As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 29, 2023
File No. 001-41627
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
Amendment No. 3
to
FORM 10
General Form for Registration of Securities
Pursuant to Section 12(b) or (g) of
The Securities Exchange Act of 1934
MSGE Spinco, Inc.*
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)
Delaware | 92-0318813 | |
(State or Other Jurisdiction of Incorporation or Organization) |
(IRS Employer Identification Number) | |
Two Pennsylvania Plaza New York, NY |
10121 | |
(Address of Principal Executive Offices) | (Zip Code) |
(212) 465-6000
(Registrants telephone number, including area code)
Securities to be Registered Pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of Each Class to be so Registered |
Name of Each Exchange on Which Each Class is to be Registered | |
Class A Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share | New York Stock Exchange |
Securities to be Registered Pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
None
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of large accelerated filer, accelerated filer, smaller reporting company and emerging growth company in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
Large Accelerated Filer | ☐ | Accelerated Filer | ☐ | |||
Non-Accelerated Filer | ☒ | Smaller Reporting Company | ☐ | |||
Emerging Growth Company | ☒ |
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the Registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act: ☒
* | MSGE Spinco, Inc. will be renamed Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. on or prior to the Distribution (as defined herein). |
INFORMATION REQUIRED IN REGISTRATION STATEMENT
CROSS-REFERENCE SHEET BETWEEN ITEMS OF FORM 10
AND THE ATTACHED INFORMATION STATEMENT.
The information required by the following Form 10 Registration Statement items is contained in the Information Statement sections identified below, each of which is incorporated in this report by reference:
Item 1. | Business |
The information required by this item is contained under the sections Summary, Business, Available Information and Combined Financial Statements of this information statement. Those sections are incorporated herein by reference.
Item 1A. | Risk Factors |
The information required by this item is contained under the section Risk Factors. That section is incorporated herein by reference.
Item 2. | Financial Information |
The information required by this item is contained under the sections Summary, and Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations of this information statement. Those sections are incorporated herein by reference.
Item 3. | Properties |
The information required by this item is contained under the section Business Properties of this information statement. That section is incorporated herein by reference.
Item 4. | Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management |
The information required by this item is contained under the sections Summary and Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters of this information statement. Those sections are incorporated herein by reference.
Item 5. | Directors and Executive Officers |
The information required by this item is contained under the section Corporate Governance and Management of this information statement. That section is incorporated herein by reference.
Item 6. | Executive Compensation |
The information required by this item is contained under the section Executive Compensation of this information statement. That section is incorporated herein by reference.
Item 7. | Certain Relationships and Related Transactions |
The information required by this item is contained under the sections Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions and Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters of this information statement. Those sections are incorporated herein by reference.
Item 8. | Legal Proceedings |
The information required by this item is contained under the section Business Legal Proceedings of this information statement. That section is incorporated herein by reference.
Item 9. | Market Price of and Dividends on the Registrants Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters |
The information required by this item is contained under the sections Risk Factors, The Distribution, Dividend Policy, Business, Corporate Governance and Management, Shares Eligible for Future Sale and Description of Capital Stock of this information statement. Those sections are incorporated herein by reference.
Item 10. | Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities |
On September 15, 2022, MSGE Spinco, Inc. was incorporated in the State of Delaware. On December 21, 2022, Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. acquired 100 uncertificated shares of common stock of MSGE Spinco, Inc. for $100.
Item 11. | Description of Registrants Securities to be Registered |
The information required by this item is contained under the sections The Distribution and Description of Capital Stock of this information statement. Those sections are incorporated herein by reference.
Item 12. | Indemnification of Directors and Officers |
The information required by this item is contained under the section Indemnification of Directors and Officers of this information statement. That section is incorporated herein by reference.
Item 13. | Financial Statements and Supplementary Data |
The information required by this item is contained under the sections Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and Combined Financial Statements of this information statement. Those sections are incorporated herein by reference.
Item 14. | Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure |
None.
Item 15. | Financial Statements and Exhibits |
(a) Financial Statements
The information required by this item is contained under the section Combined Financial Statements beginning on page F-1 of this information statement. That section is incorporated herein by reference.
Form 10 Exhibits List and Status
Exhibit |
Description | |
21.1 | Subsidiaries of the Registrant.i | |
99.1 | Preliminary Information Statement, dated March 29, 2023. |
i | Previously filed on February 15, 2023. |
* | Previously filed on March 10, 2023. |
^ | Previously filed on March 22, 2023. |
+ | Certain confidential information identified by bracketed asterisks [*****] has been omitted from this exhibit pursuant to Item 601(b)(10) of Regulation S-K because it is both (i) not material and (ii) is the type that the registrant treats as private or confidential. |
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this registration statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
MSGE Spinco, Inc. |
By: | /s/ David F. Byrnes | |
Name: | David F. Byrnes | |
Title: |
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer |
Dated: March 29, 2023
Exhibit 2.1
DISTRIBUTION AGREEMENT
BY AND BETWEEN
MADISON SQUARE GARDEN ENTERTAINMENT CORP.
(TO BE RENAMED SPHERE ENTERTAINMENT CO.)
AND
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
(TO BE RENAMED MADISON SQUARE GARDEN ENTERTAINMENT CORP.)
Dated as of March 29, 2023
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page | ||||||
ARTICLE I |
| |||||
DEFINITIONS |
| |||||
Section 1.1 |
General |
1 | ||||
Section 1.2 | Reference; Interpretation | 10 | ||||
ARTICLE II | ||||||
DISTRIBUTION AND | ||||||
CERTAIN COVENANTS | ||||||
Section 2.1 |
Distribution |
10 | ||||
Section 2.2 |
MSG Entertainment Determination |
11 | ||||
Section 2.3 |
Charter; Bylaws |
11 | ||||
Section 2.4 |
Directors |
12 | ||||
Section 2.5 |
Election of Officers |
12 | ||||
Section 2.6 |
Certain Licenses and Permits |
12 | ||||
Section 2.7 |
State Securities Laws |
12 | ||||
Section 2.8 |
Listing Application; Notice to Stock Exchange |
12 | ||||
Section 2.9 |
Assignment of Agreements |
12 | ||||
Section 2.10 |
Removal of Certain Guarantees; Releases from Liabilities |
13 | ||||
Section 2.11 |
Corporate Names; Trademarks |
14 | ||||
Section 2.12 |
Ancillary Agreements |
15 | ||||
Section 2.13 |
Acknowledgment by Spinco |
15 | ||||
Section 2.14 |
Release |
15 | ||||
Section 2.15 |
Discharge of Liabilities |
17 | ||||
Section 2.16 |
Indebtedness |
18 | ||||
Section 2.17 | Further Assurances | 18 | ||||
ARTICLE III | ||||||
INDEMNIFICATION | ||||||
Section 3.1 |
Indemnification by MSG Entertainment |
18 | ||||
Section 3.2 |
Indemnification by Spinco |
19 | ||||
Section 3.3 |
Procedures for Indemnification |
19 | ||||
Section 3.4 | Indemnification Payments | 21 | ||||
ARTICLE IV | ||||||
ACCESS TO INFORMATION | ||||||
Section 4.1 |
Provision of Corporate Records |
22 | ||||
Section 4.2 |
Access to Information |
23 |
- i -
Page | ||||||
Section 4.3 |
Witnesses; Documents and Cooperation in Actions |
23 | ||||
Section 4.4 |
Confidentiality |
23 | ||||
Section 4.5 |
Privileged Matters |
24 | ||||
Section 4.6 |
Ownership of Information |
26 | ||||
Section 4.7 |
Cost of Providing Records and Information |
26 | ||||
Section 4.8 |
Retention of Records |
26 | ||||
Section 4.9 |
Other Agreements Providing for Exchange of Information |
27 | ||||
Section 4.10 |
Policies and Best Practices |
27 | ||||
Section 4.11 |
Compliance with Laws and Agreements |
27 | ||||
Section 4.12 | Allocation of Certain Expenses | 27 | ||||
ARTICLE V | ||||||
MISCELLANEOUS | ||||||
Section 5.1 |
Complete Agreement; Construction |
27 | ||||
Section 5.2 |
Ancillary Agreements |
27 | ||||
Section 5.3 |
Counterparts |
27 | ||||
Section 5.4 |
Survival of Agreements |
27 | ||||
Section 5.5 |
Distribution Expenses |
28 | ||||
Section 5.6 |
Notices |
28 | ||||
Section 5.7 |
Waivers |
28 | ||||
Section 5.8 |
Amendments |
28 | ||||
Section 5.9 |
Assignment |
28 | ||||
Section 5.10 |
Successors and Assigns |
29 | ||||
Section 5.11 |
Termination |
29 | ||||
Section 5.12 |
Subsidiaries |
29 | ||||
Section 5.13 |
Third-Party Beneficiaries |
29 | ||||
Section 5.14 |
Title and Headings |
29 | ||||
Section 5.15 |
Schedules |
29 | ||||
Section 5.16 |
Governing Law |
29 | ||||
Section 5.17 |
Waiver of Jury Trial |
29 | ||||
Section 5.18 |
Specific Performance |
30 | ||||
Section 5.19 |
Severability |
30 | ||||
Schedule A-1 List of Spinco Subsidiaries |
A-1 | |||||
Schedule A-2 List of Spinco Minority-Ownership Subsidiaries |
A-2 | |||||
Schedule B-1 Retained Claims Liabilities |
B-1 | |||||
Schedule B-2 Spinco Retained Claims Liabilities |
B-2 | |||||
Schedule C-1 Spinco Group Guarantees |
C-1 | |||||
Schedule C-2 MSG Entertainment Group Guarantees |
C-2 | |||||
Schedule D Ancillary Agreements |
D-1 | |||||
Schedule E Retained Assets |
E-1 | |||||
Schedule F Allocation of Certain Expenses |
F-1 |
- ii -
DISTRIBUTION AGREEMENT
This Distribution Agreement (this Agreement), is dated as of March 29, 2023, by and between Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. (to be renamed Sphere Entertainment Co. at the Effective Time (as defined herein)), a Delaware corporation (MSG Entertainment), and MSGE Spinco, Inc. (to be renamed Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. at the Effective Time), a Delaware corporation and a direct wholly-owned subsidiary of MSG Entertainment (Spinco and, together with MSG Entertainment, the Parties).
WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of MSG Entertainment determined that it is in the best interests of MSG Entertainment and its stockholders to separate the business of Spinco, as more fully described in Spincos registration statement on Form 10 (collectively, the Spinco Business), from MSG Entertainments other businesses on the terms and conditions set forth herein;
WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of MSG Entertainment has authorized the distribution to the holders of the issued and outstanding shares of MSG Entertainment Common Stock (as of the record date for the distribution) of approximately 67% of the issued and outstanding shares of Spinco Common Stock, on the basis of one share of Spinco Class A Common Stock for every one share of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock and one share of Spinco Class B Common Stock for every one share of MSG Entertainment Class B Common Stock (the Distribution);
WHEREAS, the Boards of Directors of MSG Entertainment and Spinco have each determined that the Distribution and the other transactions contemplated by this Agreement and the Ancillary Agreements are in furtherance of and consistent with the Corporate Business Purposes and, as such, are in the best interests of their respective companies and stockholders or sole member, as applicable, and have approved this Agreement and each of the Ancillary Agreements; and
WHEREAS, the Parties have determined to set forth the principal corporate and other transactions required to effect the Distribution and to set forth other agreements that will govern certain other matters prior to and following the Distribution.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants contained in this Agreement, the parties hereby agree as follows:
ARTICLE I
DEFINITIONS
Section 1.1 General. Unless otherwise defined herein or unless the context otherwise requires, as used in this Agreement, the following terms shall have the following meanings:
Action shall mean any demand, action, suit, arbitration, inquiry, proceeding or investigation by or before any Governmental Authority or any arbitration or mediation tribunal.
Affiliate shall mean, when used with respect to any specified Person, a Person that directly or indirectly controls, is controlled by, or is under common control with such specified Person. As used herein, control means the possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct or cause the direction of the management and policies of such Person, whether through the ownership of voting securities or other interests, by contract or otherwise. Unless explicitly provided herein to the contrary, for purposes of this Agreement none of MSG Entertainment, Madison Square Garden Sports Corp. (MSG Sports) or AMC Networks Inc., nor any of their respective Subsidiaries, shall be deemed to be an Affiliate of Spinco or any of its Subsidiaries, and none of Spinco, MSG Sports or AMC Networks Inc., nor any of their respective Subsidiaries, shall be deemed to be an Affiliate of MSG Entertainment or any of its Subsidiaries. For the avoidance of doubt, the term Affiliate as it applies to Spinco shall include all of the Spinco Subsidiaries.
Agent shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2.1(a) of this Agreement.
Agreement shall have the meaning set forth in the preamble to this Agreement.
Ancillary Agreements shall mean all of the written agreements, instruments, understandings, assignments or other arrangements (other than this Agreement) entered into by the Parties or any other member of their respective Groups in connection with the transactions contemplated hereby, including the agreements set forth on Schedule D.
Applicable Rate shall mean the rate of interest per annum announced from time to time by JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, as its prime lending rate.
Arena Indebtedness shall have the meaning set forth in the NBA Debt Policies.
Business Day shall mean any day other than a Saturday, Sunday or a day on which commercial banking institutions located in The City of New York are authorized or obligated by law or executive order to close.
Commission shall mean the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Contribution Agreement shall mean the Contribution Agreement among MSG Entertainment, MSG Entertainment Group, LLC (to be renamed Sphere Entertainment Group, LLC) and Spinco, which has been or shall be entered into prior to the Distribution Date.
Corporate Business Purposes shall have the meaning set forth in the Tax Disaffiliation Agreement.
Distribution shall have the meaning set forth in the recitals to this Agreement.
Distribution Date shall mean such date as may be determined by the Board of Directors of MSG Entertainment, or a committee of such Board of Directors, as the date as of which the Distribution shall be effected.
- 2 -
Distribution Record Date shall mean such date as may be determined by the Board of Directors of MSG Entertainment, or a committee of such Board of Directors, as the record date for the Distribution.
Effective Time shall mean 11:59 p.m., New York City time, on the Distribution Date.
Enterprise Indebtedness shall have the meaning set forth in the NBA Debt Policies.
Environmental Laws shall mean any and all federal, state, local and foreign statutes, laws, regulations, ordinances, rules, principles of common law, judgments, orders, decrees, permits, concessions, grants, franchises, licenses, agreements or other governmental restrictions or requirements (including without limitation the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act, 42 U.S.C. 9601, et seq.), whether now or hereafter in existence, relating to the environment, natural resources, human health or safety, endangered or threatened species of fish, wildlife and plants, or to emissions, discharges or releases of pollutants, contaminants, petroleum or petroleum products, chemicals or industrial, toxic or hazardous substances or wastes into the environment (including without limitation indoor or outdoor air, surface water, groundwater and surface or subsurface soils), or otherwise relating to the manufacture, processing, distribution, use, presence, treatment, storage, disposal, transport or handling of, or exposure to, pollutants, contaminants, petroleum or petroleum products, chemicals or industrial, toxic or hazardous substances or wastes or the investigation, cleanup or other remediation thereof.
Exchange Act shall mean the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
Governmental Authority shall mean any federal, state, local, foreign or international court, government, department, commission, board, bureau, agency, official, NYSE or other regulatory, administrative or governmental authority.
Group shall mean the MSG Entertainment Group or the Spinco Group.
Indemnifiable Losses shall mean any and all Liabilities, costs or expenses (including reasonable out-of-pocket attorneys fees and any and all out-of-pocket expenses) reasonably incurred in investigating, preparing for or defending against any Actions or potential Actions or in settling any Action or potential Action or in satisfying any judgment, fine or penalty rendered in or resulting from any Action.
Indemnifying Party shall have the meaning set forth in Section 3.3(a) of this Agreement.
Indemnitee shall mean a Spinco Indemnitee or a MSG Entertainment Indemnitee.
- 3 -
Information Statement shall mean the Information Statement filed with the Commission as part of the Registration Statement and mailed to the holders of shares of MSG Entertainment Common Stock in connection with the Distribution, including any amendments or supplements thereto.
Law shall mean all laws, statutes and ordinances and all regulations, rules and other pronouncements of Governmental Authorities having the effect of law of the United States, any foreign country, or any domestic or foreign state, province, commonwealth, city, country, municipality, territory, protectorate, possession or similar instrumentality, or any Governmental Authority thereof.
Liabilities shall mean any and all debts, liabilities, obligations, responsibilities, Losses, damages (whether compensatory, punitive or treble), fines, penalties and sanctions, absolute or contingent, matured or unmatured, liquidated or unliquidated, foreseen or unforeseen, joint, several or individual, asserted or unasserted, accrued or unaccrued, known or unknown, whenever arising, including without limitation those arising under or in connection with any Law (including any Environmental Law), Action, threatened Action, order or consent decree of any Governmental Authority or any award of any arbitration tribunal, and those arising under any contract, guarantee, commitment or undertaking, whether sought to be imposed by a Governmental Authority, private party, or Party to this Agreement, whether based in contract, tort, implied or express warranty, strict liability, criminal or civil statute, or otherwise, and including any costs, expenses, interest, attorneys fees, disbursement and expense of counsel, expert and consulting fees and costs related thereto or to the investigation, response, defense or settlement thereof.
Losses shall mean all losses, damages, claims, demands, judgments or settlements of any nature or kind, known or unknown, fixed, accrued, absolute or contingent, liquidated or unliquidated, including all reasonable costs and expenses (legal, accounting or otherwise as such costs are incurred) relating thereto, suffered by an Indemnitee.
MSG Entertainment shall have the meaning set forth in the preamble to this Agreement.
MSG Entertainment Assignee shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2.9(a) of this Agreement.
MSG Entertainment Assignor shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2.9(a) of this Agreement.
MSG Entertainment Assumed Contract Liabilities shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2.9(b) of this Agreement.
MSG Entertainment Business shall mean each and every business conducted at any time by MSG Entertainment or any Subsidiary controlled by MSG Entertainment, except the Spinco Business. For the avoidance of doubt and without limitation, the MSG Entertainment Business shall include the assets and claims set forth of Schedule E.
- 4 -
MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock shall mean the Class A common stock, par value $0.01 per share, of MSG Entertainment.
MSG Entertainment Class B Common Stock shall mean the Class B common stock, par value $0.01 per share, of MSG Entertainment.
MSG Entertainment Common Stock shall mean the MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock, together with the MSG Entertainment Class B Common Stock.
MSG Entertainment Group shall mean MSG Entertainment and each Person (other than any member of the Spinco Group) that is a Subsidiary of MSG Entertainment immediately after the Distribution Date.
MSG Entertainment Indemnitee shall mean:
(i) MSG Entertainment and each Affiliate thereof after giving effect to the Distribution; and
(ii) each of the respective Representatives of any of the entities described in the immediately preceding clause (i) and each of the heirs, executors, successors and assigns of any of such Representatives, except in the case of clauses (i) and (ii), the Spinco Indemnitees; provided, however, that a Person who was a Representative of MSG Entertainment or an Affiliate thereof may be a MSG Entertainment Indemnitee in that capacity notwithstanding that such Person may also be a Spinco Indemnitee.
MSG Entertainment Liabilities shall mean:
(i) any and all Liabilities (other than Taxes that are specifically covered by the Tax Disaffiliation Agreement and other Liabilities that are specifically covered by the other Ancillary Agreements and not expressly made subject to this Agreement by the express terms of the Ancillary Agreement) that are expressly contemplated by this Agreement or any Ancillary Agreement (or the Schedules hereto or thereto) as Liabilities to be assumed by MSG Entertainment or any member of the MSG Entertainment Group, and all Liabilities of any member of the MSG Entertainment Group under this Agreement;
(ii) all Liabilities (other than Taxes that are specifically covered by the Tax Disaffiliation Agreement and other Liabilities that are specifically covered by the other Ancillary Agreements and not expressly made subject to this Agreement by the express terms of the Ancillary Agreement), if and to the extent relating to, arising out of or resulting from:
(A) the ownership or operation of the MSG Entertainment Business (including, for the avoidance of doubt, any discontinued business or any business which has been previously sold or transferred), as conducted at any time prior to, on or after the Distribution Date; or
- 5 -
(B) the ownership or operation of any business conducted by MSG Entertainment or any MSG Entertainment Subsidiary at any time after the Distribution Date; and
(iii) any Retained Claims Liabilities;
(iv) all MSG Entertainment Retained Contract Liabilities; and
(v) all MSG Entertainment Assumed Contract Liabilities.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, the MSG Entertainment Liabilities shall not include: (x) any Liabilities that are expressly contemplated by this Agreement or any Ancillary Agreement (or the Schedules hereto or thereto) as Liabilities to be retained or assumed by Spinco or any member of the Spinco Group; or (y) any agreements and obligations of any member of the Spinco Group under this Agreement or any of the Ancillary Agreements.
MSG Entertainment Releasee shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2.15(b) of this Agreement.
MSG Entertainment Releasor shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2.15(b) of this Agreement.
MSG Entertainment Retained Contract Liability shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2.9(a) of this Agreement.
MSG Entertainment Subsidiaries shall mean all of the Subsidiaries of MSG Entertainment other than Spinco and the Spinco Subsidiaries.
NBA shall mean the National Basketball Association.
NBA Agreements shall mean (a) the Agreement and Undertaking, dated as of September 28, 2015, by and among the NBA, MSG Sports, certain subsidiaries of MSG Sports and certain other entities, (b) the Transfer Consent Agreement, dated as of September 28, 2015, by and among the NBA, MSG Sports, certain subsidiaries of MSG Sports and certain other entities, (c) the Transaction Agreement, dated as of April 15, 2020, by and among the NBA, MSG Sports, certain subsidiaries of MSG Sports and certain other entities, (d) the Letter Agreement, dated as of December 23, 2022, by and among the NBA, MSG Entertainment, certain subsidiaries of MSG Entertainment, Spinco and certain other entities and (e) the Transaction Agreement, dated as of the date hereof, by and among the NBA, MSG Entertainment, certain subsidiaries of MSG Entertainment, Spinco and certain other entities.
- 6 -
NHL shall mean the National Hockey League.
NHL Agreements shall mean (a) the Transaction Approval Agreement, dated as of September 28, 2015, by and among the NHL, MSG Sports and certain subsidiaries of MSG Sports, (b) the Transfer Consent Agreement, dated as of September 28, 2015, by and among the NHL, MSG Sports and certain subsidiaries of MSG Sports, and (c) the Transaction Agreement, dated as of April 15, 2020, by and among the NHL, MSG Sports, certain subsidiaries of MSG Sports and certain other entities.
NYSE shall mean the New York Stock Exchange LLC.
Outside Notice Date shall have the meaning set forth in Section 3.3(a).
Parties shall have the meaning set forth in the preamble to this Agreement.
Person shall mean any natural person, corporation, business trust, limited liability company, joint venture, association, company, partnership or government, or any agency or political subdivision thereof.
Records shall have the meaning set forth in Section 4.1(a) of this Agreement.
Registration Statement shall mean the registration statement on Form 10 filed with the Commission to effect the registration of the Spinco Class A Common Shares pursuant to the Exchange Act.
Representative shall mean, with respect to any Person, any of such Persons directors, officers, employees, agents, consultants, advisors, accountants, attorneys and representatives.
Retained Claims Liabilities shall mean the Liabilities, if any, described in Schedule B-1.
Spinco shall have the meaning set forth in the preamble to this Agreement.
Spinco Assignee shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2.9(b) of this Agreement.
Spinco Assignor shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2.9(b) of this Agreement.
Spinco Assumed Contract Liabilities shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2.9(a) of this Agreement.
Spinco Business shall have the meaning set forth in the recitals to this Agreement. For the avoidance of doubt, Spinco Business shall include any discontinued business previously owned or operated by the Spinco Business or any business which has been sold
- 7 -
or transferred by the Spinco Business, including any Liabilities relating to businesses or assets previously owned or operated by the Spinco Business, including MSG Winter Productions, LLC, MSG BCE, LLC, MSG Aviation, LLC, MSG Aircraft Leasing, L.L.C. and MSG Eden Realty, LLC.
Spinco Class A Common Shares shall mean the shares of Spinco Class A Common Stock to be distributed in the Distribution.
Spinco Class A Common Stock shall mean the Class A common stock, par value $0.01 per share, of Spinco.
Spinco Class B Common Shares shall mean the shares of Class B Common Stock to be distributed in the Distribution.
Spinco Class B Common Stock shall mean the Class B common stock, par value $0.01 per share, of Spinco.
Spinco Common Stock shall mean the Spinco Class A Common Stock, together with the Spinco Class B Common Stock.
Spinco Group shall mean Spinco and each Person that is a Spinco Subsidiary immediately after the Distribution Date.
Spinco Indemnitees shall mean:
(i) Spinco and each Affiliate thereof after giving effect to the Distribution; and
(ii) each of the respective Representatives of any of the entities described in the immediately preceding clause (i) and each of the heirs, executors, successors and assigns of any of such Representatives.
Spinco Liabilities shall mean:
(i) any and all Liabilities (other than Taxes that are specifically covered by the Tax Disaffiliation Agreement and other Liabilities that are specifically covered by the other Ancillary Agreements and not expressly made subject to this Agreement by the express terms of any the Ancillary Agreement) that are expressly contemplated by this Agreement or any Ancillary Agreements (or the Schedules hereto or thereto) as Liabilities to be assumed by Spinco or any member of the Spinco Group, and all Liabilities of any member of the Spinco Group under this Agreement;
(ii) all Liabilities (other than Taxes that are specifically covered by the Tax Disaffiliation Agreement and other Liabilities that are specifically covered by the other
- 8 -
Ancillary Agreements and not expressly made subject to this Agreement by the express terms of the Ancillary Agreement), if and to the extent relating to, arising out of or resulting from:
(A) the ownership or operation of the Spinco Business (including, for the avoidance of doubt, any discontinued business or any business which has been sold or transferred), as conducted at any time prior to, on or after the Distribution Date, including any Liability incurred by MSG Entertainment Group under the indemnification provisions of the 2015 Distribution Agreement which relate to the ownership or operation of the Spinco Business (a 2015 Liability) and under the indemnification provisions of the 2020 Distribution Agreement which relate to the ownership or operation of the Spinco Business (a 2020 Liability);
(B) the ownership or operation of any business conducted by Spinco or any Spinco Subsidiary at any time after the Distribution Date, including any 2015 Liability and 2020 Liability; or
(C) the NBA Agreements and the NHL Agreements, in connection with the ownership or operation of the Spinco Business;
(iii) all 2015 Liabilities, all 2020 Liabilities, and any Spinco Retained Claims Liabilities;
(iv) all Spinco Assumed Contract Liabilities; and
(v) all Spinco Retained Contract Liabilities.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Spinco Liabilities shall not include: (x) any Liabilities that are expressly contemplated by this Agreement or any Ancillary Agreement (or the Schedules hereto or thereto) as Liabilities to be retained or assumed by MSG Entertainment or any member of the MSG Entertainment Group; (y) any agreements and obligations of any member of the MSG Entertainment Group under this Agreement or any of the Ancillary Agreements and (z) any Retained Claims Liabilities.
Spinco Releasee shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2.14(a) of this Agreement.
Spinco Releasor shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2.14(a) of this Agreement.
Spinco Retained Claims Liabilities shall mean the Liabilities described in Schedule B-2.
Spinco Retained Contract Liabilities shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2.9(b) of this Agreement.
Spinco Share shall mean each Spinco Class A Common Share and Spinco Class B Common Share, on an individual basis.
Spinco Subsidiaries shall mean all of the Subsidiaries listed on Schedule A-1.
- 9 -
Subsidiary shall mean with respect to any specified Person, any corporation or other legal entity of which such Person or any of its Subsidiaries controls or owns, directly or indirectly, more than 50% of the stock or other equity interests entitled to vote on the election of members to the board of directors or similar governing body or, in the case of a Person with no governing body, more than 50% of the equity interests. As to Spinco, the term Subsidiary shall also include the 50% or less owned entities listed on Schedule A-2.
Tax shall have the meaning set forth in the Tax Disaffiliation Agreement.
Tax Disaffiliation Agreement shall mean the Tax Disaffiliation Agreement by and between MSG Entertainment and Spinco, which agreement shall be entered into prior to or on the Distribution Date.
Third Party shall mean any Person who is not a Party to this Agreement.
Third-Party Claim shall have the meaning set forth in Section 3.3(a) of this Agreement.
Transfers shall mean the direct and indirect transfers of assets and assignment of agreements from MSG Entertainment to Spinco which resulted in Spinco owning, directly or indirectly, the Spinco Business.
2015 Distribution Agreement shall mean the Distribution Agreement, dated as of September 15, 2015 between MSG Sports and MSG Networks Inc.
2020 Distribution Agreement shall mean the Distribution Agreement, dated as of March 31, 2020 between MSG Sports and MSG Entertainment.
Section 1.2 Reference; Interpretation. References in this Agreement to any gender include references to all genders, and references to the singular include references to the plural and vice versa. The words include, includes and including when used in this Agreement shall be deemed to be followed by the phrase without limitation. Unless the context otherwise requires, references in this Agreement to Articles, Sections and Schedules shall be deemed references to Articles and Sections of, and Schedules to, this Agreement. Unless the context otherwise requires, the words hereof, hereby and herein and words of similar meaning when used in this Agreement refer to this Agreement in its entirety and not to any particular Article, Section or provision of this Agreement. Neither this Agreement nor any Ancillary Agreement shall be construed against either Party as the principal draftsperson hereof or thereof.
ARTICLE II
DISTRIBUTION AND
CERTAIN COVENANTS
Section 2.1 Distribution. (a) On or prior to the Distribution Date, MSG Entertainment shall instruct MSG Entertainments stock transfer agent (the Agent) to effect the
- 10 -
Distribution by distributing, on or as soon as practicable following the Distribution Date, the Spinco Class A Common Shares and the Spinco Class B Common Shares to the holders of record as of the Distribution Record Date of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock and MSG Entertainment Class B Common Stock, respectively, and to credit the appropriate class and number of such Spinco Shares to book entry accounts or issue properly endorsed stock certificates, as applicable, for each such holder of MSG Entertainment Common Stock, all as further contemplated by the Information Statement and hereby. Spinco shall provide any share certificates that the Agent shall require in order to effect the Distribution. The Distribution shall be effective at 11:59 P.M., New York City time, on the Distribution Date.
(b) The Spinco Shares distributed in the Distribution are generally intended to be distributed pursuant to a book entry system. MSG Entertainment shall instruct the Agent to deliver the Spinco Shares previously delivered to the Agent to a depositary and to mail to each holder of record of MSG Entertainment Common Stock on the Distribution Record Date, a statement of the Spinco Shares credited to such holders account. If prior to or following the Distribution a holder of Spinco Shares requests physical certificates instead of participating in the book entry system, the Agent shall issue certificates for such shares. In lieu of fractional shares, cash shall be given to holders otherwise entitled to such fractional Spinco Shares on the Distribution Date. As soon as practicable following the Distribution Date, the Agent shall (i) aggregate all fractional Spinco Class A Common Shares into whole Spinco Class A Common Shares and (ii) aggregate all fractional Spinco Class B Common Shares into whole Spinco Class B Common Shares, and convert the whole Spinco Class B Common Shares into whole Spinco Class A Common Shares, and (iii) sell the whole Spinco Class A Common Shares in the open market at then prevailing prices and shall distribute to each such holder such holders ratable share of the proceeds of such sale, net of brokerage fees incurred in such sales and after deducting any Taxes required to be withheld and applicable transfer Taxes.
Section 2.2 MSG Entertainment Determination. MSG Entertainment shall have the sole and absolute discretion to determine whether to proceed with all or part of the Distribution and all terms of the Distribution, including the form, structure and terms of any transaction(s) and/or offering(s) to effect the Distribution and the timing of and conditions to the consummation of the Distribution. Spinco shall cooperate with MSG Entertainment in all respects to accomplish the Distribution and shall, at MSG Entertainments direction, promptly take any and all actions necessary or desirable to effect the Distribution. In its sole and absolute discretion, MSG Entertainment shall select any investment banker(s) and manager(s) in connection with the Distribution, as well as any financial printer, solicitation and/or exchange agent and outside counsel for MSG Entertainment, which shall include Sullivan & Cromwell LLP. Each of MSG Entertainment and Spinco acknowledges that it has been afforded the opportunity to seek the advice and assistance of its own separate counsel in connection with the negotiation and preparation of this Agreement and the Ancillary Agreements.
Section 2.3 Charter; Bylaws. On or prior to the Distribution Date, Spinco and MSG Entertainment shall have taken all necessary actions to provide for the adoption of the form of the Second Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation and form of Amended By-laws in substantially the form filed by Spinco with the Commission as exhibits to the Registration Statement.
- 11 -
Section 2.4 Directors. On or prior to the Distribution Date, MSG Entertainment and Spinco shall have taken all necessary action to cause the Board of Directors of Spinco to consist of the individuals identified in the Information Statement as directors of Spinco as of the Effective Time.
Section 2.5 Election of Officers. On or prior to the Distribution Date, Spinco shall take all actions necessary and desirable so that as of the Distribution Date the officers of Spinco will be as set forth in the Information Statement.
Section 2.6 Certain Licenses and Permits. On or prior to the Distribution Date or as soon as reasonably practicable thereafter, MSG Entertainment shall use its commercially reasonable efforts to transfer or cause to be transferred any transferable licenses, permits and authorizations issued by any Governmental Authority which relate solely to the Spinco Business but which are held in the name of any member of the MSG Entertainment Group, or in the name of any employee, officer, director, stockholder or agent of any such member, or otherwise, on behalf of a member of the Spinco Group to the appropriate member of the Spinco Group.
Section 2.7 State Securities Laws. Prior to the Distribution Date, MSG Entertainment and Spinco shall take all such action as may be necessary or appropriate under the securities or blue sky laws of states or other political subdivisions of the United States in order to effect the Distribution.
Section 2.8 Listing Application; Notice to Stock Exchange. (a) Prior to the Distribution Date, MSG Entertainment and Spinco shall prepare and file with NYSE a listing application and related documents and shall take all such other actions with respect thereto as shall be necessary or desirable in order to cause NYSE to list on or prior to the Distribution Date, subject to official notice of issuance, the Spinco Class A Common Shares.
(b) Prior to the Distribution, MSG Entertainment shall give NYSE not less than ten days advance notice of the Distribution Record Date in compliance with Rule 10b-17 under the Exchange Act and Section 204.12 of the NYSE Listed Company Manual.
Section 2.9 Assignment of Agreements.
(a) In connection with the Transfers, MSG Entertainment and/or its Affiliates shall enter into assignment agreements pursuant to which certain rights and obligations of MSG Entertainment and/or its Affiliates (in each case, an MSG Entertainment Assignor) will be assigned to, and accepted and assumed by, Spinco and/or its Affiliates (in each case a Spinco Assignee), in each case effective at or prior to the Effective Time. Unless otherwise agreed in the relevant assignment agreement, the relevant MSG Entertainment Assignor shall be entitled to the benefits of and be responsible for all Liabilities under each such agreement that relate to all periods of time prior to the Effective Time (each such Liability, an MSG Entertainment Retained Contract Liability) and the relevant Spinco Assignee shall be entitled to the benefits of and be responsible for all Liabilities relating to all periods of time after the Effective Time (each such Liability, a Spinco Assumed Contract Liability).
- 12 -
(b) In connection with the Transfers, Spinco and/or its Affiliates shall enter into assignment agreements pursuant to which rights and obligations of Spinco and/or its Affiliates (in each case, an Spinco Assignor) will be assigned to, and accepted and assumed by, MSG Entertainment and/or its Affiliates (in each case an MSG Entertainment Assignee), in each case effective as of the Effective Time. Unless otherwise agreed in the relevant assignment agreement, the relevant Spinco Assignor shall be entitled to the benefits of and be responsible for all Liabilities under each such agreement that relate to all periods of time prior to the Effective Time (each such Liability, a Spinco Retained Contract Liability) and the relevant MSG Entertainment Assignee shall be entitled to the benefits and responsible for all Liabilities relating to all periods of time after the Effective Time (each such Liability, an MSG Entertainment Assumed Contract Liability).
Section 2.10 Removal of Certain Guarantees; Releases from Liabilities.
(a) Except as otherwise specified in any Ancillary Agreement, (i) Spinco shall use its commercially reasonable efforts to have, on or prior to the Distribution Date, or as soon as practicable thereafter, all members of the MSG Entertainment Group removed as guarantors of or obligors for any Liability of Spinco, including in respect of those guarantees, if any, set forth on Schedule C-1 of this Agreement, and (ii) MSG Entertainment shall use its commercially reasonable efforts to have, on or prior to the Distribution Date, or as soon as practicable thereafter, all members of the Spinco Group removed as guarantors of or obligors for any Liability of MSG Entertainment, including in respect of those guarantees, if any, set forth on Schedule C-2 of this Agreement.
(b) If Spinco or MSG Entertainment, as the case may be, is unable to obtain, or to cause to be obtained, any such required removal as set forth in Section 2.10(a), the applicable guarantor or obligor shall continue to be bound as such and, unless not permitted by Law or the terms thereof, the relevant beneficiary shall or shall cause one of its Subsidiaries, as agent or subcontractor for such guarantor or obligor, to pay, perform and discharge fully all the obligations or other Liabilities of such guarantor or obligor thereunder from and after the Effective Time.
(c) If (i) Spinco is unable to obtain, or to cause to be obtained, any such required removal as set forth in Section 2.10(a), or (ii) Spinco Liabilities arise from and after the Effective Time but before a member of the MSG Entertainment Group which is a guarantor or obligor with reference to any such Spinco Liability is removed pursuant to Section 2.10(a), then such guarantor or obligor shall be indemnified by Spinco for all Liabilities incurred by it in its capacity as guarantor or obligor. Without limiting the foregoing, Spinco shall, or shall cause a member of the Spinco Group to, reimburse any such member of the MSG Entertainment Group which is a guarantor or obligor as soon as practicable (but in no event later than 30 days) following delivery by MSG Entertainment to Spinco of notice of a payment made pursuant to this Section 2.10 in respect of Spinco Liabilities.
- 13 -
(d) If (i) MSG Entertainment is unable to obtain, or to cause to be obtained, any such required removal as set forth in Section 2.10(a), or (ii) MSG Entertainment Liabilities arise from and after the Effective Time but before a member of the Spinco Group which is a guarantor or obligor with reference to any such MSG Entertainment Liability is removed pursuant to Section 2.10(a), then such guarantor or obligor shall be indemnified by MSG Entertainment for all Liabilities incurred by it in its capacity as guarantor or obligor. Without limiting the foregoing, MSG Entertainment, shall, or shall cause a member of the MSG Entertainment Group to, reimburse any such member of the Spinco Group which is a guarantor or obligor as soon as practicable (but in no event later than 30 days) following delivery by Spinco to MSG Entertainment of notice of a payment made pursuant to this Section 2.10 in respect of MSG Entertainment Liabilities.
(e) In the event that at any time before or after the Distribution Date MSG Entertainment identifies any letters of credit, interest rate or foreign exchange contracts, surety bonds or other contracts (excluding guarantees) that relate primarily to the Spinco Business but for which a member of the MSG Entertainment Group has contingent, secondary, joint, several or other Liability of any nature whatsoever, Spinco shall, at its expense, take such actions and enter into such agreements and arrangements as MSG Entertainment may reasonably request to effect the release or substitution of MSG Entertainment (or a member of the MSG Entertainment Group).
(f) In the event that at any time before or after the Distribution Date Spinco identifies any letters of credit, interest rate or foreign exchange contracts, surety bonds or other contracts (excluding guarantees) that relate primarily to the MSG Entertainment Business but for which a member of the Spinco Group has contingent, secondary, joint, several or other Liability of any nature whatsoever, MSG Entertainment shall, at its expense, take such actions and enter into such agreements and arrangements as Spinco may reasonably request to effect the release or substitution of Spinco (or a member of the Spinco Group).
(g) The Parties shall use commercially reasonable efforts to obtain, or cause to be obtained, any consent, substitution or amendment required to novate or assign all MSG Entertainment Liabilities and Spinco Liabilities of any nature whatsoever transferred under this Agreement or an Ancillary Agreement, or to obtain in writing the unconditional release of the assignor so that in each such case, MSG Entertainment (or an appropriate member of the MSG Entertainment Group) shall be solely responsible for the MSG Entertainment Liabilities and Spinco (or an appropriate member of the Spinco Group) shall be solely responsible for the Spinco Liabilities; provided, however, that no Party shall be obligated to pay any consideration therefore (except for filing fees or other similar charges) to any Third Party from whom such consent, substitution, amendment or release is requested. Whether or not any such consent, substitution, amendment or release is obtained, nothing in this Section 2.10 shall in any way limit the obligations of the parties under Article III.
Section 2.11 Corporate Names; Trademarks. All agreements between the Parties and their respective Affiliates relating to intellectual property matters are set forth in a separate MSG Entertainment Trademark Agreement between the Parties, dated the date hereof, and this Agreement shall in no way modify or supersede the MSG Entertainment Trademark Agreement.
- 14 -
Section 2.12 Ancillary Agreements. Prior to the Distribution Date, each of MSG Entertainment and Spinco shall enter into, and/or (where applicable) shall cause members of their respective Groups to enter into, the Ancillary Agreements and any other agreements in respect of the Distribution reasonably necessary or appropriate in connection with the transactions contemplated hereby and thereby.
Section 2.13 Acknowledgment by Spinco.
(a) Spinco, on behalf of itself and all members of the Spinco Group, acknowledges, understands and agrees that, except as may be expressly set forth herein or in any Ancillary Agreement, (a) no member of the MSG Entertainment Group or any other Person has, in this Agreement or in any other agreement or document, or otherwise made any representation or warranty of any kind whatsoever, express or implied, to Spinco or any member of the Spinco Group or to any director, officer, employee or agent thereof in any way with respect to any of the transactions contemplated hereby or the business, assets, agreements, condition or prospects (financial or otherwise) of, or any other matter involving, the assets, agreements, Liabilities or businesses of MSG Entertainment, any member of the MSG Entertainment Group, Spinco or any member of the Spinco Group, any assets that are transferred, any agreements that are assigned, any Spinco Liabilities or the Spinco Business, (b) Spinco and each member of the Spinco Group has taken all of the assets that are transferred, any agreements that are assigned, the Spinco Business and Spinco Liabilities on an as is, where is basis, and all implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a specific purpose or otherwise have been and are hereby expressly disclaimed, and (c) none of MSG Entertainment or any members of the MSG Entertainment Group or any other person has made or makes any representation or warranty with respect to the Distribution or the entering into of this Agreement or the Ancillary Agreements or the transactions contemplated hereby and thereby, and, in each case, Spinco has not relied on any such representation or warranty. Except as expressly set forth herein or in any other Ancillary Agreement, Spinco and each member of the Spinco Group shall bear the economic and legal risk that the Spinco Assets shall prove to be insufficient or that the title of any member of the Spinco Group to any Spinco Assets shall be other than good and marketable and free from encumbrances. The provisions of the Contribution Agreement and any related assignment agreement or other related documents are expressly subject to this Section 2.13 and to Section 2.14 hereof.
Section 2.14 Release.
(a) Spinco agrees that for itself and for its predecessors, Subsidiaries, departments, divisions and sections and for their successors, Affiliates, heirs, assigns, executors, administrators, partners, members, officers, directors, shareholders, employees, attorneys and agents (individually, each a Spinco Releasor and collectively, the Spinco Releasors), in consideration of the making by MSG Entertainment of the Transfers, the Spinco Releasors shall release, waive and forever discharge MSG Entertainment and its predecessors, Subsidiaries, departments, divisions, sections, successors, Affiliates, heirs, assigns, partners, members, officers, directors, shareholders, employees, attorneys and agents (individually, each a Spinco Releasee and collectively, the Spinco Releasees) from, and shall, in addition to other obligations under Article III, indemnify and hold harmless all such persons against and from, all Liabilities of every
- 15 -
name and nature, in law or equity, known or unknown, which against any Spinco Releasee, a Spinco Releasor ever had, now has or hereafter can, shall or may have by reason of any matter, act, omission, conduct, transaction or occurrence from the beginning of the world up to and including the Distribution Date for, upon, by reason of, asserted in or arising out of, or related to:
| The management of the business and affairs of Spinco (and its predecessors, Subsidiaries and Affiliates) and the Spinco Business on or prior to the Distribution Date; |
| The terms of this Agreement, the Ancillary Agreements, the Distribution, the Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation or the Amended By-Laws of Spinco; and |
| Any other decision that may have been made, or any action taken, relating to Spinco (and its predecessors, Subsidiaries and Affiliates), the Spinco Business or the Distribution. |
The term Spinco Releasee is expressly intended to include any person who served as an incorporator, director, officer, employee, agent or attorney of Spinco on or prior to the Distribution Date at the request of MSG Entertainment. Each Spinco Releasor expressly covenants and agrees never to institute, or participate (including as a member of a class) in, any Action against any Spinco Releasee, in any court or forum, directly or indirectly, regarding or relating to the matters released through this Release, and further covenants and agrees that this Release is a bar to any such Action. For the avoidance of doubt, the purpose of this Section 2.14(a) is to make clear the intent of the Parties that, following the Distribution Date, the only Liability that any Spinco Releasee shall have to any Spinco Releasor shall be its obligation to perform its obligations under and pursuant to the terms of this Agreement, the Ancillary Agreements and any other agreements to which the Spinco Releasee and the Spinco Releasor are parties and there shall be no Liability in respect of any event, occurrence, action or inaction on or prior to the Distribution Date. This Release shall not extend to any Liabilities owed by a Spinco Releasee to a Spinco Releasor in the Spinco Releasors capacity as a director, officer, employee or other Representative or shareholder of the Spinco Releasee nor shall it release any Liabilities or obligations under this Agreement or any Ancillary Agreements or any other agreements to which the Spinco Releasee and the Spinco Releasor are parties.
(b) MSG Entertainment agrees that for itself and for its predecessors, Subsidiaries, departments, divisions and sections and for their successors, Affiliates, heirs, assigns, executors, administrators, partners, members, officers, directors, shareholders, employees, attorneys and agents (individually, each an MSG Entertainment Releasor and collectively, the MSG Entertainment Releasors), in consideration of the entry by Spinco into this Agreement and the Ancillary Agreements, the MSG Entertainment Releasors shall release, waive and forever discharge Spinco and its predecessors, Subsidiaries, departments, divisions, sections, successors, Affiliates, heirs, assigns, partners, members, officers, directors, shareholders, employees, attorneys and agents (individually, each an MSG Entertainment Releasee and collectively, the MSG Entertainment Releasees) from, and shall, in addition to other obligations under Article III,
- 16 -
indemnify and hold harmless all such persons against and from, all Liabilities of every name and nature, in law or equity, known or unknown, which against any MSG Entertainment Releasee, an MSG Entertainment Releasor ever had, now has or hereafter can, shall or may have by reason of any matter, act, omission, conduct, transaction or occurrence from the beginning of the world up to and including the Distribution Date for, upon, by reason of, asserted in or arising out of, or related to:
| The management of the business and affairs of MSG Entertainment (and its predecessors, Subsidiaries and Affiliates) and the MSG Entertainment Business on or prior to the Distribution Date; |
| The terms of this Agreement, the Ancillary Agreements, the Distribution, the Certificate of Incorporation or the By-Laws of MSG Entertainment; and |
| Any other decision that may have been made, or any action taken, relating to MSG Entertainment (and its predecessors, Subsidiaries and Affiliates), the MSG Entertainment Business or the Distribution. |
The term MSG Entertainment Releasee is expressly intended to include any person who served as an incorporator, director, officer, employee, agent or attorney of MSG Entertainment on or prior to the Distribution Date. Each MSG Entertainment Releasor expressly covenants and agrees never to institute, or participate (including as a member of a class) in, any Action against any MSG Entertainment Releasee, in any court or forum, directly or indirectly, regarding or relating to the matters released through this Release, and further covenants and agrees that this Release is a bar to any such Action. For the avoidance of doubt, the purpose of this Section 2.14(b) is to make clear the intent of the Parties that, following the Distribution Date, the only Liability that any MSG Entertainment Releasee shall have to any MSG Entertainment Releasor shall be its obligation to perform its obligations under and pursuant to the terms of this Agreement, the Ancillary Agreements and any other agreements to which the MSG Entertainment Releasee and the MSG Entertainment Releasor are parties and there shall be no Liability in respect of any event, occurrence, action or inaction on or prior to the Distribution Date. This Release shall not extend to any Liabilities owed by an MSG Entertainment Releasee to an MSG Entertainment Releasor in the MSG Entertainment Releasors capacity as a director, officer, employee or other Representative or shareholder of the MSG Entertainment Releasee nor shall it release any Liabilities or obligations under this Agreement or any Ancillary Agreements or any other agreements to which the MSG Entertainment Releasee and the MSG Entertainment Releasor are parties.
Section 2.15 Discharge of Liabilities. Except as otherwise expressly provided herein or in any of the Ancillary Agreements:
(a) From and after the Effective Time, (i) MSG Entertainment shall, and shall cause each member of the MSG Entertainment Group to, assume, pay, perform and discharge all MSG Entertainment Liabilities in the ordinary course of business, consistent with past practice, and (ii) Spinco shall, and shall cause each member of the Spinco Group, to assume, pay, perform
- 17 -
and discharge all Spinco Liabilities in the ordinary course of business, consistent with past practice. The agreements in this Section 2.15 are made by each Party for the sole and exclusive benefit of the other Party. To the extent reasonably requested to do so by the other Party, each Party agrees to execute and deliver such documents, in a form reasonably satisfactory to such Party, as may be reasonably necessary to evidence the assumption of any Liabilities hereunder.
(b) All intercompany trade, accounts receivable and accounts payable between any member of one Group and any member of another Group in existence at the Effective Time shall be paid and performed in accordance with their terms.
Section 2.16 Indebtedness.
(a) As of the Distribution Date, Spinco represents it will not have any Arena Indebtedness or Enterprise Indebtedness.
(b) Spinco shall not incur any Arena Indebtedness or Enterprise Indebtedness without the prior written consent of MSG Sports.
Section 2.17 Further Assurances. If at any time after the Effective Time any further action is reasonably necessary or desirable to carry out the purposes of this Agreement and the Ancillary Agreements, the proper officers of each Party shall take all such necessary action. Without limiting the foregoing, each Party shall use its commercially reasonable efforts promptly to obtain all consents and approvals, to enter into all agreements and to make all filings and applications that may be required for the consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement and the Ancillary Agreements, including all applicable filings with, and approvals from, any Governmental Authority.
ARTICLE III
INDEMNIFICATION
Section 3.1 Indemnification by MSG Entertainment. Except as otherwise specifically set forth in any provision of this Agreement from and after the Distribution Date, MSG Entertainment shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless the Spinco Indemnitees from and against any and all Indemnifiable Losses of the Spinco Indemnitees to the extent arising out of, by reason of or otherwise in connection with (i) the MSG Entertainment Liabilities or alleged MSG Entertainment Liabilities; (ii) any breach by any member of the MSG Entertainment Group of this Agreement (including any provision of this Section 3.1); (iii) any untrue statement or alleged untrue statement of a material fact in the Registration Statement or the Information Statement or omission or alleged omission to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, in each case to the extent relating to the MSG Entertainment Group; and (iv) any indemnification or other obligation that any member of the Spinco Group may have (x) to the NBA or its affiliated entities pursuant to the NBA Agreements or to the NHL or its affiliated entities pursuant to the NHL Agreements to the extent that such indemnification or other obligation arose in connection with the ownership or operation of the MSG Entertainment Business, (y) for any Losses to the NBA, the NHL or their respective affiliated entities, in each case as a result of any act or omission by any member of the MSG
- 18 -
Entertainment Group, and (z) for any Losses to the NBA, the NHL or their respective affiliated entities, in each case as a result of any obligation of any member of the Spinco Group to cause or otherwise direct any act or omission of any member of the MSG Entertainment Group. This Agreement is not intended to address, and should not be interpreted to address, the matters specifically and expressly covered by the Ancillary Agreements unless such Ancillary Agreement expressly provides that this Agreement applies to any matter in such Ancillary Agreement.
Section 3.2 Indemnification by Spinco. Except as otherwise specifically set forth in any provision of this Agreement, from and after the Distribution Date, Spinco shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless the MSG Entertainment Indemnitees from and against any and all Indemnifiable Losses of the MSG Entertainment Indemnitees to the extent arising out of, by reason of or otherwise in connection with (i) the Spinco Liabilities or alleged Spinco Liabilities; (ii) any breach by any member of the Spinco Group of this Agreement (including any provision of this Section 3.2); (iii) any untrue statement or alleged untrue statement of a material fact in the Registration Statement or the Information Statement or in any registration statement, prospectus or listing application with a securities exchange filed by Spinco in connection with the Distribution, or omission or alleged omission to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading; provided, however, that this clause (iii) shall not apply to any Liability that is covered by Section 3.1(iii); and (iv) any indemnification or other obligation that any member of the MSG Entertainment Group may have (x) to the NBA or its affiliated entities pursuant to the NBA Agreements or to the NHL or its affiliated entities pursuant to the NHL Agreements to the extent that such indemnification or other obligation arose in connection with the ownership or operation of the Spinco Business, (y) for any Losses to the NBA, the NHL or their respective affiliated entities, in each case as a result of any act or omission by any member of the Spinco Group, and (z) for any Losses to the NBA, the NHL or their respective affiliated entities, in each case as a result of any obligation of any member of the MSG Entertainment Group to cause or otherwise direct any act or omission of any member of the Spinco Group. This Agreement is not intended to address, and should not be interpreted to address, the matters specifically and expressly covered by the Ancillary Agreements unless such Ancillary Agreement expressly provides that this Agreement applies to any matter in such Ancillary Agreement.
Section 3.3 Procedures for Indemnification.
(a) If a claim or demand is made by a Third Party against an Indemnitee (a Third-Party Claim) as to which such Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification pursuant to this Agreement, such Indemnitee shall notify the Party which is or may be required pursuant to Section 3.1 or Section 3.2 hereof to make such indemnification (the Indemnifying Party) in writing, and in reasonable detail, of the Third-Party Claim promptly (and in any event by the date (the Outside Notice Date) that is the 15th Business Day) after receipt by such Indemnitee of written notice of the Third-Party Claim; provided, however, that failure to give such notification shall not affect the indemnification provided hereunder except to the extent the Indemnifying Party shall have been actually prejudiced as a result of such failure (except that the Indemnifying Party shall not be liable for any expenses incurred during the period beginning immediately after the
- 19 -
Outside Notice Date and ending on the date the Indemnitee gives the required notice). Thereafter, the Indemnitee shall deliver to the Indemnifying Party, promptly (and in any event within 10 Business Days) after the Indemnitees receipt thereof, copies of all notices and documents (including court papers) received by the Indemnitee relating to the Third-Party Claim. Notice under this Section 3.3 shall be provided in accordance with Section 5.6. For the avoidance of doubt, knowledge of a Third-Party Claim by a Person who is an officer or director of both MSG Entertainment and Spinco shall not constitute notice for purposes of this Section 3.3.
If a Third-Party Claim is made against an Indemnitee, the Indemnifying Party shall be entitled to participate in the defense thereof and, if it so chooses and acknowledges in writing its obligation to indemnify the Indemnitee therefor, to assume the defense thereof with counsel selected by the Indemnifying Party; provided, however, that such counsel is not reasonably objected to by the Indemnitee. Should the Indemnifying Party so elect to assume the defense of a Third-Party Claim, the Indemnifying Party shall, within 30 days (or sooner if the nature of the Third-Party Claim so requires), notify the Indemnitee of its intent to do so, and the Indemnifying Party shall thereafter not be liable to the Indemnitee for legal or other expenses subsequently incurred by the Indemnitee in connection with the defense thereof; provided, however, that such Indemnitee shall have the right to employ counsel to represent such Indemnitee if, in such Indemnitees reasonable judgment, a conflict of interest between such Indemnitee and such Indemnifying Party exists in respect of such claim which would make representation of both such parties by one counsel inappropriate, and in such event the fees and expenses of such separate counsel shall be paid by such Indemnifying Party. If the Indemnifying Party assumes such defense, the Indemnitee shall have the right to participate in the defense thereof and to employ counsel, subject to the proviso of the preceding sentence, at its own expense, separate from the counsel employed by the Indemnifying Party, it being understood that the Indemnifying Party shall control such defense. The Indemnifying Party shall be liable for the fees and expenses of counsel employed by the Indemnitee for any period during which the Indemnifying Party has failed to assume the defense thereof (other than during the period prior to the time the Indemnitee shall have given notice of the Third-Party Claim as provided above). If the Indemnifying Party so elects to assume the defense of any Third-Party Claim, all of the Indemnitees shall cooperate with the Indemnifying Party in the defense or prosecution thereof, including by providing or causing to be provided Records and witnesses as soon as reasonably practicable after receiving any request therefor from or on behalf of the Indemnifying Party.
If the Indemnifying Party acknowledges in writing responsibility under this Section 3.3 for a Third-Party Claim, then in no event will the Indemnitee admit any liability with respect to, or settle, compromise or discharge, any Third-Party Claim without the Indemnifying Partys prior written consent; provided, however, that the Indemnitee shall have the right to settle, compromise or discharge such Third-Party Claim without the consent of the Indemnifying Party if the Indemnitee releases the Indemnifying Party from its indemnification obligation hereunder with respect to such Third-Party Claim and such settlement, compromise or discharge would not otherwise adversely affect the Indemnifying Party. If the Indemnifying Party acknowledges in writing liability for a Third-Party Claim, the Indemnitee will agree to any settlement, compromise or discharge of a Third-Party Claim that the Indemnifying Party may recommend and that by its terms obligates the Indemnifying Party to pay the full amount of the liability in connection with
- 20 -
such Third-Party Claim and releases the Indemnitee completely in connection with such Third-Party Claim and that would not otherwise adversely affect the Indemnitee. If an Indemnifying Party elects not to assume the defense of a Third-Party Claim, or fails to notify an Indemnitee of its election to do so as provided herein, such Indemnitee may compromise, settle or defend such Third-Party Claim.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Indemnifying Party shall not be entitled to assume the defense of any Third-Party Claim (and shall be liable for the fees and expenses of counsel incurred by the Indemnitee in defending such Third-Party Claim) if the Third-Party Claim seeks an order, injunction or other equitable relief or relief for other than money damages against the Indemnitee which the Indemnitee reasonably determines, after conferring with its counsel, cannot be separated from any related claim for money damages. If such equitable relief or other relief portion of the Third-Party Claim can be so separated from that for money damages, the Indemnifying Party shall be entitled to assume the defense of the portion relating to money damages.
(b) In the event of payment by an Indemnifying Party to any Indemnitee in connection with any Third-Party Claim, such Indemnifying Party shall be subrogated to and shall stand in the place of such Indemnitee as to any events or circumstances in respect of which such Indemnitee may have any right or claim relating to such Third-Party Claim against any claimant or plaintiff asserting such Third-Party Claim. Such Indemnitee shall cooperate with such Indemnifying Party in a reasonable manner, and at the cost and expense of such Indemnifying Party, in prosecuting any subrogated right or claim.
(c) Spinco shall, and shall cause the other Spinco Indemnitees to, and MSG Entertainment shall, and shall cause the other MSG Entertainment Indemnitees to, cooperate as may reasonably be required in connection with the investigation, defense and settlement of any Third-Party Claim. In furtherance of this obligation, the Parties agree that if an Indemnifying Party chooses to defend or to compromise or settle any Third-Party Claim, MSG Entertainment or Spinco, as the case may be, shall use its commercially reasonable efforts to make available to the other Party, upon written request, the former and then current directors, officers, employees and agents of the members of its respective Group as witnesses and any Records or other documents within its control or which it otherwise has the ability to make available, to the extent that any such Person, Records or other documents may reasonably be required in connection with such defense, settlement or compromise. At the request of an Indemnifying Party, an Indemnitee shall enter into a reasonably acceptable joint defense agreement.
(d) The remedies provided in this Article III shall be cumulative and shall not preclude assertion by any Indemnitee of any other rights or the seeking of any and all other remedies against any Indemnifying Party.
Section 3.4 Indemnification Payments. (a) Indemnification required by this Article III shall be made by periodic payments of the amount thereof during the course of the investigation or defense, as and when bills are received or an Indemnifiable Loss is incurred. If the Indemnifying Party fails to make an indemnification payment required by this Article III
- 21 -
within 30 days after receipt of a bill therefor or notice that an Indemnifiable Loss has been incurred, the Indemnifying Party shall also be required to pay interest on the amount of such indemnification payment, from the date of receipt of the bill or notice of the Indemnified Loss to but not including the date of payment, at the Applicable Rate.
(b) The amount of any claim by an Indemnitee under this Agreement (i) shall be reduced to reflect any actual Tax savings or insurance proceeds received by any Indemnitee that result from the Indemnifiable Losses that gave rise to such indemnity and (ii) shall be increased by an amount equal to any Tax cost incurred by any Indemnitee that results from receipt of payments under this Article III.
(c) For all Tax purposes and to the extent permitted by applicable Law, the Parties hereto shall treat (a) any payment (other than payments representing interest) made pursuant to this Article III as a capital contribution or a distribution, as the case may be, immediately prior to the Distribution and (b) any payment of interest as taxable or deductible, as the case may be, to the Party entitled under this Agreement to retain such payment or required under this Agreement to make such payment, in either case except as otherwise required by applicable Law.
ARTICLE IV
ACCESS TO INFORMATION
Section 4.1 Provision of Corporate Records.
(a) Except as specifically provided in Article III (in which event the provisions of such Article will govern), after the Distribution Date, upon the prior written request by Spinco for specific and identified agreements, documents, books, records or files including accounting and financial records (collectively, Records) which relate to Spinco or the conduct of the Spinco Business up to the Effective Time, or which Spinco determines are necessary or advisable in order for Spinco to prepare its financial statements and any reports or filings to be made with any Governmental Authority, MSG Entertainment shall arrange, as soon as reasonably practicable following the receipt of such request, to provide appropriate copies of such Records (or the originals thereof if Spinco has a reasonable need for such originals) in the possession or control of MSG Entertainment or any of the MSG Entertainment Subsidiaries, but only to the extent such items are not already in the possession or control of the requesting Party.
(b) Except as specifically provided in Article III (in which event the provisions of such Article will govern), after the Distribution Date, upon the prior written request by MSG Entertainment for specific and identified Records which relate to MSG Entertainment or the conduct of the MSG Entertainment Business up to the Effective Time, or which MSG Entertainment determines are necessary or advisable in order for MSG Entertainment to prepare its financial statements and any reports or filings to be made with any Governmental Authority, Spinco shall arrange, as soon as reasonably practicable following the receipt of such request, to provide appropriate copies of such Records (or the originals thereof if MSG Entertainment has a reasonable need for such originals) in the possession or control of Spinco or any of the Spinco Subsidiaries, but only to the extent such items are not already in the possession or control of the requesting Party.
- 22 -
Section 4.2 Access to Information. Except as specifically provided in Article III (in which event the provisions of such Article will govern), from and after the Distribution Date, each of MSG Entertainment and Spinco shall afford to the other and its authorized Representatives reasonable access during normal business hours, subject to appropriate restrictions for classified, privileged or confidential information, to the personnel, properties, and Records of such Party and its Subsidiaries insofar as such access is reasonably required by the other Party and relates to such other Party or the conduct of its business prior to the Effective Time.
Section 4.3 Witnesses; Documents and Cooperation in Actions. (a) At all times from and after the Distribution Date, each of MSG Entertainment and Spinco shall use their commercially reasonable efforts to make available to the other, upon reasonable written request, its and its Subsidiaries former and then current Representatives as witnesses and any Records within its control or which it otherwise has the ability to make available, to the extent that such Persons or Records may reasonably be required in connection with the prosecution or defense of any Action in which the requesting Party may from time to time be involved. The requesting Party shall promptly reimburse the other party (and any person it makes available hereunder) for all reasonable out-of-pocket costs and expenses incurred in connection therewith. This provision shall not apply to any Action brought by one Party against another Party (as to which production of documents and witnesses shall be governed by applicable discovery rules).
(b) Without limiting any provision of this Section 4.3, the Parties shall cooperate and consult, and shall cause each member of their respective Groups to cooperate and consult, to the extent reasonably necessary with respect to any Actions.
(c) In connection with any matter contemplated by this Section 4.3, the Parties will enter into a mutually acceptable joint defense agreement so as to maintain to the extent practicable any applicable attorney-client privilege or work product immunity of any member of any Group.
Section 4.4 Confidentiality. (a) MSG Entertainment and the MSG Entertainment Subsidiaries and Spinco and the Spinco Subsidiaries shall not use or permit the use of and shall keep, and shall cause its consultants and advisors to keep, confidential all information concerning the other Party in its possession, its custody or under its control to the extent such information (w) relates to or was acquired during the period up to the Effective Time, (x) relates to any Ancillary Agreement, (y) is obtained in the course of performing services for the other Party pursuant to any Ancillary Agreement, or (z) is based upon or is derived from information described in the preceding clauses (w), (x) or (y), and each Party shall not (without the prior written consent of the other) otherwise release or disclose such information to any other Person, except such Partys auditors, attorneys, consultants and advisors, unless compelled to disclose such information by judicial or administrative process or unless such disclosure is required by Law and such Party has used commercially reasonable efforts to consult
- 23 -
with the other affected Party or Parties prior to such disclosure. Each Party shall be deemed to have satisfied its obligation to hold confidential any information concerning or owned by the other Party or its Group if it exercises the same care as it takes to preserve confidentiality for its own similar information. The covenants in this Section 4.4 shall survive the transactions contemplated by this Agreement and shall continue indefinitely; provided, however, that the covenants in this Section 4.4 shall terminate with respect to any information not constituting a trade secret under applicable law on the third anniversary of the later of the Distribution Date or the date on which the Party subject to such covenants with respect to such information receives it (but any such termination shall not terminate or otherwise limit any other covenant or restriction regarding the disclosure or use of such information under any Ancillary Agreement or other agreement, instrument or legal obligation). This Section 4.4 shall not apply to information (A) that has been in the public domain through no fault of such Party or (B) that has been later lawfully acquired from other sources by such Party, (C) the use or disclosure of which is permitted by this Agreement or any other Ancillary Agreement or any other agreement entered into pursuant hereto, (D) that is immaterial and its disclosure is required as part of the conduct of that Partys business and would not reasonably be expected to be detrimental to the interests of the other Party or (E) that the other Party has agreed in writing may be so used or disclosed.
(b) If any Party or any member of its Group either determines that it is required to disclose pursuant to applicable Law, or receives any demand under lawful process or from any Governmental Authority to disclose or provide, information of the other Party (or any member of the other Partys Group) that is subject to the confidentiality provisions of Section 4.4(a) such Party shall notify the other Party prior to disclosing or providing such information and shall cooperate at the expense of the requesting Party in seeking any reasonable protective arrangements requested by such other Party. Subject to the foregoing, the Person that received such request may thereafter disclose or provide such information if and to the extent required by such Law or by lawful process or such Governmental Authority; provided, however, that the Person shall only disclose such portion of the information as required to be disclosed or provided.
Section 4.5 Privileged Matters. Except as may be otherwise provided in an Ancillary Agreement, the Parties recognize that legal and other professional services that have been and will be provided prior to the Distribution Date have been and will be rendered for the benefit of each of the members of the MSG Entertainment Group, and each of the members of the Spinco Group, and that each of the members of the MSG Entertainment Group, and each of the members of the Spinco Group, should be deemed to be the client for the purposes of asserting all privileges which may be asserted under applicable Law. To allocate the interests of each Party in the information as to which any Party is entitled to assert a privilege, the Parties agree as follows:
(a) MSG Entertainment shall be entitled, in perpetuity, to control the assertion or waiver of all privileges in connection with privileged information that relates solely to the MSG Entertainment Business (other than with respect to Liabilities as to which Spinco is required to provide indemnification under Article III), whether or not the privileged information is in the possession of or under the control of MSG Entertainment or Spinco. MSG Entertainment shall also be entitled, in perpetuity, to control the assertion or waiver of all privileges in connection with
- 24 -
privileged information that relates solely to the subject matter of any claims constituting MSG Entertainment Liabilities (including Retained Claims Liabilities), or other Liabilities as to which it is required to provide indemnification under Article III, now pending or which may be asserted in the future, whether or not the privileged information is in the possession of or under the control of MSG Entertainment or Spinco.
(b) Spinco shall be entitled, in perpetuity, to control the assertion or waiver of all privileges in connection with privileged information that relates solely to the Spinco Business (other than with respect to matters or claims that are Retained Claims Liabilities or other Liabilities as to which MSG Entertainment is required to provide indemnification under Article III), whether or not the privileged information is in the possession of or under the control of MSG Entertainment or Spinco. Spinco shall also be entitled, in perpetuity, to control the assertion or waiver of all privileges in connection with privileged information that relates solely to the subject matter of any claims constituting Spinco Liabilities, or other liabilities as to which it is required to provide indemnification under Article III, now pending or which may be asserted in the future, in any lawsuits or other proceedings initiated against or by Spinco, whether or not the privileged information is in the possession of Spinco or under the control of MSG Entertainment or Spinco.
(c) The Parties agree that they shall have a shared privilege, with equal right to assert or waive, subject to the restrictions in this Section 4.5, with respect to all privileges not allocated pursuant to the terms of Sections 4.5(a) and (b).
(d) No Party may waive any privilege which could be asserted under any applicable Law, and in which the other Party has a shared privilege, without the written consent of the other Party, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed, except to the extent reasonably required in connection with any Third-Party Claims or as provided in subsection (e) below.
(e) In the event of any litigation or dispute between or among the Parties, any Party and a Subsidiary of the other Party, or a Subsidiary of one Party and a Subsidiary of the other Party, either such Party may waive a privilege in which the other Party has a shared privilege, without obtaining the consent of the other Party; provided, however, that such waiver of a shared privilege shall be effective only as to the use of information with respect to the litigation or dispute between the Parties and/or their Subsidiaries, and that such a Party shall, to the best of that Partys ability, keep such information confidential and limited in distribution (including, for example, not filing any such information in a public court document); and that any such use shall not operate as a waiver of the shared privilege with respect to any Third-Party Claims.
(f) If a dispute arises between or among the Parties or their respective Subsidiaries regarding whether a privilege should be waived to protect or advance the interest of any Party, each Party agrees that it shall negotiate in good faith, shall endeavor to minimize any prejudice to the rights of the other Party, and shall not unreasonably withhold consent to any request for a waiver by the other Party. Each Party hereto specifically agrees that it will not withhold consent to a waiver for any purpose except to protect its own legitimate interests.
- 25 -
(g) Upon receipt by any Party or by any Subsidiary thereof of any subpoena, discovery or other request which arguably calls for the production or disclosure of information subject to a shared privilege or as to which another Party has the sole right hereunder to assert a privilege, or if any Party obtains knowledge that any of its or any of its Subsidiaries current or former Representatives have received any subpoena, discovery or other request which arguably calls for the production or disclosure of such privileged information, such Party shall promptly notify the other Party of the existence of the request and shall provide the other Party a reasonable opportunity to review the information and to assert any rights it or they may have under this Section 4.5 or otherwise to prevent the production or disclosure of such privileged information.
(h) The transfer of all Records and other information pursuant to this Agreement is made in reliance on the agreement of MSG Entertainment and Spinco, as set forth in Sections 4.2, 4.3, 4.4 and this Section 4.5, to maintain the confidentiality of privileged information and to assert and maintain all applicable privileges. The access to information being granted pursuant to Sections 4.1, 4.2, and 4.3 hereof, the agreement to provide witnesses and individuals pursuant to Sections 4.2 and 4.3 hereof, the furnishing of notices and documents and other cooperative efforts contemplated by Section 4.3 hereof, and the transfer of privileged information between and among the Parties and their respective Subsidiaries, Affiliates and Representatives pursuant to this Agreement shall not be deemed a waiver of any privilege that has been or may be asserted under this Agreement or otherwise.
Section 4.6 Ownership of Information. Any information owned by one Party or any of its Subsidiaries that is provided to a requesting Party pursuant to Article III or this Article IV shall be deemed to remain the property of the providing Person. Unless specifically set forth herein, nothing contained in this Agreement shall be construed as granting or conferring rights of license or otherwise in any such information.
Section 4.7 Cost of Providing Records and Information. A Party requesting Records, information or access to personnel, witnesses or properties, under Article III or this Article IV, agrees to reimburse the other Party and its Subsidiaries for the reasonable out-of-pocket costs, if any, incurred in seeking to satisfy the request of the requesting Party.
Section 4.8 Retention of Records. Except (a) as provided in the Tax Disaffiliation Agreement or (b) when a longer retention period is otherwise required by Law or agreed to in writing, the MSG Entertainment Group and the Spinco Group shall retain all Records relating to the MSG Entertainment Business and the Spinco Business as of the Effective Time for the periods of time provided in each Partys record retention policy (with respect to the documents of such party and without regard to the Distribution or its effects) as in effect on the Distribution Date. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in lieu of retaining any specific Records, MSG Entertainment or Spinco may offer in writing to deliver such Records to the other and, if such offer is not accepted within 90 days, the offered Records may be destroyed or otherwise disposed of at any time. If a recipient of such offer shall request in writing prior to the scheduled date for such destruction or disposal that any of Records proposed to be destroyed or disposed of be delivered to such requesting Party, the Party proposing the destruction or disposal shall promptly arrange for delivery of such of the Records as was requested (at the cost of the requesting Party).
- 26 -
Section 4.9 Other Agreements Providing for Exchange of Information. The rights and obligations granted under this Article IV are subject to any specific limitations, qualifications or additional provisions on the sharing, exchange or confidential treatment of information set forth in any Ancillary Agreement or in any other agreement to which a member of the MSG Entertainment Group and a member of the Spinco Group is a party.
Section 4.10 Policies and Best Practices. Without representation or warranty, Spinco and MSG Entertainment shall continue to be permitted to share, on a confidential basis, best practices information and materials (such as policies, workflow templates and standard form contracts).
Section 4.11 Compliance with Laws and Agreements. Nothing in this Article IV shall be deemed to require any Person to provide any information if doing so would, in the opinion of counsel to such Person, be inconsistent with any legal or constitutional obligation applicable to such Person.
Section 4.12 Allocation of Certain Expenses. Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, MSG Entertainment and Spinco shall share certain specified litigation costs, expenses, insurance proceeds and other recoveries as described in Schedule F.
ARTICLE V
MISCELLANEOUS
Section 5.1 Complete Agreement; Construction. This Agreement, including the Schedules, and the Ancillary Agreements shall constitute the entire agreement between the Parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and shall supersede all previous negotiations, commitments and writings with respect to such subject matter. In the event of any inconsistency between this Agreement and any Schedule, the Schedule shall prevail.
Section 5.2 Ancillary Agreements. Except as may be expressly stated herein, this Agreement is not intended to address, and should not be interpreted to address, the matters specifically and expressly covered by the Ancillary Agreements.
Section 5.3 Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, all of which shall be considered one and the same agreement, and shall become effective when one or more such counterparts have been signed by each of the Parties and delivered to the other Party.
Section 5.4 Survival of Agreements. Except as otherwise contemplated by this Agreement, all covenants and agreements of the Parties contained in this Agreement shall survive the Distribution Date.
- 27 -
Section 5.5 Distribution Expenses. Except as otherwise set forth in this Agreement or any Ancillary Agreement, all costs and expenses incurred on or prior to the Distribution Date (whether or not paid on or prior to the Distribution Date) in connection with the preparation, execution, delivery, printing and implementation of this Agreement and any Ancillary Agreement, the Information Statement and the Registration Statement, and the Distribution and the consummation of the transactions contemplated thereby, shall be charged to and paid by MSG Entertainment. Such expenses shall be deemed to be MSG Entertainment Liabilities. Except as otherwise set forth in this Agreement or any Ancillary Agreement, each Party shall bear its own costs and expenses incurred after the Distribution Date. Any amount or expense to be paid or reimbursed by any Party to any other Party shall be so paid or reimbursed promptly after the existence and amount of such obligation is determined and written demand therefor is made.
Section 5.6 Notices. All notices and other communications hereunder shall be in writing, shall reference this Agreement and shall be hand delivered or mailed by registered or certified mail (return receipt requested) to the Parties at the following addresses (or at such other addresses for a Party as shall be specified by like notice) and will be deemed given on the date on which such notice is received:
To MSG Entertainment:
The Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. (or, after the
applicable name change, Sphere Entertainment Co.)
Two Penn Plaza
New York, New York 10121
Attention: General Counsel
To Spinco:
MSGE Spinco, Inc. (or, after the applicable name change, Madison
Square Garden Entertainment Corp.)
Two Penn Plaza
New York, New York 10121
Attention: General Counsel
Section 5.7 Waivers. The failure of any Party to require strict performance by any other Party of any provision in this Agreement will not waive or diminish that Partys right to demand strict performance thereafter of that or any other provision hereof.
Section 5.8 Amendments. Subject to the terms of Sections 5.11 hereof, this Agreement may not be modified or amended except by an agreement in writing signed by each of the Parties.
Section 5.9 Assignment. This Agreement shall not be assignable, in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, by any Party without the prior written consent of the other Party, and any attempt to assign any rights or obligations arising under this Agreement without such consent
- 28 -
shall be void; provided that either Party may assign this Agreement to a purchaser (by merger, sale of assets or otherwise) of all or substantially all of the properties and assets of such Party so long as such purchaser expressly assumes, in a written instrument in form reasonably satisfactory to the non-assigning Party, the due and punctual performance or observance of every agreement and covenant of this Agreement on the part of the assigning Party to be performed or observed. Any assignment in violation of the provisions of this Section 5.9 shall be void.
Section 5.10 Successors and Assigns. The provisions of this Agreement shall be binding upon, inure to the benefit of and be enforceable by the Parties and their respective successors and permitted assigns.
Section 5.11 Termination. This Agreement (including Article III hereof) may be terminated and the Distribution may be amended, modified or abandoned at any time prior to the Distribution by and in the sole discretion of MSG Entertainment without the approval of Spinco or the stockholders of MSG Entertainment. In the event of such termination, no Party shall have any liability of any kind to any other Party or any other Person. After the Distribution, this Agreement may not be terminated except by an agreement in writing signed by the Parties; provided, however, that Article III shall not be terminated or amended after the Distribution in respect of a Third Party beneficiary thereto without the consent of such Person.
Section 5.12 Subsidiaries. Each of the Parties shall cause to be performed, and hereby guarantees the performance of, all actions, agreements and obligations set forth herein to be performed by any entity that is contemplated to be a Subsidiary of such Party after the Distribution Date.
Section 5.13 Third-Party Beneficiaries. Except as provided in Article III relating to Indemnitees, this Agreement is solely for the benefit of the Parties and their respective Subsidiaries and Affiliates and should not be deemed to confer upon any other Person any remedy, claim, liability, reimbursement, cause of action or other right in excess of those existing without reference to this Agreement.
Section 5.14 Title and Headings. Titles and headings to Sections herein are inserted for convenience of reference only and are not intended to be a part of or to affect the meaning or interpretation of this Agreement.
Section 5.15 Schedules. The Schedules shall be construed with and as an integral part of this Agreement to the same extent (except as set forth in the last sentence of Section 5.1) as if the same had been set forth verbatim herein.
Section 5.16 Governing Law. THIS AGREEMENT SHALL BE GOVERNED BY AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK APPLICABLE TO CONTRACTS MADE AND TO BE PERFORMED IN THE STATE OF NEW YORK.
Section 5.17 Waiver of Jury Trial. The Parties hereby irrevocably waive any and all right to trial by jury in any legal proceeding arising out of or related to this Agreement.
- 29 -
Section 5.18 Specific Performance. From and after the Distribution, in the event of any actual or threatened default in, or breach of, any of the terms, conditions and provisions of this Agreement, the Parties agree that the Party to this Agreement who is or is to be thereby aggrieved shall have the right to specific performance and injunctive or other equitable relief of its rights under this Agreement, in addition to any and all other rights and remedies at law or in equity, and all such rights and remedies shall be cumulative. The Parties agree that, from and after the Distribution, the remedies at law for any breach or threatened breach of this Agreement, including monetary damages, are inadequate compensation for any loss, that any defense in any action for specific performance that a remedy at law would be adequate is hereby waived, and that any requirements for the securing or posting of any bond with such remedy are hereby waived.
Section 5.19 Severability. In the event any one or more of the provisions contained in this Agreement should be held invalid, illegal or unenforceable in any respect, the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions contained herein and therein shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby. The Parties shall endeavor in good faith negotiations to replace the invalid, illegal or unenforceable provisions with valid provisions, the economic effect of which comes as close as possible to that of the invalid, illegal or unenforceable provisions.
[Signature page follows]
- 30 -
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have caused this Agreement to be duly executed as of the day and year first above written.
MADISON SQUARE GARDEN ENTERTAINMENT CORP. (to be renamed Sphere Entertainment Co.) | ||
By: | /s/ James L. Dolan | |
Name: James L. Dolan | ||
Title: Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer |
MSGE SPINCO, INC. (to be renamed Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp.) | ||
By: | /s/ David F. Byrnes | |
Name: David F. Byrnes | ||
Title: Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer |
Exhibit 2.2
CONTRIBUTION AGREEMENT
BY AND AMONG
MADISON SQUARE GARDEN ENTERTAINMENT CORP.
(TO BE RENAMED SPHERE ENTERTAINMENT CO.),
MSG ENTERTAINMENT GROUP, LLC (TO BE RENAMED SPHERE ENTERTAINMENT GROUP, LLC)
AND
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
(TO BE RENAMED MADISON SQUARE GARDEN ENTERTAINMENT CORP.)
Dated as of March 29, 2023
CONTRIBUTION AGREEMENT (this Agreement), dated as of March 29, 2023, by and among MADISON SQUARE GARDEN ENTERTAINMENT CORP. (to be renamed Sphere Entertainment Co. at the Effective Time), a Delaware corporation (MSG Entertainment), MSG ENTERTAINMENT GROUP, LLC (to be renamed Sphere Entertainment Group, LLC), a Delaware limited liability company and a direct wholly-owned subsidiary of MSG Entertainment (MSGEG), and MSGE SPINCO, INC. (to be renamed Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. at the Effective Time), a Delaware corporation (Spinco).
RECITALS
WHEREAS, MSG Entertainment and Spinco are parties to a Distribution Agreement, dated as of March 29, 2023 (the Distribution Agreement);
WHEREAS, pursuant to the Distribution Agreement, MSG Entertainment intends to distribute to its stockholders approximately 67% of Spincos common stock (the Distribution);
WHEREAS, pursuant to the Distribution Agreement, the parties wish to cause the transactions described on Annex I (the Reorganization Transactions) to be completed including, without limitation, (a) the assignment by MSGEG or its subsidiaries to MSG Entertainment or its subsidiaries of all of the issued and outstanding common stock, partnership interests and membership interests of the entities and assets and liabilities as reflected in Section A of Annex I (such assignments are referred to herein as the Sphere Assignments) and (b) the assignment by MSG Entertainment to Spinco or its subsidiaries of all of the issued and outstanding common stock, partnership interests and membership interests of the entities and assets and liabilities as reflected in Section B of Annex I (such assignments are referred to herein as the Entertainment Assignments and, together with the Sphere Assignments, the Assignments);
WHEREAS, in consideration of the Entertainment Assignments, Spinco wishes to issue to MSG Entertainment, and MSG Entertainment wishes to receive, 900 shares of newly issued Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share, of Spinco (the Spinco Stock);
WHEREAS, MSG Entertainment, in its capacity as the sole stockholder of Spinco, has approved such issuance of Spinco Stock for purposes of exempting such acquisition under Rule 16b-3(d) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended;
WHEREAS, the parties hereto intend for Spinco to own, immediately following the Distribution, the business and assets described in Spincos registration statement on Form 10 (the Form 10) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission as being owned, directly or indirectly, by Spinco (the Spinco Assets);
WHEREAS, the parties hereto intend for Spinco to assume and be responsible for, directly or indirectly, the liabilities described in the Form 10 as being liabilities, directly or indirectly, of Spinco (the Spinco Liabilities);
WHEREAS, in order to complete the Reorganization Transactions and the Distribution, the parties desire to enter into this Agreement;
WHERAS, this Agreement, together with the other documents implementing the Distribution and Reorganization Transactions, is intended to be, and is hereby adopted as, a plan of reorganization within the meaning of Treas. Reg. section 1.368-2(g); and
WHEREAS, terms used but not defined herein have the meanings assigned thereto in the Distribution Agreement.
NOW, THEREFORE, for good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are acknowledged by this Agreement, the parties agree as follows:
1. Assignments. Subject to the terms of the Distribution Agreement, MSG Entertainment hereby agrees to transfer and assign to Spinco, or to cause its applicable subsidiaries or affiliates to transfer and assign to Spinco, or its applicable subsidiaries or affiliates, all of the Spinco Assets, and Spinco agrees to assume, or to cause its applicable subsidiaries or affiliates to assume, the Spinco Liabilities. These transfers, assignments and assumptions are effective at or prior to the Effective Time. In furtherance of the foregoing, MSG Entertainment, MSGEG and Spinco shall take all actions necessary to cause the completion of the Reorganization Transactions to which it or any of its subsidiaries is a party. In furtherance thereof, prior to the Effective Time, (a) MSGEG shall make the Sphere Assignments to MSG Entertainment or its subsidiaries, and MSG Entertainment or its subsidiaries shall accept such Sphere Assignments from MSGEG, and (b) MSG Entertainment shall make the Entertainment Assignments to Spinco or its subsidiaries, and Spinco or its subsidiaries shall accept such Entertainment Assignments from MSG Entertainment.
2. Stock Issuance. Spinco hereby agrees to issue to MSG Entertainment, prior to the Effective Time, the Spinco Stock, in uncertificated form, pursuant to the Assignment Agreement and Stock Power, dated the date of this Agreement, between MSG Entertainment and Spinco. MSG acknowledges and agrees that the uncertificated Spinco Stock shall be subject to the terms of the legends set forth on Annex II hereto.
3. Disclosure. Except as expressly provided in the Distribution Agreement or in any Ancillary Agreement, (i) none of the parties is making any representation to any other party in connection with the Reorganization Transactions, the Assignments or the Spinco Stock issuance, and (ii) Spinco is not directly assuming any liabilities under the Reorganization Transactions or the Entertainment Assignments.
4. Further Assurances. Each party hereto agrees to take such further actions as may be reasonably necessary to effect the transactions contemplated by this Agreement. Without limiting the foregoing sentence, the parties will take any such steps as are necessary to complete the transfer to Spinco, or its applicable subsidiaries or affiliates, of the Spinco Assets and the assumption by Spinco, or its applicable subsidiaries or affiliates, of the Spinco Liabilities.
5. Complete Agreement; Construction. This Agreement, including the Annexes hereto, shall constitute the entire agreement between the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and shall supersede all previous negotiations, commitments and writings with respect to such subject matter. In the event of any inconsistency between this Agreement and any Annex, the Annex shall prevail.
-2-
6. Ancillary Agreements. This Agreement is not intended to address, and should not be interpreted to address, the matters specifically and expressly covered by the Distribution Agreement or the Ancillary Agreements. Without limiting the foregoing sentence, the provisions of Sections 2.13 and 2.14 of the Distribution Agreement shall apply to the Reorganization Transaction and the Assignments.
7. Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, all of which shall be considered one and the same agreement, and shall become effective when one or more such counterparts have been signed by each of the parties and delivered to the other parties.
8. Survival of Agreements. Except as otherwise contemplated by this Agreement, all covenants and agreements of the parties contained in this Agreement shall survive the Distribution Date.
9. Notices. All notices and other communications hereunder shall be in writing, shall reference this Agreement and shall be hand delivered or mailed by registered or certified mail (return receipt requested) to the parties at the following addresses (or at such other addresses for a party as shall be specified by like notice) and will be deemed given on the date on which such notice is received:
To MSG Entertainment and MSGEG:
Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. (or, after the applicable name change, Sphere Entertainment Co.)
Two Penn Plaza
New York, New York 10121
Attention: General Counsel
To Spinco:
MSGE Spinco, Inc. (or, after the applicable name change, Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp.)
Two Penn Plaza
New York, New York 10121
Attention: General Counsel
10. Waivers. The failure of any party to require strict performance by any other party of any provision in this Agreement will not waive or diminish that partys right to demand strict performance thereafter of that or any other provision hereof.
11. Amendments. Subject to the terms of Section 14 hereof, this Agreement may not be modified or amended except by an agreement in writing signed by each of the parties.
-3-
12. Assignment. This Agreement shall not be assignable, in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, by any party without the prior written consent of the other parties, and any attempt to assign any rights or obligations arising under this Agreement without such consent shall be void; provided that any party may assign this Agreement to a purchaser of all or substantially all of the properties and assets of such party (whether by sale, merger or otherwise) so long as such purchaser expressly assumes, in a written instrument in form reasonably satisfactory to the non-assigning parties, the due and punctual performance or observance of every agreement and covenant of this Agreement on the part of the assigning party to be performed or observed.
13. Successors and Assigns. The provisions to this Agreement shall be binding upon, inure to the benefit of and be enforceable by the parties and their respective successors and permitted assigns.
14. Termination. This Agreement may be terminated at any time prior to the Distribution by and in the sole discretion of MSG Entertainment without the approval of MSGEG, Spinco or the stockholders of MSG Entertainment. In the event of such termination, no party shall have any liability of any kind to any other party or any other Person. After the Distribution, this Agreement may not be terminated except by an agreement in writing signed by the parties.
15. Third-Party Beneficiaries. This Agreement is solely for the benefit of the parties and should not be deemed to confer upon any other Person any remedy, claim, liability, reimbursement, cause of action or other right in excess of those existing without reference to this Agreement.
16. Title and Headings. Titles and headings to Sections herein are inserted for convenience of reference only and are not intended to be a part of or to affect the meaning or interpretation of this Agreement.
17. Annexes. The Annexes shall be construed with and as an integral part of this Agreement to the same extent as if the same had been set forth verbatim herein.
18. Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York applicable to contracts made and to be performed in the State of New York.
19. Waiver of Jury Trial. The parties hereby irrevocably waive any and all right to trial by jury in any legal proceeding arising out of or related to this Agreement.
20. Specific Performance. From and after the Distribution, in the event of any actual or threatened default in, or breach of, any of the terms, conditions and provisions of this Agreement, the parties agree that the party to this Agreement who is or is to be thereby aggrieved shall have the right to specific performance and injunctive or other equitable relief of its rights under this Agreement, in addition to any and all other rights and remedies at law or in equity, and all such rights and remedies shall be cumulative. The parties agree that, from and after the Distribution, the remedies at law for any breach or threatened breach of this Agreement,
-4-
including monetary damages, are inadequate compensation for any loss, that any defense in any action for specific performance that a remedy at law would be adequate is hereby waived, and that any requirements for the securing or posting of any bond with such remedy are hereby waived.
21. Severability. In the event any one or more of the provisions contained in this Agreement should be held invalid, illegal or unenforceable in any respect, the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions contained herein and therein shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby. The parties shall endeavor in good faith negotiations to replace the invalid, illegal or unenforceable provisions with valid provisions, the economic effect of which comes as close as possible to that of illegal or unenforceable provisions.
[Signature page follows]
-5-
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement as of the date first above written.
MADISON SQUARE GARDEN ENTERTAINMENT CORP. (to be renamed Sphere Entertainment Co.) | ||
By: | /s/ James L. Dolan | |
Name: James L. Dolan | ||
Title: Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer |
MSG ENTERTAINMENT GROUP, LLC (to be renamed Sphere Entertainment Group, LLC) | ||
By: | /s/ James L. Dolan | |
Name: James L. Dolan | ||
Title: Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer |
MSGE SPINCO, INC. (to be renamed Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp.) | ||
By: | /s/ David F. Byrnes | |
Name: David F. Byrnes | ||
Title: Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer |
Exhibit 3.2
SECOND AMENDED AND RESTATED CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION
OF
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
Pursuant to Sections 242 and 245 of
The General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware
MSGE Spinco, Inc., a Delaware corporation, hereby certifies as follows:
1. The name of the corporation is MSGE Spinco, Inc. The date of filing of its original certificate of incorporation with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware was September 15, 2022. The date of filing of its amended and restated certificate of incorporation with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware was December 20, 2022.
2. This second amended and restated certificate of incorporation amends, restates and integrates the provisions of the certificate of incorporation of said corporation and has been duly adopted in accordance with the provisions of Sections 242 and 245 of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware by written consent of the holder of all of the outstanding stock entitled to vote thereon and all of the outstanding stock of each class entitled to vote thereon as a class in accordance with the provisions of Section 228 of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware.
3. The text of the certificate of incorporation is hereby amended and restated to read herein as set forth in full:
SECOND AMENDED AND RESTATED CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION
OF
MADISON SQUARE GARDEN ENTERTAINMENT CORP.
FIRST. The name of this corporation (hereinafter called the Corporation) is Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp.
SECOND. The name and address, including street, number, city and county, of the registered office and registered agent for service of process of the Corporation in the State of Delaware is Corporation Service Company, 251 Little Falls Drive, City of Wilmington, County of New Castle, 19808.
THIRD. The nature of the business and of the purposes to be conducted and promoted by the Corporation are to conduct any lawful business, to promote any lawful purpose, and to engage in any lawful act or activity for which corporations may be organized under the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware.
FOURTH. The aggregate number of shares of capital stock which the Corporation shall have authority to issue shall be 165,000,000 shares, which shall be divided into the following classes:
(a) 120,000,000 shares shall be of a class designated Class A common stock, par value $0.01 per share (Class A Common Stock);
(b) 30,000,000 shares shall be of a class designated Class B common stock, par value $0.01 per share (Class B Common Stock and together with Class A Common Stock, Common Stock);
(c) 15,000,000 shares shall be of a class designated preferred stock, par value $0.01 per share (Preferred Stock).
This Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation shall become effective at 11:59 p.m. on [_], 2023 (the Effective Time). At the Effective Time, the shares of common stock, par value $0.01 per share, of the Corporation (Old Common Stock), in the aggregate outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time, shall automatically be reclassified as and converted into an aggregate of [_] shares of Class A Common Stock and [_] shares of Class B Common Stock. From and after the Effective Time, certificates that previously represented shares of Old Common Stock (if any) shall, until the same are presented for exchange, represent the number of shares of Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock into which such shares of Old Common Stock were reclassified and converted pursuant hereto.
The following is a statement of (a) the designations, preferences and relative, participating, optional or other special rights, and the qualifications, limitations or restrictions thereof, of the Common Stock, and (b) the authority expressly vested in the Board of Directors hereunder with respect to the issuance of any series of Preferred Stock:
A. Common Stock.
I. Priority of Preferred Stock.
Each of the Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock is subject to all the powers, rights, privileges, preferences and priorities of any series of Preferred Stock as are stated and expressed herein and as shall be stated and expressed in any Certificates of Designations filed with respect to any series of Preferred Stock pursuant to authority expressly granted to and vested in the Board of Directors by the provisions of Section B of this Article FOURTH.
II. Dividends.
Subject to (a) any other provisions of this Certificate of Incorporation including, without limitation, Section A.V of this Article FOURTH, and (b) the provisions of any Certificates of Designations filed with respect to any series of Preferred Stock, holders of Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock shall be entitled to receive equally on a per share basis such dividends and other distributions in cash, stock or property of the Corporation as may be declared thereon by the Board of Directors from time to time out of assets or funds of the Corporation legally available therefor; provided, that, subject to Section A.V of this Article, the Board of Directors shall declare no dividend, and no dividend shall be paid, with respect to any outstanding share of Class A Common Stock or Class B Common Stock, whether paid in cash or property, unless, simultaneously, the same dividend is paid with respect to each share of Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock.
-2-
III. Voting.
(a) Except as otherwise required (i) by statute, (ii) pursuant to the provisions of this Certificate of Incorporation, or (iii) pursuant to the provisions of any Certificates of Designations filed with respect to any series of Preferred Stock, the holders of Common Stock shall have the sole right and power to vote on all matters on which a vote of stockholders is to be taken. At every meeting of the stockholders, each holder of Class A Common Stock shall be entitled to cast one (1) vote in person or by proxy for each share of Class A Common Stock standing in his or her name on the transfer books of the Corporation and each holder of Class B Common Stock shall be entitled to cast ten (10) votes in person or by proxy for each share of Class B Common Stock standing in his or her name on the transfer books of the Corporation.
Except in the election of directors of the Corporation (voting in respect of which shall be governed by the terms set forth in subsections (b) and (c) of this Section III) and as otherwise required (i) by statute, (ii) pursuant to the provisions of this Certificate of Incorporation, or (iii) pursuant to the provisions of any Certificates of Designations filed with respect to any series of Preferred Stock, the holders of Common Stock shall vote together as a single class; provided, that the affirmative vote or consent of the holders of at least 66 2/3% of the outstanding shares of Class B Common Stock, voting separately as a class, shall be required for (1) the authorization or issuance of any additional shares of Class B Common Stock and (2) any amendment, alteration or repeal of any of the provisions of this Certificate of Incorporation which adversely affects the powers, preferences or rights of Class B Common Stock. Except as provided in the previous sentence, the number of authorized shares of any class of Common Stock may be increased or decreased (but not below the number of shares thereof then outstanding) by the affirmative vote of the holders of the majority of the stock of the Corporation entitled to vote.
(b) With respect to the election of directors:
(i) If on the record date for notice of any meeting of stockholders of the Corporation at which directors are to be elected by the holders of Common Stock (the Common Stock Directors), the aggregate number of outstanding shares of Class A Common Stock is at least 10% of the total aggregate number of outstanding shares of Common Stock, holders of Class A Common Stock shall vote together as a separate class and shall be entitled to elect 25% of the total number of Common Stock Directors; provided, that if such 25% is not a whole number, then the holders of Class A Common Stock, voting together as a separate class, shall be entitled to elect the nearest higher whole number of directors that is at least 25% of the total number of the Common Stock Directors. Subject to subsection (iii) of this Section III(b), holders of Class B Common Stock shall vote together as a separate class to elect the remaining Common Stock Directors;
(ii) If on the record date for notice of any meeting of stockholders of the Corporation at which Common Stock Directors are to be elected, the
-3-
aggregate number of outstanding shares of Class A Common Stock is less than 10% of the total aggregate number of outstanding shares of Common Stock, the holders of Common Stock shall vote together as a single class with respect to the election of the Common Stock Directors and the holders of Class A Common Stock, voting together as a separate class, shall not have the right to elect 25% of the Common Stock Directors, but shall have one (1) vote per share for all Common Stock Directors and the holders of Class B Common Stock shall be entitled to ten (10) votes per share for all Common Stock Directors; and
(iii) If on the record date for notice of any meeting of stockholders of the Corporation at which Common Stock Directors are to be elected, the aggregate number of outstanding shares of Class B Common Stock is less than 12 1/2% of the total aggregate number of outstanding shares of Common Stock, then the holders of Class A Common Stock, voting together as a separate class, shall continue to elect a number of directors equal to 25% of the total number of Common Stock Directors (or the next highest whole number) in accordance with subsection (b)(i) of this Section III and, in addition, shall vote together with the holders of Class B Common Stock, as a single class, to elect the remaining Common Stock Directors, with the holders of Class A Common Stock entitled to one (1) vote per share for all Common Stock Directors and the holders of Class B Common Stock entitled to ten (10) votes per share for all Common Stock Directors.
(c) Any vacancy in the office of a Common Stock Director elected by the holders of Class A Common Stock voting as a separate class during the term for which such Common Stock Director was elected shall be filled by a vote of holders of Class A Common Stock voting as a separate class, and any vacancy in the office of a Common Stock Director elected by the holders of Class B Common Stock voting as a separate class during the term for which such Common Stock Director was elected shall be filled by a vote of holders of Class B Common Stock voting as a separate class or, in the absence of a stockholder vote, in the case of a vacancy in the office of a Common Stock Director elected by either class during the term for which such Common Stock Director was elected, such vacancy may be filled by the remaining directors of such class. Except as provided in the foregoing sentence, any vacancy on the Board of Directors may be filled by a vote of holders of Class A Common Stock or the Common Stock Directors elected thereby if the number of Common Stock Directors elected thereby is then less than 25% of the total number of Common Stock Directors, and otherwise may be filled by a vote of holders of Class B Common Stock or the Common Stock Directors elected thereby; provided, that in each case at the time of the filling of such vacancy, the holders of such class of stock were then entitled to elect directors to the Board of Directors by class vote. Any director elected by the Board of Directors to fill a vacancy shall serve until the next annual meeting of stockholders (at which time such persons term shall expire) and until such persons successor has been duly elected and qualified. If the Board of Directors increases the number of directors in accordance with Article FIFTH of this Certificate of Incorporation, any newly created directorship may be filled by the Board of Directors; provided that, so long as the holders of Class A Common Stock have the rights provided in subsections (b) and (c) of this Section III in respect of the last preceding annual meeting of stockholders to elect 25% of the total number of Common Stock Directors, (i) the Board of Directors may be so enlarged by the directors only to the extent that at least 25% of the enlarged board consists of (1) Common Stock Directors elected by the holders of Class A Common Stock, (2) persons appointed to fill vacancies created by the death, resignation or removal of persons elected by
-4-
the holders of Class A Common Stock or (3) persons appointed by Common Stock Directors elected by holders of Class A Common Stock or persons appointed to fill vacancies created by the death, resignation or removal of persons elected by holders of Class A Common Stock and (ii) each person filling a newly-created directorship is designated either (x) as a Common Stock Director to be elected by holders of Class A Common Stock and is appointed by Common Stock Directors elected by holders of Class A Common Stock or persons appointed to fill vacancies created by the death, resignation or removal of persons elected by holders of Class A Common Stock or (y) as a Common Stock Director to be elected by holders of Class B Common Stock and is appointed by Common Stock Directors elected by holders of Class B Common Stock or persons appointed to fill vacancies created by the death, resignation or removal of persons elected by the holders of Class B Common Stock.
(d) Notwithstanding anything in this Section III to the contrary, the holders of Class A Common Stock shall have exclusive voting power on all matters upon which, pursuant to this Certificate of Incorporation or applicable laws, the holders of Common Stock are entitled to vote, at any time when no shares of Class B Common Stock are issued and outstanding.
(e) Wherever any provision of this Certificate of Incorporation or the by-laws of the Corporation sets forth a specific percentage of the shares outstanding and entitled to vote which is required for approval or ratification of any action upon which the vote of the stockholders is required or may be obtained, such provision shall mean such specified percentage of the votes entitled to be cast by holders of shares then outstanding and entitled to vote on such action.
(f) From and after the date on which Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. (to be renamed Sphere Entertainment Co. effective as of the Effective Time, and referred to herein as Sphere Entertainment) first distributes to its stockholders shares of Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock pursuant to the Distribution Agreement, dated as of March 29, 2023, between the Corporation and Sphere Entertainment, no action of stockholders of the Corporation required or permitted to be taken at any annual or special meeting of stockholders of the Corporation may be taken without a meeting of stockholders, without prior notice and without a vote, and the power of the stockholders of the Corporation to consent in writing to the taking of any action without a meeting is specifically denied. Notwithstanding this clause (f), the holders of any series of Preferred Stock of the Corporation shall be entitled to take action by written consent to such extent, if any, as may be provided in the terms of such series.
IV. Conversion Rights.
(a) Subject to the terms and conditions of this Article FOURTH, each share of Class B Common Stock shall be convertible at any time and from time to time, at the option of the holder thereof, at the office of any transfer agent for such Class B Common Stock and at such other place or places, if any, as the Board of Directors may designate, or, if the Board of Directors shall fail to so designate, at the principal office of the Corporation (attention of the Secretary of the Corporation), into one (1) fully paid and non-assessable share of Class A Common Stock. Upon conversion, the Corporation shall make no payment or adjustment on account of dividends accrued or in arrears on Class B Common Stock surrendered for conversion
-5-
or on account of any dividends on the Class A Common Stock issuable on such conversion; provided that the foregoing shall not affect the right of any holder of Class B Common Stock on the record date for any dividend to receive payment of such dividend. Before any holder of Class B Common Stock shall be entitled to convert the same into Class A Common Stock, he or she shall surrender the certificate or certificates (if any) for such Class B Common Stock at the office of said transfer agent (or other place as provided above), which certificate or certificates, if the Corporation shall so request, shall be duly endorsed to the Corporation or in blank or accompanied by proper instruments of transfer to the Corporation or in blank (such endorsements or instruments of transfer to be in form satisfactory to the Corporation), or, if the shares to be converted are uncertificated, shall deliver an appropriate instrument or instruction to the office of said transfer agent (or other place as provided above), and, in either case, shall give written notice to the Corporation at said office that he or she elects so to convert said Class B Common Stock in accordance with the terms of this Section IV, and shall state in writing therein the name or names in which he or she desires the shares of Class A Common Stock to be issued. Every such notice of election to convert shall constitute a binding contract between the holder of such Class B Common Stock and the Corporation, whereby the holder of such Class B Common Stock shall be deemed to subscribe for the amount of Class A Common Stock which he or she shall be entitled to receive upon such conversion, and, in satisfaction of such subscription, to deposit the Class B Common Stock to be converted and to release the Corporation from all liability thereunder, and thereby the Corporation shall be deemed to agree that the surrender of the certificate or certificates therefor, if any, and the extinguishment of liability thereon shall constitute full payment of such subscription for Class A Common Stock to be issued upon such conversion. The Corporation will as soon as practicable thereafter, (i) if the applicable shares of Class A Common Stock are certificated, issue a certificate or certificates for the number of full shares of Class A Common Stock to which he or she shall be entitled as aforesaid and, if less than all of the shares of Class B Common Stock represented by any one certificate are to be converted, issue a new certificate representing the shares of Class B Common Stock not converted, and deliver such certificates at the office of said transfer agent (or other place as provided above) to the person for whose account such Class B Common Stock was so surrendered, or to his or her nominee or nominees, or (ii) if the applicable shares of Class A Common Stock are uncertificated, issue the number of full shares of Class A Common Stock to which he or she shall be entitled as aforesaid and deliver a notice of issuance of the uncertificated shares or other evidence of shares held in book-entry form at the office of said transfer agent (or other place as provided above) to the person for whose account such Class B Common Stock was so surrendered, or to his or her nominee or nominees. Subject to the provisions of subsection (c) of this Section IV, such conversion shall be deemed to have been made as of the date of such surrender of the certificates, if any, or an appropriate instrument or instruction, if applicable, with respect to the Class B Common Stock to be converted; and the person or persons entitled to receive the Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion of such Class B Common Stock shall be treated for all purposes as the record holder or holders of such Class A Common Stock on such date. Upon conversion of shares of Class B Common Stock, shares of Class B Common Stock so converted will be canceled and retired by the Corporation, such shares shall not be reissued and the number of shares of Class B Common Stock which the Corporation shall have authority to issue shall be decreased by the number of shares of Class B Common Stock so converted and the Board of Directors shall take such steps as are required to so retire such shares.
-6-
(b) The issuance of shares of Class A Common Stock upon conversion of shares of Class B Common Stock shall be made without charge for any stamp or other similar tax in respect of such issuance. However, if any such shares are to be issued in a name other than that of the holder of the share or shares of Class B Common Stock converted, the person or persons requesting the issuance thereof shall pay to the Corporation the amount of any tax which may be payable in respect of any transfer involved in such issuance or shall establish to the satisfaction of the Corporation that such tax has been paid or that no such tax is due.
(c) The Corporation shall not be required to convert Class B Common Stock, and no surrender of Class B Common Stock shall be effective for that purpose, while the stock transfer books of the Corporation are closed for any purpose; but the surrender of Class B Common Stock for conversion during any period while such books are closed shall be deemed effective for conversion immediately upon the reopening of such books, as if the conversion had been made on the date such Class B Common Stock was surrendered.
(d) The Corporation will at all times reserve and keep available, solely for the purpose of issue upon conversion of the outstanding shares of Class B Common Stock, such number of shares of Class A Common Stock as shall be issuable upon the conversion of all such outstanding shares; provided, that nothing contained herein shall be construed to preclude the Corporation from satisfying its obligations in respect of the conversion of the outstanding shares of Class B Common Stock by delivery of shares of Class A Common Stock which are held in the treasury of the Corporation. The Corporation covenants that if any shares of Class A Common Stock, required to be reserved for purposes of conversion hereunder, require registration with or approval of any governmental authority under any federal or state law before such shares of Class A Common Stock may be issued upon conversion, the Corporation will use its best efforts to cause such shares to be duly registered or approved, as the case may be. The Corporation will endeavor to list the shares of Class A Common Stock required to be delivered upon conversion prior to such delivery upon each national securities exchange, if any, upon which the outstanding Class A Common Stock is listed at the time of such delivery. The Corporation covenants that all shares of Class A Common Stock which shall be issued upon conversion of the shares of Class B Common Stock will, upon issue, be fully paid and non-assessable and not entitled to any preemptive rights.
V. Securities Distributions.
(a) The Corporation may declare and pay a dividend or distribution consisting of shares of Class A Common Stock, Class B Common Stock or any other securities of the Corporation or any other person (hereinafter sometimes called a share distribution) to holders of one or more classes of Common Stock only in accordance with the provisions of this Section V.
(b) If at any time a share distribution is to be made with respect to Class A Common Stock or Class B Common Stock, such share distribution may be declared and paid only as follows:
(i) a share distribution consisting of shares of Class A Common Stock (or Convertible Securities (as defined below) convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for shares of Class A Common Stock) to holders of Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock, on an equal per share basis;
-7-
(ii) a share distribution consisting of shares of Class A Common Stock (or Convertible Securities convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for shares of Class A Common Stock) to holders of Class A Common Stock and, on an equal per share basis, shares of Class B Common Stock (or like Convertible Securities convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for shares of Class B Common Stock) to holders of Class B Common Stock; and
(iii) a share distribution consisting of any class or series of securities of the Corporation or any other person other than as described in clauses (i) and (ii) of this subsection (b) of this Section V, either (1) on the basis of a distribution of identical securities, on an equal per share basis, to holders of Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock or (2) on the basis of a distribution of one class or series of securities to holders of Class A Common Stock and another class or series of securities to holders of Class B Common Stock; provided, that the securities so distributed (and, if the distribution consists of Convertible Securities, the securities into which such Convertible Securities are convertible or for which they are exercisable or exchangeable) do not differ in any respect other than differences in their rights (other than voting rights) consistent in all material respects with the differences between the Class A Common Stock and the Class B Common Stock and differences in their relative voting rights, with holders of shares of Class B Common Stock receiving the class or series having the higher relative voting rights (without regard to whether such voting rights differ to a greater or lesser extent than the corresponding differences in the voting rights of the Class A Common Stock and the Class B Common Stock provided in Section A.III of this Article FOURTH); provided, that if the securities so distributed constitute capital stock of a subsidiary of the Corporation, such voting rights shall not differ to a greater extent than the corresponding differences in voting rights of the Class A Common Stock and the Class B Common Stock provided in Section A.III of this Article FOURTH, and provided in each case that such distribution is otherwise made on an equal per share basis, as determined by the Board of Directors in its sole discretion.
For purposes of this Certificate of Incorporation, Convertible Securities shall mean any securities of the Corporation (other than any class of Common Stock) or any subsidiary thereof that are convertible into, exchangeable for or evidence the right to purchase any shares of any class of Common Stock, whether upon conversion, exercise, exchange, pursuant to anti-dilution provisions of such securities or otherwise.
VI. Liquidation Rights.
In the event of any liquidation, dissolution, or winding up of the Corporation, whether voluntary or involuntary, after payment or provision for payment of the debts and other liabilities of the Corporation and after payment in full of the amounts to be paid to holders of Preferred Stock as set forth in any Certificates of Designations filed with respect thereto, the remaining assets and funds of the Corporation shall be divided among, and paid ratably to the holders of Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock (including those persons who shall become holders of Class A Common Stock by reason of the conversion of their shares of
-8-
Class B Common Stock) as a single class. For the purposes of this Section VI, a consolidation or merger of the Corporation with one or more other corporations or business entities shall not be deemed to be a liquidation, dissolution or winding up, voluntary or involuntary.
VII. Reclassifications, Etc.
Neither the Class A Common Stock nor the Class B Common Stock may be subdivided, consolidated, reclassified or otherwise changed unless contemporaneously therewith the other class of Common Stock is subdivided, consolidated, reclassified or otherwise changed in the same proportion and in the same manner.
VIII. Mergers, Consolidations, Etc.
In any merger, consolidation or business combination of the Corporation with or into another corporation, whether or not the Corporation is the surviving corporation, the consideration per share to be received by holders of Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock in such merger, consolidation or business combination must be identical to that received by holders of the other class of Common Stock, except that in any such transaction in which shares of capital stock are distributed, such shares may differ as to voting rights to the extent and only to the extent that the voting rights of the Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock differ as provided herein.
IX. Rights and Warrants.
In case the Corporation shall issue rights or warrants to purchase shares of capital stock of the Corporation, the terms of the rights and warrants, and the number of rights or warrants per share, to be received by holders of Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock must be identical to that received by holders of the other class of Common Stock, except that the shares of capital stock into which such rights or warrants are exercisable may differ as to voting rights to the extent and only to the extent that the voting rights of the Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock differ as provided herein.
B. Preferred Stock.
I. Issuance.
Preferred Stock may be issued from time to time in one or more series, the shares of each series to have such powers, designations, preferences and relative, participating, optional or other special rights, and qualifications, limitations or restrictions thereof, as are stated and expressed herein or in a Certificate or Certificates of Designations providing for the issuance of such series, adopted by the Board of Directors as hereinafter provided.
II. Powers of the Board of Directors.
Authority is hereby expressly granted to the Board of Directors to authorize the issue of one or more series of Preferred Stock, and with respect to each series to set forth in a Certificate or Certificates of Designations provisions with respect to the issuance of such series, the powers, designations, preferences and relative, participating, optional or other special rights, and qualifications, limitations or restrictions thereof of the shares of each series of Preferred Stock, including without limitation the following:
-9-
(a) The maximum number of shares to constitute such series and the distinctive designation thereof;
(b) Whether the shares of such series shall have voting rights, in addition to any voting rights provided by law, and, if so, the terms of such voting rights;
(c) The dividend rate (or method of determining such rate), if any, on the shares of such series, the conditions and dates upon which such dividends shall be payable, the preference or relation which such dividends shall bear to the dividends payable on any other class or classes or on any other series of capital stock, and whether such dividends shall be cumulative or non-cumulative;
(d) Whether the shares of such series shall be subject to redemption by the Corporation, and, if made subject to redemption, the times, prices and other terms and conditions of such redemption;
(e) The rights of the holders of shares of such series upon the liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation;
(f) Whether or not the Corporation has an obligation to purchase or redeem shares of such series pursuant to the operation of a retirement or sinking fund or otherwise, and, if so, the prices at which, periods within which and terms or conditions upon which, the shares of such series shall be purchased or redeemed;
(g) Whether or not the shares of such series shall be convertible into, or exchangeable for, shares of stock of any other class or classes, or of any other series of the same class, and if so convertible or exchangeable, the price or prices or the rate or rates of conversion or exchange and the method, if any, of adjusting the same;
(h) The limitations and restrictions, if any, to be effective while any shares of such series are outstanding upon the payment of dividends or making of other distributions on, and upon the purchase, redemption or other acquisition by the Corporation of the Class A Common Stock, the Class B Common Stock or any other class or classes of stock of the Corporation ranking junior to the shares of such series either as to dividends or upon liquidation;
(i) The conditions or restrictions, if any, upon the creation of indebtedness of the Corporation or upon the issue of any additional stock (including additional shares of such series or of any other series or of any other class) ranking on a parity with or prior to the shares of such series as to dividends or distribution of assets on liquidation, dissolution or winding up; and
(j) Any other preference and relative, participating, optional or other special rights, and qualifications, limitations or restrictions thereof as shall not be inconsistent with this Article FOURTH.
-10-
III. Ranking.
All shares of any one series of Preferred Stock shall be identical with each other in all respects, except that shares of any one series issued at different times may differ as to the dates from which dividends, if any, thereon shall be cumulative; and all series shall rank equally and be identical in all respects, except as permitted by the foregoing provisions of Section B.II of this Article FOURTH; and all shares of Preferred Stock shall rank senior to the Common Stock both as to dividends and upon liquidation.
IV. Liquidation Rights.
Except as shall be otherwise stated and expressed in the Certificate or Certificates of Designations adopted by the Board of Directors with respect to any series of Preferred Stock, in the event of any liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation, before any payment or distribution of the assets of the Corporation (whether capital or surplus) shall be made to or set apart for the holders of any class or classes of stock of the Corporation ranking junior to the Preferred Stock upon liquidation, the holders of the shares of the Preferred Stock shall be entitled to receive payment at the rate fixed in the resolution or resolutions adopted by the Board of Directors providing for the issue of such series, plus (if dividends on shares of such series of Preferred Stock shall be cumulative) an amount equal to all dividends (whether or not earned or declared) accumulated to the date of final distribution to such holders; but they shall be entitled to no further payment. Except as aforesaid, if, upon any liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation, the assets of the Corporation, or proceeds thereof, distributable among the holders of the shares of the Preferred Stock shall be insufficient to pay in full the preferential amount aforesaid, then such assets, or the proceeds thereof, shall be distributed among such holders ratably in accordance with the respective amounts which would be payable on such shares if all amounts payable thereon were paid in full. For the purposes of this Section IV, a consolidation or merger of the Corporation with one or more other corporations or business entities shall not be deemed to be a liquidation, dissolution or winding up, voluntary or involuntary.
V. Voting.
Except as shall be otherwise stated and expressed herein or in the Certificate or Certificates of Designations adopted by the Board of Directors with respect to the issuance of any series of Preferred Stock and except as otherwise required by the laws of the State of Delaware, the holders of shares of Preferred Stock shall have, with respect to such shares, no right or power to vote on any question or in any proceeding or to be represented at, or to receive notice of, any meeting of stockholders.
FIFTH. The management of the business and the conduct of the affairs of the Corporation, including the election of the Chairman, if any, the President, the Treasurer, the Secretary, and other principal officers of the Corporation, shall be vested in its Board of Directors. The number of directors of the Corporation shall be fixed by the by-laws of the Corporation and may be altered from time to time as provided therein. A director shall be elected to hold office until the expiration of the term for which such person is elected (which shall expire at the next annual meeting of stockholders after such persons election), and until such persons successor shall be duly elected and qualified.
-11-
SIXTH. Whenever a compromise or arrangement is proposed between the Corporation and its creditors or any class of them and/or between the Corporation and its stockholders or any class of them, any court of equitable jurisdiction within the State of Delaware may, on the application in a summary way of the Corporation or any creditor or stockholder thereof or on the application of any receiver or receivers appointed for the Corporation under the provisions of Section 291 of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware or on the application of trustees in dissolution or of any receiver or receivers appointed for the Corporation under the provisions of Section 279 of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware order a meeting of the creditors or class of creditors, and/or the stockholders or class of stockholders of the Corporation, as the case may be, to be summoned in such manner as the said court directs. If a majority in number representing three-fourths in value of the creditors or class of creditors, and/or of the stockholders or class of stockholders of the Corporation, as the case may be, agree to any compromise or arrangement and to any reorganization of the Corporation as a consequence of such compromise or arrangement, the said compromise or arrangement and the said reorganization shall, if sanctioned by the court to which the said application has been made, be binding on all the creditors or class of creditors, and/or on all the stockholders or class of stockholders, of the Corporation, as the case may be, and also on the Corporation.
SEVENTH. The power to make, alter, or repeal the by-laws, and to adopt any new by-law, shall be vested in the Board of Directors and the stockholders entitled to vote in the election of directors.
EIGHTH. The Corporation shall, to the fullest extent permitted by Section 145 of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware, as the same may be amended and supplemented, or by any successor thereto, indemnify any and all persons whom it shall have power to indemnify under said section from and against any and all of the expenses, liabilities or other matters referred to in or covered by said section. Such right to indemnification shall continue as to a person who has ceased to be a director, officer, employee or agent and shall inure to the benefit of the heirs, executors and administrators of such a person. The indemnification provided for herein shall not be deemed exclusive of any other rights to which those seeking indemnification may be entitled under any by-law, agreement, vote of stockholders or disinterested directors or otherwise.
No director or officer of the Corporation shall be personally liable to the Corporation or its stockholders for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director or officer, as applicable, except that this paragraph shall not eliminate or limit the liability of a director or officer (A) for any breach of the directors or officers duty of loyalty to the Corporation or its stockholders, (B) for acts or omissions not in good faith or which involve intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law, (C) under Section 174 of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware, (D) for any transaction from which the director or officer derived an improper personal benefit, or (E) with respect to an officer only, in any action by or in the right of the Corporation.
-12-
No amendment, modification or repeal of this Article EIGHTH shall adversely affect any right or protection of a person that exists at the time of such amendment, modification or repeal.
NINTH. No contract or transaction between the Corporation and one or more of its directors or officers, or between the Corporation and any other corporation, partnership, association or other organization in which one or more of its directors or officers are directors or officers, or have a financial interest, shall be void or voidable solely for this reason, or solely because the director or officer is present at or participates in the meeting of the Board of Directors or committee thereof which authorizes the contract or transaction, or solely because such directors or officers votes are counted for such purpose, if:
A. | The material facts as to the directors or officers relationship or interest and as to the contract or transaction are disclosed or are known to the Board of Directors or the committee, and the Board of Directors or committee in good faith authorizes the contract or transaction by the affirmative votes of a majority of the disinterested directors, even though the disinterested directors be less than a quorum; or |
B. | The material facts as to the directors or officers relationship or interest and as to the contract or transaction are disclosed or are known to the stockholders entitled to vote thereon, and the contract or transaction is specifically approved in good faith by vote of the stockholders; or |
C. | The contract or transaction is fair as to the Corporation as of the time it is authorized, approved or ratified by the Board of Directors, a committee thereof, or the stockholders. |
Common or interested directors may be counted in the presence of a quorum at a meeting of the Board of Directors or of a committee which authorizes the contract or transaction.
TENTH.
A. | Certain Acknowledgements; Definitions. |
It is recognized that (a) certain directors and officers of the Corporation and its subsidiaries (the Overlap Persons) have served and may serve as directors, officers, employees and agents of Sphere Entertainment, Madison Square Garden Sports Corp. and AMC Networks Inc. and their respective subsidiaries and successors (each of the foregoing, including its subsidiaries and successors, is an Other Entity), (b) the Corporation and its subsidiaries, directly or indirectly, may engage in the same, similar or related lines of business as those engaged in by any Other Entity and other business activities that overlap with or compete with those in which such Other Entity may engage, (c) the Corporation or its subsidiaries may have an interest in the same areas of business opportunity as an Other Entity, (d) the Corporation will derive substantial benefits from the service as directors or officers of the Corporation and its subsidiaries of Overlap Persons, and (e) it is in the best interests of the Corporation that the rights of the Corporation, and the duties of any Overlap Persons, be determined and delineated as provided in this Article TENTH in respect of any Potential Business Opportunities (as defined below) and in respect of
-13-
the agreements and transactions referred to herein. The provisions of this Article TENTH will, to the fullest extent permitted by law, regulate and define the conduct of the business and affairs of the Corporation and its officers and directors who are Overlap Persons in connection with any Potential Business Opportunities and in connection with any agreements and transactions referred to herein. Any person purchasing or otherwise acquiring any shares of capital stock of the Corporation, or any interest therein, will be deemed to have notice of and to have consented to the provisions of this Article TENTH. References in this Article TENTH to directors, officers, employees and agents of any person will be deemed to include those persons who hold similar positions or exercise similar powers and authority with respect to any other entity that is a limited liability company, partnership, joint venture or other non-corporate entity.
B. | Duties of Directors and Officers Regarding Potential Business Opportunities; Renunciation of Interest in Potential Business Opportunities. |
The Corporation hereby renounces, on behalf of itself and its subsidiaries, to the fullest extent permitted by law, any interest or expectancy in any Potential Business Opportunity that is not a Restricted Potential Business Opportunity. If a director or officer of the Corporation who is an Overlap Person is presented or offered, or otherwise acquires knowledge of, a potential transaction or matter that may constitute or present a business opportunity for the Corporation or any of its subsidiaries, in which the Corporation or any of its subsidiaries could, but for the provisions of this Article TENTH, have an interest or expectancy (any such transaction or matter, and any such actual or potential business opportunity, a Potential Business Opportunity), (i) such Overlap Person will, to the fullest extent permitted by law, have no duty or obligation to refrain from referring such Potential Business Opportunity to any Other Entity and, if such Overlap Person refers such Potential Business Opportunity to an Other Entity, such Overlap Person shall have no duty or obligation to refer such Potential Business Opportunity to the Corporation or to any of its subsidiaries or to give any notice to the Corporation or to any of its subsidiaries regarding such Potential Business Opportunity (or any matter related thereto), (ii) if such Overlap Person refers a Potential Business Opportunity to an Other Entity, such Overlap Person, to the fullest extent permitted by law, will not be liable to the Corporation as a director, officer, stockholder or otherwise, for any failure to refer such Potential Business Opportunity to the Corporation, or for referring such Potential Business Opportunity to any Other Entity, or for any failure to give any notice to the Corporation regarding such Potential Business Opportunity or any matter relating thereto, (iii) any Other Entity may participate, engage or invest in any such Potential Business Opportunity notwithstanding that such Potential Business Opportunity may have been referred to such Other Entity by an Overlap Person, and (iv) if a director or officer who is an Overlap Person refers a Potential Business Opportunity to an Other Entity, then, as between the Corporation and/or its subsidiaries, on the one hand, and such Other Entity, on the other hand, the Corporation and its subsidiaries shall be deemed to have renounced any interest, expectancy or right in or to such Potential Business Opportunity or to receive any income or proceeds derived therefrom solely as a result of such Overlap Person having been presented or offered, or otherwise acquiring knowledge of, such Potential Business Opportunity, unless in each case referred to in clause (i), (ii), (iii) or (iv), such Potential Business Opportunity satisfies all of the following conditions (any Potential Business Opportunity that satisfies all of such conditions, a Restricted Potential Business Opportunity): (A) such Potential Business Opportunity was expressly presented or offered to the Overlap Person in his or her capacity as a director or officer of the Corporation; (B) the Overlap Person believed that the Corporation
-14-
possessed, or would reasonably be expected to be able to possess, the resources necessary to exploit such Potential Business Opportunity; and (C) such opportunity relates primarily to a theatrical or arena venue in the United States; provided, that if the conditions in clauses (A) and (B) and the following proviso also are satisfied with respect to Sphere Entertainment, then the Overlap Person shall alternate referring such opportunity to the Corporation and Sphere Entertainment (with the first opportunity after the date hereof being referred to Sphere Entertainment); provided further, that the Corporation or any of its subsidiaries is directly engaged in such business at the time the Potential Business Opportunity is presented or offered to the Overlap Person. In the event the Corporations board of directors, or a committee thereof, declines to pursue a Restricted Potential Business Opportunity, Overlap Persons shall be free to refer such Restricted Potential Business Opportunity to an Other Entity.
C. | Certain Agreements and Transactions Permitted. |
No contract, agreement, arrangement or transaction (or any amendment, modification or termination thereof) entered into between the Corporation and/or any of its subsidiaries, on the one hand, and an Other Entity, on the other hand, before the Corporation ceased to be a direct, wholly-owned subsidiary of Sphere Entertainment shall be void or voidable or be considered unfair to the Corporation or any of its subsidiaries solely because such Other Entity is a party thereto, or because any directors, officers or employees of such Other Entity were present at or participated in any meeting of the board of directors, or a committee thereof, of the Corporation, or the board of directors, or committee thereof, of any subsidiary of the Corporation, that authorized the contract, agreement, arrangement or transaction (or any amendment, modification or termination thereof), or because his, her or their votes were counted for such purpose. The Corporation may from time to time enter into and perform, and cause or permit any of its subsidiaries to enter into and perform, one or more contracts, agreements, arrangements or transactions (or amendments, modifications or supplements thereto) with an Other Entity. To the fullest extent permitted by law, no such contract, agreement, arrangement or transaction (nor any such amendments, modifications or supplements), nor the performance thereof by the Corporation, any subsidiary of the Corporation or an Other Entity, shall be considered contrary to any fiduciary duty owed to the Corporation (or to any subsidiary of the Corporation, or to any stockholder of the Corporation or any of its subsidiaries) by any director or officer of the Corporation (or by any director or officer of any subsidiary of the Corporation) who is an Overlap Person. To the fullest extent permitted by law, no director or officer of the Corporation or any subsidiary of the Corporation who is an Overlap Person thereof shall have or be under any fiduciary duty to the Corporation (or to any subsidiary of the Corporation, or to any stockholder of the Corporation or any of its subsidiaries) to refrain from acting on behalf of the Corporation, any subsidiary of the Corporation or an Other Entity in respect of any such contract, agreement, arrangement or transaction or performing any such contract, agreement, arrangement or transaction in accordance with its terms and each such director or officer of the Corporation or any subsidiary of the Corporation who is an Overlap Person shall be deemed to have acted in good faith and in a manner such person reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Corporation and its subsidiaries, and shall be deemed not to have breached his or her duties of loyalty to the Corporation or any of its subsidiaries or any of their respective stockholders, and not to have derived an improper personal benefit therefrom.
-15-
D. | Amendment of Article TENTH. |
No alteration, amendment or repeal of, or adoption of any provision inconsistent with, any provision of this Article TENTH will have any effect upon (a) any agreement between the Corporation or a subsidiary thereof and any Other Entity, that was entered into before the time of such alteration, amendment or repeal or adoption of any such inconsistent provision (the Amendment Time), or any transaction entered into in connection with the performance of any such agreement, whether such transaction is entered into before or after the Amendment Time, (b) any transaction entered into between the Corporation or a subsidiary thereof and any Other Entity, before the Amendment Time, (c) the allocation of any business opportunity between the Corporation or any subsidiary thereof and any Other Entity before the Amendment Time, or (d) any duty or obligation owed by any director or officer of the Corporation or any subsidiary of the Corporation (or the absence of any such duty or obligation) with respect to any Potential Business Opportunity which such director or officer was offered, or of which such director or officer otherwise became aware, before the Amendment Time (regardless of whether any proceeding relating to any of the above is commenced before or after the Amendment Time).
-16-
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, MSGE SPINCO, INC. has caused this certificate to be signed by [ ], its [ ], on the [ ]th day of [ ], 2023.
MSGE SPINCO, INC. | ||
By: | /s/ | |
Name: [ ] Title: [ ] |
[Signature Page to Second Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of MSGE Spinco, Inc.]
Exhibit 4.3
SHAREHOLDERS AND REGISTRATION RIGHTS AGREEMENT
BY AND AMONG
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
(TO BE RENAMED MADISON SQUARE GARDEN ENTERTAINMENT CORP.)
AND
MADISON SQUARE GARDEN ENTERTAINMENT CORP.
(TO BE RENAMED SPHERE ENTERTAINMENT CO.)
SHAREHOLDERS AND REGISTRATION RIGHTS AGREEMENT
Shareholders and Registration Rights Agreement (this Agreement) dated as of March 29, 2023 (but effective as provided in Section 12(k)), by and among MSGE Spinco, Inc. (to be renamed Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp.), a Delaware corporation (the Company), and Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. (to be renamed Sphere Entertainment Co.) (the Shareholder or MSGE and, together with its subsidiaries, Initial Sphere Entertainment Holders), a Delaware corporation. Certain capitalized terms used in this Agreement are defined in Annex A hereto.
WITNESSETH:
WHEREAS, as of the date of this Agreement, the Company is a wholly owned subsidiary of MSGE;
WHEREAS, MSGE intends to distribute approximately 67% of the outstanding shares of common stock of the Company to the holders of MSGE common stock (the Distribution). The Distribution will take the form of a distribution of shares of the Companys Class A Common Stock, $.01 par value (the Class A Common Stock), to the holders of Class A Common Stock of MSGE and shares of the Companys Class B Common Stock, $.01 par value (the Class B Common Stock), to the holders of Class B Common Stock of MSGE;
WHEREAS, following the Distribution, the Shareholder intends to retain approximately 33% of the outstanding common stock of the Company, which will be shares of Class A Common Stock;
WHEREAS, the Company and the Shareholder wish to provide for certain registration rights and other benefits and restrictions applicable to the Shares owned by the Shareholder, its subsidiaries and the Transferees (collectively, the Sphere Entertainment Holders and each, a Sphere Entertainment Holder and, together with any Qualifying Creditors, the Sphere Entertainment Parties) following the Distribution, all as provided herein; and
WHEREAS, the Shareholder desires to grant the Company a proxy to vote the Shares in proportion to the votes cast by the Companys other holders of Class A Common Stock, subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the mutual agreements contained herein, the parties hereby agree as follows:
ARTICLE I
REGISTRATION RIGHTS
1. Demand Registration by the Sphere Entertainment Parties of the Shares.
(a) Demand Registration. One or more of the Sphere Entertainment Parties may request in writing that the Company file a registration statement on an appropriate form for the general registration of securities under the Securities Act, and include therein such number of the Shares owned by such Sphere Entertainment Party as such Sphere Entertainment Party may specify in its written request; provided, however, that (i) the Company shall not be required to file a registration statement pursuant to this Section 1 if (x) the Shares requested to be so registered do not, in the case of a Sphere Entertainment Holder, together with any Shares timely requested to be registered by other
-2-
Sphere Entertainment Holders pursuant to the fourth-to-last sentence of this Section 1(a), have an aggregate Market Price exceeding the Rule 144 Threshold as of the Trading Day immediately preceding the expiration of the applicable Notice Period under such sentence or, in the case of a Qualifying Creditor, do not have an aggregate Market Price exceeding the Rule 144 Threshold as of the Trading Day immediately preceding the date on which the request for registration is received by the Company, or (y) the Company delivers to each Sphere Entertainment Party requesting registration under this Section 1 an opinion of counsel to the Company (such opinion and such counsel to be reasonably acceptable to each such Sphere Entertainment Party, it being agreed that the Companys regular outside securities counsel shall be deemed to be reasonably acceptable counsel for this purpose) to the effect that the Shares proposed to be registered by such person may be offered and sold by such person to the public in the United States together with the Shares requested to be registered by all other Sphere Entertainment Parties (I) without registration pursuant to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act and (II) within the volume limitations under Rule 144(e) promulgated under the Securities Act (or any successor rule or regulation) whether or not such volume limitations are then applicable, (ii) subject to the next sentence, the Sphere Entertainment Holders shall in the aggregate have the right on only five occasions to require the Company to file a registration statement pursuant to this Section 1, and (iii) subject to the next sentence, a Qualifying Creditor may require registration only following the exercise of its remedies under a security agreement with a Sphere Entertainment Holder and for the purpose of Transferring Shares pursuant thereto and each Qualifying Creditor may only require one registration hereunder. The total number of demand registrations under clauses (ii) and (iii) of the immediately preceding
-3-
sentence shall not exceed five. All requests made pursuant to this paragraph shall specify the aggregate number of Shares to be registered and the intended methods of disposition thereof, which methods may include an underwritten public offering, exchange offer or pro-rata distribution. Upon receipt of a written request for registration from a Sphere Entertainment Holder pursuant to the preceding sentences, the Company shall promptly give written notice of the proposed registration to each such other Sphere Entertainment Holder and provide each such other holder with the opportunity to join in such request by written notice to the Company specifying the aggregate number of Shares to be registered by such holder within 20 days from the date of the Companys written notice (such period is referred to as the Notice Period). Subject to Section 1(c) of this Agreement, the Company will use its reasonable best efforts to ensure that each registration statement required to be filed pursuant to this Section 1 shall be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the Commission) as promptly as reasonably practicable, but no later than 45 days after receipt of such request by the Company, and the Company shall use its reasonable best efforts to cause such registration statement to be declared effective by the Commission as promptly thereafter as practicable; provided, however, that the Company shall not be required to maintain such effectiveness for more than 90 days. No registration shall be deemed to have been effective if the conditions to closing specified in the underwriting agreement or dealer manager agreement, if any, entered into in connection with such registration are not satisfied by reason of a wrongful act, misrepresentation or breach of such applicable underwriting agreement or dealer manager agreement by the Company. Notwithstanding the Companys rights to effect a Suspension of Filing or Suspension of Effectiveness in Section 1(c), the Sphere
-4-
Entertainment Parties that made the registration request under this Section 1(a) shall have the right to withdraw any such request, and such withdrawn request shall not count as a demand registration under clause (ii) or (iii) of this Section 1(a), if (1) the registration statement required to be filed pursuant to this Section 1 is not filed with the Commission by the date that is 45 days after such request is received by the Company and has not at the time of such withdrawal been filed with the Commission, or is not declared effective by the date that is 90 days after the date such registration statement is filed with the Commission and has not at the time of such withdrawal been declared effective, and (2) in either case, such Sphere Entertainment Parties notify the Company of the withdrawal of such request no later than 10 days after such 45th or 90th day, as the case may be.
(b) Concurrent Primary Offering. Anything in this Section 1 to the contrary notwithstanding, if the Company at the time of receipt of a request for registration pursuant to this Section 1 has a bona fide intent and plan to file a registration statement (other than on Form S-4 or S-8 or any successor forms) covering a primary offering by the Company of its Common Equity Securities, the Company, by notice to the applicable Sphere Entertainment Parties, may delay the filing (but not the preparation) of the requested registration statement for a period ending on the earlier of (i) 60 days after the closing of such offering or (ii) 120 days after receipt of the request for registration; and, provided, further, if the Company either abandons its plan to file such registration statement or does not file the same within 75 days after receipt of such request, the Company shall promptly thereafter file the requested registration statement. The Company may not, pursuant to the immediately preceding sentence, delay the filing of a requested registration statement more than once during any two-year period.
-5-
(c) Suspension of Offering. Upon notice by the Company to any Sphere Entertainment Party which has requested registration under this Section 1 that a negotiation or consummation of a transaction by the Company or any of its subsidiaries is pending or an event has occurred, which negotiation, consummation or event would require disclosure in the registration statement for the requested registration and such disclosure would, in the good faith judgment of the board of directors of the Company, be materially adverse to the business interests of the Company, and the nondisclosure of which in the registration statement would reasonably be expected to cause the registration statement to fail to comply with applicable disclosure requirements (a Materiality Notice), the Company may delay the filing (but not the preparation) of such registration statement (a Suspension of Filing). Upon the delivery of a Materiality Notice by the Company pursuant to the preceding sentence at any time when a registration statement has been filed but not declared effective, the Company may delay seeking the effectiveness of such registration statement (a Suspension of Effectiveness), and each Sphere Entertainment Party named therein shall immediately discontinue any offers of Shares under such registration statement until such Sphere Entertainment Party receives copies of a supplemented or amended prospectus that corrects such misstatement or omission, or until it is advised in writing by the Company that offers under such registration statement may be resumed and has received copies of any additional or supplemental filings which are incorporated by reference in such registration statement. Upon the delivery of a Materiality Notice by the Company pursuant to the first sentence of this Section 1(c) at any time when a registration statement has been filed and declared effective, each Sphere Entertainment Party named therein shall immediately discontinue
-6-
offers and sales of Shares under such registration statement until such Sphere Entertainment Party receives copies of a supplemented or amended prospectus that corrects such misstatement or omission and notice that any post-effective amendment has become effective, or until it is advised in writing by the Company that offers under such registration statement may be resumed and has received copies of any additional or supplemental filings which are incorporated by reference in the registration statement (a Suspension of Offering; a Suspension of Filing, a Suspension of Effectiveness and a Suspension of Offering are collectively referred to herein as, Suspensions). If so directed by the Company, each Sphere Entertainment Party will deliver to the Company all copies (other than permanent file copies then in such Sphere Entertainment Partys possession) of any prospectus covering Shares in the possession of such Sphere Entertainment Party or its agents current at the time of receipt of any Materiality Notice. In any 12-month period, the aggregate time of all Suspensions shall not, without the consent of a majority of the Sphere Entertainment Holders (by number of Shares held), which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, exceed 180 days. If interrupted by a Suspension of Offering, any 90-day period in respect of which the Company is required to maintain the effectiveness of a registration statement pursuant to Section 1(a) of this Agreement shall be extended by the number of days during which the Suspension of Offering was in effect. In the event of any Suspension of Offering of more than 30 days in duration prior to which the Sphere Entertainment Parties have sold less than 75% of the Shares to be sold in such offering, the Sphere Entertainment Parties shall be entitled to withdraw such registration prior to the later of (i) the end of the Suspension of Offering and (ii) three business days after the Company has provided the Sphere Entertainment
-7-
Parties written notice of the anticipated date on which the Suspension of Offering will end, and, if such registration is withdrawn, the related demand for registration shall not count for the purposes of the limitations set forth under clauses (ii) and (iii) of Section 1(a).
(d) Market Price; Trading Day. For purposes of this Section 1:
(i) Market Price of a share of Class A Common Stock shall mean the weighted average of the closing prices for the Class A Common Stock on each Trading Day (as defined below) in the 30-day period ending on the day prior to the date of determination as reported in the consolidated transaction reporting system of the New York Stock Exchange or on the comparable reporting system of such other exchange or trading system that is at the time the principal market for the Class A Common Stock.
(ii) Trading Day shall mean any day on which trading takes place on the New York Stock Exchange or such other exchange or trading system that is at the time the principal market for the Class A Common Stock.
2. Coordination of Piggyback Registration Rights.
The Shareholder hereby acknowledges and consents, on behalf of itself and each Sphere Entertainment Party, to the grant by the Company to the Children Trust Holders (as defined in the Dolan Children Trusts Registration Rights Agreement) and the Dolan Family Holders (as defined in the Dolan Family Affiliates Registration Rights Agreement) (together with the Children Trust Holders, hereinafter referred to in this Agreement as the Other Holders), in the Dolan Children Trusts Registration Rights Agreement and the Dolan Family Affiliates Registration Rights Agreement (collectively,
-8-
the Dolan Registration Rights Agreements), respectively, of the right of the Other Holders to include certain of their respective shares of Class A Common Stock in certain registration statements filed pursuant hereto. Each of the Sphere Entertainment Parties further acknowledges and agrees that if any offering upon the demand registration by any Sphere Entertainment Party under Section 1 is to be underwritten and if the managing underwriter or underwriters of such offering informs such person in writing that the number of shares of Class A Common Stock which the Sphere Entertainment Parties and the Other Holders, as the case may be, intend to include in such offering is sufficiently large so as to affect the offering price of such offering materially and adversely, then the Sphere Entertainment Parties shall have priority with respect to the number of shares of Class A Common Stock to be offered in such offering and the respective number of shares of Class A Common Stock to be offered for the account of each Other Holder who is participating in such offering shall be reduced pro rata with the Other Holders participating in such offering to the extent necessary to reduce the total number of shares of Class A Common Stock to be included in such offering to the number recommended by such managing underwriter before any shares to be offered for the account of the Sphere Entertainment Parties are reduced, which reduction shall be on a pro rata basis among the Sphere Entertainment Parties participating in such offering. Except for such piggyback registration rights granted to the Sphere Entertainment Holders and Other Holders and to any transferee of the shares of Class A Common Stock owned by an Other Holder which may be registered pursuant to the applicable Dolan Registration Rights Agreement, neither the Company nor any of its security holders shall have the right to include any of the Companys securities in any registration statement filed pursuant hereto.
-9-
3. Piggyback Registration of the Shares.
(a) If the Company proposes to file a registration statement under the Securities Act with respect to an offering (a) by an Other Holder of its holdings of Class A Common Stock pursuant to the applicable Dolan Registration Rights Agreement, (b) by any other holder of any Common Equity Securities or (c) by the Company for its own account of any Common Equity Securities, other than (i) a registration statement on Form S-4 or S-8, or any successor form or a form filed in connection with an exchange offer, (ii) in connection with an offering of securities solely to the existing shareholders of the Company, (iii) any form of registration statement that does not include substantially the same information, other than information relating to the selling holders or their plan of distribution, as would be required to be included in a registration statement covering the sale of the Shares, (iv) in connection with any dividend reinvestment or similar plan, (v) for the sole purpose of offering securities to another entity or its security holders in connection with the acquisition of assets or securities of such entity or any similar transaction, or (vi) a registration in which the only common stock of the Company being registered is common stock issuable upon conversion of debt securities that are also being registered, the Company shall give written notice of such proposed filing to each of the Sphere Entertainment Holders at least 20 days before the anticipated filing date which shall state whether such registration will be in connection with an underwritten offering and offer such Sphere Entertainment Holders the opportunity to include in such registration statement such number of the Shares as such Sphere Entertainment Holder
-10-
may request not later than three days prior to the anticipated filing date. The Company shall use its reasonable best efforts to cause the managing underwriter or underwriters of a proposed underwritten offering to permit such Sphere Entertainment Holders to be included in the registration for such offering and to include such Shares in such offering on the same terms and conditions as the Common Equity Securities included in such offering. If such proposed offering is to be underwritten, then upon request by the managing underwriter or underwriters given to such Sphere Entertainment Holders prior to the effective date of the offering, any Sphere Entertainment Holder electing to have Shares included in the registration statement shall either enter into underwriting agreements with customary terms and conditions for a secondary offering with such underwriter or underwriters providing for the inclusion of such number of the Shares owned by such Sphere Entertainment Holder in such offering on such terms and conditions or, if such Sphere Entertainment Holder shall refuse to enter into any such agreement, the Company shall have the right to exclude from such registration all (but not less than all) of the Shares of such Sphere Entertainment Holder. Notwithstanding the foregoing, (x) in no event will any Sphere Entertainment Holder be required in such underwriting agreement (or in any other agreement in connection with such offering) to (i) make any representations or warranties to or agreements with the underwriters other than representations, warranties or agreements customarily made by selling security holders in underwritten secondary offerings, (ii) make any representations or warranties to or agreements with the Company other than representations, warranties or agreements regarding such Sphere Entertainment Holders, the ownership of such Sphere Entertainment Holders Common Equity Securities, the authorization, validity and
-11-
binding effect of transaction documents executed by such Sphere Entertainment Holder in connection with such registration and such Sphere Entertainment Holders intended method or methods of distribution and any other representation required by law; provided that no Sphere Entertainment Holder shall be required to make any representation or warranty to any person covered by the indemnity in Section 7(b) other than on a several (and not joint) basis, or (iii) furnish any indemnity to any person which is broader than the indemnity customarily furnished by selling security holders in underwritten offerings; provided that no Sphere Entertainment Holder shall be required to furnish any indemnity broader than the indemnity furnished by such Sphere Entertainment Holder in Section 7(b) to any person covered by the indemnity in Section 7(b), and (y) if the managing underwriter or underwriters of such offering informs the Sphere Entertainment Holders in writing that the number of Shares which the Sphere Entertainment Holders and the number of Shares which the Other Holders intend to include in such offering is sufficiently large so as to affect materially and adversely the success of such offering, the Shares to be offered for the account of the Sphere Entertainment Holders, the Other Holders and the other applicable holders of any Common Equity Securities shall first be reduced pro rata to the extent necessary to reduce the total number of shares of Class A Common Stock to be included in such offering to the number recommended by such managing underwriter. In giving effect to the foregoing reduction, the respective number of the Shares to be offered for the account of Sphere Entertainment Holders shall be reduced pro rata.
