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Description of Business, Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)
12 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2025
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Generally Accepted Accounting Principles
Generally Accepted Accounting Principles
These combined financial statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP.
Principles of Consolidation Principles of Consolidation
The accompanying combined financial statements of the Starz Business have been derived from the consolidated financial statements and accounting records of Old Lionsgate and reflect certain allocations from Old Lionsgate as further discussed above.
All significant intercompany balances and transactions within the Starz Business have been eliminated in these combined financial statements. Unless otherwise indicated, amounts provided in these notes to the combined financial statements pertain to continuing operations only. See Note 2, Discontinued Operations, to our audited combined financial statements for information on discontinued operations).
Use of Estimates
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management 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 revenue and expenses during the reporting period. The most significant estimates made by management in the preparation of the combined financial statements relate to the Starz Traditional Affiliate customer relationship intangible asset which is amortized in the proportion that current period revenue bears to management’s estimate of future revenue over the remaining estimated useful life of the asset; estimates of future viewership used for the amortization of licensed program rights; the allocation of costs to the Starz Business for certain corporate and shared service functions in preparing the combined financial statements on a carve-out basis; income taxes including the assessment of valuation allowances for deferred tax assets; impairment assessments for licensed program rights, goodwill and intangible assets. Actual results could differ from such estimates.
Revenue Recognition and Deferred Revenue
Revenue Recognition
The Starz Business generates revenue from the distribution of branded premium subscription video services through OTT streaming platforms and distributors, on a direct-to-consumer basis through the Starz App and through MVPDs, including cable operators, satellite television providers and telecommunications companies.
Revenue does not include taxes collected from customers on behalf of taxing authorities such as sales tax and value-added tax. The Starz Business is the principal in its relationships with subscribers through its Starz App and certain retail distributors of the Starz App as the Starz Business retains control over providing the service to the subscriber. The Starz Business is the principal within its relationship with its OTT streaming platforms and other distribution partners where the distributors provide the service to the subscribers.
Pursuant to the Starz Business’s distribution agreements, revenue is primarily generated from fees from subscribers who receive the Starz Business's services or based on other factors (variable fee arrangements), or to a lesser extent, may be based on a monthly fixed fee or minimum guarantee, subject to nominal annual escalations.
The variable distribution fee arrangements represent sales or usage-based royalties, which are recognized over the period of such sales or usage by the Starz Business's distributor, which is the same period that the content is provided to the distributor. Estimates of revenue generated, but not yet reported to the Starz Business by its distribution partners, are made based on an estimated number of subscribers using historical trends and recent reporting. The estimate of revenue generated but not yet reported to us by distribution partners requires judgement and is sensitive to changes in underlying assumptions. The Company regularly evaluates such assumptions and historically, such estimates have been materially in line with revenue amounts when reported.
Other fixed fee or minimum guarantee programming revenue is recognized over the contract term based on the continuous delivery of the content to the distributor. Subscribers through the Starz App are billed in advance of the start of their monthly or multi-month membership period and revenue is recognized ratably over each applicable membership period. Payments to distributors for marketing support costs for which the Company receives a discrete benefit are recorded as distribution and marketing costs, and payments to distributors for which the Company receives no discrete benefit are recorded as a reduction of revenue .
In connection with the distribution rights obtained outside of the Starz Platform, we license rights to other parties who distribute our content for a fee. New Lionsgate acts as distributor in these arrangements. License fees associated with these agreements have not been material to date.
Deferred Revenue. Deferred revenue relates primarily to subscribers through the Starz App, who are billed in advance of the start of their monthly or multi-month membership. Revenue is recognized ratably over each applicable membership period, when the Starz Business satisfies the corresponding performance obligation.
Accounts Receivable
Accounts Receivable. Payment terms are generally due within 30 days to 60 days after revenue is recognized.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash deposits at financial institutions.
Programming Content and Film Groups and Impairment Assessment for Programming Content
Programming Content
Programming content represents content exploited on the Starz Platform. Programming content is typically licensed content (which we refer to as “licensed program rights”), however, in some cases, programming content may be produced or acquired (which we refer to as “owned and produced films and television programs”). Licensed program rights include content licensed from third parties, including New Lionsgate, for specified airing rights and windows over a contractual term. Program licenses typically have fixed terms and require payments during the production of the content by the licensor, at or near delivery of the content or over the term of the license. Payments for content and additions to content assets and the changes in related liabilities, are classified within operating activities on the combined statements of cash flows. Amortization of programming content, which is discussed further below, is included in direct operating expense on the combined statement of operations.
Programming content is predominantly monetized as part of a film group and therefore is reviewed for impairment in aggregate at a film group level when an event or change in circumstances indicates a change in the expected use of the content or that the fair value may be less than unamortized cost.
