Form 10-Q

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF

THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the Quarterly Period Ended

January 2, 2010

   Commission File Number 1-11605

LOGO

Incorporated in Delaware

   I.R.S. Employer Identification
   No. 95-4545390

500 South Buena Vista Street, Burbank, California 91521

(818) 560-1000

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

Yes      X    No

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).

Yes      X    No

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer”, “accelerated filer”, and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act (Check one).

 

Large accelerated filer           X              Accelerated filer                          

Non-accelerated filer (do not check if smaller reporting company)

                            Smaller reporting company                          

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).

Yes             No          X    

There were 1,939,515,471 shares of common stock outstanding as of February 5, 2010.


PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1: Financial Statements

THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

(unaudited; in millions, except per share data)

 

     Quarter Ended
         January 2,    
2010
       December 27,    
2008

Revenues

     $ 9,739         $ 9,599   

Costs and expenses

     (8,325)        (8,382)  

Restructuring and impairment charges

     (105)        —   

Other income

     27         114   

Net interest expense

     (103)        (139)  

Equity in the income of investees

     89         147   
             

Income before income taxes

     1,322         1,339   

Income taxes

     (478)        (488)  
             

Net income

     844         851   

Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

     —         (6)  
             

Net income attributable to The Walt Disney Company (Disney)

     $ 844         $ 845   
             

Earnings per share attributable to Disney:

     

Diluted

     $ 0.44         $ 0.45   
             

Basic

     $ 0.45         $ 0.46   
             

Weighted average number of common and common equivalent shares outstanding:

     

Diluted

     1,903         1,872   
             

Basic

     1,867         1,852   
             

See Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

2


THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(unaudited; in millions, except per share data)

 

           January 2,      
2010
         October 3,      
2009
ASSETS      

Current assets

     

Cash and cash equivalents

       $ 3,204              $ 3,417      

Receivables

     5,972            4,854      

Inventories

     1,196            1,271      

Television costs

     837            631      

Deferred income taxes

     1,170            1,140      

Other current assets

     566            576      
             

Total current assets

     12,945            11,889      

Film and television costs

     5,246            5,125      

Investments

     2,578            2,554      

Parks, resorts and other property, at cost

     

Attractions, buildings and equipment

     32,562            32,475      

Accumulated depreciation

     (17,718)           (17,395)     
             
     14,844            15,080      

Projects in progress

     1,425            1,350      

Land

     1,165            1,167      
             

Parks, resorts and other property, net

     17,434            17,597      

Intangible assets, net

     5,371            2,247      

Goodwill

     23,794            21,683      

Other assets

     1,946            2,022      
             

Total assets

       $ 69,314              $ 63,117      
             
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY      

Current liabilities

     

Accounts payable and other accrued liabilities

       $ 6,684              $ 5,616      

Current portion of borrowings

     2,642            1,206      

Unearned royalties and other advances

     2,341            2,112      
             

Total current liabilities

     11,667            8,934      

Borrowings

     11,189            11,495      

Deferred income taxes

     2,958            1,819      

Other long-term liabilities

     5,542            5,444      

Commitments and contingencies

     

Disney Shareholders’ equity

     

Preferred stock, $.01 par value

     

Authorized – 100 million shares, Issued – none

     —            —      

Common stock, $.01 par value

     

Authorized – 3.6 billion shares, Issued – 2.6 billion shares

     27,571            27,038      

Retained earnings

     31,225            31,033      

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

     (1,597)           (1,644)     
             
     57,199            56,427      

Treasury stock, at cost, 724.1 million shares at January 2, 2010 and 781.7 million shares at October 3, 2009

     (21,019)           (22,693)     
             

Total Disney Shareholders’ equity

     36,180            33,734      

Noncontrolling interests

     1,778            1,691      
             

Total equity

     37,958            35,425      
             

Total liabilities and equity

       $ 69,314              $ 63,117      
             

See Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

3


THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(unaudited; in millions)

 

     Quarter Ended
           January 2,      
2010
       December 27,    
2008
OPERATING ACTIVITIES      

Net income

     $ 844          $ 851    

Depreciation and amortization

     423          396    

Gain on sale of equity investment

     (27)         (114)   

Deferred income taxes

     (6)         (24)   

Equity in the income of investees

     (89)         (147)   

Cash distributions received from equity investees

     92          87    

Net change in film and television costs

     36          (245)   

Equity-based compensation

     135          114    

Impairment charges

     39          —    

Other

     (70)         31    

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

     

Receivables

     (1,100)         (779)   

Inventories

     87          (18)   

Other assets

     102          16    

Accounts payable and other accrued liabilities

     56          (325)   

Income taxes

     393          419    
             

Cash provided by operations

     915          262    
             
INVESTING ACTIVITIES      

Investments in parks, resorts and other property

     (307)         (291)   

Proceeds from sale of equity investments

     37          185    

Acquisitions

     (2,254)         (145)   

Other

     (16)         3    
             

Cash used in investing activities

     (2,540)         (248)   
             
FINANCING ACTIVITIES      

Commercial paper borrowings, net

     1,297          687    

Borrowings

     —          1,096    

Reduction of borrowings

     (79)         (579)   

Repurchases of common stock

     (25)         (104)   

Other

     219          (320)   
             

Cash provided by financing activities

     1,412          780    
             

(Decrease)/increase in cash and cash equivalents

     (213)         794    

Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period

     3,417          3,001    
             

Cash and cash equivalents, end of period

     $ 3,204          $ 3,795    
             

See Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

4


THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EQUITY

(unaudited; in millions)

 

    Quarter Ended
January 2, 2010
  Quarter Ended
December 27, 2008
    Disney
    Shareholders    
  Non-
controlling
    Interests    
  Total
      Equity      
  Disney
    Shareholders    
  Non-
controlling
    Interests    
  Total
      Equity      

Beginning Balance

    $ 33,734         $ 1,691         $ 35,425         $ 32,323         $ 1,344         $ 33,667    

Net income

    844         —          844         845         6         851    

Other comprehensive income:

           

Market value adjustments for hedges and investments

    16         —          16         91         —          91    

Pension and postretirement medical adjustments

    27         —          27         (1)        —          (1)   

Foreign currency translation and other

    4         (3)        1         (32)        (4)        (36)   
                                   

Other comprehensive income

    47         (3)        44         58         (4)        54    
                                   

Comprehensive income

    891         (3)        888         903         2         905    

Equity compensation activity

    344         —          344         115         —          115    

Dividends

    (653)        —          (653)        (648)        —          (648)   

Common stock repurchases

    (25)        —          (25)        (104)        —          (104)   

Acquisition of Jetix

    —          —          —          —          (84)        (84)   

Acquisition of Marvel

    1,887         83         1,970         —          —          —     

Adoption of new pension and postretirement medical plan measurement date (net of tax of $37 million)

    —          —          —          65         —          65    

Other

    2         7         9         1         (2)        (1)   
                                   

Ending Balance

    $ 36,180         $ 1,778         $ 37,958         $ 32,655         $ 1,260         $ 33,915    
                                   

See Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

5


THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited; tabular dollars in millions, except for per share data)

 

1.   Principles of Consolidation

These Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAP) for interim financial information and the instructions to Rule 10-01 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by GAAP for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, we believe that we have included normal recurring adjustments necessary for a fair statement of the results for the interim period. Operating results for the quarter ended January 2, 2010 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending October 2, 2010. Certain reclassifications have been made in the prior year financial statements to conform to the current year presentation.

The Company evaluated subsequent events through February 9, 2010. These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the financial statements included in the Company’s 2009 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

In December 1999, DVD Financing, Inc. (DFI), a subsidiary of Disney Vacation Development, Inc. and an indirect subsidiary of the Company, completed a receivables sale transaction that established a facility that permitted DFI to sell receivables arising from the sale of vacation club memberships on a periodic basis. In connection with this facility, DFI prepares separate financial statements, although its separate assets and liabilities are also consolidated in these financial statements. DFI’s ability to sell new receivables under this facility ended on December 4, 2008. (See Note 13 for further discussion of this facility)

The terms “Company,” “we,” “us,” and “our” are used in this report to refer collectively to the parent company and the subsidiaries through which our various businesses are actually conducted.

 

2.   Segment Information

The operating segments reported below are the segments of the Company for which separate financial information is available and for which segment results are evaluated regularly by the Chief Executive Officer in deciding how to allocate resources and in assessing performance. The Company reports the performance of its operating segments including equity in the income of investees, which consists primarily of cable businesses included in the Media Networks segment.

 

6


THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited; tabular dollars in millions, except for per share data)

 

     Quarter Ended
         January 2,    
2010
       December 27,    
2008

Revenues (1):

     

Media Networks

     $     4,175          $     3,903    

Parks and Resorts

     2,662          2,665    

Studio Entertainment

     1,935          1,945    

Consumer Products

     746          773    

Interactive Media

     221          313    
             
     $     9,739          $     9,599    
             

Segment operating income (loss) (1):

     

Media Networks

     $     724          $     655    

Parks and Resorts

     375          382    

Studio Entertainment

     243          187    

Consumer Products

     243          265    

Interactive Media

     (10)         (45)   
             
     $     1,575          $     1,444    
             

 

(1)

Studio Entertainment segment revenues and operating income include an allocation of Consumer Products and Interactive Media revenues, which is meant to reflect royalties on sales of merchandise based on certain Studio film properties. The increases/(decreases) related to these allocations on segment revenues and operating income as reported in the above table are as follows:

 

     Quarter Ended
         January 2, 2010            December 27, 2008    

Studio Entertainment

     $     40          $     52    

Consumer Products

     (38)         (43)   

Interactive Media

     (2)         (9)   
             
     $     —          $     —    
             

A reconciliation of segment operating income to income before income taxes is as follows:

 

     Quarter Ended
       January 2,  
2010
     December 27,  
2008

Segment operating income

     $     1,575         $     1,444   

Corporate and unallocated shared expenses

     (72)        (80)  

Restructuring and impairment charges

     (105)        —   

Other income

     27         114   

Net interest expense

     (103)        (139)  
             

Income before income taxes

     $     1,322         $     1,339   
             

 

7


THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited; tabular dollars in millions, except for per share data)

 

3.   Acquisitions

Marvel

On December 31, 2009 (the “Closing Date”), the Company completed a cash and stock acquisition for the outstanding capital stock of Marvel Entertainment, Inc. (“Marvel”), a character-based entertainment company. Disney believes that this acquisition is consistent with the company’s strategic value creation through utilization of intellectual properties across Disney’s multiple platforms and territories.