-12-
(b) Each Sphere Entertainment Holder shall be permitted to withdraw all or part of such Sphere Entertainment Holders Shares from a piggyback registration at any time prior to the effective date thereof.
(c) After a Sphere Entertainment Holder has been notified of its opportunity to include Shares in a piggyback registration, such Sphere Entertainment Holder (i) shall treat the Offering Confidential Information as confidential information, (ii) shall not use any Offering Confidential Information for any purpose other than to evaluate whether to include its Shares (or other shares of the common stock of the Company) in such piggyback registration and (iii) shall not disclose any Offering Confidential Information to any person other than such of its agents, employees, advisors and counsel as have a need to know such Offering Confidential Information, and to cause such agents, employees, advisors and counsel to comply with the requirements of this Section 3(c); provided, that any such Sphere Entertainment Holder may disclose Offering Confidential Information if such disclosure is required by legal process, but such Sphere Entertainment Holder shall cooperate with the Company to limit the extent of such disclosure through protective order or otherwise, and to seek confidential treatment of the Offering Confidential Information.
4. Holdback Agreements.
(a) Restrictions on Public Sale by Sphere Entertainment Parties. To the extent not inconsistent with applicable law, the Shareholder, on behalf of itself and each Sphere Entertainment Party, agrees not to offer publicly or effect any public sale or distribution of Common Equity Securities, including a sale pursuant to Rule 144 under the Securities Act (or any successor rule or regulation), during the seven days prior to,
-13-
and during the 90-day period beginning on, the effective date of any registration statement filed by the Company pursuant to which any such shares or securities are being registered (except as part of such registration), if and to the extent requested by the Company in the case of a non-underwritten public offering, exchange offer or pro-rata distribution, or if and to the extent requested by the managing underwriter or underwriters in the case of an underwritten public offering or by the managing dealer manager or dealer managers in the case of an exchange offer.
(b) Restrictions on Public Sale by the Company and Others. The Company agrees (i) that during the seven days prior to, and during the 90-day period beginning on, the effective date of any registration statement filed at the request of a Sphere Entertainment Party pursuant hereto, the Company will not offer publicly or effect any public sale or distribution of Common Equity Securities (other than any such sale or distribution of such securities in connection with any merger or consolidation of the Company or any subsidiary with, or the acquisition by the Company or a subsidiary of the capital stock or substantially all of the assets of, any other person or any offer or sale of such securities pursuant to a registration statement on Form S-8), and (ii) that any agreement entered into after the date of this Agreement pursuant to which the Company issues or agrees to issue any privately placed Common Equity Securities shall contain a provision under which holders of such securities agree not to effect any public sale or distribution of any such securities during the periods described in (i) above, in each case including a sale pursuant to Rule 144 (or any successor rule or regulation) under the Securities Act (except as part of any such registration, if permitted).
-14-
5. Registration Procedures.
In connection with any registration of the Shares owned by a Sphere Entertainment Party contemplated hereby, the Company will as expeditiously as possible
(a) Furnish to such Sphere Entertainment Party, prior to filing a registration statement, copies of such registration statement as proposed to be filed, and thereafter such number of copies of such registration statement, each amendment and supplement thereto (in each case including all exhibits thereto), the prospectus included in such registration statement (including each preliminary prospectus) and such other documents in such quantities as such Sphere Entertainment Party may reasonably request from time to time in order to facilitate the disposition of the Shares.
(b) Use its reasonable best efforts to register or qualify the Shares being registered as contemplated hereby (the Registered Class A) under such other securities or blue sky laws of such jurisdictions as such Sphere Entertainment Party reasonably requests and do any and all other acts and things which may be reasonably necessary or advisable to enable such Sphere Entertainment Party to consummate the disposition in such jurisdictions of the Registered Class A; provided that the Company will not be required to (i) qualify generally to do business in any jurisdiction where it would not otherwise be required to qualify but for this paragraph (b), (ii) subject itself to taxation in any such jurisdiction, or (iii) consent to general service of process in any such jurisdiction.
(c) Use its reasonable best efforts to cause the Registered Class A to be registered with or approved by such other governmental agencies or authorities as may be necessary by virtue of the business and operations of the Company to enable such Sphere Entertainment Party to consummate the disposition of such Registered Class A.
-15-
(d) Notify such Sphere Entertainment Party at any time, (i) of any request by the Commission or any other federal or state governmental authority for amendments or supplements to a registration statement or related prospectus or for additional information, (ii) of the issuance by the Commission of any stop order suspending the effectiveness of a registration statement or the initiation of any proceedings for that purpose, (iii) of the receipt by the Company of any notification with respect to the suspension of the qualification or exemption from qualification of any of the Registered Class A for sale in any jurisdiction, or the initiation or threatening of any proceeding for such purpose, and (iv) when a prospectus relating thereto is required to be delivered under the Securities Act, of the happening of any event as a result of which the prospectus included in such registration statement contains an untrue statement of a material fact or omits to state any material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, and, except as otherwise provided in Section 1(c) hereof, the Company will, as expeditiously as practicable, prepare a supplement or amendment to such prospectus so that, as thereafter delivered to the purchasers of such Registered Class A, such prospectus will not contain an untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state any material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading.
(e) Use its reasonable best efforts to obtain the withdrawal of any order suspending the effectiveness of a registration statement, or the lifting of any suspension of the qualification (or exemption from qualification) of any of the Registered Class A for sale in any jurisdiction at the earliest date reasonably practical.
-16-
(f) Cause all such Registered Class A to be listed on the New York Stock Exchange or on any other securities exchange on which the Class A Common Stock is then listed, provided that the applicable listing requirements are satisfied.
(g) Enter into customary agreements (including an underwriting agreement in customary form) and take such other actions as are reasonably requested by the relevant Sphere Entertainment Party in order to expedite or facilitate the disposition of the Registered Class A.
(h) Make available for inspection by such Sphere Entertainment Party, any underwriter or dealer manager participating in any disposition pursuant to such registration statement, and any attorney, accountant or other agent retained by such Sphere Entertainment Party or such underwriter or dealer manager (collectively, the Inspectors), all financial and other records, pertinent corporate documents and properties of the Company (collectively, the Records) as shall be reasonably necessary to enable them to exercise their due diligence responsibility, and cause the officers, directors and employees of the Company to supply all information reasonably requested by any such Inspector in connection with such registration statement. Records which the Company determines, in good faith, to be confidential and which it notifies the Inspectors are confidential shall not be disclosed by the Inspectors unless (i) the disclosure of such Records is necessary to avoid or correct a misstatement or omission in the registration statement or (ii) the release of such Records is ordered pursuant to a subpoena or other order from a court of competent jurisdiction. Any Sphere Entertainment Party shall use
-17-
reasonable best efforts, prior to any disclosure by any such Inspector under clause (i) of the preceding sentence, to inform the Company that such disclosure is necessary to avoid or correct a misstatement or omission in the registration statement. Each Sphere Entertainment Party further agrees that it will, upon learning that disclosure of Records is sought in a court of competent jurisdiction, give notice to the Company and allow the Company, at the expense of the Company, to undertake appropriate action to prevent disclosure of the Records deemed confidential.
(i) In the event such sale is pursuant to an underwritten offering or exchange offer, use its reasonable best efforts to (i) obtain a comfort letter from the independent public accountants for the Company in customary form and covering such matters of the type customarily covered by such letters as any Sphere Entertainment Party reasonably requests and (ii) ensure that (A) the representations, warranties and covenants contained in the applicable underwriting agreement, dealer manager agreement or distribution agreement shall expressly be for the benefit of any Sphere Entertainment Party participating in such sale, (B) the conditions to closing in said underwriting agreement or dealer managers agreement shall be reasonably satisfactory to such Sphere Entertainment Party and (C) to the extent customary, all comfort letters and opinions of counsel contemplated by said underwriting agreement or dealer manager agreement are delivered to such Sphere Entertainment Party on the closing date of the offering.
(j) In the case of an exchange offer that does not involve a dealer manager or a pro-rata distribution, provide to each participating Sphere Entertainment Party such customary written representations and warranties or other covenants or agreements as may be requested by any participating Sphere Entertainment Party comparable to those that would be included in an underwriting agreement, dealer manager agreement or distribution agreement.
-18-
(k) Otherwise use its reasonable best efforts to comply with all applicable rules and regulations of the Commission and have the registration statement declared effective as soon as practicable after filing.
The Company may require any Sphere Entertainment Party to furnish to the Company such information regarding such Sphere Entertainment Party as the Company may from time to time reasonably request in writing, in each case only as required by the Securities Act or the rules and regulations thereunder.
Each Sphere Entertainment Party agrees that, upon receipt of any notice from the Company of the happening of any event of the kind described in Section 5(d) hereof, such Sphere Entertainment Party will forthwith discontinue disposition of the Registered Class A pursuant to the registration statement covering such Registered Class A until such Sphere Entertainment Party receives the copies of the supplemented or amended prospectus contemplated by Section 5(d) hereof, and, if so directed by the Company, such Sphere Entertainment Party will deliver to the Company (at the expense of the Company) all copies, other than permanent file copies then in such Sphere Entertainment Partys possession, of the prospectus covering such Registered Class A current at the time of receipt of such notice. If interrupted by receipt of any such notice pursuant to Section 5(d), any 90-day period in respect of which the Company is required to maintain the effectiveness of a registration statement pursuant to Section 1(a) shall be extended by the number of days during which the interruption was in effect.
-19-
6. Registration Expenses.
Other than in the case of (a) a registration at the request of a Qualifying Creditor or (b) a demand registration under Section 1(a)(ii) after the second such registration (each registration referred to in clause (a) or (b), a Designated Registration), all expenses incident to the performance of or compliance with this Agreement by the Company, including, without limitation, all registration and filing fees, fees and expenses of compliance with securities or blue sky laws (including reasonable fees and disbursements of counsel in connection with blue sky qualifications of the Registered Class A), printing expenses, messenger and delivery expenses, internal expenses (including, without limitation, all salaries and expenses of its officers and employees performing legal or accounting duties), the fees and expenses incurred in connection with the listing of the Registered Class A on the New York Stock Exchange or any other securities exchange on which such Class A Common Stock is then listed, fees and disbursements of counsel for the Company and its independent certified public accountants (including the expenses of any special audit or comfort letters required by or incident to such performance), securities acts liability insurance (if the Company elects to obtain such insurance), the fees and expenses of any special experts retained by the Company in connection with such registration, the fees and expenses of other persons retained by the Company, including transfer agents, trustees, depositories and registrars (all such expenses being herein called Registration Expenses), will be borne by the Company. In the case of a Designated Registration, all Registration Expenses other than internal expenses of the Company and securities acts liability insurance obtained by the Company at its election, shall be borne by the Qualifying Creditor or the Sphere
-20-
Entertainment Holders participating in the offering, as the case may be. The Company will not have any responsibility for any of the expenses of any Sphere Entertainment Party incurred in connection with any registration statement hereunder, including, without limitation, underwriting discounts or commissions or dealer manager fees attributable to the sale or other disposition of Registered Class A and fees and expenses of counsel for such Sphere Entertainment Party.
7. Indemnification; Contribution.
(a) Indemnification by the Company. The Company agrees to indemnify and hold harmless, to the fullest extent permitted by law, (i) each Sphere Entertainment Party, (ii) the directors, officers, partners, employees, agents, beneficiaries, trustees, members and affiliates of each Sphere Entertainment Party, and the directors, officers, partners, employees and agents of each such affiliate, and (iii) each person who controls any of the foregoing (within the meaning of the Securities Act and the Exchange Act), against any and all losses, claims, damages, liabilities, expenses (or actions or proceedings in respect thereof) or costs (including, without limitation, costs of investigation and reasonable attorneys fees and disbursements incurred by any such indemnified person in connection with enforcing its rights hereunder preparing, pursuing or defending any such loss, claim, damage, liability, expense, action or proceeding), including any of the foregoing incurred in settlement of any litigation commenced or threatened (collectively, Losses), joint or several, based upon or arising out of (x) any untrue or alleged untrue statement of material fact contained in any registration statement, prospectus, preliminary prospectus, summary prospectus or amendment or supplement thereto, (y) any omission or alleged omission to state therein a material fact
-21-
required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein (in the case of a prospectus, in the light of the circumstances under which they were made) not misleading, or (z) any violation by the Company of any federal, state or common law rule or regulation applicable to the Company in connection with such registration, and the Company will reimburse each such indemnified party for any such Loss, except in each case insofar as any such Loss arises out of or is based upon an untrue statement or omission made in any such registration statement, prospectus, preliminary prospectus, final prospectus, summary prospectus, amendment or supplement, or a violation of law or regulation in reliance upon and in conformity with written information furnished to the Company by such indemnified party expressly for use in the preparation thereof, it being understood that the information to be furnished to the Company for use in the preparation of any such document shall be limited only to the information specifically referenced in the penultimate sentence of Section 7(b). Such indemnity shall remain in full force and effect regardless of any investigation made by such indemnified person and shall survive the Transfer of any Shares by any such indemnified person. The indemnity in this Section 7(a) shall not apply to Losses incurred by a person other than in his or her capacity as a selling security holder. In connection with an underwritten offering or registered exchange offer, the Company will indemnify the underwriters or dealer managers thereof, their officers and directors and each person who controls such underwriters or dealer managers (within the meaning of the Securities Act or the Exchange Act) to the same extent as provided above with respect to the indemnification of each Sphere Entertainment Party.
-22-
(b) Indemnification by Sphere Entertainment Parties. In connection with any registration statement contemplated hereby, each Sphere Entertainment Party participating in any offer or sale pursuant to such registration statement will furnish to the Company in writing such information with respect to such Sphere Entertainment Party as the Company reasonably requests for use in connection with any such registration statement, prospectus, preliminary prospectus, summary prospectus or amendment or supplement thereto and agrees to indemnify and hold harmless, severally, and not jointly, to the fullest extent permitted by law, the Company, its directors, officers, employees, agents and affiliates and the directors, officers, partners, employees and agents of each such affiliate and each person who controls the Company (within the meaning of the Securities Act or the Exchange Act) against any Losses insofar as such Losses arise out of or are based upon (i) an untrue or alleged untrue statement of a material fact contained in any such registration statement, prospectus, preliminary prospectus, summary prospectus or amendment or supplement thereto or any omission or alleged omission to state therein a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein (in the case of a prospectus, in the light of the circumstances under which they were made) not misleading, to the extent that such untrue statement or omission is contained in or omitted from any information with respect to such Sphere Entertainment Party so furnished in writing by such Sphere Entertainment Party expressly for use in the preparation of such registration statement, prospectus, preliminary prospectus, summary prospectus or amendment or supplement thereto, as the case may be, or (ii) any violation by such Sphere Entertainment Party of any federal, state or common law rule or regulation applicable to such Sphere Entertainment Party in
-23-
connection with such registration. It is understood that the information to be furnished by a Sphere Entertainment Party to the Company for use in the preparation of any such document shall be limited only to information regarding such Sphere Entertainment Party, the ownership of such Sphere Entertainment Partys Common Equity Securities, such Sphere Entertainment Partys intended method or methods of distribution and any other information required by law. The liability of a Sphere Entertainment Party under this Section 7(b) shall not exceed the amount of net proceeds (including the value of any securities received in an exchange offer) received by such Sphere Entertainment Party (net of underwriting discounts or dealer manager fees borne by such Sphere Entertainment Party) from the sale or other disposition of the Shares in the offering that is the subject of an indemnity claim under this Section 7(b).
(c) Conduct of Indemnification Proceedings. Any person entitled to indemnification hereunder agrees to give prompt written notice to the indemnifying party after the receipt by such person of any written notice of the commencement of any action, suit, proceeding or investigation or threat thereof made in writing for which such person will claim indemnification or contribution pursuant to this Agreement, provided that the failure of any indemnified party to give notice as provided herein shall not relieve the indemnified party of its obligations under this Section 7, except to the extent that the indemnifying party is materially prejudiced by such failure to give notice. Unless in the reasonable judgment of such indemnified party, a conflict of interest may exist between such indemnified party and the indemnifying party with respect to such claim, the indemnified party shall permit the indemnifying party to assume the defense of such claim with counsel reasonably satisfactory to such indemnified party. If the
-24-
indemnifying party is not entitled to, or elects not to, assume the defense of a claim, it will not be obligated to pay the fees and expenses of more than one counsel with respect to such claim, unless in the reasonable judgment of any indemnified party a conflict of interest may exist between such indemnified party and any other of such indemnified parties with respect to such claim, in which event the indemnifying party shall be obligated to pay the fees and expenses of such additional counsel or counsels. No indemnifying party will be subject to any liability for any settlement made without its consent. No indemnifying party, in the defense of any such claim or litigation shall, except with the consent of the applicable indemnified party, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, consent to entry of any judgment or enter into any settlement which does not include as an unconditional term thereof the giving by the claimant or plaintiff to such indemnified party of a release from all liability in respect of such claim or litigation.
(d) Indemnification Payments. Any indemnification required to be made by an indemnifying party pursuant to this Section 7 shall be made by periodic payments to the indemnified party during the course of the action or proceeding, as and when bills are received by such indemnifying party with respect to indemnifiable Losses incurred by such indemnified party.
(e) Contribution. If the indemnification provided for in this Section 7 from the indemnifying party is unavailable to an indemnified party hereunder in respect of any Losses or is insufficient to hold harmless an indemnified party from all Losses covered thereby, then the indemnifying party, in lieu of indemnifying such indemnified party, shall contribute to the amount paid or payable by such indemnified party as a result
-25-
of such Losses in such proportion as is appropriate to reflect the relative fault of the indemnifying party and indemnified parties in connection with the actions which resulted in such Losses, as well as any other relevant equitable considerations. The relative fault of such indemnifying party and indemnified parties shall be determined by reference to, among other things, whether the untrue or alleged untrue statement of a material fact or omission or alleged omission to state a material fact relates to information supplied by such indemnifying party or indemnified parties, and the parties relative intent, knowledge, access to information and opportunity to correct or prevent such statements or omissions. The amount paid or payable by a party as a result of the losses, claims, damages, liabilities and expenses referred to above shall be deemed to include, subject to the limitations set forth in Section 7(c), any legal or other fees or expenses reasonably incurred by such party in connection with any investigation or proceeding.
The parties hereto agree that it would not be just and equitable if contribution pursuant to this Section 7(e) were determined by pro rata allocation or by any other method of allocation which does not take into account the equitable considerations referred to in the immediately preceding paragraph. No person guilty of fraudulent misrepresentation (within the meaning of Section 11(f) of the Securities Act) shall be entitled to contribution from any person who was not guilty of such fraudulent misrepresentation.
Notwithstanding anything else contained herein, (i) no party shall be liable for contribution under this Section 7(e) except to the extent and under such circumstances as such party would have been liable to indemnify under this Section 7 if such indemnification were enforceable under applicable law and (ii) no Sphere Entertainment
-26-
Party (or related indemnified party) shall be required to contribute any amount in excess of the amount by which the net proceeds (including the value of any securities received in an exchange offer) received by such Sphere Entertainment Party (net of underwriting discounts or dealer manager fees borne by such Sphere Entertainment Party) from the sale or other disposition of Shares in the offering that is the subject of the claim for contribution exceeds the amount of any damages which such Sphere Entertainment Party (or related indemnified party) would have been required to pay by reason of the indemnity under this Section 7 if such indemnification was enforceable under applicable law.
If indemnification is available under this Section 7, the indemnifying parties shall indemnify each indemnified party to the full extent provided in Sections 7(a) and (b) without regard to the relative fault of said indemnifying party or indemnified party or any other equitable consideration provided for in this Section 7(e).
8. Participation in Underwritten Registrations. A Sphere Entertainment Party may not participate in any underwritten registration, exchange offer or pro-rata distribution hereunder or otherwise unless such Sphere Entertainment Party (a) agrees to sell the Shares on the basis provided in any underwriting arrangements, dealer manager arrangements or distribution arrangements with customary terms and conditions for a secondary offering approved by the Company or the persons entitled hereunder to approve such arrangements and (b) completes and executes all questionnaires, powers of attorney, indemnities, underwriting agreements, dealer manager agreements and other documents reasonably required under the terms of such underwriting arrangements, the dealer manager arrangements or this Agreement, provided that none of the foregoing shall in any way limit the obligations of the Company under Section 7.
-27-
9. Convertible or Exchange Registration.
(a) If any Sphere Entertainment Holder who is a holder of the Shares offers any options, rights, warrants or other securities issued by it or any other person that are offered with, convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for any Shares, the Shares underlying such options, rights, warrants or other securities shall be eligible for registration pursuant to Section 1 and Section 3 hereof.
10. Reporting Requirements; Rule 144. Until the expiration or termination of this Agreement in accordance with its terms, the Company shall be and remain in compliance with the periodic filing requirements imposed under the Commissions rules and regulations, including the Exchange Act, and any other applicable laws or rules, and shall timely file such information, documents and reports as the Commission may require or prescribe under Section 13 or 15(d) (whichever is applicable) of the Exchange Act. If the Company is not required to file such reports, it will, upon the request of any Sphere Entertainment Holder, make publicly available such necessary information for so long as necessary to permit sales pursuant to Rule 144 or Regulation S under the Securities Act, and it will take such further action as any Sphere Entertainment Holder may reasonably request, all to the extent required from time to time to enable such Sphere Entertainment Holder to sell the Shares without registration under the Securities Act within the limitation of the exemptions provided by (a) Rule 144 or Regulation S under the Securities Act, as such Rules may be amended from time to time, or (b) any rule or regulation hereafter adopted by the SEC. From and after the date
-28-
hereof through the first anniversary of the date upon which no Sphere Entertainment Holder owns any Shares, the Company shall forthwith upon request furnish any Sphere Entertainment Holder (i) a written statement by the Company as to whether it has complied with such requirements and, if not, the specifics thereof, (ii) a copy of the most recent annual or quarterly report of the Company, and (iii) such other reports and documents filed by the Company with the Commission as such Sphere Entertainment Holder may reasonably request in availing itself of an exemption for the sale of Shares without registration under the Securities Act.
ARTICLE II
VOTING RESTRICTIONS
11. Voting of the Class A Common Stock.
(a) From the date of the Distribution until the date that the Initial Sphere Entertainment Holders cease to own any Shares, the Shareholder shall, and shall cause each Initial Sphere Entertainment Holder to (in each case, to the extent that they own any Shares), be present, in person or by proxy, at each and every shareholder meeting of the Company, and otherwise to cause all Shares owned by them to be counted as present for purposes of establishing a quorum at any such meeting, and to vote or consent on any matter (including waivers of contractual or statutory rights), or cause to be voted or consented on any such matter, all such Shares in proportion to the votes cast by the other holders of the Class A Common Stock on such matter.
(b) From the date of the Distribution until the date that the Initial Sphere Entertainment Holders cease to own any Shares, the Shareholder hereby grants, and shall cause each Initial Sphere Entertainment Holder (in each case, to the extent that
-29-
they own any Shares) to grant, an irrevocable proxy, which shall be deemed coupled with an interest sufficient in law to support an irrevocable proxy to the Company or its designees, to vote, with respect to any matter (including waivers of contractual or statutory rights), all Shares owned by them, in proportion to the votes cast by the other holders of the Class A Common Stock on such matter; provided that (i) such proxy shall automatically be revoked as to a particular Share upon any sale of such Share from an Initial Sphere Entertainment Holder to a person other than an Initial Sphere Entertainment Holder and (ii) nothing in this Section 11(b) shall limit or prohibit any such sale.
(c) The Shareholder acknowledges and agrees (on behalf of itself and each Initial Sphere Entertainment Holder) that the Company will be irreparably damaged in the event any of the provisions of this Article II are not performed by the Shareholder in accordance with their terms or are otherwise breached. Accordingly, it is agreed that the Company shall be entitled to an injunction to prevent breaches of this Article II and to specific enforcement of the provisions of this Article II in any action instituted in any court of the United States or any state having subject matter jurisdiction over such action.
ARTICLE III
MISCELLANEOUS
12. Miscellaneous.
(a) No Inconsistent Agreements. The Company will not hereafter enter into any agreement with respect to its securities which is inconsistent with the rights granted to the Sphere Entertainment Parties in this Agreement.
-30-
(b) Amendments. This Agreement may not be amended, modified or altered except by a writing duly signed by the party against which such amendment or modification is sought to be enforced.
(c) Successors and Assigns.
(i) This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the Company, the Sphere Entertainment Parties and the respective successors and permitted assigns of the Company and the Sphere Entertainment Parties. The Company shall assign its rights and obligations hereunder to any entity that succeeds to all or substantially all of its assets, by merger or otherwise, including to any holding company that may be formed to be the parent of the Company, if such entity becomes the issuer of the securities then owned by the Sphere Entertainment Holders. Each Sphere Entertainment Holder may assign its rights and obligations hereunder to any other Sphere Entertainment Holder that succeeds to all or substantially all of its assets, by merger or otherwise, without the consent of the Company.
(ii) In connection with the sale of Shares, the Shareholder or another Sphere Entertainment Holder that has been transferred Shares pursuant to clause (A) below may assign its registration-related rights and obligations under this Agreement relating to such Shares (other than, in the case of clause (B) or (C) below, the voting provisions contained in Article II hereof) to the following transferees in such sale: (A) another Sphere Entertainment Holder to which the Shares are sold, (B) any other transferee to which the Shares are sold, if the Company provides prior written consent to the transfer of such registration-related
-31-
rights and obligations along with the sale of the Shares or (C) any other transferee to which the Shares are sold, unless (I) such sale consists of Shares representing less than 5% of the Companys then-issued and outstanding securities of the same class as the Shares or (II) such Shares are eligible for sale pursuant to an exemption from the registration and prospectus delivery requirements of the Securities Act under Section 4(a) thereof (including transactions pursuant to Rule 144); provided, (x) the Company is given written notice prior to or at the time of such sale stating the name and address of the transferee and identifying the securities with respect to which the registration-related rights and obligations are being sold and (y) the transferee executes a counterpart in the form attached hereto as Exhibit A and delivers the same to the Company (any such transferee in such sale, a Transferee). A Transferee that obtains Shares in compliance with the foregoing sentence shall be considered a Sphere Entertainment Holder for purposes of this Agreement upon satisfaction of the procedures set forth in the foregoing sentence.
(d) Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, and all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.
(e) Headings. The headings in this Agreement are for reference purposes only and shall not constitute a part hereof.
(f) Construction. This Agreement shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the internal laws of the State of New York without giving any effect to principles of conflicts of laws.
-32-
(g) Notices. Any notice required or desired to be delivered hereunder shall be (i) in writing, (ii) delivered by personal delivery, sent by commercial delivery service or certified mail, return receipt requested, or by facsimile or electronic mail, (iii) deemed to have been given on the date of personal delivery, the date set forth in the records of the delivery service or return receipt, or in the case of facsimile or electronic mail, upon dispatch, and (iv) addressed as designated on Schedule 1 hereto (or to such other address as the party entitled to notice shall hereafter designate in accordance with the terms hereof), with copies as designated on Schedule 1 hereto.
(h) Severability. If any provision of this Agreement or the application of any provision hereof to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of this Agreement and the application of such provision to other persons or circumstances shall not be affected unless the provision held invalid shall substantially impair the benefits of the remaining portions of this Agreement.
(i) Entire Agreement. This Agreement is intended by the parties as a final expression of their agreement and is intended to be a complete and exclusive statement of the agreement and understanding of the parties hereto in respect of the subject matter contained herein. There are no restrictions, promises, warranties or undertakings, other than those set forth or referred to herein. This Agreement supersedes all prior agreements and understandings between the parties with respect to such subject matter.
(j) Attorneys Fees. In any action or proceeding brought to enforce any provision of this Agreement, or where any provision hereof is validly asserted as a defense, the successful party shall be entitled to recover reasonable attorneys fees in addition to any other available remedy.
-33-
(k) Effectiveness. This Agreement shall become effective on the date on which the Distribution is consummated, without any further action of any of the parties hereto.
-34-
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement as of the day and year first written above.
MSGE SPINCO, INC. | ||||
(to be renamed Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp.) | ||||
By: | /s/ David F. Byrnes | |||
Name: | David F. Byrnes | |||
Title: | Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer | |||
MADISON SQUARE GARDEN ENTERTAINMENT CORP. | ||||
(to be renamed Sphere Entertainment Co.) | ||||
By: | /s/ James L. Dolan | |||
Name: | James L. Dolan | |||
Title: | Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer |
[Signature Page to Shareholders and Registration Rights Agreement]
ANNEX A
Definitions
Class A Common Stock has the meaning ascribed thereto in the Recitals.
Class B Common Stock has the meaning ascribed thereto in the Recitals.
Commission has the meaning ascribed thereto in Section 1(a) hereof.
Common Equity Securities means shares of any class of common stock, or any securities convertible into or exchangeable or exercisable for shares of any class of common stock of the Company.
Company has the meaning ascribed thereto in the Recitals.
Creditor means any financial institution approved by the Company, such approval not to be unreasonably withheld.
Designated Registration has the meaning ascribed thereto in Section 6 hereof.
Distribution has the meaning ascribed thereto in the Recitals.
Dolan Children Trusts Registration Rights Agreement means the Registration Rights Agreement, to be dated as of March 31, 2023, between the Company and the Charles F. Dolan Children Trusts, as the same may be amended, modified or amended and restated from time to time.
Dolan Family Affiliates Registration Rights Agreement means the Registration Rights Agreement, to be dated as of March 31, 2023, between the Company and the Dolan Family Affiliates (as defined therein), as the same may be amended, modified or amended and restated from time to time.
Dolan Registration Rights Agreements has the meaning ascribed thereto in Section 2 hereof.
Exchange Act means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
Inspectors has the meaning ascribed thereto in Section 5(g) hereof.
Losses has the meaning ascribed thereto in Section 7(a) hereof.
Market Price has the meaning ascribed thereto in Section 1(d) hereof.
A-1
Materiality Notice has the meaning ascribed thereto in Section 1(c) hereof.
Sphere Entertainment Group means MSGE and its subsidiaries.
Sphere Entertainment Holders has the meaning ascribed thereto in the Preamble hereof.
Sphere Entertainment Parties has the meaning ascribed thereto in the Preamble hereof.
MSGE means The Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. (to be renamed Sphere Entertainment Co.), a Delaware corporation.
Offering Confidential Information means, with respect to a piggyback registration, (i) the Companys plan to file the relevant registration statement and engage in the offering so registered, (ii) any information regarding the offering being registered (including the potential timing, price, number of shares, underwriters or other counterparties, selling stockholders or plan of distribution) and (iii) any other information (including information contained in draft supplements or amendments to offering materials) provided to any Sphere Entertainment Party or Other Holder by the Company (or by third parties) in connection with a piggyback registration; provided, that Offering Confidential Information shall not include information that (x) was or becomes generally available to the public (including as a result of the filing of the relevant registration statement) other than as a result of a disclosure by any Sphere Entertainment Party or Other Holder, (y) was or becomes available to any Sphere Entertainment Party or Other Holder from a source not bound by any confidentiality agreement with the Company or (z) was otherwise in such Sphere Entertainment Party or Other Holders possession prior to it being furnished to such Sphere Entertainment Party or Other Holder by the Company or on the Companys behalf.
Other Holders has the meaning ascribed thereto in Section 2 hereof.
Qualifying Creditor means a Creditor who has, at the written request of a Sphere Entertainment Holder, signed an instrument in form reasonably acceptable to the Company agreeing to be bound by the provisions of this Agreement.
Records has the meaning ascribed thereto in Section 5(g) hereof.
Registered Class A has the meaning ascribed thereto in Section 5(b).
A-2
Registration Expenses has the meaning ascribed thereto in Section 6 hereof.
Rule 144 Threshold means the product of (a) the maximum number of shares of Class A Common Stock of the Company that could be sold under Rule 144(e)(1) under the Securities Act (or any successor rule or regulation) and (b) the applicable Market Price provided for in this Agreement.
Securities Act means the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
Shares means (i) shares of Class A Common Stock acquired by any Sphere Entertainment Holder in the Distribution, (ii) any shares of Class A Common Stock acquired by any Sphere Entertainment Holder as a result of any stock split, stock dividend or other recapitalization with respect to any shares of Class A Common Stock acquired by any Sphere Entertainment Holder in the Distribution or acquired as provided in this clause (ii), provided that the Shares excludes any security (i) the offering and sale of which has been effectively registered under the Securities Act and which has been sold in accordance with a registration statement or (ii) that has been sold pursuant to Rule 144 (or any successor provision) under the Securities Act.
Suspension of Effectiveness has the meaning ascribed thereto in Section 2(c) hereof.
Suspension of Filing has the meaning ascribed thereto in Section 1(c) hereof.
Suspension of Offering has the meaning ascribed thereto in Section 1(c) hereof.
Trading Day has the meaning ascribed thereto in Section 1(d) hereof.
Transfer means a sale, transfer or other disposition.
Transferee has the meaning ascribed thereto in Section 12(c) hereof.
A-3
Exhibit 8.1
[ ], 2023
Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp.,
Two Pennsylvania Plaza,
New York, NY 10121.
Ladies and Gentlemen:
We have acted as U.S. tax counsel to Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp., a Delaware corporation (MSGE), in connection with the Distribution as described in the Form 10 Registration Statement of Controlled (as defined below) effective [ ], 2023. Capitalized terms used but not defined herein shall have the meanings ascribed to them in the officers certificate to us from MSGE, dated [ ], 2023 (the Officers Certificate).
In rendering our opinion, we have examined and relied upon the accuracy and completeness of the facts set forth in the Officers Certificate and such other documents as we have deemed necessary or appropriate. In addition, we have relied upon the representation letter to us from Charles F. Dolan. In connection with this opinion, we have assumed that the Contribution and the Distribution will be consummated in the manner described in the Officers Certificate, and we have made the assumptions described in Exhibit E attached thereto.
In rendering our opinion, we have considered the applicable provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the Code), Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder, pertinent judicial authorities, interpretive rulings of the Internal Revenue Service, and such other authorities as we have deemed appropriate under the circumstances. All such authorities are subject to change, and any of such changes could apply retroactively.
Based upon the foregoing, we are of the opinion that under current law,
(1) The Contribution and Distribution, taken together, should qualify as a reorganization under Section 368(a)(1)(D) of the Code;
(2) Neither MSGE nor MSGE Spinco, Inc. (Controlled) should recognize gain or loss upon the Contribution;
(3) MSGE should not recognize gain or loss upon the Distribution under Section 355(c) or Section 361(c) of the Code; and
(4) Stockholders of MSGE should not recognize gain or loss upon the Distribution under Section 355(a) of the Code, and no amount should be included in such shareholders income, except in respect of cash received in lieu of fractional shares of Controlled.
Our opinion is expressly conditioned upon the assumptions and statements of reliance set forth above. We express no other opinion as to the tax consequences (including any applicable state, local or foreign tax consequences) of the transactions referred to herein or in the Officers Certificate.
[Remainder of this page intentionally left blank.]
Very truly yours, |
|
[] |
Exhibit 10.1
TRANSITION SERVICES AGREEMENT
BY AND BETWEEN
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
(TO BE RENAMED MADISON SQUARE GARDEN ENTERTAINMENT CORP.)
AND
MADISON SQUARE GARDEN ENTERTAINMENT CORP.
(TO BE RENAMED SPHERE ENTERTAINMENT CO.)
dated as of March 29, 2023
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page | ||||
ARTICLE I |
| |||
DEFINITIONS | ||||
Section 1.1. General |
1 | |||
Section 1.2. Reference; Interpretation |
3 | |||
ARTICLE II |
| |||
SERVICES | ||||
Section 2.1. Services |
3 | |||
Section 2.2. Standard of Service |
4 | |||
Section 2.3. Additional Services |
4 | |||
Section 2.4. Representative |
4 | |||
ARTICLE III |
| |||
LICENSES AND PERMITS | ||||
Section 3.1. Licenses and Permits |
5 | |||
ARTICLE IV |
| |||
PAYMENT | ||||
Section 4.1. General |
5 | |||
Section 4.2. Additional Expenses |
5 | |||
Section 4.3. Adjustments |
6 | |||
Section 4.4. Invoices |
6 | |||
Section 4.5. Failure to Pay |
7 | |||
Section 4.6. Termination of Services |
7 | |||
ARTICLE V |
| |||
INSURANCE MATTERS | ||||
Section 5.1. Existing Insurance Polices |
7 | |||
Section 5.2. Disclaimer |
7 | |||
Section 5.3. Insurance Transition |
7 | |||
Section 5.4. Claims Made Policies |
8 | |||
Section 5.5. Post-Distribution Claims for Pre-Distribution Events |
8 | |||
Section 5.6. Audits and Adjustments |
8 | |||
Section 5.7. No Assignment or Waiver |
9 | |||
Section 5.8. No Limitation on Insurance |
9 | |||
Section 5.9. Scope |
9 |
ARTICLE VI |
| |||
INDEMNIFICATION | ||||
Section 6.1. Indemnification of Party Receiving Services |
9 | |||
Section 6.2. Indemnification of Party Providing Services |
9 | |||
Section 6.3. Third-Party Claims |
10 | |||
Section 6.4. Indemnification Payments |
12 | |||
Section 6.5. Survival |
12 | |||
ARTICLE VII |
| |||
COOPERATION; CONFIDENTIALITY; TITLE | ||||
Section 7.1. Good Faith Cooperation; Consents |
12 | |||
Section 7.2. Confidentiality |
13 | |||
Section 7.3. Internal Use; Title, Copies, Return |
13 | |||
ARTICLE VIII |
| |||
TERM | ||||
Section 8.1. Duration |
13 | |||
Section 8.2. Early Termination by Entertainco |
14 | |||
Section 8.3. Early Termination by Sphereco |
14 | |||
Section 8.4. Termination of Sportco Services Agreement |
15 | |||
Section 8.5. Suspension Due to Force Majeure |
15 | |||
Section 8.6. Consequences of Termination |
15 | |||
ARTICLE IX |
| |||
RECORDS | ||||
Section 9.1. Maintenance of Records |
16 | |||
ARTICLE X |
| |||
DISPUTE RESOLUTION | ||||
Section 10.1. Negotiation |
16 | |||
Section 10.2. Continuity of Service and Performance |
16 | |||
Section 10.3. Other Remedies |
16 | |||
ARTICLE XI |
| |||
NOTICES | ||||
Section 11.1. Notices |
16 |
ii
ARTICLE XII |
| |||
MISCELLANEOUS | ||||
Section 12.1. Taxes |
17 | |||
Section 12.2. Relationship of Parties |
17 | |||
Section 12.3. Complete Agreement; Construction |
18 | |||
Section 12.4. Counterparts |
18 | |||
Section 12.5. Waivers |
18 | |||
Section 12.6. Amendments |
18 | |||
Section 12.7. Assignment |
18 | |||
Section 12.8. Successors and Assigns |
18 | |||
Section 12.9. Third-Party Beneficiaries |
18 | |||
Section 12.10. Governing Law |
18 | |||
Section 12.11. Waiver of Jury Trial |
18 | |||
Section 12.12. Specific Performance |
18 | |||
Section 12.13. Severability |
19 | |||
Section 12.14. Provisions Unaffected |
19 | |||
Section 12.15. No Presumption |
19 | |||
Schedule A Services Provided by Entertainco to Sphereco |
A-1 | |||
Schedule A.1 IT Services Provided by Entertainco to Sphereco |
A.1-1 | |||
Schedule B Services Provided by Sphereco to Entertainco |
B-1 | |||
Schedule C Initial Representatives |
C-1 | |||
Schedule D Existing Insurance Polices |
D-1 |
iii
Transition Services Agreement, dated as of March 29, 2023 (this Agreement), between MSGE Spinco, Inc. (to be renamed Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp.), a Delaware corporation (Entertainco), and Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. (to be renamed Sphere Entertainment Co.), a Delaware corporation (Sphereco).
W I T N E S S E T H:
WHEREAS, Sphereco and Entertainco have entered into a Distribution Agreement, dated as of March 29, 2023 (the Distribution Agreement), which sets forth the terms pursuant to which Sphereco will transfer certain assets to Entertainco and Sphereco will distribute the common stock of Entertainco to shareholders of Sphereco (the Distribution); and
WHEREAS, in connection with the Distribution, and in order to ensure an orderly transition under the Distribution Agreement, it will be necessary for each of the parties to provide to the other the Services described herein for a transitional period;
NOW, THEREFORE, the parties hereto, in consideration of the premises and the mutual covenants contained herein, agree as follows:
ARTICLE I
DEFINITIONS
Section 1.1. General. As used in this Agreement, the following terms have the respective meanings set forth below:
Action shall have the meaning assigned to that term in the Distribution Agreement.
Affiliate shall, subject to the next succeeding sentence, have the meaning assigned to that term in the Distribution Agreement. For clarity, unless the context otherwise requires, a reference to a Persons Affiliates shall be deemed to mean such Persons Affiliates following the Distribution; provided that for purposes of this Agreement, Entertainco and Sphereco shall not be considered Affiliates.
Ancillary Agreement shall have the meaning assigned to that term in the Distribution Agreement.
Applicable Rate shall mean the Prime Rate (as defined below) plus three percent (3%) per annum.
Bankruptcy Event with respect to a party shall mean the filing of an involuntary petition in bankruptcy or similar proceeding against such party seeking its reorganization, liquidation or the appointment of a receiver, trustee or liquidator for it or for all or substantially all of its assets, whereupon such petition shall not be dismissed within sixty (60) days after the filing thereof, or if such party shall (i) apply for or consent in writing to the appointment of a receiver, trustee or liquidator of all or substantially all of its assets, (ii) file a voluntary petition or admit in writing its inability to pay its debts as they become due, (iii) make a general assignment for the benefit of creditors, (iv) file a petition or an answer seeking reorganization or an
arrangement with its creditors or take advantage of any insolvency law with respect to itself as debtor, or (v) file an answer admitting the material allegations of a petition filed against it in any bankruptcy, reorganization, insolvency proceedings or any similar proceedings.
Business Day shall mean any day other than a Saturday, a Sunday or a day on which banks in New York City, New York are authorized or obligated by law or executive order to close.
Change of Control of a company shall mean an event or series of events by which Dolan Family Interests or Persons controlled by Dolan Family Interests (any such Person, a Dolan Family Interest Controlled Person) (so long as no such person or group (as such terms are used in Sections 13(d) and 14(d) of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act)) other than the Dolan Family Interests shall beneficially own (within the meaning of Rule 13d-3 (as in effect on the effective date of this Agreement) promulgated under the Exchange Act (Rule 13d-3)), in the aggregate, more than fifty percent (50%) of the equity interests in such Dolan Family Interest Controlled Person(s)) shall cease at any time to have beneficial ownership (within the meaning of Rule 13d-3) of shares of the capital stock of such company, having sufficient votes to elect (or otherwise designate) at such time a majority of the members of the board of directors of such company.
Commencement Date shall have the meaning ascribed to that term in Section 8.1 of this Agreement.
Dolan Family Interests shall mean (i) any Dolan Family Member, (ii) any trusts for the benefit of any Dolan Family Members, (iii) any estate or testamentary trust of any Dolan Family Member for the benefit of any Dolan Family Members, (iv) any executor, administrator, trustee, conservator or legal or personal representative of any Person or Persons specified in clauses (i), (ii) and (iii) above to the extent acting in such capacity on behalf of any Dolan Family Member or Members and not individually and (v) any corporation, partnership, limited liability company or other similar entity, in each case 80% of which is owned and controlled by any of the foregoing or combination of the foregoing.
Dolan Family Members shall mean Charles F. Dolan, his spouse, his descendants by birth or adoption (including any stepchildren of his descendants) and any spouse of any of such descendants.
Entertainco Services shall mean those transitional services, including any Additional Services, to be provided by Entertainco to Sphereco set forth on Schedule A hereto to assist Sphereco in operating Spherecos business following the Distribution. Services or actions of Overlap Individuals shall not be considered to be Entertainco Services under this Agreement unless expressly agreed in writing by both parties to this Agreement.
Loss shall mean any damage, claim, loss, charge, action, suit, proceeding, deficiency, tax, interest, penalty and reasonable costs and expenses related thereto (including reasonable attorneys fees).
2
Overlap Individuals shall mean Persons who are directors of both Sphereco and Entertainco or employees of both Sphereco and Entertainco if such employee is compensated by both companies.
Person shall mean any natural person, corporation, business trust, limited liability company, joint venture, association, company, partnership or government, or any agency or political subdivision thereof.
Prime Rate shall mean the rate of interest per annum announced from time to time by JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, as its prime lending rate.
Retained Employees shall mean employees of Sphereco and/or its subsidiaries that would have otherwise transferred to Entertainco and/or its subsidiaries as of the Distribution who remain employees of Sphereco and/or its subsidiaries during the Retention Period.
Retention Period shall mean the period from and after the Distribution through and including 12:01 a.m. Eastern time on May 1, 2023.
Services shall mean, collectively, the Entertainco Services and the Sphereco Services.
Sphereco Services shall mean those services, including any Additional Services, to be provided by Sphereco to Entertainco to assist Entertainco in operating Entertaincos business following the Distribution. Such Services shall include (i) all services provided by Retained Employees during the Retention Period, other than Entertainco Services provided by such employees for Sphereco and/or its subsidiaries during such Retention Period and (ii) those transitional services, including any Additional Services, to be provided by Sphereco to Entertainco set forth on Schedule B hereto to assist Entertainco in operating Entertaincos business. Services or actions of Overlap Individuals shall not be considered to be Sphereco Services under this Agreement unless expressly agreed in writing by both parties to this Agreement.
Third Party shall mean any Person who is not a party to this Agreement.
Section 1.2. Reference; Interpretation. References in this Agreement to any gender include references to all genders, and references to the singular include references to the plural and vice versa. The words include, includes and including when used in this Agreement shall be deemed to be followed by the phrase without limitation. Unless the context otherwise requires, references in this Agreement to Articles, Sections and Schedules shall be deemed references to Articles and Sections of, and Schedules to, this Agreement. Unless the context otherwise requires, the words hereof, hereby and herein and words of similar meaning when used in this Agreement refer to this Agreement in its entirety and not to any particular Article, Section or provision of this Agreement.
ARTICLE II
SERVICES
Section 2.1. Services. (a) Entertainco shall provide to Sphereco each Entertainco Service for the term set forth opposite the description of such Entertainco Service in Schedule A, including by providing such Entertainco Service through Retained Employees during the Retention Period. Upon conclusion of the term set forth opposite the description of such Entertainco Service, this Agreement shall be deemed terminated with respect to such Entertainco Service. Additional Services may be provided by Entertainco to Sphereco as provided in Section 2.3. At its option, (i) Entertainco may cause any Entertainco Service it is required to provide hereunder to be provided by a Third Party that is providing, or may from time to time provide, the same or similar services for Entertainco and/or (ii) to the extent any Entertainco Service is already provided by a Third Party, Entertainco shall have the right to change the Third Party that is providing such Entertainco Service to any Third Party that is providing, or may from time to time provide, the same or similar services for Entertainco, at any time upon reasonable notice to
3
Sphereco. In the event of such a change as permitted in clauses (i) or (ii) above results in a change in cost of Entertainco for the provision of such Entertainco Service, the applicable schedules to this agreement shall be updated to reflect the revised fees as allocated to Sphereco, provided that if such a change results in an increase over 10% of the costs currently contemplated by Schedule A such an amendment will require the consent (which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed) of Sphereco.
(b) Sphereco shall provide to Entertainco each Sphereco Service for the term set forth opposite the description of such Sphereco Service in Schedule B. Upon conclusion of the term set forth opposite the description of such Sphereco Service, this Agreement shall be deemed terminated with respect to such Sphereco Service. Additional Services may be provided to Entertainco by Sphereco as provided in Section 2.3. At its option, (i) Sphereco may cause any Sphereco Service it is required to provide hereunder to be provided by a Third Party that is providing, or may from time to time provide, the same or similar services for Sphereco and/or (ii) to the extent any Sphereco Service is already provided by a Third Party, Sphereco shall have the right to change the Third Party that is providing such Sphereco Service to any Third Party that is providing, or may from time to time provide, the same or similar services for Sphereco, at any time upon reasonable notice to Entertainco. In the event of such a change as permitted in clauses (i) or (ii) above results in a change in cost of Sphereco for the provision of such Sphereco Service, the applicable schedules to this agreement shall be updated to reflect the revised fees as allocated to Entertainco, provided that if such a change results in an increase over 10% of the costs currently contemplated by Schedule B such an amendment will require the consent (which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed) of Entertainco.
Section 2.2. Standard of Service. Entertainco and Sphereco shall maintain sufficient resources to perform their respective obligations hereunder. In performing the Services, Entertainco and Sphereco shall provide substantially the same level of service and use substantially the same degree of care as their respective personnel provided and used in providing such Services prior to completion of the Distribution for itself (but in no event less than a reasonable degree of care), subject in each case to any provisions set forth on Schedule A or Schedule B with respect to each such Service. Each party shall provide reasonable assistance to the other party in migrating the applicable Services to the recipient of such Services.
Section 2.3. Additional Services. From time to time after the date hereof, the parties may identify additional services that one party will provide to the other party in accordance with the terms of this Agreement (the Additional Services). The parties shall cooperate and act in good faith to agree on the terms pursuant to which any such Additional Service shall be provided and to amend Schedule A or Schedule B, as applicable, in accordance with such terms. Notwithstanding the foregoing, neither party shall have any obligation to agree to provide Additional Services.
Section 2.4. Representative. The parties shall each appoint a representative (each, a Representative) to facilitate communications and performance under this Agreement. Each party may treat an act of a Representative of another party as being authorized by such other party without inquiring behind such act or ascertaining whether such Representative had authority to so act. Each party shall have the right at any time and from time to time to replace its Representative by giving notice in writing to the other party. The initial representative of each party is as set forth on Schedule C.
4
ARTICLE III
LICENSES AND PERMITS
Section 3.1. Licenses and Permits. Each party warrants and covenants that all duties and obligations (including with respect to Entertainco, all Entertainco Services and with respect to Sphereco, all Sphereco Services) to be performed hereunder shall be performed in compliance with all material applicable federal, state and local laws, rules and regulations. Each party shall obtain and maintain all material permits, approvals and licenses necessary or appropriate to perform its duties and obligations (including with respect to Entertainco, the Entertainco Services and with respect to Sphereco, the Sphereco Services) hereunder and shall at all times comply with the terms and conditions of such permits, approvals and licenses.
ARTICLE IV
PAYMENT
Section 4.1. General. (a) In consideration for the provision of each of the Entertainco Services, and following the Retention Period, Sphereco shall pay to Entertainco the applicable fee set forth for such Entertainco Service on Schedule A; it being understood that the amount set forth on Schedule A is the 12-month fee, and 1/12th of such fee shall be payable on a monthly basis.
(b) In consideration for the provision of each of the Sphereco Services, Entertainco shall pay to Sphereco (i) with respect to the Retention Period, the sum of (A) all costs and expenses for such Retained Employees during the Retention Period, including incremental costs associated with such Retained Employees (e.g., incremental insurance costs), less any costs and expenses that would otherwise have been due to Entertainco from Sphereco for Entertainco Services if such services had been performed by Entertainco during the Retention Period plus (B) the applicable fee as set forth for such Sphereco Service on Schedule B, and (ii) thereafter, the applicable fee as set forth for such Sphereco Service on Schedule B; it being understood that the amount set forth on Schedule B is the 12-month fee, and 1/12th of such fee shall be payable on a monthly basis.
Section 4.2. Additional Expenses. (a) In addition to the fees payable in accordance with Section 4.1(a), Sphereco shall reimburse Entertainco for all reasonable and necessary out-of-pocket costs and expenses incurred by Entertainco with respect to Third Parties in connection with the provision of Entertainco Services to Sphereco pursuant to the terms of this Agreement or paid by Entertainco on behalf of Sphereco that are not already contemplated by Schedule A; provided that if Entertainco expects to incur in respect of a Third Party in any month costs after April 2023 and expenses in excess of $25,000 and not already contemplated by Schedule A, Entertainco shall use commercially reasonable efforts to provide to Sphereco prior to the first day of such month a written notice setting forth Entertaincos reasonable estimate of the expenses it expects to incur.
(b) In addition to the fees payable for expenses in accordance with Section 4.1(b), Entertainco shall reimburse Sphereco for all reasonable and necessary out-of-pocket costs and expenses incurred by Sphereco with respect to Third Parties in connection with the provision of Sphereco Services to Entertainco pursuant to the terms of this Agreement or paid by Sphereco on behalf of Entertainco that are not already contemplated by Schedule B; provided that if Sphereco expects to incur in respect of a Third Party in any month costs after April 2023 and expenses in excess of $25,000 and not already contemplated by Schedule B, Sphereco shall use commercially reasonable efforts to provide to Entertainco prior to the first day of such a month written notice setting forth Spherecos reasonable estimate of the expenses it expects to incur.
5
Section 4.3. Adjustments. Entertainco and Sphereco shall review and evaluate the fees payable in accordance with Section 4.1 (the Fees) for existing services contemplated on Schedule A or Schedule B (the Existing Services) for reasonableness annually and work in good faith to equitably adjust such Fees for Existing Services as appropriate to reflect among other things changes in compensation due to promotions or replacement of personnel at a lower or higher compensation level, increases or decreases in the percentage of labor-based allocation based on increased or decreased efforts of a particular individual, or adjustments to percentage of non-labor allocations tied to headcounts or other reasonable metrics. Entertainco and Sphereco shall work together in good faith to determine an appropriate date for such adjustments to take effect (which may be retroactive to the date of such changes). The addition of any Services not contemplated by Schedule A and B shall be subject to each companys related party transaction approval policy.
Section 4.4. Invoices. (a) Entertainco will invoice Sphereco in U.S. dollars: (i) as of the last day of each calendar month for any fees payable by Sphereco in accordance with Section 4.1(a) for Entertainco Services listed on Schedule A that shall have been provided pursuant to the terms of this Agreement during such month; (ii) as of the last day of each calendar month for any amounts payable by Sphereco in accordance with Section 4.2(a) (and enclosing invoices from the relevant Third Parties); and (iii) as of the last day of each calendar month for any taxes (excluding income taxes) accrued with respect to the provision of Entertainco Services to Sphereco during such month. Entertainco shall deliver or cause to be delivered to Sphereco each such invoice within thirty (30) days following the last day of the calendar month to which such invoice relates. Sphereco shall pay each such invoice received by electronic funds transfer as follows: in the case of clauses (i) and (ii), within forty-five (45) Business Days of the date on which such invoice was received, and in the case of clause (iii), not later than one (1) Business Day prior to the due date for such tax payments; provided that Entertainco delivers such invoice not less than three (3) Business Days prior to the due date for such tax payments.
(b) Sphereco will invoice Entertainco in U.S. dollars: (i) as of the last day of each calendar month for any fees payable by Entertainco in accordance with Section 4.1(b) for Sphereco Services listed on Schedule B that shall have been provided pursuant to the terms of this Agreement during such month; (ii) as of the last day of each calendar month for any amounts payable by Entertainco in accordance with Section 4.2(b) (and enclosing invoices from the relevant Third Parties); and (iii) as of the last day of each calendar month for any taxes (excluding income taxes) accrued with respect to the provision of Sphereco Services to Entertainco during such month. Sphereco shall deliver or cause to be delivered to Entertainco each such invoice within thirty (30) days following the last day of the calendar month to which such invoice relates. Entertainco shall pay each such invoice received by electronic funds transfer: in the case of clauses (i) and (ii), within forty-five (45) Business Days of the date on which such invoice was received, and in the case of clause (iii), not later than one (1) Business Day prior to the due date for such tax payments provided that Sphereco delivers such invoice not less than three (3) Business Days prior to the due date for such tax payments.
6
Section 4.5. Failure to Pay. Any undisputed amount not paid when due shall be subject to a late payment fee computed daily at a rate equal to the Applicable Rate from the due date of such amount to the date such amount is paid. Each party agrees to pay the other partys reasonable attorneys fees and other costs incurred in collection of any amounts owed to such other party hereunder and not paid when due. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, in the event either party fails to make a payment of any undisputed amount when due hereunder, and such failure continues for a period of thirty (30) days following delivery of notice to such non-paying party of such failure, the other party shall have the right to cease provision of such Services to such non-paying party until such overdue payment (and any applicable late payment fee accrued with respect thereto) is paid in full. Such right of the party providing services shall not in any manner limit or prejudice any of such partys other rights or remedies in the event of the non-paying partys failure to make payments when due hereunder, including without limitation any rights or remedies pursuant to Sections 6, 8 and 10.
Section 4.6. Termination of Services. In the event of a termination of Services pursuant to Section 8, with respect to the calendar month in which such Services cease to be provided, the recipient of such Services shall be obligated to pay a fee for such Services calculated as set forth on Schedule A or B, as applicable for the portion of the month prior to the termination. Where possible, the parties agree to work together cooperatively to seek to have terminations occur as of month ends, but this Agreement shall not limit a partys right to effect a termination in accordance with this Agreement other than as of a month end.
ARTICLE V
INSURANCE MATTERS
Section 5.1. Existing Insurance Policies. Each of the insurance policies of Entertainco and Sphereco in effect prior to the Distribution are listed on Schedule D hereto (the Existing Policies). Certain of the Existing Policies shall be transferred from the original named insured under that policy (the Transferor) to another party (the Transferee) as indicated in Schedule D (the Transferred Policies).
Section 5.2. Disclaimer. With respect to the Transferred Policies, each Transferor does hereby, for itself and each of its subsidiaries, agree that the applicable Transferee and its subsidiaries and their respective directors, officers and employees shall not have any liability whatsoever as a result of the insurance policies and practices of the Transferor and its affiliates as in effect at any time prior to the Distribution, including as a result of the level or scope of any such insurance, the creditworthiness of any insurance carrier, the selection, identity or performance of any Third-Party administrator, the terms and conditions of any policy, the adequacy or timeliness of any notice to any insurance carrier with respect to any claim or potential claim or otherwise.
Section 5.3. Insurance Transition. With respect to the Transferred Policies, each Transferor agrees to use its commercially reasonable efforts to cause the interest and rights of the applicable Transferee and each of its subsidiaries as of the date of the Distribution as insureds, additional named insureds or beneficiaries or in any other capacity under occurrence-based insurance policies and programs (and under claims-made policies and programs to the
7
extent a claim has been submitted prior to the Distribution or later if so permitted by the terms of the applicable insurance policy and assuming that such policy is then in effect) of the applicable Transferee in respect of periods prior to the date of the Distribution to survive the Distribution for the period for which such interests and rights would have survived without regard to the transactions contemplated hereby to the extent permitted by such policies. In accordance with this Agreement the applicable Transferor shall transition the administration of the Transferred Policies and related programs noted on Schedule D to the Transferee indicated on Schedule D (or such other entity designated by the applicable Transferee) and the Transferee shall pay the costs and fees of the Transferor during such transition as provided in Article IV and Schedule A.
Section 5.4. Claims Made Policies. With respect to the Transferred Policies, each Transferee agrees that if it obtains or maintains any insurance coverage after the date of the Distribution for matters occurring prior to that time (e.g., a claims made directors and officers insurance policy) it will also obtain or maintain such coverage for the applicable Transferor, and its subsidiaries, subject to the Transferors payment of the fees and costs in connection therewith as provided in this Agreement.
Section 5.5. Post-Distribution Claims for Pre-Distribution Events. In the event that a claim is made after the Distribution for an event that occurred prior to the Distribution, and such claim arises out of: (a) the Spinco Business (as defined in the Distribution Agreement), the parties will work together in good faith to ensure that such claim is made or caused to be made under the appropriate Existing Policy (whether transferred or not), that the expenses (if any) related to such a claim (e.g., payment of deductibles or expenses/recoveries not covered by the applicable Existing Policy) are borne by Entertainco, and the proceeds (if any) shall be for the benefit of Entertainco (or as otherwise mutually agreed by the parties, with the intent being achieving a fair and equitable result); (b) the MSG Entertainment Business (as defined in the Distribution Agreement), the parties will work together in good faith to ensure that such claim is made or caused to be made under the appropriate Existing Policy (whether transferred or not), that the expenses (if any) related to such a claim (e.g., payment of deductibles or expenses/recoveries not covered by the applicable Existing Policy) are borne by Sphereco, and the proceeds (if any) shall be for the benefit of Sphereco (or as otherwise mutually agreed by the parties, with the intent being achieving a fair and equitable result); or (c) corporate matters of the pre-Distribution consolidated business that generally impact the MSG Entertainment Business and Spinco Business equally (e.g., D&O), or is the result of an action of a third-party and such action impacts the pre-Distribution consolidated business equally or indiscriminately (e.g., Cyber & Media), the parties will work together in good faith to ensure that such claim is made or caused to be made under the appropriate Existing Policy (whether transferred or not), that the expenses (if any) related to such a claim (e.g., payment of deductibles or expenses/recoveries not covered by the applicable Existing Policy) are borne by Sphereco, and the proceeds (if any) shall be for the benefit of Sphereco (or as otherwise mutually agreed by the parties, with the intent being achieving a fair and equitable result).
Section 5.6. Audits and Adjustments. With respect to the Transferred Policies, each Transferee agrees that it will reimburse the applicable Transferor under this Agreement for any additional premiums or other amounts owing to any Third Party as a result of any audit or similar procedure by a Third Party, to the extent that such additional premiums or amounts owing relate to Transferee or any of its subsidiaries during the period Transferee or such subsidiaries were covered by the relevant insurance policy.
8
Section 5.7. No Assignment or Waiver. This Agreement is not intended as an attempted assignment of any policy of insurance or as a contract of insurance and shall not be construed to waive any right or remedy of any Transferee in respect of any insurance policy or any other contract or policy of insurance.
Section 5.8. No Limitation on Insurance. Nothing in this Agreement shall be deemed to restrict a Transferor from acquiring at its own expense any other insurance policy in respect of any liabilities or covering any period.
Section 5.9. Scope. The provisions of this Article V shall not apply to insurance practices or policies relating to health and welfare plans or any other employee benefit arrangement. For the avoidance of doubt, the provisions of Article V apply to insurance practices and policies relating to workers compensation and the foregoing sentence does not limit the application of Article V to such practices and policies.
ARTICLE VI
INDEMNIFICATION
Section 6.1. Indemnification of Party Receiving Services. (a) Entertainco agrees to indemnify, defend and hold Sphereco harmless from and against any Loss to which Sphereco may become subject arising out of, by reason of or otherwise in connection with the provision hereunder by Entertainco of Entertainco Services, other than Losses resulting from Spherecos gross negligence, willful misconduct or breach of its obligations pursuant to this Agreement. Notwithstanding any provision in this Agreement to the contrary, Entertainco shall not be liable under this Section 6.1 for any consequential, special or punitive damages (including but not limited to lost profits), except to the extent that such consequential, special or punitive damages relate to a Loss resulting from a Third-Party Claim (as defined below).
(b) Sphereco agrees to indemnify, defend and hold Entertainco harmless from and against any Loss to which Entertainco may become subject arising out of, by reason of or otherwise in connection with the provision hereunder by Sphereco of Sphereco Services, other than Losses resulting from Entertaincos gross negligence, willful misconduct or breach of its obligations pursuant to this Agreement. Notwithstanding any provision in this Agreement to the contrary, Sphereco shall not be liable under this Section 6.1 for any consequential, special or punitive damages (including but not limited to lost profits), except to the extent that such consequential, special or punitive damages relate to a Loss resulting from a Third-Party Claim (as defined below).
Section 6.2. Indemnification of Party Providing Services. (a) Sphereco agrees to indemnify, defend and hold Entertainco harmless from and against any Loss to which Entertainco may become subject arising out of, by reason of or otherwise in connection with, the provision hereunder by Entertainco of Entertainco Services to Sphereco where such Losses resulted from Spherecos gross negligence, willful misconduct or breach of its obligations pursuant to this Agreement. Notwithstanding any provision in this Agreement to the contrary,
9
Sphereco shall not be liable under this Section 6.2 for any consequential, special or punitive damages (including but not limited to lost profits), except to the extent that such consequential, special or punitive damages relate to a Loss resulting from a Third-Party Claim (as defined below).
(b) Entertainco agrees to indemnify, defend and hold Sphereco harmless from and against any Loss to which Sphereco may become subject arising out of, by reason of or otherwise in connection with the provision hereunder by Sphereco of Sphereco Services to Entertainco where such Losses resulted from Entertaincos gross negligence, willful misconduct or breach of its obligations pursuant to this Agreement. Notwithstanding any provision in this Agreement to the contrary, Entertainco shall not be liable under this Section 6.2 for any consequential, special or punitive damages (including but not limited to lost profits), except to the extent that such consequential, special or punitive damages relate to a Loss resulting from a Third-Party Claim (as defined below).
Section 6.3. Third-Party Claims. (a) If a claim or demand is made against Sphereco or Entertainco (each, an Indemnitee) by any Third Party (a Third-Party Claim) as to which such Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification pursuant to this Agreement, such Indemnitee shall notify the party which is or may be required pursuant to Section 6.1 or Section 6.2 hereof to make such indemnification (the Indemnifying Party) in writing, and in reasonable detail, of the Third-Party Claim promptly and in any event by the date (the Outside Notice Date) that is the 15th Business Day after receipt by such Indemnitee of written notice of the Third-Party Claim; provided, however, that failure to give such notification shall not affect the indemnification provided hereunder except to the extent the Indemnifying Party shall have been actually prejudiced as a result of such failure (except that the Indemnifying Party shall not be liable for any expenses incurred during the period beginning immediately after the Outside Notice Date and ending on the date that the Indemnitee gives the required notice). Thereafter, the Indemnitee shall deliver to the Indemnifying Party, promptly (and in any event within ten (10) Business Days) after the Indemnitees receipt thereof, copies of all notices and documents (including court papers) received by the Indemnitee relating to the Third-Party Claim. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, Sphereco shall not be required to provide notice to Entertainco for Third-Party Claims for which Entertainco is providing legal support as part of the Entertainco Services to the extent that Entertainco has received notice in such capacity.
(b) If a Third-Party Claim is made against an Indemnitee, the Indemnifying Party shall be entitled to participate in the defense thereof and, if it so chooses and acknowledges in writing its obligation to indemnify the Indemnitee therefor, to assume the defense thereof with counsel selected by the Indemnifying Party, provided, however, that such counsel is not reasonably objected to by the Indemnitee. Should the Indemnifying Party so elect to assume the defense of a Third-Party Claim, the Indemnifying Party shall, within 30 days (or sooner if the nature of the Third-Party Claim so requires), notify the Indemnitee of its intent to do so, and the Indemnifying Party shall thereafter not be liable to the Indemnitee for legal or other expenses subsequently incurred by the Indemnitee in connection with the defense thereof; provided, however, that such Indemnitee shall have the right to employ counsel to represent such Indemnitee if, in such Indemnitees reasonable judgment, a conflict of interest between such
10
Indemnitee and such Indemnifying Party exists in respect of such claim which would make representation of both such parties by one counsel inappropriate, and in such event the fees and expenses of such separate counsel shall be paid by such Indemnifying Party. If the Indemnifying Party assumes such defense, the Indemnitee shall have the right to participate in the defense thereof and to employ counsel, subject to the proviso of the preceding sentence, at its own expense, separate from the counsel employed by the Indemnifying Party, it being understood that the Indemnifying Party shall control such defense. The Indemnifying Party shall be liable for the fees and expenses of counsel employed by the Indemnitee for any period during which the Indemnifying Party has failed to assume the defense thereof (other than during the period prior to the time the Indemnitee shall have given notice of the Third-Party Claim as provided above). If the Indemnifying Party so elects to assume the defense of any Third-Party Claim, all of the Indemnitees shall cooperate with the Indemnifying Party in the defense or prosecution thereof, including by providing or causing to be provided agreements, documents, books, records, files and witnesses as soon as reasonably practicable after receiving any request therefor from or on behalf of the Indemnifying Party, except to the extent that providing or causing the foregoing to be provided would constitute a waiver of any Indemnitees attorney-client privilege.
(c) If the Indemnifying Party acknowledges in writing responsibility under this Article VI for a Third-Party Claim, then in no event will the Indemnitee admit any liability with respect to, or settle, compromise or discharge, any Third-Party Claim without the Indemnifying Partys prior written consent; provided, however, that the Indemnitee shall have the right to settle, compromise or discharge such Third-Party Claim without the consent of the Indemnifying Party if the Indemnitee releases the Indemnifying Party from its indemnification obligation hereunder with respect to such Third-Party Claim and such settlement, compromise or discharge would not otherwise adversely affect the Indemnifying Party. If the Indemnifying Party acknowledges in writing liability for a Third-Party Claim, the Indemnitee will agree to any settlement, compromise or discharge of a Third-Party Claim that the Indemnifying Party may recommend and that by its terms obligates the Indemnifying Party to pay the full amount of the liability in connection with such Third-Party Claim and releases the Indemnitee completely in connection with such Third-Party Claim and that would not otherwise adversely affect the Indemnitee. If an Indemnifying Party elects not to assume the defense of a Third-Party Claim, or fails to notify an Indemnitee of its election to do so as provided herein, such Indemnitee may compromise, settle or defend such Third-Party Claim.
(d) Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Indemnifying Party shall not be entitled to assume the defense of any Third-Party Claim (and shall be liable for the fees and expenses of counsel incurred by the Indemnitee in defending such Third-Party Claim) if the Third-Party Claim seeks an order, injunction or other equitable relief or relief for other than money damages against the Indemnitee which the Indemnitee reasonably determines, after conferring with its counsel, cannot be separated from any related claim for money damages. If such equitable relief or other relief portion of the Third-Party Claim can be so separated from that for money damages, the Indemnifying Party shall be entitled to assume the defense of the portion relating to money damages.
(e) In the event and to the extent of payment by an Indemnifying Party to any Indemnitee in connection with any Third-Party Claim, such Indemnifying Party shall be
11
subrogated to and shall stand in the place of such Indemnitee as to any events or circumstances in respect of which such Indemnitee may have any right or claim relating to such Third-Party Claim against any claimant or plaintiff asserting such Third-Party Claim. Such Indemnitee shall cooperate with such Indemnifying Party in a reasonable manner, and at the cost and expense of such Indemnifying Party, in prosecuting any subrogated right or claim.
(f) Entertainco and Sphereco shall cooperate as may reasonably be required in connection with the investigation, defense and settlement of any Third-Party Claim. In furtherance of this obligation, the parties agree that if an Indemnifying Party chooses to defend or to compromise or settle any Third-Party Claim, Sphereco or Entertainco, as the case may be, shall use its commercially reasonable efforts to make available to the other party, upon written request, their former and then current directors, officers, employees and agents and those of their subsidiaries as witnesses and any records or other documents within its control or which it otherwise has the ability to make available, to the extent that (i) any such Person, records or other documents may reasonably be required in connection with such defense, settlement or compromise and (ii) making such Person, records or other documents so available would not constitute a waiver of the attorney-client privilege of Sphereco or Entertainco, as the case may be. At the request of an Indemnifying Party, an Indemnitee shall enter into a reasonably acceptable joint defense agreement.
(g) The remedies provided in this Article VI shall be cumulative and shall not preclude assertion by any Indemnitee of any other rights or the seeking of any and all other remedies against any Indemnifying Party.
Section 6.4. Indemnification Payments. (a) Indemnification required by this Article VI shall be made by periodic payments of the amount thereof during the course of the investigation or defense, as and when bills are received or any Loss is incurred. If the Indemnifying Party fails to make an indemnification payment required by this Article VI within 30 days after receipt of a bill therefor or notice that a Loss has been incurred, the Indemnifying Party shall also be required to pay interest on the amount of such indemnification payment, from the date of receipt of the bill or notice of the Loss to, but not including the date of payment, at the Prime Rate.
(b) The amount of any claim by an Indemnitee under this Agreement shall be (i) reduced to reflect any actual tax savings or insurance proceeds received by any Indemnitee that result from the Losses that gave rise to such indemnity, and (ii) increased by an amount equal to any tax cost incurred by any Indemnitee that results from receipt of payments under this Article VI.
Section 6.5. Survival. The parties obligations under this Article VI shall survive the termination of this Agreement.
ARTICLE VII
COOPERATION; CONFIDENTIALITY; TITLE
Section 7.1. Good Faith Cooperation; Consents. Each party shall use commercially reasonable efforts to cooperate with the other party in all matters relating to the
12
provision and receipt of the Services. Such cooperation shall include, but not be limited to, exchanging information, providing electronic access to systems used in connection with the Services, performing true-ups and adjustments and obtaining all consents, licenses, sublicenses or approvals necessary to permit each party to perform its obligations hereunder. Sphereco and Entertainco shall maintain reasonable documentation related to the Services and cooperate with each other in making such information available as needed.
Section 7.2. Confidentiality. Each party shall keep confidential from Third Parties the Schedules to this Agreement and all non-public information received from the other party regarding the Services, including, without limitation, any information received with respect to products and services of Sphereco or Entertainco, and to use such information only for the purposes set forth in this Agreement unless (i) otherwise agreed to in writing by the party from which such information was received or (ii) required by applicable law, regulation or any securities exchange (in which case the parties shall cooperate in seeking to obtain a protective order or other arrangement pursuant to which the confidentiality of such information is preserved); provided that to the extent disclosure is required and permitted under the terms of clause (ii) of this Section 7.2, the disclosing party shall provide reasonable advance notice to the non-disclosing party of such required disclosure. The covenants in this Article VII shall survive any termination of this Agreement for a period of three (3) years from the date such termination becomes effective.
Section 7.3. Internal Use; Title, Copies, Return. Except to the extent inconsistent with the express terms of the Distribution Agreement and any Ancillary Agreement other than this Agreement, each party agrees that:
(a) title to all systems used in performing any Service provided hereunder shall remain in the party providing such Service or its Third-Party vendors; and
(b) to the extent the provision of any Service involves intellectual property, including without limitation software programs or patented or copyrighted material, or material constituting trade secrets, the recipient of such Service shall not copy, modify, reverse engineer, decompile or in any way alter any of such material, or otherwise use such material in a manner inconsistent with the terms and provisions of this Agreement, without the express written consent of the party providing such Service; and upon the termination of any Service, the recipient of such Service shall return to the party providing such Service, as soon as practicable, any equipment or other property of the party providing such Service relating to such Service which is owned or leased by the party providing such Service and is or was in its possession or control.
ARTICLE VIII
TERM
Section 8.1. Duration. (a) Except as provided in Sections 4.6, 6.5, 7.2, 8.2, 8.3, 8.4 and 8.5, the term of this Agreement shall commence on the date hereof (the Commencement Date) and shall continue in full force and effect until the earlier of (i) the date that is the day prior to the second anniversary of the Commencement Date, unless otherwise mutually agreed by the parties and (ii) the earlier termination of all Services in accordance with Section 4.5 or 8.1(b).
13
(b) Each party acknowledges that the purpose of this Agreement is for Entertainco to provide the Entertainco Services to Sphereco on an interim basis until Sphereco can perform the Entertainco Services for itself, and for Sphereco to provide the Sphereco Services to Entertainco on an interim basis until Entertainco can perform the Sphereco Services for itself. As Sphereco becomes self-sufficient or engages other sources to provide any Entertainco Service, Sphereco shall be entitled to release Entertainco from providing any or all of the Entertainco Services hereunder by delivering a written notice thereof to Entertainco at least twenty (20) Business Days prior to the effective date of release of such Entertainco Service(s). At the end of such twenty (20) Business Day period (or such shorter period as may be agreed by the parties), Entertainco shall discontinue the provision of the Entertainco Services specified in such notice and any such Entertainco Services shall be excluded from this Agreement, Schedule A shall be deemed to be amended accordingly, and this Agreement shall be deemed to be terminated with respect to such Entertainco Service. Entertainco shall also be entitled to release Sphereco from providing any or all of the Sphereco Services hereunder by delivering a written notice thereof to Sphereco at least twenty (20) Business Days prior to the effective date of release of such Sphereco Service(s). At the end of such twenty (20) Business Day period (or such shorter period as may be agreed by the parties), Sphereco shall discontinue the provision of the Sphereco Services specified in such notice and any such Sphereco Services shall be excluded from this Agreement, Schedule B shall be deemed to be amended accordingly, and this Agreement shall be deemed to be terminated with respect to such Sphereco Service.
Section 8.2. Early Termination by Entertainco. Entertainco may terminate this Agreement by giving written notice to Sphereco under the following circumstances:
(a) if Sphereco shall default in the performance of any of its material obligations under this Agreement, and such default or breach shall continue and not be remedied for a period of thirty (30) days after Entertainco has given written notice to Sphereco specifying such default and requiring it to be remedied;
(b) if a Bankruptcy Event has occurred with respect to Sphereco; or
(c) if a Change of Control of Sphereco has occurred.
Section 8.3. Early Termination by Sphereco. Sphereco may terminate this Agreement by giving written notice to Entertainco under the following circumstances:
(a) if Entertainco shall default in the performance of any of its material obligations under this Agreement and such default shall continue and not be remedied for a period of thirty (30) days after Sphereco has given written notice to Entertainco specifying such default and requiring it to be remedied;
(b) if a Bankruptcy Event has occurred with respect to Entertainco; or
(c) if a Change of Control of Entertainco has occurred.
14
Section 8.4. Termination of Sportco Services Agreement. As of the date hereof, Entertainco is party to a Transition Services Agreement (as such agreement may be amended, modified, extended, replaced or supplemented, the Sportco Services Agreement) with MSG Sports, LLC (Sportco). Sphereco and Entertainco acknowledge and agree that the fees set forth on Schedule A hereto contemplate the payment for certain services by Sportco pursuant to Sportco Services Agreement (i.e., certain fees contemplate expenses being shared by three (3) parties, rather than two (2)), and in the event that the Sportco Services Agreement expires, is terminated, or otherwise ceases to exist (a Sportco Termination Event), the parties agree that certain fees on Schedule A may require adjustment to reflect payment by two (2) parties instead of three (3) for services that are also provided for under the Sportco Services Agreement (the Similar Services). In the event of a Sportco Termination Event, (a) Entertainco shall promptly notify Sphereco of such Sportco Termination Event, and (b) within fifteen (15) days of such Sportco Termination Event, Entertainco shall deliver to Sphereco a revised Schedule A, identifying the Similar Services, and an approximate pro rata distribution of fees (based on Spherecos fees reflected on Schedule A as of the date of the Sportco Termination Event compared to Entertaincos fees/expenses for the same service as of the same date) previously paid for by Sportco for such Similar Service under the Sportco Services Agreement. Entertainco shall use reasonable efforts to adjust anticipated expenses to reflect any reduction in headcount or other needs as a result of the Sportco Termination Event, in a way that is reasonable and generally consistent with Spherecos past practices. The revised Schedule A reflecting the pro rata allocation to Sphereco shall automatically become effective on the date that is the later of (x) forty-five (45) days from the Sphereco Termination Event or (y) thirty (30) days from the delivery of such revised Schedule A to Sphereco, unless, prior to that date, Sphereco notifies Entertainco that it desires to terminate any Similar Service identified, and, in either case, Schedule A shall be amended accordingly, with such revised pricing and/or termination being retroactive to the date of the Sphereco Termination Event.
Section 8.5. Suspension Due to Force Majeure. In the event the performance by either Sphereco or Entertainco of its duties or obligations hereunder is interrupted or interfered with by reason of any cause beyond its reasonable control including, but not limited to, fire, storm, flood, earthquake, explosion, war, strike or labor disruption, rebellion, insurrection, quarantine, act of God, pandemic, boycott, embargo, shortage or unavailability of supplies, riot, or governmental law, regulation or edict (collectively, Force Majeure Events), the party affected by such Force Majeure Event shall not be deemed to be in default of this Agreement by reason of its non-performance due to such Force Majeure Event, but shall give notice to the other party of the Force Majeure Event and the fee provided for in Section 4.1 shall be equitably adjusted to reflect the reduced performance. In such event, the party affected by such Force Majeure Event shall resume the performance of its duties and obligations hereunder as soon as reasonably practicable after the end of the Force Majeure Event.
Section 8.6. Consequences of Termination. In the event this Agreement expires or is terminated in accordance with this Article VIII, then (a) all Services to be provided will promptly cease, (b) each of Entertainco and Sphereco shall, upon request of the other party, promptly return or destroy all non-public confidential information received from the other party in connection with this Agreement (including the return of all information received with respect to the Services or products of Sphereco or Entertainco, as the case may be), without retaining a
15
copy thereof (other than one copy for file purposes), and (c) each of Entertainco and Sphereco shall honor all credits and make any accrued and unpaid payment to the other party as required pursuant to the terms of this Agreement, and no rights already accrued hereunder shall be affected.
ARTICLE IX
RECORDS
Section 9.1. Maintenance of Records. Each of the parties shall create and maintain full and accurate books in connection with the provision of the Services, and all other records relevant to this Agreement, and upon reasonable notice from the other party shall make available for inspection and copy by such other partys agents such records during reasonable business hours.
ARTICLE X
DISPUTE RESOLUTION
Section 10.1. Negotiation. In the event of a controversy, dispute or claim arising out of, in connection with, or in relation to the interpretation, performance, nonperformance, validity or breach of this Agreement or otherwise arising out of, or in any way related to this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby, including, without limitation, any claim based on contract, tort, statute or constitution (but excluding any controversy, dispute or claim arising out of any agreement relating to the use or lease of real property if any Third Party is a party to such controversy, dispute or claim) (collectively, Agreement Disputes), the management of the parties shall negotiate in good faith for a reasonable period of time to settle such Agreement Dispute, provided, however, that such reasonable period shall not, unless otherwise agreed by the parties in writing, exceed 30 days from the time the parties began such negotiations.
Section 10.2. Continuity of Service and Performance. Unless otherwise agreed in writing, the parties will continue to provide service and honor all other commitments under this Agreement during the course of any form of dispute resolution with respect to all matters not subject to such dispute, controversy or claim.
Section 10.3. Other Remedies. Nothing in this Article X shall limit the right that any party may otherwise have to seek to obtain (a) preliminary injunctive relief in order to preserve the status quo pending the resolution of a dispute or (b) temporary or permanent injunctive relief from any breach of any provisions of this Agreement.
ARTICLE XI
NOTICES
Section 11.1. Notices. All notices and other communications hereunder shall be in writing, shall reference this Agreement and shall be emailed, hand delivered or mailed by registered or certified mail (return receipt requested) to the parties at the following addresses (or
16
at such other address for a party as shall be specified by like notice) and will be deemed given on the date on which such notice is received:
To Entertainco:
MSGE Spinco, Inc. (or, after the applicable name change, Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp.)
Two Penn Plaza
New York, New York 10121
Attention: Chief Financial Officer
with a copy to:
MSGE Spinco, Inc. (or, after the applicable name change, Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp.)
Two Penn Plaza
New York, New York 10121
Attention: General Counsel
To Sphereco:
Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. (or, after the applicable name change, Sphere Entertainment Co.)
Two Penn Plaza
New York, New York 10121
Attention: Chief Financial Officer
with a copy to:
Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. (or, after the applicable name change, Sphere Entertainment Co.)
Two Penn Plaza
New York, New York 10121
Attention: General Counsel
ARTICLE XII
MISCELLANEOUS
Section 12.1. Taxes. Except as may otherwise be specifically provided herein, each party shall bear all taxes, duties and other similar charges (and any related interest and penalties) imposed as a result of its receipt of Services under this Agreement.
Section 12.2. Relationship of Parties. Nothing in this Agreement shall be deemed or construed by the parties or any Third Party as creating the relationship of principal and agent, partnership or joint venture between the parties, it being understood and agreed that no provision contained herein, and no act of the parties, shall be deemed to create any relationship between the parties other than the relationship of independent contractor nor be deemed to vest any rights, interest or claims in any third parties.
17
Section 12.3. Complete Agreement; Construction. This Agreement, including the Schedules hereto, shall constitute the entire agreement between the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and shall supersede all previous negotiations, commitments and writings with respect to such subject matter. In the event of any inconsistency between this Agreement and any Schedule, the Schedule shall prevail. The rights and remedies of the parties herein provided shall be cumulative and in addition to any other or further remedies provided by law or equity.
Section 12.4. Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, all of which shall be considered one and the same agreement, and shall become effective when one or more such counterparts have been signed by each party and delivered to the other party.
Section 12.5. Waivers. The failure of any party to require strict performance by the other party of any provision in this Agreement will not waive or diminish that partys right to demand strict performance thereafter of that or any other provision hereof.
Section 12.6. Amendments. This Agreement may not be modified or amended except by an agreement in writing by each of the parties.
Section 12.7. Assignment. This Agreement shall not be assignable, in whole or in part, by any party without the prior written consent of the other party, and any attempt to assign any rights or obligations arising under this Agreement without such consent shall be void.
Section 12.8. Successors and Assigns. The provisions to this Agreement shall be binding upon, inure to the benefit of and be enforceable by the parties and their respective successors and permitted assigns.
Section 12.9. Third-Party Beneficiaries. This Agreement is solely for the benefit of the parties and shall not be deemed to confer upon any other Person any remedy, claim, liability, reimbursement, claim of action or other right in excess of those existing without reference to this Agreement.
Section 12.10. Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York applicable to contracts made and to be performed in the State of New York.
Section 12.11. Waiver of Jury Trial. The parties hereby irrevocably waive any and all right to trial by jury in any legal proceeding arising out of or related to this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby.
Section 12.12. Specific Performance. Subject to Article X, in the event of any actual or threatened default in, or breach of, any of the terms, conditions and provisions of this Agreement, the parties agree that the party who is or is to be thereby aggrieved shall have the right to specific performance and injunctive or other equitable relief of its rights under this Agreement, in addition to any and all other rights and remedies at law or in equity, and all such rights and remedies shall be cumulative. The parties agree that the remedies at law for any
18
breach or threatened breach of this Agreement, including monetary damages, are inadequate compensation for any loss, that any defense in any action for specific performance that a remedy at law would be adequate is hereby waived, and that any requirements for the securing or posting of any bond with such remedy are hereby waived.
Section 12.13. Severability. In the event any one or more of the provisions contained in this Agreement should be held invalid, illegal or unenforceable in any respect, the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions contained herein and therein shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby. The parties shall endeavor in good faith negotiations to replace the invalid, illegal or unenforceable provisions with valid provisions, the economic effect of which comes as close as possible to that of the invalid, illegal or unenforceable provisions.
Section 12.14. Provisions Unaffected. Nothing contained in this Agreement shall affect the rights and obligations of Entertainco and Sphereco pursuant to the Distribution Agreement.
Section 12.15. No Presumption. Neither Entertainco nor Sphereco shall be deemed to be the drafter of this Agreement and no term or provision of this Agreement may be construed against any party on that basis.
19
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this Agreement has been duly executed and delivered on behalf of the parties as of the date first herein above written.
MSGE SPINCO, INC. (To be renamed MADISON SQUARE GARDEN ENTERTAINMENT CORP.) | ||||
By: | /s/ David F. Byrnes | |||
Name: |
David F. Byrnes | |||
Title: | Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer | |||
MADISON SQUARE GARDEN ENTERTAINMENT CORP. (To be renamed SPHERE ENTERTAINMENT CO.) | ||||
By: | /s/ James L. Dolan | |||
Name: |
James L. Dolan | |||
Title: | Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer |
[Signature Page to Transition Services Agreement]
Exhibit 10.2
TAX DISAFFILIATION AGREEMENT
BETWEEN
MADISON SQUARE GARDEN ENTERTAINMENT CORP.
(TO BE RENAMED SPHERE ENTERTAINMENT CO.)
AND
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
(TO BE RENAMED MADISON SQUARE GARDEN ENTERTAINMENT CORP.)
dated as of March 29, 2023
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION 1. |
Definition of Terms |
2 | ||||
SECTION 2. |
Allocation of Taxes and Tax-Related Losses |
10 | ||||
2.1 Allocation of Taxes |
10 | |||||
2.2 Special Allocation of Certain Taxes |
11 | |||||
2.3 Tax Payments |
12 | |||||
SECTION 3. |
Preparation and Filing of Tax Returns |
12 | ||||
3.1 Combined Returns |
12 | |||||
3.2 Separate Returns |
12 | |||||
3.3 Agent |
13 | |||||
3.4 Provision of Information |
13 | |||||
3.5 Special Rules Relating to the Preparation of Tax Returns |
13 | |||||
3.6 Refunds, Credits, Offsets, Tax Benefits |
14 | |||||
3.7 Carrybacks |
14 | |||||
3.8 Amended Returns |
14 | |||||
3.9 Compensatory Equity Interests |
15 | |||||
SECTION 4. |
Tax Payments |
15 | ||||
4.1 Payment of Taxes to Tax Authority |
15 | |||||
4.2 Indemnification Payments |
15 | |||||
4.3 Interest on Late Payments |
16 | |||||
4.4 Tax Consequences of Payments |
16 | |||||
4.5 Adjustments to Payments |
16 | |||||
4.6 Section 336(e) Election |
17 | |||||
4.7 Certain Final Determinations |
17 | |||||
SECTION 5. |
Cooperation and Tax Contests |
17 | ||||
5.1 Cooperation |
17 | |||||
5.2 Notices of Tax Contests |
18 | |||||
5.3 Control of Tax Contests |
18 | |||||
5.4 Cooperation Regarding Tax Contests |
18 | |||||
SECTION 6. |
Tax Records |
19 | ||||
6.1 Retention of Tax Records |
19 | |||||
6.2 Access to Tax Records |
19 | |||||
6.3 Confidentiality |
19 | |||||
SECTION 7. |
Representations and Covenants |
20 |
i
7.1 Covenants of MSG Entertainment and Spinco | 20 | |||||
7.2 Covenants of Spinco | 20 | |||||
7.3 Covenants of MSG Entertainment | 21 | |||||
7.4 Exceptions | 21 | |||||
7.5 Injunctive Relief | 22 | |||||
7.6 Further Assurances | 22 | |||||
SECTION 8. |
General Provisions | 22 | ||||
8.1 Construction | 22 | |||||
8.2 Ancillary Agreements | 23 | |||||
8.3 Counterparts | 23 | |||||
8.4 Notices | 23 | |||||
8.5 Amendments | 23 | |||||
8.6 Assignment | 24 | |||||
8.7 Successors and Assigns | 24 | |||||
8.8 Change in Law | 24 | |||||
8.9 Authorization, Etc | 24 | |||||
8.10 Termination | 24 | |||||
8.11 Subsidiaries | 24 | |||||
8.12 Third-Party Beneficiaries | 24 | |||||
8.13 Double Recovery | 25 | |||||
8.14 Titles and Headings | 25 | |||||
8.15 Governing Law | 25 | |||||
8.16 Waiver of Jury Trial | 25 | |||||
8.17 Severability | 25 | |||||
8.18 No Strict Construction; Interpretation | 25 | |||||
SCHEDULE A |
ii
TAX DISAFFILIATION AGREEMENT
THIS TAX DISAFFILIATION AGREEMENT (the Agreement) is dated as of March 29, 2023, by and between Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. (to be renamed Sphere Entertainment Co. at the Effective Time (as defined below)), a Delaware corporation (MSG Entertainment), and MSGE Spinco, Inc. (to be renamed Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. at the Effective Time), a Delaware corporation and a direct wholly-owned subsidiary of MSG Entertainment (Spinco and, together with MSG Entertainment, the Parties, and each, a Party). Unless otherwise indicated, all Section references in this Agreement are to sections of the Agreement.
RECITALS
WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of MSG Entertainment determined that, based on the Corporate Business Purposes (as defined below), it is in the best interests of MSG Entertainment and its stockholders to separate the businesses of Spinco, all as more fully described in Spincos registration statement on Form 10, from MSG Entertainments other businesses on the terms and conditions set forth in the Distribution Agreement between MSG Entertainment and Spinco dated on or about the date hereof (the Distribution Agreement);
WHEREAS, pursuant to the Contribution Agreement (as defined below), (a) MSG Entertainment intends to complete the Entertainment Assignments (as defined below), and (b) MSG Entertainment Group, LLC (to be renamed Sphere Entertainment Group, LLC) at the Effective Time (as defined below)), a Delaware limited liability company and a direct wholly-owned subsidiary of MSG Entertainment (MSGE Group) intends to complete the Sphere Assignments (as defined below);
WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of MSG Entertainment has authorized the distribution to the holders of the issued and outstanding shares of Class A Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share, and Class B Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share, of MSG Entertainment (collectively, the MSG Entertainment Shares) as of the record date for the distribution of approximately 62% of the issued and outstanding shares of Class A Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share, and all of the issued and outstanding shares of Class B Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share, of Spinco (each, a Spinco Share and collectively, the Spinco Shares), respectively, on the basis of one share of Spinco Class A Common Stock for every one share of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock and one share of Spinco Class B Common Stock for every one share of MSG Entertainment Class B Common Stock (the Distribution);
WHEREAS, MSG Entertainment and Spinco intend the Contribution (as defined below) and Distribution to qualify for the Tax-Free Status (as defined below);
WHEREAS, the Boards of Directors of MSG Entertainment and Spinco have each determined that the Distribution and the other transactions contemplated by the Distribution Agreement, and the Ancillary Agreements (as defined below) are in furtherance of and consistent with the Corporate Business Purposes and, as such, are in the best interests of their respective companies and stockholders or sole stockholder, as applicable, and have approved the Distribution Agreement, and each of the Ancillary Agreements;
WHEREAS, the Parties set forth in the Distribution Agreement the principal arrangements between them regarding the separation of the Spinco Group (as defined below) from the MSG Entertainment Group (as defined below); and
WHEREAS, the Parties desire to provide for and agree upon the allocation between the Parties of liabilities for Taxes (as defined below) arising prior to, as a result of, and subsequent to the Distribution, and to provide for and agree upon other matters relating to Taxes;
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants contained in this Agreement, the Parties hereby agree as follows:
SECTION 1. Definition of Terms. For purposes of this Agreement (including the recitals hereof), the following terms have the following meanings:
Affiliate has the meaning set forth in the Distribution Agreement. For the avoidance of doubt, the term Affiliate as it applies to Spinco shall include the Spinco Company Entities.
Agreed Treatment means the treatment of (i) the Sphere Assignments as a transaction that is disregarded for U.S. federal income Tax purposes, and (ii) the Contribution and the Distribution in accordance with the Tax-Free Status and as a transaction which does not incur Tax liability under section 4501 of the Code.
Agreement has the meaning set forth in the preamble hereof.
Ancillary Agreements means the agreements encompassed by such term in the Distribution Agreement.
Business Day has the meaning set forth in the Distribution Agreement.
Code means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.
Combined Return means a consolidated, combined or unitary Tax Return that includes, by election or otherwise, one or more members of the MSG Entertainment Group and one or more members of the Spinco Group.
Companies means MSG Entertainment and Spinco.
Company means MSG Entertainment or Spinco, as the context requires.
Compensatory Equity Interests means options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units or other rights with respect to MSG Entertainment Common Shares or Spinco Shares that are granted by MSG Entertainment, Spinco or any of their respective Subsidiaries in connection with employee or director compensation or other employee benefits.
2
Compensatory Equity Net Share Settlements means net share settlement transactions with respect to Compensatory Equity Interests between either Party (or any of their respective Subsidiaries) on the one hand and the employee (or director, as the case may be) of such Party or the other Party (or any of their respective Subsidiaries) on the other hand, in each case pursuant to the terms of the relevant agreement with respect to such Compensatory Equity Interests.
Contribution Agreement means the Contribution Agreement between MSG Entertainment, Spinco, and MSGE Group dated on or about the date hereof.
Contribution means the Entertainment Assignments.
Controlling Party means, with respect to a Tax Contest, the Person that has responsibility, control and discretion in handling, defending, settling or contesting such Tax Contest.
Corporate Business Purposes means the Corporate Business Purposes as set forth in the Tax Opinion Representations (including any appendices thereto) and the Reasons for the Distribution in Spincos registration statement on Form 10, as amended.
Deconsolidation Taxes means any Taxes imposed on any member of the MSG Entertainment Group or the Spinco Group as a result of or in connection with the Sphere Assignments, the Contribution and the Distribution (or any portion thereof), but excluding any Transfer Taxes and Distribution Taxes.
Disclosing Party has the meaning set forth in Section 6.3.
Distribution has the meaning set forth in the recitals hereof.
Distribution Agreement has the meaning set forth in the recitals hereof.
Distribution Date has the meaning set forth in the Distribution Agreement.
Distribution Taxes means any Taxes arising from a Final Determination that the Contribution and the Distribution failed to be tax-free to MSG Entertainment in accordance with the requirements of section 355 or section 368(a)(1)(D) of the Code (including any Taxes resulting from the application of section 355(d) or (e) to the Distribution), or that any stock of Spinco failed to qualify as qualified property within the meaning of section 355(c)(2) or 361(c)(2) of the Code (including as a result of the application of section 355(d) or 355(e) of the Code to the Distribution) or where applicable, failed to be stock permitted to be received without recognition of gain or loss under section 361(a) of the Code, and shall include any Taxes resulting from an election under section 336(e) of the Code in the circumstances set forth in Section 4.6 hereof.
Due Date has the meaning set forth in Section 4.3.
Entertainment Assignments has the meaning set forth in the Contribution Agreement.
3
Effective Time means 11:59 p.m., New York City time, on the Distribution Date.
Employee Matters Agreement means the Employee Matters Agreement by and between MSG Entertainment and Spinco entered into on or about the date hereof.
Escheat Liability means any unclaimed property or escheat liability, including any interest, penalty, administrative charge, or addition thereto and further including all costs of responding to or defending against an audit, examination, or controversy with respect to such liability, imposed by or on behalf of a governmental entity with respect to any property or obligation (including, without limitation, uncashed checks to vendors, customers, or employees and non-refunded overpayments).
Excess Taxes means the excess of (x) the Taxes for which MSG Entertainment Group is liable if an election is made pursuant to section 336(e) of the Code under Section 4.6 of this Agreement, over (y) the Taxes for which MSG Entertainment Group is liable if such an election is not made, in each case taking into account the allocation of Taxes that is otherwise applicable in this Agreement but without regard to Section 4.6 hereof.
Expert Law Firm means a law firm nationally recognized for its expertise in the matter for which its opinion is sought.
Fifty-Percent Equity Interest means, in respect of any corporation (within the meaning of the Code), stock or other equity interests of such corporation possessing (i) at least fifty percent (50%) of the total combined voting power of all classes of stock or equity interests entitled to vote, or (ii) at least fifty percent (50%) of the total value of shares of all classes of stock or of the total value of all equity interests.
Filer means the Company that is responsible for filing the applicable Tax Return pursuant to Sections 3.1 or 3.2.
Final Determination means a determination within the meaning of section 1313 of the Code or any similar provision of state or local Tax Law.
Group means the MSG Entertainment Group or the Spinco Group, as the context requires.
Income Tax or Income Taxes means any Tax that is imposed on or measured by or referred to as income, gross income, gross receipts, profits, capital stock, franchise or other similar Tax.
Indemnified Party has the meaning set forth in Section 4.5.
Indemnifying Party has the meaning set forth in Section 4.5.
Interest Rate means (x) the Applicable Rate as set forth in the Distribution Agreement, or (y) if higher and if with respect to a payment to indemnify for a Tax to which the large corporate underpayment provision within the meaning of section 6621(c) of the Code applies, such interest rate that would be applicable at such time to such large corporate underpayment.
4
IRS means the Internal Revenue Service.
MSG Entertainment has the meaning set forth in the preamble hereof.
MSG Entertainment Business has the meaning ascribed to the term MSG Entertainment Business in the Tax Opinion Representations that constitutes an active trade or business (within the meaning of section 355(b) of the Code) of the separate affiliated group (as defined in section 355(b)(3)(B) of the Code) of MSG Entertainment.
MSG Entertainment Group has the meaning ascribed to the term MSG Entertainment Group in the Distribution Agreement.
MSG Indemnified Party includes each member of the MSG Entertainment Group, each of their representatives and Affiliates, each of their respective directors, officers, managers and employees, and each of their heirs, executors, trustees, administrators, successors and assigns.
MSG Restricted Action means any action by MSG Entertainment or any of its Subsidiaries inconsistent with the covenants set forth in Section 7.4(a); and, for the avoidance of doubt, an action shall be and remain a MSG Restricted Action even if MSG Entertainment or any of its Subsidiaries is permitted to take such an action pursuant to Section 7.5(b).
MSG Entertainment Shares has the meaning set forth in the recitals to this Agreement.
MSG Tainting Act means any breach of a representation or covenant made by MSG Entertainment in Section 7.1 of this Agreement or the taking of a MSG Restricted Action, if as a result of such breach or taking of a MSG Restricted Action a Final Determination is made that the Contribution and the Distribution failed to be tax-free by reason of (i) failing to qualify as a transaction described in section 355 and section 368(a)(1)(D) of the Code, or (ii) any stock of Spinco failing to qualify as qualified property within the meaning of section 355(c)(2) or 361(c)(2) of the Code (including as a result of the application of section 355(d) or 355(e) of the Code to the Distribution) or where applicable, failing to be stock permitted to be received without recognition of gain or loss under section 361(a) of the Code.
Non-Controlling Party has the meaning set forth in Section 5.3(a).
Non-Filer means any Company that is not responsible for filing the applicable Tax Return pursuant to Sections 3.1 or 3.2.
Non-Income Tax or Non-Income Taxes means any Tax that is not an Income Tax.
Other Party has the meaning set forth in Section 4.6(b).
5
Party has the meaning set forth in the preamble hereof.
Parties has the meaning set forth in the preamble hereof.
Payment Date means (x) with respect to any U.S. federal income tax return, the date on which any required installment of estimated taxes determined under section 6655 of the Code is due, the date on which (determined without regard to extensions) filing the return determined under section 6072 of the Code is required, and the date the return is filed, and (y) with respect to any other Tax Return, the corresponding dates determined under the applicable Tax Law.
Periodic Taxes means Taxes imposed on a periodic basis that are not based upon or related to income or receipts. Periodic Taxes include property Taxes and similar Taxes.
Permitted Acquisition means any acquisition (as a result of the Distribution) of Spinco Shares solely by reason of holding MSG Entertainment Shares, but does not include such an acquisition if such MSG Entertainment Shares, before such acquisition, were themselves acquired in a manner to which the flush language of section 355(e)(3)(A) of the Code applies (thus causing, for the avoidance of doubt, section 355(e)(3)(A)(i), (ii), (iii) or (iv) of the Code not to apply).
Person means any individual, corporation, company, limited liability company, partnership, trust, incorporated or unincorporated association, joint venture or other entity of any kind.
Post-Distribution Period means any Tax Year or other taxable period beginning after the Distribution Date and, in the case of any Straddle Period, that part of the Tax Year or other taxable period that begins at the beginning of the day after the Distribution Date.
Pre-Distribution Period means any Tax Year or other taxable period that ends on or before the Distribution Date and, in the case of any Straddle Period, that part of the Tax Year or other taxable period through the end of the day on the Distribution Date.
Preparer means the Company that is responsible for the preparation and filing of the applicable Tax Return pursuant to Sections 3.1 or 3.2.
Receiving Party has the meaning set forth in Section 6.3.
Responsible Party has the meaning set forth in Section 4.6(b).
Restriction Period means the period beginning on the Distribution Date and ending twenty-four (24) months after the Distribution Date.
Satisfactory Guidance means either a ruling from the IRS or an Unqualified Opinion, in either case reasonably satisfactory to MSG Entertainment or Spinco (as the context dictates) in both form and substance.
6
Separate Return means (a) in the case of any Tax Return required under relevant Tax Law to be filed by any member of the MSG Entertainment Group (including any consolidated, combined or unitary Tax Return), any such Tax Return that does not include any member of the Spinco Group, and (b) in the case of any Tax Return required under relevant Tax Law to be filed by any member of the Spinco Group (including any consolidated, combined or unitary Tax Return), any such Tax Return that does not include any member of the MSG Entertainment Group.
Spinco has the meaning set forth in the preamble hereof.
Spinco Business has the meaning ascribed to the term Spinco Business in the Tax Opinion Representations that constitutes an active trade or business (within the meaning of section 355(b) of the Code) of the separate affiliated group (as defined in section 355(b)(3)(B) of the Code) of Spinco.
Spinco Share or Spinco Shares has the meaning set forth in the recitals to this Agreement.
Spinco Company Entities means, collectively, the entities listed on Schedule A of the Distribution Agreement.
Spinco Group has the meaning ascribed to the term Spinco Group in the Distribution Agreement.
Spinco Indemnified Party includes each member of the Spinco Group, each of their representatives and Affiliates, each of their respective directors, officers, managers and employees, and each of their heirs, executors, trustees, administrators, successors and assigns.
Spinco Restricted Action means any action by Spinco or any of its Subsidiaries inconsistent with the covenants set forth in Section 7.3; and, for the avoidance of doubt, an action shall be and remain a Spinco Restricted Action even if Spinco or any of its Subsidiaries is permitted to take such an action pursuant to Section 7.5(a).
Spinco Shares has the meaning set forth in the recitals to this Agreement.
Spinco Tainting Act means any breach of a representation or covenant made by Spinco in Section 7.1 of this Agreement or the taking of a Spinco Restricted Action, if as a result of such breach or taking of a Spinco Restricted Action a Final Determination is made that the Contribution and the Distribution failed to be tax-free by reason of (i) failing to qualify as a transaction described in section 355 and section 368(a)(1)(D) of the Code, or (ii) any stock of Spinco failing to qualify as qualified property within the meaning of section 355(c)(2) or 361(c)(2) of the Code (including as a result of the application of section 355(d) or 355(e) of the Code to the Distribution) or where applicable, failing to be stock permitted to be received without recognition of gain or loss under section 361(a) of the Code.
Sphere Assignments has the meaning set forth in the Contribution Agreement.
7
Straddle Period means any taxable period beginning on or prior to, and ending after, the Distribution Date.
Subsidiary when used with respect to any Person, means (i)(A) a corporation a majority in voting power of whose share capital or capital stock with voting power, under ordinary circumstances, to elect directors is at the time, directly or indirectly, owned by such Person, by one or more Subsidiaries of such Person, or by such Person and one or more Subsidiaries of such Person, whether or not such power is subject to a voting agreement or similar encumbrance, (B) a partnership or limited liability company in which such Person or a Subsidiary of such Person is, at the date of determination, (1) in the case of a partnership, a general partner of such partnership with the power affirmatively to direct the policies and management of such partnership or (2) in the case of a limited liability company, the managing member or, in the absence of a managing member, a member with the power affirmatively to direct the policies and management of such limited liability company, or (C) any other Person (other than a corporation) in which such Person, one or more Subsidiaries of such Person or such Person and one or more Subsidiaries of such Person, directly or indirectly, at the date of determination thereof, has or have (1) the power to elect or direct the election of a majority of the members of the governing body of such Person, whether or not such power is subject to a voting agreement or similar encumbrance, or (2) in the absence of such a governing body, at least a majority ownership interest or (ii) any other Person of which an aggregate of 50% or more of the equity interests are, at the time, directly or indirectly, owned by such Person and/or one or more Subsidiaries of such Person. For the avoidance of doubt, the term Subsidiary as it applies to Spinco shall include the Spinco Company Entities.
Tax or Taxes means any income, gross income, gross receipts, profits, capital stock, franchise, withholding, payroll, social security, workers compensation, employment, unemployment, disability, property, ad valorem, stamp, excise (including, for the avoidance of doubt, any taxes imposed under section 4501 of the Code), severance, occupation, service, sales, use, license, lease, transfer, import, export, value added, alternative minimum, estimated or other similar tax (including any fee, assessment, or other charge in the nature of or in lieu of any tax) imposed by any Tax Authority, any Escheat Liability, abandoned, or unclaimed property law, and any interest, penalties, additions to tax, or additional amounts in respect of the foregoing, together with any reasonable expenses, including attorneys fees, incurred in defending against any such tax.
Tax Adjustment has the meaning set forth in Section 4.7.
Tax Authority means, with respect to any Tax, the governmental entity or political subdivision, agency, commission or authority thereof that imposes such Tax, and the agency, commission or authority (if any) charged with the assessment, determination or collection of such Tax for such entity or subdivision.
Tax Benefit means a reduction in the Tax liability of a taxpayer (or of the Group of which it is a member) for any taxable period. Except as otherwise provided in this Agreement, a Tax Benefit shall be deemed to have been realized or received from a Tax Item in a taxable period only if and to the extent that the Tax liability of the taxpayer (or of the Group of which it is a member) for such period, after taking into account the effect of the Tax Item on the Tax liability of such taxpayer in the current period and all prior periods, is less than it would have been if such Tax liability were determined without regard to such Tax Item.
8
Tax Contest means an audit, review, examination, or any other administrative or judicial proceeding with the purpose, potential or effect of redetermining Taxes of any member of either Group (including any administrative or judicial review of any claim for refund).
Tax Counsel means the advisors listed in Schedule A.
Tax-Free Status means the qualification of the Contribution and the Distribution (a) as a transaction described in section 355 and section 368(a)(1)(D) of the Code, (b) as a transaction in which the stock of Spinco distributed by MSG Entertainment is qualified property for purposes of sections 355(c)(2), 355(d), 355(e) and 361(c) of the Code, and (c) as a transaction in which shareholders of MSG Entertainment do not recognize income, gain or loss upon the Distribution under section 355(a) of the Code (except with respect to cash received in lieu of fractional shares).
Tax Item means, with respect to any Tax, any item of income, gain, loss, deduction, credit, adjustment in basis, or other attribute that may have the effect of increasing or decreasing any Tax.
Tax Law means the law of any governmental entity or political subdivision thereof, and any controlling judicial or administrative interpretations of such law, relating to any Tax.
Tax Opinion means the opinion (or opinions) to be delivered by Tax Counsel to MSG Entertainment in connection with the Distribution to the effect that (i) MSG Entertainment should not recognize gain or loss upon the Distribution under section 355(c) or section 361(c) of the Code, and (ii) shareholders of MSG Entertainment should not recognize gain or loss upon the Distribution under section 355(a) of the Code, and no amount should be included in such shareholders income, except in respect of cash received in lieu of fractional Spinco Shares.
Tax Opinion Representations means the written and signed representations delivered to Tax Counsel in connection with the Tax Opinion.
Tax Records means Tax Returns, Tax Return work papers, documentation relating to any Tax Contests, and any other books of account or records required to be maintained under applicable Tax Laws (including but not limited to section 6001 of the Code) or under any record retention agreement with any Tax Authority.
Tax Return means any report of Taxes due, any claims for refund of Taxes paid, any information return with respect to Taxes, or any other similar report, statement, declaration, or document filed or required to be filed (by paper, electronically or otherwise) under any applicable Tax Law, including any attachments, exhibits, or other materials submitted with any of the foregoing, and including any amendments or supplements to any of the foregoing.
Tax Year means, with respect to any Tax, the year, or shorter period, if applicable, for which the Tax is reported as provided under applicable Tax Law.
9
Transactions means the transactions contemplated by the Contribution Agreement and the Distribution Agreement and includes, for the avoidance of doubt, (i) the Sphere Assignments, (ii) the Contribution, and (iii) the Distribution.
Transfer Taxes means all U.S. federal, state, local or foreign sales, use, privilege, transfer, documentary, gains, stamp, duties, recording, and similar Taxes and fees (including any penalties, interest or additions thereto) imposed upon any Party hereto or any of its Affiliates in connection with the Distribution.
Transition Services Agreement means the transition services agreement between MSG Entertainment and Spinco dated on or about the date hereof.
Treasury Regulations means the regulations promulgated from time to time under the Code as in effect for the relevant Tax Year.
Unqualified Opinion means an unqualified will opinion of an Expert Law Firm that permits reliance by MSG Entertainment or Spinco (as the context dictates). For the avoidance of doubt, an Unqualified Opinion must be based on factual representations and assumptions that are reasonably satisfactory to MSG Entertainment or Spinco (as the context dictates).
SECTION 2. Allocation of Taxes and Tax-Related Losses.
2.1 Allocation of Taxes. Except as provided in Section 2.2, Taxes shall be allocated as follows:
(a) MSG Entertainment shall be liable for and shall be allocated (i) any Taxes attributable to members of the MSG Entertainment Group for all periods, and (ii) any Income Taxes attributable to members of the Spinco Group for any Pre-Distribution Period.
(b) Spinco shall be liable for and shall be allocated (i) any Taxes attributable to members of the Spinco Group for any Post-Distribution Period, and (ii) any Non-Income Taxes attributable to members of the Spinco-Group for any Pre-Distribution Period.
(c) In applying the provisions of Sections 2.1(a) and 2.1(b) (but subject to the provisions of Section 2.2):
(i) Any Taxes, other than Periodic Taxes, in respect of a Straddle Period shall be allocated between the Pre-Distribution Period and the Post-Distribution Period on a closing of the books basis by assuming that the books of the members of the MSG Entertainment Group and the members of the Spinco Group were closed on the Distribution Date. For purposes of the foregoing, depreciation and amortization deductions with respect to property placed in service after the Distribution Date shall be allocated to the Post-Distribution Period, and all other depreciation and amortization deductions shall be allocated on a per diem basis.
10
(ii) Any Periodic Taxes in respect of a Straddle Period shall be allocated to the Pre-Distribution Period in an amount equal to such Periodic Taxes for the entire Straddle Period multiplied by a fraction the numerator of which is the number of calendar days in the period ending on the Distribution Date and the denominator of which is the number of calendar days in the entire period. The portion of any Periodic Taxes in respect of a Straddle Period not allocated to the Pre-Distribution Period shall be allocated to the Post-Distribution Period. For the avoidance of doubt, if a Party has prepaid Periodic Taxes that are allocated to the other Party under any provisions of this Agreement, the second Party shall reimburse the first Party to the extent so allocated.
(iii) Taxes attributable to any transaction or action taken by or with respect to any member of the Spinco Group before the Effective Time on the Distribution Date shall be allocated to the Pre-Distribution Period, and Taxes attributable to any transaction or action taken by or with respect to any member of the Spinco Group after the Effective Time on the Distribution Date shall be allocated to the Post-Distribution Period.
(iv) In determining the allocation of any Escheat Liability, the liability shall be allocated to the Party whose Group members actually hold (or are required to hold) the property subject to the Escheat Liability at the time a payment or remittance in respect of such liability is required to be made to the applicable governmental entity.
2.2 Special Allocation of Certain Taxes. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement:
(a) Any and all Deconsolidation Taxes shall be borne by MSG Entertainment.
(b) Spinco shall indemnify and hold harmless each MSG Indemnified Party from and against any liability of MSG Entertainment for Distribution Taxes to the extent such Distribution Taxes are attributable to a Spinco Tainting Act, provided, however, that Spinco shall have no obligation to indemnify any MSG Indemnified Party hereunder if there has occurred, prior to such Spinco Tainting Act, a MSG Tainting Act and such Distribution Taxes are attributable to such MSG Tainting Act. It is understood and agreed that, in determining the amounts payable under this Section 2.2(b), there shall be included all costs, expenses and damages associated with shareholders litigation or controversies and any amount paid by MSG Entertainment in respect of the liability of its shareholders, whether paid to its shareholders or to any Tax Authority, in connection with liability that may arise to shareholders as a result of receiving or accruing an amount payable under this Section 2.2(b), and all reasonable costs and expenses associated with such payments.
(c) MSG Entertainment shall indemnify and hold harmless each Spinco Indemnified Party from and against any liability of Spinco for Distribution Taxes to the extent that Spinco is not liable for such Taxes pursuant to Section 2.2(b).
11
(d) The Companies shall cooperate with each other and use their commercially reasonable efforts to reduce and/or eliminate any Transfer Taxes. If any Transfer Tax remains payable after application of the first sentence of this Section 2.2(d) and notwithstanding any other provision in this Section 2, all Transfer Taxes shall be allocated to MSG Entertainment.
2.3 Tax Payments. Each Company shall be liable for and shall pay the Taxes allocated to it by this Section 2 either to the applicable Tax Authority or to the other Company in accordance with Section 4 and the other applicable provisions of this Agreement.
SECTION 3. Preparation and Filing of Tax Returns.
3.1 Combined Returns.
(a) MSG Entertainment shall be responsible for preparing and filing (or causing to be prepared or filed) all Combined Returns for any Tax Year. For any such return, Spinco shall furnish any relevant information, including pro forma returns, disclosures, apportionment data and supporting schedules, relating to any member of the Spinco Group necessary for completing any such return in a format suitable for inclusion in such return, provided that Spinco shall have the right to review and approve items on such returns if and to the extent such items directly relate to Taxes for which Spinco would be liable under Section 2, such approval not to be unreasonably delayed, conditioned or withheld by Spinco.
(b) For the period in which the Transition Services Agreement is in effect, Spinco shall assist in the preparation of any Tax Returns which may be requested by MSG Entertainment in accordance with the terms of the Transition Services Agreement (even if, for the avoidance of doubt, the responsibility for preparation such Tax Return may be allocated to MSG Entertainment under other provisions of this Agreement). Nothing in this Section 3.1(b) shall be construed to affect MSG Entertainments right or responsibility to file the Tax Returns whose filing is allocated to MSG Entertainment under other provisions of this Agreement.
3.2 Separate Returns.
(a) Tax Returns to be Prepared by MSG Entertainment. MSG Entertainment shall be responsible for preparing and filing (or causing to be prepared and filed) all Separate Returns which relate to one or more members of the MSG Entertainment Group and for which Spinco is not responsible under Section 3.2(b).
(b) Tax Returns to be Prepared by Spinco. Spinco shall be responsible for preparing and filing (or causing to be prepared and filed) all Separate Returns which relate to one or more members of the Spinco Group for any Tax Year, provided, however, that in the case of such returns in respect of any Pre-Distribution Period or Straddle Period, MSG Entertainment shall have the right to review and approve such returns, such approval not to be unreasonably delayed, conditioned or withheld by MSG Entertainment.
12
3.3 Agent. Subject to the other applicable provisions of this Agreement (including, without limitation, Section 5), MSG Entertainment and Spinco (and their respective Affiliates) shall designate the other Party as its agent and attorney-in-fact to take such action (including execution of documents) as such other Party may deem reasonably appropriate in matters relating to the preparation or filing of any Tax Return described in Sections 3.1 and 3.2.
3.4 Provision of Information.
(a) MSG Entertainment shall provide to Spinco, and Spinco shall provide to MSG Entertainment, any information about members of the MSG Entertainment Group or the Spinco Group, respectively, that the Preparer reasonably requires to determine the amount of Taxes due on any Payment Date with respect to a Tax Return for which the Preparer is responsible pursuant to Section 3.1 or 3.2 and to properly and timely file all such Tax Returns.
(b) If a member of the Spinco Group supplies information to a member of the MSG Entertainment Group, or a member of the MSG Entertainment Group supplies information to a member of the Spinco Group, and an officer of the requesting member intends to sign a statement or other document under penalties of perjury in reliance upon the accuracy of such information, then a duly authorized officer of the member supplying such information shall certify, to the best of such officers knowledge, the accuracy of the information so supplied.
3.5 Special Rules Relating to the Preparation of Tax Returns.
(a) In General. All Tax Returns that include any members of the MSG Entertainment Group or Spinco Group, or any of their respective Affiliates, shall be prepared in a manner that is consistent with the Tax Opinion (including, for the avoidance doubt, the Tax Opinion Representations). Except as otherwise set forth in this Agreement, all Tax Returns for which MSG Entertainment has the right to prepare, review, approve or file under Sections 3.1 and 3.2 shall be prepared (x) in accordance with elections, Tax accounting methods and other practices used with respect to such Tax Returns filed prior to the Distribution Date (unless such past practices are not permissible under applicable law), or (y) to the extent any items are not covered by past practices (or in the event such past practices are not permissible under applicable Tax Law), in any reasonable manner, in accordance with the preparation, review, approval and filing responsibilities of Sections 3.1 and 3.2; provided, however, that in each case of (x) and (y) to the extent that a change in such elections, methods or practices could not reasonably be expected to result in any adverse impact on MSG Entertainment and would not be inconsistent with applicable law, such Tax Returns shall be prepared in accordance with reasonable practices selected by Spinco.
(b) Election to File Consolidated, Combined or Unitary Tax Returns. Subject to Spincos reasonable approval, MSG Entertainment shall elect to file any Tax Return on a consolidated, combined or unitary basis, if such Tax Return would include at least one member of each Group and the filing of such Tax Return is elective under the relevant Tax Law.
13
3.6 Refunds, Credits, Offsets, Tax Benefits
(a) Any refunds, credits, or offsets with respect to Taxes allocated to MSG Entertainment pursuant to this Agreement shall be for the account of MSG Entertainment. Any refunds, credits or offsets with respect to Taxes allocated to Spinco pursuant to this Agreement shall be for the account of Spinco.
(b) MSG Entertainment shall forward to Spinco, or reimburse Spinco for, any such refunds, credits or offsets, plus any interest received thereon, net of any Taxes incurred with respect to the receipt or accrual thereof and any expenses incurred in connection therewith, that are for the account of Spinco within fifteen (15) Business Days from receipt thereof by MSG Entertainment or any of its Affiliates. Spinco shall forward to MSG Entertainment, or reimburse MSG Entertainment for, any refunds, credits or offsets, plus any interest received thereon, net of any Taxes incurred with respect to the receipt or accrual thereof and any expenses incurred in connection therewith, that are for the account of MSG Entertainment within fifteen (15) Business Days from receipt thereof by Spinco or any of its Affiliates. Any refunds, credits or offsets, plus any interest received thereon, or reimbursements not forwarded or made within the fifteen (15) Business Day period specified above shall bear interest from the date received by the refunding or reimbursing party (or its Affiliates) through and including the date of payment at the Interest Rate (treating the date received as the Due Date for purposes of determining such interest). If, subsequent to a Tax Authoritys allowance of a refund, credit or offset, such Tax Authority reduces or eliminates such allowance, any refund, credit or offset, plus any interest received thereon, forwarded or reimbursed under this Section 3.6 shall be returned to the party who had forwarded or reimbursed such refund, credit or offset and interest upon the request of such forwarding party in an amount equal to the applicable reduction, including any interest received thereon.
(c) For the avoidance of doubt, no Party shall be required to reimburse the other Party under this Section 3.6 for the use of a refund, credit or offset or other Tax Benefit, calculated by reference to the Tax allocated to the other Party, including but not limited to a dividends received deduction set forth under section 243 of the Code and an unincorporated business tax credit as currently provided by Section 11-604 of the New York City Administrative Code or any successor thereto, if such deduction, credit or offset is not available to reduce the Tax liability of such other Party for any Tax Year.
3.7 Carrybacks. To the extent permitted under applicable Tax Laws, the Spinco Group shall make the appropriate elections in respect of any Tax Returns to waive any option to carry back any net operating loss, any credits or any similar item from a Post-Distribution Period to any Pre-Distribution Period or to any Straddle Period. Any refund of or credit for Taxes resulting from any such carryback by a member of the Spinco Group that cannot be waived shall be payable to Spinco net of any Taxes incurred with respect to the receipt or accrual thereof and any expenses incurred in connection therewith.
3.8 Amended Returns. Any amended Tax Return or claim for Tax refund, credit or offset with respect to any member of the MSG Entertainment Group or Spinco Group may be made only by the Company (or its Affiliates) responsible for filing the original Tax Return with respect to such member pursuant to Sections 3.1 or 3.2 (and, for the avoidance of doubt, subject to the same preparation, review, approval and filing rights set forth in Sections 3.1 or 3.2, to the extent applicable). Such Company (or its Affiliates) shall not, without the prior written consent
14
of the other Company (which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed), file, or cause to be filed, any such amended Tax Return or claim for Tax refund, credit or offset to the extent that such filing, if accepted, is likely to increase the Taxes allocated to, or the Tax indemnity obligations under this Agreement of, such other Company for any Tax Year (or portion thereof); provided, however, that such consent need not be obtained if the Company filing the amended Tax Return by written notice to the other Company agrees to indemnify the other Company for the incremental Taxes allocated to, or the incremental Tax indemnity obligation resulting under this Agreement to, such other Company as a result of the filing of such amended Tax Return.
3.9 Compensatory Equity Interests. Matters relating to Taxes and/or Tax Items with respect to Compensatory Equity Interests shall be governed by the Employee Matters Agreement.
SECTION 4. Tax Payments.
4.1 Payment of Taxes to Tax Authority. MSG Entertainment shall be responsible for remitting to the proper Tax Authority the Tax shown on any Tax Return for which it is responsible for filing pursuant to Section 3.1 or Section 3.2, and Spinco shall be responsible for remitting to the proper Tax Authority the Tax shown on any Tax Return for which it is responsible for filing pursuant to Section 3.2.
4.2 Indemnification Payments.
(a) Tax Payments Made by the MSG Entertainment Group. If any member of the MSG Entertainment Group is required to make a payment to a Tax Authority for Taxes allocated to Spinco under this Agreement, Spinco will pay the amount of Taxes allocated to it to MSG Entertainment not later than the later of (i) five (5) Business Days after receiving notification requesting such amount, and (ii) five (5) Business Days prior to the date such payment is required to be made to such Tax Authority. Notwithstanding the preceding sentence, if any member of the MSG Entertainment Group has made a prepayment of Periodic Taxes that are allocated to Spinco under this Agreement, Spinco will pay the amount of such Taxes allocated to it to MSG Entertainment not later than thirty (30) Business Days after the Distribution Date.
(b) Tax Payments Made by the Spinco Group. If any member of the Spinco Group is required to make a payment to a Tax Authority for Taxes allocated to MSG Entertainment under this Agreement, MSG Entertainment will pay the amount of Taxes allocated to it to Spinco not later than the later of (i) five (5) Business Days after receiving notification requesting such amount, and (ii) five (5) Business Days prior to the date such payment is required to be made to such Tax Authority. Notwithstanding the preceding sentence, if any member of the Spinco Group has made a prepayment of Periodic Taxes that are allocated to MSG Entertainment under this Agreement, MSG Entertainment will pay the amount of such Taxes allocated to it to Spinco not later than thirty (30) Business Days after the Distribution Date.
15
4.3 Interest on Late Payments. Payments pursuant to this Agreement that are not made by the date prescribed in this Agreement or, if no such date is prescribed, not later than five (5) Business Days after demand for payment is made (the Due Date) shall bear interest for the period from and including the date immediately following the Due Date through and including the date of payment at the Interest Rate. Such interest will be payable at the same time as the payment to which it relates. Interest will be calculated on the basis of a year of 365 days and the actual number of days for which due. Any payments of interest made under this Section 4.3 shall be treated as taxable or deductible, as the case may be, to the Party entitled under this Agreement to retain such payment or required under this Agreement to make such payment, in either case except as otherwise required by applicable law.
4.4 Tax Consequences of Payments. For all Tax purposes and to the extent permitted by applicable Tax Law, the parties hereto shall treat any payment (except as provided in Section 4.3) made pursuant to this Agreement as a capital contribution or a distribution, as the case may be, immediately prior to the Distribution or as payments of an assumed or retained liability.
4.5 Adjustments to Payments. The amount of any payment made pursuant to this Agreement shall be adjusted as follows:
(a) If the receipt or accrual of any indemnity amounts for which any Party hereto (the Indemnifying Party) is required to pay another Party (the Indemnified Party) under this Agreement causes, directly or indirectly, an increase in the taxable income of the Indemnified Party under one or more applicable Tax Laws, such payment shall be increased so that, after the payment of any Taxes with respect to the payment, the Indemnified Party shall have realized the same net amount it would have realized had the payment not resulted in taxable income. For the avoidance of doubt, any liability for Taxes due to an increase in taxable income described in the immediately preceding sentence shall be governed by this Section 4.5(a) and not by Section 2.2.
(b) To the extent that Taxes for which the Indemnifying Party is required to pay to the Indemnified Party pursuant to this Agreement gives rise to a deduction, credit or other Tax Benefit (including as a result of any election set forth in Section 4.6) to the Indemnified Party or any of its Affiliates, the amount of any payment made to the Indemnified Party by the Indemnifying Party shall be decreased by taking into account any resulting reduction in Taxes actually realized by the Indemnified Party or any of its Affiliates resulting from such Tax Benefit (including as a result of any election set forth in Section 4.6). If such a reduction in Taxes of the Indemnified Party occurs following the payment made to the Indemnified Party with respect to the relevant indemnified Taxes, the Indemnified Party shall promptly repay the Indemnifying Party the amount of such reduction when actually realized. If the Tax Benefit arising from the foregoing reduction of Taxes described in this Section 4.5(b) is subsequently decreased or eliminated, then the Indemnifying Party shall promptly pay the Indemnified Party the amount of the decrease in such Tax Benefit. This Section 4.5(b) shall not apply to the extent that Section 3.6(d) would also apply to cause recovery of the same amounts to the Indemnifying Party.
16
4.6 Section 336(e) Election.
(a) Upon request by MSG Entertainment, Spinco shall join with MSG Entertainment in making a protective election under section 336(e) of the Code (and any similar election under state or local law) with respect to the Distribution in accordance with Treasury Regulations section 1.336-2(h) and (j) (and any applicable provisions under state and local law), provided that Spinco shall indemnify MSG Entertainment for any cost to the MSG Entertainment Group of making such an election (but it being understood that any such cost arising from Taxes shall be limited to Excess Taxes). MSG Entertainment and Spinco shall cooperate in the timely completion and/or filings of such elections and any related filings or procedures (including filing or amending any Tax Returns to implement an election that becomes effective). This Section 4.6 is intended to constitute a binding, written agreement to make an election under section 336(e) of the Code with respect to the Distribution.
(b) If Taxes are allocated to a Party (the Responsible Party) as a result of any election set forth in Section 4.6, then to the extent that such Taxes give rise to a Tax Benefit, other than a refund, credit or offset as described in Section 3.6(b), to the other Party (the Other Party) or any of its Affiliates, and such Tax Benefit results in an actual reduction in Taxes (determined on a with and without basis) of the Other Party or any of its Affiliates in any Tax Year, the Other Party shall pay to the Responsible Party in the relevant Tax Year an amount equal to such reduction in Taxes (determined on a with and without basis); provided, however, that this provision shall not apply to the extent that the actual reduction in Taxes for the relevant Tax Year and any unpaid reduction in Taxes for all prior Tax Years is less than $50,000.
4.7 Certain Final Determinations. If an adjustment (a Tax Adjustment) pursuant to a Final Determination in a Tax Contest initiated by a Tax Authority results in a Tax greater than the Tax shown on the relevant Tax Return for any Pre-Distribution Period, the Indemnified Party shall pay to the Indemnifying Party an amount equal to any Tax Benefit as and when actually realized by such Indemnified Party as a result of such Tax Adjustment. The Parties agree that if an Indemnified Party is required to make a payment to an Indemnifying Party pursuant to this Section 4.7, the Parties shall negotiate in good faith to set off the amount of such payment against any indemnity payments owed by the Indemnifying Party to the Indemnified Party, taking into account time value and similar concepts as appropriate.
SECTION 5. Cooperation and Tax Contests.
5.1 Cooperation. In addition to the obligations enumerated in Sections 3.4 and 5.4, MSG Entertainment and Spinco will cooperate (and cause their respective Subsidiaries and Affiliates to cooperate) with each other and with each others agents, including accounting firms and legal counsel, in connection with Tax matters, including provision of relevant documents and information in their possession and making available to each other, as reasonably requested and available, personnel (including officers, directors, employees and agents of the Parties or their respective Subsidiaries or Affiliates) responsible for preparing, maintaining, and interpreting information and documents relevant to Taxes, and personnel reasonably required as witnesses or for purposes of providing information or documents in connection with any administrative or judicial proceedings relating to Taxes.
17
5.2 Notices of Tax Contests. Each Company shall provide prompt notice to the other Company of any pending or threatened Tax audit, assessment or proceeding or other Tax Contest of which it becomes aware relating to (i) Taxes for which it is or may be indemnified by such other Company hereunder or (ii) Tax Items that may affect the amount or treatment of Tax Items of such other Company. Such notice shall contain factual information (to the extent known) describing any asserted Tax liability in reasonable detail and shall be accompanied by copies of any notice and other documents received from any Tax Authority in respect of any such matters; provided, however, that failure to give such notification shall not affect the indemnification provided hereunder except, and only to the extent that, the indemnifying Company shall have been actually prejudiced as a result of such failure. Thereafter, the indemnified Company shall deliver to the indemnifying Company such additional information with respect to such Tax Contest in its possession that the indemnifying Company may reasonably request.
5.3 Control of Tax Contests.
(a) Controlling Party. Subject to the limitations set forth in Section 5.3(b), each Filer (or the appropriate member of its Group) shall, at its own cost and expense, be the Controlling Party with respect to any Tax Contest involving a Tax reported (or that, it is asserted, should have been reported) on a Tax Return for which such Company is responsible for filing (or causing to be filed) pursuant to Section 3 of this Agreement (it being understood, for the avoidance of doubt but subject to the other provisions of this Section 5.3(a), that MSG Entertainment shall be the Controlling Party with respect to any Tax Contest involving Distribution Taxes), in which case any Non-Filer that could have liability under this Agreement for a Tax to which such Tax Contest relates shall be treated as the Non-Controlling Party. Notwithstanding the immediately preceding sentence, if a Non-Filer (x) acknowledges to the Filer in writing its full liability under this Agreement to indemnify for any Tax, and (y) provides to the Filer evidence (that is satisfactory to the Filer as determined in the Filers reasonable discretion) of the Non-Filers financial readiness and capacity to make such indemnity payment, then thereafter with respect to the Tax Contest relating solely to such Tax the Non-Filer shall be the Controlling Party (subject to Section 5.3(b)) and the Filer shall be treated as the Non-Controlling Party.
(b) Non-Controlling Party Participation Rights. With respect to a Tax Contest of any Tax Return that could result in a Tax liability that is allocated under this Agreement, (i) the Non-Controlling Party shall, at its own cost and expense, be entitled to participate in such Tax Contest and to provide comments and suggestions to the Controlling Party, such comments and suggestions not to be unreasonably rejected, (ii) the Controlling Party shall keep the Non-Controlling Party updated and informed, and shall consult with the Non-Controlling Party, (iii) the Controlling Party shall act in good faith with a view to the merits in connection with the Tax Contest, and (iv) the Controlling Party shall not settle or compromise such Tax Contest without the prior written consent of the Non-Controlling Party (which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld).
5.4 Cooperation Regarding Tax Contests. The Parties shall provide each other with all information relating to a Tax Contest which is needed by the other Party or Parties to handle, participate in, defend, settle or contest the Tax Contest. At the request of any party, the other Parties shall take any action (e.g., executing a power of attorney) that is reasonably necessary in order for the requesting Party to exercise its rights under this Agreement in respect of a Tax Contest. Spinco shall assist MSG Entertainment, and MSG Entertainment shall assist Spinco, in taking any remedial actions that are necessary or desirable to minimize the effects of any adjustment made by a Tax Authority. The Indemnifying Party or Parties shall reimburse the Indemnified Party or Parties for any reasonable out-of-pocket costs and expenses incurred in complying with this Section 5.4.
18
SECTION 6. Tax Records.
6.1 Retention of Tax Records. Each of MSG Entertainment and Spinco shall preserve, and shall cause their respective Subsidiaries to preserve, all Tax Records that are in their possession, and that could affect the liability of any member of the other Group for Taxes, for as long as the contents thereof may become material in the administration of any matter under applicable Tax Law, but in any event until the later of (x) the expiration of any applicable statute of limitations, as extended, and (y) seven years after the Distribution Date.
6.2 Access to Tax Records. Spinco shall make available, and cause its Subsidiaries to make available, to members of the MSG Entertainment Group for inspection and copying the portion of any Tax Record in their possession that relates to a Pre-Distribution Period or Post-Distribution Period and which is reasonably necessary for the preparation, review, approval or filing of a Tax Return by a member of the MSG Entertainment Group or any of their Affiliates or with respect to any Tax Contest with respect to such return. MSG Entertainment shall make available, and cause its Subsidiaries to make available, to members of the Spinco Group for inspection and copying the portion of any Tax Record in their possession that relates to a Pre-Distribution Period and which is reasonably necessary for the preparation, review, approval or filing of a Tax Return by a member of the Spinco Group or any of their Affiliates or with respect to any Tax Contest with respect to such return.
6.3 Confidentiality. Each party hereby agrees that it will hold, and shall use its reasonable best efforts to cause its officers, directors, employees, accountants, counsel, consultants, advisors and agents to hold, in confidence all records and information prepared and shared by and among the Parties in carrying out the intent of this Agreement, except as may otherwise be necessary in connection with the filing of Tax Returns or any administrative or judicial proceedings relating to Taxes or unless disclosure is compelled by a governmental authority. Information and documents of one Party (the Disclosing Party) shall not be deemed to be confidential for purposes of this Section 6.3 to the extent that such information or document (i) is previously known to or in the possession of the other Party or Parties (the Receiving Party) and is not otherwise subject to a requirement to be kept confidential, (ii) becomes publicly available by means other than unauthorized disclosure under this Agreement by the Receiving Party or (iii) is received from a third party without, to the knowledge of the Receiving Party after reasonable diligence, a duty of confidentiality owed to the Disclosing Party.
19
SECTION 7. Representations and Covenants.
7.1 Covenants of MSG Entertainment and Spinco.
(a) MSG Entertainment hereby covenants that, to the fullest extent permissible under U.S. federal income and state Tax Laws, it will, and will cause the members of the MSG Entertainment Group to, treat the applicable Transactions in accordance with the Agreed Treatment. Spinco hereby covenants that, to the fullest extent permissible under U.S. federal income and state Tax Laws, it will, and will cause each Subsidiary of Spinco to, treat the applicable Transactions in accordance with the Agreed Treatment.
(b) MSG Entertainment further covenants that, as of and following the date hereof, MSG Entertainment shall not and shall cause the members of the MSG Entertainment Group not to take any action that (or fail to take any action the omission of which) would be inconsistent with the applicable Transactions qualifying for the Agreed Treatment or that would preclude the applicable Transactions from qualifying for the Agreed Treatment.
(c) Spinco further covenants that, as of and following the date hereof, Spinco shall not and shall cause its Subsidiaries not to take any action that (or fail to take any action the omission of which) would be inconsistent with the applicable Transactions qualifying for the Agreed Treatment or that would preclude the applicable Transactions from qualifying for the Agreed Treatment.
7.2 Covenants of Spinco.
(a) Without limiting the generality of the provisions of Section 7.1, Spinco, on behalf of itself and its Subsidiaries, agrees and covenants that Spinco and each of its Subsidiaries will not, directly or indirectly, during the Restriction Period, (i) take any action that would result in Spincos ceasing to be engaged in the active conduct of the Spinco Business with the result that Spinco is not engaged in the active conduct of a trade or business within the meaning of section 355(b)(2) of the Code, (ii) redeem or otherwise repurchase (directly or through an Affiliate of Spinco) any of Spincos outstanding stock, other than through stock purchases meeting the requirements of section 4.05(1)(b) of Revenue Procedure 96-30, 1996-1 C.B. 696 (but it being understood, for the avoidance of doubt, that no agreement or covenant under this Section 7.3(a)(ii) is being entered with respect to Compensatory Equity Net Share Settlements), (iii) amend the certificate of incorporation (or other organizational documents) of Spinco that would affect the relative voting rights of separate classes of Spincos stock or would convert one class of Spincos stock into another class of its stock, (iv) liquidate (within the meaning of section 331 of the Code and the Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder) or partially liquidate Spinco, (v) merge Spinco with any other corporation (other than in a transaction that does not affect the relative shareholding of Spinco shareholders), sell or otherwise dispose of (other than in the ordinary course of business) the assets of Spinco and its Subsidiaries, or take any other action or actions if such merger, sale, other disposition or other action or actions in the aggregate would have the effect that one or more Persons acquire (or have the right to acquire), directly or indirectly, as part of a plan or series of related transactions, assets representing one-half or more of the asset value of the Spinco Group, or (vi) take any other action or actions that in the aggregate would have the effect that one or more Persons acquire (or have the right to acquire), directly or indirectly, as part of a plan or series of related transactions, stock of Spinco representing a Fifty-Percent Equity Interest in Spinco (as determined for purposes of section 355(e) of the Code), other than a Permitted Acquisition.
20
7.3 Covenants of MSG Entertainment.
(a) Without limiting the generality of the provisions of Section 7.1, MSG Entertainment, on behalf of itself and each member of the MSG Entertainment Group, agrees and covenants that MSG Entertainment and each member of the MSG Entertainment Group will not, directly or indirectly, during the Restriction Period, (i) take any action that would result in MSG Entertainments ceasing to be engaged in the active conduct of the MSG Entertainment Business with the result that MSG Entertainment is not engaged in the active conduct of a trade or business within the meaning of section 355(b)(2) of the Code, (ii) redeem or otherwise repurchase (directly or through an Affiliate of MSG Entertainment) any of MSG Entertainments outstanding stock, other than through stock purchases meeting the requirements of section 4.05(1)(b) of Revenue Procedure 96-30, 1996-1 C.B. 696 (but it being understood, for the avoidance of doubt, that no agreement or covenant under this Section 7.4(a)(ii) is being entered with respect to Compensatory Equity Net Share Settlements), (iii) amend the certificate of incorporation (or other organizational documents) of MSG Entertainment that would affect the relative voting rights of separate classes of MSG Entertainments stock or would convert one class of MSG Entertainments stock into another class of its stock, (iv) liquidate (within the meaning of section 331 of the Code and the Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder) or partially liquidate MSG Entertainment, (v) merge MSG Entertainment with any other corporation (other than in a transaction that does not affect the relative shareholding of MSG Entertainment shareholders), sell or otherwise dispose of (other than in the ordinary course of business) the assets of MSG Entertainment and its Subsidiaries, or take any other action or actions if such merger, sale, other disposition or other action or actions in the aggregate would have the effect that one or more Persons acquire (or have the right to acquire), directly or indirectly, as part of a plan or series of related transactions, assets representing one-half or more of the asset value of the MSG Entertainment Group, or (vi) take any other action or actions that in the aggregate would have the effect that one or more Persons acquire (or have the right to acquire), directly or indirectly, as part of a plan or series of related transactions, stock of MSG Entertainment representing a Fifty-Percent Equity Interest in MSG Entertainment (as determined for purposes of section 355(e) of the Code).
(b) Nothing in this Section 7 shall be construed to give Spinco or any Affiliates of Spinco any right to remedies other than indemnification for any increase in the actual Tax liability (and/or decrease in Tax Benefit) of Spinco or any Affiliate of Spinco that results from MSG Entertainment Groups failure to comply with the covenants and representations in this Section 7.
7.4 Exceptions.
(a) Exceptions with Respect to Spinco.
(i) Notwithstanding Section 7.3 above, Spinco or any of its Subsidiaries may take a Spinco Restricted Action if MSG Entertainment consents in writing to such Spinco Restricted Action, or if Spinco provides MSG Entertainment with Satisfactory Guidance concluding that such Spinco Restricted Action will not alter the Tax-Free Status of the Distribution in respect of MSG Entertainment and MSG Entertainments shareholders.
21
(ii) Spinco and each of its Subsidiaries agree that MSG Entertainment and each MSG Entertainment Affiliate are to have no liability for any Tax resulting from any Spinco Restricted Actions permitted pursuant to this Section 7.5(a) and, subject to Section 2.2, agree to indemnify and hold harmless each MSG Indemnified Party against any such Tax. Spinco shall bear all costs incurred by it, and all reasonable costs incurred by MSG Entertainment, in connection with requesting and/or obtaining any Satisfactory Guidance.
(b) Exceptions with Respect to MSG Entertainment.
(i) Notwithstanding Section 7.4(a) above, MSG Entertainment or any of its Subsidiaries may take a MSG Restricted Action if Spinco consents in writing to such MSG Restricted Action, or if MSG Entertainment provides Spinco with Satisfactory Guidance concluding that such MSG Restricted Action will not alter the Tax-Free Status of the Distribution in respect of Spinco and Spincos shareholders.
(ii) MSG Entertainment and each of its Subsidiaries agree that Spinco and each Spinco Affiliate are to have no liability for any Tax resulting from any MSG Restricted Actions permitted pursuant to this Section 7.5(b) and, subject to Section 2.2, agree to indemnify and hold harmless each Spinco Indemnified Party against any such Tax. MSG Entertainment shall bear all costs incurred by it, and all reasonable costs incurred by Spinco, in connection with requesting and/or obtaining any Satisfactory Guidance.
7.5 Injunctive Relief. For the avoidance of doubt, MSG Entertainment shall have the right to seek injunctive relief to prevent Spinco or any of its Subsidiaries from taking any action that is not consistent with the covenants of the Spinco or any of its Subsidiaries under Section 7.1 or 7.3.
