350 |
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2,401,044 |
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Restricted cash and marketable investment
securities |
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146,728 |
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3,305 |
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Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $2,652,096 and $2,104,997, respectively |
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3,401,125 |
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3,206,415 |
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FCC
authorizations
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705,228 |
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705,246 |
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Intangible assets, net (Note
7)
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199,074 |
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226,582 |
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Other noncurrent assets, net |
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171,909 |
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159,831 |
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Total
assets
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$ |
8,418,414 |
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$ |
6,702,423 |
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Liabilities and Stockholders Equity (Deficit) |
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Current Liabilities: |
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Trade accounts payable |
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$ |
279,206 |
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$ |
220,141 |
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Advances from affiliates |
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81,647 |
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52,092 |
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Deferred revenue and other |
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836,873 |
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757,173 |
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Accrued programming |
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786,716 |
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681,500 |
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Other accrued expenses |
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483,950 |
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396,504 |
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Current portion of capital lease and other long-term obligations |
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37,849 |
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36,380 |
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Total current liabilities |
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2,506,241 |
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2,143,790 |
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Long-term obligations, net of current portion: |
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9 1/8% Senior Notes due 2009 (Note 8) |
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441,964 |
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Floating Rate Senior Notes due 2008 |
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500,000 |
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500,000 |
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5 3/4% Senior Notes due 2008 |
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1,000,000 |
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1,000,000 |
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6 3/8% Senior Notes due 2011 |
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1,000,000 |
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1,000,000 |
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6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2014 |
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1,000,000 |
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1,000,000 |
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7 1/8% Senior Notes due 2016 (Note 8) |
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1,500,000 |
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Capital lease obligations, mortgages and other notes payable, net of current portion |
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414,069 |
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431,223 |
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Long-term deferred revenue, distribution and carriage payments and other long-term liabilities |
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470,678 |
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440,837 |
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Total long-term obligations, net of current
portion |
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5,884,747 |
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4,814,024 |
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Total liabilities |
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8,390,988 |
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6,957,814 |
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Commitments and Contingencies (Note 9) |
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Stockholders Equity (Deficit): |
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Class A common stock, $.01 par value, 1,000,000 shares authorized, 1,015 shares issued and outstanding |
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Additional paid-in capital |
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1,024,385 |
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1,011,343 |
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Accumulated other comprehensive income
(loss) |
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399 |
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(180 |
) |
Accumulated earnings (deficit) |
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(997,358 |
) |
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(1,266,554 |
) |
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Total stockholders equity
(deficit)
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27,426 |
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(255,391 |
) |
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Total liabilities and stockholders equity
(deficit) |
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$ |
8,418,414 |
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$ |
6,702,423 |
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
1
ECHOSTAR DBS CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(In thousands)
(Unaudited)
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For the Three Months |
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For the Nine Months |
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Ended September 30, |
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Ended September 30, |
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2006 |
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2005 |
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2006 |
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2005 |
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Revenue: |
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Subscriber-related revenue |
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$ |
2,373,887 |
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$ |
2,010,437 |
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$ |
6,884,071 |
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$ |
5,898,758 |
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Equipment sales |
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|
74,064 |
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|
95,083 |
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|
272,355 |
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|
276,340 |
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Other
|
|
|
19,357 |
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|
|
21,687 |
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|
57,937 |
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|
70,132 |
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Total revenue |
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2,467,308 |
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|
2,127,207 |
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7,214,363 |
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6,245,230 |
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Costs and Expenses: |
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Subscriber-related expenses (exclusive of depreciation shown
below Note 10) |
|
|
1,225,634 |
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|
1,000,817 |
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|
3,513,880 |
|
|
|
3,022,993 |
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Satellite and transmission expenses (exclusive of depreciation
shown below Note 10) |
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|
36,326 |
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|
33,855 |
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|
106,832 |
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|
95,965 |
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Cost of sales equipment |
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|
58,725 |
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|
68,904 |
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|
212,452 |
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|
206,571 |
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Cost of sales other |
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|
2,018 |
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|
|
4,732 |
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|
|
5,313 |
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|
19,807 |
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Subscriber acquisition costs: |
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Cost of sales subscriber promotion subsidies (exclusive of
depreciation shown below Note 10) |
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|
35,263 |
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|
24,843 |
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|
117,057 |
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|
|
99,751 |
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Other subscriber promotion subsidies |
|
|
342,865 |
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|
|
330,690 |
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|
|
895,056 |
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|
|
855,540 |
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Subscriber acquisition advertising |
|
|
61,329 |
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|
|
47,912 |
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|
|
162,194 |
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|
|
127,586 |
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Total subscriber acquisition costs |
|
|
439,457 |
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|
|
403,445 |
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|
|
1,174,307 |
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|
|
1,082,877 |
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General and administrative |
|
|
132,489 |
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|
112,761 |
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|
399,737 |
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|
331,099 |
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Tivo litigation expense (Note 9) |
|
|
1,442 |
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|
|
|
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|
89,677 |
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|
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Depreciation and amortization (Note 10) |
|
|
295,670 |
|
|
|
211,109 |
|
|
|
815,224 |
|
|
|
568,663 |
|
|
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|
|
|
|
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Total costs and expenses |
|
|
2,191,761 |
|
|
|
1,835,623 |
|
|
|
6,317,422 |
|
|
|
5,327,975 |
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|
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Operating income (loss) |
|
|
275,547 |
|
|
|
291,584 |
|
|
|
896,941 |
|
|
|
917,255 |
|
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Other income (expense): |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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|
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|
|
|
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Interest income |
|
|
34,565 |
|
|
|
10,447 |
|
|
|
84,337 |
|
|
|
23,197 |
|
Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized |
|
|
(95,505 |
) |
|
|
(76,997 |
) |
|
|
(303,299 |
) |
|
|
(226,491 |
) |
Gain on insurance settlement |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
134,000 |
|
Other
|
|
|
(898 |
) |
|
|
(638 |
) |
|
|
(4,223 |
) |
|
|
(852 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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Total other income (expense) |
|
|
(61,838 |
) |
|
|
(67,188 |
) |
|
|
(223,185 |
) |
|
|
(70,146 |
) |
|
|
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|
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|
|
|
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|
|
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|
|
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|
|
Income (loss) before income taxes |
|
|
213,709 |
|
|
|
224,396 |
|
|
|
673,756 |
|
|
|
847,109 |
|
Income tax benefit (provision), net |
|
|
(79,546 |
) |
|
|
5,522 |
|
|
|
(243,461 |
) |
|
|
135,723 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net income (loss) |
|
$ |
134,163 |
|
|
$ |
229,918 |
|
|
$ |
430,295 |
|
|
$ |
982,832 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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|
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
2
ECHOSTAR DBS CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(In thousands)
(Unaudited)
|
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|
|
For the Nine Months |
|
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
|
2006 |
|
|
2005 |
|
Cash Flows From Operating Activities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net income (loss) |
|
$ |
430,295 |
|
|
$ |
982,832 |
|
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash flows from operating activities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Depreciation and amortization |
|
|
815,224 |
|
|
|
568,663 |
|
Gain on insurance settlement |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(134,000 |
) |
Non-cash, stock-based compensation
recognized |
|
|
12,993 |
|
|
|
|
|
Deferred tax expense (benefit) |
|
|
196,500 |
|
|
|
(167,627 |
) |
Amortization of debt discount and deferred financing
costs |
|
|
5,236 |
|
|
|
2,578 |
|
Other, net |
|
|
(2,774 |
) |
|
|
(706 |
) |
Change in noncurrent assets |
|
|
(9,815 |
) |
|
|
6,846 |
|
Change in long-term deferred revenue, distribution and carriage payments and other long-term liabilities |
|
|
48,807 |
|
|
|
(29,198 |
) |
Changes in current assets and current liabilities,
net |
|
|
279,986 |
|
|
|
135,145 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net cash flows from operating activities |
|
|
1,776,452 |
|
|
|
1,364,533 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash Flows From Investing Activities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Purchases of marketable investment
securities |
|
|
(1,321,392 |
) |
|
|
(508,611 |
) |
Sales and maturities of marketable investment
securities |
|
|
896,852 |
|
|
|
353,337 |
|
Purchases of property and equipment |
|
|
(1,045,768 |
) |
|
|
(877,923 |
) |
Proceeds from insurance settlement |
|
|
|
|
|
|
240,000 |
|
Change in restricted cash and marketable investment
securities |
|
|
(48,799 |
) |
|
|
(3,277 |
) |
Purchase of technology-based
intangibles
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(25,500 |
) |
Other |
|
|
218 |
|
|
|
(152 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net cash flows from investing activities |
|
|
(1,518,889 |
) |
|
|
(822,126 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash Flows From Financing Activities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Redemption and repurchase of 9 1/8% Senior Notes due 2009,
respectively |
|
|
(441,964 |
) |
|
|
(4,189 |
) |
Issuance of 7 1/8% Senior Notes due 2016 |
|
|
1,500,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
Deferred debt issuance costs |
|
|
(7,500 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Capital distribution to affiliate |
|
|
(161,099 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Repayment of capital lease obligations, mortgages and other notes
payable |
|
|
(30,686 |
) |
|
|
(41,364 |
) |
Dividend to ECC |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(200,000 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net cash flows from financing activities |
|
|
858,751 |
|
|
|
(245,553 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
|
|
|
1,116,314 |
|
|
|
296,854 |
|
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of
period |
|
|
582,386 |
|
|
|
511,980 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash and cash equivalents, end of
period
|
|
$ |
1,698,700 |
|
|
$ |
808,834 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash paid for interest |
|
$ |
229,430 |
|
|
$ |
185,542 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash received for interest |
|
$ |
84,337 |
|
|
$ |
23,197 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash paid for income taxes |
|
$ |
12,086 |
|
|
$ |
2,772 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Satellites financed under capital lease
obligations |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
191,950 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Satellite and other vendor financing |
|
$ |
15,000 |
|
|
$ |
1,940 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
3
ECHOSTAR DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
1. Organization and Business Activities
EchoStar DBS Corporation (EDBS, the Company, we, us and/or our) is a holding company and
a wholly-owned subsidiary of EchoStar Communications Corporation (EchoStar or ECC), a publicly
traded company listed on the Nasdaq Global Market. EDBS was formed under Colorado law in January
1996. EchoStar has placed ownership of eleven of its in-orbit satellites and related FCC licenses
into our subsidiaries.
Principal Business
Unless otherwise stated herein, or the context otherwise requires, references herein to EchoStar
shall include ECC, EDBS and all direct and indirect wholly-owned subsidiaries thereof. The
operations of EchoStar include two interrelated business units:
|
|
|
The DISH Network which provides a direct broadcast satellite (DBS) subscription
television service in the United States; and |
|
|
|
|
EchoStar Technologies Corporation (ETC) which designs and develops DBS set-top
boxes, antennae and other digital equipment for the DISH Network. We refer to this
equipment collectively as EchoStar receiver systems. ETC also designs, develops and
distributes similar equipment for international satellite service providers. |
We have deployed substantial resources to develop the EchoStar DBS System. The EchoStar DBS
System consists of our FCC allocated DBS spectrum, our owned and leased satellites, EchoStar
receiver systems, digital broadcast operations centers, customer service facilities, and certain
other assets utilized in our operations. Our principal business strategy is to continue developing
our subscription television service in the United States to provide consumers with a fully
competitive alternative to others in the multi-channel video programming distribution, or MVPD,
industry.
2. Significant Accounting Policies
Basis of Presentation
The accompanying unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in
accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (GAAP) and with the
instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X for interim financial information.
Accordingly, these statements do not include all of the information and notes required for complete
financial statements. In our opinion, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring adjustments)
considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included. All prior period amounts were
reclassified to conform to the current period presentation.
Operating results for the nine months ended September 30, 2006 are not necessarily indicative of
the results that may be expected for the year ending December 31, 2006. For further information,
refer to the Consolidated Financial Statements and notes thereto included in our Annual Report on
Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005 (2005 10-K).
Principles of Consolidation
We consolidate all majority owned subsidiaries and investments in entities in which we have
controlling influence. Non-majority owned investments are accounted for using the equity method
when we have the ability to significantly influence the operating decisions of the issuer. When we
do not have the ability to significantly influence the operating decisions of an issuer, the cost
method is used. For entities that are considered variable interest entities, we apply the
provisions of Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Interpretation No.
4
ECHOSTAR DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Continued
(Unaudited)
(FIN) 46-R, Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities An Interpretation of ARB No. 51 (FIN
46-R). All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in
consolidation.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires us to make estimates and
assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent
assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues
and expenses for each reporting period. Estimates are used in accounting for, among other things,
allowances for uncollectible accounts, inventory allowances, self-insurance obligations, deferred
taxes and related valuation allowances, loss contingencies, fair values of financial instruments,
fair value of options granted under our stock-based compensation plans, fair value of assets and
liabilities acquired in business combinations, capital leases, asset impairments, useful lives of
property, equipment and intangible assets, retailer commissions, programming expenses, subscriber
lives including those related to our co-branding and other distribution relationships, royalty
obligations and smart card replacement obligations. Actual results may differ from previously
estimated amounts, and such differences may be material to the Condensed Consolidated Financial
Statements. Estimates and assumptions are reviewed periodically, and the effects of revisions are
reflected prospectively beginning in the period they occur.
Comprehensive Income (Loss)
The components of comprehensive income (loss) are as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the Three Months |
|
|
For the Nine Months |
|
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
|
2006 |
|
|
2005 |
|
|
2006 |
|
|
2005 |
|
|
|
(In thousands) |
|
Net income (loss) |
|
$ |
134,163 |
|
|
$ |
229,918 |
|
|
$ |
430,295 |
|
|
$ |
982,832 |
|
Foreign currency translation
adjustments |
|
|
(88 |
) |
|
|
(34 |
) |
|
|
144 |
|
|
|
(257 |
) |
Unrealized holding gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities |
|
|
188 |
|
|
|
365 |
|
|
|
670 |
|
|
|
492 |
|
Recognition of previously unrealized (gains) losses on
available-for-sale securities included in net income
(loss) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Deferred income tax (expense) benefit attributable to unrealized
holding gains (losses) on available-for-sale
securities |
|
|
(68 |
) |
|
|
(128 |
) |
|
|
(235 |
) |
|
|
418 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Comprehensive income (loss) |
|
$ |
134,195 |
|
|
$ |
230,121 |
|
|
$ |
430,874 |
|
|
$ |
983,485 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) presented on the accompanying Condensed
Consolidated Balance Sheets consists of the accumulated net unrealized gains (losses) on
available-for-sale securities and foreign currency translation adjustments, net of deferred taxes.
New Accounting Pronouncements
In July 2006, the FASB issued Interpretation No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes
An Interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109 (FIN 48), which clarifies the accounting for
uncertainty in income taxes recognized in an enterprises financial statements in accordance with
FASB Statement No. 109, Accounting for Income Taxes (SFAS 109). FIN 48 also prescribes a
recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and
measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. In addition, FIN 48
provides guidance on derecognition, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim
periods, disclosure, and transition. The provisions of FIN 48 are effective for fiscal years
beginning after December 15, 2006. We are currently evaluating the impact the adoption of FIN 48
will have on our financial position and results of operations.
5
ECHOSTAR DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Continued
(Unaudited)
3. Stock-Based Compensation
In December 2004, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123 (R) (As
Amended), Share-Based Payment (SFAS 123(R)) which (i) revises Statement of Financial Accounting
Standard No. 123, Accounting and Disclosure of Stock-Based Compensation, (SFAS 123) to
eliminate both the disclosure only provisions of that statement and the alternative to follow the
intrinsic value method of accounting under Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, Accounting
for Stock Issued to Employees (APB 25) and related interpretations, and (ii) requires the cost
resulting from all share-based payment transactions with employees be recognized in the results of
operations over the period during which an employee provides the requisite service in exchange for
the award and establishes fair value as the measurement basis of the cost of such transactions.
Effective January 1, 2006, we adopted SFAS 123(R) under the modified prospective method.
Total non-cash, stock-based compensation expense, net of related tax effect, for the three and nine
months ended September 30, 2006 was $3.4 million and $8.1 million, respectively, and was allocated
to the same expense categories as the base compensation for key employees who participate in our
stock option plans, as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the |
|
|
For the |
|
|
|
Three Months Ended |
|
|
Nine Months Ended |
|
|
|
September 30, 2006 |
|
|
September 30, 2006 |
|
|
|
(In thousands) |
|
Subscriber-related |
|
$ |
168 |
|
|
$ |
417 |
|
Satellite and transmission |
|
|
94 |
|
|
|
242 |
|
General and administrative |
|
|
3,136 |
|
|
|
7,429 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total non-cash, stock based compensation |
|
$ |
3,398 |
|
|
$ |
8,088 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Prior to January 1, 2006, we applied the intrinsic value method of accounting under APB 25 and
applied the disclosure only provisions of SFAS 123.
