Shaw Announces Third Quarter Financial and Operating Results

| Source: Shaw Communications Inc. Shaw Communications Inc.

CALGARY, ALBERTA--(Marketwire - June 28, 2012) - Shaw Communications Inc. (TSX:SJR.B) (NYSE:SJR) announced consolidated financial and operating results for the three and nine months ended May 31, 2012 and 2011. Consolidated revenue for the three month period of $1.28 billion was comparable to the same period last year. Revenue for the nine month period of $3.79 billion was up 6% over last year. Total operating income before amortization1 of $567 million declined 3% over the comparable quarterly period while the year-to-date amount of $1.63 billion improved almost 4%.

Free cash flow1 for the three and nine month periods was $203 million and $379 million, respectively, compared to $240 million and $568 million for the same periods last year. Lower operating income before amortization in the current quarter, along with higher capital investment in both the current three and nine month periods were the main drivers of the decrease.

Chief Executive Officer Brad Shaw said, "During the quarter we focused on sustainable growth initiatives, while maintaining our commitment to technology, customer service and value leadership. We continued to drive innovation with our Wi-Fi build, now offering EXO Wi-Fi at over 1,500 sites in Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver, Victoria and Winnipeg, and our DNU project, allowing us to provide leading internet speeds, more HD channels and an exceptional variety of VOD movies and TV shows. Our EXO product offerings are popular with customers and we are continuing to add staff to our customer service centres to support an exceptional customer experience. We also saw solid performance across our leading portfolio of Specialty services."

Net income from continuing operations of $248 million or $0.53 per share for the quarter ended May 31, 2012 compared to $203 million or $0.45 per share for the same period last year. Net income from continuing operations for the first nine months of the year was $628 million or $1.34 per share compared to $392 million or $0.86 per share last year. All periods included non-operating items which are more fully detailed in Management's Discussions and Analysis (MD&A).2 The prior year-to-date period included a charge of $139 million for the discounted value of the CRTC benefit obligation related to the acquisition of Shaw Media, as well as business acquisition, integration and restructuring expenses of $90 million. Excluding the non-operating items, net income from continuing operations for the three and nine month periods ended May 31, 2012 would have been $219 million and $607 million, respectively, compared to $229 million and $564 million in the same periods last year.

Revenue in the Cable division of $794 million and $2.39 billion for the current three and nine month periods increased 1% and 3%, respectively, over the comparable periods. Operating income before amortization for the quarter and year-to-date periods of $377 million and $1.11 billion, was down 4% and 1%, respectively, compared to the same periods last year. Financial results improved compared to the second quarter with margins increasing from 43.8% to 47.5%; however, subscriber growth slowed reflecting the commitment to maintain and increase the base in a disciplined and prudent manner.

Satellite revenue of $211 million and $631 million for the three and nine month periods, respectively, was up from $210 million and $620 million for the same periods last year. Operating income before amortization for the current quarter and year-to-date period of $76 million and $216 million were comparable to the same periods last year.

Revenue in the Media division for the three and nine month periods was $295 million and $836 million, respectively, and operating income before amortization was $114 million and $304 million. The quarterly amounts were down 5% and 3%, respectively, compared to the same period last year. For informational purposes, on a comparative basis to the prior year, Media revenues and operating income before amortization for the full nine month period were each down approximately 3%.

Brad Shaw concluded, "As we enter the final quarter of fiscal 2012 we are on track to achieve our free cash flow guidance of approximately $450 million. We remain focused on the long term profitability of our assets and will continue to implement cost savings, execute on operational efficiencies, and prudently manage our capital investments building value for all of our stakeholders."

Shaw Communications Inc. is a diversified communications and media company, providing consumers with broadband cable television, High-Speed Internet, Home Phone, telecommunications services (through Shaw Business), satellite direct-to-home services (through Shaw Direct) and engaging programming content (through Shaw Media). Shaw serves 3.4 million customers, through a reliable and extensive fibre network. Shaw Media operates one of the largest conventional television networks in Canada, Global Television, and 19 specialty networks including HGTV Canada, Food Network Canada, History Television and Showcase. Shaw is traded on the Toronto and New York stock exchanges and is included in the S&P/TSX 60 Index (TSX:SJR.B) (NYSE:SJR).

The accompanying Management's Discussion and Analysis forms part of this news release and the "Caution Concerning Forward Looking Statements" applies to all forward-looking statements made in this news release.

(1) See definitions and discussion under Key Performance Drivers in MD&A.

(2) See reconciliation of Net income from continuing operations in Consolidated Overview in MD&A.

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS

MAY 31, 2012

June 28, 2012

Certain statements in this report may constitute forward-looking statements. Included herein is a "Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements" section which should be read in conjunction with this report.

The following Management's Discussion and Analysis ("MD&A") should also be read in conjunction with the unaudited interim consolidated Financial Statements and Notes thereto of the current quarter, the 2011 Annual MD&A included in the Company's August 31, 2011 Annual Report including the Consolidated Financial Statements and the Notes thereto.

The financial information presented herein has been prepared on the basis of International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS") for interim financial statements and is expressed in Canadian dollars unless otherwise stated. The amounts in this MD&A and the Company's interim financial statements for the period ended May 31, 2011 have been restated to reflect the adoption of IFRS, with effect from September 1, 2010. Periods prior to September 1, 2010 have not been restated and are prepared in accordance with Canadian GAAP. Refer to note 14 of the May 31, 2012 interim financial statements for a summary of the differences between the financial statements previously prepared under Canadian GAAP and to those under IFRS.

The unaudited IFRS related disclosures and values in this MD&A have been prepared using the standards and interpretations currently issued and expected to be effective at the end of the Company's first annual IFRS reporting period, August 31, 2012. Certain accounting policies expected to be adopted under IFRS may not be adopted and the application of policies to certain transactions or circumstances may be modified and as a result, the May 31, 2012 and August 31, 2011 underlying values prepared on a basis consistent with IFRS are subject to change.

CONSOLIDATED RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

THIRD QUARTER ENDING MAY 31, 2012

Selected Financial Highlights

Three months ended
May 31,		 Nine months ended
May 31,
Change Change
2012 2011 % 2012 2011 %
($millions Cdn except per share amounts)
Operations:
Revenue 1,278 1,285 (0.5 ) 3,788 3,560 6.4
Operating income before amortization (1) 567 586 (3.2 ) 1,626 1,570 3.6
Operating margin (1) 44.4 % 45.6 % (1.2 ) 42.9 % 44.1 % (1.2 )
Funds flow from continuing operations (2) 424 428 (0.9 ) 944 1,077 (12.3 )
Net income from continuing operations 248 203 22.2 628 392 60.2
Per share data:
Earnings per share from continuing operations
Basic 0.53 0.45 1.34 0.86
Diluted 0.53 0.45 1.33 0.86
Weighted average participating shares outstanding during period (millions)
441
435
440
434
(1) See definitions and discussion under Key Performance Drivers in MD&A.
(2) Funds flow from continuing operations is before changes in non-cash working capital balances related to continuing operations as presented in the unaudited interim Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.

Subscriber Highlights

Growth
Total Three months ended May 31, Nine months ended May 31,
May 31, 2012 2012 2011 2012 2011
Subscriber statistics:
Basic cable customers 2,235,546 (21,515 ) (13,577 ) (54,229 ) (34,781 )
Digital customers 1,925,764 246 19,202 106,376 116,821
Internet customers (including pending installs) 1,906,168 (429 ) 11,165 28,937 40,689
Digital phone lines (including pending installs) 1,339,559 29,142 31,404 106,518 113,758
DTH customers 908,868 (1,820 ) 1,644 (15 ) 2,281

Additional Highlights

  • Consolidated revenue and operating income before amortization of $3.79 billion and $1.63 billion for the nine months ended May 31, 2012 improved 6.4% and 3.6%, respectively over the same period last year. The current three month period operating income before amortization of $567 million declined marginally from $586 million last year.
  • Free cash flow1 for the quarter and year-to-date periods was $203 million and $379 million, respectively, compared to $240 million and $568 million for the same periods last year.

Consolidated Overview

Consolidated revenue of $1.28 billion for the current quarter compares to $1.29 billion for the same period last year. Revenue for the nine month period of $3.79 billion improved 6.4% over last year. Both the current periods benefitted from rate increases in the Cable and Satellite divisions while the year-to-date period also included a full nine months of revenue from Shaw Media.

Consolidated operating income before amortization for the three month period of $567 million declined 3.2% compared to the same period last year. The revenue related growth in the Cable and Satellite divisions was offset by higher programming and employee related costs while Media declined modestly primarily due to lower conventional advertising revenues. On a year-to-date basis operating income before amortization was up 3.6% to $1.63 billion. The current year-to-date period included three full quarters of Shaw Media and revenue related growth in the Cable and Satellite divisions, partially offset by higher programming, employee related costs, and sales and marketing expenses.

Net income from continuing operations was $248 million and $628 million for the three and nine months ended May 31, 2012, respectively, compared to $203 million and $392 million for the same periods last year. Non-operating items affected net income in both periods. The prior year-to-date period included a charge of $139 million for the discounted value of the CRTC benefit obligation, net of incremental revenues, related to the Media acquisition, as well as business acquisition, integration and restructuring expenses of $90 million. Outlined below are further details on these and other operating and non-operating components of net income from continuing operations for each period.

1 See definitions and discussion under Key Performance Drivers in MD&A.

($millions Cdn) Nine months
ended		 Nine months
ended
May 31, 2012 Operating Non-operating May 31, 2011 Operating Non-operating
Operating income 1,027 1,027 - 1,020 1,020 -
Amortization of financing costs - long-term debt (3 ) (3 ) - (3 ) (3 ) -
Interest expense (247 ) (247 ) - (244 ) (244 ) -
Gain on repurchase of debt - - - 10 - 10
CRTC benefit obligations (2 ) - (2 ) (139 ) - (139 )
Business acquisition, integration and restructuring expenses - - - (90 ) - (90 )
Gain on remeasurement of interests in equity investments 6 - 6 - - -
Gain (loss) on derivative instruments 1 - 1 (26 ) - (26 )
Accretion of long-term liabilities and provisions (11 ) - (11 ) (11 ) - (11 )
Foreign exchange gain on unhedged long-term debt - - - 23 - 23
Equity income from associates 1 - 1 14 - 14
Other gains (losses) (2 ) - (2 ) 7 - 7
Income (loss) before income taxes 770 777 (7 ) 561 773 (212 )
Current income tax expense (recovery) 197 218 (21 ) 167 194 (27 )
Deferred income tax expense (recovery) (55 ) (48 ) (7 ) 2 15 (13 )
Net income (loss) from continuing operations 628 607 21 392 564 (172 )
($millions Cdn) Three months ended Three months ended
May 31, 2012 Operating Non-operating May 31, 2011 Operating Non-operating
Operating income 369 369 - 408 408 -
Amortization of financing costs - long-term debt (1 ) (1 ) - (1 ) (1 ) -
Interest expense (82 ) (82 ) - (90 ) (90 ) -
CRTC benefit obligations (2 ) - (2 )
Business acquisition, integration and restructuring expenses - - - (29 ) - (29 )
Gain on remeasurement of interests in equity investments 6 - 6 - - -
Loss on derivative instruments - - - (3 ) - (3 )
Accretion of long-term liabilities and provisions (4 ) - (4 ) (5 ) - (5 )
Other gains 3 - 3 - - -
Income (loss) before income taxes 289 286 3 280 317 (37 )
Current income tax expense (recovery) 51 70 (19 ) 52 68 (16 )
Deferred income tax expense (recovery) (10 ) (3 ) (7 ) 25 20 5
Net income (loss) from continuing operations 248 219 29 203 229 (26 )

The changes in net income from continuing operations are outlined in the table below.

May 31, 2012 net income from continuing
operations compared to:
Three months ended Nine months ended
February 29, 2012 May 31, 2011 May 31, 2011
($millions Cdn)
Increased (decreased) operating income before efore amortization 74 (19 ) 56
Decreased (increased) amortization 9 (20 ) (49 )
Decreased (increased) interest expense 1 8 (3 )
Change in net other costs and revenue (1) 3 40 205
Decreased (increased) income taxes (17 ) 36 27
70 45 236

(1) Net other costs and revenue includes gain on repurchase of debt, CRTC benefit obligations, business acquisition, integration and restructuring expenses, gain on remeasurement of interests in equity investments, gain (loss) on derivative instruments, accretion of long-term liabilities and provisions, foreign exchange gain on unhedged long-term debt, other gains (losses) and equity income from associates as detailed in the unaudited interim Consolidated Statements of Income.

Basic earnings per share were $0.53 and $1.34 for the quarter and year-to-date, respectively, compared to $0.45 and $0.86 in the same periods last year. In the current quarter, reduced operating income before amortization of $19 million and increased amortization of $20 million were offset by lower net other costs and revenue and income taxes of $40 million and $36 million, respectively. The reduced net other costs and revenue related to various acquisition, integration and restructuring expenses incurred in the prior year while the lower taxes included a tax recovery related to the resolution of certain tax matters with Canada Revenue Agency ("CRA"). The year-to-date increase was primarily due to the favourable change in net other costs and revenue of $205 million along with improved operating income before amortization of $56 million and lower income taxes of $27 million. The change in net other costs and revenue was primarily due to amounts included in the prior year related to the CRTC benefit obligation and various acquisition, integration and restructuring costs. Operating income before amortization was up in the current period due to the inclusion of Shaw Media for the full nine months and the lower taxes included a tax recovery related to the resolution of certain tax matters with CRA. These improvements were partially reduced by increased amortization of $49 million.

Net income in the current quarter increased $70 million compared to the second quarter of fiscal 2012 driven by improved operating income before amortization of $74 million primarily due to seasonality in the Media business as well as improved operating income in the Cable and Satellite divisions.

Free cash flow for the quarter and year-to-date periods of $203 million and $379 million, respectively, compared to $240 million and $568 million in the same periods last year. The decrease in the current quarter was mainly due to higher capital investment of $16 million and lower operating income before amortization. The lower year-to-date amount was mainly due to higher capital investment of $153 million related to the strategic initiatives and customer equipment subsidies, as well as increased interest, cash taxes, and CRTC benefit funding of $18 million, $24 million, and $16 million, respectively, partially offset by improved operating income before amortization of $56 million. Operating income before amortization was up due to the full nine month inclusion of Media.

During the quarter the Company announced the opening of its first store in Calgary offering a new retail experience as part of its continued investment in defining the customer experience. The new store showcases all of Shaw's products and services through a unique technology experience of interactive displays along with hands on training and technical support.

Shaw continues to make a positive contribution in the communities across Canada. During the quarter Shaw concluded its Fill the Food Banks Campaign, a national initiative to raise awareness and donations for food banks across the country. Shaw partnered with Campbell Canada, Food Banks Canada and Purolator and, together with Shaw employees, customers and members of the community donated 1.2 million pounds of food and over $0.6 million. During the quarter Shaw also hosted the A World of Smiles telethon raising almost $0.4 million for BC Children's Hospital.

Key Performance Drivers

The Company's continuous disclosure documents may provide discussion and analysis of non-IFRS financial measures. These financial measures do not have standard definitions prescribed by IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures disclosed by other companies. The Company's continuous disclosure documents may also provide discussion and analysis of additional GAAP measures. Additional GAAP measures include line items, headings, and sub-totals included in the financial statements. The Company utilizes these measures in making operating decisions and assessing its performance. Certain investors, analysts and others, utilize these measures in assessing the Company's operational and financial performance and as an indicator of its ability to service debt and return cash to shareholders. The non-IFRS financial measures and additional GAAP measures have not been presented as an alternative to net income or any other measure of performance required by IFRS.

The following contains a listing of non-IFRS financial measures and additional GAAP measures used by the Company and provides a reconciliation to the nearest IFRS measure or provides a reference to such reconciliation.