7.6 Further Assurances. For the avoidance of doubt, (i) neither MSG Entertainment nor a member of the MSG Entertainment Group shall take any action on the Distribution Date that would result in an increase of the actual Tax liability (and/or decrease of any Tax Benefit) of Spinco or any of its Subsidiaries, other than in the ordinary course of business, except for actions undertaken in connection with the Distribution, which actions are described in the Tax Opinion or the Tax Opinion Representations, and (ii) neither Spinco nor any of its Subsidiaries shall take any action on the Distribution Date that would result in an increase of the actual Tax liability (and/or decrease of any Tax Benefit) of MSG Entertainment or a member of the MSG Entertainment Group, other than in the ordinary course of business, except for actions undertaken in connection with the Distribution, which actions are described in the Tax Opinion or the Tax Opinion Representations.
SECTION 8. General Provisions.
8.1 Construction. This Agreement shall constitute the entire agreement (except insofar and to the extent that it specifically and expressly references the Distribution Agreement and any other Ancillary Agreement) between the Parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and shall supersede all previous negotiations, commitments and writings with respect to such subject matter.
22
8.2 Ancillary Agreements. This Agreement is not intended to address, and should not be interpreted to address, the matters specifically and expressly covered by the Distribution Agreement or any other Ancillary Agreement.
8.3 Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, all of which shall be considered one and the same agreement, and shall become effective when one or more such counterparts have been signed by each of the Parties and delivered to the other Party.
8.4 Notices. All notices and other communications hereunder shall be in writing, shall reference this Agreement and shall be hand delivered, mailed by registered or certified mail (return receipt requested), or sent by electronic mail, with receipt requested and confirmed, to the Parties at the following addresses (or at such other addresses for a Party as shall be specified by like notice) and will be deemed given on the date on which such notice is received:
To MSG Entertainment:
Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. (or, after the applicable name change, Sphere Entertainment Co.)
Two Penn Plaza
New York, New York 10121
Attention: General Counsel
with copy to:
MSGE Spinco, Inc. (or, after the applicable name change, Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp.)
Two Penn Plaza
New York, New York 10121
Attention: General Counsel
To Spinco:
MSGE Spinco, Inc. (or, after the applicable name change, Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp.)
Two Penn Plaza
New York, New York 10121
Attention: General Counsel
8.5 Amendments. This Agreement may not be modified or amended except by an agreement in writing signed by each of the Parties.
23
8.6 Assignment. This Agreement shall not be assignable, in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, by any Party without the prior written consent of the other Party, and any attempt to assign any rights or obligations arising under this Agreement without such consent shall be void; provided that, subject to compliance with Section 7, if applicable, either Party may assign this Agreement to a purchaser of all or substantially all of the properties and assets of such Party so long as such purchaser expressly assumes, in a written instrument in form reasonably satisfactory to the non-assigning Party, the due and punctual performance or observance of every agreement and covenant of this Agreement on the part of the assigning Party to be performed or observed.
8.7 Successors and Assigns. The provisions to this Agreement shall be binding upon, inure to the benefit of and be enforceable by the Parties and their respective successors and permitted assigns.
8.8 Change in Law. Any reference to a provision of the Code or any other Tax Law shall include a reference to any applicable successor provision or law.
8.9 Authorization, Etc. Each of the Parties hereto hereby represents and warrants that it has the power and authority to execute, deliver and perform this Agreement, that this Agreement has been duly authorized by all necessary corporate action on the part of such Party, that this Agreement constitutes a legal, valid and binding obligation of such Party and that the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement by such Party does not contravene or conflict with any provision of law or the Partys charter or bylaws or any agreement, instrument or order binding such Party.
8.10 Termination. This Agreement may be terminated at any time prior to the Distribution by and in the sole discretion of MSG Entertainment without the approval of Spinco or the stockholders of MSG Entertainment. In the event of such termination, no Party shall have any liability of any kind to any other Party or any other Person. After the Distribution, this Agreement may not be terminated except by an agreement in writing signed by the Parties.
8.11 Subsidiaries. Each of the Parties shall cause to be performed, and hereby guarantees the performance of, all actions, agreements and obligations set forth herein to be performed by any entity that is contemplated to be a Subsidiary of such Party after the Distribution Date.
8.12 Third-Party Beneficiaries. Except with respect to MSG Indemnified Parties and Spinco Indemnified Parties, and in each case, only where and as indicated herein, this Agreement is solely for the benefit of the Parties and their respective Subsidiaries and Affiliates and should not be deemed to confer upon any other Person any remedy, claim, liability, reimbursement, cause of action or other right in excess of those existing without reference to this Agreement. Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, this Agreement is not intended to confer upon any Spinco Indemnified Parties any rights or remedies against Spinco hereunder, and this Agreement is not intended to confer upon any MSG Indemnified Parties any rights or remedies against MSG Entertainment hereunder.
24
8.13 Double Recovery. Nothing in this Agreement is intended to confer to or impose upon any Party a duplicative right, entitlement, obligation or recovery with respect to any matter arising out of the same facts and circumstances.
8.14 Titles and Headings. Titles and headings to Sections herein are inserted for convenience of reference only and are not intended to be a part of or to affect the meaning or interpretation of this Agreement.
8.15 Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York applicable to contracts made and to be performed in the State of New York.
8.16 Waiver of Jury Trial. The Parties hereby irrevocably waive any and all right to trial by jury in any legal proceeding arising out of or related to this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby.
8.17 Severability. In the event any one or more of the provisions contained in this Agreement should be held invalid, illegal or unenforceable in any respect, the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions contained herein and therein shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby. The Parties shall endeavor in good faith negotiations to replace the invalid, illegal or unenforceable provisions with valid provisions, the economic effect of which comes as close as possible to that of the invalid, illegal or unenforceable provisions.
8.18 No Strict Construction; Interpretation.
(a) Each of MSG Entertainment and Spinco acknowledges that this Agreement has been prepared jointly by the Parties hereto and shall not be strictly construed against any Party hereto.
(b) The table of contents and headings contained in this Agreement are for reference purposes only and shall not affect in any way the meaning or interpretation of this Agreement. Whenever the words include, includes or including are used in this Agreement, they shall be deemed to be followed by the words without limitation. The words hereof, herein and hereunder and words of similar import when used in this Agreement shall refer to this Agreement as a whole and not to any particular provision of this Agreement. All terms defined in this Agreement shall have the defined meanings when used in any certificate or other document made or delivered pursuant hereto unless otherwise defined therein. The definitions contained in this Agreement are applicable to the singular as well as the plural forms of such terms and to the masculine as well as to the feminine and neuter genders of such term. Any agreement, instrument or statute defined or referred to herein or in any agreement or instrument that is referred to herein means such agreement, instrument or statute as from time to time amended, modified or supplemented, including (in the case of agreements or instruments) by waiver or consent and (in the case of statutes) by succession of comparable successor statutes and references to all attachments thereto and instruments incorporated therein. References to a Person are also to its permitted successors and assigns.
25
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have caused this Agreement to be executed by the respective officers as of the date set forth above.
MADISON SQUARE ENTERTAINMENT CORP. (To be renamed Sphere Entertainment Co.) | ||||
By: | /s/ James L. Dolan | |||
Name: | James L. Dolan | |||
Title: | Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer |
MSGE SPINCO, INC. (To be renamed Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp.) | ||||
By: | /s/ David F. Byrnes | |||
Name: | David F. Byrnes | |||
Title: | Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer |
[Signature Page to Tax Disaffiliation Agreement]
Exhibit 10.3
EMPLOYEE MATTERS AGREEMENT
BY AND BETWEEN
MADISON SQUARE GARDEN ENTERTAINMENT CORP.
(TO BE RENAMED SPHERE ENTERTAINMENT CO.)
AND
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
(TO BE RENAMED MADISON SQUARE GARDEN ENTERTAINMENT CORP.)
Dated as of March 29, 2023
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page | ||||||
ARTICLE I |
| |||||
DEFINITIONS |
| |||||
Section 1.1 |
Definitions |
1 | ||||
Section 1.2 |
General Interpretive Principles |
8 | ||||
ARTICLE II |
| |||||
GENERAL PRINCIPLES |
| |||||
Section 2.1 |
Assumption and Retention of Liabilities; Related Assets |
9 | ||||
Section 2.2 |
MSG Entertainment Participation in Spinco Plans |
10 | ||||
Section 2.3 |
Service Recognition |
10 | ||||
ARTICLE III |
| |||||
U.S. QUALIFIED DEFINED BENEFIT PLAN |
| |||||
Section 3.1 |
Cash Balance Pension Plan |
12 | ||||
ARTICLE IV |
| |||||
U.S. QUALIFIED DEFINED CONTRIBUTION PLANS |
| |||||
Section 4.1 |
401(k) Plan |
12 | ||||
Section 4.2 |
Investment and Benefits Committee |
12 | ||||
ARTICLE V |
| |||||
NONQUALIFIED PLANS |
| |||||
Section 5.1 |
Excess Cash Balance Pension Plan |
13 | ||||
Section 5.2 |
Excess Retirement Plan |
13 | ||||
Section 5.3 |
Excess Savings Plan |
13 | ||||
Section 5.4 |
Executive Deferred Compensation Plan |
14 | ||||
Section 5.5 |
Transferred Employees |
14 | ||||
Section 5.6 |
No Separation from Service |
15 | ||||
ARTICLE VI |
| |||||
U.S. HEALTH AND WELFARE PLANS |
| |||||
Section 6.1 |
Health and Welfare Plans Maintained by Spinco Prior to the Distribution Date |
15 | ||||
Section 6.2 |
Flexible Spending Accounts Plan |
16 | ||||
Section 6.3 |
Legal Plan |
16 | ||||
Section 6.4 |
COBRA and HIPAA |
16 | ||||
Section 6.5 |
Liabilities |
16 | ||||
Section 6.6 |
Time-Off Benefits |
18 | ||||
Section 6.7 |
Severance Pay Plans |
19 |
i
ARTICLE VII |
| |||||
EQUITY COMPENSATION |
| |||||
Section 7.1 |
Equity Compensation |
19 | ||||
Section 7.2 |
Taxes and Withholding |
19 | ||||
Section 7.3 |
Cooperation |
21 | ||||
Section 7.4 |
SEC Registration |
21 | ||||
Section 7.5 |
Savings Clause |
21 | ||||
ARTICLE VIII |
| |||||
ADDITIONAL COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS MATTERS |
| |||||
Section 8.1 |
Cash Incentive Awards |
22 | ||||
Section 8.2 |
Individual Arrangements |
22 | ||||
Section 8.3 |
Non-Competition |
23 | ||||
Section 8.4 |
Collective Bargaining |
23 | ||||
Section 8.5 |
Union Dues; Severance and Fringe Benefits |
23 | ||||
Section 8.6 |
Director Programs |
23 | ||||
Section 8.7 |
Section 409A |
24 | ||||
ARTICLE IX |
| |||||
INDEMNIFICATION |
| |||||
Section 9.1 |
Indemnification |
24 | ||||
ARTICLE X |
| |||||
GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE |
| |||||
Section 10.1 |
Sharing of Information |
24 | ||||
Section 10.2 |
Reasonable Efforts/Cooperation |
25 | ||||
Section 10.3 |
Non-Termination of Employment; No Third-Party Beneficiaries |
25 | ||||
Section 10.4 |
Consent of Third Parties |
25 | ||||
Section 10.5 |
Access to Employees |
25 | ||||
Section 10.6 |
Beneficiary Designation/Release of Information/Right to Reimbursement |
26 | ||||
Section 10.7 |
Not a Change in Control |
26 | ||||
ARTICLE XI |
| |||||
MISCELLANEOUS |
| |||||
Section 11.1 |
Effect If Distribution Does Not Occur |
26 | ||||
Section 11.2 |
Complete Agreement; Construction |
26 | ||||
Section 11.3 |
Counterparts |
26 | ||||
Section 11.4 |
Survival of Agreements |
26 | ||||
Section 11.5 |
Notices |
26 | ||||
Section 11.6 |
Waivers |
27 | ||||
Section 11.7 |
Amendments |
27 | ||||
Section 11.8 |
Assignment |
27 | ||||
Section 11.9 |
Successors and Assigns |
27 |
ii
Section 11.10 |
Subsidiaries |
27 | ||||
Section 11.11 |
Title and Headings |
27 | ||||
Section 11.12 |
Governing Law |
28 | ||||
Section 11.13 |
Waiver of Jury Trial |
28 | ||||
Section 11.14 |
Specific Performance |
28 | ||||
Section 11.15 |
Severability |
28 |
iii
Exhibits
Exhibit A |
MSG Entertainment Retained Retirement Plans | |
Exhibit B |
Spinco Retained Retirement Plans | |
Exhibit C |
MSG Entertainment Retained Multi-Employer Benefit Plans | |
Exhibit D |
Spinco Retained Multi-Employer Benefit Plans | |
Exhibit E |
Spinco Health & Welfare Plans | |
Exhibit F |
MSG Entertainment Union Relationships | |
Exhibit G |
Spinco Union Relationships | |
Exhibit H |
FY 2024 Annual Cash Incentive Awards |
iv
EMPLOYEE MATTERS AGREEMENT
THIS EMPLOYEE MATTERS AGREEMENT (this Agreement), dated as of March 29, 2023, is by and between Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. (to be renamed Sphere Entertainment Co. at the Distribution), a Delaware corporation (MSG Entertainment), and MSGE Spinco, Inc. (to be renamed Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. at the Distribution), a Delaware corporation and an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of MSG Entertainment (Spinco and, together with MSG Entertainment, each, a Party and collectively, the Parties).
RECITALS
WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of MSG Entertainment determined that it is in the best interests of MSG Entertainment and its stockholders to separate the business of Spinco, as more fully described in Spincos registration statement on Form 10 (collectively, the Spinco Business), from MSG Entertainments other businesses, on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Distribution Agreement (as defined below);
WHEREAS, in order to effectuate the foregoing, MSG Entertainment and Spinco have entered into a Distribution Agreement, dated as of March 29, 2023 (the Distribution Agreement), pursuant to which and subject to the terms and conditions set forth therein, the Spinco Business shall be separated from the MSG Entertainment Business, and approximately 67% of the issued and outstanding shares of Spinco Common Stock beneficially owned by MSG Entertainment shall be distributed (the Distribution) to the holders of the issued and outstanding MSG Entertainment Common Stock, on the basis of one share of Spinco Class A Common Stock for every one share of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock and one share of Spinco Class B Common Stock for every one share of MSG Entertainment Class B Common Stock; and
WHEREAS, MSG Entertainment and Spinco have agreed to enter into this Agreement for the purpose of allocating Assets, Liabilities and responsibilities with respect to certain employee compensation and benefit plans, programs and arrangements, and certain employment matters between and among them.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and of the respective agreements and covenants contained in this Agreement, and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Parties hereto, intending to be legally bound, agree as follows:
ARTICLE I
DEFINITIONS
Section 1.1 Definitions. As used in this Agreement, the following terms shall have the meanings set forth below:
401(k) Plan shall have the meaning ascribed thereto in Section 4.1 of this Agreement.
-1-
Action means any claim, demand, complaint, charge, action, cause of action, suit, countersuit, arbitration, litigation, inquiry, proceeding or investigation by or before any Governmental Authority or any arbitration or mediation tribunal.
Actual Benefit Cost shall have the meaning set forth in Section 6.5(b).
Agreement shall have the meaning ascribed thereto in the preamble to this Agreement, including all the exhibits hereto, and all amendments made hereto from time to time.
Asset means any right, property or asset, whether real, personal or mixed, tangible or intangible, of any kind, nature and description, whether accrued, contingent or otherwise, and wherever situated and whether or not carried or reflected, or required to be carried or reflected, on the books of any Person.
Cash Balance Pension Plan means the MSG Entertainment Group, LLC Cash Balance Pension Plan or any successor thereto.
COBRA means the continuation coverage requirements for group health plans under Title X of the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985, as amended, and as codified in Section 4980B of the Code and Sections 601 through 608 of ERISA.
Code means the U.S. Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.
Control means, as to any Person, the possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct or cause the direction of the management and policies of such Person, whether through the ownership of voting securities or other interests, by contract or otherwise.
Distribution shall have the meaning ascribed thereto in the recitals to this Agreement, as the same is further described in the Distribution Agreement.
Distribution Agreement shall have the meaning ascribed thereto in the recitals to this Agreement.
Distribution Date shall have the meaning ascribed thereto in the Distribution Agreement.
DOL means the U.S. Department of Labor.
Effective Date shall have the meaning ascribed thereto in Section 6.1(a) of this Agreement.
Equity Compensation means, collectively, the MSG Entertainment Options, MSG Entertainment RSUs, Spinco Options, and Spinco RSUs.
ERISA means the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended.
Estimated Benefit Cost shall have the meaning set forth in Section 6.5(b).
-2-
Former MSG Entertainment Employee means with respect to an individual whose MSG Entertainment Group employment terminated on or after the Distribution Date, any former employee of any member of the MSG Entertainment Group.
Any individual who is an employee of any member of the Spinco Group on or before May 1, 2023 or a Former Spinco Employee shall not be a Former MSG Entertainment Employee.
Former Spinco Employee means:
i. | any individual whose MSG Entertainment Group employment terminated prior to the Distribution Date; and |
ii. | with respect to an individual whose Spinco Group employment terminated on or after the Distribution Date, any former employee of any member of the Spinco Group or any individual whose employment was intended to transfer to Spinco Group on or before May 1, 2023. |
Any individual who is an employee of any member of the MSG Entertainment Group on or before May 1, 2023 or a Former MSG Entertainment Employee shall not be a Former Spinco Employee.
Governmental Authority means any federal, state, local, foreign or international court, government, department, commission, board, bureau, agency, official, the NYSE, NASDAQ or other regulatory, administrative or governmental authority.
Group means the MSG Entertainment Group and/or the Spinco Group, as the context requires.
HIPAA means the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, as amended.
Information shall mean all information, whether in written, oral, electronic or other tangible or intangible form, stored in any medium, including non-public financial information, studies, reports, records, books, accountants work papers, contracts, instruments, flow charts, data, communications by or to attorneys, memos and other materials prepared by attorneys and accountants or under their direction (including attorney work product) and other financial, legal, employee or business information or data.
IRS means the U.S. Internal Revenue Service.
Law means all laws, statutes and ordinances and all regulations, rules and other pronouncements of Governmental Authorities having the effect of law of the United States, any foreign country, or any domestic or foreign state, province, commonwealth, city, country, municipality, territory, protectorate, possession or similar instrumentality, or any Governmental Authority thereof.
Liabilities means all debts, liabilities, obligations, responsibilities, Losses, damages (whether compensatory, punitive, or treble), fines, penalties and sanctions, absolute or
-3-
contingent, matured or unmatured, liquidated or unliquidated, foreseen or unforeseen, joint, several or individual, asserted or unasserted, accrued or unaccrued, known or unknown, whenever arising, including without limitation those arising under or in connection with any Law, Action, threatened Action, order or consent decree of any Governmental Authority or any award of any arbitration tribunal, and those arising under any contract, guarantee, commitment or undertaking, whether sought to be imposed by a Governmental Authority, private party, or a Party, whether based in contract, tort, implied or express warranty, strict liability, criminal or civil statute, or otherwise, and including any costs, expenses, interest, attorneys fees, disbursements and expense of counsel, expert and consulting fees, fees of third-party administrators and costs related thereto or to the investigation or defense thereof.
Loss means any claim, demand, complaint, damages (whether compensatory, punitive, consequential, treble or other), fines, penalties, loss, liability, payment, cost or expense arising out of, relating to or in connection with any Action.
MSG Entertainment shall have the meaning ascribed thereto in the preamble to this Agreement.
MSG Entertainment Business means all businesses and operations conducted by the MSG Entertainment Group from time to time, whether prior to, at or after the Distribution Date, other than the Spinco Business.
MSG Entertainment Common Stock means the issued and outstanding Class A Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share, of MSG Entertainment and Class B Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share, of MSG Entertainment.
MSG Entertainment Compensation Committee means the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of MSG Entertainment.
MSG Entertainment Deferred Compensation Plan shall have the meaning ascribed thereto in Section 5.4(a) of this Agreement.
MSG Entertainment Director means any individual who is a current or former non-employee director of MSG Entertainment as of the Distribution Date.
MSG Entertainment Employee means any individual who, as of May 1, 2023, will be employed by MSG Entertainment or any member of the MSG Entertainment Group in a capacity considered by MSG Entertainment to be common law employment, including active employees and employees on vacation and approved leaves of absence (including maternity, paternity, family, sick, short-term or long-term disability leave, qualified military service under the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act of 1994, and leave under the Family Medical Leave Act and other approved leaves).
MSG Entertainment Excess Cash Balance Plan shall have the meaning ascribed thereto in Section 5.1(a) of this Agreement.
MSG Entertainment Excess Savings Plan shall have the meaning ascribed thereto in Section 5.3(a).
-4-
MSG Entertainment Flexible Spending Accounts Plan shall have the meaning ascribed thereto in Section 6.2 of this Agreement.
MSG Entertainment Group means, as of the Distribution Date, MSG Entertainment and each of its former and current Subsidiaries (or any predecessor organization thereof), and any corporation or entity that may become part of such Group from time to time thereafter. The MSG Entertainment Group shall not include any member of the Spinco Group.
MSG Entertainment Health & Welfare Plans shall have the meaning ascribed thereto in Section 6.1(a) of this Agreement.
MSG Entertainment Liabilities means all Liabilities assumed or retained by any member of the MSG Entertainment Group pursuant to this Agreement.
MSG Entertainment Option means an option to buy MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock granted pursuant to an MSG Entertainment Share Plan (including the options adjusted for the Distribution) and outstanding as of the Distribution Date (or shortly thereafter to the extent necessary to determine any adjustments in connection with the Distribution).
MSG Entertainment Participant means any individual who, immediately following the Distribution Date, is an MSG Entertainment Employee, a Former MSG Entertainment Employee or a beneficiary, dependent or alternate payee of any of the foregoing.
MSG Entertainment Plan means any Plan sponsored, maintained or contributed to by MSG Entertainment or any of its Subsidiaries, including the MSG Entertainment Retained Retirement Plans, MSG Entertainment Share Plans, MSG Entertainment Flexible Spending Accounts Plan, MSG Entertainment Health & Welfare Plans and MSG Entertainment Retained Multi-Employer Benefit Plans.
MSG Entertainment Retained Multi-Employer Benefit Plans means the multi-employer plans that are listed on Exhibit C.
MSG Entertainment Retained Retirement Plans means the retirement plans that are listed on Exhibit A.
MSG Entertainment RSU means a restricted stock unit (including, for the avoidance of doubt, any restricted stock unit that is subject to performance vesting conditions) representing an unfunded and unsecured promise to deliver a share of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock, or cash or other property equal in value to the share of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock, that is granted pursuant to an MSG Entertainment Share Plan and outstanding as of the Distribution Date (or shortly thereafter to the extent necessary to determine any adjustments in connection with the Distribution).
MSG Entertainment Share Plans means, collectively, any stock option or stock incentive compensation plan or arrangement, including equity award agreements, maintained before the Distribution Date for employees, officers or non-employee directors of MSG Entertainment or its Subsidiaries or affiliates, as amended.
-5-
NASDAQ means The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC.
NYSE means the New York Stock Exchange.
Participating Company means MSG Entertainment and any Person (other than a natural person) participating in an MSG Entertainment Plan.
Party and Parties shall have the meanings ascribed thereto in the preamble to this Agreement.
Person means any natural person, corporation, business trust, limited liability company, joint venture, association, company, partnership or governmental, or any agency or political subdivision thereof.
Plan means, with respect to an entity, each plan, program, arrangement, agreement or commitment that is an employment, consulting, non-competition or deferred compensation agreement, or an executive compensation, incentive bonus or other bonus, employee pension, profit-sharing, savings, retirement, supplemental retirement, stock option, stock purchase, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, other equity-based compensation, severance pay, salary continuation, life, health, hospitalization, sick leave, vacation pay, disability or accident insurance plan, corporate-owned or key-man life insurance or other employee benefit plan, program, arrangement, agreement or commitment, including any employee benefit plan (as defined in Section 3(3) of ERISA), entered into, sponsored or maintained by such entity (or to which such entity contributes or is required to contribute).
Shared Executives means those individuals who, as of the Distribution Date, are employed or engaged in a senior executive capacity by both MSG Entertainment and Spinco.
Spinco shall have the meaning ascribed thereto in the preamble to this Agreement.
Spinco Business shall have the meaning ascribed thereto in the Distribution Agreement.
Spinco Common Stock means the outstanding Class A Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share, of Spinco and Class B Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share, of Spinco.
Spinco Deferred Compensation Plan shall have the meaning ascribed thereto in Section 5.4(a) of this Agreement.
Spinco Director means any individual who is a current non-employee director of Spinco as of the Distribution Date.
Spinco Employee means any individual who, as of May 1, 2023, will be, or is, employed by Spinco or any member of the Spinco Group in a capacity considered by Spinco to be common law employment, including active employees and employees on
-6-
vacation and approved leaves of absence (including maternity, paternity, family, sick, short-term or long-term disability leave, qualified military service under the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act of 1994, and leave under the Family Medical Leave Act and other approved leaves) and, except as otherwise provided herein, including Shared Executives.
Spinco Excess Cash Balance Plan shall have the meaning ascribed thereto in Section 5.1(a).
Spinco Excess Savings Plan shall have the meaning ascribed thereto in Section 5.3(a).
Spinco Excess Retirement Plan shall have the meaning ascribed thereto in Section 5.2.
Spinco Flexible Spending Accounts Plan shall have the meaning ascribed thereto in Section 6.2 of this Agreement.
Spinco Group means, as of the Distribution Date, Spinco and each of its former and current Subsidiaries (or any predecessor organization thereof), and any corporation or entity that may become part of such Group from time to time thereafter. The Spinco Group shall not include any member of the MSG Entertainment Group.
Spinco Health & Welfare Plans shall have the meaning ascribed thereto in Section 6.1(a) of this Agreement.
Spinco Information Statement means the definitive information statement distributed to holders of MSG Entertainment Common Stock in connection with the Distribution and filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC) as Exhibit 99.1 to the registration statement on Form 10 filed with the Commission to effect the registration of the Spinco Class A Common Shares pursuant to the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or as an exhibit to a Form 8-K of Spinco.
Spinco Liabilities means all Liabilities assumed or retained by any member of the Spinco Group pursuant to this Agreement.
Spinco Option means an option to buy Spinco Class A Common Stock granted pursuant to a Spinco Share Plan and granted in connection with the Distribution (or shortly thereafter to the extent necessary to determine any adjustments in connection with the Distribution).
Spinco Participant means any individual who, following the Distribution Date, is a Spinco Employee, a Former Spinco Employee or a beneficiary, dependent or alternate payee of any of the foregoing.
Spinco Plan means any Plan sponsored, maintained or contributed to by any member of the Spinco Group, including the Spinco Retained Retirement Plans, Spinco Share Plans, Spinco Flexible Spending Accounts Plan, the Spinco Retiree Medical Program, Spinco Health & Welfare Plans and Spinco Retained Multi-Employer Benefit Plans.
-7-
Spinco Retained Multi-Employer Benefit Plans means the multi-employer plans that are listed on Exhibit D.
Spinco Retained Retirement Plans means the retirement plans that are listed on Exhibit B.
Spinco RSU means a restricted stock unit (including, for the avoidance of doubt, any restricted stock unit that is subject to performance vesting conditions) representing an unfunded and unsecured promise to deliver a share of Spinco Class A Common Stock, or cash or other property equal in value to the share of Spinco Class A Common Stock, that is granted pursuant to a Spinco Share Plan and granted in connection with the Distribution (or shortly thereafter to the extent necessary to determine any adjustments in connection with the Distribution).
Spinco Share Plans means the Spinco 2023 Employee Stock Plan, Spinco 2023 Stock Plan For Non-Employee Directors and any other stock plan or stock incentive arrangement, including equity award agreements, entered into by Spinco in connection with the Distribution.
Subsidiary has the same meaning as provided in the Distribution Agreement.
Transition Period means, with respect to each Spinco Plan in which any MSG Entertainment Group member is a Participating Company, the period of time beginning on the Distribution Date and ending on the date MSG Entertainment establishes a corresponding Plan and allows participation in such Plan, which shall be no later than the Effective Date. The Transition Period may be extended beyond the Effective Date if both Parties agree to the extension, and such agreement shall not be unreasonably withheld.
Transition Period End Date means the last day of each applicable Transition Period.
Union Plan shall have the meaning ascribed thereto in Section 4.1 of this Agreement.
U.S. means the United States of America.
Section 1.2 General Interpretive Principles. Words in the singular shall include the plural and vice versa, and words of one gender shall include the other gender, in each case, as the context requires. The words hereof, herein, hereunder, and herewith and words of similar import shall, unless otherwise stated, be construed to refer to this Agreement and not to any particular provision of this Agreement, and references to Article, Section, paragraph and Exhibit are references to the Articles, Sections, paragraphs and Exhibits to this Agreement unless otherwise specified. The word including and words of similar import when used in this Agreement shall mean including, without limitation, unless otherwise specified. Any reference to any federal, state, local or non-U.S. statute or Law shall be deemed to also refer to all rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, unless the context otherwise requires.
-8-
ARTICLE II
GENERAL PRINCIPLES
Section 2.1 Assumption and Retention of Liabilities; Related Assets.
(a) As of the Distribution Date, except as otherwise expressly provided for in this Agreement, MSG Entertainment shall, or shall cause one or more members of the MSG Entertainment Group to, assume or retain and MSG Entertainment hereby agrees to pay, perform, fulfill and discharge, in due course in full (i) all Liabilities under all MSG Entertainment Plans (provided that, as between MSG Entertainment and Spinco, Spinco shall be responsible for certain of those Liabilities pursuant to Section 2.1(b) of this Agreement), (ii) all Liabilities with respect to the employment, retirement, service, termination of employment or termination of service of all MSG Entertainment Employees, Former MSG Entertainment Employees, MSG Entertainment Directors, their dependents and beneficiaries and other service providers (including any individual who is, or was, an independent contractor, temporary employee, temporary service worker, consultant, freelancer, agency employee, leased employee, on-call worker, incidental worker, or non-payroll worker of any member of the MSG Entertainment Group or in any other employment, non-employment, or retainer arrangement or relationship with any member of the MSG Entertainment Group), in each case to the extent arising in connection with or as a result of employment with or the performance of services for any member of the MSG Entertainment Group, and (iii) any other Liabilities expressly assumed by or retained by MSG Entertainment or any of its Subsidiaries under this Agreement, including liabilities retained pursuant to Article V of this Agreement. For purposes of clarification and the avoidance of doubt, (x) the Liabilities assumed or retained by the MSG Entertainment Group as provided for in this Section 2.1(a) are intended to be MSG Entertainment Liabilities as such term is defined in the Distribution Agreement, and (y) the Parties intend that such Liabilities assumed or retained by the MSG Entertainment Group include the retirement benefits and health and welfare plan benefits under the MSG Entertainment Plans for all MSG Entertainment Employees, Former MSG Entertainment Employees, their dependents, beneficiaries, alternate payees and surviving spouses.
(b) As of the Distribution Date, except as otherwise expressly provided for in this Agreement, Spinco shall, or shall cause one or more members of the Spinco Group to, assume or retain and Spinco hereby agrees to pay, perform, fulfill and discharge, in due course in full (i) all Liabilities under all Spinco Plans, (ii) all Liabilities with respect to the employment, service, retirement, termination of employment or termination of service of all Spinco Employees, Former Spinco Employees, their dependents and beneficiaries and other service providers (including any individual who is, or was, an independent contractor, temporary employee, temporary service worker, consultant, freelancer, agency employee, leased employee, on-call worker, incidental worker, or non-payroll worker of any member of the Spinco Group or in any other employment, non-employment, or retainer arrangement or relationship with any member of the Spinco Group), and (iii) any other Liabilities expressly assumed or retained by Spinco or any of its Subsidiaries under this Agreement. For purposes of clarification and the avoidance of doubt, the Liabilities assumed or retained by the Spinco Group as provided for in this Section 2.1(b) are intended to be Spinco Liabilities as such term is defined in the Distribution Agreement.
-9-
(c) From time to time after the Distribution, Spinco shall promptly reimburse MSG Entertainment, upon MSG Entertainments presentation of such substantiating documentation as Spinco shall reasonably request, for the cost of any Liabilities satisfied by MSG Entertainment or its Subsidiaries that are, or that have been made pursuant to this Agreement, the responsibility of Spinco or any of its Subsidiaries.
(d) From time to time after the Distribution, MSG Entertainment shall promptly reimburse Spinco, upon Spincos presentation of such substantiating documentation as MSG Entertainment shall reasonably request, for the cost of any Liabilities satisfied by Spinco or its Subsidiaries that are, or that have been made pursuant to this Agreement, the responsibility of MSG Entertainment or any of its Subsidiaries.
Section 2.2 MSG Entertainment Participation in Spinco Plans.
(a) During the Transition Period. Except for the Spinco Plans described in Articles III, V, VII and VIII herein, until the Transition Period End Date, MSG Entertainment and each member of the MSG Entertainment Group that presently participates in a particular Spinco Plan may continue to be a Participating Company in such Spinco Plan, and MSG Entertainment and Spinco shall take all necessary action to effectuate each such continuation. MSG Entertainment and each member of the MSG Entertainment Group shall pay Spinco for any MSG Entertainment Employee or Former MSG Entertainment Employees participation in the Spinco Plans.
(b) After the Transition Period. Except as otherwise expressly provided for in this Agreement, effective as of the Transition Period End Date, MSG Entertainment and each member of the MSG Entertainment Group shall cease to be a Participating Company in the corresponding Spinco Plan, and MSG Entertainment and Spinco shall take all necessary action to effectuate each such cessation.
Section 2.3 Service Recognition.
(a) Pre-Distribution Service Credit. MSG Entertainment shall give each MSG Entertainment Participant full credit for purposes of eligibility, vesting, determination of level of benefits, and, to the extent applicable, benefit accruals under any MSG Entertainment Plan for such MSG Entertainment Participants service with any member of the Spinco Group prior to the Distribution Date to the same extent such service was recognized by the corresponding Spinco Plans immediately prior to the Distribution Date; provided, however, that such service shall not be recognized to the extent that such recognition would result in the duplication of benefits.
(b) Post-Distribution Service Crediting for the MSG Entertainment Retained Retirement Plans and Spinco Retained Retirement Plans. Each of MSG Entertainment and Spinco (acting directly or through their respective Subsidiaries) shall cause each of the MSG Entertainment Retained Retirement Plans and the Spinco Retained Retirement Plans,
-10-
respectively, to provide the following service crediting rules effective as of the Distribution Date for so long as MSG Entertainment and Spinco remain under common Control:
(i) If an MSG Entertainment Employee who participates in, or is eligible to participate in, the MSG Entertainment Excess Savings Plan becomes employed by a member of the Spinco Group on or after the Distribution Date, and such MSG Entertainment Employee has been continuously employed by the MSG Entertainment Group from the Distribution Date through the date such MSG Entertainment Employee commences active employment with a member of the Spinco Group, then such MSG Entertainment Employees service with the MSG Entertainment Group shall be recognized for purposes of eligibility, vesting and level of benefits under the Spinco Excess Savings Plan, to the same extent as such MSG Entertainment Employees service with the MSG Entertainment Group was recognized under the MSG Entertainment Excess Savings Plan.
(ii) If a Spinco Employee becomes employed by a member of the MSG Entertainment Group and such Spinco Employee is continuously employed by the Spinco Group and/or MSG Entertainment Group from the Distribution Date through the date such Spinco Employee commences active employment with a member of the MSG Entertainment Group, then such Spinco Employees service with the Spinco Group shall be recognized for purposes of eligibility, vesting and level of benefits under the MSG Entertainment Excess Savings Plan to the same extent as such Spinco Employees service with the Spinco Group was recognized under the corresponding Spinco Retained Retirement Plans, if any.
(iii) Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, following the Distribution Date, the MSG Entertainment Retained Retirement Plans and the Spinco Retained Retirement Plans (other than the Cash Balance Pension Plan) shall provide that no break in service occurs with respect to any MSG Entertainment Employee or Spinco Employee who is hired or rehired by any member of the Spinco Group or the MSG Entertainment Group after the termination of such MSG Entertainment Employees or Spinco Employees employment with either the MSG Entertainment Group or the Spinco Group after such date.
(iv) Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, the employment service with the MSG Entertainment Group or the Spinco Group shall not be double counted or result in duplicative benefits or service crediting under any MSG Entertainment Retained Retirement Plan or Spinco Retained Retirement Plan.
(c) Post-Distribution Service Crediting for the MSG Entertainment and Spinco Health & Welfare Plans.
(i) If an MSG Entertainment Employee who participates in any of the MSG Entertainment Health & Welfare Plans becomes employed by a member of the Spinco Group on or after the Distribution Date, and such MSG Entertainment Employee has been continuously employed by the MSG Entertainment Group from the Distribution Date through the date such MSG Entertainment Employee commences active employment with a member of the Spinco Group, then such MSG Entertainment Employees service with the MSG Entertainment Group following the Distribution Date shall be recognized for purposes of eligibility under the corresponding Spinco Health & Welfare Plans, in each case to the same extent as such MSG Entertainment Employees service with the MSG Entertainment Group was recognized under the corresponding MSG Entertainment Health & Welfare Plan.
-11-
(ii) If a Spinco Employee who participates in any of the Spinco Health & Welfare Plans becomes employed by a member of the MSG Entertainment Group on or after the Distribution Date, and such Spinco Employee has been continuously employed by the Spinco Group and/or MSG Entertainment Group from the Distribution Date through the date such Spinco Employee commences active employment with a member of the MSG Entertainment Group, then such Spinco Employees service with the Spinco Group following the Distribution Date shall be recognized for purposes of eligibility under the corresponding MSG Entertainment Health & Welfare Plans, in each case to the same extent as such Spinco Employees service with the Spinco Group was recognized under the corresponding Spinco Health & Welfare Plans.
ARTICLE III
U.S. QUALIFIED DEFINED BENEFIT PLAN
Section 3.1 Cash Balance Pension Plan. As of the Distribution Date, a member of the Spinco Group shall retain all of the assets in the trust underlying the Cash Balance Pension Plan, and remain responsible for all Liabilities under the Cash Balance Pension Plan.
ARTICLE IV
U.S. QUALIFIED DEFINED CONTRIBUTION PLANS
Section 4.1 401(k) Plans. On or prior to the Distribution Date, MSG Entertainment and Spinco shall take all necessary actions to add MSG Entertainment as a participating employer to the Madison Square Garden 401(k) Savings Plan (the 401(k) Plan) and the Madison Square Garden 401(k) Union Plan (the Union Plan). On and after the Distribution Date, MSG Entertainment Participants who, immediately prior to the Distribution Date were participants in, or entitled to, future benefits under the 401(k) Plan shall continue to participate in the 401(k) Plan on the same terms and conditions as applied prior to the Distribution Date, as may be modified from time to time. On and after the Distribution Date, all contributions payable to the 401(k) Plan with respect to MSG Entertainment Participants, determined in accordance with the terms of the 401(k) Plan, ERISA and the Code, shall be paid by MSG Entertainment to the 401(k) Plan.Section 4.2
Section 4.2 Investment and Benefits Committee. Effective as of the Distribution Date, (a) the current Investment and Benefits Committee shall continue to administer the 401(k) Plan in accordance with its existing authority, and shall continue to oversee Spincos participation in the 401(k) Plan, and (b) MSG Entertainment shall establish an Investments and Benefits Committee, which, among other things, shall oversee its participation in the 401(k) Plan and the Union Plan.
-12-
ARTICLE V
NONQUALIFIED PLANS
Section 5.1 Excess Cash Balance Pension Plan.
(a) No later than the Distribution Date, MSG Entertainment shall establish and make payments pursuant to a non-qualified defined benefit pension plan (the MSG Entertainment Excess Cash Balance Plan) to provide non-qualified retirement benefits to MSG Entertainment Employees who, immediately prior to the effective date of the MSG Entertainment Excess Cash Balance Plan, were entitled to future benefits under the MSG Entertainment Holdings, LLC Excess Cash Balance Plan (the Spinco Excess Cash Balance Plan) and shall assume the Liabilities as of the Distribution Date of the Spinco Excess Cash Balance Plan relating to MSG Entertainment Employees and Former MSG Entertainment Employees (but excluding, for the avoidance of doubt, Shared Executives).
(b) As of the effective date of the MSG Entertainment Excess Cash Balance Plan, MSG Entertainment (acting directly or through its Subsidiaries) shall cause the MSG Entertainment Excess Cash Balance Plan to recognize and maintain all existing beneficiary designations with respect to MSG Entertainment Employees and Former MSG Entertainment Employees under the Spinco Excess Cash Balance Plan.
(c) The Parties agree that the Liabilities of the Spinco Excess Cash Balance Plan relating to MSG Entertainment Employees and Former MSG Entertainment Employees shall be transferred to the MSG Entertainment Excess Cash Balance Plan effective as of the Distribution Date.
Section 5.2 Excess Retirement Plan. As of the Distribution Date, a member of the Spinco Group shall remain responsible for all Liabilities under the MSG Entertainment Holdings, LLC Excess Retirement Plan (the Spinco Excess Retirement Plan).
Section 5.3 Excess Savings Plan.
(a) Establishment of the MSG Entertainment Excess Savings Plan. No later than the Distribution Date, MSG Entertainment shall establish a defined contribution plan for the benefit of MSG Entertainment Employees (including Shared Executives to the extent such Shared Executives are eligible to participate pursuant to their employment contracts) (the MSG Entertainment Excess Savings Plan) who, immediately prior to the effective date of the MSG Entertainment Excess Savings Plan, were participants in, or entitled to future benefits under, the MSG Entertainment Holdings, LLC Excess Savings Plan (the Spinco Excess Savings Plan).
(b) Transfer of Spinco Excess Savings Plan Accounts. No later than the Distribution Date, Spinco shall cause the accounts in the Spinco Excess Savings Plan attributable to MSG Entertainment Employees and Former MSG Entertainment Employees (but excluding, for the avoidance of doubt, Shared Executives) to be transferred to the MSG Entertainment Excess Savings Plan and MSG Entertainment shall cause the MSG Entertainment Excess Savings Plan to accept such transfer of accounts in accordance with current practice and to assume and to fully perform, pay and discharge all Liabilities of the Spinco Excess Savings Plan relating to the accounts of MSG Entertainment Employees and Former MSG Entertainment Employees as of the effective date of the MSG Entertainment Excess Savings Plan.
(c) Continuation of Elections. As of the effective date of the MSG Entertainment Excess Savings Plan, MSG Entertainment (acting directly or through its Subsidiaries) shall cause
-13-
the MSG Entertainment Excess Savings Plan to recognize and maintain all elections, including deferral elections and beneficiary designations, as applicable, with respect to MSG Entertainment Employees and Former MSG Entertainment Employees under the Spinco Excess Savings Plan for the remainder of the period or periods for which such elections or designations are by their original terms applicable, to the extent such election or designation is available under the MSG Entertainment Excess Savings Plan.
Section 5.4 Executive Deferred Compensation Plan.
(a) Establishment of the MSG Entertainment Deferred Compensation Plan. No later than the Distribution Date, MSG Entertainment shall establish a nonqualified deferred compensation plan for the benefit of MSG Entertainment Employees (the MSG Entertainment Deferred Compensation Plan) who, immediately prior to the effective date of the MSG Entertainment Deferred Compensation Plan, were participants in, or entitled to future benefits under, the Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. Executive Deferred Compensation Plan (the Spinco Deferred Compensation Plan).
(b) Transfer of Spinco Deferred Compensation Plan Accounts. No later than the Distribution Date, Spinco shall cause the accounts in the Spinco Deferred Compensation Plan attributable to MSG Entertainment Employees and Former MSG Entertainment Employees to be transferred to the MSG Entertainment Deferred Compensation Plan and MSG Entertainment shall cause the MSG Entertainment Deferred Compensation Plan to accept such transfer of accounts in accordance with current practice and to assume and to fully perform, pay and discharge all Liabilities of the Spinco Deferred Compensation Plan relating to the accounts of MSG Entertainment Employees and Former MSG Entertainment Employees as of the effective date of the MSG Entertainment Deferred Compensation Plan.
(c) Continuation of Elections. As of the effective date of the MSG Entertainment Deferred Compensation Plan, MSG Entertainment (acting directly or through its Subsidiaries) shall cause the MSG Entertainment Deferred Compensation Plan to recognize and maintain all elections, including deferral elections and beneficiary designations, as applicable, with respect to MSG Entertainment Employees and Former Spinco Employees under the Spinco Deferred Compensation Plan for the remainder of the period or periods for which such elections or designations are by their original terms applicable, to the extent such election or designation is available under the MSG Entertainment Deferred Compensation Plan.
Section 5.5 Transferred Employees. Employees who transfer from Spinco to MSG Entertainment after the Distribution Date will not be eligible for an immediate distribution of their account balance from the Spinco Excess Cash Balance Plan, Spinco Excess Retirement Plan, Spinco Excess Savings Plan or Spinco Deferred Compensation Plan; instead, subject to compliance with any applicable requirements of Section 409A of the Code, any such account balance shall be transferred to the MSG Entertainment Excess Cash Balance Plan, MSG Entertainment Excess Savings Plan or MSG Entertainment Deferred Compensation Plan on the date of transfer, and Spinco shall pay MSG Entertainment an amount equal to the vested account balance as of the transfer date within 30 days of such transfer date. Employees who transfer from MSG Entertainment to Spinco after the Distribution Date will not be eligible for an immediate distribution of their account balance from
-14-
the MSG Entertainment Excess Cash Balance Plan, MSG Entertainment Excess Savings Plan or MSG Entertainment Deferred Compensation Plan; instead, subject to compliance with any applicable requirements of Section 409A of the Code, any such account balance shall be transferred to the MSG Entertainment Excess Cash Balance Plan, Spinco Excess Retirement Plan, Spinco Excess Savings Plan or Spinco Deferred Compensation Plan on the date of transfer, and MSG Entertainment shall pay Spinco an amount equal to the vested account balance as of the transfer date within 30 days of such transfer date.
Section 5.6 No Separation from Service. The transactions provided for under this Agreement shall not constitute a separation from service or a termination of employment under the MSG Entertainment Excess Cash Balance Plan, Spinco Excess Cash Balance Plan, Spinco Excess Retirement Plan, MSG Entertainment Excess Savings Plan, Spinco Excess Savings Plan, MSG Entertainment Deferred Compensation Plan or Spinco Deferred Compensation Plan, each of which shall provide that no distribution of benefits shall be made to any MSG Entertainment Employee or Spinco Employee on account of these transactions.
ARTICLE VI
U.S. HEALTH AND WELFARE PLANS
Section 6.1 Health and Welfare Plans Maintained by Spinco Prior to the Distribution Date.
(a) Establishment of the MSG Entertainment Health & Welfare Plans. Spinco or one or more of its Subsidiaries maintain each of the health and welfare plans set forth on Exhibit E attached hereto (the Spinco Health & Welfare Plans) for the benefit of eligible MSG Entertainment Participants and Spinco Participants. Effective as of January 1, 2024 (the Effective Date), MSG Entertainment shall, or shall cause one of its Subsidiaries to, adopt health and welfare plans (other than a retiree medical program) for the benefit of eligible MSG Entertainment Participants (collectively, the MSG Entertainment Health & Welfare Plans).
(b) Terms of Participation in MSG Entertainment Health & Welfare Plans. MSG Entertainment (acting directly or through its Subsidiaries) shall cause all MSG Entertainment Health & Welfare Plans, if applicable, to (i) waive all limitations as to preexisting conditions, exclusions, and service conditions with respect to participation and coverage requirements applicable to MSG Entertainment Participants, other than limitations that were in effect with respect to MSG Entertainment Participants immediately prior to the Effective Date, (ii) waive any waiting period limitation or evidence of insurability requirement that would otherwise be applicable to an MSG Entertainment Participant immediately prior to the Effective Date to the extent such MSG Entertainment Participant had satisfied any similar limitation under the analogous Spinco Health & Welfare Plan, and (iii) in the case of self-insured MSG Entertainment Health & Welfare Plans, provide credit for all benefits paid to MSG Entertainment Participants under the Spinco Health & Welfare Plans for purposes of determining when such persons have reached their lifetime maximums (if any) under the MSG Entertainment Health & Welfare Plan. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event that any MSG Entertainment Participant, Former MSG Entertainment Employee, or dependent thereof is confined to a facility for treatment as of the Effective Date, such persons nevertheless shall become covered under MSG Entertainment Health & Welfare Plans as of such date, and shall cease being covered under Spinco Health & Welfare Plans as of such date.
-15-
Section 6.2 Flexible Spending Accounts Plan. As of the Effective Date, MSG Entertainment (acting directly or through its Subsidiaries) shall establish a flexible spending accounts plan (the MSG Entertainment Flexible Spending Accounts Plan) with features that are comparable to those contained in the flexible spending accounts plan maintained by Spinco for the benefit of MSG Entertainment Participants immediately prior to the Effective Date (the Spinco Flexible Spending Accounts Plan). Following the Effective Date, MSG Entertainment Participants that presently participate in the Spinco Flexible Spending Accounts Plan may submit, for reimbursement in accordance with the Spinco Flexible Spending Accounts Plan, claims for health costs incurred during the 2023 plan year and any applicable grace period thereafter, and Spinco shall be responsible for the payment of such claims. MSG Entertainment shall be entitled to retain the net positive balance, if any, of the MSG Entertainment Participants flexible spending accounts from the 2023 plan year. MSG Entertainment shall pay to Spinco the net negative balance, if any, of the MSG Entertainment Participants flexible spending accounts from the 2023 plan year. As of the Effective Date, MSG Entertainment shall be responsible for administering all reimbursement claims of MSG Entertainment Participants under the MSG Entertainment Flexible Spending Accounts Plan with respect to calendar year 2023 under the MSG Entertainment Flexible Spending Accounts Plan.
Section 6.3 Legal Plan. Any case initiated by an MSG Entertainment Participant under the Spinco Group Legal Plan prior to the Effective Date will continue under such plan until its completion regardless of whether the MSG Entertainment Participant enrolls in the MSG Entertainment Group Legal Plan after the Effective Date.
Section 6.4 COBRA and HIPAA. As of the Effective Date, MSG Entertainment (acting directly or through its Subsidiaries) shall assume, or shall have caused the MSG Entertainment Health & Welfare Plans to assume, responsibility for compliance with the health care continuation coverage requirements of COBRA with respect to MSG Entertainment Participants who, as of the day prior to the Effective Date, were covered under a Spinco Health & Welfare Plan pursuant to COBRA or were eligible for COBRA under a Spinco Health & Welfare Plan and incur any COBRA claims after the Effective Date. Spinco shall be responsible for the claims incurred by MSG Entertainment Participants prior to the Effective Date, regardless of whether payments for such claims are made or due after the Effective Date. Spinco (acting directly or through its Subsidiaries) shall be responsible for administering compliance with the certificate of creditable coverage requirements of HIPAA applicable to the Spinco Health & Welfare Plans with respect to MSG Entertainment Participants for the period ending on the Effective Date. The Parties hereto agree that neither the Distribution nor any transfers of employment directly from the MSG Entertainment Group to the Spinco Group or directly from the Spinco Group to the MSG Entertainment Group that occur before the Effective Date shall constitute a COBRA qualifying event for purposes of COBRA.
Section 6.5 Liabilities.
(a) Insured Benefits. With respect to employee welfare and fringe benefits that are provided through the purchase of insurance, Spinco shall cause the Spinco Health & Welfare
-16-
Plans to fully perform, pay and discharge all claims of MSG Entertainment Participants that are incurred prior to the Effective Date (whether reported or unreported by the Effective Date) for the Spinco Health & Welfare Plans, and MSG Entertainment shall pay Spinco for premiums incurred by Spinco in respect of MSG Entertainment Participants from the Distribution Date through the Effective Date. MSG Entertainment shall cause the MSG Entertainment Health & Welfare Plans to fully perform, pay and discharge all claims of MSG Entertainment Participants that are incurred on or after the Effective Date. With respect to claims of MSG Entertainment Participants that are incurred under such Spinco Health & Welfare Plans prior to the Effective Date (whether reported or unreported by the Effective Date), but after the Distribution Date, and paid by the Spinco Health & Welfare Plans, MSG Entertainment, as a Participating Company, shall promptly reimburse Spinco for any administrative or other expenses.
(i) Long-Term Disability. Any MSG Entertainment Participant who is on long-term disability leave and receiving long-term disability benefits under the MSG Entertainment Group, LLC Benefits Program as of the Effective Date shall continue to receive benefits under the MSG Entertainment Group, LLC Benefits Program in accordance with the provisions of such Plan following the Effective Date.
(b) Self-Insured Benefits. With respect to employee welfare and fringe benefits that are provided on a self-insured basis, except as otherwise provided herein, MSG Entertainment (i) shall pay Spinco the Estimated Benefit Cost (defined below) for each month from the Distribution Date through the Effective Date for each MSG Entertainment Participant participating in such benefits (prorated for any partial month based on the number of days in such month) and (ii) acting directly or through its Subsidiaries, shall cause the MSG Entertainment Health & Welfare Plans to fully perform, pay and discharge all claims of MSG Entertainment Participants that are incurred on or after the Effective Date. The Estimated Benefit Cost shall equal the aggregate monthly cost of such self-insured benefits on a per-employee basis, as set forth in Spincos applicable annual budget (as may be adjusted quarterly), taking into account relevant claims experience. As soon as administratively practicable after the Effective Date, Spinco and MSG Entertainment shall determine the actual cost of providing such self-insured benefits to the MSG Entertainment Participants for the period from the Distribution Date through the Effective Date (the Actual Benefit Cost), which shall be determined based on the number, and claims experience, of MSG Entertainment Participants and Spinco Participants during that period. If the Actual Benefit Cost is greater than the aggregate Estimated Benefit Cost paid by MSG Entertainment, then MSG Entertainment shall promptly pay Spinco such shortfall, or if the aggregate Estimated Benefit Cost paid by MSG Entertainment is greater than the Actual Benefit Cost, then Spinco shall promptly reimburse such excess amount to MSG Entertainment. Except as provided otherwise herein, MSG Entertainment shall promptly reimburse Spinco for the administrative and other expenses related to self-insured benefit claims of MSG Entertainment Participants paid by the Spinco Health & Welfare Plans or Spinco that were incurred prior to the Effective Date (whether reported or unreported by the Effective Date).
(i) Short-Term Disability.
(A) Any MSG Entertainment Participant who is on short-term disability leave and receiving short-term disability benefits under the MSG Entertainment Group, LLC Benefits Program as of the Effective Date shall
-17-
continue to receive short-term disability benefits under the MSG Entertainment Group, LLC Benefits Program. MSG Entertainment, as a Participating Company, shall reimburse Spinco for all administrative and other expenses paid by the MSG Entertainment Group, LLC Benefits Program or Spinco after the Effective Date. MSG Entertainment shall continue to pay any short-term disability benefits owed to an MSG Entertainment Participant under the MSG Entertainment Group, LLC Benefits Program.
(B) Any MSG Entertainment Participant who is on a short-term disability leave as of the Effective Date, and who but for the transactions contemplated under the Distribution Agreement would have become eligible for long-term disability benefits in accordance with the provisions of the MSG Entertainment Group, LLC Benefits Program, will continue to be eligible for long-term disability benefits under the MSG Entertainment Group, LLC Benefits Program.
(c) Incurred Claim Definition. For purposes of this Section 6.5, a claim or Liability is deemed to be incurred (i) with respect to medical, dental, vision and/or prescription drug benefits, upon the rendering of health services or provision of supplies giving rise to such claim or Liability; (ii) with respect to life insurance, accidental death and dismemberment and business travel accident insurance, upon the occurrence of the event giving rise to such claim or Liability; (iii) with respect to disability benefits, upon the date of an individuals disability, as determined by the disability benefit insurance carrier or claim administrator, giving rise to such claim or Liability; and (iv) with respect to a period of continuous hospitalization (or any medical or other service or supply performed or provided during the period of continuous hospitalization), upon the date of admission to the hospital.
(d) Retiree Medical Program. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Spinco shall retain all Liabilities under the Spinco Retiree Medical Program, whether incurred before, on or after the Distribution Date, with respect to qualifying MSG Entertainment Participants and Spinco Participants.
Section 6.6 Time-Off Benefits. MSG Entertainment shall credit each MSG Entertainment Participant with the amount of accrued but unused vacation time, sick time and other time-off benefits as such MSG Entertainment Participant had with the Spinco Group as of the Distribution Date or as of an employees transfer date for a Spinco Employee who becomes an MSG Entertainment Employee prior to the first anniversary of the Distribution Date. Spinco shall credit each Spinco Participant with the amount of accrued but unused vacation time, sick time and other time-off benefits as of an employees transfer date for an MSG Entertainment Employee who becomes a Spinco Employee prior to the first anniversary of the Distribution Date. Notwithstanding the above, MSG Entertainment shall not be required to credit any MSG Entertainment Participant and Spinco shall not be required to credit any Spinco Participant with any accrual to the extent that a benefit attributable to such vacation time, sick time and other time-off benefits is paid by the Spinco Group or MSG Entertainment Group, respectively.
-18-
Section 6.7 Severance Pay Plans. The Parties acknowledge and agree that the transactions contemplated by the Distribution Agreement will not constitute a termination of employment of any Spinco Participant or MSG Entertainment Participant for purposes of any policy, plan, program or agreement of MSG Entertainment or Spinco or any member of the MSG Entertainment Group or Spinco Group that provides for the payment of severance, separation pay, salary continuation or similar benefits in the event of a termination of employment.
ARTICLE VII
EQUITY COMPENSATION
Section 7.1 Equity Compensation. The Parties, including through instructions with their respective administrators and recordkeepers, shall use commercially reasonable efforts and shall cooperate in good faith to take all actions reasonably necessary or appropriate for the adjustment of the Equity Compensation under the MSG Entertainment Share Plans, for the issuance of the Equity Compensation under the Spinco Share Plans, and to coordinate the tax treatment of such Equity Compensation as set forth in this Article VII, all in a manner consistent with the resolutions adopted by the MSG Entertainment Compensation Committee in connection with the Distribution and the provisions of this Article VII.
Section 7.2 Taxes and Withholding.
(a) Options.
(i) Exercise Price.
(A) Upon the exercise of an MSG Entertainment Option, whether by an MSG Entertainment Employee, Former MSG Entertainment Employee, MSG Entertainment Director, Spinco Employee, Former Spinco Employee or Spinco Director, the Parties shall take steps to ensure that the exercise price is delivered to MSG Entertainment.
(B) Upon the exercise of a Spinco Option, whether by an MSG Entertainment Employee, Former MSG Entertainment Employee, MSG Entertainment Director, Spinco Employee, Former Spinco Employee or Spinco Director, the Parties shall take steps to ensure that the exercise price is delivered to Spinco.
(ii) Taxes.
(A) Upon exercise of an MSG Entertainment Option or Spinco Option, the employer or, in the case of a Former MSG Entertainment Employee or Former Spinco Employee, the former employer of such holder shall fund any employer taxes.
(B) Upon exercise of an MSG Entertainment Option or Spinco Option, the Parties shall take steps to ensure that the applicable withholding amount is remitted in cash to the employer or, in the case of a Former MSG Entertainment Employee or Former Spinco Employee, the former employer of such holder.
-19-
(b) [Intentionally Omitted.]
(c) Restricted Stock Units.
(i) Settlement.
(A) After the Distribution Date, MSG Entertainment shall be responsible for all Liabilities under MSG Entertainment RSUs, whether such MSG Entertainment RSUs are held by MSG Entertainment Employees, Former MSG Entertainment Employees, Spinco Employees, Former Spinco Employees and individuals who received such MSG Entertainment RSUs in their capacity as MSG Entertainment Directors. MSG Entertainment shall settle, and satisfy any dividend obligations with respect to, such MSG Entertainment RSUs in accordance with the terms of its 2020 Employee Stock Plan and its 2020 Stock Plan for Non-Employee Directors.
(B) After the Distribution Date, Spinco shall be responsible for all Liabilities under Spinco RSUs, whether such Spinco RSUs are held by MSG Entertainment Employees, Former MSG Entertainment Employees, Spinco Employees or Former Spinco Employees. Spinco shall settle, and satisfy any dividend obligations with respect to, such Spinco RSUs in accordance with the terms of its 2023 Employee Stock Plan.
(ii) Taxes.
(A) Upon settlement of any MSG Entertainment RSU or Spinco RSU, other than an MSG Entertainment RSU that is held by an individual who received such MSG Entertainment RSU in his capacity as an MSG Entertainment Director, the employer, or, in the case of a Former MSG Entertainment Employee or Former Spinco Employee, the former employer, of such holder shall fund any employer taxes.
(B) Upon settlement of any MSG Entertainment RSU or Spinco RSU, other than an MSG Entertainment RSU that is held by an individual who received such MSG Entertainment RSU in his capacity as an MSG Entertainment Director, the Parties shall take steps to ensure that the applicable withholding amount is remitted in cash to the employer, or, in the case of a Former MSG Entertainment Employee or Former Spinco Employee, the former employer of such holder.
(C) MSG Entertainment will be responsible for any tax reporting obligations associated with any MSG Entertainment RSUs that are held by an individual who received such MSG Entertainment RSU in his capacity as an MSG Entertainment Director.
-20-
(d) Tax Deductions. With respect to the Equity Compensation held by individuals who are MSG Entertainment Employees or MSG Entertainment Directors at the time the Equity Compensation becomes taxable and individuals who are Former MSG Entertainment Employees at such time, MSG Entertainment shall claim any federal, state and/or local tax deductions after the Distribution Date, and Spinco shall not claim such deductions. With respect to the Equity Compensation held by individuals who are employees of the Spinco Group at the time the Equity Compensation becomes taxable and individuals who are Former Spinco Employees at such time, Spinco shall claim any federal, state and/or local tax deductions after the Distribution Date, and MSG Entertainment shall not claim such deductions. If either MSG Entertainment or Spinco determines in its reasonable judgment that there is a substantial likelihood that a tax deduction that was assigned to MSG Entertainment or Spinco pursuant to this Section 7.2 will instead be available only to the other party (whether as a result of a determination by the IRS, a change in the Code or the regulations or guidance thereunder, or otherwise), it will notify the other party and both Parties will negotiate in good faith to resolve the issue in accordance with the following principle: the party entitled to the deduction shall pay to the other party an amount that places the other party in a financial position equivalent to the financial position the party would have been in had the party received the deduction as intended under this Section 7.2. Such amount shall be paid within 90 days of filing the last tax return necessary to make the determination described in the preceding sentence.
Section 7.3 Cooperation. In addition to any cooperation principles governed by Article X, if, after the Distribution Date, MSG Entertainment or Spinco identify an administrative error in the individuals identified as holding Equity Compensation, the amount of Equity Compensation so held, the vesting level of such Equity Compensation, or any other similar error, MSG Entertainment and Spinco shall mutually cooperate in taking such actions as are necessary or appropriate to place, as nearly as reasonably practicable, the individual and MSG Entertainment and Spinco in the position in which they would have been had the error not occurred. Each of the Parties shall establish an appropriate administration system in order to handle in an orderly manner exercises of MSG Entertainment Options and Spinco Options and the settlement of MSG Entertainment RSUs and Spinco RSUs. Each of the Parties will work together to unify and consolidate all indicative data and payroll and employment information on regular timetables and make certain that each applicable entitys data and records with respect to Equity Compensation are correct and updated on a timely basis. The foregoing shall include employment status and information required for tax withholding/remittance, compliance with trading windows and compliance with the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and other applicable Laws.
Section 7.4 SEC Registration. The Parties mutually agree to use commercially reasonable efforts to maintain effective registration statements with the SEC with respect to the long-term incentive awards to the extent any such registration statement is required by applicable Law.
Section 7.5 Savings Clause. The Parties hereby acknowledge that the provisions of this Article VII are intended to achieve certain tax, legal and accounting objectives and, in the event such objectives are not achieved, the Parties agree to negotiate in good faith regarding such other actions that may be necessary or appropriate to achieve such objectives.
-21-
ARTICLE VIII
ADDITIONAL COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS MATTERS
Section 8.1 Cash Incentive Awards.
(a) Cooperation. The Parties shall use commercially reasonable efforts and shall cooperate in good faith to take all actions reasonably necessary or appropriate to achieve the treatment of annual cash incentive awards established under MSG Entertainments annual incentive plan(s) as approved by the MSG Entertainment Compensation Committee prior to the Distribution in accordance with the terms of such plan(s), including as set forth in this Section 8.1.
(b) Liability.
(i) Effective as of the Distribution Date, Spinco shall assume or retain, as applicable, responsibilities for all Liabilities, and fully perform, pay and discharge all Liabilities when such Liabilities become due, relating to any annual cash incentive awards or portion of any such incentive awards that any Spinco Participant is eligible to receive with respect to any performance period that ends after the Distribution Date and, effective as of the Distribution Date, MSG Entertainment shall have no obligations with respect to any such incentive awards. As soon as reasonably practicable, but in any event within 30 days, following the date that MSG Entertainment or Spinco pays an annual cash incentive award established with respect to the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024 to a MSG Entertainment Participant or Spinco Participant who, immediately prior to the Distribution, was a corporate employee of MSG Entertainment (including Shared Executives), the Parties shall cooperate to ensure that each Party is responsible for (and reimburses as applicable) the portion of the Liability with respect to such award accrued as of the Distribution Date reflected on Exhibit H, except as otherwise agreed between the Parties.
(ii) MSG Entertainment acknowledges and agrees that, except as otherwise provided herein, it shall have full responsibility with respect to any Liabilities and the payment or performance of any obligations arising out of or relating to any incentive, commission or other similar compensatory arrangement previously provided by any member of the MSG Entertainment Group or Spinco Group to any MSG Entertainment Participant.
(iii) Spinco acknowledges and agrees that, except as otherwise provided herein, it shall have full responsibility with respect to any Liabilities and the payment or performance of any obligations arising out of or relating to any incentive, commission or other similar compensatory arrangement previously provided by any member of the MSG Entertainment Group or Spinco Group to any Spinco Participant.
Section 8.2 Individual Arrangements.
(a) MSG Entertainment Individual Arrangements. MSG Entertainment acknowledges and agrees that, except as otherwise provided herein, it shall have full
-22-
responsibility with respect to any Liabilities and the payment or performance of any obligations arising out of or relating to any employment, separation, severance, consulting, non-competition, retention or other compensatory arrangement previously provided by any member of the MSG Entertainment Group or Spinco Group to any MSG Entertainment Participant.
(b) Spinco Individual Arrangements. Spinco acknowledges and agrees that, except as otherwise provided herein, it shall have full responsibility with respect to any Liabilities and the payment or performance of any obligations arising out of or relating to any employment, separation, severance, consulting, non-competition, retention or other compensatory arrangement previously provided by any member of the MSG Entertainment Group or Spinco Group to any Spinco Participant.
(c) [Intentionally Omitted].
(d) Effect of the Distribution on Severance. The Parties acknowledge and agree that the transactions contemplated by the Distribution Agreement will not constitute a termination of employment of any Spinco Participant for purposes of any policy, plan, program or agreement of MSG Entertainment or Spinco or any member of the MSG Entertainment Group or Spinco Group that provides for the payment of severance, separation pay, salary continuation or similar benefits in the event of a termination of employment.
Section 8.3 Non-Competition. For the purpose of any non-compete provision in any MSG Entertainment Plan or any award thereunder, each of Spinco and Madison Square Garden Sports Corp. shall not be regarded as a competitive entity. For the purpose of any non-compete provision in any Spinco Plan or any award thereunder, each of MSG Entertainment and Madison Square Garden Sports Corp. shall not be regarded as a competitive entity. This Section 8.3 shall apply only so long as MSG Entertainment, Spinco and Madison Square Garden Sports Corp. remain under common Control.
Section 8.4 Collective Bargaining. To the extent any provision of this Agreement is contrary to the provisions of any collective bargaining agreement to which MSG Entertainment or Spinco or any of their respective Subsidiaries is a party, the terms of such collective bargaining agreement shall prevail. Should any provisions of this Agreement be deemed to relate to a topic determined by an appropriate authority to be a mandatory subject of collective bargaining, MSG Entertainment or Spinco may be obligated to bargain with the union representing affected employees concerning those subjects.
Section 8.5 Union Dues; Severance and Fringe Benefits. MSG Entertainment and its Subsidiaries shall retain responsibility for the payment of dues and severance and fringe benefit payments on behalf of MSG Entertainment Employees with respect to the unions set forth on Exhibit F. Spinco and its Subsidiaries shall retain responsibility for the payment of dues and severance and fringe benefit payments on behalf of Spinco Employees with respect to the unions set forth on Exhibit G.
Section 8.6 Director Programs. MSG Entertainment shall retain responsibility for the payment of any fees and MSG Entertainment RSUs payable in respect of service on the MSG Entertainment Board of Directors that are payable but not yet paid as of the Distribution Date, and Spinco shall have no responsibility for any such payments (to an individual who is a member of the Spinco Board of Directors as of the Distribution Date or otherwise).
-23-
Section 8.7 Section 409A. Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary (including the treatment of supplemental and deferred compensation plans, outstanding long-term incentive awards and annual incentive awards as described herein), the Parties agree to negotiate in good faith regarding the need for any treatment different from that otherwise provided herein to ensure that the treatment of such supplemental or deferred compensation or long-term incentive award, annual incentive award or other compensation does not cause the imposition of a tax under Section 409A of the Code.
ARTICLE IX
INDEMNIFICATION
Section 9.1 Indemnification. All Liabilities retained or assumed by or allocated to MSG Entertainment or the MSG Entertainment Group pursuant to this Agreement shall be deemed to be MSG Entertainment Liabilities (as defined in the Distribution Agreement) for purposes of Article III of the Distribution Agreement, and all Liabilities retained or assumed by or allocated to Spinco or the Spinco Group pursuant to this Agreement shall be deemed to be Spinco Liabilities (as defined in the Distribution Agreement) for purposes of Article III of the Distribution Agreement.
ARTICLE X
GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE
Section 10.1 Sharing of Information. MSG Entertainment and Spinco (acting directly or through their respective Subsidiaries) shall provide to the other and their respective agents and vendors all Information as the other may reasonably request to enable the requesting Party to administer efficiently and accurately each of its Plans, to assist Spinco in obtaining its own insurance policies to provide benefits under Spinco Plans, and to determine the scope of, as well as fulfill, its obligations under this Agreement; provided, however, that, in the event that any Party reasonably determines that any such provision of Information could be commercially detrimental to such Party or any member of its Group, violate any Law or agreement to which such Party or member of its Group is a party, or waive any attorney-client privilege applicable to such Party or member of its Group, the Parties shall provide any such Information and the Parties shall take all reasonable measures to comply with the obligations pursuant to this Section 10.1 in a manner that mitigates any such harm or consequence to the extent practicable, and the Parties agree to cooperate with each other and take such commercially reasonable steps as may be practicable to preserve the attorney-client privilege with respect to the disclosure of any such Information. Such Information shall, to the extent reasonably practicable, be provided in the format and at the times and places requested, but in no event shall the Party providing such Information be obligated to incur any out-of-pocket expenses not reimbursed by the Party making such request or make such Information available outside of its normal business hours and premises. Any Information shared or exchanged pursuant to this Agreement shall be subject to the same confidentiality requirements set forth in Section 4.4 of the Distribution Agreement.
-24-
Section 10.2 Reasonable Efforts/Cooperation. Each of the Parties hereto will use its commercially reasonable efforts to promptly take, or cause to be taken, all actions and to do, or cause to be done, all things necessary, proper or advisable under applicable Laws and regulations to consummate the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, including adopting plans or plan amendments. Each of the Parties hereto shall cooperate fully on any issue relating to the transactions contemplated by this Agreement for which the other Party seeks a determination letter or private letter ruling from the IRS, an advisory opinion from the DOL or any other filing, consent or approval with respect to or by a Governmental Authority.
Section 10.3 Non-Termination of Employment; No Third-Party Beneficiaries. No provision of this Agreement or the Distribution Agreement shall be construed to create any right, or accelerate entitlement, to any compensation or benefit whatsoever on the part of any MSG Entertainment Employee or Spinco Employee or other future, present, or former employee of any member of the MSG Entertainment Group or Spinco Group under any MSG Entertainment Plan or Spinco Plan or otherwise. This Agreement is solely for the benefit of the Parties hereto and their respective successors and permitted assigns. Nothing in this Agreement, express or implied, is intended to or shall confer upon any other person or persons (including any employee or former employee of MSG Entertainment or Spinco or either of their respective Subsidiaries or any beneficiary or dependent thereof) any rights, benefits or remedies of any nature whatsoever under or by reason of this Agreement. No provision in this Agreement shall modify or amend any other agreement, plan, program, or document unless this Agreement explicitly states that the provision amends that other agreement, plan, program, or document. This shall not prevent the Parties entitled to enforce this Agreement from enforcing any provision in this Agreement, but no other person shall be entitled to enforce any provision in this Agreement on the grounds that it is an amendment to another agreement, plan, program, or document unless the provision is explicitly designated as such in this Agreement, and the person is otherwise entitled to enforce the other agreement, plan, program, or document. If a person not entitled to enforce this Agreement brings a lawsuit or other action to enforce any provision in this Agreement as an amendment to another agreement, plan, program, or document, and that provision is construed to be such an amendment despite not being explicitly designated as one in this Agreement, that provision in this Agreement shall be void ab initio, thereby precluding it from having any amendatory effect. Furthermore, nothing in this Agreement is intended to confer upon any employee or former employee of MSG Entertainment, Spinco or either of their respective Subsidiaries any right to continued employment, or any recall or similar rights to an individual on layoff or any type of approved leave.
Section 10.4 Consent of Third Parties. If any provision of this Agreement is dependent on the consent of any third party and such consent is withheld, the Parties hereto shall use their reasonable best efforts to implement the applicable provisions of this Agreement to the fullest extent practicable. If any provision of this Agreement cannot be implemented due to the failure of such third party to consent, the Parties hereto shall negotiate in good faith to implement the provision in a mutually satisfactory manner.
Section 10.5 Access to Employees. Following the Distribution Date, MSG Entertainment and Spinco shall, or shall cause each of their respective Subsidiaries to, make available to each other those of their employees who may reasonably be needed in order to defend or prosecute any legal or administrative action (other than a legal action between any
-25-
member of the MSG Entertainment Group and any member of the Spinco Group) to which any employee, director or Plan of the MSG Entertainment Group or Spinco Group is a party and which relates to their respective Plans prior to the Distribution Date.
Section 10.6 Beneficiary Designation/Release of Information/Right to Reimbursement. To the extent permitted by applicable Law and except as otherwise provided for in this Agreement, all beneficiary designations, authorizations for the release of information and rights to reimbursement made by or relating to Spinco Participants under MSG Entertainment Plans shall be transferred to and be in full force and effect under the corresponding Spinco Plans until such beneficiary designations, authorizations or rights are replaced or revoked by, or no longer apply to, the relevant Spinco Participant.
Section 10.7 Not a Change in Control. The Parties hereto acknowledge and agree that the transactions contemplated by the Distribution Agreement and this Agreement do not constitute a change in control for purposes of any MSG Entertainment Plan or Spinco Plan.
ARTICLE XI
MISCELLANEOUS
Section 11.1 Effect If Distribution Does Not Occur. Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, if the Distribution Agreement is terminated prior to the Distribution Date, then all actions and events that are, under this Agreement, to be taken or occur effective immediately prior to or as of the Distribution Date, or otherwise in connection with the Distribution, shall not be taken or occur except to the extent specifically agreed to in writing by MSG Entertainment and Spinco and neither Party shall have any Liability to the other Party under this Agreement.
Section 11.2 Complete Agreement; Construction. This Agreement, including the Exhibits, shall constitute the entire agreement between the Parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and shall supersede all previous negotiations, commitments and writings with respect to such subject matter.
Section 11.3 Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, all of which shall be considered one and the same agreement, and shall become effective when one or more such counterparts have been signed by each of the Parties and delivered to the other Party.
Section 11.4 Survival of Agreements. Except as otherwise contemplated by this Agreement, all covenants and agreements of the Parties contained in this Agreement shall survive the Distribution Date.
Section 11.5 Notices. All notices and other communications hereunder shall be in writing, shall reference this Agreement and shall be hand delivered or mailed by registered or certified mail (return receipt requested) to the Parties at the following addresses (or at such other
-26-
addresses for a Party as shall be specified by like notice) and will be deemed given on the date on which such notice is received:
To MSG Entertainment:
Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. (or, after the applicable name change, Sphere Entertainment Co.)
Two Penn Plaza
New York, New York 10121
Attention: General Counsel
To Spinco:
MSGE Spinco, Inc. (or, after the applicable name change, Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp.)
Two Penn Plaza
New York, New York 10121
Attention: General Counsel
Section 11.6 Waivers. The failure of any Party to require strict performance by any other Party of any provision in this Agreement will not waive or diminish that Partys right to demand strict performance thereafter of that or any other provision hereof.
Section 11.7 Amendments. Subject to the terms of Sections 11.8 and 11.10 hereof, this Agreement may not be modified or amended except by an agreement in writing signed by each of the Parties.
Section 11.8 Assignment. This Agreement shall not be assignable, in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, by any Party without the prior written consent of the other Party, and any attempt to assign any rights or obligations arising under this Agreement without such consent shall be void; provided that either Party may assign this Agreement to a purchaser (by merger, sale of assets or otherwise) of all or substantially all of the properties and assets of such Party so long as such purchaser expressly assumes, in a written instrument in form reasonably satisfactory to the non-assigning Party, the due and punctual performance or observance of every agreement and covenant of this Agreement on the part of the assigning Party to be performed or observed. Any arrangement in violation of the provisions of this Section 11.8 shall be void.
Section 11.9 Successors and Assigns. The provisions to this Agreement shall be binding upon, inure to the benefit of and be enforceable by the Parties and their respective successors and permitted assigns.
Section 11.10 Subsidiaries. Each of the Parties shall cause to be performed, and hereby guarantees the performance of, all actions, agreements and obligations set forth herein to be performed by any entity that is contemplated to be a Subsidiary of such Party after the Distribution Date.
Section 11.11 Title and Headings. Titles and headings to Sections herein are inserted for convenience of reference only and are not intended to be a part of or to affect the meaning or interpretation of this Agreement.
-27-
Section 11.12 Governing Law. THIS AGREEMENT SHALL BE GOVERNED BY AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK APPLICABLE TO CONTRACTS MADE AND TO BE PERFORMED IN THE STATE OF NEW YORK.
Section 11.13 Waiver of Jury Trial. The Parties hereby irrevocably waive any and all right to trial by jury in any legal proceeding arising out of or related to this Agreement.
Section 11.14 Specific Performance. From and after the Distribution, in the event of any actual or threatened default in, or breach of, any of the terms, conditions and provisions of this Agreement, the Parties agree that the Party to this Agreement who is or is to be thereby aggrieved shall have the right to specific performance and injunctive or other equitable relief of its rights under this Agreement, in addition to any and all other rights and remedies at law or in equity, and all such rights and remedies shall be cumulative. The Parties agree that, from and after the Distribution, the remedies at law for any breach or threatened breach of this Agreement, including monetary damages, are inadequate compensation for any Loss, that any defense in any action for specific performance that a remedy at law would be adequate is hereby waived, and that any requirements for the securing or posting of any bond with such remedy are hereby waived.
Section 11.15 Severability. In the event any one or more of the provisions contained in this Agreement should be held invalid, illegal or unenforceable in any respect, the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions contained herein and therein shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby. The Parties shall endeavor in good faith negotiations to replace the invalid, illegal or unenforceable provisions with valid provisions, the economic effect of which comes as close as possible to that of the invalid, illegal or unenforceable provisions.
[signature page follows]
-28-
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have caused this Agreement to be duly executed as of the date first above written.
MADISON SQUARE GARDEN ENTERTAINMENT CORP. (to be renamed Sphere Entertainment Co.) | ||||
By: | /s/ James L. Dolan | |||
Name: | James L. Dolan | |||
Title: | Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer | |||
MSGE SPINCO, INC. (to be renamed Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp.) | ||||
By: | /s/ David F. Byrnes | |||
Name: | David F. Byrnes | |||
Title: | Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer |
[Signature Page to Employee Matters Agreement]
Exhibit 99.1
MADISON SQUARE GARDEN ENTERTAINMENT CORP.
TWO PENNSYLVANIA PLAZA
NEW YORK, NY 10121
[●], 2023
Dear Stockholder:
I am pleased to report that the previously announced spin-off by Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp., which we refer to as MSG Entertainment, of approximately 67% of the common stock of its MSGE Spinco, Inc. subsidiary is expected to become effective on April 20, 2023. MSGE Spinco, Inc., a Delaware corporation, which we refer to as Spinco, will become a public company on that date and will own the Entertainment business segment, excluding MSG Sphere, currently owned and operated by MSG Entertainment, as described in this information statement. On or prior to the Distribution, Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. will change its name to Sphere Entertainment Co. and Spinco will change its name to Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. Spincos Class A Common Stock will be listed on the New York Stock Exchange, which we refer to as NYSE, under the symbol MSGE and Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. (renamed Sphere Entertainment Co.) will change its symbol on the NYSE to SPHR in connection with the spin-off.
Holders of record of MSG Entertainments Class A Common Stock as of the close of business, New York City time, on April 14, 2023, which will be the record date, will receive one share of Spinco Class A Common Stock for every one share of MSG Entertainments Class A Common Stock held. Holders of record of MSG Entertainments Class B Common Stock as of the close of business on the record date will receive one share of Spinco Class B Common Stock for every one share of MSG Entertainment Class B Common Stock held. No action is required on your part to receive your Spinco shares. You will not be required either to pay anything for the new shares or to surrender any shares of MSG Entertainment stock.
Immediately following such distribution, MSG Entertainment will retain approximately 33% of the outstanding shares of Spinco common stock in the form of Class A Common Stock. MSG Entertainment will not own any of our Class B Common Stock following the Distribution.
No fractional shares of Spinco stock will be issued. If you otherwise would be entitled to a fractional share, you will receive a check for the cash value thereof, which generally will be taxable to you. In due course you will be provided with information to enable you to compute your tax bases in both MSG Entertainment and Spinco stock. MSG Entertainment expects to obtain an opinion from Sullivan & Cromwell LLP substantially to the effect that, among other things, the distribution by MSG Entertainment of our Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock to the holders of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock and MSG Entertainment Class B Common Stock, respectively (i.e., the distribution), should qualify as a tax-free distribution for U.S. federal income tax purposes. MSG Entertainment will be required by applicable tax rules to dispose of the retained shares within a fixed period of time, which may occur through a series of steps including sales, exchange offers or pro rata distributions.
The enclosed information statement describes the distribution of shares of Spinco stock and contains important information about Spinco, including financial statements. I suggest that you read it carefully. If you have any questions regarding the Distribution, please contact MSG Entertainments transfer and distribution agent, EQ Shareowner Services, at 1-800-468-9716 (U.S. toll free) or 651-450-4064 (International).
Sincerely,
James L. Dolan
Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
Information contained herein is subject to completion or amendment. A Registration Statement on Form 10 relating to these securities has been filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
PRELIMINARY INFORMATION STATEMENT
SUBJECT TO COMPLETION, DATED MARCH 29, 2023
INFORMATION STATEMENT
MSGE Spinco, Inc.
Distribution of
Class A Common Stock
Par Value, $0.01 Per Share
Class B Common Stock
Par Value, $0.01 Per Share
This information statement is being furnished in connection with the distribution by Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. (MSG Entertainment) to holders of its common stock of approximately 67% of the outstanding shares of MSGE Spinco, Inc. (collectively, we, us, our, Spinco, or the Company) common stock. Immediately following such distribution, MSG Entertainment will retain approximately 33% of the outstanding shares of Spinco common stock in the form of Class A Common Stock. MSG Entertainment will not own any of our Class B Common Stock following the Distribution. Prior to such distribution, we will enter into a series of transactions with MSG Entertainment pursuant to which we will own the Entertainment business segment, excluding MSG Sphere, that was owned and operated by MSG Entertainment, as described in this information statement.
Shares of our Class A Common Stock will be distributed to holders of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock of record as of the close of business, New York City time, on April 14, 2023, which will be the record date. Each such holder will receive one share of our Class A Common Stock for every one share of MSG Entertainments Class A Common Stock held on the record date. Shares of our Class B Common Stock will be distributed to holders of MSG Entertainments Class B Common Stock as of the close of business on the record date. Each holder of MSG Entertainments Class B Common Stock will receive one share of our Class B Common Stock for every one share of MSG Entertainments Class B Common Stock held on the record date. We refer to this distribution of securities as the Distribution. The Distribution will be effective at 11:59 p.m., New York City time, on April 20, 2023 (the Distribution Date). For MSG Entertainment stockholders who own common stock in registered form, in most cases the transfer and distribution agent will credit their shares of Spinco common stock to book entry accounts established to hold their MSG Entertainment common stock. Our transfer and distribution agent will send these stockholders a statement reflecting their Spinco common stock ownership shortly after April 20, 2023. For stockholders who own MSG Entertainment common stock through a broker or other nominee, their shares of Spinco common stock will be credited to their accounts by the broker or other nominee. Stockholders will receive a cash payment in lieu of fractional shares, which generally will be taxable. See The Distribution Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Distribution.
The Company will have two classes of common stock. Our Class A Common Stock will be entitled to one vote per share and to collectively elect 25% of our Board of Directors, and our Class B Common Stock will be entitled to ten votes per share and to collectively elect the remaining 75% of our Board of Directors. See Description of Capital Stock for more information. As of the Distribution Date, the Dolan family, including trusts for the benefit of members of the Dolan family (the Dolan Family Group), will collectively own all of our Class B Common Stock, approximately 3.6% of our outstanding Class A Common Stock and approximately 61.6% of the total voting power of all our outstanding common stock (in each case, inclusive of exercisable options). As a result, the Company will be a controlled company within the meaning of the corporate governance standards of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and the Dolan Family Group will have the ability to determine all matters requiring approval by stockholders (other than the election of the Class A Directors and any matters requiring a separate vote by the holders of the Class A common stock).
No stockholder approval of the Distribution is required or sought. We are not asking you for a proxy and you are requested not to send us a proxy. MSG Entertainment stockholders will not be required to pay for the shares of our common stock to be received by them in the Distribution, or to surrender or to exchange shares of MSG Entertainment common stock in order to receive our common stock, or to take any other action in connection with the Distribution. There is currently no trading market for our common stock.
On or prior to the Distribution, Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. will change its name to Sphere Entertainment Co. and MSGE Spinco, Inc. will change its name to Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. Our Class A Common Stock has been approved for listing on the NYSE. Our Class A Common Stock will trade under the symbol MSGE and Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. (renamed Sphere Entertainment Co.) will change its symbol on the NYSE to SPHR in connection with the Distribution. We will not list our Class B Common Stock on any securities exchange.
IN REVIEWING THIS INFORMATION STATEMENT, YOU SHOULD CAREFULLY CONSIDER THE MATTERS DESCRIBED UNDER THE CAPTION RISK FACTORS BEGINNING ON PAGE 27.
WE ARE AN EMERGING GROWTH COMPANY AS DEFINED IN THE JUMPSTART OUR BUSINESS STARTUPS ACT OF 2012. REFER TO RISK FACTORS RISKS RELATED TO THE SPIN-OFF TRANSACTION THE REDUCED DISCLOSURE REQUIREMENTS APPLICABLE TO US AS AN EMERGING GROWTH COMPANY MAY MAKE OUR CLASS A COMMON STOCK LESS ATTRACTIVE TO INVESTORS AND BUSINESS EMERGING GROWTH COMPANY STATUS.
NEITHER THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION NOR ANY STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION HAS APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED THESE SECURITIES OR DETERMINED IF THIS INFORMATION STATEMENT IS TRUTHFUL OR COMPLETE. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
THIS INFORMATION STATEMENT DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER TO SELL OR THE SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO BUY ANY SECURITIES.
Stockholders of MSG Entertainment with inquiries related to the Distribution should contact MSG Entertainments transfer and distribution agent, EQ Shareowner Services, at 1-800-468-9716 (U.S. toll free) or 651-450-4064 (International).
The date of this information statement is [●], 2023.
i
The following is a summary of certain of the information contained in this information statement. This summary is included for convenience only and should not be considered complete. This summary is qualified in its entirety by more detailed information contained elsewhere in this information statement, which should be read in its entirety.
Unless the context otherwise requires, all references to we, us, our, Spinco or the Company refer to MSGE Spinco, Inc., together with its direct and indirect subsidiaries. Where we describe in this information statement our business activities, we do so as if the transfer of the Entertainment business segment, excluding MSG Sphere, owned and operated by MSG Entertainment, to Spinco has already occurred.
On or prior to the Distribution, Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. will change its name to Sphere Entertainment Co. and MSGE Spinco, Inc. will change its name to Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp.
The Company reports on a fiscal year basis ending on June 30. The fiscal years ended June 30, 2022, 2021 and 2020 are referred to as Fiscal Year 2022, Fiscal Year 2021, and Fiscal Year 2020, respectively, and the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023 is referred to as Fiscal Year 2023.
Our Company
We are a leader in live entertainment experiences, comprised of iconic venues and marquee entertainment content. Utilizing our powerful brands and live entertainment expertise, the Company delivers unique experiences that set the standard for excellence and innovation while forging deep connections with diverse and passionate audiences.
Our company includes (i) our portfolio of venues: Madison Square Garden (The Garden), The Theater at Madison Square Garden, Radio City Music Hall, the Beacon Theatre, and The Chicago Theatre, (ii) the original production, the Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes (Christmas Spectacular), and (iii) our entertainment and sports bookings business, which showcases a broad array of compelling concerts, family shows and special events, as well as a diverse mix of sporting events, for millions of guests annually.
We manage our business through a single reportable segment.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Our Business
The Companys operations and operating results were materially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic (including COVID-19 variants) and actions taken in response by governmental authorities and certain professional sports leagues during Fiscal Years 2020, 2021 and 2022. For the majority of Fiscal Year 2021, substantially all of our business operations were suspended. Fiscal Year 2022 was also impacted by the pandemic, with fewer ticketed events at our venues in the first half of the fiscal year as compared with Fiscal Year 2019 (the last full fiscal year not impacted by COVID-19) due to the lead-time required to book touring acts and artists, and an increase in COVID-19 cases due to a new variant, which resulted in a number of events at our venues being cancelled or postponed in the fiscal second and third quarters.
As a result of government-mandated assembly limitations and closures, all of our venues were closed beginning in March 2020. Use of The Garden resumed for home games of the New York Knicks (the Knicks) and the New York Rangers (the Rangers) without fans in December 2020 and January 2021, respectively, and was available at 10% seating capacity from February through May 2021 subject to certain safety protocols and social distancing. Beginning in May 2021, all of our New York venues were permitted to host guests at full capacity, subject to certain restrictions, and effective June 2021, The Chicago Theatre was permitted to host events without restrictions. Guests of our Chicago and New York venues were also subject to certain vaccination
1
requirements until February and March 2022, respectively. Our venues no longer require guests to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination before entering (although specific performers may require enhanced protocols).
For Fiscal Year 2021, the majority of ticketed events at our venues were postponed or cancelled. For Fiscal Year 2022 and as of the date of this filing, live events have been permitted to be held at all of our venues and we are continuing to host and book new events. As a result of an increase in cases of a COVID-19 variant, select bookings were postponed or cancelled at our venues in the second and third quarters of Fiscal Year 2022. Variants of COVID-19 that arise in the future may result in additional postponements or cancellations of bookings at our venues.
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our operations also included the partial cancellation of the 2021 production of the Christmas Spectacular and the cancellation of the 2020 production of the Christmas Spectacular.
The Company has long-term arena license agreements (the Arena License Agreements) with Madison Square Garden Sports Corp. (MSG Sports), formerly known as The Madison Square Garden Company, that require the Knicks and Rangers to play their home games at The Garden. As discussed above, capacity restrictions, use limitations and social distancing requirements were in place for the entirety of the Knicks and Rangers 2020-21 regular seasons, which materially impacted the payments we received under the Arena License Agreements for Fiscal Year 2021. On July 1, 2021, the Knicks and Rangers began paying the full amounts provided for under their respective Arena License Agreements. The Knicks and the Rangers each completed their 2021-2022 82-game regular seasons, with the Rangers advancing to the playoffs.
It is unclear to what extent COVID-19 concerns, including with respect to new variants, could result in new government- or league-mandated capacity restrictions or vaccination/mask requirements or impact the use of and/or demand for our venues, demand for our sponsorship and signage assets, deter our employees and vendors from working at our venues (which may lead to difficulties in staffing) or otherwise materially impact our operations.
Our Strengths
| Strong position in live entertainment through: |
| A portfolio of world-renowned venues; and |
| Marquee live entertainment brands and content; |
| Significant presence in the New York market the nations number one Designated Market Area (DMA); |
| Deep industry relationships that drive top-tier performers and a wide variety of events to the Companys venues; |
| Proven track record of delivering significant value for partners through innovative sponsorships and premium hospitality; |
| Reputation for world-class customer experience driven by decades of expertise in sales and marketing, and venue operations; |
| Expertise in utilizing data to drive decisions to maximize revenue and the experience of our guests; |
| Long-term agreements to host home games at The Garden for two of the most recognized franchises in professional sports the Knicks and the Rangers; and a |
| Strong and seasoned management team. |
2
Our Strategy
Our strategy is to create world-class live experiences for our guests and partners by leveraging (i) our Companys unique portfolio of live entertainment assets and brands; (ii) our expertise in venue management, bookings and productions, sponsorship, ticketing, marketing and premium hospitality, and content development; (iii) our deep relationships across the entertainment and sports industries; and (iv) our strong connection with diverse and passionate audiences. We believe this strategy will enable us to generate long-term value creation for our shareholders.
Key components of our strategy include:
| Maximizing the live entertainment experience for our customers. We use the strength of our venues, expertise and relationships to attract top talent and deliver unforgettable experiences for our guests. We have a track record of designing world-class facilities with top-quality amenities, including our renovations of The Garden, Radio City Music Hall, and the Beacon Theatre. We also continue to explore new ways to use technology to improve the guest experience. From the way our customers buy food, beverage and merchandise, to how we market and process their tickets, to utilizing next-generation audio technology in our venues, we strive to give our customers the best experience in the industry. We believe this approach will enable us to drive improvements in per-event revenue and profitability at our venues and help create a seamless and memorable guest experience that will help drive repeat visitation to our venues. |
| Increasing the utilization of our venues. Part of what drives our success is our artist first approach. Through dedicated artist areas and top-tier service, our talent-friendly environment not only attracts artists to our venues, but also brings them back for repeat performances. Another part of this approach is how we use our diverse collection of venues. With seating capacities and configurations that range from 2,800 to 21,000, our venue portfolio enables us to shepherd artists through the growth in their careers, helping us develop deeper industry relationships. We will continue to use this artist first approach to attract the industrys top talent with the goal of increasing utilization across all our venues through more multi-night concerts, as well as more marquee special events. We also plan to continue exploring opportunities for new events that would be unique to our venues, including high-profile residencies that would help build our base of events. |
| Delivering unrivaled marketing exposure for our partners. Our assets are highly sought after by companies that value the popularity of our venues and entertainment brands. Our value proposition is further strengthened by our sponsorship sales representation agreement with MSG Sports which enables us to deliver broad-based marketing platforms that combine our assets with MSG Sports professional sports brands. We plan to continue utilizing this integrated approach to both renew and extend our relationships with existing partners, as well as to form partnerships with leading companies in emerging industries and in industry verticals where we are currently underpenetrated. We also offer our partners expanded reach through outdoor signage around the Madison Square Garden Complex and Pennsylvania Station (Penn Station), a major commuter hub in Manhattan. We plan to selectively explore additional opportunities to grow our external signage portfolio, which could increase our existing marketing partnerships packages as well as attract new partners. |
| Offering best-in-class premium hospitality products. The Company offers a wide array of premium corporate hospitality offerings that cater to a variety of audiences. For example, The Garden has a range of suite and club products, including 21 Event Level suites, 58 Lexus Level suites, 18 Infosys Level suites, the Caesars Sportsbook Lounge, Suite Sixteen and the HUB Loft. These suites and clubs which provide exclusive private spaces, first-class amenities and some of the best seats in The Garden are primarily licensed to corporate customers with the majority being multi-year agreements with annual escalators. Through our Arena License Agreements with the Knicks and Rangers, we also offer suite holders access to MSG Sports premium live sporting events. We believe the strength of our product and content offerings, along with the continued importance of corporate hospitality to our partners, position us well with regard to |
3
ongoing renewal and new sales activity. We also plan to explore enhancing and expanding our premium hospitality offerings, which would create new monetization opportunities for the Company. |
| Understanding our customers. We continue to forge direct relationships with customers and fans, with a focus on understanding how consumers interact with every aspect of the Company. A key component of this strategy is our large and growing proprietary database of millions of customers. The data we collect from our venues and digital products provides the Company with significant insights into our customers, including who is utilizing our digital assets and attending events at our venues. In addition to providing value for our marketing partners, these insights are leveraged to help drive revenue and engagement across our assets, providing us with an opportunity to tailor offerings and cross-promote our products and services, introducing customers to our wide range of assets and brands. We also plan to increasingly use data to proactively identify potential bookings for our venues. |
| Exploring opportunities to expand proprietary entertainment content. We plan to selectively explore opportunities to create new live entertainment content, including by leveraging owned intellectual property like the Radio City Rockettes (the Rockettes). This would enable us to benefit from the economics of being both content owner and venue operator. Additional owned content would also make us less reliant on third-party events to drive utilization of our venues. |
Key Challenges
Following the Distribution, we may face a number of challenges, both pre-existing and as a result of the Distribution, including:
| Intense competition in the market and industry in which we operate, including with other leisure-time activities such as television, motion pictures and sporting events and other live performances, and concert venues; |
| Dependence upon the continued popularity of the entertainment and sporting events presented in our venues and our existing brands (including the Christmas Spectacular and the National Basketball Associations (NBA) New York Knicks and the National Hockey Leagues (NHL) New York Rangers), which are sensitive to customer tastes, and our ability to attract popular artists, groups and events to our venues; |
| Effectively managing any impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic (including COVID-19 variants) as well as renewed actions taken in response by governmental authorities or certain professional sports leagues, including ensuring compliance with rules and regulations imposed upon our venues, to the extent applicable; |
| Significantly levered balance sheet and liquidity restraints imposed by interest and principal payments as well as a high cost of capital; |
| Lack of an operating history as a stand-alone public company; |
| Strength or weakness of, as well as volatility and less predictability in, our operating results and cash flow because the Companys results will no longer include cash flows from MSG Networks Inc. (MSG Networks) and Tao Group Hospitality; and |
| Volatility in the market price and trading volume of our common stock. The market price for our common stock could fluctuate significantly for many reasons following the Distribution, including the lack of an existing public market for our stock, the information set forth under Risk Factors and other reasons unrelated to our performance. |
See the section entitled Risk Factors for more information on each of these key challenges.
4
Organizational Structure
The following charts depict a simplified graphical representation of the Companys corporate structure before and after the Distribution. The shares issued in the Distribution will represent approximately 67% of our common stock and MSG Entertainment (to be renamed Sphere Entertainment Co.) will retain approximately 33% of our common stock immediately following the Distribution in the form of Class A Common Stock. MSG Entertainment will not own any of our Class B Common Stock following the Distribution. The shares issued in the Distribution will include approximately 62% of the outstanding shares of Class A Common Stock (the holders of which will have the right to collectively elect 25% of our Board of Directors, rounded up to the nearest whole number of directors) and 100% of the outstanding shares of Class B Common Stock (the holders of which will have the right to collectively elect the remaining 75% of our Board of Directors). As a result, the shares issued in the Distribution will represent at least 90% of the combined voting power of the outstanding common stock with respect to the election of directors. The Dolan family, including trusts for the benefit of members of the Dolan family (collectively, the Dolan Family Group) will collectively own all of our Class B Common Stock, approximately 3.6% of our outstanding Class A Common Stock and approximately 61.6% of the total voting power of all our outstanding common stock (in each case, inclusive of exercisable options).
Before the Distribution:
5
After the Distribution:
Company Information
We are a Delaware corporation with our principal executive offices at Two Pennsylvania Plaza, New York, NY 10121. Our telephone number is +1 (212) 465-6000, our website is www.msgentertainment.com. Spinco is a holding company and conducts substantially all of its operations through its subsidiaries.
Spinco was incorporated on September 15, 2022 and is a direct, wholly-owned subsidiary of MSG Entertainment. MSG Entertainments board of directors approved the Distribution on March 29, 2023. Prior to the Distribution, the Company will acquire the subsidiary of MSG Entertainment that owns, directly and indirectly, the subsidiaries, businesses and other assets described in this information statement. Where we describe in this information statement our business activities, we do so as if these transfers have already occurred.
On or prior to the Distribution, Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. will change its name to Sphere Entertainment Co. and MSGE Spinco, Inc. will change its name to Madison Square Garden
6
Entertainment Corp. Our Class A Common Stock has been approved for listing on the NYSE under the symbol MSGE and Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. (renamed Sphere Entertainment Co.) will change its symbol on the NYSE to SPHR in connection with the Distribution. We will not list our Class B Common Stock on any securities exchange.
7
SUMMARY OF RISK FACTORS
Ownership of our common stock is subject to numerous risks, including the Distribution, that could adversely affect our business, operations and financial results. The following list of risk factors is not exhaustive. Please read the information in the section entitled Risk Factors for a more thorough description of these and other risks.
Risks Related to Our Business
| Our business faces intense and wide-ranging competition that may have a material negative effect on our business and results of operations. |
| The success of our business depends on the continued popularity of the Christmas Spectacular production, and the entertainment and sporting events we host at our venues. |
| Our operations and operating results were, and may in the future be, materially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and actions taken in response by governmental authorities and certain professional sports leagues. |
| We depend on licenses from third parties for the performance of musical works at our venues. |
| Our properties are subject to, and benefit from, certain easements, the availability of which may not continue on terms favorable to us or at all. |
| A change to or withdrawal of a New York City real estate tax exemption for the Madison Square Garden Complex may have a material negative effect on our business and results of operations. |
| We have extended credit to MSG Entertainment, which is a highly leveraged business, on an unsecured basis, and a default on the loan could impact our results of operations and cash flows. |
Economic and Operational Risks
| Our business has been adversely impacted and may, in the future, be materially adversely impacted by an economic downturn, recession, financial instability, inflation or changes in consumer tastes and preferences. |
| We do not own all of our venues and our failure to renew our leases on economically attractive terms may have a material negative effect on our business and results of operations. |
| The geographic concentration of our business could subject us to greater risk than our competitors and have a material negative effect on our business and results of operations. |
| Our business could be adversely affected by terrorist activity or the threat of terrorist activity, weather and other conditions that discourage congregation at prominent places of public assembly. |
| We are subject to extensive governmental regulation and our failure to comply with these regulations may have a material negative effect on our business and results of operations. |
| Labor matters may have a material negative effect on our business and results of operations. |
Risks Related to Indebtedness; Financial Condition; Internal Control; Cybersecurity and Intellectual Property
| We have substantial indebtedness and are highly leveraged, which could adversely affect our business. |
| We have and could in the future incur substantial operating losses, adjusted operating losses and negative cash flow. |
| We face continually evolving cybersecurity and similar risk, which could result in loss, disclosure, theft, destruction or misappropriation of, or access to, our confidential information and cause disruption of our business, damage to our brands and reputation, legal exposure and financial losses. |
| Theft of our intellectual property may have a material negative effect on our business and results of operations. |
8
Risks Related to the Spin-off Transaction
| Because there has not been any public market for our common stock, the market price and trading volume of our common stock may be volatile and you may not be able to resell your shares at or above the initial market price of our stock following the distribution. In addition, future stock sales, including as a result of the exercise of registration rights by certain of our stockholders, could adversely affect the trading price of our Class A Common Stock. |
| The combined post-distribution value of MSG Entertainment and Spinco shares may not equal or exceed the pre-distribution value of MSG Entertainment shares, and we may incur material costs and expenses as a result of our separation from MSG Entertainment. |
| The distribution could result in significant tax liability, and we may have a significant indemnity obligation to MSG Entertainment if the distribution is treated as a taxable transaction. |
| The tax rules applicable to the distribution may restrict us from engaging in certain corporate transactions or from raising equity capital beyond certain thresholds for a period of time after the distribution. |
| Certain adverse U.S. federal income tax consequences might apply to non-U.S. holders that hold our Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock after the distribution if we are treated as a United States real property holding corporation (USRPHC). |
| We do not have an operating history as a stand-alone public company and our historical financial results and our unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial statements may not be representative of our results as a separate, stand-alone company. |
| If applicable, following the Distribution, if we are unable to satisfy the requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, as amended (the Sarbanes-Oxley Act), or our internal control over financial reporting is not effective, the reliability of our financial statements may be questioned and our stock price may suffer. |
| We will share certain key directors and officers with MSG Entertainment, MSG Sports and/or AMC Networks, which means those officers will not devote their full time and attention to our affairs and the overlap may give rise to conflicts. These overlaps may result in the diversion of corporate opportunities and other conflicts, and provisions in our amended and restated certificate of incorporation may provide us no remedy in that circumstance. |
9
Please see The Distribution for a more detailed description of the matters described below.
Distributing Company |
MSG Entertainment, a live entertainment and media company, which is comprised of iconic venues, marquee entertainment content, award-winning regional sports and entertainment networks. In addition to the Entertainment business that is being transferred to Spinco, MSG Entertainment also owns and operates the MSG Sphere business under its Entertainment business segment, the MSG Networks business segment and the Tao Group Hospitality business segment. |
Distributed Company |
Spinco, a wholly-owned subsidiary of MSG Entertainment, which will own and operate the Entertainment business segment, excluding MSG Sphere, currently owned and operated by MSG Entertainment, as described in this information statement. Please see Business and Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations for information concerning this business. |
Distribution Ratio |
Each holder of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock will receive a distribution of one share of our Class A Common Stock for every one share of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock held on the record date and each holder of MSG Entertainment Class B Common Stock will receive a distribution of one share of our Class B Common Stock for every one share of MSG Entertainment Class B Common Stock held on the record date. |
Securities to be Distributed |
Based on 27,692,030 shares of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock and 6,866,754 shares of MSG Entertainment Class B Common Stock outstanding on March 24, 2023, approximately 27,692,030 shares of our Class A Common Stock and 6,866,754 shares of our Class B Common Stock will be distributed. The shares issued in the Distribution will represent approximately 67% of our common stock and MSG Entertainment will retain approximately 33% of our common stock immediately following the Distribution in the form of Class A Common Stock. MSG Entertainment will not own any of our Class B Common Stock following the Distribution. The shares issued in the Distribution will include approximately 62% of the outstanding shares of Class A Common Stock (the holders of which will have the right to collectively elect 25% of our Board of Directors, rounded up to the nearest whole number of directors) and 100% of the outstanding shares of Class B Common Stock (the holders of which will have the right to collectively elect the remaining 75% of our Board of Directors). As a result, the shares issued in the Distribution will represent at least 90% of the combined voting power of the outstanding common stock with respect to the election of directors. MSG Entertainment stockholders will not be required to pay for the shares of our common stock to be received by them in the Distribution, or to surrender or exchange shares of MSG Entertainment common stock in order to receive our common stock, or to take any other action in connection with the Distribution. |
10
Fractional Shares |
Fractional shares of our common stock will not be distributed. Fractional shares of our Class A Common Stock will be aggregated and sold in the public market by the transfer and distribution agent and stockholders will receive a cash payment in lieu of a fractional share. Similarly, fractional shares of our Class B Common Stock will be aggregated, converted to Class A Common Stock, and sold in the public market by the transfer and distribution agent. The aggregate net cash proceeds of these sales will be distributed ratably to the stockholders who would otherwise have received fractional interests. These proceeds generally will be taxable to those stockholders. |
Distribution Agent, Transfer Agent and Registrar for the Shares |
EQ Shareowner Services will be the distribution agent, transfer agent and registrar for the shares of our common stock. |
Record Date |
The record date is the close of business, New York City time, on April 14, 2023. |
Distribution Date |
11:59 p.m., New York City time, on April 20, 2023. |
Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Distribution |
MSG Entertainment expects to obtain an opinion from Sullivan & Cromwell LLP substantially to the effect that, among other things, the distribution by MSG Entertainment of our Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock to the holders of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock and MSG Entertainment Class B Common Stock, respectively (i.e., the Distribution), should qualify as a tax-free distribution under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the Code). For U.S. federal income tax purposes, the Distribution is not expected to result in the recognition of gain to MSG Entertainment with respect to the distribution of our Class A Common Stock or our Class B Common Stock to the MSG Entertainment stockholders and, except to the extent a stockholder receives cash in lieu of fractional shares of our common stock, no income, gain or loss should be recognized by, and no amount should be included in the income of, such holder upon the receipt of shares of our common stock pursuant to the Distribution. The opinion will not be binding on the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) or the courts. See The Distribution Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Distribution below. Certain transactions related to the Distribution that are not addressed (or expected to be addressed) by the opinion could result in the recognition of income or gain by MSG Entertainment. The opinion will rely on factual representations and reasonable assumptions, which, if incorrect or inaccurate, may jeopardize the ability to rely on such opinion. MSG Entertainment will be required by applicable tax rules to dispose of the retained shares within a fixed period of time, which may occur through a series of steps including sales, exchange offers or pro rata distributions. |
11
Stock Exchange Listing |
There is not currently a public market for our common stock. Our Class A Common Stock has been approved for listing on the NYSE. Our Class A Common Stock will trade under the symbol MSGE and Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. (renamed Sphere Entertainment Co.) will change its symbol on the NYSE to SPHR in connection with the Distribution. It is anticipated that trading will commence on a when-issued basis prior to the Distribution. On the first trading day following the date of the Distribution, when-issued trading in respect of our Class A Common Stock will end and regular way trading will begin. Our Class B Common Stock will not be listed on any securities exchange. |
Relationship Between MSG Entertainment and Us After the Distribution |
Following the Distribution, we will be a separate public company. MSG Entertainment will initially own approximately 38% of the outstanding Class A Common Stock, representing an approximately 33% economic interest in us. MSG Entertainment will not own any of our Class B Common Stock following the Distribution. Prior to the Distribution, we and MSG Entertainment will enter into a distribution agreement (the Distribution Agreement) and several ancillary agreements for the purpose of accomplishing the distribution of our common stock to MSG Entertainments common stockholders. These agreements also will govern our relationship with MSG Entertainment subsequent to the Distribution and provide for the allocation of employee benefit, tax and some other liabilities and obligations attributable to periods prior to, at and after the Distribution. These agreements also will include arrangements with respect to transition services (the Transition Services Agreement) and a number of on-going commercial relationships. The Distribution Agreement includes an agreement that we and MSG Entertainment will provide each other with appropriate indemnities with respect to liabilities arising out of the business being transferred to us by MSG Entertainment. We will also be party to other arrangements with MSG Sports, MSG Entertainment and each entitys subsidiaries. See Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions Relationship Between MSG Entertainment and Us After the Distribution. |
Overlapping Directors and Officers and Potential Conflicts of Interest |
Following the Distribution, there will be an overlap between an officer of the Company, MSG Sports and MSG Entertainment. James L. Dolan will serve as the Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of both the Company and MSG Entertainment and as the Executive Chairman of MSG Sports. James L. Dolan also currently serves as Non-Executive Chairman of AMC Networks Inc. (AMC Networks), a company controlled by the Dolan family. In addition, Gregg G. Seibert will serve as a Vice Chairman of the Company, MSG Sports, MSG Entertainment and AMC Networks and Charles F. Dolan will serve as Chairman Emeritus of AMC Networks concurrently with his service on our Board of Directors (the Board |
12
of Directors or the Board). Furthermore, immediately following the Distribution, we expect nine of the members of the Board of Directors will also serve as directors of MSG Entertainment, nine will serve as directors of MSG Sports and five will serve as directors of AMC Networks (each of MSG Entertainment, MSG Sports and AMC Networks is referred to as an Other Entity), including our Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, who serves as the Non-Executive Chairman of AMC Networks. |
There will be no overlap of Class A Directors as between MSG Entertainment and the Company. |
The overlapping directors and officers may have actual or apparent conflicts of interest with respect to matters involving or affecting each company. In addition, after the Distribution, certain of our directors and officers will continue to own stock and/or stock options or other equity awards of an Other Entity. These ownership interests could create actual, apparent or potential conflicts of interest when these individuals are faced with decisions that could have different implications for our Company and an Other Entity. |
The Companys amended and restated certificate of incorporation will acknowledge that directors and officers of the Company may also be serving as directors, officers, employees or agents of an Other Entity (the Overlap Persons), and that the Company may engage in material business transactions with such Other Entities. The Company will renounce its rights to certain business opportunities and the Companys amended and restated certificate of incorporation will provide that no Overlap Person will be liable to the Company or its stockholders for breach of any fiduciary duty that would otherwise occur by reason of the fact that any such individual directs a corporate opportunity (other than certain limited types of opportunities set forth in our amended and restated certificate of incorporation) to one or more of the Other Entities instead of the Company, or does not refer or communicate information regarding such corporate opportunities to the Company. These provisions in our amended and restated certificate of incorporation will also expressly validate certain contracts, agreements, arrangements and transactions (and amendments, modifications or terminations thereof) between the Company and the Other Entities and, to the fullest extent permitted by law, will provide that the actions of the Overlap Persons in connection therewith are not breaches of fiduciary duties owed to the Company, any of its subsidiaries or their respective stockholders. |
See Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions Certain Relationships and Potential Conflicts of Interest and Description of Capital Stock Certain Corporate Opportunities and Conflicts. |
Control by Dolan Family |
Following the Distribution, we will be controlled by the Dolan Family Group. We have been informed that the Dolan Family Group will |
13
enter into a stockholders agreement (the Stockholders Agreement) relating, among other things, to the voting of its shares of our Class B Common Stock. As a result, following the Distribution, we will be a controlled company under the corporate governance rules of the NYSE. Our Board of Directors has elected not to comply with the NYSE requirements for a majority-independent board of directors and an independent corporate governance and nominating committee because of our status as a controlled company. The Dolan Family Group also controls MSG Entertainment, MSG Sports and AMC Networks. See Risk Factors Risks Related to the Spin-off Transaction We Are Controlled by the Dolan Family. As a Result of Their Control, the Dolan Family Has the Ability to Prevent or Cause a Change in Control or Approve, Prevent or Influence Certain Actions by the Company. Immediately following the Distribution, nine of the members of our Board of Directors will be members of the Dolan family. |
Post-Distribution Dividend Policy |
We do not expect to pay any cash dividends on our common stock in the foreseeable future. All decisions regarding the payment of dividends will be made by our Board of Directors from time to time in accordance with applicable law. |
Risk Factors |
Stockholders should carefully consider the matters discussed under Risk Factors. |
14
SELECTED HISTORICAL AND UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED FINANCIAL DATA
The historical operating and balance sheet data included in the following selected financial data table have been derived from the unaudited combined financial statements as of December 31, 2022 and June 30, 2022 and for the six months ended December 31, 2022 and 2021 and the audited combined financial statements as of June 30, 2022 and 2021 and for the three years ended June 30, 2022, 2021 and 2020 included elsewhere in this information statement. The historical financial information presented below does not necessarily reflect what our results of operations and financial position would have been if we had operated as a separate publicly-traded entity during those periods. The selected historical financial data presented below should be read in conjunction with the combined financial statements included elsewhere in this information statement and with Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
Also set forth below are summary unaudited pro forma combined balance sheet data as of December 31, 2022 and summary unaudited pro forma combined statements of operations data for the six months ended December 31, 2022 and the year ended June 30, 2022. The unaudited pro forma condensed combined balance sheet information has been prepared giving effect to the distribution as if this transaction had occurred as of December 31, 2022. The unaudited pro forma condensed combined statements of operations have been prepared giving effect to the distribution as if this transaction had occurred on July 1, 2021. The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information also reflects certain assumptions that we believe are reasonable given the information currently available. The unaudited pro forma financial information does not purport to represent what the Companys financial position and results of operations actually would have been had the Distribution occurred on the dates indicated, or to project the Companys financial performance for any future period. See Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Information for more information.
15
Pro Forma Combined | Historical | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Six Months Ended December 31, 2022 |
Year Ended June 30, 2022 |
Six Months Ended December 31, |
Years Ended June 30, | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
2022 | 2021 | 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
(in thousands, except per share information) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Operating Data: |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Revenues |
$ | 502,332 | $ | 653,490 | $ | 502,332 | $ | 281,162 | $ | 653,490 | $ | 81,812 | $ | 584,601 | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||
Operating income (loss) |
76,846 | (70,162 | ) | 102,134 | (15,931 | ) | (5,648 | ) | (237,288 | ) | 225,332 | |||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||
Net income (loss) |
52,466 | (202,831 | ) | 78,807 | (58,369 | ) | (136,200 | ) | (219,308 | ) | 170,659 | |||||||||||||||||
Less: Net loss attributable to nonredeemable noncontrolling interests |
(553 | ) | (2,864 | ) | (553 | ) | (367 | ) | (2,864 | ) | (694 | ) | (1,071 | ) | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||
Net income (loss) attributable to Spincos stockholders |
53,019 | (199,967 | ) | 79,360 | (58,002 | ) | (133,336 | ) | (218,614 | ) | 171,730 | |||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||
Balance Sheet Data: |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total assets |
1,398,847 | 1,548,961 | 1,526,701 | 1,697,289 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total debt, net of deferred financing costs |
664,647 | 664,647 | 663,674 | 617,785 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total Spinco divisional equity (deficit) |
(51,225 | ) | 98,889 | (1,475 | ) | 495,902 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Pro forma earnings (loss) per share: |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Basic |
$ | 1.03 | $ | (3.91 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Diluted |
$ | 1.03 | $ | (3.91 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Pro forma weighted-average common shares outstanding: |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Basic |
51,558 | 51,127 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Diluted |
51,624 | 51,127 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Non-GAAP Financial measures (a) |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Adjusted operating income (loss) |
$ | 110,649 | $ | 11,637 | $ | 137,798 | $ | 26,418 | $ | 79,095 | $ | (123,384 | ) | $ | 92,250 |
(a) | See Adjusted operating income (loss) (AOI) below. |
16
Pro Forma Combined | Historical | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Six Months Ended December 31, 2022 |
Year Ended June 30, 2022 |
Six Months Ended December 31, |
Years Ended June 30, | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
2022 | 2021 | 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
(in thousands) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other Financial Data: |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Reconciliation of Operating income (loss) to Adjusted operating income (loss): |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Operating income (loss) |
$ | 76,846 | $ | (70,162 | ) | $ | 102,134 | $ | (15,931 | ) | $ | (5,648 | ) | $ | (237,288 | ) | $ | 225,332 | ||||||||||
Non-cash portion of arena license fees from MSG Sports (a) |
(12,929 | ) | (27,754 | ) | (12,929 | ) | (11,889 | ) | (27,754 | ) | (13,026 | ) | | |||||||||||||||
Share-based compensation expense |
12,104 | 34,802 | 13,965 | 21,079 | 37,746 | 40,663 | 26,110 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
31,571 | 69,534 | 31,571 | 33,159 | 69,534 | 71,576 | 81,591 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Restructuring charges |
7,359 | 5,171 | 7,359 | | 5,171 | 14,691 | | |||||||||||||||||||||
Gains, net on dispositions |
(4,412 | ) | | (4,412 | ) | | | | (240,783 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
Amortization for capitalized cloud computing arrangement costs |
104 | | 104 | | | | | |||||||||||||||||||||
Remeasurement of deferred compensation plan liabilities |
6 | 46 | 6 | | 46 | | | |||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||
Adjusted operating income (loss) |
$ | 110,649 | $ | 11,637 | $ | 137,798 | $ | 26,418 | $ | 79,095 | $ | (123,384 | ) | $ | 92,250 | |||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | This adjustment represents the non-cash portion of operating lease revenue related to the Companys Arena License Agreements with MSG Sports. Pursuant to GAAP, recognition of operating lease revenue is recorded on a straight-line basis over the term of the agreement based upon the value of total future payments under the arrangement. As a result, operating lease revenue is comprised of a contractual cash component plus or minus a non-cash component for each period presented. Operating income on a GAAP basis includes lease income of (i) $20,220 and $17,293 of revenue collected in cash for the six months ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively, and (ii) a non-cash portion of $12,929 and $11,889 for the six months ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively. For Fiscal Years 2022, 2021 and 2020, operating income on a GAAP basis includes lease income of (i) $40,319, $8,319 and nil, respectively, collected in cash, and (ii) a non-cash portion of $27,754, $13,026 and nil, respectively. |
Adjusted operating income (loss) (AOI)
The Company evaluates performance based on several factors, of which the key financial measure is adjusted operating income (loss), a non-GAAP financial measure. We define adjusted income (loss) as operating income (loss) excluding:
(i) | the impact of non-cash straight-line leasing revenue associated with the Arena License Agreements with MSG Sports, |
(ii) | depreciation, amortization and impairments of property and equipment, goodwill and intangible assets, |
(iii) | amortization for capitalized cloud computing arrangement costs, |
17
(iv) | share-based compensation expense, |
(v) | restructuring charges or credits, |
(vi) | merger and acquisition-related costs, including litigation expenses, |
(vii) | gains or losses on sales or dispositions of businesses and associated settlements, |
(viii) | the impact of purchase accounting adjustments related to business acquisitions, and |
(ix) | gains and losses related to the remeasurement of liabilities under MSG Entertainments Executive Deferred Compensation Plan (which was established in November 2021). |
The Company believes that given the length of the Arena License Agreements and resulting magnitude of the difference in leasing revenue recognized and cash revenue received, the exclusion of non-cash leasing revenue provides investors with a clearer picture of the Companys operating performance. Management believes that this adjustment is beneficial for other incremental reasons as well. This adjustment provides senior management, investors and analysts with important information regarding a long-term related party agreement with MSG Sports. In addition, this adjustment is included under the Companys debt covenant compliance calculations and is a component of the performance measures used to evaluate, and compensate, senior management of the Company. The Company believes that the exclusion of share-based compensation expense or benefit allows investors to better track the performance of the Companys business without regard to the settlement of an obligation that is not expected to be made in cash. The Company eliminates merger and acquisition-related costs, when applicable, because the Company does not consider such costs to be indicative of the ongoing operating performance of the Company as they result from an event that is of a non-recurring nature, thereby enhancing comparability. In addition, management believes that the exclusion of gains and losses related to the remeasurement of liabilities under the MSG Entertainments Executive Deferred Compensation Plan, which were included for the first time in Fiscal Year 2022, provides investors with a clearer picture of the Companys operating performance given that, in accordance with GAAP, gains and losses related to the remeasurement of liabilities under the MSG Entertainments Executive Deferred Compensation Plan are recognized in Operating (income) loss whereas gains and losses related to the remeasurement of the assets under the MSG Entertainments Executive Deferred Compensation Plan, which are equal to and therefore fully offset the gains and losses related to the remeasurement of liabilities, are recognized in Other income (expense), net, which is not reflected in Operating income (loss).
The Company believes AOI is an appropriate measure for evaluating the operating performance of the Company on a combined basis. AOI and similar measures with similar titles are common performance measures used by investors and analysts to analyze the Companys performance. The Company uses revenues and AOI measures as the most important indicators of its business performance and evaluates managements effectiveness with specific reference to these indicators.
AOI should be viewed as a supplement to and not a substitute for operating income (loss), net income (loss), cash flows from operating activities, and other measures of performance and/or liquidity presented in accordance with GAAP. Since AOI is not a measure of performance calculated in accordance with GAAP, this measure may not be comparable to similar measures with similar titles used by other companies. The Company has presented the components that reconcile operating income (loss), the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure, to AOI.
18
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT THE DISTRIBUTION
The following is a brief summary of the terms of the Distribution. Please see The Distribution for a more detailed description of the matters described below.
Q: | What is the Distribution? |
A: | The Distribution is the method by which MSG Entertainment will separate the business of our Company from MSG Entertainments other business, creating two separate, publicly traded companies. In the Distribution, MSG Entertainment will distribute to its stockholders shares of our Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock that it owns. Following the Distribution, we will be a separate company from MSG Entertainment. MSG Entertainment will continue to own approximately 38% of our outstanding Class A Common Stock (approximately 33% of our total outstanding common stock). The number of shares of MSG Entertainment common stock you own will not change as a result of the Distribution. |
Q: | What is being distributed in the Distribution? |
A: | Approximately 27,692,030 shares of our Class A Common Stock and 6,866,754 shares of our Class B Common Stock will be distributed in the Distribution, based upon the number of shares of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock and MSG Entertainment Class B Common Stock outstanding on the record date. The shares of our Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock to be distributed by MSG Entertainment will constitute approximately 62% of the issued and outstanding shares of our Class A Common Stock and all of the Class B Common Stock immediately after the Distribution. For more information on the shares being distributed in the Distribution, see Description of Capital Stock Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock. |
Q: | Which business and assets will remain with MSG Entertainment and which business and assets will transfer to the Company? |
A: | Following the Distribution, the Company will include: |
| A diverse collection of venues: The Garden, The Theater at Madison Square Garden, Radio City Music Hall, the Beacon Theatre, and The Chicago Theatre; |
| The entertainment and sports bookings business, which showcases a broad array of compelling concerts, family shows and special events, as well as a diverse mix of sporting events, for millions of guests annually; |
| Long-term Arena License Agreements with the New York Knicks and New York Rangers, which require both teams to play their home games exclusively at The Garden; |
| The Radio City Rockettes and Christmas Spectacular production; and |
| approximately $50 million in cash. |
Following the Distribution, MSG Entertainment will include:
| Sphere, which are planned state-of-the-art venues that will employ cutting-edge technology and multi-sensory storytelling to deliver immersive experiences on an unparalleled scale. The first Sphere is under construction in Las Vegas and is expected to open in the second half of calendar 2023; |
| MSG Networks, which owns two regional sports and entertainment networks, MSG Network and MSG Sportsnet, as well as a companion streaming service, MSG GO, and other digital properties; |
| Majority interest in Tao Group Hospitality, a global entertainment dining and nightlife provider; |
19
| an approximately 33% economic interest in the Company (for the avoidance of doubt, MSG Entertainment will not own any of the Companys Class B Common Stock following the Distribution); and |
| approximately $330 million in cash. |
Q: | What will I receive in the Distribution? |
A: | Holders of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock will receive a distribution of one share of our Class A Common Stock for every one share of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock held by them on the record date, and holders of MSG Entertainment Class B Common Stock will receive a distribution of one share of our Class B Common Stock for every one share of MSG Entertainment Class B Common Stock held by them on the record date. As a result of the Distribution, your proportionate interest in MSG Entertainment will not change. For a more detailed description, see The Distribution. |
Q: | What is the record date for the Distribution? |
A: | Record ownership will be determined as of the close of business, New York City time, on April 14, 2023, which we refer to as the record date. The person in whose name shares of MSG Entertainment common stock are registered as of the close of business on the record date is the person to whom shares of the Companys common stock will be issued in the Distribution. As described below, if a record holder of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock sells those shares regular way after the record date and on or prior to the Distribution date, the seller will be obligated to deliver to the purchaser the shares of our common stock that are issued in respect of the transferred MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock. |
Q: | When will the Distribution occur? |
A: | Shares of our Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock will be distributed by the transfer and distribution agent, on behalf of MSG Entertainment, effective at 11:59 p.m., New York City time, on April 20, 2023, which we refer to as the Distribution date. |
Q: | What will the relationship between MSG Entertainment and us be following the Distribution? |
A: | Following the Distribution, we will be a separate public company. MSG Entertainment will initially own approximately 38% of the outstanding Class A Common Stock, representing an approximately 33% economic interest in us. In connection with the Distribution, we and MSG Entertainment have entered into a Distribution Agreement and several other agreements for the purpose of accomplishing the Distribution of our common stock to MSG Entertainments common stockholders. These agreements also govern our relationship with MSG Entertainment subsequent to the Distribution and provide for the allocation of employee benefit, tax and some other liabilities and obligations attributable to periods prior to, at and after the Distribution. These agreements also include arrangements with respect to transition services under the Transition Services Agreement and a number of ongoing commercial relationships. The Distribution Agreement provides that we and MSG Entertainment will provide each other with appropriate indemnities with respect to liabilities arising out of the business being transferred to us by MSG Entertainment. We will also be party to other arrangements with MSG Entertainment and its subsidiaries. See Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions. Following the Distribution, we and MSG Entertainment will both be controlled by the Dolan Family Group. |
Following the Distribution, there will be an overlap between an officer of the Company and MSG Entertainment. James L. Dolan will serve as the Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of both the Company and MSG Entertainment and as the Executive Chairman of MSG Sports. James L. Dolan also
20
currently serves as Non-Executive Chairman of AMC Networks. In addition, Gregg G. Seibert will serve as a Vice Chairman of the Company, MSG Sports, MSG Entertainment and AMC Networks and Charles F. Dolan will serve as Chairman Emeritus of AMC Networks concurrently with his service on our Board. Furthermore, immediately following the Distribution, we expect nine of the members of the Board of Directors of the Company will also serve as directors of MSG Entertainment, nine will serve as directors of MSG Sports and five will serve as directors of AMC Networks, including our Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, who serves as Non-Executive Chairman of AMC Networks. There will be no overlap of Class A Directors as between MSG Entertainment and the Company.
See Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions Certain Relationships and Potential Conflicts of Interest for a discussion of the policy that will be in place for dealing with potential conflicts of interest that may arise from our ongoing relationships with MSG Entertainment, MSG Sports and AMC Networks.
Q: | What voting power will current MSG Entertainment shareholders (including the Dolan Family Group) and others hold in the Company immediately following the Distribution? |
A: | In the Distribution, holders of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock will receive a distribution of one share of our Class A Common Stock for every one share of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock held by them on the record date, and holders of MSG Entertainment Class B Common Stock will receive a distribution of one share of our Class B Common Stock for every one share of MSG Entertainment Class B Common Stock held by them on the record date. The Companys Class A Common Stock is entitled to one vote per share and to collectively elect 25% of our Board of Directors, and the Companys Class B Common Stock will be entitled to ten votes per share and to collectively elect the remaining 75% of our Board of Directors. See Description of Capital Stock for more information. The Dolan Family Group will collectively own all of our Class B Common Stock, approximately 3.6% of our outstanding Class A Common Stock and approximately 61.6% of the total voting power of all our outstanding common stock (in each case, inclusive of exercisable options). As a result, the Company will be a controlled company within the meaning of the corporate governance standards of the NYSE and the Dolan Family Group will have the ability to determine all matters requiring approval by stockholders (other than the election of the Class A Directors and any matters requiring a separate vote by the holders of the Class A common stock). |
Q: | What do I have to do to participate in the Distribution? |
A: | No action is required on your part. Stockholders of MSG Entertainment on the record date for the Distribution are not required to pay any cash or deliver any other consideration, including any shares of MSG Entertainment common stock, for the shares of our common stock distributable to them in the Distribution. |
Q: | If I sell, on or before the Distribution date, shares of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock that I held on the record date, am I still entitled to receive shares of Spinco Class A Common Stock distributable with respect to the shares of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock I sold? |
A: | It depends on the market in which you sell your shares. Beginning on April 17, 2023 and continuing until the occurrence of the Distribution, MSG Entertainment expects that the MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock will trade in two markets on the NYSE: in the regular way market under the symbol MSGE and in the ex-distribution market under the symbol SPHR WI. If you own shares of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock on the record date and thereafter sell those shares regular way on or prior to the Distribution date, you will also be selling the shares of our Class A Common Stock that would have been distributed to you in the Distribution with respect to the shares of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock you sell. |
21
Conversely, a person who purchases shares of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock after the record date and on or prior to the Distribution date will be entitled to receive from the seller of those shares the shares of our Class A Common Stock issued in the Distribution with respect to the transferred MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock. |
However, if you own shares of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock on the record date and thereafter sell those shares in the ex-distribution market on or prior to the Distribution date, you will not be selling the shares of our Class A Common Stock that will be distributed to you in the Distribution with respect to the shares of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock you sell. Conversely, a person who purchases shares of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock in the ex-distribution market after the record date and on or prior to the Distribution date will not be entitled to receive from the seller of those shares the shares of our Class A Common Stock issued in the Distribution with respect to the transferred MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock.
Q: | How will fractional shares be treated in the Distribution? |
A: | If you would be entitled to receive a fractional share of our common stock in the Distribution, you will instead receive a cash payment. See The Distribution Manner of Effecting the Distribution for an explanation of how the cash payments will be determined and The Distribution Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Distribution for an explanation of the tax consequences of such cash payments. |
Q: | How will MSG Entertainment distribute shares of Spinco common stock to me? |
A: | Holders of shares of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock or MSG Entertainment Class B Common Stock on the record date will receive shares of the same class of our common stock in book entry form. See The Distribution Manner of Effecting the Distribution for a more detailed explanation. |
Q: | What is the reason for the Distribution? |
A: | The potential benefits considered by MSG Entertainments board of directors in making the determination to consummate the Distribution included the following: |
| to provide each of MSG Entertainment and the Company with increased flexibility to fully pursue and fund its business plan, including capital expenditures, investments and acquisitions that would be more difficult to consider or effectuate in the absence of the Distribution. This increased financial flexibility reflects the belief that investors in a company with the mix of assets that each of MSG Entertainment and the Company will own following the Distribution will be more receptive to strategic initiatives that MSG Entertainment and the Company may respectively pursue; |
| to increase the aggregate value of the stock of MSG Entertainment and the Company above the value that the stock of MSG Entertainment would have had if it had continued to represent an interest in both the businesses of MSG Entertainment and the Company, so as to: (i) allow each company to use its stock to pursue and achieve strategic objectives, including evaluating and effectuating acquisitions and increasing the long-term attractiveness of equity compensation programs in a significantly more efficient and effective manner with significantly less dilution to existing stockholders; and (ii) allow each company to offer a more focused investment profile to investors; and |
| to provide MSG Entertainment, through the retained equity interest, with the opportunity to raise cash proceeds for corporate purposes, including capital expenditures, and/or to use such shares for other transactions that would be advantageous for MSG Entertainment and its stockholders. These capital expenditures will include funds that will be utilized to pursue growth opportunities associated with |
22
MSG Entertainments Sphere initiative. In addition, upon the Distribution, MSG Entertainment will pledge the entire retained equity interest to secure the $275 million senior secured term loan facility of MSG Las Vegas, LLC, an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of MSG Entertainment, which was entered into on December 22, 2022. This pledge will be released once the Las Vegas Sphere has been substantially completed and certain of its systems are ready to be used in live, immersive events. The Company will have no interest, contractual or otherwise, in the Sphere venues. |
MSG Entertainments board of directors also considered several factors that might have a negative effect on MSG Entertainment as a result of the Distribution. MSG Entertainments common stock may come under initial selling pressure as certain MSG Entertainment stockholders sell their shares because they are not interested in holding an investment in MSG Entertainments remaining business. Moreover, certain factors, such as a lack of comparable public companies, may limit investors ability to appropriately value MSG Entertainments common stock. In addition, the Distribution would separate from MSG Entertainment the business and assets of the Company, which represent significant value. Because the Company will no longer be part of MSG Entertainment, the Distribution will also affect the terms upon which MSG Entertainment can pursue cross-company business transactions and initiatives with the Company. In addition, after the Distribution, MSG Entertainments results will not reflect the generally more predictable cash flow from the Entertainment business segment, which may result in more volatile and less predictable operating results and cash flow for MSG Entertainment. Finally, following the Distribution, MSG Entertainment and its remaining business will need to absorb certain corporate and administrative costs previously allocated to its Entertainment business segment.
MSG Entertainments board of directors considered certain aspects of the Distribution that may be adverse to the Company. The Companys common stock may come under initial selling pressure as certain MSG Entertainment stockholders sell their shares in the Company because they are not interested in holding an investment in the Companys business. Moreover, certain factors, such as a lack of comparable public companies, may limit investors ability to appropriately value the Companys common stock. Because the Company will no longer be part of MSG Entertainment, the Distribution will also affect the terms upon which the Company can pursue cross-company business transactions and initiatives with MSG Entertainments other businesses. In addition, after the Distribution, the Companys results will not reflect cash flow from the MSG Networks and Tao Group Hospitality businesses. As a result of the Distribution, the Company will bear significant incremental costs associated with being a publicly held company and will need to absorb certain corporate and operational support costs previously allocated to MSG Entertainment. This cost increase will be partially offset by payments that the Company will receive from MSG Entertainment resulting from the establishment of the Transition Services Agreement, which will be recorded as a reduction of operating expenses. Refer to the Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Information section for further details.
Q: | What are the federal income tax consequences to me of the Distribution? |
A: | MSG Entertainment expects to obtain an opinion from Sullivan & Cromwell LLP substantially to the effect that, among other things, the distribution by MSG Entertainment of our Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock to the holders of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock and MSG Entertainment Class B Common Stock, respectively (i.e., the Distribution), should qualify as a tax-free distribution under the Code. For U.S. federal income tax purposes, the Distribution is not expected to result in the recognition of gain to MSG Entertainment with respect to the distribution of our Class A Common Stock or our Class B Common Stock to the MSG Entertainment stockholders and, except to the extent that you receive cash in lieu of fractional shares of our common stock, you should not recognize income, gain or loss, and no amount should be included in your income upon the receipt of shares of our common stock pursuant to the Distribution. The opinion will not be binding on the IRS or the courts. See The Distribution Material |
23
U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Distribution. Certain transactions related to the Distribution that are not addressed (or expected to be addressed) by the opinion could result in the recognition of income or gain by MSG Entertainment. The opinion will rely on factual representations and reasonable assumptions, which, if incorrect or inaccurate, may jeopardize the ability to rely on such opinion. MSG Entertainment does not intend to request any ruling from the IRS as to the U.S. federal income tax consequences of the Distribution. MSG Entertainment will be required by applicable tax rules to dispose of the retained shares within a fixed period of time, which may occur through a series of steps, including sales, exchange offers or pro rata distributions. |
Q: | Does Spinco intend to pay cash dividends? |
A: | No. We do not expect to pay any cash dividends on our common stock in the foreseeable future. All decisions regarding the payment of dividends will be made by our Board of Directors from time to time in accordance with applicable law. |
Q: | How will Spinco common stock trade? |
A: | Currently, there is no public market for our common stock. Our Class A Common Stock has been approved for listing on the NYSE under the symbol MSGE (and we will change our name to Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp.) and Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. will change its symbol on the NYSE to SPHR (and be renamed Sphere Entertainment Co.) in connection with the Distribution. It is anticipated that trading will commence on a when-issued basis prior to the Distribution. On the first trading day following the Distribution date, when-issued trading in respect of our Class A Common Stock will end and regular way trading will begin. Our Class B Common Stock will not be listed on a securities exchange. |
Q: | Will the Distribution affect the trading price of my MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock? |
A: | Yes. After the initial distribution of our Class A Common Stock, the trading price of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock may be lower than the trading price of the MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock immediately prior to the Distribution. Moreover, until the market has evaluated the operations of MSG Entertainment without the operations of the Entertainment business segment (except for MSG Sphere) that was owned and operated by MSG Entertainment, the trading price of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock may fluctuate significantly. MSG Entertainment believes that the separation of the Company from MSG Entertainment offers its stockholders the greatest long-term value. However, the combined trading prices of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock and Spinco Class A Common Stock after the Distribution may be lower than the trading price of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock prior to the Distribution. See Risk Factors beginning on page 27. |
Q: | Can MSG Entertainment decide to cancel the Distribution? |
A: | Yes. The occurrence of the Distribution will be subject to certain conditions, including the final approval of the MSG Entertainment board of directors. The MSG Entertainment board of directors may, in its sole and absolute discretion, determine to impose or waive conditions to the Distribution or abandon the Distribution. If the MSG Entertainment board of directors decides to cancel the Distribution or otherwise materially amend the terms of the Distribution, MSG Entertainment will notify stockholders of such decision by issuing a press release and/or filing a current report on Form 8-K. |
24
Q: | What is the Delayed Draw Term Loan Credit Agreement, why is it being extended to MSG Entertainment and what are the risks associated with it? |
A: | Prior to or concurrently with the consummation of the Distribution, we expect to enter into the Delayed Draw Term Loan Credit Agreement with MSG Entertainment, pursuant to which our subsidiary MSG Entertainment Holdings will commit to lend on an unsecured basis up to $65 million in delayed draw term loans to MSG Entertainment for a period of 18 months following the consummation of the Distribution. The loans will provide MSG Entertainment with an additional source of liquidity if needed for funding costs related to the Sphere initiative and the refinancing of indebtedness under the MSG Networks Credit Facility (as defined below). See Certain Relationships and Related Party TransactionsDelayed Draw Term Loan Facility. |
The loans will be unsecured. No assurances can be made that MSG Entertainment will be in a position to make repayment of the loan, and accordingly, we are subject to the risk that MSG Entertainment may default on the financing that we provide. MSG Entertainment is a highly leveraged business with existing credit facilities at Tao Group Hospitality, MSG Networks and has continued to incur indebtedness, most recently when its subsidiary MSG Las Vegas, LLC entered into a credit agreement in December 2022. Our loan to MSG Entertainment will be structurally subordinated to the approximately $1.3 billion of debt of MSG Entertainments subsidiaries. MSG Entertainment continues to have significant cash needs including continued expenditures on its Sphere initiative and the expectation that it will pay down a portion of MSG Networks term loan in connection with its refinancing prior to its maturity in October 2024. MSG Entertainments ability to make payments on, repay or refinance, its debt including the financing we provided depends upon its future operating performance and execution of its business plan, which could be impacted by a recession or economic downturn, or other changes specifically affecting its business or industry. Accordingly, no assurances can be made that MSG Entertainment will be in a position to make repayment of the loan. If MSG Entertainment defaults on its loan, it could impair our assets and create losses related to such loan, and as a result, our business could be adversely affected. If we are unable to recover the principal amount of the loan from a default, there may be a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition, and liquidity. See Risk FactorsRisks Related to Our BusinessWe Have Extended Credit to MSG Entertainment, Which is a Highly Leveraged Business, on an Unsecured Basis, and a Default on the Loan Could Impact Our Results of Operations and Cash Flows.
Q: | Do I have appraisal rights? |
A: | No. Holders of MSG Entertainment common stock are not entitled to appraisal rights in connection with the Distribution. |
Q: | Who is the transfer and distribution agent for Spinco common stock? |
A: | EQ Shareowner Services, P.O. Box 64874, St. Paul, Minnesota 55164-0854. Telephone: 1-800-468-9716 (U.S. toll free) or 651-450-4064 (International). Corporate website: www.shareowneronline.com. |
Q: | Where can I get more information? |
A: | If you have questions relating to the mechanics of the Distribution of shares of Spinco common stock, you should contact the transfer and distribution agent: |
EQ Shareowner Services, P.O. Box 64874, St. Paul, Minnesota 55164-0854. Telephone: 1-800-468-9716 (U.S. toll free) or 651-450-4064 (International). Corporate website: www.shareowneronline.com.
25
If you have questions relating to the Distribution or Spinco, you should contact:
Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp.
Investor Relations Department
Two Pennsylvania Plaza
New York, NY 10121
Telephone: 1-212-631-5422
26
You should carefully consider the following risk factors and all the other information contained in this information statement in evaluating us and our common stock.
Risks Related to Our Business
Our Business Faces Intense and Wide-Ranging Competition That May Have a Material Negative Effect on Our Business and Results of Operations.
Our business competes, in certain respects and to varying degrees, with other leisure-time activities such as television, radio, motion pictures, sporting events and other live performances, the Internet, social media and social networking platforms, and online and mobile services, including sites for online content distribution, video on demand and other alternative sources of entertainment and information, in addition to competing for concerts with other event venues, for total entertainment dollars in our marketplace.
The success of our business is largely dependent on the continued success of the Christmas Spectacular, and the availability of, and our venues ability to attract, concerts, family shows, sporting events and other events, competition for which is intense, and the ability of performers to attract strong attendance at our venues. For example, The Garden, The Theater at Madison Square Garden, Radio City Music Hall and the Beacon Theatre all compete with other entertainment options in the New York City metropolitan area. The Chicago Theatre faces similar competition from other entertainment options in its market and elsewhere.
In addition, our business is highly sensitive to customer tastes and depends on our ability to attract artists and events. The success of our business depends in part upon our ability to offer live entertainment that is popular with customers. We contract with promoters and others to provide performers and events at our venues. There may be a limited number of popular artists, groups or events that can attract audiences to our venues, and our business would suffer to the extent that we are unable to continue to attract such artists, groups and events to perform at our venues. See Risks Related to Our Business Our Operations and Operating Results Were, and May in the Future be, Materially Impacted by the COVID-19 Pandemic and Actions Taken in Response by Governmental Authorities and Certain Professional Sports Leagues.
In order to maintain the competitive positions of The Garden and our other venues, we must invest on a continuous basis in state-of-the-art technology. In addition, we must maintain a competitive pricing structure for events that may be held in our venues, many of which have alternative venue options available to them in New York and other cities. We invest a substantial amount in our Christmas Spectacular to continue to attract audiences. We cannot be assured that such investments will generate revenues that are sufficient to justify our investment or even that exceed our expenses.
The Success of Our Business Depends on the Continued Popularity of the Christmas Spectacular Production, and the Sporting Events We Host at Our Venues, the Decline of Which Could Have a Material Negative Effect on Our Business and Results of Operations.
The financial results of our business are dependent on the Christmas Spectacular production, for which the 2019 production (the last production presented prior to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic) represented 22% of our revenues in Fiscal Year 2020. Fan and consumer tastes also change frequently and it is a challenge to anticipate what will be successful at any point in time. Should the popularity of the Christmas Spectacular decline (including, for example, due to customer unwillingness to travel to New York City, purchase tickets to a full-capacity indoor event, comply with safety protocols or satisfy vaccination requirements to the extent applicable, all as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic), our revenues from ticket sales and concession and merchandise sales would likely decline, and we might not be able to replace the lost revenue with revenues from other sources.
