The impact of the novel coronavirus (“COVID-19”) and measures to prevent its spread are affecting our businesses in a number of ways. We have closed our theme parks; suspended our cruises and theatrical shows; delayed theatrical distribution of films both domestically and internationally; and experienced supply chain disruption and ad sales impacts. In addition there has been a disruption in creation and availability of content we rely on for our various distribution paths, including most significantly the cancellation of certain sports events and the shutting down of production of most film and television content.
We expect the ultimate significance of the impact of these disruptions, including the extent of their adverse impact on our financial and operational results, will be dictated by the length of time that such disruptions continue which will, in turn, depend on the currently unknowable duration of the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact of governmental regulations that might be imposed in response to the pandemic. Our businesses could also be impacted should the disruptions from COVID-19 lead to changes in consumer behavior. The COVID-19 impact on the capital markets could impact our cost of borrowing. There are certain limitations on our ability to mitigate the adverse financial impact of these items, including the fixed costs of our theme park business. COVID-19 also makes it more challenging for management to estimate future performance of our businesses, particularly over the near to medium term.
Cautionary Notes on Forward Looking Statements
Certain statements in this earnings release may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements identified by the words “will,” “may,” “expect,” “could” and similar words and other statements that are not historical in nature. These statements are made on the basis of management’s views and assumptions regarding future events and business performance as of the time the statements are made. Management does not undertake any obligation to update these statements.
Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied. Such differences may result from actions taken by the Company, including restructuring or strategic initiatives (including capital investments, asset acquisitions or dispositions, integration initiatives and timing of synergy realization) or other business decisions, as well as from developments beyond the Company’s control, including:
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changes in domestic and global economic conditions, competitive conditions and consumer preferences;
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adverse weather conditions or natural disasters;
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health concerns, including COVID-19, among other health concerns;
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international, regulatory, political, or military developments;
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technological developments; and
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labor markets and activities.
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Such developments may affect entertainment, travel and leisure businesses generally and may, among other things, affect:
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the performance of the Company’s theatrical and home entertainment releases;
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content for our distribution platforms;
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the advertising market for broadcast and cable television programming;
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demand for our products and services;
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expenses of providing medical and pension benefits;
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performance of some or all company businesses either directly or through their impact on those who distribute our products; and
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achievement of anticipated benefits of the TFCF transaction.
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Additional factors are set forth in this Form 8-K; the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 28, 2019 under Item 1A, “Risk Factors,” Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis,” Item 1, “Business,”; Form 10-Q for the quarter ended December 28, 2019 under equivalent sections; and subsequent reports.