2016 Annual Report uscellular.com
U.S. CELLULAR® 2016 QUICK FACTS 5 million customers Strong customer loyalty 1.3% average churn rate 99% of customers have access to 4G LTE speeds Smartphone penetration increased to 79% of postpaid handset base Named one of Americas Best Large Employers by Forbes U.S. Cellular awarded Highest Wireless Network Quality Performance in the North Central Region by J.D. Power
U.S. Cellular exists to provide exceptional wireless communication services which enhance consumers lives, increase the competitiveness of local businesses, and improve the efficiency of government operations in the mid-sized and rural markets we serve. Dear Shareholders, It is an exciting time to be in the wireless industry. With rapid change come opportunities, and also challenges. The growing array of wireless devices, and their intelligence and connectivity, are increasingly integral to how consumers live, and to how businesses operate. We have built a strong, rural footprint and reputation for offering high-quality and reliable wireless service in the Middle of Anywhere. Today, we are working to position U.S. Cellular to take advantage of the growing importance mobility plays in our world. The initiatives youll read about in this report are aimed at this goal. We have built a strong, rural footprint and reputation for offering high-quality and reliable wireless service in the Middle of Anywhere. In a rapidly changing industry, where the winners are technological innovators, we are strategically investing to build shareholder value. In 2016, we strengthened our competitive offerings. We enhanced our network with new technologies like Voice over LTE (VoLTE) and nationwide 4G LTE roaming. In one of the most aggressively promotional environments for the wireless industry, we kept our costs in check, and responded to aggressive pricing with a disciplined approach. We continued to benefit from the strength of our network, and from our more local and personal approach to delivering outstanding customer service. U.S. CELLULAR 1
Middle of AnywhereTM Network: A Competitive Advantage U.S. Cellulars competitive advantage starts with our high-quality network. The original, low-frequency spectrum licenses, many of which weve owned since U.S. Cellular began, are ideal for the rural and suburban areas we serve. Our combination of low-band coverage and mid-band capacity provides a strong wireless connection. In October, J.D. Power recognized us in the 2016 Wireless Network Quality Performance Study Volume 2, saying that U.S. Cellular ranked Highest Wireless Network Quality Performance in the North Central Region, achieving the highest score in call quality and messaging quality study factors within its region. To expand this strength, we are innovating and investing in new technologies that address customers growing demand for data. In 2016, we began a multi-year rollout of VoLTE, and plan to launch our first commercial deployment of VoLTE in Iowa, in 2017. When deployed commercially, VoLTE will enable customers to utilize the LTE network for both voice and data; it will enable services such as high-definition voice, video calling, and simultaneous voice and data sessions. In addition, these investments are creating the opportunity to increase roaming revenues from all carriers. In partnership with Nokia and Ericsson, we also successfully tested 5G technology in both indoor and outdoor environments for the first time. We plan to conduct further 5G tests in order to understand the customer benefits 5G technology may provide. This year, we made the significant transition to move to 4G LTE roaming agreements. Our engineering group implemented technology that allows for data roaming on one network, with fallback to another carrier for voice services. As a result, we can provide data roaming with more carriers, giving our customers a better roaming experience while lowering our expenses. It is also worth emphasizing that U.S. Cellular continues to add cell towers to our existing portfolio, already the fourth largest tower portfolio in the nation. Owning our towers provides us with a strategic advantage when implementing new technologies like VoLTE. Balancing Growth and Profitability In order to balance customer growth with profitability, U.S. Cellular does not chase growth at any cost. We saw aggressive promotions from our competitors, and responded selectively. This disciplined strategy resulted in slower customer growth in 2016, but we delivered on our earnings targets. Growth in smartphone adoption among our customer base, and increased data usage, helped to offset some competitive pricing pressures. In 2016, we weathered some unanticipated supply line challenges, which impacted our sales. Most notably, there was the industry-wide recall and termination of the Samsung Note 7, and supply constraints with the iPhone 7. Despite these supply disruptions, we maintained consistently low customer churn and increased the rate at which our customers were upgrading their devices. To reduce expenses, we are constantly assessing operating costs throughout the business as well as tactically planning our outlay for capital investments. To maximize long-term profitability, we seek to continually lower costs, without undermining our competitive advantages in network quality and customer service. We began a multi-year rollout of Voice over LTE (VoLTE), and plan to launch our first commercial deployment of VoLTE in Iowa, early in 2017. 2 U.S. CELLULAR
We are innovating our retail products, services, and stores to optimize the customer experience. Serving Customers with Innovative Services and Products Engaging with our customers, and providing them with outstanding service at every point, is critical to U.S. Cellulars success. We are innovating our retail products, services, and stores to optimize the customer experience. This year we rolled out the designated Samsung store-within-a-store that includes an interactive, one-of-a-kind, virtual host, designed to help customers learn key features and benefits of the latest Samsung devices. We also enhanced our Bill ReducerTM smartphone application, whereby U.S. Cellular customers can reduce their monthly wireless bill by interacting with their device. We launched two new applications: SMore, which allows customers to earn points by viewing ads and completing surveys; and Treehouse, a suite of connected applications that enable families to better connect, plan, and execute on the things that matter most to them. We continue to work closely with key suppliers to offer customers a full range of the products they desire. By the end of 2016, our smartphone penetration had increased to 79% of our postpaid handset base. We still have opportunity to upgrade more of our remaining feature phone customers to smartphones, whether on postpaid or prepaid plans, and drive additional data usage revenues. We also saw significant growth in the prepaid segment, stimulated by a mix of company-specific and industry-wide drivers; we are watching this trend closely and responding. U.S. Cellular continues to leverage competitive, value-based pricing. We have continued our transition from subsidy model to equipment installment plans (EIP), where customers pay a monthly fee to purchase their new phones. As a result, we are rapidly growing the number of customers on EIP, and have increased equipment sales revenue. We have seen early signs of success with our business and government customers, and are expanding offerings to this market, including a wide range of Internet of Things and machine-to-machine solutions and software. As the needs of these customers grow, we are enhancing our Business Solutions Product Catalog with products like international roaming, fleet management applications, and wireless priority service. Associate and Community Engagement We distinguish our company by striving to build connections with the communities where we do business. That approach includes supporting the causes that strengthen the neighborhoods where we live and work. Last year, U.S. Cellular committed $1.3 million to Boys & Girls Clubs of America and National 4-H Council. These donations were earmarked to boost the learning experience for youth by championing K-12 Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) educational programs. To further connect with our customers, we developed campaigns like The Future of Good and Most Valuable Coach that honor local heroes who are making a difference. They are examples of how our local connections can help to build better communities in our footprint. Many of our associates live in the communities we serve. They are the face of our company, and we equip them with the training and knowledge to provide customers with an outstanding wireless experience. Our associates are guided by our core values of customer focus, respect for associates, consistently high ethics, pride, empowerment, diversity, and winning. These values have helped us maintain one of the industrys highest customer satisfaction and loyalty ratings. This focus also is a powerful factor in attracting and retaining outstanding associates. For the second consecutive year, we were honored to be named one of Americas Best Large Employers by Forbes. U.S. CELLULAR 3
Regulatory As our nation transitions with a new administration, we do not fully know the changes the Federal Communications Commission will make to the Universal Service Fund Program. Regulatory changes could provide new opportunities and challenges for the wireless industry. U.S. Cellular will continue to advocate in support of a Universal Service Mobility Fund to help bring more quality data and voice wireless services to rural America. Remembering TDS Founder, Roy Carlson In May 2016, LeRoy Roy T. Carlson passed away, at the age of 100. His accomplishments were prodigious, including founding TDS which started U.S. Cellular in 1983. The basic concepts upon which Roy founded the Company were exceptional services to customers, outstanding associates and culture, an unwavering commitment to providing the nations rural and suburban communities with the latest services, and fiscal responsibility. These same concepts are the foundation that will empower us to continue to grow our business and serve the needs of our customers, associates, and shareholders. Looking Forward As customers consumption of mobile data continues to grow, it is imperative that we look ahead and plan to meet the demand for new technologies. In this competitive industry, we will continue to balance our desire for customer growth with disciplined spending and promotions. The actions delivered by our highly- engaged team will help position the company for long-term growth. We will focus on maintaining our loyal customer base, adding new customers, managing costs, and investing for our future. Thank You We are grateful to the associates of U.S. Cellular for their dedication and innovation in providing outstanding services, products, and experiences to our customers. Thank you also to our shareholders and debt holders for your support of our long- term strategies. Sincerely, Kenneth R. Meyers LeRoy T. Carlson, Jr. President and Chairman Chief Executive Officer 4 U.S. CELLULAR
UNITED STATES CELLULAR CORPORATION
ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2016
Pursuant to SEC Rule 14a-3
The following audited financial statements and certain other financial information for the year ended December 31, 2016, represent U.S. Cellular's annual report to shareholders as required by the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC").
The following information was filed with the SEC on February 24, 2017 as Exhibit 13 to U.S. Cellular's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016. Such information has not been updated or revised since the date it was originally filed with the SEC. Accordingly, you are encouraged to review such information together with any subsequent information that we have filed with the SEC and other publicly available information.
United States Cellular Corporation and Subsidiaries | Exhibit 13 |
FINANCIAL REPORTS CONTENTS
The following Management's Discussion and Analysis ("MD&A") should be read in conjunction with United States Cellular Corporation ("U.S. Cellular") audited consolidated financial statements and notes for the year ended December 31, 2016 and with the description of U.S. Cellular's business included herein. Calculated amounts and percentages are based on the underlying actual numbers rather than the numbers rounded to millions as presented.
This report contains statements that are not based on historical facts, including the words "believes," "anticipates," "intends," "expects" and similar words. These statements constitute and represent "forward looking statements" as this term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, events or developments to be significantly different from any future results, events or developments expressed or implied by such forward looking statements. See Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 Safe Harbor Cautionary Statement for additional information.
U.S. Cellular uses certain "non-GAAP financial measures," and each such measure is identified in the MD&A. A discussion of the reason U.S. Cellular determines these metrics to be useful and a reconciliation of these measures to their most directly comparable measures determined in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP") are included in the Supplemental Information Relating to Non-GAAP Financial Measures section within the MD&A of this Form 10-K Report.