27
As a result of our commercial agreements with MSG Sports, the success of our business is also impacted in part by the popularity of MSG Sports Knicks and Rangers franchises with their fan bases and, in varying degrees, the teams achieving on-court and on-ice success, which can generate fan enthusiasm, resulting in additional suite, sponsorship, food and beverage and merchandise sales during the teams regular seasons. Furthermore, success in the regular season may qualify the Knicks and Rangers for participation in post-season playoffs, which provides us with additional revenue by increasing the number of games played by the teams at The Garden, potentially helping improve attendance in subsequent seasons and increasing the popularity of our suites and sponsorships.
Our Operations and Operating Results Were, and May in the Future be, Materially Impacted by the COVID-19 Pandemic and Actions Taken in Response by Governmental Authorities and Certain Professional Sports Leagues.
The Companys operations and operating results were materially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic (including COVID-19 variants) and actions taken in response by governmental authorities and certain professional sports leagues during Fiscal Years 2020, 2021 and 2022.
As a result of government-mandated assembly limitations and closures, all of our venues were closed beginning in March 2020 and substantially all of our business operations were suspended for the majority of Fiscal Year 2021. Use of The Garden resumed for Knicks and Rangers home games without fans in December 2020 and January 2021, respectively, and was available at 10% seating capacity from February through May 2021 subject to certain safety protocols and social distancing. As a result, the payments we received under the Arena License Agreements during this period were materially impacted. Beginning in May 2021, all of our New York venues were permitted to host guests at full capacity, subject to certain restrictions, and effective June 2021, The Chicago Theatre was permitted to host events without restrictions. Guests of our Chicago and New York venues were also subject to certain vaccination requirements until February and March 2022, respectively. During Fiscal Year 2022, we had fewer ticketed events at our venues in the first half of the fiscal year as compared with Fiscal Year 2019 (the last full fiscal year not impacted by COVID-19) due to the lead-time required to book touring acts and artists, and an increase in COVID-19 cases due to a new variant, which resulted in a number of events at our venues being cancelled or postponed in the second and third fiscal quarters. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our operations also included (i) the partial cancellation of the 2021 production of the Christmas Spectacular and (ii) the cancellation of the 2020 production of the Christmas Spectacular. As a direct response to this disruption, during Fiscal Years 2020 and 2021, the Company implemented cost savings initiatives in order to streamline operations and preserve liquidity, including furloughing our venue employees while activities were limited, reducing our full-time workforce and implementing additional comprehensive cost reduction measures, such as terminating certain third-party services, negotiating reduced rates and/or reduced service levels with third parties, pursuing targeted savings and reductions in spending on marketing and travel and entertainment, and deferring or limiting non-essential operating or other discretionary expenses. During Fiscal Years 2021 and 2020, over 90% and over 70% of the respective overall declines in our revenues were the result of the COVID-19 pandemic, in each case compared to the prior year period. While the Company substantially recovered from the COVID-19 pandemic during Fiscal Year 2022, the Company still experienced some softness in bookings and attendance, most notably at the beginning of the year along with certain event postponements and cancellations throughout the year, although not at the level of the prior two fiscal years. See Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsFactors Affecting Results of Operations.
It is unclear to what extent COVID-19 concerns, including with respect to new variants, could result in renewed government or league-mandated capacity restrictions or vaccination/mask requirements or impact the use of and/or demand for our venues, demand for our sponsorship and signage assets, deter our employees and vendors from working at our venues (which may lead to difficulties in staffing) or otherwise materially impact our operations. Governmental regulations enacted in response to the COVID-19 pandemic may impact the revenue we derive and/or the expenses we incur from events that we choose to host such that events that were historically profitable would instead result in losses. Concerns about the COVID-19 pandemic could deter artists from touring and/or substantially decrease the use of and demand for our venues. Both the NBA and NHL
28
determined to complete their 2019-20 seasons with games away from home arenas, reduce the number of regular season games for the 2020-21 seasons, and conduct the majority of the shortened 2020-21 seasons without fans in attendance, and it is possible that concerns related to COVID-19 could cause professional sports teams in the United States to play games without an audience during future seasons or to suspend, cancel or otherwise reduce the number of games scheduled in the regular reason or playoffs, which could have a material impact on the payments we receive under the Arena License Agreements. See Economic and Operational Risks We Are Subject to Extensive Governmental Regulation and Our Failure to Comply with These Regulations May Have a Material Negative Effect on Our Business and Results of Operations.
Our business is particularly sensitive to reductions in travel and discretionary consumer spending. A pandemic, such as COVID-19, could also impede economic activity in impacted regions and globally over the long term, potentially causing a global recession and leading to a further decline in discretionary spending on sports and entertainment events and other leisure activities, which could result in long-term effects on our business. To the extent the COVID-19 pandemic adversely affects our business and financial results, it may also have the effect of heightening many of the other risks described in this Risk Factors section, such as those relating to our liquidity, indebtedness and our ability to comply with the covenants contained in the agreements that govern our indebtedness.
Our Business Strategy Includes the Development of New Productions, Which Could Require Us to Make Considerable Investments for Which There Can Be No Guarantee of Success.
As part of our business strategy, we intend to develop new productions for our existing venues, which may include expansions or enhancements of our existing productions or the creation of entirely new productions. Expansion or enhancement of productions and/or the development of new productions could require significant upfront expense that may never result in a viable show, as well as investment in sets, staging, creative processes, commissioning and/or licensing of intellectual property, casting and advertising, and may lead to dislocation of other alternative sources of entertainment that may have played in our venues absent these productions. To the extent that any efforts at expanding or enhancing productions or creating new productions do not result in a viable show, or to the extent that any such productions do not achieve expected levels of popularity among audiences, we may not recover the substantial expenses we previously incurred for non-capitalized investments, or may need to write-off all or a portion of capitalized investments. In addition, any delay in launching such productions or enhancements could result in the incurrence of operating costs which may not be recouped. For example, we wrote off approximately $75.4 million of deferred production costs across Fiscal Years 2016 and 2017 related to the New York Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes.
Our Business is Highly Sensitive to Customer Tastes and Depends on Our Ability to Attract Artists and Events.
The success of our business depends in part upon our ability to offer live entertainment that is popular with customers. We contract with promoters and others to provide performers and events at our venues. There may be a limited number of popular artists, groups or events that can attract audiences to our venues, and our business would suffer to the extent that we are unable to continue to attract such artists, groups and events to perform at our venues.
We Depend on Licenses from Third Parties for the Performance of Musical Works at Our Venues, the Loss of Which or Renewal of Which on Less Favorable Terms May Have a Negative Effect on Our Business and Results of Operations.
We are required to obtain public performance licenses from music performing rights organizations, commonly known as PROs, in connection with the performance of musical works at concerts and certain other live events held at our venues. In exchange for public performance licenses, PROs are paid a per-event royalty, traditionally calculated either as a percentage of ticket revenue or a per-ticket amount. The PRO royalty obligation of any individual event is generally paid by, or charged to, the promoter of the event.
29
If we are unable to obtain these licenses, or are unable to obtain them on favorable terms consistent with past practice, it may have a negative effect on our business and results of operations. An increase in the royalty rate and/or the revenue base on which the royalty rate is applied could substantially increase the cost of presenting concerts and certain other live events at our venues. If we are no longer able to pass all or a portion of these royalties on to promoters (or other venue licensees), it may have a negative effect on our business and results of operations.
Our Properties Are Subject to, and Benefit from, Certain Easements, the Availability of Which May Not Continue on Terms Favorable to Us or at All.
Our properties are subject to, and benefit from, certain easements. For example, the breezeway into the Madison Square Garden Complex from Seventh Avenue in New York City is a significant easement that we share with other property owners. Our ability to continue to utilize these and other easements, including for advertising and promotional purposes, requires us to comply with a number of conditions. Certain adjoining property owners have easements over our property, which we are required to maintain so long as those property owners meet certain conditions. It is possible that we will be unable to continue to access or maintain any easements on terms favorable to us, or at all, which could have a material negative effect on our business and results of operations.
A Change to or Withdrawal of a New York City Real Estate Tax Exemption for the Madison Square Garden Complex May Have a Material Negative Effect on Our Business and Results of Operations.
Many arenas, ballparks and stadiums nationally and in New York City have received significant public support, such as tax exempt financing, other tax benefits, direct subsidies and other contributions, including for public infrastructure critical to the facilities such as parking lots and transit improvements. Our Madison Square Garden Complex benefits from a more limited real estate tax exemption pursuant to an agreement with the City of New York, subject to certain conditions, and legislation enacted by the State of New York in 1982. For Fiscal Year 2022, the tax exemption was $41.9 million. From time to time, there have been calls to repeal or amend the tax exemption. For example, in January 2023, a number of elected representatives issued a public letter noting the tax exemption status should be reexamined. Notwithstanding the suggestion in the public letter, any repeal or amendment of the tax exemption status would require legislative action by New York State.
We are party to Arena License Agreements with subsidiaries of MSG Sports that require two of MSG Sports professional sports teams the Knicks and Rangers to play all of their home games at The Garden. Under the Arena License Agreements, which each have a term of 35 years (unless extended), the Knicks and the Rangers pay an annual license fee in connection with their respective use of The Garden. In addition, the Arena License Agreements provide us with additional revenue opportunities. Under the Arena License Agreements, the teams are responsible for 100% of any real property or similar taxes applicable to The Garden.
If the tax exemption is repealed or the teams are otherwise subject to the property tax due to no fault of the teams, the revenue that we generate from team events will be reduced on a percentage basis as set forth in the Arena License Agreements. The value of any such revenue reduction could be significant but is expected to be substantially less than the property tax paid by the teams. There can be no assurance that the tax exemption will not be amended in a manner that imposes property tax or repealed in its entirety, either of which could have a material negative effect on our business and results of operations.
We Have Extended Credit to MSG Entertainment, Which is a Highly Leveraged Business, on an Unsecured Basis, and a Default on the Loan Could Impact Our Results of Operations and Cash Flows.
Prior to or concurrently with the consummation of the Distribution, we expect to enter into a Delayed Draw Term Loan Credit Agreement with MSG Entertainment (the DDTL Facility), pursuant to which a subsidiary of Spinco will commit to lend on an unsecured basis up to $65 million in delayed draw term loans to MSG Entertainment for a period of 18 months following the consummation of the Distribution. MSG Entertainment is
30
a highly leveraged business with existing credit facilities at Tao Group Hospitality, MSG Networks and has continued to incur indebtedness, most recently when its subsidiary MSG Las Vegas, LLC entered into a credit agreement in December 2022. Our loan to MSG Entertainment will be structurally subordinated to the approximately $1.3 billion of debt of MSG Entertainments subsidiaries. MSG Entertainment continues to have significant cash needs including continued expenditures on its Sphere initiative and the expectation that it will pay down a portion of MSG Networks term loan in connection with its refinancing prior to its maturity in October 2024. MSG Entertainments ability to make payments on, repay or refinance, its debt including the financing we provided depends upon its future operating performance and execution of its business plan, which could be impacted by a recession or economic downturn, or other changes specifically affecting its business or industry. Accordingly, no assurances can be made that MSG Entertainment will be in a position to make repayment of the loan.
If MSG Entertainment defaults on its loan, it could impair our assets and create losses related to such loan, and as a result, our business could be adversely affected. If we are unable to recover the principal amount of the loan from a default, there may be a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition, and liquidity.
Economic and Operational Risks
Our Business Has Been Adversely Impacted and May, in the Future, Be Materially Adversely Impacted by an Economic Downturn, Recession, Financial Instability, Inflation or Changes in Consumer Tastes and Preferences.
Our business depends upon the ability and willingness of consumers and businesses to purchase tickets at our venues, license suites and club memberships at The Garden, spend on food and beverages and merchandise, and drive continued sponsorship and signage revenues, and these revenues are sensitive to general economic conditions, recession, fears of recession and consumer behavior. For example, following the 2008 financial crisis, we experienced a lower level of event bookings and reduced renewals of certain of our suite licenses, which adversely affected the Companys results of operations. Further, the industry is often affected by changes in consumer tastes, national, regional and local economic conditions, discretionary spending priorities, demographic trends, traffic patterns and the type, number and location of competing businesses.
Consumer and corporate spending may decline at any time for reasons beyond our control, and the risks associated with our businesses may become more acute in periods of a slowing economy or recession, which may be accompanied by reductions in corporate sponsorship and signage and decreases in attendance at live events, among other things. In addition, inflation, which has significantly risen, has and may continue to increase operational costs, including labor costs, and continued increases in interest rates in response to concerns about inflation may have the effect of further increasing economic uncertainty and heightening these risks. As a result, instability and weakness of the U.S. and global economies, including due to the effects caused by disruptions to financial markets, inflation, recession, high unemployment, geopolitical events and other effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the negative effects on consumers and businesses discretionary spending, have and may continue to materially negatively affect our business and results of operations. A prolonged period of reduced consumer or corporate spending, including with respect to sponsorship, such as during the COVID-19 pandemic, could have an adverse effect on our business and our results of operations. See Risks Related to Our Business Our Operations and Operating Results Were, and May in the Future be, Materially Impacted by the COVID-19 Pandemic and Actions Taken in Response by Governmental Authorities and Certain Professional Sports Leagues.
We Do Not Own All of Our Venues and Our Failure to Renew Our Leases on Economically Attractive Terms May Have a Material Negative Effect on Our Business and Results of Operations.
We lease the Beacon Theatre and Radio City Music Hall under long-term leases that expire in 2036 and 2038, respectively. MSG Entertainment Group, LLC (MSG Entertainment Group), the entity that guarantees
31
the lease for Radio City Music Hall is required to maintain a certain net worth that if not maintained would require the entity to post a letter of credit or provide cash collateral. In connection with the Distribution, we expect MSG Entertainment Holdings, LLC (MSG Entertainment Holdings) to become the entity that guarantees the lease.
The Geographic Concentration of Our Business Could Subject Us to Greater Risk Than Our Competitors and Have a Material Negative Effect on Our Business and Results of Operations.
The Company primarily operates in New York City and, as a result, is subject to greater degrees of risk than competitors with more operating properties or that operate in more markets. The Garden, The Theater at Madison Square Garden, Radio City Music Hall and the Beacon Theatre are all located in New York City. Therefore, the Company is particularly vulnerable to adverse events (including acts of terrorism, natural disasters, epidemics, pandemics, weather conditions, labor market disruptions and government actions) and economic conditions in New York City and surrounding areas. For example, our operations and operating results were materially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. See Risks Related to Our Business Our Operations and Operating Results Were, and May in the Future be, Materially Impacted by the COVID-19 Pandemic and Actions Taken in Response by Governmental Authorities and Certain Professional Sports Leagues.
Our Business Could Be Adversely Affected by Terrorist Activity or the Threat of Terrorist Activity, Weather and Other Conditions That Discourage Congregation at Prominent Places of Public Assembly.
The success of our business is dependent upon the willingness and ability of patrons to attend events at our venues. The venues we operate, like all prominent places of public assembly, could be the target of terrorist activities, including acts of domestic terrorism, or other actions that discourage attendance. Any such activity or threatened activity at or near one of our venues or other similar venues, including those located elsewhere, could result in reduced attendance at our venues and a material negative effect on our business and results of operations. Similarly, a major epidemic or pandemic, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, or the threat or perceived threat of such an event, could adversely affect attendance at our events and venues by discouraging public assembly at our events and venues. Moreover, the costs of protecting against such incidents, including the costs of implementing additional protective measures for the health and safety of our guests, could reduce the profitability of our operations. See Risks Related to Our Business Our Operations and Operating Results Were, and May in the Future be, Materially Impacted by the COVID-19 Pandemic and Actions Taken in Response by Governmental Authorities and Certain Professional Sports Leagues.
Weather or other conditions, including natural disasters, in locations where we own or operate venues may affect patron attendance as well as sales of food and beverages and merchandise, among other things. Weather conditions may also require us to cancel or postpone events. Any of these events may have a material negative effect on our business and results of operations, and any such events may harm our ability to obtain or renew insurance coverage on favorable terms or at all.
We May Pursue Acquisitions and Other Strategic Transactions and/or Investments to Complement or Expand Our Business That May Not Be Successful.
From time to time, we may continue to explore opportunities to purchase or invest in other businesses, venues or assets that we believe will complement, enhance or expand our current business or that might otherwise offer us growth opportunities, including opportunities that may differ from the Companys current business. Any transactions that we are able to identify and complete may involve risks, including the commitment of significant capital, the incurrence of indebtedness, the payment of advances, the diversion of managements attention and resources from our existing business to develop and integrate the acquired or combined business, the inability to successfully integrate such business or assets into our operations, litigation or other claims in connection with acquisitions or against companies we invest in or acquire, our lack of control over certain companies, including joint ventures and other minority investments, the risk of not achieving the intended results and the exposure to losses if
32
the underlying transactions or ventures are not successful. At times, we have had significant investments in businesses that we account for under the equity method of accounting, and we may again in the future. Certain of these investments have generated operating losses in the past and certain have required additional investments from us in the form of equity or loans. There can be no assurance that these investments will become profitable individually or in the aggregate or that they will not require material additional funding from us in the future.
We may not control the day-to-day operations of these investments. We have in the past written down and, to the extent that these investments are not successful in the future, we may write down all or a portion of such investments. Additionally, these businesses may be subject to laws, rules and other circumstances, and have risks in their operations, which may be similar to, or different from, those to which we are subject. Any of the foregoing risks could result in a material negative effect on our business and results of operations or adversely impact the value of our investments.
We Are Subject to Extensive Governmental Regulation and Our Failure to Comply with These Regulations May Have a Material Negative Effect on Our Business and Results of Operations.
Our business is subject to the general powers of federal, state and local governments, as well as foreign governmental authorities. We are also subject to the rules, regulations and decisions of the NBA and NHL.
| Public Health and Safety. As a result of government mandated assembly limitations and closures implemented in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, our venues were unable to host events for the substantial majority of Fiscal Year 2021. There can be no assurance that some or all of these restrictions will not be imposed again in the future due to increased infection rates of COVID-19 or another pandemic. We are unable to predict what the long-term effects of these events, including renewed government regulations or requirements, will be. For example, future governmental regulations adopted in response to the COVID-19 pandemic may impact the revenue we derive and/or the expenses we incur from the events that we choose to host, such that events that were historically profitable would instead result in losses. See Risks Related to Our Business Our Operations and Operating Results Have Been, and May in the Future be, Materially Impacted by the COVID-19 Pandemic and Actions Taken in Response by Governmental Authorities and Certain Professional Sports Leagues. |
| Hospitality-related Permits/Licenses. We hold liquor licenses at each of our venues and are subject to licensing requirements with respect to the sale of alcoholic beverages in the jurisdictions in which we serve those beverages. Failure to receive or retain, or the suspension of, liquor licenses or permits could interrupt or terminate our ability to serve alcoholic beverages at the applicable venue and could have a material negative effect on our business and our results of operations. Additional regulation relating to liquor licenses may limit our activities in the future or significantly increase the cost of compliance, or both. In the jurisdictions in which our venues are located, we are subject to statutes that generally provide that serving alcohol to a visibly intoxicated or minor patron is a violation of the law and may provide for strict liability for certain damages arising out of such violations. Our liability insurance coverage may not be adequate or available to cover any potential liability. |
| Environmental Laws. We and our venues are subject to environmental laws and regulations relating to the use, disposal, storage, emission and release of hazardous and non-hazardous substances, as well as zoning and noise level restrictions which may affect, among other things, the operations of our venues. Compliance with these regulations and the associated costs may be heightened as a result of the purchase, construction or renovation of a venue. Additionally, certain laws and regulations could hold us strictly, jointly and severally responsible for the remediation of hazardous substance contamination at our facilities or at third-party waste disposal sites, as well as for any personal injury or property damage related to any contamination. |
| Zoning and Building Regulations. Our venues are subject to zoning and building regulations including permits relating to the operation of The Garden. The Garden requires a special zoning permit, which was originally granted by the New York City Planning Commission in 1963 and renewed in July 2013 for 10 years. Certain government officials and special interest groups sought to use the renewal process to pressure |
33
us to improve Penn Station or to relocate The Garden. There can be no assurance regarding the future renewal of the permit or the terms thereof, and the failure to obtain such renewal or to do so on favorable terms could have a negative effect on our business. |
| Data Privacy. We are subject to various data privacy and protection laws, regulations, policies and contractual obligations that apply to the collection, transmission, storage, processing and use of personal information or personal data, which, among other things, impose certain requirements relating to the privacy and security of personal information. The variety of laws and regulations governing data privacy and protection, and the use of the internet as a commercial medium, are rapidly evolving, extensive and complex, and may include provisions and obligations that are inconsistent with one another or uncertain in their scope or application. |
The data protection landscape is rapidly evolving in the United States. As our operations and business grow, we may become subject to or affected by new or additional data protection laws and regulations and face increased scrutiny or attention from regulatory authorities. For example, California has passed a comprehensive data privacy law, the California Consumer Privacy Act of 2018 (the CCPA), and other states, including Virginia and Colorado, have also passed similar laws. Additionally, the California Privacy Rights Act (the CPRA) imposed additional data protection obligations on covered businesses, including additional consumer rights procedures and obligations, limitations on data uses, new audit requirements for higher-risk data, and constraints on certain uses of sensitive data. The majority of the CPRA provisions went into effect on January 1, 2023, and additional compliance investment and potential business process changes may be required. Further, there are several legislative proposals in the United States, at both the federal and state level, that could impose new privacy and security obligations. We cannot yet determine the impact that these future laws and regulations may have on our business.
In addition, governmental authorities and private litigants continue to bring actions against companies for online collection, use, dissemination and security practices that are unfair or deceptive.
Our business is, and may in the future be, subject to a variety of other laws and regulations, including licensing, permitting, and historic designation and similar requirements; working conditions, labor, immigration and employment laws; health, safety and sanitation requirements; and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (and related state and local statutes).
Any changes to the legal and regulatory framework applicable to our business could have an adverse impact on our business and our failure to comply with applicable governmental laws and regulations, or to maintain necessary permits or licenses, could result in liability or government actions that could have a material negative effect on our business and results of operations.
Our Business Is Subject to Seasonal Fluctuations, and Our Operating Results and Cash Flow Could Vary Substantially from Period to Period.
Our revenues and expenses have been seasonal and we expect they will continue to be seasonal. For example, 22% of our revenues in Fiscal Year 2020 were derived from the Christmas Spectacular (the last production presented prior to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic). Our revenues are highest in the second quarter of our fiscal year when these performances primarily occur. As a result, our business earns a disproportionate amount of its revenue and operating income in the second quarter of each fiscal year. Therefore, our operating results and cash flow reflect significant variation from period to period and will continue to do so in the future. Consequently, period-to-period comparisons of our operating results may not necessarily be meaningful and the operating results of one period are not indicative of our financial performance during a full fiscal year. This variability may adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.
Labor Matters May Have a Material Negative Effect on Our Business and Results of Operations.
As a result of ongoing labor market disruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic and otherwise, we have faced difficulty in maintaining staffing at our venues and retaining talent in our corporate departments. As a
34
result, we have had to scale back hours and days of operations in certain markets and venues. If we are unable to attract and retain qualified people or to do so on reasonable terms, our venues could be short staffed or become more expensive to operate and affect our ability to meet our customers demand, any of which could materially adversely affect our business and results of operations.
Our business is dependent upon the efforts of unionized workers. As of December 31, 2022, approximately 4,900 full-time and part-time employees, who represent approximately 70% of the Companys workforce, were subject to collective bargaining agreements (CBAs). Approximately 3% were subject to CBAs that expired as of December 31, 2022 and approximately 38% were subject to CBAs that will expire by June 30, 2023, if they are not extended prior thereto. Any labor disputes, such as strikes or lockouts, with the unions with which we have CBAs could have a material negative effect on our business and results of operations (including our ability to produce or present concerts, programming, theatrical productions, sporting events and other events).
Additionally, NBA and NHL players are covered by CBAs. Both leagues have experienced labor difficulties in the past and may have labor issues in the future, such as player strikes or management lockouts. If any Knicks or Rangers games are cancelled because of any such labor difficulties, the loss of revenue, including from customers who would have attended home games at The Garden would have a negative impact on our business and results of operations.
The Unavailability of Systems Upon Which We Rely May Have a Material Negative Effect on Our Business and Results of Operations.
We rely upon various internal and third-party software or systems in the operation of our business, including, with respect to ticket sales, credit card processing, email marketing, point of sale transactions, database, inventory, human resource management and financial systems. From time to time, certain of these arrangements may not be covered by long-term agreements. The failure or unavailability of these internal or third-party services or systems, depending upon its severity and duration, could have a material negative effect on our business and results of operations.
There Is a Risk of Injuries and Accidents in Connection with Our Venues, Which Could Subject Us to Personal Injury or Other Claims; We Are Subject to the Risk of Adverse Outcomes in Other Types of Litigation.
There are inherent risks associated with producing and hosting events and operating, maintaining, renovating or constructing our venues. As a result, personal injuries, accidents and other incidents have occurred and may occur from time to time, which could subject us to claims and liabilities.
These risks may not be covered by insurance or could involve exposures that exceed the limits of any applicable insurance policy. Incidents in connection with events at any of our venues could also reduce attendance at our events and may have a negative impact on our revenue and results of operations. We seek to obtain contractual indemnities for events at our venues that we do not promote, and under the Arena License Agreements, MSG Sports and the Company have reciprocal indemnity obligations to each other in connection with the home games of the Knicks and Rangers held at The Garden. While we also maintain insurance policies that provide coverage for incidents in the ordinary course of business, there can be no assurance that such indemnities or insurance will be adequate at all times and in all circumstances.
From time to time, the Company and its subsidiaries are involved in various legal proceedings, including proceedings or lawsuits brought by governmental agencies, stockholders, customers, employees, private parties and other stakeholders. The outcome of litigation is inherently unpredictable and, regardless of the merits of the claims, litigation may be expensive, time-consuming, disruptive to our operations, harmful to our reputation and distracting to management. As a result, we may incur liability from litigation (including in connection with settling such litigation) which could be material and for which we may not have available or adequate insurance coverage, or be subject to other forms of non-monetary relief which may adversely affect the Company. By its
35
nature, the outcome of litigation is difficult to assess and quantify, and its continuing defense is costly. The liabilities and any defense costs we incur in connection with any such litigation could have an adverse effect on our business and results of operations.
Risks Related to Indebtedness and Financial Condition
We Have Substantial Indebtedness and Are Highly Leveraged, Which Could Adversely Affect Our Business.
The Company will be highly leveraged with a significant amount of debt and may continue to incur additional debt in the future. On June 30, 2022, MSG National Properties, LLC (MSG National Properties) and certain other subsidiaries entered into a five-year $650 million senior secured term loan facility (the National Properties Term Loan Facility) and a five-year $100 million revolving credit facility (the National Properties Revolving Credit Facility and, together with the National Properties Term Loan Facility, the National Properties Facilities), which are guaranteed by MSG Entertainment Group, to fund working capital needs, for general corporate purposes of MSG National Properties and its subsidiaries, and to make distributions to MSG Entertainment Group (the National Properties Credit Agreement). As of December 31, 2022, outstanding letters of credit were $7.9 million and the remaining balance available under the National Properties Revolving Credit Facility was $63.0 million. The National Properties Facilities will mature on June 30, 2027. The principal obligations under the National Properties Term Loan Facility are to be repaid in quarterly installments beginning with the fiscal quarter ending March 31, 2023, in an aggregate amount equal to 2.50% per annum (0.625% per quarter), stepping up to 5.0% per annum (1.25% per quarter) in the fiscal quarter ending September 30, 2025, with the balance due at the maturity of the facility. The principal obligations under the National Properties Revolving Credit Facility are due at the maturity of the facility. The National Properties Credit Agreement also includes financial covenants requiring MSG National Properties and its restricted subsidiaries to maintain a specified minimum liquidity level, a specified minimum debt service coverage ratio and specified maximum total leverage ratio. In connection with the Distribution, we expect MSG Entertainment Holdings to become the entity that guarantees the National Properties Credit Agreement on the same terms.
As a result of this indebtedness, we will be required to make interest and principal payments on our borrowings that are significant in relation to our revenues and cash flows. These payments reduce our earnings and cash available for other potential business purposes. Furthermore, our interest expense could increase if interest rates increase (including in connection with rising inflation) because our indebtedness bears interest at floating rates or to the extent we have to refinance existing debt with higher cost debt.
In addition, the ability of MSG National Properties to draw on its revolving credit facility will depend on its ability to meet certain financial covenants and other conditions. This leverage also exposes us to significant risk by limiting our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our business (whether through competitive pressure or otherwise), the entertainment and hospitality industries and the economy at large. Although our cash flows could decrease in these scenarios, our required payments in respect of indebtedness would not decrease.
In addition, our ability to make payments on, or repay or refinance, such debt, and to fund our operating and capital expenditures, depends largely upon our future operating performance. Our future operating performance, to a certain extent, is subject to general economic conditions, recession, fears of recession, and financial, competitive, regulatory and other factors that are beyond our control. The failure to satisfy the covenants, including any inability to attain a covenant waiver, and other requirements under the credit agreement could trigger a default thereunder, acceleration of outstanding debt thereunder and a demand for payment under the guarantee provided by MSG Entertainment Group, or, following the distribution, MSG Entertainment Holdings, as applicable, which would negatively impact our liquidity and could have a negative effect on our business.
In addition, MSG Entertainment has made investments in, or otherwise extended loans to, one or more of its joint ventures or other parties and we may make additional investments in, or otherwise extend loans to, one or more of such parties in the future. To the extent that such parties do not perform as expected, including with respect to repayment of such loans, it could impair such assets or create losses related to such loans, and, as a result, have a negative effect on our business and results of operations.
36
Our Variable Rate Indebtedness Subjects Us to Interest Rate Risk, Which Could Cause Our Debt Service Obligations to Increase Significantly.
Borrowings under our facilities are at variable rates of interest and expose us to interest rate risk. If interest rates increase (including in connection with rising inflation), our debt service obligations on certain of our variable rate indebtedness will increase even though the amount borrowed remains the same, and our net income and cash flows, including cash available for servicing our indebtedness, will correspondingly decrease.
The United Kingdoms Financial Conduct Authority, which regulates the London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR), has announced that it will not compel banks to contribute to LIBOR after 2021. In November 2020, the ICE Benchmark Administration Limited announced a plan to extend the date as of which most U.S. LIBOR values would cease being computed from December 31, 2021 to June 30, 2023. On July 29, 2021 the Alternative Reference Rates Committee announced that it was formally recommending the forward-looking Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) term rate. Our National Properties Facilities have been amended to adjust to SOFR-based rates. The consequences of these developments with respect to LIBOR cannot be entirely predicted but may affect the level of interest payments on the portion of our indebtedness that bears interest at variable rates, which may adversely impact the amount of our interest payments under such debt.
We Have Incurred Substantial Operating Losses, Adjusted Operating Losses and Negative Cash Flow and There is No Assurance We Will Have Operating Income, Positive Adjusted Operating Income or Positive Cash Flow in the Future.
We incurred operating losses of $5.6 million and $237.3 million for Fiscal Years 2022 and 2021, respectively, and operating income of $225.3 million for Fiscal Year 2020. In addition, we have in prior periods incurred operating losses and negative cash flow and there is no assurance that we will have operating income, adjusted operating income, or positive cash flow in the future. Significant operating losses may limit our ability to raise necessary financing, or to do so on favorable terms, as such losses could be taken into account by potential investors, lenders and the organizations that issue investment ratings on indebtedness. See Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations Factors Affecting Results of Operations.
MSG Entertainments Management Identified a Material Weakness During Fiscal Year 2022, Which Has Now Been Remediated. If We Identify Other Material Weaknesses or Adverse Findings in the Future, Our Ability to Report Our Financial Condition or Results of Operations Accurately or Timely May Be Adversely Affected, Which May Result in a Loss of Investor Confidence in Our Financial Reports, Significant Expenses to Remediate Any Internal Control Deficiencies, and Ultimately Have an Adverse Effect on the Market Price of Our Common Stock.
Pursuant to Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, our management will be required to report on, and our independent registered public accounting firm will be required to attest to, the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting. Currently, we are an emerging growth company, and are exempt from complying with the auditor attestation requirements of Section 404, but we will be subject to the requirements in the future. The rules governing the standards that must be met for management to assess internal control over financial reporting are complex and require significant documentation, testing and possible remediation. In addition, if we fail to maintain the adequacy of our internal control over financial reporting, we will not be able to conclude on an ongoing basis that we have effective internal control over financial reporting in accordance with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. If we fail to achieve and maintain an effective internal control environment, we could suffer misstatements in our financial statements and fail to meet our reporting obligations, which would likely cause investors to lose confidence in our reported financial information. This could result in significant expenses to remediate any internal control deficiencies and lead to a decline in our stock price.
Subsequent to the filing of the Fiscal Year 2021 Form 10-K, MSG Entertainment management evaluated an immaterial accounting error related to interest costs that should have been capitalized for the Sphere in Las
37
Vegas in Fiscal Years 2021, 2020 and 2019 and in the fiscal quarter ended September 30, 2021, as prescribed by Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) Topic 835-20 Capitalization of Interest. As a result of the accounting error, MSG Entertainment re-evaluated the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting and identified a material weakness as of June 30, 2021, September 30, 2021, December 31, 2021 and March 31, 2022. MSG Entertainment undertook certain remediation efforts by implementing additional controls which were operating effectively as of June 30, 2022, and as a result, MSG Entertainments management has concluded that the material weakness has been remediated and its internal control over financial reporting was effective as of June 30, 2022. A material weakness is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting, such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of a companys annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis.
Once we are subject to these requirements, our management may be unable to conclude in future periods that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective due to the effects of various factors, which may, in part, include unremediated material weaknesses in internal controls over financial reporting. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by a company in those reports is accumulated and communicated to the companys management, including its principal executive and principal financial officers, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. In addition, we may not be able to identify and remediate other control deficiencies, including material weaknesses, in the future.
Risks Related to Cybersecurity and Intellectual Property
We Face Continually Evolving Cybersecurity and Similar Risks, Which Could Result in Loss, Disclosure, Theft, Destruction or Misappropriation of, or Access to, Our Confidential Information and Cause Disruption of Our Business, Damage to Our Brands and Reputation, Legal Exposure and Financial Losses.
Through our operations, we may collect and store, including by electronic means, certain personal, proprietary and other sensitive information, including payment card information, that is provided to us through purchases, registration on our websites, mobile applications, or otherwise in communication or interaction with us. These activities require the use of online services and centralized data storage, including through third-party service providers. Data maintained in electronic form is subject to the risk of security incidents, including breach, compromise, intrusion, tampering, theft, destruction, misappropriation or other malicious activity. Our ability to safeguard such personal and other sensitive information, including information regarding the Company and our customers, sponsors, partners and employees, independent contractors and vendors, is important to our business. We take these matters seriously and take significant steps to protect our stored information, including the implementation of systems and processes to thwart malicious activity. These protections are costly and require ongoing monitoring and updating as technologies change and efforts to overcome security measures become more sophisticated. See Economic and Operational Risks We Are Subject to Extensive Governmental Regulation and Our Failure to Comply with These Regulations May Have a Material Negative Effect on Our Business and Results of Operations.
Despite our efforts, the risks of a security incident cannot be entirely eliminated and our information technology and other systems that maintain and transmit consumer, sponsor, partner, Company, employee and other confidential and proprietary information may be compromised due to employee error or other circumstances such as malware or ransomware, viruses, hacking and phishing attacks, denial-of-service attacks, business email compromises, or otherwise. Such compromise could affect the security of information on our network or that of a third-party service provider. Additionally, outside parties may attempt to fraudulently induce employees, vendors or users to disclose sensitive, proprietary or confidential information in order to gain access to data and systems. As a result, such sensitive, proprietary and/or confidential information may be lost, disclosed, accessed or taken without consent. For example, in November 2016, a payment card issue that affected cards used at merchandise and food and beverage locations at several of our New York venues and The Chicago Theatre was identified and addressed with the assistance of security firms. The issue was promptly fixed and enhanced security measures were implemented.
38
The Company also continues to review and enhance our security measures in light of the constantly evolving techniques used to gain unauthorized access to networks, data, software and systems. The Company may be required to incur significant expenses in order to address any actual or potential security incidents that arise and we may not have insurance coverage for any or all of such expenses. If we experience an actual or perceived security incident, our ability to conduct business may be interrupted or impaired, we may incur damage to our systems, we may lose profitable opportunities or the value of those opportunities may be diminished and we may lose revenue as a result of unlicensed use of our intellectual property. Unauthorized access to or security breaches of our systems could result in the loss of data, loss of business, severe reputational damage adversely affecting customer or investor confidence, diversion of managements attention, regulatory investigations and orders, litigation, indemnity obligations, damages for contract breach, penalties for violation of applicable laws or regulations and significant costs for remediation that may include liability for stolen or lost assets or information and repair of system damage that may have been caused, incentives offered to customers or other business partners in an effort to maintain business relationships after a breach and other liabilities. In addition, in the event of a security incident, changes in legislation may increase the risk of potential litigation. For example, the CCPA, which provides a private right of action (in addition to statutory damages) for California residents whose sensitive personal information is breached as a result of a business violation of its duty to reasonably secure such information, took effect on January 1, 2020 and was expanded by the CPRA, which took effect in January 2023. Our insurance coverage may not be adequate to cover the costs of a data breach, indemnification obligations or other liabilities.
In addition, in some instances, we may have obligations to notify relevant stakeholders of security breaches. Such mandatory disclosures are costly, could lead to negative publicity, may cause our customers to lose confidence in the effectiveness of our security measures and require us to expend significant capital and other resources to respond to or alleviate problems caused by an actual or perceived security breach.
We May Become Subject to Infringement or Other Claims Relating to Our Content or Technology.
From time to time, third parties may assert against us alleged intellectual property infringement claims (e.g., copyright, trademark and patent) or other claims relating to our productions, venues and brands, technologies, digital content or other content or material, some of which may be important to our business. In addition, our productions could potentially subject us to claims of defamation, violation of rights of privacy or publicity or similar types of allegations. Any such claims, regardless of their merit or outcome, could cause us to incur significant costs that could harm our results of operations. We may not be indemnified against, or have insurance coverage for, claims or costs of these types. In addition, if we are unable to continue the use of certain intellectual property rights, our business and results of operations could be materially negatively impacted.
Theft of Our Intellectual Property May Have a Material Negative Effect on Our Business and Results of Operations.
The success of our business depends in part on our ability to maintain and monetize our intellectual property rights, including our brand logos, our technologies, digital content and other content that is material to our business. Theft of our intellectual property, including content, could have a material negative effect on our business and results of operations because it may reduce the revenue that we are able to receive from the legitimate exploitation of such intellectual property, undermine lawful distribution channels and limit our ability to control the marketing of our content and inhibit our ability to recoup or profit from the costs incurred to create such content. Litigation may be necessary to enforce our intellectual property rights or protect our trade secrets. Any litigation of this nature, regardless of the outcome, could cause us to incur significant costs.
Risks Related to the Spin-off Transaction
Following the Distribution, We Will Be Materially Dependent on Affiliated Entities Performances Under Various Agreements.
Following the Distribution, we will enter into various agreements with MSG Entertainment and MSG Sports that will govern our ongoing commercial relationship subsequent to the Distribution, including sponsorship agency agreements in connection with the sale of sponsorships for the Knicks and Rangers, as well as MSG
39
Sports other teams, and a trademark license agreement regarding the use of the MSG name. These agreements will each be subject to potential termination in the event MSG Entertainment or MSG Sports and the Company are no longer affiliates.
The Company will provide to MSG Entertainment certain business services that were performed by MSG Entertainment prior to the Distribution, such as information technology, accounts payable, payroll, tax, certain legal functions, human resources, insurance and risk management, government affairs, investor relations, corporate communications, benefit plan administration and reporting, and internal audit functions as well as certain marketing functions. These services include the collection and storage of certain personal information regarding employees and/or customers as well as information regarding the Company, MSG Entertainment and our sponsors and partners. See also Risks Related to Cybersecurity and Intellectual Property We Face Continually Evolving Cybersecurity and Similar Risks, Which Could Result in Loss, Disclosure, Theft, Destruction or Misappropriation of, or Access to, Our Confidential Information and Cause Disruption of Our Business, Damage to Our Brands and Reputation, Legal Exposure and Financial Losses.
The Company and its affiliated entities will each rely on the other to perform its obligations under all of these agreements. If one of the affiliated entities were to breach, be unable to satisfy its material obligations under these agreements, including a failure to satisfy its indemnification or other financial obligations, or these agreements otherwise terminate or expire and we do not enter into replacement agreements, we could suffer operational difficulties and/or significant losses.
Because There Has Not Been Any Public Market for Our Common Stock, the Market Price and Trading Volume of Our Common Stock May Be Volatile and You May Not Be Able to Resell Your Shares at or Above the Initial Market Price of Our Stock Following the Distribution.
Prior to the Distribution, there will have been no regular way trading market for our common stock. We cannot predict the extent to which investors interest will lead to a liquid trading market or whether the market price of our common stock will be volatile. The market price of our common stock could fluctuate significantly for many reasons, including in response to the risk factors listed in this information statement or for reasons unrelated to our specific performance, such as reports by industry analysts, investor perceptions or negative developments for our customers, competitors or suppliers, as well as general economic and industry conditions.
The Combined Post-Distribution Value of MSG Entertainment and Spinco Shares May Not Equal or Exceed the Pre-Distribution Value of MSG Entertainment Shares.
After the Distribution, MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock will continue to be listed and traded on the NYSE. We cannot assure you that the combined trading prices of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock and Spinco Class A Common Stock after the Distribution, as adjusted for any changes in the combined capitalization of these companies, will be equal to or greater than the trading price of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock prior to the Distribution. Until the market has fully evaluated the business of MSG Entertainment without the business of Spinco, the price at which MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock trades may fluctuate significantly. Similarly, until the market has fully evaluated the business of Spinco, the price at which shares of Spinco Class A Common Stock trade may fluctuate significantly.
A Significant Amount of Our Total Outstanding Shares May Be Sold Freely into the Market. This Could Cause the Market Price of Our Common Shares to Drop Significantly, Even if Our Business is Doing Well.
MSG Entertainment is required by applicable tax rules to dispose of all retained shares as soon as practicable consistent with the business purposes for the retention, and expects to dispose of such retained shares within one year, subject to market conditions. Sales of the approximately 33% of our common shares to be retained by MSG Entertainment in the public market, or the perception that these sales might occur, could depress the market price of our common shares and could impair our ability to raise capital through the sale of
40
additional equity securities. Immediately following the Distribution, this significant amount of our common shares will be freely tradable, without restrictions or further registration under the Securities Act, subject to certain restrictions applicable to shares held by our affiliates as defined in Rule 144.
The Distribution is Subject to Various Risks and Uncertainties and May Not Be Completed in Accordance With the Expected Plans or Anticipated Timeline, or At All, and Will Involve Significant Time and Expense, Which Could Disrupt or Adversely Affect Our Business.
In August 2022, MSG Entertainment announced its plan to separate the Company into an independent, publicly-traded company by way of a tax free spin-off. The Distribution is subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions, including final approval by MSG Entertainments Board of Directors of the final terms of the Distribution and certain other conditions. Furthermore, the Distribution is complex in nature, and unanticipated developments or changes, including changes in the law, the macroeconomic environment, competitive conditions of MSG Entertainments markets, regulatory approvals or clearances, the uncertainty of the financial markets and challenges in executing the Distribution, could delay or prevent the completion of the proposed Distribution, or cause the Distribution to occur on terms or conditions that are different or less favorable than expected.
Until the Distribution occurs, MSG Entertainment will have the discretion to determine and change the terms of the Distribution. For example, in December 2022, MSG Entertainment announced its plan to revise the structure of the proposed transaction and no longer include the MSG Networks business in the Company.
In addition, MSG Entertainment may decide at any time not to proceed with the Distribution. The process of completing the proposed Distribution has been and is expected to continue to require managements attention and involves significant costs and expenses. The Distribution costs may be significantly higher than what we currently anticipate and may not yield a discernible benefit if the Distribution is not completed, or if the expected benefits of the Distribution are not realized. We cannot predict the extent to which MSG Entertainments investors interest in the Distribution and the Company will impact the market price of its stock if the Distribution is not completed.
The Distribution Could Result in Significant Tax Liability.
MSG Entertainment expects to obtain an opinion from Sullivan & Cromwell LLP substantially to the effect that, among other things, the distribution by MSG Entertainment of our Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock to the holders of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock and MSG Entertainment Class B Common Stock, respectively (i.e., the Distribution), should qualify as a tax-free distribution under the Code. Accordingly, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, the Distribution is not expected to result in the recognition of gain to MSG Entertainment with respect to the distribution of our Class A Common Stock or our Class B Common Stock to the MSG Entertainment stockholders and, except to the extent a stockholder receives cash in lieu of fractional shares of our common stock, no income, gain or loss should be recognized by, and no amount should be included in the income of such holder upon the receipt of shares of our common stock pursuant to the Distribution. The opinion will not be binding on the IRS or the courts. See The Distribution Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Distribution. Certain transactions related to the Distribution that are not addressed (or expected to be addressed) by the opinion could result in the recognition of income or gain by MSG Entertainment. The opinion will rely on factual representations and reasonable assumptions, which, if incorrect or inaccurate, may jeopardize the ability to rely on such opinion. MSG Entertainment does not intend to request any ruling from the IRS as to the U.S. federal income tax consequences of the Distribution.
If the Distribution does not qualify for tax-free treatment for U.S. federal income tax purposes, then, in general, MSG Entertainment would recognize taxable gain in an amount equal to the excess of the fair market value of our common stock distributed in the Distribution over MSG Entertainments tax basis therein (i.e., as if it had sold such common stock in a taxable sale for its fair market value). In addition, the receipt by MSG Entertainment stockholders of common stock of our Company would be a taxable distribution, and each U.S. holder that receives our common stock in the Distribution would be treated as if the U.S. holder had received a
41
distribution equal to the fair market value of our common stock that was distributed to it, which generally would be treated first as a taxable dividend to the extent of such holders pro rata share of MSG Entertainments earnings and profits, then as a non-taxable return of capital to the extent of the holders tax basis in its MSG Entertainment common stock, and thereafter as capital gain with respect to any remaining value. It is expected that the amount of any such taxes to MSG Entertainment stockholders and MSG Entertainment would be substantial. See The Distribution Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Distribution.
We May Have a Significant Indemnity Obligation to MSG Entertainment if the Distribution Is Treated as a Taxable Transaction.
We will enter into a Tax Disaffiliation Agreement with MSG Entertainment, which will set out each partys rights and obligations with respect to federal, state, local or foreign taxes for periods before and after the Distribution and related matters such as the filing of tax returns and the conduct of IRS and other audits. Pursuant to the Tax Disaffiliation Agreement, we will be required to indemnify MSG Entertainment for losses and taxes of MSG Entertainment resulting from the breach of certain covenants and for certain taxable gain recognized by MSG Entertainment, including as a result of certain acquisitions of our stock or assets. If we are required to indemnify MSG Entertainment under the circumstances set forth in the Tax Disaffiliation Agreement, we may be subject to substantial liabilities, which could materially adversely affect our financial position.
The Tax Rules Applicable to the Distribution May Restrict Us from Engaging in Certain Corporate Transactions or from Raising Equity Capital Beyond Certain Thresholds for a Period of Time After the Distribution.
To preserve the tax-free treatment of the Distribution to MSG Entertainment and its stockholders, under the Tax Disaffiliation Agreement with MSG Entertainment, for the two-year period following the Distribution, we will be subject to restrictions with respect to:
| entering into any transaction pursuant to which 50% or more of our shares or assets would be acquired, whether by merger or otherwise, unless certain tests are met; |
| issuing equity securities, if any such issuances would, in the aggregate, constitute 50% or more of the voting power or value of our capital stock; |
| certain repurchases of our common shares; |
| ceasing to actively conduct our business; |
| amendments to our organizational documents (i) affecting the relative voting rights of our stock or (ii) converting one class of our stock to another; |
| liquidating or partially liquidating; and |
| taking any other action that prevents the Distribution and certain related transactions from being tax-free. |
These restrictions may limit our ability during such period to pursue strategic transactions of a certain magnitude that involve the issuance or acquisition of our stock or engage in new businesses or other transactions that might increase the value of our business. These restrictions may also limit our ability to raise significant amounts of cash through the issuance of stock, especially if our stock price were to suffer substantial declines, or through the sale of certain of our assets. For more information, see the sections entitled The Distribution Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Distribution and Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions Relationship Between MSG Entertainment and Us After the Distribution Tax Disaffiliation Agreement.
Certain Adverse U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences Might Apply to Non-U.S. Holders That Hold Our Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock After the Distribution If We Are Treated as a USRPHC.
The Company has not made a determination as to whether we will be deemed to be a USRPHC, as defined in section 897(c)(2) of the Code. In general, we will be a USRPHC if 50% or more of the fair market value of our
42
assets constitute United States real property interests within the meaning of the Code. However, the determination of whether we are a USRPHC turns on the relative fair market value of our United States real property interests and our other assets, and because the USRPHC rules are complex and the determination of whether we are a USRPHC depends on facts and circumstances that may be beyond our control, we can give no assurance as to our USRPHC status after the Distribution. If we are treated as a USRPHC, certain adverse U.S. federal income tax consequences might apply to non-U.S. holders that hold our Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock after the Distribution. A beneficial owner of MSG Entertainment common stock that is a non-U.S. holder should consult its tax advisor as to the particular tax consequences that would be applicable to such holder if we are treated as a USRPHC after the Distribution. For more information, see the section entitled The Distribution Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Distribution.
We Do Not Have an Operating History as a Stand-Alone Public Company.
In the past, our operations have been a part of MSG Entertainment and MSG Entertainment provided us with various financial, operational and managerial resources for conducting our business. Following the Distribution, we will maintain our own credit and banking relationships and perform certain of our own financial and operational functions. We cannot assure you that we will be able to successfully put in place the financial, operational and managerial resources necessary to operate as a public company or that we will be able to be profitable doing so.
Our Historical Financial Results and Our Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Statements May Not Be Representative of Our Results as a Separate, Stand-Alone Company.
The historical financial information we have included in this information statement has been derived from the consolidated financial statements and accounting records of MSG Entertainment and does not necessarily reflect what our financial position, results of operations or cash flows would have been had we been a separate, stand-alone company during the periods presented. Although MSG Entertainment did account for the Entertainment business (with the addition of MSG Sphere) as a separate business segment, we were not operated as a separate, stand-alone company for the historical periods presented. The historical costs and expenses reflected in our combined financial statements include an allocation for certain corporate functions historically provided by MSG Entertainment, including general corporate expenses and employee benefits and incentives. These allocations were based on what we and MSG Entertainment considered to be reasonable reflections of the historical utilization levels of these services required in support of our business. The historical information does not necessarily indicate what our results of operations, financial position, cash flows or costs and expenses will be in the future. Our pro forma financial information set forth under Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Information reflects changes to our operations as a result of the separation. However, there can be no assurances that this unaudited pro forma combined financial information will appropriately reflect our financial position or results of operations as a separate, stand-alone company.
We May Incur Material Costs and Expenses as a Result of Our Separation from MSG Entertainment.
We may incur costs and expenses greater than those we currently incur as a result of our separation from MSG Entertainment. These increased costs and expenses may arise from various factors, including financial reporting and costs associated with complying with federal securities laws (including compliance with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act). In addition, we expect to either maintain similar or have increased corporate and administrative costs and expenses to those we incurred while part of MSG Entertainment, even though following the Distribution we will be a smaller, stand-alone company. We cannot assure you that these costs will not be material to our business.
43
If, Following the Distribution, We Are Unable to Satisfy the Requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, or Our Internal Control Over Financial Reporting is Not Effective, the Reliability of Our Financial Statements May Be Questioned and Our Stock Price May Suffer.
Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act requires any company subject to the reporting requirements of the U.S. securities laws to do a comprehensive evaluation of its and its consolidated subsidiaries internal control over financial reporting. To comply with this statute, we will eventually be required to document and test our internal control procedures, our management will be required to assess and issue a report concerning our internal control over financial reporting, and our independent auditors will be required to issue an opinion on the Companys internal controls over financial reporting. The rules governing the standards that must be met for management to assess our internal control over financial reporting are complex and require significant documentation, testing and possible remediation to meet the detailed standards under the rules. During the course of its testing, our management may identify material weaknesses or deficiencies which may not be remedied in time to meet the deadline imposed by the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. If our management cannot favorably assess the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting or our auditors identify material weaknesses in our internal controls, investor confidence in our financial results may weaken, and our stock price may suffer.
The Reduced Disclosure Requirements Applicable to Us as an Emerging Growth Company May Make Our Class A Common Stock Less Attractive to Investors.
We are an emerging growth company as defined in the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act of 2012 (the JOBS Act), and we may avail ourselves of certain exemptions from various reporting requirements of public companies that are not emerging growth companies, including, but not limited to, an exemption from complying with the auditor attestation requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, and, like smaller reporting companies, reduced disclosure obligations regarding executive compensation in our periodic reports and proxy statements, and exemptions from the requirement of holding a non-binding advisory vote on executive compensation and stockholder approval of any golden parachute payments not previously approved. We may remain an emerging growth company for up to five full fiscal years following the Distribution. We would cease to be an emerging growth company, and, therefore, become ineligible to rely on the above exemptions, if we: (a) have more than $1.235 billion in annual revenue in a fiscal year; (b) issue more than $1 billion of non-convertible debt over a three-year period; or (c) become a large accelerated filer as defined in Rule 12b-2 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act) which would generally occur after: (i) we have filed at least one annual report; (ii) we have been a Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) reporting company for at least 12 months; and (iii) the market value of our common stock that is held by non-affiliates exceeds $700 million as of the last business day of our most recently completed second fiscal quarter. We cannot predict if investors will find our common stock less attractive because we may rely on these exemptions.
If some investors find our common stock less attractive as a result of the exemptions available to us as an emerging growth company, there may be a less active trading market for our common stock and our value may be more volatile than that of an otherwise comparable company that does not avail itself of the same or similar exemptions.
We Are Controlled by the Dolan Family. As a Result of Their Control, the Dolan Family Has the Ability to Prevent or Cause a Change in Control or Approve, Prevent or Influence Certain Actions by the Company.
We have two classes of common stock:
| Class A Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share, which is entitled to one vote per share and is entitled collectively to elect 25% of our Board of Directors; and |
| Class B Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share, which is entitled to 10 votes per share and is entitled collectively to elect the remaining 75% of our Board of Directors. |
As of the Distribution date, the Dolan Family Group will collectively own all of our Class B Common Stock, approximately 3.6% of our outstanding Class A Common Stock and approximately 61.6% of the total
44
voting power of all our outstanding common stock (in each case, inclusive of exercisable options). The members of the Dolan Family Group holding Class B Common Stock will execute a Stockholders Agreement prior to the Distribution that will have the effect of causing the voting power of the holders of our Class B Common Stock to be cast as a block with respect to all matters to be voted on by holders of Class B Common Stock. Under the Stockholders Agreement, the shares of Class B Common Stock owned by members of the Dolan Family Group (representing all of the outstanding Class B Common Stock) are to be voted on all matters in accordance with the determination of the Dolan Family Committee (as defined below), except that the decisions of the Dolan Family Committee are non-binding with respect to the Class B Common Stock owned by certain Dolan family trusts that collectively own 40.5% of the outstanding Class B Common Stock (Excluded Trusts). The Dolan Family Committee will consist of Charles F. Dolan and his six children, James L. Dolan, Thomas C. Dolan, Patrick F. Dolan, Kathleen M. Dolan, Marianne Dolan Weber and Deborah A. Dolan-Sweeney. The Dolan Family Committee generally acts by majority vote, except that approval of a going-private transaction must be approved by a two-thirds vote and approval of a change-in-control transaction must be approved by not less than all but one vote. The voting members of the Dolan Family Committee will be James L. Dolan, Thomas C. Dolan, Kathleen M. Dolan, Deborah A. Dolan-Sweeney and Marianne Dolan Weber, with each member having one vote other than James L. Dolan, who has two votes. Because James L. Dolan has two votes, he will have the ability to block Dolan Family Committee approval of any Company change in control transaction. Shares of Class B Common Stock owned by Excluded Trusts will on all matters be voted on in accordance with the determination of the Excluded Trusts holding a majority of the Class B Common Stock held by all Excluded Trusts, except in the case of a vote on a going-private transaction or a change in control transaction, in which case a vote of trusts holding two-thirds of the Class B Common Stock owned by Excluded Trusts will be required.
The Dolan Family Group is able to prevent a change in control of our Company and no person interested in acquiring us will be able to do so without obtaining the consent of the Dolan Family Group. The Dolan Family Group, by virtue of its stock ownership, has the power to elect all of our directors subject to election by holders of Class B Common Stock, and is able collectively to control stockholder decisions on matters on which holders of all classes of our common stock vote together as a single class. These matters could include the amendment of some provisions of our certificate of incorporation and the approval of fundamental corporate transactions.
In addition, the affirmative vote or consent of the holders of at least 66 2/3% of the outstanding shares of the Class B Common Stock, voting separately as a class, is required to approve:
| the authorization or issuance of any additional shares of Class B Common Stock, and |
| any amendment, alteration or repeal of any of the provisions of our certificate of incorporation that adversely affects the powers, preferences or rights of the Class B Common Stock. |
As a result, the Dolan Family Group has the power to prevent such issuance or amendment.
The members of the Dolan Family Group will enter into an agreement with the Company in which they agree that, during the 12-month period beginning on the Distribution date, the Dolan Family Group must obtain the prior approval of a majority of the Companys Independent Directors prior to acquiring common stock of the Company through a tender offer that results in members of the Dolan Family Group owning more than 50% of the total number of outstanding shares of common stock of the Company. For purposes of this agreement, the term Independent Directors means the directors of the Company who have been determined by our Board of Directors to be independent directors for purposes of NYSE corporate governance standards.
Following the Distribution, the Company and MSG Entertainment will still be controlled by the Dolan Family Group. The Dolan Family Group also controls MSG Sports and AMC Networks.
45
We Have Elected to Be a Controlled Company for NYSE Purposes Which Allows Us Not to Comply with Certain of the Corporate Governance Rules of the NYSE.
We have been informed that, prior to the Distribution, the members of the Dolan Family Group will enter into a Stockholders Agreement relating, among other things, to the voting of their shares of our Class B Common Stock. As a result, following the Distribution, we will be a controlled company under the corporate governance rules of the NYSE. As a controlled company, we will have the right to elect not to comply with the corporate governance rules of the NYSE requiring: (i) a majority of independent directors on our Board of Directors; (ii) an independent corporate governance and nominating committee; and (iii) an independent compensation committee. Our Board of Directors has elected for the Company to be treated as a controlled company under NYSE corporate governance rules and not to comply with the NYSE requirement for a majority-independent board of directors and for an independent corporate governance and nominating committee because of our status as a controlled company. Nevertheless, we expect our Board of Directors to elect to comply with the NYSE requirement for an independent compensation committee.
Future Stock Sales, Including as a Result of the Exercise of Registration Rights by Certain of Our Stockholders, Could Adversely Affect the Trading Price of Our Class A Common Stock.
All of the shares of Class A Common Stock will be freely tradable without restriction or further registration under the Securities Act unless the shares are owned by our affiliates as that term is defined in the rules under the Securities Act. Shares held by affiliates may be sold in the public market only if registered or if they qualify for an exemption from registration under Rule 144 which is summarized under Shares Eligible for Future Sale. Further, we plan to file a registration statement to cover the shares issued under our equity-based benefit plans.
As described under Shares Eligible for Future Sale Registration Rights Agreements, certain parties have registration rights covering a portion of our shares.
We expect to enter into registration rights agreements with Charles F. Dolan, members of his family, and certain Dolan family interests that provide them with demand and piggyback registration rights with respect to approximately 8.5 million shares of Class A Common Stock (inclusive of exercisable options), including shares issuable upon conversion of shares of Class B Common Stock.
We also expect to enter into a Stockholder and Registration Rights Agreement with MSG Entertainment, pursuant to which we will provide MSG Entertainment with demand and piggyback registration rights with respect to the approximately 17,021,491 shares of Class A Common Stock it will own following the Distribution. In addition, MSG Entertainment will agree to vote the Class A Common Stock that it owns in proportion to the votes cast by the other holders of the Companys Class A Common Stock on such matter, to the extent such shares of Class A Common Stock are entitled to be voted on such matter. The shares of Class A Common Stock owned by MSG Entertainment will be present at all stockholder meetings for quorum purposes. MSG Entertainment will grant the Company an irrevocable proxy to implement these voting agreements. Although no final decisions have been made, MSG Entertainment is required by applicable tax rules to dispose of all the retained shares, which will represent approximately 38% of the outstanding shares of our Class A Common Stock, as soon as practicable consistent with the business purposes for the retention, and expects to dispose of such retained shares within one year, subject to market conditions. This disposition may be through one or more sales, exchange offers or pro-rata distributions.
Sales of a substantial number of shares of Class A Common Stock, including sales pursuant to these registration rights agreements, could adversely affect the market price of the Class A Common Stock and could impair our future ability to raise capital through an offering of our equity securities. Such adverse effects could be particularly negative during the period between the completion of the Distribution and the time when MSG Entertainment completes its disposition of the retained shares.
We Will Share Certain Directors and Officers with MSG Entertainment, MSG Sports and/or AMC Networks, Which Means Those Officers Will Not Devote Their Full Time and Attention to Our Affairs and the Overlap May Give Rise to Conflicts.
46
James L. Dolan will serve as the Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of both the Company and MSG Entertainment and as the Executive Chairman of MSG Sports. James L. Dolan also currently serves as Non-Executive Chairman of AMC Networks. In addition, Gregg G. Seibert will serve as a Vice Chairman of the Company, MSG Sports, MSG Entertainment and AMC Networks and Charles F. Dolan will serve as Chairman Emeritus of AMC Networks concurrently with his service on our Board. Furthermore, immediately following the Distribution, we expect nine of the members of the Board of Directors of the Company will also serve as directors of MSG Entertainment, nine will serve as directors of MSG Sports and five will serve as directors of AMC Networks, including our Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, who serves as Non-Executive Chairman of AMC Networks. There will be no overlap of Class A Directors as between MSG Entertainment and the Company. The Overlap Persons may have actual or apparent conflicts of interest with respect to matters involving or affecting each company. For example, there will be the potential for a conflict of interest when we on the one hand, and MSG Entertainment, MSG Sports, and/or AMC Networks and their respective subsidiaries and successors on the other hand, look at certain acquisitions and other corporate opportunities that may be suitable for more than one of the companies. Also, conflicts may arise if there are issues or disputes under the commercial arrangements that will exist between an Other Entity and us. In addition, after the Distribution, certain of our directors and officers will continue to own stock and/or stock options or other equity awards of an Other Entity. These ownership interests could create actual, apparent or potential conflicts of interest when these individuals are faced with decisions that could have different implications for our Company and an Other Entity. See Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions Certain Relationships and Potential Conflicts of Interest for a discussion of certain procedures we will institute to help ameliorate such potential conflicts that may arise.
Our Overlapping Directors and Officers with MSG Entertainment, MSG Sports and/or AMC Networks May Result in the Diversion of Corporate Opportunities to MSG Entertainment, MSG Sports and/or AMC Networks and Other Conflicts and Provisions in Our Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation May Provide Us No Remedy in That Circumstance.
The Companys amended and restated certificate of incorporation will acknowledge that directors and officers of the Company may also be serving as directors, officers, employees or agents of an Other Entity, and that the Company may engage in material business transactions with such Other Entities. The Company will renounce its rights to certain business opportunities and the Companys amended and restated certificate of incorporation will provide that no Overlap Person will be liable to the Company or its stockholders for breach of any fiduciary duty that would otherwise occur by reason of the fact that any such individual directs a corporate opportunity (other than certain limited types of opportunities set forth in our amended and restated certificate of incorporation) to one or more of the Other Entities instead of the Company, or does not refer or communicate information regarding such corporate opportunities to the Company. These provisions in our amended and restated certificate of incorporation will also expressly validate certain contracts, agreements, arrangements and transactions (and amendments, modifications or terminations thereof) between the Company and the Other Entities and, to the fullest extent permitted by law, provide that the actions of the Overlap Person in connection therewith are not breaches of fiduciary duties owed to the Company, any of its subsidiaries or their respective stockholders. See Description of Capital Stock Certain Corporate Opportunities and Conflicts.
47
General
MSG Entertainment will distribute approximately 67% of our outstanding stock to the holders of MSG Entertainments Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock and will retain approximately 33% of our outstanding common stock in the form of Class A Common Stock. MSG Entertainment will not own any of our Class B Common Stock following the Distribution. We refer to this distribution of securities as the Distribution, the Class A Common Stock distributed as the Distributed Class A Common Stock, the Class B Common Stock distributed as the Distributed Class B Common Stock (and, together with the Distributed Class A Common Stock, the Distributed Common Stock) and the shares retained by MSG Entertainment as the Retained Common Stock. The Distributed Common Stock will include approximately 62% of the outstanding shares of Class A Common Stock (the holders of which will have the right to collectively elect 25% of our Board of Directors, rounded up to the nearest whole number of directors) and 100% of the outstanding shares of Class B Common Stock (the holders of which will have the right to collectively elect the remaining 75% of our Board of Directors). As a result, the Distributed Common Stock will represent at least 90% of the combined voting power of the outstanding common stock with respect to the election of directors.
In the Distribution, each holder of MSG Entertainment common stock will receive a distribution of one share of our common stock for every one share of MSG Entertainment common stock held as of the close of business, New York City time, on April 14, 2023, which will be the record date. Immediately following the Distribution, MSG Entertainment will own approximately 38% of our Class A Common Stock (representing approximately 33% of our common stock), the Class A Common Stockholders of MSG Entertainment will own approximately 62% of our Class A Common Stock (representing approximately 54% of our common stock), and the Class B Common Stockholders of MSG Entertainment will own 100% of our Class B Common Stock (representing approximately 13% of our common stock).
Manner of Effecting the Distribution
The general terms and conditions relating to the Distribution are set forth in the Distribution Agreement between us and MSG Entertainment. Under the Distribution Agreement, the Distribution will be effective at 11:59 p.m., New York City time, on April 20, 2023. For most MSG Entertainment stockholders who own MSG Entertainment common stock in registered form on the record date, our transfer and distribution agent will credit their shares of our common stock to book entry accounts established to hold these shares. Our transfer and distribution agent will send these stockholders a statement reflecting their ownership of our common stock. Book entry refers to a method of recording stock ownership in our records in which no physical certificates are used. For stockholders who own MSG Entertainment common stock through a broker or other nominee, their shares of our common stock will be credited to these stockholders accounts by the broker or other nominee. As further discussed below, fractional shares will not be distributed. Following the Distribution, stockholders whose shares are held in book entry form may request that their shares of our common stock be transferred to a brokerage or other account at any time, as well as delivery of physical stock certificates for their shares, in each case without charge.
MSG ENTERTAINMENT STOCKHOLDERS WILL NOT BE REQUIRED TO PAY FOR SHARES OF OUR COMMON STOCK RECEIVED IN THE DISTRIBUTION, OR TO SURRENDER OR EXCHANGE SHARES OF MSG ENTERTAINMENT COMMON STOCK IN ORDER TO RECEIVE OUR COMMON STOCK, OR TO TAKE ANY OTHER ACTION IN CONNECTION WITH THE DISTRIBUTION. NO VOTE OF MSG ENTERTAINMENT STOCKHOLDERS IS REQUIRED OR SOUGHT IN CONNECTION WITH THE DISTRIBUTION, AND MSG ENTERTAINMENT STOCKHOLDERS HAVE NO APPRAISAL RIGHTS IN CONNECTION WITH THE DISTRIBUTION.
Fractional shares of our common stock will not be issued to MSG Entertainment stockholders as part of the Distribution or credited to book entry accounts. In lieu of receiving fractional shares, each holder of MSG Entertainment common stock who would otherwise be entitled to receive a fractional share of our common stock
48
will receive cash for the fractional interest, which generally will be taxable to such holder. An explanation of the tax consequences of the Distribution can be found below in the subsection captioned Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Distribution. The transfer and distribution agent will, as soon as practicable after the Distribution date, aggregate fractional shares of our Class A Common Stock into whole shares and sell them in the open market at the prevailing market prices and distribute the aggregate proceeds, net of brokerage fees, ratably to stockholders otherwise entitled to fractional interests in our Class A Common Stock. Similarly, fractional shares of our Class B Common Stock will be aggregated, converted to Class A Common Stock, and sold in the public market by the transfer and distribution agent. The amount of such payments will depend on the prices at which the aggregated fractional shares are sold by the transfer and distribution agent in the open market shortly after the Distribution date.
See Executive Compensation Treatment of Outstanding Awards, for a discussion of how outstanding MSG Entertainment options, restricted stock units and performance stock units will be affected by the Distribution.
In order to be entitled to receive shares of our common stock in the Distribution, MSG Entertainment stockholders must be stockholders of record of MSG Entertainment common stock at the close of business, New York City time, on the record date, April 14, 2023.
Reasons for the Distribution
MSG Entertainments board of directors has determined that separation of our business from MSG Entertainments other business is in the best interests of MSG Entertainment and its stockholders. The potential benefits considered by MSG Entertainments board of directors in making the determination to consummate the Distribution included the following:
| to provide each of MSG Entertainment and the Company with increased flexibility to fully pursue and fund its business plan, including capital expenditures, investments and acquisitions that would be more difficult to consider or effectuate in the absence of the Distribution. This increased financial flexibility reflects the belief that investors in a company with the mix of assets that each of MSG Entertainment and the Company will own following the Distribution will be more receptive to strategic initiatives that MSG Entertainment and the Company may respectively pursue; |
| to increase the aggregate value of the stock of MSG Entertainment and the Company above the value that the stock of MSG Entertainment would have had if it had continued to represent an interest in both the businesses of MSG Entertainment and the Company, so as to: (i) allow each company to use its stock to pursue and achieve strategic objectives, including evaluating and effectuating acquisitions and increasing the long-term attractiveness of equity compensation programs in a significantly more efficient and effective manner with significantly less dilution to existing stockholders; and (ii) allow each company to offer a more focused investment profile to investors; and |
| to provide MSG Entertainment, through the retained equity interest, with the opportunity to raise cash proceeds for corporate purposes, including capital expenditures, and/or to use such shares for other transactions that would be advantageous for MSG Entertainment and its stockholders. These capital expenditures will include funds utilized to pursue growth opportunities associated with MSG Entertainments Sphere initiative. In addition, upon the Distribution, MSG Entertainment will pledge the entire retained equity interest to secure the $275 million senior secured term loan facility of MSG Las Vegas, LLC, an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of MSG Entertainment, which was entered into on December 22, 2022. This pledge will be released once the Las Vegas Sphere has been substantially completed and certain of its systems are ready to be used in live, immersive events. The Company will have no interest, contractual or otherwise, in the Sphere venues. |
MSG Entertainments board of directors also considered several factors that might have a negative effect on MSG Entertainment as a result of the Distribution. MSG Entertainments common stock may come under initial selling pressure as certain MSG Entertainment stockholders sell their shares because they are not interested in
49
holding an investment in MSG Entertainments remaining business. Moreover, certain factors, such as a lack of comparable public companies, may limit investors ability to appropriately value MSG Entertainments common stock. In addition, the Distribution would separate from MSG Entertainment the business and assets of the Company, which represent significant value. Because the Company will no longer be part of MSG Entertainment, the Distribution will also affect the terms upon which MSG Entertainment can pursue cross-company business transactions and initiatives with the Company. In addition, after the Distribution, MSG Entertainments results will not reflect the generally more predictable cash flow from the Entertainment business segment, which may result in more volatile and less predictable operating results and cash flow for MSG Entertainment. Finally, following the Distribution, MSG Entertainment and its remaining business will need to absorb certain corporate and administrative costs previously allocated to its Entertainment business segment.
MSG Entertainments board of directors considered certain aspects of the Distribution that may be adverse to the Company. The Companys common stock may come under initial selling pressure as certain MSG Entertainment stockholders sell their shares in the Company because they are not interested in holding an investment in the Companys business. Moreover, certain factors, such as a lack of comparable public companies, may limit investors ability to appropriately value the Companys common stock. Because the Company will no longer be part of MSG Entertainment, the Distribution will also affect the terms upon which the Company can pursue cross-company business transactions and initiatives with MSG Entertainments other business. In addition, after the Distribution, the Companys results will not reflect cash flow from the MSG Networks and Tao Group Hospitality business segments. As a result of the Distribution, the Company will bear significant incremental costs associated with being a publicly held company and will need to absorb certain corporate and operational support costs previously allocated to MSG Entertainment. This cost increase will be partially offset by payments that the Company will receive from MSG Entertainment resulting from the establishment of the Transition Services Agreement, which will be recorded as a reduction of operating expenses. Refer to the Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Information section for further details.
Results of the Distribution
After the Distribution, we will be a public company owning and operating the Entertainment business segment, excluding the MSG Sphere business, currently owned and operated by MSG Entertainment. Immediately after the Distribution, we expect to have approximately 689 holders of record of our Class A Common Stock and 15 holders of record of our Class B Common Stock and approximately 44,900,926 shares of Class A Common Stock and 6,866,754 shares of Class B Common Stock outstanding, based on the number of stockholders of record and outstanding shares of MSG Entertainment common stock on March 24, 2023 and after giving effect to the delivery to stockholders of cash in lieu of fractional shares of our common stock. The actual number of shares to be distributed will be determined on the record date. You can find information regarding options, restricted stock units and performance stock units that will be outstanding after the Distribution in the section captioned, Executive Compensation Treatment of Outstanding Awards. We and MSG Entertainment will both be controlled by the Dolan Family Group.
In connection with the Distribution, we have entered or will enter into a number of other agreements with MSG Entertainment and MSG Sports (and certain of their subsidiaries) to provide for an orderly transition and to govern the ongoing relationships between the Company, MSG Entertainment and MSG Sports after the Distribution. These agreements are summarized below, and described in more detail in the Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions section below.
Agreements between MSG Entertainment and the Company
Distribution Agreement. We will enter into a Distribution Agreement with MSG Entertainment as part of a series of transactions pursuant to which we have acquired or will acquire prior to the Distribution the subsidiaries, businesses and other assets of MSG Entertainment that constitute our business.
Transition Services Agreement. We will enter into a Transition Services Agreement with MSG Entertainment under which, in exchange for the fees specified in such agreement, the Company will agree to
50
provide certain corporate and other services to MSG Entertainment, including with respect to such areas as information technology, accounts payable, payroll, tax, certain legal functions, human resources, insurance and risk management, government affairs, investor relations, corporate communications, benefit plan administration and reporting, and internal audit functions as well as certain marketing functions. MSG Entertainment similarly will agree to provide certain transition services to the Company. |
| Tax Disaffiliation Agreement. We will enter into a Tax Disaffiliation Agreement with MSG Entertainment that will govern MSG Entertainments and our respective rights, responsibilities and obligations with respect to taxes and tax benefits, the filing of tax returns, the control of audits and other tax matters. |
| Employee Matters Agreement. We will enter into an employee matters agreement with MSG Entertainment that allocates assets, liabilities and responsibilities with respect to certain employee compensation and benefit plans and programs and certain other related matters upon completion of the Distribution. |
| Stockholder and Registration Rights Agreement. The Company will enter into stockholder and registration rights agreements with MSG Entertainment. |
| Delayed Draw Term Loan Facility. Prior to or concurrently with the consummation of the Distribution, it is expected that MSG Entertainment Holdings will enter into the DDTL Facility with MSG Entertainment, pursuant to which MSG Entertainment Holdings would commit to lend up to $65 million in delayed draw term loans to MSG Entertainment on an unsecured basis for a period of 18 months following the consummation of the Distribution. |
| Two Pennsylvania Plaza. Following the Distribution, the Company will sublease approximately 20,000 square feet of office space at Two Pennsylvania Plaza in New York City to MSG Entertainment. |
| Aircraft Arrangements. We will enter into various arrangements with MSG Entertainment, pursuant to which MSG Entertainment will have the right to lease on a time-sharing basis certain aircraft to which we have access. |
Agreements with MSG Sports and/or AMC Networks
| Arena License Agreements. In connection with the Distribution, MSG Entertainment will assign its Arena License Agreements with subsidiaries of MSG Sports that require the Knicks and Rangers to play their home games at The Garden to the Company. |
| Sponsorship Sales and Service Representative Agreements. In connection with the Distribution, MSG Entertainment expects to assign its sponsorship sales and service representation agreements with the Knicks and the Rangers, under which MSG Entertainment is the exclusive sales and service representative for all sponsorship benefits available for sale in connection with the Knicks and Rangers, as well as the Knicks development team, the Westchester Knicks, and Knicks Gaming, the official NBA 2K esports franchise of the Knicks, subject to certain exceptions. |
| Team Sponsorship Allocation Agreement. In connection with the Distribution, MSG Entertainment will assign its team sponsorship allocation agreement with MSG Sports that memorializes certain agreements to distribute payments received under third-party sponsorship agreements that include the assets of both companies, with either MSG Entertainment or MSG Sports serving as the contracting party, and payments being allocated generally in accordance with the relative value of the assets provided by each company. |
| Group Ticket Sales and Service Representation Agreement. In connection with the Distribution, MSG Entertainment will assign its group ticket sales and service representation agreement with MSG Sports, pursuant to which MSG Sports is MSG Entertainments sales and service representative to sell group tickets and ticket packages. |
| Two Pennsylvania Plaza Sublease. In connection with the Distribution, the Company will sublease approximately 47,000 square feet of office space at Two Pennsylvania Plaza in New York City to MSG Sports. |
The Distribution will not affect the number of outstanding shares of MSG Entertainment common stock or any rights of MSG Entertainment stockholders.
51
Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Distribution
The following is a summary of the material U.S. federal income tax consequences of the Distribution to us, MSG Entertainment and MSG Entertainment stockholders. This summary is based on the Code, the regulations promulgated under the Code by the Department of the Treasury, and interpretations of such authorities by the courts and the IRS, all as of the date of this information statement and all of which are subject to change at any time, possibly with retroactive effect. This summary is limited to holders of MSG Entertainment common stock that are U.S. holders, as defined below, that hold their shares of MSG Entertainment common stock as capital assets, within the meaning of Section 1221 of the Code. Further, this summary does not discuss all tax considerations that may be relevant to holders of MSG Entertainment common stock in light of their particular circumstances, nor does it address the consequences to holders of MSG Entertainment common stock subject to special treatment under the U.S. federal income tax laws, such as tax-exempt entities, partnerships (including arrangements treated as partnerships for U.S. federal income tax purposes), persons who acquired such shares of MSG Entertainment common stock pursuant to the exercise of employee stock options or otherwise as compensation, financial institutions, insurance companies, dealers in securities or currencies, traders in securities that elect to use a mark-to-market method of accounting for their securities holdings, persons liable for the alternative minimum tax, persons who hold their shares of MSG Entertainment common stock as part of a straddle, hedge, conversion, constructive sale, synthetic security, integrated investment or other risk-reduction transaction for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and persons whose functional currency is not the U.S. dollar. This summary does not address any U.S. federal estate, gift or other non-income tax consequences or any applicable state, local, foreign, or other tax consequences. Each stockholders individual circumstances may affect the tax consequences of the Distribution.
For purposes of this summary, a U.S. holder is a beneficial owner of MSG Entertainment common stock that is, for U.S. federal income tax purposes:
| an individual who is a citizen or a resident of the United States; |
| a corporation, or other entity taxable as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes, created or organized under the laws of the United States or any state or political subdivision thereof; |
| an estate, the income of which is subject to United States federal income taxation regardless of its source; or |
| a trust, if (i) a court within the United States is able to exercise primary jurisdiction over its administration and one or more U.S. persons have the authority to control all of its substantial decisions, or (ii) it has a valid election in place under applicable U.S. Department of Treasury regulations to be treated as a U.S. person. |
A non-U.S. holder is a beneficial owner of MSG Entertainment common stock that is not a U.S. holder for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
If a partnership (including any arrangement treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes) holds shares of MSG Entertainment common stock, the tax treatment of a partner in the partnership generally will depend upon the status of the partner and the activities of the partnership. A partner of a partnership holding shares of MSG Entertainment common stock should consult its tax advisor regarding the tax consequences of the Distribution.
MSG Entertainment expects to obtain an opinion from Sullivan & Cromwell LLP substantially to the effect that, among other things, the distribution by MSG Entertainment of our Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock to the holders of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock and MSG Entertainment Class B Common Stock, respectively (i.e., the Distribution), should qualify as a tax-free distribution under the Code. The opinion will not be binding on the IRS or the courts. Certain transactions related to the Distribution that are not addressed (or expected to be addressed) by the opinion could result in the recognition of income or gain by MSG Entertainment. The opinion will rely on factual representations and reasonable assumptions, which, if incorrect or inaccurate, may jeopardize the ability to rely on such opinion. MSG Entertainment does not intend to request any ruling from the IRS as to the U.S. federal income tax consequences of the Distribution.
52
On the basis of the opinion we expect to receive, and assuming that MSG Entertainment common stock is a capital asset in the hands of an MSG Entertainment stockholder on the Distribution date:
| Except for any cash received in lieu of a fractional share of our common stock, an MSG Entertainment stockholder should not recognize any income, gain or loss as a result of the receipt of our common stock in the Distribution. |
| An MSG Entertainment stockholders holding period for our common stock received (including, for this purpose, any fractional share of our common stock for which cash is received) in the Distribution should include the period for which that stockholders MSG Entertainment common stock was held. |
| An MSG Entertainment stockholders tax basis for our common stock received in the Distribution should be determined by allocating to that common stock, on the basis of the relative fair market values of MSG Entertainment common stock and our common stock at the time of the Distribution, a portion of the stockholders tax basis in its MSG Entertainment common stock. An MSG Entertainment stockholders tax basis in its MSG Entertainment common stock should be decreased by the portion allocated to our common stock. Within a reasonable period of time after the Distribution, MSG Entertainment will provide its stockholders who receive our common stock pursuant to the Distribution with a worksheet for calculating their tax bases in our common stock and their MSG Entertainment common stock. |
| The receipt of cash in lieu of a fractional share of our common stock generally should be treated as a sale of the fractional share of our common stock, and an MSG Entertainment stockholder should recognize gain or loss equal to the difference between the amount of cash received and the stockholders tax basis in the fractional share of our common stock, as determined above. The gain or loss should be long-term capital gain or loss if the holding period for the fractional share of our common stock, as determined above, is more than one year. |
| The Distribution should not be a taxable transaction to us or MSG Entertainment. However, certain transactions related to the Distribution that are not expected to be addressed by the opinion could result in the recognition of income or gain by MSG Entertainment. |
MSG Entertainment is required by applicable tax rules to dispose of all retained shares as soon as practicable consistent with the business purposes for the retention, and expects to dispose of such retained shares within one year, subject to market conditions. If the Distribution does not qualify for tax-free treatment for U.S. federal income tax purposes, then, in general, MSG Entertainment would recognize taxable gain in an amount equal to the excess of the fair market value of our common stock distributed in the Distribution over MSG Entertainments tax basis therein (i.e., as if it had sold such common stock in a taxable sale for its fair market value). In addition, the receipt by MSG Entertainment stockholders of our common stock would be a taxable distribution, and each U.S. holder that receives our common stock in the Distribution would be treated as if the U.S. holder had received a distribution equal to the fair market value of our common stock that was distributed to it, which generally would be treated first as a taxable dividend to the extent of such holders pro rata share of MSG Entertainments earnings and profits, then as a non-taxable return of capital to the extent of the holders tax basis in its MSG Entertainment common stock, and thereafter as capital gain with respect to any remaining value.
Even if the Distribution otherwise qualifies for tax-free treatment under the Code, the Distribution may be taxable to MSG Entertainment and would result in a significant U.S. federal income tax liability to MSG Entertainment (but not to the MSG Entertainment stockholders) under Section 355(e) of the Code if the Distribution were deemed to be part of a plan (or series of related transactions) pursuant to which one or more persons acquire, directly or indirectly, stock representing a 50% or greater interest by vote or value, in MSG Entertainment or us. For this purpose, any acquisitions of MSG Entertainments stock or our stock within the period beginning two years before the Distribution and ending two years after the Distribution are presumed to be part of such a plan, although MSG Entertainment or we may be able to rebut that presumption. The process for determining whether a prohibited acquisition has occurred under the rules described in this paragraph is complex, inherently factual and subject to interpretation of the facts and circumstances of a particular case. MSG Entertainment or we might inadvertently cause or permit a prohibited change in the ownership of MSG Entertainment or us to occur, thereby triggering tax to MSG Entertainment, which could have a material adverse effect. If such an acquisition of our stock or MSG
53
Entertainments stock triggers the application of Section 355(e) of the Code, MSG Entertainment would recognize taxable gain equal to the excess of the fair market value of our common stock distributed in the Distribution over MSG Entertainments tax basis therein, but the Distribution would be tax-free to each MSG Entertainment stockholder. In certain circumstances, under the tax disaffiliation agreement between MSG Entertainment and us (the Tax Disaffiliation Agreement), we would be required to indemnify MSG Entertainment against certain taxes imposed on MSG Entertainment if they resulted from certain actions by us after the Distribution. Please see Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions Relationship Between MSG Entertainment and Us After the Distribution Tax Disaffiliation Agreement for a more detailed discussion of the Tax Disaffiliation Agreement between MSG Entertainment and us.
Payments of cash in lieu of a fractional share of our common stock made in connection with the Distribution may, under certain circumstances, be subject to backup withholding, unless a holder provides proof of an applicable exception or a correct taxpayer identification number, and otherwise complies with the applicable requirements of the backup withholding rules. Any amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules are not additional tax and may be refunded or credited against the holders U.S. federal income tax liability, provided that the holder furnishes the required information to the IRS.
U.S. Treasury regulations require certain MSG Entertainment stockholders with significant ownership in MSG Entertainment that receive shares of our stock in the Distribution to attach to their U.S. federal income tax return for the year in which such stock is received a detailed statement setting forth such data as may be appropriate to show that the Distribution is tax-free under the Code. Within a reasonable period of time after the Distribution, MSG Entertainment will provide its stockholders who receive our common stock pursuant to the Distribution with the information necessary to comply with such requirement.
The Company has not made a determination as to whether we will be deemed to be a United States real property holding corporation as defined in section 897(c)(2) of the Code. In general, we will be a USRPHC if 50% or more of the fair market value of our assets constitute United States real property interests within the meaning of the Code. However, the determination of whether we are a USRPHC turns on the relative fair market value of our United States real property interests and our other assets, and because the USRPHC rules are complex and the determination of whether we are a USRPHC depends on facts and circumstances that may be beyond our control, we can give no assurance as to our USRPHC status after the Distribution.
If we are treated as a USRPHC, certain adverse U.S. federal income tax consequences might apply to non-U.S. holders that hold our Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock after the Distribution. Specifically, a non-U.S. holder that holds a class of shares that is traded on an established securities market will be subject to the Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act of 1980, as amended (FIRPTA), in respect of a sale or disposition of such shares if the holder owned more than 5% of the shares of such class at any time during the shorter of the period that the non-U.S. holder owned such shares or the five-year period ending on the date when the holder sold or disposed of the shares. We expect that our Class A Common Stock, but not our Class B Common Stock, will be traded on an established securities market after the Distribution, but there can be no assurance that our Class A Common Stock will in fact be traded on an established securities market after the Distribution. A non-U.S. holder that holds our Class B Common Stock will be subject to FIRPTA in respect of a sale or disposition of such stock if on the date the stock was acquired by the holder, it had a fair market value greater than the fair market value on that date of 5% of our Class A Common Stock. If a non-U.S. holder holds our Class B Common Stock, and subsequently acquires additional interests of the same class, then all such interests must be aggregated and valued as of the date of the subsequent acquisition for purposes of the 5% test that is described in the preceding sentence. If tax under FIRPTA applies to the gain on the sale or disposition of shares, non-U.S. holders will be taxed at the normal capital gain rates applicable to U.S. holders, subject to any applicable alternative minimum tax in the case of nonresident alien individuals. For purposes of determining the amount of shares owned by a holder, complex constructive ownership rules apply.
Furthermore, if we are treated as a USRPHC, we could potentially be required to withhold at least 15% of any distribution in excess of our current and accumulated earnings and profits, even if the non-U.S. holder is not
54
liable for U.S. tax on the receipt of that distribution. However, a non-U.S. holder may seek a refund of these amounts from the IRS if the non-U.S. holders tax liability with respect to the distribution is less than the amount withheld. Such withholding should generally not be required if a non-U.S. holder would not be taxed under FIRPTA upon a sale or disposition of our shares, as discussed in the previous paragraph.
A beneficial owner of MSG Entertainment common stock that is a non-U.S. holder should consult its tax advisor as to the particular tax consequences that would be applicable to such holder if we are treated as a USRPHC after the Distribution.
EACH MSG ENTERTAINMENT STOCKHOLDER SHOULD CONSULT ITS TAX ADVISOR ABOUT THE PARTICULAR CONSEQUENCES OF THE DISTRIBUTION TO SUCH STOCKHOLDER, INCLUDING THE APPLICATION OF STATE, LOCAL AND FOREIGN TAX LAWS, AND POSSIBLE CHANGES IN TAX LAW THAT MAY AFFECT THE TAX CONSEQUENCES DESCRIBED ABOVE.
Listing and Trading of Our Common Stock
There is not currently a public market for our common stock. Our Class A Common Stock has been approved for listing on the NYSE under the symbol MSGE (and we will change our name to Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp.) and Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. will change its symbol on the NYSE to SPHR (and be renamed Sphere Entertainment Co.) in connection with the Distribution. It is anticipated that trading will commence on a when-issued basis prior to the Distribution. On the first trading day following the Distribution date, when-issued trading in our Class A Common Stock will end and regular-way trading will begin. When-issued trading refers to trading which occurs before a security is actually issued. These transactions are conditional with settlement to occur if and when the security is actually issued and NYSE determines transactions are to be settled. Regular way trading refers to normal trading transactions, which are settled by delivery of the securities against payment on the third business day after the transaction.
We cannot assure you as to the price at which our Class A Common Stock will trade before, on or after the Distribution date. Until our Class A Common Stock is fully distributed and an orderly market develops in our Class A Common Stock, the price at which such stock trades may fluctuate significantly. In addition, the combined trading prices of our Class A Common Stock and MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock held by stockholders after the Distribution may be less than, equal to, or greater than the trading price of the MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock prior to the Distribution. Our Class B Common Stock will not be listed on a securities exchange or publicly traded.
The shares of our common stock distributed to MSG Entertainment stockholders will be freely transferable, except for shares received by people who may have a special relationship or affiliation with us or shares subject to contractual restrictions. People who may be considered our affiliates after the Distribution generally include individuals or entities that control, are controlled by, or are under common control with us. This may include certain of our officers, directors and significant stockholders, including MSG Entertainment. Persons who are our affiliates will be permitted to sell their shares only pursuant to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the Securities Act), or an exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act, or in compliance with Rule 144 under the Securities Act (Rule 144). As described under Shares Eligible for Future Sale Registration Rights Agreements, we expect that certain persons will have registration rights with respect to our stock.
Reason for Furnishing this Information Statement
This information statement is being furnished by MSG Entertainment solely to provide information to stockholders of MSG Entertainment who will receive shares of our common stock in the Distribution. It is not, and is not to be construed as, an inducement or encouragement to buy or sell any of our securities. We and MSG Entertainment will not update the information in this information statement except in the normal course of our and MSG Entertainments respective public disclosure obligations and practices.
55
We are a Delaware corporation with our principal executive offices at Two Pennsylvania Plaza, New York, NY 10121. Our telephone number is +1 (212) 465-6000. Spinco is a holding company and conducts substantially all of its operations through its subsidiaries.
Spinco was incorporated on September 15, 2022 and is a direct, wholly-owned subsidiary of MSG Entertainment. MSG Entertainments board of directors approved the Distribution on March 29, 2023. Prior to the Distribution, the Company will acquire the subsidiary of MSG Entertainment that owns, directly and indirectly, the subsidiaries, businesses and other assets described in this information statement. Where we describe in this information statement our business activities, we do so as if these transfers have already occurred.
On or prior to the Distribution, Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. will change its name to Sphere Entertainment Co. and MSGE Spinco, Inc. will change its name to Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. Our Class A Common Stock has been approved for listing on the NYSE under the symbol MSGE and Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. (renamed Sphere Entertainment Co.) will change its symbol on the NYSE to SPHR in connection with the Distribution. We will not list our Class B Common Stock on any securities exchange.
General
We are a leader in live entertainment experiences, comprised of iconic venues and marquee entertainment content. Utilizing our powerful brands and live entertainment expertise, the Company delivers unique experiences that set the standard for excellence and innovation while forging deep connections with diverse and passionate audiences.
Our company includes (i) our portfolio of venues: The Garden, The Theater at Madison Square Garden (formerly the Hulu Theater), Radio City Music Hall, the Beacon Theatre, and The Chicago Theatre, (ii) the original production, the Christmas Spectacular, and (iii) our entertainment and sports bookings business, which showcases a broad array of compelling concerts, family shows and special events, as well as a diverse mix of sporting events, for millions of guests annually.
We manage our business through a single reportable segment.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Our Business
The Companys operations and operating results were materially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic (including COVID-19 variants) and actions taken in response by governmental authorities and certain professional sports leagues during Fiscal Years 2020, 2021 and 2022. For the majority of Fiscal Year 2021, substantially all of our business operations were suspended. Fiscal Year 2022 was also impacted by the pandemic, with fewer ticketed events at our venues in the first half of the fiscal year as compared with Fiscal Year 2019 (the last full fiscal year not impacted by COVID-19) due to the lead-time required to book touring acts and artists, and an increase in COVID-19 cases due to a new variant, which resulted in a number of events at our venues being cancelled or postponed in the fiscal second and third quarters.
As a result of government-mandated assembly limitations and closures, all of our venues were closed beginning in March 2020. Use of The Garden resumed for Knicks and Rangers home games without fans in December 2020 and January 2021, respectively, and was available at 10% seating capacity from February through May 2021 subject to certain safety protocols and social distancing. Beginning in May 2021, all of our New York venues were permitted to host guests at full capacity, subject to certain restrictions, and effective June 2021, The Chicago Theatre was permitted to host events without restrictions. Guests of our Chicago and New York venues were also subject to certain vaccination requirements until February and March 2022, respectively. Our venues no longer require guests to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination before entering, but
56
specific performers may require enhanced protocols. We continue to monitor risks related to COVID-19 and prepare so that we can respond to any increased safety protocols that may be needed in response to a change in circumstances, request from a performer or new governmental or league mandates. However, existing or prior procedures may not be sufficient as COVID-19 continues to evolve, including through new case levels or variants.
For Fiscal Year 2021, the majority of ticketed events at our venues were postponed or cancelled. For Fiscal Year 2022 and as of the date of this filing, live events have been permitted to be held at all of our venues and we are continuing to host and book new events. As a result of an increase in cases of a COVID-19 variant, select bookings were postponed or cancelled at our venues in the second and third quarters of Fiscal Year 2022. Variants of COVID-19 that arise in the future may result in additional postponements or cancellations of bookings at our venues.
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our operations also included the partial cancellation of the 2021 production of the Christmas Spectacular and the cancellation of the 2020 production of the Christmas Spectacular.
The Company has Arena License Agreements with MSG Sports that require the Knicks and Rangers to play their home games at The Garden. As discussed above, capacity restrictions, use limitations and social distancing requirements were in place for the entirety of the Knicks and Rangers 2020-21 regular seasons, which materially impacted the payments we received under the Arena License Agreements for Fiscal Year 2021. On July 1, 2021, the Knicks and Rangers began paying the full amounts provided for under their respective Arena License Agreements. The Knicks and the Rangers each completed their 2021-2022 82-game regular seasons, with the Rangers advancing to the playoffs.
It is unclear to what extent COVID-19 concerns, including with respect to new variants, could result in new government or league-mandated capacity restrictions or vaccination/mask requirements or impact the use of and/or demand for our venues, demand for our sponsorship and signage assets, deter our employees and vendors from working at our venues (which may lead to difficulties in staffing) or otherwise materially impact our operations.
Our Strengths
| Strong position in live entertainment through: |
| A portfolio of world-renowned venues; and |
| Marquee live entertainment brands and content. |
| Significant presence in the New York market the nations number one DMA; |
| Deep industry relationships that drive top-tier performers and a wide variety of events to the Companys venues; |
| Proven track record of delivering significant value for partners through innovative sponsorships and premium hospitality; |
| Reputation for world-class customer experience driven by decades of expertise in sales and marketing, and venue operations; |
| Expertise in utilizing data to drive decisions to maximize revenue and the experience of our guests; |
| Long-term agreements to host home games at The Garden for two of the most recognized franchises in professional sports the Knicks and the Rangers; and a |
| Strong and seasoned management team. |
57
Our Strategy
Our strategy is to create world-class live experiences for our guests and partners by leveraging (i) our Companys unique portfolio of live entertainment assets and brands; (ii) our expertise in venue management, bookings and productions, sponsorship, ticketing, marketing and premium hospitality and content development; (iii) our deep relationships across the entertainment and sports industries; and (iv) our strong connection with diverse and passionate audiences. We believe this strategy will enable us to generate long-term value creation for our shareholders.
Key components of our strategy include:
| Maximizing the live entertainment experience for our customers. We use the strength of our venues, expertise and relationships to attract top talent and deliver unforgettable experiences for our guests. We have a track record of designing world-class facilities with top-quality amenities, including our renovations of The Garden, Radio City Music Hall, and the Beacon Theatre. We also continue to explore new ways to use technology to improve the guest experience. From the way our customers buy food, beverage and merchandise, to how we market and process their tickets, to utilizing next-generation audio technology in our venues, we strive to give our customers the best experience in the industry. We believe this approach will enable us to drive improvements in per-event revenue and profitability at our venues and help create a seamless and memorable guest experience that will help drive repeat visitation to our venues. |
| Increasing the utilization of our venues. Part of what drives our success is our artist first approach. Through dedicated artist areas and top-tier service, our talent-friendly environment not only attracts artists to our venues, but also brings them back for repeat performances. Another part of this approach is how we use our diverse collection of venues. With seating capacities and configurations that range from 2,800 to 21,000, our venue portfolio enables us to shepherd artists through the growth in their careers, helping us develop deeper industry relationships. We will continue to use this artist first approach to attract the industrys top talent with the goal of increasing utilization across all our venues through more multi-night concerts, as well as more marquee special events. We also plan to continue exploring opportunities for new events that would be unique to our venues, including high-profile residencies that would help build our base of events. |
| Delivering unrivaled marketing exposure for our partners. Our assets are highly sought after by companies that value the popularity of our venues and entertainment brands. Our value proposition is further strengthened by our sponsorship sales representation agreement with MSG Sports which enables us to deliver broad-based marketing platforms that combine our assets with MSG Sports professional sports brands. We plan to continue utilizing this integrated approach to both renew and extend our relationships with existing partners, as well as to form partnerships with leading companies in emerging industries and in industry verticals where we are currently underpenetrated. We also offer our partners expanded reach through outdoor signage around the Madison Square Garden Complex and Penn Station, a major commuter hub in Manhattan. We plan to selectively explore additional opportunities to grow our external signage portfolio which could increase our existing marketing partnerships packages as well as attract new partners. |
| Offering best-in-class premium hospitality products. The Company offers a wide array of premium corporate hospitality offerings that cater to a variety of audiences. For example, The Garden has a range of suite and club products, including 21 Event Level suites, 58 Lexus Level suites, 18 Infosys Level suites, the Caesars Sportsbook Lounge, Suite Sixteen and the HUB Loft. These suites and clubs which provide exclusive private spaces, first-class amenities and some of the best seats in The Garden are primarily licensed to corporate customers with the majority being multi-year agreements with annual escalators. Through our Arena License Agreements with the Knicks and Rangers, we also offer suite holders access to MSG Sports premium live sporting events. We believe the strength of our product and content offerings, along with the continued importance of corporate hospitality to our partners, position us well with regard to ongoing renewal and new sales activity. We also plan to explore enhancing and expanding our premium hospitality offerings, which would create new monetization opportunities for the Company. |
58
| Understanding our customers. We continue to forge direct relationships with customers and fans, with a focus on understanding how consumers interact with every aspect of the Company. A key component of this strategy is our large and growing proprietary database of millions of customers. The data we collect from our venues and digital products provides the Company with significant insights into our customers, including who is utilizing our digital assets and attending events at our venues. In addition to providing value for our marketing partners, these insights are leveraged to help drive revenue and engagement across our assets, providing us with an opportunity to tailor offerings and cross-promote our products and services, introducing customers to our wide range of assets and brands. We also plan to increasingly use data to proactively identify potential bookings for our venues. |
| Exploring opportunities to expand proprietary entertainment content. We plan to selectively explore opportunities to create new live entertainment content, including by leveraging owned intellectual property like the Rockettes. This would enable us to benefit from the economics of being both content owner and venue operator. Additional owned content would also make us less reliant on third-party events to drive utilization of our venues. |
Our Business
Our Company delivers unforgettable live experiences all in extraordinary settings, with a substantial presence in the New York market, our nations largest DMA. This creates significant demand for our brands by a wide selection of artists, sporting events, premier companies and the public. And with a foundation of iconic venues, our Company has a proven ability to leverage the strength of our industry relationships, marketing assets, customer database and live event expertise to create compelling performance, promotion and distribution opportunities for artists, events and productions.
Specifically, the Company produces, presents and hosts a variety of live entertainment events, such as concerts, sporting events, family shows, performing arts events, special events and the wholly-owned Christmas Spectacular production which features the world-famous Rockettes. In addition, the Company hosts two of the most recognized franchises in professional sports the NBAs Knicks and the NHLs Rangers. These live events are held at the Companys venues: The Garden, The Theater at Madison Square Garden, Radio City Music Hall, the Beacon Theatre, and The Chicago Theatre. With seating capacities and configurations that range from 2,800 to 21,000, our diverse collection of venues enables us to showcase a multitude of acts and events that cover a wide spectrum of genres to diverse audiences.
Prior to December 2, 2022, the Company also owned a controlling interest in Boston Calling Events, LLC (BCE), the entertainment production company that owns and operates the Boston Calling Music Festival. The Company disposed of its controlling interest in BCE in Fiscal Year 2023.
Our Bookings Business
Live Entertainment
Our Company is an established industry leader that books a wide variety of live entertainment events in our venues, which perennially include some of the biggest names in music and entertainment. Over the last several years, our venues have been key destinations for artists such as the Eagles, U2, Foo Fighters, Paul McCartney, Drake, Bruno Mars, Justin Bieber, Harry Styles, Dead and Company, Phish, Fleetwood Mac, Kacey Musgraves, Eric Clapton, Josh Groban, Andrea Boccelli, Jennifer Lopez, Carrie Underwood, Justin Timberlake, P!nk, Chris Stapleton, Radiohead, Barbra Streisand, Olivia Rodrigo, Ariana Grande, Sebastian Maniscalco, Trevor Noah, John Mulaney and Dave Chappelle.
In addition, we have successfully developed new ways to increase the utilization of our venues, while creating unique experiences for artists and fans with our various residencies including The Gardens first music franchise: Billy Joel at The Garden. This extraordinary residency is at a historic 87 performances and counting since it began in January 2014, bringing Billy Joels lifetime performances at The Worlds Most Famous Arena to 133 (through February 2023). The Companys other current residencies include the multi-year, dual-city residency of Tedeschi
59
Trucks Band at both the Beacon Theatre and The Chicago Theatre. The Company has also in recent years successfully created other unique bookings and residencies across its portfolio of venues, including Jerry Seinfeld at the Beacon Theatre, Dave Chappelle at Radio City Music Hall, Phishs 13-night Bakers Dozen run at The Garden, Ali Wong at the Beacon Theatre, Josh Grobans Great Big Radio City Show, Trey Anastasios eight-week virtual residency at the Beacon Theatre a first for the Company and Harry Styles 15-night run at The Garden.
Our venues also attract family shows and theatrical productions, which have included: Twas the Night Before by Cirque du Soleil at both The Chicago Theatre and The Theater at Madison Square Garden, as well as Peppa Pig Live!, Paw Patrol Live! and Sesame Street Live!. Other significant events that have taken place at our venues include the Tony Awards, the MTV Video Music Awards, New York Comic Con, Tribeca Festival events and the final season premieres of both HBOs Game of Thrones and STARZs POWER. We have also hosted appearances by luminaries such as His Holiness Pope Francis, His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, along with graduations, television upfronts, product launches and film premieres.
Although we primarily license our venues to third-party promoters for a fee, we also promote or co-promote shows. If we serve as promoters or co-promoters of a show, we have economic risk relating to the event.
Sports
MSG Sports professional sports teams, the Knicks and Rangers, are two of the most recognized franchises in sports, with passionate, multi-generational fanbases. The Company has long-term Arena License Agreements with MSG Sports that require the Knicks and the Rangers to play their home games at The Garden, allowing us to continue hosting their long-time fans at The Worlds Most Famous Arena.
Our Company also promotes, produces and/or presents a broad array of other live sporting events, including professional boxing, college basketball, college hockey, professional bull riding, mixed martial arts, esports and wrestling. Many of these events are among the most popular in our history and are perennial highlights on our annual calendar, as well as some of The Gardens longest-running associations.
Professional boxing has had a long history with The Garden. The Garden famously hosted Muhammad Ali and Joe Fraziers 1971 Fight of the Century, considered among the greatest sporting events in modern history, as well as numerous other boxing greats, including: Joe Louis, Rocky Marciano, Sugar Ray Robinson, Willie Pep, Emile Griffith, George Foreman, Roberto Duran, Oscar De La Hoya, Sugar Ray Leonard, Lennox Lewis, Roy Jones, Jr., Mike Tyson, Evander Holyfield, Miguel Cotto and Wladimir Klitschko. In recent years, boxings top fighters have called The Garden home, including former unified lightweight world champion Teofimo Lopez, former three weight class champion Vasiliy Lomachenko, former unified middleweight champion Gennadiy Golovkin and boxing superstar Canelo Alvarez. In 2022, for the first-time in The Gardens history, two women headlined a boxing event when Katie Taylor faced off against Amanda Serrano in front of a sold-out crowd for the undisputed lightweight championship.
Since the return of professional mixed martial arts in New York State in 2016, The Garden regularly hosts top UFC events, as well as Bellator MMA events and the Professional Fighters League, which has held events at The Theater at Madison Square Garden, including its inaugural World Championships.
College sports have been a mainstay at The Garden for decades, with college basketball being featured at The Worlds Most Famous Arena for nearly 90 years. The Garden hosted the annual Big East Tournament in March 2023 for the 41st straight year. It is the longest-running conference tournament at one site in all of college basketball and will celebrate its 42nd anniversary at The Garden in March 2024. In addition, St. Johns University has called The Garden its home away from home for decades. The Garden also continues to build its college hockey tradition, with a popular biennial event featuring Cornell University vs. Boston University, as well as recent visits from top national teams such as Boston College, North Dakota, Harvard, Yale, Michigan and Minnesota.
60
For the first time in venue history, the Madison Square Garden Complex hosted professional darts when the US Darts Masters and the North American Championship took place at The Theater at Madison Square Garden in 2022, which also marked the first time a professional darts championship was held in New York City.
Other world-class sporting events have included the NBA All-Star Game in 2015, and the NCAA Division I Mens Basketball East Regional Finals, which The Garden hosted in 2014 and 2017. The widely popular season-ending tournament is set to return to The Garden in 2023.
Our Productions
One of the Companys core properties, the Christmas Spectacular which runs exclusively at Radio City Music Hall and features the world-famous Rockettes has been performed at the Music Hall since 1933. This production has become a tradition for many, creating a holiday touchstone that generations of fans want to return to, time and again. The shows enduring popularity is driven by the incomparable Rockettes, the longest-running precision dance company in America, admired for their iconic style of dance, talent and athleticism, as well as their unity both on and off the stage.
In 2021, the production returned for a shortened run a result of the COVID-19 pandemic welcoming over 400,000 guests across 101 performances and serving as a source of joy and inspiration for many fans. The Rockettes perform in nine numbers throughout the 90-minute production with more technically complex and different styles of dance than ever before.
We acquired the rights to the Christmas Spectacular in 1997, and those rights are separate from, and do not depend on the continuation of, our lease of Radio City Music Hall. We also hold rights to the Rockettes brand in the same manner. We lease Radio City Music Hall pursuant to a long-term lease agreement. See Our Business Our Venues Radio City Music Hall.
The Company believes it has a significant and unique asset in the Rockettes and continues to strengthen and broaden the Rockettes brand by targeting the most prominent and effective vehicles that elevate their visibility and underscore their reputation as beloved American cultural icons. The Rockettes have appeared or performed at high-profile events and award shows, including Presidential Inaugurations, Macys Thanksgiving Day Parade, Macys 4th of July Fireworks event, the Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting, New Years Eve Times Square Ball Drop, Tony Awards, MTV Video Music Awards, World Pride events, and television shows and holiday specials (Saturday Night Live, Americas Got Talent, Project Runway, The Kacey Musgraves Christmas Show, The Today Show, Live with Kelly and Ryan and The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon), among many others. In November 2022, the Rockettes were featured in Hallmark Channels movie, A Holiday Spectacular, which was shot in part on location at Radio City Music Hall and will debut as part of the networks Countdown to Christmas programming.
We continue to pursue opportunities to generate greater brand awareness, including through television and public appearances and dance education offerings. We are also committed to ensuring that the best dancers from all backgrounds, cultures, races, religions and ethnicities can become Rockettes, and are actively strengthening our relationships within the dance community, expanding where we hold auditions and scouting sessions, and eliminating financial barriers to entry, including for Rockettes Conservatory, our dancer development program. Rockettes Conservatory is an invite-only, week-long intensive training program held at Radio City Music Hall and offered at no cost to participants. The program was designed as an investment in promising dancers futures, and in addition to becoming an inclusive talent pipeline for future Rockettes, conservatory ensures the dance company continues to evolve by attracting the best dancers. Additionally, to create a more inclusive line by broadening the number of dancers eligible to become Rockettes, the organization announced an expanded height requirement beginning with the April 2022 audition. The dance company continues to foster relationships with diverse dance organizations, including Dance Theatre of Harlem, Harlem School of the Arts, The Ailey School, International Association of Blacks in Dance and The Chloé and Maud Foundation, to provide program support,
61
introduce staff and students to the unique world of precision dance and actively engage with dancers for Rockettes Conservatory.
Our Venues
The Company operates a mix of iconic venues that continue to build on their historic prominence as destinations for unforgettable experiences and events.
We own or operate under long-term leases a total of five venues in New York City and Chicago. These venues are: The Garden, The Theater at Madison Square Garden, Radio City Music Hall and the Beacon Theatre in New York City; and The Chicago Theatre.
The Garden
The Garden has been a celebrated center of New York life since it first opened its doors in 1879. Over its 143-year history, there have been four Garden buildings, each known for showcasing the best of the eras live sports and entertainment offerings. We believe that The Garden has come to epitomize the power and passion of live sports and entertainment to people around the world, with an appearance at The Garden often representing a pinnacle of an athletes or performers career. Known as The Worlds Most Famous Arena, The Garden has been the site of some of the most memorable events in sports and entertainment, and together with The Theater at Madison Square Garden, has hosted hundreds of events and millions of visitors each year. In 2009, Billboard magazine ranked The Garden the number-one venue of the decade in its respective class based upon gross ticket sales. Music industry subscribers to the trade magazine Pollstar have voted The Garden Arena of the Year 23 times since the inception of the awards in 1989. The Garden also regularly ranks as the highest-grossing entertainment venue of its size in the world based on Billboard magazines mid-year and year-end rankings. The venue was ranked number one worldwide four times in the last five years for venues with a capacity over 15,001, according to Billboards year-end rankings.
Over The Gardens history, it has been the setting for countless big events, inspired performances and one-of-a-kind moments that have helped define sports, entertainment and culture. Highlights include The Fight of the Century between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier in 1971, the 1970 Knicks NBA Championship, the Rangers 1994 Stanley Cup Championship, three Democratic National Conventions and one Republican National Convention, Marilyn Monroes famous birthday serenade to President John F. Kennedy, Frank Sinatras Main Event concert in 1974, the only U.S. concerts from the reunited Cream, the 25th Anniversary Rock and Roll Hall of Fame concerts, the 60th Annual Grammy Awards, and Billy Joels record-breaking 133 total performances at The Garden (through February 2023). In September 2015, His Holiness Pope Francis celebrated Mass at The Garden as part of his successful U.S. visit, which marked the first time a current pope has visited The Garden since Pope John Paul II in 1979. The Garden has also hosted four prominent benefit concerts, which galvanized the public to respond to national and global crises, including the first of its kind, The Concert for Bangladesh in 1972, as well as The Concert for New York City, following the events of 9/11, From the Big Apple to the Big Easy, held after Hurricane Katrina in 2005, and 12-12-12, The Concert for Sandy Relief in 2012. And in February 2020, To Kill a Mockingbird became the first-ever Broadway play to perform at The Garden with an entirely free performance for 18,000 New York City public school students. The Garden also continues to be home to two of MSG Sports professional sports franchises the Knicks and Rangers.
The current Madison Square Garden Complex, located between 31st and 33rd Streets and Seventh and Eighth Avenues on Manhattans West Side, opened on February 11, 1968 with a salute to the United Service Organizations hosted by Bob Hope and Bing Crosby. From a structural standpoint, the construction of the current Garden was considered an engineering wonder for its time, including its famous circular shape and unique, cable supported ceiling, which contributes to its intimate feel. It was the first large structure built over an active railroad track. The builder, R.E. McKee, had a national reputation and was later recognized as a Master Builder by the construction industry. Architect Charles Luckman had one of the largest firms in the country and designed such buildings as the Prudential Tower in Boston, NASAs flight center in Houston and the Forum in Inglewood, CA.
62
Following a three-year, top-to-bottom renovation, in October 2013, The Garden was fully transformed, featuring improved sightlines, additional entertainment and dining options, new concourses, upgraded hospitality areas, new technology, unique historic exhibits, and a completely transformed interior, where the intimacy of the arena bowl and The Gardens world-famous ceiling were maintained. Focused on the total fan experience, the renovation was designed to benefit everyone in attendance, whether first-time visitors, season ticket subscribers, athletes, artists, suite holders or marketing partners. The Gardens transformation ensured that attending an event at The Worlds Most Famous Arena remained unlike anywhere else.
We own the Madison Square Garden Complex, the platform on which it is built and development rights (including air rights) above our property. Madison Square Garden sits atop Penn Station, a major commuter hub in Manhattan, which is owned by the National Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak). While the development rights we own would permit us to expand in the future, any such use of development rights would require various approvals from the City of New York. The Garden seats up to approximately 21,000 spectators for entertainment and sporting events and, along with The Theater at Madison Square Garden, contains approximately 1,100,000 square feet of floor space over 11 levels.
The Theater at Madison Square Garden
The Theater at Madison Square Garden, which has approximately 5,600 seats, opened as part of the fourth Madison Square Garden Complex in 1968. Since then, some of the biggest names in live entertainment have performed at The Theater at Madison Square Garden, including The Who, Diana Ross, Elton John, James Taylor, Mary J. Blige, Pentatonix, John Legend, Karol G, Ellie Goulding, Chris Rock, Neil Young, Bill Maher, Jerry Seinfeld, Tyler, the Creator, J Balvin, Ricky Gervais, Nicky Jam, Aziz Ansari, Alejandro Sanz, Bert Kreischer and Van Morrison. The Theater at Madison Square Garden has also been the site for several boxing events including the inaugural World Championships of the Professional Fighters League as well as the NBA and NFL Drafts. In addition, it has hosted various product launches, upfronts, award shows, and other special events such as Wheel of Fortune and audition shows for Americas Got Talent, as well as a variety of theatrical productions and family shows, including Twas the Night Before by Cirque du Soleil, A Christmas Story, Elf The Musical, Paw Patrol Live! and Sesame Street Live!. The Theater at Madison Square Garden regularly ranks as one of the highest-grossing entertainment venues of its size in the world, based on Billboard magazines mid-year and year-end rankings.
Radio City Music Hall
Radio City Music Hall has a rich history as a national theatrical and cultural mecca since it was first built by theatrical impresario S.L. Roxy Rothafel in 1932. Known as The Showplace of the Nation, it was the first building in the Rockefeller Center complex and, at the time, the largest indoor theater in the world. Radio City Music Hall, a venue with approximately 6,000 seats, hosts concerts, family shows and special events, and is home to the Christmas Spectacular. See Our Business Our Productions. Over its history, entertainers who have graced the Great Stage include: Aretha Franklin, Lady Gaga, Brian Wilson, Harry Styles, Diana Ross, Lizzo, Olivia Rodrigo, Josh Groban, Mariah Carey, Lorde, Nine Inch Nails, Trey Anastasio, Christina Aguilera, Britney Spears, Tony Bennett, Hasan Minhaj, Billie Eilish, Sebastian Maniscalco, Jim Gaffigan, David Gilmour and Dave Chappelle. Radio City Music Hall was recognized by Pollstar magazine as Theatre of the Decade for 2009-2019 and regularly ranks as the highest-grossing entertainment venue of its size in the world, based on Billboard magazines mid-year and year-end rankings. The venue has ranked number one worldwide nine of the last ten years for venues with capacities of 5,001 to 10,000, according to Billboards year-end rankings.
In 1978, Radio City Music Hall was designated a New York City landmark by the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission and a national landmark on the National Register of Historic Places. We acquired the lease in 1997, and in 1999, performed a complete restoration that returned the legendary theater to its original grandeur. The acclaimed restoration touched all aspects of the venue, including burnishing the ceilings of Radio City Music Hall with 720,000 sheets of gold and aluminum leaf, replacing the existing stage curtain with a new 112-foot wide golden silk curtain, and cleaning the three-story tall mural The Fountain of Youth, by Ezra
63
Winter, which looms above the grand staircase. State-of-the-art sound systems, lighting and HDTV capabilities were also installed.
We lease Radio City Music Hall, located at Sixth Avenue and 50th Street in Manhattan, pursuant to a long-term lease agreement. In July 2021, the Company extended the term of the lease, previously set to expire in 2023, until August 31, 2038 with an option to renew for an additional 10 years by providing two years notice prior to expiration.
Beacon Theatre
In November 2006, we entered into a long-term lease agreement to operate the legendary Beacon Theatre, a venue with approximately 2,800 seats, which sits on the corner of Broadway and 74th Street in Manhattan. The Beacon Theatre was conceived by S. L. Roxy Rothafel and is considered the older sister to Radio City Music Hall. Designed by Chicago architect Walter Ahlschlager, the Beacon Theatre opened in 1929 as a forum for vaudeville acts, musical productions, drama, opera and movies. The Beacon Theatre was designated a New York City landmark by the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission in 1979 and a national landmark on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. Over its history, the Beacon Theatre has been a venerable rock and roll room for some of the greatest names in music, including: Steely Dan, Coldplay, Alice Cooper, Dave Matthews Band, Crosby Stills & Nash, Elton John, Hozier, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, Tedeschi Trucks Band, Eddie Vedder, John Mellencamp, Widespread Panic and Bob Dylan, as well as The Allman Brothers Band, which played their 238th show at the Beacon Theatre in October 2014, marking their final concert as a band. In recent years, the venue has become a comedy haven, hosting a monthly Jerry Seinfeld residency and multi-night stands from comedians including Ali Wong, Sebastian Maniscalco, Chelsea Handler, Eddie Izzard, Nate Bargatze and Russell Peters. The venue has also hosted special events, such as film premieres for the Tribeca Festival, along with numerous luminaries such as His Holiness the Dalai Lama in 2009 and 2013, and President Bill Clinton in 2006, when the Rolling Stones played a private concert in honor of his 60th birthday. In Fall 2020, the Company and Trey Anastasio presented The Beacon Jams, the venues first-ever virtual residency which included eight weekly shows that were streamed live to hundreds of thousands of fans and raised more than $1 million for charity.
In August 2008, the Beacon Theatre was closed for a seven-month restoration project to return the theater to its original 1929 grandeur. The restoration of the Beacon Theatre focused on all historic, interior public spaces of the building, backstage and back-of-house areas, and was based on extensive historic research, as well as detailed, on-site examination of original, decorative painting techniques that had been covered by decades-old layers of paint. The Beacon Theatre has won several architectural awards recognizing its outstanding restoration. The widely acclaimed, comprehensive restoration was similar to our restoration of Radio City Music Hall and reflects our commitment to New York City. The Beacon Theatre regularly ranks as one of the highest-grossing entertainment venues of its size in the world, based on Billboard magazines mid-year and year-end rankings.
In August 2022, the Beacon Theatre debuted a groundbreaking new sound system Sphere Immersive Sound which was developed for Sphere at The Venetian, substantially improving the audio experience at the venue and providing greater programming control and flexibility for artists and engineers.
In December 2021, the Company extended the term of our lease on the Beacon Theatre, previously set to expire in 2026, until December 31, 2036 with an option to renew for an additional 10 years by providing notice prior to expiration.
The Chicago Theatre
In October 2007, to provide us with an anchor for content and distribution in a key market in the Midwest, we purchased the legendary The Chicago Theatre, a venue with approximately 3,600 seats. The Chicago Theatre, which features its famous six-story-high C-H-I-C-A-G-O marquee, was built in 1921 and designed in the
64
French Baroque style by architects Cornelius W. Rapp and George L. Rapp. It is the oldest surviving example of this architectural style in Chicago today, and was designated a Chicago landmark building in 1983.
The Chicago Theatre has become a highly attractive destination for concerts, comedy shows and other live events, hosting a wide range of entertainers, including Bob Dylan, Mumford & Sons, David Byrne, Neil Young, Diana Ross, Madonna, Jerry Seinfeld, Janet Jackson, Elvis Costello, Bob Weir, Jim Gaffigan, Conan OBrien, Amy Schumer, Steely Dan and Brett Eldredge. The venue has also hosted theatrical tours such as Twas the Night Before by Cirque du Soleil, A Christmas Story, The Wizard of Oz, Paw Patrol Live! and Dr. Seuss How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical. The Chicago Theatre regularly ranks as one of the highest-grossing entertainment venues of its size in the world, based on Billboard magazines mid-year and year-end rankings.
Intellectual Property
We create, own and license intellectual property in the countries in which we operate, have operated or intend to operate, and it is our practice to protect our trademarks, brands, copyrights, inventions and other original and acquired works. We have registered many of our trademarks and have filed applications for certain others. Additionally, we have filed for patent protection in the United States. Our registrations and applications relate to trademarks and inventions associated with, among other of our brands, Madison Square Garden and the Radio City Rockettes brands. We believe our ability to maintain and monetize our intellectual property rights, including our brand logos, are important to our business, our brand-building efforts and the marketing of our products and services. We cannot predict, however, whether steps taken by us to protect our proprietary rights will be adequate to prevent misappropriation of these rights or protect against vulnerability to oppositions or cancellation actions due to non-use. See Risk Factors Risks Related to Cybersecurity and Intellectual Property We May Become Subject to Infringement or Other Claims Relating to Our Content or Technology and Risk Factors Risks Related to Cybersecurity and Intellectual Property Theft of Our Intellectual Property May Have a Material Negative Effect on Our Business and Results of Operations.
Other Investments
Our Company explores investment opportunities that strengthen its existing position within the entertainment landscape and/or allow us to exploit our assets and core competencies for growth.
Our Community
The Company actively engages with and supports the communities we serve through a variety of important initiatives.
We are proud to play a leadership role organizing extraordinary events such as opening The Garden to the 12-12-12 benefit concert organized post-Superstorm Sandy, which raised more than $50 million for hurricane victims. In February 2020, The Garden opened its doors to 18,000 New York City public school students for an exclusive, free performance of the Broadway production of To Kill a Mockingbird. In addition to these events, the Company provides funding annually to various non-profit organizations across the country, as well as in-kind contributions such as tickets, promotional items and food to schools, charities and community-based organizations in the local area. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Company worked with dozens of local restaurants and charities to donate approximately 200,000 meals to families in need. In addition, the Company is a long-time supporter of the Lustgarten Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research, the nations largest private supporter of pancreatic cancer research, which has directed more than $225 million to research and assembled the best scientific minds to help find a cure.
Our Company also has a close association with The Garden of Dreams Foundation (the Foundation), a non-profit charity dedicated to bringing life changing opportunities to young people in need. In partnership with the Company and MSG Sports, the Foundation provides young people in our communities with access to
65
educational and skills opportunities, mentoring programs, and memorable experiences that enhance their lives, help shape their futures and create lasting joy. Specific initiatives include the Inspire Scholarship program, which has committed since its inception over $5.8 million in aid to high school seniors to provide financial assistance related to college and trade school expenses. All of the Foundations activities target young people facing illness or financial challenges, as well as children of uniformed personnel who have been lost or injured while serving our communities. Since its inception in 2006, the Foundation has impacted more than 400,000 young people and their families.
Regulation
The rules, regulations, policies and procedures affecting our business are subject to change. The following paragraphs describe the existing legal and regulatory requirements that are most significant to our business today; they do not purport to describe all present and proposed laws and regulations affecting our business.
Our business is subject to the general powers of federal, state and local government, as well as foreign governmental authorities, to deal with matters of health and public safety.
Venue Licenses
Our venues, like all public spaces, are subject to building and health codes and fire regulations imposed by the state and local governments in the jurisdictions in which they are located. Our venues are also subject to zoning and outdoor advertising regulations, and, with respect to Radio City Music Hall, the Beacon Theatre and The Chicago Theatre, landmark regulations which restrict us from making certain modifications to our facilities as of right or from operating certain types of businesses. Our venues also require a number of licenses to operate, including occupancy permits, exhibition licenses, food and beverage permits, liquor licenses and other authorizations and, with respect to The Garden, a zoning special permit granted by the New York City Planning Commission. In the jurisdictions in which these venues are located, the operator is subject to statutes that generally provide that serving alcohol to a visibly intoxicated or minor guest is a violation of the law and may provide for strict liability for certain damages arising out of such violations. In addition, our venues are subject to the federal Americans with Disabilities Act (and related state and local statutes), which requires us to maintain certain accessibility features at each of our facilities. We and our venues are also subject to environmental laws and regulations. See Risk Factors Economic and Operational Risks We Are Subject to Extensive Governmental Regulation and Our Failure to Comply with These Regulations May Have a Material Negative Effect on Our Business and Results of Operations.
Labor
Our business is also subject to regulation regarding working conditions, overtime and minimum wage requirements. See Risk Factors Economic and Operational Risks Labor Matters May Have a Material Negative Effect on Our Business and Results of Operations.
Ticket Sales
Our business is subject to legislation governing the sale and resale of tickets and consumer protection statutes generally.
Data and Privacy
We are subject to data privacy and protection laws, regulations, policies and contractual obligations that apply to the collection, transmission, storage, processing and use of personal information or personal data, which among other things, impose certain requirements relating to the privacy and security of personal information. The variety of laws and regulations governing data privacy and protection, and the use of the internet as a commercial medium are rapidly evolving, extensive and complex, and may include provisions and obligations that are inconsistent with one another or uncertain in their scope or application.
66
The data protection landscape is rapidly evolving in the United States. For example, California passed a comprehensive data privacy law, the CCPA, and other states including Virginia and Colorado have also passed similar laws. Additionally, the CPRA imposed additional data protection obligations on covered businesses, including additional consumer rights procedures and obligations, limitations on data uses, new audit requirements for higher risk data, and constraints on certain uses of sensitive data. The majority of the CPRA provisions went into effect on January 1, 2023, and additional compliance investment and potential business process changes may be required. Further, there are several legislative proposals in the United States, at both the federal and state level, that could impose new privacy and security obligations.
In addition, governmental authorities and private litigants continue to bring actions against companies for online collection, use, dissemination and security practices that are unfair or deceptive.
Website and Mobile Application Requirements
Our business is also subject to certain regulations applicable to our Internet websites and mobile applications. We maintain various websites and mobile applications that provide information and content regarding our business, offer merchandise and tickets for sale, make available sweepstakes and/or contests and offer hospitality services. The operation of these websites and applications may be subject to third-party application store requirements, as well as a range of federal, state and local laws including those related to privacy and protection of personal information, accessibility for persons with disabilities and consumer protection regulations. In addition, to the extent any of our websites seek to collect information from children under 13 years of age, they may be subject to the Childrens Online Privacy Protection Act, which places restrictions on websites and online services collection and use of personally identifiable information online from children under age 13 without parental consent.
Competition
Our business competes, in certain respects and to varying degrees, with other live performances, sporting events, movies, home entertainment (including the Internet and online services, social media and social networking platforms, television, video and gaming devices), and the large number of other entertainment and public attraction options available to members of the public. Our business typically represents alternative uses for the publics entertainment dollars. The primary geographic area in which we operate, New York City, is among the most competitive entertainment markets in the world, with the worlds largest live theater industry and extensive performing arts venues, 12 major professional sports teams, numerous museums, galleries and other attractions, and numerous movie theaters available to the public. Our venues and live offerings outside of New York City similarly compete with other entertainment options in their respective markets and elsewhere. We compete with these other entertainment options on the basis of the quality of our offerings, the publics interest in our content and the price of our tickets.
We compete for bookings with a large number of other venues both in the cities in which our venues are located and in alternative locations capable of booking the same productions and events. Generally, we compete for bookings on the basis of the size, quality, expense and nature of the venue required for the booking. Some of our competitors may have a larger network of venues and/or greater financial resources.
In addition to competition for bookings and ticket sales, we also compete to varying degrees with other productions and sporting events for sponsorship dollars.
Human Capital Resources
We believe the strength of our workforce is one of the significant contributors to our success. Our key human capital management objectives are to invest in and support our employees in order to attract, develop and retain a high performing and diverse workforce.
67
Diversity and Inclusion (D&I)
We aim to create an employee experience that fosters the Companys culture of respect and inclusion. By welcoming the diverse perspectives and experiences of our employees, we all share in the creation of a more vibrant, unified, and engaging place to work. To advance these efforts, we maintain a Diversity and Inclusion Council (the D&I Council) comprised of employees from the Company, MSG Entertainment and MSG Sports who have demonstrated a high level of passion and commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Several D&I Council initiatives have furthered these objectives under the expanded Talent Management, Diversity and Inclusion function led by MSG Entertainments VP, Talent Management and Chief Diversity Officer, including:
Workforce: Embedding Diversity and Inclusion through Talent Actions
| Introduced bi-annual workforce demographic dashboards to the extended management team and facilitated four diversity and inclusion content-specific working sessions to advise leaders on strategies to build and retain inclusive teams. |
| Revisited our mandatory Inclusive Selection Training for managers and developed guidelines to de-bias talent review conversations with an aim to increase objectivity and consistency around leadership potential. |
| Developed an Emerging Talent List to expand our talent pool to better identify and develop high performing diverse talent for expanded roles and promotion opportunities. |
Workplace: Building an Inclusive and Accessible Community
| In fiscal year 2022, MSG Entertainment launched the MSG Diversity & Inclusion Heritage Month enterprise calendar to acknowledge and celebrate culturally relevant days and months of recognition, anchored by our six employee resource groups: Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI), Black, LatinX, PRIDE, Veterans, and Women. Viewership of D&I related content on our internal employee communications portal by MSG Entertainment and MSG Sports personnel more than doubled year-over-year. |
| Introduced a Paid Military Leave benefit to support our employees who are called to military service, demonstrating our commitment to be a military-friendly employer. |
| Launched our first employer-branded campaign, We Are MSG, reflecting the values of the Company, MSG Entertainment and MSG Sports and the diversity that unites our community. The first video, Faces of MSG, was publicly released on internal and external platforms, anchoring our careers website and LinkedIn page. |
Community: Bridging the Divide through Expansion to Diverse Stakeholders
| Focused on connecting with minority-owned businesses to increase the diversity of our vendors and suppliers by leveraging employee resource groups and our community, which creates revenue generating opportunities for diverse suppliers to promote their businesses and products. In Fiscal Year 2022, MSG Entertainment and MSG Sports hosted the Black Fashion Pop-Up Shop and Pride Fest for Black and LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs, respectively. |
| Invested in an external facing supplier diversity portal on our website, which we expect to launch in Fiscal Year 2023. The portal is intended to expand opportunities for MSG Entertainment to do business with diverse suppliers, including minority-, women-, LGBTQ+- and veteran-owned businesses. |
| Strengthened our commitment to higher education institutions to increase campus recruitment pipelines. In partnership with the Knicks and our social impact team, MSG Entertainment and MSG Sports hosted the 1st |
68
Annual Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Night highlighting the important contributions of these institutions. In partnership with Chase, MSG Entertainment and MSG Sports awarded a twenty-five-thousand-dollar scholarship to a Spelman College student. Additionally, we hosted HBCU SpringComing Innovation Lab for select HBCU alumni and students, leveraging their insights to strengthen our recruitment outreach strategy. We also partnered with select City University of New York students to host resume workshops curated and sponsored by the PRIDE employee resource group. |
Talent
As of December 31, 2022, we had approximately 970 full-time union and non-union employees and 6,021 part-time union and non-union employees.
We aim to attract top talent through our prestigious brands and venues, as well as through the many benefits we offer. We aim to retain and develop our talent by emphasizing our competitive rewards, offering opportunities that support employees both personally and professionally, and our commitment to fostering career development in a positive corporate culture.
Our performance management practice includes ongoing feedback and conversations between managers and team members, and talent reviews designed to identify potential future leaders and inform succession plans. We value continuous learning and development opportunities for our employees, which include a career development tool, leadership development programs, a learning platform, and tuition assistance.
Our benefit offerings are designed to meet the range of needs of our diverse workforce and include: domestic partner coverage, an employee assistance program which also provides assistance with child and elder care resources, legal support, pet insurance, wellness programs and financial planning seminars. These resources are intended to support the physical, emotional and financial well-being of our employees.
As of December 31, 2022, approximately 4,900 full-time and part-time employees, who represent approximately 70% of the Companys workforce, were subject to CBAs. Approximately 3% were subject to CBAs that expired as of December 31, 2022 and approximately 38% were subject to CBAs that will expire by June 30, 2023, if they are not extended prior thereto. Labor relations can be volatile, though our current relationships with our unions taken as a whole are positive. We have from time to time faced labor action or had to make contingency plans because of threatened or potential labor actions.
COVID-19
The health and safety of our employees, contractors, performing artists, athletes and guests at our venues is our top priority. In response to COVID-19, measures were taken to ensure that health and safety protocols were in place and enforced throughout our offices and our venues, to the extent applicable. We also supported our employees through our relief fund, wellness programming and remote working capabilities. At times this included capacity restrictions and social distancing and vaccination and mask requirements. Although these policies are not currently required, we continue to monitor the evolving risks related to COVID-19 so that we can reintroduce these or other policies as needed. We believe we have been able to resume our business operations without sacrificing this commitment to keeping our employees and contractors safe while working on-site.
Properties
We own the Madison Square Garden Complex, which includes The Garden (with a maximum capacity of approximately 21,000 seats) and The Theater at Madison Square Garden (approximately 5,600 seats) in New York City, comprising approximately 1,100,000 square feet; and The Chicago Theatre (approximately 3,600 seats) in Chicago comprising approximately 72,600 square feet.
Significant properties that are leased in New York City include approximately 373,000 square feet housing Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp.s administrative and executive offices with approximately 47,000
69
square feet of space that is subleased to MSG Sports, approximately 577,000 square feet comprising Radio City Music Hall (approximately 6,000 seats) and approximately 57,000 square feet comprising the Beacon Theatre (approximately 2,800 seats). For more information on our venues, see Our Business Our Venues.
Our Madison Square Garden Complex is subject to and benefits from various easements, including over the breezeway into Madison Square Garden from Seventh Avenue in New York City (which we share with other property owners). Our ability to continue to utilize easements requires us to comply with certain conditions. Moreover, certain adjoining property owners have easements over our property, which we are required to maintain so long as those property owners meet certain conditions.
Legal Proceedings
Fifteen complaints were filed in connection with MSG Entertainments acquisition of MSG Networks Inc. (the Networks Merger) by purported stockholders of MSG Entertainment and MSG Networks Inc. Nine of these complaints involved allegations of materially incomplete and misleading information set forth in the joint proxy statement/prospectus filed by MSG Entertainment and MSG Networks Inc. in connection with the Networks Merger. These disclosure actions were subsequently voluntarily dismissed with prejudice. Six complaints involved allegations of fiduciary breaches in connection with the negotiation and approval of the Networks Merger and have since been consolidated into two remaining litigations. MSG Entertainment and MSG Networks Inc. will retain all rights and obligations with respect to these claims, as applicable, and MSG Entertainment will indemnify the Company from and release the Company from all present and future costs, expenses, and liabilities, if any, related to these claims. On March 14, 2023, the parties to the MSG Entertainment litigation reached an agreement in principle to settle the litigation on the terms and conditions set forth in a binding term sheet (the Term Sheet), which will be incorporated into a long-form settlement agreement. The Term Sheet provides for, among other things, the final dismissal of the MSG Entertainment litigation in exchange for a settlement payment to MSG Entertainment of $85 million, subject to customary reduction for attorneys fees and expenses, in an amount to be determined by the court. The settlement amount will be fully funded by defendants insurers. The settlement of the litigation is subject to the final approval of the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware.
The Company is a defendant in various lawsuits. Although the outcome of these lawsuits cannot be predicted with certainty (including the extent of available insurance, if any), management does not believe that resolution of these lawsuits will have a material adverse effect on the Company.
Financial Information about Geographic Areas
All revenues and assets of the Company are attributed to or located in the United States. A majority of the Companys revenues and assets are concentrated in the New York City metropolitan area.
Emerging Growth Company Status
We are an emerging growth company, as defined in the JOBS Act and we are eligible to take advantage of certain exemptions from various reporting requirements that are applicable to other public companies that are not emerging growth companies. These exemptions generally include, but are not limited to, not being required to comply with the auditor attestation requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, reduced disclosure obligations regarding executive compensation in our periodic reports and proxy statements and exemptions from the requirements of holding a nonbinding advisory vote on executive compensation and stockholder approval of any golden parachute payments not previously approved.
Although we are still evaluating the JOBS Act, we may take advantage of some or all of the reduced regulatory and reporting requirements that will be available to us as long as we qualify as an emerging growth company, except that we have irrevocably elected not to take advantage of the extension of time to comply with new or revised financial accounting standards available under Section 102(b) of the JOBS Act.
70
We will, in general, remain as an emerging growth company for up to five full fiscal years following the Distribution. We would cease to be an emerging growth company and, therefore, become ineligible to rely on the above exemptions, if we:
| have more than $1.235 billion in annual revenue in a fiscal year; |
| issue more than $1 billion of non-convertible debt during the preceding three-year period; or |
| become a large accelerated filer as defined in Exchange Act Rule 12b-2, which would occur after: (i) we have filed at least one annual report pursuant to the Exchange Act; (ii) we have been an SEC-reporting company for at least 12 months; and (iii) the market value of our common stock that is held by non-affiliates exceeds $700 million as of the last business day of our most recently completed second fiscal quarter. |
71
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL INFORMATION
All amounts included in the Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Information are presented in thousands, except per share data or as otherwise noted.
On December 6, 2022, the board of directors of Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. (MSG Entertainment) authorized MSG Entertainment management to explore a potential tax-free spin-off of the traditional live entertainment business from the MSG Sphere, MSG Networks, and Tao Group Hospitality businesses.
MSGE Spinco, Inc. (we, us, our, Spinco or the Company) was incorporated in the state of Delaware on September 15, 2022 to be the company to hold the traditional live entertainment business of MSG Entertainment. In the first step of the transaction, record holders of MSG Entertainment Class A and Class B common stock would receive a pro-rata distribution expected to be equivalent, in the aggregate, to approximately 67% of the economic interest in the Company (the Distribution). The remaining approximately 33% economic interest in the Company would be retained by MSG Entertainment, subject to completion of the Distribution. These transfers to us by MSG Entertainment are treated as a contribution to our capital at MSG Entertainments historical cost.
The following unaudited pro forma condensed combined balance sheet as of December 31, 2022 and the unaudited pro forma condensed combined statements of operations for the six months ended December 31, 2022 and the year ended June 30, 2022 have been derived from the historical annual and interim combined financial statements of the Company, including the unaudited condensed combined balance sheet as of December 31, 2022, the unaudited condensed combined statement of operations for the six months ended December 31, 2022, and the audited combined statement of operations for the year ended June 30, 2022, included elsewhere in this information statement. The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information presented below should be read in conjunction with Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and our historical annual and interim combined financial statements and corresponding notes thereto included elsewhere in this information statement. The unaudited pro forma combined financial information reflects certain known impacts as a result of the Distribution to separate the Company from MSG Entertainment.
The following unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information gives effect to the Distribution and related adjustments in accordance with Article 11 of Regulation S-X under the Exchange Act.
The unaudited pro forma condensed combined balance sheet has been prepared giving effect to the Distribution as if this transaction had occurred as of December 31, 2022. The unaudited pro forma condensed combined statements of operations have been prepared giving effect to the Distribution as if this transaction had occurred on July 1, 2021. The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information also reflects certain assumptions that we believe are reasonable given the information currently available.
The unaudited pro forma condensed combined balance sheet as of December 31, 2022 and the unaudited pro forma condensed combined statements of operations for the six months ended December 31, 2022 and the year ended June 30, 2022, respectively, have been prepared to reflect transaction accounting and autonomous entity adjustments to the Companys historical combined financial statements to present the financial condition and results of operations as if we were a separate stand-alone entity. The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information has been adjusted to give effect to the following items (collectively, the Pro Forma Adjustments):
| Adjustments for differences between the historical combined balance sheet prepared on a carve-out basis and assets and liabilities expected to be transferred between MSG Entertainment and the Company. Adjustments also give effect to the related impacts to the unaudited pro forma condensed combined statements of operations; |
73
| The distribution of approximately 67% of the Companys issued and outstanding common stock by MSG Entertainment in connection with the Distribution; |
| The impact of transactions contemplated by the Transition Services Agreement (the TSA); |
| The impact of and transactions contemplated by other contracts entered into between MSG Entertainment and the Company at the time of Distribution, such as the Employee Matters Agreement; |
| Other adjustments as described in the notes to this unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information; and |
| Income tax impacts of the adjustments described above. |
In preparing the pro forma condensed combined financial information, we did not include adjustments for the following items:
| The Companys historical combined financial statements reflect net operating loss (NOL) carryforwards calculated on a separate return basis. These NOL carryforwards were calculated as if the Company operated as a separate stand-alone entity for the periods presented in the historical annual and interim combined financial statements of the Company included elsewhere in this Information Statement. Because the Distribution involves a spin-off of the Company, these NOLs do not carry over to the Company in connection with the reorganization transactions related to the Distribution. Historically, amounts that we collected for sponsorships and suite rentals in advance were recorded as deferred revenue and were recognized as revenues when earned for both accounting and tax purposes. In connection with the reorganization transactions related to the Distribution, the tax recognition for certain of these deferred revenues will be accelerated to the date of the Distribution, rather than recognized over the course of one year. Assuming the Distribution occurred on December 31, 2022, the estimated tax on the acceleration of such deferred revenue is $58,000. Such tax will be the responsibility of MSG Entertainment, however MSG Entertainment will fully offset the deferred revenue income with their NOLs. The Company will not reimburse MSG Entertainment for such taxes. This one-time benefit will not recur in the future. |
| The Companys wholly owned subsidiary, MSG Entertainment Holdings, LLC (the DDTL Lender), is expected to enter into the DDTL Facility with MSG Entertainment (the DDTL Borrower) on or prior to the date of the Distribution. The DDTL Borrower will be able to draw up to $65,000 of senior unsecured delayed draw term loans (Delayed Draw Term Loans) for a period of 18 months following the effective date of the facility. Any Delayed Draw Term Loans that are funded will bear interest at a variable rate equal to either, at the option of the DDTL Borrower, (a) a base rate plus an applicable margin, or (b) the Term Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) plus 0.10%, plus an applicable margin. The applicable margin is expected to be equal to the then applicable margin under the National Properties Facilities plus 1.00% per annum. In addition, the DDTL Facility will include an unused commitment fee in respect of the daily unused commitments under the facility at a rate equal to the unused commitment fee rate under the National Properties Revolving Credit Facility plus 0.10% per annum. All interest and commitment fees accruing prior to January 1, 2024 will be payable in kind by capitalizing and adding such interest or fee to the outstanding principal amount of the Delayed Draw Term Loans. All interest and commitment fees accruing on and after January 1, 2024 will be payable in cash or by delivering to the DDTL Lender shares of Class A common stock of the Company as described below. Subject to customary borrowing conditions, the DDTL Borrower will be able to draw down on the DDTL Facility in up to six increments of $5,000 or more in an aggregate amount not to exceed $65,000. If the DDTL Borrower draws down on the DDTL Facility, the outstanding principal balance will be due, together with any unpaid interest thereon, 18 months following the Distribution. The DDTL Facility is pre-payable at any time without penalty and amounts drawn under the DDTL Facility may not be reborrowed. There are no financial covenants associated with the DDTL Facility. The DDTL Borrower will have the option to make any payments of principal, interest or fees under the DDTL Facility either in cash or by delivering to the DDTL Lender shares of the Companys Class A |
74
Common Stock. If the DDTL Borrower elects to make any payment in the form of the Companys Class A Common Stock, the amount of such payment shall be calculated based on the dollar volume-weighted average trading price for the Companys Class A Common Stock for the twenty trading days ending on the day on which the DDTL Borrower makes such election. |
The Company does not expect the DDTL Borrower to draw on the DDTL Facility prior to or at the completion of the Distribution; however, if the DDTL Borrower were to do so, the Company may concurrently draw the same amount from the National Properties Revolving Credit Facility. If this occurs, the Companys cash balance would remain unchanged and it would recognize a loan payable for the National Properties Revolving Credit Facility and a corresponding loan receivable from the DDTL Borrower up to a maximum of $65,000. In addition, future periods would reflect an interest payable for the National Properties Revolving Credit Facility and the related interest expense, and an interest receivable from the DDTL Borrower and the related interest income. If the full capacity of the DDTL Facility was utilized assuming the rates in place as of December 31, 2022, and the corresponding amount was drawn from the National Properties Revolving Credit Facility, the Company would have recorded approximately $2,659 and $5,317 of interest expense for the six months ended December 31, 2022 and the year ended June 30, 2022, respectively, and approximately $2,984 and $5,967 of interest income for the six months ended December 31, 2022 and the year ended June 30, 2022, respectively, in its unaudited pro forma combined statements of operations. Assuming the DDTL Facility was fully drawn and the same amount was funded by the National Properties Revolving Credit Facility, a 1% change in the interest rate on the National Properties Revolving Credit Facility would result in approximately $650 of incremental interest expense by the Company, which would be primarily offset by the additional interest income from MSG Entertainment. The amounts of deferred financing costs attributable to the DDTL Facility have not yet been determined. As the DDTL Borrower is not currently expected to exercise its right to utilize the DDTL Facility prior to or at the completion of the Distribution, management has not adjusted the unaudited pro forma combined financial information herein.