Pro forma information regarding net income was required by SFAS 123 and has been determined as if
we had accounted for EchoStars stock-based compensation plans using the fair value method
prescribed by that statement. For purposes of pro forma disclosures, the estimated fair value of
the options was amortized to expense over the options vesting period on a straight-line basis. We
accounted for forfeitures as they occurred. Compensation previously recognized was reversed upon
forfeiture of unvested options. The following table illustrates the effect on net income (loss) if
we had accounted for EchoStars stock-based compensation plans using the fair value method:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the |
|
|
For the |
|
|
|
Three Months Ended |
|
|
Nine Months Ended |
|
|
|
September 30, 2005 |
|
|
September 30, 2005 |
|
|
|
(In thousands) |
|
Net income (loss), as
reported |
|
$ |
229,918 |
|
|
$ |
982,832 |
|
Add: Stock-based employee compensation expense included
in reported net income (loss), net of related tax effect |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Deduct: Total stock-based employee compensation expense determined
under fair value based method for all awards, net of related tax effect |
|
|
(3,230 |
) |
|
|
(10,464 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Pro forma net income
(loss) |
|
$ |
226,688 |
|
|
$ |
972,368 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
6
ECHOSTAR DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Continued
(Unaudited)
The fair value of each option grant was estimated at the date of the grant using a Black-Scholes
option pricing model with the following weighted-average assumptions:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the Three Months |
|
|
For the Nine Months |
|
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
|
2006 |
|
|
2005 |
|
|
2006 |
|
|
2005 |
|
Risk-free interest
rate |
|
|
4.49 |
% |
|
|
4.18 |
% |
|
|
4.74 |
% |
|
|
3.95 |
% |
Volatility factor |
|
|
25.02 |
% |
|
|
25.66 |
% |
|
|
25.09 |
% |
|
|
26.32 |
% |
Expected term of options in
years |
|
|
6.1 |
|
|
|
6.4 |
|
|
|
6.2 |
|
|
|
6.4 |
|
Weighted-average fair value of options granted |
|
$ |
11.60 |
|
|
$ |
10.57 |
|
|
$ |
11.38 |
|
|
$ |
10.66 |
|
During December 2004, EchoStar paid a one-time dividend of $1 per outstanding share of its Class A
and Class B common stock. EchoStar does not currently plan to pay additional dividends on its
common stock, and therefore the dividend yield percentage is set at zero for all periods. The
Black-Scholes option valuation model was developed for use in estimating the fair value of traded
options which have no vesting restrictions and are fully transferable. Consequently, our estimate
of fair value may differ from other valuation models. Further, the Black-Scholes model requires
the input of highly subjective assumptions. Changes in the subjective input assumptions can
materially affect the fair value estimate. Therefore, the existing models do not necessarily
provide a reliable single measure of the fair value of stock-based compensation awards.
We will continue to evaluate the assumptions used to derive the estimated fair value of options for
EchoStars stock as new events or changes in circumstances become known.
Stock Incentive Plans
EchoStar has adopted stock incentive plans to attract and retain officers, directors and key
employees. As of September 30, 2006, EchoStar had 65.6 million shares of its Class A common stock
authorized for awards under these Stock Incentive Plans. In general, stock options granted through
September 30, 2006 have included exercise prices not less than the market value of EchoStars Class
A common stock at the date of grant and a maximum term of ten years. While historically EchoStars
Board of Directors has issued options that vest at the rate of 20% per year, some option grants
have been immediately vested.
Effective January 26, 2005, EchoStar adopted a long-term, performance-based stock incentive plan
(the 2005 LTIP) within the terms of its 1999 Stock Incentive Plan to provide incentive to our
executive officers and certain other key employees upon achievement of specified long-term business
objectives. Employees participating in the 2005 LTIP elect to receive a one-time award of: (i) an
option to acquire a specified number of shares of EchoStars Class A common stock priced at market
value on the date of the awards; (ii) rights to acquire for no additional consideration a specified
smaller number of shares of EchoStars Class A common stock; or (iii) a corresponding combination
of a lesser number of option shares and such rights to acquire EchoStars Class A common stock.
The options and rights are subject to certain performance criteria and vest over a seven year
period at the rate of 10% per year during the first four years, and at the rate of 20% per year
thereafter.
Options to purchase 5.7 million shares pursuant to a long-term incentive plan under EchoStars 1995
Stock Incentive Plan (the 1999 LTIP), and 5.3 million shares pursuant to the 2005 LTIP were
outstanding as of September 30, 2006. These options were granted with exercise prices at least
equal to the market value of the underlying shares on the dates they were issued. The
weighted-average exercise price of these options is $8.70 under the 1999 LTIP and $29.76 under the
2005 LTIP. The weighted-average fair value of the options granted during the three and nine months
ended September 30, 2006 pursuant to the 2005 LTIP plan was $15.54 and $15.38, respectively.
Further, pursuant to the 2005 LTIP, there were also 695,632 outstanding Restricted Performance
Units as of September 30, 2006 with a weighted-average grant date fair value of $30.06. Vesting of
these options and Restricted Performance Units is contingent upon meeting certain long-term goals
which have not yet been achieved. Consequently, no compensation
7
ECHOSTAR DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Continued
(Unaudited)
was recorded during the three and
nine months ended September 30, 2006 related to these long-term options and
Restricted Performance Units. We will record the related compensation when achievement of the
performance goals is probable, if ever. In accordance with SFAS 123(R), such compensation, if
recorded, would result in total non-cash, stock-based compensation expense of approximately $135.5
million, of which $114.6 million relates to performance based options and $20.9 million relates to
Restricted Performance Units. This would be recognized ratably over the remaining vesting period
or expensed immediately, if fully vested, in our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations.
A summary of our stock option activity for the nine months ended September 30, 2006 was as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the Nine Months |
|
|
|
Ended September 30, 2006 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Weighted |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
- Average |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Exercise |
|
|
|
Options |
|
|
Price |
|
Options outstanding, beginning of period |
|
|
24,304,951 |
|
|
$ |
24.36 |
|
Granted |
|
|
1,825,500 |
|
|
|
31.75 |
|
Exercised |
|
|
(569,389 |
) |
|
|
13.04 |
|
Forfeited and Cancelled |
|
|
(2,553,100 |
) |
|
|
26.32 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Options outstanding, end of period |
|
|
23,007,962 |
|
|
|
25.01 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Exercisable at end of period |
|
|
6,941,312 |
|
|
|
30.55 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Based on the average market value for the nine months ended September 30, 2006, the aggregate
intrinsic value for the options outstanding was $176.4 million, of which $38.8 million was
exercisable at the end of the period.
Exercise prices for options outstanding and exercisable as of September 30, 2006 were as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Options Outstanding |
|
|
Options Exercisable |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Weighted- |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Number |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Number |
|
|
Average |
|
|
Weighted- |
|
|
Exercisable |
|
|
Weighted- |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Outstanding as of |
|
|
Remaining |
|
|
Average |
|
|
as of |
|
|
Average |
|
|
|
|
|
|
September 30, |
|
|
Contractual |
|
|
Exercise |
|
|
September |
|
|
Exercise |
|
|
|
|
|
|
2006* |
|
|
Life |
|
|
Price |
|
|
30, 2006 |
|
|
Price |
|
|
$ |
2.12500-$ 6.00000 |
|
|
|
5,844,444 |
|
|
|
2.22 |
|
|
$ |
5.89 |
|
|
|
980,444 |
|
|
$ |
5.32 |
|
|
$ |
10.20315-$19.17975 |
|
|
|
1,095,958 |
|
|
|
2.83 |
|
|
|
13.86 |
|
|
|
491,958 |
|
|
|
13.33 |
|
|
$ |
22.26000-$28.88000 |
|
|
|
2,244,600 |
|
|
|
7.79 |
|
|
|
27.59 |
|
|
|
1,712,600 |
|
|
|
27.51 |
|
|
$ |
29.25000-$39.50000 |
|
|
|
12,687,960 |
|
|
|
8.32 |
|
|
|
30.85 |
|
|
|
2,753,310 |
|
|
|
32.63 |
|
|
$ |
48.75000-$79.00000 |
|
|
|
1,135,000 |
|
|
|
3.54 |
|
|
|
63.73 |
|
|
|
1,003,000 |
|
|
|
63.16 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
2.12500-$79.00000 |
|
|
|
23,007,962 |
|
|
|
6.22 |
|
|
|
25.01 |
|
|
|
6,941,312 |
|
|
|
30.55 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
* |
|
These amounts include approximately 5.7 million shares and 5.3 million shares outstanding
pursuant to the 1999 LTIP and 2005 LTIP, respectively. |
As of September 30, 2006, our total unrecognized compensation cost related to our non-performance
based unvested stock options was $60.0 million. This cost is based on an assumed future forfeiture
rate of approximately 8.0% per year and will be recognized over a weighted-average period of
approximately three years.
8
ECHOSTAR DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Continued
(Unaudited)
During the nine months ended September 30, 2006, the grant date value of Restricted Share Units
(performance and non-performance based) outstanding was as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the Nine Months |
|
|
|
Ended September 30, 2006 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Weighted- |
|
|
|
Restricted |
|
|
Average |
|
|
|
Share |
|
|
Grant Date |
|
|
|
Units * |
|
|
Fair Value |
|
Restricted Share Units outstanding, beginning of period |
|
|
632,970 |
|
|
$ |
29.46 |
|
Granted |
|
|
258,830 |
|
|
|
31.97 |
|
Exercised |
|
|
(20,000 |
) |
|
|
30.16 |
|
Forfeited |
|
|
(46,168 |
) |
|
|
29.49 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Restricted Share Units outstanding, end of period |
|
|
825,632 |
|
|
|
30.23 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Exercisable at end of period |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
* |
|
These amounts include 695,632 Restricted Performance Units outstanding pursuant to the 2005
LTIP. |
4. Inventories
Inventories consist of the following:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
As of |
|
|
|
September 30, |
|
|
December 31, |
|
|
|
2006 |
|
|
2005 |
|
|
|
(In thousands) |
|
Finished goods DBS |
|
$ |
136,308 |
|
|
$ |
140,797 |
|
Raw
materials |
|
|
57,918 |
|
|
|
55,034 |
|
Work-in-process service repair and refurbishment |
|
|
75,090 |
|
|
|
23,699 |
|
Work-in-process |
|
|
12,635 |
|
|
|
10,934 |
|
Consignment |
|
|
1,930 |
|
|
|
802 |
|
Inventory allowance |
|
|
(15,775 |
) |
|
|
(9,987 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Inventories, net |
|
$ |
268,106 |
|
|
$ |
221,279 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
5. Marketable and Non-Marketable Investment Securities
We currently classify all marketable investment securities as available-for-sale. Our
approximately $2.593 billion of restricted and unrestricted cash, cash equivalents and marketable
investment securities includes debt and equity securities which we own for financial purposes. We
adjust the carrying value of our available-for-sale securities to fair value and report the related
temporary unrealized gains and losses as a separate component of Accumulated other comprehensive
income (loss) within Total stockholders equity (deficit), net of related deferred income tax.
Declines in the fair
value of a marketable investment security which are estimated to be other
than temporary are recognized in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations, thus
establishing a new cost basis for such investment. We evaluate our marketable investment
securities portfolio on a quarterly basis to determine whether declines in the fair value of these
securities are other than temporary. This quarterly evaluation consists of reviewing, among other
things, the fair value of our marketable investment securities compared to the carrying amount, the
historical volatility of the price of each security and any market and company specific factors
related to each security.
Generally, absent specific factors to the contrary, declines in the fair value of investments below
cost basis for a continuous period of less than six months are considered to be temporary.
Declines in the fair value of investments for a continuous period of six to nine months are
evaluated on a case by case basis to determine whether any company or market-specific factors exist
which would indicate that such declines are other than temporary. Declines in the fair
9
ECHOSTAR DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Continued
(Unaudited)
value of
investments below cost basis for a continuous period greater than nine months are considered other
than temporary and are recorded as charges to earnings, absent specific factors to the contrary.
Some of our marketable investment securities have declined below our cost. The following table
reflects the length of time that the individual securities have been in an unrealized loss
position, aggregated by investment category, where those declines are considered temporary in
accordance with our policy.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
As of September 30, 2006 |
|
|
|
Less than Six Months |
|
|
Six to Nine Months |
|
|
Nine Months or More |
|
|
Total |
|
|
|
Fair |
|
|
Unrealized |
|
|
Fair |
|
|
Unrealized |
|
|
Fair |
|
|
Unrealized |
|
|
Fair |
|
|
Unrealized |
|
|
|
Value |
|
|
Loss |
|
|
Value |
|
|
Loss |
|
|
Value |
|
|
Loss |
|
|
Value |
|
|
Loss |
|
|
|
(In thousands) |
|
Corporate bonds |
|
$ |
37,893 |
|
|
$ |
(53 |
) |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
37,893 |
|
|
$ |
(53 |
) |
Government bonds |
|
|
35,227 |
|
|
|
(9 |
) |
|
|
26,177 |
|
|
|
(42 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
61,404 |
|
|
|
(51 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
$ |
73,120 |
|
|
$ |
(62 |
) |
|
$ |
26,177 |
|
|
$ |
(42 |
) |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
99,297 |
|
|
$ |
(104 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
As of December 31, 2005 |
|
|
|
Less than Six Months |
|
|
Six to Nine Months |
|
|
Nine Months or More |
|
|
Total |
|
|
|
Fair |
|
|
Unrealized |
|
|
Fair |
|
|
Unrealized |
|
|
Fair |
|
|
Unrealized |
|
|
Fair |
|
|
Unrealized |
|
|
|
Value |
|
|
Loss |
|
|
Value |
|
|
Loss |
|
|
Value |
|
|
Loss |
|
|
Value |
|
|
Loss |
|
|
|
(In thousands) |
|
Government bonds |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
92,341 |
|
|
$ |
(662 |
) |
|
$ |
92,341 |
|
|
$ |
(662 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Corporate Bonds
We believe the unrealized losses on our corporate bonds were caused primarily by interest rate
increases. At September 30, 2006, maturities on these corporate bonds ranged from one to eleven
months. We have the ability and intent to hold these investments until maturity when the obligors
are required to redeem them at their full face value, and we believe the obligors have the
financial resources to redeem those bonds. Accordingly, we do not consider these investments to be
other-than-temporarily impaired as of September 30, 2006.
Government Bonds
We believe the unrealized losses on our investments in government bonds were caused primarily by
interest rate increases. At September 30, 2006 and December 31, 2005, maturities on these
government bonds ranged from two to twelve months. We have the ability and intent to hold these
investments until maturity when the Government is required to redeem them at their full face value.
Accordingly, we do not consider these investments to be other-than-temporarily impaired as of
September 30, 2006.
During the nine months ended September 30, 2006 and 2005, we did not record any charge to earnings
for other than temporary declines in the fair value of our marketable investment securities.
Realized gains and losses are generally accounted for on the specific identification method.
Other Non-Marketable Securities
We also have strategic investments in certain non-marketable equity securities which are included
in Other noncurrent assets, net on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. Generally, we
account for our unconsolidated equity investments under either the equity method or cost method of
accounting. Because these equity securities are not publicly traded, it is not practical to
regularly estimate the fair value of the investments; however, these investments are subject to an
evaluation for other than temporary impairment on a quarterly basis. This quarterly evaluation
consists of reviewing, among other things, company business plans and current financial statements,
if available, for factors that may indicate an impairment of our investment. Such factors may
include, but are not limited to, cash flow concerns,
10
ECHOSTAR DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Continued
(Unaudited)
material litigation, violations of debt
covenants and changes in business strategy. The fair value of these equity investments is not
estimated unless there are identified changes in circumstances that may indicate an impairment
exists and these changes are likely to have a significant adverse effect on the fair value of the
investment. As of September 30, 2006 and December 31, 2005, we had $52.7 million aggregate
carrying amount of non-marketable and unconsolidated strategic equity investments, accounted for
under the cost method. During the nine months ended September 30, 2006 and 2005, we did not record
any impairment charges with respect to these investments.
Our ability to realize value from our strategic investments in companies that are not publicly
traded is dependent on the success of their business and their ability to obtain sufficient capital
to execute their business plans. Because private markets are not as liquid as public markets,
there is also increased risk that we will not be able to sell these investments, or that when we
desire to sell them we will not be able to obtain full value for them.
Restricted Cash and Marketable Investment Securities
As of September 30, 2006 and December 31, 2005, restricted cash and marketable investment
securities included amounts set aside as collateral for our letters of credit. Additionally,
restricted cash and marketable investment securities as of September 30, 2006 included
approximately $96.6 million escrowed related to our litigation with Tivo.
6. Satellites and FCC Auction Participation
Satellites
We presently have 11 owned satellites in orbit. Each of these satellites had an original minimum
useful life of at least 12 years. In addition, we currently lease three in-orbit satellites. Two
of the leased satellites are accounted for as capital leases pursuant to Statement of Financial
Accounting Standard No. 13 and are depreciated over the ten-year terms of the satellite service
agreements. Our satellite fleet is a major component of our EchoStar DBS System. While we believe
that overall our satellite fleet is generally in good condition, during 2006 and prior periods,
certain satellites in our fleet have experienced anomalies, some of which have had a significant
adverse impact on their commercial operation. We currently do not carry insurance for any of our
owned in-orbit satellites. We believe we generally have in-orbit satellite capacity sufficient to
recover, in a relatively short time frame, transmission of most of our critical programming but
could not recover certain local markets, international and other niche programming in the event one
of our in-orbit satellites fails. Further, programming continuity cannot be assured in the event
of multiple satellite losses, and in the event our EchoStar X satellite experienced a significant
failure we could lose the ability to deliver local network channels in many markets.
Recent developments with respect to certain of our satellites are discussed below.
EchoStar I
EchoStar I, which was launched during December 1995, currently operates at the 148 degree orbital
location. During the second quarter of 2006, the satellite experienced anomalies resulting in the
possible loss of two solar array strings. An investigation of the anomalies is continuing. The
anomalies have not impacted commercial operation of the satellite to date. Even if permanent loss
of the two solar array strings is confirmed, the original minimum 12-year design life of the
satellite is not expected to be impacted since the satellite is equipped with a total of 104 solar
array strings, only approximately 98 of which are required to assure full power availability for
the design life of the satellite. However, there can be no assurance future anomalies will not
cause further losses which could impact the remaining life or commercial operation of the
satellite.
11
ECHOSTAR DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Continued
(Unaudited)
EchoStar III
EchoStar III, which was launched during October 1997, currently operates at the 61.5 degree orbital
location. The satellite was originally designed to operate a maximum of 32 transponders at
approximately 120 watts per channel, switchable to 16 transponders operating at over 230 watts per
channel, and was equipped with a total of 44 transponders to provide redundancy. Prior to 2006,
traveling wave tube amplifier (TWTA) anomalies have caused 22 transponders to fail. During April
and October 2006, further TWTA anomalies caused the failure of four additional transponders. As a
result, a maximum of 18 transponders are currently available for use on EchoStar III, but due to
redundancy switching limitations and specific channel authorizations, we can only operate 15 of the
19 FCC authorized frequencies we have the right to utilize at the 61.5 degree location. While we
do not expect a large number of additional TWTAs to fail in any year, and the failures have not
reduced the original minimum12-year design life of the satellite, it is likely that additional TWTA
failures will occur from time to time in the future, and those failures will further impact
commercial operation of the satellite.
