UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10 - K  
[X]
Annual report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, or
[  ]
Transition report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
For the transition period from ________ to _________.
Commission File Number 001-32663
CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR HOLDINGS, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Delaware
86-0812139
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
 
20880 Stone Oak Parkway
San Antonio, Texas
78258
(Address of principal executive offices)
(Zip Code)
(210) 822-2828
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of Each Class
Name of Exchange on Which Registered
Class A Common Stock, $.01 par value per share
New York Stock Exchange
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:  None
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.  YES [  ]  NO  [X]
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act.  YES [ ]  NO [X]
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.  Yes [X] No [ ]
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). Yes [X] No [  ]
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.  [X]
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.  Large accelerated filer [  ] Accelerated filer [X] 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 reviews financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. [ ]
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).  Yes [  ] No [X]
As of June 30, 2018 , the aggregate market value of the common stock beneficially held by non-affiliates of the registrant was approximately $199.7 million based on the closing sales price of the Class A common stock as reported on the New York Stock Exchange.
On February 28, 2019 , there were 50,583,199 outstanding shares of Class A common stock (excluding 1,108,538 shares held in treasury) and 315,000,000 outstanding shares of Class B common stock.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Items 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14 of Part III will be incorporated by reference from a Form 10-K/A to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.



CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR HOLDINGS, INC.
INDEX TO FORM 10-K
 
 
Page
Number
PART I
 
Item 1.
Item 1A.
Item 1B.
Item 2.
Item 3.
Item 4.
PART II
 
Item 5.
Item 6.
Item 7.
Item 7A.
Item 8.
Item 9.
Item 9A.
Item 9B.
PART III
 
Item 10.
Item 11.
Item 12.
Item 13.
Item 14.
PART IV
 
Item 15.
Item 16.



PART I
ITEM 1.  BUSINESS
The Company
Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc. (the “Company,” "we" or "us"), a Delaware corporation, is one of the world's largest outdoor advertising companies, providing clients with advertising opportunities through billboards, street furniture displays, transit displays and other out-of-home advertising displays. Through our extensive display inventory and technology-based enhancements we have the ability to deliver innovative, effective marketing campaigns for advertising partners globally.
We are focused on building the leadership position of our diverse global assets and maximizing our financial performance while serving our local communities. We intend to continue to execute upon our long-standing outdoor advertising strategies, while closely managing expenses and focusing on achieving operating efficiencies throughout our businesses.
Our History
We were incorporated in August 1995 under the name “Eller Media Company.”  In 1997, Clear Channel Communications, Inc., now iHeartCommunications, Inc. (“iHeartCommunications”), our parent company, entered the outdoor advertising industry with its acquisition of Eller Media Company.  We changed our name to Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc. in August 2005.
On November 11, 2005, we became a publicly traded company through an initial public offering, or IPO, in which we sold 10%, or 35.0 million shares, of our Class A common stock.  Prior to our IPO, we were an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of iHeartCommunications.  As of December 31, 2018 , iHeartCommunications, through its subsidiaries, owned all of our outstanding shares of Class B common stock and 10,726,917 shares of our Class A common stock, collectively representing approximately 89.1% of the outstanding shares of our common stock and approximately 99% of the total voting power of our common stock.
On July 30, 2008, iHeartCommunications completed its merger with a subsidiary of CC Media Holdings, Inc., now iHeartMedia, Inc. (“iHeartMedia”), a company formed by a group of private equity funds sponsored by Bain Capital Partners, LLC and Thomas H. Lee Partners, L.P.  iHeartCommunications is now owned indirectly by iHeartMedia.
Our corporate headquarters are in San Antonio, Texas and we have executive offices in New York, New York. Our headquarters are located at 20880 Stone Oak Parkway, San Antonio, Texas 78258 (telephone: (210) 822-2828).

The iHeart Chapter 11 Cases and the Separation

On March 14, 2018 , iHeartMedia, the indirect parent of the Company, and certain of its subsidiaries, including iHeartCommunications (collectively, the “Debtors”), filed voluntary petitions for reorganization (the “iHeart Chapter 11 Cases”) under Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code (the “Bankruptcy Code”) in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas, Houston Division (the “Bankruptcy Court”). The Company and its direct and indirect subsidiaries did not file voluntary petitions for relief under the Bankruptcy Code and are not Debtors in the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases.
The iHeart Chapter 11 Cases are being jointly administered under the caption In re: iHeartMedia, Inc. et al., Case No. 18-31274 (MI). The Debtors continue to operate their businesses as “debtors-in-possession” under the jurisdiction of the Bankruptcy Court and in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Bankruptcy Code and orders of the Bankruptcy Court. iHeartMedia’s modified fifth amended Plan of Reorganization (the “iHeart Plan of Reorganization”) was confirmed by the Bankruptcy Court on January 22, 2019. The iHeart Plan of Reorganization contemplates a restructuring of the Debtors whereby our business is proposed to be separated from iHeartCommunications upon consummation of the iHeart Plan of Reorganization and the conclusion of the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases (the “Separation”). Effectiveness of the iHeart Plan of Reorganization and consummation of the Separation is subject to certain conditions, including the receipt of certain governmental approvals. Although the timing of when and if all such conditions will be satisfied or otherwise waived is inherently uncertain, iHeartMedia currently anticipates the iHeart Plan of Reorganization will become effective and iHeartMedia will emerge from Chapter 11 during the second quarter of 2019.
Our board of directors established a special committee consisting of our independent directors (the “Special Committee”) to consider, review and negotiate certain transactions between iHeartCommunications and us in connection with the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases.


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The Settlement Agreement

On December 16, 2018, in connection with the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases, the Company, GAMCO Asset Management Inc. (“GAMCO”), Norfolk County Retirement System (“Norfolk”), Bain Capital Partners, LLC, Bain Capital LP and Thomas H. Lee Partners, L.P. (together, the “Sponsor Entities”), the Debtors, the members of the Company’s board of directors and the members of the Special Committee (the “Delaware Settlement Parties”), through their respective counsel, entered into a settlement agreement (the “Settlement Agreement”) that embodies the terms of (i) a global settlement of all direct or derivative claims brought by or on behalf of GAMCO and Norfolk, both individually and on behalf of the putative class of public shareholders of the Company, against certain members of the Company's board of directors, the Sponsor Entities, iHeartCommunications, iHeartMedia, the Company and the Debtors in connection with the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases and (ii) the Separation in accordance with the iHeart Plan of Reorganization.

The Settlement Agreement contemplates that in connection with the Separation (i) the cash sweep arrangement under the Corporate Services Agreement between the Company and iHeartCommunications will terminate, (ii) any agreements or licenses requiring royalty payments to the Debtors by the Company for trademarks or other intellectual property will terminate, which aggregated to $38.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2018, and (iii) a new transition services agreement will supersede and replace the existing Corporate Services Agreement. In exchange, the Debtors agreed to waive (i) the set-off for the value of the intellectual property transferred, including royalties incurred through December 31, 2018, which aggregated to $31.8 million on a post-petition basis through December 31, 2018 and (ii) the repayment of the post-petition intercompany balance outstanding in favor of the Debtors as of December 31, 2018, which was equal to $21.6 million as of December 31, 2018. These waivers would have resulted in a net payment to us of $10.2 million if paid on December 31, 2018. In addition, the Settlement Agreement provides that after the Separation, (i) iHeartCommunications will provide an unsecured revolving line of credit in an aggregate amount not to exceed $200 million to the Company (the “iHeart Line of Credit”) for a period of no more than three years following the effective date of the iHeart Plan of Reorganization, (ii) iHeartMedia will indemnify the Company for 50% of certain tax liabilities imposed on the Company in connection with the Separation on or prior to the third anniversary of the Separation in excess of $5.0 million, with iHeartMedia’s aggregate liability limited to $15.0 million, and (iii) iHeartMedia will reimburse the Company for one-third of potential costs relating to certain agreements between the Company and third parties in excess of $10.0 million up to the first $35.0 million of such costs such that iHeartMedia will not bear more than $8.33 million of such costs. The parties agreed that the Company will recover 14.44%, or approximately $149.0 million , in cash on its allowed claim of $1,031.7 million under the intercompany note owed by iHeartCommunications to the Company (the “Due from iHeartCommunications Note”), and to mutual releases, including a release of all claims that have been asserted, could have been asserted or ever could be asserted with respect to the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases and the actions brought by or on behalf of GAMCO and Norfolk, both individually and on behalf of the putative class of public shareholders of the Company.
The Separation
The Separation will be effected with the merger (the “Merger”) of the Company with and into Clear Channel Holdings, Inc. (“CCH”), a Debtor subsidiary of iHeartMedia and the direct parent of the Company, with CCH being the surviving corporation, which will be renamed “Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc.” Before the Merger, CCH will transfer all of its subsidiaries that operate the iHeartMedia radio businesses to a newly formed subsidiary of CCH and distribute the common stock of that subsidiary to iHeartCommunications (the “Radio Distribution”), all of our shares of Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock held by any subsidiary of CCH will be transferred to CCH and all outstanding shares of our Class B Common Stock will be converted into our Class A Common Stock pursuant to the provisions of our certificate of incorporation. In the Merger our shares of Class A Common Stock (other than shares of Class A Common Stock held by CCH or any direct or indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of CCH) will be converted into an equal number of shares of common stock of the new Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc. (“New CCOH Common Stock”). The shares of Class A Common Stock held by CCH and its subsidiaries will be canceled and retired, and no shares of New CCOH Common Stock will be exchanged for such shares. The outstanding shares of CCH immediately before the Merger will convert into a number of shares of New CCOH Common Stock equal to the number of shares of our common stock held by CCH immediately before the Merger. As a result, immediately after the Merger, we will have a single class of common stock, the pre-Merger Class A common stockholders (other than CCH and its subsidiaries) will own the same percentage of our capital stock that they owned immediately before the Merger and all of the remaining 325,726,917 outstanding shares of New CCOH Common Stock will be held by iHeartCommunications. The New CCOH Common Stock held by iHeartCommunications will be transferred by iHeartCommunications to certain holders of claims under the iHeart Plan of Reorganization. CCH intends to apply to list the New CCOH Common Stock on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “CCO” prior to the effective date of the Merger.
The iHeart Plan of Reorganization also contemplates the issuance of preferred stock (the “CCOH Preferred Stock”) in connection with the Separation to one or more third party purchasers. The proceeds of the CCOH Preferred Stock may be used as a source of liquidity for the Company. The terms of the CCOH Preferred Stock have yet to be fully negotiated and remain subject

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to approval by the parties. It is expected, however, that an aggregate amount of $45 million in CCOH Preferred Stock will be issued. It is expected that each share of CCOH Preferred Stock will have a liquidation preference equal to $1,000 per share, plus accumulated and unpaid dividends and holders will be entitled to receive such liquidation preference before any distributions on or redemptions of any junior securities are made in connection with any liquidation. Dividends on the CCOH Preferred Stock are expected to begin to accrue and compound quarterly, cumulative from the date of original issuance. We may issue the CCOH Preferred stock before the Merger but the CCOH Preferred Stock will become preferred stock of the new Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc.
Our Business

We have two reportable business segments, Americas outdoor advertising (“Americas”) and International outdoor advertising (“International”), which represented 44% and 56% of our 2018 revenue, respectively. Our Americas segment consists of operations primarily in the United States and our International segment consists of operations primarily in Europe, Asia and Latin America.
Americas Outdoor Advertising
We are one of the largest outdoor advertising companies in the United States.  As of December 31, 2018 , we owned or operated approximately 79,000 display structures in the United States with operations in 44 of the 50 largest markets, including all of the 20 largest markets.
Our Americas assets consist of printed and digital billboards, transit displays, including airports, street furniture and wallscapes and other spectaculars. Our Americas business is focused on metropolitan areas with dense populations.
Strategy
We seek to capitalize on our Americas network and diversified product mix to maximize revenue. Our strategy focuses on leveraging our diversified product mix and long-standing presence in our existing markets as well as pursuing the technology of digital displays, which provides us with the ability to launch new products and test new initiatives in a reliable and cost-effective manner.
Promote Outdoor Media Spending.   Given the attractive industry fundamentals of outdoor media and our depth and breadth of relationships with our advertisers, we believe we can drive outdoor advertising's share of total media spending by using our dedicated sales team to highlight the value of outdoor advertising relative to other media.  We have made and continue to make significant investments in research tools like CCO RADAR with mobile insights from third-party providers. The CCO RADAR suite of out-of-home industry-first solutions applies aggregated and anonymized mobile insights to advertising campaign planning, amplification and attribution. Armed with these insights, CCO RADAR helps brands reach desired audiences, reengage those exposed to out-of-home printed and digital displays across other media platforms and measure what happens after exposure to optimize campaign delivery. Through RADARview, Americas is bringing mobile location data insights online, allowing advertisers to explore Americas’ media as mapped to audience behaviors, demos and location. In addition, Americas is experimenting with integrated social and mobile campaigns and Augmented Reality as supplements to its core medium.
Differentiate through Innovation, Sales and Services . Over the last several years, we have developed and hired talent who are helping to redefine how outdoor media is bought and sold. We are working closely with clients, advertising agencies and other diversified media companies to develop more sophisticated approaches to delivering the right audience in the right location at the right time. One example is our programmatic effort to sell digital billboard advertisements using automated advertisement sales technology to introduce ease and efficiency to the out-of-home ad sales process and enable better targeting of digital billboard advertising. Another is our Proposal Team, which provides proposal preparation and marketing support for our key multi-market sales efforts. A third area is our proof of performance delivery platform that is leading the industry in providing transparency when the ad is delivered, accessible via API to allow partners to pull proof of performance information into whatever system they choose.
Capital allocation . A core element of Americas capital allocation strategy focuses on the digitization of its network. Americas long-term strategy for its outdoor advertising businesses includes pursuing the technology of digital displays, including flat screens, LCDs and LEDs, as additions to traditional methods of displaying clients’ advertisements. Digital advertising provides significant advantages over traditional outdoor media. Our electronic displays are linked through centralized systems to simultaneously and rapidly change advertising copy on a large number of displays, allowing us to sell more advertising opportunities to advertisers. The ability to change copy by time of day and quickly change messaging based on advertisers’ needs creates additional flexibility for our customers. Digital displays allow for high-frequency, 24-hour advertising changes in high-traffic locations and allow us to offer our clients optimal flexibility, distribution, circulation and visibility.

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Capitalize on Product and Geographic Opportunities.  In the United States, Americas has operations in 44 of the top 50 largest markets, including all of the 20 largest markets. However, Americas is focused on growing their relevance to its advertising customers by continuously optimizing its portfolio and targeting investments in its existing markets or expanding to new markets.
Sources of Revenue
Americas generated 44% , 45% and 44% of our revenue in 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively.  Americas revenue is derived from the sale of advertising copy placed on our printed and digital displays.  Our display inventory consists primarily of billboards, transit displays and street furniture.  The margins on our billboard contracts, including those related to digital billboards, tend to be higher than those on contracts for other displays, due to their greater size, impact and location along major roadways that are highly trafficked.  Billboards comprise approximately two-thirds of our display revenues.  The following table shows the approximate percentage of revenue derived from each category for our Americas inventory:
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Billboards:
 
 
 
 
 
Bulletins
61
%
 
60
%
 
60
%
Posters
11
%
 
11
%
 
11
%
Transit displays
16
%
 
17
%
 
17
%
Street furniture displays
4
%
 
4
%
 
4
%
Spectaculars/wallscapes
4
%
 
4
%
 
4
%
Other
4
%
 
4
%
 
4
%
Total
100
%
 
100
%
 
100
%
Our Americas segment generates revenues from local and national sales.  Our advertising rates are based on a number of different factors including location, competition, size of display, illumination, market and gross ratings points.  Gross ratings points are the total number of impressions delivered, expressed as a percentage of a market population, of a display or group of displays.  The number of impressions delivered by a display is measured by the number of people passing the site during a defined period of time.  For all of our billboards in the United States, we use independent, third-party auditing companies to verify the number of impressions delivered by a display.
While location, price and availability of displays are important competitive factors, we believe that providing quality customer service and establishing strong client relationships are also critical components of sales.  In addition, we have long-standing relationships with a diversified group of advertising brands and agencies that allow us to diversify client accounts and establish continuing revenue streams.
Billboards
Our billboard inventory primarily includes bulletins and posters.
•
Bulletins.    Bulletins vary in size, with the most common size being 14 feet high by 48 feet wide.  Digital bulletins display static messages that resemble standard printed bulletins when viewed, but also allow advertisers to change messages throughout the course of a day and may display advertisements for multiple customers.  Our digital displays are linked through centralized systems to instantaneously and simultaneously change advertising copy as needed.  Because of their greater size, impact and high-frequency advertising changes, we typically receive our highest rates for digital bulletins.  Almost all of the advertising copy displayed on printed bulletins is computer printed on vinyl and transported to the bulletin where it is secured to the display surface.  Bulletins generally are located along major expressways, primary commuting routes and main intersections that are highly visible and heavily trafficked.  Our clients may contract for individual bulletins or a network of bulletins, meaning the clients’ advertisements are rotated among bulletins to increase the reach of the campaign.  Our client contracts for bulletins, either printed or digital, generally have terms ranging from four weeks to one year.
•
Posters.    Printed posters can vary in size, but are commonly approximately 11 feet high by 23 feet wide, and the printed junior posters are approximately 5 feet high by 11 feet wide.  Digital posters are available in addition to the traditional poster-size and junior poster-size.  Similar to digital bulletins, digital posters display static messages that resemble standard printed posters when viewed and are linked through centralized computer systems to instantaneously and simultaneously change messages throughout the course of a day.  Advertising copy for printed posters is digitally printed on a single piece of polyethylene material that is then transported and secured to the poster surfaces.  Posters generally are located in commercial areas on primary and secondary routes near point-of-purchase

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locations, facilitating advertising campaigns with greater demographic targeting than those displayed on bulletins.  Our poster rates typically are less than our bulletin rates, and our client contracts for posters generally have terms ranging from four weeks to one year.  Premiere displays, which consist of premiere panels and squares, are innovative hybrids between bulletins and posters that we developed to provide our clients with an alternative for their targeted marketing campaigns.  The premiere displays use one or more poster panels, but with vinyl advertising stretched over the panels similar to bulletins.  Our intent is to combine the creative impact of bulletins with the additional reach and frequency of posters.
Transit Displays
Our transit displays are advertising surfaces on various types of vehicles or within transit systems, including on the interior and exterior sides of buses, trains, trams, and within the common areas of rail stations and airports, and are available in both printed and digital formats.  Similar to street furniture, contracts for the right to place our displays on such vehicles or within such transit systems and to sell advertising space on them generally are awarded by municipal and public transit authorities in competitive bidding processes governed by local law or are negotiated with private transit operators.  As compensation for the right to sell advertising space on transit displays, we pay the municipality or transit authority a fee or revenue share that is either a fixed amount or a percentage of the revenue derived from the transit displays. Typically, these revenue sharing arrangements include payments by us of minimum guaranteed amounts. Generally, these contracts have terms ranging from five to ten years.  Our client contracts for transit displays generally have terms ranging from four weeks to one year, or longer.
Street Furniture Displays
Our street furniture displays include advertising surfaces on bus shelters, information kiosks, freestanding units and other public structures, are available in both printed and digital formats, and are primarily located in major metropolitan areas and along major commuting routes.  Generally, we are responsible for the construction and maintenance of street furniture structures.  Contracts for the right to place our street furniture displays in the public domain and sell advertising space on them are awarded by municipal and transit authorities in competitive bidding processes governed by local law.  Generally, these contracts have terms ranging from 10 to 20 years.  As compensation for the right to sell advertising space on our street furniture structures, we pay the municipality or transit authority a fee or revenue share that is either a fixed amount or a percentage of the revenue derived from the street furniture displays.  Typically, these revenue sharing arrangements include payments by us of minimum guaranteed amounts.  Client contracts for street furniture displays typically have terms ranging from four weeks to one year and are typically for network packages of multiple street furniture displays.
Other Displays
The balance of our display inventory consists of spectaculars and wallscapes.  Spectaculars are customized display structures that often incorporate video, multidimensional lettering and figures, mechanical devices and moving parts and other embellishments to create special effects.  The majority of our spectaculars are located in Los Angeles, San Francisco and New York City's Times Square.  Client contracts for spectaculars typically have terms of one year or longer.  A wallscape is a display that drapes over or is suspended from the sides of buildings or other structures.  Generally, wallscapes are located in high-profile areas where other types of outdoor advertising displays are limited or unavailable.  Clients typically contract for individual wallscapes for four weeks to one year. 
Advertising Inventory and Markets
As of December 31, 2018 , we owned or operated approximately 79,000 display structures in our Americas segment with operations in 44 of the 50 largest markets in the United States, including all of the 20 largest markets.  Therefore, no one property is material to our overall operations.  We believe that our properties are in good condition and suitable for our operations.
Our displays are located on land we own, lease or for which we have acquired permanent easements or executed long-term management agreements.  The majority of the advertising structures on which our displays are mounted require permits.  Permits are granted for the right to operate an advertising structure as long as the structure is used in compliance with state and local laws and regulations.
Production
In a majority of our markets, our local production staff performs the full range of activities required to create and install advertising copy.  Production work includes creating the advertising copy design and layout, coordinating its printing and installing the copy on displays.  We provide creative services to smaller advertisers and to advertisers not represented by advertising agencies.  National advertisers often use preprinted designs that require only installation.  Our creative and production personnel typically develop new designs or adopt copy from other media for use on our inventory.  Our creative staff also can assist in the development of marketing presentations, demonstrations and strategies to attract new clients.

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Construction and Operation
We typically own the physical structures on which our clients’ advertising copy is displayed.  We manage the construction of our structures centrally and erect them on sites we either lease or own or for which we have acquired permanent easements.  The site lease terms generally range from one to 20 years.  In addition to the site lease, we must obtain a permit to build new signs or convert existing signs to digital format.  Permits are typically granted in perpetuity by the state and/or local government and typically are transferable or renewable for a minimal, or no, fee. Printed bulletin and poster advertising copy is primarily printed with computer generated graphics on a single sheet of vinyl supplied by the advertiser.  These advertisements are then transported to the site and wrapped around the face of the site or affixed to a hardware anchoring system on the display site.  The operational process also includes conducting visual inspections of the inventory for display defects and taking the necessary corrective action within a reasonable period of time.
Client Categories
In 2018 , the top five client categories in our Americas outdoor segment were business services, retail, media, healthcare/medical and banking/financial services.
Competition
The outdoor advertising industry in the Americas is fragmented, consisting of several large companies involved in outdoor advertising, such as OUTFRONT Media Inc. and Lamar Advertising Company, as well as numerous smaller and local companies operating a limited number of displays in a single market or a few local markets.  We also compete with other advertising media in our respective markets, including broadcast and cable television, radio, print media, direct mail, mobile, social media, online and other forms of advertisement. Outdoor advertising companies compete primarily based on ability to reach consumers, which is driven by location of the display.
International Outdoor Advertising
Our International segment includes our operations in Europe, Asia and Latin America. As of December 31, 2018 , we owned or operated more than 380,000 displays across 22  countries.
Our International assets consist of street furniture, billboards, transit displays, retail displays, public bike programs and other spectaculars, which we own or operate under lease or license agreements.  Our International business is focused on densely-populated metropolitan areas.
Strategy
Similar to our Americas business, we believe our International business has attractive industry fundamentals, including the ability to reach a broad audience and drive foot traffic to the point-of-sale, making outdoor a cost-effective medium for advertisers as measured by cost per thousand persons reached compared to other traditional media.  Our International business focuses on the following strategies:
Promote Overall Outdoor Media Spending.  Our strategy is to promote growth in outdoor advertising’s share of total media spending by demonstrating the strength of our medium.  We believe that outdoor advertising is strongly positioned to compete with other media, in particular traditional content-based media such as press, TV, radio and magazines, whose audiences are fragmenting to online sources of that content, as well as competing with internet media channels. As part of our effort to promote growth in outdoor advertising’s share of total media, we are focusing on developing and implementing improved outdoor audience delivery measurement systems (such as our C.A.S.T. system in France) to provide advertisers with tools to plan their campaigns and determine how effectively their message is reaching the desired audience.
Differentiate on Sales and Marketing . For over five years, we have spent time and resources building commercial capabilities through a company-wide sales force effectiveness program and an upgrade in our sales and marketing talent. These capabilities allow us to build and nurture relationships with our clients and their agencies as well as to offer packages and products that meet our clients’ advertising needs. Going forward, areas of focus include pricing, packaging and programmatic selling; in particular pricing and packaging models that leverage the capabilities and benefits of digital display networks. Expanding our proprietary programmatic platform, which enables marketers to buy our out-of-home inventory in audience-based packages, giving them the ability to manage their campaigns on a self-service basis.
Capital Allocation. A core element of our capital allocation strategy focuses on the digitization of our network. Our digital displays are a dynamic medium, which enables our customers to engage in real-time, tactical, topical and flexible advertising. We will continue our focused and dedicated digital strategy and remain committed to the development of digital out-of-home communication solutions. Through our digital brands, including Clear Channel Play and Adshel Live, we are able to offer networks

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of digital displays in multiple formats and multiple environments including bus shelters, billboards, airports, transit, malls and flagship locations. Part of our long-term strategy is to pursue the diversification of our product offering by introducing technologies, such as beacons, small cells, wayfinding stations and provision of Wi-Fi in our street furniture network, as additions to traditional methods of displaying our clients’ advertisements.
Capitalize on Product and Geographic Opportunities.   We are also focused on growing our relevance to our advertising customers by continuously optimizing our display portfolio and targeting investments in promising market segments. We have continued to innovate and introduce new products in our markets—such as the digital telephone kiosks in the United Kingdom (the "U.K."). Our street furniture business generates the largest portion of our revenue and that is where we plan to focus much of our investment. We plan to continue to evaluate municipal contracts that may come up for bid and will make prudent investments where we believe we can generate attractive returns.
Sources of Revenue
Our International segment generated 56% , 55% and 56% of our revenue in 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively.  Our International display inventory consists primarily of street furniture displays, billboards, transit displays and other out-of-home advertising displays. The following table shows the approximate percentage of revenue derived from each inventory category of our International segment:
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Street furniture displays
52%
 
51%
 
52%
Billboards
18%
 
20%
 
20%
Transit displays
11%
 
10%
 
9%
Other (1)
19%
 
19%
 
19%
Total
100%
 
100%
 
100%
(1)
Includes advertising revenue from retail displays, other small displays, and non-advertising revenue from sales of street furniture equipment, cleaning and maintenance services, operation of public bike programs and production revenue.
Our International segment generates the majority of its revenue from the sale of advertising space on street furniture displays, billboards, retail displays and transit displays. Similar to our Americas business, advertising rates generally are based on the gross ratings points of a display or group of displays. In some of the countries where we have operations, the number of impressions delivered by a display is weighted to account for such factors as illumination, proximity to other displays and the speed and viewing angle of approaching traffic.
While location, price and availability of displays are important competitive factors, we believe that providing quality customer service and establishing strong client relationships are also critical components of sales.  Our entrepreneurial culture allows local management to operate their markets as separate profit centers, encouraging customer cultivation and service.
Street Furniture Displays
Our International street furniture displays, available in printed and digital formats, are substantially similar to their Americas street furniture counterparts, and include bus shelters, freestanding units, various types of kiosks, telephone boxes and other public structures.  Internationally, contracts with municipal and transit authorities for the right to place our street furniture in the public domain and sell advertising on such street furniture typically provide for terms ranging up to 15 years. The major difference between our International and Americas street furniture businesses is in the nature of the municipal contracts.  In our International outdoor business, these contracts typically require us to provide the municipality with a broader range of metropolitan amenities such as bus shelters with or without advertising panels, information kiosks and public wastebaskets, as well as space for the municipality to display maps or other public information.  In exchange for providing such metropolitan amenities and display space, we are authorized to sell advertising space on certain sections of the structures we erect in the public domain. We pay the municipality or transit authority a fee or revenue share that is either a fixed amount or a percentage of the revenue derived from the street furniture displays. Typically, these revenue sharing arrangements include payments by us of minimum guaranteed amounts. Our International print street furniture is typically sold to clients as network packages of multiple street furniture displays, with contract terms ranging from one to two weeks. Due to its dynamic and real time delivery capabilities, digital street furniture can be sold flexibly, allowing advertisers to buy solutions on a ‘play and impact’ audience-based model to reach and engage their audiences with dynamic, contextually relevant and targeted messages

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Billboards
The sizes of our International billboards are not standardized.  The billboards vary in both format and size across our networks, with the majority of our International billboards being similar in size to our posters used in our Americas business.
Our billboard inventory is primarily comprised of premium billboards and classic billboards and is available in printed and digital formats.
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Premium . Digital premium billboards allow advertisers to dynamically change messages throughout the course of a day to more effectively target and engage audiences in key locations and may display advertisements for multiple customers. Our electronic displays are linked through centralized computer systems to instantaneously and simultaneously change messages throughout the course of a day. Because of their greater size, impact, high frequency and 24-hour advertising changes, digital premium billboards typically deliver our highest rates. Almost all of the advertising copy displayed on printed premium billboards is digitally-printed and transported to the billboard where it is secured to the display surface. Premium billboards generally are located along major expressways, primary commuting routes and main intersections that are highly visible and heavily trafficked. Our clients may contract for individual billboards or a network of billboards.
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Classic . Digital and printed classic billboards are available in a variety of formats across our markets. Similar to digital premium billboards, classic digital billboards are linked through centralized computer systems to instantaneously and simultaneously change messages throughout the course of a day. Advertising copy for printed classic billboards is digitally printed then transported and secured to the poster surfaces. Classic billboards generally are located in commercial areas on primary and secondary routes near point-of-purchase locations, facilitating advertising campaigns with greater demographic targeting than those displayed on premium billboards. Classic billboards typically deliver lower rates than our premium billboards. Our intent is to combine the creative impact of premium billboards with the additional reach and frequency of classic billboards.
Our billboards are primarily sold to clients as network packages with contract terms typically ranging from one to two weeks. Long-term client contracts are also available and typically have terms of up to one year. We lease the majority of our billboard sites from private landowners, usually for one to ten years.
Transit Displays
Our International transit display contracts are substantially similar to their Americas transit display counterparts. They are advertising surfaces on various types of vehicles or within transit systems, including on the interior and exterior sides of buses, trains, trams and within the common areas of rail stations and airports, and are available in both printed and digital formats. Similar to street furniture, contracts for the right to place our displays on such vehicles or within such transit systems and to sell advertising space on them generally are awarded by public transit authorities in competitive bidding processes or are negotiated with private transit operators. Contracts with public transit authorities or private transit operators typically have terms ranging from two to five years. Our client contracts for transit displays, either printed or digital, generally have terms ranging from one week to one year, or longer. Due to its dynamic and real time delivery capabilities, digital transit can be sold flexibly, allowing advertisers to buy solutions on a ‘play and impact’ audience-based model to reach and engage their audiences with dynamic, contextually relevant and targeted messages.
Retail Displays
Our retail displays are mainly standalone advertising structures in or in close proximity to retail outlets such as malls and supermarkets. The right to place our displays in these locations and to sell advertising space on them generally is awarded by retail outlet operators such as large retailers or mall operators either through private tenders or bilateral negotiations. Upfront investment and ongoing maintenance costs vary across contracts. Contracts with mall operators and retailers generally have terms ranging from three to ten years. Our client contracts for retail displays, either printed or digital, generally have terms ranging from one week to two weeks. Due to its dynamic and real time delivery capabilities, digital retail displays can be sold flexibly, allowing advertisers to buy solutions on a ‘play and impact’ audience-based model to reach and engage their audiences with dynamic, contextually relevant and targeted messages.

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Other International Displays and Services
The balance of our revenue from our International segment consists primarily of advertising revenue from other small displays and non-advertising revenue from sales of street furniture equipment, cleaning and maintenance services, and production and creative services revenue.  Our International inventory includes other small displays that are counted as separate displays since they form a substantial part of our network and International outdoor advertising revenue.  We also have a public bicycle rental program which provides bicycles for rent to the general public in several municipalities.  In exchange for operating these bike rental programs, we generally derive revenue from advertising rights to the bikes, bike stations, additional street furniture displays and/or a share of rental income from the local municipalities.  In several of our International markets, we sell equipment or provide cleaning and maintenance services as part of street furniture contracts with municipalities.
Advertising Inventory and Markets
As of December 31, 2018 , we owned or operated more than 380,000  displays in our International segment, with operations across 22  countries.  Our International display count includes display faces, which may include multiple faces on a single structure, as well as small, individual displays.  As a result, our International display count is not comparable to our Americas display count, which includes only unique displays.  No one property is significant to our overall operations.  We believe that our properties are in good condition and suitable for our operations.
Production
The majority of our International clients are advertisers targeting national or regional audiences whose business generally is placed with us through media or advertising agencies. These agencies often provide to our International clients creative services to design and produce the advertising copy, which is delivered to us either in digital format or in the traditional format of physical printed advertisements. For digital advertising campaigns, the digital advertisement is received by our content management system and is then distributed to our digital displays. For traditional advertising campaigns, the printed advertisement - whether in paper or vinyl - is shipped to centralized warehouses operated by us or third parties. The copy is then sorted and delivered to sites where it is installed on our displays.
Construction and Operation
The International manufacturing process largely consists of two elements: the manufacture and installation of advertising structures and the weekly preparation of advertising posters for distribution throughout our networks. We generally outsource the manufacturing of advertising structures to third parties and regularly seek competitive bids. We use a wide range of suppliers located in many of our markets, although much of our inventory is manufactured in China and the U.K. The design of street furniture structures (such as bus shelters, bicycle racks and kiosks) is typically done in conjunction with a third party supplier. Our street furniture sites are posted by our own employees or subcontractors who also clean and maintain the sites. The decision to use our own employees or subcontractors is made on a market-by-market basis taking into consideration the mix of products in the market and local labor costs. Digital displays generally use LCD or LED technology. The manufacture and installation process is generally the same as for traditional sites, however, specialist suppliers are used to supply the LED tiles or LCD screen displays, and there may be additional factors, such as electrical supply and network connectivity, involved during design and construction.
Client Categories
In 2018 , the top five client categories in our International segment were retail, telecommunications, Internet/E-Commerce, food/food products and entertainment.
Competition
The international outdoor advertising industry is highly competitive, consisting of several large companies involved in outdoor advertising, such as JCDecaux SA and Global Media & Entertainment (who recently acquired ExterionMedia (UK) Limited), as well as numerous smaller and local companies operating a limited number of displays in a single market or a few local markets.  We also compete with other advertising media in our respective markets, including broadcast and cable television, radio, print media, direct mail, online, mobile and other forms of advertisement.  Outdoor companies compete primarily based on ability to reach consumers, which is driven by location of the display.
Our business requires us to obtain and renew contracts with municipalities and other governmental entities, which frequently require us to participate in competitive bidding processes at each renewal. Many of these contracts typically have terms ranging up to 15 years and have revenue share, capital expenditure requirements and/or fixed payment components. Competitive bidding processes are complex and sometimes lengthy.  Substantial costs may be incurred in connection with preparing bids for such processes. Our competitors, individually or through relationships with third parties, may be able to provide municipalities with different or greater capabilities or prices or benefits than we can provide. In the past we have not, and most likely in the future

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will not, be awarded all of the contracts on which we bid. There can be no assurance that we will win any particular bid, or that we will be able to replace any revenues lost upon expiration or completion of a contract. Our inability to renew existing contracts can also result in significant expenses from the removal of our displays. Furthermore, if and when we do obtain a contract, we are generally required to incur significant start-up expenses. The costs of bidding on contracts and the start-up costs associated with new contracts we may obtain may significantly reduce our cash flow and liquidity. The success of our business also depends generally on our ability to obtain and renew contracts with private landlords.
Employees
As of December 31, 2018 , we had approximately 1,500 domestic employees and approximately 4,300 international employees, of which approximately 5,000 were in direct operations and 800 were in administrative or corporate related activities. Approximately 100 of our employees are subject to collective bargaining agreements in their respective countries. We are a party to numerous collective bargaining agreements, none of which represent a significant number of employees.  We believe that our relationship with our employees is good.
Seasonality
Required information is located within Item 7 of Part II of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Outdoor Industry     
We also compete with other advertising media in our respective markets, including broadcast and cable television, radio, print media, direct mail, mobile, social media, online and other forms of advertisement. Because we do not use content to attract audiences, we believe we are not subject to the same headwinds as many other media. According to data published by Magna Global, since the emergence of the internet in the late 1990s, online advertising has gained market share from traditional content-based mediums. Initially, online advertising gained market share mostly from newspapers and magazines, but more recently it has also gained market share from television in some markets, as the internet has begun to provide alternative sources of content. We believe the outdoor advertising industry is relatively distinct because it does not rely on content, such as news, television shows or editorials, to attract an audience and then interrupt that content with advertising messages. According to data published by Magna Global, throughout the internet-driven transformation of the advertising ecosystem, outdoor advertising has been relatively immune to fragmentation of audiences, maintaining its share of the market. We anticipate that, while the proliferation of content and distribution models will continue to fragment content-based media audiences, outdoor advertising’s distinct model will remain relatively immune to this trend. According to Magna Global, outdoor advertising’s compounded annual growth rate is expected to be 2.8% between 2019 and 2023.
Outdoor advertising’s share of the advertising market varies by country based on a number of factors, including regulation, sophistication, sociocultural aspects and historic media buying trends. Historically, outdoor advertising has had a larger market share in Western Europe (approximately 8% of the media mix, excluding search advertising, according to Magna Global) than in the United States (approximately 5%, excluding search advertising, according to Magna Global). We believe this is the result of the more urban nature of the outdoor advertising market in Europe.
Regulation of our Business
The outdoor advertising industry in the United States is subject to governmental regulation at the federal, state and local levels. These regulations may include, among others, restrictions on the construction, repair, maintenance, lighting, upgrading, height, size, spacing and location and permitting of and, in some instances, content of advertising copy being displayed on outdoor advertising structures.  In addition, international regulations have a significant impact on the outdoor advertising industry.  International regulation of the outdoor advertising industry can vary by municipality, region and country, but generally limits the size, placement, nature and density of out-of-home displays. Other regulations may limit the subject matter and language of out-of-home displays.
From time to time, legislation has been introduced in both the United States and foreign jurisdictions attempting to impose taxes on revenue from outdoor advertising or for the right to use outdoor advertising assets or for the privilege of engaging in the outdoor advertising business. Several jurisdictions have imposed such taxes as a percentage of our outdoor advertising revenue generated in that jurisdiction or based on the size the billboard and type of display technology.  In addition, some jurisdictions have taxed our personal property and leasehold interests in advertising locations using various valuation methodologies.  We expect U.S. and foreign jurisdictions to continue to try to impose such taxes as a way of increasing revenue.  In recent years, outdoor advertising also has become the subject of targeted taxes and fees.  These laws may affect prevailing competitive conditions in our markets in a variety of ways.  Such laws may reduce our expansion opportunities or may increase or reduce competitive pressure from other members of the outdoor advertising industry.  No assurance can be given that existing or future laws or regulations, and the enforcement thereof, will not materially and adversely affect the outdoor advertising industry.  However, we