Our historical combined financial statements, which were the basis for the unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information, were prepared on a carve-out basis as we did not operate as a stand-alone entity for the periods presented. As part of the Distribution, certain corporate and operational support functions are being transferred to the Company and therefore, allocations of corporate overhead and shared services expense to MSG Entertainment from the Company were recorded for corporate and operational functions as a reduction of either direct operating expenses or selling, general and administrative expense in the historical combined financial statements. The allocations and estimates in such historical financial statements are based on assumptions that management believes are reasonable. See Note 1, Description of the Business and Basis of Presentation, Note 19, Related Party Transactions to the audited combined financial statements included elsewhere in this Information Statement for further information on the allocation of corporate costs.
We expect to experience changes in our ongoing cost structure when we become an independent, publicly-traded company. Our historical combined financial statements include allocations of certain corporate expenses to MSG Entertainment, including certain public company costs incurred as a combined entity, of $73,967 for the six months ended December 31, 2022 and $161,189 for the year ended June 30, 2022. Following the Distribution, the Company will bear substantially all corporate overhead and support costs, including amounts previously allocated to MSG Entertainment. The Company will continue to provide support services to MSG Entertainment pursuant to the TSA. Payments received by the Company for transition services provided will be presented as a reduction of direct operating expense or selling, general and administrative expense. Refer to note (f) for further details related to the pro forma impact of these adjustments.
As discussed above, the costs to operate our business as an independent public entity are expected to vary from the historical allocations, including corporate and administrative charges from MSG Entertainment for the six months ended December 31, 2022 and for the year ended June 30, 2022 reflected in the accompanying historical
75
annual and interim combined financial statements included elsewhere within this information statement. The accompanying unaudited pro forma condensed combined statements of operations are not adjusted for these expenses as many of the costs are estimates based on projections and are not quantifiable at this time. Such costs principally relate to areas that include, but are not limited to:
| corporate personnel overhead expenses as a result of the Company operating on a stand-alone basis; |
| professional fees associated with internal and external audits including compliance with Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, tax, legal and other services; |
| anticipated executive compensation costs related to existing and new executive management and excluding future share-based compensation expense; and |
| stock market listing fees, investor relations costs and fees for preparing and distributing periodic filings with the SEC. |
This unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information reflects other adjustments that, in the opinion of management, are necessary to present fairly the pro forma condensed combined results of operations and combined financial position of the Company as of and for the periods indicated. The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information is subject to the assumptions and adjustments described in the accompanying notes. This unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information is subject to change as MSG Entertainment and the Company finalize the terms of the separation and distribution agreement and other agreements and transactions related to the separation. The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information is for illustrative and informational purposes only and is not intended to represent or be indicative of what our financial condition or results of operations would have been had the Company operated historically as a company independent of MSG Entertainment, or if the Distribution had occurred on the dates indicated. The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information also should not be considered representative of our future condensed combined financial condition or combined results of operations.
76
MSG ENTERTAINMENT SPINCO, INC.
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINED BALANCE SHEET
As of December 31, 2022 (in thousands)
Historical Spinco (a) |
Transaction Accounting Adjustments |
Notes | Autonomous Entity Adjustments |
Notes | Pro Forma | |||||||||||||||
ASSETS |
||||||||||||||||||||
Current Assets: |
||||||||||||||||||||
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash |
$ | 153,746 | $ | (103,746 | ) | (b) | $ | | $ | 50,000 | ||||||||||
Accounts receivable, net |
100,820 | | | 100,820 | ||||||||||||||||
Related party receivables, current |
95,064 | (52,513 | ) | (c) | 6,145 | (g) | 48,696 | |||||||||||||
Prepaid expenses and other current assets |
69,686 | | | 69,686 | ||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||
Total current assets |
419,316 | (156,259 | ) | 6,145 | 269,202 | |||||||||||||||
Property and equipment, net |
649,962 | | | 649,962 | ||||||||||||||||
Right-of-use lease assets |
255,024 | | | 255,024 | ||||||||||||||||
Goodwill |
69,041 | | | 69,041 | ||||||||||||||||
Intangible assets, net |
63,801 | | | 63,801 | ||||||||||||||||
Other non-current assets |
91,817 | | | 91,817 | ||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||
Total assets |
$ | 1,548,961 | $ | (156,259 | ) | $ | 6,145 | $ | 1,398,847 | |||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||
LIABILITIES AND DIVISIONAL EQUITY (DEFICIT) |
|
|||||||||||||||||||
Current Liabilities: |
||||||||||||||||||||
Accounts payable, accrued and other current liabilities |
$ | 176,287 | $ | | $ | | $ | 176,287 | ||||||||||||
Related party payables, current |
70,379 | | | 70,379 | ||||||||||||||||
Current portion of long-term debt |
16,250 | | | 16,250 | ||||||||||||||||
Operating lease liabilities, current |
36,623 | | | 36,623 | ||||||||||||||||
Deferred revenue |
188,842 | | | 188,842 | ||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||
Total current liabilities |
488,381 | | | 488,381 | ||||||||||||||||
Long-term debt, net of deferred financing costs |
648,397 | | | 648,397 | ||||||||||||||||
Operating lease liabilities, non-current |
238,015 | | | 238,015 | ||||||||||||||||
Deferred tax liabilities, net |
23,386 | | | 23,386 | ||||||||||||||||
Other non-current liabilities |
51,893 | | | 51,893 | ||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||
Total liabilities |
1,450,072 | | | 1,450,072 | ||||||||||||||||
Commitments and contingencies |
||||||||||||||||||||
Spinco Divisional Equity (Deficit): |
||||||||||||||||||||
MSG Entertainment investment |
133,018 | (133,018 | ) | (d) | | | ||||||||||||||
Class A Common Stock |
| 447 | (d) | | 447 | |||||||||||||||
Class B Common Stock |
| 69 | (d) | | 69 | |||||||||||||||
Accumulated deficit |
| (23,757 | ) | (b), (c), (d) | 6,145 | (g) | (17,612 | ) | ||||||||||||
Accumulated other comprehensive loss |
(34,129 | ) | | | (34,129 | ) | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||
Total Spinco divisional equity (deficit) |
98,889 | (156,259 | ) | 6,145 | (51,225 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Nonredeemable noncontrolling interest |
| | | | ||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||
Total liabilities and divisional equity (deficit) |
$ | 1,548,961 | $ | (156,259 | ) | $ | 6,145 | $ | 1,398,847 | |||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
77
MSG ENTERTAINMENT SPINCO, INC.
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
For the Six Months Ended December 31, 2022
(in thousands, except per share data)
Historical Spinco (a) |
Transaction Accounting Adjustments |
Notes | Autonomous Entity Adjustments |
Notes | Pro Forma | |||||||||||||||
Revenues |
$ | 502,332 | $ | | $ | | $ | 502,332 | ||||||||||||
Operating expenses: |
||||||||||||||||||||
Direct operating expenses |
282,265 | | 1,145 | (f) | 283,410 | |||||||||||||||
Selling, general and administrative expenses |
83,415 | | 24,143 | (f) | 107,558 | |||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
31,571 | | | 31,571 | ||||||||||||||||
Gains, net on dispositions |
(4,412 | ) | | | (4,412 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Restructuring charges |
7,359 | | | 7,359 | ||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||
Operating income (loss) |
102,134 | | (25,288 | ) | 76,846 | |||||||||||||||
Other income (expense): |
||||||||||||||||||||
Interest income |
3,322 | (1,804 | ) | (c) | | 1,518 | ||||||||||||||
Interest expense |
(24,632 | ) | | | (24,632 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Other income (expense), net |
(1,286 | ) | | | (1,286 | ) | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||
(22,596 | ) | (1,804 | ) | | (24,400 | ) | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||
Income (loss) from operations before income taxes |
79,538 | (1,804 | ) | (25,288 | ) | 52,446 | ||||||||||||||
Income tax (expense) benefit |
(731 | ) | 54 | (e) | 697 | (h) | 20 | |||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||
Net income (loss) |
78,807 | (1,750 | ) | (24,591 | ) | 52,466 | ||||||||||||||
Less: Net loss attributable to nonredeemable noncontrolling interest |
(553 | ) | | | (553 | ) | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||
Net income (loss) attributable to Spincos stockholders |
$ | 79,360 | $ | (1,750 | ) | $ | (24,591 | ) | $ | 53,019 | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||
Pro Forma earnings per share: |
||||||||||||||||||||
Basic |
(i) | $ | 1.03 | |||||||||||||||||
Diluted |
(i) | $ | 1.03 | |||||||||||||||||
Pro forma weighted-average common shares outstanding: |
||||||||||||||||||||
Basic |
(i) | 51,558 | ||||||||||||||||||
Diluted |
(i) | 51,624 |
78
MSG ENTERTAINMENT SPINCO, INC.
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
For the Year Ended June 30, 2022
(in thousands, except per share data)
Historical Spinco (a) |
Transaction Accounting Adjustments |
Notes | Autonomous Entity Adjustments |
Notes | Pro Forma | |||||||||||||||||||
Revenues |
$ | 653,490 | $ | | $ | | $ | 653,490 | ||||||||||||||||
Operating expenses: |
||||||||||||||||||||||||
Direct operating expenses |
417,301 | | 2,514 | (f) | 419,815 | |||||||||||||||||||
Selling, general and administrative expenses |
167,132 | | 62,000 | (f) | 229,132 | |||||||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
69,534 | | | 69,534 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Gain on disposal of assets held for sale and associated settlements |
| | | | ||||||||||||||||||||
Restructuring charges |
5,171 | | | 5,171 | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||||
Operating income (loss) |
(5,648 | ) | | (64,514 | ) | (70,162 | ) | |||||||||||||||||
Other income (expense): |
||||||||||||||||||||||||
Interest income |
7,150 | (2,117 | ) | (c) | | 5,033 | ||||||||||||||||||
Interest expense |
(53,110 | ) | | | (53,110 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
Loss on extinguishment of debt |
(35,629 | ) | | | (35,629 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
Other income (expense), net |
(49,033 | ) | | | (49,033 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||||
(130,622 | ) | (2,117 | ) | | (132,739 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||||
Income (loss) from operations before income taxes |
(136,270 | ) | (2,117 | ) | (64,514 | ) | (202,901 | ) | ||||||||||||||||
Income tax (expense) benefit |
70 | | (e) | | (h) | 70 | ||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||||
Net income (loss) |
(136,200 | ) | (2,117 | ) | (64,514 | ) | (202,831 | ) | ||||||||||||||||
Less: Net loss attributable to nonredeemable noncontrolling interest |
(2,864 | ) | | | (2,864 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||||
Net income (loss) attributable to Spincos stockholders |
$ | (133,336 | ) | $ | (2,117 | ) | $ | (64,514 | ) | $ | (199,967 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||||
Pro Forma earnings per share: |
||||||||||||||||||||||||
Basic |
(i | ) | $ | (3.91 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||
Diluted |
(i | ) | $ | (3.91 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||
Pro forma weighted-average common shares outstanding: |
||||||||||||||||||||||||
Basic |
(i | ) | 51,127 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Diluted |
(i | ) | 51,127 |
79
NOTES TO UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL INFORMATION
(a) | Represents Spincos unaudited condensed combined balance sheet as of December 31, 2022, unaudited condensed combined statement of operations for the six months ended December 31, 2022 and audited combined statement of operations for the year ended June 30, 2022. |
Adjustments Related to the Distribution Transaction:
(b) | Adjustment reflects assets attributed to Spinco in the historical condensed combined balance sheet as of December 31, 2022 that will not be transferred from MSG Entertainment to Spinco in connection with the Distribution. To reflect this impact, an adjustment to Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash of $103,746 was recorded. Refer to Note 1. Description of Business and Basis of Presentation of our annual historical audited combined financial statements for further discussion of the Companys attribution of assets and liabilities. |
(c) | Adjustment reflects the transfer from MSG Entertainment to Spinco of the loan payable to the Companys wholly-owned captive insurance subsidiary, Eden Insurance Company Inc. (Eden), which will occur prior to the Distribution. This results in a reduction of Spincos loan receivable from MSG Entertainment of $52,513. The unaudited pro forma condensed combined statements of operations reflect an adjustment of $1,804 and $2,117 to reflect the removal of interest income related to the aforementioned loan receivable from MSG Entertainment for the six months ended December 31, 2022 and for the year ended June 30, 2022, respectively. |
(d) | Adjustment reflects the pro forma recapitalization of our equity. As of the Distribution date, MSG Entertainments net investment in the Company will be distributed to MSG Entertainments stockholders through the distribution of approximately 67% of Spincos common stock with the remaining approximately 33% held by MSG Entertainment as a retained interest. As the unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information are presented for the Company on a standalone basis, the entire balance of historical MSG Entertainment investment has been recorded as common stock and accumulated deficit, respectively, as a result of this adjustment. The par value of Spincos stock was recognized as a component of common stock, with the remaining balance recorded as accumulated deficit in the unaudited pro forma condensed combined balance sheet as of December 31, 2022. |
Common stock reflects approximately 44.7 million shares of Class A Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share, and approximately 6.9 million shares of Class B Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share. The number of shares of common stock assumes each MSG Entertainment Class A and Class B common stockholder will receive one Spinco Class A or Class B common share for each MSG Entertainment Class A or Class B common share held on the record date for the Distribution. We expect approximately 33% of our common stock to be owned by MSG Entertainment immediately following the spin-off, representing approximately 1.5 shares of Spinco for every 1 outstanding share of MSG Entertainment.
This adjustment is based on MSG Entertainments December 31, 2022 issued and outstanding Class A and Class B common shares, although the actual number of shares issued will not be known until the record date for the Distribution. The adjustments to accumulated deficit including assets transferred between MSG Entertainment and Spinco as described in notes (b) and (c) are summarized below:
($ in thousands) | ||||
Reduction of Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash (b) |
$ | 103,746 | ||
Elimination of loan receivable from MSG Entertainment (c) |
52,513 | |||
Recapitalization of MSG Entertainment investment (d) |
(133,018 | ) | ||
Establishment of Class A Common Stock (d) |
447 | |||
Establishment of Class B Common Stock (d) |
69 | |||
|
|
|||
Accumulated deficit |
$ | 23,757 | ||
|
|
80
(e) | The income tax effects of the pro forma adjustments are fully offset by the valuation allowance for the year ended June 30, 2022. |
The income tax effects of the pro forma adjustments are recorded at the applicable federal statutory tax rate for the six months ended December 31, 2022, net of adjustments to the Companys valuation allowance and the limitation on the utilization of net operating loss carryforwards. This resulted in an overall tax benefit of $54 for the six months ended December 31, 2022 on the unaudited pro forma condensed combined statement of operations.
Autonomous Entity Adjustments:
(f) | Reflects the impact of the TSA and related agreements entered into in connection with the Distribution, which resulted in incremental corporate and administrative costs not included in the Companys historical combined financial statements. |
Following the Distribution, the Company will bear substantially all corporate overhead and support costs, including amounts previously charged back to MSG Entertainment. The Company will continue to provide support services to MSG Entertainment pursuant to the TSA. Payments received by the Company for transition services provided will be presented as a reduction of direct operating expenses or selling, general, and administrative expenses. The adjustment was derived by comparing contractual payments required by the TSA and related agreements to amounts historically allocated by the Company to MSG Entertainment on the basis of direct usage when identifiable, with the remainder allocated on a pro rata basis of certain measures of the Company or MSG Entertainment in the Companys historical combined financial statements.
(g) | Adjustment reflects the effect of the Employee Matters Agreement, which entitles the Company to receive reimbursement for services provided to MSG Entertainment prior to the Distribution. An adjustment of $6,145 was recorded to recognize a Net receivable balance from MSG Entertainment to the Company in the unaudited pro forma condensed combined balance sheet as of December 31, 2022. |
(h) | The income tax effects of the pro forma adjustments are fully offset by the valuation allowance for the year ended June 30, 2022. |
The income tax effects of the pro forma adjustments are recorded at the applicable federal statutory tax rate for the six months ended December 31, 2022, net of adjustments to the Companys valuation allowance and the limitation on the utilization of net operating loss carryforwards. This resulted in an overall tax benefit of $697 for the six months ended December 31, 2022 on the unaudited pro forma condensed combined statement of operations.
Earnings (Loss) Per Share:
(i) | Pro forma earnings per share and pro forma weighted-average basic shares outstanding are based on the weighted-average number of shares of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock and MSG Entertainment Class B Common Stock outstanding of 51.6 million during the six months ended December 31, 2022 and 51.1 million during the year ended June 30, 2022. Spincos weighted average shares outstanding assumes a distribution ratio of one share of our common stock for each share of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock and MSG Entertainment Class B Common Stock held on the record date of the Distribution for the approximately 67% to be distributed to shareholders. In addition, the approximately 33% interest in the outstanding shares of our common stock that will be owned by MSG Entertainment at the time of the spin-off is reflected in the weighted-average share counts presented herein. As a result, the Companys pro forma weighted-average basic shares outstanding, after giving effect to the Distribution and the approximately 33% retained interest held by MSG Entertainment, represents approximately 1.5 shares of Spinco for every 1 outstanding share of MSG Entertainment. |
Pro forma diluted weighted-average shares outstanding reflect potential dilution from the issuance of Spinco common shares from MSG Entertainment equity plans, giving effect to the distribution ratio and conversion
81
of certain MSG Entertainment equity awards into Spinco equity awards. Potentially dilutive shares for the unaudited pro forma condensed combined statements of operations for the year ended June 30, 2022 are excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share because their inclusion would have been anti-dilutive. While the actual impact on a go-forward basis will depend on various factors, including employees who may change employment from one company to another, we believe the estimate provided yields a reasonable approximation of the dilutive impact of MSG Entertainment equity plans. We expect that the actual amounts will differ from these estimates.
82
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
This Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (MD&A) contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In this MD&A, there are statements concerning the future operating and future financial performance of Spinco, including our potential spin-off from MSG Entertainment, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and COVID-19 variants on our future operations. Words such as expects, anticipates, believes, estimates, may, will, should, could, potential, continue, intends, plans, and similar words and terms used in the discussion of future operating and future financial performance identify forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned that such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, results or events and involve risks and uncertainties and that actual results or developments may differ materially from the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors. References to Spinco or the Company include the subsidiaries of MSG Entertainment that will be subsidiaries of the Company at the time of the Distribution. Factors that may cause such differences to occur include, but are not limited to:
| the level of our expenses, including our corporate expenses; |
| the level of our revenues, which depends in part on the popularity of the Christmas Spectacular, the sports teams whose games are played at The Garden, and other events which are presented in our venues; |
| our ability to effectively manage any impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic (including COVID-19 variants) as well as renewed actions taken in response by governmental authorities or certain professional sports leagues, including ensuring compliance with rules and regulations imposed upon our venues, to the extent applicable; |
| the effect of any postponements or cancellations by third-parties or the Company as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic due to operational challenges and other health and safety concerns (such as the partial cancellation of the 2021 production of the Christmas Spectacular); |
| the extent to which attendance at our venues may be impacted by government actions, continuing health concerns by potential attendees and reduced tourism; |
| the impact on the payments we receive under the Arena License Agreements as a result of government-mandated capacity restrictions, league restrictions and/or social-distancing or vaccination requirements, if any, at games of the Knicks of the NBA and the Rangers of the NHL; |
| lack of operating history as a stand-alone public company and costs associated with being an independent public company; |
| the on-ice and on-court performance of the professional sports teams whose games we host in our venues; |
| the level of our capital expenditures and other investments; |
| general economic conditions, especially in the New York City and Chicago metropolitan areas where we have business activities; |
| the demand for sponsorship arrangements; |
| competition, for example, from other venues and sports and entertainment options, including new competing venues; |
| changes in laws, guidelines, bulletins, directives, policies and agreements, and regulations under which we operate; |
| any economic, social or political actions, such as boycotts, protests, work stoppages or campaigns by labor organizations, including the unions representing players and officials of the NBA and NHL, or other work stoppage due to COVID-19 or otherwise; |
83
| seasonal fluctuations and other variations in our operating results and cash flow from period to period; |
| the successful development of new live productions, enhancements or changes to existing productions and the investments associated with such development, enhancements, or changes; |
| business, reputational and litigation risk if there is a cyber or other security incident resulting in loss, disclosure or misappropriation of stored personal information, or disclosure of confidential information or other breaches of our information security; |
| activities or other developments (such as pandemics, including the COVID-19 pandemic) that discourage or may discourage congregation at prominent places of public assembly, including our venues; |
| the acquisition or disposition of assets or businesses and/or the impact of, and our ability to successfully pursue, acquisitions or other strategic transactions; |
| our ability to successfully integrate acquisitions, new venues or new businesses into our operations; |
| our internal control environment and our ability to identify and remedy any future material weaknesses; |
| the costs associated with, and the outcome of, litigation and other proceedings to the extent uninsured, including litigation or other claims against companies we invest in or acquire; |
| the impact of governmental regulations or laws, changes in how those regulations and laws are interpreted, as well as the continued benefit of certain tax exemptions and the ability to maintain necessary permits or licenses; |
| the impact of any government plans to redesign New York Citys Penn Station; |
| the impact of sports league rules, regulations and/or agreements and changes thereto; |
| the substantial amount of debt incurred, the ability of our subsidiaries to make payments on, or repay or refinance, such debt under the National Properties Credit Agreement and our ability to obtain additional financing, to the extent required; |
| financial community perceptions of our business, operations, financial condition and the industries in which we operate; |
| the performance by MSG Sports of its obligations under various agreements with the Company and ongoing commercial arrangements, including the Arena License Agreements; |
| the tax-free treatment of the Distribution; |
| our ability to achieve the intended benefits of the Distribution; |
| failure of the Company or MSG Entertainment to satisfy its obligations under transition services agreements or other agreements entered into in connection with the Distribution; |
| our status as an emerging growth company; and |
| the additional factors described under Risk Factors in this information statement. |
We disclaim any obligation to update or revise the forward-looking statements contained herein, except as otherwise required by applicable federal securities laws.
84
All dollar amounts included in the following MD&A are presented in thousands, except as otherwise noted.
Introduction
This MD&A is provided as a supplement to, and should be read in conjunction with the Companys combined financial statements as of December 31, 2022 (unaudited) and June 30, 2022, and for the six months ended December 31, 2022 and 2021 (unaudited) and footnotes thereto (Unaudited Combined Interim Financial Statements) and the Companys combined financial statements as of June 30, 2022 and 2021 and for the three years ended June 30, 2022, 2021, and 2020 and footnotes thereto (Audited Combined Annual Financial Statements) included elsewhere in this information statement to help provide an understanding of our financial condition, changes in financial condition and results of operations. The information included in this MD&A should also be read in conjunction with the financial data set forth under the pro forma condensed combined financial information. See Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Information for further details. The Company reports on a fiscal year basis ending on June 30th (Fiscal Year). In this MD&A, the years ended on June 30, 2023, 2022, 2021 and 2020 are referred to as Fiscal Year 2023, Fiscal Year 2022, Fiscal Year 2021, and Fiscal Year 2020, respectively.
Our MD&A is organized as follows:
Proposed Distribution and Basis of Presentation. This section provides a general description of the proposed spin-off that would separate the traditional live entertainment business from the MSG Sphere, MSG Networks, and Tao Group Hospitality businesses of MSG Entertainment.
Business Overview. This section provides a general description of our business, as well as other matters that we believe are important in understanding our results of operations and financial condition and in anticipating future trends.
Results of Operations. This section provides an analysis of our results of operations for the six months ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, and for Fiscal Years 2022, 2021, and 2020 on a combined basis.
Liquidity and Capital Resources. This section provides a discussion of our financial condition and liquidity, as well as an analysis of our cash flows for the six months ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, and Fiscal Years 2022, 2021, and 2020. The discussion of our financial condition and liquidity includes summaries of our primary sources of liquidity, our contractual obligations and off-balance sheet arrangements that existed at December 31, 2022 and June 30, 2022.
Seasonality of Our Business. This section discusses the seasonal performance of our business.
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements and Critical Accounting Estimates. This section cross-references a discussion of accounting policies considered to be important to our financial condition and results of operations and which require significant judgment and estimates on the part of management in their application. In addition, all of our significant accounting policies, including our critical accounting policies and recently issued accounting pronouncements, are discussed in the notes to our combined financial statements included elsewhere in this information statement.
Proposed Distribution and Basis of Presentation
On December 6, 2022, the board of directors of Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. (MSG Entertainment) authorized MSG Entertainment management to explore a potential tax-free spin-off of the traditional live entertainment business from the MSG Sphere, MSG Networks, and Tao Group Hospitality businesses, and approved the filing of a Form 10 registration statement and amendments thereto.
85
MSGE Spinco, Inc. was incorporated in the state of Delaware on September 15, 2022 to be the company to hold the traditional live entertainment business of MSG Entertainment. The spin-off is expected to be completed through a tax-free pro rata distribution of approximately 67% of the common stock of the Company to MSG Entertainment stockholders (the Distribution). The remaining approximately 33% economic interest in the Company would be retained by MSG Entertainment, subject to completion of the Distribution. MSG Entertainment is required by applicable tax rules to dispose of the retained interest within a fixed period of time, which may occur through a series of steps including sales, exchange offers or pro rata distributions. MSG Entertainment expects to dispose of such retained shares within one year of the date of the Distribution, subject to market conditions.
Completion of the Distribution is subject to various conditions, including final approval by the board of directors of MSG Entertainment, receipt of a tax opinion from counsel and the filing and effectiveness of the registration statement with the SEC.
The combined financial statements of the Company were prepared on a stand-alone basis derived from the consolidated financial statements and accounting records of MSG Entertainment. These financial statements reflect the combined historical results of operations, financial position and cash flows of the Company in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin Topic 1-B, Allocation of Expenses and Related Disclosure in Financial Statements of Subsidiaries, Divisions or Lesser Business Components of Another Entity. References to U.S. GAAP issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) in this MD&A are to the FASB Accounting Standards Codification, also referred to as ASC.
Historically, separate financial statements have not been prepared for the Company and it has not operated as a stand-alone business from MSG Entertainment. The combined financial statements include certain assets and liabilities that have historically been held by MSG Entertainment or by other MSG Entertainment subsidiaries but are specifically identifiable or otherwise attributable to the Company. The combined financial statements are presented as if the Companys businesses had been combined for all periods presented. The assets and liabilities in the combined financial statements have been reflected on a historical cost basis, as immediately prior to the Distribution of all of the assets and liabilities presented are wholly owned by MSG Entertainment and are being transferred to the Company at a carry-over basis.
Fiscal Year 2020 includes additional carve-out allocations as the combined financial statements for the period from July 1, 2019 to April 17, 2020 were prepared on a stand-alone basis derived from the consolidated financial statements and accounting records of MSG Sports. This was a result of a distribution of all the outstanding common stock of MSG Entertainment to MSG Sports stockholders (referred herein as the 2020 Entertainment Distribution).
All significant intracompany accounts and balances within the Companys combined businesses have been eliminated. Certain historical intercompany transactions between MSG Entertainment and the Company have been included as components of MSG Entertainment investment in the combined financial statements, as they are to be considered effectively settled upon effectiveness of the Distribution and were not historically settled in cash. Certain other historical intercompany transactions between MSG Entertainment and the Company have been classified as related party, rather than intercompany, in the combined financial statements as they were historically settled in cash. See Note 14, Related Party Transactions to the Unaudited Combined Interim Financial Statements, and Note 19, Related Party Transactions to the Audited Combined Annual Financial Statements included elsewhere in this information statement for additional information.
The combined statements of operations include allocations for certain support functions that are provided on a centralized basis and not historically recorded at the business unit level by MSG Entertainment, such as expenses related to executive management, finance, legal, human resources, government affairs, and information technology among others. As part of the Distribution, certain corporate and operational support functions are
86
being transferred to Spinco and therefore, charges were reflected in order to properly burden all business units comprising MSG Entertainments historical operations. These expenses have been allocated to MSG Entertainment on the basis of direct usage when identifiable, with the remainder allocated on a pro-rata basis of combined assets, headcount or other measures of Spinco or MSG Entertainment, which is recorded as a reduction of either direct operating expenses or selling, general & administrative (SG&A) expense. See Note 14, Related Party Transactions to the Unaudited Combined Interim Financial Statements, and Note 19, Related Party Transactions to the Audited Combined Annual Financial Statements included elsewhere in this information statement for additional information.
Management believes the assumptions underlying the combined financial statements, including the assumptions regarding allocating general corporate expenses, are reasonable. Nevertheless, the combined financial statements may not include all of the actual expenses that would have been incurred by the Company and may not reflect its combined results of operations, financial position and cash flows had it been a stand-alone company during the periods presented. Actual costs that would have been incurred if the Company had been a stand-alone company would depend on multiple factors, including organizational structure and strategic decisions made in various areas, including information technology and infrastructure. The Company is unable to quantify the amounts that it would have recorded during the historical periods on a stand-alone basis as it is not practicable to do so. See Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Information Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Information, Note 2, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies to the Unaudited Combined Interim Financial Statements, and Note 2, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies to the Audited Combined Annual Financial Statements included elsewhere within this information statement for additional information.
Business Overview
We are a live entertainment company comprised of iconic venues and marquee entertainment content. Utilizing the Companys powerful brands and live entertainment expertise, the Company delivers unique experiences that set the standard for excellence and innovation while forging deep connections with diverse and passionate audiences.
We manage our business through one reportable segment. The Companys portfolio of venues includes: The Garden, The Theater at Madison Square Garden, Radio City Music Hall, the Beacon Theatre, and The Chicago Theatre. The Company also includes the original production, the Christmas Spectacular, and our entertainment and sports bookings business, which showcases a broad array of compelling concerts, family shows and special events, as well as a diverse mix of sporting events, for millions of guests annually.
The Company conducts a significant portion of its operations at venues that it either owns or operates under long-term leases. The Company owns The Garden, The Theater at Madison Square Garden and The Chicago Theatre, and leases Radio City Music Hall and the Beacon Theatre.
All of the Companys revenues and assets are attributed to or located in the United States and are primarily concentrated in the New York City metropolitan area.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Our Business
The Companys operations and operating results were materially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic (including COVID-19 variants) and actions taken in response by governmental authorities and certain professional sports leagues during Fiscal Years 2020, 2021 and 2022. For the majority of Fiscal Year 2021, substantially all of our business operations were suspended. Fiscal Year 2022 was also impacted by the pandemic, with fewer ticketed events at our venues in the first half of the fiscal year as compared with Fiscal Year 2019 (the last full fiscal year not impacted by COVID-19) due to the lead-time required to book touring acts and artists, and an increase in COVID-19 cases due to a new variant, which resulted in a number of events at our venues being cancelled or postponed in the fiscal second and third quarters.
87
The Companys operations and operating results were not materially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic during the six months ended December 31, 2022, as compared to the prior year period, which was impacted by fewer ticketed events at our venues due to the lead-time required to book touring acts and artists, and the postponement or cancellation of select events (including the partial cancellation of the 2021 production of the Christmas Spectacular) as a result of an increase in COVID-19 cases during the fiscal second quarter.
As a result of government-mandated assembly limitations and closures, all of our venues were closed beginning in March 2020. Use of The Garden resumed for Knicks and Rangers home games without fans in December 2020 and January 2021, respectively, and was available at 10% seating capacity from February through May 2021 subject to certain safety protocols and social distancing. Beginning in May 2021, all of our New York venues were permitted to host guests at full capacity, subject to certain restrictions, and effective June 2021, The Chicago Theatre was permitted to host events without restrictions. Guests of our Chicago and New York venues were also subject to certain vaccination requirements until February and March 2022, respectively. Our venues no longer require guests to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination before entering (although specific performers may require enhanced protocols).
For Fiscal Year 2021, the majority of ticketed events at our venues were postponed or cancelled. For Fiscal Year 2022 and as of the date of this filing, live events have been permitted to be held at all of our venues and we are continuing to host and book new events. As a result of an increase in cases of a COVID-19 variant, select bookings were postponed or cancelled at our venues in the second and third quarters of Fiscal Year 2022. Variants of COVID-19 that arise in the future may result in additional postponements or cancellations of bookings at our venues.
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our operations also included the partial cancellation of the 2021 production of the Christmas Spectacular and the cancellation of the 2020 production of the Christmas Spectacular.
The Company has long-term Arena License Agreements with MSG Sports that require the Knicks and Rangers to play their home games at The Garden. As discussed above, capacity restrictions, use limitations and social distancing requirements were in place for the entirety of the Knicks and Rangers 2020-21 regular seasons, which materially impacted the payments we received under the Arena License Agreements for Fiscal Year 2021. On July 1, 2021, the Knicks and Rangers began paying the full amounts provided for under their respective Arena License Agreements. The Knicks and the Rangers each completed their 2021-2022 82-game regular seasons, with the Rangers advancing to the playoffs.
It is unclear to what extent COVID-19 concerns, including with respect to new variants, could result in new government or league-mandated capacity restrictions or vaccination/mask requirements or impact the use of and/or demand for our venues, demand for our sponsorship and advertising assets, deter our employees and vendors from working at our venues (which may lead to difficulties in staffing) or otherwise materially impact our operations.
For more information about the risks to the Company as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on our operating results, see Risk Factors included elsewhere in this information statement for further details.
Description of Our Business
The Company produces, presents and hosts live entertainment events, including (i) concerts, (ii) sports events, and (iii) other live events such as family shows, performing arts events and special events, in our diverse collection of venues. The scope of our collection of venues enables us to showcase acts that cover a wide spectrum of genres and popular appeal.
88
Although we primarily license our venues to third-party promoters for a fee, we also promote or co-promote shows. If we serve as promoters or co-promoters of a show, we have economic risk relating to the event.
The Company also creates, produces and/or presents live productions that are performed in the Companys venues. This includes the Christmas Spectacular production, which features the world-famous Rockettes and which has been performed at Radio City Music Hall for 89 years.
The Company also historically owned a controlling interest in BCE, the entertainment production company that owns and operates the Boston Calling Music Festival. The Company disposed of its controlling interest in BCE on December 2, 2022.
Revenue Sources
The Company earns revenue from several primary sources: ticket sales to our audiences for live events that we produce or promote/co-promote, license fees for our venues paid by third-party promoters or licensees in connection with events that we do not produce or promote/co-promote, facility and ticketing fees, concessions, sponsorships and signage, suite license fees at The Garden, merchandising and tours at certain of our venues. The amount of revenue and expense recorded by the Company for a given event depends to a significant extent on whether the Company is promoting or co-promoting the event or is licensing a venue to a third party or MSG Sports. See Description of Our Business Revenue Sources Venue License Fees below for further discussion of our venue licensing arrangements with MSG Sports.
Ticket Sales and Suite Licenses
For our productions and for entertainment events in our venues that we promote, we recognize revenues from the sale of tickets to our audiences. We sell tickets to the public through our box office, via our websites and ticketing agencies and through group sales. The amount of revenue we earn from ticket sales depends on the number of shows and the mix of events that we promote, the capacity of the venue used, the extent to which we can sell to fully utilize the capacity, and our ticket prices.
The Garden has 21 Event Level suites, 58 Lexus Level suites, 18 Infosys Level suites, the Caesars Sportsbook Lounge, Suite Sixteen and the Hub Loft. Suite licenses at The Garden are generally sold to corporate customers with the majority being multi-year licenses with annual escalators. The Company licenses Suite Sixteen to Tao Group Hospitality in exchange for license fee payments.
Under standard suite licenses, the licensees pay an annual license fee, which varies depending on the location of the suite. The license fee includes, for each seat in the suite, tickets for events at The Garden for which tickets are sold to the general public, subject to certain exceptions. In addition, suite holders separately pay for food and beverage service in their suites at The Garden. Revenues from the sale of suite licenses are shared between the Company and MSG Sports. Revenues for the Companys suite license arrangements are recorded on a gross basis, as the Company is the principal in such transactions and controls the related goods or services until transfer to the customer. MSG Sports share of the Companys suite license revenue is recognized in the combined statements of operations as a component of direct operating expenses. The revenue sharing expense recognized by the Company for MSG Sports share of suite license revenue at The Garden is based on a 67.5% allocation to MSG Sports pursuant to the Arena License Agreements.
Venue License Fees
For entertainment events held at our venues that we do not produce, promote or co-promote, we typically earn revenue from venue license fees charged to the third-party promoter or producer of the event. The amount of license fees we charge varies by venue, as well as by the size of the production and the number of days utilized, among other factors. Our fees typically include both the cost of renting space in our venues and costs for
89
providing event staff, such as front-of-house and back-of-house staff, including stagehands, electricians, laborers, box office staff, ushers and security as well as production services such as staging, lighting and sound.
In connection with the 2020 Entertainment Distribution, the Company entered into Arena License Agreements with MSG Sports that, among other things, require the Knicks and the Rangers to play their home games at The Garden in exchange for fixed annual license fees scheduled to be paid monthly over the term of the agreement. The Company accounts for these license fees as operating lease revenue given that the Company provides MSG Sports with the right to direct the use of and obtain substantially all of the economic benefit from The Garden during Knicks and Rangers home games. Operating lease revenue is recognized on a straight-line basis over the term, adjusted pursuant to the terms of the Arena License Agreements, which is comprised of non-consecutive periods of use when MSG Sports uses The Garden generally for their professional sports teams preseason and regular season home games. As such, operating lease revenue is recognized ratably as events occur.
The Arena License Agreements allow for certain reductions in the license fees during periods when The Garden is not available for use due to a force majeure event. As a result of the government-mandated suspension of events at The Garden due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, at the beginning of Fiscal Year 2021, The Garden was not available for use. Capacity restrictions, use limitations and social distancing requirements were in place for the entirety of the Knicks and Rangers 2020 21 regular seasons, which materially impacted the payments we received under the Arena License Agreements for Fiscal Year 2021. On July 1, 2021, the Knicks and Rangers began paying the full amounts provided for under their respective Arena License Agreements. The Knicks and the Rangers each completed their 20212022 82-game regular seasons, with the Rangers advancing to the playoffs.
Facility and Ticketing Fees
For all public and ticketed events held in our venues aside from MSG Sports home games, we also earn additional revenues on substantially all tickets sold, whether we promote/co-promote the event or license the venue to a third party. These revenues are earned in the form of certain fees and assessments, including the facility fees we charge, and vary by venue.
Concessions
We sell food and beverages during substantially all events held at our venues. In addition to concession-style sales of food and beverages, which represent the majority of our concession revenues, we also generate revenue from catering for our suites at The Garden. Pursuant to the Arena License Agreements related to the use of The Garden by MSG Sports, the Company shares with MSG Sports revenues and related expenses associated with sales of food and beverages (including suite catering) during Knicks and Rangers games at The Garden.
Revenue generated from in-venue food and beverage sales at MSG Sports events is recognized by the Company on a gross basis, with a corresponding revenue sharing expense for MSG Sports share of such sales recorded within direct operating expense. The Arena License Agreements require the Company to pay 50% of the net proceeds generated from in-venue food and beverage sales to MSG Sports.
Merchandise
We earn revenues from the sale of merchandise related to our proprietary productions and other live entertainment events that take place at our venues. The majority of our merchandise revenues are generated through on-site sales during performances of our productions and other live events. We also generate revenues from the sales of our Christmas Spectacular merchandise, such as ornaments and apparel, through traditional retail channels. Revenues associated with Christmas Spectacular merchandise are generally recorded on gross basis (as principal). Typically, revenues from our merchandise sales at our non-proprietary events relate to sales
90
of merchandise provided by the artist, the producer or promoter of the event and are generally subject to a revenue sharing arrangement and are generally recorded on a net basis (as agent).
Pursuant to the Arena License Agreements, the Company receives 30% of revenues, net of taxes and credit card fees, recorded on a net basis (agent), from the sale of MSG Sports teams merchandise sold at The Garden.
Signage and Sponsorship
We earn revenues through the sale of signage space and sponsorship rights in connection with our venues, productions and other live entertainment events. Signage revenues generally involve the sale of advertising space at The Garden during entertainment events and otherwise in our venues. We also earn our revenues through the sale of outdoor signage around the Madison Square Garden complex and Penn Station.
Sponsorship agreements may require us to use the name, logos and other trademarks of sponsors in our advertising and in promotions for our venues, productions and other live entertainment events. Sponsorship arrangements may be exclusive within a particular sponsorship category or non-exclusive and generally permit a sponsor to use the name, logos and other trademarks of our productions, events and venues in connection with their own advertising and in promotions in our venues or in the community.
Prior to the 2020 Entertainment Distribution, for sponsorship agreements entered into by the Company or for arrangements that had performance obligations satisfied solely by the Company, revenue was generally recorded on a gross basis as the Company was the principal in such arrangements and controlled the related goods or services until transfer to the customer. MSG Sports share of the Companys sponsorship and signage revenue was recognized in the combined statements of operations as a component of direct operating expenses. The revenue sharing expense was specifically identified where possible, with the remainder allocated proportionally based upon revenue.
Under the Arena License Agreements, the Company shares certain sponsorship and signage revenues with MSG Sports. Pursuant to these agreements, MSG Sports has the rights to sponsorship and signage revenue that is specific to Knicks and Rangers events. The Company and MSG Sports also entered into sponsorship sales representation agreements, under which the Company has the right and obligation to sell and service sponsorships for the sports teams of MSG Sports, in exchange for a commission.
Advertising Sales (Ad Sales) Commission
The Company is a party to an advertising sales representation agreement with MSG Networks. Pursuant to the agreement, the Company has the exclusive right and obligation to sell advertising availabilities of MSG Networks. The Company is entitled to, and earns, commission revenue on such sales. The expense associated with advertising personnel is recognized in selling, general and administrative expenses. The Company recorded revenues under the advertising sales representation agreement with MSG Networks of $8,802 and $7,395 for the six months ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively. For Fiscal Years 2022, 2021, and 2020, the Company recognized $20,878, $13,698 and $12,653 of revenues, respectively, under the advertising sales representation agreement with MSG Networks.
Expenses
Our principal expenses are payments made to performers of our productions, staging costs and day-of-event costs associated with events, and advertising costs. In addition, our expenses include costs associated with the ownership, lease, maintenance and operation of our venues, along with our corporate and other supporting functions.
91
Performer Payments
Our proprietary productions are performed by talented actors, dancers, singers, musicians and entertainers. In order to attract and retain this talent, we are required to pay our performers an amount that is commensurate with both their abilities and the demand for their services from other entertainment companies. Our productions typically feature ensemble casts (such as the Rockettes), where most of our performers are paid based on a standard scale, pursuant to collective bargaining agreements we negotiate with the performers unions. Certain performers, however, have individually negotiated contracts.
Staging Costs
Staging costs for our proprietary events as well as other events that we promote include the costs of sets, lighting, display technologies, special effects, sound and all of the other technical aspects involved in presenting a live entertainment event. These costs vary substantially depending on the nature of the particular show, but tend to be highest for large-scale theatrical productions, such as the Christmas Spectacular. For concerts we promote, the performer usually provides a fully produced show. Along with performer salaries, the staging costs associated with a given production are an important factor in the determination of ticket prices.
Day-of-Event Costs
For days in which the Company stages its productions, promotes an event or provides one of our venues to a third-party promoter under a license fee arrangement, the event is charged the variable costs associated with such event, including box office staff, stagehands, ticket takers, ushers, security, and other similar expenses. In situations where we provide our venues to a third-party promoter under a license fee arrangement, day-of-event costs are typically included in the license fees charged to the promoter. Under the Arena License Agreements related to the use of The Garden by MSG Sports, the Company is reimbursed for day-of-event costs (as defined under the Arena License Agreements). The Company records such reimbursements as reductions to direct operating expenses.
Venue Usage
The Companys combined financial statements include expenses associated with the ownership, maintenance and operation of The Garden, which the Company and MSG Sports use in their respective operations. Prior to the 2020 Entertainment Distribution, the Company did not charge rent expense to MSG Sports for use of The Garden. However, for purposes of the Companys combined financial statements, a portion of the historical depreciation expense as well as other non-event related venue operations costs are allocated to MSG Sports, in order to properly burden all business units comprising MSG Sports historical operations, related to use of The Garden. This allocation is based on event count and revenue, which the Companys management believes is a reasonable allocation methodology. This allocation is reported as a reduction of direct operating expense in the combined statements of operations. This allocation is reflected for the portion of Fiscal Year 2020 prior to the 2020 Entertainment Distribution.
Revenue Sharing Expenses
As discussed above, MSG Sports share of the Companys suites licenses, venue signage and certain sponsorship and concessions revenue is reflected within direct operating expense as revenue sharing expenses. For periods prior to the 2020 Entertainment Distribution, such amounts were either specifically identified where possible, or allocated proportionally within the combined financial statements.
Marketing and Advertising Costs
We incur significant costs promoting our productions and other events through various advertising campaigns, including advertising on social and digital platforms, television, outdoor platforms and radio, and in
92
newspapers. In light of the intense competition for entertainment events, such expenditures are a necessity to drive interest in our productions and encourage members of the public to purchase tickets to our shows.
Other Expenses
The Companys selling, general and administrative expenses primarily consist of administrative costs, including compensation, professional fees, advertising sales commissions, as well as sales and marketing costs, including non-event related advertising expenses. Operating expenses also include corporate overhead costs and venue operating expenses. Venue operating expenses include the non-event related costs of operating the Companys venues, and include such costs as rent for the Companys leased venues, real estate taxes, insurance, utilities, repairs and maintenance, and labor related to the overall management of the venues.
Factors Affecting Results of Operations
In addition the discussion under the section Business Overview Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Our Business above, our operating results are largely dependent on our ability to attract concerts and other events to our venues, revenues under various agreements entered into with MSG Sports, and the continuing popularity of the Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall. Certain of these factors in turn depend on the popularity and/or performance of the professional sports teams whose games we host in our venues.
Our Companys future performance is dependent in part on general economic conditions and the effect of these conditions on our customers. Weak economic conditions may lead to lower demand for suite licenses and tickets to our live productions, concerts, family shows and other events, which would also negatively affect concession and merchandise sales, and lower levels of sponsorship and venue signage. These conditions may also affect the number of concerts, family shows and other events that take place in the future. An economic downturn could adversely affect our business and results of operations.
Factors Affecting Comparability
Due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic discussed above, each of Fiscal Year 2021 and Fiscal Year 2022 results are not comparable to the prior year and are not indicative of future results.
93
Combined Results of Operations
Comparison of the Six Months Ended December 31, 2022 versus the Six Months Ended December 31, 2021
The table below sets forth, for the periods presented, certain historical financial information.
Six Months Ended December 31, |
Change | |||||||||||||||
2022 | 2021 | Amount | Percentage | |||||||||||||
Revenues |
$ | 502,332 | $ | 281,162 | $ | 221,170 | 79% | |||||||||
Direct operating expenses |
282,265 | 182,236 | 100,029 | 55% | ||||||||||||
Selling, general and administrative expenses |
83,415 | 81,698 | 1,717 | 2% | ||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
31,571 | 33,159 | (1,588 | ) | (5)% | |||||||||||
Gains, net on dispositions |
(4,412 | ) | | (4,412 | ) | NM | ||||||||||
Restructuring charges |
7,359 | | 7,359 | NM | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Operating income (loss) |
102,134 | (15,931 | ) | 118,065 | NM | |||||||||||
Interest income |
3,322 | 3,604 | (282 | ) | (8)% | |||||||||||
Interest expense |
(24,632 | ) | (26,795 | ) | 2,163 | (8)% | ||||||||||
Other expense, net |
(1,286 | ) | (19,247 | ) | 17,961 | (93)% | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Income (loss) from operations before income taxes |
79,538 | (58,369 | ) | 137,907 | NM | |||||||||||
Income tax (expense) benefit |
(731 | ) | | (731 | ) | NM | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Net income (loss) |
78,807 | (58,369 | ) | 137,176 | NM | |||||||||||
Less: Net loss attributable to nonredeemable noncontrolling interests |
(553 | ) | (367 | ) | (186 | ) | 51% | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Net income (loss) attributable to Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp.s stockholders |
79,360 | (58,002 | ) | 137,362 | NM | |||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
NM Absolute percentages greater than 200% and comparisons from positive to negative values or to zero values are considered not meaningful.
Revenues
Revenues for the six months ended December 31, 2022 increased $221,170 as compared to the prior year period. The change in revenues was attributable to the following:
Six Months Ended December 31, 2022 |
||||
Increase in event-related revenues, as discussed below |
$ | 88,214 | ||
Increase in revenues from the presentation of the Christmas Spectacular |
71,414 | |||
Increase in revenues subject to the sharing of economics with MSG Sports pursuant to the Arena License Agreements |
35,404 | |||
Increase in venue-related sponsorship, signage and suite license fee revenues |
16,643 | |||
Increase in arena license fees from MSG Sports pursuant to the Arena License Agreements |
3,968 | |||
Other net increases |
5,527 | |||
|
|
|||
$ | 221,170 | |||
|
|
For the six months ended December 31, 2022, the increase in event-related revenues primarily reflects higher revenues from concerts of $88,072. The increase in revenues for the six months ended December 31, 2022 was primarily due to the return of live events at the Companys venues as compared to limited live events held during the first six months of Fiscal Year 2022 (due to the COVID-19 pandemic). See Business Overview Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Our Business for more information.
94
The Company had 181 Christmas Spectacular performances during this years holiday season, of which 174 took place in the second quarter of Fiscal Year 2023, as compared to 101 performances in the prior years holiday season (due to the partial cancellation of the 2021 production as a result of an increase in COVID-19 cases), all of which took place in the second quarter of Fiscal Year 2022. For this years holiday season, more than 930,000 tickets were sold, representing an over 25% increase in attendance on a per-show basis as compared to the prior year.
For the six months ended December 31, 2022, the increase in revenues subject to the sharing of economics with MSG Sports pursuant to the Arena License Agreements primarily reflected higher suite license fee revenues and, to a lesser extent, higher food, beverage and merchandise sales at Knicks and Rangers games.
For the six months ended December 31, 2022, the increase in venue-related sponsorship, signage and suite license fee revenues primarily reflects higher suite license fee revenues, which was mainly due to the return of live events at the Companys venues as compared to limited live events held during the first six months of Fiscal Year 2022 (due to the COVID-19 pandemic).
Direct operating expenses
Direct operating expenses for the six months ended December 31, 2022 increased $100,029 as compared to the prior year period. The change in direct operating expenses was attributable to the following:
Six Months Ended December 31, 2022 |
||||
Increase in event-related direct operating expenses as discussed below |
$ | 47,644 | ||
Increase in expenses associated with the sharing of economics with MSG Sports pursuant to the Arena License Agreements |
28,693 | |||
Increase in direct operating expenses associated with the Christmas Spectacular |
9,854 | |||
Increase in venue operating costs |
6,627 | |||
Increase in direct operating expenses associated with the Arena License Agreements |
4,732 | |||
Other net increases |
2,479 | |||
|
|
|||
$ | 100,029 | |||
|
|
For the six months ended December 31, 2022, the increase in event-related direct operating expenses primarily reflects higher direct operating expenses from concerts of $46,422, which was primarily due to the increase in the number of events held at the Companys venues as compared to the prior year period.
For the six months ended December 31, 2022, the increase in direct operating expenses associated with the sharing of economics with MSG Sports pursuant to the Arena License Agreements primarily reflects the increase in suite license fees and, to a lesser extent, the increase in Knicks and Rangers food and beverage sales.
For the six months ended December 31, 2022, the increase in direct operating expenses associated with the Christmas Spectacular production was primarily due to the increase in the number of performances as compared to the prior year period.
For the six months ended December 31, 2022, the increase in expenses associated with the Arena License Agreements primarily reflects an increase in food and beverage costs associated with the increase in Knicks and Rangers food and beverage sales.
95
Selling, general and administrative expenses
For the six months ended December 31, 2022, selling, general and administrative expenses increased $1,717, or 2%, to $83,415 as compared to the prior year period. The increase primarily reflects higher advertising and general administrative expenses.
Gains, net on dispositions
For the six months ended December 31, 2022, the Company recorded net gains of $4,412 primarily due to the gain on sale of the companys controlling interest in BCE, partially offset by the net loss on the disposal of a corporate aircraft.
Restructuring Charges
For the six months ended December 31, 2022, the Company recorded total restructuring charges of $7,359 related to termination benefits provided for a workforce reduction of certain executives and employees as part of the Companys cost reduction program implemented in Fiscal Year 2023. No amounts were recorded as restructuring charges during the comparative prior period.
Operating income (loss)
Operating income for the six months ended December 31, 2022 was $102,134 as compared to a loss of $15,931 in the prior year period, an improvement of $118,065. The improvement in operating income (loss) was primarily due to an increase in revenues, partially offset by higher direct operating expenses, as discussed above.
Interest income
Interest income for the six months ended December 31, 2022 decreased $282 as compared to the prior year period primarily due to lower related party interest of $1,660 as a result of MSG Entertainments repayment of the TAO Subordinated Credit Agreement (defined below) on June 9, 2022, partially offset by higher interest income of $1,378 due to higher rates and average investment balances.
Interest expense
Interest expense for the six months ended December 31, 2022 decreased $2,163 as compared to the prior year period primarily due to lower amortization of deferred financing costs of $1,774 as a result of the extinguishment of MSG National Properties prior term loan facility in June 2022.
Other expense, net
Other expense, net for the six months ended December 31, 2022 decreased $17,961 as compared to the prior year period primarily due to lower unrealized losses of approximately $21,300 associated with the Companys investments in DraftKings Inc., partially offset by the realized gain of $1,489 on shares sold of DraftKings.
Income tax (expense) benefit
Income tax expense for the six months ended December 31, 2022 of $731 reflected an effective income tax rate of 1% and differs from the income tax expense derived from applying the statutory federal rate of 21% to the pretax income primarily due to (i) tax expense related to state and local taxes of $11,769, (ii) tax expense of $5,103 related to share-based payment awards and (iii) tax expense of $1,993 related to nondeductible officers compensation, partially offset by (i) tax benefit of $33,001 resulting from a decrease in the valuation allowance and (ii) a tax benefit of $2,066 related to a federal income tax refund.
96
Income tax expense for the six months ended December 31, 2021 of nil reflected an effective income tax rate of 0% and differs from income tax benefit derived from applying the statutory federal rate of 21% to the pretax loss primarily due to (i) tax expense of $13,741 resulting from an increase in the valuation allowance and (ii) tax expense of $3,527 related to nondeductible officers compensation, partially offset by state income tax benefit of $4,926.
Adjusted operating income (loss) (AOI)
The Company evaluates performance based on several factors, of which the key financial measure is adjusted operating income (loss), a non-GAAP financial measure. We define adjusted income (loss) as operating income (loss) excluding:
(i) | the impact of non-cash straight-line leasing revenue associated with the Arena License Agreements with MSG Sports, |
(ii) | depreciation, amortization and impairments of property and equipment, goodwill and intangible assets, |
(iii) | amortization for capitalized cloud computing arrangement costs, |
(iv) | share-based compensation expense, |
(v) | restructuring charges or credits, |
(vi) | merger and acquisition-related costs, including litigation expenses, |
(vii) | gains or losses on sales or dispositions of businesses and associated settlements, |
(viii) | the impact of purchase accounting adjustments related to business acquisitions, and |
(ix) | gains and losses related to the remeasurement of liabilities under MSG Entertainments Executive Deferred Compensation Plan (which was established in November 2021). |
The Company believes that given the length of the Arena License Agreements and resulting magnitude of the difference in leasing revenue recognized and cash revenue received, the exclusion of non-cash leasing revenue provides investors with a clearer picture of the Companys operating performance. Management believes that this adjustment is beneficial for other incremental reasons as well. This adjustment provides senior management, investors and analysts with important information regarding a long-term related party agreement with MSG Sports. In addition, this adjustment is included under the Companys debt covenant compliance calculations and is a component of the performance measures used to evaluate, and compensate, senior management of the Company. The Company believes that the exclusion of share-based compensation expense or benefit allows investors to better track the performance of the Companys business without regard to the settlement of an obligation that is not expected to be made in cash. The Company eliminates merger and acquisition-related costs, when applicable, because the Company does not consider such costs to be indicative of the ongoing operating performance of the Company as they result from an event that is of a non-recurring nature, thereby enhancing comparability. In addition, management believes that the exclusion of gains and losses related to the remeasurement of liabilities under the MSG Entertainments Executive Deferred Compensation Plan, which were included for the first time in Fiscal Year 2022, provides investors with a clearer picture of the Companys operating performance given that, in accordance with GAAP, gains and losses related to the remeasurement of liabilities under the MSG Entertainments Executive Deferred Compensation Plan are recognized in Operating (income) loss whereas gains and losses related to the remeasurement of the assets under the MSG Entertainments Executive Deferred Compensation Plan, which are equal to and therefore fully offset the gains and losses related to the remeasurement of liabilities, are recognized in Other income (expense), net, which is not reflected in Operating income (loss).
97
The Company believes AOI is an appropriate measure for evaluating the operating performance of the Company on a combined basis. AOI and similar measures with similar titles are common performance measures used by investors and analysts to analyze the Companys performance. The Company uses revenues and AOI measures as the most important indicators of its business performance and evaluates managements effectiveness with specific reference to these indicators.
AOI should be viewed as a supplement to and not a substitute for operating income (loss), net income (loss), cash flows from operating activities, and other measures of performance and/or liquidity presented in accordance with GAAP. Since AOI is not a measure of performance calculated in accordance with GAAP, this measure may not be comparable to similar measures with similar titles used by other companies. The Company has presented the components that reconcile operating income (loss), the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure, to AOI.
The following is a reconciliation of operating income (loss) to adjusted operating income for the six months ended December 31, 2022 as compared to the prior year period:
Six Months Ended | Change | |||||||||||||||
2022 | 2021 | Amount | Percentage | |||||||||||||
Operating income (loss) |
102,134 | (15,931 | ) | 118,065 | NM | |||||||||||
Non-cash portion of arena license fees from MSG Sports |
(12,929 | ) | (11,889 | ) | ||||||||||||
Share-based compensation expense |
13,965 | 21,079 | ||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
31,571 | 33,159 | ||||||||||||||
Gains, net on dispositions |
(4,412 | ) | | |||||||||||||
Restructuring charges |
7,359 | | ||||||||||||||
Amortization for capitalized cloud computing arrangement costs |
104 | | ||||||||||||||
Remeasurement of deferred compensation plan liabilities |
6 | | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Adjusted operating income |
137,798 | 26,418 | 111,380 | NM | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
NM Absolute percentages greater than 200% and comparisons from positive to negative values or to zero values are considered not meaningful.
(a) | This adjustment represents the non-cash portion of operating lease revenue related to the Companys Arena License Agreements with MSG Sports. Pursuant to GAAP, recognition of operating lease revenue is recorded on a straight-line basis over the term of the agreement based upon the value of total future payments under the arrangement. As a result, operating lease revenue is comprised of a contractual cash component plus or minus a non-cash component for each period presented. Operating income on a GAAP basis includes lease income of (i) $20,220 and $17,293 of revenue collected in cash for the six months ended December 31, 2022, and 2021, respectively and (ii) a non-cash portion of $12,929 and $11,889 for the six months ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively. |
Net income (loss) attributable to redeemable and nonredeemable noncontrolling interests
For the six months ended December 31, 2022, the Company recorded $553 of net loss attributable to nonredeemable noncontrolling interests as compared to $367 of net loss attributable to nonredeemable noncontrolling interests for the six months ended December 31, 2021. These amounts represent the share of net loss of BCE that is not attributable to the Company.
98
Comparison of the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2022 versus the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2021
Combined Results of Operations
The table below sets forth, for the periods presented, certain historical financial information.
Years Ended June 30, | Change | |||||||||||||||
2022 | 2021 | Amount | Percentage | |||||||||||||
Revenues |
$ | 653,490 | $ | 81,812 | $ | 571,678 | NM | |||||||||
Direct operating expenses |
417,301 | 96,236 | 321,065 | NM | ||||||||||||
Selling, general and administrative expenses |
167,132 | 136,597 | 30,535 | 22% | ||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
69,534 | 71,576 | (2,042 | ) | (3)% | |||||||||||
Restructuring charges |
5,171 | 14,691 | (9,520 | ) | (65)% | |||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Operating loss |
(5,648 | ) | (237,288 | ) | 231,640 | 98% | ||||||||||
Other income (expense): |
||||||||||||||||
Interest expense, net |
(45,960 | ) | (27,293 | ) | (18,667 | ) | (68)% | |||||||||
Loss on extinguishment of debt |
(35,629 | ) | | (35,629 | ) | NM | ||||||||||
Other income (expense), net |
(49,033 | ) | 50,622 | (99,655 | ) | NM | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Loss from operations before income taxes |
(136,270 | ) | (213,959 | ) | 77,689 | 36% | ||||||||||
Income tax (expense) benefit |
70 | (5,349 | ) | 5,419 | NM | |||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Net loss |
(136,200 | ) | (219,308 | ) | 83,108 | 38% | ||||||||||
Less: Net loss attributable to nonredeemable noncontrolling interests |
(2,864 | ) | (694 | ) | (2,170 | ) | NM | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Net loss attributable to Spincos stockholders |
$ | (133,336 | ) | $ | (218,614 | ) | $ | 85,278 | 39% | |||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
NM (not meaningful) Absolute percentages greater than 200% and comparisons from positive to negative values or to zero values are considered not meaningful.
The Companys operating results were materially impacted during Fiscal Years 2022 and 2021 by the COVID-19 pandemic and government actions taken in response. See Business Overview Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Our Business for more information.
Revenues
Revenues increased $571,678 from $81,812 for Fiscal Year 2021 to $653,490 for Fiscal Year 2022. The net increase was attributable to the following:
Increase in event-related revenues, as discussed below |
$ | 239,574 | ||
Increase in revenues from signage, suite licenses, and sales of food, beverage and merchandise subject to revenue or profit sharing with MSG Sports pursuant to the Arena License Agreements |
130,238 | |||
Increase in revenues from the shortened Christmas Spectacular 2021 holiday season run as compared to the cancellation of the 2020 production in Fiscal Year 2021 as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic |
55,454 | |||
Increase in arena license fees from MSG Sports pursuant to the Arena License Agreements, as discussed below |
46,727 | |||
Increase in suite license fee revenues, due to the return of live events at the Companys venues during Fiscal Year 2022 as compared to limited live events held in Fiscal Year 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic |
34,904 | |||
Increase in venue-related signage and sponsorship revenues primarily due to the return of live events at the Companys venues during Fiscal Year 2022 as compared to limited live events held in Fiscal Year 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic |
29,940 | |||
Increase in revenues from the Boston Calling Music Festival as compared to the cancellation of the festival in Fiscal Year 2021 as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic |
18,313 | |||
Other net increases |
16,528 | |||
|
|
|||
$ | 571,678 | |||
|
|
99
The increase in event-related revenues reflects (i) higher revenues from concerts of $179,892 during Fiscal Year 2022 and (ii) higher revenues from live entertainment and other sporting events of $59,682 during Fiscal Year 2022. These increases were due to the return of live events to the Companys venues during Fiscal Year 2022 as compared to limited live events held in Fiscal Year 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. See Business Overview Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Our Business for more information.
In Fiscal Year 2022, the Knicks and Rangers played a combined 98 pre-season, regular season, and post-season games at The Garden without any capacity restrictions. As a result, the Company recorded $68,072 in arena license fees under the Arena License Agreements for Fiscal Year 2022. In Fiscal Year 2021, capacity restrictions, use limitations and social distancing requirements were in place for the entirety of the Knicks and Rangers 2020-21 regular seasons, which materially impacted the payments we received under the Arena License Agreements during Fiscal Year 2021.
Direct operating expenses
Direct operating expenses increased $321,065 from $96,236 for Fiscal Year 2021 to $417,301 for Fiscal Year 2022. The net increase was attributable to the following:
For Fiscal Year 2022, the increase in event-related direct operating expenses reflects (i) higher direct operating expenses from concerts of $91,938, and (ii) higher direct operating expenses from live entertainment and other sporting events of $33,993, primarily due to the return of events to the Companys venues during Fiscal Year 2022 as compared to limited live events in Fiscal Year 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Selling, general and administrative expenses
SG&A expenses for Fiscal Year 2022 increased $30,535, or 22%, to $167,132 as compared to Fiscal Year 2021 primarily due to a net increase in employee compensation and related benefits, which included the impact of severance-related costs attributable to separation agreements in Fiscal Year 2022.
Depreciation and amortization
Depreciation and amortization for Fiscal Year 2022 decreased $2,042, or 3%, to $69,534 as compared to Fiscal Year 2021 primarily due to certain assets in The Garden being fully depreciated and amortized.
100
Restructuring charges
Restructuring charges for Fiscal Year 2022 were $5,171 as compared to $14,691 in Fiscal Year 2021, a decrease of $9,520, or 65%. The Companys operations have been disrupted since March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As a direct response to this disruption, the Company implemented cost savings initiatives to reduce labor costs. For Fiscal Year 2021, the Company recorded total restructuring charges of $14,691 related to termination benefits provided to employees associated with a full-time workforce reduction in August 2020 and November 2020. For Fiscal Year 2022, the Company underwent additional organizational changes to further streamline operations related to the elimination of certain executive and management level functions, resulting in additional restructuring charges but of a lesser amount.
Operating loss
Operating loss for Fiscal Year 2022 improved $231,640 to $5,648 as compared to an operating loss of $237,288 in Fiscal Year 2021. The improvement in operating loss was primarily due to the increase in revenues, and, to a lesser extent, the decrease in restructuring charges, offset by higher direct operating expenses and SG&A expenses.
Interest expense, net
Interest expense, net for Fiscal Year 2022 was $45,960 as compared to $27,293 in Fiscal Year 2021, an increase of $18,667, or 68%. The increase in net interest expense in Fiscal Year 2022 was primarily due to an increase in interest expense of $18,787 on the MSG National Properties, LLC facilities as a result of the balance of MSG National Properties prior term loan facility being outstanding for almost the full year of Fiscal Year 2022 (refinanced on June 30, 2022) compared to a partial year for Fiscal Year 2021, given the Company entered into the prior term loan facility on November 12, 2020. The increase in interest expense was partially offset by an increase in interest income from a related party.
Loss on extinguishment of debt
For Fiscal Year 2022, the Company incurred a loss on extinguishment of debt of $35,629 in connection with the extinguishment of MSG National Properties prior term loan facility.
Other income (expense), net
For Fiscal Year 2022, net other expense was $49,033 as compared to net other income of $50,622 for Fiscal Year 2021, a decrease of $99,655. The decrease was primarily due to an increase in unrealized losses of $62,155 and $41,192 associated with the investments in DraftKings Inc. (DraftKings) and Townsquare Media, Inc. (Townsquare), respectively, partially offset by (i) the absence of a $2,327 realized loss on the Companys sale of investments in DraftKings in Fiscal Year 2021 and (ii) a $1,073 decrease in other pension costs.
Income taxes
Income tax benefit for Fiscal Year 2022 of $70 differs from income tax benefit derived from applying the statutory federal rate of 21% to the pretax loss primarily due to (i) an increase in the valuation allowance of $31,679 and (ii) tax expense of $8,125 related to nondeductible officers compensation, partially offset by state income tax benefit of $12,141.
Income tax expense for Fiscal Year 2021 of $5,349 differs from income tax benefit derived from applying the statutory federal rate of 21% to the pretax loss primarily due to (i) an increase in the valuation allowance of $70,501 and (ii) tax expense of $5,209 related to nondeductible officers compensation, partially offset by (i) state income tax benefit of $22,882 and (ii) tax benefit of $2,545 related to a change in the estimated applicable tax rate used to determine deferred taxes.
101
See Note 18, Income Taxes to the Audited Combined Annual Financial Statements included elsewhere in this information statement for further details on the components of income tax and a reconciliation of the statutory federal rate to the effective tax rate.
The following is a reconciliation of operating loss to adjusted operating income (loss):
Years Ended June 30, | Change | |||||||||||||||
2022 | 2021 | Amount | Percentage | |||||||||||||
Operating loss |
$ | (5,648 | ) | $ | (237,288 | ) | $ | 231,640 | 98% | |||||||
Non-cash portion of arena license fees from MSG Sports (a) |
(27,754 | ) | (13,026 | ) | ||||||||||||
Share-based compensation expense |
37,746 | 40,663 | ||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
69,534 | 71,576 | ||||||||||||||
Restructuring charges |
5,171 | 14,691 | ||||||||||||||
Remeasurement of deferred compensation plan liabilities |
46 | | ||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||
Adjusted operating income (loss) |
$ | 79,095 | $ | (123,384 | ) | $ | 202,479 | NM | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
NM (not meaningful) Absolute percentages greater than 200% and comparisons from positive to negative values or to zero values are considered not meaningful.
(a) | This adjustment represents the non-cash portion of operating lease revenue related to the Companys Arena License Agreements with MSG Sports. Pursuant to GAAP, recognition of operating lease revenue is recorded on a straight-line basis over the term of the agreement based upon the value of total future payments under the arrangement. As a result, operating lease revenue is comprised of a contractual cash component plus or minus a non-cash component for each period presented. Operating income on a GAAP basis includes lease income of (i) $40,319 and $8,319 collected in cash for Fiscal Years 2022 and 2021, respectively, and (ii) a non-cash portion of $27,754 and $13,026 for Fiscal Years 2022 and 2021, respectively. |
Net loss attributable to nonredeemable noncontrolling interests
For Fiscal Year 2022, the Company posted a net loss attributable to nonredeemable noncontrolling interests of $2,864 in comparison to a net loss attributable to nonredeemable noncontrolling interests of $694 for Fiscal Year 2021. These amounts represent the share of net loss of BCE that is not attributable to the Company.
102
Comparison of the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2021 versus the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2020
See below for a discussion of the comparison of Fiscal Year 2021 versus Fiscal Year 2020 for the combined Company.
Combined Results of Operations
The table below sets forth, for the periods presented, certain historical financial information.
Years Ended June 30, | Change | |||||||||||||||
2021 | 2020 | Amount | Percentage | |||||||||||||
Revenues |
$ | 81,812 | $ | 584,601 | $ | (502,789 | ) | (86)% | ||||||||
Direct operating expenses |
96,236 | 380,526 | (284,290 | ) | (75)% | |||||||||||
Selling, general and administrative expenses |
136,597 | 137,935 | (1,338 | ) | (1)% | |||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
71,576 | 81,591 | (10,015 | ) | (12)% | |||||||||||
Gain on disposal of assets held for sale and associated settlements |
| (240,783 | ) | 240,783 | 100% | |||||||||||
Restructuring charges |
14,691 | | 14,691 | NM | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Operating income (loss) |
(237,288 | ) | 225,332 | (462,620 | ) | NM | ||||||||||
Other income (expense): |
||||||||||||||||
Interest expense, net |
(27,293 | ) | 8,380 | (35,673 | ) | NM | ||||||||||
Other income, net |
50,622 | 37,129 | 13,493 | 36% | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Income (loss) from operations before income taxes |
(213,959 | ) | 270,841 | (484,800 | ) | NM | ||||||||||
Income tax expense |
(5,349 | ) | (100,182 | ) | 94,833 | 95% | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Net income (loss) |
(219,308 | ) | 170,659 | (389,967 | ) | NM | ||||||||||
Less: Net loss attributable to nonredeemable noncontrolling interests |
(694 | ) | (1,071 | ) | 377 | 35% | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Net income (loss) attributable to Spincos stockholders |
$ | (218,614 | ) | $ | 171,730 | $ | (390,344 | ) | NM | |||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
NM (not meaningful) Absolute percentages greater than 200% and comparisons from positive to negative values or to zero values are considered not meaningful.
Revenues
Revenues for Fiscal Year 2021 decreased $502,789, or 86%, to $81,812 as compared to Fiscal Year 2020. The net decrease was attributable to the following:
Decrease in event-related revenues from concerts, as discussed below |
$ | (212,899 | ) | |
Decrease in revenues from the Christmas Spectacular due to the cancellation of the 2020 holiday season production as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic |
(128,488 | ) | ||
Decrease in suite license fee revenues due to the government-mandated closures and restrictions on the use of our venues beginning in March 2020 as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic |
(85,900 | ) | ||
Decrease in venue-related signage and sponsorship revenues as well as the impact of government-mandated closures and restrictions on the use of our venues beginning in March 2020 as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic |
(65,196 | ) | ||
Absence of revenues from the Forum due to its disposition in May 2020 |
(45,719 | ) | ||
Increase in arena license fees from MSG Sports pursuant to the Arena License Agreements, as discussed below |
21,345 | |||
Increase in revenues from sponsorship sales and service representation agreements with MSG Sports, as discussed below |
11,280 | |||
Other net increases |
2,788 | |||
|
|
|||
$ | (502,789 | ) | ||
|
|
103
The decrease in event-related revenues reflects (i) lower revenues from concerts of $158,580 during Fiscal Year 2021 and (ii) lower revenues from live entertainment and other sporting events of $54,319 during Fiscal Year 2021. Both of these declines were due to government-mandated closures and restrictions on the use of our venues beginning in March 2020 as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. See Business Overview Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Our Business for more information.
The arena license fee revenues from MSG Sports in Fiscal Year 2021 were due to The Garden reopening for the Knicks games in December 2020 and the Rangers games in January 2021 with limited or no fans. There were no arena license fees recorded prior to the 2020 Entertainment Distribution.
The increase in revenues from the Companys sponsorship sales and service representation agreements and Arena License Agreements with MSG Sports reflects the impact of entering into these agreements in connection with, and effective as of, the 2020 Entertainment Distribution.
Direct operating expenses
Direct operating expenses for Fiscal Year 2021 decreased $284,290, or 75%, to $96,236 as compared to Fiscal Year 2020. The net decrease was attributable to the following:
Decrease in event-related direct operating expenses from (i) concerts of $85,449 during Fiscal Year 2021 and (ii) live entertainment and other sporting events of $39,057, both due to government-mandated closures and restrictions on the use of our venues beginning in March 2020 as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic |
$ | (124,506 | ) | |
Decrease in direct operating expenses associated with suite license operations primarily due to the impact of lower revenue sharing expenses with MSG Sports corresponding to the lower suite revenue during Fiscal Year 2020 due to government-mandated closures and restrictions on the use of our venues beginning in March 2020 as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic |
(58,096 | ) | ||
Decrease in direct operating expenses associated with venue-related signage and sponsorship primarily due to the impact of lower revenue sharing expense with MSG Sports of $52,052 |
(53,392 | ) | ||
Decrease in direct operating expenses associated with the Christmas Spectacular due to the cancellation of the 2020 holiday season production as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic |
(50,714 | ) | ||
Decrease in direct operating expenses associated with the Forum due to its disposition in May 2020 |
(26,576 | ) | ||
Other net increases, primarily due to the absence of carve-out allocations to MSG Sports related to the 2020 Entertainment Distribution |
28,994 | |||
|
|
|||
$ | (284,290 | ) | ||
|
|
Selling, general and administrative expenses
SG&A expenses for Fiscal Year 2021 decreased $1,338, or 1%, to $136,597 as compared to Fiscal Year 2020. The decrease was primarily due to a net decrease in employee compensation and related benefits as a result of the Companys full-time workforce reduction in August 2020 as well as other net decreases in professional fees. The decrease was partially offset by an incremental expense for share-based compensation associated with the cancellation of certain awards pursuant to a settlement agreement.
Depreciation and amortization
Depreciation and amortization for Fiscal Year 2021 decreased $10,015, or 12%, to $71,576 as compared to Fiscal Year 2020 primarily due to certain assets in The Garden being fully depreciated and amortized, resulting in a decrease of $3,013, and lower depreciation and amortization of $5,827 associated with the Forum as the recording of depreciation ceased on March 24, 2020 when the venue was classified as assets held for sale.
104
Gain on disposal of assets held for sale and associated settlements
In May 2020, the Company sold the Forum for cash consideration in the amount of $400,000 (including the settlement of related litigation). In connection with this transaction, the Company recorded a gain of $240,783 in the fourth quarter of Fiscal Year 2020, which included $140,495 attributable to the Forum associated settlement.
Restructuring charges
The Companys operations were disrupted in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and those disruptions have continued. As a direct response to this disruption, in Fiscal Year 2021, the Company implemented cost savings initiatives in order to streamline operations and preserve liquidity. For Fiscal Year 2021, the Company recorded total restructuring charges of $14,691 related to termination benefits provided to employees associated with a full-time workforce reduction in August 2020 and November 2020. No restructuring charges were incurred in Fiscal Year 2020.
Operating income (loss)
Operating income for Fiscal Year 2021 decreased $462,620 to an operating loss of $237,288 as compared to Fiscal Year 2020 primarily due to (i) the decrease in revenues, (ii) the gain on disposal of the Forum in Inglewood and associated settlement recorded in Fiscal Year 2020, and (iii) restructuring charges incurred in Fiscal Year 2021 as a response to the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The decrease in operating income was partially offset by the decrease in direct operating expenses.
Interest expense, net
Net interest expense for Fiscal Year 2021 increased $35,673 to $27,293 as compared to net interest income of $8,380 for Fiscal Year 2020. The increase was primarily due to (i) higher interest expense in Fiscal Year 2021 associated with the National Properties Term Loan Facility (as defined below) of $33,481, which was entered into in November 2020, (ii) lower interest income of $2,363 mainly due to the absence of $1,400 of interest income earned on a loan extended to Azoff Music as compared to Fiscal Year 2020 since the loan was repaid during the second quarter of Fiscal Year 2020, and (iii) lower interest income of $910 earned on the Eden Loan Agreement, as defined below.
Other income, net
Other income, net for Fiscal Year 2021 increased by $13,493 to $50,622 as compared to $37,129 for Fiscal Year 2020. The increase was primarily due to the net realized and unrealized gains of $13,550 recognized on the Companys investments in DraftKings and Townsquare.
Income taxes
Income tax expense for Fiscal Year 2021 of $5,349 differs from income tax benefit derived from applying the statutory federal rate of 21% to the pretax loss primarily due to (i) an increase in the valuation allowance of $70,501 and (ii) tax expense of $5,209 related to nondeductible officers compensation, offset partially by (i) state income tax benefit of $22,882 and (ii) tax benefit of $2,545 related to a change in the estimated applicable tax rate used to determine deferred taxes.
Income tax expense for Fiscal Year 2020 of $100,182 differs from income tax expense derived from applying the statutory federal rate of 21% to the pretax income primarily due to (i) state income tax expense of $33,345, (ii) tax expense of $7,120 related to nondeductible transaction costs associated with the 2020 Entertainment Distribution, and (iii) tax expense of $4,407 related to nondeductible officers compensation, partially offset by an excess tax benefit related to share-based payment awards of $2,322.
105
See Note 18, Income Taxes to the Audited Combined Annual Financial Statements included elsewhere in this information statement for further details on the components of income tax and a reconciliation of the statutory federal rate to the effective tax rate.
Adjusted operating income (loss)
The following is a reconciliation of operating income (loss) to adjusted operating income (loss):
Years Ended June 30, | Change | |||||||||||||||
2021 | 2020 | Amount | Percentage | |||||||||||||
Operating income (loss) |
$ | (237,288 | ) | $ | 225,332 | $ | (462,620 | ) | (205 | )% | ||||||
Non-cash portion of arena license fees from MSG Sports (a) |
(13,026 | ) | | |||||||||||||
Share-based compensation expense |
40,663 | 26,110 | ||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
71,576 | 81,591 | ||||||||||||||
Restructuring charges |
14,691 | | ||||||||||||||
Gain on disposal of assets held for sale, including legal settlement |
| (240,783 | ) | |||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||
Adjusted operating income (loss) |
$ | (123,384 | ) | $ | 92,250 | $ | (215,634 | ) | (234 | )% | ||||||
|
|
|
|
(a) | This adjustment represents the non-cash portion of operating lease revenue related to the Companys Arena License Agreements with MSG Sports. Pursuant to GAAP, recognition of operating lease revenue is recorded on a straight-line basis over the term of the agreement based upon the value of total future payments under the arrangement. As a result, operating lease revenue is comprised of a contractual cash component plus or minus a non-cash component for each period presented. Operating income on a GAAP basis includes lease income of (i) $8,319 and nil collected in cash for Fiscal Years 2021 and 2020, respectively, and (ii) a non-cash portion of $13,026 and nil for Fiscal Years 2021 and 2020, respectively. |
Net loss attributable to nonredeemable noncontrolling interests
For Fiscal Year 2021, the Company recorded a net loss attributable to nonredeemable noncontrolling interests of $694 as compared to $1,071 for Fiscal Year 2020. These amounts represent the share of net loss of BCE that is not attributable to the Company.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Overview
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic
The Companys operations and operating results were materially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic (including COVID-19 variants) and actions taken in response by governmental authorities and certain professional sports leagues during Fiscal Years 2020, 2021 and 2022. For the majority of Fiscal Year 2021, substantially all of our business operations were suspended. Fiscal Year 2022 was also impacted by the pandemic, with fewer ticketed events at our venues in the first half of the fiscal year as compared with Fiscal Year 2019 (the last full fiscal year not impacted by COVID-19) due to the lead-time required to book touring acts and artists, and an increase in COVID-19 cases due to a new variant, which resulted in a number of events at our venues being cancelled or postponed in the fiscal second and third quarters.
The Companys operations and operating results were not materially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic during the six months ended December 31, 2022, as compared to the prior year period, which was impacted by fewer ticketed events at our venues due to the lead-time required to book touring acts and artists, and the postponement or cancellation of select events (including the partial cancellation of the 2021 production of the Christmas Spectacular) as a result of an increase in COVID-19 cases during the fiscal second quarter.
106
As a result of government-mandated assembly limitations and closures, all of our venues were closed beginning in March 2020. Use of The Garden resumed for Knicks and Rangers home games without fans in December 2020 and January 2021, respectively, and was available at 10% seating capacity from February through May 2021 subject to certain safety protocols and social distancing. Beginning in May 2021, all of our New York venues were permitted to host guests at full capacity, subject to certain restrictions, and effective June 2021, The Chicago Theatre was permitted to host events without restrictions. Guests of our Chicago and New York venues were also subject to certain vaccination requirements until February and March 2022, respectively. As a result, our venues no longer require guests to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination before entering (although specific performers may require enhanced protocols).
For Fiscal Year 2021, the majority of ticketed events at our venues were postponed or cancelled. For Fiscal Year 2022 and as of the date of this filing, live events have been permitted to be held at all of our venues and we are continuing to host and book new events. As a result of an increase in cases of a COVID-19 variant, select bookings were postponed or cancelled at our venues in the second and third quarters of Fiscal Year 2022. Variants of COVID-19 that arise in the future may result in additional postponements or cancellations of bookings at our venues.
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our operations also included the partial cancellation of the 2021 production of the Christmas Spectacular and the cancellation of the 2020 production of the Christmas Spectacular.
The Company has long-term Arena License Agreements with MSG Sports that require the Knicks and Rangers to play their home games at The Garden. As discussed above, capacity restrictions, use limitations and social distancing requirements were in place for the entirety of the Knicks and Rangers 2020-21 regular seasons, which materially impacted the payments we received under the Arena License Agreements for Fiscal Year 2021. On July 1, 2021, the Knicks and Rangers began paying the full amounts provided for under their respective Arena License Agreements. The Knicks and the Rangers each completed their 2021-2022 82-game regular seasons, with the Rangers advancing to the playoffs.
It is unclear to what extent COVID-19 concerns, including with respect to new variants, could result in new government or league-mandated capacity restrictions or vaccination/mask requirements or impact the use of and/or demand for our venues, demand for our sponsorship and advertising assets, deter our employees and vendors from working at our venues (which may lead to difficulties in staffing) or otherwise materially impact our operations.
For more information about the risks to the Company as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on our operating results, see Risk Factors included in this information statement for further details.
Sources of Liquidity
Our primary sources of liquidity are cash and cash equivalents, cash flows from the operations of our businesses and available borrowing capacity under the National Properties Credit Agreement (as defined below). Our principal uses of cash include working capital-related items (including funding our operations), capital spending, and debt service. Our decisions as to the use of our available liquidity will be based upon the ongoing review of the funding needs of the business, the optimal allocation of cash resources, and the timing of cash flow generation. To the extent that we desire to access alternative sources of funding through the capital and credit markets, challenging U.S. and global economic and market conditions could adversely impact our ability to do so at that time.
We regularly monitor and assess our ability to meet our net funding and investing requirements. As of December 31, 2022, the Companys unrestricted cash and cash equivalents balance was $153,496 as compared to $58,102 as of June 30, 2022. As of December 31, 2022 the Companys restricted cash and cash equivalents
107
balance was $250 as compared to $4,471 as of June 30, 2022. The principal balance of the Companys total debt outstanding as of December 31, 2022 was $679,100, compared to $679,737 as of June 30, 2022. We believe we have sufficient liquidity from cash and cash equivalents as of December 31, 2022 and future cash flows from operations (including savings generated by the Companys cost reduction program) to fund our operations, and service the National Properties Credit Agreement for the foreseeable future.
See Note 10, Credit Facilities to the Unaudited Combined Interim Financial Statements, and Note 14, Credit Facilities to the Audited Combined Annual Financial Statements included elsewhere in this information statement for a discussion of the National Properties Facilities.
Financing Agreements
National Properties Credit Facilities
On June 30, 2022, MSG National Properties, LLC (MSG National Properties), MSG Entertainment Group, LLC (MSG Entertainment Group) and certain subsidiaries of MSG National Properties entered into a credit agreement with JP Morgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent and the lenders and L/C issuers party thereto (the National Properties Credit Agreement), providing for a five-year, $650,000 senior secured term loan facility (the National Properties Term Loan Facility) and a five-year, $100,000 revolving credit facility (the National Properties Revolving Credit Facility and, together with the National Properties Term Loan Facility, the National Properties Facilities).
Up to $25,000 of the National Properties Revolving Credit Facility is available for the issuance of letters of credit. As of December 31, 2022, outstanding letters of credit were $7,860 and the remaining balance available under the National Properties Revolving Credit Facility was $63,040. As of June 30, 2022, outstanding letters of credit were $6,631 and the remaining balance available under the National Properties Revolving Credit Facility was $70,900.
The principal obligations under the National Properties Term Loan Facility amortizes quarterly in accordance with its terms beginning March 31, 2023 through March 31, 2027, with the balance due at the maturity of the facility on June 30, 2027. The principal obligations under the National Properties Revolving Credit Facility are due at the maturity of the facility. Under certain circumstances, MSG National Properties is required to make mandatory prepayments on loans outstanding, including prepayments in an amount equal to the net cash proceeds of certain sales of assets or casualty insurance and/or condemnation recoveries (subject to certain reinvestment, repair or replacement rights), subject to certain exceptions.
The National Properties Credit Agreement includes financial covenants requiring MSG National Properties and its restricted subsidiaries to maintain a specified minimum liquidity level, a specified minimum debt service coverage ratio and specified maximum total leverage ratio. The minimum liquidity level is set at $50,000, and is tested based on the level of average daily liquidity, consisting of cash and cash equivalents and available revolving commitments, over the last month of each quarter over the life of the National Properties Facilities. The debt service coverage ratio covenant began testing in the fiscal quarter ending December 31, 2022, and is set at a ratio of 2:1 before stepping up to 2.5:1 in the fiscal quarter ending September 30, 2024. The leverage ratio covenant begins testing in the fiscal quarter ending June 30, 2023. It is tested based on the ratio of MSG National Properties and its restricted subsidiaries consolidated total indebtedness to adjusted operating income, with an initial maximum ratio of 6:1, stepping down to 5.5:1 in the fiscal quarter ending June 30, 2024 and 4.5:1 in the fiscal quarter ending June 30, 2026. As of December 31, 2022 and June 30, 2022, MSG National Properties and its restricted subsidiaries were in compliance with the covenants of the National Properties Credit Agreement.
See Note 10, Credit Facilities to the Unaudited Combined Interim Financial Statements, and Note 14, Credit Facilities to the Audited Combined Annual Financial Statements included elsewhere in this information statement for additional information regarding the National Properties Credit Agreement.
108
Loans receivable from MSG Entertainment
The Companys captive insurance entity, Eden Insurance Company, Inc. (Eden), entered into a loan agreement with MSG Entertainment (the Eden Loan Agreement), under which Eden granted MSG Entertainment an unsecured loan bearing interest at a rate of LIBOR plus 350 basis points with a principal amount not exceeding $60,000. This loan is in the form of a demand promissory note, payable immediately upon order from Eden. As of December 31, 2022, June 30, 2022 and June 30, 2021, Eden had an outstanding loan receivable from MSG Entertainment of $52,513, $56,060 and $57,962, respectively, inclusive of accrued interest. During the six months ended December 31, 2022 and Fiscal Year 2022, Eden declared dividends to MSG Entertainment through a reduction of the loan receivable from MSG Entertainment. During the six months ended December 31, 2021 and Fiscal Year 2021, no interest or principal payments were received by Eden and instead the accrued but unpaid interest was added to the outstanding principal amount of the loan. The cash flows related to this loan receivable are reflected as investing activities, as these balances represent amounts loaned by the Company to MSG Entertainment. The Company recorded related party interest income of $1,804, $1,062, $2,117, $1,888 and $2,798 related to the Eden Loan Agreement during the six months ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, and in Fiscal Years 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively. See Note 14, Related Party Transactions to the Unaudited Combined Interim Financial Statements, and Note 19, Related Party Transactions to the Audited Combined Annual Financial Statements included elsewhere in this information statement for additional information.
Delayed Draw Term Loan Facility
Prior to or concurrently with the consummation of the Distribution, MSG Entertainment Holdings (referred to as the DDTL Lender) is expected to enter into the DDTL Facility with MSG Entertainment (the DDTL Borrower). The DDTL Facility is expected to provide for a $65 million senior unsecured delayed draw term loan facility for the DDTL Borrower. The DDTL Facility will mature and any unused commitments thereunder will expire 18 months after the effective date thereof. Borrowings under the DDTL Facility will bear interest at a variable rate equal to either, at the option of the DDTL Borrower, (a) a base rate plus an applicable margin, or (b) Term SOFR plus 0.10%, plus an applicable margin. The applicable margin is expected to be equal to the applicable margin under the National Properties Facilities plus 1.00% per annum. The DDTL Borrower will also be required to pay a commitment fee in respect of the daily unused commitments under the DDTL Facility at a rate equal to the unused commitment fee rate under the National Properties Facilities plus 0.10% per annum. All interest and commitment fees accruing prior to January 1, 2024 will be payable in kind by capitalizing and adding such interest or fee to the outstanding principal amount of the loans. All interest and commitment fees accruing on and after January 1, 2024 will be payable in cash or by transferring to the DDTL Lender shares of Class A Common Stock of the Company as described below. Subject to customary borrowing conditions, the DDTL Facility may be drawn in up to six separate borrowings of $5 million or more. The DDTL facility is prepayable at any time without penalty, and amounts repaid on the DDTL Facility may not be reborrowed. The DDTL Borrower will have the option to make any payments of principal, interest or fees under the DDTL Facility either in the form of cash or by delivering to the DDTL Lender shares of the Companys Class A Common Stock. If the DDTL Borrower elects to make any payment in the form of the Companys Class A Common Stock, the amount of such payment shall be calculated based on the dollar volume-weighted average price for the Class A Common Stock for the twenty trading days ending on the day on which the DDTL Borrower makes such election. The DDTL Borrower shall only be permitted to use the proceeds of the DDTL Facility (i) for funding costs associated with the Sphere initiative and (ii) in connection with refinancing of the indebtedness under that certain amended and restated credit agreement, dated as of October 11, 2019, among MSGN Holdings, L.P., as borrower, the guarantors party thereto, the lenders party thereto and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent, as amended, modified, restated or supplemented from time to time (the MSG Networks Credit Facility).
109
Contractual Obligations
As of June 30, 2022, the approximate future payments under our contractual obligations are as follows:
Payments Due by Period (c) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total | Year 1 |
Years 2-3 |
Years 4-5 |
More Than 5 Years |
||||||||||||||||
Leases (a) |
$ | 404,502 | $ | 40,730 | $ | 75,998 | $ | 34,075 | $ | 253,699 | ||||||||||
Debt repayments (b) |
679,737 | 8,762 | 32,500 | 638,475 | | |||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
$ | 1,084,239 | $ | 49,492 | $ | 108,498 | $ | 672,550 | $ | 253,699 | |||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Includes contractually obligated minimum lease payments for operating leases having an initial noncancellable term in excess of one year for the Companys venues, including various corporate offices. These commitments are presented exclusive of the imputed interest used to reflect the payments present value. See Note 10, Leases to the Audited Combined Annual Financial Statements included elsewhere in this information statement for more information. |
(b) | See Note 14, Credit Facilities to the Audited Combined Annual Financial, and Note 10, to the Unaudited Combined Interim Financial Statements included elsewhere in this information statement for more information regarding the principal repayments required under the National Properties Credit Agreement. |
(c) | Pension obligations have been excluded from the table above as the timing of the future cash payments is uncertain. See Note 15, Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans to the Audited Combined Annual Financial Statements, and Note 11, Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans to the Unaudited Combined Interim Financial Statements included elsewhere in this information statement for more information on the future funding requirements under our pension obligations. |
As of December 31, 2022, the Company did not have any material changes in its non-cancelable contractual obligations (other than activities in the ordinary course of business). See Note 9, Commitments and Contingencies to the Unaudited Combined Interim Financial Statements, and Note 13, Commitments and Contingencies to the Audited Combined Annual Financial Statements included elsewhere in this information statement for further details on the timing and amount of payments under various agreements.
Cash Flow Discussion
As of December 31, 2022 and June 30, 2022, 2021 and 2020, cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash totaled $153,746, $62,573, $318,069 and $3,038, respectively. The following table summarizes the Companys cash flow activities for the six months ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, and Fiscal Years 2022, 2021 and 2020:
Six Months Ended December 31, |
Years Ended June 30, | |||||||||||||||||||
2022 | 2021 | 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | ||||||||||||||||
Net income (loss) |
$ | 78,807 | $ | (58,369 | ) | $ | (136,200 | ) | $ | (219,308 | ) | $ | 170,659 | |||||||
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities |
53,200 | 80,574 | 209,669 | 65,952 | 1,861 | |||||||||||||||
Changes in working capital assets and liabilities |
(62,671 | ) | 35,972 | 21,882 | 5,238 | (140,992 | ) | |||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities |
$ | 69,336 | $ | 58,177 | $ | 95,351 | $ | (148,118 | ) | $ | 31,528 | |||||||||
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities |
22,390 | (2,791 | ) | 45,440 | (10,339 | ) | 276,388 | |||||||||||||
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities |
(553 | ) | (141,696 | ) | (396,287 | ) | 473,488 | (315,379 | ) | |||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash |
$ | 91,173 | $ | (86,310 | ) | $ | (255,496 | ) | $ | 315,031 | $ | (7,463 | ) | |||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
110
Operating Activities
Net cash provided by operating activities for the six months ended December 31, 2022 increased by $11,159 to $69,336 as compared to the prior year period, primarily due to the increase in net income, partially offset by (i) changes in working capital assets and liabilities, which included a decrease in accounts payable, accrued and other current and non-current liabilities, a decrease in deferred revenue associated with customers advanced payments, a decrease in accounts receivable, net, and an increase in related party receivables, net of payables, (ii) a decrease in net unrealized loss on equity investments with readily determinable fair value, (iii) lower share-based compensation expense, and (iv) gains, net on dispositions recognized in the current year period.
Net cash provided by operating activities for Fiscal Year 2022 increased by $243,469 to $95,351 as compared to Fiscal Year 2021 primarily due to higher positive adjustments in reconciling net income (loss) to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities, which include (i) the add back of net unrealized loss on equity investments with readily determinable fair value in Fiscal Year 2022 compared to an unrealized gain in Fiscal Year 2021, (ii) the add back of the loss on extinguishment of debt in connection with the extinguishment of MSG National Properties prior term loan facility in Fiscal Year 2022, and (iii) a lower net loss in Fiscal Year 2022 compared to Fiscal Year 2021.
Net cash provided by operating activities for Fiscal Year 2021 decreased by $179,646 to net cash used in operating activities of $148,118 as compared to Fiscal Year 2020 primarily due to (i) a net loss in Fiscal Year 2021 compared to net income in Fiscal Year 2020 and (ii) a higher net unrealized gain on equity investments with readily determinable fair value in Fiscal Year 2021 compared to Fiscal Year 2020, partially offset by the gain on the sale of the Forum in Fiscal Year 2020.
Investing Activities
Net cash provided by investing activities for the six months ended December 31, 2022 increased by $25,181 to $22,390 as compared to the prior year period primarily due to (i) proceeds received from the dispositions of BCE and the corporate aircraft and (ii) proceeds received from the sale of investments, partially offset by the absence of proceeds received from a related party loan receivable in the current year period.
Net cash provided by investing activities for Fiscal Year 2022 increased by $55,779 to $45,440 as compared to Fiscal Year 2021 primarily due to higher proceeds received from related party loans in Fiscal Year 2022 and lower amounts loaned to a related party in Fiscal Year 2022, partially offset by the absence of proceeds from sale of securities investments in Fiscal Year 2022.
Net cash used in investing activities for Fiscal Year 2021 decreased by $286,727 to $10,339 as compared to Fiscal Year 2020 primarily due to (i) proceeds received in Fiscal Year 2020 from the sale of Forum, (ii) proceeds from a loan receivable in Fiscal Year 2020, and (iii) an increase in loans to related parties and decrease in repayments from related parties in Fiscal Year 2021 compared to Fiscal Year 2020, partially offset by a decrease in capital expenditures.
Financing Activities
Net cash provided by financing activities for the six months ended December 31, 2022 increased by $141,143 to $553 as compared to the prior year period primarily due to lower net transfers to MSG Entertainment and MSG Entertainments subsidiaries in the current year period as compared to the prior year period.
Net cash used in financing activities for Fiscal Year 2022 increased by $869,775 to $396,287 as compared to Fiscal Year 2021 primarily due to (i) higher principal repayments for the National Properties Term Loan Facility in Fiscal Year 2022 and (ii) higher net transfers to MSG Entertainment and MSG Entertainments subsidiaries in Fiscal Year 2022 as compared to Fiscal Year 2021.
111
Net cash provided by financing activities for Fiscal Year 2021 increased by $788,867 to $473,488 as compared to Fiscal Year 2020 primarily due to (i) proceeds received in Fiscal Year 2021 from the National Properties Term Loan Facility and (ii) lower net transfers to MSG Entertainment and MSG Entertainments subsidiaries.
Seasonality of Our Business
The revenues the Company earns from the Christmas Spectacular and arena license fees from MSG Sports in connection with the Knicks and Rangers use of The Garden generally means the Company earns a disproportionate share of its revenues and operating income in the second and third quarters of the Companys fiscal year, with the first fiscal quarter being disproportionally lower.
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements and Critical Accounting Estimates
Recently Issued and Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
See Note 2, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, to the Audited Combined Annual Financial Statements, and Note 2, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, to the Unaudited Combined Interim Financial Statements included elsewhere in this information statement for discussion of recently issued accounting pronouncements.
Critical Accounting Estimates
Critical accounting estimates are those that management believes are the most important to the portrayal of our financial condition and results and require the most difficult, subjective or complex judgments, often as a result of the need to make estimates about the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain, especially in light of the current economic environment due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Judgments and uncertainties may result in materially different amounts being reported under different conditions or using different assumptions. In addition to the critical accounting estimates disclosed below, refer to the section above entitled Proposed Distribution and Basis of Presentation for further details on corporate allocations recorded in the combined financial statements.
The preparation of the Companys combined financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions about future events. These estimates and the underlying assumptions affect the amounts of assets and liabilities reported, disclosures about contingent assets and liabilities, and reported amounts of revenues and expenses. Management believes its use of estimates in the combined financial statements to be reasonable. The significant accounting policies which we believe are the most critical to aid in fully understanding and evaluating our reported financial results include the following:
Revenue Recognition Arrangements with Multiple Performance Obligations
The Company enters into arrangements with multiple performance obligations, such as multi-year sponsorship agreements which may derive revenues for both the Company as well as MSG Sports within a single arrangement. The Company also derives revenue from similar types of arrangements which are entered into by MSG Sports. Payment terms for such arrangements can vary by contract, but payments are generally due in installments throughout the contractual term. The performance obligations included in each sponsorship agreement vary and may include advertising and other benefits such as, but not limited to, signage at The Garden and the Companys other venues, digital advertising, and event or property specific advertising, as well as non-advertising benefits such as suite licenses and event tickets. To the extent the Companys multi-year arrangements provide for performance obligations that are consistent over the multi-year contractual term, such performance obligations generally meet the definition of a series as provided for under the accounting guidance. If performance obligations are concluded to meet the definition of a series, the contractual fees for all years during the contract term are aggregated and the related revenue is recognized proportionately as the underlying performance obligations are satisfied.
112
The timing of revenue recognition for each performance obligation is dependent upon the facts and circumstances surrounding the Companys satisfaction of its respective performance obligation. The Company allocates the transaction price for such arrangements to each performance obligation within the arrangement based on the estimated relative standalone selling price of the performance obligation. The Companys process for determining its estimated standalone selling prices involves managements judgment and considers multiple factors including company specific and market specific factors that may vary depending upon the unique facts and circumstances related to each performance obligation. Key factors considered by the Company in developing an estimated standalone selling price for its performance obligations include, but are not limited to, prices charged for similar performance obligations, the Companys ongoing pricing strategy and policies, and consideration of pricing of similar performance obligations sold in other arrangements with multiple performance obligations.
The Company may incur costs such as commissions to obtain its multi-year sponsorship agreements. The Company assesses such costs for capitalization on a contract by contract basis. To the extent costs are capitalized, the Company estimates the useful life of the related contract asset which may be the underlying contract term or the estimated customer life depending on the facts and circumstances surrounding the contract. The contract asset is amortized over the estimated useful life.
Impairment of Long-Lived and Indefinite-Lived Assets
The Companys long-lived and indefinite-lived assets accounted for approximately 67% and 72% of the Companys combined total assets as of December 31, 2022 and June 30, 2022, respectively, and consisted of the following:
December 31, 2022 |
June 30, 2022 |
|||||||
Goodwill |
$ | 69,041 | $ | 69,041 | ||||
Indefinite-lived intangible assets |
63,801 | 63,801 | ||||||
Amortizable intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization |
| 1,638 | ||||||
Property and equipment, net |
649,962 | 696,079 | ||||||
Right-of-use lease assets |
255,024 | 271,154 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
$ | 1,037,828 | $ | 1,101,713 | |||||
|
|
|
|
In assessing the recoverability of the Companys long-lived and indefinite-lived assets when there is an indicator of potential impairment, the Company must make estimates and assumptions regarding future cash flows and other factors to determine the fair value of the respective assets. These estimates and assumptions could have a significant impact on whether an impairment charge is recognized as well as the magnitude of any such charge. Fair value estimates are made at a specific point in time, based on relevant information. These estimates are subjective in nature and involve significant uncertainties and judgments and therefore cannot be determined with precision. Changes in assumptions could significantly affect the estimates. If these estimates or material related assumptions change in the future, the Company may be required to record impairment charges related to its long-lived and/or indefinite-lived assets.
Goodwill
Goodwill is tested annually for impairment as of August 31 and at any time upon the occurrence of certain events or substantive changes in circumstances. The Company performs its goodwill impairment test at the reporting unit level. As of December 31, 2022, the Company has one reportable segment, consistent with the way management makes decisions and allocates resources to the business.
113
The Company has the option to perform a qualitative assessment to determine if an impairment is more likely than not to have occurred. If the Company can support the conclusion that it is not more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, the Company would not need to perform a quantitative impairment test for that reporting unit. If the Company cannot support such a conclusion or the Company does not elect to perform the qualitative assessment, the first step of the goodwill impairment test is used to identify potential impairment by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount, including goodwill.
The estimate of the fair value of the Companys reporting unit is primarily determined using discounted cash flows, comparable market transactions or other acceptable valuation techniques, including the cost approach. These valuations are based on estimates and assumptions including projected future cash flows, discount rates, cost-based assumptions, determination of appropriate market comparables and the determination of whether a premium or discount should be applied to comparables. Significant judgments inherent in a discounted cash flow analysis include the selection of the appropriate discount rate, the estimate of the amount and timing of projected future cash flows and identification of appropriate continuing growth rate assumptions. The discount rates used in the analysis are intended to reflect the risk inherent in the projected future cash flows. The amount of an impairment loss is measured as the amount by which a reporting units carrying value exceeds its fair value, not to exceed the carrying amount of goodwill.
The Company elected to perform the qualitative assessment of impairment for the Companys reporting unit for the periods presented in the Combined Financial Statements. This assessment considered factors such as:
| macroeconomic conditions; |
| industry and market considerations; |
| cost factors; |
| overall financial performance of the reporting unit; |
| other relevant company-specific factors such as changes in management, strategy or customers; and |
| relevant reporting unit specific events such as changes in the carrying amount of net assets. |
On August 31, 2022, the Company performed its most recent annual impairment test of goodwill and determined that there was no impairment of goodwill identified for its reporting unit as of the impairment test date. Based on this impairment test, the Companys reporting unit had a sufficient safety margin, representing the excess of the estimated fair value of the reporting unit, derived from the most recent quantitative assessment, less its respective carrying value (including goodwill). The Company believes that if the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying value by greater than 10%, a sufficient safety margin has been realized.
Amortizable intangible assets and other long-lived assets are grouped and evaluated for impairment at the lowest level for which there are identifiable cash flows that are independent from cash flows from other assets and liabilities. In determining whether an impairment of long-lived assets has occurred, the Company considers both qualitative and quantitative factors. The quantitative analysis involves estimating the undiscounted future cash flows directly related to that asset group and comparing the resulting value against the carrying value of the asset group. If the carrying value of the asset group is greater than the sum of the undiscounted future cash flows, an impairment loss is recognized for the difference between the carrying value of the asset group and its estimated fair value.
114
Identifiable Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets
Identifiable indefinite-lived intangible assets are tested annually for impairment as of August 31st and at any time upon the occurrence of certain events or substantive changes in circumstances. The following table sets forth the amount of identifiable indefinite-lived intangible assets reported in the Companys combined balance sheets as of December 31, 2022 and June 30, 2022:
December 31, 2022 |
June 30, 2022 |
|||||||
Trademarks |
$ | 61,881 | $ | 61,881 | ||||
Photographic related rights |
1,920 | 1,920 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
$ | 63,801 | $ | 63,801 | |||||
|
|
|
|
The Company has the option to perform a qualitative assessment to determine if an impairment is more likely than not to have occurred. In the qualitative assessment, the Company must evaluate the totality of qualitative factors, including any recent fair value measurements, that impact whether an indefinite-lived intangible asset other than goodwill has a carrying amount that more likely than not exceeds its fair value. The Company must proceed to conducting a quantitative analysis, if the Company (i) determines that such an impairment is more likely than not to exist, or (ii) forgoes the qualitative assessment entirely. Under the quantitative assessment, the impairment test for identifiable indefinite-lived intangible assets consists of a comparison of the estimated fair value of the intangible asset with its carrying value. If the carrying value of the intangible asset exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess. For all periods presented, the Company elected to perform the qualitative assessment of impairment for the photographic related rights and the trademarks. These assessments considered the events and circumstances that could affect the significant inputs used to determine the fair value of the intangible asset. Examples of such events and circumstances include:
| cost factors; |
| financial performance; |
| legal, regulatory, contractual, business or other factors; |
| other relevant company-specific factors such as changes in management, strategy or customers; |
| industry and market considerations; and |
| macroeconomic conditions. |
On August 31, 2022, the Company performed its most recent annual impairment test of identifiable indefinite-lived intangible assets, and there were no impairments identified. Based on these impairment tests, the Companys indefinite-lived intangible assets had sufficient safety margins, representing the excess of each identifiable indefinite-lived intangible assets estimated fair value over its respective carrying value. The Company believes that if the fair value of an indefinite-lived intangible asset exceeds its carrying value by greater than 10%, a sufficient safety margin has been realized.
Other Long-Lived Assets
For other long-lived assets, including intangible assets that are amortized, the Company evaluates assets for recoverability when there is an indication of potential impairment. If the undiscounted cash flows from a group of assets being evaluated is less than the carrying value of that group of assets, the fair value of the asset group is determined and the carrying value of the asset group is written down to fair value.
115
The estimated useful lives and net carrying values of the Companys intangible assets subject to amortization as of December 31, 2022 and June 30, 2022 are as follows:
Estimated Useful Lives |
December 31, 2022 |
June 30, 2022 |
||||||||||
Trade names |
7 years | $ | | $ | 361 | |||||||
Festival rights |
7 years | | 1,154 | |||||||||
Other intangibles |
15 years | | 123 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
$ | | $ | 1,638 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
The Company has recognized intangible assets for trade names, festival rights and other intangibles as a result of purchase accounting. The Company has determined that these intangible assets have finite lives.
The useful lives of the Companys long-lived assets are based on estimates of the period over which the Company expects the assets to be of economic benefit to the Company. In estimating the useful lives, the Company considers factors such as, but not limited to, risk of obsolescence, anticipated use, plans of the Company, and applicable laws and permit requirements. In light of these facts and circumstances, the Company has determined that its estimated useful lives are appropriate.
See Note 1, Description of Business and Basis of Presentation to the Unaudited Combined Interim Financial Statements, and Note 1, Description of Business and Basis of Presentation to the Audited Combined Annual Financial Statements included elsewhere in this information statement for discussion of additional consideration related to the preparation of the combined financial statements.
116
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT
Corporate Governance
General
Our Class A Common Stock has been approved for listing on the NYSE under the symbol MSGE (and change our name to Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp.) and Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. will change its symbol on the NYSE to SPHR (and be renamed Sphere Entertainment Co.) in connection with the Distribution. As a result, we are generally subject to NYSE corporate governance listing standards.
A listed company that meets NYSEs definition of a controlled company may elect not to comply with certain of these requirements. Holders of MSG Entertainment Class B Common Stock who are members of the Dolan Family Group entered into a Stockholders Agreement relating to, among other things, the voting of their shares of MSG Entertainment Class B Common Stock and filed a Schedule 13D with the SEC as a group under the rules of the SEC. We have been informed that prior to the Distribution, the members of the Dolan Family Group will enter into a similar Stockholders Agreement with respect to the voting of their shares of the Class B Common Stock that will be issued in the Distribution. As a result, following the Distribution, we will be a controlled company. As a controlled company, we will have the right to elect not to comply with the corporate governance rules of the NYSE requiring: (i) a majority of independent directors on our Board, (ii) an independent corporate governance and nominating committee and (iii) an independent compensation committee. Our Board of Directors has elected for the Company to be treated as a controlled company under NYSE corporate governance rules and not to comply with the NYSE requirement for a majority-independent board of directors and for a corporate governance and nominating committee because of our status as a controlled company. Nevertheless, we expect our Board of Directors to elect to comply with the NYSE requirement for an independent compensation committee.
In connection with the consideration of the Distribution by MSG Entertainments board of directors, a committee of MSG Entertainments board of directors, comprising three independent Class A Directors, recommended to the full MSG Entertainment board of directors the principal elements of our governance structure, including the replication in our amended and restated certificate of incorporation of the MSG Entertainment common stock voting structure, which the MSG Entertainment board adopted as part of its approval of the filing with the SEC of the registration statement, of which this information statement forms a part.
Corporate Governance Guidelines
Our Board of Directors will adopt our Corporate Governance Guidelines (Governance Guidelines). These guidelines set forth our practices and policies with respect to Board composition and selection, Board meetings, executive sessions of the Board, Board committees, the expectations we have of our directors, selection of the Executive Chairman and the Chief Executive Officer, management succession, Board and executive compensation, and Board self-assessment requirements. The full text of our Governance Guidelines may be viewed at our website at www.msgentertainment.com under Investors Governance Corporate Governance. A copy may be obtained by writing to MSGE Spinco, Inc., Two Pennsylvania Plaza, New York, NY 10121; Attention: Corporate Secretary.
Executive Sessions of Non-Management and Independent Board Members
Under our Governance Guidelines, either our directors who are not also executive officers of our Company (the non-management directors) or our directors who are independent under the NYSE rules are required to meet regularly in executive sessions with no members of management present. If non-management directors who are not independent participate in these executive sessions, the independent directors under the NYSE rules are required to meet separately in executive sessions at least once each year. The non-management or independent directors may specify the procedure to designate the director who may preside at any such executive session.
117
Communicating with Our Directors
Our Board will adopt policies designed to allow our stockholders and other interested parties to communicate with our directors. Any interested party who wishes to communicate directly with the Board or any director or the non-management directors as a group should send communications in writing to the Chairman of the Audit Committee, MSGE Spinco, Inc., Two Pennsylvania Plaza, New York, NY 10121. Any person, whether or not an employee, who has a concern with respect to our accounting, internal accounting controls, auditing issues or other matters, may, in a confidential or anonymous manner, communicate those concerns to our Audit Committee by contacting the MSG Entertainment Integrity Hotline, which is operated by a third-party service provider, at 1-877-756-4306 or www.msg.ethicspoint.com.
Code of Conduct and Ethics
Our Board will adopt a Code of Conduct and Ethics for our directors, officers and employees. A portion of this Code of Conduct and Ethics also serves as a code of conduct and ethics for our senior financial officers, including our principal accounting officer and controller. Among other things, our Code of Conduct and Ethics covers conflicts of interest, disclosure responsibilities, legal compliance, reporting and compliance with the Code of Conduct and Ethics, confidentiality, corporate opportunities, fair dealing, protection and proper use of Company assets and equal employment opportunity and harassment. The full text of the Code of Conduct and Ethics is available on our website at investor.msgentertainment.com under Investors Governance Corporate Governance. In addition, a copy may be obtained by writing to MSGE Spinco, Inc., Two Pennsylvania Plaza, New York, NY 10121; Attention: Corporate Secretary.
Our Directors
The following individuals are expected to be elected to serve as directors of the Company commencing on the Distribution date:
Directors Elected by Class A Common Stockholders
In connection with the Distribution, Messrs. Bandier and Salerno have resigned as directors of MSG Entertainment elected by holders of MSG Entertainments Class A Common Stock effective as of, and contingent upon the occurrence of, the Distribution. We expect the following individuals to be elected, prior to the Distribution, as directors of the Company, and to be designated as directors elected by the Class A Common Stockholders.
MARTIN BANDIER, 81, has served as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Bandier Ventures LP, a music publishing and recorded music acquisition company, since 2019, and a director of MSG Entertainment since 2020. It is expected that Mr. Bandier will no longer serve as a director of MSG Entertainment following the Distribution. Previously, Mr. Bandier served as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Sony/ATV Music Publishing, a music publishing company, from 2007 to 2019, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of EMI Music Publishing Worldwide, a music publishing company, from 1991 to 2006 and Vice Chairman from 1989 to 1991. Mr. Bandier has served as a director of the Songwriters Hall of Fame since 1975 and as a trustee of Syracuse University since 2006 and is a 1994 Arents Award winner. In 2006, Mr. Bandier founded The Bandier Program for Music and Entertainment Industries, a music and entertainment industry degree program, at Syracuse University that has become a leading music business program. Mr. Bandier previously served as a director and Vice President of the National Music Publishers Association from 1992 to 2019, as a director of the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP) from 2007 to 2018 and as a trustee of the T.J. Martell Foundation from 1993 to 1998. His civic and industry commitments also include extensive involvement with the City of Hope. Mr. Bandier brings to the Board his more than 30 years in the entertainment industry, including his leadership roles in music publishing companies and recognition with many industry awards including numerous Publisher of the Year awards from ASCAP and BMI, the GRAMMYs Presidents Merit Award in 2015 and the Visionary Leadership Award from the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2019.
118
DONNA COLEMAN, 66, was the Interim Chief Financial Officer of AMC Networks from October 2020 to January 2021. Previously, Ms. Coleman was Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of MSG
Sports from October 2015 to December 2019, the Interim Chief Financial Officer of MSG Networks from May 2015 until September 2015, and Executive Vice President, Corporate Financial Planning and Control of Cablevision 2012 to 2014. Prior to that, she was Senior Vice President, Corporate Financial Planning and Control of Cablevision from 2011 to 2012 and Senior Vice President, Planning and Operations of Cablevision from 2000 to 2011. Ms. Coleman served as a director of the Garden of Dreams Foundation from 2016 to 2019 and as a Director of Tribeca Enterprises LLC from 2015 to 2019. Ms. Coleman brings to the Board her prior experiences as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of The Madison Square Garden Company, and as Interim Chief Financial Officer of AMC Networks and MSG Networks, as well as experience in various financial positions with Cablevision.
FREDERIC V. SALERNO, 79, has served as a director of MSG Entertainment since 2020 and Associated Capital Group, Inc., an alternative investment management business, since 2017. It is expected that Mr. Salerno will no longer serve as a director of MSG Entertainment following the Distribution. Mr. Salerno previously served as a director of Intercontinental Exchange, Inc., which owns and operates exchanges for financial and commodity markets, from 2002 to May 2022, and Lead Independent Director from 2008 to May 2022, and as a director of Akamai Technologies, Inc., a provider of web-based technology services, from 2002 to 2021, Chairman of the Board from 2018 to 2021 and Lead Independent Director from 2013 to 2018. Mr. Salerno also served as Vice Chairman and Chief Financial Officer of Verizon Communications, Inc., a provider of communications services, from 1991 to 2002, and in various other senior management positions with Verizon and its predecessors prior to that time. Mr. Salerno previously served as a director of MSG Sports from 2019 to 2020, National Fuel Gas Company from 2008 to 2013, CBS Corporation from 2007 to 2016, Viacom, Inc. from 1996 to 2017 and FCB Financial Holdings, Inc. from 2010 to 2019. Mr. Salerno brings to the Board his experience as a senior executive and director of other public companies and his knowledge of the media and entertainment industry.
Directors Elected by Class B Common Stockholders
The following individual is currently a director of the Company and is expected to continue to serve as a director elected by the Class B Common Stockholders at the time of the Distribution:
JAMES L. DOLAN, 67, has served as a director, the Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Company since December 2022. Mr. Dolan has served as a director, the Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of MSG Entertainment since November 2019, as a director and the Executive Chairman of MSG Sports since 2015 and as Non-Executive Chairman (since September 2020) and a director (since 2011) of AMC Networks. He served as Interim Executive Chairman of AMC Networks from December 2022 to February 2023. Mr. Dolan was a director and the Executive Chairman of MSG Networks from 2009 until the Networks Merger in July 2021, the Chief Executive Officer of MSG Sports from 2017 to April 2020, and the Chief Executive Officer of Cablevision Systems Corporation (Cablevision) from 1995 to 2016. He was President of Cablevision from 1998 to 2014; Chief Executive Officer of Rainbow Media Holdings, Inc., a former programming subsidiary of Cablevision that spun off in 2011 to become AMC Networks, from 1992 to 1995; and Vice President of Cablevision from 1987 to 1992. In addition, Mr. Dolan previously served as a director of Cablevision from 1991 to 2016. James L. Dolan is the son of Charles F. Dolan, the father of Charles P. Dolan, Quentin F. Dolan and Ryan T. Dolan, the brother of Marianne Dolan Weber and Thomas C. Dolan, the brother-in-law of Brian G. Sweeney and the cousin of Paul J. Dolan. Mr. Dolan brings to the Board his experience as Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of MSG Entertainment, as Executive Chairman and former Chief Executive Officer of MSG Sports, as well as experience in various positions with Cablevision, including as its Chief Executive Officer, and in various positions with MSG Networks and its predecessors since 1999, including as Executive Chairman, as well as the knowledge and experience he has gained about MSG Entertainments businesses and contributions he has made during his tenure as a director of MSG Entertainment, MSG Sports, MSG Networks, AMC Networks and Cablevision.
119
We expect the following individuals to be elected, prior to the Distribution, as directors of the Company, and to be designated as directors elected by the Class B Common Stockholders.
CHARLES F. DOLAN, 96, has served as a director and Chairman Emeritus of AMC Networks since 2011 and 2020, respectively. He served as Executive Chairman of AMC Networks from 2011 to September 2020 and Chairman of Cablevision from 1985 to 2016. He was Chief Executive Officer of Cablevision from 1985 to 1995. Mr. Dolan founded and acted as the General Partner of Cablevisions predecessor from 1973 to 1985 and established Manhattan Cable Television in 1961 and Home Box Office in 1971. In addition to AMC Networks, Mr. Dolan has served as a director of MSG Entertainment since 2020, MSG Sports since 2015, and previously served as a director of MSG Networks from 2009 until the Networks Merger in July 2021 and Cablevision from 1985 to 2016. Charles F. Dolan is the father of James L. Dolan, Marianne Dolan Weber and Thomas C. Dolan, the father-in-law of Brian G. Sweeney, the uncle of Paul J. Dolan and the grandfather of Charles P. Dolan, Quentin F. Dolan and Ryan T. Dolan. Mr. Dolan brings to the Board his experience in the cable television and cable programming industries, as well as his experience as founder of Cablevision, his previous service as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Cablevision and its predecessors, his service as Executive Chairman and Chairman Emeritus of AMC Networks, as well as the knowledge and experience he has gained about MSG Entertainments businesses and contributions he has made during his tenure as a director of MSG Entertainment, MSG Sports, MSG Networks, AMC Networks and Cablevision.
CHARLES P. DOLAN, 35, has been an employee of Knickerbocker Group LLC since 2010. Mr. Dolan has served as a director of MSG Entertainment since 2020 and MSG Sports since 2015, and previously served as a director of MSG Networks from 2010 to 2015. He is a graduate of New York University and has significant familiarity with the business of the Company as a member of the third generation of Cablevisions founding family. Mr. Dolan is the son of James L. Dolan, the brother of Quentin F. Dolan and Ryan T. Dolan, the grandson of Charles F. Dolan, the nephew of Marianne Dolan Weber, Thomas C. Dolan and Brian G. Sweeney and the cousin of Paul J. Dolan. Mr. Dolan brings to the Board his familiarity with the MSG Entertainments businesses, being a member of the third generation of Cablevisions founding family, as well as the knowledge and experience he has gained and the contributions he has made during his tenure as a director of MSG Entertainment, MSG Sports and MSG Networks.
MARIANNE DOLAN WEBER, 65, has been President of Heartfelt Wings Foundation Inc. since 2015, and a Member of the Board of Green Mountain Foundation Inc. since 2015. Ms. Dolan Weber currently serves as the manager of MLC Ventures LLC and served as Chairman of both the Dolan Family Foundation and the Dolan Childrens Foundation from 1999 to 2011 and Vice Chairman and Director of the Dolan Family Office, LLC from 1997 to 2011. Ms. Dolan Weber has served as a director of AMC Networks since June 2022, MSG Entertainment since 2020 and MSG Sports since 2016. She previously served as a director of AMC Networks from 2011 to June 2021, Cablevision from 2005 to 2016 and MSG Networks from 2010 to 2014. Marianne Dolan Weber is the daughter of Charles F. Dolan, the sister of James L. Dolan and Thomas C. Dolan, the sister-in-law of Brian G. Sweeney, the cousin of Paul J. Dolan and the aunt of Charles P. Dolan, Quentin F. Dolan and Ryan T. Dolan. Ms. Dolan Weber brings to the Board her experience as a member of Cablevisions founding family and as former Chairman of the Dolan Family Foundation and her experience as the former Vice Chairman of the Dolan Family Office, LLC, as well as the knowledge and experience she has gained about MSG Entertainments businesses and contributions she has made during her tenure as a director of MSG Entertainment, MSG Sports, MSG Networks, AMC Networks and Cablevision.
PAUL J. DOLAN, 64, is the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Cleveland Guardians Major League Baseball (MLB) team since 2010. Mr. Dolan was President of the Cleveland Guardians from 2004 to 2010 and Vice President and General Counsel from 2000 to 2004. Mr. Dolan has served on multiple committees of the MLB and is currently serving on the MLBs Long Range Planning Committee, Ownership Committee and Diversity and Inclusion Committee as well as serving on the Executive Council. Mr. Dolan has been a director and member of the Executive Compensation Committee of The J.M. Smucker Company since 2006 and served as the Chair of the Executive Compensation Committee from 2017 until August 2022. Additionally, Mr. Dolan
120
has served as a director of MSG Entertainment since 2020, MSG Sports since 2019 and Dix & Eaton, a privately-owned communications and public relations firm, since 2014. Mr. Dolan previously served as a director of MSG Networks from 2015 until the Networks Merger in July 2021 and Cablevision from 2015 to 2016. Mr. Dolan was Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Fast Ball Sports Productions, a sports media company, from 2006 through 2012. Paul J. Dolan is the nephew of Charles F. Dolan, the cousin of James L. Dolan, Thomas C. Dolan, Marianne Dolan Weber, Charles P. Dolan, Quentin F. Dolan and Ryan T. Dolan and the cousin by marriage of Brian G. Sweeney. Mr. Dolan brings to the Board his extensive business and management experience in the sports and media industries, his experience as a member of Cablevisions founding family, the experience he has gained during his tenure as a director of MSG Entertainment, MSG Sports, MSG Networks and of Cablevision, and his service on the board of other public and private companies.
QUENTIN F. DOLAN, 28, has been Investment Director of MSG Sports since 2022 and has served as a director of MSG Sports since 2021 and MSG Entertainment since 2020. Mr. Dolan is a graduate of New York University. Mr. Dolan previously served as a director of MSG Networks from 2015 to June 2020 and has held internship positions at Grubman Shire & Meiselas, P.C. and Azoff MSG Entertainment, LLC. Quentin F. Dolan is the son of James L. Dolan, the brother of Charles P. Dolan and Ryan T. Dolan, the grandson of Charles F. Dolan, the nephew of Marianne Dolan Weber, Thomas C. Dolan and Brian G. Sweeney, and the cousin of Paul J. Dolan. Mr. Dolan brings to the Board his familiarity with MSG Entertainments businesses as a member of the third generation of Cablevisions founding family, as well as the knowledge and experience he has gained and the contributions he has made during his tenure as a director of MSG Sports and MSG Networks.
RYAN T. DOLAN, 33, has served as Vice President, Interactive Experiences of MSG Ventures, a wholly-owned subsidiary of MSG Entertainment, since June 2019, and previously served as its Director, Interactive Experiences from 2016 to June 2019. Mr. Dolan has played an integral role in the growth and development of MSG Ventures interactive gaming initiatives and has significant familiarity with the business of MSG Entertainment as a member of the third generation of Cablevisions founding family. Mr. Dolan has served as a director of MSG Entertainment since 2020 and MSG Sports since 2019. Mr. Dolan is the son of James L. Dolan, the brother of Charles P. Dolan and Quentin F. Dolan, the grandson of Charles F. Dolan, the nephew of Marianne Dolan Weber, Thomas C. Dolan and Brian G. Sweeney and the cousin of Paul J. Dolan. Mr. Dolan brings to the Board his familiarity with MSG Entertainments businesses as a member of the third generation of Cablevisions founding family, as well as the knowledge and experience he has gained about MSG Entertainments businesses as an employee of MSG Ventures and a key contributor to MSG Entertainments growth strategy, and his service as a director of MSG Sports.
THOMAS C. DOLAN, 70, served as Executive Vice President Strategy and Development, Office of the Chairman of Cablevision from 2008 to 2016. He was Chief Executive Officer of Rainbow Media Corp. from 2004 to 2005; and previously served in various roles at Cablevision, including: Executive Vice President and Chief Information Officer from 2001 until 2005, Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer from 1996 to 2001, Vice President and Chief Information Officer from 1994 to 1996, General Manager of Cablevisions East End Long Island cable system from 1991 to 1994, and System Manager of Cablevisions East End Long Island cable system from 1987 to 1991. Mr. Dolan has served as a director of MSG Entertainment since 2020, MSG Sports since 2015 and AMC Networks since 2011, and previously served as a director of MSG Networks from 2010 until the Networks Merger in July 2021 and Cablevision from 2007 to 2016. Mr. Dolan is the son of Charles F. Dolan, the brother of James L. Dolan and Marianne Dolan Weber, the brother-in-law of Brian G. Sweeney, the cousin of Paul J. Dolan and the uncle of Charles P. Dolan, Quentin F. Dolan and Ryan T. Dolan. Mr. Dolan brings to the Board his experience as a member of Cablevisions founding family and in various positions with Cablevision, as well as the knowledge and experience he has gained about MSG Entertainments businesses and contributions he has made during his tenure as a director of MSG Entertainment, MSG Sports, MSG Networks, AMC Networks and Cablevision.
BRIAN G. SWEENEY, 58, served as the President of Cablevision from 2014 and President and Chief Financial Officer of Cablevision from 2015 to 2016. Previously, Mr. Sweeney served in various other roles at
121
Cablevision, including: Senior Executive Vice President, Strategy and Chief of Staff from 2013 to 2014; Senior Vice President Strategic Software Solutions from 2012 to 2013; and Senior Vice President eMedia from January 2000 to 2012. Mr. Sweeney has served as a director of MSG Entertainment since 2020, MSG Sports since 2015 and AMC Networks since 2011 and previously served as a director of MSG Networks from 2010 until the Networks Merger in July 2021 and Cablevision from 2005 to 2016. Brian G. Sweeney is the son-in-law of Charles F. Dolan, the brother-in-law of James L. Dolan, Marianne Dolan Weber, and Thomas C. Dolan, the cousin by marriage of Paul J. Dolan and the uncle of Charles P. Dolan, Quentin F. Dolan and Ryan T. Dolan. Mr. Sweeney brings to the Board his experience in various positions with Cablevision, as well as the knowledge and experience he has gained about MSG Entertainments businesses and contributions he has made during his tenure as a director of MSG Entertainment, MSG Sports, MSG Networks, AMC Networks, and Cablevision.
The term of office of our directors will expire at the next annual meeting of stockholders and until their successors have been elected and qualified and at each succeeding annual meeting after that. The business address for each director is c/o MSGE Spinco, Inc., Two Pennsylvania Plaza, New York, NY 10121 and each director is a citizen of the United States. We will encourage our directors to attend annual meetings of stockholders and believe that attendance at annual meetings is just as important as attendance at meetings of the Board.
Because we did not have any operations in fiscal year 2022, our Board did not hold any meetings during that year.
Overlapping Directors
Immediately following the Distribution, there will be certain overlap between members of the Companys Board of Directors who also hold positions at MSG Entertainment, MSG Sports and AMC Networks. Nine of the members of the Board of Directors including James L. Dolan, Charles F. Dolan, Charles P. Dolan, Paul J. Dolan, Thomas C. Dolan, Brian G. Sweeney, Ryan T. Dolan, Quentin F. Dolan, and Marianne Dolan Weber will also serve as directors of MSG Entertainment, nine members of the Board including James L. Dolan, Charles F. Dolan, Charles P. Dolan, Paul J. Dolan, Thomas C. Dolan, Brian G. Sweeney, Ryan T. Dolan, Quentin F. Dolan, and Marianne Dolan Weber will serve as directors of MSG Sports and five members of the Board, including James L. Dolan, Charles F. Dolan, Thomas C. Dolan, Brian G. Sweeney, and Marianne Dolan Weber will serve as directors of AMC Networks. In addition, Charles F. Dolan will serve as Chairman Emeritus of AMC Networks concurrently with his service on our Board. There will be no overlap of Class A Directors as between MSG Entertainment and the Company.
Director Compensation
A director who is a Company employee will receive no extra compensation for serving as a director. Each non-employee director will receive a base cash retainer of $75,000 per year, $15,000 annually per committee membership and $25,000 annually per committee chairmanship. In addition, we will reimburse our directors for reasonable expenses in connection with attendance at Board, committee and stockholder meetings.
We will also pay our non-employee directors additional compensation in restricted stock units. Each year, each non-employee director will receive a grant of restricted stock units for the number of shares of common stock equal to $160,000 divided by the average closing price over the twenty-trading-day period concluding on the date immediately preceding the grant date. The restricted stock units the non-employee directors will receive will be fully vested on the date of grant but will remain subject to a holding requirement until the first business day following 90 days after service on the Board ceases (other than in the event of a directors death, in which case the restricted stock units will be settled as soon as practicable). Such compensation will be made pursuant to our Stock Plan for Non-Employee Directors. Please see Executive Compensation Our Equity Compensation Plan Information Our Stock Plan for Non-Employee Directors for information concerning our Director Stock Plan.
122
Non-employee directors have the ability to make a non-revocable annual election to defer all cash compensation (annual cash retainer and, if applicable, committee fees) to be earned in the next calendar year into restricted stock units. Grants of restricted stock units in lieu of cash compensation are determined by dividing the value of the applicable directors total annual cash compensation by the average closing price over the twenty-trading-day period concluding on the date immediately preceding the grant date (February 15 or the next succeeding business day). Restricted stock units are fully vested on the date of grant but remain subject to a holding requirement until the first business day following 90 days after service on the Board ceases (other than in the event of a directors death, in which case they are settled as soon as practicable), at which time they are settled in stock or, at the Compensation Committees election, in cash. Such equity grants are made pursuant to the Companys 2023 Stock Plan for Non-Employee Directors (the Director Stock Plan).
Board Committees
The Board has two permanent committees: the Audit Committee and the Compensation Committee.
Audit Committee
At the time of the Distribution, our Audit Committee will consist of three members. The primary purposes and responsibilities of our Audit Committee are to: (a) assist the Board (i) in its oversight of the integrity of our financial statements, (ii) in its oversight of our compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, (iii) in assessing our independent registered public accounting firms qualifications and independence, and (iv) in assessing the performance of our internal audit function and independent registered public accounting firm; (b) appoint, compensate, retain, oversee and terminate the Companys independent registered public accounting firm and pre-approve, or adopt appropriate procedures to pre-approve, all audit and non-audit services, if any, to be provided by the independent registered public accounting firm; (c) review the appointment and replacement of the head of our internal audit department and to review and coordinate the agenda, scope, priorities, plan and authority of the internal audit department; (d) establish procedures for the receipt, retention and treatment of complaints received by the Company regarding accounting, internal accounting controls or auditing matters and for the confidential, anonymous submission by Company employees or any provider of accounting-related services of concerns regarding questionable accounting and auditing matters and review of submissions and the treatment of any such complaints; (e) review and approve related party transactions that are required to be disclosed under SEC rules or that require such approval under the Companys Related Party Transaction Approval Policy (if the Audit Committee is then serving as the Independent Committee under such policy); (f) conduct and review with the Board an annual self-assessment of the Audit Committee; (g) prepare any report of the Audit Committee required by the rules and regulations of the SEC for inclusion in our annual proxy statement; (h) review and reassess the Audit Committee charter at least annually; (i) report to the Board on a regular basis; and (j) oversee corporate risks, including cybersecurity and venue security, and provide periodic updates to the Board on such oversight activities. The text of our Audit Committee charter is available on our website at investor.msgentertainment.com under Investors Corporate Governance. A copy may be obtained by writing to MSGE Spinco, Inc., Two Pennsylvania Plaza, New York, NY 10121; Attention: Corporate Secretary.
We expect our Board of Directors to determine that each member of our Audit Committee is independent within the meaning of the rules of both the NYSE and the SEC, and that each has not participated in the preparation of the financial statements of the Company or any current subsidiary of the Company at any time during the past three years and is able to read and understand fundamental financial statements, including balance sheets, income statements and cash flow statements. All directors we add to the Audit Committee in the future will also meet those standards. We expect our Board to also determine that at least one member of our Audit Committee is an audit committee financial expert within the meaning of the rules of the SEC.
Our Board has established a procedure whereby complaints or concerns with respect to accounting, internal controls, auditing and other matters may be submitted to the Audit Committee. This procedure is described under Communicating with Our Directors above.
123
Our Audit Committee did not exist in fiscal year 2022.
Compensation Committee
At the time of the Distribution, our Compensation Committee will consist of not less than two members. The primary purposes of our Compensation Committee are to: (a) establish our general compensation philosophy and, in consultation with management, oversee the development and implementation of compensation programs; (b) review and approve corporate goals and objectives relevant to the compensation of our Chief Executive Officer and our other executive officers who are required to file reports with the SEC under Section 16 of the Exchange Act (together with the Chief Executive Officer, the Senior Employees), evaluate their performance in light of these goals and objectives and determine and approve their compensation based upon that evaluation; (c) approve any new equity compensation plan or material changes to an existing plan; (d) oversee the activities of the committee or committees administering our retirement and benefit plans; (e) in consultation with management, oversee regulatory compliance with respect to compensation matters including overseeing the Companys policies on structuring compensation programs to preserve tax deductibility; (f) determine and approve any severance or similar termination payments to be made to Senior Employees (current or former); (g) determine the components and amount of Board compensation and review such determinations from time to time in relation to other similarly situated companies; (h) prepare any reports of the Compensation Committee to be included in the Companys annual proxy statement in accordance with the applicable rules and regulations of the SEC; (i) conduct and review with the Board an annual self-assessment of the Compensation Committee; and (j) report to the Board on a regular basis, but not less than annually.
The Compensation Committee will review the performance of the Senior Employees, evaluate their performance in light of those goals and objectives and, either as a committee or together with any other independent directors (as directed by the Board), will determine and approve the Senior Employees compensation level based on this evaluation. In determining the long-term incentive component of our Chief Executive Officers compensation, the Compensation Committee will consider, among other factors, the Companys performance and relative stockholder return, the value of similar incentive awards to Chief Executive Officers at comparable companies and the awards given to the Chief Executive Officer in past years.
The Compensation Committee may, in its discretion, delegate a portion of its duties and responsibilities to one or more subcommittees of the Compensation Committee. For example, the Compensation Committee may delegate the approval of certain transactions to a subcommittee consisting solely of members of the Compensation Committee who are non-employee directors for the purposes of Rule 16b-3 issued by the SEC under the Exchange Act. The Compensation Committee may also engage outside compensation consultants to assist in the performance of its duties and responsibilities. The text of our Compensation Committee charter is available on our website at investor.msgentertainment.com under Investors Governance Corporate Governance. A copy may be obtained by writing to MSGE Spinco, Inc., Two Pennsylvania Plaza, New York, NY 10121; Attention: Corporate Secretary.
We expect our Board of Directors to determine that each member of our Compensation Committee is independent under the rules of the NYSE.
Our Compensation Committee did not exist in fiscal year 2022.
Absence of Nominating Committee
We will not have a nominating committee. We believe that it is appropriate not to have a nominating committee because of our stockholder voting structure. Under the terms of our amended and restated certificate of incorporation, the holders of our Class B Common Stock will have the right to elect 75% of the members of our Board. Our Governance Guidelines provide a mechanism for the selection of nominees for election as directors by the holders of our Class A Common Stock (Class A Directors) and by the holders of our Class B
124
Common Stock (Class B Directors). The holders of our Class A Common Stock are currently entitled to elect 25% of the members of our Board. Under our Governance Guidelines, nominees for election as Class A Directors shall be recommended to the Board by the Class A Directors then in office who were elected by the holders of our Class A Common Stock. Nominees for election as Class B Directors shall be recommended to our Board by the Class B Directors then in office who were elected by the holders of the Class B Common Stock.
Our directors have not set specific, minimum qualifications that nominees must meet in order for them to be nominated for election to the Board, but rather believe that each nominee should be evaluated based on his or her individual merits, taking into account, among other matters, the factors set forth in our Governance Guidelines under Board Composition and Selection of Directors. Those factors include:
| The desire to have a Board that encompasses a broad range of skills, expertise, industry knowledge, diversity of viewpoints, opinions, background and experience, and contacts relevant to our business; |
| Personal qualities and characteristics, accomplishments and reputation in the business community; |
| Ability and willingness to commit adequate time to Board and committee matters; and |
| The fit of the individuals skill and personality with those of other directors and potential directors in building a Board that is effective, collegial and responsive to the needs of our Company. |
The Class A Directors will evaluate possible candidates to recommend to the Board for nomination as Class A Directors and suggest individuals for the Board. The Board will consider nominees for Class A Directors recommended by our stockholders. Nominees recommended by stockholders will be given appropriate consideration in the same manner as other nominees. Stockholders who wish to submit nominees for consideration by the Board for election at our annual meeting of stockholders may do so by submitting in writing such nominees names, in compliance with the procedures and along with the other information required by our by-laws. Any such nominee must be submitted to the Corporate Secretary of the Company, at MSGE Spinco, Inc., Two Pennsylvania Plaza, New York, NY 10121 not less than 60 or more than 90 days prior to the date of our annual meeting of stockholders, provided that if the date of the meeting is publicly announced or disclosed less than 70 days prior to the date of the meeting, such notice must be given not more than 10 days after such date is first announced or disclosed.
The Class B Directors will consult from time to time with one or more of the holders of Class B Common Stock to ensure that all Class B Director nominees recommended to the Board are individuals who will make a meaningful contribution as Board members and will be individuals likely to receive the approving vote of the holders of a majority of the outstanding Class B Common Stock. The Class B Directors do not intend to consider unsolicited suggestions of nominees by holders of our Class A Common Stock. We believe that this is appropriate in light of the voting provisions of our amended and restated certificate of incorporation which vest exclusively in the holders of our Class B Common Stock the right to elect our Class B Directors.
Other Committees
In addition to standing committees, the Company has adopted a policy whereby a committee of our Board of Directors consisting entirely of independent directors (an Independent Committee) will review and approve transactions with Other Entities in which the value or expected value of the transaction or arrangement exceeds $1,000,000. The Independent Committee will also review and approve or take such other action as it may deem appropriate with respect to transactions involving the Company and its subsidiaries, on the one hand, and in which any director, executive officer, greater than 5% stockholder of the Company or any other related person as defined in Item 404 of Regulation S-K adopted by the SEC (Item 404) has or will have a direct or indirect material interest. This approval requirement covers any transaction that meets the related party disclosure requirements of the SEC as set forth in Item 404, which currently apply to any transaction (or any series of similar transactions) in which the amount involved exceeds $120,000. The policy does not cover decisions on compensation or benefits or the hiring or retention of executive officers. The hiring or retention of executive
125
officers is determined by our full Board of Directors. Compensation of executive officers is subject to the approval of our Compensation Committee. This policy also does not cover any pro rata distributions to all Company stockholders, including a pro rata distribution of our Class A Common Stock to holders of our Class A Common Stock and our Class B Common Stock to holders of our Class B Common Stock. No director on an Independent Committee will participate in the consideration of a related party transaction with that director or any related person of that director.
Our amended by-laws will provide for the formation of an Executive Committee of the Board of Directors which would have the power to exercise all of the powers and authority of the Board in the management of the business and affairs of the Company, except as limited by the Delaware General Corporation Law. Our Board has not formed an Executive Committee, although it could do so in the future.
Our by-laws also permit the Board of Directors to appoint other committees of the Board from time to time which would have such powers and duties as the Board properly determines.
Our Executive Officers
The following individuals are executive officers of the Company and are expected to continue to serve as our executive officers at the time of the Distribution. Additional executive officers may be appointed prior to the Distribution. It is expected that in connection with the Distribution, Messrs. Byrnes, Haughton and DAmbrosio, and Ms. Zeppetella, will cease to serve as executive officers of MSG Entertainment.
JAMES L. DOLAN, 67, has served as a director, the Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Company since December 2022. Mr. Dolan has served as a director, the Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of MSG Entertainment since November 2019, as a director and the Executive Chairman of MSG Sports since 2015 and as Non-Executive Chairman (since September 2020) and a director (since 2011) of AMC Networks. He served as Interim Executive Chairman of AMC Networks from December 2022 to February 2023. Mr. Dolan was a director and the Executive Chairman of MSG Networks from 2009 until the Networks Merger in July 2021, the Chief Executive Officer of MSG Sports from 2017 to April 2020, and the Chief Executive Officer of Cablevision from 1995 to 2016. He was President of Cablevision from 1998 to 2014; Chief Executive Officer of Rainbow Media Holdings, Inc., a former subsidiary of Cablevision that spun off in 2011 to become AMC Networks, from 1992 to 1995; and Vice President of Cablevision from 1987 to 1992. In addition, Mr. Dolan previously served as a director of Cablevision from 1991 until its sale in 2016.
DAVID F. BYRNES, 52, has served as the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the Company since February 13, 2023 and has been the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of MSG Entertainment since January 2022. It is expected that he will no longer serve as the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of MSG Entertainment following the Distribution. Mr. Byrnes previously served as Executive Vice President, Corporate Finance of ViacomCBS (now known as Paramount Global), a media and entertainment company, from December 2019 to January 2022, where he was primarily responsible for the companys budgeting, forecasting and long-range strategic planning processes and oversaw the corporate, technology and finance integration and transformation finance teams. From 2008 through the merger of CBS and Viacom in 2019, Mr. Byrnes held various financial leadership positions at CBS, including Senior Vice President, Controller and Chief Accounting Officer; Senior Vice President, Internal Audit; Senior Vice President, Finance, CBS Technology; Vice President, Finance at Simon & Schuster; and Vice President, Corporate Development. Prior to joining CBS, Mr. Byrnes held various financial leadership positions at Automatic Data Processing, including Divisional CFO and Vice President of Financial Reporting and Policy. Mr. Byrnes began his career in the audit practice at KPMG LLP (KPMG), a U.S. professional services firm providing audit, tax and advisory services, where he worked for 11 years.