Operating income before amortization and operating margin

Operating income before amortization is calculated as revenue less operating, general and administrative expenses and is presented as a sub-total line item in the Company's unaudited interim Consolidated Statements of Income. It is intended to indicate the Company's ability to service and/or incur debt, and therefore it is calculated before amortization (a non-cash expense) and interest. Operating income before amortization is also one of the measures used by the investing community to value the business. Operating margin is calculated by dividing operating income before amortization by revenue.

Free cash flow

The Company utilizes this measure to assess the Company's ability to repay debt and return cash to shareholders.

Free cash flow is calculated as operating income before amortization, less interest, cash taxes paid or payable, capital expenditures (on an accrual basis and net of proceeds on capital dispositions) and equipment costs (net), adjusted to exclude share-based compensation expense, less cash amounts associated with funding the new and assumed CRTC benefit obligations related to the acquisition of Shaw Media as well as excluding non-controlling interest amounts that are consolidated in the operating income before amortization, capital expenditure and cash tax amounts. Free cash flow also includes changes in receivable related balances with respect to customer equipment financing transactions as a cash item, and is adjusted for cash funding of pension amounts net of pension expense. Dividends paid on the Company's Cumulative Redeemable Rate Reset Preferred Shares are also deducted.

Commencing in 2012 free cash flow has not been reported on a segmented basis. Certain components of free cash flow including operating income before amortization, capital expenditures (on an accrual basis) net of proceeds on capital dispositions and equipment costs (net), CRTC benefit obligation funding, and non-controlling interest amounts continue to be reported on a segmented basis. Other items, including interest and cash taxes, are not generally directly attributable to a segment, and are reported on a consolidated basis.

Free cash flow is calculated as follows:

Three months ended
May 31,		 Nine months ended
May 31,
2012 2011 (2) Change
%
2012
2011 (2)		 Change
%
($millions Cdn)
Revenue
Cable 794 785 1.1 2,390 2,312 3.4
Satellite 211 210 0.5 631 620 1.8
Media 295 312 (5.4 ) 836 681 22.8
1,300 1,307 (0.5 ) 3,857 3,613 6.8
Intersegment eliminations (22 ) (22 ) - (69 ) (53 ) 30.2
1,278 1,285 (0.5 ) 3,788 3,560 6.4
Operating income before amortization (1)
Cable 377 392 (3.8 ) 1,106 1,114 (0.7 )
Satellite 76 76 - 216 216 -
Media 114 118 (3.4 ) 304 240 26.7
567 586 (3.2 ) 1,626 1,570 3.6
Capital expenditures and equipment costs (net):
Cable 169 152 11.2 626 486 28.8
Satellite 17 16 6.3 67 58 15.5
Media 5 7 (28.6 ) 18 14 28.6
Total as per Note 3 to the unaudited interim Consolidated Financial Statements 191
175		 9.1
711
558
27.4
Free cash flow before the following 376 411 (8.5 ) 915 1,012 (9.6 )
Less:
Interest (82 ) (85 ) (3.5 ) (246 ) (228 ) 7.9
Cash taxes (70 ) (68 ) 2.9 (218 ) (194 ) 12.4
Other adjustments:
Non-cash share-based compensation 2 2 - 5 7 (28.6 )
CRTC benefit obligation funding (10 ) (8 ) 25.0 (31 ) (15 ) >100.0
Non-controlling interests (10 ) (6 ) 66.7 (30 ) (17 ) 76.5
Pension adjustment 3 3 - 11 12 (8.3 )
Customer equipment financing (3 ) (9 ) (66.7 ) (16 ) (9 ) 77.8
Preferred share dividends (3 ) - >100.0 (11 ) - >100.0
Free cash flow (1) 203 240 (15.4 ) 379 568 (33.3 )
Operating margin (1)
Cable 47.5 % 49.9 % (2.4 ) 46.3 % 48.2 % (1.9 )
Satellite 36.0 % 36.2 % (0.2 ) 34.2 % 34.8 % (0.6 )
Media 38.6 % 37.8 % 0.8 36.4 % 35.2 % 1.2
(1) See definitions and discussion under Key Performance Drivers in MD&A.
(2) Restated to reflect changes in the calculation related to the pension adjustment and customer equipment financing.

CABLE

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

Three months ended
May 31,		 Nine months ended
May 31,
2012 2011 Change
%
2012
2011		 Change
%
($millions Cdn)
Revenue 794 785 1.1 2,390 2,312 3.4
Operating income before amortization (1) 377 392 (3.8 ) 1,106 1,114 (0.7 )
Capital expenditures and equipment costs (net):
New housing development 26 19 36.8 75 65 15.4
Success based 43 43 - 208 149 39.6
Upgrades and enhancement 65 62 4.8 243 186 30.6
Replacement 11 10 10.0 32 33 (3.0 )
Buildings and other 24 18 33.3 68 53 28.3
Total as per Note 3 to the unaudited interim Consolidated Financial Statements 169
152		 11.2
626
486
28.8
Operating margin (1) 47.5 % 49.9 % (2.4 ) 46.3 % 48.2 % (1.9 )
(1) See definitions and discussion under Key Performance Drivers in MD&A.

Operating Highlights

  • Digital Phone lines increased 29,142 during the three month period to 1,339,559 and Internet customers were consistent with the prior quarter totaling 1,906,168 as at May 31, 2012. During the quarter Basic cable subscribers decreased 21,515.
  • Shaw's Digital penetration of Basic is now 86.1%, up from 79.5% and 70.7% at August 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

Cable revenue for the three and nine month periods of $794 million and $2.39 billion improved 1.1% and 3.4%, respectively, over the comparable periods last year. Rate increases and customer growth in Internet and Digital Phone partially offset by lower Basic subscribers accounted for the improvement.

Operating income before amortization of $377 million for the quarter decreased 3.8% compared to the same period last year. Revenue growth and lower marketing and sales related expenses were more than offset by higher employee related amounts, mainly related to annual merit increases and employee growth to bring new customer service centres on line, and also higher programming amounts related to new services and increased rates as contracts renewed.

Operating income before amortization for the year-to-date period declined modestly over last year. The revenue improvement was offset by increased employee related expenses, programming costs, and marketing and sales related spend.

Revenue decreased 1.2% compared to the second quarter of fiscal 2012 primarily due to declines in On Demand and lower Cable subscribers, partially offset by reduced promotional discounts and growth in Digital Phone. Operating income before amortization improved $25 million over this same period primarily due to lower sales, marketing and various other expenses. As a result margins increased from 43.8% in the second quarter to 47.5%. Capital expenditures declined $65 million compared to the prior quarter. The decrease was due to lower success based spend arising from higher pricing on digital boxes, lower Digital Network Upgrade ("DNU") related activations and reduced modem purchases; along with lower upgrades and enhancements due to prior quarter bulk purchasing of network electronics and plant gear in support of the DNU.

Total capital investment of $169 million and $626 million for the current quarter and nine month periods increased $17 million and $140 million, respectively, over the same periods last year.

Success-based capital was in line with the prior year quarter and up $59 million over the comparable nine month period. The increase was primarily due to higher subsidies on sales of HDPVRs resulting from lower customer pricing and increased volumes, deployment of digital boxes related to the DNU, and investment in wireless internet modems. These increases were partially offset by lower HDPVR rentals and phone modem purchases.

Investment in Upgrades and enhancement and Replacement categories combined increased $4 million and $56 million for the quarter and year-to-date periods, respectively, compared to the same periods last year. The year-to-date investment included higher spending on hub upgrades and network electronics related to the DNU, Digital Phone infrastructure to support business growth and soft-switch upgrades, and investment related to the Wi-Fi build.

Investment in Buildings and other was up $6 million and $15 million, respectively, over the comparable three and nine month periods. The increase was mainly due to higher spend related to back office infrastructure replacement projects, as well as facility investment related to the Calgary data centre, customer service centres and new retail location.

Spending in New housing development increased $7 million and $10 million, respectively, over the comparable three and nine month periods mainly due to higher activity.

During the quarter Shaw Business announced multi-year agreements with the City of Winnipeg and BC Biomedical Laboratories. Telecommunication services provided by Shaw Business deliver standard and customized offerings on a competitive basis.

Subscriber Statistics

May 31, 2012
Three months ended Nine months ended
May 31,
2012		 August 31, 2011 Growth Change
%
Growth		 Change
%
CABLE:
Basic service:
Actual 2,235,546 2,289,775 (21,515 ) (1.0 ) (54,229 ) (2.4 )
Penetration as % of homes passed 56.8 % 59.0 %
Digital customers 1,925,764 1,819,388 246 - 106,376 5.8
INTERNET:
Connected and scheduled 1,906,168 1,877,231 (429 ) - 28,937 1.5
Penetration as % of basic 85.3 % 82.0 %
Standalone Internet not included in basic cable 216,554 217,068 13,019 6.4 (514 ) (0.2 )
DIGITAL PHONE:
Number of lines (1) 1,339,559 1,233,041 29,142 2.2 106,518 8.6
(1) Represents primary and secondary lines on billing plus pending installs.

SATELLITE (DTH and Satellite Services)

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

Three months ended
May 31,		 Nine months ended
May 31,
2012 2011 Change
%		 2012 2011 Change
%
($millions Cdn)
Revenue
DTH (Shaw Direct) 190 189 0.5 570 558 2.2
Satellite Services 21 21 - 61 62 (1.6)
211 210 0.5 631 620 1.8
Operating income before amortization (1)
DTH (Shaw Direct) 66 65 1.5 186 184 1.1
Satellite Services 10 11 (9.1) 30 32 (6.2)
76 76 - 216 216 -
Capital expenditures and equipment costs (net):
Success based (2) 16 15 6.7 61 55 10.9
Buildings and other 1 1 - 6 3 100.0
Total as per Note 3 to the unaudited interim Consolidated Financial Statements 17 16 6.3
67
58
15.5
Operating margin (1) 36.0% 36.2% (0.2) 34.2% 34.8% (0.6)
(1) See definitions and discussion under Key Performance Drivers in MD&A.
(2) Net of the profit on the sale of satellite equipment as it is viewed as a recovery of expenditures on customer premise equipment.

Operating Highlights

  • Revenues for the quarter and year-to-date periods were up 0.5% and 1.8%, respectively, over last year. Operating income before amortization for the three and nine month periods of $76 million and $216 million were consistent with the prior year periods.

Revenue of $211 million and $631 million for the three and nine month periods, respectively, was up 0.5% and 1.8% over the same periods last year. The improvement was primarily due to rate increases. Operating income before amortization of $76 million and $216 million for the three and nine month periods, respectively, were comparable to the same periods last year.

Operating income before amortization improved $5 million over the second quarter of fiscal 2012 primarily due to the full quarter impact of the February 2012 rate increases and lower sales and marketing expenditures.

Total capital investment of $17 million and $67 million for the three and nine month periods, respectively, compared to $16 million and $58 million in the same periods last year. The year-to-date increase was mainly due to new customer activations, customer equipment upgrades to new receivers, outfitting outdoor equipment to access triple satellites, and purchases of uplink ground equipment for the new Anik G1 satellite. Construction of Anik G1, which will provide capacity to add over 100 HD channels, continues to progress and is on track for a fall launch.

During the quarter, Shaw Direct launched National Geographic Wild HD, the 11th HD channel launched this year. Shaw Direct now has over 565,000 HD customers representing an HD penetration of over 60%.

Also in the quarter Shaw Direct completed and implemented a marketing and sales agreement with Xplornet to offer a DTH and satellite high speed internet service. More recently, Shaw Direct became the first Canadian DTH service to offer a video-on-demand service using adaptive streaming technology directly to satellite set-top receivers. This internet based service was launched with over 1,500 movie and TV titles. Additional titles will be added over the next few months.

Subscriber Statistics

May 31, 2012
Three months
ended		 Nine months
ended
May 31, 2012 August 31, 2011 Growth Change
%
Growth		 Change
%
DTH customers (1) 908,868 908,883 (1,820) - (15) -
(1) Including seasonal customers who temporarily suspend their service.

MEDIA

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS


Three months ended May 31,		 Nine months
ended		 Period from
October 27,2010

2012		 2011 Change
%
May 31, 2012		 to
May 31, 2011		 Change
%
($millions Cdn)
Revenue 295 312 (5.4 ) 836 681 22.8
Operating income before amortization (1) 114 118 (3.4 ) 304 240 26.7
Capital expenditures:
Broadcast and transmission 1 4 (75.0 ) 7 7 -
Buildings and other 4 3 33.3 11 7 57.1
Total as per Note 3 to the unaudited interim Consolidated Financial Statements
5		 7
(28.6		 )
18
14
28.6
Other adjustments:
CRTC benefit obligation funding (10 ) (8 ) 25.0 (31 ) (15 ) >100.0
Non-controlling interests (10 ) (6 ) 66.7 (30 ) (17 ) 76.5
Operating margin(1) 38.6 % 37.8 % 0.8 36.4 % 35.2 % 1.2
(1) See definitions and discussion under Key Performance Drivers in MD&A.

Operating Highlights

Revenue and operating income before amortization for the quarter of $295 million and $114 million, respectively, compared to $312 million and $118 million last year. Revenue for the quarter was down 5.4% mainly due to lower conventional advertising revenues. Operating income decreased 3.4% due to the revenue decline partially offset by lower programming costs and various other expenses.

For informational purposes, on a comparative basis to the full nine months ended May 31, 2011, Media revenues and operating income before amortization were each down approximately 3%, reflecting the softness in the advertising market as a result of continuing economic uncertainty. Advertising revenue in the nine month period was driven by spend in the automotive, household supplies, service and direct marketing categories.

Compared to the second quarter of fiscal 2012, revenue and operating income before amortization increased $53 million and $44 million, respectively. The increases were primarily due to the cyclical nature of the Media business, with higher advertising revenues in the first and third quarters driven by the launches of season premieres in the first quarter and season finales and mid season launches in the third quarter.

During the quarter, Global delivered solid programming results, increasing the number of Top 20 positions nationally with Glee, House and Survivor leading as top performing shows. The quarter also saw high audience delivery on the season finales of Hawaii 5-0, Survivor, Bones, Glee and the series finale of House.

The Media specialty portfolio continues to lead the channel rankings in the adult 25-54 category, with 4 of the Top 10 Analog services, including History as the top entertainment network in Canada, and 7 of the Top 10 Digital services, with National Geographic as the leading Digital channel. National Geographic and Action's strong audience results rank the channels within the Top 20 Analog services. In the quarter Shaw Media launched National Geographic Wild and announced the launches of Lifetime and H2 in late August.

The on-line business continued to move forward in the quarter by signing an exclusive sales representation agreement with CBS Interactive which includes their full suite of on-line properties, such as CBS, CBS News, CBS Sports and CNET.

Capital investment continued on various projects and included upgrading production equipment, infrastructure and facility investments.

OTHER INCOME AND EXPENSE ITEMS

Amortization

Three months ended
May 31,		 Nine months ended
May 31,
2012 2011 Change
%
2012
2011		 Change
%
($millions Cdn)
Amortization revenue (expense) -
Deferred equipment revenue 29 26 11.5 85 79 7.6
Deferred equipment costs (59 ) (51 ) 15.7 (169 ) (153 ) 10.5
Property, plant and equipment, intangibles and other (168 )
(153		 ) 9.8
(515		 ) (476 )
8.2

Amortization of deferred equipment revenue and deferred equipment costs increased over the comparative periods due to the sales mix of equipment and changes in customer pricing on certain equipment.

Amortization of property, plant and equipment, intangibles and other increased over the comparable periods as the amortization of new expenditures and inclusion of the Media division for the full nine months in the current year exceeded the impact of assets that became fully depreciated.