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contest laws and regulations that we believe unlawfully restrict our constitutional or other legal rights and may adversely impact the growth of our outdoor advertising business.
In the United States, federal law, principally the Highway Beautification Act (“HBA”), regulates outdoor advertising on Federal-Aid Primary, Interstate and National Highway Systems roads within the United States (“controlled roads”). The HBA regulates the size and placement of billboards, requires the development of state standards, mandates a state’s compliance program, promotes the expeditious removal of illegal signs and requires just compensation for takings on controlled roads.
To satisfy the HBA’s requirements, all states have passed billboard control statutes and regulations that regulate, among other things, construction, repair, maintenance, lighting, height, size, spacing and the placement and permitting of outdoor advertising structures.  We are not aware of any state that has passed control statutes and regulations less restrictive than the prevailing federal requirements on the federal highway system, including the requirement that an owner remove any non-grandfathered, non-compliant signs along the controlled roads, at the owner’s expense and without compensation.  Local governments generally also include billboard control as part of their zoning laws and building codes regulating those items described above and include similar provisions regarding the removal of non-grandfathered structures that do not comply with certain of the local requirements.  Some local governments have initiated code enforcement and permit reviews of billboards within their jurisdiction. In some instances we have had to remove billboards as a result of such reviews.
As part of their billboard control laws, state and local governments regulate the construction of new signs.  Some jurisdictions prohibit new construction, some jurisdictions allow new construction only to replace or relocate existing structures and some jurisdictions allow new construction subject to the various restrictions discussed above.  In certain jurisdictions, restrictive regulations also limit our ability to relocate, rebuild, repair, maintain, upgrade, modify or replace existing legal non-conforming billboards.
U.S. federal law neither requires nor prohibits the removal of existing lawful billboards, but it does mandate the payment of compensation if a state or other government agency or entity compels the removal of a lawful billboard along the controlled roads.  In the past, state governments have purchased and removed existing lawful billboards for beautification purposes using federal funding for transportation enhancement programs, and these jurisdictions may continue to do so in the future. From time to time, state and local government authorities use the power of eminent domain and amortization to remove billboards.  Amortization is the required removal of legal non-conforming billboards (billboards which conformed with applicable laws and regulations when built, but which do not conform to current laws and regulations) or the commercial advertising placed on such billboards after a period of years. Pursuant to this concept, the governmental body asserts that just compensation is earned by continued operation of the billboard over that period of time. Although amortization is prohibited along all controlled roads, amortization has been upheld along non-controlled roads in limited instances where permitted by state and local law. Thus far, we have been able to obtain satisfactory compensation for, or relocation of, our billboards purchased or removed as a result of these types of governmental action, although there is no assurance that this will continue to be the case in the future.
We have introduced and intend to expand the deployment of digital billboards that display static digital advertising copy from various advertisers that change up to several times per minute. We have encountered some existing regulations in the U.S. and across some international jurisdictions that restrict or prohibit these types of digital displays.  However, since digital technology for changing static copy has only recently been developed and introduced into the market on a large scale, and is in the process of being introduced more broadly in our international markets, existing regulations that currently do not apply to digital technology by their terms could be revised to impose greater restrictions. These regulations, or actions by third parties, may impose greater restrictions on digital billboards due to alleged concerns over aesthetics or driver safety.
Privacy and Data Protection
We obtain certain types of information from users of our technology platforms, including, without limitation, our websites, web pages, interactive features, applications, social media pages, and mobile application (“Platforms”), in accordance with the privacy policies and terms of use posted on the applicable Platform.  In addition, we obtain anonymous and aggregated audience behavior information from third-party data providers who represent to us that they are compliant with applicable laws. We use and share this information for a variety of business purposes. In addition, we collect personally identifiable information from our employees, from users of our public bike services, from our business partners and from consumers who interact with our digital panels, including the use of behavioral analysis software.
We are subject to a number of federal, state, local and foreign laws and regulations relating to consumer protection, information security, data protection and privacy.  Many of these laws and regulations are still evolving (such as the new California Consumer Privacy Act) and could be interpreted in ways that could harm our business or limit the services we are able to offer.  In the area of information security and data protection, the laws in several states in the United States and most other countries require companies to implement specific information security controls and legal protections to protect certain types of personally

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identifiable information.  Likewise, most states in the United States and most other countries have laws in place requiring companies to notify users if there is a security breach that compromises certain categories of their personally identifiable information.  Any failure on our part to comply with these laws may subject us to significant liabilities.
We regularly review and implement commercially reasonable organizational and technical security measures that are designed to protect against the loss, misuse, and alteration of our employees’, clients’ and consumers’ personally identifiable information and to protect our proprietary business information.  In Europe, we have appointed a Chief Data Protection Officer with respect to our European outdoor businesses and are implementing a comprehensive legal and information security-led approach to compliance with the new European Union ("E.U.")-wide General Data Protection Regulation (the “GDPR”) in line with our obligations and our risk profile. Despite our best efforts, no security measures are perfect or impenetrable.  Any failure or perceived failure by us to protect our information or information about our employees, clients and consumers or to comply with our policies or applicable regulatory requirements could result in damage to our business and loss of confidence in us, damage to our brands, the loss of users of our services, consumers, business partners and advertisers, as well as proceedings against us by governmental authorities or others, which could harm our business.
Available Information
You can find more information about us at our Internet website located at www.clearchanneloutdoor.com. Our Annual Report on Form 10-K, our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, our Current Reports on Form 8-K and any amendments to those reports are available free of charge through our website as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file such material with, or furnish such material to, the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). The contents of our website are not deemed to be part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K or any of our other filings with the SEC.
The SEC maintains an internet site that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC. The address of that site is www.sec.gov.
ITEM 1A.  RISK FACTORS
Risks Related to Our Business
Our results have been in the past, and could be in the future, adversely affected by economic uncertainty or deteriorations in economic conditions
We derive revenues from the sale of advertising.  Expenditures by advertisers tend to be cyclical, reflecting economic conditions and budgeting and buying patterns.  Periods of a slowing economy or recession, or periods of economic uncertainty, may be accompanied by a decrease in advertising. For example, the global economic downturn that began in 2008 resulted in a decline in advertising and marketing by our customers, which resulted in a decline in advertising revenues across our businesses. This reduction in advertising revenues had an adverse effect on our revenue, profit margins, cash flow and liquidity. Global economic conditions have been slow to recover and remain uncertain.  If economic conditions do not continue to improve, economic uncertainty increases or economic conditions deteriorate again, global economic conditions may once again adversely impact our revenue, profit margins, cash flow and liquidity.  Furthermore, because a significant portion of our revenue is derived from local advertisers, our ability to generate revenues in specific markets is directly affected by local and regional conditions, and unfavorable regional economic conditions also may adversely impact our results.  In addition, even in the absence of a downturn in general economic conditions, an individual business sector or market may experience a downturn, causing it to reduce its advertising expenditures, which also may adversely impact our results.
To service our debt obligations and to fund our operations and our capital expenditures, we require a significant amount of cash to meet our needs, which depends on many factors beyond our control

Our ability to service our debt obligations and to fund our operations and our capital expenditures for display construction, renovation or maintenance requires a significant amount of cash. Our primary sources of liquidity are currently cash on hand, cash flow from operations, the intercompany arrangements provided for in the cash management order approved in the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases and our receivables-based credit facility. Following the Separation, the intercompany arrangements with iHeartCommunications will cease, and we expect to have the iHeart Line of Credit and the proceeds from the issuance of the CCOH Preferred Stock as sources of liquidity.

Our primary uses of liquidity are for our working capital, capital expenditure, debt service and other funding requirements. A substantial amount of our cash requirements are for debt service obligations. During 2018 , we spent $ 375.5 million  of cash on interest on our debt. We anticipate having approximately  $346.3 million  of cash interest payment obligations in 2019. Our significant interest payment obligations reduce our financial flexibility, make us more vulnerable to changes in operating

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performance and economic downturns generally, reduce our liquidity over time and could negatively affect our ability to obtain additional financing in the future.

Our ability to fund our working capital, capital expenditures, debt service and other obligations depends on our future operating performance and cash from operations and our ability to manage our liquidity following the Separation, which are in turn subject to prevailing economic conditions and other factors, many of which are beyond our control. In addition, the purchase price of possible acquisitions, capital expenditures for deployment of digital billboards and/or other strategic initiatives could require additional indebtedness or equity financing. Historically, our cash management arrangement with iHeartCommunications has been our only committed external source of liquidity. Following the Separation, we will be dependent upon our ability to generate cash or obtain additional financing to meet our liquidity needs. If we are unable to obtain adequate financial support following the Separation, we will likely need to obtain additional financing from banks or other lenders, or through public offerings or private placements of debt or equity, strategic relationships or other arrangements, or from a combination of these sources. There can be no assurance that financing alternatives will be available to us in sufficient amounts or on terms acceptable to us in the future due to market conditions, our financial condition, our liquidity constraints, our lack of history operating as a company independent from iHeartCommunications or other factors, many of which are beyond our control. Even if financing alternatives are available to us, we may not find them suitable or at comparable interest rates to the indebtedness being refinanced, and our annual cash interest payment obligations could increase further. In addition, the terms of our existing or future debt agreements may restrict us from securing financing on terms that are available to us at that time. Consequently, there can be no assurance that such financing, if permitted under the terms of our financing agreements, will be available on terms acceptable to us or at all. The inability to obtain additional financing in such circumstances could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and on our ability to meet our obligations or pursue strategic initiatives. Additional indebtedness could increase our leverage and make us more vulnerable to economic downturns and may limit our ability to withstand competitive pressures.

In addition to the need to refinance our various indebtedness at or before maturity, if we are unable to generate sufficient cash through our operations, we could face substantial liquidity problems, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, on our ability to meet our obligations and on the value of our company following the Separation.

We face intense competition in the outdoor advertising business

We operate in a highly competitive industry, and we may not be able to maintain or increase our current advertising revenues.  We compete for advertising revenue with other outdoor advertising businesses, as well as with other media, such as radio, newspapers, magazines, television, direct mail, mobile devices, satellite radio and Internet-based services, within their respective markets.  Market shares are subject to change for various reasons including through consolidation of our competitors through processes such as mergers and acquisitions, which could have the effect of reducing our revenue in a specific market.  Our competitors may develop technology, services or advertising media that are equal or superior to those we provide or that achieve greater market acceptance and brand recognition than we achieve.  It also is possible that new competitors may emerge and rapidly acquire significant market share in any of our business segments.  The advertiser/agency ecosystem is diverse and dynamic, with advertiser/agency relationships subject to change. This could have an adverse effect on us if an advertiser client shifts its relationship to an agency with whom we do not have as good a relationship. An increased level of competition for advertising dollars may lead to lower advertising rates as we attempt to retain customers or may cause us to lose customers to our competitors who offer lower rates that we are unable or unwilling to match.
The success of our street furniture and transit products businesses is dependent on our obtaining key municipal concessions, which we may not be able to obtain on favorable terms
Our street furniture and transit products businesses require us to obtain and renew contracts with municipalities and transit authorities. Many of these contracts, which require us to participate in competitive bidding processes at each renewal, typically have terms ranging up to 15 years and have revenue share, capital expenditure requirements and/or fixed payment components. Competitive bidding processes are complex and sometimes lengthy and substantial costs may be incurred in connection with preparing bids.
Our competitors, individually or through relationships with third parties, may be able to provide different or greater capabilities or prices or benefits than we can provide. In the past we have not been, and most likely in the future will not be, awarded all of the contracts on which we bid. The success of our business also depends generally on our ability to obtain and renew contracts with private landlords. There can be no assurance that we will win any particular bid, be able to renew existing contracts (on the same or better terms, or at all) or be able to replace any revenue lost upon expiration or completion of a contract. Our inability to renew existing contracts may also result in significant expenses from the removal of our displays. Furthermore, if and when we do obtain a contract, we are generally required to incur significant start-up expenses. The costs of bidding on contracts and the start-up costs associated with new contracts we may obtain may significantly reduce our cash flow and liquidity.

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This competitive bidding process presents a number of risks, including the following:
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we expend substantial cost and managerial time and effort to prepare bids and proposals for contracts that we may not win;
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we may be unable to estimate accurately the revenue derived from and the resources and cost structure that will be required to service any contract we win or anticipate changes in the operating environment on which our financial proposal was based; and
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we may encounter expenses and delays if our competitors challenge awards of contracts to us in competitive bidding, and any such challenge could result in the resubmission of bids on modified specifications, or in the termination, reduction or modification of the awarded contract.
Our inability to successfully negotiate, renew or complete these contracts due to third-party or governmental demands and delay and the highly competitive bidding processes for these contracts could affect our ability to offer these products to our clients, or to offer them to our clients at rates that are competitive to other forms of advertising, without adversely affecting our financial results.
Our financial performance may be adversely affected by many factors beyond our control
Certain factors that could adversely affect our financial performance by, among other things, decreasing overall revenues, the numbers of advertising customers, advertising fees or profit margins include:
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unfavorable fluctuations in operating costs, which we may be unwilling or unable to pass through to our customers;
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our inability to successfully adopt or our being late in adopting technological changes and innovations that offer more attractive advertising alternatives than what we offer, which could result in a loss of advertising customers or lower advertising rates, which could have a material adverse effect on our operating results and financial performance;
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unfavorable shifts in population and other demographics, which may cause us to lose advertising customers as people migrate to markets where we have a smaller presence or which may cause advertisers to be willing to pay less in advertising fees if the general population shifts into a less desirable age or geographical demographic from an advertising perspective;
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adverse political effects and acts or threats of terrorism or military conflicts; and
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unfavorable changes in labor conditions, which may impair our ability to operate or require us to spend more to retain and attract key employees.
In addition, on June 23, 2016, the U.K. held a referendum in which voters approved an exit of the U.K. from the E.U., commonly referred to as "Brexit". International outdoor is currently headquartered in the U.K. and transacts business in many key European markets. The U.K. is currently negotiating the terms of its exit from the European Union scheduled for March 29, 2019. In November 2018, the U.K. and the E.U. agreed upon a draft Withdrawal Agreement that sets out the terms of the U.K.’s departure. On January 15, 2019, the draft Withdrawal Agreement was rejected by the U.K. Parliament creating significant uncertainty about the terms (and timing) under which the U.K. will leave the E.U. and the consequent impact on the economies of the U.K., the E.U. and other countries. This uncertainty may cause our customers to closely monitor their costs and reduce the amount they spend on advertising. Any of these or similar effects of Brexit could adversely impact our business, operating results, cash flows and financial condition.
Future dispositions, acquisitions and other strategic transactions could pose risks
We frequently evaluate strategic opportunities both within and outside our existing lines of business. We expect from time to time to pursue strategic dispositions of certain businesses, as well as acquisitions. These dispositions or acquisitions could be material. Dispositions and acquisitions involve numerous risks, including:
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our dispositions may negatively impact revenues from our national, regional and other sales networks;
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our dispositions may make it difficult to generate cash flows from operations sufficient to meet our anticipated cash requirements, including our debt service requirements;
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our acquisitions may prove unprofitable and fail to generate anticipated cash flows;
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to successfully manage our large portfolio of outdoor advertising and other businesses, we may need to:
•
recruit additional senior management as we cannot be assured that senior management of acquired businesses will continue to work for us and we cannot be certain that our recruiting efforts will succeed, and
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expand corporate infrastructure to facilitate the integration of our operations with those of acquired businesses, because failure to do so may cause us to lose the benefits of any expansion that we decide to undertake by leading to disruptions in our ongoing businesses or by distracting our management;
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we may enter into markets and geographic areas where we have limited or no experience;
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we may encounter difficulties in the integration of operations and systems; and

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▪
our management’s attention may be diverted from other business concerns.
Dispositions and acquisitions of outdoor advertising businesses may require antitrust review by U.S. federal antitrust agencies and may require review by foreign antitrust agencies under the antitrust laws of foreign jurisdictions. We can give no assurances that the United States Department of Justice (the “DOJ”), the FTC or foreign antitrust agencies will not seek to bar us from disposing of or acquiring outdoor advertising businesses or impose stringent undertaking on our business as a condition to the completion of an acquisition in any market where we already have a significant position.
Government regulation of outdoor advertising may restrict our outdoor advertising operations
U.S. federal, state and local regulations have a significant impact on the outdoor advertising industry and our business. One of the seminal laws is the HBA, which regulates outdoor advertising on controlled roads in the United States. The HBA regulates the size and location of billboards, mandates a state compliance program, requires the development of state standards, promotes the expeditious removal of illegal signs and requires just compensation for takings. Construction, repair, maintenance, lighting, upgrading, height, size, spacing, the location and permitting of billboards and the use of new technologies for changing displays, such as digital displays, are regulated by federal, state and local governments. From time to time, states and municipalities have prohibited or significantly limited the construction of new outdoor advertising structures.  Changes in laws and regulations affecting outdoor advertising, or changes in the interpretation of those laws and regulations, at any level of government, including the foreign jurisdictions in which we operate, could have a significant financial impact on us by requiring us to make significant expenditures or otherwise limiting or restricting some of our operations. Due to such regulations, it has become increasingly difficult to develop new outdoor advertising locations.
From time to time, certain state and local governments and third parties have attempted to force the removal of our displays under various state and local laws, including zoning ordinances, permit enforcement and condemnation. Similar risks also arise in certain of our international jurisdictions.  Certain zoning ordinances provide for amortization which is the required removal of legal non-conforming billboards (billboards which conformed with applicable laws and regulations when built, but which do not conform to current laws and regulations) or the commercial advertising placed on such billboards after a period of years. Pursuant to this concept, the governmental body asserts that just compensation is earned by continued operation of the billboard over that period of time. Although amortization is prohibited along all controlled roads, amortization has been upheld along non-controlled roads in limited instances where permitted by state and local law. Other regulations limit our ability to rebuild, replace, repair, maintain and upgrade non-conforming displays. In addition, from time to time third parties or local governments assert that we own or operate displays that either are not properly permitted or otherwise are not in strict compliance with applicable law. If we are increasingly unable to resolve such allegations or obtain acceptable arrangements in circumstances in which our displays are subject to removal, modification or amortization, or if there occurs an increase in such regulations or their enforcement, our operating results could suffer.
A number of state and local governments have implemented or initiated taxes, fees and registration requirements in an effort to decrease or restrict the number of outdoor signs and/or to raise revenue.  From time to time, legislation also has been introduced in international jurisdictions attempting to impose taxes on revenue from outdoor advertising or for the right to use outdoor advertising assets.  In addition, a number of jurisdictions have implemented legislation or interpreted existing legislation to restrict or prohibit the installation of digital billboards, and we expect these efforts to continue. The increased imposition of these measures, and our inability to overcome any such measures, could reduce our operating income if those outcomes require removal or restrictions on the use of preexisting displays or limit growth of digital displays.  In addition, if we are unable to pass on the cost of these items to our clients, our operating income could be adversely affected.
International regulation of the outdoor advertising industry can vary by municipality, region and country, but generally limits the size, placement, nature and density of out-of-home displays. Other regulations limit the subject matter, animation and language of out-of-home displays. Our failure to comply with these or any future international regulations could have an adverse impact on the effectiveness of our displays or their attractiveness to clients as an advertising medium and may require us to make significant expenditures to ensure compliance and avoid certain penalties or contractual breaches. As a result, we may experience a significant impact on our operations, revenue, international client base and overall financial condition.
Regulations and consumer concerns regarding privacy and data protection, or any failure to comply with these regulations, could hinder our operations
We utilize demographic and other information from and about consumers, business partners and advertisers that we collect directly or receive from third-party vendors.  We are subject to numerous federal, state and foreign laws and regulations relating to consumer protection, information security, data protection and privacy, among other things.  Many of these laws are still evolving, new laws may be enacted and any of these laws could be amended or interpreted in ways that could harm our business.  In addition, changes in consumer expectations and demands regarding privacy and data protection could restrict our ability to collect, use, disclose and derive economic value from demographic and other information related to our consumers, business partners and

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advertisers, or to transfer employee data within the corporate group.  Such restrictions could limit our ability to offer tailored advertising opportunities to our business partners and advertisers.  Although we have implemented and are implementing policies and procedures designed to comply with these laws and regulations, any failure or perceived failure by us to comply with our policies or applicable regulatory requirements related to consumer protection, information security, data protection and privacy could result in a loss of confidence in us, damage to our brands, the loss of consumers, business partners and advertisers, as well as proceedings against us by governmental authorities or others, which could hinder our operations and adversely affect our business.
We are subject to numerous federal, state and foreign laws and regulations relating to consumer protection, information security, data protection and privacy, among other things.  Many of these laws are still evolving, new laws may be enacted and any of these laws could be amended or interpreted by the courts or regulators in ways that could harm our business. For example, any efforts required to comply with the European General Data Protection Regulation, effective as of May 2018, or the new California Consumer Privacy Act, which is  effective as of January 2020, may entail substantial expenses, may divert resources from other initiatives and projects, and could limit the services we are able to offer. I n addition, changes in consumer expectations and demands regarding privacy and data protection could restrict our ability to use, disclose and derive economic value from demographic and other information related to our consumers, business partners and advertisers, or to transfer employee data within the corporate group.  Such restrictions could limit our ability to offer targeted advertising opportunities to our business partners and advertisers.  Although we have implemented and are implementing policies and procedures designed to comply with these laws and regulations, any failure or perceived failure by us to comply with our policies or applicable regulatory requirements related to consumer protection, information security, data protection and privacy could result in a loss of confidence in us, damage to our brands, the loss of listeners, consumers, business partners and advertisers, as well as proceedings against us by governmental authorities or others, which could hinder our operations and adversely affect our business.
If our security measures are breached, we could lose valuable information, suffer disruptions to our business, and incur expenses and liabilities including damages to our relationships with business partners and advertisers
Although we have implemented physical and electronic security measures that are designed to protect against the loss, misuse and alteration of our websites, digital assets and proprietary business information as well as, consumer, business partner and advertiser personally identifiable information, no security measures are perfect and impenetrable and we may be unable to anticipate or prevent unauthorized access.  A security breach could occur due to the actions of outside parties, employee error, malfeasance or a combination of these or other actions.  If an actual or perceived breach of our security occurs, we could lose competitively sensitive business information or suffer disruptions to our business operations, information processes or internal controls.  In addition, the public perception of the effectiveness of our security measures or services could be harmed; we could lose consumers, business partners and advertisers.  In the event of a security breach, we could suffer financial exposure in connection with penalties, remediation efforts, investigations and legal proceedings and changes in our security and system protection measures. Currently, not all of our systems are fully compliant with the new GDPR standards and, as a result, we may face additional liability in the event of a security breach. The scope of many of the requirements under the GDPR remain unclear. Future case law may determine that the steps we are taking to comply with the GDPR may not be sufficient.
Restrictions on outdoor advertising of certain products may restrict the categories of clients that can advertise using our products
Out-of-court settlements between the major U.S. tobacco companies and all 50 states, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and other U.S. territories include a ban on the outdoor advertising of tobacco products.  Other products and services may be targeted in the U.S. in the future, including alcohol products. Most E.U. countries, among other nations, also have banned outdoor advertisements for tobacco products and regulate alcohol advertising. Localized restrictions on the location of advertising for High Fat, Salt and Sugar (“HFSS”) foods have been implemented in the U.K. Regulations vary across the countries in which we conduct business.  Any significant reduction in advertising of products due to content-related restrictions could cause a reduction in our direct revenues from such advertisements and an increase in the available space on the existing inventory of billboards in the outdoor advertising industry.
Environmental, health, safety and land use laws and regulations may limit or restrict some of our operations
As the owner or operator of various real properties and facilities, we must comply with various foreign, federal, state and local environmental, health, safety and land use laws and regulations. We and our properties are subject to such laws and regulations relating to the use, storage, disposal, emission and release of hazardous and non-hazardous substances and employee health and safety as well as zoning restrictions. Historically, we have not incurred significant expenditures to comply with these laws. However, additional laws which may be passed in the future, or a finding of a violation of or liability under existing laws, could require us to make significant expenditures and otherwise limit or restrict some of our operations.

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We are exposed to foreign currency exchange risks because a portion of our revenue is received in foreign currencies and translated to U.S. dollars for reporting purposes
We generate a portion of our revenues in currencies other than U.S. dollars. Changes in economic or political conditions, including Brexit, in any of the foreign countries in which we operate could result in exchange rate movement, new currency or exchange controls or other currency restrictions being imposed. Because we receive a portion of our revenues in currencies from the countries in which we operate, exchange rate fluctuations in any such currency could have an adverse effect on our profitability. A portion of our cash flows are generated in foreign currencies and translated to U.S. dollars for reporting purposes, and certain of the indebtedness held by our international subsidiaries is denominated in U.S. dollars, and, therefore, significant changes in the value of such foreign currencies relative to the U.S. dollar could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and our ability to meet interest and principal payments on our indebtedness.
Given the volatility of exchange rates, we cannot assure you that we will be able to effectively manage our currency transaction and/or translation risks. It is possible that volatility in currency exchange rates will have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations. We expect to experience economic losses and gains and negative and positive impacts on our operating income as a result of foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations.
Doing business in foreign countries exposes us to certain risks not expected to occur when doing business in the United States
Doing business in foreign countries carries with it certain risks that are not found when doing business in the United States.  These risks could result in losses against which we are not insured.  Examples of these risks include:
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potential adverse changes in the diplomatic relations of foreign countries with the United States;
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hostility from local populations;
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the adverse effect of foreign exchange controls
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government policies against businesses owned by foreigners;
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investment restrictions or requirements;
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expropriations of property without adequate compensation;
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the potential instability of foreign governments;
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the risk of insurrections;
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risks of renegotiation or modification of existing agreements with governmental authorities;
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difficulties collecting receivables and otherwise enforcing contracts with governmental agencies and others in some foreign legal systems;
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withholding and other taxes on remittances and other payments by subsidiaries;
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changes in tax structure and level; and
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changes in laws or regulations or the interpretation or application of laws or regulations.
Our International operations involve contracts with, and regulation by, foreign governments.  We operate in many parts of the world that experience corruption to some degree.  Although we have policies and procedures in place that are designed to promote legal and regulatory compliance (including with respect to the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and the U.K. Bribery Act), our employees, subcontractors and agents could take actions that violate applicable anti-corruption laws or regulations.  Violations of these laws, or allegations of such violations, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial position and results of operations.
Risks Related to the Separation, the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases and Our Relationship with iHeartCommunications
iHeartCommunications has filed a voluntary petition for relief under Chapter 11, which could cause significant uncertainties and risks for our operations and our liquidity
We are obligated to use various corporate services provided by iHeartCommunications and its affiliates, including treasury, payroll and other financial services, certain executive officer services, human resources and employee benefit services, legal services, information systems and network services and procurement and sourcing support, pursuant to a Corporate Services Agreement. Even though we are not Debtors in the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases, these bankruptcy proceedings have affected our rights under the Corporate Services Agreement and the other intercompany agreements.

Pursuant to the Corporate Services Agreement, substantially all of the cash generated from our domestic Americas operations is transferred daily into accounts of iHeartCommunications (after satisfying our controlled disbursement accounts and the funding requirements of the trustee accounts under the Series A Senior Notes due 2022 (the “Series A CCWH Senior Notes”) and Series B Senior Notes due 2022 (the “Series B CCWH Senior Notes” and together with the Series A Senior Notes, the “CCWH Senior Notes”) of our subsidiary Clear Channel Worldwide Holdings, Inc. (“CCWH”) and new 9.25% Senior Subordinated Notes due

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2024 (the “New CCWH Subordinated Notes”), where funds of ours and of iHeartCommunications are commingled. Prior to March 14, 2018, net amounts owed between us and iHeartCommunications were evidenced by revolving promissory notes.

Pursuant to an order entered by the Bankruptcy Court, as of March 14, 2018, the balance of the Due from iHeartCommunications Note was frozen, and following March 14, 2018, intercompany allocations that would have been reflected in adjustments to the balance of the Due from iHeartCommunications Note are instead reflected in an intercompany balance that accrues interest at a rate equal to the interest under the Due from iHeartCommunications Note. The Bankruptcy Court entered an order to allow iHeartCommunications to continue to provide the day-to-day cash management services for us during the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases. As of December 31, 2018 , we owed $21.6 million to iHeartCommunications under this intercompany arrangement with iHeartCommunications.

We are an unsecured creditor of iHeartCommunications with respect to amounts owed under the Due from iHeartCommunications Note. We do not expect to recover the full balance of the now-frozen Due from iHeartCommunications Note upon the consummation of the Plan of Reorganization. In accordance with the Settlement Agreement, the iHeart Plan of Reorganization provides that we will recover 14.44%, or approximately $149.0 million, in cash on the Due From iHeartCommunications Note. The iHeart Plan of Reorganization also provides that after the Separation, iHeartCommunications will provide the iHeart Line of Credit, an unsecured revolving line of credit in an aggregate amount not to exceed $200 million to us for a period of no more than three years following the effective date of the iHeart Plan of Reorganization, and that we will sell CCOH Preferred Stock to third parties. If we do not receive the expected recovery under the Due from iHeartCommunications Note, or if we do not otherwise obtain sufficient supplemental liquidity as contemplated by the iHeart Plan of Reorganization, we could experience a liquidity shortfall. In addition, any repayments that we received on the Due from iHeartCommunications Note during the one-year preference period prior to the filing of the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases may potentially be avoidable as a preference and subject to recovery by the iHeartCommunications bankruptcy estate, which could further exacerbate any liquidity shortfall.

While the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases and the Separation are pending, we are subject to business uncertainties and contractual restrictions that could disrupt our business.

Although we are not Debtors in the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases, we have experienced and may continue to experience disruption of our current plans and operations due to the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases and the planned Separation, which could have an adverse effect on our business and financial results. Employees and other key personnel may have uncertainties about the effect of the proposed Separation, and those uncertainties may impact the ability to retain, recruit and hire key personnel to manage and run the business while the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases are pending and the iHeart Plan of Reorganization has not become effective. Furthermore, some of our customers and vendors may be hesitant to transact business with us following the Separation in light of uncertainties about our ability to perform following the Separation. If we are unable to reassure customers and vendors to continue transacting with us following the Separation, our financial results may be adversely affected.
The proposed Separation may also prevent us from pursuing otherwise attractive business opportunities, result in our inability to respond effectively to competitive pressures, industry developments and future opportunities and may otherwise harm our business, financial results and operations.
Because iHeartCommunications continues to control substantially all of the total voting power of our common stock, investors will not be able to affect the outcome of a stockholder vote
As of December 31, 2018 , iHeartCommunications indirectly owned (1) all of our outstanding shares of Class B common stock and (2) 10,726,917 shares of our Class A common stock, collectively representing approximately 89.1% of the outstanding shares of our common stock.  Each share of our Class B common stock entitles its holder to 20 votes and each share of our Class A common stock entitles its holder to one vote on all matters on which stockholders are entitled to vote.  As a result, as of December 31, 2018 , iHeartCommunications controlled approximately 99% of the total voting power of our common stock.
As long as iHeartCommunications continues to own shares of our common stock representing more than 50% of the total voting power of our common stock, it will have the ability to direct the election of all members of our board of directors and, therefore, to exercise a controlling influence over our business and affairs, including any determinations with respect to mergers or other business combinations, our acquisition or disposition of assets, our incurrence of indebtedness, our issuance of any additional common stock or other equity securities, our repurchase or redemption of common stock or preferred stock, if applicable, and our payment of dividends in certain situations.  Similarly, iHeartCommunications has the power to determine the outcome of matters submitted to a vote of our stockholders, including the Separation.  Because iHeartCommunications’ interests as our controlling stockholder may differ from other stockholders’ interests, actions taken by iHeartCommunications with respect to us may not be favorable to all stockholders.

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Our agreements with iHeartCommunications impose obligations on, and iHeartCommunications' financing agreements effectively impose restrictions on, our ability to finance operations and capital needs, make acquisitions and engage in other business activities
We have entered into a Master Agreement, a Corporate Services Agreement, an Employee Matters Agreement, a Tax Matters Agreement, a Trademark License Agreement and a number of other agreements with iHeartCommunications setting forth various matters governing our relationship with iHeartCommunications while it remains a significant stockholder in us (collectively, the "Intercompany Agreements"). These agreements allow iHeartCommunications to retain control over many aspects of our operations, in addition to iHeartCommunications' ability to control us through its controlling ownership of our common stock. Pursuant to the Settlement Agreement and the iHeart Plan of Reorganization, these agreements will terminate upon the Separation. Prior to that time, or if the iHeart Plan of Reorganization does not become effective and the Settlement Agreement is terminated, we are not able to terminate these agreements or amend them in a manner we deem more favorable so long as iHeartCommunications continues to own shares of our common stock representing more than 50% of the total voting power of our common stock. iHeartCommunications' financing agreements also impose a number of restrictions on us.
In addition, the Master Agreement include restrictive covenants that, among other things, restrict our ability to:
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issue any shares of capital stock or securities convertible into capital stock;
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incur indebtedness;
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make certain acquisitions and investments;
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repurchase our stock;
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dispose of certain assets; and
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merge or consolidate.

Under the Settlement Agreement, iHeartCommunications waived its right under the Master Agreement to consent to our ability to replace or refinance the 7.625% Series A Senior Subordinated Notes due 2020 (the “Series A CCWH Subordinated Notes”) and 7.625% Series B Senior Subordinated Notes due 2020 (the “Series B CCWH Subordinated Notes and together with the Series A Subordinated Notes, the “CCWH Subordinated Notes”) effective immediately upon the confirmation of the iHeartMedia Plan of Reorganization, which occurred on January 22, 2019. Accordingly, we refinanced these notes on February 12, 2019 with the proceeds of new CCWH Subordinated Notes without consent from iHeartCommunications. However, this waiver did not extend to any other refinancing activity or any of the other activities listed above that we may seek to pursue prior to the Separation and therefore, the restrictions contained in these agreements continue to limit our ability to finance operations and capital needs, make acquisitions or engage in other business activities, including our ability to grow and increase our revenue or respond to competitive changes.
We may be unable to replace the services iHeartCommunications provides us in a timely manner or on comparable terms
Pursuant to the Corporate Services Agreement, we are obligated to use various corporate services provided by iHeartCommunications and its affiliates, including treasury, payroll and other financial services, certain executive officer services, human resources and employee benefit services, legal services, information systems and network services and procurement and sourcing support. iHeartCommunications has continued to provide these services during the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases, however, pursuant to the Settlement Agreement and the iHeart Plan of Reorganization, the Corporate Services Agreement will terminate at the time of the Separation and we will enter into a Transition Services Agreement. Under the Transition Services Agreement, iHM Management Services, Inc. (“iHM Management Services”) will provide, or will cause an affiliate to provide, certain administrative and support services and other assistance to us, which we will utilize in the conduct of our business as such business was conducted prior to the Separation generally for one year (subject to certain rights of the Company to extend for up to an additional year). Following the Separation and the expiration of the Transition Services Agreement, we will need to provide internally or obtain from unaffiliated third parties the services we currently receive from iHM Management Services and other affiliates of iHeartCommunications. We negotiated our arrangements with iHeartCommunications in the context of a parent-subsidiary relationship prior to the initial public offering of our Class A common stock and are negotiating the terms of the Transition Services Agreement in the context of the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases. We may be unable to replace these services in a timely manner or on terms and conditions as favorable as those we currently receive. We may be unable to successfully establish the infrastructure or implement the changes necessary to operate independently or may incur additional costs. If we fail to obtain the services necessary to operate effectively or if we incur greater costs in obtaining these services, our business, financial condition and results of operations may be adversely affected.
The Separation could result in significant tax liability to us

The Radio Distribution and the Separation are intended to be taxable transactions. The gain or loss recognized with respect to these transactions will depend on, among other things, (a) the value and tax basis of the assets transferred in the Radio Distribution

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and the value and tax basis of the New CCOH Common Stock on the effective date of the iHeart Plan of Reorganization (such values will be determined by reference to, among other things, the trading value of the iHeartMedia equity and New CCOH Common Stock following the effective date); (b) complex modeling considerations under certain U.S. Department of Treasury regulations; (c) the amount of cancellation of indebtedness income realized in connection with the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases; and (d) the extent to which any “excess loss accounts” (as defined under applicable Treasury regulations) are taken into account. The extent to which any related taxable gain or loss will result in any cash tax liabilities will depend on whether the tax attributes of iHeartMedia and its subsidiaries, including the net operating losses (“NOLs”) of iHeartMedia and its subsidiaries (including us and our subsidiaries), are sufficient to offset any net taxable gain attributable to the transactions.
Because certain of the factors that will determine whether the Separation will give rise to any cash tax liability cannot be known until the effective date of the iHeart Plan of Reorganization, we cannot say with certainty whether any such cash tax liability will be owed. To the extent the Separation does give rise to any cash tax liability, we, iHeartCommunications, iHeartMedia and various other entities would be jointly and severally liable under applicable law for any such amounts. The parties intend that the allocation of such liabilities among iHeartMedia and new CCOH will be addressed by a new tax matters agreement to be entered into on the effective date of the iHeart Plan of Reorganization.
The Merger is expected to, but may not, qualify as a “reorganization” within the meaning of Section 368(a) of the Code

The parties expect the Merger to be treated as a “reorganization” within the meaning of Section 368(a) of the Code, and the obligation of each of CCH and us to effect the Merger is conditioned upon the receipt of U.S. federal income tax opinions to that effect from their respective tax counsels or accounting advisors. These tax opinions represent the legal judgment of counsel or the relevant accounting advisor rendering the opinion and are not binding on the IRS or the courts. If the Merger does not qualify as a “reorganization,” then a holder of our Class A Common Stock may be required to recognize any gain or loss with respect to the receipt of New CCOH Common Stock in the Merger. Tax matters are very complicated and the consequences of the Merger to any particular stockholder will depend on that stockholder’s particular facts and circumstances. We urge you to consult your own tax advisor to determine the particular tax consequences of the Merger to you.
The iHeart Chapter 11 Cases may give rise to unfavorable tax consequences for us

Although the Company and its direct and indirect subsidiaries did not file Chapter 11 cases as part of the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases, the consummation of the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases may have an adverse impact on the Company and its subsidiaries.  The Radio Distribution and the Separation are intended to be taxable transactions and the Merger is expected to, but may not, qualify as a “reorganization” within the meaning of Section 368(a) of the Code. There is a risk that the Radio Distribution and Separation will give rise to a U.S. federal income tax liability to one or more members of iHeartMedia or its subsidiaries after the Separation. If such liability were to arise, we, iHeartCommunications, iHeartMedia and various other entities would be jointly liable under applicable law for such tax liability and, while we would not anticipate that any such tax liability would be asserted against us in the first instance, we may ultimately be liable for such liability if iHeartMedia and its subsidiaries fail to satisfy such liability. Similar principles may apply for foreign, state and local income tax purposes where we filed combined, consolidated or unitary returns with iHeartMedia or its subsidiaries for federal, foreign, state and local income tax purposes. In addition, iHeartMedia and its subsidiaries and we and our subsidiaries may be required to reduce certain of their or our, as applicable, tax attributes, including NOLs, as a result of any cancellation of indebtedness income realized by the Debtors in connection with the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases.
Transfers of our equity, issuances of equity in connection with the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases, and cancellation of indebtedness income realized by the Debtors in the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases may impair our ability to utilize our federal income tax net operating loss carryforwards in future years

Under federal income tax law, a corporation is generally permitted to deduct from taxable income NOLs carried forward from prior years. We are attributed a portion of the U.S. federal NOL carryforward of the iHeartMedia consolidated group. Our ability to utilize these NOL carryforwards to offset future taxable income and to reduce federal income tax liability is subject to certain requirements and restrictions. If we experience an “ownership change,” as defined in section 382 of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code, then our ability to use our NOL carryforwards may be substantially limited, which could have a negative impact on our financial position and results of operations. Generally, there is an “ownership change” if one or more shareholders owning 5% or more of a corporation’s common stock have aggregate increases in their ownership of such stock of more than 50 percentage points over the prior three-year period. Following the implementation of a plan of reorganization in the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases, it is expected that we will experience an “ownership change.”  Under section 382 of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code, absent an application exception, if a corporation undergoes an “ownership change,” the amount of federal income tax NOL carryforwards existing prior to the change that it could utilize to offset its taxable income in future taxable years generally is subject to an annual limitation to an amount equal to the value of its stock immediately prior to the ownership change multiplied by the long-term tax-