General
U.S. Cellular owns, operates, and invests in wireless markets throughout the United States. U.S. Cellular is an 83%-owned subsidiary of Telephone and Data Systems, Inc. ("TDS"). U.S. Cellular's strategy is to attract and retain wireless customers through a value proposition comprised of a high-quality network, outstanding customer service, and competitive devices, plans, and pricing, all provided with a local focus.
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MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS |
OPERATIONS |
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Significant Financial and Operating Matters
The following is a summary of certain selected information contained in the comprehensive MD&A that follows. The overview does not contain all of the information that may be important. You should carefully read the entire MD&A and not rely solely on the highlights.
Significant Trends and Developments
U.S. Cellular's mission is to provide exceptional wireless communication services which enhance consumers' lives, increase the competitiveness of local businesses, and improve the efficiency of government operations in the mid-sized and rural markets served.
Network and Technology:
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Asset Management:
See Note 6 Acquisitions, Divestitures and Exchanges for additional information related to these transactions.
Products and Services:
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All defined terms in this MD&A are used as defined in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, and additional terms are defined below:
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Retail Connection Composition As of December 31, 2016 |
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2016-2015 Commentary |
2015-2014 Commentary |
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Postpaid customers comprised approximately 90% of U.S. Cellular's retail customers at December 31, 2016. U.S. Cellular believes the decrease in postpaid net additions in 2016 is a result of competitive pressures and aggressive promotional activity in the marketplace. Postpaid churn declined year over year due to enhancements in the customer experience and improvement in the overall credit mix of gross additions. |
Postpaid customers comprised approximately 92% of U.S. Cellular's retail customers at December 31, 2015. U.S. Cellular believes the increase in postpaid net additions in 2015 is a result of competitive products and services priced to offer the best value to customers, improved speed to market for product offerings, and expanded equipment installment plan offerings. U.S. Cellular also believes postpaid churn declined from 2014 levels due to an improved customer experience and strong retention programs. |
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Quarterly Postpaid Churn Rate |
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Smartphone Penetration |
2016-2015 Commentary |
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Smartphones represented 92% of total postpaid handset sales in 2016. As a result, smartphone penetration increased to 79% of the postpaid handset base as of December 31, 2016 versus 74% as of December 31, 2015. Smartphone customers generally use more data than feature phone customers, thereby driving growth in service revenues. Continued growth in customer usage related to data services and products may result in increased operating expenses and the need for additional investment in spectrum, network capacity and network enhancements. 2015-2014 Commentary Smartphones represented 88% of total postpaid handset sales in 2015. As a result, smartphone penetration increased to 74% of the postpaid handset base as of December 31, 2015, up from 65% as of December 31, 2014. |
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Postpaid Revenue
Year Ended December 31, |
2016 |
2015 |
2014 |
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Average Revenue Per User (ARPU)1 |
$ | 46.96 | $ | 54.50 | $ | 56.75 | ||||
Average Billings Per User (ABPU)1,2 |
$ | 56.12 | $ | 59.74 | $ | 57.78 | ||||
Average Revenue Per Account (ARPA)1 |
$ |
124.09 |
$ |
136.90 |
$ |
133.19 |
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Average Billings Per Account (ABPA)1,2 |
$ | 148.29 | $ | 150.07 | $ | 135.61 | ||||
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2016-2015 Commentary
Postpaid ARPU and Postpaid ARPA decreased in 2016 due primarily to industry-wide price competition, discounts on shared data plans provided to customers on equipment installment plans and those providing their own device at the time of activation or renewal, and the $58 million impact of the discontinuation of the loyalty rewards points program in 2015. These factors were partially offset by the impact of continued adoption of smartphones and the related increase in service revenues from data usage.
Equipment installment plans increase equipment sales revenue as customers pay for their wireless devices in installments at a total device price that is generally higher than the device price offered to customers in conjunction with alternative plans that are subject to a service contract. Equipment installment plans also have the impact of reducing service revenues as many equipment installment plans provide for reduced monthly access charges. In order to show the trends in total service and equipment revenues received, U.S. Cellular has presented Postpaid ABPU and Postpaid ABPA, which are calculated as Postpaid ARPU and Postpaid ARPA plus average monthly equipment installment plan billings per connection and account, respectively.
Equipment installment plan billings increased in 2016 when compared to 2015 due to increased adoption of equipment installment plans by postpaid customers. Postpaid ABPU and ABPA decreased in 2016 as the increase in equipment installment plan billings was more than offset by the decline in Postpaid ARPU and ARPA discussed above. U.S. Cellular expects the adoption and penetration of equipment installment plans to continue to increase as plan offerings shifted more toward equipment installment plans in the third quarter of 2016 as discussed in the Significant Trends and Developments section within this MD&A.
2015-2014 Commentary
Postpaid ARPU decreased in 2015 due to industry-wide price competition and discounts on shared data plans provided to customers on equipment installment plans and those providing their own device at the time of activation or renewal, partially offset by the continued adoption of smartphones and shared data plans. The increase in postpaid ARPA is the result of increased postpaid connections per account driven by increased connected device penetration.
U.S. Cellular implemented equipment installment plans on a broad basis in 2014.
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Components of Operating Income (Loss)
Year Ended December 31, |
2016 | 2015 | 2014 | 2016 vs. 2015 | 2015 vs. 2014 |
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(Dollars in millions) |
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Retail service |
$ | 2,700 | $ | 2,994 | $ | 3,013 | (10)% | (1)% | |||||||
Inbound roaming |
152 | 192 | 224 | (21)% | (14)% | ||||||||||
Other |
178 | 164 | 161 | 8% | 2% | ||||||||||
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Service revenues |
3,030 | 3,350 | 3,398 | (10)% | (1)% | ||||||||||
Equipment sales |
909 | 647 | 495 | 41% | 31% | ||||||||||
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Total operating revenues |
3,939 | 3,997 | 3,893 | (1)% | 3% | ||||||||||
System operations (excluding Depreciation, amortization and |
760 | 775 | 770 | (2)% | 1% | ||||||||||
Cost of equipment sold |
1,081 | 1,053 | 1,193 | 3% | (12)% | ||||||||||
Selling, general and administrative |
1,480 | 1,494 | 1,592 | (1)% | (6)% | ||||||||||
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3,321 | 3,322 | 3,555 | | (7)% | ||||||||||
Operating cash flow* |
618 | 675 | 338 | (8)% | 100% | ||||||||||
Depreciation, amortization and accretion |
618 | 607 | 606 | 2% | | ||||||||||
(Gain) loss on asset disposals, net |
22 | 16 | 21 | 36% | (24)% | ||||||||||
(Gain) loss on sale of business and other exit costs, net |
| (114 | ) | (33 | ) | 100% | >(100)% | ||||||||
(Gain) loss on license sales and exchanges, net |
(19 | ) | (147 | ) | (113 | ) | 87% | (30)% | |||||||
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Total operating expenses |
3,942 | 3,684 | 4,036 | 7% | (9)% | ||||||||||
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Operating income (loss) |
$ | (3 | ) | $ | 313 | $ | (143 | ) | >(100)% | >100% | |||||
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Net income (loss) |
$ | 49 | $ | 247 | $ | (47 | ) | (80)% | >100% | ||||||
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Adjusted EBITDA* |
$ | 816 | $ | 852 | $ | 479 | (4)% | 77% | |||||||
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Capital expenditures |
$ | 446 | $ | 533 | $ | 558 | (16)% | (4)% | |||||||
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Operating Revenues |
Service revenues consist of: § Retail Service Charges for access, airtime, roaming, recovery of regulatory costs and value added services, including data services and products § Inbound Roaming Charges to other wireless carriers whose customers use U.S. Cellular's wireless systems when roaming § Other Primarily amounts received from the Federal USF and tower rental revenues Equipment revenues consist of: § Sales of wireless devices and related accessories to new and existing customers, agents, and third-party distributors |
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Key components of changes in the statement of operations line items were as follows:
2016-2015 Commentary
Total operating revenues
Service revenues decreased as a result of (i) a continued decrease in retail service revenues and resulting ARPU and ARPA primarily driven by industry-wide price competition and discounts on shared data plans provided to customers on equipment installment plans and those providing their own device at the time of activation or renewal; (ii) the $58 million of revenue recognized in 2015 from unredeemed rewards points upon termination of U.S. Cellular's rewards program; and (iii) a decrease in inbound roaming revenue driven by lower roaming rates. Such reductions were partially offset by an increase in average connections base and continued adoption of smartphones.
Federal USF revenue remained flat year over year at $92 million. Pursuant to the FCC's Reform Order ("Reform Order"), U.S. Cellular's current Federal USF support was to be phased down at the rate of 20% per year beginning July 1, 2012. The Phase II Mobility Fund was not operational as of July 2014 and, therefore, as provided by the Reform Order, the phase down was suspended at 60% of the baseline amount until such time as the FCC takes steps to adopt an order to recommence the phase down. On February 23, 2017, the FCC adopted an order concerning the Mobility Fund II and the resumption of the phase down. The text of the order has not been released but the press release issued by the FCC following adoption of the order indicates that the order will establish a Mobility Fund II support mechanism of $453 million annually for ten years to be distributed through a market-based, multi-round reverse auction and that the phase down of unnecessary legacy support from the Federal USF will commence on the first day of the month following the completion of the auction and will conclude two years later. U.S. Cellular cannot predict at this time when the Mobility Fund II auction will occur, when the phase down period for its existing legacy support from the Federal USF will commence, or whether the Mobility Fund II auction will provide opportunities to the Company to offset any loss in existing support. However, U.S. Cellular currently expects that its legacy support will continue at the existing level for 2017.
Equipment sales revenues increased year over year due primarily to an increase in average revenue per device sold driven by the increase in sales under equipment installment plans, an overall increase in the number of devices sold, and a shift to smartphones. Equipment installment plan sales contributed $710 million and $351 million in 2016 and 2015, respectively. Equipment installment plan connections represented 44% and 27% of total postpaid connections as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.
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System operations expenses
System operations expenses decreased by a modest amount in 2016 when compared to 2015. U.S. Cellular expects system operations expenses to decrease in 2017 due primarily to lower average rates for roaming usage.