Amortization of financing costs and Interest expense

Three months ended
May 31,		 Nine months ended
May 31,
2012 2011 Change
%
2012
2011		 Change
%
($millions Cdn)
Amortization of financing costs - long-term debt 1
1		 -
3
3
-
Interest expense 82 90 (8.9 ) 247 244 1.2

Interest expense fluctuated over the comparative periods primarily due to changes in debt levels. Approximately $1 billion was required to complete the Media acquisition in October 2010 including repayment of a term loan and breakage of related currency swaps. The transaction was initially funded by the Company's credit facility which was subsequently repaid during the second quarter of 2011 with the net proceeds from the three senior notes offerings totaling $1.3 billion. In addition, the Company assumed US $338 million senior unsecured notes as part of the Media transaction of which US $56 million were repurchased in December 2010 and remaining US $282 million redeemed in the fourth quarter of 2011.

Gain on repurchase of debt

During the second quarter of the prior year, the Company repurchased and cancelled US $56 million of the Media unsecured notes and recorded a gain of $10 million as result of recognizing the related remaining unamortized acquisition date fair value adjustment.

CRTC benefit obligations

As part of the CRTC decisions approving the acquisition of Mystery and The Cave during the current quarter and the Media acquisition during the first quarter of 2011, the Company is required to contribute approximately $2 million and $180 million, respectively in new benefits to the Canadian broadcasting system over the following seven years. The fair value of the obligations of $2 million and $139 million have been recorded in the income statement.

Business acquisition, integration and restructuring expenses

During the three and nine months ended May 31, 2011, the Company recorded $29 million and $90 million, respectively related to the acquisition of the broadcasting business of Canwest and organizational restructuring. Amounts included acquisition related costs to effect the acquisition, such as professional fees paid to lawyers and consultants. The integration and restructuring costs related to integrating the new business and increasing organizational effectiveness for future growth as well as package costs for the former CEO.

Gain on remeasurement of interests in equity investments

The Company recorded a $6 million gain in respect of remeasurement to fair value of the Company's 50% interest in Mystery and 49% interest in The Cave which were held prior to the acquisition on May 31, 2012. The fair value of the Company's equity interest in these specialty channels held prior to the acquisition was $19 million compared to a carrying value of $13 million.

Gain (loss) on derivative instruments

For derivative instruments where hedge accounting is not permissible or derivatives are not designated in a hedging relationship, the Company records changes in the fair value of derivative instruments in the income statement. In addition, the Media senior unsecured notes had a variable prepayment option which represented an embedded derivative that was accounted for separately at fair value until the Company gave notice of redemption in the fourth quarter of 2011. The fluctuation in amounts recorded in 2012 compared to 2011 is due to a reduction in the number of outstanding contracts as well as the amounts recorded in respect of the embedded derivative in the prior year.

Accretion of long-term liabilities and provisions

The Company records accretion expense in respect of the discounting of certain long-term liabilities and provisions which are accreted to their estimated value over their respective terms. The expense is primarily in respect of CRTC benefit obligations as well as the liability which arose in 2010 when the Company entered into amended agreements with the counterparties to certain cross-currency agreements to fix the settlement of the principal portion of the swaps in December 2011.

Foreign exchange gain on unhedged long-term debt

In conjunction with the Media business acquisition in October 2010, the Company assumed a US $390 million term loan and US $338 million senior unsecured notes. Shortly after closing the acquisition, the Company repaid the term loan including breakage of the related cross currency interest rate swaps. A portion of the senior unsecured notes were repurchased during the second quarter of 2011 and the Company elected to redeem the remaining notes in the fourth quarter. As a result of fluctuations of the Canadian dollar relative to the US dollar, a foreign exchange gain of $23 million was recorded for the nine months ended May 31, 2011.

Other gains (losses)

This category generally includes realized and unrealized foreign exchange gains and losses on US dollar denominated current assets and liabilities, gains and losses on disposal of property, plant and equipment and minor investments, and the Company's share of the operations of Burrard Landing Lot 2 Holdings Partnership.

Income taxes

Income taxes fluctuated over the comparative periods due to a tax recovery included in the current year related to resolution with CRA on certain tax matters.

Equity income from associates

During the first quarter of the prior year, the Company recorded income of $14 million primarily in respect of its 49.9% equity interest in CW Media Investments Co. ("CW Media") for the period September 1 to October 26, 2010. On October 27, 2010, the Company acquired the remaining equity interest in CW Media as part of its purchase of all the broadcasting assets of Canwest. Results of operations are consolidated effective October 27, 2010. The remaining equity income is in respect of interests in several specialty channels.

Loss from discontinued operations

During the fourth quarter of 2011, the Company discontinued further construction of its traditional wireless network and accordingly, all traditional wireless activities in the comparative year have been classified as discontinued operations.

RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES

The significant risks and uncertainties affecting the Company and its business are discussed in the Company's August 31, 2011 Annual Report under the Introduction to the Business - Known Events, Trends, Risks and Uncertainties in Management's Discussion and Analysis.

FINANCIAL POSITION

Total assets at May 31, 2012 were $12.7 billion compared to $12.6 billion at August 31, 2011. Following is a discussion of significant changes in the consolidated statement of financial position since August 31, 2011.

Current assets decreased $110 million primarily due to decreases in cash of $191 million and assets held for sale of $15 million partially offset by increases in accounts receivable of $61 million, inventories of $24 million and other current assets of $11 million. Cash decreased as the cash outlay for investing and financing activities exceeded the funds provided by operations. Assets held for sale decreased as the sale of the wireless assets was completed during the first quarter. Accounts receivable were up primarily due to higher advertising revenue during the third quarter of the current year in comparison to the fourth quarter of the prior year. Inventories were higher due to timing of equipment purchases while other current assets were up primarily as a result of increases in program rights and prepaid maintenance and support contracts.

Property, plant and equipment increased $60 million as current year capital investment exceeded amortization.

Other long-term assets were up $72 million primarily due to an increase in deferred equipment costs and related customer equipment financing receivables.

Intangibles increased $72 million due to higher program rights and advances and the broadcast licenses recorded on the acquisition of Mystery and The Cave in the current quarter. Program rights and advances (current and noncurrent) increased as advances and additional investment in acquired rights exceeded the amortization for the current year. The increase in goodwill of $2 million is due to the aforementioned acquisition of Mystery and The Cave.

Current liabilities were up $213 million due to increases in income taxes payable of $21 million and current portion of long-term debt of $449 million partially offset by decreases in accounts payable and accrued liabilities of $90 million, other current liability of $161 million and derivative instruments of $8 million. Income taxes payable increased due to the current year provision partially offset by tax installment payments. The current portion of long-term debt increased and long-term debt decreased due to the reclassification of the 6.1% $450 million senior notes which are due in November 2012. Accounts payable and accrued liabilities decreased due to lower trade and other payables primarily in respect of timing of payment of capital expenditures and interest payments partially offset by the amount owing in respect of the acquisition of Mystery and The Cave. The other liability decreased due to settlement of previously amended cross-currency interest rate agreements and derivative instruments decreased due to settlement of contracts.

Other long-term liabilities increased $73 million due to the actuarial losses recorded on employee benefit plans.

Deferred credits were up $10 million due to an increase in deferred equipment revenue partially offset by amortization of deferred IRU revenue.

Deferred income tax liabilities, net of deferred income tax assets, decreased $73 million due to the current year recovery.

Shareholders' equity increased $318 million primarily due to increases in share capital of $86 million, retained earnings of $273 million and non-controlling interests of $12 million partially offset by an increase in accumulated other comprehensive loss of $57 million. Share capital increased due to the issuance of 4,367,298 Class B Non-Voting Shares under the Company's option plan and Dividend Reinvestment Plan ("DRIP"). As of June 15, 2012, share capital is as reported at May 31, 2012 with the exception of the issuance of a total of 24,000 Class B Non-Voting Shares upon exercise of options under the Company's option plan subsequent to the quarter end. Retained earnings increased due to current year earnings of $599 million partially offset by dividends of $326 million while non-controlling interests increased as their share of earnings exceeded the distributions declared during the year. Accumulated other comprehensive loss increased due to the actuarial loss recorded on employee benefit plans.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

In the current year, the Company generated $379 million of free cash flow. Shaw used its free cash flow along with cash of $191 million, proceeds on issuance of Class B Non-Voting Shares of $13 million and other net items of $23 million to fund the $162 million on settlement of amended cross-currency interest rate agreements, pay common share dividends of $238 million, fund the net change in working capital requirements and inventory of $151 million and invest an additional net $55 million in program rights.

During the second quarter, the Company entered into a five-year $1 billion bank credit facility which includes a revolving term facility to a maximum of $50 million and matures in January 2017. This facility replaces the prior credit and operating loan facilities which were scheduled to mature in May 2012. The new facility will be used for general corporate purposes.

On November 29, 2011 Shaw received the approval of the TSX to renew its normal course issuer bid to purchase its Class B Non-Voting Shares for a further one year period. The Company is authorized to acquire up to 20,000,000 Class B Non-Voting Shares during the period December 1, 2011 to November 30, 2012. No shares have been repurchased during the current year.

The Company issues Class B Non-Voting Shares from treasury under its DRIP which resulted in cash savings and incremental Class B Non-Voting Shares of $71 million during the nine months ending May 31, 2012.

Based on available credit facilities and forecasted free cash flow, the Company expects to have sufficient liquidity to fund operations and obligations during the current fiscal year. On a longer-term basis, Shaw expects to generate free cash flow and have borrowing capacity sufficient to finance foreseeable future business plans and refinance maturing debt.

CASH FLOW

Operating Activities

Three months ended
May 31,		 Nine months ended
May 31,
2012 2011 Change
%
2012
2011		 Change
%
($millions Cdn)
Funds flow from continuing operations 424 428 (0.9 ) 944 1,077 (12.3 )
Net increase in non-cash working capital balances related to continuing operations (74 ) (59 ) 25.4

(81		 )

(303		 )

(73.3		 )
350 369 (5.1 ) 863 774 11.5

Funds flow from continuing operations decreased over the comparative nine month period as the higher operating income before amortization adjusted for non-cash program rights expenses in the current year and charges in the prior year for termination of swap contracts and business acquisition, integration and restructuring expenses were more than offset by the combined impact of the settlement of the amended cross-currency interest rate agreements as well as higher current income taxes, program rights purchases and CRTC benefit obligation funding in the current year. The net change in non-cash working capital balances related to continuing operations fluctuated over the comparative periods due to fluctuations in accounts receivable and the timing of payment of current income taxes payable and accounts payable and accrued liabilities.

Investing Activities

Three months ended
May 31,		 Nine months ended
May 31,
2012 2011 Decrease 2012 2011 Decrease
($millions Cdn)
Cash flow used in investing activities (167 ) (172 ) 5 (792 ) (1,066 ) 274

The cash used in investing activities decreased over the comparable nine month period due to amounts paid to complete the Media business acquisition in the first quarter of 2011 partially offset by the higher capital expenditures in the current year.

Financing Activities

The changes in financing activities during the comparative periods were as follows:

Three months ended May 31, Nine months ended May 31,
2012 2011 2012 2011
($millions Cdn)
Bank loans and bank indebtedness - net borrowings (repayments) - (75 )
-
-
Bank credit facility arrangement costs - - (4 ) -
Issuance of Cdn $500 million 5.50% senior notes - - - 498
Issuance of Cdn $800 million 6.75% senior notes - - - 779
Senior notes issuance costs - (10 ) - (17 )
Repayment of CW Media US $390 million term loan - - - (395 )
Repurchase US $56 million of CW Media 13.5% senior notes - -
-
(56		 )
Senior notes repurchase premium - - - (1 )
Dividends (86 ) (90 ) (249 ) (281 )
Issuance of Class B Non-Voting Shares 4 9 14 33
Issuance of preferred shares - 300 - 300
Distributions paid to non-controlling interests (5 ) (9 ) (19 ) (14 )
Repayment of Partnership debt (1 ) (1 ) (1 ) (1 )
(88 ) 124 (259 ) 845

SUPPLEMENTARY QUARTERLY FINANCIAL INFORMATION


Revenue		 Operating income before amortization (1) Net income from continuing operations attributable to common shareholders Net income attributable to common shareholders




Net income(2)		 Basic earnings per share from continuing operations(3) Basic earnings per share(4)
($millions Cdn except per share amounts)
IFRS
2012
Third 1,278 567 238 238 248 0.53 0.53
Second 1,231 493 169 169 178 0.38 0.38
First 1,279 566 192 192 202 0.43 0.43
2011
Fourth 1,181 481 164 81 84 0.38 0.19
Third 1,285 586 197 195 201 0.45 0.45
Second 1,196 505 166 163 169 0.38 0.37
First 1,079 479 13 12 16 0.03 0.03
Canadian GAAP
2010
Fourth 939 424 123 122 122 0.28 0.28
(1) See definition and discussion under Key Performance Drivers in MD&A.
(2) Net income attributable to both common shareholders and non-controlling interests.
(3) Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations is the same as basic earnings per share from continuing operations except in the fourth quarter of 2011 where it is $0.37.
(4) Diluted earnings per share is the same as basic earnings per share except in the fourth quarter of 2011 where it is $0.18.

Generally, revenue and operating income before amortization have grown quarter-over-quarter mainly due to customer growth and rate increases with the exception of the fourth quarter of 2011 and second quarter of 2012. In the second quarter of 2012, revenue and operating income before amortization decreased by $48 million and $73 million, respectively due to the seasonality of the Media business with higher revenues in the first quarter driven by the fall launch of season premieres and high demand as well as lower operating income before amortization in the Cable division. Operating expenses increased in the second quarter which included employee related costs, mainly related to bringing the new customer service centres on line, as well as higher marketing, sales and programming costs. In the fourth quarter of 2011, revenue and operating income before amortization declined $104 million and $105 million, respectively, due to the cyclical nature of the Media business with lower advertising revenues in the summer months.

Net income has fluctuated quarter-over-quarter primarily as a result of the growth in operating income before amortization described above and the impact of the net change in non-operating items. In the third quarter of 2012, net income increased by $70 million due to higher operating income before amortization of $74 million and lower amortization of $9 million partially offset by increased income tax expense of $17 million. In the second quarter of 2012, net income decreased by $24 million due to a decline in operating income before amortization of $73 million partially offset by lower income tax expense of $53 million. Net income increased by $118 million in the first quarter of 2012 due to the combined impact of higher operating income before amortization of $85 million and income tax expense of $18 million in the first quarter and the loss from discontinued operations of $84 million and gain on redemption of debt of $23 million recorded in the preceding quarter. The first and second quarters of 2011 were impacted by the Media acquisition. As a result, net income declined by $106 million in the first quarter of 2011 as the higher operating income before amortization of $55 million due to the contribution from the new Media division and lower income taxes of $22 million were offset by the CRTC benefit obligation of $139 million and acquisition, integration and restructuring costs of $58 million. Net income increased $153 million in the second quarter of 2011 due to the impact of the broadcasting business acquisition in the immediately preceding quarter and higher operating income before amortization and foreign exchange gain on unhedged long-term debt, the total of which was partially offset by increases in interest expense, loss on derivative instruments and income tax expense. During the third quarter of 2011 net income increased by $32 million due to higher operating income before amortization and a lower loss on derivative instruments partially offset by increased income taxes, a lower foreign exchange gain on unhedged long-term debt and the impact of the restructuring activities undertaken by the Company. In the fourth quarter of 2011 net income declined $117 million due to lower operating income before amortization of $105 million and the loss of $83 million in respect of the wireless discontinued operations partially offset by the gain on redemption of debt and the aforementioned restructuring activities in the previous quarter. As a result of the aforementioned changes in net income, basic and diluted earnings per share have trended accordingly.