Development. Films and television programs in development include costs of acquiring film rights to books, stage plays or original screenplays and costs to adapt such projects. Such costs are capitalized as part of the cost of programming content. Projects in development are written off at the earlier of the date they are determined not to be recoverable or when abandoned, or three years from the date of the initial investment unless the fair value of the project exceeds its carrying cost.
Capitalized Costs. The cost of licensed content is capitalized when the cost is known or reasonably determinable, the license period for programs has commenced, the program materials have been accepted by the Starz Business in accordance with the license agreements, and the programs are available for the first showing. Licensed programming rights may include rights to more than one exploitation window under the Starz Business's output and library agreements. For films with multiple windows, the license fee is allocated between the windows based upon the proportionate estimated fair value of each window which generally results in the majority of the cost allocated to the first window on newer releases.
Costs of acquiring and producing films and television programs are capitalized when incurred. For films and television programs produced by the Starz Business, capitalized costs include all direct production and financing costs, capitalized interest and production overhead.
Amortization. The cost of licensed program rights for films and television programs (including original series) are generally amortized on a title-by-title or episode-by-episode basis using an accelerated or straight-line method based on the expected and historical viewership patterns or the current and anticipated number of exhibitions over the license period or estimated life for owned or produced programs. The number of exhibitions is estimated based on the number of exhibitions allowed in the agreement (if specified) and the expected usage of the content. Residuals are expensed in line with the amortization of production costs.
The Starz Business reviews factors impacting the amortization of the content assets on an ongoing basis. The Starz Business's estimates related to these factors requires considerable management judgement.
Film Groups and Impairment Assessment for Programming Content
For the fiscal years ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, substantially all programming content is monetized as part of a film group.
A film group (as defined below) is evaluated for impairment when an event or change in circumstances indicates that the fair value of a film group is less than its unamortized cost. A film group represents the unit of account for impairment testing for a film or license agreement for program material when the film or license agreement is expected to be predominantly monetized with other films and/or license agreements instead of being predominantly monetized on its own. If the result of the impairment test indicates that the carrying value exceeds the estimated fair value, an impairment charge will then be recorded for the amount of the difference. A film group is defined as the lowest level at which identifiable cash flows are largely independent of the cash flows of other films and/or license agreements. The Starz Business's film groups are generally aligned with the Company’s networks and digital content offerings domestically (i.e. Starz Networks) and internationally by territory or groups of territories, wherein content assets are shared across the various territories. Content removed from the service and abandoned is written down to its fair value, if any, determined using a discounted cash flow approach.
Whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the fair value of the film group may be less than its unamortized costs, the aggregate unamortized costs of the group are compared to the present value of the discounted cash flows of the group using the lowest level for which identifiable cash flows are independent of other produced and licensed content. If the unamortized costs of the film group exceed the present value of discounted cash flows, an impairment charge is recorded for the excess and allocated to individual titles based on the relative carrying value of each title in the group.
As a result of the strategic review of content performance across Starz's platform and as part of our expanded restructuring across our domestic operations, we recorded content impairment charges in the fiscal years ended March 31, 2025 and 2024 of $156.4 million and $213.0 million, respectively, which are included in continuing operations, restructuring and other in the combined statement of operations. See Note 3, Programming Content, and Note 13, Restructuring and Other, to our audited combined financial statements for further details. Discontinued operations for the fiscal years ended March 31, 2025 and March 31, 2024, includes impairment charges of $2.5 million and $160.8 million, respectively, related to the restructuring of LIONSGATE+ discussed above. See Note 2, Discontinued Operations, to our audited combined financial statements for further details.
Property and Equipment, net
Property and Equipment, net
Property and equipment is carried at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is provided for on a straight line basis over the following useful lives:
Distribution equipment
3 — 7 years
Computer equipment and software 
3 years
Furniture, fixtures and office equipment 
5 — 7 years
Leasehold improvements Remaining lease term or the useful life, whichever is shorter
Property and equipment assets are tested for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances (triggering events) indicate that the carrying amount of the asset may not be recoverable. Where applicable, estimates of net future cash flows, on an undiscounted basis, are calculated based on future revenue estimates. If appropriate and where deemed necessary, a reduction in the carrying amount is recorded based on the difference between the carrying amount and the fair value based on discounted cash flows.
Leases
Leases
The Starz Business determines if an arrangement is a lease at its inception. The expected term of the lease used for computing the lease liability and right-of-use (“ROU”) asset and determining the classification of the lease as operating or financing may include options to extend or terminate the lease when it is reasonably certain that the Starz Business will exercise that option. The Starz Business also elected to not separate lease components from non-lease components across all lease categories. Instead, each separate lease component and non-lease component are accounted for as a single lease component.