EchoStar V
EchoStar V, which was launched during September 1999, currently operates at the 129 degree orbital
location. The satellite was originally designed with a minimum 12-year design life. As previously
disclosed, momentum wheel failures in prior years, together with relocation of the satellite
between orbital locations, resulted in increased fuel consumption. These issues have not impacted
commercial operation of the satellite, but have reduced the remaining spacecraft life to
approximately two years as of September 30, 2006. Prior to 2006, EchoStar V also experienced
anomalies resulting in the loss of six solar array strings. During July 2006, the satellite lost
an additional solar array string. The solar array anomalies have not impacted commercial operation
of the satellite to date. Since the satellite only has an approximate two year life, the solar
array failures (which would normally have resulted in a reduction in the number of transponders to
which power can be provided in later years), are not expected to reduce the current remaining life
of the satellite. However, there can be no assurance that future anomalies will not cause further
losses which could impact commercial operation, or the remaining life, of the satellite. See
discussion of evaluation of impairment in Long-Lived Satellite Assets below.
EchoStar VI
EchoStar VI, which was launched during July 2000, is currently stationed at the 110 degree orbital
location as an in-orbit spare. The satellite was originally equipped with 108 solar array strings,
approximately 102 of which are required to assure full power availability for the original minimum
12-year design life of the satellite. Prior to 2006, EchoStar VI experienced anomalies resulting
in the loss of 15 solar array strings. During 2006, two additional solar array strings failed,
reducing the number of functional solar array strings to 91. While the design life of the
satellite has not been affected, commercial operability has been reduced. The satellite was
designed to operate 32 transponders at approximately 125 watts per channel, switchable to 16
transponders operating at approximately 225 watts per channel. The power reduction resulting from
the solar array failures limits us to operation of a maximum of 26 transponders in standard power
mode, or 13 transponders in high power mode currently. The number of transponders to which power
can be provided will continue to decline in the future at the rate of approximately one transponder
every three years. See discussion of evaluation of impairment in Long-Lived Satellite Assets
below.
EchoStar VII
EchoStar VII, which was launched during February 2002, currently operates at the 119 degree orbital
location. During March 2006, the satellite experienced an anomaly which resulted in the loss of a
receiver. Service was quickly restored through a spare receiver. These receivers process signals
sent from our uplink center, for transmission back to earth by the satellite. The design life of
the satellite has not been affected and the anomaly is not expected to result in the loss of other
receivers on the satellite. However, there can be no assurance future anomalies will not cause
further receiver losses which could impact the useful life or commercial operation of the
satellite. In the event the spare receiver placed in operation following the March 2006 anomaly
also fails, there
12
ECHOSTAR DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Continued
(Unaudited)
would be no impact to the satellites ability to provide service to the continental United States
(CONUS) when operating in CONUS mode. However, we would lose one-fifth of the spot beam capacity
when operating in spot beam mode.
EchoStar X
EchoStar X was launched during February 2006 and commenced commercial operation during the second
quarter of 2006. The satellite currently operates at the 110 degree orbital location. Its 49 spot
beams use up to 42 active 140 watt TWTAs to provide standard and high definition local channels,
and other programming, to markets across the United States.
EchoStar XII
EchoStar XII, which we purchased in orbit from a third party during 2005, currently operates at the
61.5 degree orbital location. The satellite was originally launched during July 2003. EchoStar
XII was designed to operate 13 transponders at 270 watts per channel, in CONUS mode, or 22 spot
beams using a combination of 135 and 65 watt TWTAs. We currently operate the satellite in CONUS
mode. EchoStar XII has a total of 24 solar array circuits, approximately 22 of which are required
to assure full power for the original minimum 12 year design life of the satellite. Prior to our
purchase, two solar array circuits failed, one of which was subsequently restored to partial use.
Between February and April 2006, two additional solar array circuits failed. The cause of the
failures is being investigated. While the design life of the satellite has not been affected, in
future years the power loss will cause a reduction in the number of transponders which can be
operated. The exact extent of this impact has not yet been determined. There can be no assurance
future anomalies will not cause further losses, which could further impact commercial operation of
the satellite or its useful life. See discussion of evaluation of impairment in Long-Lived
Satellite Assets below.
Long-Lived Satellite Assets
We account for long-lived satellite assets in accordance with the provisions of Statement of
Financial Accounting Standards No. 144, Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived
Assets (SFAS 144). SFAS 144 requires a long-lived asset or asset group to be tested for
recoverability whenever events or changes in circumstance indicate that its carrying amount may not
be recoverable. Based on the guidance under SFAS 144, we evaluate our satellite fleet for
recoverability as an asset group. While certain of the anomalies discussed above, and previously
disclosed, may be considered to represent a significant adverse change in the physical condition of
an individual satellite, based on the redundancy designed within each satellite and considering the
asset grouping, these anomalies (none of which caused a loss of service to subscribers for an
extended period) are not considered to be significant events that would require evaluation for
impairment recognition pursuant to the guidance under SFAS 144. Unless and until a specific
satellite is abandoned or otherwise determined to have no service potential, the net carrying
amount related to the satellite would not be written off.
FCC Auction Participation
During May 2006, EchoStar and DirecTV agreed to jointly participate in the FCC Advanced Wireless
Services (AWS) spectrum auction which commenced August 9, 2006 through Wireless DBS LLC
(Wireless DBS), a jointly formed and funded entity. In July 2006, EchoStar and DirecTV each paid
a deposit of $486.3 million enabling Wireless DBS to bid on a significant portion of the licenses
available through the auction. Wireless DBS was not the winning bidder on any of the auctioned
spectrum and the EchoStar deposit was returned in August 2006.
13
ECHOSTAR DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Continued
(Unaudited)
7. Goodwill and Intangible Assets
As of September 30, 2006 and December 31, 2005, our identifiable intangibles subject to
amortization consisted of the following:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
As of |
|
|
|
September 30, 2006 |
|
|
December 31, 2005 |
|
|
|
Intangible |
|
|
Accumulated |
|
|
Intangible |
|
|
Accumulated |
|
|
|
Assets |
|
|
Amortization |
|
|
Assets |
|
|
Amortization |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(In thousands) |
|
|
|
|
|
Contract-based |
|
$ |
189,286 |
|
|
$ |
(41,798 |
) |
|
$ |
189,286 |
|
|
$ |
(29,667 |
) |
Customer relationships |
|
|
73,298 |
|
|
|
(45,561 |
) |
|
|
73,298 |
|
|
|
(31,818 |
) |
Technology-based |
|
|
25,500 |
|
|
|
(5,010 |
) |
|
|
25,500 |
|
|
|
(3,377 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
$ |
288,084 |
|
|
$ |
(92,369 |
) |
|
$ |
288,084 |
|
|
$ |
(64,862 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Amortization of these intangible assets, recorded on a straight line basis over an average finite
useful life primarily ranging from approximately three to twelve years, was $9.2 million for each
of the three months ended September 30, 2006 and 2005, respectively. In addition, amortization was
$27.5 million and $28.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2006 and 2005,
respectively. For all of 2006, the aggregate amortization expense related to these identifiable
assets is estimated to be $36.7 million. The aggregate amortization expense is estimated to be
approximately $36.1 million for 2007, $22.5 million for 2008, $17.7 million for 2009, $17.7 million
for 2010, $17.7 million for 2011 and $74.8 million thereafter.
The excess of our investments in consolidated subsidiaries over net tangible and intangible asset
value at acquisition is recorded as goodwill and is not subject to amortization. We had
approximately $3.4 million of goodwill as of September 30, 2006 and December 31, 2005, which arose
from a 2002 acquisition.
8. Long-Term Debt
$1.5 Billion Senior Notes Offering
On February 2, 2006, we sold $1.5 billion aggregate principal amount of our ten-year, 7 1/8% Senior
Notes due February 1, 2016. Interest on the notes will be paid February 1 and August 1 of each
year. The proceeds from the sale of the notes were used to redeem our outstanding 9 1/8% Senior
Notes due 2009 and are also intended to be used for other general corporate purposes.
9 1/8% Senior Notes Redemption
Effective February 17, 2006, we redeemed the balance of our outstanding 9 1/8% Senior Notes due
2009. In accordance with the terms of the indenture governing the notes, the remaining principal
amount of the notes of approximately $442.0 million was redeemed at 104.563%, for a total of
approximately $462.1 million. The premium paid of approximately $20.1 million, along with
unamortized debt issuance costs of approximately $2.8 million, were recorded as charges to earnings
in February 2006.
See also Note 14 Subsequent Events.
14
ECHOSTAR DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Continued
(Unaudited)
9. Commitments and Contingencies
Contingencies
Distant Network Litigation
On October 20, 2006, a District Court in Florida entered a permanent nationwide injunction
prohibiting us from offering distant network channels to consumers effective December 1, 2006.
Distant networks are ABC, NBC, CBS and Fox network channels which originate outside the community
where the consumer who wants to view them, lives.
Approximately 900,000 of our customers currently subscribe to distant network channels, generating
approximately $3.0 million of gross distant network channel revenue per month. We are pursuing
judicial, legislative and other avenues to attempt to protect access to these channels by our
customers but there can be no assurance we will be successful.
We currently offer local network channels by satellite in approximately 170 markets, serving over
95% of all U.S. households. Consequently, a majority of our distant network subscribers live in
markets where we offer local network channels by satellite, but a significant percentage live in
the approximately 40 markets where local network channels are not available by satellite. Our
customers in those 40 markets are at greatest risk of canceling their subscription for our other
services, particularly the substantial percentage of those customers who are eligible to obtain
local or distant network channels from our competitors. Further, in approximately a dozen markets
where we offer local channels, one or more networks do not have a local affiliate. In those
markets distant networks are the only option available for consumers who want access to the network
signals missing from the market. Those customers are also at increased risk of canceling their
subscription for our other services.
We are beginning to install free off air antennas for the small percentage of those subscribers who
can receive local channels off air and are willing to have an antenna installed, and continue to
pursue other options to minimize potential disruption to these customers. We are also preparing to
provide local channels to our distant network customers who live in the 170 markets where we offer
local channels by satellite. Some of those subscribers will need additional equipment to receive
local channels. We are beginning to install that equipment without cost to those customers but
will not be able to complete all of those installations by December 1, 2006. Some of those
customers currently subscribe to both distant and local channels so revenue from those subscribers
will decline. Further, we cannot predict the number of customers who currently subscribe to only
distant network channels, but will choose not to switch to local channels.
Absent modification, the injunction would negate a settlement agreement we recently reached with
the ABC, NBC, CBS and Fox Affiliate Associations, which would have required us to pay $100.0
million in order to retain a limited right to offer distant networks in their markets. It also
negates settlement agreements we reached with the ABC, NBC and CBS Networks, and with various
independent stations and station groups, over the eight year course of the litigation.
Termination of distant network channels will result, among other things, in a small reduction in
average monthly revenue per subscriber and free cash flow, and a temporary increase in subscriber
churn. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty how many of our distant network subscribers
would cancel their primary DISH Network programming as a result of termination of their distant
channels. We would also be at a competitive disadvantage in the future, since the injunction
prohibits us from offering distant network channels that may continue to be offered by our
competitors to new customers in markets where they do not offer local channels.
15
ECHOSTAR DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Continued
(Unaudited)
Superguide
During 2000, Superguide Corp. (Superguide) filed suit against us, DirecTV, Thomson and others in
the United States District Court for the Western District of North Carolina, Asheville Division,
alleging infringement of United States Patent Nos. 5,038,211 (the 211 patent), 5,293,357 (the 357
patent) and 4,751,578 (the 578 patent) which relate to certain electronic program guide functions,
including the use of electronic program guides to control VCRs. Superguide sought injunctive and
declaratory relief and damages in an unspecified amount.
On summary judgment, the District Court ruled that none of the asserted patents were infringed by
us. These rulings were appealed to the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit.
During February 2004, the Federal Circuit affirmed in part and reversed in part the District
Courts findings and remanded the case back to the District Court for further proceedings. In July
2005, SuperGuide indicated that it would no longer pursue infringement allegations with respect to
the 211 and 357 patents and those patents have now been dismissed from the suit. The District
Court subsequently entered judgment of non-infringement in favor of all defendants as to the 211
and 357 patents and ordered briefing on Thomsons license defense as to the 578 patent. At the
same time, we requested leave to add a license defense as to the 578 patent in view of a new (at
the time) license we obtained from a third-party licensed by Superguide. Activity in the case has
been suspended pending resolution of the license defense and a trial date has not been set. We are
awaiting a decision by the District Court regarding Thomsons license defense and regarding whether
it will hear our license defense. We examined the 578 patent and believe that it is not infringed
by any of our products or services. We will continue to vigorously defend this case. In the event
that a Court ultimately determines that we infringe any of the patents, we may be subject to
substantial damages, which may include treble damages and/or an injunction that could require us to
materially modify certain user-friendly electronic programming guide and related features that we
currently offer to consumers. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the
suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.
Broadcast Innovation, L.L.C.
In 2001, Broadcast Innovation, L.L.C. (Broadcast Innovation) filed a lawsuit against us, DirecTV,
Thomson Consumer Electronics and others in Federal District Court in Denver, Colorado. The suit
alleges infringement of United States Patent Nos. 6,076,094 (the 094 patent) and 4,992,066 (the
066 patent). The 094 patent relates to certain methods and devices for transmitting and
receiving data along with specific formatting information for the data. The 066 patent relates to
certain methods and devices for providing the scrambling circuitry for a pay television system on
removable cards. We examined these patents and believe that they are not infringed by any of our
products or services. Subsequently, DirecTV and Thomson settled with Broadcast Innovation leaving
us as the only defendant.
During 2004, the judge issued an order finding the 066 patent invalid. In August of 2004, the
Court ruled the 094 invalid in a parallel case filed by Broadcast Innovation against Charter and
Comcast. In August of 2005, the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit (CAFC)
overturned this finding of invalidity and remanded the case back to the District Court. During
June 2006, Charter filed a reexamination request with the United States Patent and Trademark
Office. The Court has stayed the case pending reexamination. Our case remains stayed pending
resolution of the Charter case.
We intend to continue to vigorously defend this case. In the event that a Court ultimately
determines that we infringe any of the patents, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may
include treble damages and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain
user-friendly features that we currently offer to consumers. We cannot predict with any degree of
certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.
16
ECHOSTAR DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Continued
(Unaudited)
Tivo, Inc.
During April 2006, a Texas jury concluded that certain of our digital video recorders, or DVRs,
infringed a patent held by Tivo. The Texas court subsequently issued an injunction prohibiting us
from offering DVR functionality. A Court of Appeals has stayed that injunction during the pendency
of our appeal.
In accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 5: Accounting for
Contingencies (SFAS 5), we recorded a total reserve of $89.7 million in Tivo litigation
expense on our Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations to reflect the jury verdict,
supplemental damages and pre-judgment interest awarded through July 31, 2006. Based on our current
analysis of the case, including the appellate record and other factors, we believe it is more
likely than not that we will prevail on appeal. Consequently, we are not recording additional
amounts for supplemental damages or interest subsequent to the July 31, 2006 judgment date.
If the verdict is upheld on appeal, we would be required to pay additional amounts from August 1,
2006 until such time, if ever, as we successfully implement alternative technology. Those amounts
would be approximately $5.7 million, $5.9 million and $6.0 million for August, September and
October 2006, respectively, and would increase each month as the number of our DVR customers
increases and as interest compounds. If the verdict is upheld on appeal and we are not able to
successfully implement alternative technology (including the successful defense of any challenge
that such technology infringes Tivos patent), we could also be prohibited from distributing DVRs,
or be required to modify or eliminate certain user-friendly DVR features that we currently offer to
consumers. In that event we would be at a significant disadvantage to our competitors who could
offer this functionality and, while we would attempt to provide that functionality through other
manufacturers, the adverse affect on our business could be material.
Acacia
In June 2004, Acacia Media Technologies (Acacia) filed a lawsuit against us in the United States
District Court for the Northern District of California. The suit also named DirecTV, Comcast,
Charter, Cox and a number of smaller cable companies as defendants. Acacia is an intellectual
property holding company which seeks to license the patent portfolio that it has acquired. The
suit alleges infringement of United States Patent Nos. 5,132,992 (the 992 patent), 5,253,275 (the
275 patent), 5,550,863 (the 863 patent), 6,002,720 (the 720 patent) and 6,144,702 (the 702
patent). The 992, 863, 720 and 702 patents have been asserted against us.
The patents relate to various systems and methods related to the transmission of digital data. The
992 and 702 patents have also been asserted against several internet content providers in the
United States District Court for the Central District of California. During 2004 and 2005, the
Court issued Markman rulings which found that the 992 and 702 patents were not as broad as Acacia
had contended, and that certain terms in the 702 patent were indefinite. During April 2006,
EchoStar and other defendants asked the Court to rule that the claims of the 702 patent are
invalid and not infringed. That motion is pending. In June and September 2006, the Court held
Markman hearings on the 992, 863, 720 and 275 patents, but has not yet issued a ruling.
Acacias various patent infringement cases have been consolidated for pre-trial purposes in the
United States District Court for the Northern District of California. We intend to vigorously
defend this case. In the event that a Court ultimately determines that we infringe any of the
patents, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages and/or an
injunction that could require us to materially modify certain user-friendly features that we
currently offer to consumers. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the
suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.
17
ECHOSTAR DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Continued
(Unaudited)
Forgent
In July 2005, Forgent Networks, Inc. (Forgent) filed a lawsuit against us in the United States
District Court for the Eastern District of Texas. The suit also named DirecTV, Charter, Comcast,
Time Warner Cable, Cable One and Cox as defendants. The suit alleges infringement of United States
Patent No. 6,285,746 (the 746 patent).