Cost of equipment sold
Cost of equipment sold increased primarily as the result of a shift to smartphone sales and an overall increase in devices sold, partially offset by a decrease in the average cost per device sold driven by lower cost smartphones and connected devices. Cost of equipment sold in 2016 included $758 million related to equipment installment plan sales compared to $449 million in 2015. Loss on equipment, defined as Equipment sales revenues less Cost of equipment sold, was $172 million and $406 million for 2016 and 2015, respectively.
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased by a modest amount in 2016 when compared to 2015. This decrease was attributable to various expense reductions that were partially offset by a $13 million expense recognized in the third quarter of 2016 as a result of the termination of a naming rights agreement.
Depreciation, amortization and accretion expenses
Depreciation, amortization and accretion expenses increased by a modest amount in 2016 when compared to 2015.
(Gain) loss on asset disposals, net
The increase in Loss on asset disposals was primarily driven by more disposals of certain network assets.
(Gain) loss on sale of business and other exit costs, net
The net gain in 2015 was due primarily to a $108 million gain recognized on the sale of towers and certain related contracts, assets and liabilities. See Note 6 Acquisitions, Divestitures and Exchanges in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.
(Gain) loss on license sales and exchanges, net
The net gains in 2016 and 2015 were due to license exchange transactions with third parties. See Note 6 Acquisitions, Divestitures and Exchanges in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information
2015-2014 Commentary
Total operating revenues
Service revenues decreased as a result of (i) a decrease in retail service revenues driven by industry-wide price competition, including discounts on shared data plans provided to customers on equipment installment plans and those providing their own device at the time of activation or renewal; and (ii) reductions in inbound roaming revenue driven by lower roaming rates. Such reductions were partially offset by an increase in the average customer base, continued adoption of shared data plans, and the $58 million of revenue recognized in 2015 from unredeemed rewards points upon termination of U.S. Cellular's rewards program.
Federal USF revenue remained flat year over year at $92 million.
Equipment sales revenues increased due primarily to an increase in average revenue per device sold driven by the increase in sales under equipment installment plans, a shift to smartphones and connected devices and an increase in accessory sales, partially offset by a decrease in the number of devices sold. Equipment installment plan sales contributed $351 million and $190 million in 2015 and 2014, respectively. Equipment installment plan connections represented 27% and 12% of total postpaid connections as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.
System operations expenses
System operations expenses increased by a modest amount in 2015 when compared to 2014.
Cost of equipment sold
Cost of equipment sold decreased as a result of an overall reduction in devices sold and a decrease in the average cost per device sold driven by the lower cost of smartphones and connected devices. Cost of equipment sold in 2015
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MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS |
included $449 million related to equipment installment plan sales compared to $280 million in 2014. Loss on equipment was $406 million and $698 million for 2015 and 2014, respectively.
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased due primarily to lower agent and retail commission expenses driven by fewer activations and renewals, lower consulting expenses related to the billing system and customer service operations, and lower rates for roamer administration. Such reductions were partially offset by increased advertising expenses.
Depreciation, amortization and accretion expenses
Depreciation, amortization and accretion expenses remained relatively flat year over year.
(Gain) loss on asset disposals, net
The decrease in Loss on asset disposals was due primarily to fewer write-offs and disposals of certain network assets.
(Gain) loss on sale of business and other exit costs, net
The net gain in 2015 was due primarily to a $108 million gain recognized on the sale of towers and certain related contracts, assets and liabilities. The net gain in 2014 was due primarily to $29 million of gain related to the impact of the sale of certain customers and licenses to Sprint in 2013. See Note 6 Acquisitions, Divestitures and Exchanges in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.
(Gain) loss on license sales and exchanges, net
The net gains in 2015 and 2014 were due to license exchange transactions with third parties. See Note 6 Acquisitions, Divestitures and Exchanges in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.
Components of Other Income (Expense)
Year Ended December 31, |
2016 | 2015 | 2014 | 2016 vs. 2015 | 2015 vs. 2014 |
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(Dollars in millions) |
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Operating income (loss) |
$ | (3 | ) | $ | 313 | $ | (143 | ) | >(100)% | >100% | |||||
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated entities |
140 | 140 | 130 | | 8% | ||||||||||
Interest and dividend income |
57 | 36 | 12 | 57% | >100% | ||||||||||
Interest expense |
(113 | ) | (86 | ) | (57 | ) | (31)% | (50)% | |||||||
Other, net |
1 | 1 | (1 | ) | 10% | >100% | |||||||||
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Total investment and other income |
85 | 91 | 84 | (7)% | 7% | ||||||||||
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Income (loss) before income taxes |
82 | 404 | (59 | ) | (80)% | >100% | |||||||||
Income tax expense (benefit) |
33 | 157 | (12 | ) | (79)% | >100% | |||||||||
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Net income (loss) |
49 | 247 | (47 | ) | (80)% | >100% | |||||||||
Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests, net of tax |
1 | 6 | (4 | ) | (71)% | >100% | |||||||||
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Net income (loss) attributable to U.S. Cellular shareholders |
$ | 48 | $ | 241 | $ | (43 | ) | (80)% | >100% | ||||||
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2016-2015 Commentary
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated entities
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated entities represents U.S. Cellular's share of net income from entities in which it has a noncontrolling interest and that are accounted for by the equity method. U.S. Cellular's investment in the Los Angeles SMSA Limited Partnership ("LA Partnership") contributed $71 million and $74 million to Equity in earnings of unconsolidated entities in 2016 and 2015, respectively.
See Note 8 Investments in Unconsolidated Entities in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.
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Interest and dividend income
Interest and dividend income increased due to imputed interest income recognized on equipment installment plans of $51 million and $34 million in 2016 and 2015, respectively. See Note 3 Equipment Installment Plans in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.
Interest expense
The increase in Interest expense from 2015 to 2016 is primarily driven by U.S. Cellular's issuance of $300 million of 7.25% Senior Notes due 2064 in November 2015 and borrowing of $225 million on its senior term loan facility that was drawn in July 2015.
Income tax expense
The effective tax rates on Income before income taxes for 2016 and 2015 were 39.7% and 38.7%, respectively. The effective tax rates for both years are consistent with a normalized tax rate inclusive of federal and state tax. Discrete items did not have a significant impact on the effective tax rates in either year.
See Note 4 Income Taxes in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for a discussion of income tax expense and the overall effective tax rate on Income before income taxes.
Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests, net of tax
The decrease from 2015 to 2016 is due to lower income from certain partnerships in 2016.
2015-2014 Commentary
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated entities
U.S. Cellular's investment in the Los Angeles SMSA Limited Partnership ("LA Partnership") contributed $74 million and $72 million to Equity in earnings of unconsolidated entities in 2015 and 2014, respectively. See Note 8 Investments in Unconsolidated Entities in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.
Interest and dividend income
Interest and dividend income increased due to imputed interest income recognized on equipment installment plans of $34 million and $9 million in 2015 and 2014, respectively. See Note 3 Equipment Installment Plans in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.
Interest expense
Interest expense increased from 2014 to 2015 due primarily to U.S. Cellular's issuance of $275 million of 7.25% Senior Notes due 2063 in December 2014, borrowing of $225 million on its senior term loan facility that was drawn in July 2015, and the issuance of $300 million of 7.25% Senior Notes due 2064 in November 2015.
Income tax expense
The effective tax rates on Income before income taxes for 2015 and 2014 were 38.7% and 20.1%, respectively. The effective tax rate for 2015 is consistent with a normalized tax rate inclusive of federal and state tax and does not include any significant discrete items. The effective tax rate for 2014 includes a tax expense of $6 million related to a valuation allowance recorded against certain state deferred tax assets. The effective tax rate in 2014 is lower due to the effect of this item combined with the loss in 2014 in Income (loss) before income taxes.
See Note 4 Income Taxes in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for a discussion of income tax expense and the overall effective tax rate on Income before income taxes.
Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests, net of tax
The increase from 2014 to 2015 is due to higher income from certain partnerships in 2015.
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MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS |
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
Sources of Liquidity
U.S. Cellular operates a capital-intensive business. Historically, U.S. Cellular has used internally-generated funds and also has obtained substantial funds from external sources for general corporate purposes. In the past, U.S. Cellular's existing cash and investment balances, funds available under its revolving credit facility, funds from other financing sources, including a term loan and other long-term debt, and cash flows from operating, investing and financing activities, including sales of assets or businesses, provided sufficient liquidity and financial flexibility for U.S. Cellular to meet its normal day-to-day operating needs and debt service requirements, to finance the build-out and enhancement of markets and to fund acquisitions, primarily of spectrum licenses. There is no assurance that this will be the case in the future. See Market Risk for additional information regarding maturities of long-term debt.
Although U.S. Cellular currently has a significant cash balance, in certain recent periods, U.S. Cellular has incurred negative free cash flow (defined as Cash flows from operating activities less Cash paid for additions to property, plant and equipment) and this will continue in the future if operating results do not improve or capital expenditures are not reduced. U.S. Cellular currently expects to have negative free cash flow in 2017. However, U.S. Cellular believes that existing cash and investment balances, funds available under its revolving credit facility, and expected cash flows from operating and investing activities provide liquidity for U.S. Cellular to meet its normal day-to-day operating needs and debt service requirements for the coming year.
U.S. Cellular may require substantial additional capital for, among other uses, funding day-to-day operating needs, working capital, acquisitions of providers of wireless telecommunications services, spectrum license or system acquisitions, system development and network capacity expansion, debt service requirements, the repurchase of shares, the payment of dividends, or making additional investments. It may be necessary from time to time to increase the size of the existing revolving credit facility, to put in place a new credit facility, to explore additional sources of liquidity through the securitization of equipment installment plan receivables, or to obtain other forms of financing in order to fund potential expenditures. U.S. Cellular's liquidity would be adversely affected if, among other things, U.S. Cellular is unable to obtain short or long-term financing on acceptable terms, U.S. Cellular makes significant spectrum license purchases, the LA Partnership discontinues or reduces distributions compared to historical levels, or Federal USF and/or other regulatory support payments continue to decline. In addition, although sales of assets or businesses by U.S. Cellular have been an important source of liquidity in recent periods, U.S. Cellular does not expect a similar level of such sales in the future, which will reduce a source of liquidity. U.S. Cellular's credit rating has declined to sub-investment grade beginning in 2014.