Operating Leases. Operating lease ROU assets, representing the Starz Business's right to use the underlying asset for the lease term, are included in other assets - non-current in the Starz Business's combined balance sheets. Operating lease liabilities, representing the present value of the Starz Business's obligation to make payments over the lease term, are included in the other accrued liabilities and other liabilities - non-current in the Starz Business's combined balance sheets. Lease expense for operating leases is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term.
The present value of the lease payments is calculated using a rate implicit in the lease, when readily determinable. However, as most of the Starz Business's leases do not provide an implicit rate, the Starz Business uses its incremental borrowing rate to determine the present value of the lease payments for the majority of its leases.
Variable lease payments that are based on an index or rate are included in the measurement of ROU assets and lease liabilities at lease inception. All other variable lease payments are expensed as incurred and are not included in the measurement of ROU assets and lease liabilities.
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets
At March 31, 2025, the carrying value of the Starz Business's finite-lived intangible assets was $816.0 million. The Starz Business's finite-lived intangible assets primarily relate to customer relationships associated with U.S. MVPDs, including cable operators, satellite television providers and telecommunications companies (each a “Traditional Affiliate”), and amounted to $748.0 million at March 31, 2025. The amount of the Starz Business's customer relationship asset related to these Traditional Affiliate relationships reflects the estimated fair value of these customer relationships determined in connection with Old Lionsgate's acquisition of the Starz Business on December 8, 2016, net of amortization recorded since the date of the Starz Business acquisition. Beginning October 1, 2023, the Starz Business's finite-lived intangible assets also include trademarks and tradenames previously accounted for as indefinite-lived intangible assets as discussed below. At March 31, 2025, the carrying value of trademarks and tradenames was $68.0 million.
Identifiable intangible assets with finite lives are amortized to depreciation and amortization expense over their estimated useful lives, ranging from 10 to 14 years. The Starz Traditional Affiliate customer relationship intangible asset is amortized in the proportion that current period revenue bears to management’s estimate of future revenue over the remaining estimated useful life of the asset, which results in greater amortization in the earlier years of the estimated useful life of the asset than the latter years.
Amortizable intangible assets are tested for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances (triggering events) indicate that the carrying amount of the asset may not be recoverable. If a triggering event has occurred, an impairment analysis is required. The impairment test first requires a comparison of undiscounted future cash flows expected to be generated over the remaining useful life of an asset to the carrying value of the asset. The impairment test is performed at the lowest level of cash flows associated with the asset. If the carrying value of the asset exceeds the
undiscounted future cash flows, the asset would not be deemed to be recoverable. Impairment would then be measured as the excess of the asset’s carrying value over its fair value.
The Starz Business monitors its finite-lived intangible assets and changes in the underlying circumstances each reporting period for indicators of possible impairments or a change in the useful life or method of amortization of the finite-lived intangible assets. For the fiscal year ended March 31, 2025, no indicators of impairment were identified. For the fiscal year ended March 31, 2024, due to changes in the industry related to the migration from linear to OTT and direct-to-consumer consumption, we performed an impairment analysis of the amortizable intangible assets due to changes in the industry related to the migration from linear to OTT and direct-to-consumer consumption. Based on the Starz Business's impairment analysis, the estimated undiscounted cash flows exceeded the carrying amount of the assets and therefore no impairment charge was required.
Goodwill
Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets
Goodwill represents the excess acquisition cost over the fair value of net tangible and intangible assets acquired in business combination. At March 31, 2025 and March 31, 2024, the carrying value of goodwill was nil, due to impairment charges recorded. The Starz Business also did not have any indefinite-lived intangibles assets at March 31, 2025, reflecting the reassessment of the estimated useful life of the Starz Business's indefinite-lived intangible assets in the second quarter of fiscal 2024, as further discussed below. Through September 30, 2023, the Starz Business's indefinite-lived intangible assets consist of trade names representing the estimated fair value of the Starz brand name determined in connection with Old Lionsgate's acquisition of the Starz Business as of December 8, 2016 (see further discussion under Indefinite-Lived Intangibles Other Than Goodwill Impairment Assessment below). Goodwill was allocated to the Starz Business's reporting units, which are its operating segments or one level below its operating segments (component level). Reporting units are determined by the discrete financial information available for the component and whether that information is regularly reviewed by segment management. Components are aggregated into a single reporting unit if they share similar economic characteristics. The Starz Business's reporting units for purposes of goodwill impairment testing are Starz Networks and LIONSGATE+.
Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are not amortized, but are reviewed for impairment each fiscal year or between the annual tests if an event occurs or circumstances change that indicates it is more-likely-than-not that the fair value of a reporting unit or indefinite-lived intangible asset is less than its carrying value. The Starz Business performs its annual impairment test as of January 1 in each fiscal year. A goodwill or indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment loss would be recognized for the amount that the carrying amount of a reporting unit, including goodwill or an indefinite-lived intangible asset, exceeds its fair value. An entity may perform a qualitative assessment of the likelihood of the existence of a goodwill or indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment. The qualitative assessment is an evaluation, based on all identified events and circumstances which impact the fair value of the reporting unit or indefinite-lived intangible asset, of whether or not it is more-likely-than-not that the fair value is less than the carrying value of the reporting unit or indefinite-lived intangible asset. If the Starz Business believes that as a result of its qualitative assessment it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit or indefinite-lived intangible asset is greater than its carrying amount, a quantitative impairment test is not required but may be performed at the option of the Starz Business.
A quantitative assessment requires determining the fair value of the Starz Business's reporting units or indefinite-lived intangible assets. The determination of the fair value of each reporting unit or indefinite-lived intangible asset utilizes discounted cash flows (“DCF”) analyses and market-based valuation methodologies, which represent Level 3 fair value measurements. Fair value determinations require considerable judgment and requires assumptions and estimates of many factors, including revenue and market growth, operating margins and cash flows, market multiples and discount rates, and are sensitive to changes in these underlying assumptions and factors.
Goodwill Impairment Assessment:
In fiscal 2023, during the second quarter ended September 30, 2022, due to continued adverse macro and microeconomic conditions, including the competitive environment, continued inflationary trends and recessionary economies worldwide and its impact on the Starz Business's growth in subscribers worldwide, the Starz Business began implementing a plan to restructure its LIONSGATE+ business. This restructuring included exiting the business in seven international territories (France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Benelux, the Nordics and Japan). The Starz Business's domestic operations have also been impacted by these market conditions and the Starz Business revised its subscriber growth and forecasted cash flow assumptions and implemented certain cost-saving measures. Additionally, companies in the media and entertainment industry, and particularly those with significant streaming platforms, had experienced a decline in market valuations. Accordingly, for the second quarter ended September 30, 2022, the Starz Business updated its quantitative impairment assessment for all of its reporting units based on the most recent data and expected growth trends. The DCF analysis components of the fair value estimates were determined primarily by discounting estimated future cash flows,
which included weighted average perpetual nominal growth rates ranging from 2.0% to 3.0%, at a weighted average cost of capital (discount rate) ranging from 10.0% to 14.0%, which considered the risk of achieving the projected cash flows, including the risk applicable to the reporting unit, industry and market as a whole.
Based on its quantitative impairment assessment, the Starz Business determined that the fair value of its reporting units were less than the respective carrying values for its reporting units. The analysis resulted in a goodwill impairment charge of $1,475.0 million in fiscal 2023, of which $1,261.7 million related to the Starz Networks reporting unit, which is presented as goodwill and intangible asset impairment in the combined statement of operations (see Note 5 to the combined financial statements) and $213.3 million related to the LIONSGATE+ reporting unit, which is presented within discontinued operations in the combined statement of operations (see Note 2 to the combined financial statements). The impairment charges reduced the carrying value of the LIONSGATE + reporting unit goodwill to zero, and the Starz Networks reporting unit to its respective fair value, therefore at September 30, 2022 the fair value and carrying value of the Starz Network reporting unit were equal and thus it continued to be considered “at risk” of impairment.
For the Starz Business's annual goodwill impairment test for fiscal 2024, the Starz Business performed a qualitative goodwill impairment assessment for its Starz Network reporting unit. The Starz Business's qualitative assessment considered the performance of the Starz Business’s reporting units from September 30, 2022, and updated forecasts of performance and cash flows, as well as the continuing micro and macroeconomic environment, and industry considerations, and determined that since the quantitative assessment performed in the quarter ended September 30, 2022, there were no events or circumstances that rise to a level that would more-likely-than-not reduce the fair value of this reporting unit below its carrying values; therefore, a quantitative goodwill impairment analysis was not required.
In the second quarter of fiscal 2023, due to the continuing difficult macro and microeconomic conditions, industry trends, and their impact on the performance and projected cash flows of the Starz Networks reporting unit, including its growth in subscribers and revenue, and the expanded restructuring activities discussed in Note 2 and Note 13 to the combined financial statements, along with recent market valuation multiples, the Starz Business updated its quantitative impairment assessment for its Starz Networks reporting unit goodwill based on the most recent data and expected growth trends. In performing its quantitative impairment assessment, the fair value of the Starz Business's reporting unit was estimated by using a combination of discounted cash flow (“DCF”) analyses and market-based valuation methodologies. The DCF analysis components were determined primarily by discounting estimated future cash flows, which included a weighted average perpetual nominal growth rate of 1.5%, at a weighted average cost of capital (discount rate) of 10.5%, which considered the risk of achieving the projected cash flows, including the risk applicable to the reporting unit, industry and market as a whole.