The 746 patent discloses a video teleconferencing system which utilizes digital telephone lines.
We have examined this patent and do not believe that it is infringed by any of our products or
services. We intend to vigorously defend this case. In the event that a Court ultimately
determines that we infringe this patent, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may
include treble damages and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain
user-friendly features that we currently offer to consumers. We cannot predict with any degree of
certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.
Trial is currently scheduled for May 2007 in Marshall, Texas. On October 2, 2006, the Patent and
Trademark Office granted our petition for reexamination of the 746 patent. On October 27, 2006,
the Patent and Trademark Office issued its initial office action rejecting all of the claims of the
746 patent in light of several prior art references. Forgent will have an opportunity to
challenge the initial office action. We have moved to have the case stayed pending resolution of
the reexamination. The Court has not yet ruled on the motion.
Finisar Corporation
Finisar Corporation (Finisar) recently obtained a $100.0 million verdict in the United States
District Court for the Eastern District of Texas against DirecTV for patent infringement. Finisar
alleged that DirecTVs electronic program guide and other elements of its system infringe United
States Patent No. 5,404,505 (the 505 patent).
On July 10, 2006, we, together with NagraStar LLC, filed a Complaint for Declaratory Judgment in
the United States District Court for the District of Delaware against Finisar that asks the Court
to declare that they and we do not infringe, and have not infringed, any valid claim of the 505
patent. Trial is not currently scheduled. We intend to vigorously defend our rights in this
action. In the event that a Court ultimately determines that we infringe this patent, we may be
subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages and/or an injunction that could
require us to modify our system architecture. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the
outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.
Trans Video
In August 2006, Trans Video Electronic, Ltd. (Trans Video) filed a patent infringement action
against us in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California. The suit
alleges infringement of United States Patent Nos. 5,903,621 (the 621 patent) and 5,991,801 (the
801 patent). The patents relate to various methods related to the transmission of digital data.
We have not been served with the complaint yet. We intend to vigorously defend this case. In the
event that a Court ultimately determines that we infringe any of the patents, we may be subject to
substantial damages, which may include treble damages and/or an injunction. We cannot predict with
any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability
or damages.
Retailer Class Actions
During 2000, lawsuits were filed by retailers in Colorado state and federal court attempting to
certify nationwide classes on behalf of certain of our satellite hardware retailers. The
plaintiffs are requesting the Courts declare certain provisions of, and changes to, alleged
agreements between us and the retailers invalid and unenforceable, and to award damages for lost
incentives and payments, charge backs, and other compensation. We are vigorously defending against
the suits and have asserted a variety of counterclaims. The federal court action was stayed during
the pendency of the state court action. We filed a motion for summary judgment on all counts and
against all plaintiffs. The plaintiffs filed a motion for additional time to conduct discovery to
enable them to respond to our motion. The Court granted limited discovery which ended during 2004.
The plaintiffs claimed we did not provide adequate disclosure during the discovery process, and a
specially appointed master agreed with the plaintiffs, recently recommending to the judge that
18
ECHOSTAR DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Continued
(Unaudited)
our motion for summary judgment be denied, or that plaintiffs be permitted to conduct additional
discovery. Plaintiffs also asked the Court to go beyond the scope of the special masters
recommendation, and further sanction us for the alleged discovery problems by entering judgment
against us on the issue of liability, leaving only the issue of damages for trial. The judge has
not yet ruled on the special masters recommendation. A trial date has not been set. We cannot
predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any
potential liability or damages.
Enron Commercial Paper Investment Complaint
During October 2001, we received approximately $40.0 million from the sale of Enron commercial
paper to a third party broker. That commercial paper was ultimately purchased by Enron. During
November 2003, an action was commenced in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern
District of New York, against approximately 100 defendants, including us, who invested in Enrons
commercial paper. The complaint alleges that Enrons October 2001 purchase of its commercial paper
was a fraudulent conveyance and voidable preference under bankruptcy laws. We dispute these
allegations. We typically invest in commercial paper and notes which are rated in one of the four
highest rating categories by at least two nationally recognized statistical rating organizations.
At the time of our investment in Enron commercial paper, it was considered to be high quality and
low risk. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the
extent of any potential liability or damages.
Bank One
During 2004, Bank One, N.A. (Bank One) filed suit against us and one of our subsidiaries,
EchoStar Acceptance Corporation (EAC), in Ohio state court alleging breach of a duty to
indemnify. The case was subsequently moved to federal court. Bank One alleges EAC is
contractually required to indemnify Bank One for a settlement it paid to consumers who entered
private label credit card agreements with Bank One to purchase satellite equipment in the late
1990s. The case is currently in discovery. A trial date has not been set. We cannot predict with
any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability
or damages.
Church Communications Network, Inc.
During 2004, Church Communications Network, Inc. (CCN) filed suit against us in the United States
District Court for the Northern District of Alabama. CCN claimed approximately $20.0 million in
actual damages, plus punitive damages for, among other things, alleged breaches of two contracts,
and negligent, intentional and reckless misrepresentation. During March 2006, the Court granted
summary judgment in our favor limiting CCN to one contract claim, and limiting damages to no more
than $500,000, plus interest. During April 2006, we reached a settlement which did not have a
material impact on our results of operations.
Vivendi
In January 2005, Vivendi Universal, S.A. (Vivendi) filed a breach of contract suit against us.
During April 2005, the Court granted Vivendis motion for a preliminary injunction requiring that
we carry a music-video channel during the pendency of the litigation. On May 23, 2006, the parties
settled the litigation and Vivendis complaint was dismissed with prejudice. As part of the
settlement, we agreed to continue to carry the music-video channel. The settlement amount did not
have a material impact on our results of operations.
Riyad Alshuaibi
During 2002, Riyad Alshuaibi filed suit against Michael Kelly, one of our executive officers, Kelly
Broadcasting Systems, Inc. (KBS), and EchoStar in the District Court of New Jersey. Plaintiff
alleged breach of contract, breach of fiduciary duty, fraud, negligence, and unjust enrichment
resulting in damages in excess of $50.0 million. Plaintiff claimed that when KBS was acquired by
us, Michael Kelly and KBS breached an alleged agreement with
19
ECHOSTAR DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Continued
(Unaudited)
the plaintiff. We denied the allegations of plaintiffs complaint. On October 26, 2006, we
reached a settlement which did not have a material impact on our results of operations.
Other
In addition to the above actions, we are subject to various other legal proceedings and claims
which arise in the ordinary course of business. In our opinion, the amount of ultimate liability
with respect to any of these actions is unlikely to materially affect our financial position,
results of operations or liquidity.
10. Depreciation and Amortization Expense
Depreciation and amortization expense consists of the following:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the Three Months |
|
|
For the Nine Months |
|
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
|
2006 |
|
|
2005 |
|
|
2006 |
|
|
2005 |
|
|
|
(In thousands) |
|
Equipment leased to customers |
|
$ |
185,959 |
|
|
$ |
119,795 |
|
|
$ |
503,507 |
|
|
$ |
303,211 |
|
Satellites |
|
|
59,421 |
|
|
|
50,982 |
|
|
|
174,573 |
|
|
|
144,941 |
|
Furniture, fixtures, equipment and other |
|
|
39,702 |
|
|
|
29,898 |
|
|
|
106,231 |
|
|
|
89,041 |
|
Identifiable intangible assets subject to amortization |
|
|
9,169 |
|
|
|
9,169 |
|
|
|
27,507 |
|
|
|
28,708 |
|
Buildings and improvements |
|
|
1,419 |
|
|
|
1,265 |
|
|
|
3,406 |
|
|
|
2,762 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total depreciation and amortization |
|
$ |
295,670 |
|
|
$ |
211,109 |
|
|
$ |
815,224 |
|
|
$ |
568,663 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cost of sales and operating expense categories included in our accompanying Condensed Consolidated
Statements of Operations do not include depreciation expense related to satellites or equipment
leased to customers.
11. Segment Reporting
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 131, Disclosures About Segments of an Enterprise
and Related Information (SFAS 131) establishes standards for reporting information about
operating segments in annual financial statements of public business enterprises and requires that
those enterprises report selected information about operating segments in interim financial reports
issued to stockholders. Operating segments are components of an enterprise about which separate
financial information is available and regularly evaluated by the chief operating decision maker(s)
of an enterprise. Under this definition we currently operate as two business units. The All Other
category consists of revenue and net income (loss) from other operating segments for which the
disclosure requirements of SFAS 131 do not apply.
20
ECHOSTAR DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Continued
(Unaudited)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the Three Months |
|
|
For the Nine Months |
|
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
|
2006 |
|
|
2005 |
|
|
2006 |
|
|
2005 |
|
|
|
(In thousands) |
|
Revenue |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
DISH Network |
|
$ |
2,413,813 |
|
|
$ |
2,057,881 |
|
|
$ |
6,984,868 |
|
|
$ |
6,045,969 |
|
ETC |
|
|
33,903 |
|
|
|
40,730 |
|
|
|
164,928 |
|
|
|
130,918 |
|
All
other |
|
|
29,718 |
|
|
|
32,649 |
|
|
|
86,025 |
|
|
|
79,530 |
|
Eliminations |
|
|
(6,068 |
) |
|
|
(3,039 |
) |
|
|
(16,060 |
) |
|
|
(8,710 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total EchoStar consolidated |
|
|
2,471,366 |
|
|
|
2,128,221 |
|
|
|
7,219,761 |
|
|
|
6,247,707 |
|
Other EchoStar activity |
|
|
(4,058 |
) |
|
|
(1,014 |
) |
|
|
(5,398 |
) |
|
|
(2,477 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total revenue |
|
$ |
2,467,308 |
|
|
$ |
2,127,207 |
|
|
$ |
7,214,363 |
|
|
$ |
6,245,230 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net income (loss) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
DISH Network |
|
$ |
128,137 |
|
|
$ |
198,105 |
|
|
$ |
424,917 |
|
|
$ |
1,360,538 |
|
ETC |
|
|
(6,869 |
) |
|
|
(4,538 |
) |
|
|
2,481 |
|
|
|
(9,617 |
) |
All
other |
|
|
18,348 |
|
|
|
15,297 |
|
|
|
28,278 |
|
|
|
30,994 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total EchoStar consolidated |
|
|
139,616 |
|
|
|
208,864 |
|
|
|
455,676 |
|
|
|
1,381,915 |
|
Other EchoStar activity |
|
|
(5,453 |
) |
|
|
21,054 |
|
|
|
(25,381 |
) |
|
|
(399,083 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total net income (loss) |
|
$ |
134,163 |
|
|
$ |
229,918 |
|
|
$ |
430,295 |
|
|
$ |
982,832 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
12. Financial Information for Subsidiary Guarantors
EchoStar DBS Corporations senior notes are fully, unconditionally and jointly and severally
guaranteed by all of our subsidiaries other than minor subsidiaries, as defined by SEC regulations.
The stand alone entity EchoStar DBS Corporation has no independent assets or operations.
Therefore, supplemental financial information on a condensed consolidating basis of the guarantor
subsidiaries is not required. There are no restrictions on our ability to obtain cash dividends or
other distributions of funds from the guarantor subsidiaries, except those imposed by applicable
law.
13. Related Party
During the second quarter of 2006, we purchased EchoStar X from EchoStar Orbital Corporation II
(EOC II), a wholly-owned subsidiary of ECC, and our affiliate, for its fair value of
approximately $338.3 million. We assumed $15.0 million in vendor financing and the difference, or
$323.3 million, was paid to our affiliate. We recorded the satellite at EOC IIs carrying value of
$177.2 million and recorded the difference, or $161.1 million, as a capital distribution to our
parent company, EchoStar Orbital Corporation.
EchoStar owns 50% of NagraStar L.L.C. (NagraStar), a joint venture that is our exclusive provider
of encryption and related security systems intended to assure that only paying customers have
access to our programming. During the three months ended September 30, 2006 and 2005, we purchased
approximately $6.6 million and $18.4 million, respectively, of security access devices from
NagraStar and during the nine months ended September 30, 2006 and 2005, we purchased approximately
$41.0 million and $104.7 million, respectively. As of September 30, 2006 and December 31, 2005,
amounts payable to NagraStar totaled $6.3 million and $3.9 million, respectively. Additionally as
of September 30, 2006, we were committed to purchase approximately $24.2 million of security access
devices from NagraStar.
21
ECHOSTAR DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Continued
(Unaudited)
14. Subsequent Events
On October 1, 2006, we redeemed the balance of our outstanding Floating Rate Senior Notes due 2008.
In accordance with the terms of the indenture governing the notes, the principal amount of the
notes of $500.0 million was redeemed at 101.0%, for a total of $505.0 million. The premium paid of
$5.0 million, along with unamortized debt issuance costs of approximately $1.0 million, were
recorded as charges to earnings in October 2006.
On October 18, 2006, we sold $500.0 million aggregate principal amount of our seven-year, 7% Senior
Notes due October 1, 2013 in a private placement in accordance with Securities and Exchange
Commission Rule 144A and Regulation S under the Securities Act of 1933. Interest on the notes will
be paid April 1 and October 1 of each year, commencing April 1, 2007. The proceeds from the sale
of the notes replaced the cash on hand that was used to redeem our outstanding Floating Rate Senior
Notes due 2008 on October 1, 2006.
22
Item 2. MANAGEMENTS NARRATIVE ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
EXPLANATION OF KEY METRICS AND OTHER ITEMS
Subscriber-related revenue. Subscriber-related revenue consists principally of revenue from
basic, movie, local, international and pay-per-view subscription television services, advertising
sales, digital video recorder (DVR) fees, equipment rental fees and additional outlet fees from
subscribers with multiple set-top boxes, fees earned from our DishHOME Protection Plan and other
subscriber revenue. Subscriber-related revenue also includes revenue from equipment sales,
installation and other services related to our original agreement with AT&T. Revenue from
equipment sales to AT&T is deferred and recognized over the estimated average co-branded subscriber
life. Revenue from installation and certain other services performed at the request of AT&T is
recognized upon completion of the services.
Development and implementation fees received from AT&T are being recognized in Subscriber-related
revenue over the next several years. In order to estimate the amount recognized monthly, we first
divide the number of subscribers activated during the month under the AT&T agreement by total
estimated subscriber activations during the life of the contract. We then multiply this percentage
by the total development and implementation fees received from AT&T. The resulting estimated
amount is recognized monthly as revenue over the estimated average subscriber life.
During the fourth quarter 2005, we modified and extended our distribution and sales agency
agreement with AT&T. We believe our overall economic return will be similar under both
arrangements. However, the impact of subscriber acquisition on many of our line item business
metrics was substantially different under the original AT&T agreement, compared to most other sales
channels (including the revised AT&T agreement).
Among other things, our Subscriber-related revenue will be impacted in a number of respects.
Commencing in the fourth quarter 2005, new subscribers acquired under our revised AT&T agreement do
not generate equipment sales, installation or other services revenue from AT&T. However, our
programming services revenue is greater for subscribers acquired under the revised AT&T agreement.
Deferred equipment sales revenue relating to subscribers acquired through our original AT&T
agreement will continue to have a positive impact on Subscriber-related revenue over the
estimated average life of those subscribers. Further, development and implementation fees received
from AT&T will continue to be recognized over the estimated average subscriber life of all
subscribers acquired under both the original and revised agreements with AT&T.
Equipment sales. Equipment sales include sales of non-DISH Network digital receivers and related
components to an international DBS service provider and to other international customers.
Equipment sales also includes unsubsidized sales of DBS accessories to retailers and other
distributors of our equipment domestically and to DISH Network subscribers. Equipment sales does
not include revenue from sales of equipment to AT&T.
Effective the second quarter of 2006, we reclassified certain warranty and service related revenue
from Equipment sales to Subscriber-related revenue. All prior period amounts were reclassified
to conform to the current period presentation.
Other sales. Other sales consist principally of satellite transmission revenue and C-band
subscription television service revenue.
Subscriber-related expenses. Subscriber-related expenses principally include programming
expenses, costs incurred in connection with our in-home service and call center operations,
overhead costs associated with our installation business, copyright royalties, billing costs,
residual commissions paid to distributors, direct marketers, retailers and telecommunications
partners, refurbishment and repair costs related to EchoStar receiver systems, subscriber retention
and other variable subscriber expenses. Subscriber-related expenses also include the cost of
sales from equipment sales, and expenses related to installation and other services from our
original agreement with AT&T. Cost of sales from equipment sales to AT&T are deferred and
recognized over the estimated average co-branded subscriber life. Expenses from installation and
certain other services performed at the request of AT&T are recognized as the services are
performed.
23
Item 2.
MANAGEMENTS NARRATIVE ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS Continued
Under the revised AT&T agreement, we are including costs from equipment and installations in
Subscriber acquisition costs or in capital expenditures, rather than in Subscriber-related
expenses. To the extent all other factors remain constant, this will tend to improve operating
margins compared to previous periods. We will continue to include in Subscriber-related expenses
the costs deferred from equipment sales made to AT&T. These costs are being amortized over the
life of the subscribers acquired under the original AT&T agreement.
Since equipment and installation costs previously reflected in Subscriber-related expenses are
being included in Subscriber acquisition costs or in capital expenditures under the revised AT&T
agreement, to the extent all other factors remain constant, this change will also cause increases
in Subscriber acquisition costs and SAC. This will tend to negatively impact free cash flow in
the short term if substantial additional subscribers are added through AT&T in the future, but we
believe that free cash flow will improve over time since better operating margins are expected from
those customers under the terms of the revised AT&T agreement. We also expect that the historical
negative impact on subscriber turnover from subscribers acquired pursuant to our agreement with
AT&T will decline.
Satellite and transmission expenses. Satellite and transmission expenses include costs
associated with the operation of our digital broadcast centers, the transmission of local channels,
satellite telemetry, tracking and control services, satellite and transponder leases, and other
related services.