The acquisition purchase price totaled $4.2 billion. In accordance with the terms of the acquisition, Marvel shareholders received $30 per share in cash and 0.7452 Disney shares for each Marvel share they owned. In total, the Company paid $2.4 billion in cash and distributed shares valued at $1.9 billion (approximately 59 million shares of Disney common stock at a price of $32.25).

The Company is required to allocate the purchase price to tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their fair values. The excess of the purchase price over those fair values is recorded as goodwill. The Company is in the process of finalizing the valuation of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed and therefore, the fair values set forth below are subject to adjustment once the valuations are completed.

The following table summarizes our initial allocation of the purchase price:

 

       Estimated Fair  
Value

Cash and cash equivalents

     $ 105    

Accounts receivable and other assets

     141    

Film costs

     269    

Intangible assets

     3,140    

Goodwill

     2,115    
      

Total assets acquired

     5,770    

Accounts payable and other liabilities

     (325)   

Deferred income taxes

     (1,121)   
      

Total liabilities assumed

     (1,446)   

Noncontrolling interests

     (83)   
      
     $ 4,241    
      

Intangible assets primarily consist of character-based intellectual property with an estimated useful life of approximately 40 years.

The goodwill reflects the value to Disney from leveraging Marvel intellectual property across our distribution channels, taking advantage of Disney’s established global reach. The goodwill recorded as part of this acquisition is not amortizable for tax purposes.

Jetix Europe

In December 2008, the Company acquired an additional 26% interest in Jetix Europe N.V., a publicly traded pan-European kids’ entertainment company, for approximately $354 million (bringing our total ownership interest to over 99%). The Company intends to acquire the remaining outstanding shares through statutory buy-out proceedings.

 

8


THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited; tabular dollars in millions, except for per share data)

 

UTV

On May 9, 2008, the Company acquired a 24% interest (bringing its undiluted interest to 37%) in UTV Software Communications Limited (UTV), a media company headquartered and publicly traded in India, for approximately $197 million. In accordance with Indian securities regulations, the Company was required to make an open tender offer to purchase up to an additional 23% of UTV’s publicly traded voting shares for a price equivalent to the May 9th, 2008 Indian rupee purchase price. In November 2008, the Company completed the open offer and acquired an incremental 23% of UTV’s voting shares for approximately $138 million bringing its undiluted interest to 60%. Due to the change in the exchange rate between the US dollar and the Indian rupee from May to November, the US dollar price per share was lower in November than in May. UTV’s founder has a four-year option which expires in November 2012 to buy all or a portion of the shares acquired by the Company during the open-offer period at a price no less than the Company’s open-offer price. If the trading price upon exercise of the option exceeds the price paid by the Company, then the option price is capped at the Company’s open-offer price plus a 10% annual return. The Company does not have the right to vote the shares subject to the option until the expiration of the option and accordingly the Company’s ownership interest in voting shares is 48%. In addition to the acquisition of UTV, on August 5, 2008, the Company invested $28 million in a UTV subsidiary, UTV Global Broadcasting Limited (along with UTV, the “UTV Group”). The Company’s investment in the UTV Group is accounted for under the equity method.

In fiscal 2009, the Company recorded non-cash impairment charges totaling $65 million, based on the Company’s internal valuation of the UTV business, which was estimated using a discounted cash flow model. The Company’s carrying value of its investment in the UTV Group of $296 million continues to exceed the current trading value, and, accordingly, the Company will continue to monitor its investment in the UTV Group.

In January 2010, UTV issued additional stock in exchange for the outstanding noncontrolling interest of one of its subsidiaries diluting the Company’s direct interest in UTV to 50% (39% voting interest) while increasing the indirect interest in the subsidiary. In addition, UTV has recently announced that it is considering raising additional capital which could consist of equity shares of UTV stock, debentures or foreign currency convertible bonds. If UTV issued additional shares, depending upon the price of the issuance, an incremental impairment of our investment in the UTV Group could be required.

Goodwill

The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the quarter ended January 2, 2010 are as follow:

 

     Media
  Networks  
     Parks and  
Resorts
   Studio
  Entertainment  
     Consumer  
Products
     Interactive  
Media
     Unallocated        Total  

Goodwill

     $ 15,744         $ 172         $ 4,737         $ 422         $ 637         $ —         $ 21,712   

Accumulated Impairments

     —         —         —         —         (29)        —         (29)  
                                                

Balance at Oct. 3, 2009

     15,744         172         4,737         422         608         —         21,683   

Acquisition

     —         —         —         —         —         2,115         2,115   

Other, net

     2         —         (6)        —         —         —         (4)  
                                                

Balance at Jan. 2, 2010

     $ 15,746         $ 172         $ 4,731         $ 422         $ 608         $ 2,115         $ 23,794   
                                                

 

9


THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited; tabular dollars in millions, except for per share data)

 

During the quarter ended January 2, 2010, the Company completed the acquisition of Marvel resulting in $2,115 million of goodwill. The Company is in the process of allocating the goodwill to its operating segments. See discussion above on the Marvel acquisition.

Intangibles

The Company’s intangible assets are as follows:

 

       January 2,  
2010
     October 3,  
2009

Copyrights and other character intangibles

     $ 3,381         $ 358   

Other amortizable intangible assets

     296         296   

Accumulated amortization

     (262)        (249)  
             

Net amortizable intangible assets

     3,415         405   
             

FCC licenses

     717         713   

Trademarks

     1,219         1,109   

Other indefinite lived intangible assets

     20         20   
             

Total intangible assets

     $ 5,371       $ 2,247   
             

Amortization expense was $13 million and $13 million for the quarters ended January 2, 2010 and December 27, 2008, respectively. As a result of the acquisition of Marvel, amortizable intangible assets increased by $3.0 billion. The Company expects its aggregate annual amortization expense for existing amortizable intangible assets for each fiscal year, 2010 through 2014, to be as follows:

 

    2010    

  

    2011    

  

    2012    

  

    2013    

  

    2014    

    $    106    

       $    120            $    117            $    109            $    106    

Amortizable intangible assets are generally amortized on a straight-line basis over 40 years. The costs to periodically renew our intangible assets are expensed as incurred. The Company has determined that there are currently no legal, competitive, economic or other factors that limit the useful life of our FCC licenses and trademarks.

 

4.   Dispositions and Other Income

On November 25, 2009, the Company sold its investment in a television service in Europe for $37 million, resulting in a pre-tax gain of $27 million which is reported in “Other income” in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income.

On December 22, 2008, the Company sold its investment in two pay television services in Latin America, for approximately $185 million, resulting in a pre-tax gain of $114 million reported in “Other income” in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income.

 

10


THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited; tabular dollars in millions, except for per share data)

 

5.   Borrowings

During the quarter ended January 2, 2010, the Company’s borrowing activity was as follows:

 

       October 3,  
2009
     Additions          Payments        Other
    Activity    
       January 2,    
2010

Commercial paper borrowings

       $ —        $ 1,297        $ —          $ —            $ 1,297    

U.S. medium-term notes

     7,618        —        —          1          7,619    

European medium-term notes

     347        —        —          (7)         340    

Other foreign currency denominated debt

     904        —        —          (11)         893    

Capital Cities/ABC debt

     116        —        —          —          116    

Film financing

     350        —        (46)         5          309    

Other (1)

     498        —        —          (48)         450    

Euro Disney borrowings

     2,344        —        (33)         (24)         2,287    

Hong Kong Disneyland borrowings

     524        —        —          (4)         520    
                                  

Total

       $     12,701        $     1,297        $ (79)         $     (88)           $     13,831    
                                  

 

(1)

The other activity is primarily market value adjustments for debt with qualifying hedges

 

6.   Euro Disney and Hong Kong Disneyland

The Company has a 51% effective ownership interest in the operations of Euro Disney and a 47% ownership interest in the operations of Hong Kong Disneyland which are both consolidated in the Company’s financial statements.

The following table presents a condensed consolidating balance sheet for the Company as of January 2, 2010, reflecting the impact of consolidating the balance sheets of Euro Disney and Hong Kong Disneyland.

 

     Before Euro
Disney and
Hong Kong
Disneyland
      Consolidation      
   Euro Disney,
Hong Kong
    Disneyland and    
Adjustments
           Total        

Cash and cash equivalents

     $ 2,677              $ 527              $ 3,204    

Other current assets

     9,500              241              9,741    
                    

Total current assets

     12,177              768              12,945    

Investments

     3,586              (1,008)             2,578    

Fixed assets

     13,013              4,421              17,434    

Other assets

     36,294              63              36,357    
                    

Total assets

     $     65,070              $ 4,244              $ 69,314    
                    

Current portion of borrowings

     $ 2,513              $ 129              $ 2,642    

Other current liabilities

     8,551              474              9,025    
                    

Total current liabilities

     11,064              603              11,667    

Borrowings

     8,511              2,678              11,189    

Deferred income taxes and other long-term liabilities

     8,328              172              8,500    

Equity

     37,167              791              37,958    
                    

Total liabilities and equity

     $ 65,070              $     4,244              $     69,314    
                    

 

11


THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited; tabular dollars in millions, except for per share data)

 

The following table presents a condensed consolidating income statement of the Company for the quarter ended January 2, 2010, reflecting the impact of consolidating the income statements of Euro Disney and Hong Kong Disneyland.

 

     Before Euro
Disney and
Hong Kong
Disneyland
      Consolidation      
   Euro Disney,
Hong Kong
    Disneyland and    
Adjustments
           Total        

Revenues

     $ 9,212              $     527              $ 9,739    

Cost and expenses

     (7,801)             (524)             (8,325)   

Restructuring and impairment charges

     (105)             —              (105)   

Other income

     27              —              27    

Net interest expense

     (73)             (30)             (103)   

Equity in the income of investees

     76              13              89    
                    

Income before income taxes

     1,336              (14)             1,322    

Income taxes

     (478)             —              (478)   
                    

Net income

     $ 858              $ (14)             $ 844    
                    

The following table presents a condensed consolidating cash flow statement of the Company for the quarter ended January 2, 2010, reflecting the impact of consolidating the cash flow statements of Euro Disney and Hong Kong Disneyland.