Based on our quantitative impairment assessment, we determined that the fair value of the Starz Business's Starz Networks reporting unit which was previously disclosed as a reporting unit “at risk” of impairment, was less than its carrying value (after the impairment write-down of its indefinite-lived intangible assets discussed below). The analysis resulted in a goodwill impairment charge of $494.0 million in fiscal 2024, representing all of the remaining Starz Networks reporting unit goodwill, which is recorded in goodwill and intangible asset impairment in the combined statement of operations.
Indefinite-Lived Intangibles Other Than Goodwill Impairment Assessment:
Through September 30, 2023, the Starz Business's indefinite-lived intangible assets consisted of trade names representing the estimated fair value of the Starz brand name determined in connection with the acquisition of the Starz Business as of December 8, 2016, amounting to $250.0 million related to the Starz Networks reporting unit before the impairment charge recorded in the second quarter of fiscal 2024 discussed below.
For fiscal 2023, based on a quantitative impairment assessment during the second quarter ended September 30, 2022 and based on a qualitative impairment assessment during the fourth quarter ended March 31, 2023, the Starz Business concluded that it was more-likely-than-not that the fair value of its trade names was more than its carrying amount, and therefore its trade names were not considered at risk of impairment at such time.
During the second quarter of fiscal 2024, due to the events and their impact discussed above, the Starz Business performed a quantitative impairment assessment of its indefinite-lived trade names. The fair value of the Starz Business's indefinite-lived trade names was estimated based on the present value of the hypothetical cost savings that could be realized by the owner of the trade names as a result of not having to pay a stream of royalty payments to another party. These cost savings were calculated based on a DCF analysis of the hypothetical royalty payment that a licensee would be required to pay in exchange for use of the trade names, reduced by the tax effect realized by the licensee on the royalty payments. Based on the quantitative impairment assessment of our trade names, we recorded an impairment charge of
$170.0 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2024, which was presented in goodwill and intangible asset impairment on the combined statement of operations.
After the Starz Business performed its quantitative impairment assessment, during the second quarter of fiscal 2024, the Starz Business then reassessed the estimated useful life of the trade names with a remaining carrying value of $80.0 million, net of the impairment charge discussed above. The Starz Business concluded that based upon the most recent factors, including current macro and microeconomic conditions, market competition and historical Starz Business and industry trends, the trade names now have a finite estimated remaining useful life of 10 years. Accordingly, beginning October 1, 2023, the trade names are being accounted for as finite-lived intangible assets and amortized over their estimated remaining useful life.
As of March 31, 2025 and 2024, the Starz Business did not have any indefinite-lived intangible assets.
Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets
Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets
Goodwill represents the excess acquisition cost over the fair value of net tangible and intangible assets acquired in business combination. At March 31, 2025 and March 31, 2024, the carrying value of goodwill was nil, due to impairment charges recorded. The Starz Business also did not have any indefinite-lived intangibles assets at March 31, 2025, reflecting the reassessment of the estimated useful life of the Starz Business's indefinite-lived intangible assets in the second quarter of fiscal 2024, as further discussed below. Through September 30, 2023, the Starz Business's indefinite-lived intangible assets consist of trade names representing the estimated fair value of the Starz brand name determined in connection with Old Lionsgate's acquisition of the Starz Business as of December 8, 2016 (see further discussion under Indefinite-Lived Intangibles Other Than Goodwill Impairment Assessment below). Goodwill was allocated to the Starz Business's reporting units, which are its operating segments or one level below its operating segments (component level). Reporting units are determined by the discrete financial information available for the component and whether that information is regularly reviewed by segment management. Components are aggregated into a single reporting unit if they share similar economic characteristics. The Starz Business's reporting units for purposes of goodwill impairment testing are Starz Networks and LIONSGATE+.
Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are not amortized, but are reviewed for impairment each fiscal year or between the annual tests if an event occurs or circumstances change that indicates it is more-likely-than-not that the fair value of a reporting unit or indefinite-lived intangible asset is less than its carrying value. The Starz Business performs its annual impairment test as of January 1 in each fiscal year. A goodwill or indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment loss would be recognized for the amount that the carrying amount of a reporting unit, including goodwill or an indefinite-lived intangible asset, exceeds its fair value. An entity may perform a qualitative assessment of the likelihood of the existence of a goodwill or indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment. The qualitative assessment is an evaluation, based on all identified events and circumstances which impact the fair value of the reporting unit or indefinite-lived intangible asset, of whether or not it is more-likely-than-not that the fair value is less than the carrying value of the reporting unit or indefinite-lived intangible asset. If the Starz Business believes that as a result of its qualitative assessment it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit or indefinite-lived intangible asset is greater than its carrying amount, a quantitative impairment test is not required but may be performed at the option of the Starz Business.