There can be no assurance that sufficient funds will continue to be available to U.S. Cellular or its subsidiaries on terms or at prices acceptable to U.S. Cellular. Insufficient cash flows from operating activities, further changes in its credit ratings, defaults of the terms of debt or credit agreements, uncertainty of access to capital, deterioration in the capital markets, reduced regulatory capital at banks which in turn limits their ability to borrow and lend, other changes in the performance of U.S. Cellular or in market conditions or other factors could limit or restrict the availability of financing on terms and prices acceptable to U.S. Cellular, which could require U.S. Cellular to reduce its acquisition, capital expenditure and business development programs, reduce the acquisition of spectrum licenses, and/or reduce or cease share repurchases and/or the payment of dividends. U.S. Cellular cannot provide assurance that circumstances that could have a material adverse effect on its liquidity or capital resources will not occur. Any of the foregoing would have an adverse impact on U.S. Cellular's businesses, financial condition or results of operations.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents include cash and money market investments. The primary objective of U.S. Cellular's Cash and cash equivalents is for use in its operations and acquisition, capital expenditure and business development programs.
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MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS |
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U.S. Cellular Cash and Cash Equivalents |
At December 31, 2016, U.S. Cellular's cash and cash equivalents totaled $586 million compared to $715 million at December 31, 2015 and $212 million at December 31, 2014. The majority of U.S. Cellular's Cash and cash equivalents was held in bank deposit accounts and in money market funds that invest exclusively in U.S. Treasury Notes or in repurchase agreements fully collateralized by such obligations. U.S. Cellular monitors the financial viability of the money market funds and direct investments in which it invests and believes that the credit risk associated with these investments is low. | ||
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Financing
Revolving Credit Facility
At December 31, 2016, U.S. Cellular had a revolving credit facility available for general corporate purposes. In June 2016, U.S. Cellular entered into a $300 million revolving credit agreement with certain lenders and other parties. As a result of the new agreement, U.S. Cellular's revolving credit agreement due to expire in December 2017 was terminated. Amounts under the revolving credit facility may be borrowed, repaid and reborrowed from time to time until maturity in June 2021. As of December 31, 2016, there were no outstanding borrowings under the revolving credit facility, except for letters of credit, and U.S. Cellular's unused capacity under its revolving credit facility was $298 million. The continued availability of the revolving credit facility requires U.S. Cellular to comply with certain negative and affirmative covenants, maintain certain financial ratios and provide representations on certain matters at the time of each borrowing. U.S. Cellular believes that it was in compliance as of December 31, 2016 with all of the financial and other covenants and requirements set forth in its revolving credit facility.
See Note 11 Debt in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding the revolving credit facility.
Term Loan
In January 2015, U.S. Cellular entered into a senior term loan credit facility. In July 2015, U.S. Cellular borrowed the full amount of $225 million available under this facility in two separate draws. This term loan credit facility was amended and restated in June 2016. Principal reductions are due and payable in quarterly installments of $3 million beginning in March 2016 through December 2021, and the remaining unpaid balance will be due and payable in January 2022. This facility was entered into for general corporate purposes, including working capital, spectrum purchases and capital expenditures.
The continued availability of the term loan facility requires U.S. Cellular to comply with certain negative and affirmative covenants, maintain certain financial ratios and make representations regarding certain matters at the time of each borrowing, that are substantially the same as those in U.S. Cellular's revolving credit facility described above. U.S. Cellular believes that it was in compliance at December 31, 2016 with all of the financial and other covenants and requirements set forth in the term loan facility.
See Note 11 Debt in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding the term loan.
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MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS |
Financial Covenants
As noted above, the revolving credit facility and senior term loan facility require U.S. Cellular to comply with certain affirmative and negative covenants, including certain financial covenants. In particular, under these agreements, beginning June 15, 2016, U.S. Cellular is required to maintain the Consolidated Interest Coverage Ratio at a level not lower than 3.00 to 1.00 as of the end of any fiscal quarter. U.S. Cellular is also required to maintain the Consolidated Leverage Ratio at a level not to exceed 3.25 to 1.00 as of the end of any fiscal quarter through June 30, 2019. From July 1, 2019 and thereafter, the Consolidated Leverage Ratio is not to exceed 3.00 to 1.00 as of the end of any fiscal quarter. U.S. Cellular believes that it was in compliance at December 31, 2016 with all such covenants. However, depending on U.S. Cellular's future financial performance, there is a risk that U.S. Cellular could fail to satisfy the financial covenants in the future. If U.S. Cellular breaches a financial or other covenant of either of these agreements, it would result in a default under that agreement, and could involve a cross-default under other debt instruments. This could in turn cause the affected lenders to accelerate the repayment of principal and accrued interest on any outstanding debt under such agreements and, if they choose, terminate the facility. If appropriate, U.S. Cellular may request the applicable lender for an amendment of financial covenants in the U.S. Cellular revolving credit facility and the U.S. Cellular term loan facility, in order to provide additional financial flexibility to U.S. Cellular, and may also seek other changes to such facilities. There is no assurance that the lenders will agree to any amendments. If the lenders agree to amendments, this may result in additional payments or higher interest rates payable to the lenders and/or additional restrictions. Restrictions in such debt instruments may limit U.S. Cellular's operating and financial flexibility.
Other Long-Term Financing
U.S. Cellular has an effective shelf registration statement on Form S-3 to issue senior or subordinated debt securities. The proceeds from any such issuance may be used for general corporate purposes, including: the possible reduction of other short-term or long-term debt, spectrum purchases, and capital expenditures; in connection with acquisition, construction and development programs; for working capital; to provide additional investments in subsidiaries; or the repurchase of shares. The U.S. Cellular shelf registration statement permits U.S. Cellular to issue at any time and from time to time senior or subordinated debt securities in one or more offerings, up to the amount registered, which is currently $500 million. The ability of U.S. Cellular to complete an offering pursuant to such shelf registration statement is subject to market conditions and other factors at the time.
U.S. Cellular believes that it was in compliance as of December 31, 2016 with all covenants and other requirements set forth in its long-term debt indentures. U.S. Cellular has not failed to make nor does it expect to fail to make any scheduled payment of principal or interest under such indentures.
The long-term debt principal payments due for the next five years represent less than 4% of the total gross long-term debt obligation at December 31, 2016. Refer to Market Risk Long-Term Debt for additional information regarding required principal payments and the weighted average interest rates related to U.S. Cellular's Long-term debt.
U.S. Cellular, at its discretion, may from time to time seek to retire or purchase its outstanding debt through cash purchases and/or exchanges for other securities, in open market purchases, privately negotiated transactions, tender offers, exchange offers or otherwise. Such repurchases or exchanges, if any, will depend on prevailing market conditions, liquidity requirements, contractual restrictions and other factors. The amounts involved may be material.
See Note 11 Debt in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on long-term financing.
Credit Ratings
In certain circumstances, U.S. Cellular's interest cost on its revolving credit and term loan facilities may be subject to increase if its current credit ratings from nationally recognized credit rating agencies are lowered, and may be subject to decrease if the ratings are raised. U.S. Cellular's facilities do not cease to be available nor do the maturity dates accelerate solely as a result of a downgrade in credit rating. However, a downgrade in U.S. Cellular's credit rating could adversely affect its ability to renew the facilities or obtain access to other credit facilities in the future.
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MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS |
U.S. Cellular is rated at sub-investment grade. U.S. Cellular's credit ratings as of December 31, 2016, and the dates such ratings were issued/re-affirmed were as follows:
Rating Agency |
Rating |
Outlook |
||
---|---|---|---|---|
| | | | |
Moody's (re-affirmed November 2015) | Ba1 | negative outlook | ||
Standard & Poor's (re-affirmed November 2015) | BB | stable outlook | ||
Fitch Ratings (re-affirmed August 2016) | BB+ | stable outlook | ||
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Capital Requirements
The discussion below is intended to highlight some of the significant cash outlays expected during 2017 and beyond and to highlight the spending incurred in prior years for these items. This discussion does not include cash required to fund normal operations, and is not a comprehensive list of capital requirements. Significant cash requirements that are not routine or in the normal course of business could arise from time to time.
Capital Expenditures
U.S. Cellular makes substantial investments to acquire, construct and upgrade wireless telecommunications networks and facilities to remain competitive and as a basis for creating long-term value for shareholders. In recent years, rapid changes in technology and new opportunities (such as 4G LTE and VoLTE technology) have required substantial investments in potentially revenue-enhancing and cost-reducing upgrades of U.S. Cellular's networks to remain competitive.
Capital expenditures (i.e., additions to property, plant and equipment and system development expenditures), which include the effects of accruals and capitalized interest, in 2016, 2015 and 2014 were as follows:
|
Capital Expenditures |
In 2016, U.S. Cellular made capital expenditures to (i) improve network support and billing related systems and platforms; (ii) enhance its network capabilities through the development of VoLTE technology; and (iii) construct new cell
sites. U.S. Cellular's capital expenditures for 2017 are expected to be approximately $500 million. These expenditures are expected to be for the following general purposes: § Expand and enhance network coverage, including providing additional capacity to accommodate increased network usage, principally data usage, by current customers; § Continue deployment of VoLTE technology in certain markets; § Expand and enhance the retail store network; and § Develop and enhance office systems. |
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U.S. Cellular plans to finance its capital expenditures program for 2017 using primarily Cash flows from operating activities, existing cash balances, borrowings under its revolving credit agreement and/or other long-term debt.
Acquisitions, Divestitures and Exchanges
U.S. Cellular assesses its existing wireless interests on an ongoing basis with a goal of improving the competitiveness of its operations and maximizing its long-term return on capital. In general, U.S. Cellular may not disclose such transactions until there is a definitive agreement. See Note 6 Acquisitions, Divestitures and Exchanges in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information related to significant transactions. As part of this strategy,
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MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS |
U.S. Cellular reviews attractive opportunities to acquire additional wireless operating markets and wireless spectrum, including pursuant to FCC auctions. Cash payments for acquisitions of licenses were $53 million, $286 million and $38 million in 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.