Cost of sales equipment. Cost of sales equipment principally includes costs associated with
non-DISH Network digital receivers and related components sold to an international DBS service
provider and to other international customers. Cost of sales equipment also includes
unsubsidized sales of DBS accessories to retailers and other distributors of our equipment
domestically and to DISH Network subscribers. Cost of sales equipment does not include the
costs from sales of equipment to AT&T.
Effective the second quarter of 2006, we reclassified certain warranty and service related expenses
from Cost of sales equipment to Subscriber-related expenses and Depreciation and
amortization. All prior period amounts were reclassified to conform to the current period
presentation.
Cost of sales other. Cost of sales other principally includes programming and other expenses
associated with the C-band subscription television service business of SNG and costs related to
satellite transmission services.
Subscriber acquisition costs. In addition to leasing receivers, we generally subsidize
installation and all or a portion of the cost of EchoStar receiver systems in order to attract new
DISH Network subscribers. Our Subscriber acquisition costs include the cost of EchoStar receiver
systems sold to retailers and other distributors of our equipment, the cost of receiver systems
sold directly by us to subscribers, net costs related to our promotional incentives, and costs
related to installation and acquisition advertising. We exclude the value of equipment capitalized
under our lease program for new subscribers from Subscriber acquisition costs.
As discussed above, equipment and installation costs previously reflected in Subscriber-related
expenses are being included in Subscriber acquisition costs or in capital expenditures under the
revised AT&T agreement. To the extent all other factors remain constant, this change will also
cause increases in Subscriber acquisition costs and SAC. This will tend to negatively impact
free cash flow in the short term if substantial additional subscribers are added through AT&T in
the future, but we believe that free cash flow will improve over time since better operating
margins are expected from those customers under the terms of the revised AT&T agreement. The
historical negative impact on subscriber turnover from subscribers acquired pursuant to our
agreement with AT&T declined under the revised AT&T agreement.
SAC. We are not aware of any uniform standards for calculating the average subscriber acquisition
costs per new subscriber activation, or SAC, and we believe presentations of SAC may not be
calculated consistently by different companies in the same or similar businesses. We include all
new DISH Network subscribers in our calculation, including DISH Network subscribers added with
little or no subscriber acquisition costs.
Prior to January 1, 2006, we calculated SAC for the period by dividing the amount of our expense
line item Subscriber acquisition costs for the period, by our gross new DISH Network subscribers
added during that period. Separately, we then disclosed our Equivalent SAC for the period by
adding the value of equipment capitalized
24
Item 2.
MANAGEMENTS NARRATIVE ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS Continued
under our lease program for new subscribers, and other offsetting amounts, to our Subscriber
acquisition cost expense line item prior to dividing by our gross new subscriber number.
Management believes subscriber acquisition cost measures are commonly used by those evaluating
companies in the multi-channel video programming distribution, or MVPD, industry. Because our
Equivalent SAC includes all of the costs of acquiring subscribers (i.e., subsidized and capitalized
equipment), our management focuses on Equivalent SAC as the more comprehensive measure of how much
we are spending to acquire new subscribers. As such, effective January 1, 2006, we began
disclosing only Equivalent SAC, which we now refer to as SAC. SAC is now calculated as
Subscriber acquisition costs, plus the value of equipment capitalized under our lease program for
new subscribers, divided by gross subscriber additions. During the first quarter of 2006, we
included in our calculation of SAC the benefit of payments we received in connection with equipment
not returned to us from disconnecting lease subscribers and returned equipment that is made
available for sale rather than being redeployed through our lease program, as described in that
Form 10-Q. Effective the second quarter of 2006, our revised SAC calculation no longer includes
these benefits. Instead, these benefits are separately disclosed. All prior period SAC
calculations have been revised to conform to the current period calculation.
General and administrative expenses. General and administrative expenses primarily include
employee-related costs associated with administrative services such as legal, information systems,
accounting and finance. It also includes outside professional fees (i.e. legal and accounting
services) and building maintenance expense and other items associated with administration.
Interest expense. Interest expense primarily includes interest expense, prepayment premiums and
amortization of debt issuance costs associated with our senior debt and convertible subordinated
debt securities (net of capitalized interest) and interest expense associated with our capital
lease obligations.
Other income (expense). The main components of Other income and expense are gains and losses
realized on the sale of investments, and impairment of marketable and non-marketable investment
securities.
Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA). EBITDA is defined as
Net income (loss) plus Interest expense net of Interest income, Taxes and Depreciation and
amortization.
DISH Network subscribers. We include customers obtained through direct sales, and through our
retail networks, including our co-branding relationship with AT&T and other distribution
relationships, in our DISH Network subscriber count. We believe our overall economic return for
co-branded and traditional subscribers will be comparable. We also provide DISH Network service to
hotels, motels and other commercial accounts. For certain of these commercial accounts, we divide
our total revenue for these commercial accounts by an amount approximately equal to the retail
price of our most widely distributed programming package, AT60 (but taking into account,
periodically, price changes and other factors), and include the resulting number, which is
substantially smaller than the actual number of commercial units served, in our DISH Network
subscriber count.
During April 2004, we acquired a C-band subscription television service business, the assets of
which primarily consist of acquired customer relationships. Although we are converting some of
these customer relationships from C-band subscription television services to our DISH Network DBS
subscription television service, acquired C-band subscribers are not included in our DISH Network
subscriber count unless they have also subscribed to our DISH Network DBS television service.
Monthly average revenue per subscriber (ARPU). We are not aware of any uniform standards for
calculating ARPU and believe presentations of ARPU may not be calculated consistently by other
companies in the same or similar businesses. We calculate average monthly revenue per subscriber,
or ARPU, by dividing average monthly Subscriber-related revenues for the period (total
Subscriber-related revenue during the period divided by the number of months in the period) by
our average DISH Network subscribers for the period. Average DISH Network subscribers are
calculated for the period by adding the average DISH Network subscribers for each month and
dividing by the number of months in the period. Average DISH Network subscribers for each month
are calculated by adding the beginning and ending DISH Network subscribers for the month and
dividing by two.
25
Item 2.
MANAGEMENTS NARRATIVE ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS Continued
The changes to our agreement with AT&T will also impact ARPU. The magnitude of that impact, and
whether ARPU increases or decreases during particular future periods, will depend on the timing and
number of subscribers acquired pursuant to the modified agreement with AT&T.
Subscriber churn rate/subscriber turnover. We are not aware of any uniform standards for
calculating subscriber churn rate and believe presentations of subscriber churn rates may not be
calculated consistently by different companies in the same or similar businesses. We calculate
percentage monthly subscriber churn by dividing the number of DISH Network subscribers who
terminate service during each month by total DISH Network subscribers as of the beginning of that
month. We calculate average subscriber churn rate for any period by dividing the number of DISH
Network subscribers who terminated service during that period by the average number of DISH Network
subscribers subject to churn during the period, and further dividing by the number of months in the
period. Average DISH Network subscribers subject to churn during the period are calculated by
adding the DISH Network subscribers as of the beginning of each month in the period and dividing by
the total number of months in the period.
Free cash flow. We define free cash flow as Net cash flows from operating activities less
Purchases of property and equipment, as shown on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash
Flows.
26
Item 2.
MANAGEMENTS NARRATIVE ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS Continued
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Three Months Ended September 30, 2006 Compared to the Three Months Ended September 30, 2005.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the Three Months |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
Variance |
|
|
|
2006 |
|
|
2005 |
|
|
Amount |
|
|
% |
|
|
|
(In thousands) |
|
Statements of Operations Data |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Revenue: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Subscriber-related revenue |
|
$ |
2,373,887 |
|
|
$ |
2,010,437 |
|
|
$ |
363,450 |
|
|
|
18.1 |
% |
Equipment sales |
|
|
74,064 |
|
|
|
95,083 |
|
|
|
(21,019 |
) |
|
|
(22.1 |
%) |
Other |
|
|
19,357 |
|
|
|
21,687 |
|
|
|
(2,330 |
) |
|
|
(10.7 |
%) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total revenue |
|
|
2,467,308 |
|
|
|
2,127,207 |
|
|
|
340,101 |
|
|
|
16.0 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Costs and Expenses: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Subscriber-related expenses |
|
|
1,225,634 |
|
|
|
1,000,817 |
|
|
|
224,817 |
|
|
|
22.5 |
% |
% of Subscriber-related revenue |
|
|
51.6 |
% |
|
|
49.8 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Satellite and transmission expenses |
|
|
36,326 |
|
|
|
33,855 |
|
|
|
2,471 |
|
|
|
7.3 |
% |
% of Subscriber-related revenue |
|
|
1.5 |
% |
|
|
1.7 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cost of sales equipment |
|
|
58,725 |
|
|
|
68,904 |
|
|
|
(10,179 |
) |
|
|
(14.8 |
%) |
% of Equipment sales |
|
|
79.3 |
% |
|
|
72.5 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cost of sales other |
|
|
2,018 |
|
|
|
4,732 |
|
|
|
(2,714 |
) |
|
|
(57.4 |
%) |
Subscriber acquisition costs |
|
|
439,457 |
|
|
|
403,445 |
|
|
|
36,012 |
|
|
|
8.9 |
% |
General and administrative |
|
|
132,489 |
|
|
|
112,761 |
|
|
|
19,728 |
|
|
|
17.5 |
% |
% of Total revenue |
|
|
5.4 |
% |
|
|
5.3 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Tivo litigation expense |
|
|
1,442 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,442 |
|
|
|
N/M |
|
Depreciation and amortization |
|
|
295,670 |
|
|
|
211,109 |
|
|
|
84,561 |
|
|
|
40.1 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total costs and expenses |
|
|
2,191,761 |
|
|
|
1,835,623 |
|
|
|
356,138 |
|
|
|
19.4 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating income (loss) |
|
|
275,547 |
|
|
|
291,584 |
|
|
|
(16,037 |
) |
|
|
(5.5 |
%) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other income (expense): |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest income |
|
|
34,565 |
|
|
|
10,447 |
|
|
|
24,118 |
|
|
|
N/M |
|
Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized |
|
|
(95,505 |
) |
|
|
(76,997 |
) |
|
|
(18,508 |
) |
|
|
(24.0 |
%) |
Other |
|
|
(898 |
) |
|
|
(638 |
) |
|
|
(260 |
) |
|
|
(40.8 |
%) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total other income (expense) |
|
|
(61,838 |
) |
|
|
(67,188 |
) |
|
|
5,350 |
|
|
|
8.0 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income (loss) before income taxes |
|
|
213,709 |
|
|
|
224,396 |
|
|
|
(10,687 |
) |
|
|
(4.8 |
%) |
Income tax benefit (provision), net |
|
|
(79,546 |
) |
|
|
5,522 |
|
|
|
(85,068 |
) |
|
|
N/M |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net income (loss) |
|
$ |
134,163 |
|
|
$ |
229,918 |
|
|
$ |
(95,755 |
) |
|
|
(41.6 |
%) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other Data: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
DISH Network subscribers, as of period end (in millions) |
|
|
12.755 |
|
|
|
11.710 |
|
|
|
1.045 |
|
|
|
8.9 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
DISH Network subscriber additions, gross (in millions) |
|
|
0.958 |
|
|
|
0.900 |
|
|
|
0.058 |
|
|
|
6.4 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
DISH Network subscriber additions, net (in millions) |
|
|
0.295 |
|
|
|
0.255 |
|
|
|
0.040 |
|
|
|
15.7 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Subscriber churn rate |
|
|
1.76 |
% |
|
|
1.86 |
% |
|
|
(0.10 |
%) |
|
|
(5.4 |
%) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average revenue per subscriber (ARPU) |
|
$ |
62.86 |
|
|
$ |
57.87 |
|
|
$ |
4.99 |
|
|
|
8.6 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average subscriber acquisition costs per subscriber (SAC) |
|
$ |
688 |
|
|
$ |
697 |
|
|
$ |
(9 |
) |
|
|
(1.3 |
%) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
EBITDA |
|
$ |
570,319 |
|
|
$ |
502,055 |
|
|
$ |
68,264 |
|
|
|
13.6 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
27
Item 2.
MANAGEMENTS NARRATIVE ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS Continued
DISH Network subscribers. As of September 30, 2006, we had approximately 12.755 million DISH
Network subscribers compared to approximately 11.710 million subscribers at September 30, 2005, an
increase of 8.9%. DISH Network added approximately 958,000 gross new subscribers for the three
months ended September 30, 2006, compared to approximately 900,000 gross new subscribers during the
same period in 2005, an increase of 58,000 gross new subscribers. The increase in gross new
subscribers resulted in large part from increased advertising and the effectiveness of our
promotions and products during the quarter. A substantial majority of our gross new subscribers
are acquired through our equipment lease program.
DISH Network added approximately 295,000 net new subscribers for the three months ended September
30, 2006, compared to approximately 255,000 net new subscribers during the same period in 2005, an
increase of 15.7%. This increase resulted from a decrease in subscriber churn rate and the
increase in gross new subscribers discussed above, offset in part by a larger subscriber base. As
the size of our subscriber base increases, even if our subscriber churn rate remains constant or
declines, increasing numbers of gross new DISH Network subscribers are required to sustain net
subscriber growth.
Our net new subscriber additions are negatively impacted when existing and new competitors offer
more attractive alternatives, including, among other things, video services bundled with broadband
and other telecommunications services, better priced or more attractive programming packages or
more compelling consumer electronic products and services, including advanced DVRs, video on demand
(VOD) services, and high definition (HD) television services or additional local channels. We
also expect to face increasing competition from content and other providers who distribute video
services directly to consumers over the internet.
Subscriber-related revenue. DISH Network Subscriber-related revenue totaled $2.374 billion for
the three months ended September 30, 2006, an increase of $363.5 million or 18.1% compared to the
same period in 2005. This increase was attributable to DISH Network subscriber growth and an
increase in ARPU discussed below.
ARPU. Monthly average revenue per subscriber was $62.86 during the three months ended September
30, 2006 versus $57.87 during the same period in 2005. The $4.99 or 8.6% increase in ARPU was
primarily attributable to price increases in February 2006 on some of our most popular packages,
smaller monthly programming discounts than we offered in our 2005 promotions, higher equipment
rental fees resulting from increased penetration of our equipment leasing programs, fees for DVRs,
revenue from increased availability of standard and high definition local channels by satellite and
fees earned from our DishHOME Protection Plan. This increase was partially offset by a decrease in
revenues from installation and other services related to our original agreement with AT&T compared
to the same period in 2005.
On October 20, 2006, a District Court in Florida entered a permanent nationwide injunction
prohibiting us from offering distant network channels to consumers effective December 1, 2006.
Approximately 900,000 of our customers currently subscribe to distant network channels, generating
approximately $3.0 million of gross distant network channel revenue per month. We are pursuing
judicial, legislative and other avenues to attempt to protect access to these channels by our
customers but there can be no assurance we will be successful. If we are forced to stop offering
ABC, NBC, CBS and FOX distant channels, we will attempt to assist subscribers in arranging
alternatives, including migration to local channels by satellite where available, and free off air
antenna offers in other markets. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty how many of our
distant network subscribers would cancel their primary DISH Network programming as a result of
termination of their distant channels. Termination of distant network channels will result, among
other things, in a small reduction in average monthly revenue per subscriber and free cash flow,
and a temporary increase in subscriber churn. We would also be at a competitive disadvantage in
the future, since the
injunction prohibits us from offering distant network channels that may continue to be offered by
our competitors to new customers in markets where they do not offer local channels.
Equipment sales. For the three months ended September 30, 2006, Equipment sales totaled $74.1
million, a decrease of $21.0 million or 22.1% compared to the same period during 2005. This
decrease principally resulted from a decline in sales of non-DISH Network digital receivers and
related components to international customers.
28
Item 2.
MANAGEMENTS NARRATIVE ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS Continued
Subscriber-related expenses. Subscriber-related expenses totaled $1.226 billion during the three
months ended September 30, 2006, an increase of $224.8 million or 22.5% compared to what was
incurred in the same period in 2005. The increase in Subscriber-related expenses was primarily
attributable to the increase in the number of DISH Network subscribers together with increased
costs described below. Subscriber-related expenses represented 51.6% and 49.8% of
Subscriber-related revenue during the three months ended September 30, 2006 and 2005,
respectively. The increase in this expense to revenue ratio primarily resulted from lower
programming margins, together with higher refurbishment and repair costs for returned EchoStar
receiver systems associated with increased penetration of our equipment lease programs. The
increase in this ratio also resulted from higher costs associated with the expansion of our in-home
service and call center operations to support DISH Network subscriber growth and to improve service
levels. These increases were partially offset by a decrease in costs associated with installation
and other services related to our original agreement with AT&T.
In the normal course of business, we enter into various contracts with programmers to provide
content. Our programming contracts generally require us to make payments based on the number of
subscribers to which the respective content is provided. Consequently, our programming expenses
will continue to increase to the extent we are successful in growing our subscriber base. In
addition, because programmers continue to raise the price of content, our Subscriber-related
expenses as a percentage of Subscriber-related revenue could materially increase absent
corresponding price increases in our DISH Network programming packages.
Satellite and transmission expenses. Satellite and transmission expenses totaled $36.3 million
during the three months ended September 30, 2006, a $2.5 million or 7.3% increase compared to the
same period in 2005. This increase primarily resulted from an increase in certain operational
costs associated with our capital leases of AMC-15 and AMC-16. Satellite and transmission
expenses totaled 1.5% and 1.7% of Subscriber-related revenue during the three months ended
September 30, 2006 and 2005, respectively. These expenses will increase further in the future as
we increase the size of our satellite fleet, if we obtain in-orbit satellite insurance, as we grow
our digital broadcast centers and as additional standard and high definition local markets and
other programming services are launched.