JAMAL H. HAUGHTON, 48, has served as the Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary of the Company since February 13, 2023 and has been the Executive Vice President and General Counsel of MSG Entertainment since December 2021. It is expected that he will no longer serve as the Executive Vice President
126
and General Counsel of MSG Entertainment following the Distribution. Mr. Haughton previously served as the Senior Vice President and General Counsel of Samsung Electronics America, Inc. (Samsung), a global leader in consumer electronics and technology, as Samsungs chief legal officer for the U.S. from March 2016 to December 2021. As a member of Samsungs executive management team, he was responsible for providing counsel to the Chief Executive Officer and other senior leadership on all legal matters affecting Samsung and its subsidiaries, including commercial transactions, regulatory matters, litigation, risk management and employment issues, among others. Prior to Samsung, Mr. Haughton served in various roles at Cablevision, including Senior Vice President, Associate General Counsel and Assistant Secretary from 2014 to 2016, Senior Vice President and Associate General Counsel from 2011 to 2013 and Vice President and Associate General Counsel from 2006 to 2010. At Cablevision, Mr. Haughton provided ongoing legal counsel to the Board of Directors and senior executive management on corporate governance, public company reporting, corporate finance and major strategic company-wide corporate transactions. Before serving at Cablevision, Mr. Haughton was a corporate associate at Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP from 1999 to 2006, where he specialized in domestic and cross-border mergers and acquisitions, corporate finance and securities law matters.
PHILIP G. DAMBROSIO, 55, has served as the Senior Vice President and Treasurer of the Company since February 13, 2023 and has been the Senior Vice President and Treasurer of MSG Entertainment since 2019. It is expected that he will no longer serve as the Senior Vice President and Treasurer of MSG Entertainment following the Distribution. He also served as Secretary of MSG Entertainment from March 2020 to December 2020 and as Interim Chief Financial Officer from March 2020 to April 2020. Mr. DAmbrosio previously served as Senior Vice President, Treasurer, of MSG Sports from October 2018 to April 2020 and Senior Vice President, Tax and Treasury, of MSG Sports from 2016 through October 2018. Prior to joining MSG Sports, Mr. DAmbrosio was Senior Vice President, Tax, of Cablevision from 2002 through 2016. Prior to that, Mr. DAmbrosio was a partner at Ernst & Young. Mr. DAmbrosio has served as a director of the Broadband Tax Institute since 2005 and the Bucknell University Parents Association since February 2019, and as a trustee of the Rye Historical Society since 2018.
COURTNEY M. ZEPPETELLA, 46, has served as the Senior Vice President, Controller and Chief Accounting Officer of the Company since February 13, 2023 and has been the Senior Vice President, Controller and Chief Accounting Officer of MSG Entertainment since May 2022. It is expected that she will no longer serve as the Senior Vice President, Controller and Chief Accounting Officer of MSG Entertainment following the Distribution. Prior to joining MSG Entertainment, Ms. Zeppetella served as Partner at KPMG from 2012 to April 2022. In that role, she was primarily responsible for the global coordination and execution of financial statement audits and audits of internal control over financial reporting for SEC registrants. She also led the resolution of highly technical, complex accounting and financial reporting issues and provided strategic input to senior executives, audit committees and board members with respect to regulatory updates, cybersecurity and risk management. Ms. Zeppetella has substantial experience with SEC rules, U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, and Sarbanes-Oxley 404 internal controls. Prior to her role as Audit Partner, Ms. Zeppetella served in numerous roles at KPMG.
Overlapping Officers
Immediately following the Distribution, James L. Dolan will also serve as the Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of both the Company and MSG Entertainment and as the Executive Chairman of MSG Sports. James L. Dolan also currently serves as Non-Executive Chairman of AMC Networks.
127
Introduction
This section presents information concerning compensation arrangements for our named executive officers. We present historical and current fiscal year information concerning the compensation from MSG Entertainment of Mr. James L. Dolan, our Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer; David F. Byrnes, our Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer; Jamal H. Haughton, our Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary; Philip G. DAmbrosio, our Senior Vice President and Treasurer; and Courtney M. Zeppetella, our Senior Vice President, Controller and Chief Accounting Officer for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022.
The historical compensation information, including in particular the information set forth below under Historical Compensation Information, is not directly relevant to the compensation that these officers will receive from the Company.
Each of our named executive officers holds various long-term incentive awards that were granted by MSG Entertainment. Treatment of these in the Distribution is described under Treatment of Outstanding Awards.
Compensation Discussion & Analysis
This Compensation Discussion & Analysis provides a discussion of MSG Entertainments compensation philosophy and 2022 fiscal year compensation from MSG Entertainment for our NEOs (as defined below). MSG Entertainments compensation philosophy may be relevant to the Company because it is anticipated that the elements of our compensation will be similar to the elements of MSG Entertainments compensation. Our Compensation Committee will review the impact of the Distribution and will review all aspects of compensation and make any appropriate adjustments.
For purposes of this Compensation Discussion & Analysis, the Companys named executive officers are James L. Dolan, David F. Byrnes, Jamal H. Haughton, Philip G. DAmbrosio, and Courtney M. Zeppetella. These individuals are referred to as Named Executive Officers (NEOs). Mr. Dolan is also a named executive officer of MSG Entertainment and will continue as an officer of MSG Entertainment following the Distribution.
Executive Summary
MSG Entertainments Executive Compensation Program Objectives and Philosophy
Given the unique nature of its business, MSG Entertainment places great importance on its ability to attract, retain, motivate and reward experienced executive officers who can drive its business objectives and achieve strong financial, operational and stock price performance, as well as long-term value creation. The compensation committee of the board of directors of MSG Entertainment (MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee or the MSG Entertainment Compensation Committee) has designed executive compensation policies and programs that are consistent with, explicitly linked to, and supportive of the financial and strategic objectives of growing MSG Entertainments businesses and driving long-term stockholder value.
128
MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee has designed a program that reflects four key overarching executive compensation principles:
Principle |
Implementation(1) | |
A significant portion of compensation opportunities should be at risk. | The majority of executive compensation is at risk and based on MSG Entertainment stockholder returns as well as MSG Entertainments performance against predetermined financial performance targets. | |
Long-term performance incentives should generally outweigh short-term performance incentives. | Incentive compensation focuses more heavily on MSG Entertainments long-term rather than short-term accomplishments and results. | |
Executive officers should be aligned with stockholders through equity compensation. | Equity-based compensation comprises a substantial portion of executive compensation, ensuring alignment with MSG Entertainments stockholder interests. | |
The compensation structure should enable MSG Entertainment to attract, retain, motivate and reward the best talent in a competitive industry. | MSG Entertainments overall executive compensation program is competitive, equitable and thoughtfully structured so as to attract, retain, motivate and reward talent.
MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee focuses on total direct compensation, as well as individual compensation elements when providing competitive compensation opportunities. |
(1) | Excludes any one-time awards, including awards granted in connection with commencement of employment. |
In designing MSG Entertainments executive compensation program, MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee seeks to fulfill these objectives by maintaining appropriate balances between (1) short-term and long-term compensation, (2) cash and equity compensation, and (3) performance-based and time-based vesting of compensation.
Elements of MSG Entertainments Compensation Program
MSG Entertainment compensated the NEOs through base salary, annual incentive awards, long-term incentive awards, perquisites and benefit programs, as applicable. MSG Entertainments annual and long-term incentive programs provide performance-based incentives for such NEOs tied to key financial and strategic measures that generate long-term stockholder value and reward sustained achievement of MSG Entertainments key financial goals. MSG Entertainment considers Total MSG Entertainment Net Revenue (defined below) and AOI to be the key measures of MSG Entertainments operating performance. As such, MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee has reflected these performance measures in its annual incentive awards and long-term incentive performance equity awards, along with other specific strategic and operating measures. MSG Entertainments long-term incentive program also includes restricted stock units whose value is tied to the performance of the market value of MSG Entertainments Class A Common Stock. Ms. Zeppetella, who joined MSG Entertainment effective as of May 2, 2022, was not eligible to receive annual incentive awards or long-term incentive awards during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022.
The table below summarizes the elements of MSG Entertainments compensation program for the 2022 fiscal year and how each element was linked to MSG Entertainments performance. The MSG Entertainment
129
Compensation Committee, after considering the advice of its independent compensation consultant, approved certain changes to the elements of MSG Entertainments compensation program for the 2023 fiscal year, which are described further below under MSG Entertainments Compensation Program Practices and Policies Changes to Fiscal Year 2023 Compensation Program.
Component
|
Performance Link
|
Description
| ||||||
Base Salary |
Cash |
Fixed level of compensation determined primarily based on the role, job performance and experience
Intended to compensate the NEOs for day-to-day services performed | ||||||
Annual Incentive | Cash |
Financial (50%)
|
Total MSG Entertainment Net Revenue (40%) |
Performance-based cash incentive opportunity
Designed to be based on the achievement of pre-determined financial and strategic performance measures approved by the MSG Entertainment Compensation Committee | ||||
MSG Entertainment AOI (60%) | ||||||||
Strategic (50%)
|
Strategic Objectives
| |||||||
Long- Term Incentive |
Performance Stock Units (50%) |
Total MSG Entertainment Net Revenue (50%)
|
Financial performance targets are pre-determined by the MSG Entertainment Compensation Committee to incentivize strong execution of MSG Entertainments strategy and long-term financial goals
Cliff-vest after three years to the extent that financial performance targets measured in the last year of the three-year period are achieved
| |||||
MSG Entertainment Business
| ||||||||
Restricted Stock Units (50%) |
Stock Price Performance
|
Share-based award establishes direct alignment with MSG Entertainment stock price performance and stockholder interests
Vest ratably over three years |
MSG Entertainments 2022 Fiscal Year Annual Compensation Opportunities Mix
As described above, MSG Entertainments compensation program is designed with significant long-term performance-based and at-risk components. For the 2022 fiscal year, a substantial majority of the NEOs MSG
130
Entertainment compensation was at risk, with a majority of at-risk compensation granted in the form of long-term equity-based awards.
Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Pay Mix(1)(2) |
Average NEO Pay Mix(1)(2) (excluding Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer) | |
|
|
(1) | Reflects the allocation of base salary, annual target bonus opportunity, and long-term incentive award target value as set forth in the NEOs employment agreements with MSG Entertainment for the 2022 fiscal year. |
(2) | Sum of compensation elements or the At-Risk value shown may not add to 100% (or At-Risk value) due to rounding. |
MSG Entertainments Sound Compensation Governance Practices
MSG Entertainments executive compensation program is overseen by the wholly independent MSG Entertainment Compensation Committee, with the support of an independent compensation consultant and independent legal counsel. MSG Entertainment maintains a compensation program with strong governance features, including:
MSG Entertainments Compensation Practices | ||
✓ | Substantial proportion of standard annual compensation is at risk (89% for the Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer and 67% on average for the other NEOs) | |
✓ | Short- and long-term incentives earned based on the achievement of objective, pre-determined performance goals | |
✓ | Stockholder feedback considered in MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee review of compensation program | |
✓ | Anti-hedging/pledging policies | |
✓ | No excise tax gross-up provisions | |
✓ | Review of tally sheets for each NEO by MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee at least annually | |
✓ | Fully independent MSG Entertainment Compensation Committee oversight of compensation decisions | |
✓ | MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee utilizes support of an independent compensation consultant and independent legal counsel. |
131
MSG Entertainments Compensation Program Practices and Policies
The following discussion describes the practices and policies implemented by MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022. For the 2022 fiscal year, compensation for each NEO was subject to an employment agreement approved by MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee.
During fiscal year 2022, MSG Entertainment entered into a new multi-year employment agreement with Mr. Dolan, effective as of August 1, 2021. The prior employment agreement with MSG Entertainment had been entered into at the time of the spin-off of MSG Entertainment in April 2020, with a scheduled expiration date on the first anniversary of the spin-off. The MSG Entertainment Compensation Committee was responsible for overseeing matters relating to the new agreement and was advised by the MSG Entertainment Compensation Committees independent compensation consultant and represented in the negotiations by the MSG Entertainment Compensation Committees independent legal counsel. Prior to the Networks Merger, Mr. Dolan was employed as Executive Chairman of MSG Networks pursuant to the terms of a multi-year employment agreement that continued to apply following the Networks Merger (but which has been superseded by the terms of Mr. Dolans new agreement with MSG Entertainment). In the course of their review, the independent compensation consultant provided the MSG Entertainment Compensation Committee with broad market data (both industry-related and general industry data) on multi-year arrangements involving executive chairman and chief executive officer positions, information relating to the terms of Mr. Dolans employment agreement with MSG Networks, as well as other information relating to MSG Entertainments performance and operations and other internal executive compensation data. The MSG Entertainment Compensation Committees review also took into account various other factors, including MSG Entertainments overall objectives and philosophy of its executive compensation program, the components of the proposed compensation arrangement, Mr. Dolans extensive experience and history with MSG Entertainment and its predecessors and affiliates, his in-depth knowledge of MSG Entertainments business and key involvement in the Sphere initiatives, his leadership and relationship with senior management and the overall scope and responsibilities of his role as Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.
Role of the MSG Entertainment Compensation Committee
MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee administers MSG Entertainments executive compensation program. The responsibilities of MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee are set forth in its charter. Among other responsibilities, MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee: (1) establishes MSG Entertainments general compensation philosophy and, in consultation with management, oversees the development and implementation of MSG Entertainments compensation programs; (2) reviews and approves corporate goals and objectives relevant to the compensation of MSG Entertainments executive officers who are required to file reports with the SEC under Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act, evaluates their performance in light of those goals and objectives, and determines and approves their respective compensation levels based on this evaluation; (3) oversees the activities of the committee or committees administering MSG Entertainments retirement and benefit plans; and (4) administers MSG Entertainments equity-based compensation plans.
Role of the Independent MSG Entertainment Compensation Consultant
MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee has authority under its charter to engage outside consultants to assist in the performance of its duties and responsibilities. MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee utilizes the services of ClearBridge Compensation Group LLC (the MSG Entertainment independent compensation consultant), an independent compensation consultant, to assist in determining whether the elements of MSG Entertainments executive compensation program are reasonable and consistent with MSG Entertainments objectives.
The MSG Entertainment independent compensation consultant collaborates with independent legal counsel to the MSG Entertainment Compensation Committee and reports directly to MSG Entertainments Compensation
132
Committee and, at the request of MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee, the MSG Entertainment independent compensation consultant meets with members of MSG Entertainments management from time to time for the purpose of gathering information on management proposals and recommendations to be presented to MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee.
With respect to compensation matters for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022, the services provided by the MSG Entertainment independent compensation consultant to MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee included:
| Attending all MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee meetings; |
| Providing information, research, and analysis pertaining to MSG Entertainments executive compensation program for the 2022 fiscal year; |
| Regularly updating MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee on market trends, changing practices, and legislation pertaining to compensation; |
| Assisting MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee in making pay determinations for MSG Entertainments executive officers; |
| Assisting MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee in connection with the entry into new employment agreements with certain of MSG Entertainments named executive officers; |
| Advising on the design of MSG Entertainments executive compensation program and the reasonableness of individual compensation targets and awards; |
| Conducting a compensation risk assessment; |
| Advising on compensation matters in connection with the Networks Merger; |
| Providing advice and recommendations that incorporate both market data and company-specific factors; and |
| Assisting MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee in connection with its review and update to its non-employee director compensation program. |
During the 2022 fiscal year, the MSG Entertainment independent compensation consultant provided no services to MSG Entertainment other than those provided to MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee.
MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee charter requires MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee to consider the NYSE independence factors before receiving advice from an advisor, despite the fact that such independence rules are not applicable to controlled companies. For the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022, MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee concluded that the MSG Entertainment independent compensation consultant satisfies the independence requirements of the NYSE rules. In addition, MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee believed that the MSG Entertainment independent compensation consultants work did not raise any conflicts of interest during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022. In reaching this conclusion, MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee considered the same rules regarding advisor independence.
Role of MSG Entertainment Executive Officers in Determining Compensation
MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee reviews the performance and compensation of MSG Entertainments Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer and, following discussions with the MSG Entertainment independent compensation consultant, establishes his compensation. MSG Entertainments senior management assists MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee and the MSG Entertainment independent compensation consultant as described in this Compensation Discussion & Analysis, and provides to MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee, either directly or through the MSG Entertainment independent compensation consultant, managements recommendations on the compensation for MSG Entertainments
133
executive officers other than the Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. Other members of MSG Entertainments management provide support to MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee as needed. Based upon a review of performance and historical compensation, recommendations and information from members of MSG Entertainments management, and recommendations and discussions with the MSG Entertainment independent compensation consultant, MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee determines and approves compensation for its executive officers.
MSG Entertainments Performance Objectives
As described below under Elements of MSG Entertainments Compensation Program, performance-based incentive compensation is an important element of MSG Entertainments executive compensation program.
Generally, MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee has historically based the performance objectives for MSG Entertainments incentive compensation on Total MSG Entertainment Net Revenue and AOI. MSG Entertainment considers these performance objectives to be key measures of MSG Entertainments operating performance, and currently expects to follow this practice in the future.
MSG Entertainment defines Total MSG Entertainment Net Revenue as MSG Entertainments total revenue for all business units other than specified divisions where direct contribution is the measure used, in which cases Total MSG Entertainment Net Revenue includes the direct contribution of those units. Direct contribution is revenue less event-related expenses. In those instances, MSG Entertainments management believes direct contribution serves as a more meaningful measure of revenue.
MSG Entertainment defines AOI, which is a non-U.S. GAAP financial measure, as MSG Entertainments operating income (loss) before (i) adjustments to remove the impact of non-cash straight-line leasing revenue associated with Arena License Agreements, (ii) depreciation, amortization and impairments of property and equipment, goodwill and intangible assets, (iii) amortization for capitalized cloud computing arrangement costs, (iv) share-based compensation expense, (v) restructuring charges or credits, (vi) merger and acquisition related costs, including litigation expenses, (vii) gains or losses on sales or dispositions of businesses and associated settlements, (viii) the impact of Purchase Accounting Adjustments related to business acquisitions, and (ix) gains and losses related to the remeasurement of liabilities under MSG Entertainments executive deferred compensation plan (which was established in November 2021). MSG Entertainment Business Unit AOI is based upon the AOI of MSG Entertainments business segments less unallocated corporate business unit expenses such as public company costs and merger and acquisition support, subject to certain adjustments.
The performance measures used for purposes of annual incentives or long-term awards may contemplate certain potential future adjustments and exclusions.
Tally Sheets
MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee has reviewed tally sheets prepared by the MSG Entertainment independent compensation consultant, setting forth all components of compensation payable, and the benefits accruing, to the NEOs including all cash compensation, benefits, perquisites and the current value of outstanding equity-based awards. The tally sheets also set forth potential payouts to such NEOs upon various termination scenarios.
Determining MSG Entertainment Compensation Levels; Benchmarking
As part of the MSG Entertainment Compensation Committees review of the total compensation for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022, the MSG Entertainment independent compensation consultant assisted MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee in: (1) determining if a peer group should be used for comparative
134
purposes, (2) assessing executive compensation in light of internal and external considerations and (3) reviewing MSG Entertainments equity and cash-based executive incentive programs, taking into account evolving market trends. MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee, in consultation with the MSG Entertainment independent compensation consultant, considered broad market data (both industry-related and general industry data) and multiple broad-based compensation surveys in order to appropriately assess compensation levels.
For the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022, MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee, in consultation with the MSG Entertainment independent compensation consultant, determined not to utilize a peer group or target positioning in determining compensation given the limited number of comparable publicly-traded companies.
In addition to the market data listed above, MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee considered internal information (historical compensation, job responsibility, experience, parity among executive officers, contractual commitments and attraction and retention of talent) to determine compensation.
Elements of MSG Entertainments Compensation Program
MSG Entertainments executive compensation philosophy is reflected in the principal elements of its executive compensation program, each of which is important to MSG Entertainments goal of attracting, retaining, motivating and rewarding highly-qualified executive officers. MSG Entertainments compensation program included the following key elements for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022: base salary, annual cash incentives, long-term incentives, retirement, health and welfare and other benefits, which are generally provided to all other eligible employees of MSG Entertainment, and additional executive officer benefits, including post-termination compensation under certain circumstances and certain perquisites, each as described below.
A significant percentage of total direct compensation is allocated to incentive compensation in accordance with the philosophy of MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee. MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee reviews historical compensation, other information provided by the MSG Entertainment independent compensation consultant and other factors, such as experience, performance, length of service and contractual commitments, to determine the appropriate level and mix of compensation for its executive officers. The allocation between cash and equity compensation and between short-term and long-term compensation is designed to provide a variety of fixed and at-risk compensation that is related to the achievement of MSG Entertainments short-term and long-term objectives.
Mr. Dolan is also employed by MSG Sports as its Executive Chairman. Mr. Dolan receives separate compensation from MSG Sports with respect to such employment. Prior to the Networks Merger, Mr. Dolan was also employed by MSG Networks, and he received separate compensation from MSG Networks during the 2021 fiscal year. While the MSG Entertainment Compensation Committee was aware that Mr. Dolan also received compensation for services rendered to MSG Sports, its own compensation decisions were based on its independent assessment and application of the compensation goals and objectives of MSG Entertainment. The compensation program and philosophies discussed in this information statement reflect only compensation that is paid by MSG Entertainment for services rendered to MSG Entertainment, except as otherwise noted.
See Key Elements of 2023 Expected Compensation from the Company below for information regarding the compensation expected to be paid by the Company to our NEOs following the Distribution.
Base Salaries
MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee is responsible for setting the base salaries of its executive officers, which are intended to compensate them for the day-to-day services that they perform for MSG Entertainment. MSG Entertainment set the base salaries for these executive officers at levels that are intended to reflect the competitive marketplace in attracting and retaining quality executive officers. The employment
135
agreements between MSG Entertainment and the executive officers contain a minimum base salary level. MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee reviews the salaries of its executive officers at least annually. MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee may adjust base salaries for its executive officers over time, based on their performance and experience and in accordance with the terms of their employment agreements.
The MSG Entertainment base salary rates for Messrs. Dolan, Byrnes, Haughton and DAmbrosio and Ms. Zeppetella in the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022 were as follows: $2,000,000, $800,000, $1,100,000, $680,000 and $550,000, respectively. See footnote 1 to Historical Compensation Information Summary Compensation Table for additional information regarding the base salaries paid by MSG Entertainment to our NEOs during its fiscal year. MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee determined salaries for the NEOs after evaluation of MSG Entertainment and individual performance, market pay levels, the range of increases generally provided to MSG Entertainments employees and, to the extent appropriate, MSG Entertainment managements recommendations.
Annual Cash Incentives
Overview
MSG Entertainments annual cash incentives earned for performance in the 2022 fiscal year were determined by performance against goals established by the MSG Entertainment Compensation Committee under the MSG Entertainments Management Performance Incentive Plan (MPIP). Under the MPIP, eligible members of management were provided an opportunity to earn an annual cash award. The size of the bonus pool was based on performance measures tied to Total MSG Entertainment Net Revenue and MSG Entertainment AOI targets for the 2022 fiscal year as well as certain pre-determined strategic objectives.
This annual incentive was designed to link executive compensation directly to MSG Entertainments performance by providing incentives and rewards based upon business performance during the applicable fiscal year.
MPIP awards to all eligible employees were conditioned upon the satisfaction of predetermined financial and strategic objectives. For the 2022 fiscal year, MSG Entertainment applied a business function-specific weighting system, with the weighting between financial and strategic objectives for each business function depending on the specific challenges and desired focus of that function. MSG Entertainment had 12 business functions in fiscal year 2022 including: MSG Networks, Productions, Live, Marketing Partnerships, Venue Operations, MSG Ventures, MSG Studios and Corporate, with a varied range of strategic weightings determined by the MSG Entertainment Compensation Committee, depending on the particular business function. The financial and strategic objectives for the Corporate function (including named executive officers) were each weighted 50% to reflect MSG Entertainments focus on supporting the business units in safely and efficiently bringing business back following the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as MSG Entertainments long-term goals for transformative strategic growth and development, including the development of Spheres.
MPIP results were calculated based on performance achievement against these predetermined goals, as discussed below for MSG Entertainments Corporate function.
As discussed in Performance Targets & Achievement Levels below, as a result of the level of achievement of the adjusted Corporate financial and strategic objectives, the payout level of the annual cash incentives was calculated at 139.2% of the target level.
136
Target Award Opportunities
Each employee eligible for an annual incentive award from MSG Entertainment was assigned a target award equal to a percentage of that employees base salary as of the conclusion of the applicable fiscal year. Target annual incentive opportunities were based upon the applicable employees position, grade level, responsibilities, and historical and expected future contributions to MSG Entertainment. In addition, each employment agreement between MSG Entertainment and each of the NEOs contains a minimum target annual incentive award level. The MSG Entertainment Compensation Committee reviews the target annual incentive award levels of the NEOs at least annually, subject to the minimum target annual incentive award level set forth in each employment agreement between MSG Entertainment and each of the NEOs.
Annual Incentive Payouts
The below table summarizes each NEOs target annual incentive opportunity and actual 2022 fiscal year annual incentive payouts from MSG Entertainment, as determined by MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee. The annual incentive payouts are described in more detail below:
Name |
2022 Fiscal Year Base Salary |
Target Incentive (% of Base Salary) |
Actual 2022 Fiscal Year MPIP as a % of Target |
Actual 2022 Fiscal Year Annual Incentive Award |
||||||||||||
James L. Dolan |
$ | 2,000,000 | 200 | % | 139.2 | % | $ | 5,566,000 | ||||||||
David F. Byrnes(1) |
$ | 800,000 | 100 | % | 139.2 | % | $ | 1,113,200 | ||||||||
Jamal H. Haughton(2) |
$ | 1,100,000 | 100 | % | 139.2 | % | $ | 1,530,650 | ||||||||
Philip G. DAmbrosio |
$ | 680,000 | 75 | % | 158.8 | %(3) | $ | 809,665 | (3) | |||||||
Courtney M. Zeppetella(4) |
$ | 550,000 | | | |
(1) | Pursuant to the terms of his employment agreement, Mr. Byrnes was also provided a one-time cash award in the amount of $811,868 in connection with the forfeiture of earned compensation payable to him by his previous employer. Mr. Byrnes will be required to repay the gross amount of this one-time cash award in the event of his resignation without good reason or termination for cause within one year following the commencement of his employment with MSG Entertainment. |
(2) | Pursuant to the terms of his employment agreement, Mr. Haughton was also provided a one-time cash award in the amount of $250,000 in connection with the commencement of his employment with MSG Entertainment. Mr. Haughton will be required to repay the prorated amount of this one-time cash award in the event of his resignation without good reason or termination for cause within one year following the commencement of his employment with MSG Entertainment (proration based on the number of calendar days remaining until the first anniversary of the effective date, less all applicable payroll taxes). |
(3) | Mr. DAmbrosios 2022 incentive payout reflects an additional $100,000 (in excess of the 139.2% annual cash incentive payout for the corporate function) in recognition of his contributions to MSG Entertainments financing efforts. |
(4) | Pursuant to the terms of her employment agreement, Ms. Zeppetella was not eligible for an annual cash incentive award for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022, and was provided a one-time special cash award in the amount of $200,000. Ms. Zeppetella will be required to repay the prorated amount of this one-time cash award in the event of her resignation without good reason or termination for cause within one year following the commencement of her employment with MSG Entertainment (proration based on the number of calendar days remaining until the first anniversary of the effective date, less all applicable payroll taxes). |
Performance Targets & Achievement Levels
Financial Component (50%):
For the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022, the MPIP financial performance objectives were set recognizing the lingering impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and expected ramp-up during fiscal year 2022, the expected
137
impacts of the Networks Merger (including transaction fees and synergies), and included rigorous Total MSG Entertainment Net Revenue (weighted 40% of the financial component) and Company AOI (weighted 60% of the financial component) targets, with potential payouts under this component ranging from 0-200% of target.
The financial component of the MPIP was determined after assessing the consolidated financial performance against the predetermined targets. The MPIP provides for pre-approved adjustments, including with respect to the MSG Networks business and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, when evaluating the financial performance against the pre-determined objectives.
The measurement against the adjusted targets for the 2022 fiscal year provided the following calculated results:
Financial Metrics (Weighting) |
2022 Fiscal Year Payout Results | |
Revenues (40%) |
99.6% of target | |
AOI (60%) |
174.9% of target |
Based on the performance against these pre-determined financial performance objectives, the calculated result of the financial component of the MPIP, giving effect to the payment provisions of the MPIP, was 144.8%.
Strategic Component (50%):
For the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022, the MPIP also included a performance component that measured achievement against relevant strategic goals, objectives and metrics specified each fiscal year. These goals, objectives and metrics are reviewed and approved by the MSG Entertainment Compensation Committee at the beginning of each year.
Goal Setting Process: Each year, specific goals are established for each business function. These goals are intended to align with MSG Entertainments broad strategic initiatives and are subdivided into discrete objectives, which are further cascaded down into specific, measurable metrics that are used to enumerate year-end achievement. As part of this process, each goal (and its related tactics) is assigned a weight, and at the end of the fiscal year, each goal and tactics level of achievement is evaluated and assigned a rating of 0-200%. Taking into account the weight of each goal and tactic, these ratings are then used to derive the overall strategic score for each business function.
2022 Fiscal Year Corporate Goals & Achievement: In the 2022 fiscal year, the Corporate functions strategic component focused on numerous core strategies aimed at supporting business units in safely and efficiently bringing business back, supporting MSG Entertainments Sphere initiative and driving value through corporate structuring and key new business initiatives and special projects. These Corporate function goals were supported by more than 50 individual measurable metrics and tactics.
The strategic component for eligible NEO payouts was calculated based on the extent to which Corporate-specific objectives and metrics were achieved in the fiscal year.
Based on the performance against these predetermined Corporate objectives, the MSG Entertainment Compensation Committee determined the payout result of the strategic component of the MPIP for the Corporate function was achieved at 133.5% of target.
Annual Cash Incentive Payout:
As a result of level of achievement of the Corporate financial and strategic objectives, as discussed above, the payout level of the annual cash incentives was calculated at 139.2% of the target level for the 2022 fiscal year.
138
Long-term Incentives
Long-term incentives represent a substantial portion of MSG Entertainments executive officers annual total direct compensation. For the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022, MSG Entertainments standard long-term incentives were comprised of performance stock units and restricted stock units.
MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee believes this equity mix:
| Establishes strong alignment between its executive officers and the interests of MSG Entertainments stockholders; |
| Provides meaningful incentive to drive actions that will improve MSG Entertainments long term stockholder value; and |
| Supports MSG Entertainments objectives of attracting and retaining the best executive officer talent. |
The following table summarizes MSG Entertainments 2022 fiscal year standard annual long-term incentive awards for the NEOs, excluding Ms. Zeppetella:
Element | Weighting | Summary | ||||
MSG Entertainment Restricted Stock Units | 50% | ✓ | Share-based award establishes direct alignment with MSG Entertainments stock price performance and its stockholder interests | |||
✓ | Vest ratably over three years | |||||
MSG Entertainment Performance Stock Units |
50% |
✓ | Performance is measured by Total MSG Entertainment Net Revenue and MSG Entertainment Business Unit AOI, which are equally weighted and considered key value drivers of MSG Entertainments business | |||
✓ | Financial performance targets are pre-determined by MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee early in the three-year performance period to incentivize strong execution of MSG Entertainments strategy and long-term financial goals | |||||
✓ | Cliff-vest after three years to the extent that financial performance targets measured in the final year of the three-year period are achieved |
Additional information regarding long-term incentive awards granted by MSG Entertainment to the Companys NEOs during the 2022 fiscal year is set forth in the Summary Compensation Table and the Grants of MSG Entertainment Plan-Based Awards table under Historical Compensation Information below. See Treatment of Outstanding Awards below for a discussion of the impact of the Distribution on outstanding MSG Entertainment long-term incentive awards.
MSG Entertainment Restricted Stock Units
MSG Entertainments restricted stock units serve to align its executive officers interests with those of its stockholders and promote the retention of employees, including its executive officers.
139
MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee approved the following awards of MSG Entertainment restricted stock units to the Companys NEOs for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022 pursuant to MSG Entertainments Employee Stock Plan (the MSG Entertainment Employee Stock Plan):
Name |
Restricted Stock Units |
Grant Value(1) | ||||||
James L. Dolan(2) |
84,736 | $ | 6,745,928 | |||||
David F. Byrnes(3) |
7,415 | $ | 607,882 | |||||
Jamal H. Haughton(3) |
8,033 | $ | 658,545 | |||||
Philip G. DAmbrosio |
7,300 | $ | 577,211 | |||||
Courtney M. Zeppetella(4) |
| |
(1) | The grant date fair value listed above is calculated in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718 (Topic 718). MSG Entertainment determines the number of restricted stock units to grant by dividing the target grant value by the 20-trading day average ending on the day before the date of approval by MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee. |
(2) | This amount includes 15,757 units ($1,291,759) granted in April 2022 to reflect the increased target long-term incentive opportunity (on a non-pro rata basis) as a result of Mr. Dolans new employment agreement effective August 2021. |
(3) | With respect to Messrs. Byrnes and Haughton, this amount was granted in April 2022 to reflect long-term incentive opportunities under their employment agreements on a non-pro rata basis. |
(4) | Pursuant to the terms of her employment agreement, Ms. Zeppetella was not eligible for any grant of long-term incentive awards for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022. |
MSG Entertainments standard restricted stock units vest ratably over three years on September 15th of each year following the year of grant, subject to continued employment and employment agreement terms (as applicable). Mid-year grants in respect of an out-of-cycle promotion, increase in compensation or new-hire typically vest on the same time frame as standard restricted stock units granted that fiscal year.
MSG Entertainment Performance Stock Units
Performance stock units are intended to align MSG Entertainments executive officers interests with those of its stockholders, with a focus on long-term financial results.
Under MSG Entertainments executive compensation program for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022, performance stock units were granted to MSG Entertainments executive officers and certain other members of its management pursuant to the MSG Entertainment Employee Stock Plan.
2022 Fiscal Year Grants
During the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022, MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee approved the following awards of MSG Entertainment performance stock units to the Companys NEOs for the 2022-2024 fiscal year period:
Name |
Performance Stock Units (at target) |
Grant Date Fair Value(1) |
||||||
James L. Dolan(2) |
84,736 | $ | 4,402,883 | |||||
David F. Byrnes(3) |
7,415 | $ | 385,283 | |||||
Jamal H. Haughton(3) |
8,033 | $ | 417,395 | |||||
Philip G. DAmbrosio |
7,300 | $ | 379,308 | |||||
Courtney M. Zeppetella(4) |
| |
(1) | The grant date fair value listed above is calculated in accordance with Topic 718. Under Topic 718, the date of grant for performance stock units is the date the performance targets are set for such awards, which, for |
140
the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022 was on June 28, 2022. MSG Entertainment determines the number of performance stock units to grant by dividing the target grant value by the 20-trading day average ending on the day before the date of approval by MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee. |
(2) | With respect to Mr. Dolan, this amount includes 15,757 units ($818,734) approved in April 2022 to reflect the increased target long-term incentive opportunity (on a non-pro rata basis) as a result of Mr. Dolans new employment agreement effective August 2021. |
(3) | With respect to Messrs. Byrnes and Haughton, this amount was approved in April 2022 to reflect long-term incentive opportunities under their employment agreements on a non-pro rata basis. |
(4) | Pursuant to the terms of her employment agreement, Ms. Zeppetella was not eligible for any grant of long-term incentive awards for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022. |
MSG Entertainments performance stock units are structured to be settled upon the later of September 15th following a three-year period, and the date of certification of achievement against pre-determined performance goals measured in the final year of such three-year period. Mid-year grants in respect of an out-of-cycle promotion, increase in compensation or new-hire typically settle on the same time frame as standard performance stock units granted that fiscal year.
Target Setting
For the 2022 fiscal year performance stock units approved in August 2021 and April 2022 for the 2022-2024 fiscal year period, MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee selected Total MSG Entertainment Net Revenue and MSG Entertainment Business Unit AOI as the two financial metrics to be measured in the final fiscal year of the vesting period.
Goals were set in June 2022 based on MSG Entertainments long-range plan, which is subject to review by the board of directors of MSG Entertainment. MSG Entertainments long-range plan is confidential and disclosure of those targets could provide information that could lead to competitive harm, and for this reason the performance stock unit financial performance targets are not disclosed; however, MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee seeks to make target goals ambitious, requiring meaningful growth over the performance period, while threshold goals are expected to be achievable. MSG Entertainment intends to disclose the Total MSG Entertainment Net Revenue and MSG Entertainment Business Unit AOI payout results as a percentage of target as well as the resulting payout for the 2022 fiscal year performance stock units as a percentage of target measured in the last year of the three-year vesting period (i.e., performance is based on 2024 fiscal year performance).
MSG Entertainment Financial Metrics (Weighting) |
Threshold Performance |
Maximum Performance | ||
Total MSG Entertainment Net Revenue (50%) |
85% of target goal | 115% of target goal | ||
MSG Entertainment Business Unit AOI (50%) |
75% of target goal | 125% of target goal |
The performance stock unit payout opportunity ranges from 0 to 110% of target, based on MSG Entertainments performance and subject to continued employment and employment agreement terms (as applicable). At the threshold performance level, the award would vest at 90% of the target performance stock units, and at or above the maximum performance level, the award would vest at 110% of the target performance stock units. If MSG Entertainment exceeds threshold levels but does not achieve the targeted rates, or if MSG Entertainment achieves or exceeds one target but not both, the award provides for partial payments. No performance stock units would vest if MSG Entertainment fails to achieve both threshold levels of performance.
141
2020 Fiscal Year Performance Stock Unit Awards
The performance stock units issued by MSG Entertainment at the time of the 2020 Entertainment Distribution in respect of the MSG Sports performance stock units granted by The Madison Square Garden Company during the 2020 fiscal year (the 2020 fiscal year performance stock units) were amended by MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee following the 2020 Entertainment Distribution to reflect Total MSG Entertainment Net Revenue and MSG Entertainment Business Unit AOI performance objectives, weighted at 50% each, measured over a July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2022 performance period (the third year of the three-year performance award). The level of achievement for each performance objective was adjusted in accordance with the terms of the awards. Based on the performance against these predetermined objectives, the Total MSG Entertainment Net Revenue and MSG Entertainment Business Unit AOI performance results as a percentage of target performance were calculated at 99.7% and 105.7%, respectively, with a resulting calculated payout for the 2020 fiscal year performance stock units of 102.7% of target. The 2020 fiscal year performance stock units were settled in September 2022.
With respect to Mr. Dolan, who was employed by both the Company and MSG Sports during the 2020 fiscal year, the payout multiplier was determined based on the performance of MSG Entertainment and MSG Sports, with the performance for each company blended as a weighted average based on Mr. Dolans total direct compensation allocated between MSG Entertainment and MSG Sports at the time of the 2020 Entertainment Distribution, and applied to both his MSG Entertainment and MSG Sports performance stock units. As a result, the payout of Mr. Dolans MSG Entertainment 2020 fiscal year performance stock units was 102.7% of target. For more information on the MSG Sports 2020 performance stock units payout level, see MSG Sports 2022 Definitive Proxy Statement.
Treatment of MSG Networks Equity Awards
In connection with the Networks Merger, the MSG Networks stock options and restricted stock unit awards, including such awards held by any NEO who was also employed by MSG Networks, were assumed by MSG Entertainment and converted into a stock option or restricted stock unit denominated in shares of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock based on an exchange ratio of 0.172 (stock options and restricted stock units subject to performance vesting conditions were converted to stock options and restricted stock units, as applicable, with time-vesting conditions for the remainder of the performance period assuming the performance conditions were achieved at 100% of target). Additional details regarding the assumption and conversion of the MSG Networks awards is available in the joint proxy statement/prospectus filed by MSG Entertainment and MSG Networks in connection with the Networks Merger.
MSG Entertainments Hedging and Pledging Policies
MSG Entertainments Insider Trading Policy prohibits all of its directors, consultants and employees (including its executive officers), and all members of their immediate families or any individual who is materially dependent upon them for financial support who reside in the same household, from directly or indirectly (i) engaging in short sales, short sales against the box or other hedging transactions unless otherwise permitted by MSG Entertainment and (ii) placing securities in margin accounts or otherwise pledging MSG Entertainment securities.
Holding Requirements
Under MSG Entertainments executive compensation program for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022, annual restricted stock unit awards vest ratably over three years and annual performance stock unit awards cliff-vest after three years to the extent that pre-determined financial performance targets measured in the last year of the three-year period are achieved, in each case, so long as the recipient is continuously employed by MSG Entertainment until the applicable vesting date (and subject to the performance conditions described above and
142
any applicable terms of the award agreements and their MSG Entertainment employment agreement). With respect to MSG Entertainments non-management directors, compensation includes annual awards of MSG Entertainment restricted stock units. Pursuant to MSG Entertainments award agreements, directors restricted stock units are settled in shares of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock (or, in the MSG Entertainment Compensation Committees discretion, cash) on the first business day following 90 days after service on the board of directors of MSG Entertainment ceases (other than in the event of a directors death, where the MSG Entertainment restricted stock units are settled immediately). One effect of the cliff and three-year ratable vesting (with respect to MSG Entertainments named executive officers or eligible MSG Entertainment employees) and holding requirements (with respect to non-management MSG Entertainment directors) applicable to MSG Entertainment awards is to require MSG Entertainment executive officers, directors and eligible MSG Entertainment employees to maintain significant holdings of MSG Entertainment securities at all times.
Changes to Fiscal Year 2023 Compensation Program
In connection with approving the elements of MSG Entertainments compensation program for the 2023 fiscal year, the MSG Entertainment Compensation Committee, in consultation with the MSG Entertainment independent compensation consultant, determined to establish an annual incentive plan that reflected certain changes from the terms of the MPIP as in effect for the 2022 fiscal year:
| As MSG Entertainments business operations resume with increased capacity following the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, the MSG Entertainment Compensation Committee determined that it was appropriate for the MPIP for the 2023 fiscal year to further MSG Entertainments focus on profitability by increasing the portion of the financial objectives tied to AOI from 60% to 70%, with the remainder tied to Total MSG Entertainment Net Revenue. |
| For the Corporate function, the financial objectives will continue to be determined based on the performance of MSG Entertainment. |
MSG Entertainment believes that these changes for the 2023 fiscal year are appropriate for meeting MSG Entertainments annual incentive objectives. There were no changes to MSG Entertainments long-term incentive program.
MSG Entertainments Benefits
Benefits offered by MSG Entertainment to its executive officers generally provide for retirement income and serve as a safety net against hardships that can arise from illness, disability or death. MSG Entertainments executive officers are generally eligible to participate in the same health and welfare benefit plans made available to the other benefits-eligible employees of MSG Entertainment, including, for example, medical, dental, vision, life insurance and disability coverage.
Defined Benefit Plans
MSG Entertainment sponsors the MSG Entertainment Group, LLC Cash Balance Pension Plan (the Cash Balance Pension Plan), a tax-qualified defined benefit plan, which was retained by MSG Entertainment after the 2020 Entertainment Distribution, for participating employees, including certain executive officers. The Cash Balance Pension Plan was frozen to new participants and future benefit accruals effective as of December 31, 2015. Following the Distribution, we expect to offer health and welfare benefits and retirement plans that are substantially similar to the existing benefits and plans offered by MSG.
More information regarding the Cash Balance Pension Plan and the Retirement Plan is provided in the Pension Benefits table under Historical Compensation Information below.
143
Defined Contribution Plans
MSG Entertainment sponsors the Madison Square Garden 401(k) Savings Plan (the Savings Plan), a tax-qualified retirement savings plan, for its participating employees, including its executive officers. The Savings Plan is a multiple employer plan to which MSG Sports also contributes as a participating employer. Under the Savings Plan, participants may contribute into their plan accounts a percentage of their eligible pay on a pre-tax basis as well as a percentage of their eligible pay on an after-tax basis. The Savings Plan provides (a) fully-vested matching contributions equal to 100% of the first 4% of eligible pay contributed on a pre-tax basis by participating employees and (b) a discretionary non-elective contribution by MSG Entertainment.
In addition, MSG Entertainment offers the MSG Entertainment Group, LLC Excess Savings Plan (the Excess Savings Plan), a non-qualified deferred compensation plan that was retained by MSG Entertainment following the 2020 Entertainment Distribution, to its employees, including its executive officers, whose contributions to the Savings Plan are restricted by the applicable IRS annual compensation limitation and/or the pre-tax income deferral limitation. More information regarding the Excess Savings Plan is provided in the Nonqualified Deferred Compensation table under Historical Compensation Information below.
Matching contributions made by MSG Entertainment in the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022 in respect of the Companys NEOs under the Savings Plan are set forth in the Summary Compensation Table under Historical Compensation Information below.
MSG Cares Charitable Matching Gift Program
Since the 2020 fiscal year, MSG Entertainments employees, including its named executive officers, are eligible to participate in the MSG Cares Charitable Matching Gifts Program. Under this program, MSG Entertainment matches charitable contributions made by its employees, including the NEOs, to eligible 501(c)(3) organizations of the employees choice, in an aggregate amount of up to $1,000 per employee for each fiscal year.
MSG Entertainments Perquisites
MSG Entertainment provides certain perquisites to its executive officers as described below. Additional information concerning perquisites provided by MSG Entertainment is set forth in the Summary Compensation Table under Historical Compensation Information below. We anticipate that the arrangements described below will continue following the Distribution.
Car and Driver
Mr. Dolan has regular access to cars and drivers, which he is permitted to use for personal use in addition to business purposes. MSG Entertainment and MSG Sports shared these costs equally during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022. In addition, certain other MSG Entertainment executive officers and members of management have had access to cars and drivers on a limited basis for personal use. To the extent employees used a car and driver for personal use without reimbursement to MSG Entertainment, those employees were imputed compensation for tax purposes.
Aircraft Arrangements
During the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022, MSG Entertainment owned and leased certain aircraft, and also had access to various aircraft through arrangements with various Dolan family entities. Mr. Dolan has been permitted to use MSG Entertainments aircraft (including aircraft to which MSG Entertainment has access through various dry lease agreements) for personal use. Mr. Dolan is not required to reimburse MSG Entertainment for personal use of MSG Entertainment-owned aircraft. Additionally, Mr. Dolan has access to
144
helicopter travel, including for personal travel. Helicopter use has primarily been for commutation and he is not required to reimburse MSG Entertainment for such use. During the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022, MSG Entertainment and MSG Sports shared the costs of Mr. Dolans personal aircraft and helicopter use equally.
MSG Entertainment is typically reimbursed for the incremental variable costs associated with the personal use of aircraft (except as noted above). To the extent any MSG Entertainment executive officer or other employee of MSG Entertainment used any of the aircraft, including helicopters, for personal travel without reimbursement to MSG Entertainment, they were imputed compensation for tax purposes based on the Standard Industry Fare Level rates that are published biannually by the IRS. For compensation reporting purposes, MSG Entertainment valued the incremental cost of the personal use of the aircraft based on the variable costs incurred by MSG Entertainment net of any reimbursements received from its executive officers. The incremental cost of the use of the aircraft does not include any costs that would have been incurred by MSG Entertainment whether or not the personal trip was taken.
See Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions Relationship between MSG Entertainment and Us After the Distribution Aircraft Arrangements for a description of certain aircraft arrangements that we will enter into with MSG Entertainment prior to the Distribution.
Executive Security
Mr. Dolan participates in MSG Entertainments executive security program, including services related to cybersecurity and connectivity. During the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022, MSG Sports and MSG Entertainment shared the costs of such participation in their security program equally. Because certain of these costs can be viewed as conveying personal benefits to Mr. Dolan, they are reported as perquisites.
Other
From time to time certain MSG Entertainment employees, including its executive officers (and their guests), have access to tickets to sporting events and other entertainment at MSG Entertainments venues at no cost, and may also purchase tickets at face value. Attendance at such events is integrally and directly related to the performance of the executive officers duties, and, as such, MSG Entertainment does not deem the receipt of such tickets to be perquisites.
MSG Entertainment named executive officers may also make incidental use from time to time of certain amenities made available through MSG Entertainment resources, such as food and beverage at MSG Entertainments nightlife, dining and entertainment venues.
MSG Entertainments Post-Termination Compensation
MSG Entertainment believes that post-termination benefits are integral to its ability to attract and retain qualified executive officers. See Employment Agreements below for a description of the severance arrangements that MSG Entertainment has agreed to provide our NEOs in the event of a qualifying termination of employment from MSG Entertainment.
Under certain circumstances, payments or other benefits may be provided by MSG Entertainment to its employees upon the termination of their employment with MSG Entertainment. These may include payments or other benefits upon a termination by MSG Entertainment without cause, termination by the employee for good reason, other voluntary termination by the employee, retirement, death, disability, or termination following a change in control of MSG Entertainment or following a going-private transaction. With respect to the NEOs, the amounts and terms of such payments and other benefits (including the definition of cause and good reason) are governed by each NEOs employment agreement and any applicable award agreements with MSG Entertainment.
145
Employment Agreements
We intend to enter into an employment agreement with Mr. Dolan effective as of the Distribution, the material terms of which are described below. As noted above, Mr. Dolan will continue as an officer of MSG Entertainment following the Distribution.
Effective as of the Distribution date, we expect that MSG Entertainment will assign to us, and we will assume, the employment agreements between MSG Entertainment and each of Messrs. Byrnes, Haughton and DAmbrosio and Ms. Zeppetella, the material terms of which are also described below.
James L. Dolan
We intend to enter into an employment agreement with Mr. Dolan which will provide for Mr. Dolans employment as the Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Company. The employment agreement will recognize that Mr. Dolan will be employed by MSG Entertainment and MSG Sports during his employment with the Company.
The employment agreement will provide for an annual base salary of not less than $1,000,000. Mr. Dolan will be eligible to participate in the Companys annual bonus program with an annual target bonus opportunity equal to not less than 200% of his base salary. Commencing with the fiscal year starting July 1, 2023, he will also be eligible, subject to his continued employment by the Company, to participate in such long-term incentive programs that are made available in the future to similarly situated executives at the Company, with an aggregate annual target value of not less than $6,000,000. Mr. Dolan will be eligible to participate in the Companys standard benefits program, subject to meeting the relevant eligibility requirements, payment of required premiums, and the terms of the plans.
If, on or prior to June 30, 2024, Mr. Dolans employment is either terminated by the Company for any reason other than cause (as will be defined in the employment agreement), or is terminated by Mr. Dolan for good reason (as will be defined in the employment agreement) and cause does not then exist, then, subject to Mr. Dolans execution of a separation agreement, the Company will provide him with the following benefits and rights: (a) a severance payment in an amount determined at the discretion of the Company, but in no event less than two times the sum of Mr. Dolans annual base salary and annual target bonus, (b) any unpaid annual bonus for the fiscal year prior to the fiscal year in which such termination occurred and a prorated annual bonus for the fiscal year in which such termination occurred, (c) each of Mr. Dolans outstanding unvested long-term cash awards will immediately vest in full and will be payable to Mr. Dolan to the same extent that other similarly situated active executives receive payment, (d) all of the time-based restrictions on each of Mr. Dolans outstanding unvested shares of restricted stock or restricted stock units (including restricted stock units subject to performance criteria) will immediately be eliminated and such restricted stock and restricted stock units will be payable or deliverable to Mr. Dolan subject to satisfaction of any applicable performance criteria, and (e) each of Mr. Dolans outstanding unvested stock options and stock appreciation awards will immediately vest.
If Mr. Dolans employment is terminated due to his death or disability before June 30, 2024, and at such time cause does not exist, then, subject to execution of a separation agreement (other than in the case of death), he or his estate or beneficiary will be provided with the benefits and rights set forth in clauses (b), (d) and (e) above and any long-term cash awards shall immediately vest in full, whether or not subject to performance criteria and will be payable on the 90th day after the termination of his employment; provided, that if any such long-term cash award is subject to any performance criteria, then (i) if the measurement period for such performance criteria has not yet been fully completed, then the payment amount will be at the target amount for such award, and (ii) if the measurement period for such performance criteria has already been fully completed, then the payment amount of such award will be at the same time and to the same extent that other similarly situated executives receive payment as determined by the Companys Compensation Committee (subject to the satisfaction of the applicable performance criteria). If Mr. Dolans employment is terminated after June 30, 2024
146
either by the Company for any reason other than cause, by Mr. Dolan for good reason and cause does not then exist, or due to death or disability, then, subject to execution of a separation agreement (other than in the case of death), he or his estate or beneficiary will be provided with the benefits and rights set forth in clauses (c), (d) and (e) above.
Following June 30, 2024, certain provisions of Mr. Dolans employment agreement regarding annual cash and equity compensation will no longer continue in effect with respect to services following such date.
The employment agreement will contain certain covenants by Mr. Dolan, including a noncompetition agreement that will restrict Mr. Dolans ability to engage in competitive activities until the first anniversary of a termination of his employment with the Company.
David F. Byrnes
Pursuant to his employment agreement with MSG Entertainment dated December 20, 2021, Mr. Byrnes receives an annual base salary of not less than $800,000. Commencing with the Companys fiscal year starting July 1, 2021, Mr. Byrnes is eligible to participate in MSG Entertainments discretionary annual incentive program with an annual target bonus equal to not less than 100% of his annual base salary.
Commencing with the Companys fiscal year starting July 1, 2021, Mr. Byrnes is eligible, subject to his continued employment by MSG Entertainment, to participate in such long-term incentive programs that are made available to similarly situated executives of MSG Entertainment. It is expected that Mr. Byrnes will receive one or more annual long-term awards with an aggregate target value of not less than $1,200,000. Mr. Byrnes is eligible to participate in MSG Entertainments standard benefits program, subject to meeting the relevant eligibility requirements, payment of required premiums, and the terms of the plans.
If, on or prior to December 31, 2024, Mr. Byrnes employment with MSG Entertainment is terminated (i) by MSG Entertainment other than for cause (as defined in the agreement), or (ii) by Mr. Byrnes for good reason (as defined in the agreement) and so long as cause does not then exist, then, subject to Mr. Byrnes execution of a separation agreement with MSG Entertainment, MSG Entertainment will provide him with the following benefits and rights: (a) a severance payment in an amount determined at the discretion of MSG Entertainment, but in no event less than two times the sum of Mr. Byrnes annual base salary and annual target bonus; (b) any unpaid annual bonus for the fiscal year prior to the fiscal year in which such termination occurred and a prorated annual bonus for the fiscal year in which such termination occurred; (c) any unpaid portion of the special cash award, which was paid no later than the first regular Company payroll date on or after April 1, 2022; (d) each of Mr. Byrnes outstanding long-term cash awards will immediately vest in full and will be payable to Mr. Byrnes to the same extent that other similarly situated active executives receive payment; (e) all of the time-based restrictions on each of Mr. Byrnes outstanding restricted stock or restricted stock units will immediately be eliminated and will be payable or deliverable to Mr. Byrnes subject to satisfaction of any applicable performance criteria; and (f) each of Mr. Byrnes outstanding stock options and stock appreciation awards, if any, will immediately vest.
If Mr. Byrnes employment is terminated due to his death or disability prior to December 31, 2024, and at such time cause does not exist, then, subject to execution of a separation agreement (other than in the case of death), he or his estate or beneficiary will be provided with the benefits and rights set forth in clauses (b), (c), (e) and (f) of the preceding paragraph and each of his outstanding long-term cash awards shall immediately vest in full, whether or not subject to performance criteria, and will be payable on the 90th day after the termination of his employment; provided, that if any such long-term cash award is subject to any performance criteria, then (i) if the measurement period for such performance criteria has not yet been fully completed, then the payment amount will be at the target amount for such award, and (ii) if the measurement period for such performance criteria has already been fully completed, then the payment amount of such award will be at the same time and to the same extent that other similarly situated executives receive payment as determined by the Compensation Committee (subject to the satisfaction of the applicable performance criteria).
147
The employment agreement contains certain covenants by Mr. Byrnes including a noncompetition agreement that restricts Mr. Byrnes ability to engage in competitive activities until the first anniversary of a termination of his employment with MSG Entertainment.
Jamal H. Haughton
Pursuant to his employment agreement with MSG Entertainment dated October 26, 2021, which was effective as of December 6, 2021, Mr. Haughton receives an annual base salary of not less than $1,100,000. Commencing with MSG Entertainments fiscal year starting July 1, 2021, Mr. Haughton is eligible to participate in MSG Entertainments discretionary annual incentive program with an annual target bonus equal to not less than 100% of Mr. Haughtons annual base salary.
Commencing with MSG Entertainments fiscal year starting July 1, 2021, Mr. Haughton is eligible, subject to his continued employment by MSG Entertainment, to participate in future long-term incentive programs that are made available to similarly situated executives of MSG Entertainment. It is expected that Mr. Haughton will receive one or more annual long-term awards with an aggregate target value of not less than $1,300,000. Mr. Haughton is eligible to participate in MSG Entertainments standard benefits program, subject to meeting the relevant eligibility requirements, payment of required premiums, and the terms of the plans.
If, on or prior to December 5, 2024, Mr. Haughtons employment with MSG Entertainment is either terminated (i) by MSG Entertainment other than for cause (as defined in the agreement), or (ii) by Mr. Haughton for good reason (as defined in the agreement) and so long as cause does not then exist, then, subject to Mr. Haughtons execution of a separation agreement with MSG Entertainment, MSG Entertainment will provide him with the following benefits and rights: (a) a severance payment in an amount determined at the discretion of MSG Entertainment, but in no event less than two times the sum of Mr. Haughtons annual base salary and annual target bonus; (b) any unpaid annual bonus for the fiscal year prior to the fiscal year in which such termination occurred and a prorated annual bonus for the fiscal year in which such termination occurred; (c) each of Mr. Haughtons outstanding long-term cash awards will immediately vest in full and will be payable to Mr. Haughton to the same extent that other similarly situated active executives receive payment; (d) all of the time-based restrictions on each of Mr. Haughtons outstanding restricted stock or restricted stock units will immediately be eliminated and will be payable or deliverable to Mr. Haughton subject to satisfaction of any applicable performance criteria; and (e) each of Mr. Haughtons outstanding stock options and stock appreciation awards, if any, will immediately vest.
If Mr. Haughtons employment is terminated due to his death or disability prior to December 5, 2024, and at such time cause does not exist, then, subject to execution of a separation agreement (other than in the case of death), he or his estate or beneficiary will be provided with the benefits and rights set forth in clauses (b), (d) and (e) of the preceding paragraph and each of his outstanding long-term cash awards shall immediately vest in full, whether or not subject to performance criteria, and will be payable on the 90th day after the termination of his employment; provided, that if any such long-term cash award is subject to any performance criteria, then (i) if the measurement period for such performance criteria has not yet been fully completed, then the payment amount will be at the target amount for such award, and (ii) if the measurement period for such performance criteria has already been fully completed, then the payment amount of such award will be at the same time and to the extent that other similarly situated executives receive payment as determined by the Compensation Committee (subject to the satisfaction of the applicable performance criteria).
The employment agreement contains certain covenants by Mr. Haughton including a non-competition agreement that restricts Mr. Haughtons ability to engage in competitive activities until the first anniversary of a termination of his employment with MSG Entertainment.
148
Philip G. DAmbrosio
Pursuant to his employment agreement with MSG Entertainment dated November 17, 2021, which was effective as of January 1, 2022, Mr. DAmbrosio receives an annual base salary of not less than $680,000. Mr. DAmbrosio is eligible to participate in MSG Entertainments discretionary annual incentive program with an annual target bonus equal to not less than 75% of his annual base salary. Mr. DAmbrosio is eligible, subject to his continued employment by MSG Entertainment, to participate in such long-term incentive programs that are made available to similarly situated executives at MSG Entertainment. It is expected that Mr. DAmbrosio will receive one or more annual long-term awards with an aggregate target value of not less than $1,000,000. Mr. DAmbrosio is eligible to participate in MSG Entertainments standard benefits program, subject to meeting the relevant eligibility requirements, payment of required premiums, and the terms of the plans.
If, prior to December 31, 2024, Mr. DAmbrosios employment is terminated (i) by MSG Entertainment other than for cause (as defined in the agreement), or (ii) by Mr. DAmbrosio for good reason (as defined in the agreement) and so long as cause does not then exist, then, subject to Mr. DAmbrosios execution of a separation agreement with MSG Entertainment, MSG Entertainment will provide him with the following benefits and rights: (a) a severance payment in an amount determined at the discretion of MSG Entertainment, but in no event less than the sum of Mr. DAmbrosios annual base salary and annual target bonus; and (b) any unpaid annual bonus for the fiscal year prior to the fiscal year in which such termination occurred and a prorated annual bonus for the fiscal year in which such termination occurred.
The employment agreement contains certain covenants by Mr. DAmbrosio including a noncompetition agreement that restricts Mr. DAmbrosios ability to engage in competitive activities until the first anniversary of a termination of his employment with MSG Entertainment.
Courtney M. Zeppetella
Pursuant to her employment agreement with MSG Entertainment dated March 23, 2022, which was effective as of May 2, 2022, Ms. Zeppetella receives an annual base salary of not less than $550,000 and, commencing with MSG Entertainments fiscal year starting July 1, 2022, an annual target bonus opportunity equal to 50% of annual base salary. Ms. Zeppetella will be eligible, subject to her continued employment by MSG Entertainment, to participate, commencing with MSG Entertainments fiscal year starting July 1, 2022, in future long-term incentive programs that are made available to similarly situated executives of MSG Entertainment. It is expected that Ms. Zeppetella will receive one or more annual long-term awards with an aggregate target value of not less than $500,000.
In connection with the commencement of her employment with MSG Entertainment, Ms. Zeppetella received a one-time special cash payment of $200,000, paid within 30 days after May 2, 2022. If Ms. Zeppetellas employment with MSG Entertainment terminates prior to the first anniversary of the commencement of her employment as a result of (a) her resignation (other than for good reason (as defined in the agreement)) or (b) an involuntary termination by MSG Entertainment for cause (as defined in the agreement), then Ms. Zeppetella will be required to refund to MSG Entertainment the full amount of the special cash award.
Ms. Zeppetella will be eligible to participate in MSG Entertainments standard benefits program, subject to meeting the relevant eligibility requirements, payment of required premiums, and the terms of the plans.
If, on or prior to May 2, 2025, Ms. Zeppetellas employment with MSG Entertainment is either terminated by MSG Entertainment other than for cause (as defined in the agreement), or by Ms. Zeppetella for good reason (as defined in the agreement) and cause does not exist, then, subject to Ms. Zeppetellas execution of a separation agreement with MSG Entertainment, MSG Entertainment will provide her with the following benefits and rights: (a) severance in an amount determined at the discretion of MSG Entertainment, but in no event less than the sum of Ms. Zeppetellas annual base salary and annual target bonus; and (b) any unpaid annual bonus
149
for the fiscal year prior to the fiscal year in which such termination occurred and a prorated annual bonus for the fiscal year in which such termination occurred.
The employment agreement contains certain covenants by Ms. Zeppetella including a non-competition covenant that restricts Ms. Zeppetellas ability to engage in competitive activities until the first anniversary of a termination of her employment with MSG Entertainment; provided that the non-competition covenant will not apply following a termination of Ms. Zeppetellas employment either by MSG Entertainment other than for cause or by Ms. Zeppetella for good reason (if cause does not then exist) if Ms. Zeppetella waives her entitlement to the severance benefits described above.
Key Elements of 2023 Expected Compensation from the Company
As a newly formed entity, we did not have any executive officers or pay any compensation during the year ended June 30, 2022. The following summarizes the principal components of the annual compensation that we expect to provide following the Distribution to Messrs. Dolan, Byrnes, Haughton and DAmbrosio and Ms. Zeppetella. We have not yet determined the form of any long-term incentives to be granted.
James L. Dolan: |
||
Base Salary |
$1,000,000 | |
Target Bonus |
200% of Base Salary | |
Target Long-Term Incentives |
$6,000,000 | |
David F. Byrnes: |
||
Base Salary |
$800,000 | |
Target Bonus |
100% of Base Salary | |
Target Long-Term Incentives |
$1,700,000 | |
Jamal H. Haughton: |
||
Base Salary |
$1,100,000 | |
Target Bonus |
100% of Base Salary | |
Target Long-Term Incentives |
$1,300,000 | |
Philip G. DAmbrosio: |
||
Base Salary |
$680,000 | |
Target Bonus |
75% of Base Salary | |
Target Long-Term Incentives |
$1,000,000 | |
Courtney M. Zeppetella: |
||
Base Salary |
$550,000 | |
Target Bonus |
50% of Base Salary | |
Target Long-Term Incentives |
$500,000 |
In addition, our NEOs are expected to receive other benefits and perquisites, similar to those received by MSG Entertainments named executive officers, as discussed above.
Based on information provided to us by MSG Entertainment, Mr. Dolans direct compensation opportunities with MSG Entertainment will be reduced effective as of the Distribution by an amount equal to Mr. Dolans direct compensation opportunities under his employment agreement with the Company. His direct compensation opportunities at MSG Sports are not impacted by the Distribution. Accordingly, Mr. Dolans aggregate compensation across MSG Entertainment, MSG Sports and the Company will not change upon the Distribution.
Historical Compensation Information
All of the information set forth in the following table reflects compensation earned during the years ended June 30, 2022, 2021 and 2019. MSG Entertainments Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer is a shared employee of MSG Sports and MSG Entertainment; the information set forth below only reflects the compensation paid by MSG Entertainment for services rendered to MSG Entertainment, and excludes amounts for which MSG Sports reimbursed MSG Entertainment.
150
References in the tables that follow to 2022, 2021, or 2020 refer to the year ended June 30, 2022, 2021 or 2020, respectively. The information below is therefore not necessarily indicative of the compensation these individuals will receive as executive officers of the Company.
Summary Compensation Table
Name and Principal Position |
Year | Salary ($)(1) |
Bonus ($)(2) |
Stock Awards ($)(3) |
Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation ($)(4) |
Change in Pension Value and Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Earnings ($)(5) |
All Other Compensation ($)(6) |
Total ($) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
James L. Dolan |
2022 | 1,937,500 | | 11,148,811 | 5,566,000 | | 591,368 | 19,243,679 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer |
2021 | 600,000 | | 5,848,014 | 1,320,000 | | 555,826 | 8,323,840 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
2020 | 115,385 | | 2,305,894 | 1,439,167 | | 94,683 | 3,955,129 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
David F. Byrnes(7) Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer |
2022 | 338,462 | 811,868 | 993,165 | 1,113,200 | | 11,893 | 3,268,588 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Jamal H. Haughton(8) Executive Vice President and General Counsel |
2022 | 613,462 | 250,000 | 1,075,940 | 1,530,650 | | 13,112 | 3,483,164 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Philip G. DAmbrosio(9) Senior Vice President and Treasurer |
2022 | 625,481 | | 956,519 | 809,665 | | 35,618 | 2,427,283 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
2021 | 575,000 | | 1,070,669 | 474,375 | | 32,370 | 2,152,414 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
2020 | 110,577 | | 205,006 | 295,930 | | 235 | 611,748 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Courtney M. Zeppetella(10) Senior Vice President, Controller and Chief Accounting Officer |
2022 | 84,615 | 200,000 | | | | 224 | 284,839 |
(1) | For 2022, the salary paid by MSG Entertainment to the NEOs accounted for approximately the following percentages of their total MSG Entertainment compensation: Mr. Dolan 10%; Mr. Byrnes 10%; Mr. Haughton 18%; Mr. DAmbrosio 26%; and Ms. Zeppetella 30%. |
The 2020 salary information excludes the following amounts paid by The Madison Square Garden Company during the Pre-Distribution Period: Mr. Dolan $807,692; and Mr. DAmbrosio $464,423.
(2) | This column reflects a one-time special bonus paid outside of the MPIP to Mr. Byrnes in connection with forfeited compensation from his previous employer and to Mr. Haughton and Ms. Zeppetella in connection with the commencement of their employment with MSG Entertainment. |
(3) | This column reflects the aggregate grant date fair value of MSG Entertainment restricted stock units and performance stock units granted to the NEOs, without any reduction for risk of forfeiture, as calculated in accordance with Topic 718 on the date of grant. Under Topic 718, the date of grant for performance stock units is the date the performance targets are set for such awards, which, for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022 was on June 28, 2022. The assumptions used by MSG Entertainment in calculating these amounts are set forth in Note 17 to the financial statements included in MSG Entertainments 2022 Form 10-K. The grant date fair value of the performance stock units is shown at target performance. The number of restricted stock units and performance stock units granted to the NEOs was determined based on the 20-trading day average closing market price on the day prior to the date such awards were approved by the MSG Entertainment Compensation Committee. |
For the 2022 figures, this column reflects the value of restricted stock units approved and granted in August 2021 and April 2022 and performance stock units approved in August 2021 and April 2022 and granted for purposes of Topic 718 in June 2022. At the highest level of performance, the value of such 2022 performance stock units on the grant date for purposes of Topic 718 would be: $4,843,171 for Mr. Dolan; $423,812 for Mr. Byrnes; $459,134 for Mr. Haughton; and $417,239 for Mr. DAmbrosio. With respect to Mr. Dolan, such amounts include awards approved in April 2022 to reflect the increased long-term incentive opportunity (on a non-pro rata basis) as a result of Mr. Dolans new employment agreement effective August 2021; with respect to Messrs. Byrnes and Haughton, such awards, approved in April 2022, reflect long-term incentive opportunities under their employment agreements (on a non-pro rata basis).
For the 2021 figures, this column reflects the value of restricted stock units and performance stock units granted in August and September 2020 and April 2021. At the highest level of performance, the value of such 2021 performance stock units on the grant date
151
would be: $3,379,808 for Mr. Dolan; and $613,078 for Mr. DAmbrosio. With respect to Mr. DAmbrosio, such amounts also include awards granted in April 2021 to reflect an increased long-term incentive opportunity.
For the 2020 figures, this column reflects the value of MSG Entertainment restricted stock units and performance stock units granted in April 2020 in respect of existing MSG Sports awards that were granted by The Madison Square Garden Company in August 2019. With respect to these awards, the value reflected is the pro rata portion of the grant date value of the original MSG Sports award granted in August 2019 by The Madison Square Garden Company, calculated in accordance with Topic 718, based on the stock price of MSG Entertainments and MSG Sports Class A Common Stock on the Distribution date of the 2020 Entertainment Distribution. At the highest level of performance, the value of such 2020 MSG Entertainment performance stock units on the grant date would be: $1,268,242 for Mr. Dolan; and $112,753 for Mr. DAmbrosio.
(4) | For the 2022 figures, this column reflects the annual incentive award earned by each NEO under MSG Entertainments program with respect to performance during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022 and paid in September 2022. For the 2021 figures, this column reflects the annual incentive award earned by each NEO under MSG Entertainments program with respect to performance during the year ended June 30, 2021 and paid in September 2021. For the 2020 figures, this column reflects the annual incentive award earned by each NEO under MSG Entertainments program with respect to performance during the year ended June 30, 2020 and paid in September 2020. With respect to Mr. Dolan, this amount also includes $239,167 paid by MSG Entertainment to MSG Sports, reflecting MSG Entertainments obligation to pay 75% of the aggregate annual incentive liability accrued as of the Distribution date of the 2020 Entertainment Distribution. With respect to Mr. DAmbrosio, these amounts exclude $135,321 paid by MSG Sports to MSG Entertainment, reflecting MSG Sports obligation to pay 41% of the liability accrued as of the Distribution date of the 2020 Entertainment Distribution. |
(5) | For each period, this column represents the sum of the increase during such period in the present value of each NEOs accumulated Cash Balance Pension Plan account over the amount reported for the prior period. There were no above-market earnings on nonqualified deferred compensation. For more information regarding the NEOs pension benefits, please see the Pension Benefits table below. |
(6) | The table below shows the components of this column: |
Name |
Year | 401(k) Plan Match(a) |
401(k) Plan Discretionary Contribution(a) |
Excess Savings Plan Match(a) |
Excess Savings Plan Discretionary Contribution(a) |
Life Insurance Premiums(b) |
MSG Cares Matching Gift Program(c) |
Perquisites(d) | Separation Related Benefits |
Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
James L. Dolan |
2022 | 12,723 | 4,350 | 62,400 | 24,309 | 4,896 | | 482,690 | | 591,368 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
David F. Byrnes |
2022 | 11,077 | | | | 816 | | | | 71,211 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Jamal H. Haughton |
2022 | 11,000 | 952 | | | 1,160 | | | | 11,893 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Philip G. DAmbrosio |
2022 | 13,185 | 4,350 | 11,400 | 4,275 | 1,408 | 1,000 | | | 35,618 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Courtney M. Zeppetella |
2022 | | | | | 224 | | | | 224 |
a) | These columns represent a matching contribution by MSG Entertainment on behalf of the individual under the Savings Plan or Excess Savings Plan, as applicable. |
(b) | This column represents amounts paid for the individual to participate in MSG Entertainments group life insurance program. |
(c) | This column represents amount paid by MSG Entertainment to eligible 501(c)(3) organizations as matching contributions for donations made by the NEO under the MSG Cares Charitable Matching Gift Program. |
(d) | This column represents the following aggregate estimated perquisites, as described in the table below, excluding amounts reimbursed by MSG Sports. For more information regarding the calculation of these perquisites, please see MSG Entertainments Compensation Practices and Policies MSG Entertainments Perquisites. |
Name |
Year | Car and Driver(I) |
Aircraft(II) | Executive Security(III) |
Total ($) |
|||||||||||||||
James L. Dolan |
2022 | 129,134 | 342,740 | * | 482,690 | |||||||||||||||
David F. Byrnes |
2022 | * | * | * | ** | |||||||||||||||
Jamal H. Haughton |
2022 | * | * | * | ** | |||||||||||||||
Philip G. DAmbrosio |
2022 | * | * | * | ** | |||||||||||||||
Courtney M. Zeppetella |
2022 | * | * | * | ** |
* | Does not exceed the greater of $25,000 or 10% of the total amount of the perquisites of the NEO. |
** | The aggregate value of the perquisites in 2022 for the individual is less than $10,000. |
(I) | Amounts in this column represent MSG Entertainments share of the cost of the personal use (which includes commutation) by Mr. Dolan of cars and drivers provided by MSG Entertainment. These amounts are calculated using a portion of the cost of MSG Entertainments drivers plus maintenance, fuel and other related costs for MSG Entertainment vehicles, based on an estimated percentage of personal use. |
(II) | As discussed under MSG Entertainments Compensation Program Practices and Policies MSG Entertainments Perquisites Aircraft Arrangements, the amounts in the table reflect MSG Entertainments share of the incremental cost for personal use of MSG Entertainments aircraft and other aircraft MSG Entertainment has access to pursuant to |
152
arrangements with various Dolan family entities (see Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions Dolan Family Arrangements Aircraft and Office Space Arrangements), as well as personal helicopter use primarily for commutation. Incremental cost is determined as the actual additional cost incurred by MSG Entertainment under the applicable arrangement. |
(III) | The amounts in this column represent MSG Entertainments share of the cost of executive security services (including cybersecurity and connectivity) provided to Mr. Dolan. |
(7) | Effective January 24, 2022, Mr. Byrnes was appointed Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of MSG Entertainment. |
(8) | Effective December 6, 2021, Mr. Haughton was appointed Executive Vice President and General Counsel of MSG Entertainment. Mr. Haughtons title at the Company will be Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary. |
(9) | From March 12, 2020 through the 2020 Entertainment Distribution date, Mr. DAmbrosio served as MSG Entertainments Interim Chief Financial Officer and from March 12, 2020 through December 10, 2020, Mr. DAmbrosio also served as MSG Entertainments Secretary. |
(10) | Effective May 2, 2022, Ms. Zeppetella was appointed Senior Vice President, Controller and Chief Accounting Officer. |
Grants of MSG Entertainment Plan-Based Awards
The table below presents information regarding equity awards granted by MSG Entertainment during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022 to the Companys NEOs under MSG Entertainments plans, including estimated possible and future payouts under non-equity incentive plan awards and equity incentive plan awards of restricted stock units and performance stock units. See Treatment of Outstanding Awards below for a discussion of the impact of the Distribution on certain of the awards discussed in the following table.
Name |
Year | Grant Date(1) |
Estimated Future Payouts Under Non-Equity Incentive Plan Awards |
Estimated Future Payouts Under Equity Incentive Plan Awards |
All Other Stock Awards: Number of Shares of Stock or Units (#)(2) |
Grant Date Fair Value of Stock and Option Awards ($)(3) |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Threshold ($) |
Target ($) |
Maximum ($) |
Threshold (#) |
Target (#) |
Maximum (#) |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
James L. Dolan |
2022 | 8/27/2021 | (4) | 4,000,000 | 8,000,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2022 | 6/28/2022 | (5) | 76,262 | 84,736 | 93,210 | 4,402,883 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2022 | 8/27/2021 | (6) | 68,979 | 5,454,170 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2022 | 4/20/2022 | (6) | 15,757 | 1,291,759 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
David F. Byrnes |
2022 | 12/20/2021 | (4) | 800,000 | 1,600,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2022 | 6/28/2022 | (5) | 6,674 | 7,415 | 8,157 | 385,283 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2022 | 4/20/2022 | (6) | 7,415 | 607,882 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Jamal H. Haughton |
2022 | 12/6/2021 | (4) | 1,100,000 | 2,200,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2022 | 6/28/2022 | (5) | 7,230 | 8,033 | 8,836 | 417,395 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2022 | 4/20/2022 | (6) | 8,033 | 658,545 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Philip G. DAmbrosio |
2022 | 8/27/2021 | (4) | 510,000 | 1,020,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2022 | 6/28/2022 | (5) | 6,570 | 7,300 | 8,030 | 379,308 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2022 | 8/27/2021 | (6) | 7,300 | 577,211 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Courtney M. Zeppetella |
2022 | | | | | | | | |
(1) | The grant date is presented in accordance with Topic 718. Under Topic 718, the date of grant for performance stock units is the date the performance targets are set for such awards, which, for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022 was on June 28, 2022. |
(2) | The number of restricted stock units and performance stock units granted to the NEOs was determined based on the 20-trading day average closing market price on the day prior to the date such awards were approved by the MSG Entertainment Compensation Committee. |
(3) | This column reflects the aggregate grant date fair value of the restricted stock unit awards and performance stock unit awards, as applicable, granted to each NEO in the 2022 fiscal year without any reduction for risk of forfeiture as calculated in accordance with Topic 718 as of the date of grant. The grant date fair value of the performance stock units is shown at target performance. At the highest level of performance, the value of the performance stock units on the applicable grant date would be: $4,843,171 for Mr. Dolan; $423,812 for Mr. Byrnes; $459,134 for Mr. Haughton; and $417,239 for Mr. DAmbrosio. |
153
(4) | This row reflects the possible payouts with respect to grants of annual incentive awards under MSG Entertainments MPIP for performance in the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022. Each of the NEOs is assigned a target bonus which is a percentage of the NEOs base salary as of such fiscal year end. There is no threshold amount for annual incentive awards. The amounts of annual incentive awards actually paid by MSG Entertainment in September 2022 for performance in the 2022 fiscal year are disclosed in the Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation column of the Summary Compensation Table above. For more information regarding the terms of these annual incentive awards, please see MSG Entertainments Compensation Program Practices and Policies Elements of MSG Entertainments Compensation Program Annual Cash Incentives. |
(5) | This row reflects the threshold, target and maximum number of MSG Entertainment performance stock units awarded in the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022. Such performance stock units were approved by the MSG Entertainment Compensation Committee in August 2021 and April 2022 (only with respect to Messrs. Dolan, Byrnes and Haughton) and granted for purposes of Topic 718 in June 2022, when the performance targets were set for such award. The performance stock unit award was approved with a target number of units, with an actual payment based upon the achievement of performance targets. This grant of performance stock units, which was made under the MSG Entertainment Employee Stock Plan, will vest upon the later of September 15, 2024 and the date of certification of achievement against pre-determined performance goals measured in the 2024 fiscal year, subject to continued employment requirements and employment agreement and award terms (as applicable). See MSG Entertainments Compensation Program Practices and Policies Long-term Incentives MSG Entertainment Performance Stock Units and Employment Agreements. |
(6) | This row reflects the number of MSG Entertainment restricted stock units awarded in the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022. These grants of restricted stock units, which were made under the MSG Entertainment Employee Stock Plan, will vest in three equal installments on September 15, 2022, 2023 and 2024, subject to continued employment requirements and employment agreement and award terms (as applicable). See MSG Entertainments Compensation Program Practices and Policies Long-term Incentives MSG Entertainment Restricted Stock Units and Employment Agreements. |
Outstanding MSG Entertainment Equity Awards at June 30, 2022
The table below shows (i) each grant of MSG Entertainment stock options that is unexercised and outstanding, and (ii) the aggregate number and value of unvested MSG Entertainment restricted stock units and MSG Entertainment performance stock units outstanding (assuming target performance) for each NEO, in each case, as of June 30, 2022. See Treatment of Outstanding Awards below for a discussion of the impact of the Distribution on certain of the awards discussed in the following table.
Name |
Number of Securities Underlying Unexercised Options (#) Exercisable |
Number of Securities Underlying Unexercised Options (#) Unexercisable |
Option Exercise Price ($) |
Option Expiration Date |
Equity Incentive Plan Awards: Number of Unearned Shares, Units or Other Rights That Have Not Vested (#) |
Equity Incentive Plan Awards: Market or Payout Value of Unearned Shares, Units or Other Rights That Have Not Vested ($)(1) |
||||||||||||||||||
James L. Dolan |
184,150 | (2) | 103.55 | 03/15/2024 | | | ||||||||||||||||||
146,349 | (3) | 125.59 | 03/01/2025 | | | |||||||||||||||||||
108,630 | (4) | 145.64 | 02/25/2026 | | | |||||||||||||||||||
63,704 | (5) | 127,406 | (5) | 83.26 | 02/26/2027 | | | |||||||||||||||||
| | | | 312,799 | (6) | 16,459,483 | ||||||||||||||||||
David F. Byrnes |
| | | | 14,830 | (7) | 780,355 | |||||||||||||||||
Jamal H. Haughton |
| | | | 16,066 | (8) | 845,393 | |||||||||||||||||
Philip G. DAmbrosio |
| | | | 28,079 | (9) | 1,477,517 | |||||||||||||||||
Courtney M. Zeppetella |
| | | | | |
(1) | Calculated using the closing market price of MSG Entertainments Class A Common Stock on the NYSE on June 30, 2022 of $52.62 per share. |
154
(2) | The amounts in this row represent Mr. Dolans time-based stock options granted at the effective time of the Networks Merger (Effective Time) as a result of the conversion of Mr. Dolans MSG Networks time-based stock options and performance-based stock options granted as long-term incentive awards on September 15, 2016, which have fully vested. |
(3) | The amounts in this row represent Mr. Dolans time-based stock options granted at the Effective Time of the Networks Merger as a result of the conversion of Mr. Dolans MSG Networks time-based stock options and performance-based stock options granted as long-term incentive awards on September 1, 2017, which have fully vested. |
(4) | The amounts in this row represent Mr. Dolans time-based stock options granted at the Effective Time of the Networks Merger as a result of the conversion of Mr. Dolans MSG Networks time-based stock options and performance-based stock options granted as long-term incentive awards on August 28, 2018, which have fully vested. |
(5) | The amounts in this row represent Mr. Dolans 191,110 time-based stock options (63,704 of which have vested) granted at the Effective Time of the Networks Merger as a result of the conversion of Mr. Dolans MSG Networks time-based stock options and performance-based (based on target performance) stock options granted as long-term incentive awards on August 29, 2019. The unvested portion of the time-based stock options will vest on August 29, 2022, subject to continued employment requirements and employment agreement and award terms (as applicable). |
(6) | With respect to Mr. Dolan, the total in this column includes 5,399 MSG Entertainment restricted stock units (from an original award of 16,197 restricted stock units) and 16,197 MSG Entertainment target performance stock units granted in respect of MSG Sports long-term incentive awards granted by The Madison Square Garden Company prior to the 2020 Entertainment Distribution. 5,399 restricted stock units vest on September 15, 2022. 16,197 performance stock units vest upon the later of September 15, 2022, and the date of certification of achievement against pre-determined performance goals measured in the final year of the three-year period ending June 30, 2022. This column also includes 22,632 MSG Entertainment restricted stock units (from an original award of 33,947 restricted stock units) issued in respect of MSG Networks restricted stock units and 33,947 MSG Entertainment restricted stock units issued in respect of MSG Networks performance stock units, granted by MSG Networks prior to the Networks Merger. 11,316 and 11,316 restricted stock units issued in respect of the MSG Networks restricted stock units vest on September 15, 2022 and 2023, respectively. 33,947 restricted stock units issued in respect of the MSG Networks performance stock units vest on September 15, 2023. In addition, this column includes an award of 26,061 restricted stock units (from an original award of 39,091 restricted stock units) and 39,091 target performance stock units approved as long-term incentive awards on August 25, 2020, 68,979 restricted stock units and 68,979 target performance stock units approved as long-term incentive awards on August 27, 2021, and 15,757 restricted stock units and 15,757 target performance stock units approved as long-term incentive awards on April 20, 2022. The restricted stock units vest ratably over three years on September 15th each year following the year of grant. The performance stock units cliff-vest upon the later of September 15th following a three year-period, and the date of certification of achievement against pre-determined performance goals measured in the final year of the period ending June 30th of the applicable year. All vestings are subject to continued employment and the terms of Mr. Dolans employment agreement. For more information on MSG Sports restricted stock units and performance stock units granted by The Madison Square Garden Company prior to the 2020 Entertainment Distribution, which are not reflected herein, see MSG Sports Definitive Proxy Statement, filed with the SEC on October 27, 2020. |
(7) | With respect to Mr. Byrnes, the total in this column represents an award of 7,415 restricted stock units and 7,415 target performance stock units approved as long-term incentive awards on April 20, 2022. The restricted stock units vest ratably over three years on September 15th each year following the year of grant. The performance stock units cliff-vest upon the later of September 15th following a three year-period, and the date of certification of achievement against pre-determined performance goals measured in the final year of the period ending June 30th of the applicable year. All vestings are subject to continued employment and the terms of Mr. Byrnes employment agreement. |
(8) | With respect to Mr. Haughton, the total in this column represents an award of 8,033 restricted stock units and 8,033 target performance stock units approved as long-term incentive awards on April 20, 2022. The |
155
restricted stock units vest ratably over three years on September 15th each year following the year of grant. The performance stock units cliff-vest upon the later of September 15th following a three year-period, and the date of certification of achievement against pre-determined performance goals measured in the final year of the period ending June 30th of the applicable year. All vestings are subject to continued employment and the terms of Mr. Haughtons employment agreement. |
(9) | With respect to Mr. DAmbrosio, the total in this column includes an award of 480 Company restricted stock units (from an original award of 1,440 restricted stock units) and 1,440 Company target performance stock units granted in respect of MSG Sports long-term incentive awards granted by The Madison Square Garden Company prior to the 2020 Entertainment Distribution. 480 restricted stock units vest on September 15, 2022. 1,440 performance stock units vest upon the later of September 15, 2022, and the date of certification of achievement against pre-determined performance goals measured in the final year of the three-year period ending June 30, 2022. In addition, this column includes an award of 3,862 restricted stock units (from an original award of 5,792 restricted stock units) and 5,792 target performance stock units approved as long-term incentive awards on August 25, 2020, 762 restricted stock units (from an original award of 1,143 restricted stock units) and 1,143 target performance stock units approved as long-term incentive awards on April 22, 2021, and 7,300 restricted stock units and 7,300 target performance stock units approved as long-term incentive awards on August 27, 2021. The restricted stock units vest ratably over three years on September 15th each year following the year of grant. The performance stock units cliff-vest upon the later of September 15th following a three year-period, and the date of certification of achievement against pre-determined performance goals measured in the final year of the period ending June 30th of the applicable year. All vestings are subject to continued employment and the terms of Mr. DAmbrosios employment agreement. For more information on MSG Sports restricted stock units and performance stock units granted by The Madison Square Garden Company prior to the 2020 Entertainment Distribution, which are not reflected herein, see MSG Sports Definitive Proxy Statement, filed with the SEC on October 27, 2020. |
MSG Entertainment Option Exercises and Stock Vested
The table below shows MSG Entertainment restricted stock unit awards that vested during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022. No MSG Entertainment stock options were exercised in the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022.
Name |
Restricted Stock Units | |||||||
Number of Shares Acquired on Vesting |
Value Realized on Vesting(1) |
|||||||
James L. Dolan |
49,274 | $ | 3,967,050 | |||||
David F. Byrnes |
| | ||||||
Jamal H. Haughton |
| | ||||||
Philip G. DAmbrosio |
4,532 | $ | 364,871 | |||||
Courtney M. Zeppetella |
| |
(1) | Calculated using the closing price of MSG Entertainments Class A Common Stock on the NYSE on the vesting dates, September 15, 2021, November 1, 2021, November 16, 2021, and April 1, 2022, of $80.51, $73.94, $75.46, and $81.76 per share, respectively. |
156
MSG Entertainment Pension Benefits
The table below shows the present value of accumulated benefits payable to each NEO, including the number of years of service credited to the NEO, under MSG Entertainments defined benefit pension plans as of June 30, 2022 (which plans are being assigned to the Company in connection with the Distribution).
Name |
Plan Name(1) |
Number of Years of Credited Service (#) |
Present Value of Accumulated Benefit ($)(2) |
|||||||
James L. Dolan |
Cash Balance Pension Plan | | (3) | | ||||||
David F. Byrnes |
Cash Balance Pension Plan | | (4) | | ||||||
Jamal H. Haughton |
Cash Balance Pension Plan | | (4) | | ||||||
Philip G. DAmbrosio |
Cash Balance Pension Plan | | (4) | | ||||||
Courtney M. Zeppetella |
Cash Balance Pension Plan | | (4) | |
(1) | Accruals under the Cash Balance Pension Plan were frozen as of December 31, 2015. |
(2) | Additional information concerning Pension Plans and Postretirement Plan Assumptions is set forth in Note 16 to MSG Entertainments financial statements included in its 2022 Form 10-K. |
(3) | Mr. Dolan does not participate in the Cash Balance Pension Plan. |
(4) | Messrs. Byrnes, Haughton and DAmbrosio and Ms. Zeppetella commenced employment with MSG Entertainment after the Cash Balance Pension Plan was frozen and therefore are not eligible to participate. |
MSG Entertainment maintains several benefit plans for its executive officers. The material terms and conditions are discussed below.
Cash Balance Pension Plan
MSG Entertainment sponsors the Cash Balance Pension Plan, a tax-qualified defined benefit plan which was retained by MSG Entertainment in the 2020 Entertainment Distribution. The Cash Balance Pension Plan generally covers regular full-time and part-time non-union employees of MSG Entertainment and certain of its affiliates who have completed one year of service. The Cash Balance Pension Plan was frozen to future benefit accruals effective as of December 31, 2015 (though accrued benefits continue to earn interest credits). A notional account is maintained for each participant under the Cash Balance Pension Plan, which consists of (i) annual allocations made by MSG Entertainment as of the end of each year on behalf of each participant who has completed 800 hours of service during the year that range from 3% to 9% of the participants compensation, based on the participants age and (ii) monthly interest credits based on the average of the annual rate of interest on the 30-year U.S. Treasury Bonds for the months of September, October and November of the prior year. Compensation includes all direct cash compensation received while a participant as part of the participants primary compensation structure (excluding bonuses, fringe benefits, and other compensation that is not received on a regular basis), and before deductions for elective deferrals, subject to applicable IRS limits.
A participants interest in the Cash Balance Pension Plan is subject to vesting limitations for the first three years of employment. A participants account will also vest in full upon his or her termination due to death, disability or retirement after attaining age 65. Upon retirement or other termination of employment with MSG Entertainment, the participant may elect a distribution of the vested portion of the cash balance account. Any amounts remaining in the Cash Balance Pension Plan will continue to be credited with interest until the account is paid. The normal form of benefit payment for an unmarried participant is a single life annuity and the normal form of benefit payment for a married participant is a 50% joint and survivor annuity. The participant, with spousal consent if applicable, can waive the normal form and elect a single life annuity or a lump sum.
Madison Square Garden 401(k) Savings Plan
Under the Savings Plan, a tax-qualified retirement savings plan which was retained by MSG Entertainment after the 2020 Entertainment Distribution, participating employees, including MSG Entertainments executive
157
officers, may contribute into their plan accounts a percentage of their eligible pay on a pre-tax basis as well as a percentage of their eligible pay on an after-tax basis. MSG Entertainment provides a (a) fully-vested matching contribution equal to 100% of the first 4% of eligible pay contributed by participating employees and (b) discretionary non-elective fully-vested contribution by MSG Entertainment. The Savings Plan is a multiple-employer plan sponsored by MSG Entertainment, to which MSG Sports also contributes for its employees. Prior to the Networks Merger, MSG Networks also contributed for its employees.
Excess Savings Plan
The Excess Savings Plan, which was retained by MSG Entertainment following the 2020 Entertainment Distribution, is an unfunded, non-qualified deferred compensation plan that operates in conjunction with MSG Entertainments tax-qualified Savings Plan. An employee is eligible to participate in the Excess Savings Plan for a calendar year if his or her compensation (as defined in the Savings Plan) in the preceding year exceeded (or would have exceeded, if the employee had been employed for the entire year) the IRS limit on the amount of compensation that can be taken into account in determining contributions under tax-qualified retirement plans ($305,000 in calendar year 2022) and he or she makes an election to participate prior to the beginning of the year. An eligible employee whose contributions to the Savings Plan are limited as a result of this compensation limit or as a result of reaching the maximum 401(k) deferral limit ($20,500, or $27,000 if 50 or over, for calendar year 2022) can continue to make pre-tax contributions under the Excess Savings Plan of up to 4% of his or her eligible pay. In addition, MSG Entertainment provides a (a) fully-vested matching contribution equal to 100% of the first 4% of eligible pay contributed by participating employees and (b) discretionary non-elective fully-vested contribution by MSG Entertainment. Account balances under the Excess Savings Plan are credited monthly with the rate of return earned by the stable value fund offered as an investment alternative under the Savings Plan. Distributions of vested benefits are made in a lump sum as soon as practicable after the participants termination of employment with MSG Entertainment.
Our Retirement Benefits
Effective as of the Distribution, we will retain the assets and liabilities under the Cash Balance Pension Plan. Additionally, we will be added as a contributing employer of the Savings Plan following the Distribution.
After the Distribution, we will retain the Excess Savings Plan and liabilities for benefits under such plan relating to MSG Entertainments employees will be assumed by MSG Entertainment. The actuarial present values of the accumulated pension benefits of Messrs. Dolan, Byrnes, Haughton and DAmbrosio, who have participated in certain of these plans as of June 30, 2022, are reported in the MSG Entertainment Pension Benefits Table and MSG Entertainment Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Table herein.
MSG Entertainment Nonqualified Deferred Compensation
The table below shows (i) the contributions made by the Companys NEOs and MSG Entertainment during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022, (ii) aggregate earnings on the NEOs account balance during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022 and (iii) the account balance of the NEOs under the Excess Savings Plan as of June 30, 2022.
Name |
Plan Name | Executive Contributions in 2022 ($) (1) |
Registrant Contributions in 2022 ($) (2) |
Aggregate Earnings in 2022 ($) (3) |
Aggregate Withdrawals/ Distributions ($) |
Aggregate Balance at End of 2022 ($) |
||||||||||||||||||
James L. Dolan |
Excess Savings Plan | 64,046 | 86,709 | 8,865 | | 706,172 | ||||||||||||||||||
David F. Byrnes |
Excess Savings Plan | 108 | | | | 108 | ||||||||||||||||||
Jamal H. Haughton |
Excess Savings Plan | 8,108 | | 13 | | 8,121 | ||||||||||||||||||
Philip G. DAmbrosio |
Excess Savings Plan | 11,673 | 15,675 | 2,093 | | 159,361 | ||||||||||||||||||
Courtney M. Zeppetella |
Excess Savings Plan | | | | | |
158
(1) | These amounts represent a portion of the NEOs salaries and/or annual cash incentives, which are included in the numbers reported in the Salary or Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation columns, as applicable, of the Summary Compensation Table that the NEOs contributed to the Excess Savings Plan. |
(2) | These amounts are reported in the All Other Compensation column of the Summary Compensation Table. |
(3) | These amounts are not reported in the All Other Compensation column of the Summary Compensation Table. |
Termination and Severance
This section describes the payments that would have been received by the NEOs who were employed by MSG Entertainment as of June 30, 2022 (the last business day of MSG Entertainments 2022 fiscal year) upon various terminations of employment from MSG Entertainment scenarios. The information under Separation from MSG Entertainment assumes that each of the NEOs was employed by MSG Entertainment under his or her applicable employment agreement, and his or her employment terminated as of June 30, 2022. This information is presented to illustrate the payments the NEOs would have received from MSG Entertainment under the various termination scenarios. See Employment Agreements for a description of severance arrangements we have agreed to provide certain of our NEOs.
Separation from MSG Entertainment
Payments may be made to MSG Entertainments executive officers upon the termination of their employment with MSG Entertainment depending upon the circumstances of their termination, which include termination by MSG Entertainment without cause, termination by MSG Entertainment with cause, termination by the officer for good reason, other voluntary termination by the officer, retirement, death, disability, or termination following a change in control of MSG Entertainment or following a going-private transaction. Certain of these circumstances are addressed in the employment agreements between MSG Entertainment and each of its executive officers. In addition, MSG Entertainment award agreements for long-term incentives also address some of these circumstances. The Distribution will not constitute a change in control of MSG Entertainment for purposes of the employment agreements between MSG Entertainment and its executive officers or MSG Entertainments long-term incentive award agreements.
Award Agreement Terms in the Event of a Change in Control or Going Private Transaction
The award agreements governing the restricted stock units of MSG Entertainment provide that upon a change in control or going private transaction, the applicable NEO will be entitled to either (in the successor entitys discretion) (a) cash equal to the unvested restricted stock units multiplied by the per share price paid in the change in control or going private transaction, or (b) only if the successor entity is a publicly-traded company, a replacement restricted stock unit award from the successor entity with the same terms. Any such cash award as provided in clause (a) above would be payable, and any replacement restricted stock unit award as provided in clause (b) above would vest, upon the earliest of (x) the date the restricted stock units were originally scheduled to vest so long as the applicable NEO remains continuously employed, (y) a termination without cause or a resignation for good reason (as each term is defined in the applicable award agreement), or (z) only if the successor entity elects clause (b) above, upon a resignation without good reason that is at least six months, but no more than nine months, following the change in control or going private transaction.
The award agreements governing the performance restricted stock units of MSG Entertainment provide that upon a change in control or going private transaction, the unvested performance stock units will vest at the target level and be payable (i) upon a change in control, regardless of whether the applicable NEOs employment is terminated, or (ii) following a going private transaction if the applicable NEO is employed through July 1, 2022 (in the case of MSG Entertainment awards granted in respect of MSG Sports 2020 fiscal year awards), July 1, 2023 (in the case of fiscal year 2021 awards) or July 1, 2024 (in the case of 2022 fiscal year awards), or is
159
terminated without cause or resigns for good reason (as each term is defined in the applicable award agreement) prior to such applicable date.
The award agreements governing the stock options of MSG Entertainment provide that upon a change in control or going private transaction, the applicable NEO will be entitled to either (a) cash equal to the number of options multiplied by the excess of the per share price paid in the change in control or going private transaction over the exercise price, or (b) only if the successor entity is a publicly traded company, a replacement option award from the successor entity with the same terms. Any such cash award would be payable, or unvested options would vest, upon the earliest of (x) the date the options were originally scheduled to vest so long as the NEO remains continuously employed, (y) a termination without cause or a resignation for good reason within three years following the change in control or going private transaction, or (z) only if the successor entity elects clause (b) above, upon a resignation without good reason that is at least six months, but no more than nine months, following the change in control or going private transaction. Any stock options that have an exercise price greater than the per share price paid in the change in control or going private transaction may be cancelled for no consideration.
For purposes of the Termination and Severance Award Agreement Terms in the Event of a Change in Control or Going Private Transaction Benefits Payable as a Result of Termination of Employment by MSG Entertainment Without Cause or for Good Reason Following a Change in Control or Going-Private Transaction below, we have assumed that the applicable NEO has either been terminated without cause or resigned for good reason after the close of business on June 30, 2022.
Quantification of Termination and Severance Payable by MSG Entertainment
The following tables set forth a quantification of estimated severance and other benefits payable by MSG Entertainment to the NEOs under various circumstances regarding the termination of their employment. In calculating these amounts, the following was taken into consideration or otherwise assumed:
| Termination of employment from MSG Entertainment occurred after the close of business on June 30, 2022. |
| Equity awards (other than stock options) were valued using the closing market price of MSG Entertainments Class A Common Stock of $52.62 and MSG Sports Class A common stock of $151.00 on the NYSE on June 30, 2022. |
| Stock options were valued at their intrinsic value equal to the closing market price of MSG Entertainments Class A Common Stock of $52.62 and MSG Sports Class A common stock of $151.00 on the NYSE on June 30, 2022, less the per share exercise price, multiplied by the number of MSG Entertainment shares underlying the stock options. |
| We have assumed that the per share price paid in a change in control or going private transaction is equal to the closing market price of MSG Entertainments Class A Common Stock of $52.62 and MSG Sports Class A common stock of $151.00 on the NYSE on June 30, 2022. |
| In the event of termination of employment from MSG Entertainment, the payment of certain long-term incentive awards and other amounts may be delayed, depending upon the terms of each specific MSG Entertainment award agreement, the provisions of the applicable NEOs employment agreement with MSG Entertainment and the applicability of Code Section 409A. In quantifying aggregate termination payments, the timing of the payments was not taken into account and the value of payments that would be made over time was not discounted, except where otherwise disclosed. |
| It was assumed that all MSG Entertainment performance objectives for performance-based awards are achieved (but not exceeded). |
| With respect to Mr. Dolan, it was assumed that on June 30, 2022 he is either simultaneously terminated from both MSG Sports and MSG Entertainment, or has no continued employment relationship with MSG Sports. |
160
Benefits Payable as a Result of Voluntary Termination of Employment from MSG Entertainment by NEO, Termination of Employment by NEO Due to Retirement, or Termination of Employment by MSG Entertainment for Cause
In the event of a voluntary termination of employment from MSG Entertainment, a retirement from MSG Entertainment, or event of termination by MSG Entertainment for cause, no NEO would have been entitled to any payments at June 30, 2022, excluding any pension or other vested retirement benefits.
Benefits Payable as a Result of Termination of Employment by MSG Entertainment Without Cause or Termination of Employment by NEO for Good Reason*
Elements |
James L. Dolan |
David F. Byrnes |
Jamal H. Haughton |
Philip G. DAmbrosio |
Courtney M. Zeppetella |
|||||||||||||||
Severance |
$ | 12,000,000 | (1) | $ | 3,200,000 | (1) | $ | 4,400,000 | (1) | $ | 1,190,000 | (2) | $ | 825,000 | (2) | |||||
Pro rata bonus |
$ | 5,566,000 | (3) | $ | 1,113,200 | (3) | $ | 1,530,650 | (3) | $ | 809,665 | (3) | | (3) | ||||||
Unvested restricted stock |
$ | 9,091,421 | (4) | $ | 390,177 | (4) | $ | 422,696 | (4) | | | |||||||||
Unvested performance stock |
$ | 7,368,063 | (5) | $ | 390,177 | (5) | $ | 422,696 | (5) | | | |||||||||
Unvested time-based stock options |
| (6) | | | | |
* | The amounts in this table do not include any pension or other vested retirement benefits. |
(1) | Represents severance equal to two times the sum of his annual base salary and annual target bonus. |
(2) | Represents severance equal to the sum of his or her annual base salary and annual target bonus. |
(3) | Represents a pro rata annual bonus for the year in which the termination occurred, payable to the same extent as annual bonuses are paid to MSG Entertainments other named executive officers under MSG Entertainments program without regard to personal performance objectives. Due to the timing of Ms. Zeppetellas commencement of employment with MSG Entertainment, she was not eligible for an annual bonus for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022. |
(4) | Represents the full vesting of the restricted stock units issued in April 2020 in respect of outstanding MSG Sports restricted stock unit awards granted by The Madison Square Garden Company prior to the 2020 Entertainment Distribution, the 2021 fiscal year grants of restricted stock units, the restricted stock units issued in July 2021 in respect of outstanding MSG Networks restricted stock unit and performance stock unit awards held at the time of the Networks Merger, and the 2022 fiscal year grants of restricted stock units, as applicable, which are: Mr. Dolan, 5,399 units ($284,095), 26,061 units ($1,371,330), 56,579 units ($2,977,187) and 84,736 units ($4,458,808), respectively; Mr. Byrnes, 7,415 units ($390,177) (2022 fiscal year only); and Mr. Haughton, 8,033 units ($422,696) (2022 fiscal year only). In addition to the amounts included in the table above, Mr. Dolan would also fully vest in his outstanding MSG Sports restricted stock units, which are: 5,399 MSG Sports units ($815,249). |
(5) | Represents the full vesting at target of the performance stock units issued in April 2020 in respect of outstanding MSG Sports performance stock unit awards granted by The Madison Square Garden Company prior to the 2020 Entertainment Distribution, and the 2021 and 2022 fiscal year grants of performance stock units, as applicable, which are: Mr. Dolan, 16,197 units ($852,286), 39,091 units ($2,056,968), and 84,736 units ($4,458,808), respectively; Mr. Byrnes 7,415 units ($390,177) (2022 fiscal year only); and Mr. Haughton 8,033 units ($422,696) (2022 fiscal year only). In addition to the amounts included in the table above, Mr. Dolan would also fully vest in his outstanding MSG Sports performance stock units, which are (at target): 16,197 MSG Sports units ($2,445,747). |
(6) | Represents the full vesting of the stock options issued in July 2021 in respect of outstanding MSG Networks time-based and performance-based options granted to Mr. Dolan by MSG Networks as long-term incentive awards in August 2019, but such options have no value because each award had an exercise price greater than the closing market price of a share of MSG Entertainments Class A Common Stock on June 30, 2022. |
161
Benefits Payable as a Result of Termination of Employment from MSG Entertainment Due to Death or Disability*
Elements |
James L. Dolan |
David F. Byrnes |
Jamal H. Haughton |
Philip G. DAmbrosio |
Courtney M. Zeppetella |
|||||||||||||||
Severance |
| | | | | |||||||||||||||
Pro rata bonus |
$ | 5,566,000 | (1) | $ | 1,113,200 | (1) | $ | 1,530,650 | (1) | | | |||||||||
Unvested restricted stock |
$ | 9,091,420 | (2) | $ | 390,177 | (2) | $ | 422,696 | (2) | $ | 652,698 | (2) | | (2) | ||||||
Unvested performance stock |
$ | 7,368,063 | (3) | $ | 390,177 | (3) | $ | 422,696 | (3) | $ | 824,819 | (3) | | (3) | ||||||
Unvested time-based stock options |
| (4) | | | | |
* | The amounts in this table do not include any pension or other vested retirement benefits. |
(1) | Represents a pro rata annual bonus for the year in which the termination occurred, payable to the same extent as annual bonuses are paid to MSG Entertainments other named executive officers under MSG Entertainments program but without regard to personal performance objectives. |
(2) | Represents the full vesting of the restricted stock units issued in April 2020 in respect of outstanding MSG Sports restricted stock unit awards granted by The Madison Square Garden Company prior to the 2020 Entertainment Distribution, the 2021 fiscal year grants of restricted stock units, the restricted stock units issued in July 2021 in respect of outstanding MSG Networks restricted stock unit and performance stock unit awards held at the time of the Networks Merger, and the 2022 fiscal year grants of restricted stock units, as applicable, which are: Mr. Dolan, 5,399 units ($284,095), 26,061 units ($1,371,330), 56,579 units ($2,977,187) and 84,736 units ($4,458,808), respectively; Mr. Byrnes, 7,415 units ($390,177) (2022 fiscal year only); Mr. Haughton, 8,033 units ($422,696) (2022 fiscal year only); and Mr. DAmbrosio, 480 units ($25,258), 4,624 units ($243,315), and 7,300 units ($384,126), respectively (no Networks Merger units). Ms. Zeppetella did not have any equity awards outstanding as of June 30, 2022, but would otherwise be entitled to the full vesting of any unvested restricted stock units. In addition to the amounts included in the table above, Messrs. Dolan and DAmbrosio would also fully vest in their outstanding MSG Sports restricted stock units, which are: Mr. Dolan, 5,399 MSG Sports units ($815,249); and Mr. DAmbrosio, 480 MSG Sports units ($72,480). |
(3) | Represents the full vesting at target of the performance stock units issued in April 2020 in respect of outstanding MSG Sports performance stock unit awards granted by The Madison Square Garden Company prior to the 2020 Entertainment Distribution, and the 2021 and 2022 fiscal year grants of performance stock units, as applicable, which are: Mr. Dolan, 16,197 units ($852,286), 39,091 units ($2,056,968) and 84,736 units ($4,458,808), respectively; Mr. Byrnes, 7,415 units ($390,177) (2022 fiscal year only); Mr. Haughton, 8,033 units ($422,696) (2022 fiscal year only); and Mr. DAmbrosio, 1,440 units ($75,773), 6,935 units ($364,920) and 7,300 units ($384,126). Ms. Zeppetella did not have any equity awards outstanding as of June 30, 2022, but would otherwise be entitled to the full vesting of any unvested performance stock units. In addition to the amounts included in the table above, Messrs. Dolan and DAmbrosio would also fully vest in their outstanding MSG Sports performance stock units, which are (at target): Mr. Dolan, 16,197 MSG Sports units ($2,445,747); and Mr. DAmbrosio, 1,440 MSG Sports Units ($217,440). |
(4) | Represents the full vesting of the stock options issued in July 2021 in respect of outstanding MSG Networks time-based and performance-based options granted to Mr. Dolan by MSG Networks as long-term incentive awards in August 2019, but such options have no value because each award had an exercise price greater than the closing market price of a share of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock on June 30, 2022. |
(5) | With respect to Mr. DAmbrosio and Ms. Zeppetella, a termination by MSG Entertainment due to disability would be treated under their employment agreements as a termination by MSG Entertainment without cause and, therefore, Mr. DAmbrosio and Ms. Zeppetella would be entitled to the amounts reflected in the table above, as well as those reflected in the Benefits Payable as a Result of Termination of Employment by MSG Entertainment Without Cause or Termination of Employment by NEO for Good Reason table. |
162
Benefits Payable as a Result of Termination of Employment from MSG Entertainment Without Cause or for Good Reason Following a Change in Control or Going-Private Transaction (1)(2)*
Elements |
James L. Dolan |
David F. Byrnes |
Jamal H. Haughton |
Philip G. DAmbrosio |
Courtney M. Zeppetella |
|||||||||||||||
Severance |
$ | 12,000,000 | (3) | $ | 3,200,000 | (3) | $ | 4,400,000 | (3) | $ | 1,190,000 | (4) | $ | 825,000 | (4) | |||||
Pro rata bonus |
$ | 5,566,000 | (5) | $ | 1,113,200 | (5) | $ | 1,530,650 | (5) | $ | 809,665 | (5) | | (5) | ||||||
Unvested restricted stock |
$ | 9,091,421 | (6) | $ | 390,177 | (6) | $ | 422,696 | (6) | $ | 652,698 | (6) | | (6) | ||||||
Unvested performance stock |
$ | 7,368,063 | (7) | $ | 390,177 | (7) | $ | 422,696 | (7) | $ | 824,819 | (7) | | (7) | ||||||
Unvested time-based stock options |
| (8) | | | | |
* | The amounts in this table do not include any pension or other vested retirement benefits. |
(1) | The information in this table and the footnotes hereto describe amounts payable as a result of certain terminations of employment by the NEO or MSG Entertainment following a change in control. The amounts payable as a result of termination of employment by the NEO or MSG Entertainment following a going private transaction are generally equal to or less than the amounts payable as a result of termination of employment by the NEO or MSG Entertainment following a change in control. Notwithstanding the amounts set forth in this table, if any payment otherwise due to any of the NEOs would result in the imposition of an excise tax under Code Section 4999, then MSG Entertainment would instead pay to the applicable NEO either (a) the amounts set forth in this table, or (b) the maximum amount that could be paid to such NEO without the imposition of the excise tax, whichever results in a greater amount of after-tax proceeds to such NEO. |
(2) | As noted in Termination and Severance Award Agreement Terms in the Event of a Change in Control or Going Private Transaction above, the amounts in this table assume that the applicable NEO has either been terminated without cause or resigned for good reason following such a change in control or going private transaction. The award agreements applicable to stock awards held by the NEOs dictate the terms of the vesting of those awards and any severance or bonus reflected in this table is provided as a result of the terms of the applicable NEOs employment agreement and its terms related to termination without cause or resigned for good reason, and such severance is not enhanced by the change of control or going private transaction. For additional information, see Termination and Severance Award Agreement Terms in the Event of a Change in Control or Going Private Transaction above. |
(3) | Represents severance equal to two times the sum of his annual base salary and annual target bonus. |
(4) | Represents severance equal to the sum of his or her annual base salary and annual target bonus. |
(5) | Represents a pro rata annual bonus for the year in which the termination occurred, payable to the same extent as annual bonuses are paid to MSG Entertainments other named executive officers under MSG Entertainments program without regard to personal performance objectives. Due to the timing of Ms. Zeppetellas commencement of employment with MSG Entertainment, she was not eligible for an annual bonus for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022. |
(6) | Represents the full vesting of the restricted stock units issued in April 2020 in respect of outstanding MSG Sports restricted stock unit awards granted by The Madison Square Garden Company prior to the 2020 Entertainment Distribution, the 2021 fiscal year grants of restricted stock units, the restricted stock units issued in July 2021 in respect of outstanding MSG Networks restricted stock unit and performance stock unit awards held at the time of the Networks Merger, and the 2022 fiscal year grants of restricted stock units, as applicable, which are: Mr. Dolan, 5,399 units ($284,095), 26,061 units ($1,371,330), 56,579 units ($2,977,187) and 84,736 units ($4,458,808), respectively; Mr. Byrnes, 7,415 units ($390,177) (2022 fiscal year only); Mr. Haughton, 8,033 units ($422,696) (2022 fiscal year only); and Mr. DAmbrosio, 480 units ($25,258), 4,624 units ($243,315), and 7,300 units ($384,126), respectively (no Networks Merger units). Ms. Zeppetella did not have any equity awards outstanding as of June 30, 2022, but would otherwise be entitled to the full vesting of any unvested restricted stock units. In addition to the amounts included in the table above, Messrs. Dolan and DAmbrosio would also fully vest in their outstanding MSG Sports restricted stock units, which are: Mr. Dolan, 5,399 MSG Sports units ($815,249); and Mr. DAmbrosio, 480 MSG Sports units ($72,480). |
163
(7) | Represents the full vesting at target of the performance stock units issued in April 2020 in respect of outstanding MSG Sports performance stock unit awards granted by The Madison Square Garden Company prior to the 2020 Entertainment Distribution, and the 2021 and 2022 fiscal year grants of performance stock units, as applicable, which are: Mr. Dolan, 16,197 units ($852,286), 39,091 units ($2,056,968) and 84,736 units ($4,458,808), respectively; Mr. Byrnes, 7,415 units ($390,177) (2022 fiscal year only); Mr. Haughton, 8,033 units ($422,696) (2022 fiscal year only); and Mr. DAmbrosio, 1,440 units ($75,773), 6,935 units ($364,920) and 7,300 units ($384,126). Ms. Zeppetella did not have any equity awards outstanding as of June 30, 2022, but would otherwise be entitled to the full vesting of any unvested performance stock units. In addition to the amounts included in the table above, Messrs. Dolan and DAmbrosio would also fully vest in their outstanding MSG Sports performance stock units, which are (at target): Mr. Dolan, 16,197 MSG Sports units ($2,445,747); and Mr. DAmbrosio, 1,440 MSG Sports units ($217,440). |
(8) | Represents the full vesting of the stock options issued in July 2021 in respect of outstanding MSG Networks time-based and performance-based options granted to Mr. Dolan by MSG Networks as long-term incentive awards in August 2019, but such options have no value because each award had an exercise price greater than the closing market price of a share of MSG Entertainments Class A Common Stock on June 30, 2022. |
Our Equity Compensation Plan Information
We plan to adopt an Employee Stock Plan (the Employee Stock Plan) and a Director Stock Plan, which are discussed below.
Our Employee Stock Plan
Prior to the Distribution, we expect to adopt an Employee Stock Plan, subject to the approval of MSG Entertainment as our sole shareholder at such time. A form of the Employee Stock Plan is filed as an exhibit to the registration statement, of which this information statement forms a part, that we have filed with the SEC, and the following description of the Employee Stock Plan is qualified in its entirety by reference to the Employee Stock Plan.
Overview
The purpose of the Employee Stock Plan will be to (i) compensate employees and eligible service providers of the Company and its affiliates who are responsible for the management and growth of the business of the Company and its affiliates, and (ii) advance the interest of the Company by encouraging and enabling the acquisition of a personal proprietary interest in the Company by employees and such service providers upon whose judgment and keen interest the Company and its affiliates are largely dependent for the successful conduct of their operations. It is anticipated that the acquisition of such a proprietary interest in the Company will stimulate the efforts of these employees and such service providers on behalf of the Company and its affiliates, and strengthen their desire to remain with the Company and its affiliates. It is also expected that the opportunity to acquire such a proprietary interest will enable the Company and its affiliates to attract and retain desirable personnel and will better align the interests of participating employees and service providers with those of the Companys stockholders. The Employee Stock Plan will provide for grants of incentive stock options (as defined in Section 422 of the Code), non-qualified stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted shares, restricted stock units and other equity-based awards (collectively, Awards). The Employee Stock Plan is expected to terminate, and no more Awards will be granted, after the ten year anniversary of the Distribution (unless sooner terminated by our Board or our Compensation Committee). The termination of the Employee Stock Plan will not affect previously granted Awards.
Shares Subject to the Employee Stock Plan; Other Limitations
The Employee Stock Plan will be administered by the Companys Compensation Committee. Awards may be granted under the Employee Stock Plan to such employees and other eligible service providers of the Company and its affiliates as the Compensation Committee may determine. An affiliate will be defined in the Employee Stock Plan to
164
mean any entity controlling, controlled by, or under common control with the Company or any other affiliate and will also include any entity in which the Company owns at least five percent of the outstanding equity interests. It is expected that the total number of shares of the Companys Class A Common Stock that may be issued pursuant to Awards under the Employee Stock Plan may not exceed an aggregate of 11,000,000, which may be either treasury shares or authorized and unissued shares. To the extent that (i) an Award is paid, settled or exchanged or expires, lapses, terminates or is cancelled for any reason without the issuance of shares, (ii) any shares under an Award are not issued because of payment or withholding obligations or (iii) restricted shares revert back to the Company prior to the lapse of the restrictions or are applied by the Company for purposes of tax withholding obligations, then it is expected that the Compensation Committee will also be able to grant Awards with respect to such shares or restricted shares. Awards payable only in cash or property other than shares will not reduce the aggregate remaining number of shares with respect to which Awards may be made under the Employee Stock Plan and shares relating to any other Awards that are settled in cash or property other than shares, when settled, will be added back to the aggregate remaining number of shares with respect to which Awards may be made under the Employee Stock Plan. Any shares underlying Awards that the Company becomes obligated to make through the assumption of, or in substitution for, outstanding awards previously granted by an acquired entity will not count against the shares available to be delivered pursuant to Awards under the Employee Stock Plan. No single individual may be issued Awards during any one calendar year for, or that relate to, a number of shares exceeding 750,000. In the event that any dividend or other distribution (whether in the form of cash, shares, other securities, or other property), recapitalization, forward or reverse stock split, reorganization, merger, consolidation, spin-off, combination, repurchase, share exchange, liquidation, dissolution or other similar corporate transaction or event affects shares such that the failure to make an adjustment to an Award would not appropriately protect the rights represented by the Award in accordance with the essential intent and principles thereof (each such event, an Adjustment Event), then it is expected that the Compensation Committee will, in such manner as it may determine to be equitable in its sole discretion, adjust any or all of the terms of an outstanding Award (including, without limitation, the number of shares covered by such outstanding Award, the type of property to which the Award is subject and the exercise price of such Award).
Awards
It is expected that all employees and other service providers of the Company and its affiliates who are eligible under General Instruction A.1(a) to Form S-8, excluding any member of the Board who is not a current employee of the Company or its subsidiaries, will be eligible to receive Awards under the Employee Stock Plan. Under the Employee Stock Plan, the Company will be able to grant options and stock appreciation rights, which will be exercisable at a price determined by the Compensation Committee on the date of the Award grant, which price will be no less than the fair market value of a share of the Companys Class A Common Stock on the date the option or stock appreciation right is granted. Other than in the case of the death of a participant, such options and stock appreciation rights may be exercised for a term fixed by the Compensation Committee but no longer than ten years from the date of grant. An award agreement may provide that, in the event the participant dies while the option or stock appreciation right is outstanding, the option or stock appreciation right will remain outstanding until the first anniversary of the participants death, whether or not such first anniversary occurs after such ten-year period. Upon its exercise, a stock appreciation right will be settled (and an option may be settled, in the Compensation Committees discretion) for an amount equal to the excess of the fair market value of a share of the Companys Class A Common Stock on the date of exercise over the exercise price of the stock appreciation right (or option). The Employee Stock Plan will prohibit (1) repricing options and stock appreciation rights (other than in connection with Adjustment Events), (2) repurchasing options or stock appreciation rights for cash when the exercise price equals or exceeds the fair market value of a share of the Companys Class A Common Stock or (3) option or stock appreciation right automatic reload provisions, in each case without the approval of the Companys stockholders.
It is expected that the Employee Stock Plan will also permit the Company to grant restricted shares and restricted stock units. A restricted share is a share of the Companys Class A Common Stock that is registered in the participants name, but that is subject to certain transfer and/or forfeiture restrictions for a period of time as specified in the applicable award agreement. The participant of a restricted share will have the rights of a
165
stockholder, subject to any restrictions and conditions specified by the Compensation Committee in the participants award agreement. Notwithstanding the previous sentence, unless the Compensation Committee determines otherwise, all ordinary cash dividends paid upon any restricted share prior to its vesting will be retained by the Company for the account of the relevant participant and upon vesting will be paid to the relevant participant.
A restricted stock unit is an unfunded, unsecured right to receive a share of the Companys Class A Common Stock (or cash or other property) at a future date upon the satisfaction of the conditions specified by the Compensation Committee in the award agreement. Unless otherwise provided by the Compensation Committee, a restricted stock unit will also carry a dividend equivalent right representing an unfunded and unsecured promise to pay to the relevant participant, upon the vesting of the restricted stock unit, an amount equal to the ordinary cash dividends that would have been paid upon any share underlying a restricted stock unit had such shares been issued.
The Compensation Committee is also expected to be able to grant other equity-based or equity-related awards to participants subject to terms and conditions it may specify. These awards may entail the transfer of shares or payment in cash based on the value of shares.
It is expected that under the Employee Stock Plan, the Compensation Committee will have the authority, in its discretion, to add performance criteria as a condition to any participants ability to exercise a stock option or stock appreciation right, or the vesting or payment of any restricted shares or restricted stock units, granted under the Employee Stock Plan. Additionally, the Employee Stock Plan will specify certain performance criteria that may, in the case of certain executive officers of the Company, be conditions precedent to the vesting of awards granted to such executives under the Employee Stock Plan.
Amendment; Termination
It is expected that the Board or the Compensation Committee may discontinue the Employee Stock Plan at any time and from time to time may amend or revise the terms of the Employee Stock Plan or any award agreement, as permitted by applicable law, except that it may not (a) make any amendment or revision in a manner unfavorable to a participant (other than if immaterial), without the consent of the participant or (b) make any amendment or revision without the approval of the stockholders of the Company if such approval is required by the rules of the stock exchange on which the Companys shares are listed. The consent of the participant will not be required solely pursuant to the previous sentence in respect of any adjustment made in light of an Adjustment Event, except to the extent the terms of an award agreement expressly refer to an Adjustment Event, in which case such terms will not be amended in a manner unfavorable to a participant (other than if immaterial) without such participants consent.
U.S. Federal Tax Implications of Certain Awards Under the Plan
The following summary generally describes the principal Federal (but not state and local) income tax consequences of certain awards that are expected to be permitted under the Employee Stock Plan. It is general in nature and is not intended to cover all tax consequences that may apply to a particular participant or the Company. The provisions of the Code and the regulations thereunder relating to these matters are complex and their impact in any one case may depend upon the particular circumstances.
Incentive Stock Options
A participant will not be subject to tax upon the grant of an incentive stock option (an ISO) or upon the exercise of an ISO. However, the excess of the fair market value of the shares on the date of exercise over the exercise price paid will be included in the participants alternative minimum taxable income. Whether the participant is subject to the alternative minimum tax will depend on his or her particular circumstances. The
166
participants basis in the shares received will be equal to the exercise price paid, and the holding period in such shares will begin on the day following the date of exercise. If a participant disposes of the shares on or after (i) the second anniversary of the date of grant of the ISO and (ii) the first anniversary of the date of exercise of the ISO (the statutory holding period), the participant will recognize a capital gain or loss in an amount equal to the difference between the amount realized on such disposition and his or her basis in the shares.
Nonstatutory Stock Options
For the grant of an option that is not intended to be (or does not qualify as) an ISO, a participant will not be subject to tax upon the grant of such an option (a nonstatutory stock option). Upon exercise of a nonstatutory stock option, an amount equal to the excess of the fair market value of the shares acquired on the date of exercise over the exercise price paid is taxable to a participant as ordinary income, and such amount is generally deductible by the Company. This amount of income will be subject to income tax withholding and employment taxes. A participants basis in the shares received will equal the fair market value of the shares on the date of exercise, and a participants holding period in such shares will begin on the day following the date of exercise.
Restricted Stock
A participant will not be subject to tax upon receipt of an award of shares subject to forfeiture conditions and transfer restrictions (the restrictions) under the Employee Stock Plan unless the participant makes the election referred to below. Upon lapse of the restrictions, a participant will recognize ordinary income equal to the fair market value of the shares on the date of lapse (less any amount the participant may have paid for the shares), and such income will be subject to income tax withholding and employment taxes. A participants basis in the shares received will be equal to the fair market value of the shares on the date the restrictions lapse, and a participants holding period in such shares begins on the day after the restrictions lapse. If any dividends are paid on such shares prior to the lapse of the restrictions they will be includible in a participants income during the restricted period as additional compensation (and not as dividend income) and will be subject to income tax withholding and employment taxes.
If permitted by the applicable award agreement, a participant may elect, within thirty days after the date of the grant of the restricted stock, to recognize immediately (as ordinary income) the fair market value of the shares awarded (less any amount a participant may have paid for the shares), determined on the date of grant (without regard to the restrictions). Such income will be subject to income tax withholding and employment taxes at such time. This election is made pursuant to Section 83(b) of the Code and the regulations thereunder. If a participant makes this election, the participants holding period will begin the day after the date of grant, dividends paid on the shares will be subject to the normal rules regarding distributions on stock, and no additional income will be recognized by the participant upon the lapse of the restrictions. However, if the participant forfeits the restricted shares before the restrictions lapse, no deduction or capital loss will be available to the participant (even though the participant previously recognized income with respect to such forfeited shares).
In the taxable year in which a participant recognizes ordinary income on account of shares awarded to the participant, the Company generally will be entitled to a deduction equal to the amount of income recognized by the participant. In the event that the restricted shares are forfeited by the participant after having made the Section 83(b) election referred to above, the Company generally will include in our income the amount of our original deduction.
Stock Appreciation Rights
A participant will not be subject to tax upon the grant of a stock appreciation right. Upon exercise of a stock appreciation right, an amount equal to the cash and/or the fair market value (measured on the date of exercise) of shares receivable by the participant in respect of a stock appreciation right will be taxable to the participant as
167
ordinary income, and such amount generally will be deductible by the Company. This amount of income will be subject to income tax withholding and employment taxes. A participants basis in any shares received will be equal to the fair market value of such shares on the date of exercise, and a participants holding period in such shares will begin on the day following the date of exercise.
Restricted Stock Units
A participant will not be subject to tax upon the grant of a restricted stock unit. Upon vesting of a restricted stock unit, the fair market value of the shares covered by the award on the vesting date will be subject to employment taxes. Upon distribution of the shares and/or cash underlying a restricted stock unit, a participant will recognize as ordinary income an amount equal to the cash and/or fair market value (measured on the Distribution date) of the shares received, and such amount will generally be deductible by the Company. This amount of income will generally be subject to income tax withholding on the date of distribution. A participants basis in any shares received will be equal to the fair market value of the shares on the date of distribution, and a participants holding period in such shares will begin on the date of distribution. If any dividend equivalent amounts are paid to a participant, they will be includible in the participants income as additional compensation (and not as dividend income) and will be subject to income and employment tax withholding.
Disposition of Shares
Unless stated otherwise above, upon the subsequent disposition of shares acquired under any of the preceding awards, a participant will recognize capital gain or loss based upon the difference between the amount realized on such disposition and the participants basis in the shares, and such amount will be long-term capital gain or loss if such shares were held for more than 12 months.
Our Stock Plan for Non-Employee Directors
Prior to the Distribution, we expect to adopt the Director Stock Plan, subject to the approval of MSG Entertainment as our sole shareholder at such time. A form of the Director Stock Plan is filed as an exhibit to the registration statement, of which this information statement forms a part, that we have filed with the SEC, and the following description of the Director Stock Plan is qualified in its entirety by reference to the Director Stock Plan.
Overview
We believe that the Companys ability to attract and retain capable persons as non-employee directors will be enhanced if it can provide its non-employee directors with equity-based awards and that the Company will benefit from encouraging a sense of proprietorship of such persons stimulating the active interest of such persons in the development and financial success of the Company. The Director Stock Plan will provide for potential grants of non-qualified stock options, restricted stock units, restricted shares and other equity-based awards (collectively, Director Awards) to our non-employee directors. The Director Stock Plan is expected to terminate, and no more Director Awards will be granted, after the ten year anniversary of the Distribution (unless sooner terminated by our Board or our Compensation Committee). The termination of the Director Stock Plan will not affect previously granted Director Awards.
Shares Subject to the Director Stock Plan; Other Limitations
The Director Stock Plan will be administered by the Companys Compensation Committee. The total number of shares of the Companys Class A Common Stock that may be issued pursuant to Director Awards under the Director Stock Plan may not exceed an aggregate of 750,000 shares, which may be either treasury shares or authorized and unissued shares. To the extent that (i) a Director Award is paid, settled or exchanged or expires, lapses, terminates or is cancelled for any reason without the issuance of shares or (ii) any shares under a Director Award are not issued because of payment or withholding obligations, then it is expected that the
168
Compensation Committee will also be able to grant Director Awards with respect to such shares. Director Awards payable only in cash or property other than shares will not reduce the aggregate remaining number of shares with respect to which Director Awards may be made under the Director Stock Plan and shares relating to any other Director Awards that are settled in cash or property other than shares, when settled, will be added back to the aggregate remaining number of shares with respect to which Director Awards may be made under the Director Stock Plan. Any shares underlying Director Awards that the Company becomes obligated to make through the assumption of, or in substitution for, outstanding awards previously granted by an acquired entity will not count against the shares available to be delivered pursuant to Director Awards under the Director Stock Plan. In the event that any Adjustment Event affects shares such that the failure to make an adjustment to a Director Award would not appropriately protect the rights represented by the Director Award in accordance with the essential intent and principles thereof, then it is expected that the Compensation Committee will, in such manner as it may determine to be equitable in its sole discretion, be able to adjust any or all of the terms of an outstanding Director Award (including, without limitation, the number of shares covered by such outstanding Director Award, the type of property to which the Director Award is subject and the exercise price of such Director Award).
Director Awards
It is expected that under the Director Stock Plan, the Company will be able to grant stock options to participants. The options will be exercisable at a price determined by the Compensation Committee on the date of the Director Award grant, which price will be no less than the fair market value of a share of the Companys Class A Common Stock on the date the option is granted, and will otherwise be subject to such terms and conditions as specified by the Compensation Committee, provided that, unless determined otherwise by the Compensation Committee, such options will be fully vested and exercisable on the date of grant. Each option granted pursuant to the Director Stock Plan will terminate upon the earlier to occur of (i) the expiration of ten years following the date upon which the option is granted and (ii) a period fixed by the Compensation Committee in the award agreement; however, an award agreement may provide that in the event that a participant dies while an option is exercisable, the option will remain exercisable by the participants estate or beneficiary only until the first anniversary of the participants date of death and whether or not such first anniversary occurs prior to or following the expiration of the relevant period referred to above. It is expected that upon its exercise, an option may be settled, in the Compensation Committees discretion, for a cash amount equal to the excess of the fair market value of a share of the Companys Class A Common Stock on the date of exercise over the exercise price of the option. The Director Stock Plan will prohibit (1) repricing options and stock appreciation rights (other than in connection with Adjustment Events), (2) repurchasing options or stock appreciation rights for cash when the exercise price equals or exceeds the fair market value of a share of the Companys Class A Common Stock or (3) option or stock appreciation right automatic reload provisions, in each case without the approval of the Companys stockholders.
The Company is also expected to be able to grant restricted stock units to participants. A restricted stock unit is an unfunded, unsecured right to receive a share of the Companys Class A Common Stock (or cash or other property) at a future date upon the satisfaction of the conditions specified by the Compensation Committee in the award agreement. Unless otherwise provided by the Compensation Committee, such restricted stock units will be fully vested on the date of grant and will also carry a dividend equivalent right representing an unfunded and unsecured promise to pay to the relevant participant an amount equal to the ordinary cash dividends that would have been paid upon any share underlying a restricted stock unit had such shares been issued. If a restricted stock unit is not fully vested at the date of grant, the dividend equivalent right will not apply until such restricted stock unit is vested.
It is expected that the Compensation Committee will be permitted to grant other equity-based or equity-related awards (including, without limitation, restricted shares, unrestricted shares and share appreciation awards) to non-employee directors subject to terms and conditions it may specify. These awards may entail the transfer of shares or payment in cash based on the value of shares.
169
Amendment; Termination
It is expected that the Board or the Compensation Committee may discontinue the Director Stock Plan at any time and from time to time may amend or revise the terms of the Director Stock Plan or any award agreement, as permitted by applicable law, except that it may not (a) make any amendment or revision in a manner unfavorable to a participant (other than if immaterial), without the consent of the participant or (b) make any amendment or revision without the approval of the stockholders of the Company if such approval is required by the rules of the stock exchange on which the Companys shares are listed. Consent of the participant will not be required solely pursuant to the previous sentence in respect of any adjustment made in light of a Director Stock Plan Adjustment Event, except to the extent the terms of an award agreement expressly refer to a Director Stock Plan Adjustment Event, in which case such terms will not be amended in a manner unfavorable to a participant (other than if immaterial) without such participants consent.
U.S. Federal Tax Implications of Options and Restricted Stock Units Under the Director Stock Plan
The following summary generally describes the principal Federal (but not state and local) income tax consequences of the issuance and exercise of options and restricted stock units that it is expected would be permitted under the Director Stock Plan. It is general in nature and is not intended to cover all tax consequences that may apply to a particular participant or the Company. The provisions of the Code and the regulations thereunder relating to these matters are complex and subject to change and their impact in any one case may depend upon the particular circumstances.
A non-employee director will not realize any income, and the Company will not be entitled to a deduction, at the time that a stock option is granted under the Director Stock Plan. Upon exercising an option, a non-employee director will realize ordinary income (not as capital gain), and the Company will be entitled to a corresponding deduction, in an amount equal to the fair market value on the exercise date of the shares subject to the option over the exercise price of the option. The non-employee director will have a basis in the shares received as a result of the exercise, for purposes of computing capital gain or loss, equal to the fair market value of those shares on the exercise date and the non-employee directors holding period in the shares received will commence on the day after the date of exercise. If an option is settled by the Company in cash, shares or a combination thereof, the non-employee directors will recognize ordinary income at the time of settlement equal to the fair market value of such cash, shares or combination thereof, and the Company will be entitled to a corresponding deduction.
A non-employee director will not realize any income, and the Company will not be entitled to a deduction, at the time that a restricted stock unit is granted under the Director Stock Plan or at the time that a restricted stock unit vests. Upon payment or settlement of a restricted stock unit award in our Class A Common Stock or cash, the non-employee director will recognize ordinary income, and the Company will be entitled to a corresponding deduction, equal to the fair market value of any Class A Common Stock or cash received.
Treatment of Outstanding Awards
MSG Entertainment has previously issued options to purchase its MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock. In connection with the Distribution, each MSG Entertainment option will become two options: one will be an option to acquire MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock and one an option to acquire our Class A Common Stock. We expect that options with respect to our Class A Common Stock will be issued under the Employee Stock Plan. The existing exercise price will be allocated between the existing MSG Entertainment options and our new options based upon the weighted average price of each of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock and our Class A Common Stock over the ten trading days immediately following the Distribution as reported by Bloomberg, and the underlying share amount will take into account the one-to-one distribution ratio (i.e., one share of our common stock will be issued for every one share of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock). The MSG Entertainment options and our new options will not be exercisable during a period beginning on a date prior to the Distribution determined by MSG Entertainment in its sole discretion, and continuing until the exercise prices of the MSG Entertainment options and our new options are determined after the Distribution, or such longer period as
170
MSG Entertainment or we determine is necessary with respect to our and MSG Entertainments respective awards. Other than the split of the MSG Entertainment options and the allocation of the existing exercise price, upon issuance of our new options there will be no additional adjustment to the existing MSG Entertainment options in connection with the Distribution and the terms of each employees applicable MSG Entertainment award agreement will continue to govern the MSG Entertainment options. The options that we issue in respect of outstanding MSG Entertainment stock options will be affected by a change in control or going private transaction of the Company, MSG Entertainment or MSG Sports, as set forth in the terms of the award agreement.
MSG Entertainment has previously issued restricted stock units and performance stock units to its employees, which represent unfunded, unsecured rights to receive shares of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock (or cash or other property) at a future date upon the satisfaction of the conditions specified by MSG Entertainments Compensation Committee in the award agreement. In connection with the Distribution, each holder of an employee restricted stock unit will receive one Company restricted stock unit in respect of every one MSG Entertainment restricted stock unit owned on the record date and continue to be entitled to a share of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock (or cash or other property) for each MSG Entertainment restricted stock unit in accordance with the MSG Entertainment award agreement. Additionally, each holder of an employee performance stock unit will receive one Company performance stock unit (at target performance) in respect of every one MSG Entertainment performance stock unit (at target performance) owned on the record date and continue to be entitled to a share of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock (or cash or other property) for each MSG Entertainment performance stock unit in accordance with the MSG Entertainment award agreement. The performance conditions applicable to MSG Entertainment performance stock units and Company performance stock units that have a performance period ending in 2023 will be equitably adjusted to reflect the Distribution in order to measure the achievement of the consolidated performance of MSG Entertainment and the Company over the performance period. The performance conditions applicable to MSG Entertainment performance stock units and Company performance stock units that have a performance period ending after 2023 will be equitably adjusted so that the performance conditions relate solely to whichever company employs the holder of the award as of the Distribution.
Our restricted stock units and performance stock units will be issued under our Employee Stock Plan and will be subject to the same conditions and restrictions as the MSG Entertainment award except as described above. Except as described above, there will be no adjustment to the existing MSG Entertainment restricted stock units or MSG Entertainment performance stock units in connection with the Distribution and the terms of each employees applicable award agreement will continue to govern the MSG Entertainment award. The restricted stock units and performance stock units that we issue in respect of outstanding MSG Entertainment awards will be affected by a change in control or going private transaction of the Company, MSG Entertainment or MSG Sports, as set forth in the terms of the award agreement.
MSG Entertainment has previously issued restricted stock units to its non-employee directors which represent unfunded, unsecured rights to receive shares of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock (or cash or other property) at a future date. Such restricted stock units were fully vested on the date of grant. In connection with the Distribution, each holder of a director restricted stock unit will receive one share of our Class A Common Stock in respect of every one MSG Entertainment restricted stock unit owned on the record date and continue to be entitled to a share of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock (or cash or other property) in accordance with the award agreement. Such shares of Company Class A Common Stock will be issued under our Director Stock Plan.
With respect to outstanding equity awards, the Company, MSG Entertainment and MSG Sports will not be regarded as competitive entities of each other for purposes of any non-compete provisions contained in the applicable award agreements. With respect to all outstanding MSG Entertainment awards (and our awards issued in connection with such awards) holders of such awards will continue to vest so long as they remain employed by the Company, MSG Entertainment, MSG Sports or affiliates of such entities, provided that an employee who moves between the Company (or one of its subsidiaries), MSG Entertainment (or one of its subsidiaries) or MSG Sports (or one of its subsidiaries) at a time when the applicable entities are no longer affiliates will not continue to vest in such awards and such change will constitute a termination of employment for purposes of the award agreement.
171
CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Introduction
Following the Distribution, the Company and MSG Entertainment will each be controlled by the Dolan Family Group. The Dolan Family Group also controls MSG Sports and AMC Networks. For purposes of governing the ongoing relationships between the Company and MSG Entertainment, respectively, after the Distribution, we will enter into certain agreements with those companies prior to the Distribution.
Relationship Between MSG Entertainment and Us After the Distribution
Following the Distribution, we will be a public company and MSG Entertainment will have a continuing approximately 33% common stock ownership interest in us in the form of Class A Common Stock. MSG Entertainment will not own any of our Class B Common Stock following the Distribution. As described under The Distribution Results of the Distribution, both MSG Entertainment and Spinco will be under the control of Charles F. Dolan, members of his family and certain related family entities immediately following the Distribution. See Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Information, Combined Balance Sheets as of June 30, 2022 and 2021 and Combined Statements of Operations for the years ended June 30, 2022, 2021 and 2020 Notes to Combined Financial Statements Note 19, Related Party Transactions for information concerning historical intercompany transactions between us and MSG Entertainment. MSG Entertainment is required by applicable tax rules to dispose of all of the retained shares as soon as practicable consistent with the business purposes for the retention, and expects to dispose of such retained shares within one year, subject to market conditions.
For purposes of governing the ongoing relationships between MSG Entertainment and us after the Distribution and to provide for an orderly transition, MSG Entertainment and Spinco will enter into the agreements described in this section prior to the Distribution.
Certain of the agreements summarized in this section will be filed prior to the Distribution as exhibits to the registration statement, of which this information statement forms a part, that we have filed with the SEC, and the following summaries of those agreements are qualified in their entirety by reference to the agreements that will be filed prior to the Distribution.
Distribution Agreement
We will enter into a Distribution Agreement with MSG Entertainment as part of a series of transactions pursuant to which we have acquired or will acquire prior to the Distribution the subsidiaries, business and other assets of MSG Entertainment that constitute our business.
Under the Distribution Agreement, MSG Entertainment will distribute approximately 67% of our common stock to its common stockholders.
Under the Distribution Agreement, MSG Entertainment will provide us with indemnities with respect to liabilities, damages, costs and expenses arising out of any of: (i) MSG Entertainments businesses (other than business of ours); (ii) certain identified claims or proceedings; (iii) any breach by MSG Entertainment of its obligations under the Distribution Agreement; (iv) any untrue statement or omission in the registration statement, of which this information statement forms a part, or in this information statement relating to MSG Entertainment and its subsidiaries; and (v) indemnification obligations we may have to the NBA or NHL that result from acts or omissions of MSG Entertainment. We will provide MSG Entertainment with indemnities with respect to liabilities, damages, costs and expenses arising out of any of (i) its businesses; (ii) any breach by us of its obligations under the Distribution Agreement; (iii) any untrue statement or omission in the registration statement, of which this information statement forms a part, or in this information statement other than any such statement or omission relating to MSG Entertainment and its subsidiaries; and (iv) indemnification obligations MSG Entertainment may have to the NBA or NHL that result from acts or omissions of the Company.
172
In the Distribution Agreement, we will release MSG Entertainment from any claims we might have arising out of:
| the management of the business and affairs of MSG Entertainments Entertainment business segment (excluding MSG Sphere) on or prior to the Distribution; |
| the terms of the Distribution, our amended and restated certificate of incorporation, our by-laws and the other agreements entered into in connection with the Distribution; and |
| any decisions that have been made, or actions taken, relating to MSG Entertainments Entertainment business segment (excluding MSG Sphere) or the Distribution. |
Additionally, in the Distribution Agreement, MSG Entertainment will release us from any claims MSG Entertainment might have arising out of:
| the management of the businesses and affairs of MSG Entertainments MSG Networks and Tao Group Hospitality business segments or related to the MSG Sphere business on or prior to the Distribution; |
| the terms of the Distribution and the other agreements entered into in connection with the Distribution; and |
| any decisions that have been made, or actions taken, relating to the Distribution. |
The Distribution Agreement will also provide that MSG Entertainment has the sole and absolute discretion to determine whether to proceed with the Distribution, including the form, structure and terms of any transactions to effect the Distribution and the timing of and satisfaction of conditions to the consummation of the Distribution.
The Distribution Agreement will also provide for access to records and information, cooperation in defending litigation, as well as methods of resolution for certain disputes.
Transition Services Agreement
We will enter into a Transition Services Agreement with MSG Entertainment under which, in exchange for the fees specified in such agreement, the Company will agree to provide certain corporate and other services to MSG Entertainment, including with respect to such areas as information technology, accounts payable, payroll, tax, certain legal functions, human resources, insurance and risk management, government affairs, investor relations, corporate communications, benefit plan administration and reporting, and internal audit functions as well as certain marketing functions. MSG Entertainment similarly will agree to provide certain transition services to the Company. The Company and MSG Entertainment, as parties receiving services under the agreement, will agree to indemnify the party providing services for losses incurred by such party that arise out of or are otherwise in connection with the provision by such party of services under the agreement, except to the extent that such losses result from the providing partys gross negligence, willful misconduct or breach of its obligations under the agreement. Similarly, each party providing services under the agreement will agree to indemnify the party receiving services for losses incurred by such party that arise out of or are otherwise in connection with the indemnifying partys provision of services under the agreement if such losses result from the providing partys gross negligence, willful misconduct or breach of its obligations under the agreement.