 

     Before Euro
Disney and
Hong Kong
Disneyland
      Consolidation      
       Euro Disney,    
Hong Kong
Disneyland

and
Adjustments
           Total        

Cash provided (used) by operations

     $ 931              $ (16)           $ 915    

Investments in parks, resorts and other property

     (271)             (36)             (307)   

Other investing activities

     (2,239)             6              (2,233)   

Cash provided (used) by financing activities

     1,445                  (33)             1,412    
                    

Increase / (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

     (134)             (79)             (213)   

Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period

     2,811              606              3,417    
                    

Cash and cash equivalents, end of period

     $     2,677              $ 527              $ 3,204    
                    

 

12


THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited; tabular dollars in millions, except for per share data)

 

7.    Pension and Other Benefit Programs

The components of net periodic benefit cost for the quarters ended January 2, 2010 and December 27, 2008 are as follows:

 

     Pension Plans    Postretirement Medical Plans
         January 2,    
2010
       December 27,    
2008
       January 2,    
2010
       December 27,    
2008

Service cost

     $ 66          $ 42          $ 5          $ 4    

Interest cost

     99          90          17          18    

Expected return on plan assets

         (104)             (93)             (6)             (6)   

Amortization of prior year service costs

     3          3          —           (1)   

Recognized net actuarial (gain) loss

     39          (2)         2          (2)   
                           

Net periodic benefit cost

     $ 103          $ 40          $ 18          $ 13    
                           

During the quarter ended January 2, 2010, the Company did not make any material contributions to its pension and postretirement medical plans. The Company expects pension and postretirement medical plan contributions in fiscal 2010 to range from $350 million to $450 million including discretionary contributions above the minimum requirements. Final minimum funding requirements for fiscal 2010 will be determined based on our January 1, 2010 funding actuarial valuation which will be available late in fiscal 2010.

 

8.    Earnings Per Share

Diluted earnings per share amounts are based upon the weighted average number of common and common equivalent shares outstanding during the period and are calculated using the treasury stock method for equity-based compensation awards. Options excluded from the diluted earnings per share calculation as they were anti-dilutive were 74 million and 138 million shares for the quarters ended January 2, 2010 and December 27, 2008, respectively. A reconciliation of the weighted average number of common and common equivalent shares outstanding is as follows:

 

     Quarter Ended
         January 2,    
2010
       December 27,    
2008

Shares (in millions):

     

Weighted average number of common shares outstanding (basic)

       1,867            1,852    

Weighted average dilutive impact of equity-based compensation awards

   36        20    
         

Weighted average number of common and common equivalent shares outstanding (diluted)

       1,903            1,872    
         

 

13


THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited; tabular dollars in millions, except for per share data)

 

9.   Equity

On December 2, 2009, the Company declared a $653 million dividend ($0.35 per share) related to fiscal 2009 for shareholders of record on December 14, 2009, which was paid on January 19, 2010. On December 3, 2008, the Company declared a $648 million dividend ($0.35 per share) related to fiscal 2008 for shareholders of record on December 15, 2008, which was paid on January 20, 2009.

During the quarter ended January 2, 2010, the Company repurchased approximately 1 million shares for $25 million. As of January 2, 2010, the Company had remaining authorization in place to repurchase approximately 178 million additional shares. The repurchase program does not have an expiration date.

The Company also has 1.0 billion shares of Internet Group Stock at $.01 par value authorized. No shares are issued or outstanding.

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax, is as follows:

 

         January 2,      
2010
       October 3,    
2009

Market value adjustments for investments and hedges

     $ 34          $ 18    

Foreign currency translation and other

     109          105    

Unrecognized pension and postretirement medical expense

     (1,740)             (1,767)   
             

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (1)

     $ (1,597)         $ (1,644)   
             

 

(1)

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) and components of other comprehensive income (loss) are recorded net of tax using a 37% estimated statutory tax rate

 

10.   Equity-Based Compensation

The amount of compensation expense related to stock options and restricted stock units (RSUs) is as follows:

 

     Quarter Ended
         January 2,    
2010
       December 27,    
2008

Stock options

       $ 67            $ 62    

RSUs

     68          52    
             

Total equity-based compensation expense

       $ 135            $ 114    
             

Unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested stock options and RSUs totaled approximately $262 million and $374 million, respectively, as of January 2, 2010.

In January 2010, the Company made stock compensation grants, which included its regular annual grant, consisting of 11.5 million stock options and 13.4 million RSUs, of which 0.4 million RSUs included market and/or performance conditions.

 

14


THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited; tabular dollars in millions, except for per share data)

 

The weighted average grant date fair values of options issued during the quarters ended January 2, 2010, and December 27, 2008, were $8.00 and $7.80, respectively.

 

11.   Commitments and Contingencies

Legal Matters

The Company, together with, in some instances, certain of its directors and officers, is a defendant or codefendant in various legal actions involving copyright, breach of contract and various other claims incident to the conduct of its businesses. Management does not expect the Company to suffer any material liability by reason of such actions.

Contractual Guarantees

The Company has guaranteed bond issuances by the Anaheim Public Authority that were used by the City of Anaheim to finance construction of infrastructure and a public parking facility adjacent to the Disneyland Resort. Revenues from sales, occupancy and property taxes from the Disneyland Resort and non-Disney hotels are used by the City of Anaheim to repay the bonds. In the event of a debt service shortfall, the Company will be responsible to fund the shortfall. As of January 2, 2010, the remaining debt service obligation guaranteed by the Company was $373 million, of which $192 million was principal. To the extent that tax revenues exceed the debt service payments in subsequent periods, the Company would be reimbursed for any previously funded shortfalls. To date, tax revenues have exceeded the debt service payments for Anaheim bonds.

ESPN STAR Sports, a joint-venture in which ESPN owns a 50% equity interest, has an agreement for global programming rights to International Cricket Council Events from 2007 through 2015. Under the terms of the agreement, ESPN and the other joint-venture partner have jointly guaranteed the programming rights obligation of approximately $0.9 billion over the remaining term of the agreement.

Accounts Receivable Risk

In light of the recent turmoil in the domestic and global economy, our estimates and judgments with respect to the collectibility of our receivables have become subject to greater uncertainty than in more stable periods.

Income Taxes

The Company has a number of refund claims pending before various state taxing authorities. During the next 12 months it is reasonably possible that some portion of these claims will be settled and that our unrecognized tax benefits may change for fiscal year 2000 through fiscal year 2007 by approximately $55 million to $75 million.

 

12.   New Accounting Pronouncements

Revenue Arrangements with Multiple Deliverables

In October 2009, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued guidance on revenue arrangements with multiple deliverables effective for the Company’s 2011 fiscal year, although early adoption is permitted. The guidance revises the criteria for separating, measuring, and allocating arrangement consideration to each deliverable in a multiple element arrangement. The guidance requires companies to allocate revenue using the relative selling price of each deliverable, which must be estimated if the Company does not have a history of selling the deliverable on a stand-alone basis or third-party evidence of selling price. The Company is assessing the potential effect of this guidance on its financial statements.

 

15


THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited; tabular dollars in millions, except for per share data)

 

Variable Interest Entities

In June 2009, the FASB issued guidance to revise the approach to determine when a variable interest entity (VIE) should be consolidated. The new consolidation model for VIEs considers whether the Company has the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the VIE’s economic performance and shares in the significant risks and rewards of the entity. The guidance on VIE’s requires companies to continually reassess VIEs to determine if consolidation is appropriate and provide additional disclosures. The guidance is effective for the Company’s 2011 fiscal year. The Company is assessing the potential effect this guidance will have on its financial statements.

Collaborative Arrangements

In December 2007, the FASB issued guidance that defines collaborative arrangements and establishes accounting and reporting requirements for such arrangements. A collaborative arrangement is a contractual arrangement that involves a joint operating activity, for example an agreement to co-produce and distribute a motion picture with another studio. The Company adopted the provisions of this collaborative arrangement guidance at the beginning of fiscal year 2010. The adoption did not have a material impact on the Company’s financial statements.

Business Combinations

In December 2007, the FASB issued guidance that establishes principles and requirements for determining how a company recognizes and measures the fair value of certain assets and liabilities acquired in a business combination, including noncontrolling interests, contingent consideration, and certain acquired contingencies. The guidance on business combinations also requires acquisition-related transaction expenses and restructuring costs be expensed as incurred rather than capitalized. The Company adopted the provisions of this business combination guidance and applied the guidance prospectively beginning fiscal year 2010.

Noncontrolling Interests

In December 2007, the FASB issued guidance on the accounting and reporting for a noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary which requires that noncontrolling interests be reported as a separate component of shareholders’ equity and that net income attributable to the noncontrolling interests and net income attributable to the shareholders of the Company be presented separately in the consolidated statement of income. The Company adopted the provisions of this noncontrolling interest guidance at the beginning of fiscal year 2010.

 

13.   Fair Value Measurements

Fair value is defined as the amount that would be received for selling an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants. Assets and liabilities carried at fair value are classified in the following categories:

 

   

Level 1 – Quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets

 

   

Level 2 – Quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active, and model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs and significant value drivers are observable in active markets

 

16


THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited; tabular dollars in millions, except for per share data)

 

   

Level 3 – Valuations derived from valuation techniques in which one or more significant inputs or significant value drivers are unobservable

The Company’s assets and liabilities measured at gross fair value on a recurring basis as of January 2, 2010 are summarized by level in the following table:

 

         Level 1            Level 2            Level 3                Total        

Assets

           

Investments

     $     11          $ 68          $ 2          $ 81    

Derivatives (1)

     —          480          —          480    

Residual Interests

           56          56    

Liabilities

           

Derivatives (1)

     —          (213)         —          (213)   

Other

     —          —          (13)         (13)   
                           

Total

     $ 11          $     335          $     45          $     391    
                           

 

(1)

The Company has a master netting arrangement by counterparty with respect to certain derivative contracts. Contracts in a liability position totaling $153 million have been netted against contracts in an asset position in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet

The fair value of Level 2 investments are primarily determined by reference to market prices based on recent trading activity and other relevant information including pricing for similar securities as determined by third-party pricing services.

The fair values of Level 2 derivatives, which consist of interest rate and foreign currency hedges, are primarily determined based on the present value of future cash flows using internal models that use observable inputs such as interest rates, yield curves and foreign currency exchange rates. Counterparty credit risk, which is mitigated by master netting agreements and collateral posting arrangements with certain counterparties, did not have a material impact on derivative fair value estimates.