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exempt rate, subject to adjustments to reflect the differences between the fair market value of the corporation’s assets and the tax basis in such assets and various other complex rules and adjustments. Because the value of our stock can fluctuate materially, it is possible an ownership change would materially limit our ability to utilize our substantial federal income tax NOL carry-forwards in the future.  In addition, our NOLs may be subject to reduction as a result of any cancellation of indebtedness income realized by the Debtors in connection with the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that we will be able to utilize our federal income tax NOL carryforwards to offset future taxable income.
While we continue to be a subsidiary of iHeartCommunications, conflicts of interest may arise between iHeartCommunications and us in the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases that could be resolved in a manner unfavorable to us
Questions relating to conflicts of interest may arise between iHeartCommunications and us in a number of areas relating to our past and ongoing relationships, including in connection with the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases.  iHeartCommunications is owned indirectly by iHeartMedia. Two of our directors serve as directors of iHeartMedia. Three of our other directors are affiliated with iHeartMedia and its stockholders.  In addition, five of our executive officers serve as executive officers of iHeartMedia, including our CEO who also serves as the CEO of iHeartCommunications.
Areas in which conflicts of interest between iHeartCommunications and us could arise include, but are not limited to, the following:
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Cross officerships, directorships and stock ownership.  The ownership interests of our directors or executive officers in the common stock of iHeartMedia or service as a director or officer of both iHeartMedia and us could create, or appear to create, conflicts of interest when directors and executive officers are faced with decisions that could have different implications for the two companies.  For example, these decisions could relate to: (1) the nature, quality and cost of services rendered to us by iHeartCommunications; (2) disagreement over the desirability of a potential acquisition opportunity; (3) employee retention or recruiting; or (4) our capital structure, including our level of indebtedness and our dividend policy.
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Intercompany transactions.   Even during the pendency of the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases, iHeartCommunications or its affiliates may, from time to time, enter into transactions with us or our subsidiaries or other affiliates.  Although the terms of any such transactions will be established based upon negotiations between employees of iHeartCommunications and us, the independent directors on our board or a committee of disinterested directors, and, when appropriate, subject to the approval of the Bankruptcy Court, there can be no assurance the terms of any such transactions will be as favorable to us or our subsidiaries or affiliates as may otherwise be obtained in arm’s length negotiations.
•
Intercompany agreements. We have entered into certain agreements with iHeartCommunications pursuant to which it provides us certain management, administrative, accounting, tax, legal and other services, for which we reimburse iHeartCommunications on a cost basis.  In addition, we entered into a number of intercompany agreements covering matters such as tax sharing and our responsibility for certain liabilities previously undertaken by iHeartCommunications for certain of our businesses.  Pursuant to the Corporate Services Agreement between iHeartCommunications and us, we are contractually obligated to utilize the services of certain executive officers of iHeartCommunications as our executive officers until the Corporate Services Agreement is terminated in connection with the Separation and iHeartCommunications no longer owns shares of our common stock representing less than 50% of the total voting power of our common stock.  The terms of these agreements were established while we were a wholly owned subsidiary of iHeartCommunications and were not the result of arm’s length negotiations.  In addition, conflicts could arise in the interpretation of these existing agreements.
If iHeartCommunications engages in the same type of business we conduct or takes advantage of business opportunities that might be attractive to us, our ability to successfully operate and expand our business may be hampered
Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation provides that, subject to any contractual provision to the contrary, iHeartCommunications will have no obligation to refrain from:
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engaging in the same or similar business activities or lines of business as us; or
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doing business with any of our clients, customers or vendors.
In addition, the corporate opportunity policy set forth in our amended and restated certificate of incorporation addresses potential conflicts of interest between our company, on the one hand, and iHeartCommunications or iHeartMedia and its officers and directors who are officers or directors of our company, on the other hand.  The policy provides that if iHeartCommunications or iHeartMedia acquires knowledge of a potential transaction or matter which may be a corporate opportunity for both iHeartCommunications and us, we will have renounced our interest in the corporate opportunity.  It also provides that if one of

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our directors or officers who is also a director or officer of iHeartCommunications or iHeartMedia learns of a potential transaction or matter that may be a corporate opportunity for both iHeartCommunications and us, (1) we will have renounced our interest in the corporate opportunity, unless that opportunity is expressly offered to that person in writing solely in his or her capacity as our director or officer, and (2) the director or officer will have no duty to communicate or present that corporate opportunity to us and will not be liable to us or our stockholders for breach of fiduciary duty by reason of iHeartCommunications’ actions with respect to that corporate opportunity.
This policy could result in iHeartCommunications having rights to corporate opportunities in which both we and iHeartCommunications have an interest.
We may be more susceptible to adverse events as a result of the Separation

We may be unable to achieve some or all of the benefits that we expect to achieve as an independent company in the time we expect, if at all. By separating from iHeartMedia, we may be more susceptible to market fluctuations and have less leverage with suppliers, and we may experience other adverse events. The completion of the Separation will also require significant amounts of our management’s time and effort, which may divert management’s attention from operating and growing our business.
The Separation will result in changes in CCOH’s management team and may result in the loss of other key employees

Our business is dependent upon the performance of our management team and other key individuals. Five of our executive officers currently serve as executive officers of iHeartMedia, including our CEO and CFO, who serve as the CEO and CFO of iHeartMedia, respectively. These executive officers have historically provided services to us pursuant to the Corporate Services Agreement, which will be terminated upon consummation of the Separation. Effective upon the Separation, we have announced that William Eccleshare is expected to become our CEO and a member of our board of directors. Brian Coleman is expected to become our CFO and Lynn Feldman is expected to become our EVP and General Counsel. Mr. Eccleshare currently serves as Chairman and CEO of Clear Channel International, Mr. Coleman currently serves as our SVP and Treasurer and Ms. Feldman currently serves as General Counsel and Corporate Secretary for Clear Channel Outdoor Americas. Even though we have been able to identify these individuals, we will need to identify replacements for other key positions. Competition for these key individuals is intense. In addition, many of our key employees are at-will employees who are under no obligation to remain with us and may decide to leave as a result of the uncertainty surrounding the business following the Separation or for a variety of personal or other reasons beyond our control. If members of our management or key individuals decide to leave in the future, if we decide to make further changes to the composition of, or the roles and responsibilities of, these individuals, or if we are not successful in attracting, motivating and retaining other key employees, our business could be adversely affected.
Upon completion of the Separation, the composition of our board of directors will be different than the current composition of our board of directors

In connection with the Separation, members of our board of directors will be replaced with new members selected by a committee consisting of certain holders of interests and creditors in the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases. Our new board of directors will not have the same level of experience with our historical operations as our current board. Our new board of directors may pursue business plans and growth strategies that differ from our existing business plans and growth strategies. Any new business plans or growth strategies implemented by the new board of directors, including plans to address our capital structure and reduce our leverage, if unsuccessful, may lead to material unanticipated problems, expenses, liabilities, competitive responses, loss of customer and other business relationships, and an adverse impact on operations and financial results.
Our historical financial information is not necessarily representative of the results we would have achieved as an independent public company and may not be a reliable indicator of our future results

Our historical financial information does not necessarily reflect the results of operations and financial position we would have achieved as an independent public company not controlled by iHeartMedia during the periods presented, or those that we will achieve in the future.
Prior to the Separation, we operate as part of iHeartMedia’s broader corporate organization, and subsidiaries of iHeartMedia perform various corporate functions for us. Our historical financial information reflects allocations of corporate expenses from iHeartMedia for these and similar functions. These allocations may not reflect the costs we will incur for similar services in the future as an independent publicly-traded company.
Our historical financial information does not reflect changes that we expect to experience in the future as a result of the Separation from iHeartMedia, including changes in our capital structure, tax structure and new personnel needs. As part of iHeartMedia, we enjoyed certain benefits from iHeartMedia’s operating diversity, size and purchasing power and we will lose

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these benefits after the Separation. As an independent entity, we may be unable to purchase goods or services and technologies, such as insurance and health care benefits and computer software licenses, on terms as favorable to us as those we obtained as part of iHeartMedia prior to the Separation.
Following the Separation, we will also be responsible for the additional costs associated with being an independent publicly-traded company, including costs related to corporate governance, investor and public relations and public reporting. In addition, certain costs incurred by subsidiaries of iHeartMedia, including executive oversight, accounting, treasury, tax, legal, human resources, occupancy, procurement, information technology and other shared services, have historically been allocated to us by iHeartMedia; but these allocations may not reflect the future level of these costs to us as we begin to provide these services ourselves. Therefore, our historical financial statements may not be indicative of our future performance as an independent publicly-traded company. We cannot assure you that our operating results will continue at a similar level when we are an independent publicly-traded company.
We are currently a “controlled company” within the meaning of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) rules but we are not expected to retain that status following the Separation. However, during the phase-in period we may continue to rely on exemptions from certain corporate governance requirements that provide protection to stockholders of other companies.
Because iHeartCommunications currently controls a majority of the combined voting power of all classes of our outstanding voting stock, we have been a “controlled company” under NYSE corporate governance listing standards. Under the NYSE Listing Rules, a company of which more than 50% of the voting power is held by another person or group of persons acting together is a controlled company and may elect not to comply with certain NYSE corporate governance requirements, including the requirements that:
▪
a majority of the board of directors consist of independent directors
▪
the nominating and governance committee be composed entirely of independent directors with a written charter addressing the committee's purpose and responsibilities; and
▪
the compensation committee be composed entirely of independent directors with a written charter addressing the committee's purpose and responsibilities

Accordingly, our stockholders do not have the same protections afforded to stockholders of companies that are subject to all of the NYSE corporate governance requirements.
Following the Separation, iHeartCommunications will cease to control a majority of the combined voting power of all classes of our outstanding voting stock. Accordingly, if the Separation is consummated, we are not expected to continue to be a “controlled company” within the meaning of the rules of the NYSE Listing Rules. Under NYSE Listing Rules, a company that ceases to be a controlled company must comply with the independent board committee requirements as they relate to the nominating and corporate governance and compensation committees on the following phase-in schedule: (1) one independent committee member at the time it ceases to be a controlled company; (2) a majority of independent committee members within 90 days of the date it ceases to be a controlled company; and (3) all independent committee members within one year of the date it ceases to be a controlled company. Additionally, the NYSE Listing Rules provide a 12-month phase-in period from the date a company ceases to be a controlled company to comply with the majority independent board requirement. During these phase-in periods, holders of New CCOH Common Stock will not have the same protections afforded to stockholders of companies of which the majority of directors are independent. Additionally, if, within the phase-in periods, we are not able to recruit additional directors who would qualify as independent, or otherwise comply with NYSE Listing Rules, we may be subject to delisting procedures by the NYSE. Furthermore, a change in the board of directors and committee membership may result in a change in corporate strategy and operation philosophies and may result in deviations from our current strategies or from the strategies established by our board of directors following the Separation.
We currently do not have control over our tax decisions and could be liable for income taxes owed by iHeartCommunications
Until the Separation occurs, we and certain of our subsidiaries will be included in the iHeartMedia consolidated group for U.S. federal income tax purposes for all pre-merger periods and the CCH consolidated group for post-merger periods.  In addition, we or one or more of our subsidiaries may be included in the combined, consolidated, or unitary tax returns of iHeartMedia for pre-Merger periods and CCH for post-Merger periods or one or more of its subsidiaries for foreign, state and local income tax purposes.  Under the existing Tax Matters Agreement, we pay to iHeartCommunications the amount of federal, foreign, state and local income taxes that we would be required to pay to the relevant taxing authorities if we and our subsidiaries filed combined, consolidated or unitary tax returns and were not included in the combined, consolidated or unitary tax returns of iHeartMedia or its subsidiaries.  In addition, by virtue of its controlling ownership and the existing Tax Matters Agreement, iHeartCommunications effectively controls all of our tax decisions.  The existing Tax Matters Agreement provides that iHeartCommunications has the sole authority to respond to and conduct all tax proceedings (including tax audits) relating to us, to file all income tax returns on

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our behalf and to determine the amount of our liability to (or entitlement to payment from) iHeartCommunications under the existing Tax Matters Agreement.  This arrangement may result in conflicts of interest between iHeartCommunications and us.  For example, under the existing Tax Matters Agreement, iHeartCommunications is able to choose to contest, compromise, or settle any adjustment or deficiency proposed by the relevant taxing authority in a manner that may be beneficial to iHeartCommunications and detrimental to us. Following the Separation, we will become party to a new tax matters agreement with iHeartMedia, which will provide for the allocation of rights, obligations, and potential liabilities among us and iHeartMedia, including with respect to control of audits and tax controversies, the filing of tax returns for the pre- and post-Separation periods, allocation of liabilities both related and unrelated to the Separation, and various other matters.
Moreover, notwithstanding the Tax Matters Agreement, federal law provides that each member of a consolidated group is liable for the group’s entire tax obligation.  Thus, to the extent iHeartMedia or other members of the group fail to make any United States federal income tax payments required by law, we would be liable for the shortfall.  Similar principles may apply for foreign, state and local income tax purposes where we file combined, consolidated or unitary returns with iHeartMedia or its subsidiaries for federal, foreign, state and local income tax purposes.
Some of our contracts contain provisions requiring the consent of third parties in connection with the Merger or the Separation. If these consents are not obtained, the contracts could be terminated, which could have a material adverse impact on our financial results.

Some of our contracts, including certain contracts with municipalities and transit authorities, contain provisions that require the consent of certain third parties to the Merger or the Separation. Failure to obtain consents on commercially reasonable and satisfactory terms may result in the termination of the contracts, the need to renegotiate or amend the contracts or legal action to determine the obligations of the parties. We may not be able to replace some or all of the revenue lost upon the termination of a contract, which could have a material adverse impact on our financial results.
The Merger is subject to various closing conditions and there can be no assurances as to whether and when it may be completed

The closing of the Merger of the Company with and into CCH is subject to a number of conditions, many of which are not within CCH’s or our control, and failure to satisfy such conditions may prevent, delay or otherwise materially adversely affect the completion of the Separation. The conditions include (i) (x) the affirmative vote or written consent of the holders of the shares representing the majority of the voting power of our common stock to adopt the merger agreement, to approve the Merger and to approve the consummation of the transactions contemplated thereby and (y) the affirmative vote or written consent of the holders of shares of CCH common stock entitled to vote to adopt the merger agreement, to approve the Merger and to approve the consummation of the transactions contemplated thereby, (ii) no order, writ, judgment, injunction, decree, stipulation, determination or award entered by or with any governmental authority or other legal restraint or prohibition preventing the Merger or the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement will be in effect, (iii) the effectiveness of the registration statement covering the shares of New CCOH Common Stock to be issued in the Merger, (iv) a period of at least 20 calendar days will have elapsed from the date the information statement/prospectus with respect to the Separation is first mailed to our stockholders, (v) the approval of the merger agreement by the Bankruptcy Court (which may be included in the order confirming the iHeart Plan of Reorganization), (vi) the Radio Distribution and certain distributions of our common stock have occurred, (vii) the conversion of all outstanding shares of our Class B common stock held by CCH into shares of Class A common stock will have occurred, (viii) that, as a condition to CCH’s obligation to consummate the Merger, CCH will have received a tax opinion issued by its tax counsel or another tax advisor, (ix) that, as a condition to our obligation to consummate the Merger, we will have received a tax opinion issued by our tax counsel or another tax advisor, (x) the approval by the NYSE for listing of the New CCOH Common Stock, (xi) all conditions precedent to the effectiveness of the iHeart Plan of Reorganization will have been satisfied prior to or contemporaneously with the closing of the Merger and (xii) other customary conditions.

We cannot predict with certainty whether and when any of the required conditions to the closing of the Merger will be satisfied. If any event occurs delaying or preventing the Separation, such delay or failure to complete the Separation may cause uncertainty or other negative consequences that may materially and adversely affect our business, financial performance and operating results and the price per share for our common stock. There can be no assurance that the conditions to the Merger will be satisfied in a timely manner or at all.

Risks Related to Our Class A Common Stock
The distribution of our shares held by iHeartCommunications at the consummation of the iHeart Plan of Reorganization as well as sales by subsequent holders could depress the market price for shares of our common stock
The iHeart Plan of Reorganization contemplates that the shares of our common stock held by iHeartCommunications will be distributed to certain holders of claims in the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases at the conclusion of the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases.

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Accordingly, unless the iHeart Plan of Reorganization does not become effective, iHeartCommunications will not maintain its ownership of our common stock. Holders of claims in the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases receiving New CCOH Common Stock pursuant to the iHeartMedia Plan of Reorganization (other than recipients that are our affiliates) generally may sell those shares immediately in the public market. It is likely that some of these holders will sell such New CCOH Common Stock if, for reasons such as its business profile or market capitalization as an independent company, stock of New CCOH does not fit their investment objectives, or, in the case of index funds, New CCOH is not a participant in the index in which they are investing. The distribution of our shares by iHeartCommunications as well as subsequent sales of significant amounts of New CCOH Common Stock or the perception in the market that this will occur may decrease the market price of our common stock.
In addition, uncertainties caused by the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases, including timing and consummation of the Separation, may cause investors to perceive disadvantages in owning our Class A common stock, which may also result in a decline of market prices.
We currently do not pay regularly-scheduled dividends on our Class A common stock
In the past, we have paid certain special dividends but we do not pay regularly-scheduled dividends and are subject to restrictions on our ability to pay dividends should we seek to do so in the future, including with respect to the New CCOH Common Stock after the Separation.  We are a holding company with no independent operations and no significant assets other than the stock of our subsidiaries.  We, therefore, are dependent upon the receipt of dividends or other distributions from our subsidiaries to pay dividends.  In addition, the CCWH Senior Notes and the New CCWH Subordinated Notes contain restrictions on our ability to pay dividends.  If we elect not to pay dividends in the future or are prevented from doing so, including after the Separation, the price of our Class A common stock, or New CCOH Common Stock following the Separation, must appreciate in order to realize a gain on your investment.  This appreciation may not occur.
In the event the Separation is not completed, the trading price of our common stock and our future business and financial results may be negatively impacted
The conditions to the completion of the Separation may not be satisfied, and the Separation may not be completed. If the Separation is not completed for any reason, we may be subject to a number of risks, including:
▪
the failure to consummate the iHeart Plan of Reorganization, which failure will lead to continued uncertainty for us;
▪
the focus of iHeartMedia’s and the Company’s management having been diverted from seeking other potential opportunities without realizing any benefits of the Separation;
▪
negative reactions from our customers, suppliers, regulators and employees; and
▪
the price of our Class A common stock declining significantly from current market prices, to the extent that current market prices may reflect a market assumption that the Separation will be completed.

If the Separation is not completed, the risks described above may materialize and adversely affect our business, financial condition, financial results and stock price.
The market price of the New CCOH Common Stock may decline compared to the historical market price of our Class A common stock as a result of the Separation and related transactions
The market price of the New CCOH Common Stock may decline compared to the historical market price of our Class A common stock as a result of the Separation and related transactions if we do not achieve the perceived benefits of the Separation as rapidly or to the extent anticipated by financial or industry analysts, or the effect of the Separation on our financial results is not consistent with the expectations of financial or industry analysts.
The holders of CCOH Preferred Stock will have rights that are senior to the rights of a holder of New CCOH Common Stock
As part of the Separation, we will issue the CCOH Preferred Stock to third party investors. Although the terms of the CCOH Preferred Stock have yet to be fully negotiated, the CCOH Preferred Stock is expected to provide that, in the event of our bankruptcy, dissolution or liquidation, the holders of CCOH Preferred Stock must be satisfied before any distributions can be made to the holders of New CCOH Common Stock. As a result of the CCOH Preferred Stock’s superior rights relative to the New CCOH Common Stock, the right of holders of New CCOH Common Stock to receive distributions from us may be diluted and may be limited by such rights.
Our stock ownership by iHeartCommunications, provisions in our agreements with iHeartCommunications and our corporate governance documents, Delaware law and the Chapter 11 Cases may delay or prevent an acquisition of us that our other stockholders may consider favorable, which could decrease the value of your shares of Class A common stock

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As long as iHeartCommunications continues to own shares of our common stock representing more than 50% of the total voting power of our common stock, it will have the ability to control decisions regarding an acquisition of us by a third party.  As a controlled company, we are exempt from some of the corporate governance requirements of the NYSE, including the requirement that our board of directors consist of a majority of independent directors.  In addition, our amended and restated certificate of incorporation, bylaws and Delaware law contain provisions that could make it more difficult for a third party to acquire us without the consent of our board of directors.  These provisions include restrictions on the ability of our stockholders to remove directors, supermajority voting requirements for stockholders to amend our organizational documents, restrictions on a classified board of directors and limitations on action by our stockholders by written consent.  Some of these provisions, such as the limitation on stockholder action by written consent, only become effective once iHeartCommunications no longer controls us.  In addition, our board of directors has the right to issue preferred stock without stockholder approval, which could be used to dilute the stock ownership of a potential hostile acquirer.  Delaware law also imposes certain restrictions on mergers and other business combinations between us and any holder of 15% or more of our outstanding voting stock.  These restrictions under Delaware law do not apply to iHeartCommunications while it retains at least 15% or more of our Class B common stock.  Although we believe these provisions protect our stockholders from coercive or otherwise unfair takeover tactics and thereby provide for an opportunity to receive a higher bid by requiring potential acquirers to negotiate with our board of directors, these provisions apply even if the offer may be considered beneficial by some stockholders. As a result of the filing of the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases, iHeartCommunications is operating as a “debtor-in-possession” under the jurisdiction of the Bankruptcy Court, and any acquisition of us by a third party would also require the approval of the Bankruptcy Court.
Risks Related to Our Indebtedness
We may not be able to generate sufficient cash to service all of our indebtedness and may be forced to take other actions to satisfy our obligations under our indebtedness, which may not be successful
We have a substantial amount of indebtedness.  At December 31, 2018 , we had $5.3 billion of total indebtedness outstanding, including: (1) $2.7 billion aggregate principal amount of CCWH Senior Notes, net of unamortized discounts of $3.4 million, which mature in November 2022; (2) $2.2 billion aggregate principal amount of CCWH Subordinated Notes, which were scheduled to mature in March 2020 prior to their redemption in 2019; (3) $377.7 million aggregate principal amount outstanding of international subsidiary senior notes, net of unamortized premiums of $2.7 million, which mature in December 2020; and (4) $3.9 million of other debt. On February 12, 2019, CCWH refinanced its CCWH Subordinated Notes, which were scheduled to mature in March 2020, with an aggregate principal amount of $2,235 million of New CCWH Subordinated Notes, which mature in February 2024.
This large amount of indebtedness could have negative consequences for us, including, without limitation:
▪
requiring us to dedicate a substantial portion of our cash flow to the payment of principal and interest on indebtedness, thereby reducing cash available for other purposes, including to fund operations and capital expenditures, invest in new technology and pursue other business opportunities;
▪
limiting our liquidity and operational flexibility and limiting our ability to obtain additional financing for working capital, capital expenditures, debt service requirements, acquisitions and general corporate or other purposes;
▪
limiting our ability to adjust to changing economic, business and competitive conditions;
▪
requiring us to defer planned capital expenditures, reduce discretionary spending, sell assets, restructure existing indebtedness or defer acquisitions or other strategic opportunities;
▪
limiting our ability to refinance any of the indebtedness or increasing the cost of any such financing;
▪
making us more vulnerable to an increase in interest rates, a downturn in our operating performance, a decline in general economic or industry conditions or a disruption in the credit markets; and
▪
making us more susceptible to negative changes in credit ratings, which could impact our ability to obtain financing in the future and increase the cost of such financing.
If compliance with the debt obligations materially hinders our ability to operate our business and adapt to changing industry conditions, we may lose market share, our revenue may decline and our operating results may suffer.
Our ability to make scheduled payments on our debt obligations depends on our financial condition and operating performance, which is subject to prevailing economic and competitive conditions and to certain financial, business and other factors beyond our control. We may not be able to maintain a level of cash flows from operating activities sufficient to permit us to pay the principal, premium, if any, and interest on our indebtedness.
If our cash flows and capital resources are insufficient to fund our debt service obligations, we may be forced to reduce or delay capital expenditures, sell assets or operations, seek additional capital or refinance our indebtedness.  We may not be able to take any of these actions, and these actions may not be successful or permit us to meet our scheduled debt service obligations.  Furthermore, these actions may not be permitted under the terms of our existing or future debt agreements.

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Our ability to refinance our debt will depend on the condition of the capital markets and our financial condition at such time. Any refinancing of our debt could be at higher interest rates and increase our debt service obligations and may require us to comply with more onerous covenants, which could further restrict our business operations. The terms of existing or future debt instruments may restrict us from adopting some of these alternatives. These alternative measures may not be successful and may not permit us to meet our scheduled debt service obligations. Our operations and our ability to successfully refinance or extend our debt may also be negatively affected by the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases and the Separation. If we cannot make scheduled payments on our indebtedness we will be in default under one or more of our debt agreements and, as a result we could be forced into bankruptcy or liquidation.
Because we derive all of our operating income from our subsidiaries, our ability to repay our debt depends upon the performance of our subsidiaries and their ability to dividend or distribute funds to us
We derive all of our operating income from our subsidiaries. As a result, our cash flow and the ability to service our indebtedness depend on the performance of our subsidiaries and the ability of those entities to distribute funds to us. We cannot assure you that our subsidiaries will be able to, or be permitted to, pay to us the amounts necessary to service our debt.
The documents governing our indebtedness contain restrictions that limit our flexibility in operating our business
Our material financing agreements contain various covenants restricting, among other things, our ability to:
▪
make acquisitions or investments;
▪
make loans or otherwise extend credit to others;
▪
incur indebtedness or issue shares or guarantees;
▪
redeem, repurchase or retire our subordinated debt;
▪
create liens;
▪
enter into transactions with affiliates;
▪
sell, lease, transfer or dispose of assets;
▪
merge or consolidate with other companies; and
▪
make a substantial change to the general nature of our business.
These restrictions could affect our ability to operate our business and may limit our ability to react to market conditions or take advantage of potential business opportunities as they arise.  For example, such restrictions could adversely affect our ability to finance our operations, make strategic acquisitions, investments or alliances, restructure our organization or finance our capital needs.  Additionally, our ability to comply with these covenants and restrictions may be affected by events beyond our control.  These include prevailing economic, financial and industry conditions.  If we breach any of these covenants or restrictions, we could be in default under the agreements governing our indebtedness and, as a result, we would be forced into bankruptcy or liquidation.
Downgrades in our credit ratings may adversely affect our borrowing costs, limit our financing options, reduce our flexibility under future financings and adversely affect our liquidity, and also may adversely impact our business operations
Our corporate credit ratings are speculative-grade. Our corporate credit ratings and ratings outlook are subject to review by rating agencies from time to time and, on various occasions, have been downgraded. In the future, our corporate credit rating and rating outlook could be further downgraded. Any further reductions in our credit ratings could increase our borrowing costs, reduce the availability of financing to us or increase the cost of doing business or otherwise negatively impact our business operations.
Cautionary Statement Concerning Forward-Looking Statements
The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides a safe harbor for forward-looking statements made by us or on our behalf.  This report contains various forward-looking statements which represent our expectations or beliefs concerning future events, including, without limitation, our future operating and financial performance, our ability to comply with the covenants in the agreements governing our indebtedness and the availability of capital and the terms thereof.  Statements expressing expectations and projections with respect to future matters are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.  We caution that these forward-looking statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties and are subject to many variables which could impact our future performance.  These statements are made on the basis of management’s views and assumptions, as of the time the statements are made, regarding future events and performance.  There can be no assurance, however, that management’s expectations will necessarily come to pass.  Actual future events and performance may differ materially from the expectations reflected in our forward-looking statements.  We do not intend, nor do we undertake any duty, to update any forward-looking statements.

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A wide range of factors could materially affect future developments and performance, including but not limited to:
▪
risks associated with weak or uncertain global economic conditions and their impact on the level of expenditures on advertising, including the effects of Brexit;
▪
our ability to service our debt obligations and to fund our operations and capital expenditures;
▪
industry conditions, including competition;
▪
our ability to obtain key municipal concessions for our street furniture and transit products;
▪
fluctuations in operating costs;
▪
technological changes and innovations;
▪
shifts in population and other demographics;
▪
other general economic and political conditions in the United States and in other countries in which we currently do business, including those resulting from recessions, political events and acts or threats of terrorism or military conflicts;
▪
changes in labor conditions and management;
▪
the impact of future dispositions, acquisitions and other strategic transactions;
▪
legislative or regulatory requirements;
▪
regulations and consumer concerns regarding privacy and data protection, and breaches of information security measures;
•
increases in tax rates or changes in tax laws or regulations;
•
a breach of our security measures;
▪
restrictions on outdoor advertising of certain products;
▪
capital expenditure requirements;
▪
fluctuations in exchange rates and currency values;
▪
risks of doing business in foreign countries;
▪
the identification of a material weakness in our internal control over financial reporting;
▪
the risks and uncertainties associated with the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases on us and iHeartCommunications, our primary direct or indirect external source of capital, which is operating as a “debtor-in-possession” under the jurisdiction of the Bankruptcy Court;
▪
iHeartCommunications' continued control of the total voting power of our common stock;
▪
the obligations and restrictions imposed on us by our agreements with iHeartCommunications;
▪
the risk that we may be unable to replace the services iHeartCommunications provides us in a timely manner or on comparable terms;
▪
the risk that the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases may result in unfavorable tax consequences for us and impair our ability to utilize our federal income tax net operating loss carryforwards in future years;
▪
risks related to the consummation of the Separation or to the fact that the Separation may not be consummated;
▪
the impact of our substantial indebtedness, including the effect of our leverage on our financial position and earnings;
▪
the ability of our subsidiaries to dividend or distribute funds to us in order for us to repay our debts;
▪
the restrictions contained in the agreements governing our indebtedness limiting our flexibility in operating our business;
▪
the effect of credit ratings downgrades; and
▪
certain other factors set forth in our other filings with the SEC.
This list of factors that may affect future performance and the accuracy of forward-looking statements is illustrative and is not intended to be exhaustive.  Accordingly, all forward-looking statements should be evaluated with the understanding of their inherent uncertainty.
ITEM 1B.  UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
None.
ITEM 2.  PROPERTIES
Our corporate headquarters are located in San Antonio, Texas, where we lease space for executive offices and a data and administrative service center.  In addition, certain of our executive and other operations are located in New York, New York and London, England.
The types of properties required to support each of our outdoor advertising branches include offices, production facilities and structure sites.  An outdoor branch and production facility is generally located in an industrial or warehouse district.

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With respect to each of the Americas and International segments, we primarily lease our outdoor display sites and own or have acquired permanent easements for relatively few parcels of real property that serve as the sites for our outdoor displays.  Our leases generally range from month-to-month to year-to-year and can be for terms of 10 years or longer, and many provide for renewal options.
There is no significant concentration of displays under any one lease or subject to negotiation with any one landlord.  We believe that an important part of our management activity is to negotiate suitable lease renewals and extensions.  For additional information regarding our properties, see “Item 1. Business.”
ITEM 3.  LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
We currently are involved in certain legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business and, as required, have accrued an estimate of the probable costs for the resolution of those claims for which the occurrence of loss is probable and the amount can be reasonably estimated.  These estimates have been developed in consultation with counsel and are based upon an analysis of potential results, assuming a combination of litigation and settlement strategies.  It is possible, however, that future results of operations for any particular period could be materially affected by changes in our assumptions or the effectiveness of our strategies related to these proceedings.  Additionally, due to the inherent uncertainty of litigation, there can be no assurance that the resolution of any particular claim or proceeding would not have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations.
Although we are involved in a variety of legal proceedings in the ordinary course of business, a large portion of our litigation arises in the following contexts: commercial disputes; misappropriation of likeness and right of publicity claims; employment and benefits related claims; governmental fines; intellectual property claims; and tax disputes.
Stockholder Litigation
On May 9, 2016, a stockholder of the Company filed a derivative lawsuit in the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware, captioned GAMCO Asset Management Inc. v. iHeartMedia Inc. et al., C.A. No. 12312-VCS. The complaint names as defendants iHeartCommunications, iHeartMedia, the Sponsor Defendants, iHeartMedia’s private equity sponsors and majority owners, and the members of the Company’s board of directors. The Company also is named as a nominal defendant. The complaint alleges that the Company has been harmed by the intercompany agreements with iHeartCommunications, the Company’s lack of autonomy over its own cash and the actions of the defendants in serving the interests of iHeartMedia, iHeartCommunications and the Sponsor Defendants to the detriment of the Company and its minority stockholders. Specifically, the complaint alleges that the defendants have breached their fiduciary duties by causing the Company to: (i) continue to loan cash to iHeartCommunications under the intercompany note at below-market rates; (ii) abandon its growth and acquisition strategies in favor of transactions that would provide cash to iHeartMedia and iHeartCommunications; (iii) issue new debt in Clear Channel International B.V.’s, a subsidiary of ours, offering of 8.75% Senior Notes due 2020 (the “CCIBV Note Offering”) to provide cash to iHeartMedia and iHeartCommunications through a dividend; and (iv) effect the sales of certain outdoor markets in the U.S. (the “Outdoor Asset Sales”) allegedly to provide cash to iHeartMedia and iHeartCommunications through a dividend. The complaint also alleges that iHeartMedia, iHeartCommunications and the Sponsor Entities aided and abetted the directors’ breaches of their fiduciary duties. The complaint further alleges that iHeartMedia, iHeartCommunications and the Sponsor Entities were unjustly enriched as a result of these transactions and that these transactions constituted a waste of corporate assets for which the defendants are liable to the Company. The plaintiff sought, among other things, a ruling that the defendants breached their fiduciary duties to the Company and that iHeartMedia, iHeartCommunications and the Sponsor Entities aided and abetted the board of directors’ breaches of fiduciary duty, rescission of payments to iHeartCommunications and its affiliates pursuant to dividends declared in connection with the CCIBV Note Offering and Outdoor Asset Sales, and an order requiring iHeartMedia, iHeartCommunications and the Sponsor Entities to disgorge all profits they have received as a result of the alleged fiduciary misconduct.
On July 20, 2016, the defendants filed a motion to dismiss plaintiff's verified stockholder derivative complaint for failure to state a claim upon which relief can be granted. On November 23, 2016, the Court granted defendants’ motion to dismiss all claims brought by the plaintiff.  On December 19, 2016, the plaintiff filed a notice of appeal of the ruling. The oral hearing on the appeal was held on October 11, 2017. On October 12, 2017, the Supreme Court of Delaware affirmed the lower court's ruling, dismissing the case.
On December 29, 2017, another stockholder of the Company filed a derivative lawsuit in the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware, captioned Norfolk County Retirement System, v. iHeartMedia, Inc., et al. , C.A. No. 2017-0930-JRS. The complaint names as defendants iHeartMedia, iHeartCommunications, the Sponsor Entities, and the Delaware Settlement Parties.  The Company is named as a nominal defendant. The complaint alleges that the Company has been harmed by the Company board of directors' November 2017 decision to extend the maturity date of the intercompany revolving note (the “Third Amendment”) at what the complaint describes as far-below-market interest rates.  Specifically, the complaint alleges that (i) iHeartMedia and

29


Sponsor Entities breached their fiduciary duties by exploiting their position of control to require the Company to enter the Third Amendment on terms unfair to the Company; (ii) the Company board of directors breached their duty of loyalty by approving the Third Amendment and elevating the interests of iHeartMedia, iHeartCommunications and the Sponsor Entities over the interests of the Company and its minority unaffiliated stockholders; and (iii) the terms of the Third Amendment could not have been agreed to in good faith and represent a waste of corporate assets by the Company board of directors.  The complaint further alleges that iHeartMedia, iHeartCommunications and the Sponsor Entities were unjustly enriched as a result of the unfairly favorable terms of the Third Amendment.  The plaintiff sought, among other things, a ruling that the defendants breached their fiduciary duties to the Company, a modification of the Third Amendment to bear a commercially reasonable rate of interest, and an order requiring disgorgement of all profits, benefits and other compensation obtained by defendants as a result of the alleged breaches of fiduciary duties.
On March 7, 2018, the defendants filed a motion to dismiss plaintiff's verified derivative complaint for failure to state a claim upon which relief can be granted. On March 16, 2018, iHeartMedia filed a Notice of Suggestion of Pendency of Bankruptcy and Automatic Stay of Proceedings.
On August 27, 2018, the same stockholder of CCOH that had filed the derivative lawsuit in the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware, captioned GAMCO Asset Management Inc. v. iHeartMedia Inc. et al., C.A. No. 12312-VCS (GAMCO Asset Management Inc.) filed a putative class action lawsuit in the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware, captioned GAMCO Asset Management, Inc. v. Hendrix, et al. , C.A. No. 2018-0633-JRS. The complaint names as defendants the Sponsor Entities and the members of CCOH’s board of directors. The complaint alleges that minority shareholders in CCOH during the period November 8, 2017 to March 14, 2018 were harmed by decisions of the CCOH Board and the intercompany note committee of the Board relating to the Due from iHeartCommunications Note. Specifically, the complaint alleges that (i) the members of the intercompany note committee breached their fiduciary duties by not demanding payment under the Intercompany Note and issuing a simultaneous dividend after a threshold tied to the Company’s liquidity had been reached; (ii) the CCOH board of directors breached their fiduciary duties by approving the Third Amendment rather than allowing the Intercompany Note to expire; (iii) the CCOH board of directors breached their fiduciary duties by not demanding payment under the Intercompany Note and issuing a simultaneous dividend after a threshold tied to the Company’s liquidity had been reached; (iv) the Sponsor Entities breached their fiduciary duties by not directing the CCOH board of directors to permit the Intercompany Note to expire and to declare a dividend. The complaint further alleges that the Sponsor Entities aided and abetted the Board’s alleged breach of fiduciary duties. The plaintiff sought, among other things, a ruling that the CCOH board of directors, the intercompany note committee, and the Sponsor Entities breached their fiduciary duties and that the Sponsor Entities aided and abetted the Board’s breach of fiduciary duty; and an award of damages, together with pre- and post-judgment interests, to the putative class of minority shareholders.
On December 16, 2018, the Debtors, the Company, GAMCO Asset Management, Inc., Norfolk County Retirement System entered, the Sponsor Entities, and the Delaware Settlement Parties, through their respective counsel, entered into the Settlement Agreement that embodies the terms of (i) a global settlement of all direct or derivative claims by or on behalf of GAMCO and Norfolk, both individually and on behalf of the putative class of public shareholders of the Company, against certain members of the Company's board of directors, the Sponsor Entities, iHeartCommunications, iHeartMedia, the company and the Debtors, including the derivative lawsuit in the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware and (ii) the Separation in accordance with the iHeart Plan of Reorganization.
The Settlement Agreement contemplates that upon the Separation, (i) the cash sweep arrangement under the Corporate Services Agreement will terminate, (ii) any agreements or licenses requiring royalty payments to the Debtors for trademarks or other intellectual property will terminate and (iii) a new transition services agreement will supersede and replace the existing Corporate Services Agreement. The Debtors agreed to waive (i) the set-off for the value of the intellectual property transferred, including royalties and (ii) the repayment of the post-petition intercompany balance outstanding in favor of the Debtors as of December 31, 2018. In addition, the Settlement Agreement provides that after the Separation, (i) iHeartCommunications will provide the iHeart Line of Credit in an aggregate amount not to exceed $200 million for a period of no more than three years following the effective date of the iHeart Plan of Reorganization, (ii) iHeartMedia will indemnify CCOH for 50% of certain tax liabilities imposed on the company’s in connection with the Separation on or prior to the third anniversary of the Separation in excess of $5.0 million, with iHeartMedia’s aggregate liability limited to $15.0 million, and (iii) iHeartMedia will reimburse the company for one-third of potential costs relating to certain agreements between the company and third parties in excess of $10.0 million of such costs up to the first $35.0 million of such costs such that iHeartMedia will not bear more than $8.33 million of such costs. The parties agreed that the Company will recover 14.44% in cash on its allowed claim of $1,031.7 million under the Due From iHeartCommunications Note, and to mutual releases, including a release of all claims that have been asserted, could have been asserted or ever could be asserted with respect to the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases and the actions. The Settlement Agreement was approved by the United States District Court for the Southern District of Texas and the Bankruptcy Court in connection with the confirmation of the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases on January 22, 2019.