Tax Disaffiliation Agreement
We will enter into a Tax Disaffiliation Agreement with MSG Entertainment that will govern MSG Entertainments and our respective rights, responsibilities and obligations with respect to taxes and tax benefits, the filing of tax returns, the control of audits and other tax matters. References in this summary description of the Tax Disaffiliation Agreement to the terms tax or taxes mean taxes as well as any interest, penalties, additions to tax or additional amounts in respect of such taxes.
We and our eligible subsidiaries currently join with MSG Entertainment in the filing of certain consolidated, combined, and unitary returns for state, local, and other applicable tax purposes. However, for periods (or
173
portions thereof) beginning after the Distribution, we generally will not join with MSG Entertainment or any of its subsidiaries (as determined after the Distribution) in the filing of any federal, state, local or other applicable consolidated, combined or unitary tax returns.
Under the Tax Disaffiliation Agreement, with certain exceptions, MSG Entertainment will be generally responsible for all of our U.S. federal, state, local and other applicable income taxes for any taxable period or portion of such period ending on or before the Distribution date. We will be generally responsible for all taxes that are attributable to us or one of our subsidiaries after the Distribution date.
For any tax year, we will be generally responsible for filing all separate company tax returns that relate to us or one of our subsidiaries and that do not also include MSG Entertainment or any of its subsidiaries. MSG Entertainment will be generally responsible for filing all separate company tax returns that relate to MSG Entertainment or its subsidiaries (other than tax returns that will be filed by us), and for filing consolidated, combined or unitary returns that include (i) one or more of MSG Entertainment and its subsidiaries and (ii) one or more of us and our subsidiaries. Where possible, we will waive the right to carry back any losses, credits, or similar items to periods ending prior to or on the Distribution date; however, if we cannot waive the right, we will be entitled to receive the resulting refund or credit, net of any taxes incurred by MSG Entertainment with respect to the refund or credit.
Generally, we will have the authority to conduct all tax proceedings, including tax audits, relating to taxes or any adjustment to taxes for which we are responsible for filing a return under the Tax Disaffiliation Agreement, and MSG Entertainment will have the authority to conduct all tax proceedings, including tax audits, relating to taxes or any adjustment to taxes for which MSG Entertainment will be responsible for filing a return under the Tax Disaffiliation Agreement. However, if one party acknowledges a liability to indemnify the other party for a tax to which such proceeding relates, and provides evidence to the other party of its ability to make such payment, the first-mentioned party will have the authority to conduct such proceeding. The Tax Disaffiliation Agreement will further provide for cooperation between MSG Entertainment and the Company with respect to tax matters, the exchange of information and the retention of records that may affect the tax liabilities of the parties to the agreement.
Finally, the Tax Disaffiliation Agreement will require that neither we nor any of our subsidiaries will take, or fail to take, any action where such action, or failure to act, would be inconsistent with or preclude the Distribution from qualifying as a tax-free transaction to MSG Entertainment and to its stockholders under Section 355 of the Code, or would otherwise cause holders of MSG Entertainment stock receiving our stock in the Distribution to be taxed as a result of the Distribution and certain transactions undertaken in connection with the Distribution. Additionally, for the two-year period following the Distribution, we will be restricted from engaging in certain activities that may jeopardize the tax-free treatment of the Distribution to MSG Entertainment and its stockholders, unless we receive MSG Entertainments consent or otherwise obtain a ruling from the IRS or a legal opinion, in either case reasonably satisfactory to MSG Entertainment, that the activity will not alter the tax-free status of the Distribution to MSG Entertainment and its stockholders. Such restricted activities include:
| entering into any transaction pursuant to which all or a significant portion of our shares or assets would be acquired, whether by merger or otherwise, unless certain tests are met; |
| issuing equity securities, if any such issuances would, together with certain other transactions, constitute 50% or more of the voting power or value of our capital stock; |
| certain repurchases of our common shares; |
| ceasing to actively conduct our business; |
| amendments to our organizational documents (i) affecting the relative voting rights of our stock or (ii) converting one class of our stock to another; |
174
| liquidating or partially liquidating; and |
| taking any other action that prevents the Distribution and certain related transactions from being tax-free. |
Moreover, we will be required to indemnify MSG Entertainment and its subsidiaries, directors and officers for any taxes, resulting from action or failure to act, if such action or failure to act precludes the Distribution from qualifying as a tax-free transaction (including taxes imposed as a result of a violation of the restrictions set forth above).
Employee Matters Agreement
We will enter into an employee matters agreement (the Employee Matters Agreement) with MSG Entertainment that allocates assets, liabilities and responsibilities with respect to certain employee compensation and benefit plans and programs and certain other related matters upon completion of the Distribution. In general, MSG Entertainment employees currently participate in various of our retirement, health and welfare, and other employee benefit plans. After the Distribution, it is anticipated that MSG Entertainment employees will generally participate in similar plans and arrangements established and maintained by MSG Entertainment; however, MSG Entertainment may continue to be a participating company in certain of our employee benefit plans during a transition period. Effective as of the Distribution date, we and MSG Entertainment generally will each hold responsibility for our respective employees and compensation plans.
For a description of the impact of the Distribution on holders of MSG Entertainment options, restricted stock units and performance stock units, see Executive Compensation Treatment of Outstanding Awards.
Stockholder and Registration Rights Agreement
See Shares Eligible for Future Sale for a description of the Stockholder and Registration Rights Agreement to be entered into between MSG Entertainment and the Company.
Delayed Draw Term Loan Facility
Prior to or concurrently with the consummation of the Distribution, the DDTL Lender is expected to enter into the DDTL Facility with the DDTL Borrower. The DDTL Facility is expected to provide for a $65 million senior unsecured delayed draw term loan facility for the DDTL Borrower.
The DDTL Facility will mature and any unused commitments thereunder will expire 18 months after the effective date thereof. Borrowings under the DDTL Facility will bear interest at a variable rate equal to either, at the option of the DDTL Borrower, (a) a base rate plus an applicable margin, or (b) Term SOFR plus 0.10%, plus an applicable margin. The applicable margin is expected to be equal to the applicable margin under the National Properties Facilities plus 1.00% per annum. The DDTL Borrower would also be required to pay a commitment fee in respect of the daily unused commitments under the DDTL Facility at a rate equal to the unused commitment fee rate under the National Properties Facilities plus 0.10% per annum. All interest and commitment fees accruing prior to January 1, 2024 will be payable in kind by capitalizing and adding such interest or fee to the outstanding principal amount of the loans. All interest and commitment fees accruing on and after January 1, 2024 will be payable in cash or by transferring to the DDTL Lender shares of Class A Common Stock of the Company as described below. Subject to customary borrowing conditions, the DDTL Facility may be drawn in up to six separate borrowings of $5 million or more.
The DDTL Facility is prepayable at any time without penalty and amounts repaid on the DDTL Facility may not be reborrowed. The DDTL Borrower will have the option to make any payments of principal, interest or fees under the DDTL Facility either in the form of cash or by delivering to the DDTL Lender shares of the Companys Class A Common Stock. If the DDTL Borrower elects to make any payment in the form of the Companys Class A Common Stock, the amount of such payment shall be calculated based on the dollar volume-weighted average price
175
for the Class A Common Stock for the twenty trading days ending on the day on which the DDTL Borrower makes such election.
The DDTL Borrower shall only be permitted to use the proceeds of the DDTL Facility (i) for funding costs associated with the Sphere initiative and (ii) in connection with refinancing of the indebtedness under the MSG Networks Credit Facility.
The DDTL Facility contains certain representations and warranties and affirmative and negative covenants, including, among others, financial reporting, notices of material events, and limitations on asset dispositions, restricted payments, and affiliate transactions. In addition, the DDTL Facility includes certain events of default, including, among others, defaults based on certain bankruptcy and insolvency events, nonpayment, cross-defaults to other debt, breach of specified covenants, ERISA events, material monetary judgments, change of control events and the material inaccuracy of the representations and warranties. If an event of default occurs and is continuing under the DDTL Facility, the agreement provides that the DDTL Lender may terminate the commitments under the agreement, declare amounts outstanding, including principal and accrued interest and fees, payable immediately, and enforce any and all of its rights and interests.
Two Pennsylvania Plaza Sublease
Following the Distribution, the Company will sublease approximately 20,000 square feet of office space at Two Pennsylvania Plaza in New York City to MSG Entertainment. The Company expects to earn approximately $2 million of sublease revenue from MSG Entertainment during Fiscal Year 2024 in connection with this arrangement.
Aircraft Arrangements
We will enter into various arrangements with MSG Entertainment, pursuant to which MSG Entertainment will have the right to lease on a time-sharing basis certain aircraft to which we have access. MSG Entertainment will be required to pay us specified expenses for each flight they elect to utilize, but not exceeding the maximum amount payable under Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rules. In calculating the amounts payable under the agreement, the parties will allocate in good faith the treatment of any flight that is for the benefit of both companies. Additionally, the parties will agree on an allocation of the costs of certain helicopter use by any shared executive officers.
Other Arrangements and Agreements with MSG Entertainment
The Company has also entered into a number of commercial and other arrangements and agreements with MSG Entertainment and its subsidiaries. These include arrangements for the provision of services, allocations with respect to sponsorship agreements and other matters, aircraft sharing, and certain trademark licensing arrangements.
Other Arrangements and Agreements with MSG Sports and/or AMC Networks
The Company expects to enter into a number of commercial and other arrangements and agreements with MSG Sports and/or AMC Networks and their respective subsidiaries. The Company will agree to share certain executive support costs, including office space, executive assistants, security and transportation costs, for the Companys Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer with MSG Entertainment and MSG Sports and for the Companys Vice Chairman with MSG Entertainment, MSG Sports and AMC Networks. Additionally, the Company will agree on an allocation of the costs of certain personal aircraft use with MSG Entertainment and MSG Sports (with respect to Mr. Dolan only) and helicopter use with MSG Entertainment, MSG Sports and AMC Networks by their shared executives. Other arrangements may include the use of equipment, lease and use of offices and other premises, provision of transport services and vendor services, access to technology and lease of suites and sponsorships.
176
Arena License Agreements
On April 15, 2020, a subsidiary of MSG Entertainment entered into Arena License Agreements with subsidiaries of MSG Sports that require the Knicks and Rangers (the teams) to play their home games at The Garden. These agreements will be assigned to the Company in connection with the Distribution. Under the Arena License Agreements, which each have a term of 35 years, the Knicks and the Rangers pay an annual license fee in connection with their respective use of The Garden. For each, the Arena License Agreement provides that the license fee for the first full contract year ended June 30, 2021 was to be approximately $22.5 million for the Knicks and approximately $16.7 million for the Rangers, and then for each subsequent year, the license fees will be 103% of the license fees for the immediately preceding contract year. The teams are not required to pay the license fee during a period in which The Garden is unavailable for use due to a force majeure event (including when events at The Garden were suspended by government mandate as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic). If, due to a force majeure event, capacity at The Garden is limited to 1,000 or fewer attendees, the teams may schedule and play home games at The Garden with applicable rent payable to the Company under the Arena License Agreements reduced by 80%. If, due to a force majeure event, capacity at The Garden is limited to less than full capacity but over 1,000 attendees, the parties will agree on an appropriate reduction to the rent payments. For the year ended June 30, 2022, MSG Entertainment recognized total license fee revenue under the Arena License Agreements of approximately $68.1 million from MSG Sports.
The Arena License Agreements set forth the terms of the teams use of The Garden, including arrangements for the provision of amenities, game day and other services. While the Company will provide game day services for the teams, most of the associated costs will be borne by the teams. Pursuant to the Arena License Agreements, the Company, at its sole cost and expense, is responsible for the maintenance, equipment and other functions needed to operate, repair and maintain The Garden. The Company does not own or control the teams broadcast and telecast rights and therefore is not entitled to revenues in connection with their broadcast rights.
Pursuant to the Arena License Agreements, the Company operates and manages food and beverage services during all team events, for which the Company shares 50% of net profits with the applicable team. For the year ended June 30, 2022, MSG Entertainments revenue sharing expense for food and beverage services was approximately $10.8 million for MSG Sports.
Pursuant to the Arena License Agreements, the Company also has the right and obligation to operate and manage team merchandise sales at The Garden. The Company retains a 30% portion of revenues from team merchandise sold in The Garden. The Company maintains the exclusive right to control the operation and sale of non-team merchandise. For the year ended June 30, 2022, MSG Entertainment recorded revenue of approximately $4.4 million from team merchandise sales at The Garden.
Pursuant to the Arena License Agreements, the Company has the exclusive right to license and manage suites and club memberships at The Garden, including for use during team games, subject to certain exceptions, and shares a portion of the revenues from such licenses and club memberships with MSG Sports. MSG Sports is entitled to 67.5% of revenues (net of any contracted catering credits), for suites or club memberships sold for all or substantially all events at The Garden, including team home games. MSG Sports receives all revenues from the sale of suites licensed for team-only packages or individual team games, subject to a 20-25% commission to the Company. For any customizable suite package, revenues are divided between the Company and MSG Sports on a proportional basis, with MSG Sports receiving all revenues attributable to the team events included in the package, less a 20-25% commission to the Company. For the year ended June 30, 2022, MSG Entertainment recorded approximately $74.8 million of revenue sharing expense from licensing suite and club memberships.
Pursuant to the Arena License Agreements, the Company retains 52.5% of revenue from the sale of certain arena shared sponsorship assets, such as fixed signage or entitlements at The Garden. The Company is not entitled to any revenue from certain team sponsorship assets, such as courtside or rinkside advertising and other team or event-specific sponsorship assets. The Company is also entitled to 67.5% of the revenue from the sale of
177
any arena naming rights. For the year ended June 30, 2022, MSG Entertainment recorded approximately $6.5 million of revenue sharing expense from arena shared sponsorship assets.
Pursuant to the Arena License Agreements, the Company does not have the right to sell or retain revenues from ticket sales or resales to team events. The Arena License Agreements set forth MSG Entertainments responsibilities with respect to box office services, ticket printing and the teams respective responsibilities to comply with MSG Entertainments ticket agent agreements.
The Arena License Agreements provide that the teams are responsible for 100% of any real property or similar taxes applicable to The Garden. If the tax exemption is repealed or the teams are otherwise subject to property tax through no fault of the teams, the revenue opportunity that the Company may generate from team events will be reduced on a percentage basis as set forth in the Arena License Agreements.
The Arena License Agreements provide for the Company to prepare an annual budget, in consultation with the teams, subject to certain team consent rights.
NBA consent is required to amend the Knicks Arena License Agreement.
Sponsorship Sales and Service Representation Agreements
On April 15, 2020, MSG Entertainment entered into sponsorship sales and service representation agreements with the teams, which have terms of more than 10 years (subject to an early termination right exercisable by May 31, 2025 and effective June 30, 2025). Under these agreements, MSG Entertainment is the exclusive sales and service representative for all sponsorship benefits available for sale in connection with the teams, as well as the Knicks development team, the Westchester Knicks, and Knicks Gaming, the official NBA 2K esports franchise of the Knicks, subject to certain exceptions (e.g., regarding television and radio rights licensed to MSG Networks pursuant to separate media rights agreements). MSG Entertainment receives a commission from MSG Sports, subject to certain exceptions set forth in the agreements. Commissions are generally set at 12.5% of gross revenue, and may be increased to 17.5% of gross revenue for sales above the annual target revenue for the year. Commissions may also be reduced to account for fulfilment costs associated with a particular sponsorship asset. For the year ended June 30, 2022, MSG Entertainment recorded commission revenue of approximately $9.2 million from MSG Sports.
MSG Entertainment also receives annual sales operation fixed payments from MSG Sports associated with providing sponsorship sales services. For each subsequent year, the payment will be 103% of the payment for the immediately preceding contract year. For the year ended June 30, 2022, MSG Entertainment recorded revenue of approximately $8.4 million from MSG Sports.
These agreements are subject to certain termination rights, including the right of each of MSG Entertainment and MSG Sports to terminate if MSG Entertainment and MSG Sports are no longer affiliates, and MSG Sports right to terminate if certain sales thresholds are not met (unless MSG Entertainment pays MSG Sports the shortfall). NBA consent is required to amend the Knicks sponsorship sales and service representation agreement. In connection with the Distribution, we expect these agreements to be assigned from MSG Entertainment to the Company, although some adjustments may be needed as a result of the new organizational structure of the companies.
Team Sponsorship Allocation Agreement
MSG Entertainment and MSG Sports each routinely enter into sponsorship agreements with third-parties that include the assets of both companies with either MSG Entertainment or MSG Sports serving as the contracting party with the third-party sponsor. On April 15, 2020, MSG Entertainment entered into a team sponsorship allocation agreement with MSG Sports pursuant to which MSG Entertainment and MSG Sports
178
agreed to distribute payments received under the third-party sponsorship agreements to each other generally in accordance with the relative value of the assets provided by each company under the respective third-party agreement. MSG Entertainment and MSG Sports have also agreed to use commercially reasonable efforts to continue to receive the payments by the third-party sponsors, and have agreed that neither party will take any action that would cause the other one to be in breach under the third-party agreements (to the extent they have knowledge or reason to have knowledge of such agreement), as well as to consult with each other in the event of a breach by a third-party sponsor. In connection with the Distribution, the team sponsorship allocation agreement will be assigned from MSG Entertainment to the Company.
Group Ticket Sales and Service Representation Agreement
On April 15, 2020, MSG Entertainment entered into a group ticket sales and service representation agreement with MSG Sports, with an initial term lasting until June 30, 2024 and automatically renewing annually thereafter, pursuant to which MSG Sports is MSG Entertainments sales and service representative to sell group tickets and ticket packages. MSG Entertainment pays a 7.5% commission on gross revenue derived from group ticket sales placed on behalf of MSG Entertainment by MSG Sports and reimburses MSG Sports for a share of certain of its costs, which is determined by mutual good faith agreement of the parties and revisited each month to cover costs such as sales and service staff and overhead allocated to commission sales. For the year ended June 30, 2022, MSG Entertainment recorded expenses, within operating expenses, of approximately $3.1 million related to the group ticket sales and service representation agreement. In connection with the Distribution, this agreement will be assigned from MSG Entertainment to the Company.
Two Pennsylvania Plaza Sublease
Following the Distribution, the Company will sublease approximately 47,000 square feet of office space at Two Pennsylvania Plaza in New York City to MSG Sports. The Company expects to earn approximately $3 million of sublease revenue from MSG Sports during Fiscal Year 2024 in connection with this arrangement.
Dolan Family Arrangements
Standstill Agreement
Prior to the Distribution, the members of the Dolan Family Group will enter into an agreement (the Standstill Agreement) with the Company in which they will agree that during the 12-month period beginning on the Distribution date, the Dolan Family Group must obtain the prior approval of a majority of the Companys Independent Directors prior to acquiring common stock of the Company through a tender offer that results in members of the Dolan Family Group owning more than 50% of the total number of outstanding shares of common stock of the Company. For purposes of this agreement, the term Independent Directors means the directors of the Company who have been determined by our Board of Directors to be independent directors for purposes of NYSE corporate governance standards. The Standstill Agreement has been filed as an exhibit to the registration statement of which this information statement forms a part, that we have filed with the SEC, and the foregoing discussion of that agreement is qualified in its entirety by reference to that exhibit.
Aircraft and Office Space Arrangements
A subsidiary of the Company is party to time sharing agreements, dry lease agreements and aircraft support services agreements with entities controlled by members of the Dolan Family with respect to various aircraft owned by either the Company or such Dolan Family members. Amounts paid or received by MSG Entertainment pursuant to these arrangements during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022 would have been paid or received by the Company if the Distribution had already occurred.
A subsidiary of the Company is a party to agreements with Charles F. Dolan, the father of James L. Dolan, pursuant to which Mr. Charles F. Dolan has the right to lease on a time-sharing basis certain Company aircraft.
179
Mr. Dolan is required to pay us specified expenses for each flight he elects to utilize, but not exceeding the maximum amount payable under FAA rules. Pursuant to this arrangement, Mr. Dolan paid MSG Entertainment $182,210 for use of MSG Entertainments aircraft during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022. In addition, a subsidiary of the Company is party to an agreement with Sterling 2K, LLC (S2K), a company controlled by Deborah Dolan-Sweeney, the daughter of Charles F. Dolan and the sister of James L. Dolan, pursuant to which the Company has the right to lease on a non-exclusive basis S2Ks Gulfstream Aerospace GV-SP (G550) aircraft (the DFO G550). We are required to pay S2K rent at an hourly rate and specified expenses (which mirror the types of expenses we charge S2K for use of our aircraft) for each flight we elect to utilize. The agreement includes a true-up mechanism such that, to the extent the Companys annual usage of the DFO G550 exceeds Mr. Charles F. Dolans annual usage of the Companys aircraft, the Company will pay an additional hourly rate with respect to excess hours intended to cover additional costs. Pursuant to this arrangement, MSG Entertainment paid S2K $418,635 for use of the DFO G550 during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022, inclusive of accrued true-up payments required under the agreement. In addition, the agreement provides for equitable adjustment in the event that discrepancies in hours of usage or other factors cause the arrangement to be economically unfair to either party.
A subsidiary of the Company and Brighid Air, LLC (Brighid), a company controlled by Patrick F. Dolan, are parties to agreements, pursuant to which the Company has a right to lease on a non-exclusive basis (the dry-lease) and on a time-sharing basis (the time-share) Brighids Bombardier BD100-1A10 Challenger 350 aircraft (the Challenger). The Company is required to pay Brighid specified expenses of each flight it elects to utilize, but not exceeding the maximum amount payable under FAA rules. MSG Entertainment paid Brighid $254,110 under the dry-lease agreement for use of the Challenger during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022. No payments were made under the time share because the Company did not use the Challenger under this agreement during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022. In connection with the agreement for the Companys use of the Challenger, a subsidiary of the Company and Dolan Family Office, LLC (DFO), an entity controlled by Charles F. Dolan, are parties to a Flight Crew Services Agreement, pursuant to which the Company may utilize pilots employed by DFO for purposes of flying the Challenger when the Company is leasing the Challenger under its agreement with Brighid. The Company is required to pay DFO an hourly rate for the use of such pilots, as well as reimburse certain expenses of the pilots. Pursuant to this arrangement, MSG Entertainment paid DFO $38,975 for use of DFO pilots during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022.
Until December 21, 2021, a subsidiary of MSG Entertainment was a party to an agreement with Quart 2C, LLC (Q2C), a company controlled by James. L. Dolan, the Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, as well as a director of the Company, and Kristin A. Dolan, his spouse, pursuant to which Q2C had the right to lease on a time-sharing basis MSG Entertainments Gulfstream Aerospace G550 aircraft (the G550). Q2C was required to pay MSG Entertainment specified expenses for each flight it elected to utilize, but not exceeding the maximum amount payable under FAA rules. Q2C did not use MSG Entertainments aircraft during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022 and as a result, MSG Entertainment did not receive any payments from them. In addition, until December 21, 2021, a subsidiary of MSG Entertainment and Q2C were parties to an agreement, pursuant to which MSG Entertainment had the right to lease on a non-exclusive basis Q2Cs Gulfstream Aerospace G450 aircraft (the G450). MSG Entertainment was required to pay Q2C rent at an hourly rate and specified expenses (which mirror the types of expenses MSG Entertainment charged Q2C for use of the G550) for each flight MSG Entertainment elected to utilize. The agreement included a true-up mechanism such that, to the extent MSG Entertainments annual usage of the G450 exceeded Q2Cs annual usage of the G550, MSG Entertainment paid an additional hourly rate with respect to excess hours intended to cover additional costs. The agreement also provided for equitable adjustments in the event that discrepancies in hours of usage or other factors caused the arrangement to be economically unfair to either party. Pursuant to this arrangement, MSG Entertainment accrued expenses of $2,011,095 for use of the G450 during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022, inclusive of any true-up payments and adjustments under the agreement due to significant use of the G450 by MSG Entertainment. These agreements were no longer effective as of December 21, 2021.
180
A subsidiary of the Company is party to various Aircraft Support Services Agreements (as such agreements may be amended from time to time, the Aircraft Services Agreements) pursuant to which the Company provides aircraft support services to (i) Charles F. Dolan and certain of his other children (specifically, Thomas C. Dolan, a director of the Company, Deborah Dolan-Sweeney, Patrick F. Dolan, Marianne Dolan Weber, a director of the Company, and Kathleen Dolan) and (ii) an entity controlled by Patrick Dolan, the son of Charles F. Dolan and brother of James L. Dolan. Pursuant to the Services Agreements, the Company provides certain aircraft support services in exchange for a monthly agency fee. These services include providing pilots, crew and maintenance personnel, aircraft maintenance, FAA compliance, flight scheduling and dispatch services, negotiation/management of third-party contracts and other services necessary and appropriate for the support of aircraft. Pursuant to the Aircraft Services Agreements, each of the parties noted above paid MSG Entertainment (i) $193,705 and (ii) $168,730, respectively, during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022. The Company provided similar services to an entity controlled by James L. Dolan pursuant to an Aircraft Support Services Agreement until December 21, 2021, upon which date the agreement ceased to be effective. Pursuant to such agreement, the entity controlled by James L. Dolan paid MSG Entertainment $98,430 during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022.
605, LLC
James L. Dolan, a director and the Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, and his wife Kristin Dolan own 50% of 605, LLC (605), an audience measurement and data analytics company in the media and entertainment industries. Kristin Dolan is also the founder and Non-Executive Chairman of 605. MSG Entertainment paid 605 $53,349 for data analytics services during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022. In addition, MSG Entertainments Audit Committee approved the entry into one or more agreements with 605 to provide certain data analytics services to the Company for an aggregate amount of up to $1 million. In August 2022 a subsidiary of the Company entered into a three-year agreement with 605, valued at approximately $750,000, covering several customer analysis projects per year in connection with events held at our venues. The Company expects to engage 605 to provide certain data analytics services in the future.
Registration Rights
See Shares Eligible for Future Sale Registration Rights Agreements for a description of registration rights agreements that will be entered into among Dolan family interests and the Company and MSG Entertainment and the Company.
Certain Relationships and Potential Conflicts of Interest
Following the Distribution, there will be an overlap between an officer of the Company, MSG Sports and MSG Entertainment. James L. Dolan will serve as the Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of both the Company and MSG Entertainment and as the Executive Chairman of MSG Sports. James L. Dolan also currently serves as Non-Executive Chairman of AMC Networks. In addition, Gregg G. Seibert will serve as a Vice Chairman of the Company, MSG Sports, MSG Entertainment and AMC Networks and Charles F. Dolan will serve as Chairman Emeritus of AMC Networks concurrently with his service on our Board. Furthermore, immediately following the Distribution, we expect nine of the members of the Board of Directors of the Company will also serve as directors of MSG Entertainment, nine will serve as directors of MSG Sports and five will serve as directors of AMC Networks, including our Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, who serves as Non-Executive Chairman of AMC Networks. There will be no overlap of Class A Directors as between MSG Entertainment and the Company.
The overlapping directors and officers may have actual or apparent conflicts of interest with respect to matters involving or affecting each company. For example, there will be the potential for a conflict of interest when we or the Other Entities look at certain acquisitions and other corporate opportunities that may be suitable for more than one of the companies. Also, conflicts may arise if there are issues or disputes under the commercial
181
arrangements that will exist between an Other Entity on the one hand and us on the other hand. In addition, after the Distribution, certain of our directors and officers will continue to own stock and/or stock options or other equity awards of an Other Entity. These ownership interests could create actual, apparent or potential conflicts of interest when these individuals are faced with decisions that could have different implications for our Company and an Other Entity. See Related Party Transaction Approval Policy for a discussion of certain procedures we will institute to help ameliorate such potential conflicts that may arise.
The Companys amended and restated certificate of incorporation will acknowledge that the Overlap Persons may also be serving as directors, officers, employees or agents of an Other Entity, and that the Company may engage in material business transactions with such Other Entities. The Company will renounce its rights to certain business opportunities and the Companys amended and restated certificate of incorporation will provide that no Overlap Person will be liable to the Company or its stockholders for breach of any fiduciary duty that would otherwise occur by reason of the fact that any such individual directs a corporate opportunity (other than certain limited types of opportunities set forth in our amended and restated certificate of incorporation) to one or more of the Other Entities instead of the Company, or does not refer or communicate information regarding such corporate opportunities to the Company. These provisions in our amended and restated certificate of incorporation will also expressly validate certain contracts, agreements, arrangements and transactions (and amendments, modifications or terminations thereof) between the Company and the Other Entities and, to the fullest extent permitted by law, provide that the actions of the Overlap Persons in connection therewith are not breaches of fiduciary duties owed to the Company, any of its subsidiaries or their respective stockholders. See Description of Capital Stock Certain Corporate Opportunities and Conflicts.
Related Party Transaction Approval Policy
We will adopt a written policy whereby an Independent Committee of our Board of Directors will review and approve or take such other action as it may deem appropriate with respect to transactions involving the Company and its subsidiaries, on the one hand, and in which any director, executive officer, greater than 5% stockholder of the Company or any other related person (as defined in Item 404 of Regulation S-K adopted by the SEC) has or will have a direct or indirect material interest. This approval requirement covers any transaction that meets the related party disclosure requirements of the SEC as set forth in Item 404, which currently apply to transactions (or any series of similar transactions) in which the amount involved exceeds the dollar threshold set forth in Item 404 (currently $120,000). To simplify the administration of the approval process under this policy, an Independent Committee may, where appropriate, establish guidelines for certain of those transactions. The policy does not cover decisions on compensation or benefits or the hiring or retention of any person. The hiring or retention of executive officers is determined by our full Board of Directors. Compensation of executive officers is subject to the approval of our Compensation Committee. This policy also does not cover any pro rata distributions to all Company stockholders, including a pro rata distribution of our Class A Common Stock to holders of our Class A Common Stock and our Class B Common Stock to holders of our Class B Common Stock. No director on an Independent Committee will participate in the consideration of a related party transaction with that director or any related person of that director. Following the Distribution, our Board of Directors will also adopt a special approval policy for transactions with the Other Entities whether or not such transactions qualify as related party transactions described above. Under this policy, an Independent Committee will oversee approval of all transactions and arrangements between the Company and its subsidiaries, on the one hand, and one or more of the Other Entities, on the other hand, in which the amount exceeds a $1,000,000 threshold. In addition, an Independent Committee will receive a quarterly update from the Companys Internal Audit Department of all related party transactions, including transactions and arrangements between the Company and its subsidiaries on the one hand, and each of the Other Entities, on the other hand, regardless of value. To simplify the administration of the approval process under this policy, an Independent Committee may, where appropriate, establish guidelines for certain of these transactions. The approval requirement will not apply to the implementation and administration of these intercompany arrangements under the related party transaction approval policy but will cover any amendments, modifications, terminations or extensions involving amounts in excess of $1,000,000, as well as the handling and resolution of any disputes
182
involving amounts in excess of $1,000,000. Our executive officers and directors who are also senior executives or directors of the Other Entities may participate in the negotiation, execution, implementation, amendment, modification, or termination of these intercompany arrangements, as well as in any resolution of disputes thereunder, on behalf of any or all of the Company and the Other Entities, in each case under the direction or ultimate approval of an Independent Committee or the comparable committee of the board of directors of the Company and/or Other Entities, as applicable.
Our related party transaction approval policy cannot be amended or terminated without the prior approval of a majority of the Companys independent directors and by a majority of the directors elected by our Class B Common Stockholders. For purposes of this policy, independent directors means those directors who have been determined by our Board to be independent directors for purposes of NYSE corporate governance standards.
183
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS
AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
Beneficial Ownership of Stock
This table shows the number of shares of our Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock, and the percentage of shares of our Class A Common Stock and our Class B Common Stock, that would be owned of record and beneficially at the time of the Distribution by each director and executive officer of the Company (calculated as of March 24, 2023, the Reference Date). The table also shows the name, address and the number of shares of our Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock and percentage of shares of our Class A Common Stock and our Class B Common Stock that would be owned by persons beneficially owning more than five percent (5%) of any class at the time of Distribution. All information in the table and related footnotes is based solely upon the Companys review of SEC filings as of the Reference Date (and, in the case of members of the Dolan family and trusts for their benefit, information provided to the Company as of the Reference Date) as to the ownership of MSG Entertainment common stock and is presented as if the Distribution had occurred on the Reference Date. The ownership percentages in this table are based on the following total share amounts expected to be outstanding at the time of the Distribution (calculated as of the Reference Date and based on the distribution ratio of one share of our Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock for each share of MSG Entertainment Class A Common Stock and MSG Entertainment Class B Common Stock, respectively), and include MSG Entertainments retained interest and the issuance of shares of our Class A Common Stock to MSG Entertainment non-employee directors who held MSG Entertainment non-employee director restricted stock units as of the Reference Date: 44,900,926 Class A Shares and 6,866,754 Class B Shares, for a total of 51,767,680 shares.
Name and Address |
Title of Stock Class(1) |
Beneficial Ownership |
Percent of Class |
Combined Voting Power of All Classes of Stock Beneficially Owned(1)(2) | ||||
Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. Two Pennsylvania Plaza New York, NY 10121 |
Class A Common Stock Class B Common Stock |
17,021,491 |
37.9 |
32.9% | ||||
Dolan Family Group (3) 340 Crossways Park Drive Woodbury, NY 11797 |
Class A Common Stock Class B Common Stock |
1,623,023 6,866,754 |
3.6% 100% |
61.6% | ||||
Charles F. Dolan (3)(4)(5)(7)(15)(17)(23) (27) 340 Crossways Park Drive Woodbury, NY 11797 |
Class A Common Stock Class B Common Stock |
298,958 3,863,285 |
* 56.3% |
34.3% | ||||
Helen A. Dolan (3)(4)(5)(7)(15)(17)(23) (27) 340 Crossways Park Drive Woodbury, NY 11797 |
Class A Common Stock Class B Common Stock |
298,958 3,863,285 |
* 56.3% |
34.3% | ||||
James L. Dolan (3)(6)(7)(8)(11)(14)(18) P.O. Box 420 Oyster Bay, NY 11771 |
Class A Common Stock Class B Common Stock |
1,008,484 1,140,792 |
2.2% 16.6% |
10.9% | ||||
Thomas C. Dolan (3)(7)(9)(14)(16)(19) 340 Crossways Park Drive Woodbury, NY 11797 |
Class A Common Stock Class B Common Stock |
67,284 468,423 |
* 6.8% |
4.2% | ||||
Brian G. Sweeney (3)(7)(10)(13)(14)(15)(21) 20 Audrey Avenue, 1st Floor Oyster Bay, NY 11771 |
Class A Common Stock Class B Common Stock |
128,527 806,076 |
* 11.7% |
7.2% | ||||
Paul J. Dolan (3)(7)(11)(18)(22) 340 Crossways Park Drive Woodbury, NY 11797 |
Class A Common Stock Class B Common Stock |
129,885 1,380,548 |
* 20.1% |
12.3% |
184
Name and Address |
Title of Stock Class(1) |
Beneficial Ownership |
Percent of Class |
Combined Voting Power of All Classes of Stock Beneficially Owned(1)(2) | ||||
Marianne Dolan Weber (3)(7)(12)(14)(16)(20) MLC Ventures LLC P.O. Box 1014 Yorktown Heights, NY 10598 |
Class A Common Stock Class B Common Stock |
93,255 450,152 |
* 6.6% |
4.0% | ||||
Charles P. Dolan (7) | Class A Common Stock Class B Common Stock |
19,971 |
* |
* | ||||
Ryan T. Dolan (6) | Class A Common Stock Class B Common Stock |
1,076 |
* |
* | ||||
Quentin F. Dolan (7) | Class A Common Stock Class B Common Stock |
13,546 |
* |
* | ||||
Martin N. Bandier (7) | Class A Common Stock Class B Common Stock |
9,869 |
|
| ||||
Donna Coleman (7) | Class A Common Stock Class B Common Stock |
12,307 |
* |
* | ||||
Frederic V. Salerno (7) | Class A Common Stock Class B Common Stock |
12,348 |
* |
* | ||||
David F. Byrnes (6) | Class A Common Stock Class B Common Stock |
1,210 |
* |
* | ||||
Jamal H. Haughton (6) | Class A Common Stock Class B Common Stock |
1,311 |
* |
* | ||||
Philip G. DAmbrosio (6) | Class A Common Stock Class B Common Stock |
10,126 |
* |
* | ||||
Courtney Zeppetella (6) | Class A Common Stock Class B Common Stock |
|
|
| ||||
All current executive officers and directors as a group (4) (12) |
Class A Common Stock Class B Common Stock |
1,713,508 6,851,436 |
3.8% 99.8% |
61.5% | ||||
Deborah A. Dolan-Sweeney (3)(7)(10)(13)(14)(15)(21) 340 Crossways Park Drive Woodbury, NY 11797 |
Class A Common Stock Class B Common Stock |
128,527 806,076 |
* 11.7% |
7.2% | ||||
Kathleen M. Dolan (3)(11)(14)(18) (22) MLC Ventures LLC P.O. Box 1014 Yorktown Heights, NY 10598 |
Class A Common Stock Class B Common Stock |
189,694 2,778,833 |
* 40.5% |
24.6% | ||||
Mary S. Dolan (3)(15)(21)(23) (27) 340 Crossways Park Drive Woodbury, NY 11797 |
Class A Common Stock Class B Common Stock |
71,948 3,985,993 |
* 58.0% |
35.2% | ||||
Matthew J. Dolan (3)(16)(19)(20) 340 Crossways Park Drive Woodbury, NY 11797 |
Class A Common Stock Class B Common Stock |
46,357 918,575 |
* 13.4% |
8.1% | ||||
Corby Dolan Leinauer (3)(17)(23) (27) 340 Crossways Park Drive Woodbury, NY 11797 |
Class A Common Stock Class B Common Stock |
41,254 3,521,601 |
* 51.3% |
31.0% | ||||
Charles F. Dolan James L. Dolan (3)(8)(11)(14)(18) P.O. Box 420 Oyster Bay, NY 11771 |
Class A Common Stock Class B Common Stock |
44,342 916,156 |
* 13.3% |
8.1% |
185
Name and Address |
Title of Stock Class(1) |
Beneficial Ownership |
Percent of Class |
Combined Voting Power of All Classes of Stock Beneficially Owned(1)(2) | ||||
Charles F. Dolan Thomas C. Dolan (3)(9)(14)(16)(19) 340 Crossways Park Drive Woodbury, NY 11797 |
Class A Common Stock Class B Common Stock |
20,156 468,423 |
* 6.8% |
4.1% | ||||
Charles F. Dolan Marianne Dolan Weber (3)(12)(14)(16)(20) MLC Ventures LLC P.O. Box 1014 Yorktown Heights, NY 10598 |
Class A Common Stock Class B Common Stock |
24,187 450,152 |
* 6.6% |
4.0% | ||||
Charles F. Dolan Deborah Dolan-Sweeney (3)(10)(13)(14)(15)(21) 340 Crossways Park Drive Woodbury, NY 11797 |
Class A Common Stock Class B Common Stock |
24,187 464,392 |
* 6.8% |
4.1% | ||||
Charles F. Dolan Kathleen M. Dolan (3)(11)(14)(22) MLC Ventures LLC P.O. Box 1014 Yorktown Heights, NY 10598 |
Class A Common Stock Class B Common Stock |
24,187 464,392 |
* 6.8% |
4.1% | ||||
Charles F. Dolan James L. Dolan (3)(4)(5)(15)(17)(23) P.O. Box 420 Oyster Bay, NY 11771 |
Class A Common Stock Class B Common Stock |
6,718 1,046,565 |
* 15.2% |
9.2% | ||||
Charles F. Dolan Thomas C. Dolan (3)(4)(5)(15)(17)(24) 340 Crossways Park Drive Woodbury, NY 11797 |
Class A Common Stock Class B Common Stock |
6,718 652,490 |
* 9.5% |
5.8% | ||||
Charles F. Dolan Marianne E. Dolan Weber (3)(4)(5)(15)(17)(25) MLC Ventures LLC P.O. Box 1014 Yorktown Heights, NY 10598 |
Class A Common Stock Class B Common Stock |
6,718 646,426 |
* 9.4% |
5.7% | ||||
Charles F. Dolan Deborah A. Dolan-Sweeney (3)(4)(5)(15)(17)(26) 340 Crossways Park Drive Woodbury, NY 11797 |
Class A Common Stock Class B Common Stock |
6,718 561,530 |
* 8.2% |
5.0% | ||||
Charles F. Dolan Kathleen M. Dolan (3)(4)(5)(15)(17)(27) MLC Ventures LLC P.O. Box 1014 Yorktown Heights, NY 10598 |
Class A Common Stock Class B Common Stock |
6,718 614,590 |
* 9.0% |
5.4% |
186
Name and Address |
Title of Stock Class(1) |
Beneficial Ownership |
Percent of Class |
Combined Voting Power of All Classes of Stock Beneficially Owned(1)(2) | ||||
Ariel Investments, LLC (28) 200 E. Randolph Street, Suite 2900 Chicago, IL 60601 |
Class A Common Stock Class B Common Stock |
6,692,520 |
14.9% |
5.9% | ||||
The Vanguard Group (29) 100 Vanguard Blvd. Malvern, PA 19355 |
Class A Common Stock Class B Common Stock |
2,514,028 |
5.6% |
2.2% |
* | Less than 1%. |
(1) | Beneficial ownership of a security consists of sole or shared voting power (including the power to vote or direct the vote) and/or sole or shared investment power (including the power to dispose or direct the disposition) with respect to the security through any contract, arrangement, understanding and relationship or otherwise. Unless indicated, beneficial ownership disclosed consists of sole voting and investment power. Beneficial ownership of Class A Common Stock is exclusive of the shares of Class A Common Stock that are issuable upon conversion of shares of Class B Common Stock. Share ownership reflects rounding for share-based compensation in the aggregate, not by specific tranche or award. |
(2) | Shares of Class B Common Stock are convertible into shares of Class A Common Stock at the option of the holder on a share for share basis. The holder of one share of Class A Common Stock has one vote per share at a meeting of our stockholders and the holder of one share of Class B Common Stock has ten votes per share at a meeting of our stockholders, except in the separate elections of directors. Holders of Class A Common Stock have the right to elect 25% of our Board rounded up to the nearest whole director and the holders of Class B Common Stock have the right to elect the remaining members of our Board. |
(3) | Members of the Dolan family have formed a group for purposes of Section 13(d) of the Securities Exchange Act. The members of this group (the Group Members) are: Charles F. Dolan, individually and as co-trustee of the Charles F. Dolan 2009 Revocable Trust (the CFD 2009 Trust); Helen A. Dolan, individually and as a co-trustee of the Helen A. Dolan 2009 Revocable Trust (the HAD 2009 Trust); James L. Dolan; Thomas C. Dolan; Kathleen M. Dolan, individually and as co-trustee of the Charles F. Dolan Children Trust FBO Kathleen M. Dolan, the Charles F. Dolan Children Trust FBO Deborah Dolan-Sweeney, the Charles F. Dolan Children Trust FBO Marianne Dolan Weber, the Charles F. Dolan Children Trust FBO Thomas C. Dolan and the Charles F. Dolan Children Trust FBO James L. Dolan (hereinafter collectively referred to as the Dolan Children Trusts and individually, a Dolan Children Trust) and as sole trustee of the Ryan Dolan 1989 Trust and Tara Dolan 1989 Trust; Marianne E. Dolan Weber; Deborah A. Dolan-Sweeney; the CFD 2009 Trust; the HAD 2009 Trust; the Dolan Children Trust FBO Kathleen M. Dolan; the Dolan Children Trust FBO Marianne Dolan Weber; the Dolan Children Trust FBO Deborah Dolan-Sweeney; the Dolan Children Trust FBO James L. Dolan; the Dolan Children Trust FBO Thomas C. Dolan; the Charles F. Dolan 2009 Family Trust FBO James L. Dolan; the Charles F. Dolan 2009 Family Trust FBO Thomas C. Dolan; the Charles F. Dolan 2009 Family Trust FBO Kathleen M. Dolan; the Charles F. Dolan 2009 Family Trust FBO Marianne E. Dolan Weber; the Charles F. Dolan 2009 Family Trust FBO Deborah A. Dolan-Sweeney; the Ryan Dolan 1989 Trust; and the Tara Dolan 1989 Trust. Individuals who are not Group Members but are trustees of trusts that are Group Members include Brian G. Sweeney, as co-trustee of the CFD 2009 Trust and the HAD 2009 Trust; Corby Dolan Leinauer, as co-trustee of the Charles F. Dolan 2009 Family Trust FBO Thomas C. Dolan, the Charles F. Dolan 2009 Family Trust FBO James L. Dolan, the Charles F. Dolan 2009 Family Trust FBO Marianne E. Dolan Weber, the Charles F. Dolan 2009 Family Trust FBO Kathleen M. Dolan and the Charles F. Dolan 2009 Family Trust FBO Deborah A. Dolan-Sweeney (collectively, the 2009 Family Trusts and individually, a 2009 Family Trust); Paul J. Dolan, as co-trustee of the Dolan Children Trust FBO Kathleen M. Dolan and the Dolan Children Trust FBO James L. Dolan; Matthew J. Dolan, as co-trustee of the Dolan Children Trust FBO |
187
Marianne Dolan Weber and the Dolan Children Trust FBO Thomas C. Dolan; and Mary S. Dolan, as co-trustee of the Dolan Children Trust FBO Deborah Dolan-Sweeney and each of the 2009 Family Trusts. The Group Members may be deemed to beneficially own an aggregate of (i) 1,623,023 shares of Class A Common Stock and (ii) 6,866,754 shares of Class B Common Stock and the equal number of shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion thereof. Group Members in the aggregate may be deemed to have the current shared power to vote or direct the vote of and to dispose of or direct the disposition of 6,866,754 shares of Class B Common Stock (representing all outstanding Class B Common Stock) and the equal number of shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion thereof by reason of the terms of an agreement among the group members. Individuals who are not Group Members but are trustees of trusts that are Group Members may be deemed to beneficially own 78,434 shares of Class A Common Stock. |
(4) | Charles F. Dolan may be deemed to have (a) the sole power to vote or direct the vote of and to dispose of or to direct the disposition of 17,773 shares of Class A Commom Stock owned of record personally and (b) the current shared power to vote or direct the vote of and to dispose of or direct the disposition of an aggregate of 281,185 shares of Class A Common Stock (including 50,307 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the CFD 2009 Trust, for which he serves as co-trustee, 197,288 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the Dolan Family Foundation and an aggregate of 33,590 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the 2009 Family Trusts) and an aggregate of 3,863,285 shares of Class B Common Stock and the equal number of shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion thereof (including 228,992 shares of Class B Common Stock owned of record by the CFD 2009 Trust, for which he serves as co-trustee, 112,692 shares of Class B Common Stock owned of record by the HAD 2009 Trust, for which his spouse, Helen A. Dolan, serves as co-trustee, and an aggregate of 3,521,601 shares of Class B Common Stock owned of record by the 2009 Family Trusts). This includes an aggregate of 33,590 shares of Class A Common Stock and 3,521,601 shares of Class B Common Stock owned of record by the 2009 Family Trusts which Charles F. Dolan may be deemed to have the right to acquire because he has the right to substitute assets with each of the trusts, subject to the trustees reasonable satisfaction that the substitute assets received by the trust are of equal value to the trust property exchanged therefor. He disclaims beneficial ownership of an aggregate of 230,878 shares of Class A Common Stock (including 197,288 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the Dolan Family Foundation and an aggregate of 33,590 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the 2009 Family Trusts) and an aggregate of 3,634,293 shares of Class B Common Stock and the equal number of shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion thereof (including 112,692 shares of Class B Common Stock owned of record by the HAD 2009 Trust, for which his spouse serves as co-trustee, and an aggregate of 3,521,601 shares of Class B Common Stock owned of record by the 2009 Family Trusts). |
(5) | Helen A. Dolan may be deemed to have the current shared power to vote or direct the vote of and to dispose of or direct the disposition of an aggregate of 298,958 shares of Class A Common Stock (including 17,773 shares of Class A Common Stcok owned personally by her spouse, Charles F. Dolan, 197,288 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the Dolan Family Foundation, an aggregate of 33,590 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the 2009 Family Trusts and 50,307 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the CFD 2009 Trust, for which her spouse serves as co-trustee) and an aggregate of 3,863,285 shares of Class B Common Stock and the equal number of shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion thereof (including 112,692 shares of Class B Common Stock owned of record by the HAD 2009 Trust, for which she serves as co-trustee, 228,992 shares of Class B Common Stock owned of record by the CFD 2009 Trust, for which her spouse serves as co-trustee, and an aggregate of 3,521,601 shares of Class B Common Stock owned of record by the 2009 Family Trusts). Includes an aggregate of 33,590 shares of Class A Common Stock and 3,521,601 shares of Class B Common Stock owned of record by the 2009 Family Trusts which her spouse may be deemed to have the right to acquire because he has the right to substitute assets with each of the trusts, subject to the trustees reasonable satisfaction that the substitute assets received by the trust are of equal value to the trust property exchanged therefor. She disclaims beneficial ownership of an aggregate of 298,958 shares of Class A Common Stock (including 17,773 shares of Class A Common owned personally by her spouse, 197,288 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the Dolan Family Foundation, an aggregate of 33,590 shares of Class A Common |
188
Stock owned of record by the 2009 Family Trusts and 50,307 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the CFD 2009 Trust for which her spouse serves as co-trustee) and an aggregate of 3,750,593 shares of Class B Common Stock and the equal number of shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion thereof (including 228,992 shares of Class B Common Stock owned of record by the CFD 2009 Trust, for which her spouse serves as co-trustee, and an aggregate of 3,521,601 shares of Class B Common Stock owned of record by the 2009 Family Trusts). |
(6) | Does not include restricted stock units that will be issued in connection with the Distribution in respect of unvested restricted stock units granted under the MSG Entertainment Employee Stock Plan or the target amount of unvested performance stock units granted under the MSG Entertainment Employee Stock Plan (except for restricted stock units and performance stock units subject to vesting within 60 days of the Reference Date). The excluded number of restricted stock units for the following individuals are: Messrs. James L. Dolan, 213,535 units; David F. Byrnes, 18,934 units; Jamal H. Haughton, 16,054 units; Philip G. DAmbrosio, 15,409 units; and Ryan T. Dolan, 931 units; and Ms. Courtney Zeppetella, 4,115 units. The excluded number of target performance stock units for the following individuals are: Messrs. James L. Dolan, 222,577 units; David F. Byrnes, 21,405 units; Jamal H. Haughton, 18,731 units; Philip G. DAmbrosio 22,465 units; Ryan T. Dolan, 1,367 units; and Ms. Courtney Zeppetella, 4,115 units. |
(7) | For purposes of the table, the number of shares beneficially owned presented includes shares of our Class A Common Stock that are expected to be issued to non-employee directors in respect of MSG Entertainment non-employee director restricted stock units held as of the Reference Date, which for each of the following individuals is: Messrs. Martin N. Bandier, 9,869 units; Charles F. Dolan, 17,773 units; Charles P. Dolan, 8,141 units; Paul J. Dolan, 14,749 units; Thomas C. Dolan, 17,773 units; Quentin F. Dolan, 8,141 units; Frederic V. Salerno, 11,950 units; and Brian G. Sweeney, 17,773 units; and Ms. Marianne Dolan Weber, 8,141 units. See Executive Compensation Treatment of Outstanding Awards for further information. |
(8) | James L. Dolan may be deemed to have (a) the sole power to vote or direct the vote of and to dispose of or to direct the disposition of an aggregate of 937,191 shares of Class A Common Stock (including 306,206 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record personally, options owned of record personally to purchase 630,239 shares of Class A Common Stock that are exercisable within 60 days of the Reference Date and 746 shares of Class A Common Stock held as custodian for one or more minor children) and 224,636 shares of Class B Common Stock and the equal number of shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion thereof owned of record personally and (b) the shared power to vote or direct the vote of and to dispose of or direct the disposition of an aggregate of 71,293 shares of Class A Common Stock (including 631 shares of Class A Common Stock owned jointly with his spouse, Kristin A. Dolan, 26,320 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record personally by his spouse and 44,342 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the Dolan Children Trust for his benefit) and 916,156 shares of Class B Common Stock and the equal number of shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion thereof owned of record by the Dolan Children Trust for his benefit. He disclaims beneficial ownership of an aggregate of 71,408 shares of Class A Common Stock (including 746 shares of Class A Common Stock held as custodian for one or more minor children, 26,320 shares of Class A common Stock owned of record personally by his spouse and 44,342 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the Dolan Children Trust for his benefit) and 916,156 shares of Class B Common Stock and the equal number of shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion thereof owned of record by the Dolan Children Trust for his benefit. |
(9) | Thomas C. Dolan may be deemed to have (a) the sole power to vote or direct the vote of and to dispose of or to direct the disposition of 47,128 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record personally and (b) the shared power to vote or direct the vote of and to dispose of or to direct the disposition of 20,156 shares of Class A Common Stock and 468,423 shares of Class B Common Stock and the equal number of shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion thereof owned of record by the Dolan Children Trust for his benefit. He disclaims beneficial ownership of 20,156 shares of Class A Common Stock and 468,423 |
shares of Class B Common Stock and the equal number of shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion thereof owned of record by the Dolan Children Trust for his benefit. |
189
(10) | Brian G. Sweeney may be deemed to have (a) the sole power to vote or direct the vote of and dispose or direct the disposition of 40,200 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record personally and (b) the shared power to vote or direct the vote of and to dispose of or direct the disposition of an aggregate of 88,327 shares of Class A Common Stock (including 10,419 shares of Class A Common Stock owned personally by his spouse, Deborah A. Dolan-Sweeney, an aggregate of 3,414 shares of Class A Common Stock held in trusts for his children, for which he serves as trustee, 50,307 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the CFD 2009 Trust, for which he serves as co-trustee, and 24,187 shares of Class A Common Stock owned by the Dolan Children Trust for the benefit of his spouse) and an aggregate of 806,076 shares of Class B Common Stock and the equal number of shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion thereof (including 464,392 shares of Class B Common Stock owned of record by the Dolan Children Trust for the benefit of his spouse, 228,992 shares of Class B Common Stock owned of record by the CFD 2009 Trust, for which he serves as co-trustee, and 112,692 shares of Class B Common Stock owned of record by the HAD 2009 Trust, for which he serves as co-trustee). He disclaims beneficial ownership of an aggregate of 88,327 shares of Class A Common Stock, (including 10,419 shares of Class A Common Stock owned personally by his spouse, 3,414 shares of Class A Common Stock held in trusts for his children, for which he serves as trustee, 50,307 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the CFD 2009 Trust, for which he serves as co-trustee, and 24,187 shares of Class A Common Stock owned by the Dolan Children Trust for the benefit of his spouse) and an aggregate of 806,076 shares of Class B Common Stock and the equal number of shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion thereof (including 464,392 shares of Class B Common Stock owned of record by the Dolan Children Trust for the benefit of his spouse, 228,992 shares of Class B Common Stock owned of record by the CFD 2009 Trust, for which he serves as co-trustee, and 112,692 shares of Class B Common Stock owned of record by the HAD 2009 Trust, for which he serves as co-trustee). |
(11) | Paul J. Dolan may be deemed to have (a) the sole power to vote or direct the vote of and to dispose of or to direct the disposition of an aggregate of 61,356 shares of Class A Common Stock (including 15,147 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record personally and 46,209 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the CFD Trust No. 10, for which he serves as co-trustee) and (b) the current shared power to vote or direct the vote of and to dispose of or direct the disposition of an aggregate of 68,529 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the Dolan Children Trusts for the benefit of Kathleen M. Dolan and James L. Dolan, for which he serves as co-trustee, and an aggregate of 1,380,548 shares of Class B Common Stock and the equal number of shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion thereof owned of record by the Dolan Children Trusts for the benefit of Kathleen M. Dolan and James L. Dolan, for which he serves as co-trustee. He disclaims beneficial ownership of an aggregate of 114,738 shares of Class A Common Stock (including 46,209 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the CFD Trust No. 10, for which he serves as co-trustee, an aggregate of 68,529 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the Dolan Children Trusts for the benefit of Kathleen M. Dolan and James L. Dolan, for which he serves as co-trustee) and an aggregate of 1,380,548 shares of Class B Common Stock and the equal number of shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion thereof owned of record by the Dolan Children Trusts for the benefit of Kathleen M. Dolan and James L. Dolan, for which he serves as co-trustee. |
(12) | Marianne Dolan Weber may be deemed to have (a) the sole power to vote or direct the vote of and to dispose of or to direct the disposition of 19,747 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record personally and (b) the current shared power to vote or direct the vote of and to dispose of or direct the disposition of an aggregate of 73,508 shares of Class A Common Stock (including 49,321 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the Heartfelt Wings Foundation Inc. and 24,187 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the Dolan Children Trust for her benefit) and 450,152 shares of Class B Common Stock and the equal number of shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion thereof owned of record by the Dolan Children Trust for her benefit. She disclaims beneficial ownership of an aggregate of 73,508 shares of Class A Common Stock (including 49,321 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the Heartfelt Wings Foundation Inc. and 24,187 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the Dolan Children Trust for her benefit) and 450,152 shares of Class B Common Stock and the equal number of shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion thereof owned of record by the Dolan Children Trust for her benefit. |
190
(13) | Deborah A. Dolan-Sweeney may be deemed to have (a) the sole power to vote or direct the vote of and to dispose of or to direct the disposition of 10,419 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record personally and (b) the current shared power to vote or direct the vote of and to dispose of or direct the disposition of an aggregate of 118,108 shares of Class A Common Stock (including 40,200 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record personally by her spouse, 3,414 shares of Class A Common Stock held by trusts for her children, for which her spouse serves as trustee, 50,307 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the CFD 2009 Trust, for which her spouse serves as co-trustee, and 24,187 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the Dolan Children Trust for her benefit) and an aggregate of 806,076 shares of Class B Common Stock and the equal number of shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion thereof (including 464,392 owned of record by the Dolan Children Trust for her benefit, 228,992 shares of Class B Common Stock owned of record by the CFD 2009 Trust, for which her spouse serves as co-trustee, and 112,692 shares of Class B Common Stock owned of record by the HAD 2009 Trust, for which her spouse serves as co-trustee). She disclaims beneficial ownership of an aggregate of 118,108 shares of Class A Common Stock (including 40,200 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record personally by her spouse, 3,414 shares of Class A Common Stock held by trusts for her children, for which her spouse serves as trustee, 50,307 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the CFD 2009 Trust, for which her spouse serves as co-trustee, and 24,187 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the Dolan Children Trust for her benefit and an aggregate of 806,076 shares of Class B Common Stock and the equal number of shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion thereof (including 464,392 owned of record by the Dolan Children Trust for her benefit, 228,992 shares of Class B Common Stock owned of record by the CFD 2009 Trust, for which her spouse serves as co-trustee, and 112,692 shares of Class B Common Stock owned of record by the HAD 2009 Trust, for which her spouse serves as co-trustee). |
(14) | Kathleen M. Dolan may be deemed to have (a) the sole power to vote or direct the vote of and to dispose of or to direct the disposition of an aggregate of 3,314 shares of Class A Common Stock (including 2,378 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record personally and 936 shares of Class A Common Stock held as custodian for one or more minor children) and an aggregate of 15,318 shares of Class B Common Stock and the equal number of shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion thereof (including 7,659 shares of Class B Common Stock owned of record by the Ryan Dolan 1989 Trust and 7,659 shares of Class B Common Stock owned of record by the Tara Dolan 1989 Trust, for which she serves as sole trustee) and (b) the current shared power to vote or direct the vote of and to dispose of or direct the disposition of an aggregate of 186,380 shares of Class A Common Stock (including 49,321 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the Green Mountain Foundation Inc. and an aggregate of 137,059 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the Dolan Children Trusts, for which she serves as co-trustee) and an aggregate of 2,763,515 shares of Class B Common Stock and the equal number of shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion thereof owned of record by the Dolan Children Trusts, for which she serves as co-trustee. She disclaims beneficial ownership of an aggregate of 187,316 shares of Class A Common Stock (including 936 shares of Class A Common Stock held as custodian for one or more minor children, 49,321 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the Green Mountain Foundation Inc. and an aggregate of 137,059 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the Dolan Children Trusts, for which she serves as co-trustee) and an aggregate of 2,778,833 shares of Class B Common Stock and the equal number of shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion thereof (including 7,659 shares of Class B Common Stock owned of record by the Ryan Dolan 1989 Trust and 7,659 shares of Class B Common Stock owned of record by the Tara Dolan 1989 Trust, for which she serves as sole trustee, and 2,763,515 shares of Class B Common Stock owned of record by the Dolan Children Trusts, for which she serves as co-trustee). |
(15) | Mary S. Dolan may be deemed to have (a) the sole power to vote or direct the vote and to dispose of or direct the disposition of 3,453 shares of Class A Common Stock held as custodian for one or more minor children and (b) the current shared power to vote or direct the vote of and to dispose of or direct the disposition of an aggregate of 68,495 shares of Class A Common Stock (including 3,947 shares of Class A |
191
Common Stock owned jointly with her spouse, 24,187 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the Dolan Children Trust for the benefit of Deborah Dolan-Sweeney, for which she serves as co-trustee, an aggregate of 1,692 shares of Class A Common Stock (including 423 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the CFD 2012 Grandchildren Trust FBO Aidan J. Dolan, 423 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the CFD 2012 Grandchildren Trust FBO Quentin F. Dolan, 423 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the CFD 2012 Grandchildren Trust FBO Marianne Rose Weber and 423 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the CFD 2012 Grandchildren Trust FBO Kevyn A. Dolan, for which she serves as co-trustee), 5,079 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the CFD 2012 Descendants Trust, for which she serves as co-trustee, and an aggregate of 33,590 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the 2009 Family Trusts, for which she serves as co-trustee) and an aggregate of 3,985,993 shares of Class B Common Stock and the equal number of shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion thereof (including 464,392 shares of Class B Common Stock owned of record by the Dolan Children Trust for the benefit of Deborah Dolan-Sweeney, for which she serves as co-trustee, and an aggregate of 3,521,601 shares of Class B Common Stock owned of record by the 2009 Family Trusts, for which she serves as co-trustee). She disclaims beneficial ownership of an aggregate of 68,001 shares of Class A Common Stock (including 3,453 shares of Class A Common Stock held as custodian for one or more minor children, 24,187 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the Dolan Children Trust for the benefit of Deborah Dolan-Sweeney, for which she serves as co-trustee, an aggregate of 1,692 shares of Class A Common Stock (including 423 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the CFD 2012 Grandchildren Trust FBO Aidan J. Dolan, 423 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the CFD 2012 Grandchildren Trust FBO Quentin F. Dolan, 423 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the CFD 2012 Grandchildren Trust FBO Marianne Rose Weber and 423 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the CFD 2012 Grandchildren Trust FBO Kevyn A. Dolan, for which she serves as co-trustee), 5,079 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the CFD 2012 Descendants Trust, for which she serves as co-trustee, and an aggregate of 33,590 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the 2009 Family Trusts, for which she serves as co-trustee) and an aggregate of 3,985,993 shares of Class B Common Stock and the equal number of shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion thereof (including 464,392 shares of Class B Common Stock and the equal number of shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion thereof owned of record by the Dolan Children Trust for the benefit of Deborah A. Dolan-Sweeney, for which she serves as co-trustee, and an aggregate of 3,521,601 shares of Class B Common Stock and the equal number of shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion thereof owned of record by the 2009 Family Trusts, for which she serves as co-trustee. |
(16) | Matthew J. Dolan may be deemed to have (a) the sole power to vote or direct the vote of and to dispose of or to direct the disposition of an aggregate of 1,206 shares of Class A Common Stock (including 619 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record personally and 587 shares of Class A Common Stock held as custodian for a minor child) and (b) the current shared power to vote or direct the vote of and to dispose of or direct the disposition of an aggregate of 45,151 shares of Class A Common Stock (including 480 shares of Class A Common Stock owned jointly with his spouse, 328 shares of Class A Common Stock held by his spouse as custodian for a minor child and an aggregate of 44,343 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the Dolan Children Trusts for the benefit of Marianne Dolan Weber and Thomas C. Dolan, for which he serves as co-trustee) and an aggregate of 918,575 shares of Class B Common Stock and the equal number of shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion thereof owned of record by the Dolan Children Trusts for the benefit of Marianne Dolan Weber and Thomas C. Dolan, for which he serves as co-trustee. He disclaims beneficial ownership of an aggregate of 45,258 shares of Class A Common Stock (including 587 shares of Class A Common Stock held as custodian for a minor child, 328 shares of Class A Common Stock held by his spouse as custodian for a minor child and an aggregate of 44,343 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the Dolan Children Trusts for the benefit of Marianne Dolan Weber and Thomas C. Dolan, for which he serves as co-trustee) and an aggregate of 918,575 shares of |
Class B Common Stock and the equal number of shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion thereof owned of record by the Dolan Children Trusts for the benefit of Marianne Dolan Weber and Thomas C. Dolan, for which he serves as co-trustee. |
192
(17) | Corby Dolan Leinauer may be deemed to have (a) the sole power to vote or direct the vote and to dispose of or direct the disposition of 54 shares of Class A Common Stock held as custodian for one or more minor children and (b) the current shared power to vote or direct the vote of and to dispose of or direct the disposition of an aggregate of 41,200 shares of Class A Common Stock (including 154 shares of Class A Common Stock owned jointly with her spouse, 685 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the Leinauer Family Education Trust, an aggregate of 1,692 shares of Class A Common Stock (including 423 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the CFD 2012 Grandchildren Trust FBO Aidan J. Dolan, 423 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the CFD 2012 Grandchildren Trust FBO Quentin F. Dolan, 423 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the CFD 2012 Grandchildren Trust FBO Marianne Rose Weber and 423 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the CFD 2012 Grandchildren Trust FBO Kevyn A. Dolan, for which she serves as co-trustee), 5,079 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the CFD 2012 Descendants Trust, for which she serves as co-trustee, and an aggregate of 33,590 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the 2009 Family Trusts, for which she serves as co-trustee) and an aggregate of 3,521,601 shares of Class B Common Stock and the equal number of shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion thereof owned of record by the 2009 Family Trusts, for which she serves as co-trustee. She disclaims beneficial ownership of an aggregate of 41,100 shares of Class A Common Stock (including 54 shares of Class A Common Stock held as custodian for one or more minor children, 685 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the Leinauer Family Education Trust, an aggregate of 1,692 shares of Class A Common Stock (including 423 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the CFD 2012 Grandchildren Trust FBO Aidan J. Dolan, 423 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the CFD 2012 Grandchildren Trust FBO Quentin F. Dolan, 423 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the CFD 2012 Grandchildren Trust FBO Marianne Rose Weber and 423 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the CFD 2012 Grandchildren Trust FBO Kevyn A. Dolan, for which she serves as co-trustee), 5,079 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the CFD 2012 Descendants Trust, for which she serves as co-trustee and an aggregate of 33,590 shares of Class A Common Stock owned of record by the 2009 Family Trusts, for which she serves as co-trustee) and an aggregate of 3,521,601 shares of Class B Common Stock and the equal number of shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion thereof owned of record by the 2009 Family Trusts, for which she serves as co-trustee. |
(18) | Kathleen M. Dolan and Paul J. Dolan are the trustees of the Charles F. Dolan Children Trust FBO James L. Dolan and have the shared power to vote and dispose of the shares held by the trust. |
(19) | Kathleen M. Dolan and Matthew J. Dolan are the trustees of the Charles F. Dolan Children Trust FBO Thomas C. Dolan and have the shared power to vote and dispose of the shares held by the trust. |
(20) | Kathleen M. Dolan and Matthew J. Dolan are the trustees of the Charles F. Dolan Children Trust FBO Marianne Dolan Weber and have the shared power to vote and dispose of the shares held by the trust. |
(21) | Kathleen M. Dolan and Mary S. Dolan are the trustees of the Charles F. Dolan Children Trust FBO Deborah Dolan-Sweeney and have the shared power to vote and dispose of the shares held by the trust. |
(22) | Kathleen M. Dolan and Paul J. Dolan are the trustees of the Charles F. Dolan Children Trust FBO Kathleen M. Dolan and have the shared power to vote and dispose of the shares held by the trust. |
(23) | Corby Dolan Leinauer and Mary S. Dolan are the trustees of the Charles F. Dolan 2009 Family Trust FBO James L. Dolan and have the shared power to vote and dispose of the shares held by the trust. |
(24) | Corby Dolan Leinauer and Mary S. Dolan are the trustees of the Charles F. Dolan 2009 Family Trust FBO Thomas C. Dolan and have the shared power to vote and dispose of the shares held by the trust. |
(25) | Corby Dolan Leinauer and Mary S. Dolan are the trustees of the Charles F. Dolan 2009 Family Trust FBO Marianne E. Dolan Weber and have the shared power to vote and dispose of the shares held by the trust. |
193
(26) | Corby Dolan Leinauer and Mary S. Dolan are the trustees of the Charles F. Dolan 2009 Family Trust FBO Deborah A. Dolan-Sweeney and have the shared power to vote and dispose of the shares held by the trust. |
(27) | Corby Dolan Leinauer and Mary S. Dolan are the trustees of the Charles F. Dolan 2009 Family Trust FBO Kathleen M. Dolan and have the shared power to vote and dispose of the shares held by the trust. |
(28) | Based upon a Schedule 13G/A (Amendment No. 5) filed with the SEC on February 14, 2023, Ariel Investments, LLC (Ariel) beneficially owns 6,692,520 shares of Class A Common Stock. Ariel has sole voting power over 6,097,877 shares of Class A Common Stock and sole dispositive power over 6,692,520 shares of Class A Common Stock. |
(29) | Based upon a Schedule 13G/A (Amendment No. 1) filed with the SEC on February 9, 2023, The Vanguard Group, Inc. (Vanguard) beneficially owns 2,514,028 shares of Class A Common Stock. Vanguard has sole voting power over 0 shares of Class A Common Stock, shared voting power over 17,682 shares of Class A Common Stock, sole dispositive power over 2,471,218 shares of Class A Common Stock and shared dispositive power over 42,810 shares of Class A Common Stock. |
194
SHARES ELIGIBLE FOR FUTURE SALE
Sales or the availability for sale of substantial amounts of our Class A Common Stock in the public market could adversely affect the prevailing market price for such stock. Upon completion of the Distribution, we will have outstanding an aggregate of approximately 44,900,926 shares of our Class A Common Stock and 6,866,754 shares of our Class B Common Stock based upon the shares of MSG Entertainment common stock outstanding on March 24, 2023, excluding treasury stock and assuming no exercise of outstanding options. All of the shares of Class A Common Stock will be freely tradable without restriction or further registration under the Securities Act unless the shares are owned by our affiliates as that term is defined in the rules under the Securities Act. Shares held by affiliates may be sold in the public market only if registered or if they qualify for an exemption from registration or in compliance with Rule 144, which is summarized below. Further, as described below, we plan to file a registration statement to cover the shares issued under our Employee Stock Plan.
Rule 144
In general, under Rule 144 as currently in effect, an affiliate would be entitled to sell within any three-month period a number of shares of Class A Common Stock that does not exceed the greater of:
| one percent of the number of shares of our Class A Common Stock then outstanding; or |
| the average weekly trading volume of our Class A Common Stock on the NYSE during the four calendar weeks preceding the filing of a notice on Form 144 with respect to such sale. |
Sales under Rule 144 are also subject to certain holding period requirements, manner of sale provisions and notice requirements and to the availability of current public information about us.
Employee Stock Awards
As described under Executive Compensation Treatment of Outstanding Awards, in connection with the Distribution we will issue under our Employee Stock Plan options with respect to approximately 724,065 shares of our Class A Common Stock, approximately 1,154,904 restricted stock units and approximately 1,255,558 performance stock units (at the target level of performance) in respect of previously outstanding awards by MSG Entertainment. In addition, we anticipate making other equity-based awards to our employees in the future. We currently expect to file a registration statement under the Securities Act to register shares to be issued under our Employee Stock Plan, including the options, restricted stock units and performance stock units that were granted in connection with the Distribution. Shares covered by such registration statement, other than shares issued to affiliates, generally will be freely tradable without further registration under the Securities Act.
Non-Employee Director Stock Awards
We also currently expect to file a registration statement under the Securities Act to register shares to be issued under our Director Stock Plan, including approximately 187,405 shares of the Companys Class A Common Stock in connection with MSG Entertainments restricted stock units, in each case held by MSG Entertainment directors. These shares will be granted, issued and fully vested as of the Distribution date. Shares covered by such registration statement, other than shares issued to affiliates, generally will be freely tradable without further registration under the Securities Act.
Registration Rights Agreements
MSG Entertainment will retain approximately 38% of the outstanding shares of Class A Common Stock, representing approximately 33% of our common stock, following the Distribution. Prior to the Distribution, we and MSG Entertainment will enter into a Stockholder and Registration Rights Agreement pursuant to which we will provide MSG Entertainment with demand and piggyback registration rights with respect to the shares of
195
Class A Common Stock it owns following the Distribution. In addition, MSG Entertainment will agree to vote the Class A Common Stock that it owns in proportion to the votes cast by the other holders of the Companys Class A Common Stock on such matter, to the extent such shares of Class A Common Stock are entitled to be voted on such matter. The shares of Class A Common Stock owned by MSG Entertainment will be present at all stockholder meetings for quorum purposes. MSG Entertainment will grant the Company an irrevocable proxy to implement these voting agreements. Although no final decisions have been made, MSG Entertainment is required by applicable tax rules to dispose of all the retained shares as soon as practicable consistent with the business purposes for the retention, and expects to dispose of such retained shares within one year, subject to market conditions. This disposition may be through one or more sales, exchange offers or pro-rata distributions.
Charles F. Dolan and all other holders of Class B Common Stock other than the Charles F. Dolan Children Trusts (collectively, the Dolan Parties) will enter into the Dolan Registration Rights Agreement with the Company, which will become effective upon consummation of the Distribution. Under this agreement, the Company will provide the Dolan Parties (and, in certain cases, transferees and pledgees of shares of Class B Common Stock owned by these parties) with certain demand and piggy-back registration rights with respect to their shares of Class A Common Stock (including those issued upon conversion of shares of Class B Common Stock). The Dolan Parties are expected to receive 4,103,239 shares of our Class B Common Stock in the Distribution, which are expected to represent approximately 59.8% of our Class B Common Stock as well as approximately 1,492,735 shares of Class A Common Stock, which are expected to represent less than 3.3% of our Class A Common Stock. Such shares of Class B Common Stock and Class A Common Stock, collectively, are expected to represent approximately 10.7% of our common stock and 37.2% of the aggregate voting power of our common stock. The foregoing amounts and percentages are inclusive of exercisable options.
The Charles F. Dolan Children Trusts (the Dolan Children Trusts) and the Company will enter into the Children Trusts Registration Rights Agreement, which will become effective upon consummation of the Distribution. Under this agreement, the Company will provide the Dolan Children Trusts (and, in certain cases, transferees and pledgees of shares of Class B Common Stock owned by these parties) with certain demand and piggy-back registration rights with respect to their shares of Class A Common Stock (including those issued upon conversion of shares of Class B Common Stock). The Dolan Children Trusts are expected to receive Class B Common Stock in the Distribution (the Children Trust Shares), which are expected to represent approximately 40.3% of our Class B Common Stock, as well as approximately 137,059 shares of Class A Common Stock, which are expected to represent less than 1% of our Class A Common Stock. Such shares of Class B Common Stock and Class A Common Stock, collectively, are expected to represent approximately 5.6% of our common stock and 24.5% of the aggregate voting power of our common stock.
In the Children Trusts Registration Rights Agreement, each Dolan Children Trust will agree that in the case of any sale or disposition of its shares of Class B Common Stock by such Dolan Children Trust, or of any of the Children Trust Shares by any other Dolan family interest to which such shares of Class B Common Stock are transferred, such stock will be converted to Class A Common Stock. The Dolan Registration Rights Agreement will not include a comparable conversion obligation, and the conversion obligation in the Children Trusts Registration Rights Agreement will not apply to the Class B Common Stock received by the Dolan Parties in the Distribution.
The MSG Entertainment Registration Rights Agreement, Dolan Registration Rights Agreement and the Children Trusts Registration Rights Agreement are filed as exhibits prior to the Distribution to the registration statement, of which this information statement forms a part, that we have filed with the SEC, and the foregoing discussion of those agreements is qualified in its entirety by reference to those agreements that will be filed prior to the Distribution.
196
We are currently authorized to issue 1,000 shares of common stock. Prior to the Distribution, we will amend our certificate of incorporation to provide authorization for us to issue 165,000,000 shares of capital stock, of which 120,000,000 shares will be Class A Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share, 30,000,000 shares will be Class B Common Stock, par value $.01 per share, and 15,000,000 shares will be preferred stock, par value $.01 per share. The amended and restated certificate of incorporation will provide that our common stock and preferred stock will have the rights described below.
Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock
All shares of our common stock currently outstanding are fully paid and non-assessable, not subject to redemption and without preemptive or other rights to subscribe for or purchase any proportionate part of any new or additional issues of stock of any class or of securities convertible into stock of any class.
Voting
Holders of Class A Common Stock are entitled to one vote per share. Holders of Class B Common Stock are entitled to 10 votes per share. All actions submitted to a vote of stockholders are voted on by holders of Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock voting together as a single class, except for the election of directors and as otherwise set forth below. With respect to the election of directors, holders of Class A Common Stock will vote together as a separate class and be entitled to elect 25% of the total number of directors constituting the whole Board of Directors and, if such 25% is not a whole number, then the holders of Class A Common Stock, voting together as a separate class, will be entitled to elect the nearest higher whole number of directors that is at least 25% of the total number of directors. Holders of Class B Common Stock, voting together as a separate class, will be entitled to elect the remaining directors.
If, however, on the record date for any stockholders meeting at which directors are to be elected, the number of outstanding shares of Class A Common Stock is less than 10% of the total number of outstanding shares of both classes of common stock, the holders of Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock will vote together as a single class with respect to the election of directors and the holders of Class A Common Stock will not have the right to elect 25% of the total number of directors but will have one vote per share for all directors and the holders of Class B Common Stock will have 10 votes per share for all directors. (On the date of the Distribution, we anticipate that the number of outstanding shares of Class A Common Stock will represent approximately 86.7% of the total number of outstanding shares of both classes of common stock.)
If, on the record date for notice of any stockholders meeting at which directors are to be elected, the number of outstanding shares of Class B Common Stock is less than 121/2% of the total number of outstanding shares of both classes of common stock, then the holders of Class A Common Stock, voting as a separate class, would continue to elect a number of directors equal to 25% of the total number of directors constituting the whole Board of Directors and, in addition, would vote together with the holders of Class B Common Stock, as a single class, to elect the remaining directors to be elected at such meeting, with the holders of Class A Common Stock entitled to one vote per share and the holders of Class B Common Stock entitled to 10 votes per share.
In addition, the affirmative vote or consent of the holders of at least 662/3% of the outstanding shares of Class B Common Stock, voting separately as a class, is required for the authorization or issuance of any additional shares of Class B Common Stock and for any amendment, alteration or repeal of any provisions of our amended and restated certificate of incorporation which would affect adversely the powers, preferences or rights of the Class B Common Stock. The number of authorized shares of Class A Common Stock may be increased or decreased (but not below the number of shares thereof then outstanding) by the affirmative vote of the holders of the majority of the voting power of the Class A Common Stock and the Class B Common Stock voting together as a single classno separate class vote of the holders of Class A Common Stock is required, irrespective of the provisions of Section 242(b)(2) of the Delaware General Corporation Law (or any successor provision thereto). Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation will not provide for cumulative voting.
197
Pursuant to the Stockholder and Registration Rights Agreement, MSG Entertainment has agreed that so long as it owns any Class A Common Stock, such Class A Common Stock will be voted with respect to any matter (including waivers of contractual or statutory rights), in proportion to the votes cast by the other holders of Class A Common Stock on such matter, to the extent such shares of Class A Common Stock are entitled to be voted on such matter. In addition, the shares of Class A Common Stock owned by MSG Entertainment will be present at all stockholder meetings for quorum purposes. MSG Entertainment has granted the Company an irrevocable proxy to implement these voting agreements.
Advance Notification of Stockholder Nominations and Proposals
Our amended by-laws will establish advance notice procedures with respect to stockholder proposals and nomination of candidates for election as directors other than nominations made by or at the direction of our Board of Directors. In particular, stockholders must notify our corporate secretary in writing prior to the meeting at which the matters are to be acted upon or directors are to be elected. The notice must contain the information specified in our amended by-laws. To be timely, the notice must be received by our corporate secretary not less than 60 or more than 90 days prior to the date of the stockholders meeting, provided that if the date of the meeting is publicly announced or disclosed less than 70 days prior to the date of the meeting, the notice must be given not more than 10 days after such date is first announced or disclosed.
No Stockholder Action by Written Consent
Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation will provide that, except as otherwise provided as to any series of preferred stock in the terms of that series, no action of stockholders required or permitted to be taken at any annual or special meeting of stockholders may be taken without a meeting of stockholders, without prior notice and without a vote, and the power of the stockholders to consent in writing to the taking of any action without a meeting is specifically denied.
Conversions
The Class A Common Stock has no conversion rights. The Class B Common Stock is convertible into Class A Common Stock in whole or in part at any time and from time to time on the basis of one share of Class A Common Stock for each share of Class B Common Stock. In the case of any sale or disposition of Class B Common Stock by a Dolan Children Trust, or of any Children Trust Shares by any other Dolan family interest to which such shares have been transferred, such stock must be converted to Class A Common Stock on a one-for-one basis. This conversion requirement will not apply to sales or dispositions of Class B Common Stock to Charles F. Dolan or other Dolan family interests. Any conversion of Class B Common Stock into Class A Common Stock would result in the issuance of additional shares of Class A Common Stock. As a result of any such conversion, existing Class A Common Stockholders would own the same percentage of the outstanding Common Stock but a smaller percentage of the total number of shares of issued and outstanding Class A Common Stock. Additionally, the conversion of shares of Class B Common Stock, which are entitled to 10 votes per share, into shares of Class A Common Stock, which are entitled to one vote per share, would increase the voting power of Class A Common Stockholders with respect to all actions that are voted on by holders of Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock as a single class; however, the Class B Common Stockholders, voting as a separate class, would continue to have the right to elect up to 75% of our Board of Directors unless and until the Class B Common Stock represented less than 121/2% of the outstanding Common Stock and, when both classes vote together as one class, would continue to represent a majority of the outstanding voting power of the Common Stock unless and until the Class B Common Stock represented less than approximately 9.1% of the outstanding Common Stock. See Description of Capital Stock Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock Voting and Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters Beneficial Ownership of Stock.
198
Dividends
Holders of Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock are entitled to receive dividends equally on a per-share basis if and when such dividends are declared by the Board of Directors from funds legally available therefor. No dividend may be declared or paid in cash or property or shares of either Class A Common Stock or Class B Common Stock unless the same dividend is paid simultaneously on each share of the other class of common stock. In the case of any stock dividend, holders of Class A Common Stock are entitled to receive the same dividend on a percentage basis (payable in shares of or securities convertible to shares of Class A Common Stock and other securities of ours or any other person) as holders of Class B Common Stock receive (payable in shares of or securities convertible into shares of Class A Common Stock, shares of or securities convertible into shares of Class B Common Stock and other securities of us or any other person). The distribution of shares or other securities of the Company or any other person to common stockholders is permitted to differ to the extent that the common stock differs as to voting rights and rights in connection to certain dividends.
Liquidation
Holders of Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock share with each other on a ratable basis as a single class in the net assets available for distribution in respect of Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock in the event of a liquidation.
Other Terms
Neither the Class A Common Stock nor the Class B Common Stock may be subdivided, consolidated, reclassified or otherwise changed, except as expressly provided in our amended and restated certificate of incorporation, unless the other class of common stock is subdivided, consolidated, reclassified or otherwise changed at the same time, in the same proportion and in the same manner.
In any merger, consolidation or business combination the consideration to be received per share by holders of either Class A Common Stock or Class B Common Stock must be identical to that received by holders of the other class of common stock, except that in any such transaction in which shares of capital stock are distributed, such shares may differ as to voting rights only to the extent that voting rights now differ between Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock.
Transfer Agent
The transfer and distribution agent and registrar for the Class A Common Stock is EQ Shareowner Services.
Preferred Stock
Under our amended and restated certificate of incorporation, our Board of Directors will be authorized, without further stockholder action, to provide for the issuance of up to 15,000,000 shares of preferred stock in one or more series. The powers, designations, preferences and relative, participating, optional or other special rights, and qualifications, limitations or restrictions, including dividend rights, voting rights, conversion rights, terms of redemption and liquidation preferences, of the preferred stock of each series will be fixed or designated by the Board of Directors pursuant to a certificate of designations. There will be no shares of our preferred stock outstanding at the time of the Distribution. Any issuance of preferred stock may adversely affect the rights of holders of our common stock and may render more difficult certain unsolicited or hostile attempts to take over the Company.
Certain Corporate Opportunities and Conflicts
Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation will recognize that Overlap Persons may serve as directors, officers, employees, and agents of an Other Entity and will provide that if a director or officer of the
199
Company who is an Overlap Person is presented or offered, or otherwise acquires knowledge of, a potential transaction or matter that may constitute or present a business opportunity for the Company or any of its subsidiaries, in which the Company could have an interest or expectancy (any such transaction or matter, and any such actual or potential business opportunity, a Potential Business Opportunity), (i) such Overlap Person will, to the fullest extent permitted by law, have no duty or obligation to refrain from referring such Potential Business Opportunity to any Other Entity and, if such director or officer refers such Potential Business Opportunity to an Other Entity, such Overlap Person shall have no duty or obligation to refer such Potential Business Opportunity to the Company or to give any notice to the Company regarding such Potential Business Opportunity (or any matter related thereto), (ii) if such Overlap Person refers a Potential Business Opportunity to an Other Entity, such Overlap Person, to the fullest extent permitted by law, will not be liable to the Company as a director, officer, stockholder or otherwise, for any failure to refer such Potential Business Opportunity to the Company, or for referring such Potential Business Opportunity to any Other Entity, or for any failure to give any notice to the Company regarding such Potential Business Opportunity or any matter relating thereto, (iii) any Other Entity may participate, engage or invest in any such Potential Business Opportunity notwithstanding that such Potential Business Opportunity may have been referred to such Other Entity by an Overlap Person, and (iv) if a director or officer who is an Overlap Person refers a Potential Business Opportunity to an Other Entity, then, as between the Company, on the one hand, and such Other Entity, on the other hand, the Company shall be deemed to have renounced any interest, expectancy or right in or to such Potential Business Opportunity or to receive any income or proceeds derived therefrom solely as a result of such Overlap Person having been presented or offered, or otherwise acquiring knowledge of, such Potential Business Opportunity, unless in each case referred to in clauses (i), (ii), (iii) or (iv), such Potential Business Opportunity is considered a Restricted Potential Business Opportunity as defined in our amended and restated certificate of incorporation. In our amended and restated certificate of incorporation, the Company has renounced to the fullest extent permitted by law, any interest or expectancy in any Potential Business Opportunity that is not a Restricted Potential Business Opportunity. In the event that the Companys Board of Directors declines to pursue a Restricted Potential Business Opportunity, Overlap Persons are free to refer such Restricted Potential Business Opportunity to an Other Entity.
Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation will provide that no contract, agreement, arrangement or transaction (or any amendment, modification or termination thereof) entered into between the Company and/or any of its subsidiaries, on the one hand, and an Other Entity, on the other hand, before the Company ceased to be an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of MSG Entertainment shall be void or voidable or be considered unfair to the Company or any of its subsidiaries solely because an Other Entity is a party thereto, or because any directors, officers or employees of an Other Entity were present at or participated in any meeting of the Board of Directors, or a committee thereof, of the Company that authorized the contract, agreement, arrangement or transaction (or any amendment, modification or termination thereof), or because his, her or their votes were counted for such purpose. The Company may from time to time enter into and perform, and cause or permit any of its subsidiaries to enter into and perform, one or more contracts, agreements, arrangements or transactions (or amendments, modifications or supplements thereto) with an Other Entity. To the fullest extent permitted by law, no such contract, agreement, arrangement or transaction (nor any such amendments, modifications or supplements), nor the performance thereof by the Company or an Other Entity, shall be considered contrary to any fiduciary duty owed to the Company (or to any stockholder of the Company) by any director or officer of the Company who is an Overlap Person. To the fullest extent permitted by law, no director or officer of the Company who is an Overlap Person thereof shall have or be under any fiduciary duty to the Company (or to any stockholder of the Company) to refrain from acting on behalf of the Company or an Other Entity in respect of any such contract, agreement, arrangement or transaction or performing any such contract, agreement, arrangement or transaction in accordance with its terms and each such director or officer of the Company who is an Overlap Person shall be deemed to have acted in good faith and in a manner such person reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Company, and shall be deemed not to have breached his or her duties of loyalty to the Company (or to any stockholders of the Company) and not to have derived an improper personal benefit therefrom.
200
No alteration, amendment or repeal of, or adoption of any provision inconsistent with the foregoing provisions will have any effect upon: (a) any agreement between the Company or a subsidiary thereof and any Other Entity that was entered into before the time of such alteration, amendment or repeal or adoption of any such inconsistent provision (the Amendment Time), or any transaction entered into in connection with the performance of any such agreement, whether such transaction is entered into before or after the Amendment Time; (b) any transaction entered into between the Company or a subsidiary thereof and any Other Entity, before the Amendment Time; (c) the allocation of any business opportunity between the Company or any subsidiary thereof and any Other Entity before the Amendment Time; or (d) any duty or obligation owed by any director or officer of the Company or any subsidiary of the Company (or the absence of any such duty or obligation) with respect to any Potential Business Opportunity which such director or officer was offered, or of which such director or officer otherwise became aware, before the Amendment Time (regardless of whether any proceeding relating to any of the above is commenced before or after the Amendment Time).
Section 203 of the Delaware General Corporation Law
Section 203 of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware prohibits certain transactions between a Delaware corporation and an interested stockholder. An interested stockholder for this purpose is a stockholder who is directly or indirectly a beneficial owner of 15% or more of the aggregate voting power of a Delaware corporation. This provision prohibits certain business combinations between an interested stockholder and a corporation for a period of three years after the date on which the stockholder became an interested stockholder, unless: (1) prior to the time that a stockholder became an interested stockholder, either the business combination or the transaction which resulted in the stockholder becoming an interested stockholder is approved by the Companys Board of Directors; (2) the interested stockholder acquired at least 85% of the aggregate voting power of the Company in the transaction in which the stockholder became an interested stockholder; or (3) the business combination is approved by a majority of the Board of Directors and the affirmative vote of the holders of two-thirds of the aggregate voting power not owned by the interested stockholder at or subsequent to the time that the stockholder became an interested stockholder. These restrictions do not apply if, among other things, the Companys certificate of incorporation contains a provision expressly electing not to be governed by Section 203. Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation will not contain such an election. However, our Board of Directors has exercised its right under Section 203 to approve the acquisition of our common stock in the Distribution by members of the Dolan Family Group. This has the effect of making Section 203 inapplicable to transactions between the Company and current and future members of the Dolan Family Group.
Limitation on Personal Liability
We have provided, consistent with the Delaware General Corporation Law, in our certificate of incorporation that a director of the Company shall not be personally liable to the Company or its stockholders for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director, except for liability for:
| any breach of the directors duty of loyalty to us or our stockholders; |
| acts or omissions not in good faith or which involve intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law; |
| payments of unlawful dividends or unlawful stock repurchases or redemptions; or |
| any transaction from which the director derived an improper personal benefit. |
Neither the amendment nor repeal of such provision will adversely affect any right or protection of a person that exists at the time of such amendment or repeal.
201
OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS
Section 145 of the Delaware General Corporation Law provides that a corporation may indemnify any current or former director, officer or employee or other individual against expenses, judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement in connection with civil, criminal, administrative or investigative actions or proceedings, other than a derivative action by or in the right of the corporation, if the director, officer, employee or other individual acted in good faith and in a manner he or she reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the corporation, and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, if he or she had no reasonable cause to believe his or her conduct was unlawful. A similar standard is applicable in the case of derivative actions, except that indemnification only extends to expenses incurred in connection with the defense or settlement of such actions, and the statute requires court approval before there can be any indemnification where the person seeking indemnification has been found liable to the corporation. The statute provides that it is not exclusive of other indemnification that may be granted by a corporations by-laws, disinterested director vote, stockholder vote, agreement or otherwise.
Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation will provide that, to the fullest extent permitted by Section 145 of the Delaware General Corporation Law, as the same may be amended and supplemented, or by any successor thereto, the Company will indemnify any and all persons whom it shall have power to indemnify under said section from and against any and all of the expenses, liabilities or other matters referred to in or covered by said section. Such right to indemnification shall continue as to a person who has ceased to be a director, officer, employee or agent and shall inure to the benefit of the heirs, executors and administrators of such a person. The right to indemnification provided under the certificate of incorporation is not exclusive of any other rights to which a person seeking indemnification may be entitled under any by-law, agreement, vote of stockholders or disinterested directors or otherwise. The amended and restated certificate of incorporation also provides that no amendment, modification or repeal of the indemnification provision shall adversely affect any right or protection of a person that exists at the time of such amendment, modification or repeal.
Prior to the Distribution, we expect to enter into indemnification agreements with each of our directors and executive officers. The indemnification agreements will provide that we will, to the fullest extent permitted by Delaware law, and subject to the terms and conditions of each indemnification agreement, indemnify each director and executive officer against certain types of liabilities and pay or reimburse certain expenses if the director or executive officer is involved in any manner (including as a party or witness) in certain types of proceedings by reason of the fact of such persons service as a director, officer, partner, trustee, fiduciary, manager or employee of the Company or of any other corporation, limited liability company, public limited company, partnership, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan, fund or other enterprise (a) affiliated with the Company or (b) at the written request of the Board, a Board committee, the Executive Chairman or the Chief Executive Officer of the Company.
The Distribution Agreement between us and MSG Entertainment provides for indemnification by us of MSG Entertainment and its directors, officers and employees and by MSG Entertainment of us and our directors, officers and employees for some liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act and the Exchange Act. The amount of these indemnity obligations is unlimited.
202
We have filed with the SEC a registration statement, of which this information statement forms a part, under the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations promulgated under the Exchange Act with respect to the shares of our Class A Common Stock being distributed to MSG Entertainment stockholders in the Distribution. This information statement does not contain all of the information set forth in the registration statement and its exhibits and schedules, to which reference is made hereby. Statements in this information statement as to the contents of any contract, agreement or other document are qualified in all respects by reference to such contract, agreement or document. If we have filed any of those contracts, agreements or other documents as an exhibit to the registration statement, you should read the full text of such contract, agreement or document for a more complete understanding of the document or matter involved. For further information with respect to us and our Class A Common Stock, we refer you to the registration statement, of which this information statement forms a part, including the exhibits and the schedules filed as a part of it.
We intend to furnish the holders of our Class A Common Stock with annual reports and proxy statements containing financial statements audited by an independent public accounting firm and file with the SEC quarterly reports for the first three quarters of each fiscal year containing interim unaudited financial information. We also intend to furnish other reports as we may determine or as required by law.
The registration statement, of which this information statement forms a part, and its exhibits and schedules, and other documents which we file with the SEC are available to the public at the SECs website at http://www.sec.gov. You can also obtain reports, proxy statements and other information about us at the NYSEs website at http://www.nyse.com.
Information that we file with the SEC after the date of this information statement may supersede the information in this information statement. You may read these reports, proxy statements and other information and obtain copies of such documents and information as described above.
No person is authorized to give any information or to make any representations other than those contained in this information statement, and, if given or made, such information or representations must not be relied upon as having been authorized. Neither the delivery of this information statement nor any distribution of securities made hereunder shall imply that there has been no change in the information set forth or in our affairs since the date hereof.
203
INDEX TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Page | ||||
Condensed Combined Financial Statements (Unaudited) |
||||
Condensed Combined Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2022 and June 30, 2022 |
F-56 | |||
Condensed Combined Statements of Operations for the six months ended December 31, 2022 and 2021 |
F-57 | |||
F-58 | ||||
Condensed Combined Statements of Cash Flows for the six months ended December 31, 2022 and 2021 |
F-59 | |||
F-61 | ||||
F-62 |
F-1
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Stockholders and the Board of Directors of MSGE Spinco, Inc.
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying combined balance sheets of MSGE Spinco, Inc. (the traditional live entertainment business of Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp.) (the Company) as of June 30, 2022 and 2021, the related combined statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss), cash flows, and divisional equity (deficit) for each of the two years in the period ended June 30, 2022, and the related notes and financial statement Schedule II (collectively referred to as the financial statements). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of June 30, 2022 and 2021, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the two years in the period ended June 30, 2022, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Companys management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Companys financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB and in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audits, we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Companys internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Emphasis of Matter
As described in Notes 1 and 19 to the financial statements, the financial statements were derived from the consolidated financial statements and accounting records of Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. These financial statements include transactions with related parties and allocations for certain support functions that are provided on a centralized basis, which may not be indicative of the conditions that would have existed, or actual expenses that would have been incurred by the Company, and may not reflect its combined results of operations, financial position and cash flows had it operated without such affiliations and had been a stand-alone company during the periods presented.
/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP
New York, New York
January 13, 2023
We have served as the Companys auditor since 2022.
F-2
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Stockholders and Board of Directors
MSGE Spinco, Inc.:
Opinion on the Combined Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying combined statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss), divisional equity (deficit) and cash flows of MSGE Spinco, Inc. and subsidiaries (the traditional live entertainment business of Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp.) (the Company) for the year ended June 30, 2020 and the related notes (collectively, the combined financial statements). In our opinion, the combined financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the results of operations of the Company and its cash flows for the year ended June 30, 2020, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.
Basis for Opinion
These combined financial statements are the responsibility of the Companys management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these combined financial statements based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB and in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the combined financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audit included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the combined financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the combined financial statements. Our audit also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the combined financial statements. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
/s/ KPMG LLP
We have served as the Companys auditor from 2022 to 2023.
New York, New York
January 13, 2023
F-3
COMBINED BALANCE SHEETS
(in thousands)
June 30, | ||||||||
2022 | 2021 | |||||||
ASSETS |
||||||||
Current Assets: |
||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents |
$ | 58,102 | $ | 317,819 | ||||
Restricted cash |
4,471 | 250 | ||||||
Accounts receivable, net |
102,501 | 67,806 | ||||||
Related party receivables, current |
96,938 | 95,442 | ||||||
Prepaid expenses and other current assets |
79,441 | 63,504 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total current assets |
341,453 | 544,821 | ||||||
Related party receivables, noncurrent |
| 66,902 | ||||||
Property and equipment, net |
696,079 | 742,916 | ||||||
Right-of-use lease assets |
271,154 | 95,775 | ||||||
Amortizable intangible assets, net |
1,638 | 7,476 | ||||||
Indefinite-lived intangible assets |
63,801 | 63,801 | ||||||
Goodwill |
69,041 | 69,041 | ||||||
Other assets |
83,535 | 106,557 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total assets |
$ | 1,526,701 | $ | 1,697,289 | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
LIABILITIES AND DIVISIONAL EQUITY (DEFICIT) |
||||||||
Current Liabilities: |
||||||||
Accounts payable |
$ | 11,241 | $ | 2,465 | ||||
Accrued and other current liabilities |
210,720 | 123,063 | ||||||
Related party payables, current |
72,683 | 57,788 | ||||||
Current portion of long-term debt |
8,762 | 6,500 | ||||||
Operating lease liabilities, current |
39,006 | 40,926 | ||||||
Deferred revenue |
202,678 | 198,505 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total current liabilities |
545,090 | 429,247 | ||||||
Long-term debt, net of deferred financing costs |
654,912 | 611,285 | ||||||
Operating lease liabilities, non-current |
254,114 | 77,211 | ||||||
Deferred tax liabilities, net |
23,253 | 23,270 | ||||||
Other liabilities |
50,921 | 57,624 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total liabilities |
1,528,290 | 1,198,637 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Commitments and contingencies (see Note 13) |
||||||||
Spinco Divisional Equity (Deficit): |
||||||||
MSG Entertainment investment |
33,265 | 529,500 | ||||||
Accumulated other comprehensive loss |
(34,740 | ) | (33,598 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total Spinco divisional equity (deficit) |
(1,475 | ) | 495,902 | |||||
Nonredeemable noncontrolling interests |
(114 | ) | 2,750 | |||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total liabilities and divisional equity (deficit) |
$ | 1,526,701 | $ | 1,697,289 | ||||
|
|
|
|
See accompanying notes to the combined financial statements.
F-4
COMBINED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(in thousands)
Years Ended June 30, | ||||||||||||
|
|
|||||||||||
2022 | 2021 | 2020 | ||||||||||
Revenues (a) |
$ | 653,490 | $ | 81,812 | $ | 584,601 | ||||||
Operating expenses: (a) |
||||||||||||
Direct operating expenses |
417,301 | 96,236 | 380,526 | |||||||||
Selling, general and administrative expenses |
167,132 | 136,597 | 137,935 | |||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
69,534 | 71,576 | 81,591 | |||||||||
Gain on disposal of assets held for sale and associated settlements |
| | (240,783 | ) | ||||||||
Restructuring charges |
5,171 | 14,691 | | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Operating income (loss) |
(5,648 | ) | (237,288 | ) | 225,332 | |||||||
Other income (expense): |
||||||||||||
Interest income (a) |
7,150 | 6,442 | 8,805 | |||||||||
Interest expense |
(53,110 | ) | (33,735 | ) | (425 | ) | ||||||
Loss on extinguishment of debt |
(35,629 | ) | | | ||||||||
Other income (expense), net |
(49,033 | ) | 50,622 | 37,129 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
(130,622 | ) | 23,329 | 45,509 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Income (loss) from operations before income taxes |
(136,270 | ) | (213,959 | ) | 270,841 | |||||||
Income tax (expense) benefit |
70 | (5,349 | ) | (100,182 | ) | |||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Net income (loss) |
(136,200 | ) | (219,308 | ) | 170,659 | |||||||
Less: Net loss attributable to nonredeemable noncontrolling interest |
(2,864 | ) | (694 | ) | (1,071 | ) | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Net income (loss) attributable to Spincos stockholders |
$ | (133,336 | ) | $ | (218,614 | ) | $ | 171,730 | ||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | See Note 19, Related Party Transactions, for further information on related party arrangements |
See accompanying notes to the combined financial statements.
F-5
COMBINED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
(in thousands)
Years Ended June 30, | ||||||||||||
2022 | 2021 | 2020 | ||||||||||
Net income (loss) |
$ | (136,200 | ) | $ | (219,308 | ) | $ | 170,659 | ||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Other comprehensive income (loss), before income taxes: |
||||||||||||
Pension plans and postretirement plans: |
||||||||||||
Net unamortized losses arising during the period |
(2,805 | ) | (5,168 | ) | (45 | ) | ||||||
Amortization of net actuarial loss included in net periodic benefit cost |
1,420 | 1,191 | 1,342 | |||||||||
Curtailments |
| 156 | | |||||||||
Settlement loss |
| 870 | 67 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Other comprehensive income (loss), before income taxes |
(1,385 | ) | (2,951 | ) | 1,364 | |||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Income tax benefit (expense) related to items of other comprehensive income |
243 | 461 | (488 | ) | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes |
(1,142 | ) | (2,490 | ) | 876 | |||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Comprehensive income (loss) |
(137,342 | ) | (221,798 | ) | 171,535 | |||||||
Less: Comprehensive loss attributable to nonredeemable noncontrolling interests |
(2,864 | ) | (694 | ) | (1,071 | ) | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to MSGE Spinco, Inc. |
$ | (134,478 | ) | $ | (221,104 | ) | $ | 172,606 | ||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
See accompanying notes to the combined financial statements.
F-6
COMBINED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(in thousands)
Years Ended June 30, | ||||||||||||
2022 | 2021 | 2020 | ||||||||||
Cash flows from operating activities: |
||||||||||||
Net income (loss) |
$ | (136,200 | ) | $ | (219,308 | ) | $ | 170,659 | ||||
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities: |
||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
69,534 | 71,576 | 81,591 | |||||||||
Share-based compensation expense |
39,357 | 40,663 | 26,110 | |||||||||
Amortization of deferred financing costs |
6,781 | 4,315 | | |||||||||
Provision for deferred income taxes |
225 | 566 | 17,429 | |||||||||
Related party paid in kind interest |
(3,582 | ) | (4,952 | ) | (1,813 | ) | ||||||
Net unrealized (gain) loss on equity investments with readily determinable fair value |
49,842 | (53,505 | ) | (31,277 | ) | |||||||
Provision for doubtful accounts / credit losses |
166 | 887 | 3,568 | |||||||||
Amortization of right-of-use assets |
11,717 | 5,460 | 6,541 | |||||||||
Gain on sale of the Forum, excluding associated settlement |
| | (100,288 | ) | ||||||||
Loss on extinguishment of debt |
35,629 | | | |||||||||
Write-off of deferred production costs |
| 942 | | |||||||||
Change in assets and liabilities: |
||||||||||||
Accounts receivable, net |
(34,861 | ) | (18,819 | ) | 8,400 | |||||||
Related party receivables, net of payables |
19,535 | 24,631 | (23,626 | ) | ||||||||
Other current and non-current assets |
(42,408 | ) | (10,838 | ) | (37,754 | ) | ||||||
Accounts payable |
8,776 | (6,925 | ) | (9,298 | ) | |||||||
Accrued and other current and non-current liabilities |
78,780 | (2,598 | ) | (69,000 | ) | |||||||
Deferred revenue |
4,173 | 19,677 | (1,250 | ) | ||||||||
Operating lease right-of-use assets and lease liabilities |
(12,113 | ) | 110 | (8,464 | ) | |||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities |
$ | 95,351 | $ | (148,118 | ) | $ | 31,528 | |||||
Cash flows from investing activities: |
||||||||||||
Capital expenditures |
(15,797 | ) | (10,315 | ) | (29,644 | ) | ||||||
(Purchase) / proceeds from sale of investments |
(350 | ) | 21,976 | 25,659 | ||||||||
Proceeds from loan receivable |
68,367 | | 74,852 | |||||||||
Loan to related parties |
(6,780 | ) | (22,000 | ) | (5,000 | ) | ||||||
Proceeds from sale of Forum, excluding associated settlement |
| | 210,521 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities |
$ | 45,440 | $ | (10,339 | ) | $ | 276,388 | |||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
See accompanying notes to the combined financial statements.
F-7
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
COMBINED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Continued)
(in thousands)
Years Ended June 30, | ||||||||||||
2022 | 2021 | 2020 | ||||||||||
Cash flows from financing activities: |
||||||||||||
Proceeds from issuance of term loan, net of issuance discount |
$ | 650,000 | $ | 630,500 | $ | | ||||||
Principal repayments on long-term debt |
(646,750 | ) | (3,250 | ) | | |||||||
Proceeds from revolving credit facilities |
29,100 | | | |||||||||
Debt extinguishment costs |
(12,838 | ) | | | ||||||||
Payments for debt financing costs |
(16,060 | ) | (14,417 | ) | | |||||||
Net transfers (to)/from MSG Entertainment and MSG Entertainments subsidiaries |
(399,739 | ) | (139,345 | ) | (315,379 | ) | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities |
$ | (396,287 | ) | $ | 473,488 | $ | (315,379 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash |
(255,496 | ) | 315,031 | (7,463 | ) | |||||||
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of period |
318,069 | 3,038 | 10,501 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period |
$ | 62,573 | $ | 318,069 | $ | 3,038 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Non-cash investing and financing activities: |
||||||||||||
Capital expenditures incurred but not yet paid |
$ | 1,585 | $ | 1,083 | $ | 2,641 | ||||||
Non-cash reduction of loan receivable from related party |
$ | 4,019 | $ | | $ | |
See accompanying notes to the combined financial statements.
F-8
COMBINED STATEMENTS OF DIVISIONAL EQUITY (DEFICIT)
(in thousands)
MSG Entertainment Investment |
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) |
Total Spinco Divisional Equity (Deficit) |
Nonredeemable Noncontrolling Interests |
Total Divisional Equity (Deficit) |
||||||||||||||||
Balance as of June 30, 2019 |
$ | 933,401 | $ | (33,378 | ) | $ | 900,023 | $ | 4,515 | $ | 904,538 | |||||||||
Net income (loss) |
171,730 | | 171,730 | (1,071 | ) | 170,659 | ||||||||||||||
Other comprehensive income |
| 876 | 876 | | 876 | |||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||
Comprehensive income (loss) |
172,606 | (1,071 | ) | 171,535 | ||||||||||||||||
Adjustments related to the transfer of certain assets and liabilities due to the 2020 Entertainment Distribution |
| 1,394 | 1,394 | | 1,394 | |||||||||||||||
Net decrease in MSG Entertainment Investment |
(258,857 | ) | | (258,857 | ) | | (258,857 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Balance as of June 30, 2020 |
$ | 846,274 | $ | (31,108 | ) | $ | 815,166 | $ | 3,444 | $ | 818,610 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Net loss |
(218,614 | ) | | (218,614 | ) | (694 | ) | (219,308 | ) | |||||||||||
Other comprehensive loss |
| (2,490 | ) | (2,490 | ) | | (2,490 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||
Comprehensive loss |
| | (221,104 | ) | (694 | ) | (221,798 | ) | ||||||||||||
Net decrease in MSG Entertainment Investment |
(98,160 | ) | | (98,160 | ) | | (98,160 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Balance as of June 30, 2021 |
$ | 529,500 | $ | (33,598 | ) | $ | 495,902 | $ | 2,750 | $ | 498,652 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Net loss |
(133,336 | ) | | (133,336 | ) | (2,864 | ) | (136,200 | ) | |||||||||||
Other comprehensive loss |
| (1,142 | ) | (1,142 | ) | | (1,142 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||
Comprehensive loss |
(134,478 | ) | (2,864 | ) | (137,342 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Net decrease in MSG Entertainment Investment |
(362,899 | ) | | (362,899 | ) | | (362,899 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Balance as of June 30, 2022 |
$ | 33,265 | $ | (34,740 | ) | $ | (1,475 | ) | $ | (114 | ) | $ | (1,589 | ) | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
See accompanying notes to the combined financial statements.
F-9
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
All amounts included in the following Notes to Combined Financial Statements are presented in thousands, except as otherwise noted.
Note 1. Description of Business and Basis of Presentation
The Proposed Distribution
On December 6, 2022, the board of directors of MSG Entertainment authorized MSG Entertainment management to explore a potential tax-free spin-off of the traditional live entertainment business from the MSG Sphere, MSG Networks, and Tao Group Hospitality businesses, and approved the filing of a Form 10 registration statement and amendments thereto.
MSGE Spinco, Inc. (Spinco or the Company) was incorporated in the state of Delaware on September 15, 2022 to be the company to hold the traditional live entertainment business of MSG Entertainment. In the first step of the transaction, record holders of MSG Entertainment Class A and Class B common stock would receive a pro-rata distribution expected to be equivalent, in aggregate, to approximately 67% of the economic interest in the Company (the Distribution). The remaining approximately 33% economic interest in the Company would be retained by MSG Entertainment, subject to completion of the Distribution. Completion of the Distribution is subject to various conditions, including final approval by the board of directors of MSG Entertainment, receipt of a tax opinion from counsel and the filing and effectiveness of the registration statement with the SEC (defined below). References to Spinco or the Company include the subsidiaries of MSG Entertainment that will be subsidiaries of the Company at the time of the Distribution. MSG Entertainment will be required by applicable tax rules to dispose of the retained interest within a fixed period of time, which may occur through a series of steps including sales, exchange offers or pro rata distributions. MSG Entertainment expects to dispose of such retained interest within one year of the date of the Distribution, subject to market conditions.
Description of Business
The Company is a live entertainment company, comprised of iconic venues, and marquee entertainment content. Utilizing the Companys powerful brands and live entertainment expertise, the Company delivers unique experiences that set the standard for excellence and innovation while forging deep connections with diverse and passionate audiences.
The Company is comprised of one reportable segment. The Companys decision to organize as one reportable segment is based upon the manner in which its operations are managed, and the criteria used by the Companys Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, its Chief Operating Decision Maker (CODM), to evaluate segment performance. The Companys CODM reviews total company operating results to assess overall performance and allocate resources.
The Companys portfolio of venues includes: Madison Square Garden (The Garden), Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden (Hulu Theater), Radio City Music Hall, the Beacon Theatre, and The Chicago Theatre. The Company also owns and produces the original production, the Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes (the Christmas Spectacular). The Company also has a bookings business, which showcases a broad array of compelling concerts, family shows and special events, as well as a diverse mix of sporting events, for millions of guests annually.
The Company conducts a significant portion of its operations at venues that it either owns or operates under long-term leases. The Company owns The Garden, Hulu Theater and The Chicago Theatre, and leases Radio City Music Hall and the Beacon Theatre.
F-10
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
All of the Companys revenues and assets are attributed to or located in the United States and are primarily concentrated in the New York City metropolitan area.
Basis of Presentation
The Company reports on a fiscal year basis ending on June 30. In these combined financial statements, the fiscal years ended June 30, 2022, 2021 and 2020 are referred to as Fiscal Year 2022, Fiscal Year 2021, and Fiscal Year 2020, respectively, and the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023 is referred to as Fiscal Year 2023.
The combined financial statements of the Company (the combined financial statements) were prepared on a stand-alone basis derived from the consolidated financial statements and accounting records of MSG Entertainment. These financial statements reflect the combined historical results of operations, financial position and cash flows of the Company in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin (SAB) Topic 1-B, Allocation of Expenses and Related Disclosure in Financial Statements of Subsidiaries, Divisions or Lesser Business Components of Another Entity. References to U.S. GAAP issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) in these footnotes are to the FASB Accounting Standards Codification, also referred to as ASC.
Historically, separate financial statements have not been prepared for the Company and it has not operated as a stand-alone business from MSG Entertainment. The combined financial statements include certain assets and liabilities that have historically been held by MSG Entertainment or by other MSG Entertainment subsidiaries but are specifically identifiable or otherwise attributable to the Company. The combined financial statements are presented as if the Companys businesses had been combined for all periods presented. The assets and liabilities in the combined financial statements have been reflected on a historical cost basis, as immediately prior to the Distribution of all of the assets and liabilities presented are wholly owned by MSG Entertainment and are being transferred to the Company at a carry-over basis.
Fiscal Year 2020 includes additional carve-out allocations as the combined financial statements for the period from July 1, 2019 to April 17, 2020 were prepared on a stand alone basis derived from the consolidated financial statements and accounting records of Madison Square Garden Sports Corp. (MSG Sports). This was a result of a distribution of all the outstanding common stock of MSG Entertainment to MSG Sports stockholders on April 17, 2020 (referred herein as the 2020 Entertainment Distribution).
The combined statements of operations include allocations for certain support functions that are provided on a centralized basis and not historically recorded at the business unit level by MSG Entertainment and MSG Sports (for the period from July 1, 2019 to April 17, 2020), such as expenses related to executive management, finance, legal, human resources, government affairs, information technology, and venue operations, among others. As part of the Distribution, certain corporate and operational support functions are being transferred to the Company and therefore, charges were reflected in order to properly burden all business units comprising MSG Entertainments historical operations. These expenses have been allocated to MSG Entertainment on the basis of direct usage when identifiable, with the remainder allocated on a pro rata basis of combined assets, headcount or other measures of the Company or MSG Entertainment, which are recorded as a reduction of either direct operating expenses or selling, general and administrative expense.
Management believes the assumptions underlying the combined financial statements, including the assumptions regarding allocating general corporate expenses, are reasonable. Nevertheless, the combined financial statements may not include all of the actual expenses that would have been incurred by the Company and may not reflect its combined results of operations, financial position and cash flows had it been a stand-alone company during the periods presented. Actual costs that would have been incurred if the Company had been a
F-11
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
stand-alone company would depend on multiple factors, including organizational structure and strategic decisions made in various areas, including information technology and infrastructure. The Company is unable to quantify the amounts that it would have recorded during the historical periods on a stand-alone basis as it is not practicable to do so. See Note 19, Related Party Transactions for more information regarding allocations of certain costs from the Company to MSG Entertainment.
MSG Entertainment uses a centralized approach to cash management and financing of operations. Cash is managed centrally with net earnings reinvested and working capital requirements met from existing liquid funds. The Companys cash in excess of minimum liquidity requirements under the credit facilities was available for use and was regularly swept historically. Cash and cash equivalents were attributed to the Company for each of the periods presented, as such cash was held in accounts legally owned by the Company. See Note 14, Credit Facilities for more information regarding the Companys debt facilities. Transfers of cash both to and from MSG Entertainment are included as components of MSG Entertainment investment on the combined statements of divisional equity (deficit).
MSG Entertainments net investment in the Company has been presented as a component of divisional equity (deficit) in the combined financial statements. Distributions made by MSG Entertainment to the Company or to MSG Entertainment from the Company are recorded as transfers to and from MSG Entertainment, and the net amount is presented on the combined statements of cash flows as Net transfers (to)/from MSG Entertainment and MSG Entertainments subsidiaries.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic
The Companys operations and operating results have been materially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic (including COVID-19 variants) and actions taken in response by governmental authorities and certain professional sports leagues during Fiscal Years 2020, 2021 and 2022. For the majority of Fiscal Year 2021, substantially all of our business operations were suspended. Fiscal Year 2022 was also impacted by the pandemic, with fewer ticketed events at our venues in the first half of the fiscal year as compared with Fiscal Year 2019 (the last full fiscal year not impacted by COVID-19) due to the lead-time required to book touring acts and artists, and an increase in COVID-19 cases due to a new variant, which resulted in a number of events at our venues being cancelled or postponed in the fiscal second and third quarters.
As a result of government-mandated assembly limitations and closures, all of our venues were closed beginning in March 2020. Use of The Garden resumed for Knicks and Rangers home games without fans in December 2020 and January 2021, respectively, and was available at 10% seating capacity from February through May 2021 subject to certain safety protocols and social distancing. Beginning in May 2021, all of our New York venues were permitted to host guests at full capacity, subject to certain restrictions, and effective June 2021, The Chicago Theatre was permitted to host events without restrictions. Guests of our Chicago and New York venues were also subject to certain vaccination requirements until February and March 2022, respectively. As a result, our venues no longer require guests to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination before entering (although specific performers may require enhanced protocols).
For Fiscal Year 2021, the majority of ticketed events at our venues were postponed or cancelled. For Fiscal Year 2022 and as of the date of this filing, live events have been permitted to be held at all of our venues and we are continuing to host and book new events. As a result of an increase in cases of a COVID-19 variant, select bookings were postponed or cancelled at our venues in the second and third quarters of Fiscal Year 2022. Variants of COVID-19 that arise in the future may result in additional postponements or cancellations of bookings at our venues.
F-12
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our operations also included the partial cancellation of the 2021 production of the Christmas Spectacular and the cancellation of the 2020 production of the Christmas Spectacular.
The Companys long-term Arena License Agreements with MSG Sports require the Knicks and Rangers to play their home games at The Garden. As discussed above, capacity restrictions, use limitations and social distancing requirements were in place for the entirety of the Knicks and Rangers 2020-21 regular seasons, which materially impacted the payments we received under the Arena License Agreements for Fiscal Year 2021. On July 1, 2021, the Knicks and Rangers began paying the full amounts provided for under their respective Arena License Agreements. The Knicks and the Rangers each completed their 2021-2022 82-game regular seasons, with the Rangers advancing to the playoffs.
It is unclear to what extent COVID-19 concerns, including with respect to new variants, could result in new government or league-mandated capacity restrictions or vaccination/mask requirements or impact the use of and/or demand for our venues, demand for our sponsorship and advertising assets, deter our employees and vendors from working at our venues (which may lead to difficulties in staffing) or otherwise materially impact our operations.
Note 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
A. Principles of Combination
All significant intracompany transactions and balances within the Companys combined businesses have been eliminated. Certain historical intercompany transactions between MSG Entertainment and the Company have been included as components of MSG Entertainment investment in the combined financial statements, as they are to be considered effectively settled upon effectiveness of the Distribution and were not historically settled in cash. Certain other historical intercompany transactions between MSG Entertainment and the Company have been classified as related party, rather than intercompany, in the combined financial statements as they were historically settled in cash. Expenses related to corporate allocations from the Company to MSG Entertainment prior to the Distribution, are considered to be effectively settled in the combined financial statements at the time the transaction is recorded, with the offset recorded against MSG Entertainment investment. See Note 19, Related Party Transactions, for further information on related party arrangements.
B. Use of Estimates
The preparation of the accompanying combined financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions about future events. These estimates and the underlying assumptions affect the amounts of assets and liabilities reported, disclosures about contingent assets and liabilities, and reported amounts of revenues and expenses. Such estimates include the provision for credit losses, goodwill, intangible assets, other long-lived assets, deferred tax assets, pension and other postretirement benefit obligations and the related net periodic benefit cost, and other liabilities. In addition, estimates are used in revenue recognition, depreciation and amortization, litigation matters and other matters. Management believes its use of estimates in the financial statements to be reasonable.
Management evaluates its estimates on an ongoing basis using historical experience and other factors, including the general economic environment and actions it may take in the future. The Company adjusts such estimates when facts and circumstances dictate. However, these estimates may involve significant uncertainties and judgments and cannot be determined with precision. In addition, these estimates are based on managements best judgment at a point in time and, as such, these estimates may ultimately differ from actual results. Changes in estimates resulting from weakness in the economic environment or other factors beyond the Companys control could be material and would be reflected in the Companys financial statements in future periods.
F-13
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
C. Revenue Recognition
The Company recognizes revenue when, or as, performance obligations under the terms of a contract are satisfied, which generally occurs when, or as, control of promised goods or services is transferred to customers. Revenue is measured as the amount that reflects the consideration the Company expects to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or services (transaction price). To the extent the transaction price includes variable consideration, the Company estimates the amount of variable consideration that should be included in the transaction price utilizing the most likely amount to which the Company expects to be entitled. Variable consideration is included in the transaction price if, in the Companys judgment, it is probable that a significant future reversal of cumulative revenue under the contract will not occur. Estimates of variable consideration and the determination of whether to include such estimated amounts in the transaction price are based largely on an assessment of the Companys anticipated performance and all information that is reasonably available. The Company accounts for taxes collected from customers and remitted to governmental authorities on a net basis and excludes these amounts from revenues.
In addition, the Company defers certain costs to fulfill the Companys contracts with customers to the extent such costs relate directly to the contracts, are expected to generate resources that will be used to satisfy the Companys performance obligations under the contracts, and are expected to be recovered through revenue generated under the contracts. Contract fulfillment costs are expensed as the Company satisfies the related performance obligations.
Arrangements with Multiple Performance Obligations
The Company enters into arrangements with multiple performance obligations, such as multi-year sponsorship agreements which may derive revenues for the Company, as well as MSG Entertainment and MSG Sports within a single arrangement. The Company also derives revenue from similar types of arrangements which are entered into by MSG Sports. Payment terms for such arrangements can vary by contract, but payments are generally due in installments throughout the contractual term. The performance obligations included in each sponsorship agreement vary and may include advertising and other benefits such as, but not limited to, signage at The Garden and the Companys other venues, digital advertising, event or property-specific advertising, as well as non-advertising benefits such as suite licenses and event tickets. To the extent the Companys multi-year arrangements provide for performance obligations that are consistent over the multi-year contractual term, such performance obligations generally meet the definition of a series as provided for under the accounting guidance. If performance obligations are concluded to meet the definition of a series, the contractual fees for all years during the contract term are aggregated and the related revenue is recognized proportionately as the underlying performance obligations are satisfied.
The timing of revenue recognition for each performance obligation is dependent upon the facts and circumstances surrounding the Companys satisfaction of its respective performance obligation. The Company allocates the transaction price for such arrangements to each performance obligation within the arrangement based on the estimated relative stand-alone selling price of the performance obligation. The Companys process for determining its estimated stand-alone selling prices involves managements judgment and considers multiple factors including company specific and market specific factors that may vary depending upon the unique facts and circumstances related to each performance obligation. Key factors considered by the Company in developing an estimated stand-alone selling price for its performance obligations include, but are not limited to, prices charged for similar performance obligations, the Companys ongoing pricing strategy and policies, and consideration of pricing of similar performance obligations sold in other arrangements with multiple performance obligations.
F-14
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
The Company may incur costs such as commissions to obtain its multi-year sponsorship agreements. The Company assesses such costs for capitalization on a contract by contract basis. To the extent costs are capitalized, the Company estimates the useful life of the related contract asset, which may be the underlying contract term or the estimated customer life depending on the facts and circumstances surrounding the contract. The contract asset is amortized over the estimated useful life.
Principal versus Agent Revenue Recognition
The Company reports revenue on a gross or net basis based on managements assessment of whether the Company acts as a principal or agent in the transaction. The determination of whether the Company acts as a principal or an agent in a transaction is based on an evaluation of whether the Company controls the good or service before transfer to the customer. When the Company concludes that it controls the good or service before transfer to the customer, the Company is considered a principal in the transaction and records revenue on a gross basis. When the Company concludes that it does not control the good or service before transfer to the customer but arranges for another entity to provide the good or service, the Company acts as an agent and records revenue on a net basis in the amount it earns for its agency service.
Contract Balances
Amounts collected in advance of the Companys satisfaction of its contractual performance obligations are recorded as a contract liability within deferred revenue, and are recognized as the Company satisfies the related performance obligations. Amounts collected in advance of events for which the Company is not the promoter or co-promoter do not represent contract liabilities and are recorded within accrued and other current liabilities on the accompanying combined balance sheets. Amounts recognized as revenue for which the Company has a right to consideration for goods or services transferred to customers and for which the Company does not have an unconditional right to bill as of the reporting date are recorded as contract assets. Contract assets are transferred to accounts receivable once the Companys right to consideration becomes unconditional.
D. Direct Operating Expenses
Direct operating expenses include, but are not limited to, event costs related to the presentation and production of the Companys live entertainment and sporting events, revenue sharing expenses associated with signage, sponsorship and suite license fee revenue and in-venue food and beverage sales that are attributable to MSG Sports and venue lease, maintenance, and other operating expenses. In addition, for the period July 1, 2019 to April 17, 2020, the direct operating expenses also included revenue sharing expenses associated with the venue-related signage, sponsorship, and suite license fee revenues that are attributable to MSG Sports and an allocation of charges for venue usage to MSG Sports for hosting home games of the Knicks and the Rangers at The Garden.
Production Costs for the Companys Original Productions
The Company defers certain costs of productions such as creative design, scenery, wardrobes, rehearsal and other related costs for the Companys proprietary shows. Deferred production costs are amortized on a straight-line basis over the course of a productions performance period using the expected life of a shows assets. Deferred production costs are subject to recoverability assessments whenever there is an indication of potential impairment.
Allocation of Charges for Venue Usage to MSG Sports
For period prior to the 2020 Entertainment Distribution, the Companys combined financial statements included expenses associated with the ownership, maintenance, and operation of The Garden, which the
F-15
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
Company and MSG Sports use in their respective operations. The Knicks and Rangers are the primary recurring occupants of The Garden, playing their home games at The Garden. The number of home games increases if the Knicks and Rangers qualify for the playoffs. Historically, the Company did not charge rent expense to MSG Sports for use of The Garden. However, for purposes of the Companys combined financial statements, the Company allocated expenses to MSG Sports for the usage of The Garden, which were reported as a reduction of direct operating expense in the accompanying combined statements of operations. This allocation was based on a combination of event count and revenue, which the Companys management believes is a reasonable allocation methodology. The venue usage charge allocated to MSG Sports was $46,072 for the period of July 1, 2019 to April 17, 2020 in Fiscal Year 2020, prior to the 2020 Entertainment Distribution.
In connection with the 2020 Entertainment Distribution, the Company entered into Arena License Agreements with MSG Sports (see Note 10, Leases for further discussion). Fees recognized by the Company under the Arena License Agreements with MSG Sports for use of The Garden are reported as operating lease revenues in accordance with ASC Topic 842 Leases (ASC Topic 842).
Revenue Sharing Expenses
As discussed above, prior to the 2020 Entertainment Distribution, MSG Sports share of the Companys suites license, venue signage and sponsorship revenue, and in-venue food and beverage sales has been reflected within direct operating expense as revenue sharing expenses, where such amounts were either specifically identified where possible or allocated proportionally.
After the 2020 Entertainment Distribution, such revenue sharing expenses are determined based on contractual agreements between the Company and MSG Sports, primarily related to suite license, certain internal signage and in-venue food and beverage sales.
E. Advertising Expenses
Advertising costs are typically charged to expense when incurred. Total advertising costs expensed were $7,995, $269 and $10,895 for Fiscal Years 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
F. Income Taxes
The Company accounts for income taxes in accordance with ASC Topic 740 Income Taxes (ASC Topic 740). Income taxes as presented herein attribute current and deferred income taxes of MSG Entertainment to the Companys stand-alone financial statements in a manner that is systematic, rational, and consistent with the asset and liability method prescribed by ASC Topic 740.
Accordingly, the Companys income tax provision was prepared following the separate return method. The separate return method applies ASC Topic 740 to the stand-alone financial statements of each member of the combined group as if the group member were a separate taxpayer and the benefits of a consolidated return have been reflected where such returns have or could be filed based on the entities jurisdictions included in the combined financial statements. As a result, actual tax transactions included in the consolidated financial statements of MSG Entertainment may not be included in the combined financial statements.
Similarly, the tax treatment of certain items reflected in the combined financial statements may not be reflected in the consolidated financial statements and tax returns of MSG Entertainment. Therefore, portions of items such as net operating losses (NOLs), tax credit carryforwards, other deferred taxes, and valuation allowances may exist in the combined financial statements that may or may not exist in MSG Entertainments consolidated financial statements and vice versa.
F-16
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
In addition, although deferred tax assets have been recognized for NOLs and tax credits in accordance with the separate return method, such NOLs and credits will not carry over with the Company in connection with the Distribution.
G. Share-based Compensation
Certain employees of the Company have historically participated in share-based compensation plans of MSG Entertainment. Share-based compensation expense has been attributed to the Company based on the awards and terms previously granted to MSG Entertainments employees. For purposes of the combined financial statements, an allocation to MSG Entertainment of share-based compensation expense related to corporate employees was recorded in addition to the expense attributed to the Companys direct employees. Share-based compensation expense related to directors and corporate executives of MSG Entertainment has been allocated on a proportional basis, which management has deemed to be reasonable.
Following the 2020 Entertainment Distribution, the Company measures the cost of employee services received in exchange for an award of equity-based instruments based on the grant date fair value of the award. Share-based compensation cost is recognized in earnings over the period during which an employee is required to provide service in exchange for the award, except for restricted stock units granted to non-employee directors which, unless otherwise provided under the applicable award agreement, are fully vested, and are expensed at the grant date.
The Company accounts for forfeitures as they occur, rather than estimating expected forfeitures.
H. Cash and Cash Equivalents
The Company considers the balance of its investment in funds that substantially hold highly liquid securities that mature within three months or less from the date the fund purchases these securities to be cash equivalents. The carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents either approximates fair value due to the short-term maturity of these instruments or is at fair value. Checks outstanding in excess of related book balances are included in accounts payable in the accompanying combined balance sheets. The Company presents the change in these book cash overdrafts as cash flows from operating activities.
I. Restricted Cash
The Companys restricted cash includes cash deposited in escrow accounts. The Company has deposited cash in an interest-bearing escrow account related to credit support, debt facilities, and collateral to its workers compensation and general liability insurance obligations.
The carrying amount of restricted cash approximates fair value due to the short-term maturity of these instruments.
J. Short-Term Investments
Short-term investments include investments that (i) have original maturities of greater than three months and (ii) the Company has the ability to convert into cash within one year. The Company classifies its short-term investments at the time of purchase as held-to-maturity and re-evaluates its classification quarterly based on whether the Company has the intent and ability to hold until maturity. Short-term investments, which are recorded at cost and adjusted for accrued interest, approximate fair value. Cash inflows and outflows related to the sale and purchase of short-term investments are classified as investing activities in the Companys combined statements of cash flows.
F-17
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
K. Accounts Receivable
Accounts receivable are recorded at net realizable value. The Company maintains an allowance for credit losses to reserve for potentially uncollectible receivables. The allowance for credit losses is estimated based on the Companys consideration of credit risk and analysis of receivables aging, specific identification of certain receivables that are at risk of not being paid, past collection experience and other factors.
L. Investments in Equity Securities
For the Companys equity investments with readily determinable fair values, changes in the fair value of those investments are measured monthly and are recorded within Other income (expense), net in the accompanying combined statements of operations.
M. Property and Equipment and Other Long-Lived Assets
Property and equipment and other long-lived assets, including amortizable intangible assets, are stated at cost or acquisition date fair value, if acquired. Expenditures for new facilities or equipment, and expenditures that extend the useful lives of existing facilities or equipment, are capitalized and recorded at cost. The useful lives of the Companys long-lived assets are based on estimates of the period over which the Company expects the assets to be of economic benefit to the Company. In estimating the useful lives, the Company considers factors such as, but not limited to, risk of obsolescence, anticipated use, plans of the Company, and applicable laws and permit requirements. Depreciation starts on the date when the asset is available for its intended use. Construction in progress assets are not depreciated until available for their intended use. Costs of maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred.
The major categories of property and equipment are depreciated on a straight-line basis using the estimated lives indicated below:
Estimated Useful Lives | ||
Buildings |
Up to 40 years | |
Equipment |
1 year to 20 years | |
Aircraft |
20 years | |
Furniture and fixtures |
1 year to 10 years | |
Leasehold improvements |
Shorter of term of lease or useful life of improvement |
Intangible assets with finite lives are amortized principally using the straight-line method over the following estimated useful lives:
Estimated Useful Lives | ||
Trade names |
7 years | |
Festival rights |
7 years | |
Other intangibles |
15 years |
N. Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Assets
Under the acquisition method of accounting, the Company recognizes separately from goodwill the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed, and any noncontrolling interests in an acquiree, generally at the acquisition date fair value. The Company measures goodwill as of the acquisition date as the excess of consideration transferred, which is also measured at fair value over the net of the acquisition date amounts of the
F-18
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed. Costs that the Company incurs to complete a business combination such as investment banking, legal, and other professional fees are not considered part of consideration and the Company charges these costs to selling, general and administrative expense as they are incurred. In addition, the Company recognizes measurement-period adjustments in the period in which the amount is determined, including the effect on earnings of any amounts the Company would have recorded in previous periods if the accounting had been completed at the acquisition date. Goodwill and identifiable intangible assets that have indefinite useful lives are not amortized.
O. Impairment of Long-Lived and Indefinite-Lived Assets
In assessing the recoverability of the Companys long-lived and indefinite-lived assets, the Company must make estimates and assumptions regarding future cash flows and other factors to determine the fair value of the respective assets. These estimates and assumptions could have a significant impact on whether an impairment charge is recognized and the magnitude of any such charge. Fair value estimates are made based on relevant information at a specific point in time, and are subjective in nature and involve significant uncertainties and judgments. If these estimates or assumptions change materially, the Company may be required to record impairment charges related to its long-lived and/or indefinite-lived assets.
Goodwill is tested annually for impairment as of August 31st and at any time upon the occurrence of certain events or changes in circumstances. The Company has the option to perform a qualitative assessment to determine if an impairment is more likely than not to have occurred. If the Company can support the conclusion that it is not more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, the Company would not need to perform a quantitative impairment test for that reporting unit. If the Company cannot support such a conclusion or the Company does not elect to perform the qualitative assessment, the Company would identify potential impairment by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount, including goodwill. The Company generally determines the fair value of a reporting unit using an income approach, such as the discounted cash flow method, or other acceptable valuation techniques, including the cost approach, in instances when it does not perform the qualitative assessment of goodwill. The amount of an impairment loss is measured as the amount by which a reporting units carrying value exceeds its fair value, not to exceed the carrying amount of goodwill.
Identifiable indefinite-lived intangible assets are tested annually for impairment as of August 31st and at any time upon the occurrence of certain events or substantive changes in circumstances. The Company has the option to perform a qualitative assessment to determine if an impairment is more likely than not to have occurred. In the qualitative assessment, the Company must evaluate the totality of qualitative factors, including any recent fair value measurements, that impact whether an indefinite-lived intangible asset other than goodwill has a carrying amount that more likely than not exceeds its fair value. The Company must proceed to conducting a quantitative analysis if the Company (i) determines that such an impairment is more likely than not to exist, or (ii) foregoes the qualitative assessment entirely. Under the quantitative assessment, the impairment test for identifiable indefinite-lived intangible assets consists of a comparison of the estimated fair value of the intangible asset with its carrying value. If the carrying value of the intangible asset exceeds its fair value, then an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess. The Company generally determines the fair value of an indefinite-lived intangible asset using an income approach, such as the relief from royalty method, in instances when it does not perform the qualitative assessment of the intangible asset.
For other long-lived assets, including property and equipment, right-of-use lease assets (ROU) and intangible assets that are amortized, the Company evaluates assets for recoverability when there is an indication of potential impairment. If the undiscounted cash flows from a group of assets being evaluated is less than the carrying value of that group of assets, the fair value of the asset group is determined and the carrying value of the
F-19
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
asset group is written down to fair value. The Company generally determines the fair value of a finite-lived intangible asset using an income approach, such as the discounted cash flow method.
See Note 11, Goodwill and Intangible Assets for further discussion of impairment of goodwill and long-lived assets.
P. Leases
The Companys leases primarily consist of certain venues, corporate office space, storage and, to a lesser extent, office and other equipment. The Company determines whether an arrangement contains a lease at the inception of the arrangement. If a lease is determined to exist, the lease term is assessed based on the date when the underlying asset is made available by the lessor for the Companys use. The Companys assessment of the lease term reflects the non-cancellable term of the lease, inclusive of any rent-free periods and/or periods covered by early-termination options which the Company is reasonably certain not to exercise, as well as periods covered by renewal options which the Company is reasonably certain to exercise. The Companys lease agreements do not contain material residual value guarantees or material restrictive covenants.
The Company determines lease classification as either operating or finance at lease commencement, which governs the pattern of expense recognition and the presentation reflected in the combined statements of operations and statements of cash flows over the lease term.
For leases with a term exceeding 12 months, a lease liability is recorded on the Companys combined balance sheets at lease commencement reflecting the present value of the fixed minimum payment obligations over the lease term. A corresponding ROU asset equal to the initial lease liability is also recorded, adjusted for any prepaid rent and/or initial direct costs incurred in connection with execution of the lease and reduced by any lease incentives received. In addition, the ROU asset is adjusted to reflect any above or below market lease terms under acquired lease contracts.
The Company includes fixed payment obligations related to non-lease components in the measurement of ROU assets and lease liabilities, as the Company has elected to account for lease and non-lease components together as a single lease component. ROU assets associated with finance leases are presented separate from ROU assets associated with operating leases and are included within Property and equipment, net on the Companys combined balance sheets. For purposes of measuring the present value of the Companys fixed payment obligations for a given lease, the Company uses its incremental borrowing rate, determined based on information available at lease commencement, as rates implicit in the underlying leasing arrangements are typically not readily determinable. The Companys incremental borrowing rate reflects the rate it would pay to borrow on a secured basis and incorporates the term and economic environment surrounding the associated lease.
For operating leases, fixed lease payments are recognized as lease expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term. For finance leases, the initial ROU asset is depreciated on a straight-line basis over the lease term, along with recognition of interest expense associated with accretion of the lease liability, which is ultimately reduced by the related fixed payments. For leases with a term of 12 months or less (short-term leases), any fixed lease payments are recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term and are not recognized on the combined balance sheets. Variable lease costs for both operating and finance leases, if any, are recognized as incurred and such costs are excluded from lease balances recorded on the combined balance sheets.
Q. Contingencies
Liabilities for loss contingencies arising from claims, assessments, litigation, fines and penalties and other sources are recorded when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the assessment can be reasonably estimated.
F-20
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
R. Defined Benefit Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans
As more fully described in Note 15, Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans certain employees of the Company participate in defined benefit pension plans (Shared Plans) sponsored by MSG Entertainment, which also have historically included participants of MSG Sports and MSG Entertainment. The Company accounts for the Shared Plans under the guidance of ASC Topic 715 Compensation Retirement Benefits (ASC Topic 715). Accordingly, for the Shared Plans liabilities, the combined financial statements reflected the full impact of such plans on both the combined statements of operations and combined balance sheets and the Company recorded an asset or liability to recognize the funded status of the Shared Plans (other than multiemployer plans), as well as a liability only for any required contributions to the Shared Plans that were accrued and unpaid at the balance sheet date. The related pension expenses attributed to the Company were based primarily on pension-eligible compensation of active participants. The pension expense related to employees of MSG Entertainment or MSG Sports participating in any of the Shared Plans is reflected as a contributory credit from the Company to MSG Entertainment, resulting in a decrease to the expense recognized in the combined statements of operations.
The plan that was sponsored by MSG Entertainment and only included participants of the Company and not of MSG Sports and MSG Entertainment (Direct Plan) was accounted for as a defined benefit pension plan. Accordingly, the funded and unfunded position of the Direct Plan was recorded in the Companys combined balance sheets, as well as all costs related to the Direct Plan which are recorded in the combined statements of operations.
Actuarial gains and losses that have not yet been recognized through the combined statements of operations are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) until they are amortized as a component of net periodic benefit cost through other comprehensive income (loss).
S. Fair Value Measurements
The fair value hierarchy is based on inputs to valuation techniques that are used to measure fair value that are either observable or unobservable. Observable inputs reflect assumptions market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability based on market data obtained from independent sources while unobservable inputs reflect a reporting entitys pricing based upon their own market assumptions. The fair value hierarchy consists of the following three levels:
| Level I Quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets. |
| Level II 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 whose inputs are observable or whose significant value drivers are observable. |
| Level III Instruments whose significant value drivers are unobservable. |
T. Concentrations of Risk
Financial instruments that may potentially subject the Company to a concentration of credit risk consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents and accounts receivable. Cash and cash equivalents are invested in money market accounts and time deposits. The Company monitors the financial institutions and money market funds where it invests its cash and cash equivalents with diversification among counterparties to mitigate exposure to any single financial institution. The Companys emphasis is primarily on safety of principal and liquidity, and secondarily on maximizing the yield on its investments.
F-21
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
U. Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
In December 2019, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2019-12, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes. This ASU eliminates certain exceptions to the general approach in ASC Topic 740 and includes methods of simplification to the existing guidance. This standard was adopted by the Company in the first quarter of Fiscal Year 2022. The adoption of this standard had no impact on the Companys combined financial statements.
In March 2020, the FASB issued ASU 2020-04, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting. This ASU provides temporary optional expedients and exceptions to the guidance on contract modifications and hedge accounting to ease the financial reporting burdens of the expected market transition from the London Interbank Offered Rate and other interbank offered rates to alternative reference rates. In January 2021, the FASB issued ASU 2021-01, which refines the scope of Topic 848 and clarifies some of its guidance as part of the FASBs monitoring of global reference rate activities. The new guidance was effective upon issuance, and the Company is allowed to elect to apply the amendments prospectively through December 31, 2022. The Company adopted ASU 2020-04 in Fiscal Year 2022. The adoption did not have a material impact on the Companys combined financial statements.
Note 3. Business Disposition
Disposition of The Forum
Prior to May 1, 2020, the Company owned the Forum in Inglewood, CA. On March 24, 2020, the Company entered into a Membership Interest Purchase Agreement pursuant to which the Company agreed to sell the Forum and settle related litigation for cash consideration in the amount of $400,000, subject to regulatory and other customary closing conditions. The transaction subsequently closed on May 1, 2020, resulting in a total gain on sale of $240,783, net of transaction costs of $50,806 during Fiscal Year 2020, of which $140,495 was attributable to the settlement of the related litigation. The transaction costs included a fee of $48,742 to The Azoff Company Holdings (Azoff Music) in connection with an agreement made by MSG Sports when the remaining 50% interest of Azoff Music was sold on December 5, 2018.
The Forum met the definition of a business under SEC Regulation S-X Rule 11-01(d)-1 and ASC Topic 805 Business Combinations. This disposition did not represent a strategic shift with a major effect on the Companys operations, and as such, has not been reflected as a discontinued operation under ASC Subtopic 205-20 Discontinued Operations.
Note 4. Revenue Recognition
For Fiscal Years 2022, 2021 and 2020, all revenue recognized in the combined statements of operations is considered to be revenue from contracts with customers in accordance with ASC Topic 606 Revenue from Contracts with Customers (ASC Topic 606), except for revenues from Arena License Agreements. In Fiscal Years 2022 and 2021, the Company did not have any material provisions for credit losses on receivables or contract assets arising from contracts with customers.
Arena License Agreements
In connection with the 2020 Entertainment Distribution, the Company entered into Arena License Agreements with MSG Sports that require the Knicks and the Rangers to play their home games at The Garden. These agreements also provide for the provision of certain services by the Company to MSG Sports for MSG
F-22
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
Sports events that are held at The Garden and include revenue-sharing provisions for certain agreements entered into by the Company and MSG Sports. The Arena License Agreements contain both lease and non-lease components. The revenue to be recognized with respect to the lease components of the Arena License Agreements is accounted for as operating lease revenue in accordance with ASC Topic 842. The non-lease components are accounted for in accordance with ASC Topic 606, as further discussed below.
During Fiscal Years 2022 and 2021, the Company recognized $68,072 and $21,345, respectively, of revenues under the Arena License Agreements. With The Garden closed by government mandate, the Company did not recognize operating lease revenue under the Arena License Agreements in Fiscal Year 2020.