Cost of sales equipment. Cost of sales equipment totaled $58.7 million during the three
months ended September 30, 2006, a decrease of $10.2 million or 14.8% compared to the same period
in 2005. This decrease resulted from a decline in sales of non-DISH Network digital receivers and
related components to international customers. Cost of sales equipment represented 79.3% and
72.5% of Equipment sales, during the three months ended September 30, 2006 and 2005,
respectively. The increase in the expense to revenue ratio was principally related to lower
margins on domestic sales of DBS accessories and higher charges for slow moving and obsolete
inventory in 2006, partially offset by improved margins on sales of non-DISH Network digital
receivers and related components to international customers.
Subscriber acquisition costs. Subscriber acquisition costs totaled $439.5 million for the three
months ended September 30, 2006, an increase of $36.0 million or 8.9% compared to the same period
in 2005. The increase in Subscriber acquisition costs was primarily attributable to an increase
in gross new subscribers and a decline in the number of co-branded subscribers acquired under our
original AT&T agreement, for which we do not incur subscriber acquisition costs. This increase was
also attributable to higher installation and acquisition advertising costs, partially offset by a
higher number of DISH Network subscribers participating in our equipment lease program for new
subscribers. The introduction of new equipment resulted in a decrease in our cost per installation
during 2006 compared to 2005, however as a result of increased volume our overall installation
expense increased.
SAC. SAC was $688 during the three months ended September 30, 2006 compared to $697 during the
same period in 2005, a decrease of $9, or 1.3%. This decrease was primarily attributable to lower
average equipment and
installation costs. The decrease was partially offset by a decline in the number of co-branded
subscribers acquired under our original AT&T agreement and higher acquisition marketing costs. As
previously discussed, the calculation of SAC for prior periods has been revised to conform to the
current year presentation.
Our principal method for reducing the cost of subscriber equipment is to lease our receiver systems
to new subscribers rather than selling systems to them at little or no cost. Upon termination of
service, lease subscribers are
29
Item 2.
MANAGEMENTS NARRATIVE ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS Continued
required to return the leased equipment to us or be charged for the
equipment. Leased equipment that is returned to us which we redeploy to new lease customers,
results in reduced capital expenditures, and thus reduced SAC.
The percentage of our new subscribers choosing to lease rather than purchase equipment continued to
increase for the three months ended September 30, 2006 compared to the same period in 2005. During
the three months ended September 30, 2006 and 2005, the amount of equipment capitalized under our
lease program for new subscribers totaled $220.0 million and $225.0 million, respectively. This
decrease in capital expenditures under our lease program for new subscribers resulted primarily
from lower hardware costs per receiver, fewer receivers per installation as the number of dual
tuner receivers we install continues to increase, increased redeployment of equipment returned by
disconnecting lease program subscribers, and a reduction in accessory costs related to the
introduction of less costly installation technology and our migration away from relatively
expensive and complex SuperDISH installations. Any increases in capital expenditures resulting
from our equipment lease program for new subscribers have been, and we expect will continue to be,
partially mitigated by, among other things, the redeployment of equipment returned by disconnecting
lease program subscribers. However, to remain competitive we will have to upgrade or replace
subscriber equipment periodically as technology changes, and the associated costs may be
substantial. To the extent technological changes render existing equipment obsolete, we would be
unable to redeploy all returned equipment and would realize less benefit from the SAC reduction
associated with redeployment of that returned lease equipment.
As previously discussed, our SAC calculation does not include the benefit of payments we received
in connection with equipment not returned to us from disconnecting lease subscribers and returned
equipment that is made available for sale rather than being redeployed through our lease program.
During the three months ended September 30, 2006 and 2005, these amounts totaled $28.9 million and
$24.6 million, respectively.
Several years ago, we began deploying satellite receivers capable of exploiting 8PSK modulation
technology. Since that technology is now standard in all of our new satellite receivers, our cost
to migrate programming channels to that technology in the future will be substantially lower than
if it were necessary to replace all existing consumer equipment. As we continue to implement 8PSK
technology, bandwidth efficiency will improve, significantly increasing the number of programming
channels we can transmit over our existing satellites as an alternative or supplement to the
acquisition of additional spectrum or the construction of additional satellites. New channels we
add to our service using only that technology may allow us to further reduce conversion costs and
create additional revenue opportunities. We have also implemented MPEG-4 technology in all
satellite receivers for new customers who subscribe to our HD programming packages. This
technology should result in further bandwidth efficiencies over time. We have not yet determined
the extent to which we will convert the EchoStar DBS System to these new technologies, or the
period of time over which the conversions will occur. Since EchoStar X commenced commercial
operation during the second quarter of 2006 and provided that other planned satellites are
successfully deployed, this increased satellite capacity and our 8PSK transition will afford us
greater flexibility in delaying and reducing the costs otherwise required to convert our subscriber
base to MPEG-4.
While we may be able to generate increased revenue from such conversions, the deployment of
equipment including new technologies will increase the cost of our consumer equipment, at least in
the short term. SAC will increase to the extent we subsidize those costs for new and existing
subscribers. These increases may be mitigated to the extent we successfully redeploy existing
set-top boxes and implement other SAC reduction strategies.
Our Subscriber acquisition costs, both in aggregate and on a per new subscriber activation basis,
may further materially increase in the future to the extent that we introduce more aggressive
promotions if we determine that they are necessary to respond to competition, or for other reasons.
General and administrative expenses. General and administrative expenses totaled $132.5 million
during the three months ended September 30, 2006, an increase of $19.7 million or 17.5% compared to
the same period in 2005. This increase was primarily attributable to increased personnel and
related costs to support the growth of the DISH Network, including non-cash, stock based
compensation expense recorded related to the adoption of SFAS 123 (R). General and administrative
expenses represented 5.4% and 5.3% of Total revenue during the three months ended September 30,
2006 and 2005, respectively.
30
Item 2.
MANAGEMENTS NARRATIVE ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS Continued
Tivo litigation expense. We previously recorded $88.2 million of Tivo litigation expense.
During the three months ended September 30, 2006 we recorded an additional $1.4 million, increasing
our prior estimate to reflect the full amount of the July 31, 2006 Texas court judgment, which was
not issued until August 17, 2006. Based on our current analysis of the case, including the
appellate record and other factors, we believe it is more likely than not that we will prevail on
appeal. Consequently, we are not recording additional amounts for supplemental damages or interest
subsequent to the July 31, 2006 judgment date.
Depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization expense totaled $295.7 million
during the three months ended September 30, 2006, an increase of $84.6 million or 40.1% compared to
the same period in 2005. The increase in Depreciation and amortization expense was primarily
attributable to increased penetration of our equipment lease programs which resulted in the
capitalization of more equipment and, to a much smaller degree, additional depreciation related to
satellites and other depreciable assets placed in service to support the DISH Network.
Interest income. Interest income totaled $34.6 million during the three months ended September
30, 2006, an increase of $24.1 million compared to the same period in 2005. This increase
principally resulted from higher cash and marketable investment securities balances in 2006 as
compared to 2005, and from higher total returns earned on our cash and marketable investment
securities during 2006.
Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized. Interest expense totaled $95.5 million during the
three months ended September 30, 2006, an increase of $18.5 million or 24.0% compared to the same
period in 2005. This increase primarily resulted from a net increase in interest expense of $16.6
million related to the issuance of the $1.5 billion 7 1/8% Senior Notes due 2016 and the redemption
of our previously outstanding 9 1/8% Senior Notes due 2009 during 2006.
Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization. EBITDA was $570.3 million during
the three months ended September 30, 2006, an increase of $68.3 million or 13.6% compared to the
same period in 2005. The increase in EBITDA was primarily attributable to changes in operating
revenues and expenses discussed above.
The following table reconciles EBITDA to Net income (loss):
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the Three Months |
|
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
|
2006 |
|
|
2005 |
|
|
|
(In thousands) |
|
EBITDA |
|
$ |
570,319 |
|
|
$ |
502,055 |
|
Less: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest expense, net |
|
|
60,940 |
|
|
|
66,550 |
|
Income tax provision (benefit), net |
|
|
79,546 |
|
|
|
(5,522 |
) |
Depreciation and amortization |
|
|
295,670 |
|
|
|
211,109 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net income(loss) |
|
$ |
134,163 |
|
|
$ |
229,918 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
EBITDA is not a measure determined in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in
the United States, or GAAP, and should not be considered a substitute for operating income, net
income or any other measure determined in accordance with GAAP. EBITDA is used as a measurement of
operating efficiency and overall financial performance and we believe it to be a helpful measure
for those evaluating companies in the multi-channel video programming distribution industry.
Conceptually, EBITDA measures the amount of income generated each period that could be used to
service debt, pay taxes and fund capital expenditures. EBITDA should not be considered in
isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with GAAP.
Income tax benefit (provision), net. Our income tax provision was $79.5 million during the three
months ended September 30, 2006 compared to a benefit of $5.5 million during 2005. The income tax
benefit for the three months ended September 30, 2005 included an approximate $77.8 million credit
resulting from the reversal of our recorded valuation allowance. The three months ended September
30, 2006, includes a credit of $4.8 million related to amended
31
Item 2.
MANAGEMENTS NARRATIVE ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS Continued
state filings. Our effective tax
rate going forward is expected to be approximately 37.8% of income before income taxes.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the Three Months |
|
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
|
2006 |
|
|
2005 |
|
|
|
(In thousands) |
|
Adjusted income tax benefit (provision), net |
|
$ |
(84,377 |
) |
|
$ |
(72,320 |
) |
Less: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Valuation allowance reversal |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(77,842 |
) |
Amended state filings |
|
|
(4,831 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income tax benefit (provision), net |
|
$ |
(79,546 |
) |
|
$ |
5,522 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net income (loss). Net income was $134.2 million during the three months ended September 30, 2006,
a decrease of $95.8 million compared to $229.9 million for the same period in 2005. The decrease
was attributable to the quarter over quarter changes discussed above.
32
Item 2.
MANAGEMENTS NARRATIVE ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS Continued
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2006 Compared to the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2005.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the Nine Months |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
Variance |
|
|
|
2006 |
|
|
2005 |
|
|
Amount |
|
|
% |
|
|
|
(In thousands) |
|
Statements of Operations Data |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Revenue: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Subscriber-related revenue |
|
$ |
6,884,071 |
|
|
$ |
5,898,758 |
|
|
$ |
985,313 |
|
|
|
16.7 |
% |
Equipment sales |
|
|
272,355 |
|
|
|
276,340 |
|
|
|
(3,985 |
) |
|
|
(1.4 |
%) |
Other |
|
|
57,937 |
|
|
|
70,132 |
|
|
|
(12,195 |
) |
|
|
(17.4 |
%) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total revenue |
|
|
7,214,363 |
|
|
|
6,245,230 |
|
|
|
969,133 |
|
|
|
15.5 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Costs and Expenses: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Subscriber-related expenses |
|
|
3,513,880 |
|
|
|
3,022,993 |
|
|
|
490,887 |
|
|
|
16.2 |
% |
% of Subscriber-related revenue |
|
|
51.0 |
% |
|
|
51.2 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Satellite and transmission expenses |
|
|
106,832 |
|
|
|
95,965 |
|
|
|
10,867 |
|
|
|
11.3 |
% |
% of Subscriber-related revenue |
|
|
1.6 |
% |
|
|
1.6 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cost of sales equipment |
|
|
212,452 |
|
|
|
206,571 |
|
|
|
5,881 |
|
|
|
2.8 |
% |
% of Equipment sales |
|
|
78.0 |
% |
|
|
74.8 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cost of sales other |
|
|
5,313 |
|
|
|
19,807 |
|
|
|
(14,494 |
) |
|
|
(73.2 |
%) |
Subscriber acquisition costs |
|
|
1,174,307 |
|
|
|
1,082,877 |
|
|
|
91,430 |
|
|
|
8.4 |
% |
General and administrative |
|
|
399,737 |
|
|
|
331,099 |
|
|
|
68,638 |
|
|
|
20.7 |
% |
% of Total revenue |
|
|
5.5 |
% |
|
|
5.3 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Tivo litigation expense |
|
|
89,677 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
89,677 |
|
|
|
N/M |
|
Depreciation and amortization |
|
|
815,224 |
|
|
|
568,663 |
|
|
|
246,561 |
|
|
|
43.4 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total costs and expenses |
|
|
6,317,422 |
|
|
|
5,327,975 |
|
|
|
989,447 |
|
|
|
18.6 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating income (loss) |
|
|
896,941 |
|
|
|
917,255 |
|
|
|
(20,314 |
) |
|
|
(2.2 |
%) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other income (expense): |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest income |
|
|
84,337 |
|
|
|
23,197 |
|
|
|
61,140 |
|
|
|
N/M |
|
Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized |
|
|
(303,299 |
) |
|
|
(226,491 |
) |
|
|
(76,808 |
) |
|
|
(33.9 |
%) |
Gain on insurance settlement |
|
|
|
|
|
|
134,000 |
|
|
|
(134,000 |
) |
|
|
(100.0 |
%) |
Other |
|
|
(4,223 |
) |
|
|
(852 |
) |
|
|
(3,371 |
) |
|
|
N/M |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total other income (expense) |
|
|
(223,185 |
) |
|
|
(70,146 |
) |
|
|
(153,039 |
) |
|
|
N/M |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income (loss) before income taxes |
|
|
673,756 |
|
|
|
847,109 |
|
|
|
(173,353 |
) |
|
|
(20.5 |
%) |
Income tax benefit (provision), net |
|
|
(243,461 |
) |
|
|
135,723 |
|
|
|
(379,184 |
) |
|
|
N/M |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net income (loss) |
|
$ |
430,295 |
|
|
$ |
982,832 |
|
|
$ |
(552,537 |
) |
|
|
(56.2 |
%) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other Data: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
DISH Network subscribers, as of period end (in millions) |
|
|
12.755 |
|
|
|
11.710 |
|
|
|
1.045 |
|
|
|
8.9 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
DISH Network subscriber additions, gross (in millions) |
|
|
2.576 |
|
|
|
2.499 |
|
|
|
0.077 |
|
|
|
3.1 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
DISH Network subscriber additions, net (in millions) |
|
|
0.715 |
|
|
|
0.805 |
|
|
|
(0.090 |
) |
|
|
(11.2 |
%) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Subscriber churn rate |
|
|
1.68 |
% |
|
|
1.67 |
% |
|
|
0.01 |
% |
|
|
0.6 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average revenue per subscriber (ARPU) |
|
$ |
61.87 |
|
|
$ |
57.83 |
|
|
$ |
4.04 |
|
|
|
7.0 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average subscriber acquisition costs per subscriber (SAC) |
|
$ |
689 |
|
|
$ |
680 |
|
|
$ |
9 |
|
|
|
1.3 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
EBITDA |
|
$ |
1,707,942 |
|
|
$ |
1,619,066 |
|
|
$ |
88,876 |
|
|
|
5.5 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
33
Item 2.
MANAGEMENTS NARRATIVE ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS Continued
Subscriber-related revenue. DISH Network Subscriber-related revenue totaled $6.884 billion for
the nine months ended September 30, 2006, an increase of $985.3 million or 16.7% compared to the
same period in 2005. This increase was directly attributable to continued DISH Network subscriber
growth and the increase in ARPU discussed below.
ARPU. Monthly average revenue per DISH Network subscriber was $61.87 during the nine months ended
September 30, 2006 and $57.83 during the same period in 2005. The $4.04 or 7.0% increase in ARPU
is primarily attributable to price increases in February 2006 and 2005 on some of our most popular
packages, higher equipment rental fees resulting from increased penetration of our equipment
leasing programs, fees for DVRs, revenue from increased availability of standard and high
definition local channels by satellite and fees earned from our DishHOME Protection Plan. This
increase was partially offset by a decrease in revenues from installation and other services
related to our original agreement with AT&T and a greater impact from our discounted programming
promotions during 2006 compared to the same period in 2005.
Equipment sales. For the nine months ended September 30, 2006, Equipment sales totaled $272.4
million, a decrease of $4.0 million or 1.4% compared to the same period during 2005. This decrease
principally resulted from a decline in domestic sales of DBS accessories, partially offset by an
increase in sales of non-DISH Network digital receivers and related components to international
customers.
Subscriber-related expenses. Subscriber-related expenses totaled $3.514 billion during the nine
months ended September 30, 2006, an increase of $490.9 million or 16.2% compared to the same period
in 2005. The increase in Subscriber-related expenses was primarily attributable to the increase
in the number of DISH Network subscribers together with increased costs described below.
Subscriber-related expenses represented 51.0% and 51.2% of Subscriber-related revenue during
the nine months ended September 30, 2006 and 2005, respectively. The decrease in this expense to
revenue ratio primarily resulted from the decline in costs associated with installation and other
services related to our original agreement with AT&T, partially offset by a decrease in programming
margins together with an increase in refurbishment and repair costs for returned EchoStar receiver
systems.
Satellite and transmission expenses. Satellite and transmission expenses totaled $106.8 million
during the nine months ended September 30, 2006, a $10.9 million or 11.3% increase compared to the
same period in 2005. This increase primarily resulted from higher operational costs associated
with our capital leases of AMC-15 and AMC-16, and from commencement of service and operational
costs associated with the increasing number of markets in which we offer standard and high
definition local network channels by satellite. Satellite and transmission expenses totaled 1.6%
of Subscriber-related revenue during each of the nine months ended September 30, 2006 and 2005.
Cost of sales equipment. Cost of sales equipment totaled $212.5 million during the nine
months ended September 30, 2006, an increase of $5.9 million or 2.8% compared to the same period in
2005. This increase primarily resulted from an increase in sales of non-DISH Network digital
receivers and related components to international customers and higher 2006 charges for slow moving
and obsolete inventory in 2006, partially offset by a decline in costs associated with domestic
sales of DBS accessories. Cost of sales equipment represented 78.0% and 74.8% of Equipment
sales, during the nine months ended September 30, 2006 and 2005, respectively. The increase in
the expense to revenue ratio principally related to higher charges for slow moving and obsolete
inventory in 2006 and a decrease in margins on domestic sales of DBS accessories, partially offset
by improved margins on sales of non-DISH Network digital receivers and related components to
international customers.