30


China Investigation
Several employees of Clear Media Limited, an indirect, non-wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company whose ordinary shares are listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, are subject to an ongoing police investigation in China for misappropriation of funds. We are not aware of any litigation, claim or assessment pending against us in this investigation or otherwise. Based on information known to date, we believe any contingent liabilities arising from potential misconduct that has been or may be identified by the investigation in China are not material to our consolidated financial statements. The effect of the misappropriation of funds is reflected in these financial statements in the appropriate periods.
We advised both the SEC and the DOJ of the investigation at Clear Media Limited and we are cooperating to provide information in response to inquiries from the agencies. The Clear Media Limited investigation could implicate the books and records, internal controls and anti-bribery provisions of the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, which statute and regulations provide for potential monetary penalties as well as criminal and civil sanctions. It is possible that monetary penalties and other sanctions could be assessed on the Company in connection with this matter. The nature and amount of any monetary penalty or other sanctions cannot reasonably be estimated at this time.
Italy Investigation
During the three months ended June 30, 2018, we identified misstatements associated with VAT obligations in our business in Italy, which resulted in an understatement of our VAT obligation. These misstatements resulted in an understatement of other long-term liabilities of $16.9 million as of December 31, 2017. The effect of these misstatements is reflected in the historical financial statements in the appropriate periods. Upon identification of these misstatements, we undertook certain procedures, including a forensic investigation, which is ongoing. In addition, we voluntarily disclosed the matter and preliminary findings to the Italian tax authorities in order to commence a discussion on the appropriate calculation of the VAT position. The current expectation is that we may have to repay to the Italian tax authority a substantial portion of the VAT previously applied as a credit in relation to the transactions under investigation, amounting to approximately $17 million, including estimated possible penalties and interest. We made a payment of $8.6 million during the fourth quarter of 2018 and expect to pay the remainder during the first half of 2019. The ultimate amount to be paid may differ from our estimates, and such differences may be material.

ITEM 4.  MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES
Not Applicable.

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EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT
The following information with respect to our executive officers is presented as of March 5, 2019 :
Name
 
Age
 
Position
Robert W. Pittman
 
65
 
Chief Executive Officer
Richard J. Bressler
 
61
 
Chief Financial Officer
Scott R. Wells
 
50
 
Chief Executive Officer – Clear Channel Outdoor Americas
C. William Eccleshare
 
63
 
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer – Clear Channel Outdoor International
Steven J. Macri
 
50
 
Senior Vice President – Corporate Finance
Scott D. Hamilton
 
49
 
Senior Vice President, Chief Accounting Officer and Assistant Secretary
Robert H. Walls, Jr.
 
58
 
Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary
The officers named above serve until their respective successors are chosen and qualified, in each case unless the officer sooner dies, resigns, is removed or becomes disqualified.
Robert W. Pittman is the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of iHeartMedia, iHeartCommunications and iHeartMedia Capital I, LLC and the Chief Executive Officer of the Company. Mr. Pittman was appointed as the Executive Chairman and a director of iHeartMedia and iHeartCommunications on October 2, 2011. He was appointed as Chairman of iHeartMedia and iHeartCommunications on May 17, 2013. He also was appointed as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer and a member of the board of managers of iHeartMedia Capital I, LLC on April 26, 2013. Prior to October 2, 2011, Mr. Pittman served as the Chairman of Media and Entertainment Platforms for iHeartMedia and iHeartCommunications since November 2010. He has been a member of, and an investor in, Pilot Group, a private equity investment company, since April 2003. Mr. Pittman was formerly Chief Operating Officer of AOL Time Warner, Inc. from May 2002 to July 2002. He also served as Co-Chief Operating Officer of AOL Time Warner, Inc. from January 2001 to May 2002, and earlier, as President and Chief Operating Officer of America Online, Inc. from February 1998 to January 2001. Mr. Pittman serves on the boards of numerous charitable organizations, including the Lupus Research Alliance, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Foundation and the Robin Hood Foundation, where he has served as past Chairman.
Richard J. Bressler is the President, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Director of iHeartMedia, iHeartMedia Capital I, LLC and iHeartCommunications and the Chief Financial Officer of the Company.  Mr. Bressler was appointed as the Chief Financial Officer and President of iHeartMedia, iHeartMedia Capital I, LLC, iHeartCommunications and the Company on July 29, 2013 and as Chief Operating Officer of iHeartMedia, iHeartMedia Capital I, LLC and iHeartCommunications on February 18, 2015. Prior thereto, Mr. Bressler was a Managing Director at THL. Prior to joining THL, Mr. Bressler was the Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Viacom, Inc. from 2001 through 2005. He also served as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Time Warner Digital Media and, from 1995 to 1999, was Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Time Warner Inc. Prior to joining Time Inc. in 1988, Mr. Bressler was previously a partner with the accounting firm of Ernst & Young LLP. Mr. Bressler also currently is a director of iHeartMedia, iHeartCommunications and Gartner, Inc., a member of the board of managers of iHeartMedia Capital I, LLC and Mr. Bressler previously served as a member of the board of directors of American Media Operations, Inc., Nielsen Holdings B.V. and Warner Music Group Corp. and as a member of the J.P. Morgan Chase National Advisory Board. Mr. Bressler holds a B.B.A. in Accounting from Adelphi University.
Scott R. Wells is the Chief Executive Officer of Clear Channel Outdoor Americas at each of the iHeartMedia, iHeartMedia Capital I, LLC, iHeartCommunications and the Company and was appointed to this position on March 3, 2015.  Previously, Mr. Wells served as an Operating Partner at Bain Capital since January 2011 and prior to that served as an Executive Vice President at Bain Capital since 2007. Mr. Wells also was one of the leaders of the firm’s operationally focused Portfolio Group. Prior to joining Bain Capital, he held several executive roles at Dell, Inc. (“Dell”) from 2004 to 2007, most recently as Vice President of Public Marketing and On-Line in the Americas. Prior to joining Dell, Mr. Wells was a Partner at Bain & Company, where he focused primarily on technology and consumer-oriented companies. Mr. Wells was a member of our Board from August 2008 until March 2015. He currently serves as a director of the Achievement Network (ANet), where he is Chairman, and the Outdoor Advertising Association of America (OAAA). He has an M.B.A., with distinction, from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and a B.S. from Virginia Tech.

32


C. William Eccleshare is the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer- Clear Channel International at each of iHeartMedia, iHeartMedia Capital I, LLC, iHeartCommunications and the Company and was appointed to this position on March 2, 2015. Prior to such time, he served as Chief Executive Officer – Outdoor of iHeartMedia, iHeartCommunications and the Company since January 24, 2012 and as Chief Executive Officer—Outdoor of iHeartMedia Capital I, LLC on April 26, 2013.  Prior to January 24, 2012, he served as Chief Executive Officer—Clear Channel Outdoor—International of iHeartMedia and iHeartCommunications since February 17, 2011 and as Chief Executive Officer—International of the Company since September 1, 2009.  Previously, he was Chairman and CEO of BBDO EMEA from 2005 to 2009.  Prior thereto, he was Chairman and CEO of Young & Rubicam EMEA since 2002.
Steven J. Macri is the Senior Vice President-Corporate Finance of iHeartMedia, iHeartMedia Capital I, LLC, iHeartCommunications and the Company and the Chief Financial Officer of iHeartMedia's iHM segment. Mr. Macri was appointed Senior Vice President - Corporate Finance of iHeartMedia, iHeartMedia Capital I, LLC, iHeartCommunications and the Company on September 9, 2014 and as the Chief Financial Officer of iHeartMedia division on October 7, 2013. Prior to joining the company, Mr. Macri served as Chief Financial Officer for LogicSource Inc., from March 2012 to September 2013. Prior to joining LogicSource, Mr. Macri was Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at Warner Music Group Corp. from September 2008 to December 2011 and prior thereto served as Controller and Senior Vice President-Finance from February 2005 to August 2008. He has an MBA from New York University Stern School of Business and a B.S. in Accounting from Syracuse University.
Scott D. Hamilton is the Senior Vice President, Chief Accounting Officer and Assistant Secretary of iHeartMedia, iHeartMedia Capital I, LLC, iHeartCommunications and the Company. Mr. Hamilton was appointed Senior Vice President, Chief Accounting Officer and Assistant Secretary of iHeartMedia, iHeartCommunications and the Company on April 26, 2010 and was appointed as Senior Vice President, Chief Accounting Officer and Assistant Secretary of iHeartMedia Capital I, LLC on April 26, 2013.  Prior to April 26, 2010, Mr. Hamilton served as Controller and Chief Accounting Officer of Avaya Inc. (“Avaya”), a multinational telecommunications company, from October 2008 to April 2010.  Prior thereto, Mr. Hamilton served in various accounting and finance positions at Avaya, beginning in October 2004.  Prior thereto, Mr. Hamilton was employed by PricewaterhouseCoopers from September 1992 until September 2004 in various roles including audit, transaction services and technical accounting consulting.
Robert H. Walls, Jr. is the Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary of iHeartMedia, iHeartMedia Capital I, LLC, iHeartCommunications and the Company.  Mr. Walls was appointed the Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary of iHeartMedia, iHeartCommunications and the Company on January 1, 2010 and was appointed as Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary of iHeartMedia Capital I, LLC on April 26, 2013.  On March 31, 2011, Mr. Walls was appointed to serve in the newly-created Office of the Chief Executive Officer for iHeartMedia Capital I, LLC, iHeartCommunications and the Company, in addition to his existing offices.  Mr. Walls served in the Office of the Chief Executive Officer for iHeartMedia Capital I, LLC and iHeartCommunications until October 2, 2011, and served in the Office of the Chief Executive Officer for the Company until January 24, 2012.  Mr. Walls was a founding partner of Post Oak Energy Capital, LP and served as Managing Director through December 31, 2009 and as an advisor to Post Oak Energy Capital, LP through December 31, 2013.

33


PART II
ITEM 5.  MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
Market Information
Shares of our Class A common stock trade on the NYSE under the symbol “CCO.” As of February 28, 2019 , there were 50,583,199 shares of our Class A common stock outstanding (excluding 1,108,583 shares held in treasury).  There were 155 stockholders of record as of February 28, 2019 .  This figure does not include an estimate of the indeterminate number of beneficial holders whose shares may be held of record by brokerage firms and clearing agencies.
There is no established public trading market for our Class B common stock.  There were 315,000,000 shares of our Class B common stock outstanding on February 28, 2019 .  iHeartCommunications indirectly holds all of the shares of Class B common stock outstanding and 10,726,917 shares of Class A common stock, representing 89.1% of the shares outstanding and approximately 99% of the voting power.  The holders of our Class A common stock and Class B common stock have identical rights, except holders of our Class A common stock are entitled to one vote per share while holders of Class B common stock are entitled to 20 votes per share.  The shares of Class B common stock are convertible, at the option of the holder at any time or upon any transfer, into shares of Class A common stock on a one-for-one basis, subject to certain limited exceptions.
Sales of Unregistered Securities
We did not sell any equity securities during 2018 that were not registered under the Securities Act of 1933.
Purchases of Equity Securities
The following table sets forth the purchases made during the quarter ended December 31, 2018 by or on behalf of us or an affiliated purchaser of shares of our Class A common stock registered pursuant to Section 12 of the Exchange Act:
Period
 
Total Number of Shares
Purchased (1)
 
Average Price Paid per
Share (1)
 
Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of
Publicly Announced Plans or Programs
 
Maximum Number (or Approximate Dollar Value) of
Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or
Programs
October 1 through October 31
 
1,972

 
$
5.87

 
—

 
$
—

November 1 through November 30
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

December 1 through December 31
 
7,941

 
5.08

 
—

 
—

Total
 
9,913

 
$
5.24

 
—

 
$
—

(1)
The shares indicated consist of shares of our Class A common stock tendered by employees to us during the three months ended December 31, 2018 to satisfy the employees’ tax withholding obligation in connection with the vesting and release of restricted shares, which are repurchased by us based on their fair market value on the date the relevant transaction occurs.

34


ITEM 6.  SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
The following tables set forth our selected historical consolidated financial and other data as of the dates and for the periods indicated. The selected historical financial data are derived from our audited consolidated financial statements. Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the 2018 presentation.  Historical results are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for future periods.  Acquisitions and dispositions impact the comparability of the historical consolidated financial data reflected in this schedule of Selected Financial Data.
The selected historical consolidated financial and other data should be read in conjunction with “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and our consolidated financial statements and the related notes thereto located within Item 8 of Part II of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
(In thousands, except per share data)
For the Years Ended December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
 
2015
 
2014
Results of Operations Data:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenue
$
2,721,705

 
$
2,588,702

 
$
2,679,822

 
$
2,806,204

 
$
2,961,107

Operating expenses:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Direct operating expenses (excludes depreciation and amortization)
1,470,668

 
1,409,767

 
1,418,319

 
1,485,835

 
1,600,602

Selling, general and administrative expenses (excludes depreciation and amortization)
522,918

 
499,213

 
515,421

 
527,821

 
551,107

Corporate expenses (excludes depreciation and amortization)
152,090

 
143,678

 
117,436

 
116,523

 
131,008

Depreciation and amortization
318,952

 
325,991

 
344,124

 
375,962

 
406,243

Impairment charges (1)
7,772

 
4,159

 
7,274

 
21,631

 
3,530

Other operating income (expense), net
2,498

 
26,391

 
354,688

 
(4,824
)
 
7,259

Operating income
251,803

 
232,285

 
631,936

 
273,608

 
275,876

Interest expense, net
388,133

 
379,701

 
375,029

 
355,917

 
353,563

Interest income on Due from iHeartCommunications
393

 
68,871

 
50,309

 
61,439

 
60,179

Loss on Due from iHeartCommunications
—

 
(855,648
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

Equity in earnings (loss) of nonconsolidated affiliates
904

 
(990
)
 
(1,689
)
 
(289
)
 
3,789

Other income (expense), net
(35,297
)
 
28,755

 
(70,151
)
 
12,387

 
15,185

Income (loss) before income taxes
(170,330
)
 
(906,428
)
 
235,376

 
(8,772
)
 
1,466

Income tax benefit (expense)
(32,515
)
 
280,218

 
(77,499
)
 
(49,943
)
 
8,967

Consolidated net income (loss)
(202,845
)
 
(626,210
)
 
157,877

 
(58,715
)
 
10,433

Less amount attributable to noncontrolling interest
15,395

 
18,138

 
22,807

 
24,629

 
26,864

Net income (loss) attributable to the Company
$
(218,240
)
 
$
(644,348
)
 
$
135,070

 
$
(83,344
)
 
$
(16,431
)
(1)
We recorded non-cash impairment charges of $7.8 million , $4.2 million , $7.3 million , $21.6 million and $3.5 million during 2018 , 2017 , 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. Our impairment charges are discussed more fully in Item 8 of Part II of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Net income (loss) attributable to the Company per common share:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic
$
(0.60
)
 
$
(1.78
)
 
$
0.37

 
$
(0.23
)
 
$
(0.05
)
Weighted average common shares
361,740

 
361,141

 
360,294

 
359,508

 
358,565

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Diluted
$
(0.60
)
 
$
(1.78
)
 
$
0.37

 
$
(0.23
)
 
$
(0.05
)
Weighted average common shares
361,740

 
361,141

 
361,612

 
359,508

 
358,565


35


(In thousands)
As of December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
 
2015
 
2014
Balance Sheet Data:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Current assets
$
1,015,800

 
$
974,172

 
$
1,330,977

 
$
1,556,884

 
$
1,038,411

Property, plant and equipment, net
1,288,938

 
1,395,029

 
1,412,833

 
1,627,986

 
1,905,651

Total assets
4,522,028

 
4,670,782

 
5,708,370

 
6,295,975

 
6,279,011

Current liabilities
729,816

 
657,512

 
641,718

 
920,613

 
723,472

Long-term debt, net of current maturities
5,277,108

 
5,266,153

 
5,110,020

 
5,106,513

 
4,880,526

Stockholders’ deficit
(2,101,652
)
 
(1,858,294
)
 
(947,312
)
 
(578,637
)
 
(162,594
)

36


ITEM 7.  MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
OVERVIEW
Format of Presentation
Management’s discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations (“MD&A”) should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related footnotes contained in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.  Our discussion is presented on both a consolidated and segment basis.  Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc.’s (the “Company,” “CCOH,” “we” or “us”) reportable operating segments are Americas outdoor advertising (“Americas”) and International outdoor advertising (“International”).  Our Americas and International segments provide outdoor advertising services in their respective geographic regions using various digital and traditional display types.
We manage our operating segments primarily focusing on their operating income, while Corporate expenses, Depreciation and amortization, Impairment charges, Other operating income (expense), net, Interest expense, Interest income on the intercompany note owed by iHeartCommunications to the Company (the “Due from iHeartCommunications Note”), Equity in earnings (loss) of nonconsolidated affiliates, Other income, net and Income tax benefit (expense) are managed on a total company basis and are, therefore, included only in our discussion of consolidated results.
We re-evaluated our segment reporting and determined that our Latin American operations should be managed by our International leadership team. As such, beginning January 1, 2018, our Latin American operations are included in our International segment. Accordingly, we recast the corresponding segment disclosures for prior periods to include Latin America within the International segment.
Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the 2018 presentation.
Description of Our Business
Our revenue is derived from selling advertising space on the displays we own or operate in key markets worldwide, consisting primarily of billboards, street furniture and transit displays.  Part of our long-term strategy is to pursue the technology of digital displays, including flat screens, LCDs and LEDs, as additions to traditional methods of displaying our clients’ advertisements. We are currently installing these technologies in certain markets, both domestically and internationally.
Management typically monitors our business by reviewing the average rates, average revenue per display, occupancy and inventory levels of each of our display types by market.
We own the majority of our advertising displays, which typically are located on sites that we either lease or own or for which we have acquired permanent easements.  Our advertising contracts with clients typically outline the number of displays reserved, the duration of the advertising campaign and the unit price per display.
The significant expenses associated with our operations include direct production, maintenance and installation expenses as well as site lease expenses for land under our displays including revenue-sharing or minimum guaranteed amounts payable under our billboard, street furniture and transit display contracts.  Our direct production, maintenance and installation expenses include costs for printing, transporting and changing the advertising copy on our displays, the related labor costs, the vinyl costs, electricity costs and the costs for cleaning and maintaining our displays.  Vinyl costs vary according to the complexity of the advertising copy and the quantity of displays.  Our site lease expenses include lease payments for use of the land under our displays, as well as any revenue-sharing arrangements or minimum guaranteed amounts payable that we may have with the landlords.  The terms of our site leases and revenue-sharing or minimum guaranteed contracts generally range from one to 20 years.
Americas
Our advertising rates are based on a number of different factors including location, competition, type and size of display, illumination, market and gross ratings points.  Gross ratings points are the total number of impressions delivered by a display or group of displays, expressed as a percentage of a market's population.  The number of impressions delivered by a display is measured by the number of people passing the site during a defined period of time.  For all of our billboards in the United States, we use independent, third-party auditing companies to verify the number of impressions delivered by a display.
Client contract terms typically range from four weeks to one year for the majority of our display inventory in the United States.  Generally, we own the street furniture structures and are responsible for their construction and maintenance.  Contracts for the right to place our street furniture and transit displays and sell advertising space on them are awarded by municipal and

37


transit authorities in competitive bidding processes governed by local law or are negotiated with private transit operators.  Generally, these contracts have terms ranging from 10 to 20 years.
International
Similar to our Americas business, advertising rates generally are based on the gross ratings points of a display or group of displays. The number of impressions delivered by a display, in some countries, is weighted to account for such factors as illumination, proximity to other displays and the speed and viewing angle of approaching traffic.  In addition, because our International advertising operations are conducted in foreign markets, including Europe, Asia and Latin America, management reviews the operating results from our foreign operations on a constant dollar basis.  A constant dollar basis allows for comparison of operations independent of foreign exchange movements.
Our International display inventory is typically sold to clients through network packages, with clients contracting for a day part, one or more days or one or more weeks (depending on the nature of the inventory), with terms of up to one year available as well.  Internationally, contracts with municipal and transit authorities for the right to place our street furniture and transit displays typically provide for terms ranging up to 15 years. The major difference between our International and Americas street furniture businesses is in the nature of the municipal contracts.  In our International business, these contracts typically require us to provide the municipality with a broader range of metropolitan amenities in exchange for which we are authorized to sell advertising space on certain sections of the structures we erect in the public domain.  A different regulatory environment for billboards and competitive bidding for street furniture and transit display contracts, which constitute a larger portion of our business internationally, may result in higher site lease costs in our International business.
Macroeconomic Indicators
Our advertising revenue for our Americas and International segments is highly correlated to changes in gross domestic product (“GDP”) as advertising spending has historically trended in line with GDP, both domestically and internationally. Internationally, our results are impacted by fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates as well as the economic conditions in the foreign markets in which we have operations.
Relationship with iHeartCommunications
There are several agreements which govern our relationship with iHeartCommunications, Inc. (“iHeartCommunications”), including a Master Agreement, a Corporate Services Agreement, an Employee Matters Agreement, a Tax Matters Agreement, a Trademark License Agreement and a number of other agreements with iHeartCommunications setting forth various matters governing our relationship with iHeartCommunications while it remains a significant stockholder in us (collectively, the "Intercompany Agreements").  iHeartCommunications has the right to terminate these agreements in various circumstances.  As of the date of the filing of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, no notice of termination of any of these agreements has been received from iHeartCommunications.  Our agreements with iHeartCommunications continued under the same terms and conditions subsequent to iHeartCommunications’ merger.
On March 14, 2018 , iHeartMedia, Inc. the indirect parent of the Company and certain of its subsidiaries (“iHeartMedia”), including iHeartCommunications (collectively, the “Debtors”), filed voluntary petitions for reorganization (the “iHeart Chapter 11 Cases”) under Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code (the “Bankruptcy Code”) in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas, Houston Division (the “Bankruptcy Court”). The Company and its direct and indirect subsidiaries did not file voluntary petitions for relief under the Bankruptcy Code and are not Debtors in the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases.
The iHeart Chapter 11 Cases are being jointly administered under the caption In re: iHeartMedia, Inc. et al., Case No. 18-31274 (MI). The Debtors continue to operate their businesses as “debtors-in-possession” under the jurisdiction of the Bankruptcy Court and in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Bankruptcy Code and orders of the Bankruptcy Court. iHeartMedia’s modified fifth amended Plan of Reorganization (the “iHeart Plan of Reorganization”) was confirmed by the Bankruptcy Court on January 22, 2019
The iHeart Plan of Reorganization contemplates a restructuring of the Debtors whereby our business is proposed to be separated from iHeartCommunications upon consummation of the plan and the conclusion of the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases (the “Separation”). Effectiveness of the iHeart Plan of Reorganization and consummation of the Separation is subject to certain conditions, including the receipt of certain governmental approvals. Although the timing of when and if all such conditions will be satisfied or otherwise waived is inherently uncertain, iHeartMedia currently anticipates the iHeart Plan of Reorganization will become effective and iHeartMedia will emerge from Chapter 11 during the second quarter of 2019.

38


Our board of directors established the Special Committee to consider, review and negotiate certain transactions between iHeartCommunications and us in connection with the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases.
See Item 1 “Business--The iHeart Chapter 11 Cases and the Separation” for more information about the iHeart Plan of Reorganization and the Separation.
In accordance with the Master Agreement, our branch managers follow a corporate policy allowing iHeartCommunications to use, without charge, Americas’ displays they believe would otherwise be unsold.  iHeartCommunications bears the cost of producing the advertising and we bear the costs of installing and removing this advertising.
Under the Corporate Services Agreement, iHeartCommunications provides management services to us.  These services are charged to us based on actual direct costs incurred or allocated by iHeartCommunications based on headcount, revenue or other factors on a pro rata basis.  For the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , we recorded approximately $68.0 million , $68.7 million and $36.0 million , respectively, as a component of corporate expenses for these services.
The Trademark and License Agreement entitles us to use (1) on a nonexclusive basis, the "Clear Channel" trademark and the Clear Channel "outdoor" trademark logo with respect to day-to-day operations of our business worldwide and on the Internet, and (2) certain other Clear Channel marks in connection with our business. On February 9, 2017, we entered into a binding option and letter of intent with iHeartMedia granting us a binding option to purchase at fair value the registered trademarks and domain names owned by iHeartMedia and its subsidiaries that incorporate one or more of the words "Clear" and/or "Channel," and any translations or derivations of any of the foregoing, together with any goodwill associated therewith. This option was exercisable in our sole and absolute discretion at any time between February 23, 2018 and February 23, 2019. For the year ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 , management service expenses included $38.7 million and $36.8 million , respectively, pursuant to the Trademark License Agreement.
These agreements will be terminated in connection with the consummation of the Separation.
Executive Summary
The key developments in our business for the year ended December 31, 2018 are summarized below:
•
Consolidated revenue increased $133.0 million during 2018 compared to 2017 . Excluding a $30.5 million impact from movements in foreign exchange rates, consolidated revenue increased $102.5 million during 2018 compared to 2017 .
•
On June 1, 2018, Clear Channel Outdoor, Inc. ("CCO"), a subsidiary of ours, refinanced the Company's senior revolving credit facility with a receivables-based credit facility that provides for revolving credit commitments of up to $75.0 million. On June 29, 2018, CCO entered into an amendment providing for a $50.0 million incremental increase of the facility, bringing the aggregate revolving credit commitments to $125.0 million. The facility has a five-year term, maturing in 2023.
Revenues and expenses “excluding the impact of foreign exchange movements” in this Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations is presented because management believes that viewing certain financial results without the impact of fluctuations in foreign currency rates facilitates period to period comparisons of business performance and provides useful information to investors.  Revenues and expenses “excluding the impact of foreign exchange movements” are calculated by converting the current period’s revenues and expenses in local currency to U.S. dollars using average foreign exchange rates for the prior period. 


39


RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Consolidated Results of Operations
The comparison of our historical results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2018 to the year ended December 31, 2017 is as follows:
(In thousands)
Years Ended December 31,
 
%
 
2018
 
2017
 
Change
Revenue
$
2,721,705

 
$
2,588,702

 
5.1%
Operating expenses:
 
 
 
 
 
Direct operating expenses (excludes depreciation and amortization)
1,470,668

 
1,409,767

 
4.3%
Selling, general and administrative expenses (excludes depreciation and amortization)
522,918

 
499,213

 
4.7%
Corporate expenses (excludes depreciation and amortization)
152,090

 
143,678

 
5.9%
Depreciation and amortization
318,952

 
325,991

 
(2.2)%
Impairment charges
7,772

 
4,159

 
86.9%
Other operating income, net
2,498

 
26,391

 
(90.5)%
Operating income
251,803

 
232,285

 
8.4%
Interest expense, net
388,133

 
379,701

 
 
Interest income on Due from iHeartCommunications
393

 
68,871

 
 
Loss on Due from iHeartCommunications
—

 
(855,648
)
 
 
Equity in earnings (loss) of nonconsolidated affiliates
904

 
(990
)
 
 
Other income (expense), net
(35,297
)
 
28,755

 
 
Loss before income taxes
(170,330
)
 
(906,428
)
 
 
Income tax benefit (expense)
(32,515
)
 
280,218

 
 
Consolidated net loss
(202,845
)
 
(626,210
)
 
 
Less amount attributable to noncontrolling interest
15,395

 
18,138

 
 
Net loss attributable to the Company
$
(218,240
)
 
$
(644,348
)
 
 
Consolidated Revenue
Consolidated revenue increased $133.0 million during the year ended December 31, 2018 compared to 2017 . Excluding a $30.5 million impact from movements in foreign exchange rates, consolidated revenue increased $102.5 million during 2018 compared to 2017 . The increase in consolidated revenue is primarily due to higher revenue from our International business, driven by growth across our European and Asian businesses. Revenue was also higher in our Americas business.
Consolidated Direct Operating Expenses
Consolidated direct operating expenses increased $60.9 million during the year ended December 31, 2018 compared to 2017 . Excluding the $23.1 million impact from movements in foreign exchange rates, consolidated direct operating expenses increased $37.8 million during 2018 compared to 2017 . Higher direct operating expenses in our International business, driven by revenue growth in various countries, was partially offset by lower direct operating expenses in our Americas business, primarily as a result of the sale of our business in Canada in August 2017.
Consolidated Selling, General and Administrative (“SG&A”) Expenses
Consolidated SG&A expenses increased $23.7 million during the year ended December 31, 2018 compared to 2017 . Excluding the $6.7 million impact from movements in foreign exchange rates, consolidated SG&A expenses increased $17.0 million during 2018 compared to 2017 . The increase in our SG&A expenses resulted primarily from higher expenses in our International business.

40


Corporate Expenses
Corporate expenses increased $8.4 million during the year ended December 31, 2018 compared to 2017 . Excluding the $1.0 million impact from movements in foreign exchange rates, corporate expenses increased $7.4 million during 2018 compared to 2017 , primarily as a result of higher employee-related expenses, including variable incentive compensation resulting from higher profitability at both of our segments, as well as employee benefits expense. These increases were partially offset by lower management fees.
Depreciation and Amortization
Depreciation and amortization decreased $7.0 million during the year ended December 31, 2018 compared to 2017 primarily due to assets becoming fully depreciated or fully amortized.
Impairment Charges
We perform our annual impairment test on our goodwill, billboard permits, and other intangible assets as of July 1 of each year.  In addition, we test for impairment of property, plant and equipment whenever events and circumstances indicate that depreciable assets might be impaired.  As a result of these impairment tests, we recorded an impairment charge of $7.8 million related to permits in one market in our Americas segment during the year ended December 31, 2018 . During the year ended December 31, 2017 , we recognized a $4.2 million impairment related to goodwill in one International business.  Please see Note 3 to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of Part II of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a further description of the impairment charges.
Other Operating Income, Net
Other operating income , net was $2.5 million for 2018 .
Other operating income , net of $26.4 million in 2017 primarily related to the sale in the first quarter of 2017 of the Americas' Indianapolis market in exchange for cash and certain assets in Atlanta, Georgia, resulting in a net gain of $28.9 million, and the $6.8 million gain recognized on the sale of our ownership interest in a joint venture in Belgium during the second quarter of 2017. These gains were partially offset by the $12.1 million loss on the sale in the third quarter 2017 of our Canada business.
Interest Expense, net
Interest expense, net increased $8.4 million in 2018 compared to 2017 , primarily due to the issuance by Clear Channel International B.V. ("CCIBV"), our indirect subsidiary, of $150.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 8.75% Senior Notes due 2020 (the "CCIBV Senior Notes") as additional notes under the indenture governing CCIBV's existing CCIBV Senior Notes during the third quarter of 2017.
Interest Income on Due from iHeartCommunications
Interest income on Due to/from iHeartCommunications, net decreased $68.5 million during the year ended December 31, 2018, compared to 2017 as we ceased recording interest income on the pre-petition balance due from iHeartCommunications as the collectability of the interest was not considered probable. See Note 7 to our Consolidated Financial Statements located in Part II of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Loss on Due from iHeartCommunications
Loss on Due from iHeartCommunications included the $855.6 million impairment of the Due from iHeartCommunications Note, which was recorded as a result of the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases.
Equity in Earnings (Loss) of Nonconsolidated Affiliates
Equity in earnings of nonconsolidated affiliates of $0.9 million for 2018 included the earnings from our equity investments in our Americas and International segments. Equity in loss of nonconsolidated affiliates of $1.0 million for 2017 included the loss from our equity investments in our Americas and International segments.
Other Income (Expense), Net
Other expense , net was $35.3 million for 2018 . Other income , net was $28.8 million for 2017 . These amounts relate primarily to net foreign exchange gains and losses recognized in connection with intercompany notes denominated in foreign currencies.

41


Income Tax Expense
Our operations are included in a consolidated income tax return filed by iHeartMedia.  However, for our financial statements, our provision for income taxes was computed as if we file separate consolidated federal income tax returns with our subsidiaries.

On December 22, 2017, the U.S. government enacted comprehensive income tax legislation, referred to as The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the "Tax Act"). The Tax Act reduced the U.S. federal corporate tax rate from 35% to 21% effective January 1, 2018, required companies to pay a one-time transition tax on earnings of certain foreign subsidiaries that were previously tax deferred, and created new U.S. taxes on certain foreign earnings. To account for the reduction in the U.S. federal corporate income tax rate, we remeasured our deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the rates at which they were expected to reverse in the future, generally 21%, which resulted in the recording of a provisional deferred tax benefit of $228.0 million during 2017. To determine the impact from the one-time transition tax on accumulated foreign earnings, we analyzed our cumulative foreign earnings and profits in accordance with the rules provided in the Tax Act and determined that no transition tax was due as a result of the net accumulated deficit in our foreign earnings and profits.  As of December 31, 2018, we have completed our accounting for all of the enactment-date income tax effects of the Tax Act and determined that no material adjustments were required to our provisional amounts recorded as of December 31, 2017.

The effective tax rate for 2018 was (19.1)% and was primarily impacted by the $50.3 million deferred tax expense recorded in connection with the valuation allowances recorded against federal and state deferred tax assets generated in the current period due to the uncertainty of the ability to utilize those assets in future periods. In addition, losses in certain foreign jurisdictions were not benefited primarily due to the uncertainty of the ability to utilize those losses in future periods.
The effective tax rate for 2017 was 30.9% and was primarily impacted by the $228.0 million provisional deferred tax benefit recorded in connection with the reduction of the U.S. federal corporate income tax rate to 21% upon enactment of the Tax Act mentioned above.
Americas Results of Operations
Our Americas operating results were as follows:
(In thousands)
Years Ended December 31,
 
%
 
2018
 
2017
 
Change
Revenue
$
1,189,348

 
$
1,161,059

 
2.4%
Direct operating expenses
524,659

 
527,536

 
(0.5)%
SG&A expenses
199,688

 
197,390

 
1.2%
Depreciation and amortization
166,806

 
179,119

 
(6.9)%
Operating income
$
298,195

 
$
257,014

 
16.0%
Americas revenue increased $28.3 million during 2018 compared to 2017 . The increase in revenue was due to increases in both digital and print revenue, partially offset by a $13.7 million decrease in revenue resulting from the sale of our Canadian business in August 2017.
Americas direct operating expenses decreased $2.9 million during 2018 compared to 2017 . The decrease was driven by a $10.3 million decrease in direct operating expenses resulting from the sale of our Canadian market, partially offset by higher site lease expenses. Americas SG&A expenses increased $2.3 million during 2018 compared to 2017 , primarily due to higher employee compensation expense, including variable incentive compensation, partially offset by a $3.3 million decrease in SG&A expenses resulting from the sale of our Canadian market.

42


International Results of Operations
Our International operating results were as follows:
(In thousands)
Years Ended December 31,
 
%
 
2018
 
2017
 
Change
Revenue
$
1,532,357

 
$
1,427,643

 
7.3%
Direct operating expenses
946,009

 
882,231

 
7.2%
SG&A expenses
323,230

 
301,823

 
7.1%
Depreciation and amortization
148,199

 
141,812

 
4.5%
Operating income
$
114,919

 
$
101,777

 
12.9%
International revenue increased $104.7 million during 2018 compared to 2017 . Excluding the $30.5 million impact from movements in foreign exchange rates, International revenue increased $74.2 million during 2018 compared to 2017 . The increase in revenue is due to growth in multiple countries, including Sweden, China, Spain, Switzerland, Ireland, France, Finland and the United Kingdom, primarily from new deployments and digital expansion.
International direct operating expenses increased $63.8 million during 2018 compared to 2017 . Excluding the $23.1 million impact from movements in foreign exchange rates, International direct operating expenses increased $40.7 million during 2018 compared to 2017 . The increase was driven by higher site lease expenses related to new contracts and higher revenues. International SG&A expenses increased $21.4 million during 2018 compared to 2017 . Excluding the $6.7 million impact from movements in foreign exchange rates, International SG&A expenses increased $14.7 million during 2018 compared to 2017 . The increase in SG&A expenses primarily related to higher spending on strategic revenue and efficiency initiatives, as well as higher employee-related expenses in countries experiencing growth.
Consolidated Results of Operations
The comparison of our historical results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2017 to the year ended December 31, 2016 is as follows:
(In thousands)
Years Ended December 31,
 
%
 
2017
 
2016
 
Change
Revenue
$
2,588,702

 
$
2,679,822

 
(3.4)%
Operating expenses:
 
 
 
 
 
Direct operating expenses (excludes depreciation and amortization)
1,409,767

 
1,418,319

 
(0.6)%
Selling, general and administrative expenses (excludes depreciation and amortization)
499,213

 
515,421

 
(3.1)%
Corporate expenses (excludes depreciation and amortization)
143,678

 
117,436

 
22.3%
Depreciation and amortization
325,991

 
344,124

 
(5.3)%
Impairment charges
4,159

 
7,274

 
(42.8)%
Other operating income, net
26,391

 
354,688

 
(92.6)%
Operating income
232,285

 
631,936

 
(63.2)%
Interest expense, net
379,701

 
375,029

 
 
Interest income on Due from iHeartCommunications
68,871

 
50,309

 
 
Loss on Due from iHeartCommunications
(855,648
)
 
—

 
 
Equity in loss of nonconsolidated affiliates
(990
)
 
(1,689
)
 
 
Other income (expense), net
28,755

 
(70,151
)
 
 
Income (loss) before income taxes
(906,428
)
 
235,376

 
 
Income tax benefit (expense)
280,218

 
(77,499
)
 
 
Consolidated income (loss)
(626,210
)
 
157,877

 
 
Less amount attributable to noncontrolling interest
18,138

 
22,807

 
 
Net income (loss) attributable to the Company
$
(644,348
)
 
$
135,070

 
 

43


Consolidated Revenue
Consolidated revenue decreased $91.1 million during 2017 compared to 2016. Excluding an $8.6 million impact from movements in foreign exchange rates, consolidated revenue decreased $99.7 million during 2017 compared to 2016. The decrease in consolidated revenue is primarily due to the sales of our businesses in Australia and Turkey in 2016 and Canada in 2017, which generated revenue of $13.7 million and $149.4 million in the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. This decrease was partially offset by revenue growth in our International business as a result of new contracts and digital expansion.
Consolidated Direct Operating Expenses
Consolidated direct operating expenses decreased $8.6 million during 2017 compared to 2016. Excluding the $4.0 million impact from movements in foreign exchange rates, consolidated direct operating expenses decreased $12.6 million during 2017 compared to 2016 due to the sales of our businesses in Australia and Turkey in 2016 and Canada in 2017. This decrease was partially offset by higher site lease expense related to new contracts.
Consolidated SG&A Expenses
Consolidated SG&A expenses decreased $16.2 million during 2017 compared to 2016. Excluding the $2.8 million impact from movements in foreign exchange rates, consolidated SG&A expenses decreased $19.0 million during 2017 compared to 2016. SG&A expenses were lower primarily due to the sales of our businesses in Australia and Turkey in 2016 and Canada in 2017.
Corporate Expenses
Corporate expenses increased $26.2 million during 2017 compared to 2016. Excluding the $1.4 million impact from movements in foreign exchange rates, corporate expenses increased $27.6 million during 2017 compared to 2016 primarily due to the $36.7 million trademark license fee paid to iHeartMedia, Inc. (see Note 7 to our Consolidated Financial Statements located in Part II of this Annual Report on Form 10-K). The increase in Corporate expenses is partially offset by a decrease in executive and share-based compensation expense.
Depreciation and Amortization
Depreciation and amortization decreased $18.1 million during 2017 compared to 2016 primarily due to the sale of the Australia and Turkey businesses and assets becoming fully depreciated or fully amortized.
Impairment Charges
We perform our annual impairment test on our goodwill, billboard permits, and other intangible assets as of July 1 of each year.  In addition, we test for impairment of property, plant and equipment whenever events and circumstances indicate that depreciable assets might be impaired.  As a result of these impairment tests, during 2017, we recorded an impairment charge of $1.6 million during 2017 related to goodwill in one International business. In addition, the Company recognized an impairment of $2.6 million during 2017 in relation to advertising assets that were no longer usable in one country in our International segment.   During 2016, we recognized a $7.3 million impairment related to goodwill in one International business.  Please see Note 3 to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of Part II of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a further description of the impairment charges.
Other Operating Income (Expense), Net
Other operating income, net of $26.4 million in 2017 primarily related to the sale in the first quarter of 2017 of the Americas' Indianapolis market in exchange for cash and certain assets in Atlanta, Georgia, resulting in a net gain of $28.9 million, and the $6.8 million gain recognized on the sale of our ownership interest in a joint venture in Belgium during the second quarter of 2017. These gains were partially offset by the $12.1 million loss on the sale in the third quarter 2017 of our Canada business.
Other operating income, net of $354.7 million in 2016 primarily related to the net gain of $278.3 million on sale of nine non-strategic U.S. markets in the first quarter of 2016 and the net gain of $127.6 million on sale of our business in Australia in the fourth quarter of 2016, partially offset by the $56.6 million loss, which includes $32.2 million in cumulative translation adjustments, on the sale of our business in Turkey in the second quarter of 2016.
Interest Expense, Net
Interest expense, net increased $4.7 million in 2017 compared to 2016, due primarily to new debt issuances.