A quantitative assessment requires determining the fair value of the Starz Business's reporting units or indefinite-lived intangible assets. The determination of the fair value of each reporting unit or indefinite-lived intangible asset utilizes discounted cash flows (“DCF”) analyses and market-based valuation methodologies, which represent Level 3 fair value measurements. Fair value determinations require considerable judgment and requires assumptions and estimates of many factors, including revenue and market growth, operating margins and cash flows, market multiples and discount rates, and are sensitive to changes in these underlying assumptions and factors.
Goodwill Impairment Assessment:
In fiscal 2023, during the second quarter ended September 30, 2022, due to continued adverse macro and microeconomic conditions, including the competitive environment, continued inflationary trends and recessionary economies worldwide and its impact on the Starz Business's growth in subscribers worldwide, the Starz Business began implementing a plan to restructure its LIONSGATE+ business. This restructuring included exiting the business in seven international territories (France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Benelux, the Nordics and Japan). The Starz Business's domestic operations have also been impacted by these market conditions and the Starz Business revised its subscriber growth and forecasted cash flow assumptions and implemented certain cost-saving measures. Additionally, companies in the media and entertainment industry, and particularly those with significant streaming platforms, had experienced a decline in market valuations. Accordingly, for the second quarter ended September 30, 2022, the Starz Business updated its quantitative impairment assessment for all of its reporting units based on the most recent data and expected growth trends. The DCF analysis components of the fair value estimates were determined primarily by discounting estimated future cash flows,
which included weighted average perpetual nominal growth rates ranging from 2.0% to 3.0%, at a weighted average cost of capital (discount rate) ranging from 10.0% to 14.0%, which considered the risk of achieving the projected cash flows, including the risk applicable to the reporting unit, industry and market as a whole.
Based on its quantitative impairment assessment, the Starz Business determined that the fair value of its reporting units were less than the respective carrying values for its reporting units. The analysis resulted in a goodwill impairment charge of $1,475.0 million in fiscal 2023, of which $1,261.7 million related to the Starz Networks reporting unit, which is presented as goodwill and intangible asset impairment in the combined statement of operations (see Note 5 to the combined financial statements) and $213.3 million related to the LIONSGATE+ reporting unit, which is presented within discontinued operations in the combined statement of operations (see Note 2 to the combined financial statements). The impairment charges reduced the carrying value of the LIONSGATE + reporting unit goodwill to zero, and the Starz Networks reporting unit to its respective fair value, therefore at September 30, 2022 the fair value and carrying value of the Starz Network reporting unit were equal and thus it continued to be considered “at risk” of impairment.
For the Starz Business's annual goodwill impairment test for fiscal 2024, the Starz Business performed a qualitative goodwill impairment assessment for its Starz Network reporting unit. The Starz Business's qualitative assessment considered the performance of the Starz Business’s reporting units from September 30, 2022, and updated forecasts of performance and cash flows, as well as the continuing micro and macroeconomic environment, and industry considerations, and determined that since the quantitative assessment performed in the quarter ended September 30, 2022, there were no events or circumstances that rise to a level that would more-likely-than-not reduce the fair value of this reporting unit below its carrying values; therefore, a quantitative goodwill impairment analysis was not required.
In the second quarter of fiscal 2023, due to the continuing difficult macro and microeconomic conditions, industry trends, and their impact on the performance and projected cash flows of the Starz Networks reporting unit, including its growth in subscribers and revenue, and the expanded restructuring activities discussed in Note 2 and Note 13 to the combined financial statements, along with recent market valuation multiples, the Starz Business updated its quantitative impairment assessment for its Starz Networks reporting unit goodwill based on the most recent data and expected growth trends. In performing its quantitative impairment assessment, the fair value of the Starz Business's reporting unit was estimated by using a combination of discounted cash flow (“DCF”) analyses and market-based valuation methodologies. The DCF analysis components were determined primarily by discounting estimated future cash flows, which included a weighted average perpetual nominal growth rate of 1.5%, at a weighted average cost of capital (discount rate) of 10.5%, which considered the risk of achieving the projected cash flows, including the risk applicable to the reporting unit, industry and market as a whole.
Based on our quantitative impairment assessment, we determined that the fair value of the Starz Business's Starz Networks reporting unit which was previously disclosed as a reporting unit “at risk” of impairment, was less than its carrying value (after the impairment write-down of its indefinite-lived intangible assets discussed below). The analysis resulted in a goodwill impairment charge of $494.0 million in fiscal 2024, representing all of the remaining Starz Networks reporting unit goodwill, which is recorded in goodwill and intangible asset impairment in the combined statement of operations.