Cash received from divestitures in 2016, 2015 and 2014 was as follows:
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Cash Payments Received from Divestitures |
U.S. Cellular may seek to divest outright or include in exchanges for other wireless interests those interests that are not strategic to its long-term success. As a result, U.S. Cellular may be engaged from time to time in negotiations relating to the acquisition, divestiture or exchange of companies, properties or wireless spectrum. | ||
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On July 15, 2016, the FCC announced U.S. Cellular as a qualified bidder in the FCC's forward auction of 600 MHz spectrum licenses, referred to as Auction 1002, which then commenced on August 16, 2016. In recent FCC auctions, U.S. Cellular has not been a bidder, but has participated as a limited partner in "designated entities" that qualified for a 25% bidding credit on licenses won in the auction. U.S. Cellular did not invest in a designated entity applicant in Auction 1002, but was itself an applicant and is not eligible for a discount. Prior to becoming a qualified bidder, U.S. Cellular was required to make an upfront payment, the size of which established its initial bidding eligibility. Accordingly, in the second quarter of 2016, U.S. Cellular made an upfront payment to the FCC of $143 million. The Clock Phase of the auction was completed in February 2017. At that time, U.S. Cellular became committed to purchase 600 MHz spectrum licenses for a minimum amount of $327 million, subject to increase as the FCC completes the Assignment Phase of the auction, which is pending. U.S. Cellular expects to be obligated to pay for the total committed amount, less the $143 million upfront payment made in June 2016, in the second quarter of 2017 using cash on hand and/or borrowings under its revolving credit agreement. See "Regulatory Matters FCC Auction 1002" for a summary of U.S. Cellular's participation in Auction 1002.
In 2015 and 2016, U.S. Cellular entered into multiple spectrum license purchase agreements. The aggregate purchase price for these spectrum licenses is $57 million, of which $53 million closed in the year ended December 31, 2016. In 2016, U.S. Cellular also entered into multiple agreements with third parties to transfer FCC licenses in non-operating markets and receive FCC licenses in operating markets. The agreements provide for the transfer of certain AWS and PCS spectrum licenses and approximately $29 million, net, in cash to U.S. Cellular, in exchange for U.S. Cellular transferring certain AWS, PCS and 700 MHz spectrum licenses to the third parties. Through December 31, 2016, certain of the exchange transactions have closed and U.S. Cellular has received $14 million of cash in conjunction with such closed transactions. The remaining license purchase and exchange transactions are expected to close in the first quarter of 2017. See Note 6 Acquisitions, Divestitures and Exchanges in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information related to these transactions.
Variable Interest Entities
U.S. Cellular consolidates certain entities because they are "variable interest entities" under GAAP. See Note 13 Variable Interest Entities in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information related to these variable interest entities. U.S. Cellular may elect to make additional capital contributions and/or advances to these variable interest entities in future periods in order to fund their operations.
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MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS |
Common Share Repurchase Program
In 2009, the Board of Directors of U.S. Cellular authorized the repurchase of up to 1,300,000 Common Shares on an annual basis beginning in 2009 and continuing each year thereafter, on a cumulative basis. In December 2016, the U.S. Cellular Board amended this authorization to provide that such amount will be any amount from zero to 1,300,000 beginning on January 1, 2017, as determined by the U.S. Cellular Pricing Committee, and that if the Pricing Committee did not specify an amount for any year, such amount would be zero for such year. The Pricing Committee did not specify any increase as of January 1, 2017. The Pricing Committee also was authorized to decrease the cumulative amount of the authorization at any time, but has not taken any action to do so at this time. As a result, there was no change to the cumulative amount of the share repurchase authorization as of January 1, 2017. As of December 31, 2016, the total cumulative amount of Common Shares authorized to be purchased is 5,900,849.
Share repurchases made under this authorization were as follows:
Year Ended December 31, |
2016 | 2015 | 2014 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | |
Number of shares |
154,449 | 177,508 | 496,069 | |||||||
Average cost per share |
$ | 34.55 | $ | 34.86 | $ | 38.19 | ||||
Dollar amount (in millions) |
$ | 5 | $ | 6 | $ | 19 | ||||
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Depending on its future financial performance, construction, development or acquisition programs, and available sources of financing, U.S. Cellular may not have sufficient liquidity or capital resources to make significant share repurchases. Therefore, there is no assurance that U.S. Cellular will make any significant share repurchases in the future.
For additional information related to the current repurchase authorization, see Note 15 Common Shareholders' Equity in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
U.S. Cellular had no transactions, agreements or other contractual arrangements with unconsolidated entities involving "off-balance sheet arrangements," as defined by SEC rules, that had or are reasonably likely to have a material current or future effect on its financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources.
CONTRACTUAL AND OTHER OBLIGATIONS
At December 31, 2016, the resources required for contractual obligations were as follows:
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Payments Due by Period |
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Total |
Less Than 1 Year |
1 - 3 Years |
3 - 5 Years |
More Than 5 Years |
|||||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(Dollars in millions) |
||||||||||||||||
Long-term debt obligations1 |
$ | 1,675 | $ | 11 | $ | 23 | $ | 23 | $ | 1,618 | ||||||
Interest payments on long-term debt obligations |
3,690 | 110 | 221 | 221 | 3,138 | |||||||||||
Operating leases2 |
1,357 | 145 | 244 | 193 | 775 | |||||||||||
Capital leases |
4 | | 1 | 1 | 2 | |||||||||||
Purchase obligations3 |
2,172 | 823 | 1,218 | 83 | 48 | |||||||||||
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|
$ | 8,898 | $ | 1,089 | $ | 1,707 | $ | 521 | $ | 5,581 | ||||||
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The table above excludes liabilities related to "unrecognized tax benefits" as defined by GAAP because U.S. Cellular is unable to predict the period of settlement of such liabilities. Such unrecognized tax benefits were $43 million at
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MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS |
December 31, 2016. See Note 4 Income Taxes in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on unrecognized tax benefits.
See Note 12 Commitments and Contingencies in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.
CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW ANALYSIS
U.S. Cellular operates a capital- and marketing-intensive business. U.S. Cellular makes substantial investments to acquire wireless licenses and properties and to construct and upgrade wireless telecommunications networks and facilities as a basis for creating long-term value for shareholders. In recent years, rapid changes in technology and new opportunities have required substantial investments in potentially revenue-enhancing and cost-reducing upgrades to U.S. Cellular's networks. U.S. Cellular utilizes cash on hand, cash from operating activities, cash proceeds from divestitures and disposition of investments, short-term credit facilities and long-term debt financing to fund its acquisitions (including spectrum licenses), construction costs, operating expenses and share repurchases. Cash flows may fluctuate from quarter to quarter and year to year due to seasonality, the timing of acquisitions and divestitures, capital expenditures and other factors. The following discussion summarizes U.S. Cellular's cash flow activities in 2016, 2015 and 2014.
2016 Commentary
U.S. Cellular's Cash and cash equivalents decreased $129 million in 2016. Net cash provided by operating activities was $501 million in 2016 due primarily to net income of $49 million plus non-cash items of $609 million and distributions received from unconsolidated entities of $93 million, including $29 million in distributions from the LA Partnership. This was partially offset by changes in working capital items which decreased cash by $250 million. The decrease in working capital items was due primarily to a $246 million increase in equipment installment plan receivables, which are expected to continue to increase and further require the use of working capital in the near term.
The net cash provided by operating activities was offset by cash flows used for investing activities of $618 million. Cash paid in 2016 for additions to property, plant and equipment totaled $443 million. In June 2016, U.S. Cellular made a deposit of $143 million to the FCC for its participation in Auction 1002. Cash paid for acquisitions and licenses in 2016 was $53 million partially offset by Cash received from divestitures and exchanges of $21 million. See Note 6 Acquisitions, Divestitures and Exchanges in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information related to these transactions.
Cash flows used for financing activities were $12 million in 2016, reflecting ordinary activity such as scheduled repayments of debt.
2015 Commentary
Cash flows from operating activities were $555 million in 2015. An increase in cash flows from operating activities was due primarily to improved net income and working capital factors. In 2015, increased receivables related to equipment installment plans decreased cash flows from operating activities.
In December 2015, as part of the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes Act of 2015, bonus depreciation was enacted which allowed U.S. Cellular to accelerate deductions for depreciation, resulting in an overpayment of estimated tax amounts paid during 2015. Primarily as a result of this overpayment, U.S. Cellular has recorded $34 million of Income taxes receivable at December 31, 2015. U.S. Cellular paid income taxes, net of refunds, of $59 million in 2015.
Cash flows used for investing activities were $549 million in 2015. Cash paid for additions to property, plant and equipment totaled $581 million in 2015.
During 2015, a $278 million payment was made by Advantage Spectrum L.P. to the FCC for licenses for which it was the provisional winning bidder. See Note 6 Acquisitions, Divestitures and Exchanges and Note 13 Variable Interest Entities in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.
Cash flows from financing activities were $497 million in 2015. In July 2015, U.S. Cellular borrowed $225 million on its Term Loan. In November 2015, U.S. Cellular issued $300 million of 7.25% Senior Notes due 2064.
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MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS |
2014 Commentary
Cash flows from operating activities were $172 million in 2014. Working capital factors which significantly decreased cash flows from operating activities included changes in accounts payable levels as a result of timing differences related to operating expenses and device purchases. In 2014, increased receivables related to equipment installment plans decreased cash flows from operating activities.
In December 2014, as part of the Tax Increase Prevention Act of 2014, bonus depreciation was enacted which allowed U.S. Cellular to accelerate deductions for depreciation resulting in a federal taxable loss in 2014. Primarily as a result of this federal income tax carryback, U.S. Cellular recorded $75 million of Income taxes receivable at December 31, 2014. U.S. Cellular paid income taxes, net of refunds, of $33 million in 2014.
Cash flows used for investing activities were $471 million in 2014. Cash paid for additions to property, plant and equipment totaled $605 million in 2014. Cash received from divestitures in 2014 was $180 million which includes $92 million related to licenses and $71 million related to the Divestiture Transaction. See Note 6 Acquisitions, Divestitures and Exchanges in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information related to these divestitures. U.S. Cellular realized cash proceeds of $50 million in 2014 related to the maturities of its investments in U.S. Treasury Notes and corporate notes. In 2014, cash used for investing activities includes a $60 million deposit made by Advantage Spectrum, L.P., a variable interest entity consolidated by U.S. Cellular, to the FCC for its participation in Auction 97. See Note 13 Variable Interest Entities in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.