44


Interest Income on Due from iHeartCommunications
The terms of the Due from iHeartCommunications Note provide that any balance above $1.0 billion continues to accrue interest at a rate of 20.0%, while the balance up to $1.0 billion accrues interest at a rate of 9.3% (prior to the amendment to the terms of the Due from iHeartCommunications note on November 29, 2017, the Note accrued interest at 6.5%). Interest income increased $18.6 million during 2017 compared to 2016, primarily due to a higher average outstanding balance on the Due from iHeartCommunications Note, including the impact of the amounts over $1.0 billion accruing interest at 20.0%.
Loss on Due from iHeartCommunications
Loss on Due from iHeartCommunications included the $855.6 million impairment of the Due from iHeartCommunications Note, which was recorded as a result of the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases.
Equity in Loss of Nonconsolidated Affiliates
Equity in loss of nonconsolidated affiliates of $1.0 million and $1.7 million for 2017 and 2016, respectively, included the loss from our equity investments in our Americas and International segments.
Other Income (Expense), Net
Other income, net was $28.8 million for 2017. Other expense, net was $70.2 million for 2016. These amounts relate primarily to net foreign exchange gains and losses recognized in connection with intercompany notes denominated in foreign currencies.
Income Tax Benefit (Expense)
Our operations are included in a consolidated income tax return filed by iHeartMedia.  However, for our financial statements, our provision for income taxes was computed as if we file separate consolidated federal income tax returns with our subsidiaries.
On December 22, 2017, the U.S. government enacted the Tax Act. The Tax Act reduced the U.S. federal corporate tax rate from 35% to 21% effective January 1, 2018, required companies to pay a one-time transition tax on earnings of certain foreign subsidiaries that were previously tax deferred, and created new U.S. taxes on certain foreign earnings. To account for the reduction in the U.S. federal corporate income tax rate, we remeasured our deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the rates at which they were expected to reverse in the future, generally 21%, which resulted in the recording of a provisional deferred tax benefit of $228.0 million during 2017. To determine the impact from the one-time transition tax on accumulated foreign earnings, we analyzed our cumulative foreign earnings and profits in accordance with the rules provided in the Tax Act and determined that no transition tax was due as a result of the net accumulated deficit in our foreign earnings and profits.  As of December 31, 2018, we have completed our accounting for all of the enactment-date income tax effects of the Tax Act and determined that no material adjustments were required to our provisional amounts recorded as of December 31, 2017.

The effective tax rate for 2017 was 30.9% and was primarily impacted by the $228.0 million provisional deferred tax benefit recorded in connection with the reduction of the U.S. federal corporate income tax rate to 21% upon enactment of the Tax Act mentioned above.
The effective tax rate for 2016 was 32.9% and was primarily impacted by the deferred tax benefits recorded in the current period for the release of valuation allowances in the U.S. and France. The release of the valuation allowance of $32.9 million in the U.S. was primarily due to the taxable income generated from the sale of nine non-strategic U.S. outdoor markets during the first quarter of 2016 and the release of valuation allowance in France of $43.3 million was due to positive evidence that existed related to the Company’s ability to utilize certain net operating loss carryforwards in the future. The deferred tax benefits described above were partially offset by $54.7 million in tax expense attributable to the sale of our business in Australia during the period.

45


Americas Results of Operations
Our Americas operating results were as follows:
(In thousands)
Years Ended December 31,
 
%
 
2017
 
2016
 
Change
Revenue
$
1,161,059

 
$
1,187,180

 
(2.2)%
Direct operating expenses
527,536

 
528,769

 
(0.2)%
SG&A expenses
197,390

 
203,427

 
(3.0)%
Depreciation and amortization
179,119

 
175,438

 
2.1%
Operating income
$
257,014

 
$
279,546

 
(8.1)%
Americas revenue decreased $26.1 million during 2017 compared to 2016. The decrease in revenue was primarily due to the $17.9 million impact resulting from the sales of non-strategic outdoor markets during the first quarter of 2016 and our Canadian business in the third quarter of 2017. The impact of exchanging our Indianapolis market for cash and assets in Atlanta in the first quarter of 2017 also contributed to the decrease in revenue. These decreases were partially offset by higher revenue from new and existing airport contracts.
Americas direct operating expenses decreased $1.2 million during 2017 compared to 2016. The decrease in direct operating expenses was driven primarily by the $13.2 million decrease in expense due to the impact of the sales of non-strategic outdoor markets during the first quarter of 2016 and our Canadian business in the third quarter of 2017, partially offset by higher site lease expenses related to new and existing airport contracts and print displays. Americas SG&A expenses decreased $6.0 million during 2017 compared to 2016. The decrease in SG&A expenses was primarily due to lower bad debt expense and the $2.5 million impact resulting from the sales of non-strategic outdoor markets in the first quarter of 2016 and the sale of our Canadian business in the third quarter of 2017, and the exchange of outdoor markets in the first quarter of 2017.
International Results of Operations
Our International operating results were as follows:
(In thousands)
Years Ended December 31,
 
%
 
2017
 
2016
 
Change
Revenue
$
1,427,643

 
$
1,492,642

 
(4.4)%
Direct operating expenses
882,231

 
889,550

 
(0.8)%
SG&A expenses
301,823

 
311,994

 
(3.3)%
Depreciation and amortization
141,812

 
162,974

 
(13.0)%
Operating income
$
101,777

 
$
128,124

 
(20.6)%
International revenue decreased $65.0 million during 2017 compared to 2016. Excluding the $8.6 million impact from movements in foreign exchange rates, International revenue decreased $73.6 million during 2017 compared to 2016. The decrease in revenue is due to a $117.8 million decrease in revenue resulting from the sale of our businesses in Australia and Turkey in 2016. This was partially offset by growth across other markets including Spain, the United Kingdom, Switzerland and China, primarily from new contracts and digital expansion.
International direct operating expenses decreased $7.3 million during 2017 compared to 2016. Excluding the $4.0 million impact from movements in foreign exchange rates, International direct operating expenses decreased $11.3 million during 2017 compared to 2016. The decrease was driven by a $70.3 million decrease in direct operating expenses resulting from the 2016 sales of our businesses in Australia and Turkey, partially offset by higher site lease and production expenses primarily in countries experiencing revenue growth. International SG&A expenses decreased $10.2 million during 2017 compared to 2016. Excluding the $2.8 million impact from movements in foreign exchange rates, International SG&A expenses decreased $13.0 million during 2017 compared to 2016. The decrease in SG&A expenses was primarily due to a $22.6 million decrease resulting from the sale of our businesses in Australia and Turkey, partially offset by higher spending related to growth in certain countries.
Depreciation and amortization decreased $21.2 million primarily due to the sale of our businesses in Australia and Turkey in 2016 and assets becoming fully depreciated or fully amortized.

46


Reconciliation of Segment Operating Income to Consolidated Operating Income
(In thousands)
Years Ended December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Americas
$
298,195

 
257,014

 
279,546

International
114,919

 
101,777

 
128,124

Impairment charges
(7,772
)
 
(4,159
)
 
(7,274
)
Corporate and other (1)
(156,037
)
 
(148,738
)
 
(123,148
)
Other operating income, net
2,498

 
26,391

 
354,688

Consolidated operating income
$
251,803

 
$
232,285

 
$
631,936

(1)
Corporate and other includes expenses related to Americas and International and as well as overall executive, administrative and support functions.
Share-Based Compensation Expense
As of December 31, 2018 , there was $15.5 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested share-based compensation arrangements that will vest based on service conditions.  Based on the terms of the award agreements, this cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of approximately three years .
Share-based compensation expenses are recorded in corporate expenses and were $8.5 million , $9.6 million and $10.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively.

47


LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
Cash Flows
The following discussion highlights cash flow activities during the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 .
(In thousands)
Years Ended December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Cash provided by (used for):
 
 
 
 
 
Operating activities
$
187,275

 
$
160,118

 
$
308,510

Investing activities
$
(203,592
)
 
$
(154,522
)
 
$
574,080

Financing activities
$
40,686

 
$
(379,513
)
 
$
(726,499
)

Operating Activities
2018
Cash provided by operating activities was $187.3 million in 2018 compared to $160.1 million of cash provided by operating activities in 2017 .  Our consolidated net loss included $395.5 million of non-cash items in 2018 .  Our consolidated net loss in 2017 included $840.0 million of non-cash items. Non-cash items affecting our net loss include impairment charges, depreciation and amortization, deferred taxes, provision for doubtful accounts, amortization of deferred financing charges and note discounts, net, share-based compensation, gain on disposal of operating and fixed assets, loss on Due from iHeartCommunications, (gain) loss on investments, equity in loss of nonconsolidated affiliates and other reconciling items, net as presented on the face of the consolidated statement of cash flows. The increase in cash provided by operating activities is primarily attributed to changes in working capital balances, particularly deferred income, accounts payable and accrued expenses, driven primarily by the timing of payments.
2017
Cash provided by operating activities was $160.1 million in 2017 compared to $308.5 million of cash provided in 2016.  Our consolidated net loss included $840.0 million of non-cash items in 2017.  Our consolidated net income in 2016 included $122.1 million of non-cash items. Non-cash items affecting our net loss include impairment charges, depreciation and amortization, deferred taxes, provision for doubtful accounts, amortization of deferred financing charges and note discounts, net, share-based compensation, gain on disposal of operating and fixed assets, loss on Due from iHeartCommunications, (gain) loss on investments, equity in loss of nonconsolidated affiliates and other reconciling items, net as presented on the face of the consolidated statement of cash flows. The decrease in cash provided by operating activities is primarily attributed to lower operating income as well as changes in working capital balances, particularly accounts receivable at our International business, which was impacted by slower collections.
2016
Cash provided by operating activities was $308.5 million in 2016 compared to $298.7 million of cash provided in 2015.  Our consolidated net income included $122.1 million of non-cash items in 2016.  Our consolidated net loss in 2015 included $415.5 million of non-cash items. Non-cash items affecting our net loss include impairment charges, depreciation and amortization, deferred taxes, provision for doubtful accounts, amortization of deferred financing charges and note discounts, net, share-based compensation, gain on disposal of operating and fixed assets, equity in (earnings) loss of nonconsolidated affiliates and other reconciling items, net as presented on the face of the consolidated statement of cash flows.  The increase in cash provided by operating activities is primarily attributed to changes in working capital balances, particularly accounts receivable, which was driven primarily by lower revenues and improved collections, partially offset by an increase in cash paid for interest.

48


Investing Activities
2018
Cash used for investing activities of $203.6 million during 2018 reflected our capital expenditures of $211.1 million .  We spent $76.8 million in our Americas segment primarily related to the construction of new advertising structures such as digital displays, $130 million in our International segment primarily related to street furniture advertising and digital billboard structures, and $4.3 million by Corporate primarily related to equipment and software. This cash usage was partially offset by $9.8 million of net cash proceeds from the disposals of assets.
2017
Cash used for investing activities of $154.5 million during 2017 reflected our capital expenditures of $224.2 million.  We spent $70.9 million in our Americas segment primarily related to the construction of new advertising structures such as digital displays, $150.0 million in our International segment primarily related to street furniture advertising and digital billboard structures, and $3.3 million by Corporate primarily related to equipment and software. This cash usage was partially offset by $72.0 million of net cash proceeds from the disposals of assets.
2016
Cash provided by investing activities of $574.1 million during 2016 primarily reflected $592.3 million of net cash proceeds from the sale of nine non-strategic outdoor markets including Cleveland and Columbus, Ohio, Des Moines, Iowa, Ft. Smith, Arkansas, Memphis, Tennessee, Portland, Oregon, Reno, Nevada, Seattle, Washington and Wichita, Kansas, and the sale of our business in Australia for $195.7 million, net of cash retained by the purchaser and closing costs. Those sale proceeds were partially offset by $229.8 million used for capital expenditures.  We spent $78.3 million in our Americas segment primarily related to the construction of new advertising structures such as digital displays, $146.9 million in our International segment primarily related to street furniture advertising structures, and $4.6 million by Corporate primarily related to equipment and software.
Financing Activities
2018
Cash provided by financing activities of $40.7 million during 2018 primarily reflected net transfers of $78.8 million in cash from iHeartCommunications, which represents the activity related to the intercompany arrangement with iHeartCommunications, partially offset by cash dividends paid in the aggregate amount of $30.7 million .
2017
Cash used for financing activities of $379.5 million during 2017 primarily reflected cash dividends paid in the aggregate amount of $332.8 million and net transfers of $181.9 million in cash to iHeartCommunications, which represents the activity in the “Due from iHeartCommunications” account, partially offset by proceeds from the issuance by CCIBV of $150.0 million of additional CCIBV Senior Notes, which were issued at a premium, resulting in $156.0 million in proceeds.
2016
Cash used for financing activities of $726.5 million during 2016 primarily reflected two cash dividends paid in the aggregate amount of $755.5 million, partially offset by net transfers of $45.1 million in cash from iHeartCommunications, which represents the activity in the “Due from iHeartCommunications” account.
Anticipated Cash Requirements
Our primary sources of liquidity are cash on hand, cash flow from operations, cash from the intercompany arrangement with iHeartCommunications described below and our receivables-based credit facility.  Following the Separation, the intercompany arrangements with iHeartCommunications will cease, and we expect to have the iHeartCommunications Line of Credit and the proceeds from the issuance of CCOH Preferred Stock as a source of liquidity.  As of December 31, 2018 , we had $182.5 million of cash on our balance sheet, including $162.4 million of cash held outside the U.S. by our subsidiaries, a portion of which is held by non-wholly owned subsidiaries or is otherwise subject to certain restrictions and not readily accessible to us.  Excess cash from our foreign operations may be transferred to our operations in the United States if needed to fund operations in the United States, subject to the foreseeable cash needs of our foreign operations and the mutual agreement of iHeartCommunications and us.  If any excess cash held by our foreign subsidiaries were needed to fund operations in the U.S., we could presently repatriate available funds without a requirement to accrue or pay U.S. taxes as a result of significant deficits, as calculated for tax law purposes, in our foreign earnings and profits, which gives us flexibility to make future cash distributions as non-taxable returns of capital. Additionally, as a result of U.S. tax reform, future dividend distributions from our international subsidiaries are exempt from U.S. federal income tax beginning January 1, 2018.

49


Our primary uses of liquidity are for our working capital, capital expenditure, debt service and other funding requirements.  At December 31, 2018 , we had debt maturities totaling $0.2 million , $2,575.3 million and $0.3 million in 2019, 2020 and 2021, respectively. On February 12, 2019, our subsidiary Clear Channel Worldwide Holdings, Inc. (“CCWH”) refinanced its 7.625% Series A Subordinated Notes due 2020 (the “Series A CCWH Subordinated Notes”) and 7.625% Series B Subordinated Notes due 2020 (the “Series B CCWH Subordinated Notes” and together with the Series A Subordinated Notes, the “CCWH Subordinated Notes”), which matured in March 2020, with an aggregate principal amount of $2,235 million of new Senior Subordinated Notes due 2024 (the “New CCWH Subordinated Notes”), which were scheduled to mature in February 2024. Giving effect to this offering, at December 31, 2018, we would have had debt maturities totaling $0.2 million, $375.3 million and $0.3 million in 2019, 2020 and 2021, respectively.
A substantial amount of our cash requirements are for debt service obligations.  During the year ended December 31, 2018 , we spent $375.5 million of cash on interest on our debt. We anticipate having approximately $346.3 million of cash interest payment obligations in 2019 .  Our significant interest payment obligations reduce our financial flexibility, make us more vulnerable to changes in operating performance and economic downturns generally, reduce our liquidity over time and could negatively affect our ability to obtain additional financing in the future.
Based on our current and anticipated levels of operations and conditions in our markets, we believe that cash on hand, cash flows from operations, cash from the intercompany arrangement with iHeartCommunications described below, borrowing capacity under our receivables-based credit facility, together with supplemental liquidity support from iHeartCommunications under the iHeart Line of Credit, and anticipated proceeds from the CCOH Preferred Stock, will enable us to meet our working capital, capital expenditure, debt service and other funding requirements, including the debt service on the CCWH Senior Notes, the New CCWH Subordinated Notes and the CCIBV Senior Notes, for at least the next 12 months.  We believe our long-term plans, which include promoting outdoor media spending, capitalizing on our diverse geographic and product opportunities and the continued deployment of digital displays and addressing our capital structure and reducing leverage, will enable us to continue generating cash flows from operations sufficient to meet our liquidity and funding requirements in the long term. However, our anticipated results are subject to significant uncertainty. Our ability to fund our working capital, capital expenditures, debt service and other obligations depends on our future operating performance, cash from operations and our ability to obtain supplemental liquidity, if necessary, and manage our liquidity following the Separation.
Historically, our cash management arrangement with iHeartCommunications has been our only committed external source of liquidity. When our business is separated from iHeartCommunications, we will become more dependent upon our ability to generate cash or obtain additional financing to meet our liquidity needs. Even if we are able to obtain our expected recoveries under the Due from iHeartCommunications Note, the anticipated proceeds of CCOH Preferred Stock and borrowing under the iHeart Line of Credit, we may need to obtain additional financing, from iHeartCommunications or its subsidiaries, or from banks or other lenders, or through public offerings or private placements of debt or equity, strategic relationships or other arrangements, or from a combination of these sources, in the future.  There can be no assurance that financing alternatives will be available in sufficient amounts or on terms acceptable to us in the future due to market conditions, our financial condition, our liquidity constraints, our lack of history operating as a company independent from iHeartCommunications or other factors, many of which are beyond our control. Even if financing alternatives are available to us, we may not find them suitable or at comparable interest rates to the indebtedness being refinanced, and our annual cash interest payment obligations could increase further. In addition, the terms of our existing or future debt agreements may restrict us from securing financing on terms that are available to us at that time. In addition to the need to refinance our various indebtedness at or before maturity, if we are unable to generate sufficient cash through our operations or obtain sources of supplemental liquidity when our business is separated from iHeartCommunications, we could face substantial liquidity problems, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and on our ability to meet our obligations.
iHeartCommunications provides the day-to-day cash management services for our cash activities and balances in the U.S. We do not have any material committed external sources of capital other than iHeartCommunications, and iHeartCommunications is not required to provide us with funds to finance our working capital or other cash requirements. We have no access to the cash transferred from us to iHeartCommunications under the cash management arrangement. Before the filing of the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases, the net amount due to us from iHeartCommunications under this cash management arrangement was represented by the Due from iHeartCommunications Note. Pursuant to an order entered by the Bankruptcy Court in the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases, as of March 14, 2018, the balance of the Due from iHeartCommunications Note immediately prior to the commencement of the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases was frozen, and following March 14, 2018, intercompany allocations that would have been reflected in adjustments to the balance of the Due from iHeartCommunications Note are instead reflected in a new intercompany balance that accrues interest at a rate equal to the interest under the Due from iHeart Communications Note. The Bankruptcy Court entered an order to allow iHeartCommunications to continue to provide the day-to-day cash management services for us during the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases and we expect it to continue to do so until such arrangements are addressed through the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases. As of December 31, 2018 , we owed $21.6 million to iHeartCommunications under this

50


intercompany arrangement with iHeartCommunications. iHeartCommunications has agreed to waive this payment under the Settlement Agreement.
We are an unsecured creditor of iHeartCommunications with respect to amounts owed under the Due from iHeartCommunications Note. Pursuant to the terms of the Settlement Agreement and the iHeartMedia Plan of Reorganization, we will not recover the full balance of the now-frozen Due from iHeartCommunications Note upon the implementation of the iHeartMedia Plan of Reorganization. See “--Promissory Notes with iHeartCommunications” below for a discussion of the current balance of and expected recovery under the Due from iHeartCommunications Note. If we do not recognize the expected recovery under the Due from iHeartCommunications Note, or if we do not otherwise obtain sufficient supplemental liquidity, we could experience a liquidity shortfall. In addition, any repayments that we received on the Due from iHeartCommunications Note during the one-year preference period prior to the filing of the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases may potentially be avoidable as a preference and subject to recovery by the iHeartCommunications bankruptcy estate, which could further exacerbate any liquidity shortfall.
On January 24, 2018, we made a demand for repayment of $30.0 million outstanding under the Due from iHeartCommunications Note and simultaneously paid a special cash dividend of $30.0 million. iHeartCommunications received approximately 89.5%, or approximately $26.8 million, of the proceeds of the dividend through its wholly-owned subsidiaries, with the remaining approximately 10.5%, or approximately $3.2 million, of the proceeds of the dividend paid to our public stockholders.
We were in compliance with the covenants contained in our material financing agreements as of December 31, 2018 .
We frequently evaluate strategic opportunities both within and outside our existing lines of business.  We expect from time to time to dispose of certain businesses and may pursue acquisitions.  These dispositions or acquisitions could be material.
Sources of Capital
As of December 31, 2018 and 2017 , we had the following debt outstanding, cash and cash equivalents and amounts due from iHeartCommunications:
 
December 31,
(In millions)
2018
 
2017
Clear Channel Worldwide Holdings Senior Notes due 2022
$
2,725.0

 
$
2,725.0

Clear Channel Worldwide Holdings Senior Subordinated Notes due 2020 (1)
2,200.0

 
2,200.0

Receivables Based Credit Facility due 2023 (2)
—

 
—

Clear Channel International B.V. Senior Notes due 2020
375.0

 
375.0

Other debt
3.9

 
2.4

Original issue discount
(0.7
)
 
(0.2
)
Long-term debt fees
(25.9
)
 
(35.5
)
Total debt
5,277.3

 
5,266.7

Less:  Cash and cash equivalents
182.5

 
144.1

Less:  Due from iHeartCommunications
154.8

 
212.0

     Less:  Due to iHeartCommunications, post iHeart Chapter 11 Cases
(21.6
)
 
—

 
$
4,961.6

 
$
4,910.6

(1)
In February 2019, CCWH refinanced its $275.0 million aggregate principal amount of Series A CCWH Subordinated Notes and $1,925.0 million aggregate principal amount of Series B CCWH Subordinated Notes with the proceeds of $2,235.0 million aggregate principal amount of New CCWH Subordinated Notes.
(2)
On June 1, 2018 (the "Closing Date"), CCO, a subsidiary of ours, refinanced our senior revolving credit facility with a receivables-based credit facility that provided for revolving credit commitments of up to $75.0 million. On June 29, 2018, CCO entered into an amendment providing for a $50.0 million incremental increase of the facility, bringing the aggregate revolving credit commitments to $125.0 million. The facility has a five-year term, maturing in 2023. As of December 31, 2018 , we had $94.4 million of letters of credit outstanding, and $30.6 million of availability, under the senior revolving credit facility. Certain additional restrictions, including a springing financial covenant, take effect at decreased levels of excess availability.
We may from time to time repay our outstanding debt or seek to purchase our outstanding equity securities.  Such transactions, if any, will depend on prevailing market conditions, our liquidity requirements, contractual restrictions and other factors.

51


Promissory Notes with iHeartCommunications
We maintain accounts that represent net amounts due to or from iHeartCommunications, which are recorded as “Due from iHeartCommunications” on our consolidated balance sheets.  Before the filing of the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases, the accounts were represented by the revolving promissory note issued by us to iHeartCommunications (the Due to iHeartCommunications Note) and the Due from iHeartCommunications Note, in each case in the face amount of $1.0 billion, or if more or less than such amount, the aggregate unpaid principal amount of all advances.  The revolving promissory notes were generally payable on demand and were scheduled to mature on May 15, 2019.  Included in the accounts are the net activities resulting from day-to-day cash management services provided by iHeartCommunications.  Such day-to-day cash management services relate only to our cash activities and balances in the U.S. and exclude any cash activities and balances of our non-U.S. subsidiaries.
Pursuant to an order entered by the Bankruptcy Court, as of March 14, 2018, the balance of the Due from iHeartCommunications Note was frozen, and following March 14, 2018, intercompany allocations that would have been reflected in adjustments to the balance of the Due from iHeartCommunications Note are instead reflected in an intercompany balance that accrues interest at a rate equal to the interest under the Due from iHeartCommunications Note.
At December 31, 2018 , the principal amount outstanding under the Due from iHeartCommunications Note was $1,031.7 million . We did not expect that we would be able to recover all of the amounts owed to us under the Due from iHeartCommunications Note upon the implementation of the iHeartMedia Plan of Reorganization (or any other plan of reorganization that is ultimately accepted by the requisite vote of creditors and approved by the Bankruptcy Court). As a result, we recognized a loss of $855.6 million on the Due from iHeartCommunications Note during the fourth quarter of 2017 to reflect the estimated recoverable amount of the note, based on management's best estimate of the cash settlement amount. In addition, upon the filing of the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases on March 14, 2018, we ceased recording interest income on the Due from iHeartCommunications Note, which amounted to $21.3 million for the period from January 1, 2018 to March 14, 2018, as the collectability of the interest was not considered probable. As a result of the $855.6 million allowance on the Due from iHeartCommunications Note recognized during the fourth quarter of 2017 and the $21.3 million reserve recognized in relation to interest incurred during the pre-petition period in the three months ended March 31, 2018, the outstanding principal amount of $1,031.7 million was reduced to $154.8 million as of December 31, 2018 on our consolidated balance sheet. Pursuant to the Settlement Agreement, we agreed that we will recover 14.44%, or approximately $149.0 million , in cash on our allowed claim of $1,031.7 million under the Due from iHeartCommunications Note.
As of December 31, 2018 , we had no borrowings under the Due to iHeartCommunications Note, and we owed $21.6 million to iHeartCommunications under the intercompany arrangement with iHeartCommunications approved by the Bankruptcy Court in the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases. iHeartCommunications has agreed to waive this payment under the Settlement Agreement.
If we are unable to obtain financing from iHeartCommunications under the intercompany arrangement approved by the Bankruptcy Court during the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases, we may need to obtain additional financing from third party sources. Even if we are able to obtain our expected recoveries under the Due from iHeartCommunications Note and the anticipated proceeds of CCOH Preferred Stock to be issued upon consummation of the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases, we may need to obtain additional financing, from iHeartCommunications or its subsidiaries, or from banks or other lenders, or through public offerings or private placements of debt or equity, strategic relationships or other arrangements, or from a combination of these sources, in the future.  We may be unable to successfully obtain additional debt or equity financing on satisfactory terms or at all.
As long as the Master Agreement continues to govern the relationship between iHeartCommunications and us, iHeartCommunications will have the option to limit our ability to incur debt or issue equity securities, among other limitations, which could adversely affect our ability to meet our liquidity needs.  Under the Master Agreement with iHeartCommunications, we are limited in our borrowings from third parties to no more than $400.0 million at any one time outstanding, without the prior written consent of iHeartCommunications. Under the Settlement Agreement, iHeartCommunications waived its right under the Master Agreement to consent to our ability to replace or refinance the CCWH Subordinated Notes effective immediately upon the confirmation of the iHeartMedia Plan of Reorganization, which occurred on January 22, 2019. Accordingly, we refinanced these notes on February 12, 2019 with the proceeds of New CCWH Subordinated Notes without consent from iHeartCommunications. However, this waiver does not extend to any other refinancing activity or any of the other activities listed above that we may seek to pursue prior to the Separation and therefore, the restrictions contained in these agreements continue to limit our ability to finance operations and capital needs. The Master Agreement will terminate with the consummation of the Separation.
CCWH Senior Notes
As of December 31, 2018 , CCWH senior notes represented $2.7 billion aggregate principal amount of indebtedness outstanding, which consisted of $735.8 million aggregate principal amount of Series A Senior Notes due 2022 (the “Series A

52


CCWH Senior Notes”) and $1,989.2 million aggregate principal amount of Series B CCWH Senior Notes due 2022 (the “Series B CCWH Senior Notes” and together, the "CCWH Senior Notes").  The CCWH Senior Notes are guaranteed by us, CCO and certain of our direct and indirect subsidiaries.
The CCWH Senior Notes are senior obligations that rank pari passu in right of payment to all unsubordinated indebtedness of CCWH and the guarantees of the CCWH Senior Notes rank pari passu in right of payment to all unsubordinated indebtedness of the guarantors.  Interest on the CCWH Senior Notes is payable to the trustee weekly in arrears and to the noteholders on May 15 and November 15 of each year.
CCWH may redeem the CCWH Senior Notes, in whole or in part at the redemption prices set forth in the applicable indenture governing the CCWH Senior Notes plus accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date. Notwithstanding the foregoing, neither CCOH nor any of its subsidiaries is permitted to make any purchase of, or otherwise effectively cancel or retire any Series A CCWH Senior Notes or Series B CCWH Senior Notes if, after giving effect thereto and, if applicable, any concurrent purchase of or other addition with respect to any Series B CCWH Senior Notes or Series A CCWH Senior Notes, as applicable, the ratio of (a) the outstanding aggregate principal amount of the Series A CCWH Senior Notes to (b) the outstanding aggregate principal amount of the Series B CCWH Senior Notes shall be greater than 0.25, subject to certain exceptions.
The indenture governing the Series A CCWH Senior Notes contains covenants that limit us and our restricted subsidiaries ability to, among other things:
•
incur or guarantee additional debt to persons other than iHeartCommunications and its subsidiaries (other than us) or issue certain preferred stock;
•
create liens on its restricted subsidiaries’ assets to secure such debt;
•
create restrictions on the payment of dividends or other amounts to us from our restricted subsidiaries that are not guarantors of the CCWH Senior Notes;
•
enter into certain transactions with affiliates; and
•
merge or consolidate with another person, or sell or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of its assets.
In addition, the indenture governing the Series A CCWH Senior Notes provides that if CCWH (i) makes an optional redemption of the Series B CCWH Senior Notes or purchases or makes an offer to purchase the Series B CCWH Senior Notes at or above 100% of the principal amount thereof, then CCWH shall apply a pro rata amount to make an optional redemption or purchase a pro rata amount of the Series A CCWH Senior Notes or (ii) makes an asset sale offer under the indenture governing the Series B CCWH Senior Notes, then CCWH shall apply a pro rata amount to make an offer to purchase a pro rata amount of Series A CCWH Senior Notes.
The indenture governing the Series A CCWH Senior Notes does not include limitations on dividends, distributions, investments or asset sales.
The indenture governing the Series B CCWH Senior Notes contains covenants that limit us and our restricted subsidiaries ability to, among other things:
•
incur or guarantee additional debt or issue certain preferred stock;
•
redeem, repurchase or retire our subordinated debt;
•
make certain investments;
•
create liens on its or its restricted subsidiaries’ assets to secure debt;
•
create restrictions on the payment of dividends or other amounts to it from its restricted subsidiaries that are not guarantors of the CCWH Senior Notes;
•
enter into certain transactions with affiliates;
•
merge or consolidate with another person, or sell or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of its assets;
•
sell certain assets, including capital stock of its subsidiaries;
•
designate its subsidiaries as unrestricted subsidiaries; and
•
pay dividends, redeem or repurchase capital stock or make other restricted payments.
The Series A CCWH Senior Notes indenture and Series B CCWH Senior Notes indenture restrict our ability to incur additional indebtedness but permit us to incur additional indebtedness based on an incurrence test.  In order to incur (i) additional indebtedness under this test, our debt to adjusted EBITDA ratios (as defined by the indentures) must be lower than 7.0:1 and 5.0:1 for total debt and senior debt, respectively ,  and (ii) additional indebtedness that is subordinated to the CCWH Senior Notes under this test, our debt to adjusted EBITDA ratios (as defined by the indentures) must be lower than 7.0:1 for total debt.  The indentures contain certain other exceptions that allow us to incur additional indebtedness. The Series B CCWH Senior Notes indenture also permits us to pay dividends from the proceeds of indebtedness or the excess proceeds from asset sales after making an asset sale

53


offer if our debt to adjusted EBITDA ratios (as defined by the indentures) are lower than 7.0:1 and 5.0:1 for total debt and senior debt, respectively. The Series A CCWH Senior Notes indenture does not limit our ability to pay dividends.  Because our consolidated leverage ratio exceeded the limit in the incurrence tests described above, we are not currently permitted to incur additional indebtedness using the incurrence test in the Series A CCWH Senior Notes indenture and the Series B CCWH Senior Notes indenture, and we are not currently permitted to pay dividends from the proceeds of indebtedness or the excess proceeds from asset sales under the Series B CCWH Senior Notes indenture. There are other exceptions in these indentures that allow us to incur additional indebtedness and pay dividends. The exceptions in the Series B CCWH Senior Notes indenture that allow us to pay dividends include (i) $525.0 million of dividends made pursuant to general restricted payment baskets and (ii) dividends made using proceeds received upon a demand by us of amounts outstanding under the revolving promissory note issued by iHeartCommunications to us. We have used substantially all of the $525.0 million general restricted payments basket capacity in the Series B CCWH Senior Notes indenture. The Series A CCWH Senior Notes indenture does not limit our ability to pay dividends.
Our consolidated leverage ratio, defined as total debt divided by adjusted EBITDA (as defined by the CCWH Senior Notes indentures) for the preceding four quarters was 8.7 :1 at December 31, 2018 , and senior leverage ratio, defined as senior debt divided by adjusted EBITDA (as defined by the CCWH Senior Notes indentures) for the preceding four quarters was 4.5 :1 at December 31, 2018 .  As required by the definition of adjusted EBITDA in the CCWH Senior Notes indentures, our adjusted EBITDA for the preceding four quarters of $612.4 million is calculated as operating income (loss) before depreciation, amortization, impairment charges and other operating income (expense), net, plus share-based compensation, and is further adjusted for the following: (i) costs incurred in connection with severance, the closure and/or consolidation of facilities, retention charges, consulting fees and other permitted activities; (ii) extraordinary, non-recurring or unusual gains or losses or expenses; (iii) non-cash charges; and (iv) various other items. Because our consolidated leverage ratio exceeded the limit in the incurrence tests described above, we are not currently permitted to incur additional indebtedness using the incurrence test in the Series A CCWH Senior Notes indenture and the Series B CCWH Senior Notes indenture, and we are not currently permitted to pay dividends from the proceeds of indebtedness or the excess proceeds from asset sales under the Series B CCWH Senior Notes indenture.
The following table reflects a reconciliation of adjusted EBITDA (as defined by the CCWH Senior Notes indentures) to operating income and net cash provided by operating activities for the four quarters ended December 31, 2018 :
 
Four Quarters Ended
(In millions)
December 31, 2018
Adjusted EBITDA  (as defined by the CCWH Senior Notes indentures)
$
612.4

Less adjustments to adjusted EBITDA (as defined by the CCWH Senior Notes indentures):
 
Costs incurred in connection with severance, the closure and/or consolidation of facilities, retention charges, consulting fees and other permitted activities
(13.9
)
Extraordinary, non-recurring or unusual gains or losses or expenses (as referenced in the definition of adjusted EBITDA in the CCWH Senior Notes indentures)
(9.7
)
Non-cash charges
(6.1
)
Other items
1.5

Less: Depreciation and amortization, Impairment charges, Other operating income, net and Share-based compensation expense
(332.4
)
Operating income
251.8

Plus: Depreciation and amortization, Impairment charges, Gain (loss) on disposal of operating and fixed assets and Share-based compensation expense
331.9

Less: Interest expense
(388.1
)
Plus: Interest income on Due from iHeartCommunications
0.4

Less: Current income tax expense
(18.1
)
Plus: Other income, net
(34.5
)
Adjustments to reconcile consolidated net loss to net cash provided by operating activities (including Provision for doubtful accounts, Amortization of deferred financing charges and note discounts, net and Other reconciling items, net)
49.3

Change in assets and liabilities, net of assets acquired and liabilities assumed
(5.4
)
Net cash provided by operating activities
$
187.3


54


CCWH Subordinated Notes
As of December 31, 2018 , CCWH Subordinated Notes represented $2.2 billion of aggregate principal amount of indebtedness outstanding, which consisted of $275.0 million aggregate principal amount of Series A CCWH Subordinated Notes and $1,925.0 million aggregate principal amount of Series B CCWH Subordinated Notes. On February 4, 2019, CCWH delivered a conditional notice of redemption calling all of its outstanding CCWH Subordinated Notes for redemption on March 6, 2019. The redemption was conditioned on the closing of the offering of $2,235.0 million of New CCWH Subordinated Notes. At the closing of such offering on February 12, 2019, CCWH deposited with the trustee for the CCWH Subordinated Notes a portion of the proceeds from the new notes in an amount sufficient to pay and discharge the principal amount outstanding, plus accrued and unpaid interest on the CCWH Subordinated Notes to, but not including, the redemption date. CCWH irrevocably instructed the trustee to apply such funds to the full payment of the CCWH Subordinated Notes on the redemption date. Concurrently therewith, CCWH elected to satisfy and discharge the indentures governing the CCWH Subordinated Notes in accordance with their terms and the trustee acknowledged such discharge and satisfaction. As a result of the satisfaction and discharge of the indentures, CCWH and the guarantors of the CCWH Subordinated Notes have been released from their remaining obligations under the indentures and the CCWH Subordinated Notes.
  Interest on the CCWH Subordinated Notes is payable to the trustee weekly in arrears and to the noteholders on March 15 and September 15 of each year.
The CCWH Subordinated Notes are CCWH’s senior subordinated obligations and are fully and unconditionally guaranteed, jointly and severally, on a senior subordinated basis by us, CCO and certain of our other domestic subsidiaries. The CCWH Subordinated Notes are unsecured senior subordinated obligations that rank junior to all of CCWH’s existing and future senior debt, including the CCWH Senior Notes, equally with any of CCWH’s existing and future senior subordinated debt and ahead of all of CCWH’s existing and future debt that expressly provides that it is subordinated to the CCWH Subordinated Notes. The guarantees of the CCWH Subordinated Notes rank junior to each guarantor’s existing and future senior debt, including the CCWH Senior Notes, equally with each guarantor’s existing and future senior subordinated debt and ahead of each guarantor’s existing and future debt that expressly provides that it is subordinated to the guarantees of the CCWH Subordinated Notes.
CCWH may redeem the CCWH Subordinated Notes, in whole or in part, at the redemption prices set forth in the applicable indenture governing the CCWH Subordinated Notes plus accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date. Neither us nor any of our subsidiaries is permitted to make any purchase of, or otherwise effectively cancel or retire any Series A CCWH Subordinated Notes or Series B CCWH Subordinated Notes if, after giving effect thereto and, if applicable, any concurrent purchase of or other addition with respect to any Series B CCWH Subordinated Notes or Series A CCWH Subordinated Notes, as applicable, the ratio of (a) the outstanding aggregate principal amount of the Series A CCWH Subordinated Notes to (b) the outstanding aggregate principal amount of the Series B CCWH Subordinated Notes shall be greater than 0.25, subject to certain exceptions.
The indenture governing the Series A CCWH Subordinated Notes contains covenants that limit us and our restricted subsidiaries ability to, among other things:
•
incur or guarantee additional debt to persons other than iHeartCommunications and its subsidiaries (other than us) or issue certain preferred stock;
•
create restrictions on the payment of dividends or other amounts to us from our restricted subsidiaries that are not guarantors of the notes;
•
enter into certain transactions with affiliates; and
•
merge or consolidate with another person, or sell or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of CCOH’s assets.
In addition, the indenture governing the Series A CCWH Subordinated Notes provides that if CCWH (i) makes an optional redemption of the Series B CCWH Subordinated Notes or purchases or makes an offer to purchase the Series B CCWH Subordinated Notes at or above 100% of the principal amount thereof, then CCWH shall apply a pro rata amount to make an optional redemption or purchase a pro rata amount of the Series A CCWH Subordinated Notes or (ii) makes an asset sale offer under the indenture governing the Series B CCWH Subordinated Notes, then CCWH shall apply a pro rata amount to make an offer to purchase a pro rata amount of Series A CCWH Subordinated Notes.
The indenture governing the Series A CCWH Subordinated Notes does not include limitations on dividends, distributions, investments or asset sales.
The indenture governing the Series B CCWH Subordinated Notes contains covenants that limit us and our restricted subsidiaries ability to, among other things:
•
incur or guarantee additional debt or issue certain preferred stock;
•
make certain investments;