Indefinite-Lived Intangibles Other Than Goodwill Impairment Assessment:
Through September 30, 2023, the Starz Business's indefinite-lived intangible assets consisted of trade names representing the estimated fair value of the Starz brand name determined in connection with the acquisition of the Starz Business as of December 8, 2016, amounting to $250.0 million related to the Starz Networks reporting unit before the impairment charge recorded in the second quarter of fiscal 2024 discussed below.
For fiscal 2023, based on a quantitative impairment assessment during the second quarter ended September 30, 2022 and based on a qualitative impairment assessment during the fourth quarter ended March 31, 2023, the Starz Business concluded that it was more-likely-than-not that the fair value of its trade names was more than its carrying amount, and therefore its trade names were not considered at risk of impairment at such time.
During the second quarter of fiscal 2024, due to the events and their impact discussed above, the Starz Business performed a quantitative impairment assessment of its indefinite-lived trade names. The fair value of the Starz Business's indefinite-lived trade names was estimated based on the present value of the hypothetical cost savings that could be realized by the owner of the trade names as a result of not having to pay a stream of royalty payments to another party. These cost savings were calculated based on a DCF analysis of the hypothetical royalty payment that a licensee would be required to pay in exchange for use of the trade names, reduced by the tax effect realized by the licensee on the royalty payments. Based on the quantitative impairment assessment of our trade names, we recorded an impairment charge of
$170.0 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2024, which was presented in goodwill and intangible asset impairment on the combined statement of operations.
After the Starz Business performed its quantitative impairment assessment, during the second quarter of fiscal 2024, the Starz Business then reassessed the estimated useful life of the trade names with a remaining carrying value of $80.0 million, net of the impairment charge discussed above. The Starz Business concluded that based upon the most recent factors, including current macro and microeconomic conditions, market competition and historical Starz Business and industry trends, the trade names now have a finite estimated remaining useful life of 10 years. Accordingly, beginning October 1, 2023, the trade names are being accounted for as finite-lived intangible assets and amortized over their estimated remaining useful life.
As of March 31, 2025 and 2024, the Starz Business did not have any indefinite-lived intangible assets.
Advertising and Marketing Expenses
Advertising and Marketing Expenses
The costs of advertising and marketing expenses are expensed as incurred. Certain of the Starz Business's affiliation agreements require it to provide marketing support to the distributor based upon certain criteria as stipulated in the agreements. Marketing support includes cooperative advertising and marketing efforts between the Starz Business and its distributors such as cross channel, direct mail and point of sale incentives. Marketing support is recorded as an expense and not a reduction of revenue when the Starz Business has received a direct benefit and the fair value of such benefit is determinable.
Advertising expenses for the year ended March 31, 2025 were $289.3 million (2024 — $322.9 million, 2023 — $339.0 million) which were recorded as distribution and marketing expenses in the accompanying combined statements of operations.
Income Taxes
Income Taxes
The Starz Business's results have historically been included in the consolidated U.S. federal income tax return and U.S. state income tax filings of Old Lionsgate. The Starz Business has computed its provision for income taxes on a separate return basis in these combined financial statements. The separate return method applies the accounting guidance for income taxes to the stand-alone financial statements as if the Starz Business was a separate taxpayer and a stand-alone enterprise for the periods presented. The calculation of income taxes for the Starz Business on a separate return basis requires significant judgment and use of both estimates and allocations. However, as discussed above in Note 1, the combined historical results of the Starz Business are presented on a managed basis rather than a legal entity basis, with certain deductions and other items that are included in the consolidated financial statements of Old Lionsgate, but not included in the combined financial statements of the Starz Business. Accordingly, the income tax provision and deferred taxes, including tax attributes are expected to differ following the completion of the Separation.
Income taxes are accounted for using an asset and liability approach for financial accounting and reporting for income taxes and recognition and measurement of deferred assets are based upon the likelihood of realization of tax benefits in future years. Under this method, deferred taxes are provided for the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax return purposes. Valuation allowances are established when management determines that it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the net deferred tax asset, on a jurisdiction-by-jurisdiction basis, will not be realized. The financial effect of changes in tax laws or rates is accounted for in the period of enactment.
From time to time, the Starz Business engages in transactions in which the tax consequences may be subject to uncertainty. Significant judgment is required in assessing and estimating the tax consequences of these transactions. In determining the Starz Business’s tax provision for financial reporting purposes, the Starz Business establishes a reserve for uncertain tax positions unless such positions are determined to be more likely than not of being sustained upon examination, based on their technical merits. The Starz Business’s policy is to recognize interest and/or penalties related to income tax matters in income tax expense.
Foreign Currency Translation
Foreign Currency Translation
Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in currencies other than the functional currency are translated at exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date. Resulting unrealized and realized gains and losses are included in the combined statements of operations.