Subscriber acquisition costs. Subscriber acquisition costs totaled $1.174 billion for the nine
months ended September 30, 2006, an increase of $91.4 million or 8.4% compared to the same period
in 2005. The increase in Subscriber acquisition costs was primarily attributable to an increase
in gross new subscribers and, to a lesser extent, a decline in the number of co-branded subscribers
acquired under our original AT&T agreement, for which we did not incur subscriber acquisition
costs. This increase was also attributable to higher installation and acquisition advertising
costs, partially offset by a higher number of DISH Network subscribers participating in our
equipment lease
34
Item 2.
MANAGEMENTS NARRATIVE ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS Continued
program for new subscribers. The introduction of new equipment resulted in a decrease in our cost
per installation during 2006 compared to 2005, however as a result of increased volume our overall
installation expense increased.
SAC. SAC was $689 during the nine months ended September 30, 2006 compared to $680 during the same
period in 2005, an increase of $9, or 1.3%. This increase was primarily attributable to a decline
in the number of co-branded subscribers acquired under our original AT&T agreement and higher
acquisition advertising costs. This increase was partially offset by lower average equipment and
installation costs.
The percentage of our new subscribers choosing to lease rather than purchase equipment continued to
increase for the nine months ended September 30, 2006 compared to the same period in 2005. During
the nine months ended September 30, 2006 and 2005, the amount of equipment capitalized under our
lease program for new subscribers totaled $604.5 million and $617.8 million, respectively. This
decrease in capital expenditures under our lease program for new subscribers resulted primarily
from lower hardware costs per receiver, fewer receivers per installation as the number of dual
tuner receivers we install continues to increase, increased redeployment of equipment returned by
disconnecting lease program subscribers, and a reduction in accessory costs related to the
introduction of less costly installation technology and our migration away from relatively
expensive and complex SuperDISH installations.
As previously discussed, our SAC calculation does not include the benefit of payments we received
in connection with equipment not returned to us from disconnecting lease subscribers and returned
equipment that is made available for sale rather than being redeployed through our lease program.
During the nine months ended September 30, 2006 and 2005, these amounts totaled $84.5 million and
$64.6 million, respectively.
General and administrative expenses. General and administrative expenses totaled $399.7 million
during the nine months ended September 30, 2006, an increase of $68.6 million or 20.7% compared to
the same period in 2005. This increase was primarily attributable to increased personnel and
related costs to support the growth of the DISH Network, including non-cash, stock-based
compensation expense recorded related to the adoption of SFAS 123(R). General and
administrative expenses represented 5.5% and 5.3% of Total revenue during the nine months ended
September 30, 2006 and 2005, respectively. The increase in the ratio of those expenses to Total
revenue was primarily attributable to increased infrastructure expenses to support the growth of
the DISH Network.
Tivo litigation expense. We recorded $89.7 million of Tivo litigation expense during the nine
months ended September 30, 2006 as a result of the jury verdict in the Tivo lawsuit. Based on our
current analysis of the case, including the appellate record and other factors, we believe it is
more likely than not that we will prevail on appeal. Consequently, we are not recording additional
amounts for supplemental damages or interest subsequent to the July 31, 2006 judgment date.
Depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization expense totaled $815.2 million
during the nine months ended September 30, 2006, an increase of $246.6 million or 43.4% compared to
the same period in 2005. The increase in Depreciation and amortization expense was primarily
attributable to depreciation of equipment leased to subscribers resulting from increased
penetration of our equipment lease programs, additional depreciation related to satellites placed
in service and other depreciable assets placed in service to support the DISH Network.
Interest income. Interest income totaled $84.3 million during the nine months ended September
30, 2006, an increase of $61.1 million compared to the same period in 2005. This increase
principally resulted from higher cash and marketable investment securities balances in 2006 as
compared to lower balances in 2005, and from higher total returns earned on our cash and marketable
investment securities during 2006.
Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized. Interest expense totaled $303.3 million during the
nine months ended September 30, 2006, an increase of $76.8 million or 33.9% compared to the same
period in 2005. This increase primarily resulted from a net increase in interest expense of
$45.7 million related to the issuance of the $1.5 billion 7 1/8% Senior Notes due 2016 and the
redemption of our $442.0 million previously outstanding 9 1/8% Senior Notes due 2009 during 2006.
In addition, during 2006, we incurred a prepayment premium and wrote-off debt issuance costs
totaling $22.9 million related to the redemption of the 9 1/8% Senior Notes.
35
Item 2.
MANAGEMENTS NARRATIVE ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS Continued
Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization. EBITDA was $1.708 billion during
the nine months ended September 30, 2006, an increase of $88.9 million or 5.5% compared to the same
period in 2005. EBITDA for the nine months ended September 30, 2005 was favorably impacted by the
$134.0 million Gain on insurance settlement and the nine months ended September 30, 2006 was
negatively impacted by the $89.7 million Tivo litigation expense. Absent these items, our EBITDA
for the nine months ended September 30, 2006 would have been $312.6 million, or 21.0%, higher than
EBITDA for the comparable period in 2005. The increase in EBITDA (excluding these items) was
primarily attributable to changes in operating revenues and expenses discussed above.
The following table reconciles EBITDA to Net income (loss):
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the Nine Months |
|
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
|
2006 |
|
|
2005 |
|
|
|
(In thousands) |
|
EBITDA |
|
$ |
1,707,942 |
|
|
$ |
1,619,066 |
|
Less: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest expense, net |
|
|
218,962 |
|
|
|
203,294 |
|
Income tax provision (benefit), net |
|
|
243,461 |
|
|
|
(135,723 |
) |
Depreciation and amortization |
|
|
815,224 |
|
|
|
568,663 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net income
(loss) |
|
$ |
430,295 |
|
|
$ |
982,832 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
EBITDA is not a measure determined in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in
the United States, or GAAP, and should not be considered a substitute for operating income, net
income or any other measure determined in accordance with GAAP. EBITDA is used as a measurement of
operating efficiency and overall financial performance and we believe it to be a helpful measure
for those evaluating companies in the multi-channel video programming distribution industry.
Conceptually, EBITDA measures the amount of income generated each period that could be used to
service debt, pay taxes and fund capital expenditures. EBITDA should not be considered in
isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with GAAP.
Income tax benefit (provision), net. Our income tax provision was $243.5 million during the nine
months ended September 30, 2006 compared to a benefit of $135.7 million during 2005. The income
tax benefit for the nine months ended September 30, 2005 included an approximate $439.3 million
credit to our provision for income taxes resulting from the reversal of our recorded valuation
allowance. The nine months ended September 30, 2006 includes a credit of $6.7 million related to
the recognition of state net operating loss carryforwards (NOLs) for prior periods. In addition,
the nine months ended September 30, 2006, includes a credit of $4.8 million related to amended
state filings.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the Nine Months |
|
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
|
2006 |
|
|
2005 |
|
|
|
(In thousands) |
|
Adjusted income tax benefit (provision), net |
|
$ |
(254,946 |
) |
|
$ |
(303,536 |
) |
Less: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Valuation allowance
reversal |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(439,259 |
) |
Prior period adjustments to state NOLs |
|
|
(6,654 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Amended state
filings |
|
|
(4,831 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income tax benefit (provision),
net |
|
$ |
(243,461 |
) |
|
$ |
135,723 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net income (loss). Net income was $430.3 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2006,
a decrease of $552.5 million compared to $982.8 million for the same period in 2005. Net income
for the nine months ended September 30, 2005 was favorably impacted by the $439.3 million reversal
of our recorded valuation allowance for deferred tax assets and the $134.0 million Gain on
insurance settlement. The decrease was also attributable to the Tivo litigation charge in 2006.
36
Item 2.
MANAGEMENTS NARRATIVE ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS Continued
Subscriber Turnover
Our percentage monthly subscriber churn for the nine months ended September 30, 2006 was 1.68%,
compared to our percentage subscriber churn for the same period in 2005 of 1.67%. Our future
subscriber churn may be negatively impacted by a number of additional factors, including but not
limited to, an increase in competition from new technology entrants and increasingly complex
products. Competitor bundling of high speed internet access with video and other communications
products may contribute more significantly to churn over time as broadband delivery of video
becomes integrated with traditional cable delivery. There can be no assurance that these and other
factors will not contribute to relatively higher churn than we have experienced historically.
Additionally, certain of our promotions allow consumers with relatively lower credit scores to
become subscribers, and these subscribers typically churn at a higher rate. However, these
subscribers are also acquired at a lower cost resulting in a smaller economic loss upon disconnect.
As the size of our subscriber base increases, even if our churn percentage remains constant or
declines, increasing numbers of gross new DISH Network subscribers are required to sustain net
subscriber growth.
Increases in theft of our signal, or our competitors signals, also could cause subscriber churn to
increase in future periods. We use microchips embedded in credit card-sized access cards, called
smart cards, or in security chips in our EchoStar receiver systems to control access to
authorized programming content. Our signal encryption has been compromised by theft of service and
could be further compromised in the future. We continue to respond to compromises of our
encryption system with security measures intended to make signal theft of our programming more
difficult. In order to combat theft of our service and maintain the functionality of active
set-top boxes, during the fourth quarter of 2005, we completed the replacement of our smart cards.
While the smart card replacement did not fully secure our system, we continue to implement software
patches and other security measures to help protect our service. However, there can be no
assurance that our security measures will be effective in reducing theft of our programming
signals. If we are required to replace existing smart cards, the cost of card replacements could
have a material adverse effect on our results of operations.
On October 20, 2006, a District Court in Florida entered a permanent nationwide injunction
prohibiting us from offering distant network channels to consumers effective December 1, 2006.
Approximately 900,000 of our customers currently subscribe to distant network channels, generating
approximately $3.0 million of gross distant network channel revenue per month. We are pursuing
judicial, legislative and other avenues to attempt to protect access to these channels by our
customers but there can be no assurance we will be successful. If we are forced to stop offering
ABC, NBC, CBS and FOX distant channels, we will attempt to assist subscribers in arranging
alternatives, including migration to local channels by satellite where available, and free off air
antenna offers in other markets. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty how many of our
distant network subscribers would cancel their primary DISH Network programming as a result of
termination of their distant channels. Termination of distant network channels will result, among
other things, in a small reduction in average monthly revenue per subscriber and free cash flow,
and a temporary increase in subscriber churn.
37
Item 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive
Officer and Chief Financial Officer, we evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and
procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) as of the end
of the period covered by this report. Based upon that evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and
Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of
the end of the period covered by this report.
There has been no change in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule
13a-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) during our most recent fiscal quarter that has
materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over
financial reporting.
38
PART II OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
Distant Network Litigation
On October 20, 2006, a District Court in Florida entered a permanent nationwide injunction
prohibiting us from offering distant network channels to consumers effective December 1, 2006.
Distant networks are ABC, NBC, CBS and Fox network channels which originate outside the community
where the consumer who wants to view them, lives.
Approximately 900,000 of our customers currently subscribe to distant network channels, generating
approximately $3.0 million of gross distant network channel revenue per month. We are pursuing
judicial, legislative and other avenues to attempt to protect access to these channels by our
customers but there can be no assurance we will be successful.
We currently offer local network channels by satellite in approximately 170 markets, serving over
95% of all U.S. households. Consequently, a majority of our distant network subscribers live in
markets where we offer local network channels by satellite, but a significant percentage live in
the approximately 40 markets where local network channels are not available by satellite. Our
customers in those 40 markets are at greatest risk of canceling their subscription for our other
services, particularly the substantial percentage of those customers who are eligible to obtain
local or distant network channels from our competitors. Further, in approximately a dozen markets
where we offer local channels, one or more networks do not have a local affiliate. In those
markets distant networks are the only option available for consumers who want access to the network
signals missing from the market. Those customers are also at increased risk of canceling their
subscription for our other services.
We are beginning to install free off air antennas for the small percentage of those subscribers who
can receive local channels off air and are willing to have an antenna installed, and continue to
pursue other options to minimize potential disruption to these customers. We are also preparing to
provide local channels to our distant network customers who live in the 170 markets where we offer
local channels by satellite. Some of those subscribers will need additional equipment to receive
local channels. We are beginning to install that equipment without cost to those customers but
will not be able to complete all of those installations by December 1, 2006. Some of those
customers currently subscribe to both distant and local channels so revenue from those subscribers
will decline. Further, we cannot predict the number of customers who currently subscribe to only
distant network channels, but will choose not to switch to local channels.
Absent modification, the injunction would negate a settlement agreement we recently reached with
the ABC, NBC, CBS and Fox Affiliate Associations, which would have required us to pay $100.0
million in order to retain a limited right to offer distant networks in their markets. It also
negates settlement agreements we reached with the ABC, NBC and CBS Networks, and with various
independent stations and station groups, over the eight year course of the litigation.
Termination of distant network channels will result, among other things, in a small reduction in
average monthly revenue per subscriber and free cash flow, and a temporary increase in subscriber
churn. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty how many of our distant network subscribers
would cancel their primary DISH Network programming as a result of termination of their distant
channels. We would also be at a competitive disadvantage in the future, since the injunction
prohibits us from offering distant network channels that may continue to be offered by our
competitors to new customers in markets where they do not offer local channels.
Superguide
During 2000, Superguide Corp. (Superguide) filed suit against us, DirecTV, Thomson and others in
the United States District Court for the Western District of North Carolina, Asheville Division,
alleging infringement of United States Patent Nos. 5,038,211 (the 211 patent), 5,293,357 (the 357
patent) and 4,751,578 (the 578 patent) which relate to certain electronic program guide functions,
including the use of electronic program guides to control VCRs. Superguide sought injunctive and
declaratory relief and damages in an unspecified amount.
39
PART II OTHER INFORMATION
On summary judgment, the District Court ruled that none of the asserted patents were infringed by
us. These rulings were appealed to the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit.
During February 2004, the Federal Circuit affirmed in part and reversed in part the District
Courts findings and remanded the case back to the District Court for further proceedings. In July
2005, SuperGuide indicated that it would no longer pursue infringement allegations with respect to
the 211 and 357 patents and those patents have now been dismissed from the suit. The District
Court subsequently entered judgment of non-infringement in favor of all defendants as to the 211
and 357 patents and ordered briefing on Thomsons license defense as to the 578 patent. At the
same time, we requested leave to add a license defense as to the 578 patent in view of a new (at
the time) license we obtained from a third-party licensed by Superguide. Activity in the case has
been suspended pending resolution of the license defense and a trial date has not been set. We are
awaiting a decision by the District Court regarding Thomsons license defense and regarding whether
it will hear our license defense. We examined the 578 patent and believe that it is not infringed
by any of our products or services. We will continue to vigorously defend this case. In the event
that a Court ultimately determines that we infringe any of the patents, we may be subject to
substantial damages, which may include treble damages and/or an injunction that could require us to
materially modify certain user-friendly electronic programming guide and related features that we
currently offer to consumers. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the
suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.
Broadcast Innovation, L.L.C.
In 2001, Broadcast Innovation, L.L.C. (Broadcast Innovation) filed a lawsuit against us, DirecTV,
Thomson Consumer Electronics and others in Federal District Court in Denver, Colorado. The suit
alleges infringement of United States Patent Nos. 6,076,094 (the 094 patent) and 4,992,066 (the
066 patent). The 094 patent relates to certain methods and devices for transmitting and
receiving data along with specific formatting information for the data. The 066 patent relates to
certain methods and devices for providing the scrambling circuitry for a pay television system on
removable cards. We examined these patents and believe that they are not infringed by any of our
products or services. Subsequently, DirecTV and Thomson settled with Broadcast Innovation leaving
us as the only defendant.
During 2004, the judge issued an order finding the 066 patent invalid. In August of 2004, the
Court ruled the 094 invalid in a parallel case filed by Broadcast Innovation against Charter and
Comcast. In August of 2005, the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit (CAFC)
overturned this finding of invalidity and remanded the case back to the District Court. During
June 2006, Charter filed a reexamination request with the United States Patent and Trademark
Office. The Court has stayed the case pending reexamination. Our case remains stayed pending
resolution of the Charter case.
We intend to continue to vigorously defend this case. In the event that a Court ultimately
determines that we infringe any of the patents, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may
include treble damages and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain
user-friendly features that we currently offer to consumers. We cannot predict with any degree of
certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.
40
PART II OTHER INFORMATION
Tivo, Inc.
During April 2006, a Texas jury concluded that certain of our digital video recorders, or DVRs,
infringed a patent held by Tivo. The Texas court subsequently issued an injunction prohibiting us
from offering DVR functionality. A Court of Appeals has stayed that injunction during the pendency
of our appeal.
We have accrued $89.7 million for damages and interest awarded by the Texas court through July 31,
2006. Based on our current analysis of the case, including the appellate record and other factors,
we believe it is more likely than not that we will prevail on appeal. Consequently, we are not
recording additional amounts for supplemental damages or interest subsequent to the July 31, 2006
judgment date.
If the verdict is upheld on appeal, we would be required to pay additional amounts from August 1,
2006 until such time, if ever, as we successfully implement alternative technology. Those amounts
would be approximately $5.7 million, $5.9 million and $6.0 million for August, September and
October 2006, respectively, and would increase each month as the number of our DVR customers
increases and as interest compounds. If the verdict is upheld on appeal and we are not able to
successfully implement alternative technology (including the successful defense of any challenge
that such technology infringes Tivos patent), we could also be prohibited from distributing DVRs,
or be required to modify or eliminate certain user-friendly DVR features that we currently offer to
consumers. In that event we would be at a significant disadvantage to our competitors who could
offer this functionality and, while we would attempt to provide that functionality through other
manufacturers, the adverse affect on our business could be material.
Acacia
In June 2004, Acacia Media Technologies (Acacia) filed a lawsuit against us in the United States
District Court for the Northern District of California. The suit also named DirecTV, Comcast,
Charter, Cox and a number of smaller cable companies as defendants. Acacia is an intellectual
property holding company which seeks to license the patent portfolio that it has acquired. The
suit alleges infringement of United States Patent Nos. 5,132,992 (the 992 patent), 5,253,275 (the
275 patent), 5,550,863 (the 863 patent), 6,002,720 (the 720 patent) and 6,144,702 (the 702
patent). The 992, 863, 720 and 702 patents have been asserted against us.