Level 3 residual interests consist of our residual interests in securitized vacation ownership mortgage receivables and are valued using a discounted cash flow model that considers estimated interest rates, discount rates, prepayment, and defaults. There were no material changes in the residual interests in the first quarter of fiscal 2010.

Transfers of Financial Assets

Through December 4, 2008, the Company sold mortgage receivables arising from the sales of its vacation ownership units under a facility that expired on December 4, 2008 and was not renewed. The Company sold $17 million of mortgage receivables during the three months ended December 27, 2008 which resulted in immaterial gains.

The Company continues to service the sold receivables and has a residual interest in those receivables. As of January 2, 2010, the outstanding principal amount for sold mortgage receivables was $377 million, and the carrying value of the Company’s residual interest, which is recorded in other long-term assets, was $56 million.

The Company repurchases defaulted mortgage receivables at their outstanding balance. The Company did not make material repurchases in the quarters ended January 2, 2010 or December 27, 2008. The Company generally has been able to sell the repurchased vacation ownership units for amounts that exceed the amounts at which they were repurchased.

 

17


THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited; tabular dollars in millions, except for per share data)

 

The Company also provides credit support for up to 70% of the outstanding balance of the sold mortgage receivables which the mortgage receivable acquirer may draw on in the event of losses under the facility. The Company maintains a reserve for estimated credit losses related to these receivables.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

In addition to the financial instruments listed above, the Company’s financial instruments also include cash, cash equivalents, receivables, accounts payable and borrowings.

The fair values of cash and cash equivalents, receivables and accounts payable approximated the carrying values. The estimated fair values of other financial instruments subject to fair value disclosures, determined based on broker quotes or quoted market prices or interest rates for the same or similar instruments and the related carrying amounts are as follows:

 

     January 2, 2010    October 3, 2009

Asset/(Liability)

       Carrying    
Amount
       Fair    
Value
       Carrying    
Amount
       Fair    
Value

Investments

     $            81        $            81        $            78        $            78    

Borrowings

   (13,831)       (13,653)       (12,701)       (12,643)   

Derivative contracts

   267        267        252        252    

 

14.    Derivative Instruments

The Company manages its exposure to various risks relating to its ongoing business operations according to a risk management policy. The primary risks managed with derivative instruments are interest rate risk and foreign exchange risk.

The following table summarizes the gross fair value of the Company’s derivative positions as of January 2, 2010:

 

         Current    
Assets
       Other    
Assets
   Other
Accrued
    Liabilities    
   Other
    Long-Term    
Liabilities

Derivatives designated as hedges

     $     84          $     234          $     (105)         $     (31)   

Derivatives not designated as hedges

     63          99          (35)         (42)   
                           

Gross fair value of derivatives

     147          333          (140)         (73)   

Counterparty netting

     (108)         (45)         102          51    
                           

Total Derivatives (1)

     $ 39          $     288          $ (38)         $ (22)   
                           

 

18


The following table summarizes the gross fair value of the Company’s derivative positions as of October 3, 2009:

 

         Current    
Assets
       Other    
Assets
   Other
Accrued
    Liabilities    
   Other
    Long-Term    
Liabilities

Derivatives designated as hedges

     $     88          $ 297          $     (115)         $     (55)   

Derivatives not designated as hedges

     37          127          (72)         (55)   
                           

Gross fair value of derivatives

     125          424          (187)         (110)   

Counterparty netting

     (98)         (72)         103          67    
                           

Total Derivatives (1)

     $ 27          $     352          $ (84)         $ (43)   
                           

 

(1)

Refer to Note 13 for further information on derivative fair values and counterparty netting.

Interest Rate Risk Management

The Company is exposed to the impact of interest rate changes primarily through its borrowing activities. The Company’s objective is to mitigate the impact of interest rate changes on earnings and cash flows and on the market value of its investments and borrowings. In accordance with its policy, the Company targets its fixed-rate debt as a percentage of its net debt between a minimum and maximum percentage. The Company typically uses pay-floating and pay-fixed interest rate swaps to facilitate its interest rate management activities.

The Company designates pay-floating interest rate swaps as fair value hedges of fixed-rate borrowings effectively converting fixed-rate borrowings to variable rate borrowings indexed to LIBOR. As of both January 2, 2010 and October 3, 2009, the total notional amount of the Company’s pay-floating interest rate swaps was $1.6 billion. During the first quarter of fiscal 2010, $43 million in losses from mark to market adjustments on pay-floating swaps and an offsetting $43 million in gains from mark to market adjustments on hedged borrowings were included in net interest expense in the Consolidated Statement of Income.

The Company designates pay-fixed interest rate swaps as cash flow hedges of interest payments on floating-rate borrowings. Pay-fixed swaps effectively convert floating rate borrowings to fixed-rate borrowings. The unrealized gains or losses from these cash flow hedges are deferred in accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI) and recognized in interest expense as the interest payments occur. The notional amount of these contracts at January 2, 2010 and October 3, 2009 and the gains or losses recognized in income for the first quarter of fiscal 2010 were not material.

Foreign Exchange Risk Management

The Company transacts business globally and is subject to risks associated with changing foreign currency exchange rates. The Company’s objective is to reduce earnings and cash flow fluctuations associated with foreign currency exchange rate changes enabling management to focus on core business issues and challenges.

The Company enters into option and forward contracts that change in value as foreign currency exchange rates change to protect the value of its existing foreign currency assets, liabilities, firm commitments and forecasted but not firmly committed foreign currency transactions. In accordance with policy, the Company hedges its forecasted foreign currency transactions for periods generally not to exceed five years within an established minimum and maximum range of annual exposure. The gains and losses on these contracts offset changes in the U.S. dollar equivalent value of the related forecasted transaction, asset, liability or firm commitment. The principal currencies hedged are the Euro, British pound, Japanese yen and Canadian dollar. Cross-currency swaps are used to effectively convert foreign currency-denominated borrowings into U.S. dollar denominated borrowings.

 

19


THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited; tabular dollars in millions, except for per share data)

 

The Company designates foreign exchange forward and option contracts as cash flow hedges of firmly committed and forecasted foreign currency transactions. As of January 2, 2010 and October 3, 2009, the total notional amount of the Company’s net foreign exchange cash flow hedges was $2.8 billion and $2.8 billion, respectively. Mark to market gains and losses on these contracts are deferred in AOCI and are recognized in earnings when the hedged transactions occur, offsetting changes in the value of the foreign currency transactions. The Company recognized losses of $14 million in AOCI on foreign exchange contracts designated as cash flow hedges for the quarter ended January 2, 2010. Losses of $27 million were reclassified from AOCI into revenue and costs and expenses for the first quarter of fiscal 2010. Gains and losses recognized related to ineffectiveness for the quarter ended January 2, 2010 were not material.

Foreign exchange risk management contracts with respect to foreign currency assets and liabilities are not designated as hedges and do not qualify for hedge accounting. The notional amount of these foreign exchange contracts at January 2, 2010 and October 3, 2009 was $2.4 billion and $2.1 billion, respectively. For the quarter ended January 2, 2010, the net loss recognized on these foreign exchange contracts was not material.

Risk Management – Other Derivatives Not Designated as Hedges

The Company enters into certain other risk management contracts that are not designated as hedges and do not qualify for hedge accounting. These contracts, which include pay fixed interest rate swaps and commodity swap contracts, are intended to offset economic exposures of the Company and are carried at market value with any changes in value recorded in earnings.

The notional amount of these contracts at January 2, 2010 and October 3, 2009 was $249 million and $253 million, respectively. The gains or losses recognized in income for the first quarter of fiscal 2010 were not material.

Contingent Features

The Company’s derivative financial instruments may require the Company to post collateral in the event that a net liability position with a counterparty exceeds limits defined by contract and varying with Disney’s credit rating. If the Company’s credit ratings were to fall below investment grade, certain counterparties would have the right to terminate our derivative contracts, which could lead to a net payment to or from the Company for the aggregate net value by counterparty of our derivative contracts. The aggregate fair value of all derivative instruments with credit-risk-related contingent features that are in a net liability position by counterparty on January 2, 2010 and October 3, 2009 was not material.

 

15.   Restructuring and Impairment Charges

The Company recorded charges totaling $105 million in the current quarter primarily related to various organizational and cost structure initiatives at our Media Networks and Studio Entertainment segments including actions taken by new Studio segment leadership. Restructuring charges of $66 million were primarily severance and related costs while impairment charges of $39 million consisted of write-offs of capitalized costs related to abandoned film projects.

 

20


MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF

FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Item 2: Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

ORGANIZATION OF INFORMATION

Management’s Discussion and Analysis provides a narrative of the Company’s financial performance and condition that should be read in conjunction with the accompanying financial statements. It includes the following sections:

Overview

Seasonality

Business Segment Results

Other Financial Information

Financial Condition

Commitments and Contingencies

Other Matters

Market Risk

OVERVIEW

Our summary consolidated results are presented below:

 

     Quarter Ended        % Change  
Better/
(Worse)
(in millions, except per share data)      January 2,  
2010
     December 27,  
2008
    

Revenues

     $ 9,739           $ 9,599           1   %    

Costs and expenses

     (8,325)          (8,382)          1   %    

Restructuring and impairment charges

     (105)          —           nm           

Other income

     27           114           (76)  %    

Net interest expense

     (103)          (139)          26   %    

Equity in the income of investees

     89           147           (39)  %    
                  

Income before income taxes

     1,322           1,339           (1)  %    

Income taxes

     (478)          (488)          2   %    
                  

Net income

     844           851           (1)  %    

Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

     —           (6)          nm           
                  

Net income attributable to Disney

     $ 844           $ 845           —   %    
                  

Diluted earnings per share attributable to Disney

     $ 0.44           $ 0.45           (2)  %    
                  

Quarter Results

Diluted earnings per share (EPS) decreased 2% for the quarter as improved operating results were more than offset by a $0.07 per share net year over year adverse impact of restructuring and impairment charges and investment sale gains which is discussed in the following paragraph. Segment operating income growth reflected the benefit of contractual rate increases and subscriber growth on fees from Multi-channel Video Service Providers (MVSP) (Affiliate Fees) primarily at ESPN and the worldwide Disney Channel, lower distribution and marketing costs, production cost amortization and participation expense at domestic home entertainment, increased attendance at our domestic parks and lower bad debt expense at Media Networks. These increases were partially offset by higher programming and production costs at ESPN, lower guest spending at the domestic parks and resorts and decreased attendance and hotel occupancy at Disneyland Paris.