Cash flows from financing activities were $169 million in 2014. In December 2014, U.S. Cellular issued $275 million of 7.25% Senior Notes due 2063.
In September 2014, U.S. Cellular purchased licenses from Airadigm Communications, Inc. ("Airadigm"). TDS owns 100% of the common stock of Airadigm. Upon closing, Airadigm transferred to U.S. Cellular FCC spectrum licenses and certain tower assets in certain markets in Wisconsin, Iowa, Minnesota and Michigan, in consideration for $91 million in cash. Since both parties to this transaction are controlled by TDS, U.S. Cellular recorded the transferred assets at Airadigm's net book value of $15 million. The $76 million difference between the consideration paid and the net book value of the transferred assets was recorded as an Acquisition of assets in common control transaction cash outflow from financing activities. See Note 6 Acquisitions, Divestitures and Exchanges in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information related to this transaction.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET ANALYSIS
The following discussion addresses certain captions in the consolidated balance sheet and changes therein. This discussion is intended to highlight the significant changes and is not intended to fully reconcile the changes. Changes in financial condition during 2016 are as follows:
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents decreased $129 million. See the Consolidated Cash Flow Analysis above for a discussion of cash and cash equivalents.
Other current assets
Other current assets decreased $32 million due primarily to the receipt of a federal income tax refund in March 2016.
Other assets and deferred charges
Other assets and deferred charges increased $233 million due to an upfront payment of $143 million to the FCC to establish U.S. Cellular's initial bidding eligibility for its participation in Auction 1002 and a $112 million increase in the long-term portion of unbilled equipment installment plan receivables, net, due to the offering of longer term equipment installment plan contracts and the increased adoption of such contracts. See Note 3 Equipment Installment Plans and Note 6 Acquisitions, Divestitures and Exchanges in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information related to these balances.
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MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS |
Customer deposits and deferred revenues
Customer deposits and deferred revenues decreased $61 million due primarily to amortization of the guarantee liability for equipment installment contracts.
APPLICATION OF CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES
U.S. Cellular prepares its consolidated financial statements in accordance with GAAP. U.S. Cellular's significant accounting policies are discussed in detail in Note 1 Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Recent Accounting Pronouncements in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
Management believes the application of the following critical accounting policies and the estimates required by such application reflect its most significant judgments and estimates used in the preparation of U.S. Cellular's consolidated financial statements. Management has discussed the development and selection of each of the following accounting policies and related estimates and disclosures with the Audit Committee of U.S. Cellular's Board of Directors.
Intangible Asset Impairment
Licenses and Goodwill represent a significant component of U.S. Cellular's consolidated assets. These assets are considered to be indefinite lived assets and are therefore not amortized but tested annually for impairment. U.S. Cellular performs annual impairment testing of Licenses and Goodwill as of November 1 of each year or more frequently if triggering events are present. Significant negative events, such as changes in any of the assumptions described below as well as decreases in forecasted cash flows, could result in an impairment in future periods. Licenses are tested for impairment at the level of reporting referred to as a unit of accounting. Goodwill is tested for impairment at the level of reporting referred to as a reporting unit.
See Note 7 Intangible Assets in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for information related to Licenses and Goodwill activity in 2016 and 2015.
Wireless Licenses
As of November 1, 2016 and 2015, U.S. Cellular performed a qualitative impairment assessment to determine whether it was more likely than not that the fair value of the licenses exceeded their carrying value. For purposes of its impairment testing of licenses as of November 1, 2016 and 2015, U.S. Cellular separated its FCC licenses into eight units of accounting, including one geographic unit for its developed operating market licenses ("built licenses") and seven geographic units for its non-operating market licenses ("unbuilt licenses"). As part of the assessment, U.S. Cellular considered several qualitative factors, including analysts' estimates of license values, which contemplated recent spectrum auction results, recent U.S. Cellular and other market participant transactions and other industry and market factors. Based on this assessment, U.S. Cellular concluded that it was more likely than not that the fair value of the licenses in each unit of accounting exceeded the respective carrying values. Therefore, no impairment of licenses existed and no Step 1 impairment evaluation was completed.
Goodwill
U.S. Cellular has recorded Goodwill as a result of the acquisition of wireless companies. For purposes of the 2016 and 2015 Goodwill impairment tests, U.S. Cellular had one reporting unit.
Based on the results of the annual Goodwill impairment assessment performed as of November 1, 2016, the fair value of U.S. Cellular exceeded its carrying value. Therefore, no impairment of Goodwill existed.
A discounted cash flow approach was used to value the reporting unit, using value drivers and risks specific to the industry and current economic factors. The cash flow estimates incorporated assumptions that market participants would use in their estimates of fair value and may not be indicative of U.S. Cellular specific assumptions. However, the discount rate used in the analysis accounts for any additional risk a market participant might place on integrating U.S. Cellular into its operations at the level of cash flows assumed under this approach. The most significant assumptions made in this process were the revenue growth rate (shown as a compound annual growth rate in the table below), the
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MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS |
terminal revenue growth rate and the discount rate. There are uncertainties associated with these key assumptions and potential events and/or circumstances that could have a negative effect on these key assumptions described below.
Key Assumptions |
As of November 1, 2016 |
||
| | | |
Revenue growth rate1 |
2.1% | ||
Terminal revenue growth rate1 |
2.0% | ||
Discount rate2 |
9.5% | ||
| | | |
Provided all other assumptions remained the same, for the U.S. Cellular reporting unit, the discount rate would have to increase to 10.3% to yield an estimated fair value of the reporting unit that equals its carrying value at November 1, 2016. Further, assuming all other assumptions remained the same, for the U.S. Cellular reporting unit, the terminal growth rate assumption would need to decrease to 0.4% to yield an estimated fair value equal to the carrying value of the reporting unit at November 1, 2016.
The Goodwill balance of U.S. Cellular as of November 1, 2016 was $370 million. The estimated fair value of U.S. Cellular's one reporting unit exceeded its carrying value, as a percentage of carrying value, by 14.2%.
Income Taxes
U.S. Cellular is included in a consolidated federal income tax return with other members of the TDS consolidated group. TDS and U.S. Cellular are parties to a Tax Allocation Agreement which provides that U.S. Cellular and its subsidiaries be included with the TDS affiliated group in a consolidated federal income tax return and in state income or franchise tax returns in certain situations. For financial statement purposes, U.S. Cellular and its subsidiaries calculate their income, income tax and credits as if they comprised a separate affiliated group. Under the Tax Allocation Agreement between TDS and U.S. Cellular, U.S. Cellular remits its applicable income tax payments to TDS.
The amounts of income tax assets and liabilities, the related income tax provision and the amount of unrecognized tax benefits are critical accounting estimates because such amounts are significant to U.S. Cellular's financial condition and results of operations.
The preparation of the consolidated financial statements requires U.S. Cellular to calculate a provision for income taxes. This process involves estimating the actual current income tax liability together with assessing temporary differences resulting from the different treatment of items for tax purposes. These temporary differences result in deferred income tax assets and liabilities, which are included in U.S. Cellular's Consolidated Balance Sheet. U.S. Cellular must then assess the likelihood that deferred income tax assets will be realized based on future taxable income and, to the extent management believes that realization is not likely, establish a valuation allowance. Management's judgment is required in determining the provision for income taxes, deferred income tax assets and liabilities and any valuation allowance that is established for deferred income tax assets.
U.S. Cellular recognizes the tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained on examination by the taxing authorities based on the technical merits of the position. The tax benefits recognized in the financial statements from such a position are measured based on management's judgment as to the possible outcome that has a greater than 50% cumulative likelihood of being realized upon ultimate resolution.
See Note 4 Income Taxes in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for details regarding U.S. Cellular's income tax provision, deferred income taxes and liabilities, valuation allowances and unrecognized tax benefits, including information regarding estimates that impact income taxes.
Equipment Installment Plans
U.S. Cellular sells devices to customers under installment contracts over a specified time period and, under certain of these plans, offers the customer a trade-in right. Customers on an installment contract who elect to trade-in the device
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MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS |
will receive a credit in the amount of the outstanding balance of the installment contract, provided the customer trades-in an eligible used device in good working condition and purchases a new device from U.S. Cellular. Equipment revenue under these contracts is recognized at the time the device is delivered to the end-user customer for the selling price of the device, net of any deferred imputed interest and the value of the trade-in right, if applicable.
Trade-In Right
U.S. Cellular values the trade-in right as a guarantee liability. This liability is initially measured at fair value and is determined based on assumptions including the probability and timing of the customer upgrading to a new device and the estimated fair value of the used device eligible for trade-in. U.S. Cellular reevaluates its estimate of the guarantee liability quarterly. A significant change in any of the aforementioned assumptions used to compute the guarantee liability would impact the amount of revenue recognized under these plans and the timing thereof. In 2016 and 2015, U.S. Cellular assumed the earliest contractual time of trade-in, or the minimum amount of payments as specified in the device installment contract, for all customers on installment contracts with trade-in rights.
When a customer exercises the trade-in option, the difference between the outstanding receivable balance forgiven and the fair value of the used device is recorded as a reduction to the guarantee liability. If the customer does not exercise the trade-in option at the time he or she is eligible, U.S. Cellular begins amortizing the liability and records this amortization as additional equipment revenue.
Interest
U.S. Cellular equipment installment plans do not provide for explicit interest charges. Because equipment installment plans have a duration of greater than twelve months, U.S. Cellular imputes interest using a market rate and recognizes such interest income over the duration of the plan as a component of Interest and dividend income. Changes in the imputed interest rate would impact the amount of revenue recognized under these plans.
Allowance for doubtful accounts
U.S. Cellular maintains an allowance for doubtful accounts for estimated losses that result from the failure of its customers to make payments due under the equipment installment plans. The allowance is estimated based on historical experience, account aging and other factors that could affect collectability. When it is probable that an account balance will not be collected, the account balance is charged against the allowance for doubtful accounts. To the extent that actual loss experience differs significantly from historical trends, the required allowance amounts could differ from the original estimates.