ACCOUNTING STANDARDS

Update to critical accounting policies and estimates

The MD&A included in the Company's August 31, 2011 Annual Report outlined critical accounting policies including key estimates and assumptions that management has made under these policies and how they affect the amounts reported in the Consolidated Financial Statements. The MD&A also describes significant accounting policies where alternatives exist.

On September 1, 2011 with the adoption of IFRS the critical accounting policies have been updated to conform with this adoption. Refer to Note 2 of the Company's unaudited interim consolidated financial statements for a detailed discussion regarding the Company's significant accounting policies, application of critical accounting estimates and recent accounting pronouncements.

Adoption of recent accounting pronouncements

In February 2008, the CICA Accounting Standards Board confirmed that Canadian publicly accountable enterprises would be required to adopt IFRS, as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board, for fiscal periods beginning on or after January 1, 2011. These standards required the Company to begin reporting under IFRS in the first quarter of fiscal 2012 with comparative data for the prior year. Refer to note 14 to the unaudited interim consolidated financial statements for a summary of the differences between financial statements previously prepared under Canadian GAAP and those prepared under IFRS as at September 1, 2010, for the three and nine months ended May 31, 2011 and as at and for the year ended August 31, 2011.

Recent accounting pronouncements:

The Company has not yet adopted certain standards, interpretations and amendments that have been issued but are not yet effective. Unless otherwise indicated, the following standards are required to be applied for periods beginning on or after September 1, 2013. The following pronouncements are being assessed to determine their impact on the Company's results and financial position.

  • IFRS 9, Financial Instruments, is required to be applied for annual periods commencing September 1, 2015
  • Other than for the disclosure requirements therein, the requirements of the following standards and amended standards must be initially applied concurrently:
    • IFRS 10, Consolidated Financial Statements
    • IFRS 11, Joint Arrangements
    • IFRS 12, Disclosure of Interests in Other Entities
    • IAS 27, Separate Financial Statements (amended 2011)
    • IAS 28, Investments in Associates (amended 2011)
  • IFRS 13, Fair Value Measurement
  • IAS 12, Income Taxes (amended 2011), is required to be applied for periods beginning on or after September 1, 2012
  • IAS 19, Employee Benefits (amended 2011)
  • IAS 1, Presentation of Financial Statements, amendments regarding presentation of items of other comprehensive income and is required to be applied for annual periods commencing September 1, 2012

2012 GUIDANCE

The Company expects to deliver consolidated free cash flow of approximately $450 million and anticipates a marginal decline in Cable operating income before amortization year-over-year, modest growth in Satellite, and consistent operating income before amortization on a full year-over-year comparative basis in Media. The Company expects moderate revenue growth in Cable and Satellite and consistent revenue on a full year-over-year comparative basis in Media. For the remainder of this year the Company plans to continue to execute on and invest in the various strategic initiatives including the DNU and Wi-Fi build with capital investment expected to exceed 2011 spend levels (excluding wireless).

Certain important assumptions for 2012 guidance purposes include: continued overall customer growth; stable pricing environment for Shaw's products relative to current rates; no significant market disruption or other significant changes in economic conditions, competition or regulation that would have a material impact; stable advertising demand and rates; cash income taxes to be paid or payable in 2012; and a stable regulatory environment.

See the following section entitled "Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements".

CAUTION CONCERNING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Statements included in this MD&A that are not historic constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Such statements include, but are not limited to, statements about future capital expenditures, financial guidance for future performance, business strategies and measures to implement strategies, competitive strengths, expansion and growth of Shaw's business and operations and other goals and plans. They can generally be identified by words such as "anticipate", "believe", "expect", "plan", "intend", "target", "goal" and similar expressions (although not all forward-looking statements contain such words). All of the forward-looking statements made in this report are qualified by these cautionary statements.

Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and analyses made by Shaw in light of its experience and its perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments as well as other factors it believes are appropriate in the circumstances as of the current date. These assumptions include, but are not limited to, general economic and industry growth rates, currency exchange rates, technology deployment, content and equipment costs, industry structure and stability, government regulation and the integration of recent acquisitions. Many of these assumptions are confidential.

You should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. Many factors, including those not within Shaw's control, may cause Shaw's actual results to be materially different from the views expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, general economic, market or business conditions; opportunities that may be presented to and pursued by Shaw; Shaw's ability to execute its strategic plans; changing conditions in the entertainment, information and communications industries; industry trends; changes in the competitive environment in the markets in which Shaw operates and from the development of new markets for emerging technologies; changes in laws, regulations and decisions by regulators that affect Shaw or the markets in which it operates in both Canada and the United States; Shaw's status as a holding company with separate operating subsidiaries; and other factors referenced in this report under the heading "Risks and uncertainties". The foregoing is not an exhaustive list of all possible factors. Should one or more of these risks materialize, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein.

The Company provides certain financial guidance for future performance as the Company believes that certain investors, analysts and others utilize this and other forward-looking information in order to assess the Company's expected operational and financial performance and as an indicator of its ability to service debt and return cash to shareholders. The Company's financial guidance may not be appropriate for this or other purposes.

Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it was originally made and, except as required by law, Shaw expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to disseminate any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statement to reflect any change in related assumptions, events, conditions or circumstances.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION

(unaudited)


[millions of Canadian dollars]		 May 31, 2012
August 31, 2011
September 1, 2010
[Note 14] [Note 14]
ASSETS
Current
Cash 252 443 217
Accounts receivable 504 443 196
Inventories 121 97 54
Other current assets 93 82 34
Derivative instruments 2 2 67
Assets held for sale - 15 -
972 1,082 568
Investments and other assets 13 13 743
Property, plant and equipment 3,260 3,200 3,005
Other long-term assets 330 258 233
Assets held for sale 1 1 -
Deferred income tax assets [note 15] 16 30 -
Intangibles 7,364 7,292 5,596
Goodwill 714 712 169
12,670 12,588 10,314
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 788 878 700
Provisions 21 18 19
Income taxes payable 145 124 249
Unearned revenue 154 155 145
Current portion of long-term debt [note 8] 450 1 1
Current portion of derivative instruments - 8 80
Other liability [note 13] - 161 -
1,558 1,345 1,194
Long-term debt [note 8] 4,811 5,256 3,982
Other long-term liabilities [notes 13 and 15] 580 507 429
Provisions 8 8 -
Derivative instruments - - 7
Deferred credits 640 630 632
Deferred income tax liabilities [note 15] 1,077 1,164 1,065
8,674 8,910 7,309
Shareholders' equity [notes 9 and 11]
Common and preferred shareholders 3,712 3,406 3,005
Non-controlling interests 284 272 -
3,996 3,678 3,005
12,670 12,588 10,314

See accompanying notes

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

(unaudited)

Three months ended May 31, Nine months ended May 31,
[millions of Canadian dollars except per share amounts] 2012 2011 2012 2011
[Note 14] [Note 14]
Revenue [note 3] 1,278 1,285 3,788 3,560
Operating, general and administrative expenses [note 5] 711 699 2,162 1,990
Operating income before amortization [note 3] 567 586 1,626 1,570
Amortization:
Deferred equipment revenue 29 26 85 79
Deferred equipment costs (59 ) (51 ) (169 ) (153 )
Property, plant and equipment, intangibles and other (168 ) (153 ) (515 ) (476 )
Operating income 369 408 1,027 1,020
Amortization of financing costs - long-term debt (1 ) (1 ) (3 ) (3 )
Interest expense [notes 3 and 6] (82 ) (90 ) (247 ) (244 )
Gain on repurchase of debt - - - 10
CRTC benefit obligations [note 4] (2 ) - (2 ) (139 )
Business acquisition, integration and restructuring expenses - (29 ) - (90 )
Gain on remeasurement of interests in equity investments [note 4] 6 - 6 -
Gain (loss) on derivative instruments - (3 ) 1 (26 )
Accretion of long-term liabilities and provisions (4 ) (5 ) (11 ) (11 )
Foreign exchange gain on unhedged long-term debt - - - 23
Equity income from associates - - 1 14
Other gains (losses) 3 - (2 ) 7
Income before income taxes 289 280 770 561
Current income tax expense [note 3] 51 52 197 167
Deferred income tax expense (recovery) (10 ) 25 (55 ) 2
Net income from continuing operations 248 203 628 392
Loss from discontinued operations [note 7] - (2 ) - (6 )
Net income 248 201 628 386
Net income attributable to:
Common shareholders 238 195 599 370
Non-controlling interests 10 6 29 16
248 201 628 386
Earnings per share - basic [note 10]
Earnings per share from continuing operations 0.53 0.45 1.34 0.86
Loss per share from discontinued operations - - - (0.01 )
Earnings per share 0.53 0.45 1.34 0.85
Earnings per share - diluted [note 10]
Earnings per share from continuing operations 0.53 0.45 1.33 0.86
Loss per share from discontinued operations - - - (0.01 )
Earnings per share 0.53 0.45 1.33 0.85

See accompanying notes

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(unaudited)

Three months ended May 31, Nine months ended May 31,
[millions of Canadian dollars] 2012 2011 2012 2011
[Note 14] [Note 14]
Net income 248 201 628 386
Other comprehensive income (loss) [note 11]
Change in unrealized fair value of derivatives designated as cash flow hedges 1 -
1
(13		 )
Adjustment for hedged items recognized in the period - 1 (1 ) 2
Unrealized gain on available-for-sale investment 3 - 3 -
Reclassification of realized gain on available-for-sale investment (3 ) -
(3		 )
-
Actuarial losses on employee benefit plans (57 ) - (57 ) (8 )
(56 ) 1 (57 ) (19 )
Comprehensive income 192 202 571 367
Comprehensive income attributable to:
Common shareholders 182 196 542 351
Non-controlling interests 10 6 29 16
192 202 571 367

See accompanying notes

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

(unaudited)

Nine months ended May 31, 2012
Attributable to common shareholders
[millions of Canadian dollars] Share capital Contributed surplus Retained earnings Accumulated other
comprehensive loss



Total		 Equity attributable to non-controlling interests Total equity
Balance as at September 1, 2011 2,633 73 729 (29 ) 3,406 272 3,678
Net income - - 599 - 599 29 628
Other comprehensive loss - - - (57 ) (57 ) - (57 )
Comprehensive income (loss) - - 599 (57 ) 542 29 571
Dividends - - (255 ) - (255 ) - (255 )
Dividend reinvestment plan 71 - (71 ) - - - -
Shares issued under stock option plan 15 (1 ) - - 14 - 14
Share-based compensation - 5 - - 5 - 5
Distributions declared by subsidiaries to non-controlling interests - - - - - (17 ) (17 )
Balance as at May 31, 2012 2,719 77 1,002 (86 ) 3,712 284 3,996
Nine months ended May 31, 2011
Attributable to common shareholders
[millions of Canadian dollars] Share capital Contributed surplus Retained earnings Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)



Total		 Equity attributable to non-controlling interests Total equity
Balance as at September 1, 2010 2,250 67 679 9 3,005 - 3,005
Business acquisition - - - - - 277 277
Net income - - 370 - 370 16 386
Other comprehensive loss - - - (19 ) (19 ) - (19 )
Comprehensive income (loss) - - 370 (19 ) 351 16 367
Dividends - - (286 ) - (286 ) - (286 )
Dividend reinvestment plan 10 - (10 ) - - - -
Issue of preferred shares 300 - - - 300 - 300
Share issue costs (net of taxes) (7 ) - - - (7 ) - (7 )
Shares issued under stock option plan 36 (3 )
-
-
33
-
33
Share-based compensation - 8 - - 8 - 8
Distributions declared by subsidiaries to non-controlling interests - -

-

-

-

(14		 )

(14		 )
Balance as at May 31, 2011 2,589 72
753
(10		 )
3,404
279
3,683

See accompanying notes

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(unaudited)

Three months ended May 31, Nine months ended May 31,
[millions of Canadian dollars] 2012 2011 2012 2011
OPERATING ACTIVITIES [note 12]
Funds flow from continuing operations 424 428 944 1,077
Net increase in non-cash working capital balances related to continuing operations (74 ) (59 )
(81		 ) (303 )
350 369 863 774
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Additions to property, plant and equipment [note 3] (155 ) (141 ) (595 ) (502 )
Additions to equipment costs (net) [note 3] (32 ) (32 ) (137 ) (87 )
Additions to other intangibles [note 3] (14 ) (14 ) (50 ) (45 )
Net reduction (addition) to inventories 19 10 (24 ) (26 )
Cable business acquisition, net of cash acquired - - - (3 )
Television broadcasting business acquisitions, net of cash acquired [note 4] 3 - 3 (417 )
Proceeds on disposal of property, plant and equipment [note 3] - - 8 7
Proceeds from investments and other assets 12 5 3 7
(167 ) (172 ) (792 ) (1,066 )
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Increase in long-term debt, net of discounts - - - 2,352
Senior notes issuance costs - (10 ) - (17 )
Debt repayments (1 ) (76 ) (1 ) (1,527 )
Senior notes repurchase premium - - - (1 )
Bank credit facility arrangement costs - - (4 ) -
Issue of Class B Non-Voting Shares [note 9] 4 9 14 33
Issue of preferred shares - 300 - 300
Dividends paid on Class A Shares and Class B Non-Voting Shares [note 9] (83 ) (90 ) (238 ) (281 )
Dividends paid on Preferred Shares [note 9] (3 ) - (11 ) -
Distributions paid to non-controlling interests (5 ) (9 ) (19 ) (14 )
(88 ) 124 (259 ) 845
Increase (decrease) in cash from continuing operations 95 321 (188 ) 553
Decrease in cash from discontinued operations [note 7] - (27 ) (3 ) (137 )
Increase (decrease) in cash 95 294 (191 ) 416
Cash, beginning of the period 157 339 443 217
Cash, ending of the period 252 633 252 633

See accompanying notes

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

May 31, 2012 and 2011

[all amounts in millions of Canadian dollars, except share and per share amounts]

1. CORPORATE INFORMATION

Shaw Communications Inc. (the "Company") is a diversified Canadian communications company whose core operating business is providing broadband cable television services, Internet, Digital Phone, and telecommunications services ("Cable"); Direct-to-home ("DTH") satellite services (Shaw Direct); satellite distribution services ("Satellite Services"); and programming content (through Shaw Media).

The Company was incorporated under the laws of the Province of Alberta on December 9, 1966 under the name Capital Cable Television Co. Ltd. and was subsequently continued under the Business Corporations Act (Alberta) on March 1, 1984 under the name Shaw Cablesystems Ltd. Its name was changed to Shaw Communications Inc. on May 12, 1993. The Company's shares are listed on the Toronto and New York Stock Exchanges. The registered office of the Company is located at Suite 900, 630 - 3rd Avenue S.W., Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2P 4L4.

2. BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Statement of compliance

These condensed interim consolidated financial statements of the Company have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS") and in compliance with International Accounting Standard ("IAS") 34 Interim Financial Reporting and IFRS 1 First-time Adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS 1") as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board ("IASB") and using the accounting policies the Company expects to adopt in its consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended August 31, 2012. An explanation of how the transition to IFRS has affected the Company's consolidated financial statements is provided in note 14.

The accounting policies are based on standards currently issued and effective for the Company's first annual IFRS reporting period. Accounting policies currently adopted under IFRS are subject to potential change as a result of either a new accounting standard being issued with an effective date of August 31, 2012 or prior, or as a result of a voluntary change in accounting policy made by the Company during fiscal 2012.

The notes presented in these condensed interim consolidated financial statements include only significant events and transactions occurring since the Company's last fiscal year end and are not fully inclusive of all matters required to be disclosed in the Company's annual consolidated financial statements. Annual required disclosures that have been significantly impacted by the transition to IFRS are included in note 15 for the year ended August 31, 2011. As a result, these condensed interim consolidated financial statements should also be read in conjunction with the Company's consolidated financial statements prepared under Canadian GAAP for the year ended August 31, 2011 and the IFRS transition disclosures included in note 14.

