Stingray Reports First Quarter 2017 Results

MONTREAL, QUEBEC--(Marketwired - Aug. 3, 2016) -

First Quarter Highlights

• Revenues increased 23.4% to $24.5 million
• Recurring revenues of $21.4 million or 87.2% of total revenues, an increase of 24.1%
• Net income increased to $2.0 million or $0.04 per share (diluted) compared to a net loss of $1.8 million or ($0.05) per share (diluted) last year
• Adjusted EBITDA increased 10.2% to $7.9 million
• Adjusted Net income up 8.9% to $5.2 million or $0.10 per share (diluted) compared to last year
• Adjusted free cash flow of $5.9 million, an increase of 11.4%
• Increased quarterly dividend by 14% to $0.04 per share

Stingray Digital Group Inc. (TSX:RAY.A)(TSX:RAY.B) (the "Corporation"; "Stingray"), a leading business-to-business multi-platform music and in-store media solutions provider, today announced its financial results for the first quarter ended June 30, 2016.

Financial Highlights		Quarters ended June 30,
(in thousands of dollars, except per share data)		2016	2015		%
Revenues		24,547	19,895		23.4
Recurring revenues		21,401	17,243		24.1
Adjusted EBITDA(1)		7,881	7,151		10.2
Net income (loss)		2,044	(1,777	)	-
	Per share - diluted ($)	0.04	(0.05	)	-
Adjusted Net income(2)		5,207	4,783		8.9
	Per share - diluted ($)	0.10	0.12		(16.7	)
Cash flow from operating activities		2,722	4,109		(33.5	)
Adjusted free cash flow(3)		5,861	5,260		11.4

(1)	Adjusted EBITDA is a non-IFRS measure and is defined as net income before net finance expenses, change in fair value of investments, income taxes, depreciation, amortization and write-off, share-based compensation, restricted and deferred share unit expenses, initial public offering ("IPO") expenses and CRTC tangible benefits and acquisition, restructuring and other various costs.
(2)	Adjusted Net income is a non-IFRS measure and is defined as net income before amortization of intangible assets, share-based compensation, change in fair value of investment, IPO expenses and CRTC tangible benefits, acquisition, restructuring and other various costs, net of related income taxes.
(3)	Adjusted free cash flow is a non-IFRS measure and is defined as cash flow from operating activities less capital expenditures for property and equipment and separately acquired intangible assets, net change in non-cash working capital items, IPO expenses and CRTC tangible benefits and acquisition, restructuring and other various costs, net of related income taxes.

"We started fiscal 2017 on a solid note with revenues increasing by 23.4% and Adjusted EBITDA by 10.2%. The revenue increase reflects organic growth and acquisitions in international markets, which now represent 42.7% of total revenues. As synergies from recent acquisitions are fully realized over coming quarters via cross-selling opportunities and cost reductions, we anticipate that our Adjusted EBITDA margin will gradually improve, excluding the potential impact of future acquisitions," said Eric Boyko, President, CEO and co-founder of Stingray.

"The pipeline of acquisition opportunities remains significant and we expect to maintain the pace of our acquisition program in the current fiscal year. In the past 12 months, we have completed acquisitions which have significantly diversified and enhanced our portfolio of digital audio, video services and live concerts. Furthermore, acquisitions have also allowed us to establish a solid footprint in Asia. By 2020, our goal is for international revenues to reach 70% of total revenues".

"The music industry remains in flux but we strongly believe that we have a sustainable and profitable business model. The launch of our free mobile application combined with more than 2000 Vibe channels available in Canada, Latin America and the Netherlands have attracted a growing and younger audience to Stingray Music. We are proud to report that the Stingray Music Mobile App has reached 1 million downloads, doubling its user base in only one year," concluded Mr. Boyko.

First Quarter Results

The Corporation generated revenues of $24.5 million in the first quarter of 2017, an increase of 23.4% compared with revenues of $19.9 million a year ago. The increase was primarily due to the acquisitions of iConcerts, Brava Group, Digital Media Distribution ("DMD") and Nümédia combined with Commercial music growth in Canada.

Recurring revenues were up 24.1% to $21.4 million in the first quarter of 2017 over the same period last year and remained at 87.2% of total revenues for the quarter. International revenues again posted solid growth and represented 42.7% of total revenues, up from 33.7% last year.

Music Broadcasting revenues increased 26.7% to $17.9 million, mainly due to the acquisitions of iConcerts, Brava Group and DMD, and new contracts signed in Latin America and the Middle East. Commercial Music revenues rose 15.3% to $6.7 million, mainly as a result of music and digital signage recurring revenues and the acquisition of Nümédia, which included additional non-recurring revenues related to equipment sales.