Inflation
Management believes that inflation affects U.S. Cellular's business to no greater or lesser extent than the general economy.
Seasonality
U.S. Cellular's profitability historically has been lower in the fourth quarter as a result of significant marketing and promotional activity during the holiday season.
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
See Note 1 Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Recent Accounting Pronouncements in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for information on recently issued accounting pronouncements.
Certain Relationships and Related Transactions
See Note 18 Certain Relationships and Related Transactions in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
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MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS |
FCC Auction 1002
On July 15, 2016, the FCC announced U.S. Cellular as a qualified bidder in the FCC's forward auction of 600 MHz spectrum licenses, referred to as Auction 1002. The forward auction Clock Phase began on August 16, 2016 and continued in a series of stages into 2017. The fourth and final stage ended on February 10, 2017. With the completion of the Clock Phase of the auction, U.S. Cellular is now committed to purchase 600 MHz spectrum licenses for a minimum amount of $327 million, subject to increase as the FCC completes the Assignment Phase of the auction, which is pending. U.S. Cellular expects to be obligated to pay for the total committed amount, less the $143 million upfront payment made in June 2016, in the second quarter of 2017. As a result of U.S. Cellular's application to participate in Auction 1002, since February 10, 2016, U.S. Cellular has been subject to FCC anti-collusion rules that place certain restrictions on public disclosures and business communications with other companies relating to U.S. Cellular's participation. These restrictions will continue until the down payment deadline for Auction 1002, which will be ten business days after release of the FCC's Channel Reassignment Public Notice, following the end of the auction. These anti-collusion rules may restrict the conduct of certain U.S. Cellular activities with other auction applicants as well as with nationwide providers of wireless services which are not applicants. The restrictions could have an adverse effect on U.S. Cellular's business, financial condition or results of operations.
FCC Reform Order
Pursuant to the FCC's Reform Order ("Reform Order"), U.S. Cellular's current Federal USF support was to be phased down at the rate of 20% per year beginning July 1, 2012. The Phase II Mobility Fund was not operational as of July 2014 and, therefore, as provided by the Reform Order, the phase down was suspended at 60% of the baseline amount until such time as the FCC takes steps to adopt an order to recommence the phase down. On February 23, 2017, the FCC adopted an order concerning the Mobility Fund II and the resumption of the phase down. The text of the order has not been released but the press release issued by the FCC following adoption of the order indicates that the order will establish a Mobility Fund II support mechanism of $453 million annually for ten years to be distributed through a market-based, multi-round reverse auction and that the phase down of unnecessary legacy support from the Federal USF will commence on the first day of the month following the completion of the auction and will conclude two years later. U.S. Cellular cannot predict at this time when the Mobility Fund II auction will occur, when the phase down period for its existing legacy support from the Federal USF will commence, or whether the Mobility Fund II auction will provide opportunities to the Company to offset any loss in existing support. However, U.S. Cellular currently expects that its legacy support will continue at the existing level for 2017.
Other Regulatory Considerations
Changes to existing policies with respect to Federal regulations are under review. These changes may include laws relating to telecommunications and FCC regulations. These could involve changes to the classification of high-speed, or broadband, internet access service under Title II of the Communications Act of 1934, the FCC's Open Internet Order relating to net neutrality, the USF high cost support program and/or intercarrier compensation, broadband privacy rules, or changes in polices of the FCC with respect to interpretation or enforcement of such laws, rules or programs. It is possible that some of these changes could have a material adverse effect, while other changes may have a positive effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations. Until the specific changes in laws, regulations or policy are known, we are unable to predict the impact on U.S. Cellular's business, financial condition or results of operations.
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MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS |
PRIVATE SECURITIES LITIGATION REFORM ACT OF 1995
SAFE HARBOR CAUTIONARY STATEMENT
This Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and other sections of this Annual Report contain statements that are not based on historical facts, including the words "believes," "anticipates," "intends," "expects" and similar words. These statements constitute and represent "forward-looking statements" as this term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, events or developments to be significantly different from any future results, events or developments expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Each of the following risks could have a material adverse effect on U.S. Cellular's business, financial condition or results of operations; however, such factors are not necessarily all of the important factors that could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, the forward-looking statements contained in this document. Other unknown or unpredictable factors also could have material adverse effects on future results, performance or achievements. Such risks, uncertainties and other factors include, but are not limited to, the following risks. See "Risk Factors" in U.S. Cellular's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016 for a further discussion of these risks. U.S. Cellular undertakes no obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Readers should evaluate any statements in light of these important factors.
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MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS |
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MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS |
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MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS |
Long-Term Debt
As of December 31, 2016, the majority of U.S. Cellular's long-term debt was in the form of fixed-rate notes with remaining maturities ranging up to 48 years. Fluctuations in market interest rates can lead to significant fluctuations in the fair value of these fixed-rate notes.
The following chart presents the scheduled principal payments on long-term debt by maturity dates at December 31, 2016:
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MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS |
The following table presents the scheduled principal payments on long-term debt and capital lease obligations, and the related weighted average interest rates by maturity dates at December 31, 2016:
|
Principal Payments Due by Period |
|||||
| | | | | | |
|
Long-Term Debt Obligations1 |
Weighted-Avg. Interest Rates on Long-Term Debt Obligations2 |
||||
| | | | | | |
(Dollars in millions) |
||||||
2017 |
$ | 11 | 3.8% | |||
2018 |
11 | 3.8% | ||||
2019 |
11 | 3.8% | ||||
2020 |
11 | 3.8% | ||||
2021 |
11 | 3.8% | ||||
After 5 years |
1,622 | 6.7% | ||||
| | | | | | |
Total |
$ | 1,677 | 6.6% | |||
| | | | | | |
| | | | | | |
| | | | | | |
Fair Value of Long-Term Debt
At December 31, 2016 and 2015, the estimated fair value of long-term debt obligations, excluding capital lease obligations and the current portion of such long-term debt, was $1,664 million and $1,644 million, respectively. See Note 2 Fair Value Measurements in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.
Other Market Risk Sensitive Instruments
The substantial majority of U.S. Cellular's other market risk sensitive instruments (as defined in item 305 of SEC Regulation S-K) are short-term, including Cash and cash equivalents. Accordingly, U.S. Cellular believes that a significant change in interest rates would not have a material effect on such other market risk sensitive instruments.
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MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS |
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION RELATING TO NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES
U.S. Cellular sometimes uses information derived from consolidated financial information but not presented in its financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP to evaluate the performance of its business. Certain of these measures are considered "non-GAAP financial measures" under U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission Rules. Specifically, U.S. Cellular has referred to the following measures in this Form 10-K Report:
Following are explanations of each of these measures:
Adjusted EBITDA and Operating Cash Flow
Adjusted EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization and accretion) is defined as net income adjusted for the items set forth in the reconciliation below. Operating cash flow is defined as net income adjusted for the items set forth in the reconciliation below. Adjusted EBITDA and Operating cash flow are not measures of financial performance under GAAP and should not be considered as alternatives to Net income or Cash flows from operating activities, as indicators of cash flows or as measures of liquidity. U.S. Cellular does not intend to imply that any such items set forth in the reconciliation below are non-recurring, infrequent or unusual; such items may occur in the future.
Management uses Adjusted EBITDA and Operating cash flow as measurements of profitability, and therefore reconciliations to Net income are deemed appropriate. Management believes Adjusted EBITDA and Operating cash flow are useful measures of U.S. Cellular's operating results before significant recurring non-cash charges, gains and losses, and other items as presented below as they provide additional relevant and useful information to investors and other users of U.S. Cellular's financial data in evaluating the effectiveness of its operations and underlying business trends in a manner that is consistent with management's evaluation of business performance. Adjusted EBITDA shows adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization and accretion, and gains and losses, while Operating cash flow reduces this measure further to exclude Equity in earnings of unconsolidated entities and Interest and dividend income in order to more effectively show the performance of operating activities excluding investment activities. The following table reconciles Adjusted EBITDA and Operating cash flow to the corresponding GAAP measure, Net income.
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MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS |
|
2016 | 2015 | 2014 | ||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
(Dollars in millions) |
|||||||||||
Net income (loss) (GAAP) |
$ | 49 | $ | 247 | $ | (47 | ) | ||||
Add back: |
|||||||||||
Income tax expense (benefit) |
33 | 157 | (12 | ) | |||||||
Interest expense |
113 | 86 | 57 | ||||||||
Depreciation, amortization and accretion |
618 | 607 | 606 | ||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
EBITDA (Non-GAAP) |
813 | 1,097 | 604 | ||||||||
Add back or deduct: |
|||||||||||
(Gain) loss on sale of business and other exit costs, net |
| (114 | ) | (33 | ) | ||||||
(Gain) loss on license sales and exchanges, net |
(19 | ) | (147 | ) | (113 | ) | |||||
(Gain) loss on asset disposals, net |
22 | 16 | 21 | ||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Adjusted EBITDA (Non-GAAP) |
816 | 852 | 479 | ||||||||
Deduct: |
|||||||||||
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated entities |
140 | 140 | 130 | ||||||||
Interest and dividend income |
57 | 36 | 12 | ||||||||
Other, net |
1 | 1 | (1 | ) | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Operating cash flow (Non-GAAP) |
618 | 675 | 338 | ||||||||
Deduct: |
|||||||||||
Depreciation, amortization and accretion |
618 | 607 | 606 | ||||||||
(Gain) loss on sale of business and other exit costs, net |
| (114 | ) | (33 | ) | ||||||
(Gain) loss on license sales and exchanges, net |
(19 | ) | (147 | ) | (113 | ) | |||||
(Gain) loss on asset disposals, net |
22 | 16 | 21 | ||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Operating income (loss) (GAAP) |
$ | (3 | ) | $ | 313 | $ | (143 | ) | |||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Free Cash Flow and Adjusted Free Cash Flow
The following table presents Free cash flow and Adjusted free cash flow. Management uses Free cash flow as a liquidity measure and it is defined as Cash flows from operating activities less Cash paid for additions to property, plant and equipment. Adjusted free cash flow is defined as Cash flows from operating activities (which includes cash outflows related to the Sprint decommissioning), as adjusted for cash proceeds from the Sprint Cost Reimbursement (which are included in Cash flows from investing activities in the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows), less Cash paid for additions to property, plant and equipment. Free cash flow and Adjusted free cash flow are non-GAAP financial measures which U.S. Cellular believes may be useful to investors and other users of its financial information in evaluating liquidity, specifically, the amount of cash generated by business operations (including cash proceeds from the Sprint Cost Reimbursement), after Cash paid for additions to property, plant and equipment.