The condensed interim consolidated financial statements of the Company for the three and nine months ended May 31, 2012, were authorized for issue in accordance with a resolution of the Audit Committee on June 27, 2012.

Basis of presentation

These condensed interim consolidated financial statements have been prepared primarily under the historical cost convention and are expressed in millions of Canadian dollars unless otherwise indicated. Other measurement bases used are outlined in the applicable notes below. The condensed interim consolidated statements of income are presented using the nature classification for expenses.

Basis of consolidation

The condensed interim consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and those of its subsidiaries. Intercompany transactions and balances are eliminated on consolidation. The results of operations of subsidiaries acquired during the period are included from their respective dates of acquisition.

The accounts also include the Company's proportionate share of the assets, liabilities, revenues, and expenses of its interests in joint ventures which includes a 33.33% interest in the Burrard Landing Lot 2 Holdings Partnership and 50% interest in three specialty television channels including Mystery Partnership which became a wholly-owned subsidiary on May 31, 2012 (see note 4).

Non-controlling interests arise from business combinations in which the Company acquires less than 100% interest. At the time of acquisition, non-controlling interests are measured at either fair value or their proportionate share of the fair value of acquiree's identifiable assets. The Company determines the measurement basis on a transaction by transaction basis. Subsequent to acquisition, the carrying amount of non-controlling interests is increased or decreased for their share of changes in equity.

Investments and other assets

Investments in associates are accounted for using the equity method based on the Company's ability to exercise significant influence over the operating and financial policies of the investee. Investments of this nature are recorded at original cost and adjusted periodically to recognize the Company's proportionate share of the associate's net income or losses after the date of investment, additional contributions made and dividends received. Investments are written down when there has been a significant or prolonged decline in fair value.

Revenue and expenses

The Company has multiple deliverable arrangements comprised of upfront fees (subscriber connection and installation fee revenue and/or customer premise equipment revenue) and related subscription revenue. Upfront fees charged to customers do not constitute separate units of accounting, therefore these revenue streams are assessed as an integrated package.

(i) Revenue

Revenue from cable, Internet, Digital Phone and DTH customers includes subscriber revenue earned as services are provided. Satellite distribution services and telecommunications service revenue is recognized in the period in which the services are rendered to customers. Affiliate subscriber revenue is recognized monthly based on subscriber levels. Advertising revenues are recognized in the period in which the advertisements are broadcast and recorded net of agency commissions as these amounts are paid directly to the agency or advertiser. When a sales arrangement includes multiple advertising spots, the proceeds are allocated to individual advertising spots under the arrangement based on relative fair values.

Subscriber connection fees received from customers are deferred and recognized as revenue on a straight-line basis over two years. Direct and incremental initial selling, administrative and connection costs related to subscriber acquisitions are recognized as an operating expense as incurred. The costs of physically connecting a new home are capitalized as part of the distribution system and costs of disconnections are expensed as incurred.

Installation revenue received on contracts with commercial business customers is deferred and recognized as revenue on a straight-line basis over the related service contract, which generally span two to ten years. Direct and incremental costs associated with the service contract, in an amount not exceeding the upfront installation revenue, are deferred and recognized as an operating expense on a straight-line basis over the same period.

(ii) Deferred equipment revenue and deferred equipment costs

Revenue from sales of DTH equipment and digital cable terminals ("DCTs") is deferred and recognized on a straight-line basis over two years commencing when subscriber service is activated. The total cost of the equipment, including installation, represents an inventoriable cost which is deferred and recognized on a straight-line basis over the same period. The DCT and DTH equipment is generally sold to customers at cost or a subsidized price in order to expand the Company's customer base.

Revenue from sales of satellite tracking hardware and costs of goods sold are deferred and recognized on a straight-line basis over the related service contract for monthly service charges for air time, which is generally five years. The amortization of the revenue and cost of sale of satellite service equipment commences when goods are shipped.

Recognition of deferred equipment revenue and deferred equipment costs is recorded as deferred equipment revenue amortization and deferred equipment costs amortization, respectively.

(iii) Deferred IRU revenue

Prepayments received under indefeasible right to use ("IRU") agreements are amortized on a straight-line basis into income over the term of the agreement and included in amortization of property, plant and equipment, intangibles and other in the consolidated statements of income.

Cash

Cash is presented net of outstanding cheques. When the amount of outstanding cheques and the amount drawn under the Company's revolving term facility are greater than the amount of cash, the net amount is presented as bank indebtedness.

Allowance for doubtful accounts

The Company maintains an allowance for doubtful accounts for the estimated losses resulting from the inability of its customers to make required payments. In determining the allowance, the Company considers factors such as the number of days the account is past due, whether or not the customer continues to receive service, the Company's past collection history and changes in business circumstances.

Inventories

Inventories include subscriber equipment such as DCTs and DTH receivers, which are held pending rental or sale at cost or at a subsidized price. When subscriber equipment is sold, the equipment revenue and equipment costs are deferred and amortized over two years. When the subscriber equipment is rented, it is transferred to property, plant and equipment and amortized over its useful life. Inventories are determined on a first-in, first-out basis, and are stated at cost due to the eventual capital nature as either an addition to property, plant and equipment or deferred equipment costs.

Property, plant and equipment

Property, plant and equipment are recorded at purchase cost. Direct labour and other directly attributable costs incurred to construct new assets, upgrade existing assets and connect new subscribers are capitalized and borrowing costs on qualifying assets for which the commencement date is on or after September 1, 2010 are also capitalized. As well, any asset removal and site restoration costs in connection with the retirement of assets are capitalized. Repairs and maintenance expenditures are charged to operating expense as incurred. Amortization is recorded on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of assets as follows:

AssetEstimated useful life
Cable and telecommunications distribution system6-15 years
Digital cable terminals and modems2-7 years
Satellite audio, video and data network equipment and DTH receiving equipment4-10 years
Transmitters, broadcasting and communication equipment5-15 years
Buildings20-40 years
Data processing3-4 years
Other3-20 years

The Company reviews the estimates of lives and useful lives on a regular basis.

Assets held for sale and discontinued operations

Assets are classified as held for sale when specific criteria are met and are measured at the lower of carrying amount and estimated fair value less costs to sell. Assets held for sale are not amortized and are reported separately on the statement of financial position. The operating results of a component that has been disposed of or is classified as held for sale are reported as discontinued operations if the operations and cash flows of the component have been, or will be, eliminated from the company's ongoing operations and if the company does not have significant continuing involvement in the operations of the component after the disposal transaction. A component of a company includes operations and cash flows that can be clearly distinguished, operationally and for financial reporting purposes, from the rest of a company's operations and cash flows. The Company does not allocate interest to discontinued operations.

Other long-term assets

Other long-term assets primarily include (i) equipment costs, as described in the revenue and expenses accounting policy, deferred and amortized on a straight-line basis over two to five years; (ii) credit facility arrangement fees amortized on a straight-line basis over the term of the facility; (iii) long-term receivables; and (iv) the non-current portion of prepaid maintenance and support contracts.

Intangibles

The excess of the cost of acquiring cable, satellite and media businesses over the fair value of related net identifiable tangible and intangible assets acquired is allocated to goodwill. Net identifiable intangible assets acquired consist of amounts allocated to broadcast rights, trademarks, brands, program rights, material agreements and software assets. Broadcast rights, trademarks and brands represent identifiable assets with indefinite useful lives. Spectrum licenses were acquired in Industry Canada's auction of licenses for advanced wireless services and have an indefinite life.

Program rights represent licensed rights acquired to broadcast television programs on the Company's conventional and specialty television channels and program advances are in respect of payments for programming prior to the window license start date. For licensed rights, the Company records a liability for program rights and corresponding asset when the license period has commenced and all of the following conditions have been met: (i) the cost of the program is known or reasonably determinable, (ii) the program material has been accepted by the Company in accordance with the license agreement and (iii) the material is available to the Company for telecast. Program rights are expensed on a systematic basis generally over the estimated exhibition period as the programs are aired and are included in operating, general and administrative expenses. Program rights are segregated on the Statement of Financial Position between current and noncurrent based on expected life at time of acquisition.

Software that is not an integral part of the related hardware is classified as an intangible asset. Internally developed software assets are recorded at historical cost and include direct material and labour costs as well as borrowing costs on qualifying assets for which the commencement date is on or after September 1, 2010. Software assets are amortized on a straight-line basis over estimated useful lives ranging from four to ten years. The Company reviews the estimates of lives and useful lives on a regular basis.

Borrowing costs

The Company capitalizes borrowing costs on qualifying assets, for which the commencement date is on or after September 1, 2010, that take more than one year to construct or develop using the Company's weighted average cost of borrowing.

Impairment

(i) Goodwill and indefinite-life intangible assets

Goodwill and indefinite-life intangibles assets, such as broadcast rights, are tested annually (as at March 1) and assessed at each reporting period to determine whether there is an indication that the carrying value may be impaired. The recoverable amount of each cash-generating unit ("CGU") is determined based on the higher of the CGU's fair value less costs to sell and its value in use. A CGU is the smallest identifiable group of assets that generate cash flows that are independent of the cash inflows from other assets or groups of assets. Where the recoverable amount of the CGU is less than its carrying amount, an impairment loss is recognized. Impairment losses relating to goodwill cannot be reversed in future periods.

(ii) Non-financial assets with finite useful lives

For non-financial assets, such as property, plant and equipment and finite-lived intangible assets, an assessment is made at each reporting date as to whether there is an indication that an asset may be impaired. If any indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is determined based on the higher of the fair value less costs to sell and value in use. Where the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its recoverable amount, the asset is considered impaired and written down to its recoverable amount. Previously recognized impairment losses are reviewed for possible reversal at each reporting date and all or a portion of the impairment reversed if the asset's value has increased.

CRTC benefit obligations

The fair value of CRTC benefit obligations committed as part of business acquisitions are initially recorded, on a discounted basis, at the present value of amounts to be paid net of any expected incremental cash inflows. The obligation is subsequently adjusted for the incurrence of related expenditures, the passage of time and for revisions to the timing of the cash flows. Changes in the obligation due to the passage of time are recorded as accretion of long-term liabilities and provisions in the income statement.

Provisions

Provisions are recognized when the Company has a present obligation (legal or constructive) as a result of a past event, it is probable that an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation. Provisions are measured using the best estimate of the expenditure required to settle the present obligation at the end of the reporting period, taking into account risks and uncertainties associated with the obligation. Provisions are discounted where the time value of money is considered material.

(i) Asset retirement obligations

The Company recognizes the fair value of a liability for an asset retirement obligation in the period in which it is incurred, on a discounted basis, with a corresponding increase to the carrying amount of property and equipment, primarily in respect of transmitter sites. This cost is amortized on the same basis as the related asset. The liability is subsequently increased for the passage of time and the accretion is recorded in the income statement as accretion of long-term liabilities and provisions. The discount rates applied are subsequently adjusted to current rates as required at the end of reporting periods. Revisions due to the estimated timing of cash flows or the amount required to settle the obligation may result in an increase or decrease in the liability. Actual costs incurred upon settlement of the obligation are charged against the liability to the extent recorded.

(ii) Other provisions

Provisions for disputes, legal claims and contingencies are recognized when warranted. The Company establishes provisions after taking into consideration legal assessments (if applicable), expected availability of insurance or other recourse and other available information.

Deferred credits

Deferred credits primarily include: (i) prepayments received under IRU agreements amortized on a straight-line basis into income over the term of the agreement; (ii) equipment revenue, as described in the revenue and expenses accounting policy, deferred and amortized over two years to five years; (iii) connection fee revenue and upfront installation revenue, as described in the revenue and expenses accounting policy, deferred and amortized over two to ten years; and (iv) a deposit on a future fibre sale.

Income taxes

The Company accounts for income taxes using the liability method, whereby deferred income tax assets and liabilities are determined based on differences between the financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities measured using substantively enacted tax rates and laws that will be in effect when the differences are expected to reverse. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset if there is a legally enforceable right to offset and they relate to income taxes levied by the same authority in the same taxable entity. Income tax expense for the period is the tax payable for the period using tax rates substantively enacted at the reporting date, any adjustments to taxes payable in respect of previous years and any change during the period in deferred income tax assets and liabilities, except to the extent that they relate to a business combination, items recognized directly in equity or in other comprehensive income. The Company records interest and penalties related to income taxes in income tax expense.

Tax credits and government grants

The Company has access to a government program which supports local programming produced by conventional television stations. In addition, the Company receives tax credits primarily related to its research and development activities. Government financial assistance is recognized when management has reasonable assurance that the conditions of the government programs are met and accounted for as a reduction of related costs, whether capitalized and amortized or expensed in the period the costs are incurred.

Foreign currency translation

Transactions originating in foreign currencies are translated into Canadian dollars at the exchange rate at the date of the transaction. Monetary assets and liabilities are translated at the period-end rate of exchange and non-monetary items are translated at historic exchange rates.

Exchange gains and losses on translating hedged and unhedged long-term debt are included in the consolidated statements of income. Foreign exchange gains and losses on hedging derivatives are reclassified from other comprehensive income (loss) to income to offset the foreign exchange adjustments on hedged long-term debt.

Financial instruments other than derivatives

Financial instruments have been classified as loans and receivables, assets available-for-sale, assets held-for-trading or financial liabilities. Cash has been classified as held-for-trading and is recorded at fair value with any change in fair value immediately recognized in income (loss). Other financial assets are classified as available-for-sale or as loans and receivables. Available-for-sale assets are carried at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in other comprehensive income (loss) until realized. Loans and receivables and financial liabilities are carried at amortized cost. None of the Company's financial assets are classified as held-to-maturity and none of its financial liabilities are classified as held-for-trading. Certain private investments where market value is not readily determinable are carried at cost net of write-downs and are included in Investments and other assets in the Statement of Financial Position.

Finance costs, discounts and proceeds on bond forward contracts associated with the issuance of debt securities and fair value adjustments to debt assumed in business acquisitions are netted against the related debt instrument and amortized to income using the effective interest rate method. Accordingly, long-term debt accretes over time to the principal amount that will be owing at maturity.

Derivative financial instruments

The Company uses derivative financial instruments to manage risks from fluctuations in foreign exchange rates and interest rates. These instruments include cross-currency interest rate exchange agreements, foreign currency forward purchase contracts and bond forward contracts. All derivative financial instruments are recorded at fair value in the statement of financial position. Where permissible, the Company accounts for these financial instruments as hedges which ensures that counterbalancing gains and losses are recognized in income in the same period. With hedge accounting, changes in the fair value of derivative financial instruments designated as cash flow hedges are recorded in other comprehensive income (loss) until the variability of cash flows relating to the hedged asset or liability is recognized in income (loss). When an anticipated transaction is subsequently recorded as a non-financial asset, the amounts recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) are reclassified to the initial carrying amount of the related asset. Where hedge accounting is not permissible or derivatives are not designated in a hedging relationship, they are classified as held-for-trading and the changes in fair value are immediately recognized in income (loss).

Instruments that have been entered into by the Company to hedge exposure to foreign exchange and interest rate risk are reviewed on a regular basis to ensure the hedges are still effective and that hedge accounting continues to be appropriate.

Derivatives embedded in other financial instruments or contracts are separated from their host contracts and separately accounted for as derivatives when their economic characteristics and risks are not closely related to the host contract, they meet the definition of a derivative and the combined instrument or contract is not measured at fair value. The Company records embedded derivatives at fair value with changes recognized in the income statement as loss/gain on derivative instruments.