The functional currency of all entities in these combined financial statements is the U.S. dollar. Amounts included in accumulated other comprehensive income reflect the net gains arising on the translation of the accounts of foreign companies prior to their change to a U.S. dollar functional currency.
Parent Net Investment
Parent Net Investment
Parent net investment in the combined balance sheets is presented in lieu of shareholders’ equity and represents Old Lionsgate's historical investment in the Starz Business the accumulated net earnings (losses) after taxes and the net effect of settled transactions with and allocations from Old Lionsgate prior to the Separation. All cash transactions reflected in parent net investment by Old Lionsgate in the accompanying combined balance sheets have been considered as financing activities for purposes of the combined statements of cash flows.
Share-Based Compensation
Share-Based Compensation
Prior to the Separation, certain Starz Business employees participate in the share-based compensation plans sponsored by Old Lionsgate. Old Lionsgate share-based compensation awards granted to employees of the Starz Business consist of stock options, restricted share units and share appreciation rights. As such, the awards to the Starz Business employees are reflected in parent net investment within the combined statements of equity (deficit) at the time they are expensed. The combined statements of operations also include an allocation of Old Lionsgate corporate and shared employee share-based compensation expenses.
The Starz Business measures the cost of employee services received in exchange for an award of equity instruments based on the grant date fair value of the award. The fair value is recognized in earnings over the period during which an employee is required to provide service. See Note 11 for further discussion of the Starz Business’s share-based compensation.
Transfers of Financial Assets
Transfers of Financial Assets
The Starz Business enters into arrangements to sell certain financial assets (i.e., monetize its trade accounts receivables). For a transfer of financial assets to be considered a "true sale", the asset must be legally isolated from the Starz Business and the purchaser must have control of the asset. Determining whether all the requirements have been met includes an evaluation of legal considerations, the extent of the Starz Business’s continuing involvement with the assets transferred and any other relevant considerations. When the true sales criteria are met, the Starz Business derecognizes the carrying value of the financial asset transferred and recognizes a net gain or loss on the sale. The proceeds from these arrangements with third party purchasers are reflected as cash provided by operating activities in the combined statements of cash flows. If the sales criteria are not met, the transfer is considered a secured borrowing and the financial asset remains on the combined balance sheets with proceeds from the sale recognized as debt and recorded as cash flows from financing activities in the combined statements of cash flows. See Note 16 for discussion of the Starz Business’s accounts receivable monetization.
Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements and Recently Accounting Pronouncements
Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
Segment Reporting: In November 2023, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued guidance that expanded disclosures about a public entity’s reportable segments and required more enhanced information about a reportable segment’s expenses, interim segment profit or loss, and how a public entity’s chief operating decision maker (“CODM”) uses reported segment profit or loss information in assessing segment performance and allocating resources. This guidance was effective for the Company beginning with these financial statements issued for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2025, and the Company has applied this guidance to all periods presented (see Note 14).
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
Income Taxes: In December 2023, the FASB issued guidance which expanded income tax disclosures by requiring public business entities, on an annual basis, to disclose specific categories in the rate reconciliation and provide additional information for reconciling items that meet a quantitative threshold. Additionally, this guidance required all public business entities to disaggregate disclosures by jurisdiction on the amount of income taxes paid (net of refunds received), income or loss from continuing operations before income tax expense (or benefit) and income tax expense (or benefit) from continuing operations. This guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024, and therefore will be effective beginning with the Starz Business’s financial statements issued for the calendar year ending December 31, 2025 with early adoption permitted. The Starz Business is currently evaluating the impact of adopting this guidance on its combined financial statements and disclosures.
Income Statement: In November 2024, the FASB issued guidance requiring public business entities to disclose additional information about specific expense categories in the notes to financial statements for interim and annual reporting periods. This guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2026, and therefore will be effective beginning with the Starz Business’s financial statements issued for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2027 and interim reporting periods beginning in fiscal 2029, with early adoption permitted. The disclosures required under the guidance can be applied either prospectively to financial statements issued for reporting periods after the effective date or retrospectively to any or all periods presented in the financial statements. The Starz Business is currently evaluating the impact of adopting this guidance on its combined financial statements and disclosures.
Fair Value Hierarchy
Fair Value Hierarchy
Fair value hierarchy requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. A financial instrument’s categorization within the fair value hierarchy is based upon the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The accounting guidance and standards establish three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair value:
Level 1 — Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
Level 2 — Observable inputs other than Level 1 prices such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in markets with insufficient volume or infrequent transactions (less active markets); or model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs are observable or can be derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities.
Level 3 — Unobservable inputs to the valuation methodology that are significant to the measurement of fair value of assets or liabilities.