Adjusted EBITDA for the first quarter of 2017 increased to $7.9 million or 32.1% of revenues, compared to $7.2 million or 35.9% of revenues a year earlier. The 10.2% increase in adjusted EBITDA was primarily due to the acquisitions realized in Fiscal 2016, which were accretive, offset by higher general and administrative expenses related to the Corporation's international expansion. The decrease in EBITDA margin was mainly related to costs comprised in recent acquisitions from which future synergies are expected.

For the first quarter, the Corporation reported a net income of $2.0 million, or $0.04 per share (diluted), compared to a net loss of $1.8 million, or ($0.05) per share (diluted) for the same period last year. The increase was mainly due to one-time IPO expenses and CRTC tangible benefits expenses incurred in Q1 2016, and higher Q1 2017 operating results, offset by a change in fair value of investments and higher income taxes.

Adjusted net income increased 8.9% to $5.2 million, or $0.10 per share (diluted), compared to $4.8 million, or $0.12 per share (diluted) a year ago. The increase was primarily due to recent acquisitions, partially offset by higher income tax expenses.

Cash flow from operating activities amounted to $2.7 million in the first quarter of 2017, versus $4.1 million a year earlier. The decrease was mainly due to higher account receivables and the timing of payments of account payables. Adjusted free cash flow for the three-month period ending June 30, 2016, increased to $5.9 million, compared to $5.3 million for the same period a year ago.

As of June 30, 2016, the Corporation had cash and cash equivalents of $3.2 million and a revolving credit facility of $100.0 million, of which approximately $59.5 million was unused, allowing it to pursue strategic acquisitions and achieve its growth objectives.

Declaration of Dividend

On August 2, 2016, the Corporation increased the quarterly dividend by 14% to $0.04 per subordinate voting share, variable subordinate voting share and multiple voting share. The dividend will be payable on or around September 15, 2016, to holders of subordinate voting shares, variable subordinate voting shares and multiple voting shares on record as of August 31, 2016.

The Corporation's dividend policy is at the discretion of the Board of Directors and may vary depending upon, among other things, our available cash flow, results of operations, financial condition, business growth opportunities and other factors that the Board of Directors may deem relevant.

The dividends paid are designated as "eligible" dividends for the purposes of the Income Tax Act (Canada) and any corresponding provisions of provincial and territorial tax legislation.

Additional Business Highlights

In May 2016, the Corporation launched its Stingray Music Mobile App in the Netherlands. Furthermore, in July 2016, the Stingray Music Mobile App has reached 1 million downloads, doubling its user base in only one year. Every week, users spend an average of 5 hours listening to their favourite tracks and artists on the mobile app; an engagement far above industry average.

In May and June 2016, the Corporation announced the renewal of important long-term contracts, including National Cable Television Cooperative and the expansion of its distribution deal with Comcast.

On June 15, 2016, the Corporation acquired all of the issued and outstanding shares of Festival 4K B.V. for a total consideration of EUR 1.9 million (CA$2.7 million). Available to more than 7 million subscribers currently under contract, Festival 4K B.V. offers the leading 4K Ultra HD channel with an international customer base. Its diverse programming includes hundreds of hours of shows and events recorded live. Pay-TV providers carrying the Festival 4K channel include VOO in Belgium, Free in France, and Vodafone in Spain.

On June 21, 2016, the Corporation announced the acquisition of four of Bell Media's popular music video channels: MuchLoud, MuchRetro, MuchVibe and Juicebox for a total consideration of $4.0 million. Following the completion of the acquisition, the four channels will be reintroduced under the Stingray brand.

On July 7, 2016, the Corporation strengthened its presence in the pivotal Asia-Pacific region with the opening of regional headquarters in Singapore. This launch follows the recent acquisition of iConcerts, a television channel with broad distribution throughout Europe and Asia, and Digital Music Distribution PTY in Australia.

Annual Shareholders' Meeting

The Corporation will hold its annual shareholders' meeting on Wednesday, August 3, 2016, at 11:00 AM (ET) at the Belvedere of the Montreal Science Centre located at 2, de la Commune Street West, in Montreal, Quebec.

Conference Call

The Corporation will hold a conference call to discuss these results on Wednesday, August 3, 2016, at 9:00 AM (ET). Interested parties can join the call by dialing 647-788-4922 (Toronto) or 1-877-223-4471 (toll free). If you are unable to call at this time, you may access a tape recording of the conference call by dialing 416-621-4642 (Toronto) or 1-800-585-8367 (toll free) followed by access code: 44372426. This tape recording will be available until August 31, 2016.