 

21


MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF

FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS – (continued)

 

The current quarter included restructuring and impairment charges and a gain on the sale of an interest in a television service in Europe in the current quarter, which together had a net adverse impact of $0.03 per share. The prior-year quarter included a gain on the sale of our investment in two pay television services in Latin America which resulted in a benefit of $0.04 per share.

SEASONALITY

The Company’s businesses are subject to the effects of seasonality. Consequently, the operating results for the quarter ended January 2, 2010 for each business segment, and for the Company as a whole, are not necessarily indicative of results to be expected for the full year.

Media Networks revenues are subject to seasonal advertising patterns and changes in viewership levels. In general, advertising revenues are somewhat higher during the fall and somewhat lower during the summer months. Affiliate revenues are typically collected ratably throughout the year. Certain affiliate revenues at ESPN are deferred until annual programming commitments are met, and these commitments are typically satisfied during the second half of the Company’s fiscal year which generally results in higher revenue recognition during that period.

Parks and Resorts revenues fluctuate with changes in theme park attendance and resort occupancy resulting from the seasonal nature of vacation travel and leisure activities. Peak attendance and resort occupancy generally occur during the summer months when school vacations occur and during early-winter and spring-holiday periods.

Studio Entertainment revenues fluctuate due to the timing and performance of releases in the theatrical, home entertainment, and television markets. Release dates are determined by several factors, including competition and the timing of vacation and holiday periods.

Consumer Products revenues are influenced by seasonal consumer purchasing behavior, which generally results in increased revenues during the Company’s first fiscal quarter, and by the timing and performance of theatrical releases and cable programming broadcasts.

Interactive Media revenues fluctuate due to the timing and performance of video game releases which are determined by several factors, including theatrical releases and cable programming broadcasts, competition and the timing of holiday periods. Revenues from certain of our internet and mobile operations are subject to similar seasonal trends.

 

22


MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF

FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS – (continued)

 

BUSINESS SEGMENT RESULTS

The Company evaluates the performance of its operating segments based on segment operating income, which is shown below along with segment revenues:

 

     Quarter Ended       
(in millions)        January 2,    
2010
       December 27,    
2008
       % Change  
Better /
(Worse)

Revenues:

          

Media Networks

     $     4,175          $     3,903          7   %    

Parks and Resorts

     2,662          2,665          —   %    

Studio Entertainment

     1,935          1,945          (1)  %    

Consumer Products

     746          773          (3)  %    

Interactive Media

     221          313          (29)  %    
                  
     $     9,739          $ 9,599          1   %    
                  

Segment operating income (loss):

          

Media Networks

     $     724          $     655          11   %    

Parks and Resorts

     375          382          (2)  %    

Studio Entertainment

     243          187          30   %    

Consumer Products

     243          265          (8)  %    

Interactive Media

     (10)         (45)         78   %    
                  
     $ 1,575            $ 1,444          9   %    
                  

The following table reconciles segment operating income to income before income taxes:

 

     Quarter Ended     
(in millions)        January 2,    
2010
       December 27,    
2008
     % Change  
Better /
(Worse)

Segment operating income

     $ 1,575          $ 1,444        9   %    

Corporate and unallocated shared expenses

     (72)         (80)       10   %    

Restructuring and impairment charges

     (105)         —        nm           

Other income

     27          114        (76)  %    

Net interest expense

     (103)         (139)       26   %    
                

Income before income taxes

     $ 1,322          $ 1,339        (1)  %    
                

 

23


MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF

FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS – (continued)

 

Depreciation expense is as follows:

 

     Quarter Ended      % Change  
Better /
(Worse)
(in millions)    January 2,
2010
   December 27,
2008
  

Media Networks

        

Cable Networks

     $ 31          $ 24        29   %    

Broadcasting

     23          22        5   %    
                

Total Media Networks

     54          46        17   %    
                

Parks and Resorts

        

Domestic

     211          205        3   %    

International

     88          79        11   %    
                

Total Parks and Resorts

     299          284        5   %    
                

Studio Entertainment

     14          12        17   %    

Consumer Products

     6          6        —   %    

Interactive Media

     7          3        nm           

Corporate

     31          32        (3)  %    
                

Total depreciation expense

     $ 411          $ 383        7   %    
                

Media Networks

The following table provides supplemental revenue and segment operating income detail for the Media Networks segment:

 

     Quarter Ended      % Change  
Better /
(Worse)
(in millions)        January 2,    
2010
       December 27,    
2008
  

Revenues:

        

Cable Networks

     $ 2,654          $ 2,452        8  %    

Broadcasting

     1,521          1,451        5  %    
                
     $ 4,175          $ 3,903        7  %    
                

Segment operating income:

        

Cable Networks

     $ 544          $ 517        5  %    

Broadcasting

     180          138        30  %    
                
     $ 724          $ 655        11  %    
                

Revenues

Media Networks revenues increased 7%, or $272 million, to $4.2 billion, consisting of an 8% increase, or $202 million, at the Cable Networks and a 5% increase, or $70 million, at Broadcasting.

Increased Cable Networks revenues were primarily due to growth of $172 million from Affiliate Fees and $54 million from advertising revenues. The increase in Affiliate Fees was primarily due to increases at ESPN and, to a lesser extent, the worldwide Disney Channels. The increase at ESPN was primarily due to higher contractual rates and subscriber growth, including growth from the launch of a new network in the United Kingdom. The increase at the worldwide Disney Channels was due to subscriber growth internationally and contractual rate increases domestically. Higher advertising revenue was due to an increase at ESPN driven by higher units sold, partially offset by lower rates.

 

24


MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF

FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS – (continued)

 

Increased Broadcasting revenues were primarily due to higher revenues from ABC Studios productions driven by increased third party network license fees and international sales driven by Criminal Minds, Ugly Betty and Ghost Whisperer, partially offset by lower political advertising revenue at the owned television stations. Advertising revenues at the ABC Television Network were essentially flat as an increase from the timing of sports programming and a shift from political news coverage in primetime in the prior-year quarter to entertainment programming in the current quarter were offset by the impact of lower primetime ratings and advertising rates.

Costs and Expenses

Costs and expenses, which consist primarily of programming rights costs, production costs, participation costs, distribution and marketing expenses and general and administrative costs, increased 5%, or $156 million, to $3.5 billion, consisting of a 6% increase, or $128 million, at the Cable Networks and a 2% increase, or $28 million, at Broadcasting. The increase at Cable Networks was driven by higher rights and production costs at ESPN due to soccer programming costs for the new network in the United Kingdom and increased contractual costs for college football and NFL programming. The increase at Broadcasting reflected higher production cost amortization due to increased sales of ABC Studios productions and an increase in programming costs driven by the timing of sports programming at the ABC Television Network. This increase was partially offset by the absence of a bad debt charge which was recorded in the prior-year quarter in connection with the bankruptcy of a syndication customer.

Segment Operating Income

Segment operating income increased 11%, or $69 million, to $724 million due to increases of $27 million at the Cable Networks and $42 at Broadcasting. The increase at the Cable Networks was primarily due to growth at the worldwide Disney Channels and ESPN, partially offset by a decrease in income from our cable equity investments driven by higher programming and restructuring costs, partially offset by higher advertising and affiliate revenue at A&E Television Networks (AETN) which now includes the Lifetime networks. Restructuring charges at AETN were primarily for severance costs as a result of the combination of AETN and Lifetime in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009. The increase at Broadcasting was primarily due to the absence of a bad debt charge in connection with the bankruptcy of a syndication customer, higher revenues from ABC Studios productions and a shift from political news coverage in primetime in the prior-year quarter to entertainment programming in the current quarter. These increases were partially offset by lower primetime ratings and advertising rates at the ABC Television Network and lower advertising revenues at the owned television stations.

 

25


MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF

FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS – (continued)

 

Parks and Resorts

Revenues

Parks and Resorts revenues were essentially flat at $2.7 billion.

The following table presents attendance, per capita theme park guest spending, and hotel statistics for our domestic properties:

 

     East Coast    West Coast    Total Domestic
     Quarter Ended    Quarter Ended    Quarter Ended
         January 2,    
2010
       December 27,    
2008
       January 2,    
2010
       December 27,    
2008
       January 2,    
2010
       December 27,    
2008

Parks

                 

(Increase/decrease)

                 

Attendance

     4   %          (5)  %          20   %          (6)  %          9   %          (5)  %    

Per Capita Guest Spending

     (4)  %          1   %          (4)  %          (3)  %          (4)  %          —   %    

Hotels (1)

                 

Occupancy

     81   %          85   %          78   %          85   %          81   %          85   %    

Available Room Nights (in thousands)

     2,167                 2,113                 218                 200                 2,385                 2,313           

Per Room Guest Spending

       $ 224                   $ 219                   $ 308                   $ 333                   $ 232                   $ 229           

 

(1)

Per room guest spending consists of the average daily hotel room rate as well as guest spending on food, beverage and merchandise at the hotels. Hotel statistics include rentals of Disney Vacation Club units.

At our domestic operations, revenues were flat as increased attendance was largely offset by decreased guest spending. Attendance was favorably impacted by the shift of the New Year’s holiday from the second quarter in fiscal 2009 to the first quarter in fiscal 2010. Decreased guest spending was driven by lower average ticket prices and decreased food and beverage and merchandise spending.

Revenues were flat at our international operations as decreased attendance and hotel occupancy at Disneyland Paris were largely offset by the favorable impact of foreign currency translation as a result of the weakening of the U.S. dollar against the Euro.

Costs and Expenses

Costs and expenses, which consist primarily of labor, depreciation, costs of merchandise, food and beverage sold, marketing and sales expense, repairs and maintenance and entertainment, were essentially flat at $2.3 billion as a decrease at our domestic operations was offset by an increase at Disneyland Paris. The decrease at our domestic operations was driven by the absence of mark-to-market losses on fuel hedge contracts which impacted the prior-year quarter, decreased food and beverage and merchandise sales and savings from cost mitigation activities. These decreases were partially offset by increased pension and postretirement medical expenses and labor and other cost inflation. The increase at Disneyland Paris was due to the unfavorable impact of foreign currency translation as a result of the weakening of the U.S. dollar against the Euro.

Segment Operating Income

Segment operating income decreased 2%, to $375 million, due to a decrease at Disneyland Paris, partially offset by an increase at our domestic operations.