Principal vs. Agent Considerations
Revenue for the Companys suite license arrangements is recorded on a gross basis, as the Company is the principal in such transactions and controls the related goods or services before transfer to the customer. MSG Sports is entitled to a share of the Companys suite license revenue pursuant to the terms of the Arena License Agreements, which is recognized in the combined statements of operations as a component of direct operating expenses.
For sponsorship agreements entered into by the Company or by MSG Sports that contain performance obligations satisfied solely by the Company, revenue is generally recorded on a gross basis as the Company is the principal with respect to such performance obligations and controls the related goods or services before transfer to the customer. In accordance with the Arena License Agreements, MSG Sports is entitled to a share of the revenue generated from certain signage performance obligations where the Company is the principal. The Company records this signage revenue on a gross basis and MSG Sports share of such revenue as a component of direct operating expenses within the combined statements of operations.
For Fiscal Years 2022, 2021 and 2020, the Company recorded revenue-sharing expense of $92,086, $558 and $110,002, respectively, for MSG Sports share of the Companys revenues from (i) suite licenses, (ii) certain signage and sponsorships, and (iii) food and beverage based upon the provisions of the underlying contractual arrangements for the period subsequent to the 2020 Entertainment Distribution, and on the basis of direct usage when specifically identified or allocated proportionally for all prior periods.
In connection with the 2020 Entertainment Distribution, the Company entered into advertising sales representation agreements with certain subsidiaries of MSG Sports. Pursuant to these agreements, the Company has the exclusive right and obligation to sell sponsorship assets on behalf of the respective subsidiaries of MSG Sports. The Company is entitled to both fixed and variable commissions under the terms of these agreements. The Company recognizes the fixed component ratably over the term of the arrangement which corresponds with the Companys satisfaction of its service-based performance obligations. Variable commissions are earned and recognized as the related sponsorship performance obligations are satisfied by MSG Sports. The Company is not the principal in such arrangements as it does not control the related goods or services prior to transfer to the customer. As an agent under these arrangements, the Company recognizes the advertising commission revenue on a net basis.
The Company is also party to an advertising sales representation agreement with MSG Networks. Pursuant to this agreement, the Company has the exclusive right and obligation to sell advertising on behalf of MSG Networks and is entitled to and earns commission revenue as the advertisements are aired on MSG Networks. Since the Company acts as an agent, the Company recognizes the advertising commission revenue on a net basis. See Note 19, Related Party Transactions for more information regarding the advertising sales representation agreements with subsidiaries of MSG Sports and MSG Networks.
F-23
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
Event Related Revenue
The Company earns event related revenues principally from the sale of tickets for events that the Company produces or promotes/co-promotes, and from venue license fees charged to third-party promoters for events held at the Companys venues that the Company does not produce or promote/co-promote. The Companys performance obligations with respect to event-related revenues from the sale of tickets, venue license fees from third-party promoters, sponsorships, concessions and merchandise are satisfied at the point of sale or as the related event occurs. As a result of the agreements entered into in connection with the 2020 Entertainment Distribution, the Company also earns revenue from the provision of various event-related services that are incremental to MSG Sports general use of The Garden. The Companys performance obligations with respect to these event-related services are satisfied as the related event occurs.
The Companys revenues also include revenue from the license of The Gardens suites for the Companys or MSG Sports events. Suite license arrangements are generally multi-year fixed-fee arrangements that include annual fee increases. Payment terms for suite license arrangements can vary by contract, but payments are generally due in installments prior to each license year. The Companys performance obligation under such arrangements is to provide the licensee with access to the suite when events occur at The Garden. The Company accounts for the performance obligation under these types of arrangements as a series and, as a result, the related suite license fees for all years during the license term are aggregated and revenue is recognized proportionately over the license period as the Company satisfies the related performance obligation. Progress toward satisfaction of the Companys annual suite license performance obligation is measured as access to the suite that is provided to the licensee for each event throughout the contractual term of the license.
Other Revenue
The Company also earns revenues from the sale of advertising in the form of venue signage and other forms of sponsorship, which are not related to any specific event of the Company or MSG Sports. The Companys performance obligations with respect to this advertising are satisfied as the related benefits are delivered over the term of the respective agreements.
Disaggregation of Revenue
The following table disaggregates the Companys revenue by major source based upon the timing of transfer of goods or services to the customer for Fiscal Years 2022, 2021 and 2020:
Year Ended June 30, | ||||||||||||
2022 | 2021 | 2020 | ||||||||||
Event-related and entertainment offerings (a) |
$ | 386,309 | $ | 14,062 | $ | 390,691 | ||||||
Sponsorship, signage and suite licenses (b) |
156,387 | 15,897 | 177,209 | |||||||||
Other (c) |
39,384 | 27,528 | 16,701 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Total revenues from contracts with customers |
582,080 | 57,487 | 584,601 | |||||||||
Revenues from Arena License Agreements, leases and subleases |
71,410 | 24,325 | | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Total revenues |
$ | 653,490 | $ | 81,812 | $ | 584,601 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Event-related and entertainment offerings revenues are recognized at a point in time. |
(b) | See Note 2, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, Revenue Recognition, and the discussion above within this Note for further details on the pattern of recognition of sponsorship, signage, and suite license revenues. |
(c) | Primarily consists of (i) revenues from sponsorship sales and representation agreements with MSG Sports, and (ii) advertising commission revenues recognized from MSG Networks. |
F-24
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
In addition to the disaggregation of the Companys revenue by major source based upon the timing of transfer of goods or services to the customer disclosed above, the following table disaggregates the Companys combined revenues by type of goods or services in accordance with the required entity-wide disclosure requirements of ASC Subtopic 280-10-50-38 to 40 and the disaggregation of revenue required disclosures in accordance with ASC Subtopic 606-10-50-5 for Fiscal Years 2022, 2021 and 2020.
Year Ended June 30, | ||||||||||||
2022 | 2021 | 2020 | ||||||||||
Ticketing and venue license fee revenues (a) |
$ | 250,092 | $ | 8,311 | $ | 310,971 | ||||||
Sponsorship and signage, suite, and advertising commission revenues (b) |
219,113 | 43,312 | 200,503 | |||||||||
Food, beverage and merchandise revenues |
109,915 | 3,078 | 62,341 | |||||||||
Other |
2,960 | 2,786 | 10,786 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Total revenues from contracts with customers |
582,080 | 57,487 | 584,601 | |||||||||
Revenues from Arena License Agreements, leases and subleases |
71,410 | 24,325 | | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Total revenues |
$ | 653,490 | $ | 81,812 | $ | 584,601 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Amounts include ticket sales, including other ticket-related revenue, and venue license fees from the Companys events such as (i) concerts, (ii) the presentation of the Christmas Spectacular, and (iii) live entertainment and other sporting events. |
(b) | Amounts include (i) revenues from sponsorship sales and representation agreements with MSG Sports and (ii) advertising commission revenues recognized from MSG Networks. |
Contract Balances
The following table provides information about the opening and closing contract balances from the Companys contracts with customers as of June 30, 2022, 2021 and 2020.
June 30, | ||||||||||||
2022 | 2021 | 2020 | ||||||||||
Receivables from contracts with customers, net (a) |
$ | 106,664 | $ | 72,978 | $ | 52,839 | ||||||
Contract assets, current (b) |
5,503 | 7,052 | 3,850 | |||||||||
Deferred revenue, including non-current portion (c) |
203,256 | 199,041 | 182,632 |
(a) | As of June 30, 2022, 2021 and 2020, the Companys receivables from contracts with customers above included $4,163, $5,172 and $2,966, respectively, related to various related parties. See Note 19, Related Party Transactions for further details on these related party arrangements. |
(b) | Contract assets primarily relate to the Companys rights to consideration for goods or services transferred to customers, for which the Company does not have an unconditional right to bill as of the reporting date. Contract assets are transferred to accounts receivable once the Companys right to consideration becomes unconditional. |
(c) | Revenue recognized for Fiscal Year 2022 relating to the deferred revenue balance as of June 30, 2021 was $143,422. |
Transaction Price Allocated to the Remaining Performance Obligations
The following table depicts the estimated revenue expected to be recognized in the future related to performance obligations that are unsatisfied (or partially unsatisfied) as of June 30, 2022. This primarily relates to performance obligations under sponsorship and suite license agreements that have original expected durations
F-25
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
longer than one year and for which the considerations are not variable. In developing the estimated revenue, the Company applies the allowable practical expedient and does not disclose information about remaining performance obligations that have original expected durations of one year or less.
Fiscal year ending June 30, 2023 |
$ | 148,830 | ||
Fiscal year ending June 30, 2024 |
124,971 | |||
Fiscal year ending June 30, 2025 |
91,400 | |||
Fiscal year ending June 30, 2026 |
68,700 | |||
Fiscal year ending June 30, 2027 |
41,023 | |||
Thereafter |
48,947 | |||
|
|
|||
$ | 523,871 | |||
|
|
Note 5. Restructuring Charges
For Fiscal Year 2022, MSG Entertainment underwent organizational changes to further streamline operations. These measures included termination of certain executive and management level functions. During Fiscal Year 2022, the Company recorded $5,171 for restructuring charges related to the termination benefits provided to employees and executives, inclusive of $1,612 of share-based compensation expenses for the acceleration of stock award vesting, which is reflected in divisional equity (deficit). As of June 30, 2022, the Company had accrued severance of $3,210, which is expected to be paid by the end of Fiscal Year 2023.
During Fiscal Year 2021, the Company recorded $14,691 of restructuring charges, primarily related to termination benefits provided to employees, of which all amounts have been paid as of June 30, 2022. These measures included reductions in full-time workforce in August 2020 and November 2020.
Such costs are reflected in restructuring charges in the accompanying combined statements of operations for Fiscal Years 2022 and 2021.
Note 6. Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash
The following table provides a summary of the amounts recorded as cash and cash equivalents, and restricted cash:
As of | ||||||||
June 30, 2022 |
June 30, 2021 |
|||||||
Captions on the combined balance sheets: |
||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents |
$ | 58,102 | $ | 317,819 | ||||
Restricted cash |
4,471 | 250 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Cash and cash equivalents, and restricted cash on the combined statements of cash flows |
$ | 62,573 | $ | 318,069 | ||||
|
|
|
|
The Companys cash equivalents consist of money market accounts and time deposits of $50,527 and $250,116 for Fiscal Years 2022 and 2021, respectively. Cash equivalents are measured at fair value within Level I of the fair value hierarchy on a recurring basis using observable inputs that reflect quoted prices for identical assets in active markets.
F-26
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
Note 7. Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets
Prepaid expenses and other current assets consisted of the following:
As of | ||||||||
June 30, 2022 |
June 30, 2021 |
|||||||
Prepaid insurance |
$ | 6,896 | $ | 5,411 | ||||
Prepaid revenue sharing expense |
43,291 | 32,661 | ||||||
Other prepaid expenses |
14,878 | 8,497 | ||||||
Deferred production costs Christmas Spectacular and other productions |
3,801 | 4,090 | ||||||
Inventory (a) |
2,752 | 2,233 | ||||||
Contract assets (b) |
5,503 | 7,052 | ||||||
Other |
2,320 | 3,560 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total prepaid expenses and other current assets |
$ | 79,441 | $ | 63,504 | ||||
|
|
|
|
(a) | Inventory is primarily comprised of food and liquor for venues. |
(b) | See Note 4, Revenue Recognition for more information on contract assets. |
Note 8. Equity Investments With Readily Determinable Fair Values
As of June 30, 2022, the Company held investments of (i) 583 shares of the Class A common stock of Townsquare Media, Inc. (Townsquare), (ii) 2,625 shares of the Class C common stock of Townsquare, and (iii) 869 shares of Class A common stock of DraftKings Inc. (DraftKings):
| Townsquare is a community-focused digital media, digital marketing solutions and radio company that has its Class A common stock listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the symbol TSQ. |
| DraftKings is a digital sports entertainment and gaming company that is listed on the NASDAQ Stock Market (NASDAQ) under the symbol DKNG. |
The fair value of the Companys investments in Class A common stock of Townsquare and Class A common stock of DraftKings is determined based on quoted market prices in active markets on the NYSE and NASDAQ, respectively, which are classified within Level I of the fair value hierarchy. As a holder of Class C common stock of Townsquare, the Company is entitled to convert at any time all or any part of the Companys shares into an equal number of shares of Class A common stock of Townsquare, subject to restrictions set forth in Townsquares certificate of incorporation. Therefore, the fair value of the Companys investment in Class C common stock of Townsquare is also determined based on the quoted market price in an active market on the NYSE, which is classified within Level I of the fair value hierarchy.
F-27
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
The cost basis and the carrying fair value of these investments, which are reported under Other assets in the accompanying combined balance sheets as of June 30, 2022 and 2021, are as follows:
Balance as of June 30, 2022 | ||||||||||||
Equity Investment with Readily Determinable Fair Value | Shares Held |
Cost Basis |
Carrying Value / Fair Value |
|||||||||
Townsquare Class A common stock |
583 | $ | 4,221 | $ | 4,776 | |||||||
Townsquare Class C common stock |
2,625 | 19,001 | 21,499 | |||||||||
DraftKings Class A common stock |
869 | 6,036 | 10,146 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Total |
$ | 29,258 | $ | 36,421 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
Balance as of June 30, 2021 | ||||||||||||
Equity Investment with Readily Determinable Fair Value | Shares Held |
Cost Basis |
Carrying Value / Fair Value |
|||||||||
Townsquare Class A common stock |
583 | $ | 4,221 | $ | 7,435 | |||||||
Townsquare Class C common stock |
2,625 | 19,001 | 33,469 | |||||||||
DraftKings Class A common stock |
869 | 6,036 | 45,360 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Total |
$ | 29,258 | $ | 86,264 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
The following table summarizes the realized and unrealized gain (loss) on equity investments with readily determinable fair value for Fiscal Years 2022, 2021 and 2020:
June 30, | ||||||||||||
2022 | 2021 | 2020 | ||||||||||
Unrealized gain (loss) Townsquare |
$ | (14,629 | ) | $ | 26,563 | $ | (2,920 | ) | ||||
Unrealized gain (loss) DraftKings |
(35,213 | ) | 26,942 | 34,197 | ||||||||
Realized gain (loss) DraftKings |
| (2,327 | ) | 6,351 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
$ | (49,842 | ) | $ | 51,178 | $ | 37,628 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Supplemental information on realized gain (loss): |
||||||||||||
Shares of common stock sold DraftKings |
| 420 | 197 | |||||||||
Cash proceeds from common stock sold DraftKings |
$ | | $ | 22,079 | $ | 7,659 |
The realized and unrealized gains and losses on investments discussed above are reported under Other income (expense), net in the accompanying combined statements of operations.
F-28
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
Note 9. Property and Equipment, Net
As of June 30, 2022 and 2021, property and equipment, net consisted of the following assets:
June 30, | ||||||||
2022 | 2021 | |||||||
Land |
$ | 62,768 | $ | 62,768 | ||||
Buildings |
995,965 | 995,019 | ||||||
Equipment |
323,741 | 311,848 | ||||||
Aircraft |
38,090 | 38,090 | ||||||
Furniture and fixtures |
28,976 | 28,718 | ||||||
Leasehold improvements |
105,877 | 106,444 | ||||||
Construction in progress |
3,139 | 3,211 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
1,558,556 | 1,546,098 | |||||||
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization |
(862,477 | ) | (803,182 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
$ | 696,079 | $ | 742,916 | |||||
|
|
|
|
Depreciation expense on property and equipment was $63,696, $70,588 and $80,603 for Fiscal Years 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
Note 10. Leases
The following table summarizes the ROU assets and lease liabilities recorded on the Companys combined balance sheets as of June 30, 2022 and 2021:
Line Item in the Companys Combined |
June 30, 2022 | June 30, 2021 | ||||||||
Right-of-use assets: |
||||||||||
Operating leases |
Right-of-use lease assets |
$ | 271,154 | $ | 95,775 | |||||
Lease liabilities: |
||||||||||
Operating leases, current |
Operating lease liabilities, current |
(39,006 | ) | (40,926 | ) | |||||
Operating leases, noncurrent |
Operating lease liabilities, non-current |
(254,114 | ) | (77,211 | ) | |||||
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Total lease liabilities |
$ | (293,120 | ) | $ | (118,137 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
The following table summarizes the activity recorded within the Companys combined statements of operations for Fiscal Years 2022, 2021 and 2020:
Line Item in the Companys Combined Statements
of |
Years Ended June 30, | |||||||||||||
2022 | 2021 | 2020 | ||||||||||||
Operating lease cost |
Direct operating expenses | $ | 22,360 | $ | 20,138 | $ | 20,029 | |||||||
Operating lease cost |
Selling, general and administrative expenses | 9,782 | 9,773 | 11,891 | ||||||||||
Variable lease cost |
Direct operating expenses | 147 | 247 | 221 | ||||||||||
Variable lease cost |
Selling, general and administrative expenses | 41 | 39 | 47 | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Total lease cost |
$ | 32,330 | $ | 30,197 | $ | 32,188 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
In November 2021, MSG Entertainment executed an agreement with the existing landlord for its New York corporate office space, which will be assigned to the Company, pursuant to which it will be relocating from the
F-29
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
space that the Company currently occupies to newly renovated office space within the same building. The Company will not be involved in the design or construction of the new space for purposes of the Companys buildout prior to obtaining possession, which is expected to occur in Fiscal Year 2024. Upon obtaining possession of the space, the new lease is expected to result in an additional lease obligation and right of use asset. While lease payments under the new lease agreement will be recognized as a lease expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term, the Company will begin paying full rent in the second half of Fiscal Year 2026 due to certain tenant incentives included in the arrangement. Base rent payments will increase every five years beginning in Fiscal Year 2031 in accordance with the terms of the lease. The Company anticipates entering into a new sublease agreement with MSG Sports for a lease term equivalent to the November 2021 agreement that MSG Entertainment entered into with the existing landlord. The future lease payments related to this new lease for the next five fiscal years and thereafter are expected to be as follows:
Fiscal Year 2023 |
$ | | ||
Fiscal Year 2024 |
| |||
Fiscal Year 2025 |
10,121 | |||
Fiscal Year 2026 |
16,276 | |||
Fiscal Year 2027 |
39,207 | |||
Thereafter (Fiscal Year 2028 to Fiscal Year 2046) |
838,789 | |||
|
|
|||
Total lease payments |
$ | 904,393 | ||
|
|
Supplemental cash flow information related to operating leases is as follows:
Years Ended June 30, | ||||||||||||
2022 | 2021 | 2020 | ||||||||||
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of operating lease liabilities |
$ | 33,312 | $ | 29,380 | $ | 37,081 | ||||||
Lease assets obtained in exchange for new lease obligations |
$ | 298,100 | $ | | $ | 6,966 |
Maturities of operating lease liabilities as of June 30, 2022 are as follows:
Fiscal year ending June 30, 2023 |
$ | 40,730 | ||
Fiscal year ending June 30, 2024 |
45,047 | |||
Fiscal year ending June 30, 2025 |
30,951 | |||
Fiscal year ending June 30, 2026 |
11,409 | |||
Fiscal year ending June 30, 2027 |
22,666 | |||
Thereafter |
253,699 | |||
|
|
|||
Total lease payments |
404,502 | |||
Less: imputed interest |
111,382 | |||
|
|
|||
Total lease liabilities |
$ | 293,120 | ||
|
|
The weighted average remaining lease term and weighted average discount rate for our operating leases are as follows:
June 30, | ||||||||
2022 | 2021 | |||||||
Weighted average remaining lease term (in years) |
12.9 | 3.6 | ||||||
Weighted average discount rate |
4.79 | % | 4.42 | % |
F-30
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
As of June 30, 2022, the Companys existing operating leases, which are recorded on the accompanying combined financial statements, have remaining lease terms ranging from 0.7 years to 16.1 years.
Lessor Arrangements
In connection with the 2020 Entertainment Distribution, the Company entered into Arena License Agreements with MSG Sports that, among other things, require the Knicks and the Rangers to play their home games at The Garden in exchange for fixed annual license fees scheduled to be paid monthly over the term of the agreements. The Company accounts for these license fees as operating lease revenue given that the Company provides MSG Sports with the right to direct the use of and obtain substantially all of the economic benefit from The Garden during Knicks and Rangers home games. Operating lease revenue is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term, adjusted pursuant to the terms of the Arena License Agreements. In the case of the Arena License Agreements, the lease terms relate to non-consecutive periods of use when MSG Sports uses The Garden for their professional sports teams home games, and operating lease revenue is therefore recognized ratably as events occur.
The Arena License Agreements provide that license fees are not required to be paid by MSG Sports during periods when The Garden is unavailable for use due to a force majeure event. As a result of government-mandated suspension of events at The Garden beginning on March 13, 2020 due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, The Garden was not available for use by MSG Sports from the effective date of the Arena License Agreements through the first quarter of Fiscal Year 2021, and, accordingly, the Company did not record any operating lease revenue for this arrangement during the first quarter of Fiscal Year 2021. Use of The Garden resumed for Knicks and Rangers home games without fans in December 2020 and January 2021, respectively, and was available at 10% seating capacity from February through May 2021 when it became available at 100% seating capacity. The Company recorded $68,072 and $21,345 of revenues under the Arena License Agreements for Fiscal Year 2022 and 2021, respectively. In addition, the Company recorded revenues from third party and related party lease and sublease arrangements of $3,338 and $2,980 for Fiscal Year 2022 and 2021, respectively.
Note 11. Goodwill and Intangible Assets
As of June 30, 2022 and 2021, the carrying amount of goodwill was $69,041. No impairment charges were recorded during the periods presented.
The Companys indefinite-lived intangible assets as of June 30, 2022 and 2021 are as follows:
As of | ||||||||
June 30, 2022 |
June 30, 2021 |
|||||||
Trademarks |
$ | 61,881 | $ | 61,881 | ||||
Photographic related rights |
1,920 | 1,920 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total |
$ | 63,801 | $ | 63,801 | ||||
|
|
|
|
On August 31, 2021 and 2020, the Company performed its annual impairment tests of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets and determined that there were no impairments of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets identified as of the impairment test date.
F-31
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
The Companys intangible assets subject to amortization are as follows:
June 30, 2022 | Gross | Accumulated Amortization |
Net | |||||||||
Trade names |
$ | 2,530 | $ | (2,169 | ) | $ | 361 | |||||
Festival rights |
8,080 | (6,926 | ) | 1,154 | ||||||||
Other intangibles |
4,217 | (4,094 | ) | 123 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
$ | 14,827 | $ | (13,189 | ) | $ | 1,638 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
June 30, 2021 | Gross | Accumulated Amortization |
Net | |||||||||
Trade names |
$ | 2,530 | $ | (842 | ) | $ | 1,688 | |||||
Festival rights |
8,080 | (2,696 | ) | 5,384 | ||||||||
Other intangibles |
4,217 | (3,813 | ) | 404 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
$ | 14,827 | $ | (7,351 | ) | $ | 7,476 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
Amortization expense for intangible assets was $5,838, $988 and $988 for Fiscal Years 2022, 2021, and 2020, respectively.
The Companys annual amortization expense for existing intangible assets subject to amortization for each fiscal year from 2023 through 2027, and thereafter, is as follows:
Fiscal year ending June 30, 2023 |
$ | 1,638 | ||
Fiscal year ending June 30, 2024 |
| |||
Fiscal year ending June 30, 2025 |
| |||
Fiscal year ending June 30, 2026 |
| |||
Fiscal year ending June 30, 2027 |
| |||
Thereafter |
| |||
|
|
|||
$ | 1,638 | |||
|
|
Note 12. Accrued and Other Current Liabilities
Accrued and other current liabilities consisted of the following:
As of | ||||||||
June 30, 2022 |
June 30, 2021 |
|||||||
Accrued payroll and employee related liabilities |
$ | 88,501 | $ | 50,158 | ||||
Cash due to promoters |
78,428 | 37,877 | ||||||
Accrued expenses |
43,791 | 35,028 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total accrued and other current liabilities |
$ | 210,720 | $ | 123,063 | ||||
|
|
|
|
F-32
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
Note 13. Commitments and Contingencies
Commitments
As of June 30, 2022, commitments of the Company in the normal course of business in excess of one year are as follows:
Balance (a) | ||||
Fiscal year ending June 30, 2023 |
$ | 12,730 | ||
Fiscal year ending June 30, 2024 |
4,420 | |||
Fiscal year ending June 30, 2025 |
4,272 | |||
|
|
|||
$ | 21,422 | |||
|
|
(a) | The Companys material off balance sheet arrangements relate to $14,791 for marketing partnership and other IT commitments and $6,631 of letters of credit. |
See Note 10, Leases for more information regarding the Companys contractually obligated minimum lease payments for operating leases having an initial non-cancelable term in excess of one year for the Companys venues and various corporate offices. These commitments are presented exclusive of the imputed interest used to reflect the payments present value.
See Note 14, Credit Facilities for more information regarding the principal repayments required under the National Properties Facilities.
Legal Matters
Fifteen complaints were filed in connection with MSG Entertainments acquisition of MSG Networks Inc. (the Networks Merger) by purported stockholders of MSG Entertainment and MSG Networks Inc. Nine of these complaints involved allegations of materially incomplete and misleading information set forth in the joint proxy statement/prospectus filed by MSG Entertainment and MSG Networks Inc. in connection with the Networks Merger. These disclosure actions were subsequently voluntarily dismissed with prejudice. Six complaints involved allegations of fiduciary breaches in connection with the negotiation and approval of the Networks Merger and have since been consolidated into two remaining litigations. MSG Entertainment and MSG Networks Inc. will retain all rights and obligations with respect to these claims, as applicable, and MSG Entertainment will indemnify the Company from and release the Company from all present and future costs, expenses, and liabilities, if any, related to these claims.
The Company is a defendant in various lawsuits. Although the outcome of these lawsuits cannot be predicted with certainty (including the extent of available insurance, if any), management does not believe that resolution of these lawsuits will have a material adverse effect on the Company.
Note 14. Credit Facilities
The following table summarizes the presentation of the outstanding balances under the Companys National Properties credit agreement as of June 30, 2022 and 2021:
June 30, 2022 |
June 30, 2021 |
|||||||
Current Portion |
||||||||
National Properties Term Loan Facility |
$ | 8,125 | $ | 6,500 | ||||
Other debt |
637 | | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total |
$ | 8,762 | $ | 6,500 | ||||
|
|
|
|
F-33
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
June 30, 2022 | June 30, 2021 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Principal | Unamortized Deferred Financing Costs |
Net | Principal | Unamortized Deferred Financing Costs |
Net | |||||||||||||||||||
Noncurrent Portion |
||||||||||||||||||||||||
National Properties Term Loan Facility |
$ | 641,875 | $ | (16,063 | ) | $ | 625,812 | $ | 640,250 | $ | (29,602 | ) | $ | 610,648 | ||||||||||
National Properties Revolving Credit Facility |
29,100 | | 29,100 | | | | ||||||||||||||||||
Other debt |
| | | 637 | | 637 | ||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||
Long-term debt, net of deferred financing costs |
$ | 670,975 | $ | (16,063 | ) | $ | 654,912 | $ | 640,887 | $ | (29,602 | ) | $ | 611,285 | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
National Properties Facilities
General. On June 30, 2022, MSG National Properties, LLC (MSG National Properties), MSG Entertainment Group, LLC (MSG Entertainment Group) and certain subsidiaries of MSG National Properties entered into a credit agreement with JP Morgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent and the lenders and L/C issuers party thereto (the National Properties Credit Agreement), providing for a five-year, $650,000 senior secured term loan facility (the National Properties Term Loan Facility) and a five-year, $100,000 revolving credit facility (the National Properties Revolving Credit Facility and, together with the National Properties Term Loan Facility, the National Properties Facilities). As of June 30, 2022, outstanding letters of credit were $6,631 and the remaining balance available under the National Properties Revolving Credit Facility was $70,900.
Proceeds. The proceeds of the National Properties Facilities were used on the closing date to repay in full the obligations outstanding under MSG National Properties prior term loan facility (the Prior National Properties Loan Facility) and to pay fees and expenses in connection with the National Properties Facilities and the refinancing of the Prior National Properties Loan Facility. Up to $25,000 of the National Properties Revolving Credit Facility is available for the issuance of letters of credit. Proceeds of the National Properties Revolving Credit Facility may be used to fund working capital needs, for general corporate purposes of MSG National Properties and its subsidiaries, and to make distributions to MSG Entertainment Group.
Interest Rates. Borrowings under the current National Properties Facilities bear interest at a floating rate, which at the option of MSG National Properties may be either (a) a base rate plus an applicable margin ranging from 1.50% to 2.50% per annum, determined based on the total leverage ratio of MSG National Properties and its restricted subsidiaries (the National Properties Base Rate), or (b) Term SOFR plus an applicable margin ranging from 2.50% to 3.50% per annum, determined based on the total leverage ratio of MSG National Properties and its restricted subsidiaries (the National Properties SOFR Rate). The Prior National Properties Loan Facility bore interest at a floating rate, which at the option of MSG National Properties, was either (i) a base rate plus a margin of 5.25% per annum or (ii) LIBOR, with a floor of 0.75%, plus a margin of 6.25% per annum. As of June 30, 2022, the additional rate used in calculating the floating rate was (i) 3.50% per annum for borrowings bearing the National Properties Base Rate, and (ii) 1.63% per annum for borrowings bearing the National Properties SOFR Rate. The National Properties Credit Agreement requires MSG National Properties to pay a commitment fee ranging from 0.30% to 0.50% in respect of the daily unused commitments under the National Properties Revolving Credit Facility. MSG National Properties is also required to pay customary letter of credit fees, as well as fronting fees, to banks that issue letters of credit pursuant to the National Properties Credit Agreement. The interest rate on the National Properties Facilities as of June 30, 2022 was 5.13%.
F-34
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
Principal Repayments. Subject to customary notice and minimum amount conditions, the Company may voluntarily repay outstanding loans under the National Properties Facilities and terminate commitments under the National Properties Revolving Credit Facility, at any time, in whole or in part, subject only to customary breakage costs in the case of prepayment of Term SOFR loans. The National Properties Facilities will mature on June 30, 2027. The principal obligations under the National Properties Term Loan Facility are to be repaid in quarterly installments beginning with the fiscal quarter ending March 31, 2023, in an aggregate amount equal to 2.50% per annum (0.625% per quarter), stepping up to 5.0% per annum (1.25% per quarter) in the fiscal quarter ending September 30, 2025, with the balance due at the maturity of the facility. The principal obligations under the National Properties Revolving Credit Facility are due at the maturity of the facility.
Covenants. The National Properties Credit Agreement includes financial covenants requiring MSG National Properties and its restricted subsidiaries to maintain a specified minimum liquidity level, a specified minimum debt service coverage ratio and specified maximum total leverage ratio. The minimum liquidity level is set at $50,000, and is tested based on the level of average daily liquidity, consisting of cash and cash equivalents and available revolving commitments, over the last month of each quarter over the life of the National Properties Facilities. The debt service coverage ratio covenant begins testing in the fiscal quarter ending December 31, 2022, and is set at a ratio of 2:1 before stepping up to 2.5:1 in the fiscal quarter ending September 30, 2024. The leverage ratio covenant begins testing in the fiscal quarter ending June 30, 2023. It is tested based on the ratio of MSG National Properties and its restricted subsidiaries consolidated total indebtedness to adjusted operating income, with an initial maximum ratio of 6:1, stepping down to 5.5:1 in the fiscal quarter ending June 30, 2024 and 4.5:1 in the fiscal quarter ending June 30, 2026. As of June 30, 2022, MSG National Properties and its restricted subsidiaries were in compliance with the covenants of the National Properties Credit Agreement.
In addition to the financial covenants discussed above, the National Properties Credit Agreement and the related security agreement contain certain customary representations and warranties, affirmative and negative covenants and events of default. The National Properties Credit Agreement contains certain restrictions on the ability of MSG National Properties and its restricted subsidiaries to take certain actions as provided in (and subject to various exceptions and baskets set forth in) the National Properties Credit Agreement, including the following: (i) incur additional indebtedness; (ii) create liens on certain assets; (iii) make investments, loans or advances in or to other persons; (iv) pay dividends and distributions or repurchase capital stock (which will restrict the ability of MSG National Properties to make cash distributions to the Company); (v) repay, redeem or repurchase certain indebtedness; (vi) change its lines of business; (vii) engage in certain transactions with affiliates; (viii) amend their respective organizational documents; (ix) merge or consolidate; and (x) make certain dispositions.
Guarantors and Collateral. All obligations under the National Properties Facilities are guaranteed by MSG Entertainment Group and MSG National Properties existing and future direct and indirect domestic subsidiaries, other than the subsidiaries that own The Garden and certain other excluded subsidiaries (the Subsidiary Guarantors).
All obligations under the National Properties Facilities, including the guarantees of those obligations, are secured by certain of the assets of MSG National Properties and the Subsidiary Guarantors (collectively, Collateral) including, but not limited to, a pledge of some or all of the equity interests held directly or indirectly by MSG National Properties in each Subsidiary Guarantor. The Collateral does not include, among other things, any interests in The Garden or the leasehold interests in Radio City Music Hall and the Beacon Theatre. Under certain circumstances, MSG National Properties is required to make mandatory prepayments on loans outstanding, including prepayments in an amount equal to the net cash proceeds of certain sales of assets or casualty insurance and/or condemnation recoveries (subject to certain reinvestment, repair or replacement rights), subject to certain exceptions.
F-35
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
Accounting Treatment. The Company evaluated the terms of the National Properties Term Loan Facility and the Prior National Properties Term Loan Facility and concluded such facilities to be substantially different for accounting purposes. As a result, the Company recorded a loss on extinguishment of approximately $35,600 in connection with the above financing transactions for Fiscal Year 2022.
Debt Maturities
National Properties Facilities |
Other debt | Total | ||||||||||
Fiscal year ending June 30, 2023 |
$ | 8,125 | $ | 637 | $ | 8,762 | ||||||
Fiscal year ending June 30, 2024 |
16,250 | | 16,250 | |||||||||
Fiscal year ending June 30, 2025 |
16,250 | | 16,250 | |||||||||
Fiscal year ending June 30, 2026 |
32,500 | | 32,500 | |||||||||
Fiscal year ending June 30, 2027 |
605,975 | | 605,975 | |||||||||
Thereafter |
| | | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
$ | 679,100 | $ | 637 | $ | 679,737 | |||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest payments and loan principal repayments made by the Company under the National Properties Credit Agreement were as follows:
Interest Payments | Loan Principal Repayments |
|||||||||||||||||||||||
Years Ended June 30, | Years Ended June 30, | |||||||||||||||||||||||
2022 | 2021 | 2020 | 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | |||||||||||||||||||
National Properties Term Loan Facility |
52,163 | 22,879 | | 646,750 | 3,250 | |
The carrying value and fair value of the Companys financial instruments reported in the accompanying combined balance sheets are as follows:
June 30, 2022 | June 30, 2021 | |||||||||||||||
Carrying Value |
Fair Value |
Carrying Value |
Fair Value |
|||||||||||||
Liabilities: |
||||||||||||||||
National Properties Facilities |
$ | 679,100 | $ | 679,100 | $ | 646,750 | $ | 669,386 |
The Companys long-term debt is classified within Level II of the fair value hierarchy as it is valued using quoted indices of similar instruments for which the inputs are readily observable.
Note 15. Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans
Defined Benefit Pension Plans and Postretirement Benefit Plans
MSG Entertainment sponsors a non-contributory, qualified cash balance retirement plan covering its non-union employees (the Cash Balance Pension Plan) and an unfunded non-contributory, non-qualified excess cash balance plan covering certain employees who participate in the underlying qualified plan (collectively, the Cash Balance Plans). Since March 1, 2011, the Cash Balance Pension Plan has also included the assets and liabilities of a frozen (as of December 31, 2007) non-contributory qualified defined benefit pension plan covering non-union employees hired prior to January 1, 2001. These plans are considered Shared Plans, as previously defined, with substantially all plan participants specifically identified to the Company.
F-36
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
MSG Entertainment also sponsors an unfunded non-contributory, non-qualified defined benefit pension plan for the benefit of certain employees who participated in an underlying qualified plan, which was merged into the Cash Balance Pension Plan on March 1, 2011 (the Excess Plan). As of December 31, 2007, the Excess Plan was amended to freeze all benefits earned through December 31, 2007 and to eliminate the ability of participants to earn benefits for future service under these plans. This plan is considered a Shared Plan, as previously defined, with substantially all plan participants specifically identified to the Company.
The Cash Balance Plans were amended to freeze participation and future benefit accruals effective December 31, 2015 for all employees. Therefore, after December 31, 2015, no employee of the Company, MSG Entertainment or MSG Sports who was not already a participant may become a participant in the plans and no further annual pay credits will be made for any future year. Existing account balances under the plans will continue to be credited with monthly interest in accordance with the terms of the plans.
Lastly, MSG Entertainment sponsors a non-contributory, qualified defined benefit pension plan covering certain of the Companys union employees (the Union Plan). Benefits payable to retirees under the Union Plan are based upon years of Benefit Service (as defined in the Union Plan document). The Union Plan is considered a Direct Plan, as previously defined.
The Cash Balance Plans, Union Plan, and Excess Plan are collectively referred to as the Pension Plans.
MSG Entertainment also sponsors a contributory welfare plan which provides certain postretirement healthcare benefits to certain employees of the Company hired prior to January 1, 2001, who are eligible to commence receipt of early or normal benefits under the Cash Balance Pension Plan, and their dependents, as well as certain union employees (Postretirement Plan).
For the historical periods, MSG Entertainment was the legal sponsor of the Pension Plans and Postretirement Plan. For purposes of the combined financial statements, it was determined that these plans assets and liabilities were attributable to the Company. Therefore, the combined financial statements reflect the full impact of the Shared Plans and the Direct Plan on both the combined statements of operations and combined balance sheets. The pension expense related to employees of other MSG Entertainment businesses participating in the Shared Plans were immaterial for Fiscal Years 2022, 2021 and 2020.
F-37
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
The following table summarizes the projected benefit obligations, assets, funded status and the amounts recorded on the Companys combined balance sheets as of June 30, 2022 and 2021, associated with the Pension Plans and Postretirement Plan based upon actuarial valuations as of those measurement dates.
Pension Plans | Postretirement Plan | |||||||||||||||
June 30, | June 30, | |||||||||||||||
2022 | 2021 | 2022 | 2021 | |||||||||||||
Change in benefit obligation: |
||||||||||||||||
Benefit obligation at beginning of period |
$ | 171,897 | $ | 174,892 | $ | 3,218 | $ | 3,658 | ||||||||
Service cost |
120 | 96 | 32 | 47 | ||||||||||||
Interest cost |
3,708 | 3,385 | 42 | 45 | ||||||||||||
Actuarial loss (gain) (a) |
(33,344 | ) | 1,981 | (501 | ) | (76 | ) | |||||||||
Benefits paid |
(6,465 | ) | (4,410 | ) | (328 | ) | (390 | ) | ||||||||
Curtailments |
| (91 | ) | | | |||||||||||
Plan settlements paid |
| (3,777 | ) | | | |||||||||||
Other |
| (179 | ) | | (66 | ) | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Benefit obligation at end of period |
135,916 | 171,897 | 2,463 | 3,218 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Change in plan assets: |
||||||||||||||||
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period |
145,651 | 151,756 | | | ||||||||||||
Actual return on plan assets |
(30,667 | ) | 1,969 | | | |||||||||||
Employer contributions |
400 | 60 | | | ||||||||||||
Benefits paid |
(6,406 | ) | (4,409 | ) | | | ||||||||||
Plan settlements paid |
| (3,725 | ) | | | |||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Fair value of plan assets at end of period |
108,978 | 145,651 | | | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Funded status at end of period |
$ | (26,938 | ) | $ | (26,246 | ) | $ | (2,463 | ) | $ | (3,218 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | In Fiscal Year 2022, the actuarial gains on the benefit obligations were primarily due to a net increase in discount and interest crediting rates. In Fiscal Year 2021, the actuarial losses on the benefit obligations were primarily due to a net decrease in discount and interest crediting rates. |
Amounts recognized in the combined balance sheets as of June 30, 2022 and 2021 consist of:
Pension Plans | Postretirement Plan | |||||||||||||||
June 30, | June 30, | |||||||||||||||
2022 | 2021 | 2022 | 2021 | |||||||||||||
Current liabilities (included in accrued employee related costs) |
$ | (264 | ) | $ | (259 | ) | $ | (364 | ) | $ | (369 | ) | ||||
Non-current liabilities (included in defined benefit and other postretirement obligations) |
(26,674 | ) | (25,987 | ) | (2,099 | ) | (2,849 | ) | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
$ | (26,938 | ) | $ | (26,246 | ) | $ | (2,463 | ) | $ | (3,218 | ) | |||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
F-38
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, before income tax, as of June 30, 2022 and 2021 consists of the following amounts that have not yet been recognized in net periodic benefit cost:
Pension Plans | Postretirement Plan | |||||||||||||||
June 30, | June 30, | |||||||||||||||
2022 | 2021 | 2022 | 2021 | |||||||||||||
Actuarial gain (loss) |
$ | (41,910 | ) | $ | (39,957 | ) | $ | (251 | ) | $ | (786 | ) |
The following table presents components of net periodic benefit cost for the Pension Plans and Postretirement Plan included in the accompanying combined statements of operations for Fiscal Years 2022, 2021 and 2020. Service cost is recognized in direct operating expenses and selling, general and administrative expenses. All other components of net periodic benefit cost are reported in Other income (expense), net.
Pension Plans | Postretirement Plan | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Years Ended June 30, | Years Ended June 30, | |||||||||||||||||||||||
2022 | 2021 | 2020 | 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | |||||||||||||||||||
Service cost |
$ | 120 | $ | 96 | $ | 95 | $ | 32 | $ | 47 | $ | 56 | ||||||||||||
Interest cost |
3,708 | 3,385 | 5,261 | 42 | 45 | 108 | ||||||||||||||||||
Expected return on plan assets |
(6,016 | ) | (5,232 | ) | (5,319 | ) | | | | |||||||||||||||
Recognized actuarial loss |
1,386 | 1,093 | 1,336 | 34 | 98 | 6 | ||||||||||||||||||
Settlement loss recognized (a) |
| 870 | 67 | | | | ||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||
Net periodic benefit cost |
$ | (802 | ) | $ | 212 | $ | 1,440 | $ | 108 | $ | 190 | $ | 170 | |||||||||||
Contributory charge to Madison Square Garden Sports Corp. for participation in the Shared Plans and all allocation of costs related to the corporate employees |
| | (173 | ) | | | (26 | ) | ||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||
Net periodic benefit cost reported in the combined statements of operations |
$ | (802 | ) | $ | 212 | $ | 1,267 | $ | 108 | $ | 190 | $ | 144 | |||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | For Fiscal Years 2022, 2021 and 2020, lump-sum payments totaling $0, $52 and $551, respectively, were distributed to vested participants of the non-qualified excess cash balance plan, triggering the recognition of settlement losses in accordance with ASC Topic 715. Due to these pension settlements, the Company was required to remeasure its pension plan liability as of June 30, 2021 and 2020 and for Fiscal Years 2021 and 2020, respectively. The discount rates used for the projected benefit obligation and interest cost were 1.96% and 1.30% as of June 30, 2022, respectively, 1.77% and 1.24% as of June 30, 2021, respectively, and 2.95% and 2.83% as of June 30, 2020, respectively. Additionally, settlement charges of $0, $870 and $67 were recognized in Other income (expense), net for Fiscal Years 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively. |
F-39
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
Other pre-tax changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) for Fiscal Years 2022, 2021 and 2020 are as follows:
Pension Plans | Postretirement Plan | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Years Ended June 30, | Years Ended June 30, | |||||||||||||||||||||||
2022 | 2021 | 2020 | 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | |||||||||||||||||||
Actuarial gain (loss), net |
$ | (3,306 | ) | $ | (5,244 | ) | $ | 232 | $ | 501 | $ | 76 | $ | (277 | ) | |||||||||
Recognized actuarial loss |
1,386 | 1,093 | 1,336 | 34 | 98 | 6 | ||||||||||||||||||
Recognized prior service credit |
| | | | | | ||||||||||||||||||
Curtailments |
| 91 | | | 65 | | ||||||||||||||||||
Settlement loss recognized |
| 870 | 67 | | | | ||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||
Total recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) |
$ | (1,920 | ) | $ | (3,190 | ) | $ | 1,635 | $ | 535 | $ | 239 | $ | (271 | ) | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Funded Status
The accumulated benefit obligation for the Pension Plans aggregated to $135,916 and $171,897 at June 30, 2022 and 2021, respectively. As of June 30, 2022 and 2021, each of the Pension Plans had accumulated benefit obligations and projected benefit obligations in excess of plan assets.
Pension Plans and Postretirement Plan Assumptions
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations (made at the end of the period) as of June 30, 2022 and 2021 are as follows:
Pension Plans | Postretirement Plan | |||||||||||||||
June 30, | June 30, | |||||||||||||||
2022 | 2021 | 2022 | 2021 | |||||||||||||
Discount rate |
4.86 | % | 2.87 | % | 4.62 | % | 2.17 | % | ||||||||
Interest crediting rate |
2.76 | % | 2.32 | % | n/a | n/a | ||||||||||
Healthcare cost trend rate assumed for next year |
n/a | n/a | 6.00 | % | 6.25 | % | ||||||||||
Rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline (the ultimate trend rate) |
n/a | n/a | 5.00 | % | 5.00 | % | ||||||||||
Year that the rate reaches the ultimate trend rate |
n/a | n/a | 2027 | 2027 |
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost (made at the beginning of the period) for Fiscal Years 2022, 2021 and 2020 are as follows:
Pension Plans | Postretirement Plan | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Years Ended June 30, | Years Ended June 30, | |||||||||||||||||||||||
2022 | 2021 | 2020 | 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | |||||||||||||||||||
Discount rateprojected benefit obligation |
2.87 | % | 2.84 | % | 3.58 | % | 2.17 | % | 2.09 | % | 3.18 | % | ||||||||||||
Discount rateservice cost |
3.11 | % | 3.20 | % | 3.78 | % | 2.65 | % | 2.15 | % | 3.45 | % | ||||||||||||
Discount rateinterest cost |
1.92 | % | 1.92 | % | 3.21 | % | 1.51 | % | 1.23 | % | 2.84 | % | ||||||||||||
Expected long-term return on plan assets |
4.94 | % | 4.02 | % | 5.28 | % | n/a | n/a | n/a | |||||||||||||||
Interest crediting rate |
2.32 | % | 1.37 | % | 3.28 | % | n/a | n/a | n/a | |||||||||||||||
Healthcare cost trend rate assumed for next year |
n/a | n/a | n/a | 6.25 | % | 6.50 | % | 6.75 | % | |||||||||||||||
Rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline (the ultimate trend rate) |
n/a | n/a | n/a | 5.00 | % | 5.00 | % | 5.00 | % | |||||||||||||||
Year that the rate reaches the ultimate ntrend rate |
n/a | n/a | n/a | 2027 | 2027 | 2027 |
F-40
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
The discount rates were determined (based on the expected duration of the benefit payments for the plans) from the Willis Towers Watson U.S. Rate Link: 40-90 Discount Rate Model as of June 30, 2022 and 2021 to select a rate at which the Company believed the plans benefits could be effectively settled. This model was developed by examining the yields on selected highly rated corporate bonds. The expected long-term return on plan assets is based on a periodic review and modeling of the plans asset allocation structures over a long-term horizon. Expectations of returns for each asset class are the most important of the assumptions used in the review and modeling and are based on comprehensive reviews of historical data, forward-looking economic outlook, and economic/financial market theory. The expected long-term rate of return was selected from within the reasonable range of rates determined by (i) historical returns for the asset classes covered by the investment policy and (ii) projections of returns over the long-term period during which benefits are payable to plan participants.
Plan Assets and Investment Policy
The weighted-average asset allocation of the Pension Plans assets at June 30, 2022 and 2021 was as follows:
June 30, | ||||||||
2022 | 2021 | |||||||
Asset Classes (a): |
||||||||
Fixed income securities |
78 | % | 98 | % | ||||
Equity securities |
14 | % | | % | ||||
Cash equivalents |
8 | % | 2 | % | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
100 | % | 100 | % | |||||
|
|
|
|
(a) | The Companys target allocation for pension plan assets is 85% fixed income securities and 15% equity as of June 30, 2022. |
Investment allocation decisions have been made by the Companys Investment and Benefits Committee, which considers investment advice provided by the Companys external investment consultant. The investment consultant takes into account expected long-term risks, returns, correlation, and other prudent investment assumptions when recommending asset classes and investment managers to the Companys Investment and Benefits Committee. The investment consultant also considers the pension plans liabilities when making investment allocation recommendations. The Companys Investment and Benefits Committees decisions are influenced by asset/liability studies conducted by the external investment consultant who combines actuarial considerations and strategic investment advice. The major investment categories of the pension plan assets are in cash equivalents and long duration fixed income securities that are marked-to-market on a daily basis. As a result, the pension plan assets are subjected to interest-rate risk, specifically to a rising interest rate environment, as the majority of the pension plan assets are invested in long duration fixed income securities. However, the pension plan assets are structured in an asset/liability framework, and consequently, an increase in interest rates would cause a corresponding decrease to the overall liability of the pension plans, thus creating a hedge against rising interest rates. Additional risks involving the asset/liability framework include earning insufficient investment returns to cover future pension plan liabilities and imperfect hedging of such liabilities. In addition, a portion of the long duration fixed income securities portfolio is invested in non-government securities that are subject to credit risk of the issuers who might default on interest and/or principal payments.
F-41
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
Investments at Estimated Fair Value
The cumulative fair values of the individual plan assets at June 30, 2022 and 2021 by asset class are as follows:
Fair Value Hierarchy |
June 30, | |||||||||||
2022 | 2021 | |||||||||||
Fixed income securities: |
||||||||||||
U.S. Treasury securities (a) |
I | $ | 672 | $ | | |||||||
Money market fund (a) |
I | 8,311 | 2,753 | |||||||||
U.S. corporate bonds (b) |
II | | 100,229 | |||||||||
Foreign issues (c) |
II | | 20,119 | |||||||||
Municipal bonds (c) |
II | | 3,881 | |||||||||
Mutual fund equity (d) |
II | 15,661 | | |||||||||
Common collective trust (d) |
II | 84,334 | 18,669 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Total investments measured at fair value |
$ | 108,978 | $ | 145,651 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
(a) | U.S. Treasury Securities and the money market fund are classified within Level I of the fair value hierarchy as they are valued using observable inputs that reflect quoted prices for identical assets in active markets. |
(b) | U.S. corporate bonds are classified within Level II of the fair value hierarchy as they are valued using quoted prices for similar assets in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets in markets that are not active and evaluations based on various market and industry inputs. |
(c) | Foreign issued corporate bonds and municipal bonds are classified within Level II of the fair value hierarchy as they are valued at a price that is based on a compilation of primarily observable market information or a broker quote in a non-active over-the-counter market. |
(d) | The common collective trust (CCT) and the mutual fund, which are non-exchange traded funds, are classified within Level II of the fair value hierarchy at their net asset value (NAV) as reported by the Trustee and investment manager, respectively. The NAV is based on the fair value of the underlying investments held by the fund which are based on quoted market prices less their liabilities. Both the CCT and the mutual fund publish their daily NAV and use such value as the basis for current transactions. |
Contributions for Qualified Defined Benefit Pension Plans
During Fiscal Year 2022, the Company contributed $400 to the Union Plan. The Company expects to contribute $250 to the Union Plan in Fiscal Year 2023.
Estimated Future Benefit Payments
The following table presents estimated future fiscal year benefit payments for the Pension Plans and Postretirement Plan:
Pension Plans |
Postretirement Plan |
|||||||
Fiscal year ending June 30, 2023 |
$ | 11,291 | $ | 370 | ||||
Fiscal year ending June 30, 2024 |
$ | 8,323 | $ | 320 | ||||
Fiscal year ending June 30, 2025 |
$ | 8,030 | $ | 304 | ||||
Fiscal year ending June 30, 2026 |
$ | 8,638 | $ | 280 | ||||
Fiscal year ending June 30, 2027 |
$ | 8,802 | $ | 228 | ||||
Fiscal years ending June 30, 2028 2032 |
$ | 44,197 | $ | 950 |
F-42
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
Defined Contribution Plans
MSG Entertainment sponsors The Madison Square Garden 401(k) Savings Plan (the 401(k) Plan) and the MSG S&E, LLC Excess Savings Plan (collectively referred to as the Savings Plans). The 401(k) Plan is a multiple employer plan. For Fiscal Years 2022, 2021 and 2020, expenses related to the Savings Plans, excluding expenses related to MSG Sports employees, that are included in the accompanying combined statements of operations were $4,284, $2,274, and $3,136, respectively.
In addition, MSG Entertainment sponsors The Madison Square Garden 401(k) Union Plan (the Union Savings Plan). The Union Savings Plan is a multiple employer plan. For Fiscal Years 2022, 2021 and 2020, expenses related to the Union Savings Plan included in the accompanying combined statements of operations were $394, $215 and $539, respectively.
Multiemployer Plans
The Company contributes to a number of multiemployer defined benefit pension plans, multiemployer defined contribution pension plans, and multiemployer health and welfare plans that provide benefits to retired union-represented employees under the terms of collective bargaining agreements (CBAs).
Multiemployer Defined Benefit Pension Plans
The multiemployer defined benefit pension plans to which the Company contributes generally provide for retirement and death benefits for eligible union-represented employees based on specific eligibility/participant requirements, vesting periods and benefit formulas. The risks to the Company of participating in these multiemployer defined benefit pension plans are different from single-employer defined benefit pension plans in the following aspects:
| Assets contributed to a multiemployer defined benefit pension plan by one employer may be used to provide benefits to employees of other participating employers. |
| If a participating employer stops contributing to a multiemployer defined benefit pension plan, the unfunded obligations of the plan may be borne by the remaining participating employers. |
| If the Company chooses to stop participating in some of these multiemployer defined benefit pension plans, the Company may be required to pay those plans an amount based on the Companys proportion of the underfunded status of the plan, referred to as a withdrawal liability. However, cessation of participation in a multiemployer defined benefit pension plan and subsequent payment of any withdrawal liability is subject to the collective bargaining process. |
The following table outlines the Companys participation in multiemployer defined benefit pension plans for Fiscal Years 2022, 2021 and 2020, and summarizes the contributions that the Company has made during each period. The EIN and Pension Plan Number columns provide the Employer Identification Number and the three-digit plan number for each applicable plan. The most recent Pension Protection Act zone status available as of June 30, 2022 and 2021 relates to the plans two most recent years ended which are indicated. Among other factors, plans in the red zone are generally less than 65% funded, plans in the orange zone are both less than 80% funded and have an accumulated funding deficiency or are expected to have a deficiency in any of the next six plan years, plans in the yellow zone are less than 80% funded, and plans in the green zone are at least 80% funded. The FIP/RP Status Pending/Implemented column indicates whether a funding improvement plan (FIP) for yellow/orange zone plans or a rehabilitation plan (RP) for red zone plans is either pending or has been implemented by the trustees of such plan. The zone status and any FIP or RP information is based on information that the Company received from the plan, and the zone status is as certified by the plans actuary.
F-43
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
The last column lists the expiration date(s) or a range of expiration dates of the CBA to which the plans are subject. There are no other significant changes that affect such comparability.
PPA Zone Status | FIP/RP Status Pending / Implemented |
Company Contributions |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
As of June 30, | Years Ended June 30, |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Plan Name |
EIN | Pension Plan Number |
2022 | 2021 | 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | Surcharge Imposed |
Expiration Date of CBA |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Pension Fund of Local No. 1 of I.A.T.S.E. |
136414973 | 001 | |
Green as of 2021-12-31 |
|
|
Green as of 2020-12-31 |
|
No | $ | 1.999 | $ | 194 | $ | 1,831 | No | 6/30/2021 5/1/2023 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
All Other Multiemployer Defined Benefit Pension Plans |
1.907 | 584 | 3,137 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
$ | 3.906 | $ | 778 | $ | 4,968 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
The Company was listed in the following plans Form 5500s as providing more than 5% of the total contributions for the following plans and plan years:
Fund Name |
Exceeded 5 |
Year Contributions to Plan Exceeded 5 Percent of Total Contributions (As of Plans Year-End) | ||
Pension Fund of Local No. 1 of I.A.T.S.E | True | December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018 | ||
32BJ/Broadway League Pension Fund | True | December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018 | ||
Treasurers and Ticket Sellers Local 751 Pension Fund | True | August 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019 |
Multiemployer Defined Contribution Pension Plans
The Company contributed $5,641, $723 and $5,258 for Fiscal Years 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively, to multiemployer defined contribution pension plans.
Note 16. Share-based Compensation
Certain employees of the Company have historically participated in the share-based compensation plans of MSG Entertainment (MSG Entertainment Employee Stock Plans). The plans provide for discretionary grants of incentive stock options and non-qualified stock options, restricted shares, restricted stock units, performance stock units, stock appreciation rights and other share-based awards. All awards granted under the plans will settle in shares of MSG Entertainments Class A Common Stock, or, at the option of the Compensation Committee of the MSG Entertainment Board of Directors, in cash. Only the expenses for the awards provided to the Companys direct employees, net of expenses related to the Companys corporate employees who participate in the plans that were charged to MSG Entertainment, are recorded in the combined financial statements.
Share-based Compensation Expense
Share-based compensation expense is generally recognized straight-line over the vesting term of the award, which typically provides for three-year cliff or graded vesting subject to continued employment. For awards that are graded vesting and subject to performance conditions, in addition to continued employment, the Company uses the graded-vesting method to recognize share-based compensation expense.
F-44
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
Share-based compensation expense was recognized in the combined statements of operations as a component of direct operating expenses or selling, general and administrative expenses. Share-based compensation expense was $39,357, $40,663 and $26,110 for Fiscal Years 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively. The share-based compensation expense recorded by the Company, in the periods presented, includes the expenses associated with the employees attributable to the Company, net of contributory credits from the Company to MSG Entertainment for the Companys corporate employees. The total share-based compensation expense for Fiscal Year 2022 includes $1,612 which was reclassified to Restructuring charges in the combined statements of operations, as detailed in Note 5, Restructuring Charges.
Restricted Stock Units Award Activity
The following table summarizes activity related to MSG Entertainments restricted stock units (RSUs) held by the Companys direct employees for Fiscal Year 2022:
Number of | Weighted- Average Fair Value Per Share At Date of Grant |
|||||||||||
Nonperformance Based Vesting RSUs |
Performance Stock Units |
|||||||||||
Unvested award balance as of June 30, 2021 |
67 | 81 | $ | 74.42 | ||||||||
Granted |
62 | 56 | $ | 79.14 | ||||||||
Vested |
(22 | ) | (8 | ) | $ | 77.25 | ||||||
Forfeited |
(6 | ) | (9 | ) | $ | 75.81 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Unvested award balance as of June 30, 2022 |
101 | 120 | $ | 76.46 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
As of June 30, 2022, there was $9,854 of unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested RSUs and performance stock units (PSUs) held by the Companys direct employees. The cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of approximately 1.6 years.
The following table summarizes additional information about restricted stock units:
For the Fiscal Year Ended | ||||||||||||
June 30, 2022 | June 30, 2021 | June 30, 2020 | ||||||||||
Weighted average grant date fair value per share of awards granted |
$ | 79.14 | $ | 72.81 | $ | 74.50 | ||||||
Intrinsic value of awards vested |
$ | 2,424 | $ | 1,396 | $ | 101 |
Stock Options Award Activity
Compensation expense for MSG Entertainment stock options held by the Companys employees is determined based on the grant date fair value of the award calculated using the Black-Scholes options-pricing model. Stock options generally vest over a three years service period and expire 7.5 to 10 years from the date of grant. None of the Companys direct employees held any stock options during the periods presented. As such, the only cost related to stock options in the combined financial statements relates to allocated costs discussed above for corporate employees.
Treatment After the 2020 Entertainment Distribution of Share-based Payment Awards Initially Granted Under MSG Sports Equity Award Programs
In connection with the 2020 Entertainment Distribution, each holder of an MSG Sports employee restricted stock unit received one MSG Entertainment RSU in respect of every one MSG Sports RSU owned on the record
F-45
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
date and continues to be entitled to a share of MSG Sports Class A common stock (or cash or other property) for each MSG Sports RSU in accordance with the MSG Sports award agreement. Additionally, each holder of an MSG Sports employee PSU received one Company PSU (at target performance) in respect of every one MSG Sports PSU (at target performance) owned on the Record Date and continues to be entitled to a share of MSG Sports Class A common stock (or cash or other property) for each MSG Sports PSU in accordance with the MSG Sports award agreement.
Further, in connection with the 2020 Entertainment Distribution, each holder of an MSG Sports director RSU received one share of our Class A Common Stock in respect of every one MSG Sports RSU owned on the Record Date and continues to be entitled to a share of MSG Sports Class A common stock (or cash or other property) in accordance with the MSG Sports award agreement.
Note 17. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
The following table details the components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss):
Pension Plans and Postretirement Plan |
||||||||||||
June 30, | ||||||||||||
2022 | 2021 | 2020 | ||||||||||
Balance at beginning of period |
$ | (33,598 | ) | $ | (31,108 | ) | $ | (33,378 | ) | |||
Other comprehensive income (loss): |
||||||||||||
Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications |
| | (45 | ) | ||||||||
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss (a) |
(1,385 | ) | (2,951 | ) | 1,409 | |||||||
Income tax benefit |
243 | 461 | (488 | ) | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Other comprehensive income (loss), total |
(1,142 | ) | (2,490 | ) | 876 | |||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Adjustment related to the transfer of Pension Plans and Postretirement Plan liabilities as a result of the 2020 Entertainment Distribution |
| | $ | 1,394 | ||||||||
Balance at end of period |
$ | (34,740 | ) | $ | (33,598 | ) | $ | (31,108 | ) | |||
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss represent curtailments, settlement losses recognized, the amortization of net actuarial gain (loss) and net unrecognized prior service credit included in net periodic benefit cost, which is reflected under Other income (expense), net in the accompanying combined statements of operations (see Note 15, Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans). |
Note 18. Income Taxes
During the periods presented in the combined financial statements, the Company did not file separate tax returns. The Company was included in the federal and state income tax returns of MSG Entertainment for all periods presented. The income tax expense or benefit presented has been determined on a separate return basis as if the Company filed a separate income tax return.
The separate return method applies the accounting guidance for income taxes to the financial statements as if the Company was a separate taxpayer. The Company believes the assumptions supporting its allocation and
F-46
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
presentation of income taxes on a separate return basis are reasonable. One of these assumptions is that the Company on a stand-alone basis will not benefit from certain tax incentives that historically benefited MSG Entertainment. However, the taxes recognized in the combined financial statements and resulting effective tax rates may not be reflective of the taxes that the Company expects to recognize in the future as a stand-alone entity.
Income tax expense is comprised of the following components:
Years Ended June 30, | ||||||||||||
2022 | 2021 | 2020 | ||||||||||
Current (expense) benefit: |
||||||||||||
Federal |
$ | 515 | $ | (2,536 | ) | $ | (41,526 | ) | ||||
State and other |
(220 | ) | (2,247 | ) | (41,227 | ) | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
295 | (4,783 | ) | (82,753 | ) | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Deferred (expense) benefit: |
||||||||||||
Federal |
(4,711 | ) | (15,658 | ) | (14,408 | ) | ||||||
State and other |
4,486 | 15,092 | (3,021 | ) | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
(225 | ) | (566 | ) | (17,429 | ) | |||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Income tax (expense) benefit |
$ | 70 | $ | (5,349 | ) | $ | (100,182 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
The income tax (expense) benefit differs from the amount derived by applying the statutory federal rate to pre-tax income (loss) principally due to the effect of the following items:
Years Ended June 30, | ||||||||||||
2022 | 2021 | 2020 | ||||||||||
Federal tax (expense) benefit at statutory federal rate |
$ | 28,617 | $ | 44,931 | $ | (56,877 | ) | |||||
State income taxes, net of federal benefit |
12,141 | 22,882 | (33,345 | ) | ||||||||
Change in valuation allowance |
(31,679 | ) | (70,501 | ) | 558 | |||||||
Change in the estimated applicable tax rate used to determine deferred taxes |
| 2,545 | | |||||||||
Nondeductible transaction costs |
| | (7,120 | ) | ||||||||
GAAP income of consolidated partnership attributable to non-controlling interest |
(601 | ) | (146 | ) | (224 | ) | ||||||
Nondeductible officers compensation |
(8,125 | ) | (5,209 | ) | (4,407 | ) | ||||||
Nondeductible expenses |
(373 | ) | (285 | ) | (349 | ) | ||||||
Excess tax benefit related to share-based payment awards |
93 | 1,088 | 2,322 | |||||||||
Other, net |
(3 | ) | (654 | ) | (740 | ) | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Income tax (expense) benefit |
$ | 70 | $ | (5,349 | ) | $ | (100,182 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
F-47
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
The tax effects of temporary differences which give rise to significant portions of the deferred tax assets and liabilities at June 30, 2022 and 2021 are as follows:
June 30, | ||||||||
2022 | 2021 | |||||||
Deferred tax assets: |
||||||||
Net operating losses (NOLs) |
$ | 102,273 | $ | 76,052 | ||||
Accrued employee benefits |
29,440 | 20,743 | ||||||
Restricted stock units and stock options |
12,452 | 12,263 | ||||||
Deferred revenue |
| 31,609 | ||||||
Right-of-use lease assets and lease liabilities, net |
7,482 | 7,616 | ||||||
Deferred interest |
24,950 | 9,296 | ||||||
Property and equipment |
16,327 | 2,487 | ||||||
Other, net |
| 2,113 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total gross deferred tax assets |
$ | 192,924 | $ | 162,179 | ||||
Less valuation allowance |
(151,043 | ) | (119,135 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Net deferred tax assets |
$ | 41,881 | $ | 43,044 | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Deferred tax liabilities: |
||||||||
Intangibles and other assets |
$ | (40,069 | ) | $ | (39,810 | ) | ||
Deferred revenue |
(10,107 | ) | | |||||
Prepaid expenses |
(4,874 | ) | (4,055 | ) | ||||
Investments |
(3,377 | ) | (22,449 | ) | ||||
Other, net |
(6,707 | ) | | |||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total deferred tax liabilities |
$ | (65,134 | ) | $ | (66,314 | ) | ||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Net deferred tax liability |
$ | (23,253 | ) | $ | (23,270 | ) | ||
|
|
|
|
In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, management considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax asset will not be realized. The Companys ability to realize its deferred tax assets depends upon the generation of sufficient future taxable income to allow for the utilization of its NOLs and future deductible temporary differences. As of June 30, 2022, based on current facts and circumstances, management believes that it is more likely than not that the Company will not realize the benefit for a portion of its net deferred tax assets. Accordingly, a valuation allowance has been recorded.
The federal NOL carryforward as of June 30, 2022 is $284,470. The NOL has an unlimited carryforward period. The Companys historical combined financial statements for periods prior to the Distribution reflect NOLs and tax credits calculated on a separate return basis. These NOL carryforwards were calculated as if the Company operated as a separate stand-alone entity. Because the Distribution involves a spin-off of the Company, substantially all of the NOLs and tax credits did not carry over to the Company.
Income tax payments, net of refunds, were $8,956, $15,526 and $54 for Fiscal Years 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
Note 19. Related Party Transactions
Members of the Dolan family, including trusts for the benefit of members of the Dolan family (collectively, the Dolan Family Group) are the controlling stockholders of the Company, MSG Entertainment including its MSG Networks and TAO Group Hospitality subsidiaries, MSG Sports, and AMC Networks Inc. (AMC Networks).
F-48
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
Current Related Party Arrangements
The Company is party to the following agreements and/or arrangements with MSG Sports:
| Arena License Agreements pursuant to which the Company (i) provides MSG Sports the right to use The Garden for games of the Knicks and Rangers for a 35-year term in exchange for venue license fees, (ii) shares revenues collected for suite licenses, (iii) operates and manages the sale of the sports teams merchandise at The Garden for a commission, (iv) operates and manages the sale of food and beverage sales and catering services during the Knicks and Rangers games for a portion of net profits (as defined under the Arena License Agreements), (v) provides day of game services that were historically provided prior to the 2020 Entertainment Distribution, and (vi) provides other general services within The Garden. Refer to the below discussion on the venue usage cost allocation prior to the 2020 Entertainment Distribution; |
| Sponsorship sales and service representation agreements pursuant to which the Company has the exclusive right and obligation to sell MSG Sports sponsorships for an initial stated term of ten years for a commission; |
| A team sponsorship allocation agreement, pursuant to which MSG Sports continues receiving an allocation of sponsorship and signage revenues associated with the sponsorship agreements that existed at the 2020 Entertainment Distribution Date; |
| Transition services agreement (the TSA) pursuant to which the Company provides certain corporate and other transition services to MSG Sports, such as information technology, security, accounts payable, payroll, tax, certain legal functions, human resources, insurance and risk management, government affairs, investor relations, corporate communications, benefit plan administration and reporting, and internal audit functions as well as certain marketing functions, in exchange for service fees. MSG Sports also provides certain transition services to the Company, including certain legal functions, communications, ticket sales and certain operational and marketing services, in exchange for service fees; |
| Sublease agreement, pursuant to which the Company subleases office space to MSG Sports; |
| Group ticket sales representation agreement, pursuant to which the Company appointed MSG Sports as its sales and service representative to sell group ticket packages related Company events in exchange for a commission; |
| Single night rental commission agreement, pursuant to which MSG Sports may, from time to time, sell (or make referrals for sales of) licenses for the use of suites at The Garden for individual Company events in exchange for a commission; |
| Aircraft time sharing agreements (discussed below); and; |
| Other agreements with MSG Sports entered into in connection with the 2020 Entertainment Distribution such as a distribution agreement, a tax disaffiliation agreement, an employee matters agreement, a trademark license agreement and certain other arrangements. |
In addition, the Company has various agreements with MSG Networks including an advertising sales representation agreement and a services agreement (the MSG Networks Services Agreement), which have historically been cash settled. Pursuant to the advertising sales representation agreement, the Company has the exclusive right and obligation to sell advertising on behalf of MSG Networks in exchange for a commission. Pursuant to the MSG Networks Services Agreement, the Company provides certain services to MSG Networks, such as information technology, accounts payable and payroll, human resources, and other corporate functions, as well as the executive support services described below, in exchange for service fees. MSG Networks also provides certain services to the Company, in exchange for service fees.
Further, the Company shares certain executive support costs, including office space, executive assistants, security and transportation costs, for (i) the Companys Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer with
F-49
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
MSG Entertainment and MSG Sports and (ii) the Companys Vice Chairman with MSG Entertainment, MSG Sports and AMC Networks. Prior to April 1, 2022, the Company also shared costs for the Companys former President with MSG Entertainment and MSG Sports.
The Company is a party to various aircraft arrangements. Pursuant to certain Aircraft Support Services Agreements (the Support Agreements), the Company provides certain aircraft support services to entities controlled by (i) Charles F. Dolan, a director, and certain of his children, who are siblings of James L. Dolan, the Companys Executive Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and a director, specifically: Thomas C. Dolan (a director of MSG Entertainment), Deborah Dolan-Sweeney, Patrick F. Dolan, Marianne Dolan Weber (a director of MSG Entertainment), and Kathleen M. Dolan, and (ii) Patrick F. Dolan, the son of Charles F. Dolan and brother of James L. Dolan.
The Company is party to reciprocal time sharing/dry lease agreements with Charles F. Dolan and Sterling2k LLC (collectively, CFD), an entity owned and controlled by Deborah Dolan-Sweeney, the daughter of Charles F. Dolan and the sister of James L. Dolan, pursuant to which the Company has agreed from time to time to make its aircraft available to CFD and CFD has agreed from time to time to make its aircraft available to the Company. Pursuant to the terms of the agreements, CFD may lease on a non-exclusive, time sharing basis, certain Company aircraft.
The Company is also party to a dry lease agreement and a time sharing agreement with Brighid Air, LLC (Brighid Air), a company owned and controlled by Patrick F. Dolan, the son of Charles F. Dolan and the brother of James L. Dolan, pursuant to which Brighid Air has agreed from time to time to make its Bombardier BD100-1A10 Challenger 350 aircraft (the Challenger) available to the Company on a non-exclusive basis. In connection with the dry lease agreement, the Company also entered into a Flight Crew Services Agreement (the Flight Crew Agreement) with Dolan Family Office, LLC (DFO), an entity owned and controlled by Charles F. Dolan, pursuant to which the Company may utilize pilots employed by DFO for purposes of flying the Challenger when the Company is leasing that aircraft under the Companys dry lease agreement with Brighid Air.
Prior to December 21, 2021, the Company was also party to (i) a reciprocal time sharing/dry lease agreement with Quart 2C, LLC (Q2C), a company controlled by James L. Dolan and Kristin A. Dolan, his spouse and a director of MSG Entertainment, pursuant to which the Company from time to time made its aircraft available to Q2C, and Q2C, from time to time made its aircraft available to the Company, and (ii) an aircraft support services agreement with an entity controlled by James L. Dolan, pursuant to which the Company provided certain aircraft support services. These agreements were no longer effective as of December 21, 2021.
The Company and each of MSG Sports and AMC Networks are party to certain aircraft time sharing agreements, pursuant to which the Company has agreed from time to time to make aircraft available to MSG Sports and/or AMC Networks for lease on a time sharing basis. Additionally, the Company, MSG Sports and AMC Networks have agreed on an allocation of the costs of certain aircraft and helicopter use by their shared executives.
In addition to the aircraft arrangements described above, certain executives of the Company are party to aircraft time sharing agreements, pursuant to which the Company has agreed from time to time to make certain aircraft available for lease on a time sharing basis for personal use in exchange for payment of actual expenses of the flight (as listed in the agreement).
From time to time the Company enters into arrangements with 605, LLC. James L. Dolan, the Companys Executive Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and a director, and his spouse, Kristin A. Dolan (a director of MSG Entertainment), own 50% of 605, LLC. Kristin A. Dolan is also the founder and Chief Executive Officer of 605, LLC. 605, LLC provides audience measurement and data analytics services to the Company and its subsidiaries in the ordinary course of business.
As of June 30, 2022 and 2021, BCE had $637 and $637, respectively, of notes payable with respect to a loan received by BCE from its noncontrolling interest holder.
F-50
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
Revenues and Operating Expenses
The following table summarizes the composition and amounts of the transactions with the Companys affiliates. The significant components of these amounts are discussed below. These amounts are reflected in revenues and operating expenses in the accompanying combined statements of operations for Fiscal Years 2022, 2021 and 2020:
Years Ended June 30, | ||||||||||||
2022 | 2021 | 2020 | ||||||||||
Revenues |
$ | 115,370 | $ | 51,657 | $ | 18,955 | ||||||
Operating expenses (credits): |
||||||||||||
Revenue sharing expenses |
17,279 | 558 | 110,002 | |||||||||
Allocation of charges for venue usage to MSG Sports |
| | (46,072 | ) | ||||||||
Reimbursement under Arena License Arrangements |
(25,827 | ) | (9,717 | ) | | |||||||
Cost reimbursement from MSG Sports |
(38,254 | ) | (36,502 | ) | (116,946 | ) | ||||||
Corporate allocations to MSG Entertainment |
(161,189 | ) | (100,942 | ) | (82,506 | ) | ||||||
Other operating expenses, net |
4,995 | 4,041 | 794 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
Total operating expenses (credits), net (a) |
$ | (202,996 | ) | $ | (142,562 | ) | $ | (134,728 | ) |
(a) | Of the total operating expenses, net, $(9,347), $(930) and $71,722 for Fiscal Years 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively, are included in direct operating expenses in the accompanying combined statements of operations, and $(193,649), $(141,632) and $(206,450) for Fiscal Years 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively, are included as net credits in selling, general and administrative expenses. |
Revenues
Through Fiscal Year 2022, the Knicks and the Rangers played a total of 98 home games at The Garden and the Company recorded $68,072 of revenues under the Arena License Agreements for Fiscal Year 2022. In addition, the Company recorded revenues under sponsorship sales and service representation agreements with MSG Sports of $17,570, and merchandise sharing revenues with MSG Sports of $4,412 for Fiscal Year 2022. The Company recorded revenues under the advertising sales representation agreement with MSG Networks of $20,878 for Fiscal Year 2022. The Company also earned $2,444 of sublease revenue from related parties during Fiscal Year 2022.
Through Fiscal Year 2021, the Knicks and the Rangers played a total of 69 home games at The Garden and the Company recorded $21,345 of revenues under the Arena License Agreements for Fiscal Year 2021. In addition, the Company recorded revenues under sponsorship sales and service representation agreements with MSG Sports of $13,584 for Fiscal Year 2021. The Company recorded revenues under the advertising sales representation agreement with MSG Networks of $13,698 for Fiscal Year 2021. The Company also earned $2,450 of sublease revenue from related parties during Fiscal Year 2021.
Through Fiscal Year 2020, the Company recorded revenues under sponsorship sales and service representation agreements with MSG Sports of $4,330. The Company recorded revenues under the advertising sales representation agreement with MSG Networks of $12,653 for Fiscal Year 2020.
Operating Expenses
Revenue sharing expenses
Revenue sharing expenses include MSG Sports share of the Companys in-venue food and beverage sales and certain venue signage agreements, and, prior to the 2020 Entertainment Distribution, other amounts specifically identified where possible or allocated proportionally.
F-51
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
Allocation of Charges for Venue Usage to MSG Sports and Reimbursements under Arena License Arrangements
For purposes of the Companys combined financial statements prior to the 2020 Entertainment Distribution, the Company allocated to MSG Sports certain expenses for the usage of The Garden, which were reported as a reduction of direct operating expense in the accompanying combined statements of operations.
After the 2020 Entertainment Distribution, fees recognized by the Company under the Arena License Agreements with MSG Sports for use of The Garden are reported as operating lease revenues in accordance with ASC Topic 842. Because The Garden was closed by government mandate, the Company did not recognize operating lease revenue under the Arena License Agreements for the quarter ended September 30, 2020. Starting December 2020, the Garden reopened for games of the Knicks and the Rangers and the Company recorded $68,072 and $21,345 of revenues under the Arena License Agreements for Fiscal Years 2022 and 2021, respectively. In addition, the Company recorded credits to direct operating expenses as a reimbursement under the Arena License Agreements of $25,827 and $9,717 for Fiscal Years 2022 and 2021, respectively. No credits were recorded for Fiscal Year 2020.
Cost reimbursement from MSG Sports
Per the TSA described above, the Companys corporate overhead expenses that are charged to MSG Sports are primarily related to centralized functions, including information technology, security, accounts payable, payroll, tax, legal, human resources, insurance and risk management, investor relations, corporate communications, benefit plan administration and reporting, and internal audit.
Prior to the 2020 Entertainment Distribution, allocations of corporate overhead and shared services expense were recorded by both MSG Entertainment, and in turn by the Company, and MSG Sports for corporate and operational functions based on direct usage or the relative proportion of revenue, headcount or other measures of MSG Entertainment or MSG Sports.
Corporate allocations to MSG Entertainment
As part of the Distribution, certain corporate and operational support functions are being transferred to the Company and therefore, charges were reflected in order to properly burden all business units comprising MSG Entertainments historical operations. Allocations of corporate overhead and shared services expense to MSG Entertainment from the Company were recorded for corporate and operational functions based on direct usage when identifiable, with the remainder allocated on a pro rata basis of combined assets, headcount or other measures of the Company or MSG Entertainment, which is recorded as a reduction of either direct operating expenses or selling, general and administrative expense. The aforementioned allocations for certain support functions that are provided on a centralized basis and not historically recorded at the business unit level by MSG Entertainment and MSG Sports (for the period from July 1, 2019 to April 17, 2020), related to departments such as executive management, finance, legal, human resources, government affairs, and information technology, among others. In addition, corporate allocations to MSG Entertainment include charges to MSG Networks under the MSG Networks Services Agreement.
Other Operating Expenses, net
The Company and its related parties enter into transactions with each other in the ordinary course of business. Amounts charged to the Company for other transactions with its related parties are net of amounts charged by the Company to the Knickerbocker Group, LLC, an entity owned by James L. Dolan, the Executive Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and a director of the Company, for office space and the cost of certain
F-52
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
technology services. In addition, other operating expenses primarily include net charges relating to (i) reciprocal aircraft arrangements between the Company and each of Q2C and CFD, (ii) time sharing and/or dry lease agreements with MSG Sports, AMC Networks and Brighid Air, (iii) commission under the group ticket sales representation agreement with MSG Sports, and (iv) expenses for advertising and promotional services rendered by MSG Networks. The reciprocal aircraft arrangement between the Company and Q2C and the related aircraft support services arrangement between them was no longer effective as of December 21, 2021.
Loans Receivable from MSG Entertainment
The Companys captive insurance entity, Eden Insurance Company, Inc. (Eden), entered into a loan agreement with MSG Entertainment (the Eden Loan Agreement), under which Eden granted MSG Entertainment an unsecured loan bearing interest at a rate of LIBOR plus 350 basis points with a principal amount not exceeding $60,000. This loan is in the form of a demand promissory note, payable immediately upon order from Eden. As of June 30, 2022 and 2021, Eden had an outstanding loan receivable from MSG Entertainment of $56,060 and $57,962, respectively, inclusive of accrued interest. During Fiscal Year 2022, Eden declared and paid dividends to MSG Entertainment through a reduction of the loan receivable from MSG Entertainment. During Fiscal Year 2021, no interest or principal payments were received by Eden. Instead, the accrued but unpaid interest was added to the outstanding principal amount of the loan. The cash flows related to this loan receivable are reflected as investing activities, as these balances represent amounts loaned by the Company to MSG Entertainment. The Company expects that the outstanding loan payable will be transferred by MSG Entertainment to the Company prior to the Distribution. The Company recorded related party interest income of $2,117, $1,888 and $2,798 related to the Eden Loan Agreement in Fiscal Years 2022, 2021 and 2020.
On May 23, 2019, the Company entered into a subordinated credit agreement with TAO Group Sub-Holdings, LLC (TAOG Sub-Holdings), a wholly-owned subsidiary of MSG Entertainment (the TAO Subordinated Credit Agreement), under which the Company granted TAOG Sub-Holdings a $49,000 subordinated loan. This loan had a maturity date of August 22, 2024. On June 15, 2020, the TAO Subordinated Credit Agreement was amended to provide an additional $22,000 of borrowing capacity. The Company provided additional proceeds of $14,000 and $5,000 during Fiscal Years 2021 and 2020, respectively, under the TAO Subordinated Credit Agreement. There are no mandatory repayments of principal until the maturity date. Subject to customary notice and minimum amount conditions, TAOG Sub-Holdings can voluntarily prepay outstanding loans under the TAO Subordinated Credit Agreement at any time, in whole or in part, without premium or penalty. Interest is due monthly in cash or paid-in-kind based on the terms of the TAO Senior Credit Agreement. During Fiscal Year 2020, on behalf of TAOG Sub-Holdings, MSG Entertainment made a voluntary principal payment and interest payments of $5,000 and $3,546, respectively. As of June 30, 2021, the Company had an outstanding loan receivable from MSG Entertainment related to this loan of $66,902, inclusive of accrued interest, and on June 9, 2022, MSG Entertainment paid the full outstanding principal amount of this TAO Subordinated Credit Agreement. The cash flows related to this loan receivable are reflected as investing activities, as these balances represent amounts loaned by the Company to MSG Entertainment. The Company recorded related party interest income of $4,420, $4,525 and $4,531 related to the TAO Subordinated Credit Agreement in Fiscal Years 2022, 2021 and 2020.
Cash Management
MSG Entertainment uses a centralized approach to cash management and financing of operations. The Companys and MSG Entertainments other subsidiaries cash was available for use and was regularly swept historically. Cash and cash equivalents was attributed to the Company for each of the periods presented, as such cash was held in accounts legally owned by the Company. Transfers of cash both to and from MSG Entertainment were included as components of MSG Entertainments Investment on the combined statements of
F-53
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
divisional equity (deficit). The main components of the net transfers (to)/from MSG Entertainment are cash pooling/general financing activities, various expense allocations to/from MSG Entertainment, and receivables/payables from/(to) MSG Entertainment deemed to be effectively settled upon the distribution of the Company by MSG Entertainment.
MSG Entertainment Investment
Certain significant balances and transactions among the Company and MSG Entertainment and its subsidiaries, which include allocations of corporate general and administrative expenses, share-based compensation expense and other historical intercompany activities, are recorded as components of Divisional Equity (Deficit), except for the transactions noted above related to historically cash-settled loans between the Company and MSG Entertainment. The changes in MSG Entertainment Investment also include financing activities for capital transfers, cash sweeps, and other treasury services. As part of this activity, cash balances are swept to MSG Entertainment regularly as part of the MSG Entertainment cash management policy.
Note 20. Concentrations of Risk
As of June 30, 2022, approximately 4,200 full-time and part-time employees, who represent approximately 63% of the Companys workforce, are subject to CBAs. Approximately 7% are subject to CBAs that expired as of June 30, 2022 and approximately 47% are subject to CBAs that will expire by June 30, 2023, if they are not extended prior thereto.
Note 21. Subsequent Events
The Company evaluated subsequent events for the period from June 30, 2022 through January 13, 2023, the date the combined financial statements were available for issuance. On December 2, 2022, the Company sold its 85% controlling interest in BCE for approximately $10,000. Additionally, on December 30, 2022, the Company sold a corporate aircraft for approximately $20,400.
F-54
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
(in thousands)
(Additions) / Deductions | ||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at Beginning of Period |
Charged to Costs and Expenses |
Charged to Other Accounts |
Deductions | Balance at End of Period |
||||||||||||||||
Year Ended June 30, 2022 |
||||||||||||||||||||
Allowance for doubtful accounts / credit losses |
$ | (4,167 | ) | $ | (166 | ) | $ | | $ | 623 | $ | (3,710 | ) | |||||||
Deferred tax valuation allowance |
(119,135 | ) | (31,679 | ) | (229 | ) | | (151,043 | ) | |||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
$ | (123,302 | ) | $ | (31,845 | ) | $ | (229 | ) | $ | 623 | $ | (154,753 | ) | |||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Year Ended June 30, 2021 |
||||||||||||||||||||
Allowance for doubtful accounts / credit losses |
$ | (3,926 | ) | $ | (887 | ) | $ | | $ | 646 | $ | (4,167 | ) | |||||||
Deferred tax valuation allowance |
(39,030 | ) | (70,501 | ) | (9,604 | ) | | (119,135 | ) | |||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
$ | (42,956 | ) | $ | (71,388 | ) | $ | (9,604 | ) | $ | 646 | $ | (123,302 | ) | |||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Year Ended June 30, 2020 |
||||||||||||||||||||
Allowance for doubtful accounts / credit losses |
$ | (1,814 | ) | $ | (3,568 | ) | $ | | $ | 1,456 | $ | (3,926 | ) | |||||||
Deferred tax valuation allowance |
(15,409 | ) | 558 | (24,179 | ) | | (39,030 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
$ | (17,223 | ) | $ | (3,010 | ) | $ | (24,179 | ) | $ | 1,456 | $ | (42,956 | ) | |||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
F-55
CONDENSED COMBINED BALANCE SHEETS (Unaudited)
(in thousands)
December 31, 2022 |
June 30, 2022 |
|||||||
ASSETS |
||||||||
Current Assets: |
||||||||
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash |
$ | 153,746 | $ | 62,573 | ||||
Accounts receivable, net |
100,820 | 102,501 | ||||||
Related party receivables, current |
95,064 | 96,938 | ||||||
Prepaid expenses and other current assets |
69,686 | 79,441 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total current assets |
419,316 | 341,453 | ||||||
Property and equipment, net |
649,962 | 696,079 | ||||||
Right-of-use lease assets |
255,024 | 271,154 | ||||||
Goodwill |
69,041 | 69,041 | ||||||
Intangible assets, net |
63,801 | 65,439 | ||||||
Other non-current assets |
91,817 | 83,535 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total assets |
$ | 1,548,961 | $ | 1,526,701 | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
LIABILITIES AND DIVISIONAL EQUITY (DEFICIT) |
||||||||
Current Liabilities: |
||||||||
Accounts payable, accrued and other current liabilities |
$ | 176,287 | $ | 221,961 | ||||
Related party payables, current |
70,379 | 72,683 | ||||||
Current portion of long-term debt |
16,250 | 8,762 | ||||||
Operating lease liabilities, current |
36,623 | 39,006 | ||||||
Deferred revenue |
188,842 | 202,678 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total current liabilities |
488,381 | 545,090 | ||||||
Long-term debt, net of deferred financing costs |
648,397 | 654,912 | ||||||
Operating lease liabilities, non-current |
238,015 | 254,114 | ||||||
Deferred tax liabilities, net |
23,386 | 23,253 | ||||||
Other non-current liabilities |
51,893 | 50,921 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total liabilities |
1,450,072 | 1,528,290 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Commitments and contingencies (see Note 9) |
||||||||
Spinco Divisional Equity (Deficit): |
||||||||
MSG Entertainment investment |
133,018 | 33,265 | ||||||
Accumulated other comprehensive loss |
(34,129 | ) | (34,740 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total Spinco divisional equity (deficit) |
98,889 | (1,475 | ) | |||||
Nonredeemable noncontrolling interest |
| (114 | ) | |||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total liabilities and divisional equity (deficit) |
$ | 1,548,961 | $ | 1,526,701 | ||||
|
|
|
|
See accompanying notes to the unaudited condensed combined financial statements.
F-56
CONDENSED COMBINED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (Unaudited)
(in thousands)
Six Months Ended December 31, |
||||||||
2022 | 2021 | |||||||
Revenues (a) |
$ | 502,332 | $ | 281,162 | ||||
Operating expenses: (a) |
||||||||
Direct operating expenses |
282,265 | 182,236 | ||||||
Selling, general and administrative expenses |
83,415 | 81,698 | ||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
31,571 | 33,159 | ||||||
Gains, net on dispositions |
(4,412 | ) | | |||||
Restructuring charges |
7,359 | | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Operating income (loss) |
102,134 | (15,931 | ) | |||||
Other income (expense): |
||||||||
Interest income (a) |
3,322 | 3,604 | ||||||
Interest expense |
(24,632 | ) | (26,795 | ) | ||||
Other income (expense), net |
(1,286 | ) | (19,247 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
(22,596 | ) | (42,438 | ) | |||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Income (loss) from operations before income taxes |
79,538 | (58,369 | ) | |||||
Income tax (expense) benefit |
(731 | ) | | |||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Net income (loss) |
78,807 | (58,369 | ) | |||||
Less: Net loss attributable to nonredeemable noncontrolling interest |
(553 | ) | (367 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Net income (loss) attributable to Spincos stockholders |
$ | 79,360 | $ | (58,002 | ) | |||
|
|
|
|
(a) | See Note 14, Related Party Transactions, for further information on related party arrangements |
See accompanying notes to the unaudited condensed combined financial statements.
F-57
CONDENSED COMBINED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (Unaudited)
(in thousands)
Six Months Ended December 31, |
||||||||
2022 | 2021 | |||||||
Net income (loss) |
$ | 78,807 | $ | (58,369 | ) | |||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Other comprehensive income (loss), before income taxes: |
||||||||
Pension plans and postretirement plans: |
||||||||
Amortization of net actuarial loss included in net periodic benefit cost |
742 | 743 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Other comprehensive income (loss), before income taxes |
742 | 743 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Income tax benefit (expense) related to items of other comprehensive income |
(131 | ) | (131 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes |
611 | 612 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Comprehensive income (loss) |
79,418 | (57,757 | ) | |||||
Less: Comprehensive loss attributable to nonredeemable noncontrolling interest |
(553 | ) | (367 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to MSGE Spinco, Inc. |
$ | 79,971 | $ | (57,390 | ) | |||
|
|
|
|
See accompanying notes to the unaudited condensed combined financial statements.
F-58
CONDENSED COMBINED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Unaudited)
(in thousands)
Six Months Ended December 31, |
||||||||
2022 | 2021 | |||||||
Cash flows from operating activities: |
||||||||
Net income (loss) |
$ | 78,807 | $ | (58,369 | ) | |||
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities: |
||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
31,571 | 33,159 | ||||||
Share-based compensation expense |
16,258 | 21,079 | ||||||
Amortization of deferred financing costs |
1,613 | 3,392 | ||||||
Related party paid in kind interest |
(1,804 | ) | (1,855 | ) | ||||
Net unrealized (gain) loss on equity investments with readily determinable fair value |
3,203 | 19,615 | ||||||
Amortization of right-of-use assets |
6,756 | 5,184 | ||||||
Gains, net on dispositions |
(4,412 | ) | | |||||
Other non-cash adjustment |
15 | | ||||||
Change in assets and liabilities: |
||||||||
Accounts receivable, net |
1,987 | (36,892 | ) | |||||
Related party receivables, net of payables |
6,732 | 17,114 | ||||||
Prepaid expenses and other current and non-current assets |
(5,606 | ) | (15,058 | ) | ||||
Accounts payable, accrued and other current and non-current liabilities |
(44,140 | ) | 39,417 | |||||
Deferred revenue |
(12,758 | ) | 34,068 | |||||
Operating lease right-of-use assets and lease liabilities |
(8,886 | ) | (2,677 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Net cash provided by operating activities |
$ | 69,336 | $ | 58,177 | ||||
Cash flows from investing activities: |
||||||||
Capital expenditures |
(9,208 | ) | (7,236 | ) | ||||
Proceeds from dispositions, net |
27,904 | | ||||||
(Purchase) / proceeds from sale of investments |
3,694 | (250 | ) | |||||
Proceeds from loan receivable |
| 4,695 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities |
$ | 22,390 | $ | (2,791 | ) | |||
|
|
|
|
See accompanying notes to the unaudited condensed combined financial statements.
F-59
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
CONDENSED COMBINED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Unaudited)
(in thousands)
Six Months Ended December 31, |
||||||||
2022 | 2021 | |||||||
Cash flows from financing activities: |
||||||||
Principal repayments on long-term debt |
$ | | $ | (3,250 | ) | |||
Net transfers to MSG Entertainment and MSG Entertainments subsidiaries |
(553 | ) | (138,446 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Net cash used in financing activities |
$ | (553 | ) | $ | (141,696 | ) | ||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash |
91,173 | (86,310 | ) | |||||
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of period |
62,573 | 318,069 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period |
$ | 153,746 | $ | 231,759 | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Non-cash investing and financing activities: |
||||||||
Capital expenditures incurred but not yet paid |
$ | 402 | $ | 125 | ||||
Non-cash reduction of loan receivable from related party |
$ | 5,350 | $ | 4,019 |
See accompanying notes to the unaudited condensed combined financial statements.
F-60
CONDENSED COMBINED STATEMENTS OF DIVISIONAL EQUITY (DEFICIT) (Unaudited)
(in thousands)
MSG Entertainment Investment |
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) |
Total Spinco Divisional Equity (Deficit) |
Nonredeemable Noncontrolling Interest |
Total Divisional Equity (Deficit) |
||||||||||||||||
Balance as of June 30, 2022 |
$ | 33,265 | $ | (34,740 | ) | $ | (1,475 | ) | $ | (114 | ) | $ | (1,589 | ) | ||||||
Net income (loss) |
79,360 | | 79,360 | (553 | ) | 78,807 | ||||||||||||||
Other comprehensive income |
| 611 | 611 | | 611 | |||||||||||||||
BCE disposition |
| | | 667 | 667 | |||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||
Comprehensive income |
| | 79,971 | 114 | 80,085 | |||||||||||||||
Net increase in MSG Entertainment Investment |
20,393 | | 20,393 | | 20,393 | |||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Balance as of December 31, 2022 |
$ | 133,018 | $ | (34,129 | ) | $ | 98,889 | $ | | $ | 98,889 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Balance as of June 30, 2021 |
$ | 529,500 | $ | (33,598 | ) | $ | 495,902 | $ | 2,750 | $ | 498,652 | |||||||||
Net loss |
(58,002 | ) | | (58,002 | ) | (367 | ) | (58,369 | ) | |||||||||||
Other comprehensive income |
| 612 | 612 | | 612 | |||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||
Comprehensive loss |
| | (57,390 | ) | (367 | ) | (57,757 | ) | ||||||||||||
Net decrease in MSG Entertainment Investment |
(113,463 | ) | | (113,463 | ) | | (113,463 | ) | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Balance as of December 31, 2021 |
$ | 358,035 | $ | (32,986 | ) | $ | 325,049 | $ | 2,383 | $ | 327,432 | |||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
See accompanying notes to the unaudited condensed combined financial statements.
F-61
NOTES TO CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)
All amounts included in the following Notes to Condensed Combined Financial Statements (unaudited) are presented in thousands, except as otherwise noted.
Note 1. Description of Business and Basis of Presentation
The Proposed Distribution
On December 6, 2022, the board of directors of Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. (MSG Entertainment) authorized MSG Entertainment management to explore a potential tax-free spin-off of the traditional live entertainment business from the MSG Sphere, MSG Networks, and Tao Group Hospitality businesses, and approved the filing of a Form 10 registration statement and amendments thereto.
MSGE Spinco, Inc. (Spinco or the Company) was incorporated in the state of Delaware on September 15, 2022 to be the company to hold the traditional live entertainment business of MSG Entertainment. In the first step of the transaction, record holders of MSG Entertainment Class A and Class B common stock would receive a pro-rata distribution expected to be equivalent, in aggregate, to approximately 67% of the economic interest in the Company (the Distribution). The remaining approximately 33% economic interest in the Company would be retained by MSG Entertainment, subject to completion of the Distribution. Completion of the Distribution is subject to various conditions, including final approval by the board of directors of MSG Entertainment, receipt of a tax opinion from counsel and the filing and effectiveness of the registration statement with the SEC (defined below). References to Spinco or the Company include the subsidiaries of MSG Entertainment that will be subsidiaries of the Company at the time of the Distribution. MSG Entertainment will be required by applicable tax rules to dispose of the retained interest within a fixed period of time, which may occur through a series of steps including sales, exchange offers or pro rata distributions. MSG Entertainment expects to dispose of such retained interest within one year of the date of the Distribution, subject to market conditions.
Description of Business
The Company is a live entertainment company, comprised of iconic venues, and marquee entertainment content. Utilizing the Companys powerful brands and live entertainment expertise, the Company delivers unique experiences that set the standard for excellence and innovation while forging deep connections with diverse and passionate audiences. The Company is comprised of one reportable segment. As of December 31, 2022, there have been no changes to the reportable segment of the Company. See Note 1, Description and Basis of Presentation to the Companys audited combined financial statements as of June 30, 2022 and 2021 and for the three years ended June 30, 2022, 2021 and 2020 (the Audited Combined Annual Financial Statements) for additional information regarding the details of the Companys business.
Basis of Presentation
The Company reports on a fiscal year basis ending on June 30th (Fiscal Year). In these unaudited condensed combined interim financial statements, the years ended on June 30, 2023 and 2022 are referred to as Fiscal Year 2023 and Fiscal Year 2022, respectively.
The accompanying interim condensed combined financial statements of the Company (the condensed combined financial statements) were prepared on a stand-alone basis derived from the consolidated financial statements and accounting records of MSG Entertainment. These financial statements reflect the combined historical results of operations, financial position and cash flows of the Company in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) for interim financial information, the instructions of Rule
F-62
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)
10-01 of Regulation S-X of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), and SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin (SAB) Topic 1-B, Allocation of Expenses and Related Disclosure in Financial Statements of Subsidiaries, Divisions or Lesser Business Components of Another Entity, and should be read in conjunction with the Companys Audited Combined Annual Financial Statements. References to U.S. GAAP issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) in these footnotes are to the FASB Accounting Standards Codification, also referred to as ASC.
Historically, separate financial statements have not been prepared for the Company and it has not operated as a stand-alone business from MSG Entertainment. The condensed combined financial statements include certain assets and liabilities that have historically been held by MSG Entertainment or by other MSG Entertainment subsidiaries but are specifically identifiable or otherwise attributable to the Company. The condensed combined financial statements are presented as if the Companys businesses had been combined for all periods presented. The assets and liabilities in the condensed combined financial statements have been reflected on a historical cost basis, as immediately prior to the Distribution of all of the assets and liabilities presented are wholly owned by MSG Entertainment and are being transferred to the Company at a carry-over basis.
The condensed combined statements of operations include allocations for certain support functions that are provided on a centralized basis and not historically recorded at the business unit level by MSG Entertainment, such as expenses related to executive management, finance, legal, human resources, government affairs, and information technology, among others. As part of the Distribution, certain corporate and operational support functions are being transferred to the Company and therefore, charges were reflected in order to properly burden all business units comprising MSG Entertainments historical operations. These expenses have been allocated to MSG Entertainment on the basis of direct usage when identifiable, with the remainder allocated on a pro rata basis of combined assets, headcount or other measures of the Company or MSG Entertainment, which are recorded as a reduction of either direct operating expenses or selling, general and administrative expenses.
Management believes the assumptions underlying the condensed combined financial statements, including the assumptions regarding allocating general corporate expenses, are reasonable. Nevertheless, the condensed combined financial statements may not include all of the actual expenses that would have been incurred by the Company and may not reflect its combined results of operations, financial position and cash flows had it been a stand-alone company during the periods presented. Actual costs that would have been incurred if the Company had been a stand-alone company would depend on multiple factors, including organizational structure and strategic decisions made in various areas, including information technology and infrastructure. The Company is unable to quantify the amounts that it would have recorded during the historical periods on a stand-alone basis as it is not practicable to do so. See Note 14, Related Party Transactions for more information regarding allocations of certain costs from the Company to MSG Entertainment.
MSG Entertainment uses a centralized approach to cash management and financing of operations. Cash is managed centrally with net earnings reinvested and working capital requirements met from existing liquid funds. The Companys cash in excess of minimum liquidity requirements under the credit facilities was available for use and was regularly swept historically. Cash and cash equivalents were attributed to the Company for each of the periods presented, as such cash was held in accounts legally owned by the Company. See Note 10, Credit Facilities for more information regarding the Companys debt facilities. Transfers of cash both to and from MSG Entertainment are included as components of MSG Entertainment investment on the condensed combined statements of divisional equity (deficit).
MSG Entertainments net investment in the Company has been presented as a component of divisional equity (deficit) in the condensed combined financial statements. Distributions made by MSG Entertainment to
F-63
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)
the Company or to MSG Entertainment from the Company are recorded as transfers to and from MSG Entertainment, and the net amount is presented on the condensed combined statements of cash flows as Net transfers to MSG Entertainment and MSG Entertainments subsidiaries.
The condensed combined financial statements as of December 31, 2022 and for the six months ended December 31, 2022 and 2021 presented herein are unaudited; however, in the opinion of management, the accompanying financial statements contain all adjustments, consisting of only normal recurring adjustments, necessary for a fair statement of the results for the interim periods presented. The condensed combined balance sheet as of Fiscal Year 2022 was derived from the Audited Combined Annual Financial Statements but does not contain all of the footnote disclosures from the Audited Combined Annual Financial Statements.
The results of operations for the periods presented are not necessarily indicative of the results that might be expected for future interim periods or for the full year. As a result of the production of the Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes (the Christmas Spectacular), and arena license fees in connection with the use of Madison Square Garden (The Garden) by the New York Knicks (the Knicks) of the National Basketball Association (the NBA) and the New York Rangers (the Rangers) of the National Hockey League (the NHL), the Company generally earns a disproportionate share of its annual revenues in the second and third quarters of its fiscal year.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic
The Companys operations and operating results were not materially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic during the six months ended December 31, 2022, as compared to the prior year period, which was impacted by (i) fewer ticketed events at our venues due to the lead-time required to book touring acts and artists, (ii) the postponement or cancellation of select bookings at our venues (including the partial cancellation of the 2021 production of the Christmas Spectacular), and (iii) certain regulatory requirements, including vaccination/mask requirements for our venues. See Note 1, Description of Business and Basis of Presentation to the Companys Audited Combined Annual Financial Statements for additional information regarding the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Companys business.
It is unclear to what extent COVID-19 concerns, including with respect to new variants, could result in new government or league-mandated capacity restrictions or vaccination/mask requirements or impact the use of and/or demand for our venues, demand for our sponsorship and advertising assets, deter our employees and vendors from working at our venues (which may lead to difficulties in staffing) or otherwise materially impact our operations.
Note 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
A. Principles of Combination
All significant intracompany transactions and balances within the Companys condensed combined businesses have been eliminated. Certain historical intercompany transactions between MSG Entertainment and the Company have been included as components of MSG Entertainment investment in the condensed combined financial statements, as they are to be considered effectively settled upon effectiveness of the Distribution and were not historically settled in cash. Certain other historical intercompany transactions between MSG Entertainment and the Company have been classified as related party, rather than intercompany, in the condensed combined financial statements as they were historically settled in cash. Expenses related to corporate allocations from the Company to MSG Entertainment prior to the Distribution, are considered to be effectively settled in the condensed combined financial statements at the time the transaction is recorded, with the offset recorded against MSG Entertainment investment. See Note 14, Related Party Transactions, for further information on related party arrangements.
F-64
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)
The Company disposed of its controlling interest in Boston Calling Events (BCE) on December 2, 2022 and these condensed combined financial statements reflect the results of operations of BCE until its disposition. See Note 3, Dispositions, for details regarding the disposal.
B. Use of Estimates
The preparation of the accompanying condensed combined financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions about future events. These estimates and the underlying assumptions affect the amounts of assets and liabilities reported, disclosures about contingent assets and liabilities, and reported amounts of revenues and expenses. Such estimates include the provision for credit losses, goodwill, intangible assets, other long-lived assets, deferred tax assets, pension and other postretirement benefit obligations and the related net periodic benefit cost, and other liabilities. In addition, estimates are used in revenue recognition, performance and share based compensation, depreciation and amortization, litigation matters and other matters. Management believes its use of estimates in the financial statements to be reasonable.
Management evaluates its estimates on an ongoing basis using historical experience and other factors, including the general economic environment and actions it may take in the future. The Company adjusts such estimates when facts and circumstances dictate. However, these estimates may involve significant uncertainties and judgments and cannot be determined with precision. In addition, these estimates are based on managements best judgment at a point in time and, as such, these estimates may ultimately differ from actual results. Changes in estimates resulting from weakness in the economic environment or other factors beyond the Companys control could be material and would be reflected in the Companys condensed combined financial statements in future periods.
C. Recently Issued and Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
No recently issued accounting pronouncements are expected to materially impact the Companys financial statements.
Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
In October 2021, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2021-08, Accounting for Contract Assets and Contract Liabilities From Contracts With Customers. This ASU requires that the acquiring entity in a business combination recognize and measure contract assets and contract liabilities acquired in accordance with ASC Topic 606. This standard was adopted by the Company in the first quarter of Fiscal Year 2023. The adoption of this standard had no impact on the Companys condensed combined financial statements.
Note 3. Dispositions
Disposition of Our Interest in Boston Calling Events
The Company entered into an agreement on December 1, 2022 to sell its controlling interest in BCE (the BCE Disposition). The transaction closed on December 2, 2022, resulting in a total gain on sale of $8,744, net of transaction costs. BCE meets the definition of a business under SEC Regulation S-X Rule 11-01(d)-1 and FASB ASC Topic 805 Business Combinations. This disposition does not represent a strategic shift with a major effect on the Companys operations, and as such, has not been reflected as a discontinued operation under FASB ASC Subtopic 205-20 Discontinued Operations. The gain on the BCE Disposition was recorded in Gains, net on dispositions in the condensed combined statements of operations.
F-65
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)
Disposition of Corporate Aircraft
On December 30, 2022, the Company sold its owned aircraft for $20,375. In connection with the sale, the Company recognized a loss of $4,332, net of transaction costs. The loss on the aircraft disposition was recorded in Gains, net on dispositions in the condensed combined statements of operations.
Note 4. Revenue Recognition
Contracts with Customers
See Note 2, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Note 4, Revenue Recognition, to the Companys Audited Combined Annual Financial Statements for more information regarding the details of the Companys revenue recognition policies. All revenue recognized in the condensed combined statements of operations is considered to be revenue from contracts with customers in accordance with ASC Topic 606, except for revenues from the arena license agreements that require the Knicks and the Rangers to play their home games at The Garden (the Arena License Agreements), leases and subleases that are accounted for in accordance with ASC Topic 842.
Disaggregation of Revenue
The following table disaggregates the Companys revenue by major source based upon the timing of transfer of goods or services to the customer for the six months ended December 31, 2022 and 2021.
Six Months Ended December 31, |
||||||||
2022 | 2021 | |||||||
Event-related and entertainment offerings (a) |
$ | 341,678 | $ | 177,492 | ||||
Sponsorship, signage and suite licenses (b) |
107,389 | 57,956 | ||||||
Other (c) |
18,462 | 14,887 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total revenues from contracts with customers |
467,529 | 250,335 | ||||||
Revenues from Arena License Agreements, leases and subleases |
34,803 | 30,827 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total revenues |
$ | 502,332 | $ | 281,162 | ||||
|
|
|
|
(a) | Event-related and entertainment offerings revenues are recognized at a point in time. |
(b) | See Note 2, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, Revenue Recognition, and Note 4, Revenue Recognition, to the Companys Audited Combined Annual Financial Statements for further details on the pattern of recognition of sponsorship, signage, and suite license revenues. |
(c) | Primarily consists of (i) revenues from sponsorship sales and representation agreements with MSG Sports and (ii) advertising commission revenues recognized from MSG Networks. |
F-66
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)
In addition to the disaggregation of the Companys revenue by major source based upon the timing of transfer of goods or services to the customer disclosed above, the following table disaggregates the Companys combined revenues by type of goods or services in accordance with the required entity-wide disclosure requirements of ASC Subtopic 280-10-50-38 to 40 and the disaggregation of revenue required disclosures in accordance with ASC Subtopic 606-10-50-5 for the six months ended December 31, 2022 and 2021.
Six Months Ended December 31, |
||||||||
2022 | 2021 | |||||||
Ticketing and venue license fee revenues (a) |
$ | 245,857 | $ | 125,977 | ||||
Sponsorship and signage, suite, and advertising commission revenues (b) |
137,308 | 81,415 | ||||||
Food, beverage and merchandise revenues |
81,690 | 41,688 | ||||||
Other |
2,674 | 1,255 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total revenues from contracts with customers |
467,529 | 250,335 | ||||||
Revenues from Arena License Agreements, leases and subleases |
34,803 | 30,827 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total revenues |
$ | 502,332 | $ | 281,162 | ||||
|
|
|
|
(a) | Amounts include ticket sales, including other ticket-related revenue, and venue license fees from the Companys events such as (i) concerts, (ii) the presentation of the Christmas Spectacular, and (iii) other live entertainment and sporting events. |
(b) | Amounts include (i) revenues from sponsorship sales and representation agreements with MSG Sports and (ii) advertising commission revenues recognized from MSG Networks. |
Contract Balances
The following table provides information about contract balances from the Companys contracts with customers as of December 31, 2022 and June 30, 2022.
December 31, | June 30, | |||||||
2022 | 2022 | |||||||
Receivables from contracts with customers, net (a) |
$ | 113,090 | $ | 106,664 | ||||
Contract assets, current (b) |
$ | 8,645 | $ | 5,503 | ||||
Deferred revenue, including non-current portion (c) |
$ | 189,098 | $ | 203,256 |
(a) | Receivables from contracts with customers, which are reported in Accounts receivable, net and Related party receivables, current in the Companys condensed combined balance sheets, represent the Companys unconditional rights to consideration under its contracts with customers. As of December 31, 2022 and June 30, 2022, the Companys receivables from contracts with customers above included $12,270 and $4,163, respectively, related to various related parties. See Note 14, Related Party Transactions for further details on related party arrangements. |
(b) | Contract assets, which are reported as Prepaid expenses and other current assets or Other non-current assets in the Companys condensed combined balance sheets, primarily relate to the Companys rights to consideration for goods or services transferred to customers, for which the Company does not have an unconditional right to bill as of the reporting date. Contract assets are transferred to accounts receivable once the Companys right to consideration becomes unconditional. |
(c) | Deferred revenue primarily relates to the Companys receipt of consideration from customers in advance of the Companys transfer of goods or services to the customers. Deferred revenue is reduced and the related revenue is recognized once the underlying goods or services are transferred to a customer. Revenue recognized for the six months ended December 31, 2022 relating to the deferred revenue balance as of June 30, 2022 was $154,130. |
F-67
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)
Transaction Price Allocated to the Remaining Performance Obligations
As of December 31, 2022, the Companys remaining performance obligations were approximately $535,000, of which 45% is expected to be recognized over the next two years and an additional 36% of the balance is expected to be recognized in the following two years. This primarily relates to performance obligations under sponsorship and suite license agreements that have original expected durations longer than one year and for which the consideration is not variable. In developing the estimated revenue, the Company applies the allowable practical expedient and does not disclose information about remaining performance obligations that have original expected durations of one year or less.
Note 5. Restructuring Charges
During the six months ended December 31, 2022, MSG Entertainment implemented a cost reduction program which resulted in the recording of termination benefits for a workforce reduction of certain executives and employees. The Company recorded restructuring charges of $7,359, net of contributory credits from the Company to MSG Entertainment for the Companys corporate employees, during the six months ended December 31, 2022. Restructuring charges are inclusive of $2,293 of share-based compensation expenses. As of December 31, 2022 and June 30, 2022, the Company had accrued severance of $12,132 and $3,210, respectively, shown in accounts payable, accrued and other current liabilities and divisional equity (deficit). The Company did not record restructuring charges for the six months ended December 31, 2021.
Note 6. Equity Investments With Readily Determinable Fair Values
As of December 31, 2022, the Company held investments of (i) Townsquare Media, Inc. (Townsquare) and (ii) DraftKings Inc. (DraftKings):
| Townsquare is a media, entertainment and digital marketing solutions company that is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the symbol TSQ. |
| DraftKings is a fantasy sports contest and sports gambling provider that is listed on the NASDAQ Stock Market (NASDAQ) under the symbol DKNG. |
The fair value of the Companys investments in Class A common stock of Townsquare and Class A common stock of DraftKings is determined based on quoted market prices in active markets on the NYSE and NASDAQ, respectively, which are classified within Level I of the fair value hierarchy. As a holder of Class C common stock of Townsquare, the Company is entitled to convert at any time all or any part of the Companys shares into an equal number of shares of Class A common stock of Townsquare, subject to restrictions set forth in Townsquares certificate of incorporation.
The carrying fair value of these investments, which are reported under Other non-current assets in the accompanying condensed combined balance sheets as of December 31, 2022 and June 30, 2022, are as follows:
December 31, 2022 |
June 30, 2022 |
|||||||
Townsquare Class A common stock |
$ | 4,228 | $ | 4,776 | ||||
Townsquare Class C common stock |
19,031 | 21,499 | ||||||
DraftKings common stock |
7,630 | 10,146 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total Equity Investment with Readily Determinable Fair Values |
$ | 30,889 | $ | 36,421 | ||||
|
|
|
|
F-68
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)
The following table summarizes the realized and unrealized (loss) gain on equity investments with readily determinable fair value, which is reported in Other income (expenses), net:
Six Months Ended December 31, |
||||||||
2022 | 2021 | |||||||
Unrealized gain (loss) Townsquare |
$ | (3,015 | ) | $ | 1,861 | |||
Unrealized loss DraftKings |
(188 | ) | (21,476 | ) | ||||
Gain from shares sold DraftKings |
1,489 | | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total realized and unrealized (loss) gain |
$ | (1,714 | ) | $ | (19,615 | ) | ||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Supplemental information on realized gain: |
||||||||
Shares of common stock sold DraftKings |
200 | | ||||||
Cash proceeds from common stock sold DraftKings |
$ | 3,819 | $ | |
Note 7. Property and Equipment, Net
As of December 31, 2022 and June 30, 2022, property and equipment, net consisted of the following:
December 31, | June 30, | |||||||
2022 | 2022 | |||||||
Land |
$ | 62,768 | $ | 62,768 | ||||
Buildings |
997,393 | 995,965 | ||||||
Equipment |
332,195 | 323,741 | ||||||
Aircraft (a) |
| 38,090 | ||||||
Furniture and fixtures |
29,264 | 28,976 | ||||||
Leasehold improvements |
105,877 | 105,877 | ||||||
Construction in progress |
1,980 | 3,139 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
1,529,477 | 1,558,556 | |||||||
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization |
(879,515 | ) | (862,477 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
$ | 649,962 | $ | 696,079 | |||||
|
|
|
|
(a) | On December 30, 2022, the Company completed the disposition of a corporate aircraft (see Note 3, Dispositions), which resulted in a reduction of gross assets of $38,090, and accumulated depreciation of $13,689. |
Depreciation expense on property and equipment was $30,817 and $32,665 for the six months ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
Note 8. Goodwill and Intangible Assets
As of December 31, 2022 and June 30, 2022, the carrying amount of goodwill was $69,041. During the first quarter of Fiscal Year 2023, the Company performed its annual impairment test of goodwill and determined that there was no impairment of goodwill identified as of the impairment test date.
The Companys indefinite-lived intangible assets as of December 31, 2022 and June 30, 2022 were as follows:
Trademarks |
$ | 61,881 | ||
Photographic related rights |
1,920 | |||
|
|
|||
Total |
$ | 63,801 | ||
|
|
F-69
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)
During the first quarter of Fiscal Year 2023, the Company performed its annual impairment test of indefinite-lived intangible assets and determined that there were no impairments of indefinite-lived intangibles identified as of the impairment test date.
The Companys intangible assets subject to amortization are as follows:
December 31, 2022 | Gross | Accumulated Amortization |
Net | |||||||||
Trade names (a) |
$ | | $ | | $ | | ||||||
Festival rights (a) |
| | | |||||||||
Other intangibles (b) |
4,217 | (4,217 | ) | | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
$ | 4,217 | $ | (4,217 | ) | $ | | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
June 30, 2022 | Gross | Accumulated Amortization |
Net | |||||||||
Trade names |
$ | 2,530 | $ | (2,169 | ) | $ | 361 | |||||
Festival rights |
8,080 | (6,926 | ) | 1,154 | ||||||||
Other intangibles |
4,217 | (4,094 | ) | 123 | ||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||
$ | 14,827 | $ | (13,189 | ) | $ | 1,638 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) | On December 2, 2022, the Company completed the BCE Disposition (see Note 3, Dispositions) which resulted in a reduction of gross amortizable intangible assets of $674 related to festival rights and $210 related to trade names, and accumulated amortization of $7,406 related to festival rights and $2,320 related to trade names associated with BCE. |
(b) | The Other intangibles gross and accumulated amortization balances were fully amortized. |
Amortization expense for intangible assets was $754 and $494 for the six months ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
Note 9. Commitments and Contingencies
Commitments
See Note 13, Commitments and Contingencies, to the Companys Audited Combined Annual Financial Statements for details on the Companys off-balance sheet commitments. The Companys off-balance sheet commitments as of June 30, 2022 included a total of $21,422 of contract obligations.
During the six months ended December 31, 2022, the Company did not have any material changes in its non-cancelable contractual obligations other than activities in the ordinary course of business. See Note 10, Credit Facilities for details of the principal repayments required under the Companys various credit facilities.
Legal Matters
Fifteen complaints were filed in connection with MSG Entertainments acquisition of MSG Networks Inc. (the Networks Merger) by purported stockholders of MSG Entertainment and MSG Networks Inc. Nine of these complaints involved allegations of materially incomplete and misleading information set forth in the joint proxy statement/prospectus filed by MSG Entertainment and MSG Networks Inc. in connection with the Networks Merger. These disclosure actions were subsequently voluntarily dismissed with prejudice. Six complaints involved allegations of fiduciary breaches in connection with the negotiation and approval of the
F-70
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)
Networks Merger and have since been consolidated into two remaining litigations. MSG Entertainment and MSG Networks Inc. will retain all rights and obligations with respect to these claims, as applicable, and MSG Entertainment will indemnify the Company from and release the Company from all present and future costs, expenses, and liabilities, if any, related to these claims.
The Company is a defendant in various lawsuits. Although the outcome of these lawsuits cannot be predicted with certainty (including the extent of available insurance, if any), management does not believe that resolution of these lawsuits will have a material adverse effect on the Company.
Note 10. Credit Facilities
See Note 14, Credit Facilities, to the Companys Audited Combined Annual Financial Statements for more information regarding the Companys credit facilities. The following table summarizes the outstanding balances under the Companys credit facilities as of December 31, 2022 and June 30, 2022:
December 31, 2022 |
June 30, 2022 |
|||||||
Principal | ||||||||
Current Portion |
||||||||
National Properties Term Loan Facility |
$ | 16,250 | $ | 8,125 | ||||
Other debt |
| 637 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Current portion of long-term debt |
$ | 16,250 | $ | 8,762 | ||||
|
|
|
|
December 31, 2022 | June 30, 2022 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Principal | Unamortized Deferred Financing Costs |
Net | Principal | Unamortized Deferred Financing Costs |
Net | |||||||||||||||||||
Non-current Portion |
||||||||||||||||||||||||
National Properties Term Loan Facility |
$ | 633,750 | $ | (14,453 | ) | $ | 619,297 | $ | 641,875 | $ | (16,063 | ) | $ | 625,812 | ||||||||||
National Properties Revolving Credit Facility |
29,100 | | 29,100 | 29,100 | | 29,100 | ||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||
Long-term debt, net of deferred financing costs |
$ | 662,850 | $ | (14,453 | ) | $ | 648,397 | $ | 670,975 | $ | (16,063 | ) | $ | 654,912 | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
National Properties Facilities
General. On June 30, 2022, MSG National Properties, LLC (MSG National Properties), MSG Entertainment Group, LLC (MSG Entertainment Group) and certain subsidiaries of MSG National Properties entered into a credit agreement with JP Morgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent and the lenders and L/C issuers party thereto (the National Properties Credit Agreement), providing for a five-year, $650,000 senior secured term loan facility (the National Properties Term Loan Facility) and a five-year, $100,000 revolving credit facility (the National Properties Revolving Credit Facility and, together with the National Properties Term Loan Facility, the National Properties Facilities). As of December 31, 2022, outstanding letters of credit were $7,860 and the remaining balance available under the National Properties Revolving Credit Facility was $63,040.
Interest Rates. Borrowings under the current National Properties Facilities bear interest at a floating rate, which at the option of MSG National Properties may be either (a) a base rate plus an applicable margin ranging from 1.50% to 2.50% per annum, determined based on the total leverage ratio of MSG National Properties and its
F-71
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)
restricted subsidiaries (the National Properties Base Rate), or (b) Term SOFR plus an applicable margin ranging from 2.50% to 3.50% per annum, determined based on the total leverage ratio of MSG National Properties and its restricted subsidiaries (the National Properties SOFR Rate). The National Properties Credit Agreement requires MSG National Properties to pay a commitment fee ranging from 0.30% to 0.50% in respect of the daily unused commitments under the National Properties Revolving Credit Facility. MSG National Properties is also required to pay customary letter of credit fees, as well as fronting fees, to banks that issue letters of credit pursuant to the National Properties Credit Agreement. The interest rate on the National Properties Facilities as of December 31, 2022 was 8.18%.
Principal Repayments. Subject to customary notice and minimum amount conditions, the Company may voluntarily repay outstanding loans under the National Properties Facilities and terminate commitments under the National Properties Revolving Credit Facility, at any time, in whole or in part, subject only to customary breakage costs in the case of prepayment of Term SOFR loans. The principal obligations under the National Properties Term Loan Facility are to be repaid in quarterly installments beginning with the fiscal quarter ending March 31, 2023, in an aggregate amount equal to 2.50% per annum (0.625% per quarter), stepping up to 5.0% per annum (1.25% per quarter) in the fiscal quarter ending September 30, 2025, with the balance due at the maturity of the facility on June 30, 2027. The principal obligations under the National Properties Revolving Credit Facility are due at the maturity of the facility. Under certain circumstances, MSG National Properties is required to make mandatory prepayments on loans outstanding, including prepayments in an amount equal to the net cash proceeds of certain sales of assets or casualty insurance and/or condemnation recoveries (subject to certain reinvestment, repair, or replacement rights), subject to certain exceptions.
Covenants. The National Properties Credit Agreement includes financial covenants requiring MSG National Properties and its restricted subsidiaries to maintain a specified minimum liquidity level, a specified minimum debt service coverage ratio and specified maximum total leverage ratio. The minimum liquidity level is set at $50,000, and is tested based on the level of average daily liquidity, consisting of cash and cash equivalents and available revolving commitments, over the last month of each quarter over the life of the National Properties Credit Facilities. The debt service coverage ratio covenant began testing in the fiscal quarter ending December 31, 2022, and is set at a ratio of 2:1 before stepping up to 2.5:1 in the fiscal quarter ending September 30, 2024. The leverage ratio covenant begins testing in the fiscal quarter ending June 30, 2023. It is tested based on the ratio of MSG National Properties and its restricted subsidiaries consolidated total indebtedness to adjusted operating income, with an initial maximum ratio of 6:1, stepping down to 5.5:1 in the fiscal quarter ending June 30, 2024 and 4.5:1 in the fiscal quarter ending June 30, 2026. As of December 31, 2022, MSG National Properties and its restricted subsidiaries were in compliance with the covenants of the National Properties Credit Agreement.
In addition to the financial covenants discussed above, the National Properties Credit Agreement and the related security agreement contain certain customary representations and warranties, affirmative and negative covenants and events of default. The National Properties Credit Agreement contains certain restrictions on the ability of MSG National Properties and its restricted subsidiaries to take certain actions as provided in (and subject to various exceptions and baskets set forth in) the National Properties Credit Agreement, including the following: (i) incur additional indebtedness; (ii) create liens on certain assets; (iii) make investments, loans or advances in or to other persons; (iv) pay dividends and distributions or repurchase capital stock (which will restrict the ability of MSG National Properties to make cash distributions to the Company); (v) repay, redeem or repurchase certain indebtedness; (vi) change its lines of business; (vii) engage in certain transactions with affiliates; (viii) amend their respective organizational documents; (ix) merge or consolidate; and (x) make certain dispositions.
Guarantors and Collateral. All obligations under the National Properties Facilities are guaranteed by MSG Entertainment Group and MSG National Properties existing and future direct and indirect domestic subsidiaries, other than the subsidiaries that own The Garden and certain other excluded subsidiaries (the Subsidiary Guarantors).
F-72
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)
All obligations under the National Properties Facilities, including the guarantees of those obligations, are secured by certain of the assets of MSG National Properties and the Subsidiary Guarantors (collectively, Collateral) including, but not limited to, a pledge of some or all of the equity interests held directly or indirectly by MSG National Properties in each Subsidiary Guarantor. The Collateral does not include, among other things, any interests in The Garden or the leasehold interests in Radio City Music Hall and the Beacon Theatre.
Interest payments and loan principal repayments made by the Company under the National Properties Credit Agreement were as follows:
Interest Payments | Loan Principal Repayments | |||||||||||||||
Six Months Ended December 31, |
Six Months Ended December 31, |
|||||||||||||||
2022 | 2021 | 2022 | 2021 | |||||||||||||
National Properties Term Loan Facility |
$ | 22,410 | $ | 23,141 | $ | | $ | 3,250 |
The carrying value and fair value of the Companys financial instruments reported in the accompanying condensed combined balance sheets are as follows:
December 31, 2022 | June 30, 2022 | |||||||||||||||
Carrying Value |
Fair Value |
Carrying Value (a) |
Fair Value |
|||||||||||||
Liabilities: |
||||||||||||||||
National Properties Facilities |
$ | 679,100 | $ | 672,309 | $ | 679,100 | $ | 679,100 |
(a) | The total carrying value of the Companys financial instruments as of December 31, 2022 and June 30, 2022 is equal to the current and non-current principal payments for the Companys credit agreements excluding unamortized deferred financing costs of $14,453 and $16,063, respectively and other debt of $ and $637, respectively. |
The Companys long-term debt is classified within Level II of the fair value hierarchy as it is valued using quoted indices of similar instruments for which the inputs are readily observable.
Note 11. Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans
MSG Entertainment sponsors several pension, savings and postretirement benefit plans including the defined benefit pension plans (Pension Plans), postretirement benefit plan (Postretirement Plan), The Madison Square Garden 401(k) Savings Plan and the MSG Sports & Entertainment, LLC Excess Savings Plan (collectively, the Savings Plans), and The Madison Square Garden 401(k) Union Plan (the Union Savings Plan). Certain of these Pension Plans and Postretirement Plan, such as Cash Balance Plans and Excess Plans, historically included participants of the Company as well as MSG Entertainment and MSG Sports (Shared Plans). Other plans, such as the Union Plan, only included participants of the Company and not of MSG Sports and MSG Entertainment (Direct Plan). See Note 15, Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, to the Companys Audited Combined Annual Financial Statements for more information regarding these plans.
Defined Benefit Pension Plans and Postretirement Benefit Plan
For the historical periods, MSG Entertainment was the legal sponsor of the Pension Plans and Postretirement Plan. For purposes of the condensed combined financial statements, it was determined that these plans assets and liabilities were attributable to the Company. Therefore, the condensed combined financial statements reflect the full impact of the Shared Plans and the Direct Plan on both the condensed combined
F-73
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)
statements of operations and condensed combined balance sheets. The pension expense and liabilities related to employees of other MSG Entertainment businesses participating in the Shared Pension Plans and Postretirement Plan were immaterial for the six months ended December 31, 2022 and 2021.
The following table presents components of net periodic benefit cost for the Pension Plans and Postretirement Plan included in the accompanying condensed combined statements of operations for the six months ended December 31, 2022 and 2021. Service cost is recognized in direct operating expenses and selling, general and administrative expenses. All other components of net periodic benefit cost are reported in Other income (expense), net.
Pension Plans | Postretirement Plan | |||||||||||||||
Six Months Ended December 31, |
Six Months Ended December 31, |
|||||||||||||||
2022 | 2021 | 2022 | 2021 | |||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Service cost |
$ | 60 | $ | 50 | $ | 16 | $ | 18 | ||||||||
Interest cost |
1,854 | 1,856 | 22 | 24 | ||||||||||||
Expected return on plan assets |
(3,008 | ) | (3,008 | ) | | | ||||||||||
Recognized actuarial loss |
692 | 710 | 18 | 32 | ||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
Net periodic benefit cost |
$ | (402 | ) | $ | (392 | ) | $ | 56 | $ | 74 |
Contributions for Qualified Defined Benefit Pension Plan
MSG Entertainment sponsors a non-contributory, qualified defined benefit pension plan covering certain of its union employees (the Union Plan). During the six months ended December 31, 2022, the Company did not make any contributions to the Union Plan.
Defined Contribution Plans
For the six months ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, expenses related to the Savings Plans and Union Savings Plan included in the accompanying condensed combined statements of operations are as follows:
Six Months Ended December 31, |
||||||||
2022 | 2021 | |||||||
Savings Plans |
$ | 2,186 | $ | 1,936 | ||||
Union Savings Plan |
38 | 21 |
Note 12. Share-based Compensation
Certain employees of the Company have historically participated in the share-based compensation plans of MSG Entertainment (MSG Entertainment Employee Stock Plans). Only the expenses for the awards provided to the Companys direct employees, net of expenses related to the Companys corporate employees who participate in the plans that were charged to MSG Entertainment, are recorded in the condensed combined financial statements. See Note 16, Share-based Compensation to the Companys Audited Combined Annual Financial Statements for more information on these plans.
Share-based compensation expense was recognized in the condensed combined statements of operations as a component of direct operating expenses or selling, general and administrative expenses. The share-based compensation expense recorded by the Company, in the periods presented, includes the expenses associated with
F-74
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)
the employees attributable to the Company, net of contributory credits from the Company to MSG Entertainment for the Companys corporate employees. The following table summarizes the Companys share-based compensation expense:
Six Months Ended December 31, |
||||||||
2022 | 2021 | |||||||
Share-based compensation (a) |
$ | 16,258 | $ | 21,079 | ||||
Intrinsic value of awards vested |
2,867 | 2,422 |
(a) | The balance shown includes $2,293 which was reclassified to Restructuring charges in the condensed consolidated statements of operations for the six months ended December 31, 2022, as detailed in Note 5, Restructuring Charges. |
As of December 31, 2022, there was $10,064 of unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested RSUs and PSUs held by the Companys employees. The cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of approximately 1.8 years.
Award Activity
RSUs
During the six months ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, approximately 66 and 59 RSUs, respectively, were granted and approximately 40 and 22 RSUs vested, respectively.
PSUs
During the six months ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, approximately 60 and 55 PSUs, respectively, were granted and approximately 11 and 8 PSUs vested, respectively.
Note 13. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
The following table details the components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss):
Pension Plans and Postretirement Plan |
||||||||
Six Months Ended December 31, |
||||||||
2022 | 2021 | |||||||
Balance at beginning of period |
$ | (34,740 | ) | $ | (33,598 | ) | ||
Other comprehensive income (loss): |
||||||||
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss (a) |
742 | 743 | ||||||
Income tax expense |
(131 | ) | (131 | ) | ||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes |
611 | 612 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Balance at end of period |
$ | (34,129 | ) | $ | (32,986 | ) | ||
|
|
|
|
(a) | Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss represent the amortization of net actuarial loss and net unrecognized prior service credit included in net periodic benefit cost, which is reflected under Other income (expense), net in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations (see Note 11, Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans). |
F-75
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)
Note 14. Related Party Transactions
Members of the Dolan family, including trusts for the benefit of members of the Dolan family (collectively, the Dolan Family Group) are the controlling stockholders of the Company, MSG Entertainment including its MSG Networks and TAO Group Hospitality subsidiaries, MSG Sports, and AMC Networks Inc. (AMC Networks). See Note 19, Related Party Transactions to the Companys Audited Combined Annual Financial Statements for a description of the Companys current related party arrangements. There have been no material changes in such related party arrangements except as described below.
From time to time the Company enters into arrangements with 605, LLC (605). James L. Dolan, the Companys Executive Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and a director, and his spouse, Kristin A. Dolan (a director of the Company), own 50% of 605. Kristin A. Dolan is also the founder and Non-Executive Chairman of 605. 605 provides audience measurement and data analytics services to the Company and its subsidiaries in the ordinary course of business. MSG Entertainment entered into one or more agreements with 605 to provide certain data analytics services to the Company for an aggregate amount of up to $1,000. In August 2022, a subsidiary of MSG Entertainment entered into a three-year agreement with 605, valued at approximately $750, covering several customer analysis projects per year in connection with events held at our venues. The Company expects to engage 605 to provide additional data analytics services in the future. Pursuant to this arrangement, the Company recognized approximately $135 of expense for the six months ended December 31, 2022 and as of December 31, 2022 approximately $135 has been recognized in Prepaid expenses and other current assets.
As of June 30, 2022, the Company had $637 of notes payable with respect to a loan received by BCE from its noncontrolling interest holder. There were no notes payable as of December 31, 2022 as a result of the BCE Disposition.
Revenues and Operating Expenses
The following table summarizes the composition and amounts of the transactions with the Companys affiliates. The significant components of these amounts are discussed below. These amounts are reflected in revenues and operating expenses in the accompanying condensed combined statements of operations for the six months ended December 31, 2022 and 2021:
Six Months Ended December 31, |
||||||||
2022 | 2021 | |||||||
Revenues |
$ | 55,188 | $ | 47,157 | ||||
Operating expenses (credits): |
||||||||
Revenue sharing expenses |
8,286 | 6,396 | ||||||
Reimbursement under Arena License Arrangements |
(9,850 | ) | (9,050 | ) | ||||
Cost reimbursement from MSG Sports |
(18,992 | ) | (19,729 | ) | ||||
Corporate allocations to MSG Entertainment |
(73,967 | ) | (74,284 | ) | ||||
Other operating expenses, net |
3,355 | 4,160 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total operating expenses (credits), net (a) |
$ | (91,168 | ) | $ | (92,507 | ) |
(a) | Of the total operating expenses, net, $(525) and $(3,030) for the six months ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively, are included in direct operating expenses in the accompanying condensed combined statements of operations, and $(90,643) and $(89,477) for the six months ended December 31, 2022 and 2021 respectively, are included as net credits in selling, general and administrative expenses. |
F-76
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)
Revenues
The Company recorded $33,149 of revenues under the Arena License Agreements for the six months ended December 31, 2022. In addition, the Company recorded revenues under sponsorship sales and service representation agreements with MSG Sports of $8,564, and merchandise sharing revenues with MSG Sports of $2,291 during the six months ended December 31, 2022. The Company recorded revenues under the advertising sales representation agreement with MSG Networks of $8,802 for the six months ended December 31, 2022. The Company also earned $1,222 of sublease revenue from related parties during the six months ended December 31, 2022.
The Company recorded $29,181 of revenues under the Arena License Agreements for the six months ended December 31, 2021. In addition, the Company recorded revenues under sponsorship sales and service representation agreements with MSG Sports of $7,179 and merchandise sharing revenues with MSG Sports of $1,452 for the six months ended December 31, 2021. The Company recorded revenues under the advertising sales representation agreement with MSG Networks of $7,395 for the six months ended December 31, 2021. The Company also earned $1,222 of sublease revenue from related parties during the six months ended December 31, 2021.
Operating Expenses
Revenue sharing expenses
Revenue sharing expenses include MSG Sports share of the Companys in-venue food and beverage sales and certain venue signage agreements.
Reimbursements under Arena License Arrangements
Fees recognized by the Company under the Arena License Agreements with MSG Sports for use of The Garden are reported as operating lease revenues in accordance with ASC Topic 842. In addition, the Company records credits to direct operating expenses as a reimbursement under the Arena License Agreements.
Cost reimbursement from MSG Sports
Per the Transition Services Agreement with MSG Sports, the Companys corporate overhead expenses that are charged to MSG Sports are primarily related to centralized functions, including information technology, security, accounts payable, payroll, tax, legal, human resources, insurance and risk management, investor relations, corporate communications, benefit plan administration and reporting, and internal audit.
Corporate allocations to MSG Entertainment
As part of the Distribution, certain corporate and operational support functions are being transferred to the Company and therefore, charges were reflected in order to properly burden all business units comprising MSG Entertainments historical operations. Allocations of corporate overhead and shared services expense to MSG Entertainment from the Company were recorded for corporate and operational functions based on direct usage when identifiable, with the remainder allocated on a pro rata basis of combined assets, headcount or other measures of the Company or MSG Entertainment, which is recorded as a reduction of either direct operating expenses or selling, general and administrative expense. The aforementioned allocations for certain support functions that are provided on a centralized basis and not historically recorded at the business unit level by MSG Entertainment related to departments such as executive management, finance, legal, human resources, government affairs, and information technology, among others. In addition, corporate allocations to MSG Entertainment include charges to MSG Networks under the MSG Networks Services Agreement.
F-77
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)
Other Operating Expenses, net
The Company and its related parties enter into transactions with each other in the ordinary course of business. Amounts charged to the Company for other transactions with its related parties are net of amounts charged by the Company to the Knickerbocker Group, LLC, an entity owned by James L. Dolan, the Executive Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and a director of the Company, for office space and the cost of certain technology services. In addition, other operating expenses primarily include net charges relating to (i) reciprocal aircraft arrangements between the Company and each of Q2C and CFD, (ii) time sharing and/or dry lease agreements with MSG Sports, AMC Networks and Brighid Air, (iii) commission under the group ticket sales representation agreement with MSG Sports, and (iv) expenses for advertising and promotional services rendered by MSG Networks. The reciprocal aircraft arrangement between the Company and Q2C and the related aircraft support services arrangement between them was no longer effective as of December 21, 2021.
Loans Receivable from MSG Entertainment
The Companys captive insurance entity, Eden Insurance Company, Inc. (Eden), entered into a loan agreement with MSG Entertainment (the Eden Loan Agreement), under which Eden granted MSG Entertainment an unsecured loan bearing interest at a rate of LIBOR plus 350 basis points with a principal amount not exceeding $60,000. This loan is in the form of a demand promissory note, payable immediately upon order from Eden. As of December 31, 2022 and June 30, 2022, Eden had an outstanding loan receivable from MSG Entertainment of $52,513 and $56,060, respectively, inclusive of accrued interest. During the six months ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, Eden declared dividends to MSG Entertainment through a reduction of the loan receivable from MSG Entertainment. During the six months ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, no interest or principal payments were received by Eden and instead the accrued but unpaid interest was added to the outstanding principal amount of the loan. The cash flows related to this loan receivable are reflected as investing activities, as these balances represent amounts loaned by the Company to MSG Entertainment. The Company recorded related party interest income of $1,804 and $1,062 related to the Eden Loan Agreement during the six months ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
On May 23, 2019, the Company entered into a subordinated credit agreement with TAO Group Sub-Holdings, LLC (TAOG Sub-Holdings), a wholly-owned subsidiary of MSG Entertainment (the TAO Subordinated Credit Agreement), under which the Company granted TAOG Sub-Holdings a $49,000 subordinated loan. This loan had a maturity date of August 22, 2024. On June 15, 2020, the TAO Subordinated Credit Agreement was amended to provide an additional $22,000 of borrowing capacity and subsequently, the Company provided additional proceeds of $19,000 under the TAO Subordinated Credit Agreement. There are no mandatory repayments of principal until the maturity date. Subject to customary notice and minimum amount conditions, TAOG Sub-Holdings can voluntarily prepay outstanding loans under the TAO Subordinated Credit Agreement at any time, in whole or in part, without premium or penalty. Interest is due monthly in cash or paid-in-kind based on the terms of the TAO Senior Credit Agreement. On June 9, 2022, MSG Entertainment paid the full outstanding principal amount of this TAO Subordinated Credit Agreement. The Company recorded related party interest income of $2,402 related to the TAO Subordinated Credit Agreement during the six months ended December 31, 2021.
Cash Management
MSG Entertainment uses a centralized approach to cash management and financing of operations. The Companys and MSG Entertainments other subsidiaries cash was available for use and was regularly swept historically. Cash and cash equivalents was attributed to the Company for each of the periods presented, as such cash was held in accounts legally owned by the Company. Transfers of cash both to and from MSG Entertainment were included as components of MSG Entertainments Investment on the condensed combined
F-78
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)
statements of divisional equity (deficit). The main components of the net transfers to MSG Entertainment are cash pooling/general financing activities, various expense allocations to/from MSG Entertainment, and receivables/payables from/to MSG Entertainment deemed to be effectively settled upon the distribution of the Company by MSG Entertainment.
MSG Entertainment Investment
Certain significant balances and transactions among the Company and MSG Entertainment and its subsidiaries, which include allocations of corporate general and administrative expenses, share-based compensation expense and other historical intercompany activities, are recorded as components of Divisional Equity (Deficit), except for the transactions noted above related to historically cash-settled loans between the Company and MSG Entertainment. The changes in MSG Entertainment Investment also include financing activities for capital transfers, cash sweeps, and other treasury services. As part of this activity, cash balances are swept to MSG Entertainment regularly as part of the MSG Entertainment cash management policy.
Note 15. Additional Financial Information
The following table provides a summary of the amounts recorded as cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash:
As of | ||||||||
December 31, 2022 |
June 30, 2022 |
|||||||
Cash and cash equivalents |
$ | 153,496 | $ | 58,102 | ||||
Restricted cash |
250 | 4,471 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash |
$ | 153,746 | $ | 62,573 | ||||
|
|
|
|
The Companys cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash are classified within Level I of the fair value hierarchy as it is valued using observable inputs that reflect quoted prices for identical assets in active markets. The Companys restricted cash includes cash deposited in escrow accounts. The Company has deposited cash in an interest-bearing escrow account related to credit support, debt facilities, and collateral to workers compensation and general liability insurance obligations.
Prepaid expenses and other current assets consisted of the following:
As of | ||||||||
December 31, 2022 |
June 30, 2022 |
|||||||
Prepaid expenses |
$ | 52,263 | $ | 65,065 | ||||
Inventory (a) |
2,487 | 2,752 | ||||||
Notes and other receivables |
982 | 322 | ||||||
Other |
13,954 | 11,302 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total prepaid expenses and other current assets |
$ | 69,686 | $ | 79,441 | ||||
|
|
|
|
(a) | Inventory is mostly comprised of food and liquor for venues. |
F-79
MSGE SPINCO, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)
Accounts payable, accrued and other current liabilities consisted of the following:
As of | ||||||||
December 31, 2022 |
June 30, 2022 |
|||||||
Accounts payable |
$ | 23,339 | $ | 11,241 | ||||
Accrued payroll and employee related liabilities |
62,865 | 88,501 | ||||||
Cash due to promoters |
34,912 | 78,428 | ||||||
Accrued expenses |
55,171 | 43,791 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total accounts payable, accrued and other current liabilities |
$ | 176,287 | $ | 221,961 | ||||
|
|
|
|
Other income (expense), net includes the following:
Six Months Ended December 31, |
||||||||
2022 | 2021 | |||||||
Gains from shares sold DraftKings |
$ | 1,489 | $ | | ||||
Net unrealized loss on equity investments with readily determinable fair value |
(3,203 | ) | (19,615 | ) | ||||
Other |
428 | 368 | ||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||
Total other income (expense), net |
$ | (1,286 | ) | $ | (19,247 | ) | ||
|
|
|
|
Income Taxes
During the six months ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, the Company received income tax refunds, net of payments, of $2,031 and $10,426, respectively.
Note 16. Subsequent Events
The Company evaluated subsequent events through February 15, 2023, the date the interim financial statements were originally issued, and March 29, 2023.
On March 14, 2023, the parties to the MSG Entertainment litigation reached an agreement in principle to settle the litigation on the terms and conditions set forth in a binding term sheet (the Term Sheet), which will be incorporated into a long-form settlement agreement. The Term Sheet provides for, among other things, the final dismissal of the MSG Entertainment litigation in exchange for a settlement payment to MSG Entertainment of $85 million, subject to customary reduction for attorneys fees and expenses, in an amount to be determined by the court. The settlement amount will be fully funded by defendants insurers. The settlement of the litigation is subject to the final approval of the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware.
F-80