55


•
create restrictions on the payment of dividends or other amounts to us from our restricted subsidiaries that are not guarantors of the notes;
•
enter into certain transactions with affiliates;
•
merge or consolidate with another person, or sell or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of our assets;
•
sell certain assets, including capital stock of our subsidiaries;
•
designate our subsidiaries as unrestricted subsidiaries; and
•
pay dividends, redeem or repurchase capital stock or make other restricted payments.
The Series A CCWH Subordinated Notes indenture and Series B CCWH Subordinated Notes indenture restrict CCOH’s ability to incur additional indebtedness but permit us to incur additional indebtedness based on an incurrence test.  In order to incur additional indebtedness under this test, our debt to adjusted EBITDA ratios (as defined by the indentures) must be lower than 7.0:1.  The indentures contain certain other exceptions that allow us to incur additional indebtedness. The Series B CCWH Subordinated Notes indenture also permits us to pay dividends from the proceeds of indebtedness or the excess proceeds from asset sales after making an asset sale offer if its debt to adjusted EBITDA ratios (as defined by the indentures) is lower than 7.0:1.  The Series A CCWH Subordinated Notes indenture does not limit our ability to pay dividends.  Because our consolidated leverage ratio exceeded the limit in the incurrence tests described above, we are not currently permitted to incur additional indebtedness using the incurrence test in the Series A CCWH Subordinated Notes indenture and the Series B CCWH Subordinated Notes indenture, and we are not currently permitted to pay dividends from the proceeds of indebtedness or the excess proceeds from asset sales under the Series B CCWH Subordinated Notes indenture. There are other exceptions in these indentures that allow us to incur additional indebtedness and pay dividends. The exceptions in the Series B CCWH Subordinated Notes indenture that allow us to pay dividends include (i) $525.0 million of dividends made pursuant to general restricted payment baskets and (ii) dividends made using proceeds received upon a demand by us of amounts outstanding under the revolving promissory note issued by iHeartCommunications to us. We have used substantially all of the $525.0 million general restricted payments basket capacity in the Series B CCWH Subordinated Notes indenture. The Series A CCWH Subordinated Notes indenture does not limit our ability to pay dividends.
The New CCWH Subordinated Notes are CCWH’s senior subordinated obligations and are fully and unconditionally guaranteed, jointly and severally, on a senior subordinated basis by us, CCO and certain of our other domestic subsidiaries. The New CCWH Subordinated Notes are unsecured senior subordinated obligations that rank junior to all of CCWH’s existing and future senior debt, including the CCWH Senior Notes, equally with any of CCWH’s existing and future senior subordinated debt and ahead of all of CCWH’s existing and future debt that expressly provides that it is subordinated to the New CCWH Subordinated Notes. The guarantees of the New CCWH Subordinated Notes rank junior to each guarantor’s existing and future senior debt, including the CCWH Senior Notes, equally with each guarantor’s existing and future senior subordinated debt and ahead of each guarantor’s existing and future debt that expressly provides that it is subordinated to the guarantees of the New CCWH Subordinated Notes. Following the satisfaction of certain conditions, including that the CCWH Senior Notes are no longer outstanding and at least a portion of such notes has been refinanced with senior secured indebtedness, the New CCWH Notes and the guarantees of the New CCWH Subordinated Notes will cease to be subordinated obligations and thereafter will rank equally in right of payment with all senior indebtedness of CCWH and the guarantors (the “step-up”). There can be no assurance that the step-up will ever occur and that the New CCWH Subordinated Notes and the guarantees will ever cease to be subordinated indebtedness of CCWH and the guarantors.
CCWH may redeem the New CCWH Subordinated Notes at its option, in whole or part, at any time prior to February 15, 2021, at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the New CCWH Subordinated Notes redeemed, plus a make-whole premium, plus accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date. CCWH may redeem the New CCWH Subordinated Notes, in whole or in part, on or after February 15, 2021, at the redemption prices set forth in the indenture governing the New CCWH Subordinated Notes, plus accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date. At any time prior to February 15, 2021, CCWH may elect to redeem up to 40% of the aggregate principal amount of the New CCWH Subordinated Notes at a redemption price equal to 109.25% of the principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date, with the net proceeds of one or more equity offerings. In addition, CCWH may redeem up to 20% of the aggregate principal amount of the New CCWH Subordinated Notes at any time prior to February 15, 2021, using the net proceeds from certain other equity offerings at 103% of the principal amount of the New CCWH Subordinated Notes. CCWH will be permitted to use these two redemption options concurrently but will not be permitted to redeem, in the aggregate, more than 40% of the principal amount of the New CCWH Subordinated Notes pursuant to these options.
The indenture governing the New CCWH Subordinated Notes contains covenants that limit us and our restricted subsidiaries ability to, among other things:
•
incur or guarantee additional debt or issue certain preferred stock;
•
redeem, purchase or retire subordinated debt;

56


•
make certain investments;
•
create restrictions on the payment of dividends or other amounts to us from our restricted subsidiaries that are not guarantors of the notes;
•
enter into certain transactions with affiliates;
•
merge or consolidate with another person, or sell or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of CCOH’s assets;
•
designate CCOH’s subsidiaries as unrestricted subsidiaries;
•
pay dividends, redeem or repurchase capital stock or make other restricted payments; and
•
in the event that the step-up occurs and the New CCWH Subordinated Notes cease to be subordinated, incur certain liens

CCIBV Senior Notes
As of December 31, 2018 , CCIBV had $375.0 million aggregate principal amount outstanding of its CCIBV Senior Notes.
The CCIBV Senior Notes mature on December 15, 2020 and bear interest at a rate of 8.75% per annum, payable semi-annually in arrears on June 15 and December 15 of each year.  The CCIBV Senior Notes are guaranteed by certain of our International outdoor business’s existing and future subsidiaries. The Company does not guarantee or otherwise assume any liability for the CCIBV Senior Notes. The notes are senior unsecured obligations that rank pari passu in right of payment to all unsubordinated indebtedness of CCIBV and the guarantees of the notes are senior unsecured obligations that rank pari passu in right of payment to all unsubordinated indebtedness of the guarantors of the notes.
CCIBV may redeem the notes, in whole or in part at the redemption prices set forth in the indenture plus accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date.
The indenture governing the CCIBV Senior Notes contains covenants that limit CCIBV’s ability and the ability of its restricted subsidiaries to, among other things: (i) pay dividends, redeem stock or make other distributions or investments; (ii) incur additional debt or issue certain preferred stock; (iii) transfer or sell assets; (iv) create liens on assets; (v) engage in certain transactions with affiliates; (vi) create restrictions on dividends or other payments by the restricted subsidiaries; and (vii) merge, consolidate or sell substantially all of CCIBV’s assets.
Receivables Based Credit Facility Due 2023
On June 1, 2018, CCO, a subsidiary of ours, entered into a Credit Agreement (the “Credit Agreement”), as parent borrower, with certain of its subsidiaries named therein, as subsidiary borrowers (the “Subsidiary Borrowers”), Deutsche Bank AG New York Branch, as administrative agent (the “Administrative Agent”) and swing line lender, and the other lenders from time to time party thereto. The Credit Agreement governs CCO’s new receivables-based revolving credit facility and replaced our prior credit agreement, dated as of August 22, 2013 (the “Prior Credit Agreement”), which was terminated on the Closing Date.
Size and Availability
The Credit Agreement provides for a receivables-based revolving credit facility, with amounts available from time to time (including in respect of letters of credit) equal to the lesser of (i) the borrowing base, which equals 85.0% of the eligible accounts receivable of CCO and the subsidiary borrowers, subject to customary eligibility criteria minus any reserves, and (ii) the aggregate revolving credit commitments. As of the Closing Date, the aggregate revolving credit commitments were $75.0 million. On June 29, 2018, CCO entered into an amendment providing for a $50.0 million incremental increase of the facility, bringing the aggregate revolving credit commitments to $125.0 million. On the Closing Date, the revolving credit facility was used to replace and terminate the commitments under the Prior Credit Agreement and to replace the letters of credit outstanding under the Prior Credit Agreement.
As of December 31, 2018 , the facility had $94.4 million of letters of credit outstanding and a borrowing limit of $125.0 million , resulting in $30.6 million of excess availability. Certain additional restrictions, including a springing financial covenant, take effect at decreased levels of excess availability.

57


Interest Rate and Fees
Borrowings under the Credit Agreement bear interest at a rate per annum equal to the Applicable Rate plus, at CCO’s option, either (1) a base rate determined by reference to the highest of (a) the Federal Funds Rate plus 0.50%, (b) the rate of interest in effect for such date as publicly announced from time to time by the Administrative Agent as its “prime rate” and (c) the Eurocurrency rate that would be calculated as of such day in respect of a proposed Eurocurrency rate loan with a one-month interest period plus 1.00%, or (2) a Eurocurrency rate that is equal to the LIBOR rate as published by Reuters two business days prior to the commencement of the interest period. The Applicable Rate for borrowings under the Credit Agreement is 1.00% with respect to base rate loans and 2.00% with respect to Eurocurrency loans.
In addition to paying interest on outstanding principal under the Credit Agreement, CCO is required to pay a commitment fee of 0.375% per annum to the lenders under the Credit Agreement in respect of the unutilized revolving commitments thereunder. CCO must also pay a letter of credit fee for each issued letter of credit equal to 2.00% per annum times the daily maximum amount then available to be drawn under such letter of credit.
Maturity
Borrowings under the Credit Agreement will mature, and lending commitments thereunder will terminate, on the earlier of (a) June 1, 2023 and (b) 90 days prior to the maturity date of any indebtedness of CCOH or any of its direct or indirect subsidiaries in an aggregate principal amount outstanding in excess of $250,000,000 (other than the CCIBV Senior Notes).
Prepayments
If at any time, the outstanding amount under the revolving credit facility exceeds the lesser of (i) the aggregate amount committed by the revolving credit lenders and (ii) the borrowing base, CCO will be required to prepay first, any protective advances and second, any outstanding revolving loans and swing line loans and/or cash collateralize letters of credit in an aggregate amount equal to such excess, as applicable.
Subject to customary exceptions and restrictions, CCO may voluntarily repay outstanding amounts under the Credit Agreement at any time without premium or penalty. Any voluntary prepayments CCO makes will not reduce commitments under the Credit Agreement.
Guarantees and Security
The facility is guaranteed by the Subsidiary Borrowers. All obligations under the Credit Agreement, and the guarantees of those obligations, are secured by a perfected security interest in all of CCO’s and the Subsidiary Borrowers’ accounts receivable and related assets and proceeds thereof.
Certain Covenants and Events of Default
If borrowing availability is less than the greater of (a) $7.5 million and (b) 10.0% of the lesser of (i) the aggregate commitments at such time and (ii) the borrowing base then in effect at such time, CCO will be required to comply with a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio of at least 1.00 to 1.00 for the most recent period of four consecutive fiscal quarters ended prior to the occurrence of the Financial Covenant Triggering Event, and will be required to continue to comply with this minimum fixed charge coverage ratio until borrowing availability exceeds the greater of (x) $7.5 million and (y) 10.0% of the lesser of (i) the aggregate commitments at such time and (ii) the borrowing base then in effect at such time, at which time the Financial Covenant Triggering Event will no longer be deemed to be occurring.
The Credit Agreement also includes negative covenants that, subject to significant exceptions, limit the Borrowers’ ability and the ability of their restricted subsidiaries to, among other things:
•
incur additional indebtedness;
•
create liens on assets;
•
engage in mergers, consolidations, liquidations and dissolutions;
•
sell assets;
•
pay dividends and distributions or repurchase capital stock;
•
make investments, loans, or advances;

58


•
prepay certain junior indebtedness;
•
engage in certain transactions with affiliates or;
•
change lines of business.
The Credit Agreement includes certain customary representations and warranties, affirmative covenants and events of default, including payment defaults, breach of representations and warranties, covenant defaults, cross-defaults to certain indebtedness, certain events of bankruptcy, material judgments and a change of control. If an event of default occurs, the lenders under the Credit Agreement will be entitled to take various actions, including the acceleration of all amounts due under the Credit Agreement and all actions permitted to be taken by a secured creditor.
Other Debt
Other debt includes various borrowings and capital leases utilized for general operating purposes.  As of December 31, 2018 , approximately $3.9 million was outstanding as other debt.
iHeartCommunications’ Debt Covenants
On March 14, 2018 , iHeartMedia, iHeartCommunications and certain of iHeartMedia's direct and indirect domestic subsidiaries, not including the Company or any of its subsidiaries, filed voluntary petitions for relief under Chapter 11, in the Bankruptcy Court. The filing of the voluntary petitions triggered an event of default under the iHeartCommunications' senior credit facility and other debt agreements. The ability of iHeartCommunications' creditors to seek remedies to enforce their rights under such debt agreements is automatically stayed as a result of the filing of the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases, and the creditors' rights of enforcement are subject to the applicable provisions of the Bankruptcy Code.
Dispositions and Other
In January 2017, we sold our Indianapolis, Indiana market in exchange for certain assets in Atlanta, Georgia, plus approximately $43.1 million in cash, net of closing costs. A net gain of $28.9 million was recognized related to the sale.
During the third quarter of 2017, the Company sold its ownership interest in a joint venture in Canada. As a result, the Company recognized a net loss on sale of $12.1 million , which is included within Other operating income (expense), net.
In the first quarter of 2016, Americas outdoor sold nine non-strategic outdoor markets including Cleveland and Columbus, Ohio, Des Moines, Iowa, Ft. Smith, Arkansas, Memphis, Tennessee, Portland, Oregon, Reno, Nevada, Seattle, Washington and Wichita, Kansas for net proceeds of $592.3 million in cash and certain advertising assets in Florida. We recognized a net gain of $278.3 million related to the sale, which is included within Other operating income (expense), net.
In the second quarter of 2016, International outdoor sold its business in Turkey. As a result, we recognized a net loss of $56.6 million , which includes $32.2 million in cumulative translation adjustments that were recognized upon sale of the subsidiaries in Turkey.
In the fourth quarter 2016, International outdoor sold its business in Australia for cash proceeds of $195.7 million . As a result, we recognized a net gain of $127.6 million , which is net of $14.6 million in cumulative translation adjustments that were recognized upon the sale of our business in Australia.
Uses of Capital
Capital Expenditures
Our capital expenditures for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 were as follows:
(In millions)
Years Ended December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Americas advertising
$
76.8

 
$
70.9

 
$
78.3

International advertising
130.0

 
150.0

 
146.9

Corporate
4.3

 
3.3

 
3.5

Total capital expenditures
$
211.1

 
$
224.2

 
$
228.7


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Our capital expenditures are not of significant size individually and primarily relate to the ongoing deployment of digital displays and improvements to traditional displays in our Americas segment as well as new billboard and street furniture contracts and renewals of existing contracts in our International segment.
See the Contractual Obligations table under “Commitments and Contingencies” and Note 6 to our Consolidated Financial Statements located in Item 8 of Part II of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the Company's future capital expenditure commitments.
Part of our long-term strategy is to pursue the technology of digital displays, including flat screens, LCDs and LEDs, as alternatives to traditional methods of displaying our clients’ advertisements.  We are currently installing these technologies in certain markets.  We believe cash flow from operations will be sufficient to fund these expenditures because we expect enhanced margins through: (i) lower cost of production as the advertisements will be digital and controlled by a central computer network, (ii) decreased down time on displays because the advertisements will be digitally changed rather than manually posted paper or vinyl on the face of the display, and (iii) incremental revenue through more targeted and time specific advertisements.
Special Dividends
On January 24, 2018, we made a demand for repayment of $30.0 million outstanding under the Due from iHeartCommunications Note and simultaneously paid a special cash dividend of $30.0 million. iHeartCommunications received approximately 89.5%, or approximately $26.8 million, of the proceeds of the dividend through its wholly-owned subsidiaries, with the remaining approximately 10.5%, or approximately $3.2 million, of the proceeds of the dividend paid to our public stockholders. The payment of this special dividend reduces the amount of cash available to us for future working capital, capital expenditure, debt service and other funding requirements. Future cash dividends will be dependent upon, among other things, our having sufficient available cash.
Commitments, Contingencies and Guarantees
We are currently involved in certain legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business and, as required, have accrued our estimate of the probable costs for resolution of those claims for which the occurrence of loss is probable and the amount can be reasonably estimated. These estimates have been developed in consultation with counsel and are based upon an analysis of potential results, assuming a combination of litigation and settlement strategies. It is possible, however, that future results of operations for any particular period could be materially affected by changes in our assumptions or the effectiveness of our strategies related to these proceedings.  Please see Item 3. Legal Proceedings within Part I of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Our short and long term cash requirements include minimum annual guarantees for our street furniture contracts and operating leases.  Noncancelable contracts and operating lease requirements are included in our direct operating expenses, which historically have been satisfied by cash flows from operations. Our long-term commitments for minimum annual guarantees, operating leases and capital expenditure requirements are included in the table below.
Certain agreements relating to acquisitions provide for purchase price adjustments and other future contingent payments based on the financial performance of the acquired companies generally over a one to five year period.  The aggregate of these contingent payments, if performance targets are met, would not significantly impact our financial position or results of operations.
In addition to the scheduled maturities on debt issued by CCWH and CCIBV, we have future cash obligations under various types of contracts.  We lease office space, certain equipment and the majority of the land occupied by our advertising structures under long-term operating leases.  Some of our lease agreements contain renewal options and annual rental escalation clauses (generally tied to the consumer price index), as well as provisions for our payment of utilities and maintenance.
We have minimum franchise payments associated with non-cancelable contracts that enable us to display advertising on such media as buses, trains, bus shelters and terminals.  The majority of these contracts contain rent provisions that are calculated as the greater of a percentage of the relevant advertising revenue or a specified guaranteed minimum annual payment.

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The scheduled maturities of the CCWH Senior Notes, CCWH Subordinated Notes, CCIBV Senior Notes and other debt outstanding, and our future minimum rental commitments under non-cancelable lease agreements, minimum payments under other non-cancelable contracts, capital expenditure commitments and other long-term obligations as of December 31, 2018 , are as follows:
(In thousands)
Payments due by Period
Contractual Obligations
Total
 
2019
 
2020-2021
 
2022-2023
 
Thereafter
Long-term debt:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CCWH Senior Notes
$
2,725,000

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
2,725,000

 
$
—

CCWH Subordinated Notes(1)
2,200,000

 
—

 
2,200,000

 
—

 
—

CCIBV Senior Notes
375,000

 
—

 
375,000

 
—

 
—

Other long-term debt
3,882

 
227

 
550

 
708

 
2,397

Interest payments on long-term debt (2)
1,842,485

 
346,303

 
801,055

 
591,023

 
104,104

Non-cancelable operating leases 
3,063,016

 
500,600

 
743,634

 
447,456

 
1,371,326

Non-cancelable contracts (3)
1,223,009

 
251,083

 
425,366

 
241,656

 
304,904

Capital expenditures
61,352

 
24,322

 
18,511

 
10,610

 
7,909

Unrecognized tax benefits (4)
18,186

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
18,186

Other long-term obligations (5)
227,495

 
10,136

 
23,350

 
25,995

 
168,014

Total
$
11,739,425

 
$
1,132,671

 
$
4,587,466

 
$
4,042,448

 
$
1,976,840

(1)
On February 4, 2019, CCWH delivered a conditional notice of redemption calling all of its outstanding CCWH Subordinated Notes for redemption on March 6, 2019. The redemption was conditioned on the closing of the offering of the New CCWH Subordinated Notes. At the closing of such offering on February 12, 2019, CCWH deposited with the trustee for the CCWH Subordinated Notes a portion of the proceeds from the new notes in an amount sufficient to pay and discharge the principal amount outstanding, plus accrued and unpaid interest on the CCWH Subordinated Notes to, but not including, the redemption date. CCWH irrevocably instructed the trustee to apply such funds to the full payment of the CCWH Subordinated Notes on the redemption date. Concurrently therewith, CCWH elected to satisfy and discharge the indentures governing the CCWH Subordinated Notes in accordance with their terms and the trustee acknowledged such discharge and satisfaction. As a result of the satisfaction and discharge of the indentures, CCWH and the guarantors of the CCWH Subordinated Notes have been released from their remaining obligations under the indentures and the CCWH Subordinated Notes.
(2)
Interest payments on long-term debt consist primarily of interest on the CCWH Senior Notes, the New CCWH Subordinated Notes and the CCIBV Senior Notes. The table above reflects the impact of the refinancing, which occurred in February of 2019, of the CCWH Subordinated Notes, which were scheduled to mature in March 2020, with an aggregate principal amount of $2,235.0 million of New CCWH Subordinated Notes, which mature in February 2024.
(3)
Non-cancelable contracts that provide the lessor with a right to fulfill the arrangement with property, plant and equipment not specified within the contract are not a lease and have been included within non-cancelable contracts.
(4)
The non-current portion of the unrecognized tax benefits is included in the “Thereafter” column as we cannot reasonably estimate the timing or amounts of additional cash payments, if any, at this time.  For additional information, see Note 7 included in Item 8 of Part II of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
(5)
Other long-term obligations consist of $44.0 million related to asset retirement obligations recorded pursuant to ASC 410-20, which assumes the underlying assets will be removed at some period over the next 55 years.  Also included in the table is $48.4 million related to retirement plans and $135.1 million related to other long-term obligations with a specific maturity.

SEASONALITY
Typically, both our Americas and International segments experience their lowest financial performance in the first quarter of the calendar year, with International historically experiencing a loss from operations in that period.  Our International segment typically experiences its strongest performance in the second and fourth quarters of the calendar year.  We expect this trend to continue in the future.

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MARKET RISK
We are exposed to market risks arising from changes in market rates and prices, including movements in equity security prices, foreign currency exchange rates and inflation.
On June 23, 2016, the United Kingdom (the "U.K.") held a referendum in which voters approved an exit of the U.K. from the European Union (the "E.U."), commonly referred to as "Brexit," and on March 29, 2017, the U.K. delivered formal notification of its intention to withdraw from the E.U. The U.K. is currently negotiating the terms of its exit from the European Union scheduled for March 29, 2019. In November 2018, the U.K. and the E.U. agreed upon a draft Withdrawal Agreement that sets out the terms of the U.K.’s departure. On January 15, 2019, the draft Withdrawal Agreement was rejected by the U.K. Parliament creating significant uncertainty about the terms (and timing) under which the U.K. will leave the E.U. and the consequent impact on the economies of the U.K., the E.U. and other countries. Our International segment is currently headquartered in the U.K. and transacts business in many key European markets including the U.K. The announcement of Brexit caused the British pound currency rate to weaken against the U.S. dollar.  Further, Brexit may cause our U.K. customers to closely monitor their costs and reduce the amount they spend on advertising.  Any of these or similar effects of Brexit could adversely impact our business, operating results, cash flows and financial condition.
Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk
We have operations in countries throughout the world.  Foreign operations are measured in their local currencies.  As a result, our financial results could be affected by factors such as changes in foreign currency exchange rates or weak economic conditions in the foreign markets in which we have operations.  We believe we mitigate a small portion of our exposure to foreign currency fluctuations with a natural hedge through borrowings in currencies other than the U.S. dollar.  Our foreign operations reported net losses of $34.9 million for year ended December 31, 2018 .  We estimate a 10% increase in the value of the U.S. dollar relative to foreign currencies would have decreased our net losses for the year ended December 31, 2018 by $3.5 million.  A 10% decrease in the value of the U.S. dollar relative to foreign currencies would have increased our net losses for the year ended December 31, 2018 by a corresponding amount.
This analysis does not consider the implications that such currency fluctuations could have on the overall economic activity that could exist in such an environment in the U.S. or the foreign countries or on the results of operations of these foreign entities.
Inflation
Inflation is a factor in the economies in which we do business and we continue to seek ways to mitigate its effect.  Inflation has affected our performance in terms of higher costs for wages, salaries and equipment.  Although the exact impact of inflation is indeterminable, we believe we have offset these higher costs by increasing the effective advertising rates of most of our outdoor display faces.
NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
As of January 1, 2018, the Company adopted the new accounting standard, ASC 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers . This standard provides guidance for the recognition, measurement and disclosure of revenue from contracts with customers and supersedes previous revenue recognition guidance under U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”). The Company has applied this standard using the full retrospective method and concluded that its adoption did not have a material impact on the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets, Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss), Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Deficit, or Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for prior periods. As a result of adopting this new accounting standard, the Company has updated its significant accounting policies on accounts receivable, revenue recognition, and contract costs, as described in Note 1 to our Consolidated Financial Statements located in Part II of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
In November 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-18, Restricted Cash, which requires that restricted cash be presented with cash and cash equivalents in the statement of cash flows. Restricted cash is recorded in Other current assets and in Other assets in the Company's Consolidated Balance Sheets. The Company adopted ASU 2016-18 in the first quarter of 2018 using the retrospective transition method, and accordingly, revised prior period amounts as shown in the Company's Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.
During the second quarter of 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-09, Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718). This update mandates that entities will apply the modification accounting guidance if the value, vesting conditions or classification of a stock-based award changes. Entities will have to make all of the disclosures about modifications that are required today, in addition to disclosing that compensation expense hasn't changed. Additionally, the new guidance also clarifies that a modification to an award could be significant and therefore require disclosure, even if the modification accounting is not required. The guidance

62


will be applied prospectively to awards modified on or after the adoption date and is effective for annual periods, and interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2017. The Company adopted the provisions of ASU 2017-09 on January 1, 2018 and the adoption of ASU 2017-09 did not have an impact on our consolidated financial statements.
During the first quarter of 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842). The new leasing standard presents significant changes to the balance sheets of lessees. The most significant change to the standard includes the recognition of right-of-use assets and lease liabilities by lessees for those leases classified as operating leases. Lessor accounting also is updated to align with certain changes in the lessee model and the new revenue recognition standard which was adopted this year. The standard is effective for annual periods, and for interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2018. The Company plans to elect the package of practical expedients permitted under the new standard’s transition guidance for leases that commenced before the standard’s effective date, which, among other things, allows the Company to not reassess whether any expired or existing contracts are or contain leases and to carry forward the historical lease classification. The standard is expected to have a material impact on our consolidated balance sheet, but is not expected to materially impact our consolidated statement of comprehensive loss or cash flows. In accordance with the transition guidance, the Company will recognize upon adoption its deferred gains on sale and leaseback transactions, which were not a result of off-market terms, as a cumulative-effect adjustment to equity. The Company also expects to conclude that fewer revenue contracts meet the definition of a lease for accounting purposes, and therefore more of our revenue transactions will be accounted for as revenue from contracts with customers. The Company is in the process of finalizing its implementation of this standard.
In July 2018, The FASB issued ASU No. 2018-11, Leases (Topic 842) - Targeted Improvements. The update provides an additional (optional) transition method to adopt the new lease standard, allowing entities to apply the new lease standard at the adoption date. The Company plans to adopt Topic 842 following this optional transition method. The update also provides lessors a practical expedient to allow them to not separate non-lease components from the associated lease component and instead to account for those components as a single component if certain criteria are met. The updated practical expedient for lessors will not have a material effect to the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
During the first quarter of 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04, Intangibles - Goodwill and Other (Topic 350) . This update eliminates the requirement to calculate the implied fair value of goodwill to measure a goodwill impairment charge. Entities will record an impairment charge based on the excess of a reporting unit's carrying amount over its fair value. The standard is effective for annual and any interim impairment tests performed for periods beginning after December 15, 2019. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the provisions of this new standard on its consolidated financial statements.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES
The preparation of our financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates, judgments and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amount of expenses during the reporting period.  On an ongoing basis, we evaluate our estimates that are based on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances.  The result of these evaluations forms the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities and the reported amount of expenses that are not readily apparent from other sources.  Because future events and their effects cannot be determined with certainty, actual results could differ from our assumptions and estimates, and such difference could be material.  Our significant accounting policies are discussed in the notes to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of Part II of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.  Management believes that the following accounting estimates are the most critical to aid in fully understanding and evaluating our reported financial results, and they require management’s most difficult, subjective or complex judgments, resulting from the need to make estimates about the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain.  The following narrative describes these critical accounting estimates, the judgments and assumptions and the effect if actual results differ from these assumptions.
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
We evaluate the collectability of our accounts receivable based on a combination of factors.  In circumstances where we are aware of a specific customer’s inability to meet its financial obligations, we record a specific reserve to reduce the amounts recorded to what we believe will be collected.  For all other customers, we recognize reserves for bad debt based on historical experience for each business unit, adjusted for relative improvements or deteriorations in the agings and changes in current economic conditions.
If our agings were to improve or deteriorate resulting in a 10% change in our allowance, we estimated that our bad debt expense for the year ended December 31, 2018 would have changed by approximately $2.4 million .

63


Leases
The most significant estimates used by management in accounting for leases and the impact of these estimates are as follows:
Expected lease term Our expected lease term includes both contractual lease periods and, when applicable, cancelable option periods where failure to exercise such options would result in an economic penalty. The expected lease term is used in determining whether the lease is accounted for as an operating lease or a capital lease. A lease is considered a capital lease if the lease term exceeds 75% of the leased asset's useful life. The expected lease term is also used in determining the depreciable life of the asset. An increase in the expected lease term will increase the probability that a lease may be considered a capital lease and will generally result in higher interest and depreciation expense for a leased property recorded on our balance sheet.
Incremental borrowing rate The incremental borrowing rate is primarily used in determining whether the lease is accounted for as an operating lease or a capital lease. A lease is considered a capital lease if the net present value of the minimum lease payments is greater than 90% of the fair market value of the property. An increase in the incremental borrowing rate decreases the net present value of the minimum lease payments and reduces the probability that a lease will be considered a capital lease.
Fair market value of leased asset The fair market value of leased property is generally estimated based on comparable market data as provided by third-party sources. Fair market value is used in determining whether the lease is accounted for as an operating lease or a capital lease. A lease is considered a capital lease if the net present value of the minimum lease payments equals or exceeds 90% of the fair market value of the leased property. A higher fair market value reduces the likelihood that a lease will be considered a capital lease.
Long-lived Assets
Long-lived assets, including structures and other property, plant and equipment and definite-lived intangibles, are reported at historical cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. We estimate the useful lives for various types of advertising structures and other long-lived assets based on our historical experience and our plans regarding how we intend to use those assets. Advertising structures have different lives depending on their nature, with large format bulletins generally having longer depreciable lives and posters and other displays having shorter depreciable lives. Street furniture and transit displays are depreciated over their estimated useful lives or appropriate contractual periods, whichever is shorter. Our experience indicates that the estimated useful lives applied to our portfolio of assets have been reasonable, and we do not expect significant changes to the estimated useful lives of our long-lived assets in the future. When we determine that structures or other long-lived assets will be disposed of prior to the end of their useful lives, we estimate the revised useful lives and depreciate the assets over the revised period. We also review long-lived assets for impairment when events and circumstances indicate that depreciable and amortizable long-lived assets might be impaired and the undiscounted cash flows estimated to be generated by those assets are less than the carrying amounts of those assets. When specific assets are determined to be unrecoverable, the cost basis of the asset is reduced to reflect the current fair market value.
We use various assumptions in determining the remaining useful lives of assets to be disposed of prior to the end of their useful lives and in determining the current fair market value of long-lived assets that are determined to be unrecoverable. Estimated useful lives and fair values are sensitive to factors including contractual commitments, regulatory requirements, future expected cash flows, industry growth rates and discount rates, as well as future salvage values. Our impairment loss calculations require management to apply judgment in estimating future cash flows, including forecasting useful lives of the assets and selecting the discount rate that reflects the risk inherent in future cash flows.
If actual results are not consistent with our assumptions and judgments used in estimating future cash flows and asset fair values, we may be exposed to future impairment losses that could be material to our results of operations.
Annual Impairment Test
The Company performs its annual impairment tests on indefinite-lived intangible assets and goodwill as of July 1 of each year.
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets
Indefinite-lived intangible assets, such as our billboard permits, are reviewed annually for possible impairment using the direct valuation method as prescribed in ASC 805-20-S99. Under the direct valuation method, the estimated fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible assets was calculated at the market level as prescribed by ASC 350-30-35.  Under the direct valuation method, it is assumed that rather than acquiring indefinite-lived intangible assets as a part of a going concern business, the buyer hypothetically obtains indefinite-lived intangible assets and builds a new operation with similar attributes from scratch.  Thus, the buyer incurs start-up costs during the build-up phase which are normally associated with going concern value.  Initial capital costs

64


are deducted from the discounted cash flows model which results in value that is directly attributable to the indefinite-lived intangible assets.
Our key assumptions using the direct valuation method are market revenue growth rates, market share, profit margin, duration and profile of the build-up period, estimated start-up capital costs and losses incurred during the build-up period, the risk-adjusted discount rate and terminal values.  This data is populated using industry normalized information representing an average asset within a market.
On July 1, 2018 , we performed our annual impairment test in accordance with ASC 350-30-35, resulting in an impairment charge of $7.8 million related to permits in one market in our Americas Segment.
In determining the fair value of our billboard permits, the following key assumptions were used:
•
Industry revenue growth forecasts between 1.9% and 4.0% was used for the initial four-year period;
•
3.0% revenue growth was assumed beyond the initial four-year period;
•
Revenue was grown over a build-up period, reaching maturity by year 2;
•
Operating margins gradually climb to the industry average margin of up to 54.7%, depending on market size, by year 3; and
•
Assumed discount rate of 8.0%.

While we believe we have made reasonable estimates and utilized appropriate assumptions to calculate the fair value of our indefinite-lived intangible assets, it is possible a material change could occur.  If future results are not consistent with our assumptions and estimates, we may be exposed to impairment charges in the future.  The following table shows the decline in the fair value of our indefinite-lived intangible assets that would result from a 100 basis point decline in our discrete and terminal period revenue growth rate and profit margin assumptions, and a 100 basis point increase in our discount rate assumption:
(In thousands)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Description
 
Revenue growth rate
 
Profit margin
 
Discount rate
Billboard permits
 
$
1,077,700

 
$
166,000

 
$
1,059,700

The estimated fair value of our billboard permits at July 1, 2018 was $3.9 billion while the carrying value was $1.0 billion. The estimated fair value of our billboard permits at July 1, 2017 was $3.7 billion while the carrying value was $1.0 billion.
Goodwill
Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of identifiable net assets acquired in business combinations.  We test goodwill at interim dates if events or changes in circumstances indicate that goodwill might be impaired.  The fair value of our reporting units is used to apply value to the net assets of each reporting unit.  To the extent that the carrying amount of net assets would exceed the fair value, an impairment charge may be required to be recorded.
The discounted cash flow approach we use for valuing goodwill as part of the two-step impairment testing approach involves estimating future cash flows expected to be generated from the related assets, discounted to their present value using a risk-adjusted discount rate.  Terminal values are also estimated and discounted to their present value.
On July 1, 2018 , we performed our annual impairment test in accordance with ASC 350-30-35, resulting in no impairment of goodwill. In determining the fair value of our reporting units, we used the following assumptions:
•
Expected cash flows underlying our business plans for the periods 2018 through 2022 . Our cash flow assumptions are based on detailed, multi-year forecasts performed by each of our operating segments, and reflect the advertising outlook across our businesses.
•
Cash flows beyond 2022 are projected to grow at a perpetual growth rate, which we estimated at 3.0%.
•
In order to risk adjust the cash flow projections in determining fair value; we utilized a discount rate of approximately 8.0% to 11.0% for each of our reporting units.

Based on our annual assessment using the assumptions described above, a hypothetical 10% reduction in the estimated fair value in each of our reporting units would not result in a material impairment condition.

65


While we believe we have made reasonable estimates and utilized appropriate assumptions to calculate the estimated fair value of our reporting units, it is possible a material change could occur. If future results are not consistent with our assumptions and estimates, we may be exposed to impairment charges in the future. The following table shows the decline in the fair value of each of our reportable segments that would result from a 100 basis point decline in our discrete and terminal period revenue growth rate and profit margin assumptions and a 100 basis point increase in our discount rate assumption:
(In thousands)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Description
 
Revenue growth rate
 
Profit margin
 
Discount rates
Americas
 
$
770,000

 
$
170,000

 
$
720,000

International
 
$
340,000

 
$
230,000

 
$
300,000

Tax Provisions
Our estimates of income taxes and the significant items giving rise to the deferred tax assets and liabilities are shown in the notes to our consolidated financial statements and reflect our assessment of actual future taxes to be paid on items reflected in the financial statements, giving consideration to both timing and probability of these estimates. Actual income taxes could vary from these estimates due to future changes in income tax law or results from the final review of our tax returns by federal, state or foreign tax authorities.
We use our judgment to determine whether it is more likely than not that our deferred tax assets will be realized.  Deferred tax assets are reduced by valuation allowances if the Company believes it is more than likely than not that some portion or the entire asset will not be realized.
We use our judgment to determine whether it is more likely than not that we will sustain positions that we have taken on tax returns and, if so, the amount of benefit to initially recognize within our financial statements.  We regularly review our uncertain tax positions and adjust our unrecognized tax benefits (UTBs) in light of changes in facts and circumstances, such as changes in tax law, interactions with taxing authorities and developments in case law.  These adjustments to our UTBs may affect our income tax expense.  Settlement of uncertain tax positions may require use of our cash.
On December 22, 2017, the U.S. government enacted the Tax Act. The Tax Act reduced the U.S. federal corporate tax rate from 35% to 21% effective January 1, 2018, required companies to pay a one-time transition tax on earnings of certain foreign subsidiaries that were previously tax deferred, and created new U.S. taxes on certain foreign earnings. To account for the reduction in the U.S. federal corporate income tax rate, we remeasured our deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the rates at which they were expected to reverse in the future, generally 21%, which resulted in the recording of a provisional deferred tax benefit of $228.0 million during 2017. To determine the impact from the one-time transition tax on accumulated foreign earnings, we analyzed our cumulative foreign earnings and profits in accordance with the rules provided in the Tax Act and determined that no transition tax was due as a result of the net accumulated deficit in our foreign earnings and profits.  As of December 31, 2018, we have completed our accounting for all of the enactment-date income tax effects of the Tax Act and determined that no material adjustments were required to our provisional amounts recorded as of December 31, 2017.
Litigation Accruals
We are currently involved in certain legal proceedings.  Based on current assumptions, we have accrued an estimate of the probable costs for the resolution of those claims for which the occurrence of loss is probable and the amount can be reasonably estimated.  Future results of operations could be materially affected by changes in these assumptions or the effectiveness of our strategies related to these proceedings.
Management’s estimates have been developed in consultation with counsel and are based upon an analysis of potential results, assuming a combination of litigation and settlement strategies.
Asset Retirement Obligations
ASC 410-20 requires us to estimate our obligation upon the termination or nonrenewal of a lease, to dismantle and remove our billboard structures from the leased land and to reclaim the site to its original condition.
Due to the high rate of lease renewals over a long period of time, our calculation assumes all related assets will be removed at some period over the next 55 years.  An estimate of third-party cost information is used with respect to the dismantling of the structures and the reclamation of the site.  The interest rate used to calculate the present value of such costs over the retirement period is based on an estimated risk-adjusted credit rate for the same period.  If our assumption of the risk-adjusted credit rate used to discount current year additions to the asset retirement obligation decreased approximately 1%, our liability as of

66


December 31, 2018 would not be materially impacted.  Similarly, if our assumption of the risk-adjusted credit rate increased approximately 1%, our liability would not be materially impacted.
Share-Based Compensation
Under the fair value recognition provisions of ASC 718-10, share-based compensation cost is measured at the grant date based on the fair value of the award.  Determining the fair value of share-based awards at the grant date requires assumptions and judgments, such as expected volatility, among other factors.  If actual results differ significantly from these estimates, our results of operations could be materially impacted.