 

26


MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF

FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS – (continued)

 

Studio Entertainment

Revenues

Revenues for the quarter were essentially flat at $1.9 billion primarily due to decreases of $96 million in international home entertainment and $42 million in music distribution, largely offset by an increase of $110 million in international theatrical distribution.

The decrease in international home entertainment was primarily due to lower net effective sales prices for catalog titles and new releases and decreased unit sales for television series DVD sets. Key current quarter titles included Snow White Diamond Release, Up and Tinker Bell And The Lost Treasure while the prior-year quarter included The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian, WALL-E and Tinker Bell. Lower revenue in music distribution was primarily due to lower album sales reflecting the strong performance of High School Musical in the prior-year quarter.

The revenue growth in international theatrical distribution reflected the strong performance of Up and more titles in wide release. Other current quarter titles included A Christmas Carol, G-Force and The Princess and the Frog while the prior-year quarter included High School Musical 3 and WALL-E.

Costs and Expenses

Costs and expenses, which consist primarily of production cost amortization, distribution and marketing expenses, product costs and participation costs, decreased 4%, or $66 million, driven by decreases in worldwide home entertainment partially offset by an increase in worldwide theatrical distribution.

Lower costs and expenses in worldwide home entertainment were primarily due to decreased distribution and marketing costs, production cost amortization and participation expense. Lower distribution and marketing costs reflected cost reduction initiatives and lower international sales volume. Decreased amortization and participation expense reflected the strong performance of Up and The Proposal in the current quarter compared to WALL-E and The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian, which had high participation costs, in the prior-year quarter. The increase in worldwide theatrical distribution was due to higher amortization and marketing expenses driven by more titles in wide release internationally and, to a lesser extent, higher film cost write-downs.

Segment Operating Income

Segment operating income increased 30%, or $56 million, to $243 million due to an increase in domestic home entertainment, partially offset by higher film cost write-downs and a decrease at music distribution.

Consumer Products

Revenues

Revenues for the quarter decreased 3%, or $27 million, to $746 million, primarily due to a decrease of $46 million at Merchandise Licensing partially offset by an increase of $15 million at our retail business.

The decrease at Merchandise Licensing was driven by lower earned revenue across a number of product categories driven by lower performance of High School Musical and Hannah Montana merchandise. Higher revenues at our retail business were driven by increased comparable store sales at the Disney Stores North America.

 

27


MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF

FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS – (continued)

 

Costs and Expenses

Costs and expenses, which consist primarily of cost of sales, salaries and benefits, marketing, and occupancy, decreased by 1%, or $5 million, primarily due to decreased cost of sales, driven by lower royalty expense, and lower salaries and benefits for administrative functions at Merchandise Licensing, partially offset by unfavorable foreign currency impacts at our international retail operations. Lower royalty expense was due to decreased revenues from High School Musical and Hannah Montana merchandise

Segment Operating Income

Segment operating income decreased 8%, or $22 million, to $243 million, primarily due to lower results at Merchandise Licensing.

Interactive Media

Revenues

Interactive Media revenues decreased 29%, or $92 million, to $221 million primarily due to a decrease of $105 million at Disney Interactive Studios partially offset by an increase of $11 million at Disney Online.

The decrease at Disney Interactive Studios was primarily due to lower unit sales of self-published video games in the current quarter reflecting the strong performance of High School Musical 3, Sing It and Bolt in the prior-year quarter. The revenue growth at Disney Online was driven by increased subscription revenues at Club Penguin.

Costs and Expenses

Costs and expenses, which consist primarily of video game and internet product development costs, cost of sales, distribution and marketing expenses, general and administrative costs, and technology infrastructure costs, decreased 35%, or $127 million, to $231 million primarily due to lower costs of sales associated with the decline in video game unit sales, reduced marketing and inventory costs and lower bad debt expense at Disney Interactive Studios.

Operating Loss

Segment operating loss decreased 78% to $10 million due to improvements at Disney Interactive Studios and Disney Online.

OTHER FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Net Interest Expense

Net interest expense is as follows:

 

     Quarter Ended        % Change    
Better /
(Worse)
 
(in millions)      January 2,  
2010
     December 27,  
2008
  

Interest expense

     $ (118)          $ (168)        30    %     

Interest and investment income

     15           29         (48)   %     
                

Net interest expense

     $ (103)          $ (139)        26    %     
                

 

28


MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF

FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS – (continued)

 

The decrease in net interest expense for the quarter was primarily due to lower average debt balances.

Income Taxes

The effective income tax rate is as follows:

 

     Quarter Ended        Change    
Better /
(Worse)
       January 2,  
2010
     December 27,  
2008
  

Effective Income Tax Rate

   36.2  %        36.4  %          0.2  ppt    

FINANCIAL CONDITION

The change in cash and cash equivalents is as follows:

 

     Quarter Ended     
(in millions)        January 2,    
2010
       December 27,    
2008
       Change    

Cash provided by operations

     $ 915          $ 262          $ 653    

Cash used in investing activities

     (2,540)         (248)         (2,292)   

Cash provided by financing activities

     1,412          780          632    
                    

(Decrease)/increase in cash and cash equivalents

     $ (213)         $ 794          $ (1,007)   
                    

Operating Activities

The increase in cash provided by operations was driven by higher segment operating results, lower film and television production spending and the timing of certain sports rights payments and advance travel deposits.

Film and Television Costs

The Company’s Studio Entertainment and Media Networks segments incur costs to acquire and produce television and feature film programming. Film and television production costs include all internally produced content such as live action and animated feature films, animated direct-to-video programming, television series, television specials, theatrical stage plays or other similar product. Programming costs include film or television product licensed for a specific period from third parties for airing on the Company’s broadcast or cable networks and television stations. Programming assets are generally recorded when the programming becomes available to us with a corresponding increase in programming liabilities. Accordingly, we analyze our programming assets net of the related liability.

 

29


MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF

FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS – (continued)

 

The Company’s film and television production and programming activity for the quarters ended January 2, 2010 and December 27, 2008 are as follows:

 

     Quarter Ended
(in millions)        January 2,    
2010
       December 27,    
2008

Beginning balances:

     

Production and programming assets

     $ 5,756          $ 5,935    

Programming liabilities

     (1,040)         (1,108)   
             
     4,716          4,827    
             

Spending:

     

Film and television production

     839          998    

Broadcast programming

     1,597          1,431    
             
     2,436          2,429    
             

Amortization:

     

Film and television production

     (874)         (790)   

Broadcast programming

     (1,598)         (1,394)   
             
     (2,472)         (2,184)   
             

Change in film and television production and programming costs

     (36)         245    

Other non-cash activity

     228          (24)   

Ending balances:

     

Production and programming assets

     6,083          6,290    

Programming liabilities

     (1,175)         (1,242)   
             
     $ 4,908          $ 5,048    
             

Investing Activities

Cash used by investing activities during the quarter ended January 2, 2010 of $2.5 billion included $2.3 billion for the cash portion of the Marvel Entertainment, Inc. acquisition (see Note 3 to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further details) and $307 million of investments in parks, resorts and other property, partially offset by proceeds totaling $37 million from the sale of an investment in a television service in Europe.

 

30


MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF

FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS – (continued)

 

Investments in parks, resorts and other property were as follows:

 

     Quarter Ended
(in millions)          January 2,      
2010
       December 27,    
2008

Media Networks

     $ 22          $ 41    

Parks and Resorts

     

Domestic

     193          169    

International

     36          13    
             

Total Parks and Resorts

     229          182    
             

Studio Entertainment

     15          54    

Consumer Products

     13          7    

Interactive Media

     4          6    

Corporate

     24          1    
             
     $ 307          $ 291    
             

The increase in capital expenditures for the quarter was due to new attractions and resort properties at Parks and Resorts and higher spending on corporate facilities. These increases were partially offset by decreased spending on film production and broadcast facilities.

Financing Activities

Cash provided by financing activities during the quarter ended January 2, 2010 of $1.4 billion reflected net proceeds from borrowings of $1.2 billion and stock option exercises of $0.2 billion.

During the quarter ended January 2, 2010, the Company’s borrowing activity was as follows:

 

(in millions)        October 3,    
2009
       Additions            Payments        Other
    Activity    
       January 2,    
2010

Commercial paper borrowings

     $ —          $ 1,297          $ —           $ —           $ 1,297    

U.S. medium-term notes

     7,618          —          —           1           7,619    

European medium-term notes

     347          —          —           (7)          340    

Other foreign currency denominated debt

     904          —          —           (11)          893    

Capital Cities/ABC debt

     116          —          —           —           116    

Film financing

     350          —          (46)          5           309    

Other (1)

     498          —          —           (48)          450    

Euro Disney borrowings

     2,344          —          (33)          (24)          2,287    

Hong Kong Disneyland borrowings

     524          —          —           (4)          520    
                                  

Total

     $ 12,701          $ 1,297          $ (79)          $ (88)          $ 13,831    
                                  
(1)

The other activity is primarily market value adjustments for debt with qualifying hedges.

 

31


MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF

FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS – (continued)

 

The Company’s bank facilities as of January 2, 2010 are as follows:

 

(in millions)          Committed      
Capacity
         Capacity      
Used
   Unused
      Capacity      

Bank facilities expiring February 2010

   $ 2,225        $ —        $ 2,225    

Bank facilities expiring February 2011

     2,225          236          1,989    
                    

Total

   $ 4,450        $ 236        $ 4,214    
                    

These bank facilities allow for borrowings at LIBOR-based rates plus a spread, which depends on the Company’s public debt rating and can range from 0.175% to 0.75%. As of January 2, 2010, the Company had not borrowed under these bank facilities. The Company also has the ability to issue up to $800 million of letters of credit under the facility expiring in 2011, which if utilized, reduces available borrowings under this facility. As of January 2, 2010, $236 million of letters of credit had been issued under this facility. The Company is currently in the market syndicating a refinancing of its bank facility expiring in February 2010. We expect the new facility to be completed prior to expiration of the current facility, to have a three-year term and be comparable in size to our current facility.

The Company may use commercial paper borrowings up to the amount of its unused bank facilities, in conjunction with term debt issuance and operating cash flow, to retire or refinance other borrowings before or as they come due.