Employee benefits

The Company accrues its obligations and related costs under its employee benefit plans, net of plan assets. The cost of pensions and other retirement benefits earned by certain employees is actuarially determined using the projected benefit method pro-rated on service and management's best estimate of expected plan investment performance, salary escalation and retirement ages of employees. For purposes of calculating the expected return on plan assets, those assets are valued at fair value. Past service costs from plan initiation and amendments are recognized immediately in the income statement to the extent they are vested. Unvested past service costs are amortized on a straight-line basis over the expected average remaining vesting period. Negative plan amendments which reduce costs are applied to reduce any existing unamortized past service costs. The excess, if any, is amortized over the expected average remaining vesting period. Actuarial gains or losses occur because assumptions about benefit plans relate to a long time frame and differ from actual experiences. These assumptions are revised based on actual experience of the plans such as changes in discount rates, expected return on plan assets, expected retirement ages and projected salary increases. Actuarial gains (losses) are recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) on annual basis, at a minimum, and on an interim basis when there are significant changes in assumptions. When the restructuring of a benefit plan gives rise to both a curtailment and a settlement of obligations, the curtailment is accounted for prior to the settlement.

August 31 is the measurement date for the Company's employee benefit plans. The last actuarial valuations for funding purposes for the various plans were performed between December 31, 2008 and January 1, 2011. The next actuarial valuations for funding purposes are effective December 31, 2011.

Share-based compensation

The Company has a stock option plan for directors, officers, employees and consultants to the Company. The options to purchase shares must be issued at not less than the fair value at the date of grant. Any consideration paid on the exercise of stock options, together with any contributed surplus recorded at the date the options vested, is credited to share capital. The Company calculates the fair value of share-based compensation awarded to employees using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The fair value of options are expensed and credited to contributed surplus over the vesting period of the options using the graded vesting method.

The Company has a restricted share unit ("RSU") plan for officers and employees of the Company. RSUs vest on the second anniversary of the grant date and compensation is recognized on a straight-line basis over the two year vesting period. RSUs will be settled in cash and the obligation for RSUs is measured at the end of each period at fair value using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and the number of outstanding RSUs. The carrying value of RSUs at August 31, 2011 was $1.

The Company has a deferred share unit ("DSU") plan for its board of directors whereby directors can elect to receive their annual cash compensation, or a portion thereof, in the DSUs. Compensation cost is recognized immediately as DSUs vest when granted. DSUs will be settled in cash and the obligation is measured at the end of each period at fair value using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and the number of outstanding DSUs. The carrying value and intrinsic value of DSUs at August 31, 2011 was $5 and $4, respectively.

Earnings per share

Basic earnings per share is based on net income attributable to common shareholders adjusted for dividends on preferred shares and is calculated using the weighted average number of Class A Shares and Class B Non-Voting Shares outstanding during the period. The Company uses the treasury stock method of calculating diluted earnings per share. This method assumes that any proceeds from the exercise of stock options and other dilutive instruments would be used to purchase Class B Non-Voting Shares at the average market price during the period.

Guarantees

The Company discloses information about certain types of guarantees that it has provided, including certain types of indemnities, without regard to whether it will have to make any payments under the guarantees.

Use of estimates and measurement uncertainty

The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Key areas of estimation, where management has made difficult, complex or subjective judgments, often as a result of matters that are inherently uncertain, are the allowance for doubtful accounts, the ability to use income tax loss carryforwards and other deferred income tax assets, capitalization of labour and overhead, useful lives of depreciable assets, contingent liabilities, certain assumptions used in determining defined benefit plan pension expense, the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed in business acquisitions, and the recoverability of equipment costs, indefinite life identifiable intangibles and goodwill using estimated future cash flows. Significant changes in assumptions could result in impairment of intangible assets.

Standards, interpretations and amendments to standards issued but not yet effective

The Company has not yet adopted certain standards, interpretations and amendments that have been issued but are not yet effective. Unless otherwise indicated, the following standards are required to be applied for the Company's annual period commencing September 1, 2013. The following pronouncements are being assessed to determine their impact on the Company's results and financial position.

  • IFRS 9, Financial Instruments: Classification and Measurement, is the first part of the replacement of IAS 39 Financial Instruments and applies to the classification and measurement of financial assets and financial liabilities as defined by IAS 39. It is required to be applied for the annual period commencing September 1, 2015.
  • Other than for the disclosure requirements therein, the requirements of the following standards and amended standards must be initially applied concurrently:
    • IFRS 10, Consolidated Financial Statements, replaces previous consolidation guidance and outlines a single consolidation model that identifies control as the basis for consolidation of all types of entities.
    • IFRS 11, Joint Arrangement, replaces IAS 31 Interests in Joint Ventures and SIC 13 Jointly Controlled Entities - Non-Monetary Contributions by Venturers. The new standard classifies joint arrangements as either joint operations or joint ventures.
    • IFRS 12, Disclosure of Interests in Other Entities, sets out required disclosures on application of IFRS 10, IFRS 11, and IAS 28 (amended 2011).
    • IAS 27, Separate Financial Statements was amended in 2011for the issuance of IFRS 10 and retains the current guidance for separate financial statements.
    • IAS 28, Investments in Associates was amended in 2011for changes based on issuance of IFRS 10 and IFRS 11 and provides guidance on accounting for joint ventures, as defined by IFRS 11, using the equity method.
  • IFRS 13, Fair Value Measurement, defines fair value, provides guidance on its determination and introduces consistent requirements for disclosure of fair value measurements.
  • IAS 12, Income Taxes (amended 2011), introduces an exception to the general measurement requirements of IAS 12 in respect of investment properties measured at fair value. It is required to be applied for the annual period commencing September 1, 2012.
  • IAS 19, Employee Benefits (amended 2011), eliminates the existing option to defer actuarial gains and losses and requires changes from the remeasurement of defined benefit plan assets and liabilities to be presented in the statement of other comprehensive income.
  • IAS 1, Presentation of Financial Statements, was amended to require presentation of items of other comprehensive income based on whether they may be reclassified to the statement of income and is required to be applied for the annual period commencing September 1, 2012.

3. BUSINESS SEGMENT INFORMATION

The Company's operating segments are Cable, DTH, Satellite Services and Media, all of which are substantially located in Canada. Shaw Media's operating results are affected by seasonality and fluctuate throughout the year due to a number of factors including seasonal advertising and viewing patterns. As such, operating results for an interim period should not be considered indicative of full fiscal year performance. In general, advertising revenues are higher during the first quarter and lower during the fourth quarter and expenses are incurred more evenly throughout the year. Information on operations by segment is as follows:

Operating information

Three months ended May 31, Nine months ended May 31,
2012 2011 2012 2011
$ $ $ $
Revenue
Cable794 785 2,390 2,312
DTH190 189 570 558
Satellite Services21 21 61 62
Media295 312 836 681
1,300 1,307 3,857 3,613
Intersegment eliminations(22)(22)(69)(53)
1,278 1,285 3,788 3,560
Operating income before amortization
Cable377 392 1,106 1,114
DTH66 65 186 184
Satellite Services10 11 30 32
Media114 118 304 240
567 586 1,626 1,570
Interest (1)
Operating82 85 246 228
Burrard Landing Lot 2 Holdings Partnership- - 1 1
Wireless- 5 - 15
82 90 247 244
Current taxes
Operating70 68 218 194
Other/non-operating(19)(16)(21)(27)
51 52 197 167

(1) Effective August 31, 2011, Wireless was presented as discontinued operations with restatement of comparative periods. Interest was allocated to the Wireless division based on the Company's average cost of borrowing to fund the capital expenditures and operating costs, and therefore, has not been included in the loss from discontinued operations.

Capital expenditures

Three months ended May 31, Nine months ended May 31,
2012 2011 2012 2011
$ $ $ $
Capital expenditures accrual basis
Cable (including corporate)155 143 565 461
Satellite (net of equipment profit)- 1 4 4
Media5 7 18 14
160 151 587 479
Equipment costs (net of revenue)
Cable14 9 61 25
Satellite17 15 63 54
31 24 124 79
Capital expenditures and equipment costs (net)
Cable169 152 626 486
Satellite17 16 67 58
Media5 7 18 14
191 175 711 558
Reconciliation to Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Additions to property, plant and equipment155 141 595 502
Additions to equipment costs (net)32 32 137 87
Additions to other intangibles14 14 50 45
Total of capital expenditures and equipment costs (net) per Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows201
187
782
634
Decrease in working capital related to capital expenditures(7)(2)(47)(58)
Increase in customer equipment financing receivables(2)(9)(14)(9)
Less: Proceeds on disposal of property, plant and equipment- - (8)(7)
Less: Satellite equipment profit (1)(1)(1)(2)(2)
Total capital expenditures and equipment costs (net) reported by segments191 175
711
558

(1) The profit from the sale of satellite equipment is subtracted from the calculation of segmented capital expenditures and equipment costs (net) as the Company views the profit on sale as a recovery of expenditures on customer premise equipment.

Assets

May 31, 2012

Cable
DTH		Satellite
Services
Media		Total
$$$$$
Segment assets7,5678985022,79911,766
Corporate assets 903
Asset held for sale 1
Total assets 12,670
August 31, 2011

Cable
DTH		Satellite Services
Media
Total
$$$$$
Segment assets7,4088915032,71711,519
Corporate assets 1,053
Asset held for sale 16
Total assets 12,588

4. TELEVISION BROADCASTING BUSINESS ACQUISITION

On May 31, 2012, the Company closed the acquisition of the partnership units of Mystery Partnership ("Mystery") and Men TV General Partnership ("The Cave") not already owned by the Company, for total consideration of $21. Prior to the acquisition, the Company held a 50% interest in Mystery which was proportionately consolidated and a 49% interest in The Cave which was accounted for under the equity method. The fair value of the previous ownership interests in these specialty channels on the acquisition date was $19. The transaction is accounted for using the acquisition method and as a result of remeasuring these equity interests to fair value, the Company recorded a gain of $6 in the income statement. If the acquisition had occurred on September 1, 2011, revenue and net income for the nine month period would have been approximately $9 and $2, respectively.

As part of the CRTC decisions approving the transaction, the Company is required to contribute $2 in new benefits to the Canadian broadcasting system over the next seven years. The contribution will be used to create new programming. The obligation has been recorded in the income statement at fair value, being the discounted future cash flows using a 4% discount rate.

The consideration was comprised of the following:

$
Payable to the vendor (1)21
Consideration for the equity interests held prior to the acquisition9
30
Cumulative income from equity interests prior to acquisition4
Gain on remeasurement of interests in equity investments6
40

(1) The purchase price was paid in June 2012.

The purchase price allocation is preliminary pending finalization of valuation of the net assets acquired and settlement of final closing adjustments. A summary of net assets acquired and preliminary allocation of consideration is as follows:

$
Net assets acquired at assigned fair values
Cash6
Accounts receivable4
Other current assets (1)4
Intangibles (2)28
Goodwill, not deductible for tax (3)2
44
Current liabilities3
Deferred income taxes1
40

(1) Other current assets is comprised of program rights.

(2) Intangibles include broadcast licenses and program rights.

(3) Goodwill comprises the value of expected efficiencies and synergies from integrating the operations with the Company's other wholly-owned specialty channels.

5. OPERATING, GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES

Three months ended May 31,Nine months ended May 31,
2012201120122011
$$$$
Employee salaries and benefits219190630560
Purchases of goods and services4925091,5321,430
7116992,1621,990

6. INTEREST EXPENSE

Three months ended May 31, Nine months ended May 31,
2012 2011 2012 2011
$ $ $ $
Interest expense - long term debt84 93 250 250
Amortization of senior notes discounts- - 1 1
Amortization of fair value adjustment to debt assumed in the Media business acquisition- (3)
-		 (5)
Interest income - short-term (net)(1)- (2)(2)
Capitalized interest(1)- (2)-
82 90 247 244

7. DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS

During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2011, the Company decided to discontinue any further construction of its traditional wireless network. Accordingly, the results of operations and related cash flows have been reported as discontinued operations.

The loss from discontinued operations is comprised of the following:

Three months ended May 31,Nine months ended May 31,
2012201120122011
$$$$
Operating expenditures, net of income tax recovery-2-6

The cash flow used in discontinued operations is comprised of the following:

Three months ended May 31,Nine months ended May 31,
2012201120122011
$$$$
Cash used in operating activities-2-11
Cash used in investing activities-253126
Decrease in cash from discontinued operations-273137

8. LONG-TERM DEBT

May 31, 2012August 31, 2011
Effective
interest
rates		Long-term debt at amortized cost (1)Adjustment
for finance costs(1)		Long-term debt repayable at maturityLong-term debt at amortized cost (1)Adjustment for finance costs (1)Long-term debt repayable at maturity
%$$$$$$
Corporate (3)
Cdn Senior notes-
6.10% due November 16, 20126.1144914504491450
7.50% due November 20, 20137.5034913503482350
6.50% due June 2, 20146.5659736005964600
6.15% due May 9, 20166.3429553002946300
5.70% due March 2, 20175.7239734003973400
5.65% due October 1, 20195.691,24281,2501,24191,250
5.50% due December 7, 20205.5549645004955500
6.75% due November 9, 20396.891,416341,4501,416341,450
5,241595,3005,236645,300
Other
Burrard Landing Lot 2 Holdings Partnership6.3120-2021-21
Total consolidated debt 5,261595,3205,257645,321
Less current portion (2) 450-4501-1
4,811594,8705,256645,320

(1) Long-term debt, excluding bank loans, is presented net of unamortized discounts, finance costs and bond forward proceeds of $59 (August 31, 2011 - $64).

(2) Current portion of long-term debt includes the 6.10% senior notes due November 16, 2012 and the amount due within one year on the Partnership's mortgage bonds.

(3) During the second quarter, the Company entered into a five-year $1 billion bank credit facility which includes a revolving term facility to a maximum of $50 and matures in January 2017. This facility replaces the prior credit and operating loan facilities which were scheduled to mature in May 2012.

9. SHARE CAPITAL

Issued and outstanding

Changes in share capital during the nine months ended May 31, 2012 are as follows:

Class A SharesClass B Non-Voting SharesPreferred Shares
Number$Number$Number$
August 31, 201122,520,0642415,216,3482,33812,000,000293
Issued upon stock option plan exercises--777,22815--
Issued pursuant to dividend reinvestment plan--3,590,07071--
May 31, 201222,520,0642419,583,6462,42412,000,000293

Stock option plan

Under a stock option plan, directors, officers, employees and consultants of the Company are eligible to receive stock options to acquire Class B Non-Voting Shares with terms not to exceed 10 years from the date of grant. Options granted up to May 31, 2012 vest evenly on the anniversary dates from the original grant at either 25% per year over four years or 20% per year over five years. The options must be issued at not less than the fair market value of the Class B Non-Voting Shares at the date of grant. The maximum number of Class B Non-Voting Shares issuable under the plan may not exceed 52,000,000. As at May 31, 2012, 17,571,931 Class B Non-Voting Shares have been issued under the plan. During the nine months ended May 31, 2012, 777,228 options were exercised for $14.

The changes in options for the nine months ended May 31, 2012 are as follows:



Number		 Weighted average exercise price
$
Outstanding, beginning of period21,970,400 20.91
Granted1,059,000 21.27
Forfeited(861,675)21.00
Exercised (1)(777,228)17.35
Outstanding, end of period21,390,497 21.06

(1) The weighted average Class B Non-Voting Share price for the options exercised was $20.89.