About Stingray

Stingray (TSX:RAY.A)(TSX:RAY.B) is a leading business-to-business multi-platform music and in-store media solutions provider operating on a global scale, reaching an estimated 400 million Pay-TV subscribers (or households) in 152 countries. Geared towards individuals and businesses alike, Stingray's products include the following leading digital music and video services: Stingray Music, Stingray Concerts, Stingray Brava, Stingray Djazz, Stingray Music Videos, Stingray Lite TV, Stingray Ambiance, Stingray Karaoke, Festival 4K, and iConcerts. Stingray also offers various business solutions, including music and digital display-based solutions, through its Stingray Business division. Stingray is headquartered in Montreal and currently has close to 300 employees worldwide, including in the United States, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Switzerland, France, Israel, Australia and South Korea. Stingray was recognized in 2013 and 2014 as a finalist in the Top 50 of Deloitte's Technology Fast 50™ list, and figures amongst PROFIT magazine's fastest-growing Canadian companies. In 2016, Stingray was awarded best IR for an IPO at the IR Magazine Awards - Canada. For more information, please visit www.stingray.com

Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Such forward-looking information includes information with respect to Stingray's goals, beliefs, plans, expectations, anticipations, estimates and intentions. Forward-looking information is identified by the use of terms and phrases such as "may", "would", "should", "could", "expect", "intend", "estimate", "anticipate", "plan", "foresee", "believe", and "continue", or the negative of these terms and similar terminology, including references to assumptions. Please note, however, that not all forward-looking information contains these terms and phrases. Forward-looking information is based upon a number of assumptions and is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond Stingray's control. These risks and uncertainties could cause actual results to differ materially from those that are disclosed in or implied by such forward-looking information. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the risk factors identified in Stingray's prospectus dated May 26, 2015, which is available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Consequently, all of the forward-looking information contained herein is qualified by the foregoing cautionary statements, and there can be no guarantee that the results or developments that Stingray anticipates will be realized or, even if substantially realized, that they will have the expected consequences or effects on Stingray's business, financial condition or results of operation. Unless otherwise noted or the context otherwise indicates, the forward-looking information contained herein is provided as of the date hereof, and Stingray does not undertake to update or amend such forward-looking information whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable law.

Non-IFRS Measures

The Corporation believes that Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA margin, Adjusted Net income, Adjusted Net income per share, Adjusted free cash flow, Net debt including and excluding contingent considerations and Net debt to Adjusted EBITDA are important measures in evaluating our performance. Each of these non-IFRS financial measures is not an earnings or cash flow measure recognized by IFRS and does not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS. Our method of calculating such financial measures may differ from the methods used by other issuers and, accordingly, our definition of these non-IFRS financial measures may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. Investors are cautioned that non-IFRS financial measures should not be construed as an alternative to net income determined in accordance with IFRS as indicators of our performance or to cash flows from operating activities as measures of liquidity and cash flows.

Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted Net income reconciliation to Net income

(in thousands of Canadian dollars)	Three-month period ended June 30, 2016 Q1 2017		Three-month period ended June 30, 2015 Q1 2016		Three-month period ended March 31, 2016 Q4 2016
Net income (loss)	2,044		(1,777	)	3,247
Net finance expense	648		866		836
Change in fair value of investments	91		(263	)	1,113
Income taxes	412		(1,334	)	(1,428	)
Depreciation of property and equipment and write-off	574		455		594
Amortization of intangibles	3,187		3,223		2,624
Stock-based compensation(1)	290		221		390
Restricted and deferred share unit	326		175		319
IPO expenses and CRTC tangible benefits	-		5,495		21
Acquisition, restructuring and other various costs	309		90		503
Adjusted EBITDA	7,881		7,151		8,219
Net finance expense	(648	)	(866	)	(836	)
Income taxes	(412	)	1,334		1,428
Depreciation of property and equipment and write-off	(574	)	(455	)	(594	)
Income taxes related to change in fair value of investments, share-based compensation, amortization of intangible assets, IPO expenses and CRTC tangible benefits and acquisition, restructuring and other various costs	(1,040	)	(2,381	)	(1,082	)
Adjusted Net income	5,207		4,783		7,135

Note:
(1)	Stock-based compensation includes related employee benefits

Adjusted free cash flow reconciliation to Cash flow from operating activities

(in thousands of Canadian dollars)	Three-month period ended June 30, 2016 Q1 2017		Three-month period ended June 30, 2015 Q1 2016		Three-month period ended March 31, 2016 Q4 2016
Cash flow from operating activities	2,722		4,109		7,709
Add / Less :
Capital expenditures	(632	)	(930	)	(1,100	)
Net change in non-cash operating working capital items	3,544		(3,479	)	(718	)
Acquisition, restructuring and other various costs	227		65		368
IPO expenses and CRTC tangible benefits	-		5,495		21
Adjusted free cash flow	5,861		5,260		6,280

Note to readers: Condensed interim consolidated financial statements and Management's Discussion & Analysis of Operating Results and Financial Position are available on the Corporation's website at www.stingray.com and on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.