On December 2, 2009, the Company declared a $653 million dividend ($0.35 per share) related to fiscal 2009 for shareholders of record on December 14, 2009, which was paid on January 19, 2010. On December 3, 2008, the Company declared a $648 million dividend ($0.35 per share) related to fiscal 2008 for shareholders of record on December 15, 2008, which was paid on January 20, 2009.

During the quarter ended January 2, 2010, the Company repurchased approximately 1 million shares for $25 million. As of January 2, 2010, the Company had remaining authorization in place to repurchase approximately 178 million additional shares. The repurchase program does not have an expiration date.

We believe that the Company’s financial condition is strong and that its cash balances, other liquid assets, operating cash flows, access to debt and equity capital markets and borrowing capacity, taken together, provide adequate resources to fund ongoing operating requirements and future capital expenditures related to the expansion of existing businesses and development of new projects. However, the Company’s operating cash flow and access to the capital markets can be impacted by macroeconomic factors outside of its control. In addition to macroeconomic factors, the Company’s borrowing costs can be impacted by short and long-term debt ratings assigned by independent rating agencies, which are based, in significant part, on the Company’s performance as measured by certain credit metrics such as interest coverage and leverage ratios. As of January 2, 2010, Moody’s Investors Service’s long and short-term debt ratings for the Company were A2 and P-1, respectively, with stable outlook; Standard & Poor’s long and short-term debt ratings for the Company were A and A-1, respectively, with negative outlook; and Fitch’s long and short-term debt ratings for the Company were A and F-1, respectively, with stable outlook. The Company’s bank facilities contain only one financial covenant, relating to interest coverage, which the Company met on January 2, 2010, by a significant margin. The Company’s bank facilities also specifically exclude certain entities, such as Euro Disney and Hong Kong Disneyland, from any representations, covenants or events of default.

Euro Disney has annual covenants under its debt agreements that limit its investment and financing activities and require it to meet certain financial performance covenants. Euro Disney was in compliance with these covenants for fiscal 2009.

 

32


MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF

FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS – (continued)

 

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

Guarantees

See Note 11 to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information regarding the Company’s guarantees.

Tax Matters

As disclosed in Note 10 to the Consolidated Financial Statements in the 2009 Annual Report on Form 10-K, the Company has exposure for certain tax matters.

Contractual Commitments

Refer to Note 15 in the Consolidated Financial Statements in the 2009 Annual Report on Form 10-K for information regarding the Company’s contractual commitments.

OTHER MATTERS

Accounting Policies and Estimates

We believe that the application of the following accounting policies, which are important to our financial position and results of operations, require significant judgments and estimates on the part of management. For a summary of our significant accounting policies, including the accounting policies discussed below, see Note 2 to the Consolidated Financial Statements in the 2009 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Film and Television Revenues and Costs

We expense film and television production, participation and residual costs over the applicable product life cycle based upon the ratio of the current period’s revenues to the estimated remaining total revenues (Ultimate Revenues) for each production. If our estimate of Ultimate Revenues decreases, amortization of film and television costs may be accelerated. Conversely, if estimates of Ultimate Revenues increase, film and television cost amortization may be slowed. For film productions, Ultimate Revenues include revenues from all sources that will be earned within ten years from the date of the initial theatrical release. For television series, we include revenues that will be earned within ten years from delivery of the first episode, or if still in production, five years from delivery of the most recent episode, if later.

With respect to films intended for theatrical release, the most sensitive factor affecting our estimate of Ultimate Revenues (and therefore affecting future film cost amortization and/or impairment) is domestic theatrical performance. Revenues derived from other markets subsequent to the domestic theatrical release (e.g. the home video or international theatrical markets) have historically been highly correlated with domestic theatrical performance. Domestic theatrical performance varies primarily based upon the public interest and demand for a particular film, the popularity of competing films at the time of release and the level of marketing effort. Upon a film’s release and determination of domestic theatrical performance, the Company’s estimates of revenues from succeeding windows and markets are revised based on historical relationships and an analysis of current market trends. The most sensitive factor affecting our estimate of Ultimate Revenues for released films is the extent of home entertainment sales achieved. Home entertainment sales vary based on the number and quality of competing home video products as well as the manner in which retailers market and price our products.

With respect to television series or other television productions intended for broadcast, the most sensitive factor affecting estimates of Ultimate Revenues is the program’s rating and the strength of the advertising market. Program ratings, which are an indication of market acceptance, directly affect the Company’s ability to generate advertising revenues during the airing of the program. In addition, television series with greater market acceptance are more likely to generate incremental revenues through the eventual sale of the program rights in the syndication, international and home entertainment markets. Alternatively, poor ratings may result in a television series cancellation, which would require the immediate write-off of any unamortized production costs. A significant decline in the advertising market would also negatively impact our estimates.

 

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MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF

FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS – (continued)

 

We expense the cost of television broadcast rights for acquired movies, series and other programs based on the number of times the program is expected to be aired or on a straight-line basis over the useful life, as appropriate. Amortization of those television programming assets being amortized on a number of airings basis may be accelerated if we reduce the estimated future airings and slowed if we increase the estimated future airings. The number of future airings of a particular program is impacted primarily by the program’s ratings in previous airings, expected advertising rates and availability and quality of alternative programming. Accordingly, planned usage is reviewed periodically and revised if necessary. Rights costs for multi-year sports programming arrangements are amortized during the applicable seasons based on the estimated relative value of each year in the arrangement. The estimated values of each year are based on our projection of revenues over the contract period which include advertising revenue and an allocation of affiliate revenue. If the annual contractual payments related to each season approximate each season’s relative value, we expense the related contractual payment during the applicable season. If planned usage patterns or estimated relative values by year were to change significantly, amortization of our sports rights costs may be accelerated or slowed.

Costs of film and television productions are subject to regular recoverability assessments which compare the estimated fair values with the unamortized costs. The net realizable value of the television broadcast program licenses and rights are reviewed using a daypart methodology. A daypart is defined as an aggregation of programs broadcast during a particular time of day or programs of a similar type. The Company’s dayparts are: early morning, daytime, late night, primetime, news, children, and sports (includes network and cable). The net realizable values of other cable programming assets are reviewed on an aggregated basis for each cable channel. Individual programs are written-off when there are no plans to air or sublicense the program. Estimated values are based upon assumptions about future demand and market conditions. If actual demand or market conditions are less favorable than our projections, film, television and programming cost write-downs may be required.

Revenue Recognition

The Company has revenue recognition policies for its various operating segments that are appropriate for the circumstances of each business. See Note 2 to the Consolidated Financial Statements in the 2009 Annual Report on Form 10-K for a summary of these revenue recognition policies.

We reduce home entertainment and software product revenues for estimated future returns of merchandise and for customer programs and sales incentives. These estimates are based upon historical return experience, current economic trends and projections of customer demand for and acceptance of our products. If we underestimate the level of returns and concessions in a particular period, we may record less revenue in later periods when returns exceed the estimated amount. Conversely, if we overestimate the level of returns and concessions for a period, we may have additional revenue in later periods when returns and concessions are less than estimated.

Revenues from advance theme park ticket sales are recognized when the tickets are used. For non-expiring, multi-day tickets, we recognize revenue over a three-year time period based on estimated usage, which is derived from historical usage patterns. If actual usage is different than our estimated usage, revenues may not be recognized in the periods the related services are rendered. In addition, a change in usage patterns would impact the timing of revenue recognition.

 

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MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF

FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS – (continued)

 

Pension and Postretirement Medical Plan Actuarial Assumptions

The Company’s pension and postretirement medical benefit obligations and related costs are calculated using a number of actuarial assumptions. Two critical assumptions, the discount rate and the expected return on plan assets, are important elements of expense and/or liability measurement which we evaluate annually. Refer to the 2009 Annual Report on Form 10-K for estimated impacts of changes in these assumptions. Other assumptions include the healthcare cost trend rate and employee demographic factors such as retirement patterns, mortality, turnover and rate of compensation increase.

The discount rate enables us to state expected future cash payments for benefits as a present value on the measurement date. A lower discount rate increases the present value of benefit obligations and increases pension expense. The guideline for setting this rate is high-quality long-term corporate bond rates that are currently available. The Company’s discount rate is determined by considering the average of pension yield curves constructed of a large population of high quality corporate bonds. The resulting discount rate reflects the matching of plan liability cash flows to the yield curves.

To determine the expected long-term rate of return on the plan assets, we consider the current and expected asset allocation, as well as historical and expected returns on each plan asset class. A lower expected rate of return on pension plan assets will increase pension expense.

Goodwill, Intangible Assets and Investments

The Company is required to test goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment on an annual basis and between annual tests if current events or circumstances require an interim impairment assessment. Goodwill is allocated to various reporting units, which are generally an operating segment or one reporting level below the operating segment. The Company compares the fair value of each reporting unit to its carrying amount to determine if there is potential goodwill impairment. If the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value, an impairment loss is recorded to the extent that the fair value of the goodwill within the reporting unit is less than the carrying value of its goodwill.

To determine the fair value of our reporting units, we generally use a present value technique (discounted cash flow) corroborated by market multiples when available and as appropriate. We apply what we believe to be the most appropriate valuation methodology for each of our reporting units. The discounted cash flow analyses are sensitive to our estimates of future revenue growth and margins for these businesses. We include in the projected cash flows an estimate of the revenue we believe the reporting unit would receive if the intellectual property developed by the reporting unit that is being used by other reporting units was licensed to an unrelated third party at its fair market value. These amounts are not necessarily the same as those included in segment operating results. We believe our estimates of fair value are consistent with how a marketplace participant would value our reporting units.

In times of adverse economic conditions in the global economy, the Company’s long-term cash flow projections are subject to a greater degree of uncertainty than usual. If we had established different reporting units or utilized different valuation methodologies or assumptions, the impairment test results could differ, and we could be required to record impairment charges. Because of the way the accounting rules work, a relatively modest reduction in our estimate of the fair value of our Broadcasting reporting unit could result in a significant goodwill impairment charge.

 

35


MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF

FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS – (continued)

 

The Company is required to compare the fair values of other indefinite-lived intangible assets to their carrying amounts. If the carrying amount of an indefinite-lived intangible asset exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized. Fair values of other indefinite-lived intangible assets are determined based on discounted cash flows or appraised values, as appropriate.

The Company has cost and equity investments. The fair value of these investments is dependent on the performance of the investee companies, as well as volatility inherent in the external markets for these investments. In assessing the potential impairment for these investments, we consider these factors, as well as the forecasted financial performance of our investees and market values, where available. If these forecasts are not met or market values indicate an other-than-temporary decline in value, impairment charges may be required.