67


ITEM 7A.  QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Required information is located within Item 7 of Part II of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
ITEM 8.  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm  
To the Stockholders and the Board of Directors of Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc.
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc. and subsidiaries (the Company) as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 , the related consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss), changes in stockholders' deficit and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2018 , and the related notes and the financial statement schedule listed in the Index at Item 15(a)2 (collectively referred to as the "consolidated financial statements"). In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company at December 31, 2018 and 2017 , and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2018 , in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2018 , based on the criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 Framework) and our report dated March 5, 2019 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the 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. 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. 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.
/s/ Ernst & Young LLP
We have served as the Company's auditor since 2005.
San Antonio, Texas
March 5, 2019

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CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
(In thousands)
December 31,
 
December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
CURRENT ASSETS
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
182,456

 
$
144,119

Accounts receivable, net of allowance of $24,224 in 2018 and $22,487 in 2017
706,309

 
659,463

Prepaid expenses
95,734

 
111,876

Other current assets
31,301

 
58,714

Total Current Assets
1,015,800

 
974,172

PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
 
 
 
Structures, net
1,053,016

 
1,180,882

Other property, plant and equipment, net
235,922

 
214,147

INTANGIBLE ASSETS AND GOODWILL
 
 
 
Indefinite-lived intangibles
971,163

 
977,152

Other intangibles, net
252,862

 
273,862

Goodwill
706,003

 
714,043

OTHER ASSETS
 
 
 
Due from iHeartCommunications, net of allowance of $855,648 in 2018 and 2017
154,758

 
211,990

Other assets
132,504

 
124,534

Total Assets
$
4,522,028

 
$
4,670,782

CURRENT LIABILITIES
 
 
 
Accounts payable
$
113,714

 
$
87,960

Accrued expenses
530,823

 
509,801

Deferred revenue
85,052

 
59,178

Current portion of long-term debt
227

 
573

Total Current Liabilities
729,816

 
657,512

Long-term debt
5,277,108

 
5,266,153

Due to iHeartCommunications, post iHeart Chapter 11 Cases
21,591

 
—

Deferred tax liability
335,015

 
321,442

Other long-term liabilities
260,150

 
283,969

Commitments and contingent liabilities (Note 6)

 

STOCKHOLDERS’ DEFICIT
 
 
 
Noncontrolling interest
160,362

 
157,040

Preferred stock, $.01 par value, 150,000,000 shares authorized, no shares issued and outstanding
—

 
—

Class A common stock, par value $.01 per share, authorized 750,000,000 shares, issued 51,559,633 and 49,955,300 shares in 2018 and 2017, respectively
516

 
500

Class B common stock, par value $.01 per share, 600,000,000 shares authorized, 315,000,000 shares issued and outstanding
3,150

 
3,150

Additional paid-in capital
3,086,307

 
3,108,148

Accumulated deficit
(5,000,920
)
 
(4,781,245
)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
(344,489
)
 
(340,094
)
Cost of shares (1,108,538 in 2018 and 946,415 in 2017) held in treasury
(6,578
)
 
(5,793
)
Total Stockholders’ Deficit
(2,101,652
)
 
(1,858,294
)
Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Deficit
$
4,522,028

 
$
4,670,782

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

69


CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
(In thousands, except per share data)
Years Ended December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Revenue
$
2,721,705

 
$
2,588,702

 
$
2,679,822

Operating expenses:
 
 
 
 
 
Direct operating expenses (excludes depreciation and amortization)
1,470,668

 
1,409,767

 
1,418,319

Selling, general and administrative expenses (excludes depreciation and amortization)
522,918

 
499,213

 
515,421

Corporate expenses (excludes depreciation and amortization)
152,090

 
143,678

 
117,436

Depreciation and amortization
318,952

 
325,991

 
344,124

Impairment charges
7,772

 
4,159

 
7,274

Other operating income, net
2,498

 
26,391

 
354,688

Operating income
251,803

 
232,285

 
631,936

Interest expense, net
388,133

 
379,701

 
375,029

Interest income on Due from iHeartCommunications
393

 
68,871

 
50,309

Loss on Due from iHeartCommunications
—

 
(855,648
)
 
—

Equity in earnings (loss) of nonconsolidated affiliates
904

 
(990
)
 
(1,689
)
Other income (expense), net
(35,297
)
 
28,755

 
(70,151
)
Income (loss) before income taxes
(170,330
)
 
(906,428
)
 
235,376

Income tax benefit (expense)
(32,515
)
 
280,218

 
(77,499
)
Consolidated net income (loss)
(202,845
)
 
(626,210
)
 
157,877

Less amount attributable to noncontrolling interest
15,395

 
18,138

 
22,807

Net income (loss) attributable to the Company
$
(218,240
)
 
$
(644,348
)
 
$
135,070

Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign currency translation adjustments
(15,334
)
 
43,341

 
23,357

Other adjustments to comprehensive income (loss)
(1,498
)
 
6,306

 
(12,390
)
Reclassification adjustments
2,962

 
5,441

 
46,730

Other comprehensive income (loss)
(13,870
)
 
55,088

 
57,697

Comprehensive income (loss)
(232,110
)
 
(589,260
)
 
192,767

Less amount attributable to noncontrolling interest
(8,040
)
 
8,949

 
(8,038
)
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to the Company
$
(224,070
)
 
$
(598,209
)
 
$
200,805

Net income (loss) attributable to the Company per common share:
 
 
 
 
 
Basic
$
(0.60
)
 
$
(1.78
)
 
$
0.37

Weighted average common shares outstanding – Basic
361,740

 
361,141

 
360,294

Diluted
$
(0.60
)
 
$
(1.78
)
 
$
0.37

Weighted average common shares outstanding – Diluted
361,740

 
361,141

 
361,612

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

70


CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ DEFICIT OF
CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
(In thousands, except share data)
 
 
 
 
 
Controlling Interest
 
 
 
Class A
Common
Shares
Issued
 
Class B Common Shares
Issued
 
Non-controlling
Interest
 
Common
Stock
 
Additional Paid-in
Capital
 
Accumulated
Deficit
 
Accumulated Other Comprehensive
Loss
 
Treasury Stock
 
Total
Balances at
December 31, 2015
46,661,114

 
315,000,000

 
$
181,869

 
$
3,617

 
$
3,961,916

 
$
(4,271,967
)
 
$
(451,968
)
 
$
(2,104
)
 
$
(578,637
)
Net income
—

 
—

 
22,807

 
—

 
—

 
135,070

 
—

 
—

 
157,877

Exercise of stock options and other
1,286,009

 
—

 
—

 
12

 
624

 
—

 
—

 
(2,002
)
 
(1,366
)
Share-based payments
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
10,291

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
10,291

Disposal of noncontrolling interest
 
 
 
 
(36,846
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(36,846
)
Dividends and other payments to noncontrolling interests
—

 
—

 
(16,917
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(16,917
)
Dividends declared and paid ($1.4937/share)
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(540,034
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(540,034
)
Other
—

 
—

 
1,299

 
—

 
(676
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
623

Other comprehensive income (loss)
—

 
—

 
(8,038
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
65,735

 
—

 
57,697

Balances at
December 31, 2016
47,947,123

 
315,000,000

 
$
144,174

 
$
3,629

 
$
3,432,121

 
$
(4,136,897
)
 
$
(386,233
)
 
$
(4,106
)
 
$
(947,312
)
Net income (loss)
—

 
—

 
18,138

 
—

 
—

 
(644,348
)
 
—

 
—

 
(626,210
)
Exercise of stock options and other
2,008,177

 
—

 
—

 
21

 
198

 
—

 
—

 
(1,687
)
 
(1,468
)
Share-based payments
—

 
—

 
931

 
—

 
8,659

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
9,590

Disposal of noncontrolling interest
 
 
 
 
(2,439
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(2,439
)
Dividends and other payments to noncontrolling interests
—

 
—

 
(12,010
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(12,010
)
Dividends declared and paid ($0.9171/share)
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(332,498
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(332,498
)
Other
—

 
—

 
(703
)
 
—

 
(332
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(1,035
)
Other comprehensive income
—

 
—

 
8,949

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
46,139

 
—

 
55,088

Balances at
December 31, 2017
49,955,300

 
315,000,000

 
$
157,040

 
$
3,650

 
$
3,108,148

 
$
(4,781,245
)
 
$
(340,094
)
 
$
(5,793
)
 
$
(1,858,294
)
Net income (loss)
—

 
—

 
15,395

 
—

 
—

 
(218,240
)
 
—

 
—

 
(202,845
)
Exercise of stock options and other
1,604,333

 
—

 
—

 
16

 
56

 
—

 
—

 
(785
)
 
(713
)
Share-based payments
—

 
—

 
476

 
—

 
8,041

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
8,517

Dividends and other payments to noncontrolling interests
—

 
—

 
(4,509
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(4,509
)
Dividends declared and paid ($0.0824/share)
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(29,995
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(29,995
)
Other
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
57

 
(1,435
)
 
1,435

 
—

 
57

Other comprehensive loss
—

 
—

 
(8,040
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(5,830
)
 
—

 
(13,870
)
Balances at
December 31, 2018
51,559,633

 
315,000,000

 
$
160,362

 
$
3,666

 
$
3,086,307

 
$
(5,000,920
)
 
$
(344,489
)
 
$
(6,578
)
 
$
(2,101,652
)
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

71


CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS OF
CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
(In thousands)
Years Ended December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Cash flows from operating activities:
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated net income (loss)
$
(202,845
)
 
$
(626,210
)
 
$
157,877

Reconciling items:
 
 
 
 
 
Impairment charges
7,772

 
4,159

 
7,274

Depreciation and amortization
318,952

 
325,991

 
344,124

Deferred taxes
14,395

 
(311,085
)
 
32,025

Provision for doubtful accounts
7,387

 
6,740

 
10,659

Amortization of deferred financing charges and note discounts, net
10,730

 
10,527

 
10,572

Share-based compensation
8,517

 
9,590

 
10,291

Gain on disposal of operating and other assets
(3,364
)
 
(29,347
)
 
(363,485
)
Loss on Due from iHeartCommunications
—

 
855,648

 
—

Equity in (earnings) loss of nonconsolidated affiliates
(904
)
 
990

 
1,689

Foreign exchange transaction (gain) loss
33,580

 
(29,563
)
 
69,599

Other reconciling items, net
(1,556
)
 
(3,665
)
 
(666
)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions and dispositions:
 
 
 
 
 
(Increase) decrease in accounts receivable
(74,598
)
 
(39,790
)
 
30,308

(Increase) decrease in prepaid expenses and other current assets
2,077

 
9,608

 
(15,939
)
Increase (decrease) in accrued expenses
25,394

 
(7,316
)
 
25,518

Increase (decrease) in accounts payable
29,247

 
(4,126
)
 
(3,797
)
Increase in accrued interest
1,385

 
431

 
194

Increase (decrease) in deferred income
41,347

 
(13,273
)
 
(18,119
)
Changes in other operating assets and liabilities
(30,241
)
 
809

 
10,386

Net cash provided by operating activities
187,275

 
160,118

 
308,510

Cash flows from investing activities:
 
 
 
 
 
Purchases of property, plant and equipment
(211,079
)
 
(224,238
)
 
(229,772
)
Proceeds from disposal of assets
9,770

 
72,049

 
808,194

Purchases of other operating assets
(1,833
)
 
(837
)
 
(2,244
)
Change in other, net
(450
)
 
(1,496
)
 
(2,098
)
Net cash provided by (used for) investing activities
(203,592
)
 
(154,522
)
 
574,080

Cash flows from financing activities:
 
 
 
 
 
Payments on credit facilities
—

 
(909
)
 
(2,100
)
Proceeds from long-term debt
—

 
156,000

 
6,856

Payments on long-term debt
(632
)
 
(748
)
 
(2,334
)
Net transfers from (to) iHeartCommunications
78,823

 
(181,939
)
 
45,099

Dividends and other payments to noncontrolling interests
(4,505
)
 
(12,010
)
 
(16,917
)
Dividends paid
(30,678
)
 
(332,824
)
 
(755,538
)
Change in other, net
(2,322
)
 
(7,083
)
 
(1,565
)
Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities
40,686

 
(379,513
)
 
(726,499
)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
(9,810
)
 
9,536

 
(5,330
)
Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash
14,559

 
(364,381
)
 
150,761

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of year
188,310

 
552,691

 
401,930

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of year
$
202,869

 
$
188,310

 
$
552,691

SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES:
 
 
 
 
 
Cash paid during the year for interest
$
375,489

 
$
374,309

 
$
368,051

Cash paid during the year for income taxes
29,002

 
33,747

 
40,185

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

72


CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 1 — SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Nature of Business
Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc. (the “Company,” "CCOH," "we" or "us") is an outdoor advertising company which owns or operates advertising display faces domestically and internationally.   On November 11, 2005, the Company became a publicly traded company through an initial public offering (“IPO”), in which 10% , or 35.0 million shares, of the Company’s Class A common stock was sold.  Prior to the IPO, the Company was an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of iHeartCommunications, Inc. (“iHeartCommunications”), a diversified media and entertainment company.  As of December 31, 2018 , iHeartCommunications indirectly holds all of the 315.0 million shares of Class B common stock outstanding and 10,726,917 shares of Class A common stock, collectively representing 89.1% of the shares outstanding and approximately 99% of the voting power.   The holders of Class A common stock and Class B common stock have identical rights, except holders of Class A common stock are entitled to one vote per share while holders of Class B common stock are entitled to 20  votes per share.   The Class B shares of common stock are convertible, at the option of the holder at any time or upon any transfer, into shares of Class A common stock on a one -for-one basis, subject to certain limited exceptions.
The Company operates in the outdoor advertising industry by selling advertising on billboards, street furniture displays, transit displays and other advertising displays.  The Company has two reportable business segments: Americas and International.  The Americas segment primarily includes operations in the United States; the International segment primarily includes operations in Europe, Asia and Latin America.
We re-evaluated our segment reporting and determined that our Latin American operations should be managed by our International leadership team. As such, beginning January 1, 2018, our Latin American operations have been included in our International segment. Accordingly, we recast the corresponding segment disclosures for prior periods to include Latin America within the International segment.
Agreements with iHeartCommunications
There are several agreements which govern the Company's relationship with iHeartCommunications including the Intercompany Agreements.  iHeartCommunications has the right to terminate these agreements in various circumstances.  As of the date of the filing of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, no notice of termination of any of these agreements has been received from iHeartCommunications.  The Company's agreements with iHeartCommunications continued under the same terms and conditions subsequent to iHeartCommunications’ merger.
On March 14, 2018 , iHeartMedia, Inc. the indirect parent of the Company and certain of its subsidiaries (“iHeartMedia”), including iHeartCommunications (collectively, the “Debtors”), filed voluntary petitions for reorganization (the “iHeart Chapter 11 Cases”) under Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code (the “Bankruptcy Code”) in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas, Houston Division (the “Bankruptcy Court”). The Company and its direct and indirect subsidiaries did not file voluntary petitions for relief under the Bankruptcy Code and are not Debtors in the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases.
The iHeart Chapter 11 Cases are being jointly administered under the caption In re: iHeartMedia, Inc. et al., Case No. 18-31274 (MI). The Debtors continue to operate their businesses as “debtors-in-possession” under the jurisdiction of the Bankruptcy Court and in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Bankruptcy Code and orders of the Bankruptcy Court. iHeartMedia’s modified fifth amended Plan of Reorganization (the “iHeart Plan of Reorganization”) was confirmed by the Bankruptcy Court on January 22, 2019.
The iHeart Plan of Reorganization contemplates a restructuring of the Debtors whereby our business is proposed to be separated from iHeartCommunications upon consummation of the plan and the conclusion of the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases (the "Separation"). Effectiveness of the iHeart Plan of Reorganization and consummation of the Separation is subject to certain conditions, including the receipt of certain governmental approvals. Although the timing of when and if all such conditions will be satisfied or otherwise waived is inherently uncertain, iHeartMedia currently anticipates the iHeart Plan of Reorganization becoming effective and emerging from Chapter 11 during the second quarter of 2019.
The Company's board of directors established the Special Committee to consider, review and negotiate certain transactions between iHeartCommunications and us in connection with the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases.
See Item 1 “Business--The iHeart Chapter 11 Cases and the Separation” for more information about the iHeart Plan of Reorganization and the Separation.

73


CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) requires management to make estimates, judgments, and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes including, but not limited to, legal, tax and insurance accruals. The Company bases its estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Principles of Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its subsidiaries.  Also included in the consolidated financial statements are entities for which the Company has a controlling financial interest or is the primary beneficiary.  Investments in companies in which the Company owns 20 percent to 50 percent of the voting common stock or otherwise exercises significant influence over operating and financial policies of the Company are accounted for using the equity method of accounting.  All significant intercompany accounts have been eliminated in consolidation.
Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the 2018 presentation.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents include all highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three months or less.
Accounts Receivable
Accounts receivable are recorded when the Company has an unconditional right to payment, either because it has satisfied a performance obligation prior to receiving payment from the customer or has a non-cancelable contract that has been billed in advance in accordance with the Company’s normal billing terms.
Accounts receivable are recorded at the invoiced amount, net of allowances for doubtful accounts. The Company evaluates the collectability of its accounts receivable based on a combination of factors. In circumstances where it is aware of a specific customer’s inability to meet its financial obligations, it records a specific reserve to reduce the amounts recorded to what it believes will be collected. For all other customers, it recognizes reserves for bad debt based on historical experience of bad debts as a percent of accounts receivable for each business unit, adjusted for relative improvements or deteriorations in the agings and changes in current economic conditions. The Company believes its concentration of credit risk is limited due to the large number and the geographic diversification of its customers.
Business Combinations
The Company accounts for its business combinations under the acquisition method of accounting. The total cost of an acquisition is allocated to the underlying identifiable net assets, based on their respective estimated fair values. The excess of the purchase price over the estimated fair values of the net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill.  Determining the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed requires management's judgment and often involves the use of significant estimates and assumptions, including assumptions with respect to future cash inflows and outflows, discount rates, asset lives and market multiples, among other items.  Various acquisition agreements may include contingent purchase consideration based on performance requirements of the investee.  The Company accounts for these payments in conformity with the provisions of ASC 805-20-30, which establish the requirements related to recognition of certain assets and liabilities arising from contingencies.
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method at rates that, in the opinion of management, are adequate to allocate the cost of such assets over their estimated useful lives, which are as follows:
Buildings and improvements — 10 to 39 years
Structures — 3 to 20 years
Furniture and other equipment — 2 to 20 years
Leasehold improvements — shorter of economic life or lease term assuming renewal periods, if appropriate
For assets associated with a lease or contract, the assets are depreciated at the shorter of the economic life or the lease or contract term, assuming renewal periods, if appropriate. Expenditures for maintenance and repairs are charged to operations as incurred, whereas expenditures for renewal and betterments are capitalized.

74


CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The Company tests for possible impairment of property, plant and equipment whenever events and circumstances indicate that depreciable assets might be impaired and the undiscounted cash flows estimated to be generated by those assets are less than the carrying amounts of those assets.  When specific assets are determined to be unrecoverable, the cost basis of the asset is reduced to reflect the current fair market value. 
Assets and businesses are classified as held for sale if their carrying amount will be recovered or settled principally through a sale transaction rather than through continuing use. The asset or business must be available for immediate sale and the sale must be highly probable within one year.
Land Leases and Other Structure Leases
Most of the Company’s advertising structures are located on leased land. Americas land leases are typically paid in advance for periods ranging from one to 12 months. International land leases are paid both in advance and in arrears, for periods ranging up to 12 months. Most international street furniture display faces are operated through contracts with municipalities, which typically have terms ranging from 1 to 15 years. The leased land and street furniture contracts can include a percent of revenue to be paid along with a base rent payment. Prepaid land leases are recorded as an asset and expensed ratably over the related rental term and rent payments in arrears are recorded as an accrued liability.
Intangible Assets
The Company’s indefinite-lived intangible assets include billboard permits in its Americas segment. The Company’s indefinite-lived intangible assets are not subject to amortization, but are tested for impairment at least annually. The Company tests for possible impairment of indefinite-lived intangible assets whenever events or changes in circumstances, such as a significant reduction in operating cash flow or a dramatic change in the manner for which the asset is intended to be used indicate that the carrying amount of the asset may not be recoverable.
The Company performs its annual impairment test for its permits using a direct valuation technique as prescribed in ASC 805-20-S99. The Company engages a third party valuation firm, to assist the Company in the development of these assumptions and the Company’s determination of the fair value of its permits.
Other intangible assets include definite-lived intangible assets and permanent easements. The Company’s definite-lived intangible assets include primarily transit and street furniture contracts, site leases and other contractual rights, all of which are amortized over the shorter of either the respective lives of the agreements or over the period of time the assets are expected to contribute directly or indirectly to the Company’s future cash flows. The Company periodically reviews the appropriateness of the amortization periods related to its definite-lived intangible assets. These assets are recorded at cost. Permanent easements are indefinite-lived intangible assets which include certain rights to use real property not owned by the Company.
The Company tests for possible impairment of other intangible assets whenever events and circumstances indicate that they might be impaired and the undiscounted cash flows estimated to be generated by those assets are less than the carrying amounts of those assets. When specific assets are determined to be unrecoverable, the cost basis of the asset is reduced to reflect the current fair market value.
Goodwill
The Company performs its annual impairment test on July 1 of each year. The Company uses a discounted cash flow model to determine if the carrying value of the reporting unit, including goodwill, is less than the fair value of the reporting unit. The Company identified its reporting units in accordance with ASC 350-20-55. The Company’s U.S. outdoor advertising markets are aggregated into a single reporting unit for purposes of the goodwill impairment test.  The Company also determined that within its Americas segment and its International outdoor segment each country constitutes a separate reporting unit. The Company concluded no goodwill impairment was required in 2018 .  The Company had impairment of goodwill of $1.6 million and $7.3 million for 2017 and 2016 , respectively.
Nonconsolidated Affiliates
In general, investments in which the Company owns 20 percent to 50 percent of the common stock or otherwise exercises significant influence over the investee are accounted for under the equity method.  The Company does not recognize gains or losses upon the issuance of securities by any of its equity method investees.  The Company reviews the value of equity method investments and records impairment charges in the statement of operations as a component of “Equity in loss of nonconsolidated affiliates” for any decline in value that is determined to be other-than-temporary.

75


CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Other Investments
Effective January 1, 2018, we adopted Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2016-01 Financial Instruments - Overall: Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities ("ASU 2016-01"), which requires us to measure all equity investments that do not result in consolidation and are not accounted for under the equity method at fair value and recognize any changes in earnings. For equity securities without readily determinable fair values, we have elected the measurement alternative under which we measure these investments at cost minus impairment, if any, plus or minus changes resulting from observable price changes in orderly transactions for the identical or a similar investment of the same issuer. Prior to the adoption of ASU 2016-01, marketable equity securities not accounted for under the equity method were classified as available-for-sale. For equity securities classified as available-for-sale, realized gains and losses were included in net income. Unrealized gains and losses on equity securities classified as available-for-sale were recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) ("AOCI"), net of tax. Equity securities without readily determinable fair values were recorded at cost.
The Company recognized impairments of $0.2 million and $1.0 million during the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively, which were recorded in “Other income (expense), net,” and no impairment during the year ended December 31, 2016 .
Financial Instruments
Due to their short maturity, the carrying amounts of accounts and notes receivable, accounts payable, accrued liabilities and short-term borrowings approximated their fair values at December 31, 2018 and 2017 .
Asset Retirement Obligation
ASC 410-20 requires the Company to estimate its obligation upon the termination or non-renewal of a lease to dismantle and remove its advertising structures from the leased land and to reclaim the site to its original condition. The Company’s asset retirement obligation is reported in “Other long-term liabilities.” The Company records the present value of obligations associated with the retirement of its advertising structures in the period in which the obligation is incurred. When the liability is recorded, the cost is capitalized as part of the related advertising structures carrying amount. Over time, accretion of the liability is recognized as an operating expense and the capitalized cost is depreciated over the expected useful life of the related asset.
Income Taxes
The Company accounts for income taxes using the liability method. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on differences between financial reporting bases and tax bases of assets and liabilities and are measured using the enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the periods in which the deferred tax asset or liability is expected to be realized or settled. Deferred tax assets are reduced by valuation allowances if the Company believes it is more likely than not that some portion or the entire asset will not be realized. The Company has not provided U.S. federal income taxes for temporary differences with respect to investments in foreign subsidiaries, which at December 31, 2018 , currently result in tax basis amounts greater than the financial reporting basis. It is not apparent that these unrecognized deferred tax assets will reverse in the foreseeable future. If any excess cash held by our foreign subsidiaries were needed to fund operations in the U.S., the Company could presently repatriate available funds without a requirement to accrue or pay U.S. taxes. The Company regularly reviews its tax liabilities on amounts that may be distributed in future periods and provides for foreign withholding and other current and deferred taxes on any such amounts, where applicable.
The operations of the Company are included in a consolidated U.S. federal income tax return filed by iHeartMedia. However, for financial reporting purposes, the Company’s provision for income taxes has been computed on the basis that the Company files separate consolidated U.S. federal income tax returns with its subsidiaries.
Revenue Recognition
The Company recognizes revenue when or as it satisfies a performance obligation by transferring a promised good or service to a customer. The Company generates revenue primarily from the sale of advertising space on printed and digital displays, including billboards, street furniture displays, transit displays and retail displays, which may be sold as individual units or as a network package. Revenue from these contracts, which typically cover periods of a few weeks to one year, is generally recognized ratably over the term of the contract as the advertisement is displayed. The Company also generates revenue from production and creative services, which are distinct from the advertising display services, and related revenue is recognized at the point in time the Company installs the advertising copy at the display site.

76


CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The Company recognizes revenue in amounts that reflect the consideration it expects to receive in exchange for transferring goods or services to customers, excluding sales taxes and other similar taxes collected on behalf of governmental authorities (the “transaction price”). When this consideration includes a variable amount, the Company estimates the amount of consideration it expects to receive and only recognizes revenue to the extent that it is probable it will not be reversed in a future reporting period. Because the transfer of promised goods and services to the customer is generally within a year of scheduled payment from the customer, the Company is not typically required to consider the effects of the time value of money when determining the transaction price. Advertising revenue is reported net of agency commissions.
Trade and barter transactions represent the exchange of display space for merchandise, services or other assets in the ordinary course of business. The transaction price for these contracts is measured at the estimated fair value of the non-cash consideration received unless this is not reasonably estimable, in which case the consideration is measured based on the standalone selling price of the display space promised to the customer. Revenue is recognized on trade and barter transactions when the advertisements are displayed, and expenses are recorded ratably over a period that estimates when the merchandise, services or other assets received are utilized. Trade and barter revenues and expenses from continuing operations are included in consolidated revenue and selling, general and administrative expenses, respectively. Trade and barter revenues and expenses from continuing operations were as follows:
 
Year Ended December 31,
(In thousands)
2018
 
2017
 
2016
 
 
 
 
 
 
  Trade and barter revenues
$
15,921

 
$
17,379

 
$
12,516

  Trade and barter expenses
10,695

 
11,345

 
11,949

In order to appropriately identify the unit of accounting for revenue recognition, the Company determines which promised goods and services in a contract with a customer are distinct and are therefore separate performance obligations. If a promised good or service does not meet the criteria to be considered distinct, it is combined with other promised goods or services until a distinct bundle of goods or services exists. Certain of the Company’s contracts with customers include options for the customer to acquire additional goods or services for free or at a discount, and management judgment is required to determine whether these options are material rights that are separate performance obligations.
For revenue arrangements that contain multiple distinct goods or services, the Company allocates the transaction price to these performance obligations in proportion to their relative standalone selling prices. The Company has concluded that the contractual prices for the promised goods and services in its standard contracts generally approximate management’s best estimate of standalone selling price as the rates reflect various factors such as the size and characteristics of the target audience, market location and size, and recent market selling prices. However, where the Company provides customers with free or discounted services as part of contract negotiations, management uses judgment to determine how much of the transaction price to allocate to these performance obligations.
The Company receives payments from customers based on billing schedules that are established in its contracts, and deferred revenue is recorded when payment is received from a customer before the Company has satisfied the performance obligation or a non-cancelable contract has been billed in advance in accordance with the Company’s normal billing terms. Americas contracts are generally billed monthly in advance, and International includes a combination of advance billings and billings upon completion of service.
Contract Costs
Incremental costs of obtaining a contract primarily relate to sales commissions, which are included in selling, general and administrative expenses and are generally commensurate with sales. These costs are generally expensed when incurred because the period of benefit is one year or less.
Advertising Expense
The Company records advertising expense as it is incurred. Advertising expenses were $19.7 million , $15.5 million and $19.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively.

77


CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Share-Based Compensation
Under the fair value recognition provisions of ASC 718-10, share-based compensation cost is measured at the grant date based on the fair value of the award. For awards that vest based on service conditions, this cost is recognized as expense on a straight-line basis over the vesting period. For awards that will vest based on market or performance conditions, this cost will be recognized when it becomes probable that the performance conditions will be satisfied. Determining the fair value of share-based awards at the grant date requires assumptions and judgments, such as expected volatility, among other factors.
Foreign Currency
Results of operations for foreign subsidiaries and foreign equity investees are translated into U.S. dollars using the average exchange rates during the year. The assets and liabilities of those subsidiaries and investees are translated into U.S. dollars using the exchange rates at the balance sheet date. The related translation adjustments are recorded in a separate component of stockholders’ equity (deficit), “Accumulated other comprehensive loss”. Foreign currency transaction gains and losses are included in operations.
New Accounting Pronouncements Recently Adopted
As of January 1, 2018, the Company adopted the new accounting standard, ASC 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. This standard provides guidance for the recognition, measurement and disclosure of revenue from contracts with customers and supersedes previous revenue recognition guidance under U.S. GAAP. The Company has applied this standard using the full retrospective method and concluded that its adoption did not have a material impact on the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets, Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss), Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Deficit, or Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for prior periods. As a result of adopting this new accounting standard, the Company has updated its significant accounting policies on accounts receivable, revenue recognition, and contract costs, as described herein. Please refer to Note 2, Revenues, for more information.
In November 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-18, Restricted Cash, which requires that restricted cash be presented with cash and cash equivalents in the statement of cash flows. Restricted cash is recorded in Other current assets and in Other assets in the Company's Consolidated Balance Sheets. The Company adopted ASU 2016-18 in the first quarter of 2018 using the retrospective transition method, and accordingly, revised prior period amounts as shown in the Company's Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. The following table provides a reconciliation of cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash reported in the Consolidated Balance Sheet to the total of the amounts reported in the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows:
(In thousands)
December 31, 2018
 
December 31, 2017
Cash and cash equivalents
$
182,456

 
$
144,119

Restricted cash included in:
 
 
 
  Other current assets
4,221

 
26,096

  Other assets
16,192

 
18,095

Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash in the Statement of Cash Flows
$
202,869

 
$
188,310

New Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted
During the first quarter of 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842). The new leasing standard presents significant changes to the balance sheets of lessees. The most significant change to the standard includes the recognition of right-of-use assets and lease liabilities by lessees for those leases classified as operating leases. Lessor accounting also is updated to align with certain changes in the lessee model and the new revenue recognition standard which was adopted this year. The standard is effective for annual periods, and for interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2018. The Company plans to elect the package of practical expedients permitted under the new standard’s transition guidance for leases that commenced before the standard’s effective date, which, among other things, allows the Company to not reassess whether any expired or existing contracts are or contain leases and to carry forward the historical lease classification. The standard is expected to have a material impact on our consolidated balance sheet, but is not expected to materially impact our consolidated statement of comprehensive loss or cash flows. In accordance with the transition guidance, the Company will recognize upon adoption its deferred gains on sale and leaseback transactions, which were not a result of off-market terms, as a cumulative-effect adjustment to equity. The Company also expects to conclude that fewer revenue contracts meet the definition of a lease for accounting purposes,

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CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

and therefore more of our revenue transactions will be accounted for as revenue from contracts with customers. The Company is in the process of finalizing its implementation of this standard.
In July 2018, The FASB issued ASU No. 2018-11, Leases (Topic 842) - Targeted Improvements. The update provides an additional (optional) transition method to adopt the new lease standard, allowing entities to apply the new lease standard at the adoption date. The Company plans to adopt Topic 842 following this optional transition method. The update also provides lessors a practical expedient to allow them to not separate non-lease components from the associated lease component and instead to account for those components as a single component if certain criteria are met. The updated practical expedient for lessors will not have a material effect to the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
During the first quarter of 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04, Intangibles - Goodwill and Other (Topic 350) . This update eliminates the requirement to calculate the implied fair value of goodwill to measure a goodwill impairment charge. Entities will record an impairment charge based on the excess of a reporting unit's carrying amount over its fair value. The standard is effective for annual and any interim impairment tests performed for periods beginning after December 15, 2019. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the provisions of this new standard on its consolidated financial statements.
During the third quarter of 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-15, Intangibles - Goodwill and Other - Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40), Customer's Accounting for Implementation Costs Incurred in a Cloud Computing Arrangement that is a Service Contract . This update requires that a customer in a cloud computing arrangement that is a service contract follow the internal use software guidance in Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 350-402 to determine which implementation costs to capitalize as assets. The standard is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the provisions of this new standard on its consolidated financial statements.

NOTE 2 – REVENUES
The Company generates revenue primarily from the sale of advertising space on printed and digital out-of-home advertising displays. Certain of these revenue transactions are considered leases, for accounting purposes, as the agreements convey to customers the right to use the Company’s advertising structures for a stated period of time. In order for a transaction with a customer to qualify as a lease, the arrangement must be dependent on the use of a specified advertising structure, and the customer must have almost exclusive use of that structure during the term of the arrangement. Therefore, arrangements that do not involve the use of a specified advertising structure, where the Company can substitute the advertising structure that is used to display the customer’s advertisement, or where the advertising structure displays advertisements for multiple customers throughout the day are not leases. The Company accounts for revenue from leases, which are all classified as operating leases, in accordance with the lease accounting guidance ( Topic 840 ). All of the Company’s revenue transactions that do not qualify as a lease are accounted for as revenue from contracts with customers ( Topic 606 ).

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CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Disaggregation of Revenue
The following table shows, by segment, revenue from contracts with customers disaggregated by geographical region, revenue from leases and total revenue for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 :
(In thousands)
Americas (1)
 
International (1)
 
Consolidated
Year Ended December 31, 2018
Revenue from contracts with customers:
 
 
 
 
 
  United States
$
462,614

 
$
—

 
$
462,614

  Other Americas
2,693

 
53,186

 
55,879

  Europe
—

 
856,479

 
856,479

  Asia-Pacific and other
—

 
11,943

 
11,943

     Total
465,307

 
921,608

 
1,386,915

Revenue from leases
724,041

 
610,749

 
1,334,790

Revenue, total
$
1,189,348

 
$
1,532,357

 
$
2,721,705

 
 
 
 
 
 
Year Ended December 31, 2017
Revenue from contracts with customers:
  United States
$
429,475

 
$
—

 
$
429,475

  Other Americas
10,927

 
57,738

 
68,665

  Europe
—

 
772,056

 
772,056

  Asia-Pacific and other
578

 
9,966

 
10,544

     Total
440,980

 
839,760

 
1,280,740

Revenue from leases
720,079

 
587,883

 
1,307,962

Revenue, total
$
1,161,059

 
$
1,427,643

 
$
2,588,702

 
 
 
 
 
 
Year Ended December 31, 2016
Revenue from contracts with customers:
  United States
$
418,378

 
$
—

 
$
418,378

  Other Americas
19,191

 
47,313

 
66,504

  Europe
—

 
715,431

 
715,431

  Asia-Pacific and other
842

 
117,251

 
118,093

     Total
438,411

 
879,995

 
1,318,406

Revenue from leases
748,769

 
612,647

 
1,361,416

Revenue, total
$
1,187,180

 
$
1,492,642

 
$
2,679,822

(1) Due to a re-evaluation of the Company’s segment reporting in 2018 , its operations in Latin America are included in the International segment results for all periods presented. See Note 1, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies .
All of the Company’s advertising structures are used to generate revenue. Such revenue may be classified as revenue from contracts with customers or revenue from leases depending on the terms of the contract, as previously described.

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CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Revenue from Contracts with Customers
The following tables show the changes in the Company’s contract balances from contracts with customers for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 and provide a reconciliation of the ending balances to the Consolidated Balance Sheets:
 
Year Ended December 31,
(In thousands)
2018
 
2017
Accounts receivable from contracts with customers:
 
 
 
  Beginning balance, net of allowance
$
346,323

 
$
296,180

    Additions, net of collections, and other
25,177

 
52,883

    Bad debt, net of recoveries (1)
(3,582
)
 
(2,740
)
  Ending balance, net of allowance
367,918

 
346,323

Accounts receivable from leases, net of allowance
338,391

 
313,140

Total accounts receivable, net of allowance
$
706,309

 
$
659,463

(1) Bad debt, net of recoveries, related to accounts receivable from contracts with customers was $3.6 million during the year ended December 31, 2016 .
 
Year Ended December 31,
(In thousands)
2018
 
2017
Deferred revenue from contracts with customers:
 
 
 
  Beginning balance
$
28,804

 
$
28,924

    Revenue recognized, included in beginning balance (1)
(26,448
)
 
(28,006
)
    Additions, net of revenue recognized during period, and other
37,560

 
27,886

  Ending balance
39,916

 
28,804

Deferred revenue from leases
49,800

 
37,631

Total deferred revenue
89,716

 
66,435

Less: Non-current portion, included in other long-term liabilities
4,664

 
7,257

Total deferred revenue, current portion
$
85,052

 
$
59,178

(1) Revenue recognized during the year ended December 31, 2016 that was included in the balance of deferred revenue from contracts with customers at the beginning of that year was $37.6 million .
The primary driver of fluctuations in the deferred revenue balance related to contracts with customers is the timing of the Company’s billing cycle.
The Company’s contracts with customers generally have a term of one year or less; however, as of December 31, 2018 , the Company expects to recognize $120.1 million of revenue in future periods for remaining performance obligations from current contracts with customers that have an original expected duration of greater than one year, with substantially all of this amount to be recognized over the next five years . As part of the transition to the new revenue standard, the Company is not required to disclose information about remaining performance obligations for periods prior to the date of initial application.