The following table summarizes information about the options outstanding at May 31, 2012:





Range of prices
Number
outstanding		Weighted average remaining contractual life

Weighted
average exercise price

Number exercisable
Weighted average exercise price
$ 8.6920,0001.39$8.6920,000$8.69
$14.85 - $22.2713,890,2476.68$19.267,140,922$18.61
$22.28 - $26.207,480,2505.43$24.417,162,250$24.50

The weighted average estimated fair value at the date of the grant for common share options granted was $2.38 per option (2011 - $3.16 per option) and $2.81 per option (2011 - $3.12 per option) for the three and nine months ended May 31, 2012, respectively. The fair value of each option granted was estimated on the date of the grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions:

Three months ended May 31, Nine months ended May 31,
2012 2011 2012 2011
Dividend yield4.83%4.45%4.41%4.31%
Risk-free interest rate1.48%2.58%1.47%2.18%
Expected life of options5 years 5 years 5 years 5 years
Expected volatility factor of the future expected market price of Class B Non-Voting Shares
24.2		%
25.7		%
24.9		%
25.8		%

Dividends

The following table summarizes the dividends paid on Class A Shares and Class B Non-Voting Shares during the nine months ended May 31, 2012 and 2011.

Nine months ended May 31, 2012Nine months ended May 31, 2011

Date declared
Date paid		Dividends paid
in cash		Dividends paid
in shares under DRIP
Date declared
Date paid		Dividends paid
in cash		Dividends paid in
shares under DRIP
Jun 29, 2011 (1)Sept 29, 2011249Jun 30, 2010 (3)Sep 29, 201032-
Jun 29, 2011 (1)Oct 28, 2011268Jun 30, 2010 (3)Oct 28, 201032-
Jun 29, 2011 (1)Nov 29, 2011268Jun 30, 2010 (3)Nov 29, 201032-
Oct 20, 2011 (1)Dec 29, 2011277Oct 22, 2010 (3)Dec 30, 201031-
Oct 20, 2011 (1)Jan 30, 2012268Oct 22, 2010 (3)Jan 28, 201132-
Oct 20, 2011 (1)Feb 28, 2012267Oct 22, 2010 (3)Feb 25, 201132-
Jan 12, 2012 (2)Mar 29, 2012278Jan 13, 2011 (1)Mar 30, 201133-
Jan 12, 2012 (2)Apr 27, 2012288Jan 13, 2011 (1)Apr 28, 201133-
Jan 12, 2012 (2)May 30, 2012288Jan 13, 2011 (1)May 30, 20112410
23871 28110

(1) Monthly dividends of $0.076667 per Class B Non-Voting Share and $0.076458 per Class A Voting Share

(2) Monthly dividends of $0.080833 per Class B Non-Voting Share and $0.080625 per Class A Voting Share

(3) Monthly dividends of $0.073333 per Class B Non-Voting Share and $0.073125 per Class A Voting Share

On April 13, 2012, the Company declared monthly dividends of $0.080833 per Class B Non-Voting Share and $0.080625 per Class A Voting Share, payable on each of June 28, July 30 and August 30, 2012.

The dividends per share recognized as distributions to common shareholders for dividends declared during the nine months ended May 31, 2012 and 2011 are as follows:

Nine months ended May 31, 2012Nine months ended May 31, 2011
Class A Voting ShareClass B Non-Voting ShareClass A Voting ShareClass B Non-Voting Share
0.71310.71500.67810.6800

The Preferred Shares were issued on May 31, 2011. On June 29, 2011, the Company declared dividends of $0.37603 per Preferred Share. The dividend payment of $4 was made on September 30, 2011.

On October 20, 2011 and January 12, 2012, the Company declared dividends of $0.28125 per Preferred Share. The dividend payments of $4 and $3 were made on January 3, 2012 and April 2, 2012, respectively.

On April 13, 2012, the Company declared dividends of $0.28125 per Preferred Share which are payable on July 3, 2012. The total amount payable is $3 of which $1 was not recognized during the three and nine months ended May 31, 2012.

10. EARNINGS PER SHARE

Earnings (loss) per share calculations are as follows:

Three months ended May 31, Nine months ended May 31,
2012 2011 2012 2011
Numerator for basic and diluted earnings per share ($)
Net income from continuing operations248 203 628 392
Deduct: net income attributable to non-controlling interests(10)(6)(29)(16)
Deduct: dividends on Preferred Shares(4)- (11)-
Net income from continuing operations attributable to common shareholders234 197
588
376
Net loss from discontinued operations attributable to common shareholders- (2)
-
(6		)
Net income attributable to common shareholders234 195 588 370
Denominator (millions of shares)
Weighted average number of Class A Shares and Class B Non-Voting Shares for basic earnings per share441 435
440		 434
Effect of dilutive securities (1)1 1 1 1
Weighted average number of Class A Shares and Class B Non-Voting Shares for diluted earnings per share442 436
441
435
Earnings per share - basic ($)
Earnings per share from continuing operations0.53 0.45 1.34 0.86
Loss per share from discontinued operations- - - (0.01)
Earnings per share0.53 0.45 1.34 0.85
Earnings per share - diluted ($)
Earnings per share from continuing operations0.53 0.45 1.33 0.86
Loss per share from discontinued operations- - - (0.01)
Earnings per share0.53 0.45 1.33 0.85

(1) The earnings per share calculation does not take into consideration the potential dilutive effect of certain stock options since their impact is anti-dilutive. For the three and nine months ended May 31, 2012, 12,183,143 (2011 - 12,131,465) and 12,041,566 (2011 - 8,183,713) options were excluded from the diluted earnings per share calculation, respectively.

11. OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) AND ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

Components of other comprehensive income (loss) and the related income tax effects for the nine months ended May 31, 2012 are as follows:

Amount Income taxes Net
$ $ $
Change in unrealized fair value of derivatives designated as cash flow hedges2 (1)1
Adjustment for hedged items recognized in the period(2)1 (1)
Unrealized gain on available-for-sale investment3 - 3
Reclassification of realized gain on available-for-sale investment(3)- (3)
Actuarial losses on employee benefit plans(76)19 (57)
(76)19 (57)

Components of other comprehensive income (loss) and the related income tax effects for the three months ended May 31, 2012 are as follows:

Amount Income taxes Net
$ $ $
Change in unrealized fair value of derivatives designated as cash flow hedges2 (1)1
Adjustment for hedged items recognized in the period(1)1 -
Unrealized gain on available-for-sale investment3 - 3
Reclassification of realized gain on available-for-sale investment(3)- (3)
Actuarial losses on employee benefit plans(76)19 (57)
(75)19 (56)

Components of other comprehensive income (loss) and the related income tax effects for the nine months ended May 31, 2011 are as follows:

Amount Income taxesNet
$ $$
Change in unrealized fair value of derivatives designated as cash flow hedges(15)2(13)
Adjustment for hedged items recognized in the period2 -2
Actuarial losses on employee benefit plans(11)3(8)
(24)5(19)

Components of other comprehensive income (loss) and the related income tax effects for the three months ended May 31, 2011 are as follows:

AmountIncome taxesNet
$$$
Adjustment for hedged items recognized in the period1-1

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) is comprised of the following:

May 31, 2012 August 31, 2011
$ $
Fair value of derivatives1 1
Actuarial losses on employee benefit plans(87)(30)
(86)(29)

12. STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

Disclosures with respect to the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows are as follows:

(i) Funds flow from continuing operations

Three months ended May 31, Nine months ended May 31,
2012 2011 2012 2011
$ $ $ $
Net income from continuing operations248 203 628 392
Adjustments to reconcile net income to funds flow from continuing operations:
Amortization199 179 602 553
Program rights(6)22 (55)65
Deferred income tax expense (recovery)(10)25 (55)2
Equity income from associates- - (1)(14)
Gain on redemption of debt- - - (10)
CRTC benefit obligation2 - 2 139
CRTC benefit obligation funding(10)(8)(31)(15)
Business acquisition, integration and restructuring expenses- - - 37
Gain on remeasurement of interests in equity investments(6)- (6)-
Share-based compensation1 2 4 7
Defined benefit pension plans3 3 11 12
Loss (gain) on derivative instruments- 3 (1)26
Realized loss on settlement of derivative instruments- (6)(7)(19)
Payments on cross-currency agreements- - - (86)
Foreign exchange gain on unhedged long-term debt- - - (23)
Accretion of long-term liabilities and provisions4 5 11 11
Settlement of amended cross-currency interest rate agreements [note 13]- - (162)-
Other(1)- 4 -
Funds flow from continuing operations424 428 944 1,077

(ii) Changes in non-cash working capital balances related to continuing operations include the following:

Three months ended May 31, Nine months ended May 31,
2012 2011 2012 2011
$ $ $ $
Accounts receivable(16)(43)(50)(33)
Other current assets10 2 (3)(12)
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities and provisions(56)(18)(47)(76)
Income taxes payable(11)(4)20 (188)
Unearned revenue(1)4 (1)6
(74)(59)(81)(303)

(iii) Interest and income taxes paid and classified as operating activities are as follows:

Three months ended May 31,Nine months ended May 31,
2012201120122011
$$$$
Interest131131295280
Income taxes5351169348

(iv) Non-cash transactions:

The Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows exclude the following non-cash transactions:

Three months ended May 31,Nine months ended May 31,
2012201120122011
$$$$
Issuance of Class B Non-Voting Shares:
Dividend reinvestment plan24107110

13. OTHER LIABILITIES

The other current liability was the obligation which arose in fiscal 2010 in respect of the US $300 amended cross-currency interest rate agreements which fixed the settlement of the principal portion of the liability on December 15, 2011. Other long-term liabilities include the long-term portion of the Company's employee benefit plans of $437 (August 31, 2011 - $349), the non-current portion of CRTC benefit obligations of $133 (August 31, 2011 - $147) and other liabilities totaling $10 (August 31, 2011 - $11). The total benefit costs expensed under the Company's defined benefit pension plans were $8 (2011 - $7) and $24 (2011 - $20) for the three and nine months ended May 31, 2012, respectively. During the current quarter, the Company recognized an actuarial loss of $76 ($57 net of tax) in other comprehensive loss in respect of a 1% decrease in the discount rates from those used at August 31, 2011 in valuing its employee benefit plans.

14. TRANSITION TO IFRS

The Company's date of transition to IFRS is September 1, 2010 and its date of adoption is September 1, 2011. Any subsequent changes to IFRS that are given effect in the Company's annual Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ending August 31, 2012 could result in restatement of these condensed interim consolidated financial statements, including the transition adjustments recognized on changeover to IFRS.

Exemption elections

The Company's adoption of IFRS requires application of IFRS 1 which provides guidance for an entity's initial adoption of IFRS. IFRS 1 generally requires that an entity apply all IFRS effective at the end of its first IFRS annual reporting period retrospectively. However, IFRS 1 does include certain mandatory exceptions and limited optional exemptions in specified areas of certain standards from this general requirement. The Company has elected the following exemptions from the general requirement of retrospective application as follows:

(a) Business combinations

IFRS 1 provides the option to apply IFRS 3 Business Combinations retrospectively or prospectively from the date of transition. Retrospective application would require restatement of all business combinations that occurred prior to the date of transition. The Company has elected to not restate any business combinations that occurred prior to September 1, 2010. Under Canadian GAAP, the Company had early adopted the new accounting standards for business combinations, consolidation and non-controlling interests effective September 1, 2010, which are aligned with IFRS 3 Business Combinations and IAS 27 Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements.

(b) Employee benefits

IFRS 1 provides the option to recognize all cumulative actuarial gains and losses on defined benefit plans deferred under Canadian GAAP in opening retained earnings. The Company elected to recognize the cumulative unamortized actuarial loss in opening retained earnings as at September 1, 2010.

(c) Borrowing costs

IFRS 1 allows IAS 23 Borrowing Costs to be applied prospectively from the date of transition. The Company has elected to apply IAS 23 prospectively for projects commenced on or after September 1, 2010.

Reconciliation of Canadian GAAP to IFRS

A. Consolidated statements of financial position as at September 1, 2010 and August 31, 2011

September 1, 2010August 31, 2011
ExplanationCanadian GAAPEffect of transition to IFRS IFRSCanadian
GAAP		Effect of transition to IFRS IFRS
ASSETS
Current
Cash 217- 217443- 443
Account receivable 196- 196443- 443
Inventories 54- 5497- 97
Other current assets(iii), (iv)34- 34236(154)82
Derivative instruments 67- 672- 2
Asset held for sale -- -15- 15
Deferred income tax assets(iii)28(28)-26(26)-
596(28)5681,262(180)1,082
Investments and other assets 743- 74313- 13
Property, plant and equipment 3,005- 3,0053,200- 3,200
Other long-term assets 233- 233258- 258
Asset held for sale -- -1- 1
Deferred income taxes(iii)-- -228 30
Intangibles(iv)5,408188 5,5966,955337 7,292
Goodwill(iii)169- 169815(103)712
10,154160 10,31412,52662 12,588
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities(i), (v), (vi)62377 70079583 878
Provisions(vi)-19 19-18 18
Income taxes payable(iii)17178 24912112 124
Unearned revenue 145- 145155- 155
Current portion of long-term debt 1- 11- 1
Current portion of derivative instruments 80- 808- 8
Other liability -- -161 161
1,020174 1,1941,132213 1,345
Long-term debt 3,982- 3,9825,256- 5,256
Other long-term liabilities(ii), (vi)291138 429351156 507
Provisions(vi)-- --8 8
Derivative instruments 7- 7-- -
Deferred credits 632- 632630- 630
Deferred income tax liabilities(i) to (iv)1,452(387)1,0651,700(536)1,164
7,384(75)7,3099,069(159)8,910
Shareholders' equity
Equity attributable to common and preferred shareholders(i) to (v)
2,770
235
3,005		3,216
190		 3,406
Non-controlling interests(iii)-- -24131 272
2,770235 3,0053,457221 3,678
10,154160 10,31412,52662 12,588

B. Consolidated statements of financial position as at May 31, 2011

ExplanationCanadian
GAAP		Effect of
transition
to IFRS		 IFRS
ASSETS
Current
Cash 633- 633
Account receivable 529- 529
Inventories 80- 80
Other current assets(iii), (iv)269(136)133
Derivative instruments -- -
Deferred income tax assets(iii)27(27)-
1,538(163)1,375
Derivative instruments 7- 7
Investments and other assets 19- 19
Property, plant and equipment 3,179- 3,179
Other long-term assets 248- 248
Deferred income tax assets(iii)-30 30
Intangibles(iv)6,958320 7,278
Goodwill(iii)811(103)708
12,76084 12,844
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities(i), (v), (vi)70880 788
Provisions(vi)-23 23
Income taxes payable(iii)19109 128
Unearned revenue 152- 152
Current portion of long-term debt 1- 1
Current portion of derivative instruments 25- 25
Other liability 161- 161
1,066212 1,278
Long-term debt 5,574- 5,574
Other long-term liabilities(ii), (vi)352130 482
Provisions(vi)-8 8
Deferred credits 633- 633
Deferred income tax liabilities(i) to (iv)1,696(510)1,186
9,321(160)9,161
Shareholders' equity
Equity attributable to common and preferred shareholders(i) to (v)3,191213 3,404
Non-controlling interests(iii)24831 279
3,439244 3,683
12,76084 12,844

C. Consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income for the three and nine months ended May 31, 2011.

Three months ended Nine months ended
May 31, 2011 May 31, 2011
ExplanationCanadian GAAP Effect of transition to IFRS IFRS Canadian GAAP Effect of transition to IFRS IFRS
Revenue 1,285 - 1,285 3,560 - 3,560
Operating, general and administrative expenses(i), (ii)703 (4)699 2,005 (15)1,990
Operating income before amortization 582 4 586 1,555 15 1,570
Amortization:
Deferred equipment revenue 26 - 26 79 - 79
Deferred equipment costs (51)- (51)(153)- (153)
Property, plant and equipment, intangibles and other (153)- (153)(476)- (476)
Operating income 404 4 408 1,005 15 1,020
Amortization of financing costs - long-term debt (1)- (1)(3)- (3)
Interest expense (90)- (90)(244)- (244)
Gain on repurchase of debt - - - 10 - 10
CRTC benefit obligation - - - (139)- (139)
Business acquisition, integration and restructuring expenses (29)- (29)(90)- (90)
Loss on derivative instruments (3)- (3)(26)- (26)
Accretion of long-term liabilities and provisions (5)- (5)(11)- (11)
Foreign exchange gain on unhedged long-term-debt - - - 23 - 23
Equity income from associates - - - 14 - 14
Other gains - - - 7 - 7
Income before income taxes 276 4 280 546 15 561
Current income tax expense(iii)48 4 52 160 7 167
Deferred income tax expense (recovery)(i) to (iii)24 1 25 (10)12 2
Net income from continuing operations 204 (1)203 396 (4)392
Loss from discontinued operations (2)- (2)(6)- (6)
Net income 202 (1)201 390 (4)386
Other comprehensive income (loss)
Change in unrealized fair value of derivatives designated as cash flow hedges -
-
-
(13		)
-
(13		)
Adjustment for hedged items recognized in the period 1 - 1 2 - 2
Actuarial losses on employee benefit plans(ii)- - - - (8)(8)
1 - 1 (11)(8)(19)
Comprehensive income 203 (1)202 379 (12)367
Net income attributable to:
Common shareholders 196 (1)195 374 (4)370
Non-controlling interests 6 - 6 16 - 16
202 (1)201 390 (4)386
Comprehensive income attributable to:
Common shareholders 197 (1)196 363 (12)351
Non-controlling interests 6 - 6 16 - 16
203 (1)202 379 (12)367
Earnings per share - basic and diluted
Earnings per share from continuing operations 0.45 - 0.45 0.87 (0.01)0.86
Loss per share from discontinued operations - - - (0.01)- (0.01)
Earnings per share 0.45 - 0.45 0.86 (0.01)0.85

D. Consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income for the year ended August 31, 2011

Year ended
August 31, 2011
ExplanationCanadian GAAP Effect of transition to IFRS IFRS
Revenue 4,741 - 4,741
Operating, general and administrative expenses(i), (ii)2,710 (20)2,690
Operating income before amortization 2,031 20 2,051
Amortization:
Deferred equipment revenue 107 - 107
Deferred equipment costs (205)- (205)
Property, plant and equipment, intangibles and other (637)- (637)
Operating income 1,296 20 1,316
Amortization of financing costs - long-term debt (4)- (4)
Interest expense (332)- (332)
Gain on redemption of debt 33 - 33
CRTC benefit obligation (139)- (139)
Business acquisition, integration and restructuring expenses (91)- (91)
Loss on derivative instruments (22)- (22)
Accretion of long-term liabilities and provisions (15)- (15)
Foreign exchange gain on unhedged long-term-debt 17 - 17
Equity income from associates 14 - 14
Other gains 11 - 11
Income before income taxes 768 20 788
Current income tax expense(iii)210 10 220
Deferred income tax expense (recovery)(i) to (iii)(5)14 9
Net income from continuing operations 563 (4)559
Loss from discontinued operations (89)- (89)
Net income 474 (4)470
Other comprehensive income (loss)
Change in unrealized fair value of derivatives designated as cash flow hedges (12)- (12)
Adjustment for hedged items recognized in the period 4 - 4
Actuarial losses on employee benefit plans(ii)- (30)(30)
(8)(30)(38)
Comprehensive income 466 (34)432
Net income attributable to:
Common shareholders 455 (4)451
Non-controlling interests 19 - 19
474 (4)470
Comprehensive income attributable to:
Common shareholders 447 (34)413
Non-controlling interests 19 - 19
466 (34)432
Earnings per share - basic and diluted
Earnings per share from continuing operations 1.24 (0.01)1.23
Loss per share from discontinued operations (0.21)- (0.21)
Earnings per share 1.03 (0.01)1.02

The significant differences between Canadian GAAP and IFRS are explained below.

(i) Share-based compensation

Under IFRS, the fair value of stock options with service conditions is required to be expensed over a vesting period ("graded vesting"), based on when options vest. Under Canadian GAAP, stock-based compensation was recognized using a straight-line method.

Under IFRS, cash settled share-based payments, such as DSUs and RSUs, are measured initially and re-measured at the end of each reporting period at fair value as determined by an option pricing model. Under Canadian GAAP, the liability was measured and re-measured at intrinsic values.

(ii) Employee benefits

As stated in exemption elections above, the Company elected to recognize cumulative unamortized actuarial losses under IFRS in opening retained earnings. Subsequent to the date of transition, actuarial gains and losses are recorded in other comprehensive income at the end of each reporting period. Under Canadian GAAP, actuarial gains and losses were amortized into income on a straight-line basis over the estimated average remaining service life of employees.

Under IFRS, past service costs of defined benefit plans are expensed on a straight-line basis over the vesting period. Under Canadian GAAP, past service costs were amortized on a straight-line basis over the estimated average remaining service life of employees. As part of the retrospective application of IAS 19, all vested past service costs have been recognized in opening retained earnings at the transition date.

(iii) Income taxes

The expected manner of recovery of intangible assets with indefinite useful lives for the purpose of calculating deferred income taxes is different under IFRS than Canadian GAAP. This difference in inclusion rate results in a reduction in the deferred income tax liability related to these assets at transition and also results in a decrease to goodwill and deferred income tax liability and increase to non-controlling interests in respect of the Media business acquisition in fiscal 2011.

Under IFRS, the Company applies a probable weighted average methodology in respect to its determination of measurement of its tax uncertainties.

Income taxes reflect the tax effect of other IFRS transition adjustments.

Also, under IFRS, deferred income tax assets and liabilities are only classified as long term.

(iv) Intangible assets

Under IFRS, amortization of indefinite lived intangibles is prohibited. Upon transition, amortization of broadcast rights that had been previously recorded under Canadian GAAP has been reversed and recognized in opening retained earnings at the date of transition.

Under Canadian GAAP, program rights were segregated between current and noncurrent in the Statement of Financial Position based estimated time of usage. Under IFRS, program rights are segregated between current and noncurrent based on expected life at time of acquisition.

(v) Constructive obligation

Under IFRS, constructive obligations must be recognized when certain criteria are met. These have been accrued at the transition date.

(vi) Provisions

IAS 37 Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets requires separate disclosure on the face of the statement of financial position. Under Canadian GAAP, separate disclosure was not required, therefore on transition all provisions were reclassified from accounts payable and accrued liabilities or other long-term liabilities.

E. Consolidated statement of cash flows

The Company's consolidated statements of cash flows were not materially affected by the transition to IFRS.

15. SELECTED ANNUAL DISCLOSURES

The condensed interim consolidated financial statements for interim periods of fiscal 2012 are the first financial statements prepared by the Company under IFRS. Accordingly, annual required disclosures that have been significantly impacted by the transition to IFRS for the comparative year ended August 31, 2011 are presented below.

DEFINED EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

Defined benefit pension plans

The Company provides a non-contributory defined benefit pension plan for certain of its senior executives. Benefits under this plan are based on the employees' length of service and their highest three-year average rate of pay during their years of service. Employees are not required to contribute to this plan and the plan is unfunded. There are no minimum required contributions and no discretionary contributions are currently planned.

The table below shows the change in benefit obligation for this plan.

August 31, 2011
$
Accrued benefit obligation and plan deficit, beginning of year275
Current service cost6
Past service cost-
Interest cost16
Actuarial losses43
Payment of benefits to employees(6)
Accrued benefit obligation and plan deficit, end of year334
Reconciliation of accrued benefit obligation to Consolidated Statement of Financial Position accrued pension benefit liabilityAugust 31, 2011
$
Balance of unamortized pension obligation:
Past service costs1
Accrued pension benefit liability recognized in Consolidated Statement of Financial Position:
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities9
Other long-term liabilities324
333
Accrued benefit obligation, end of year as above334

The actuarial losses resulted primarily from changes in interest rate assumptions, salary escalation assumptions, and changes in the mortality table.

The tables below show the significant weighted-average assumptions used to measure the pension obligation and cost for this plan.

August 31, 2011
Accrued benefit obligation%
Discount rate5.50
Rate of compensation increase5.00
August 31, 2011
Benefit cost for the year%
Discount rate5.75
Rate of compensation increase5.00

The following table illustrates the increase on the accrued benefit obligation and pension expense of a 1% decrease in the discount rate:



Accrued benefit obligation August 31, 2011
Pension expense Fiscal 2011
$$
Impact of: 1% decrease566

The net pension benefit plan expense, which is included in employee salaries and benefits expense, is comprised of the following components:

August 31, 2011
$
Current service cost6
Interest cost16
Past service cost-
Difference between amortization of past service costs recognized for the year and actual past service costs on the accrued benefit obligation for the year
1
Pension expense23

As part of the broadcasting business acquisition in fiscal 2011, the Company assumed a number of funded defined benefit pension plans which provide pension benefits to certain unionized and non-unionized employees. Benefits under these plans are based on the employees' length of service and final average salary.

The table below shows the change in the benefit obligations, change in fair value of plan assets and the funded status of these defined benefit plans.

August 31, 2011
$
Accrued benefit obligation, beginning of year-
Media business acquisition124
Current service cost4
Interest cost6
Employee contributions1
Actuarial gains(7)
Payment of benefits to employees(9)
Accrued benefit obligation, end of year119
Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year-
Media business acquisition110
Employer contributions6
Employee contributions1
Expected return on plan assets6
Actuarial losses(5)
Payment of benefit and administrative expenses(9)
Fair value of plan assets, end of year109
Accrued benefit liability and plan deficit, end of year10

The accrued benefit liability is included in other long-term liabilities. The actuarial gains and losses resulted primarily from changes in interest rate assumptions, salary escalation assumptions, and changes in the mortality table.

The asset allocation of the plans at August 31, 2011 is as follows:

% of plan assets
Equity securities57
Fixed income securities40
Other3
100

Disaggregation of the Company's funded pension plans to show the funded statuses at August 31, 2011 is as follows:

Accrued benefit obligation
Plan assets
Surplus (deficit)
$$$
Pension plans with assets in excess of accrued benefit obligations
9
9
-
Pension plans with accrued benefit obligations in excess of assets
110
100
(10		)
119109(10)

The tables below show the significant weighted-average assumptions used to measure the pension obligation and cost for these plans. The expected rate of return on plan assets is based on investment mix, current yields and past experience.

August 31, 2011
Accrued benefit obligation%
Discount rate5.75
Rate of compensation increase4.00
August 31, 2011
Benefit cost for the year%
Discount rate5.65
Expected return on plan assets6.70
Rate of compensation increase3.70

The following table illustrates the increase on the accrued benefit obligation and pension expense of a 1% decrease in the discount rate:



Accrued benefit obligation August 31, 2011
Pension expense Fiscal 2011
$$
Impact of: 1% decrease201

The net pension benefit plan expense, which is included in employee salaries and benefits expense, is comprised of the following components:

August 31, 2011
$
Current service cost4
Interest cost6
Expected return on plan assets(6)
Pension expense4

Other benefit plans

As part of the broadcasting business acquisition in fiscal 2011, the Company assumed post employment benefits plans that provide post retirement health and life insurance coverage.

August 31, 2011
$
Accrued benefit obligation, beginning of year-
Media business acquisition15
Current service cost-
Interest cost1
Plan amendment(1)
Payment of benefits to employees-
Accrued benefit obligation and plan deficit, end of year15
Reconciliation of accrued benefit obligation to Consolidated Statement of Financial Position accrued benefit liabilityAugust 31, 2011
$
Balance of unamortized obligation:
Plan amendment(1)
Accrued post-retirement liability recognized in Consolidated Statement of Financial Position:
Other long-term liabilities16
Accrued benefit obligation, end of year as above15

The table below shows the components of the post-retirement benefit plan expense. The net post-retirement benefit plan expense, which is included in employee salaries and benefits expense, is comprised of the following components:

August 31, 2011
$
Current service cost-
Interest cost1
Post-retirement expense1

The discount rate used to measure the post-retirement benefit cost for the year and the accrued benefit obligation as at August 31, 2011 was 5.50%. The assumed health care cost trend rate for the next year used to measure expected benefit costs is 6.49% decreasing to an ultimate rate of 4.57% in 2029. A one percentage point increase in the assumed health care cost trend rate would have increased the service and interest costs and accrued obligation by $nil and $2, respectively. A one percentage point decrease in the assumed health care cost trend rate would have lowered the service and interest costs and accrued obligation by $nil and $2, respectively.

Benefit payments

The table below shows the expected benefit payments for all defined benefit plans and other post employment benefit plans in each of the next five fiscal years as actuarially determined, and in aggregate, for the five fiscal years thereafter:

Pensions
$		Other Benefits
$
201214-
201314-
2014191
2015271
2016271
2017 - 20211394

Employer contributions

The Company's estimated contributions to the funded defined benefit plans in fiscal 2012 are $8.

INCOME TAXES

Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. Significant components of the Company's deferred income tax liabilities and assets are as follows:

August 31, 2011
$
Deferred income tax liabilities:
Property, plant and equipment and software assets145
Broadcast rights820
Partnership income354
1,319
Deferred income tax assets:
Non-capital loss carryforwards50
Accrued charges128
Program rights4
Foreign exchange on long-term debt and fair value of derivative instruments3
185
Net deferred income tax liability1,134
Deferred income tax asset30
Deferred income tax liability1,164

Realization of deferred income tax assets is dependent on generating sufficient taxable income during the period in which the temporary differences are deductible. Although realization is not assured, management believes it is more likely than not that all deferred income tax assets will be realized based on reversals of deferred income tax liabilities, projected operating results and tax planning strategies available to the Company and its subsidiaries.

Significant changes recognized to deferred income tax assets (liabilities) during the period are as follows:

Property, plant and equipment and software assets Broadcast rights Partnership income Non-capital loss carry-forwards Accrued chargesProgram rightsForeign exchange on long-term debt and fair value of derivative instruments Total
Balance at September 1, 2010(167)(635)(350)8 63-16 (1,065)
Recognized in statement of income
(8		)
(17		)
(3		)
(3		)
36
-
(14		)
(9		)
Recognized in discontinued operations
26
-
-
-
-
-
-
26
Recognized in other comprehensive income (loss)
-
-
-
-
10
-
1
11
Recognized on Media business acquisition
4
(168		)
(1		)
45
19
4
-
(97		)
Balance at August 31, 2011(145)(820)(354)50 12843 (1,134)

The Company has capital loss carryforwards of approximately $150 for which no deferred income tax asset has been recognized in the accounts. These capital losses can be carried forward indefinitely.

The income tax expense differs from the amount computed by applying Canadian statutory rates to income before income taxes for the following reasons:

August 31, 2011
$
Current statutory income tax rate27.9%
Income tax expense at current statutory rates216
Increase in taxes resulting from:
Non-taxable portion of foreign exchange gains or losses and amounts on sale/write-down of assets and investments1
Originating temporary differences recorded at future tax rates expected to be in effect when realized2
Other10
Income tax expense229

TELEVISION BROADCASTING BUSINESS ACQUISITION

A summary of net assets acquired and allocation of the consideration is as follows:

August 31, 2011
Canadian GAAP Effect of transition to IFRS IFRS
Net assets acquired at assigned fair values
Cash83 - 83
Receivables297 - 297
Other current assets236 (89)147
Deferred income tax assets51 (24)27
Derivative instrument16 - 16
Investments and other assets16 - 16
Property and equipment141 - 141
Intangibles1,567 84 1,651
Goodwill, not deductible for tax641 (103)538
3,048 (132)2,916
Current liabilities(283)(24)(307)
Current debt(399)- (399)
Derivative instruments(82)- (82)
Non-current liabilities(105)- (105)
Deferred income tax liabilities(311)187 (124)
Long-term debt(412)- (412)
Non-controlling interests(246)(31)(277)
1,210 - 1,210

Contact Information:

Shaw Communications Inc.
Investor Relations
Investor.relations@sjrb.ca
www.shaw.ca