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

We evaluate our allowance for doubtful accounts and estimate collectibility of accounts receivable based on our analysis of historical bad debt experience in conjunction with our assessment of the financial condition of individual companies with which we do business. In times of domestic or global economic turmoil, our estimates and judgments with respect to the collectibility of our receivables are subject to greater uncertainty than in more stable periods. If our estimate of uncollectible accounts is too low, costs and expenses may increase in future periods, and if it is too high, cost and expenses may decrease in future periods.

Contingencies and Litigation

We are currently involved in certain legal proceedings and, as required, have accrued estimates of the probable and estimable losses for the resolution of these claims. These estimates have been developed in consultation with outside counsel and are based upon an analysis of potential results, assuming a combination of litigation and settlement strategies. It is possible, however, that future results of operations for any particular quarterly or annual period could be materially affected by changes in our assumptions or the effectiveness of our strategies related to these proceedings. See Note 11 to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for more detailed information on litigation exposure.

Income Tax Audits

As a matter of course, the Company is regularly audited by federal, state and foreign tax authorities. From time to time, these audits result in proposed assessments. Our determinations regarding the recognition of income tax benefits are made in consultation with outside tax and legal counsel where appropriate and are based upon the technical merits of our tax positions in consideration of applicable tax statutes and related interpretations and precedents and upon the expected outcome of proceedings (or negotiations) with taxing and legal authorities. The tax benefits ultimately realized by the Company may differ from those recognized in our financial statements based on a number of factors, including the Company’s decision to settle rather than litigate a matter, relevant legal precedent related to similar matters and the Company’s success in supporting its filing positions with taxing authorities.

Stock Option Compensation Expense

Compensation expense for stock options is estimated on the date of grant using a binomial valuation model. The weighted average assumptions used in the binomial valuation model during the quarter ended January 2, 2010 were 31% for the expected volatility, 1.4 for the expected exercise multiple (the multiple of exercise price to grant price at which exercises are expected to occur on average) and 8% for the expected termination rate. Although the initial fair value of stock options is not adjusted after the grant date, changes in the Company’s assumptions may change the estimated fair value of and therefore, the expense related to future stock option grants. The assumptions that cause the greatest variation in fair value in the binomial valuation model are the assumed volatility and expected exercise multiple. Increases or decreases in either the assumed volatility or expected exercise multiple will cause the binomial option value to increase or decrease, respectively.

 

36


MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF

FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS – (continued)

 

The volatility assumption considers both historical and implied volatility and may be impacted by the Company’s performance as well as changes in economic and market conditions. The expected exercise multiple may be influenced by the Company’s future stock performance, stock price volatility and employee turnover rate. Refer to the 2009 Annual Report on Form 10-K for estimated impacts of changes in these assumptions.

New Accounting Pronouncements

See Note 12 to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information regarding new accounting pronouncements.

MARKET RISK

The Company is exposed to the impact of interest rate changes, foreign currency fluctuations, commodity fluctuations and changes in the market values of its investments.

Policies and Procedures

In the normal course of business, we employ established policies and procedures to manage the Company’s exposure to changes in interest rates, foreign currencies, commodities, and the fair market value of certain investments in debt and equity securities using a variety of financial instruments.

Our objectives in managing exposure to interest rate changes are to limit the impact of interest rate volatility on earnings and cash flows and to lower overall borrowing costs. To achieve these objectives, we primarily use interest rate swaps to manage net exposure to interest rate changes related to the Company’s portfolio of borrowings. By policy, the Company targets fixed-rate debt as a percentage of its net debt between minimum and maximum percentages.

Our objective in managing exposure to foreign currency fluctuations is to reduce volatility of earnings and cash flow in order to allow management to focus on core business issues and challenges. Accordingly, the Company enters into various contracts that change in value as foreign exchange rates change to protect the U.S. dollar equivalent value of its existing foreign currency assets, liabilities, commitments and forecasted foreign currency revenues. The Company utilizes option strategies and forward contracts that provide for the sale of foreign currencies to hedge probable, but not firmly committed, transactions. The Company also uses forward contracts to hedge foreign currency assets and liabilities. The principal foreign currencies hedged are the Euro, British pound, Japanese yen and Canadian dollar. Cross-currency swaps are used to effectively convert foreign currency denominated borrowings to U.S. dollar denominated borrowings. By policy, the Company maintains hedge coverage between minimum and maximum percentages of its forecasted foreign exchange exposures generally for periods not to exceed five years. The gains and losses on these contracts offset changes in the U.S. dollar equivalent value of the related exposures.

Our objectives in managing exposure to commodity fluctuations are to use commodity derivatives to reduce volatility of earnings and cash flows arising from commodity price changes. The amounts hedged using commodity swap contracts are based on forecasted levels of consumption of certain commodities, such as fuel oil and gasoline.

It is the Company’s policy to enter into foreign currency and interest rate derivative transactions and other financial instruments only to the extent considered necessary to meet its objectives as stated above. The Company does not enter into these transactions or any other hedging transactions for speculative purposes.

 

37


Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk. See Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures — We have established disclosure controls and procedures to ensure that the information required to be disclosed by the Company in the reports that it files or submits under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in SEC rules and forms and that such information is accumulated and made known to the officers who certify the Company’s financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

Based on their evaluation as of January 2, 2010, the principal executive officer and principal financial officer of the Company have concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) are effective.

There have been no changes in our internal controls over financial reporting during the first quarter of fiscal 2010 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 

38


PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 1A. Risk Factors

The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the Act) provides a safe harbor for “forward-looking statements” made by or on behalf of the Company. We may from time to time make written or oral statements that are “forward-looking,” including statements contained in this report and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission and in reports to our shareholders. All forward-looking statements are made on the basis of management’s views and assumptions regarding future events and business performance as of the time the statements are made and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update its disclosure relating to forward looking matters. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied. Such differences may result from actions taken by the Company, including restructuring or strategic initiatives (including capital investments or asset acquisitions or dispositions), as well as from developments beyond the Company’s control, including: changes in domestic and global economic conditions, competitive conditions and consumer preferences; adverse weather conditions or natural disasters; health concerns; international, political or military developments; and technological developments. Such developments may affect travel and leisure businesses generally and may, among other things, affect the performance of the Company’s theatrical and home entertainment releases, the advertising market for broadcast and cable television programming, expenses of providing medical and pension benefits, demand for our products and performance of some or all company businesses either directly or through their impact on those who distribute our products. Additional factors are discussed in the 2009 Annual Report on Form 10-K under the Item 1A, “Risk Factors.”

 

39


PART II. OTHER INFORMATION (continued)

ITEM 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

The following table provides information about Company purchases of equity securities that are registered by the Company pursuant to Section 12 of the Exchange Act during the quarter ended January 2, 2010:

 

Period

   Total
Number of
Shares
    Purchased 
(1)    
   Weighted
Average
    Price Paid    
per Share
       Total Number of    
Shares

Purchased as
Part of Publicly
Announced

Plans or
Programs
   Maximum
Number of
Shares that
May Yet Be
Purchased
Under the

Plans or
    Programs
 (2)    

October 4, 2009 – October 31, 2009

   537,484        $ 27.60            430,100            179 million    

November 1, 2009 – November 30, 2009

   604,552          27.77            494,039            178 million    

December 1, 2009 – January 2, 2010

   121,602          31.56            —            178 million    
               

Total

   1,263,638          28.06            924,139            178 million    
               

 

(1)

339,499 shares were purchased on the open market to provide shares to participants in the Walt Disney Investment Plan and Employee Stock Purchase Plan. These purchases were not made pursuant to a publicly announced repurchase plan or program.

 

(2)

The Company is authorized to repurchase shares of its common stock under a share repurchase program implemented effective June 10, 1998. On May 1, 2007, following share repurchases made through May 1, 2007, the Company’s Board of Directors increased the repurchase authorization to a total of 400 million shares as of that date. The repurchase program does not have an expiration date.

 

40


PART II. OTHER INFORMATION (continued)

ITEM 6. Exhibits

See Index of Exhibits.

 

41


SIGNATURE

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

  THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY
  (Registrant)

 

By:   /s/ JAMES A. RASULO
 

James A. Rasulo,

Senior Executive Vice President and

Chief Financial Officer

February 9, 2010

Burbank, California

 

42


INDEX OF EXHIBITS

 

  Number and Description of Exhibit

  (Numbers Coincide with Item 601 of Regulation S-K)

  

  Document Incorporated by Reference

  from a Previous Filing or Filed

  Herewith, as Indicated below

  10.1

   Employment Agreement, dated as of January 1, 2010, between the Company and James A. Rasulo    Exhibit 10.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of the Company filed January 8, 2010

  10.2

   Amendment dated as of January 1, 2010 to Employment Agreement dated as of December 18, 2008, between the Company and Thomas O. Staggs    Exhibit 10.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of the Company filed January 8, 2010

  10.3

   Form of Performance-Based Stock Unit Award Agreement (Section 162(m) Vesting Requirement)    Exhibit 10.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of the Company filed January 12, 2010

  10.4

   Form of Performance-Based Stock Unit Award Agreement (Three-Year Vesting subject to Total Shareholder Return/EPS Growth Tests/Section 162(m) Vesting Requirement)    Exhibit 10.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of the Company filed January 12, 2010

  10.5

   Form of Non-Qualified Stock Option Award Agreement    Exhibit 10.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of the Company filed January 12, 2010

  10.6

   Amended and Restated Director’s Retirement Policy    Filed herewith

  31(a)

   Rule 13a-14(a) Certification of Chief Executive Officer of the Company in accordance with Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002    Filed herewith

  31(b)

   Rule 13a-14(a) Certification of Chief Financial Officer of the Company in accordance with Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002    Filed herewith

  32(a)

   Section 1350 Certification of Chief Executive Officer of the Company in accordance with Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002*    Furnished

  32(b)

   Section 1350 Certification of Chief Financial Officer of the Company in accordance with Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002*    Furnished

  101

   The following materials from the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended January 2, 2010 formatted in Extensible Business Reporting Language (XBRL): (i) the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income, (ii) the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, (iii) the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, (iv) the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Equity and (v) related notes, tagged as blocks of text    Furnished

*    A signed original of this written statement required by Section 906 has been provided to the Company and will be retained by the Company and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff upon request.

 

43