The patents relate to various systems and methods related to the transmission of digital data. The
992 and 702 patents have also been asserted against several internet content providers in the
United States District Court for the Central District of California. During 2004 and 2005, the
Court issued Markman rulings which found that the 992 and 702 patents were not as broad as Acacia
had contended, and that certain terms in the 702 patent were indefinite. During April 2006,
EchoStar and other defendants asked the Court to rule that the claims of the 702 patent are
invalid and not infringed. That motion is pending. In June and September 2006, the Court held
Markman hearings on the 992, 863, 720 and 275 patents, but has not yet issued a ruling.
Acacias various patent infringement cases have been consolidated for pre-trial purposes in the
United States District Court for the Northern District of California. We intend to vigorously
defend this case. In the event that a Court ultimately determines that we infringe any of the
patents, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages and/or an
injunction that could require us to materially modify certain user-friendly features that we
currently offer to consumers. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the
suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.
Forgent
In July 2005, Forgent Networks, Inc. (Forgent) filed a lawsuit against us in the United States
District Court for the Eastern District of Texas. The suit also named DirecTV, Charter, Comcast,
Time Warner Cable, Cable One and Cox as defendants. The suit alleges infringement of United States
Patent No. 6,285,746 (the 746 patent).
41
PART II OTHER INFORMATION
The 746 patent discloses a video teleconferencing system which utilizes digital telephone lines.
We have examined this patent and do not believe that it is infringed by any of our products or
services. We intend to vigorously defend this case. In the event that a Court ultimately
determines that we infringe this patent, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may
include treble damages and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain
user-friendly features that we currently offer to consumers. We cannot predict with any degree of
certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.
Trial is currently scheduled for May 2007 in Marshall, Texas. On October 2, 2006, the Patent and
Trademark Office granted our petition for reexamination of the 746 patent. On October 27, 2006,
the Patent and Trademark Office issued its initial office action rejecting all of the claims of the
746 patent in light of several prior art references. Forgent will have an opportunity to
challenge the initial office action. We have moved to have the case stayed pending resolution of
the reexamination. The Court has not yet ruled on the motion.
Finisar Corporation
Finisar Corporation (Finisar) recently obtained a $100.0 million verdict in the United States
District Court for the Eastern District of Texas against DirecTV for patent infringement. Finisar
alleged that DirecTVs electronic program guide and other elements of its system infringe United
States Patent No. 5,404,505 (the 505 patent).
On July 10, 2006, we, together with NagraStar LLC, filed a Complaint for Declaratory Judgment in
the United States District Court for the District of Delaware against Finisar that asks the Court
to declare that they and we do not infringe, and have not infringed, any valid claim of the 505
patent. Trial is not currently scheduled. We intend to vigorously defend our rights in this
action. In the event that a Court ultimately determines that we infringe this patent, we may be
subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages and/or an injunction that could
require us to modify our system architecture. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the
outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.
Trans Video
In August 2006, Trans Video Electronic, Ltd. (Trans Video) filed a patent infringement action
against us in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California. The suit
alleges infringement of United States Patent Nos. 5,903,621 (the 621 patent) and 5,991,801 (the
801 patent). The patents relate to various methods related to the transmission of digital data.
We have not been served with the complaint yet. We intend to vigorously defend this case. In the
event that a Court ultimately determines that we infringe any of the patents, we may be subject to
substantial damages, which may include treble damages and/or an injunction. We cannot predict with
any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability
or damages.
Retailer Class Actions
During 2000, lawsuits were filed by retailers in Colorado state and federal court attempting to
certify nationwide classes on behalf of certain of our satellite hardware retailers. The
plaintiffs are requesting the Courts declare certain provisions of, and changes to, alleged
agreements between us and the retailers invalid and unenforceable, and to award damages for lost
incentives and payments, charge backs, and other compensation. We are vigorously defending against
the suits and have asserted a variety of counterclaims. The federal court action was stayed during
the pendency of the state court action. We filed a motion for summary judgment on all counts and
against all plaintiffs. The plaintiffs filed a motion for additional time to conduct discovery to
enable them to respond to our motion. The Court granted limited discovery which ended during 2004.
The plaintiffs claimed we did not provide adequate disclosure during the discovery process, and a
specially appointed master agreed with the plaintiffs, recently recommending to the judge that our
motion for summary judgment be denied, or that plaintiffs be permitted to conduct additional
discovery. Plaintiffs also asked the Court to go beyond the scope of the special masters
recommendation, and further sanction us for the alleged discovery problems by entering judgment
against us on the issue of liability, leaving only the issue of damages for trial. The judge has
not yet ruled on the special masters recommendation. A trial date has not been set. We cannot
predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any
potential liability or damages.
42
PART II OTHER INFORMATION
Enron Commercial Paper Investment Complaint
During October 2001, we received approximately $40.0 million from the sale of Enron commercial
paper to a third party broker. That commercial paper was ultimately purchased by Enron. During
November 2003, an action was commenced in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern
District of New York, against approximately 100 defendants, including us, who invested in Enrons
commercial paper. The complaint alleges that Enrons October 2001 purchase of its commercial paper
was a fraudulent conveyance and voidable preference under bankruptcy laws. We dispute these
allegations. We typically invest in commercial paper and notes which are rated in one of the four
highest rating categories by at least two nationally recognized statistical rating organizations.
At the time of our investment in Enron commercial paper, it was considered to be high quality and
low risk. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the
extent of any potential liability or damages.
Bank One
During 2004, Bank One, N.A. (Bank One) filed suit against us and one of our subsidiaries,
EchoStar Acceptance Corporation (EAC), in Ohio state court alleging breach of a duty to
indemnify. The case was subsequently moved to federal court. Bank One alleges EAC is
contractually required to indemnify Bank One for a settlement it paid to consumers who entered
private label credit card agreements with Bank One to purchase satellite equipment in the late
1990s. The case is currently in discovery. A trial date has not been set. We cannot predict with
any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability
or damages.
Church Communications Network, Inc.
During 2004, Church Communications Network, Inc. (CCN) filed suit against us in the United States
District Court for the Northern District of Alabama. CCN claimed approximately $20.0 million in
actual damages, plus punitive damages for, among other things, alleged breaches of two contracts,
and negligent, intentional and reckless misrepresentation. During March 2006, the Court granted
summary judgment in our favor limiting CCN to one contract claim, and limiting damages to no more
than $500,000, plus interest. During April 2006, we reached a settlement which did not have a
material impact on our results of operations.
Vivendi
In January 2005, Vivendi Universal, S.A. (Vivendi) filed a breach of contract suit against us.
During April 2005, the Court granted Vivendis motion for a preliminary injunction requiring that
we carry a music-video channel during the pendency of the litigation. On May 23, 2006, the parties
settled the litigation and Vivendis complaint was dismissed with prejudice. As part of the
settlement, we agreed to continue to carry the music-video channel. The settlement amount did not
have a material impact on our results of operations.
Riyad Alshuaibi
During 2002, Riyad Alshuaibi filed suit against Michael Kelly, one of our executive officers, Kelly
Broadcasting Systems, Inc. (KBS), and EchoStar in the District Court of New Jersey. Plaintiff
alleged breach of contract, breach of fiduciary duty, fraud, negligence, and unjust enrichment
resulting in damages in excess of $50.0 million. Plaintiff claimed that when KBS was acquired by
us, Michael Kelly and KBS breached an alleged agreement with the plaintiff. We denied the
allegations of plaintiffs complaint. On October 26, 2006, we reached a settlement which did not
have a material impact on our results of operations.
Other
In addition to the above actions, we are subject to various other legal proceedings and claims
which arise in the ordinary course of business. In our opinion, the amount of ultimate liability
with respect to any of these actions is unlikely to materially affect our financial position,
results of operations or liquidity.
43
PART II OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1A. RISK FACTORS
Item 1A, Risk Factors, of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for 2005 includes a detailed discussion
of our risk factors. The information presented below updates, and should be read in conjunction
with, the risk factors and information disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for 2005.
TV networks oppose our strategy of delivering distant network signals, and we could be prohibited
from selling distant network channels.
On October 20, 2006, a District Court in Florida entered a permanent nationwide injunction
prohibiting us from offering distant network channels to consumers effective December 1, 2006.
Distant networks are ABC, NBC, CBS and Fox network channels which originate outside the community
where the consumer who wants to view them, lives.
Approximately 900,000 of our customers currently subscribe to distant network channels, generating
approximately $3.0 million of gross distant network channel revenue per month. We are pursuing
judicial, legislative and other avenues to attempt to protect access to these channels by our
customers but there can be no assurance we will be successful.
We currently offer local network channels by satellite in approximately 170 markets, serving over
95% of all U.S. households. Consequently, a majority of our distant network subscribers live in
markets where we offer local network channels by satellite, but a significant percentage live in
the approximately 40 markets where local network channels are not available by satellite. Our
customers in those 40 markets are at greatest risk of canceling their subscription for our other
services, particularly the substantial percentage of those customers who are eligible to obtain
local or distant network channels from our competitors. Further, in approximately a dozen markets
where we offer local channels, one or more networks do not have a local affiliate. In those
markets distant networks are the only option available for consumers who want access to the network
signals missing from the market. Those customers are also at increased risk of canceling their
subscription for our other services.
We are beginning to install free off air antennas for the small percentage of those subscribers who
can receive local channels off air and are willing to have an antenna installed, and continue to
pursue other options to minimize potential disruption to these customers. We are also preparing to
provide local channels to our distant network customers who live in the 170 markets where we offer
local channels by satellite. Some of those subscribers will need additional equipment to receive
local channels. We are beginning to install that equipment without cost to those customers but
will not be able to complete all of those installations by December 1, 2006. Some of those
customers currently subscribe to both distant and local channels so revenue from those subscribers
will decline. Further, we cannot predict the number of customers who currently subscribe to only
distant network channels, but will choose not to switch to local channels.
Absent modification, the injunction would negate a settlement agreement we recently reached with
the ABC, NBC, CBS and Fox Affiliate Associations, which would have required us to pay $100.0
million in order to retain a limited right to offer distant networks in their markets. It also
negates settlement agreements we reached with the ABC, NBC and CBS Networks, and with various
independent stations and station groups, over the eight year course of the litigation.
Termination of distant network channels will result, among other things, in a small reduction in
average monthly revenue per subscriber and free cash flow, and a temporary increase in subscriber
churn. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty how many of our distant network subscribers
would cancel their primary DISH Network programming as a result of termination of their distant
channels. We would also be at a competitive disadvantage in the future, since the injunction
prohibits us from offering distant network channels that may continue to be offered by our
competitors to new customers in markets where they do not offer local channels.
44
PART II OTHER INFORMATION
During April 2006, a Texas jury concluded that certain of our digital video recorders, or DVRs,
infringed a patent held by Tivo. If the verdict is upheld on appeal and we are not able to
successfully implement alternative technology, we could be prohibited from distributing DVRs, or be
required to modify or eliminate certain user-friendly DVR features that we currently offer to
consumers.
We have accrued $89.7 million for damages and interest awarded by the Texas court through July 31,
2006. Based on our current analysis of the case, including the appellate record and other factors,
we believe it is more likely than not that we will prevail on appeal. Consequently, we are not
recording additional amounts for supplemental damages or interest subsequent to the July 31, 2006
judgment date.
If the verdict is upheld on appeal, we would be required to pay additional amounts from August 1,
2006 until such time, if ever, as we successfully implement alternative technology. Those amounts
would be approximately $5.7 million, $5.9 million and $6.0 million for August, September and
October 2006, respectively, and would increase each month as the number of our DVR customers
increases and as interest compounds. If the verdict is upheld on appeal and we are not able to
successfully implement alternative technology (including the successful defense of any challenge
that such technology infringes Tivos patent), we could also be prohibited from distributing DVRs,
or be required to modify or eliminate certain user-friendly DVR features that we currently offer to
consumers. In that event we would be at a significant disadvantage to our competitors who could
offer this functionality and, while we would attempt to provide that functionality through other
manufacturers, the adverse affect on our business could be material.
If our EchoStar X satellite experienced a significant failure we could lose the ability to deliver
local network channels in many markets.
We currently do not have adequate backup satellite capacity to recover all of the local network
channels broadcast from our EchoStar X satellite following a complete failure of that satellite.
Therefore, our ability to deliver local channels in many markets, as well as our ability to comply
with SHVERA requirements without incurring significant additional costs, is dependent on, among
other things, the continued successful commercial operation of EchoStar X.
We depend on other telecommunications providers, independent retailers and others to solicit
orders for DISH network services.
While we sell receiver systems and programming directly, other telecommunications providers,
independent distributors, direct marketers, retailers and consumer electronics stores are
responsible for most of our sales. We also sell EchoStar receiver systems through nationwide
retailers and certain regional consumer electronic chains. If we are unable to continue our
arrangements with these resellers, we cannot guarantee that we would be able to obtain other sales
agents, thus adversely affecting our business.
45
PART II OTHER INFORMATION
Item 6. EXHIBITS
(a) Exhibits.
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31.1 |
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Section 302 Certification by Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. |
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31.2 |
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Section 302 Certification by Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. |
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32.1 |
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Section 906 Certification by Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. |
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32.2 |
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Section 906 Certification by Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. |
46
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements 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.
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ECHOSTAR DBS CORPORATION |
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By:
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/s/ Charles W. Ergen
Charles W. Ergen
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Chairman and Chief Executive Officer |
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(Duly Authorized Officer) |
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By:
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/s/ Bernard L. Han |
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Bernard L. Han |
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Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer |
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(Principal Financial Officer) |
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Date: November 8, 2006 |
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47
Exhibit Index
(a) Exhibits.
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31.1 |
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Section 302 Certification by Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. |
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31.2 |
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Section 302 Certification by Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. |
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32.1 |
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Section 906 Certification by Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. |
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32.2 |
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Section 906 Certification by Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. |
48
exv31w1
EXHIBIT 31.1
CERTIFICATION OF CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Section 302 Certification
I, Charles W. Ergen, certify that:
1. |
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I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of EchoStar DBS Corporation; |
2. |
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Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact
or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the
circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period
covered by this report; |
3. |
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Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in
this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of
operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this
report; |
4. |
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The registrants other certifying officers and I are responsible for establishing and
maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and
15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules
13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have: |
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a) |
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designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls
and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information
relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by
others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being
prepared; |
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b) |
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evaluated the effectiveness of the registrants disclosure controls and procedures and
presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls
and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such
evaluation; and |
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c) |
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disclosed in this report any change in the registrants internal control over financial
reporting that occurred during the registrants most recent fiscal quarter (the
registrants fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially
affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrants internal control
over financial reporting; and |
5. |
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The registrants other certifying officers and I have disclosed, based on our most recent
evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrants auditors and the
audit committee of registrants board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent
functions): |
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a) |
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all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of
internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect
the registrants ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information;
and |
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b) |
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any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who
have a significant role in the registrants internal control over financial reporting. |
Date: November 8, 2006
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Chairman and Chief Executive Officer |
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exv31w2
EXHIBIT 31.2
CERTIFICATION OF CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Section 302 Certification
I, Bernard L. Han, certify that:
1. |
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I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of EchoStar DBS Corporation; |
2. |
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Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact
or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the
circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period
covered by this report; |
3. |
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Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in
this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of
operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this
report; |
4. |
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The registrants other certifying officers and I are responsible for establishing and
maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and
15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules
13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have: |
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a) |
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designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls
and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information
relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by
others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being
prepared; |
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b) |
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evaluated the effectiveness of the registrants disclosure controls and procedures and
presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls
and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such
evaluation; and |
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c) |
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disclosed in this report any change in the registrants internal control over financial
reporting that occurred during the registrants most recent fiscal quarter (the
registrants fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially
affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrants internal control
over financial reporting; and |
5. |
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The registrants other certifying officers and I have disclosed, based on our most recent
evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrants auditors and the
audit committee of registrants board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent
functions): |
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a) |
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all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of
internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect
the registrants ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information;
and |
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b) |
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any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who
have a significant role in the registrants internal control over financial reporting. |
Date: November 8, 2006
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/s/ Bernard L. Han
Chief Financial Officer
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exv32w1
EXHIBIT 32.1
CERTIFICATION OF CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Section 906 Certification
Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350, the undersigned officer of EchoStar DBS Corporation (the Company),
hereby certifies that to the best of his knowledge the Companys Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for
the three months ended September 30, 2006 (the Report) fully complies with the requirements of
Section 13(a) or 15(d), as applicable, of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and that the
information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial
condition and results of operations of the Company.
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Dated:
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November 8, 2006 |
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Name:
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/s/ Charles W. Ergen |
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Title:
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Chairman of the Board of Directors and |
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Chief Executive Officer |
A signed original of this written statement required by Section 906, or other document
authenticating, acknowledging, or otherwise adopting the signature that appears in typed form
within the electronic version of this written statement required by Section 906, has been provided
to the Company and will be retained by the Company and furnished to the Securities and Exchange
Commission or its staff upon request.
exv32w2
Exhibit 32.2
CERTIFICATION OF CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Section 906 Certification
Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350, the undersigned officer of EchoStar DBS Corporation (the Company),
hereby certifies that to the best of his knowledge the Companys Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for
the three months ended September 30, 2006 (the Report) fully complies with the requirements of
Section 13(a) or 15(d), as applicable, of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and that the
information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial
condition and results of operations of the Company.
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Dated:
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November 8, 2006 |
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Name:
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/s/ Bernard L. Han |
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Title:
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Chief Financial Officer |
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A signed original of this written statement required by Section 906, or other document
authenticating, acknowledging, or otherwise adopting the signature that appears in typed form
within the electronic version of this written statement required by Section 906, has been provided
to the Company and will be retained by the Company and furnished to the Securities and Exchange
Commission or its staff upon request.