|
2016 | 2015 | 2014 | ||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
(Dollars in millions) |
|||||||||||
Cash flows from operating activities (GAAP) |
$ | 501 | $ | 555 | $ | 172 | |||||
Less: Cash paid for additions to property, plant and equipment |
443 | 581 | 605 | ||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Free cash flow (Non-GAAP) |
$ | 58 | $ | (26 | ) | $ | (433 | ) | |||
Add: Sprint Cost Reimbursement1 |
7 | 30 | 71 | ||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Adjusted free cash flow (Non-GAAP) |
$ | 65 | $ | 4 | $ | (362 | ) | ||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
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MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS |
Postpaid ABPU and Postpaid ABPA
U.S. Cellular presents Postpaid ABPU and Postpaid ABPA to reflect the revenue shift from Service revenues to Equipment sales resulting from the increased adoption of equipment installment plans. Postpaid ABPU and Postpaid ABPA, as previously defined, are non-GAAP financial measures which U.S. Cellular believes are useful to investors and other users of its financial information in showing trends in both service and equipment sales revenues received from customers.
|
2016 | 2015 | 2014 | ||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
(Dollars and connection counts in millions) |
|||||||||||
Calculation of Postpaid ARPU |
|||||||||||
Postpaid service revenues |
$ | 2,517 | $ | 2,831 | $ | 2,863 | |||||
Average number of postpaid connections |
4.47 | 4.33 | 4.20 | ||||||||
Number of months in period |
12 | 12 | 12 | ||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Postpaid ARPU (GAAP metric) |
$ | 46.96 | $ | 54.50 | $ | 56.75 | |||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Calculation of Postpaid ABPU |
|||||||||||
Postpaid service revenues |
$ | 2,517 | $ | 2,831 | $ | 2,863 | |||||
Equipment installment plan billings |
491 | 272 | 52 | ||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Total billings to postpaid connections |
$ | 3,008 | $ | 3,103 | $ | 2,915 | |||||
Average number of postpaid connections |
4.47 | 4.33 | 4.20 | ||||||||
Number of months in period |
12 | 12 | 12 | ||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Postpaid ABPU (Non-GAAP metric) |
$ | 56.12 | $ | 59.74 | $ | 57.78 | |||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Calculation of Postpaid ARPA |
|||||||||||
Postpaid service revenues |
$ | 2,517 | $ | 2,831 | $ | 2,863 | |||||
Average number of postpaid accounts |
1.69 | 1.72 | 1.79 | ||||||||
Number of months in period |
12 | 12 | 12 | ||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Postpaid ARPA (GAAP metric) |
$ | 124.09 | $ | 136.90 | $ | 133.19 | |||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Calculation of Postpaid ABPA |
|||||||||||
Postpaid service revenues |
$ | 2,517 | $ | 2,831 | $ | 2,863 | |||||
Equipment installment plan billings |
491 | 272 | 52 | ||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Total billings to postpaid accounts |
$ | 3,008 | $ | 3,103 | $ | 2,915 | |||||
Average number of postpaid accounts |
1.69 | 1.72 | 1.79 | ||||||||
Number of months in period |
12 | 12 | 12 | ||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Postpaid ABPA (Non-GAAP metric) |
$ | 148.29 | $ | 150.07 | $ | 135.61 | |||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
32
Year Ended December 31, |
2016 | 2015 | 2014 | ||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
(Dollars and shares in millions, except per share amounts) |
|||||||||||
Operating revenues |
|||||||||||
Service |
$ | 3,030 | $ | 3,350 | $ | 3,398 | |||||
Equipment sales |
909 | 647 | 495 | ||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Total operating revenues |
3,939 | 3,997 | 3,893 | ||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Operating expenses |
|
||||||||||
System operations (excluding Depreciation, amortization and accretion reported below) |
760 | 775 | 770 | ||||||||
Cost of equipment sold |
1,081 | 1,053 | 1,193 | ||||||||
Selling, general and administrative (including charges from affiliates of $94 million, $96 million and $91 million in 2016, 2015 and 2014) |
1,480 | 1,494 | 1,592 | ||||||||
Depreciation, amortization and accretion |
618 | 607 | 606 | ||||||||
(Gain) loss on asset disposals, net |
22 | 16 | 21 | ||||||||
(Gain) loss on sale of business and other exit costs, net |
| (114 | ) | (33 | ) | ||||||
(Gain) loss on license sales and exchanges, net |
(19 | ) | (147 | ) | (113 | ) | |||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Total operating expenses |
3,942 | 3,684 | 4,036 | ||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Operating income (loss) |
(3 |
) |
313 |
(143 |
) |
|
|||||
Investment and other income (expense) |
|
||||||||||
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated entities |
140 | 140 | 130 | ||||||||
Interest and dividend income |
57 | 36 | 12 | ||||||||
Interest expense |
(113 | ) | (86 | ) | (57 | ) | |||||
Other, net |
1 | 1 | (1 | ) | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Total investment and other income |
85 | 91 | 84 | ||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Income (loss) before income taxes |
82 |
404 |
(59 |
) |
|
||||||
Income tax expense (benefit) |
33 | 157 | (12 | ) | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Net income (loss) |
49 |
247 |
(47 |
) |
|
||||||
Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests, net of tax |
1 | 6 | (4 | ) | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Net income (loss) attributable to U.S. Cellular shareholders |
$ | 48 | $ | 241 | $ | (43 | ) | ||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Basic weighted average shares outstanding |
85 |
84 |
84 |
|
|||||||
Basic earnings (loss) per share attributable to U.S. Cellular shareholders |
$ | 0.56 | $ | 2.86 | $ | (0.51 | ) | ||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding |
85 |
85 |
84 |
|
|||||||
Diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to U.S. Cellular shareholders |
$ | 0.56 | $ | 2.84 | $ | (0.51 | ) | ||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
33
Year Ended December 31, |
2016 | 2015 | 2014 | ||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
(Dollars in millions) |
|||||||||||
Cash flows from operating activities |
|||||||||||
Net income (loss) |
$ | 49 | $ | 247 | $ | (47 | ) | ||||
Add (deduct) adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net |
|||||||||||
Depreciation, amortization and accretion |
618 | 607 | 606 | ||||||||
Bad debts expense |
96 | 106 | 101 | ||||||||
Stock-based compensation expense |
26 | 25 | 22 | ||||||||
Deferred income taxes, net |
6 | 55 | 58 | ||||||||
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated entities |
(140 | ) | (140 | ) | (130 | ) | |||||
Distributions from unconsolidated entities |
93 | 60 | 112 | ||||||||
(Gain) loss on asset disposals, net |
22 | 16 | 21 | ||||||||
(Gain) loss on sale of business and other exit costs, net |
| (114 | ) | (33 | ) | ||||||
(Gain) loss on license sales and exchanges, net |
(19 | ) | (147 | ) | (113 | ) | |||||
Noncash interest expense |
2 | 2 | 1 | ||||||||
Other operating activities |
(2 | ) | | | |||||||
Changes in assets and liabilities from operations |
|||||||||||
Accounts receivable |
(23 | ) | (96 | ) | 13 | ||||||
Equipment installment plans receivable |
(246 | ) | (134 | ) | (189 | ) | |||||
Inventory |
8 | 118 | (29 | ) | |||||||
Accounts payable |
48 | 5 | (98 | ) | |||||||
Customer deposits and deferred revenues |
(54 | ) | (37 | ) | 34 | ||||||
Accrued taxes |
40 | 34 | (99 | ) | |||||||
Accrued interest |
(2 | ) | 4 | 1 | |||||||
Other assets and liabilities |
(21 | ) | (56 | ) | (59 | ) | |||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Net cash provided by operating activities |
501 | 555 | 172 | ||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Cash flows from investing activities |
|
||||||||||
Cash paid for additions to property, plant and equipment |
(443 | ) | (581 | ) | (605 | ) | |||||
Cash paid for acquisitions and licenses |
(53 | ) | (286 | ) | (38 | ) | |||||
Cash received from divestitures and exchanges |
21 | 317 | 180 | ||||||||
Cash received for investments |
| | 50 | ||||||||
Federal Communications Commission deposit |
(143 | ) | | (60 | ) | ||||||
Other investing activities |
| 1 | 2 | ||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Net cash used in investing activities |
(618 | ) | (549 | ) | (471 | ) | |||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Cash flows from financing activities |
|
||||||||||
Issuance of long-term debt |
| 525 | 275 | ||||||||
Repayment of long-term debt |
(11 | ) | | | |||||||
Repayment of borrowing under revolving credit facility |
| | (150 | ) | |||||||
Borrowing under revolving credit facility |
| | 150 | ||||||||
Common shares reissued for benefit plans, net of tax payments |
6 | 2 | 1 | ||||||||
Common shares repurchased |
(5 | ) | (6 | ) | (19 | ) | |||||
Payment of debt issuance costs |
(2 | ) | (13 | ) | (10 | ) | |||||
Acquisition of assets in common control transaction |
| (2 | ) | (76 | ) | ||||||
Distributions to noncontrolling interests |
(1 | ) | (6 | ) | (3 | ) | |||||
Payments to acquire additional interest in subsidiaries |
| (2 | ) | | |||||||
Other financing activities |
1 | (1 | ) | 1 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities |
(12 | ) | 497 | 169 | |||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents |
(129 |
) |
503 |
(130 |
) |
|
|||||
Cash and cash equivalents |
|
||||||||||
Beginning of period |
715 | 212 | 342 | ||||||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
End of period |
$ | 586 | $ | 715 | $ | 212 | |||||
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
34
December 31, |
2016 | 2015 | ||||||
| | | | | | | | |
|