Radio / Television News

Broadcasting leads Q1 growth at NewCap


DARTMOUTH, NS – Newfoundland Capital Corporation (NewCap) saw its revenue grow 6% for the first quarter of 2009, led primarily by its broadcasting division.

For the quarter ended March 31, 2009, the radio company reported consolidated revenue of $23.1 million, up $1.4 million from the first quarter of 2008.

Its broadcasting segment, which derives its revenue from advertising sales from its 81 licences across the country, saw year-over-year growth of 6%, to top $22.3 million.  Revenue from its corporate segment was $0.9 million – 17% higher than last year – due to increased hotel revenue.

NewCap’s corporate segment derives its revenue from hotel operations, and includes other income and expenses attributed to head office functions and investment income from the company’s marketable securities.

Consolidated operating expenses of $21.1 million were $1.3 million (or 7%) higher than the first quarter last year, largely as a result of new station launches through the broadcast segment.

Consolidated EBITDA for the quarter of $3.0 million was $0.2 million higher than last year, which the company said was achieved by reducing corporate costs. First quarter net income of $0.6 million was on par with last year.

"We are pleased that revenue grew in the first quarter, despite the poor economic environment", said president and CEO Rob Steele, in the press release announcing the results. "Our short-term strategy remains consistent: grow the Company organically, astutely continue our revenue producing efforts, reduce debt and continue with planned expansion activities”.

Steele said that the company plans to launch a new FM radio station in Sudbury, ON early this Fall, and that it is also “developing plans to launch recently awarded FM conversions."

Newcap received approval for four new repeater licences in PEI, and to convert two additional AM stations to FM in Alberta.

www.ncc.ca