HEARST-ARGYLE TV 2Q REVENUE FLAT AT $193M

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Hearst-Argyle Television Inc. today announced that its second quarter 2007 total revenue of $193 million was essentially flat compared to the quarter ended June 30, 2006, and up 2.4% compared to the quarter ended June 30, 2005.

A 3% decline in net advertising revenues was offset by a 48% increase in net digital media revenues, and a 35% increase in retransmission consent fees. The company also benefited from a modest increase in network compensation for the quarter.

Its net income of $17 million and earnings per diluted share of $0.18 compared to $25 million and $0.27, respectively, in second quarter 2006.

Net advertising revenues were impacted by an expected decline in political ad spending, consistent with normal cyclical patterns. Net political revenue of $4.9 million compared to $12.9 million and $2.3 million in second quarter 2006 and 2005 respectively. Automotive, the Company’s largest advertising category, reflected continued weakness, declining 13% versus second quarter 2006. Increased spending in telecommunications, attractions, pharmaceuticals and movies outweighed declines in furniture/housewares, financial services and fast foods. The company also benefited from the added revenue of WCKF Orlando, which was acquired in third quarter 2006.

The company’s owned ABC stations achieved revenue growth of 2% in the quarter, with similar growth achieved by the company’s two CBS affiliates. Conversely, the company’s NBC stations experienced revenue declines of approximately 10%, reflecting NBC’s weak prime-time ratings during the 2006-07 season. In addition, the company’s CW and My Network TV affiliates experienced declines of approximately 20% on a combined basis.

[Read More @: TV Newsday]

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