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CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Revenue from Leases
As of December 31, 2018 , the Company’s future minimum rentals under non-cancelable operating leases were as follows:
(In thousands)
2019
$
318,633

2020
35,562

2021
17,170

2022
10,099

2023
3,254

Thereafter
4,893

  Total minimum future rentals
$
389,611


NOTE 3 – PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT, INTANGIBLE ASSETS AND GOODWILL
Property, Plant and Equipment
The Company’s property, plant and equipment consisted of the following classes of assets as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively.
(In thousands)
December 31,
 
December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
Land, buildings and improvements
$
145,403

 
$
145,763

Structures
2,835,411

 
2,864,442

Furniture and other equipment
202,155

 
179,215

Construction in progress
73,030

 
55,753

 
3,255,999

 
3,245,173

Less: accumulated depreciation
1,967,061

 
1,850,144

Property, plant and equipment, net
$
1,288,938

 
$
1,395,029

The Company recognized an impairment of $2.6 million during the year ended December 31, 2017 in relation to advertising assets that were no longer usable in one country in the Company's International segment.
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets
The Company’s indefinite-lived intangible assets consist primarily of billboard permits.  The Company’s billboard permits are granted for the right to operate an advertising structure at the specified location as long as the structure is in compliance with the laws and regulations of each jurisdiction.  The Company’s permits are located on owned land, leased land or land for which we have acquired permanent easements.  In cases where the Company’s permits are located on leased land, the leases typically have initial terms of between 10 and 20 years and renew indefinitely, with rental payments generally escalating at an inflation-based index.  If the Company loses its lease, the Company will typically obtain permission to relocate the permit or bank it with the municipality for future use. Due to significant differences in both business practices and regulations, billboards in the International segment are subject to long-term, finite contracts unlike the Company’s permits in the United States.  Accordingly, there are no indefinite-lived intangible assets in the International segment.

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CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Annual Impairment Test - Billboard Permits
The Company performs its annual impairment test on July 1 of each year.  The impairment tests for indefinite-lived intangible assets consist of a comparison between the fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset at the market level with its carrying amount.  If the carrying amount of the indefinite-lived intangible asset exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized equal to that excess.  After an impairment loss is recognized, the adjusted carrying amount of the indefinite-lived asset is its new accounting basis.  The fair value of the indefinite-lived asset is determined using the direct valuation method as prescribed in ASC 805-20-S99.  Under the direct valuation method, the fair value of the indefinite-lived assets is calculated at the market level as prescribed by ASC 350-30-35. The Company engaged a third-party valuation firm, to assist it in the development of the assumptions and the Company’s determination of the fair value of its indefinite-lived intangible assets.
The application of the direct valuation method attempts to isolate the income that is properly attributable to the indefinite-lived intangible asset alone (that is, apart from tangible and identified intangible assets and goodwill).  It is based upon modeling a hypothetical “greenfield” build-up to a “normalized” enterprise that, by design, lacks inherent goodwill and whose only other assets have essentially been paid for (or added) as part of the build-up process.  The Company forecasts revenue, expenses and cash flows over a ten-year period for each of its markets in its application of the direct valuation method.  The Company also calculates a “normalized” residual year which represents the perpetual cash flows of each market.  The residual year cash flow was capitalized to arrive at the terminal value of the permits in each market.
Under the direct valuation method, it is assumed that rather than acquiring indefinite-lived intangible assets as part of a going concern business, the buyer hypothetically develops indefinite-lived intangible assets and builds a new operation with similar attributes from scratch.  Thus, the buyer incurs start-up costs during the build-up phase which are normally associated with going concern value.  Initial capital costs are deducted from the discounted cash flow model which results in value that is directly attributable to the indefinite-lived intangible assets.
The key assumptions using the direct valuation method are market revenue growth rates, market share, profit margin, duration and profile of the build-up period, estimated start-up capital costs and losses incurred during the build-up period, the risk-adjusted discount rate and terminal values.  This data is populated using industry normalized information representing an average billboard permit within a market.
The Company recognized an impairment charge of $ 7.8 million during the year ended December 31, 2018 . During 2017 and 2016 , the Company recognized no impairment charges related to billboard permits.
Other Intangible Assets
Other intangible assets include definite-lived intangible assets and permanent easements.  The Company’s definite-lived intangible assets consist primarily of transit and street furniture contracts, site-leases and other contractual rights, all of which are amortized over the shorter of either the respective lives of the agreements or over the period of time the assets are expected to contribute directly or indirectly to the Company’s future cash flows.  Permanent easements are indefinite-lived intangible assets which include certain rights to use real property not owned by the Company.  The Company periodically reviews the appropriateness of the amortization periods related to its definite-lived intangible assets.  These assets are recorded at cost.
The following table presents the gross carrying amount and accumulated amortization for each major class of other intangible assets as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively:
(In thousands)
December 31, 2018
 
December 31, 2017
 
Gross Carrying Amount
 
Accumulated Amortization
 
Gross Carrying Amount
 
Accumulated Amortization
Transit, street furniture and other outdoor
contractual rights
$
528,185

 
$
(440,228
)
 
$
548,918

 
$
(440,284
)
Permanent easements
163,317

 
—

 
162,920

 
—

Other
5,919

 
(4,331
)
 
4,626

 
(2,318
)
Total
$
697,421

 
$
(444,559
)
 
$
716,464

 
$
(442,602
)

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CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Total amortization expense related to definite-lived intangible assets for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 was $20.0 million , $27.9 million , and $37.8 million , respectively.
As acquisitions and dispositions occur in the future, amortization expense may vary.  The following table presents the Company’s estimate of amortization expense for each of the five succeeding fiscal years for definite-lived intangible assets:
(In thousands)
 
2019
$
14,927

2020
13,283

2021
12,624

2022
10,813

2023
6,442

Annual Impairment Test to Goodwill
The Company performs its annual impairment test on July 1 of each year. Each of the Company’s advertising markets are components.  The U.S. advertising markets are aggregated into a single reporting unit for purposes of the goodwill impairment test using the guidance in ASC 350-20-55.  The Company also determined that within its Americas segment, each country in its International segment constitutes a separate reporting unit.
The goodwill impairment test is a two-step process. The first step, used to screen for potential impairment, compares the fair value of the reporting unit with its carrying amount, including goodwill. If applicable, the second step, used to measure the amount of the impairment loss, compares the implied fair value of the reporting unit goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill.
Each of the Company’s reporting units is valued using a discounted cash flow model which requires estimating future cash flows expected to be generated from the reporting unit, discounted to their present value using a risk-adjusted discount rate.  Terminal values were also estimated and discounted to their present value.  Assessing the recoverability of goodwill requires the Company to make estimates and assumptions about sales, operating margins, growth rates and discount rates based on its budgets, business plans, economic projections, anticipated future cash flows and marketplace data.  There are inherent uncertainties related to these factors and management’s judgment in applying these factors.
The Company recognized no goodwill impairment of during the year ended December 31, 2018 . The Company recognized goodwill impairment of $1.6 million during the year ended December 31, 2017 related to one market in the Company's International outdoor segment.

The following table presents the changes in the carrying amount of goodwill in each of the Company’s reportable segments:
(In thousands)
Americas
 
International
 
Consolidated
Balance as of December 31, 2016
$
505,478

 
$
190,785

 
$
696,263

Impairment
—

 
(1,591
)
 
(1,591
)
Acquisitions
2,252

 
—

 
2,252

Dispositions
—

 
(1,817
)
 
(1,817
)
Foreign currency
—

 
18,847

 
18,847

Assets held for sale
89

 
—

 
89

Balance as of December 31, 2017
$
507,819

 
$
206,224

 
$
714,043

Foreign currency
—

 
(8,040
)
 
(8,040
)
Balance as of December 31, 2018
$
507,819

 
$
198,184

 
$
706,003

The balance at December 31, 2016 is net of cumulative impairments of $2.6 billion and $270.5 million  in the Company’s Americas and International segments, respectively.


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CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 4 – ASSET RETIREMENT OBLIGATION
The Company’s asset retirement obligation is reported in “Other long-term liabilities” with the current portion recorded in “Accrued liabilities” and relates to its obligation to dismantle and remove outdoor advertising displays from leased land and to reclaim the site to its original condition upon the termination or non-renewal of a lease or contract.  When the liability is recorded, the cost is capitalized as part of the related long-lived assets’ carrying value.  Due to the high rate of lease renewals over a long period of time, the calculation assumes that all related assets will be removed at some period over the next 55  years.  An estimate of third-party cost information is used with respect to the dismantling of the structures and the reclamation of the site.  The interest rate used to calculate the present value of such costs over the retirement period is based on an estimated risk adjusted credit rate for the same period.
The following table presents the activity related to the Company’s asset retirement obligation:
(In thousands)
Years Ended December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
Beginning balance
$
44,779

 
$
39,451

Adjustment due to changes in estimates
872

 
2,166

Accretion of liability
3,113

 
3,373

Liabilities settled
(3,389
)
 
(2,712
)
Foreign Currency
(1,394
)
 
2,501

Ending balance
$
43,981

 
$
44,779


NOTE 5 – LONG-TERM DEBT
Long-term debt at December 31, 2018 and 2017 consisted of the following:
(In thousands)
December 31,
 
December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
Clear Channel Worldwide Holdings Notes (1)
$
4,925,000

 
$
4,925,000

Clear Channel International B.V. Senior Notes
375,000

 
375,000

Receivables Based Credit Facility Due 2023 (2)
—

 
—

Other debt
3,882

 
2,393

Original issue discount
(739
)
 
(241
)
Long-term debt fees
(25,808
)
 
(35,426
)
Total debt
$
5,277,335

 
$
5,266,726

Less: current portion
227

 
573

Total long-term debt
$
5,277,108

 
$
5,266,153

(1)
On February 4, 2019, Clear Channel Worldwide Holdings, Inc., a subsidiary of the Company (“CCWH” or the "Subsidiary Issuer"), delivered a conditional notice of redemption calling all of its outstanding $275.0 million aggregate principal amount of 7.625% Series A Senior Subordinated Notes due 2020 (the “Series A CCWH Subordinated Notes”) and $1,925.0 million aggregate principal amount of 7.625% Series B Senior Subordinated Notes due 2020 (the “Series B CCWH Subordinated Notes”) for redemption on March 6, 2019. The redemption was conditioned on the closing of the offering of $2,235.0 million of new 9.25% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2024 (the “New CCWH Subordinated Notes”). At the closing of such offering on February 12, 2019, CCWH deposited with the trustee for the CCWH Subordinated Notes a portion of the proceeds from the new notes in an amount sufficient to pay and discharge the principal amount outstanding, plus accrued and unpaid interest on the CCWH Subordinated Notes to, but not including, the redemption date. CCWH irrevocably instructed the trustee to apply such funds to the full payment of the CCWH Subordinated Notes on the redemption date. Concurrently therewith, CCWH elected to satisfy and discharge the indentures governing the CCWH Subordinated Notes in accordance with their terms and the trustee acknowledged such discharge and satisfaction. As a result of the satisfaction and discharge of the indentures, CCWH and the guarantors of the CCWH Subordinated Notes have been released from their remaining obligations under the indentures and the CCWH Subordinated Notes.

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CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(2)
On June 1, 2018, Clear Channel Outdoor, Inc. (“CCO”), a subsidiary of the Company, refinanced the Company's senior revolving credit facility with a receivables-based credit facility that provided for revolving credit commitments of up to $75.0 million . On June 29, 2018, CCO entered into an amendment providing for a $50.0 million incremental increase of the facility, bringing the aggregate revolving credit commitments to $125.0 million . The facility has a five -year term, maturing in 2023. As of December 31, 2018 , the facility had $94.4 million of letters of credit outstanding and a borrowing limit of $125.0 million , resulting in $30.6 million of excess availability. Certain additional restrictions, including a springing financial covenant, take effect at decreased levels of excess availability.
The aggregate market value of the Company’s debt based on market prices for which quotes were available was approximately $5.2 billion and $5.3 billion at December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , respectively. Under the fair value hierarchy established by ASC 820-10-35, the market value of the Company’s debt is classified as Level 1.
Senior Notes and Senior Subordinated Notes
As of December 31, 2018 and 2017 , the Company had senior notes and senior subordinated notes consisting of:
(In thousands)
Maturity Date
 
Interest Rate
 
Interest Payment Terms
 
12/31/2018
 
12/31/2017
CCWH Senior Notes:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
6.5% Series A Senior Notes Due 2022
11/15/2022
 
6.5%
 
Payable to the trustee weekly in arrears and to noteholders on May 15 and November 15 of each year
 
$
735,750

 
$
735,750

6.5% Series B Senior Notes Due 2022
11/15/2022
 
6.5%
 
Payable to the trustee weekly in arrears and to noteholders on May 15 and November 15 of each year
 
1,989,250

 
1,989,250

CCWH Subordinated Notes (1) :
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
7.625% Series A Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2020
3/15/2020
 
7.625%
 
Payable to the trustee weekly in arrears and to noteholders on March 15 and September 15 of each year
 
275,000

 
275,000

7.625% Series B Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2020
3/15/2020
 
7.625%
 
Payable to the trustee weekly in arrears and to noteholders on March 15 and September 15 of each year
 
1,925,000

 
1,925,000

Total CCWH Notes
 
 
 
 
 
 
$
4,925,000

 
$
4,925,000

Clear Channel International B.V. Senior Notes:
 
 
 
 
 
 
8.75% Senior Notes Due 2020
12/15/2020
 
8.750%
 
Payable semi-annually in arrears on June 15 and December 15 of each year
 
375,000

 
375,000

Total Senior Notes
 
 
 
 
 
 
$
5,300,000

 
$
5,300,000

(1)
On February 4, 2019, CCWH delivered a conditional notice of redemption calling all of its outstanding CCWH Subordinated Notes for redemption on March 6, 2019. The redemption was conditioned on the closing of the offering of $2,235.0 million of New CCWH Subordinated Notes. At the closing of such offering on February 12, 2019, CCWH deposited with the trustee for the CCWH Subordinated Notes a portion of the proceeds from the new notes in an amount sufficient to pay and discharge the principal amount outstanding, plus accrued and unpaid interest on the CCWH Subordinated Notes to, but not including, the redemption date. CCWH irrevocably instructed the trustee to apply such funds to the full payment of the CCWH Subordinated Notes on the redemption date. Concurrently therewith, CCWH elected to satisfy and discharge the indentures governing the CCWH Subordinated Notes in accordance with their terms and the trustee acknowledged such discharge and satisfaction. As a result of the satisfaction and discharge of the indentures, CCWH and the guarantors of the CCWH Subordinated Notes have been released from their remaining obligations under the indentures and the CCWH Subordinated Notes.
Guarantees and Security
The Series A Senior Notes due 2022 (the “Series A CCWH Senior Notes”) and Series B Senior Notes due 2022 (the “Series B CCWH Senior Notes” and together with the Series A CCWH Senior Notes, the “CCWH Senior Notes”) are guaranteed by CCOH, CCO and certain of CCOH’s direct and indirect subsidiaries. The CCWH Subordinated Notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed, jointly and severally, on a senior subordinated basis by CCOH, CCO and certain of CCOH’s other domestic subsidiaries and rank junior to each guarantor’s existing and future senior debt, including the CCWH Senior Notes, equally with each guarantor’s

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CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

existing and future senior subordinated debt and ahead of each guarantor’s existing and future debt that expressly provides that it is subordinated to the guarantees of the CCWH Subordinated Notes.
The CCWH Senior Notes are senior obligations that rank pari passu in right of payment to all unsubordinated indebtedness of CCWH and the guarantees of the CCWH Senior Notes rank pari passu in right of payment to all unsubordinated indebtedness of the guarantors.
Redemptions
CCWH may redeem the Senior Notes and Senior Subordinated Notes at its option, in whole or part, at redemption prices set forth in the indentures plus accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date and plus an applicable premium.
Certain Covenants
The indentures governing the Senior Notes and Senior Subordinated Notes contain covenants that limit CCOH and its restricted subsidiaries ability to, among other things:
•
incur or guarantee additional debt or issue certain preferred stock;
•
make certain investments;
•
in case of the Senior Notes, create liens on its restricted subsidiaries’ assets to secure such debt;
•
create restrictions on the payment of dividends or other amounts to it from its restricted subsidiaries that are not guarantors of the notes;
•
enter into certain transactions with affiliates;
•
merge or consolidate with another person, or sell or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of its assets;
•
sell certain assets, including capital stock of its subsidiaries; and
•
in the case of the Series B CCWH Senior Notes and the Series B CCWH Subordinated Notes, pay dividends, redeem or repurchase capital stock or make other restricted payments.
Clear Channel International B.V. Senior Notes
The 8.75% Senior Notes due 2020 (the “CCIBV Senior Notes”) of Clear Channel International B.V. (“CCIBIV”), an international subsidiary or ours, are guaranteed by certain of the International outdoor business’s existing and future subsidiaries. The Company does not guarantee or otherwise assume any liability for the CCIBV Senior Notes. The notes are senior unsecured obligations that rank pari passu in right of payment to all unsubordinated indebtedness of CCIBV and the guarantees of the notes are senior unsecured obligations that rank pari passu in right of payment to all unsubordinated indebtedness of the guarantors of the notes.
On August 14, 2017, CCIBV issued $150.0 million in aggregate principal amount of CCIBV Senior Notes (the “New CCIBV Notes”). The New CCIBV Notes were issued as additional notes under the indenture governing CCIBV’s existing CCIBV Senior Notes and were issued at a premium, resulting in $156.0 million in proceeds.  The New CCIBV Notes mature on December 15, 2020 and bear interest at a rate of 8.75%  per annum, payable semi-annually in arrears on June 15 and December 15 of each year.
Redemptions
CCIBV may redeem the notes at its option, in whole or part, at the redemption prices set forth in the indenture plus accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date.

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Certain Covenants
The indenture governing the CCIBV Senior Notes contains covenants that limit CCIBV’s ability and the ability of its restricted subsidiaries to, among other things:
•
pay dividends, redeem stock or make other distributions or investments;
•
incur additional debt or issue certain preferred stock;
•
transfer or sell assets;
•
create liens on assets;
•
engage in certain transactions with affiliates;
•
create restrictions on dividends or other payments by the restricted subsidiaries; and
•
merge, consolidate or sell substantially all of Clear Channel International B.V.’s assets.
Receivables Based Credit Facility Due 2023
On June 1, 2018 (the "Closing Date"), CCO, a subsidiary of the Company, entered into a Credit Agreement, as parent borrower, with certain of its subsidiaries named therein, as subsidiary borrowers, Deutsche Bank AG New York Branch, as administrative agent and swing line lender, and the other lenders from time to time party thereto. The Credit Agreement governs CCO’s new receivables-based revolving credit facility and replaced the Company's prior credit agreement, dated as of August 22, 2013, which was terminated on the Closing Date.
Size and Availability
The Credit Agreement provides for an asset-based revolving credit facility, with amounts available from time to time (including in respect of letters of credit) equal to the lesser of (i) the borrowing base, which equals 85.0% of the eligible accounts receivable of CCO and the subsidiary borrowers, subject to customary eligibility criteria minus any reserves, and (ii) the aggregate revolving credit commitments. As of the Closing Date, the aggregate revolving credit commitments were $75.0 million . On June 29, 2018, CCO entered into an amendment providing for a $50.0 million incremental increase of the facility, bringing the aggregate revolving credit commitments to $125.0 million . On the Closing Date, the revolving credit facility was used to replace and terminate the commitments under the Prior Credit Agreement and to replace the letters of credit outstanding under the Prior Credit Agreement.
As of December 31, 2018 , the facility had $94.4 million of letters of credit outstanding and a borrowing limit of $125.0 million , resulting in $30.6 million of excess availability. Certain additional restrictions, including a springing financial covenant, take effect at decreased levels of excess availability.
Interest Rate and Fees
Borrowings under the Credit Agreement bear interest at a rate per annum equal to the Applicable Rate plus, at CCO’s option, either (1) a base rate determined by reference to the highest of (a) the Federal Funds Rate plus 0.50% , (b) the rate of interest in effect for such date as publicly announced from time to time by the Administrative Agent as its “prime rate” and (c) the Eurocurrency rate that would be calculated as of such day in respect of a proposed Eurocurrency rate loan with a one-month interest period plus 1.00% , or (2) a Eurocurrency rate that is equal to the LIBOR rate as published by Reuters two business days prior to the commencement of the interest period. The Applicable Rate for borrowings under the Credit Agreement is 1.00% with respect to base rate loans and 2.00% with respect to Eurocurrency loans.
In addition to paying interest on outstanding principal under the Credit Agreement, CCO is required to pay a commitment fee of 0.375% per annum to the lenders under the Credit Agreement in respect of the unutilized revolving commitments thereunder. CCO must also pay a letter of credit fee for each issued letter of credit equal to 2.00% per annum times the daily maximum amount then available to be drawn under such letter of credit.
Maturity
Borrowings under the Credit Agreement will mature, and lending commitments thereunder will terminate, on the earlier of (a) June 1, 2023 and (b) 90 days prior to the maturity date of any indebtedness of CCOH or any of its direct or indirect subsidiaries in an aggregate principal amount outstanding in excess of $250,000,000 (other than the CCIBV Senior Notes).

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Prepayments
If at any time, the outstanding amount under the revolving credit facility exceeds the lesser of (i) the aggregate amount committed by the revolving credit lenders and (ii) the borrowing base, CCO will be required to prepay first, any protective advances and second, any outstanding revolving loans and swing line loans and/or cash collateralize letters of credit in an aggregate amount equal to such excess, as applicable.
Subject to customary exceptions and restrictions, CCO may voluntarily repay outstanding amounts under the Credit Agreement at any time without premium or penalty. Any voluntary prepayments CCO makes will not reduce commitments under the Credit Agreement.
Guarantees and Security
The facility is guaranteed by the Subsidiary Borrowers. All obligations under the Credit Agreement, and the guarantees of those obligations, are secured by a perfected security interest in all of CCO’s and the Subsidiary Borrowers’ accounts receivable and related assets and proceeds thereof.
Certain Covenants and Events of Default
If borrowing availability is less than the greater of (a) $7.5 million and (b) 10.0% of the lesser of (i) the aggregate commitments at such time and (ii) the borrowing base then in effect at such time (the “Financial Covenant Triggering Event”), CCO will be required to comply with a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio of at least 1.00 to 1.00 for the most recent period of four consecutive fiscal quarters ended prior to the occurrence of the Financial Covenant Triggering Event, and will be required to continue to comply with this minimum fixed charge coverage ratio until borrowing availability exceeds the greater of (x) $7.5 million and (y) 10.0% of the lesser of (i) the aggregate commitments at such time and (ii) the borrowing base then in effect at such time, at which time the Financial Covenant Triggering Event will no longer be deemed to be occurring.
The Credit Agreement also includes negative covenants that, subject to significant exceptions, limit the Borrowers’ ability and the ability of their restricted subsidiaries to, among other things:
•
incur additional indebtedness;
•
create liens on assets;
•
engage in mergers, consolidations, liquidations and dissolutions;
•
sell assets;
•
pay dividends and distributions or repurchase capital stock;
•
make investments, loans, or advances;
•
prepay certain junior indebtedness;
•
engage in certain transactions with affiliates or;
•
change lines of business.
The Credit Agreement includes certain customary representations and warranties, affirmative covenants and events of default, including payment defaults, breach of representations and warranties, covenant defaults, cross-defaults to certain indebtedness, certain events of bankruptcy, material judgments and a change of control. If an event of default occurs, the lenders under the Credit Agreement will be entitled to take various actions, including the acceleration of all amounts due under the Credit Agreement and all actions permitted to be taken by a secured creditor.
Other Debt
Other debt includes various borrowings and capital leases utilized for general operating purposes.  Included in the $3.9 million balance at December 31, 2018 is $0.2 million that matures in less than one year.

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Future Maturities of Long-term Debt
Future maturities of long-term debt as of December 31, 2018 are as follows:
(in thousands)
 
2019
$
227

2020
2,575,255

2021
295

2022
2,725,335

2023
373

Thereafter
2,397

Total (1)
$
5,303,882

(1)
Excludes original issue discount and long-term debt fees of $0.7 million and $25.9 million , respectively, which are amortized through interest expense over the life of the underlying debt obligations.
Surety Bonds, Letters of Credit and Guarantees
As of December 31, 2018 , the Company had $60.5 million , $94.4 million and $37.6 million , in surety bonds, letters of credit and bank guarantees outstanding, respectively. A portion of the bank guarantees was supported by $17.4 million of cash collateral. Additionally, as of December 31, 2018 , iHeartCommunications had outstanding commercial standby letters of credit of $1.2 million held on behalf of the Company. These letters of credit, surety bonds and bank guarantees relate to various operational matters, including insurance, bid, concession and performance bonds, as well as other items.

NOTE 6 – COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Commitments and Contingencies
The Company accounts for its rentals that include renewal options, annual rent escalation clauses, minimum franchise payments and maintenance related to displays under the guidance in ASC 840.
The Company considers its non-cancelable contracts that enable it to display advertising on buses, bus shelters, trains, etc., in the absence of substitution rights, to be leases in accordance with the guidance in ASC 840-10. These contracts may contain minimum annual franchise payments which generally escalate each year. The Company accounts for these minimum franchise payments on a straight-line basis. If the rental increases are not scheduled in the lease, such as an increase based on subsequent changes in the index or rate, those rents are considered contingent rentals and are recorded as expense when accruable. Other contracts may contain a variable rent component based on revenue. The Company accounts for these variable components as contingent rentals and records these payments as expense when accruable. No single contract or lease is material to the Company’s operations.
The Company accounts for annual rent escalation clauses included in the lease term on a straight-line basis under the guidance in ASC 840-20-25. The Company considers renewal periods in determining its lease terms if at inception of the lease there is reasonable assurance the lease will be renewed. Expenditures for maintenance are charged to operations as incurred, whereas expenditures for renewal and betterments are capitalized. Non-cancelable contracts that provide the lessor with a right to fulfill the arrangement with property, plant and equipment not specified within the contract are not a lease and have been included within non-cancelable contracts within the table below.
The Company leases office space, equipment and the majority of the land occupied by its advertising structures under long-term operating leases. The Company accounts for these leases in accordance with the policies described above.
The Company’s contracts with municipal bodies or private companies relating to street furniture, billboards, transit and malls generally require the Company to build bus stops, kiosks and other public amenities or advertising structures during the term of the contract. The Company generally owns these structures and is generally allowed to advertise on them for the remaining term of the contract. Once the Company has built the structure, the cost is capitalized and expensed over the shorter of the economic life of the asset or the remaining life of the contract.
In addition, the Company has commitments relating to required purchases of property, plant, and equipment under certain street furniture contracts.  Certain of the Company’s contracts contain penalties for not fulfilling its commitments related to its obligations

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

to build bus stops, kiosks and other public amenities or advertising structures.  Historically, any such penalties have not materially impacted the Company’s financial position or results of operations.
As of December 31, 2018 , the Company’s future minimum rental commitments under non-cancelable operating lease agreements with terms in excess of one year, minimum payments under non-cancelable contracts in excess of one year, capital expenditure commitments and employment contracts consist of the following:
(In thousands)
 
 
 
 
Capital
 
Non-Cancelable
 
Non-Cancelable
 
Expenditure
 
Operating Lease
 
Contracts
 
Commitments
2019
$
500,600

 
$
251,083

 
$
24,322

2020
402,686

 
229,433

 
7,408

2021
340,948

 
195,933

 
11,103

2022
258,564

 
137,055

 
4,179

2023
188,892

 
104,601

 
6,431

Thereafter
1,371,326

 
304,904

 
7,909

Total
$
3,063,016

 
$
1,223,009

 
$
61,352

Rent expense charged to operations for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 was $1,010.3 million , $954.3 million and $947.4 million , respectively.
In various areas in which the Company operates, outdoor advertising is the object of restrictive and, in some cases, prohibitive zoning and other regulatory provisions, either enacted or proposed. The impact to the Company of loss of displays due to governmental action has been somewhat mitigated by Federal and state laws mandating compensation for such loss and constitutional restraints.
The Company and its subsidiaries are involved in certain legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business and, as required, have accrued an estimate of the probable costs for the resolution of those claims for which the occurrence of loss is probable and the amount can be reasonably estimated.  These estimates have been developed in consultation with counsel and are based upon an analysis of potential results, assuming a combination of litigation and settlement strategies.  It is possible, however, that future results of operations for any particular period could be materially affected by changes in the Company’s assumptions or the effectiveness of its strategies related to these proceedings.  Additionally, due to the inherent uncertainty of litigation, there can be no assurance that the resolution of any particular claim or proceeding would not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition or results of operations.
Although the Company is involved in a variety of legal proceedings in the ordinary course of business, a large portion of its litigation arises in the following contexts: commercial disputes; misappropriation of likeness and right of publicity claims; employment and benefits related claims; governmental fines; intellectual property claims; and tax disputes.
Stockholder Litigation
On May 9, 2016, a stockholder of the Company filed a derivative lawsuit in the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware, captioned GAMCO Asset Management Inc. v. iHeartMedia Inc. et al., C.A. No. 12312-VCS. The complaint names as defendants iHeartCommunications, the Company’s indirect parent company, iHeartMedia, the parent company of iHeartCommunications, Bain Capital Partners, LLC and Thomas H. Lee Partners, L.P. (together, the “Sponsor Defendants”), iHeartMedia’s private equity sponsors and majority owners, and the members of the Company’s board of directors. The Company also is named as a nominal defendant. The complaint alleges that the Company has been harmed by the intercompany agreements with iHeartCommunications, the Company’s lack of autonomy over its own cash and the actions of the defendants in serving the interests of iHeartMedia, iHeartCommunications and the Sponsor Defendants to the detriment of the Company and its minority stockholders. Specifically, the complaint alleges that the defendants have breached their fiduciary duties by causing the Company to: (i) continue to loan cash to iHeartCommunications under the intercompany note at below-market rates; (ii) abandon its growth and acquisition strategies in favor of transactions that would provide cash to iHeartMedia and iHeartCommunications; (iii) issue new debt in offering the CCIBV Senior Notes (the “CCIBV Note Offering”) to provide cash to iHeartMedia and iHeartCommunications through a dividend; and (iv) effect the sales of certain outdoor markets in the U.S. (the “Outdoor Asset Sales”) allegedly to provide cash to iHeartMedia

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

and iHeartCommunications through a dividend. The complaint also alleges that iHeartMedia, iHeartCommunications and the Sponsor Defendants aided and abetted the directors’ breaches of their fiduciary duties. The complaint further alleges that iHeartMedia, iHeartCommunications and the Sponsor Defendants were unjustly enriched as a result of these transactions and that these transactions constituted a waste of corporate assets for which the defendants are liable to the Company. The plaintiff is seeking, among other things, a ruling that the defendants breached their fiduciary duties to the Company and that iHeartMedia, iHeartCommunications and the Sponsor Defendants aided and abetted the board of directors’ breaches of fiduciary duty, rescission of payments to iHeartCommunications and its affiliates pursuant to dividends declared in connection with the CCIBV Note Offering and Outdoor Asset Sales, and an order requiring iHeartMedia, iHeartCommunications and the Sponsor Defendants to disgorge all profits they have received as a result of the alleged fiduciary misconduct.
On July 20, 2016, the defendants filed a motion to dismiss plaintiff's verified stockholder derivative complaint for failure to state a claim upon which relief can be granted. On November 23, 2016, the Court granted defendants’ motion to dismiss all claims brought by the plaintiff.  On December 19, 2016, the plaintiff filed a notice of appeal of the ruling. The oral hearing on the appeal was held on October 11, 2017. On October 12, 2017, the Supreme Court of Delaware affirmed the lower court's ruling, dismissing the case.
On December 29, 2017, another stockholder of the Company filed a derivative lawsuit in the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware, captioned Norfolk County Retirement System, v. iHeartMedia, Inc., et al., C.A. No. 2017-0930-JRS. The complaint names as defendants iHeartMedia, iHeartCommunications, the Sponsor Defendants, and the members of the Company's board of directors.  The Company is named as a nominal defendant. The complaint alleges that the Company has been harmed by the Company board of directors' November 2017 decision to extend the maturity date of the intercompany revolving note (the “Third Amendment”) at what the complaint describes as far-below-market interest rates.  Specifically, the complaint alleges that (i) iHeartMedia and Sponsor defendants breached their fiduciary duties by exploiting their position of control to require the Company to enter the Third Amendment on terms unfair to the Company; (ii) the Company board of directors breached their duty of loyalty by approving the Third Amendment and elevating the interests of iHeartMedia, iHeartCommunications and the Sponsor Defendants over the interests of the Company and its minority unaffiliated stockholders; and (iii) the terms of the Third Amendment could not have been agreed to in good faith and represent a waste of corporate assets by the Company board of directors.  The complaint further alleges that iHeartMedia, iHeartCommunications and the Sponsor defendants were unjustly enriched as a result of the unfairly favorable terms of the Third Amendment.  The plaintiff sought, among other things, a ruling that the defendants breached their fiduciary duties to the Company, a modification of the Third Amendment to bear a commercially reasonable rate of interest, and an order requiring disgorgement of all profits, benefits and other compensation obtained by defendants as a result of the alleged breaches of fiduciary duties.
On March 7, 2018, the defendants filed a motion to dismiss plaintiff's verified derivative complaint for failure to state a claim upon which relief can be granted. On March 16, 2018, iHM filed a Notice of Suggestion of Pendency of Bankruptcy and Automatic Stay of Proceedings.
On August 27, 2018, the same stockholder of the Company that had filed the derivative lawsuit in the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware, captioned GAMCO Asset Management Inc. v. iHeartMedia Inc. et al., C.A. No. 12312-VCS (GAMCO Asset Management Inc.) filed a putative class action lawsuit in the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware, captioned GAMCO Asset Management, Inc. v. Hendrix, et al., C.A. No. 2018-0633-JRS. The complaint names as defendants the Sponsor Defendants and the members of the Company’s board of directors. The complaint alleges that minority shareholders in the Company during the period November 8, 2017 to March 14, 2018 were harmed by decisions of the Company's board of directors and the intercompany note committee of the Board relating to the Intercompany Note (as defined below). Specifically, the complaint alleges that (i) the members of the intercompany note committee breached their fiduciary duties by not demanding payment under the Intercompany Note and issuing a simultaneous dividend after a threshold tied to iHeartMedia’s liquidity had been reached; (ii) the Company's board of directors breached their fiduciary duties by approving the Third Amendment rather than allowing the Intercompany Note to expire; (iii) the Company's Board breached their fiduciary duties by not demanding payment under the Intercompany Note and issuing a simultaneous dividend after a threshold tied to iHeartMedia’s liquidity had been reached; (iv) the Sponsor Defendants breached their fiduciary duties by not directing the Company's Board to permit the Intercompany Note to expire and to declare a dividend. The complaint further alleges that the Sponsor Defendants aided and abetted the Board’s alleged breach of fiduciary duties. The plaintiff seeks, among other things, a ruling that the Company's Board, the intercompany note committee, and the Sponsor Defendants breached their fiduciary duties and that the Sponsor Defendants aided and abetted the Board’s breach of fiduciary duty; and an award of damages, together with pre- and post-judgment interests, to the putative class of minority shareholders.

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

On December 16, 2018, the Debtors, CCOH, GAMCO Asset Management, Inc., and Norfolk County Retirement System entered into the Settlement Agreement, which resolves all claims, objections, and other causes of action that have been or could be asserted by or on behalf of CCOH, GAMCO Asset Management, Inc., and/or Norfolk County Retirement System by and among the Debtors, CCOH, GAMCO Asset Management, Inc., certain individual defendants in the GAMCO Asset Management, Inc. action and/or the Norfolk County Retirement System action, and the private equity sponsor defendants in such actions. The Settlement Agreement provides for the consensual separation of the Debtors and CCOH, including approximately $149.0 million of recovery to CCOH on account of its claim against iHeartCommunications in the Chapter 11 cases, an unsecured revolving line of credit in an aggregate amount not to exceed $200 million from iHeartCommunications (the “iHeart Line of Credit”), the transfer of certain of the Debtors’ intellectual property to CCOH, the waiver by the Debtors of the setoff for the value of the transferred intellectual property, mutual releases, the termination of the cash sweep under the existing Corporate Services Agreement, the termination of any agreements or licenses requiring royalty payments from CCOH to the Debtors for trademarks or other intellectual property, the waiver of any post-petition amounts owed by CCOH relating to such trademarks or other intellectual property, and the execution of a new transition services agreement and other separation documents. The Settlement Agreement was approved by the Bankruptcy Court and the United States District Court for the Southern District of Texas in connection with the confirmation of the iHeartMedia Chapter 11 Cases on January 22, 2019.
China Investigation
Several employees of Clear Media Limited, an indirect, non-wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company whose ordinary shares are listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, are subject to an ongoing police investigation in China for misappropriation of funds. The Company is not aware of any litigation, claim or assessment pending against the Company in this investigation or otherwise. Based on information known to date, the Company believes any contingent liabilities arising from potential misconduct that has been or may be identified by the investigation in China are not material to the Company’s consolidated financial statements. The effect of the misappropriation of funds is reflected in these financial statements in the appropriate periods.
The Company advised both the United States Securities and Exchange Commission and the United States Department of Justice of the investigation at Clear Media Limited and is cooperating to provide information in response to inquiries from the agencies. The Clear Media Limited investigation could implicate the books and records, internal controls and anti-bribery provisions of the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, which statute and regulations provide for potential monetary penalties as well as criminal and civil sanctions. It is possible that monetary penalties and other sanctions could be assessed on the Company in connection with this matter. The nature and amount of any monetary penalty or other sanctions cannot reasonably be estimated at this time.
Italy Investigation
During the three months ended June 30 2018, the Company identified misstatements associated with VAT obligations in its business in Italy, which resulted in an understatement of its VAT obligation. These misstatements resulted in an understatement of other long-term liabilities of $16.9 million as of December 31, 2017. The effect of these misstatements is reflected in the historical financial statements in the appropriate periods. Upon identification of these misstatements, the Company undertook certain procedures, including a forensic investigation, which is ongoing. In addition, the Company voluntarily disclosed the matter and preliminary findings to the Italian tax authorities in order to commence a discussion on the appropriate calculation of the VAT position. The current expectation is that the Company may have to repay to the Italian tax authority a substantial portion of the VAT previously applied as a credit in relation to the transactions under investigation, amounting to approximately $17 million , including estimated possible penalties and interest. The Company made a payment of approximately $8.6 million during the fourth quarter of 2018 and expects to pay the remainder during the first half of 2019. The ultimate amount to be paid may differ from the estimates, and such differences may be material.

NOTE 7 — RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Due from iHeartCommunications
The Company records net amounts due from or to iHeartCommunications as “Due from/to iHeartCommunications” on the consolidated balance sheets, net of allowance for credit losses.  The accounts represent the revolving promissory note issued by the Company to iHeartCommunications and the revolving promissory note issued by iHeartCommunications to the Company in the face amount of $1.0 billion , or if more or less than such amount, the aggregate unpaid principal amount of all advances.  The

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

accounts accrue interest pursuant to the terms of the promissory notes and were generally payable on demand or when they were scheduled to mature on May 15, 2019.
Included in the accounts are the net activities resulting from day-to-day cash management services provided by iHeartCommunications.  As a part of these services, the Company maintains collection bank accounts swept daily into accounts of iHeartCommunications (after satisfying the Company's controlled disbursement accounts and the funding requirements of the Trustee Accounts under the CCWH Senior Notes and the CCWH Subordinated Notes).  The Company’s claim in relation to cash transferred from its concentration account is on an unsecured basis and is limited to the balance of the “Due from iHeartCommunications” account.
Pursuant to an order entered by the Bankruptcy Court, as of March 14, 2018, the balance of the Due from iHeartCommunications Note was frozen, and following March 14, 2018, intercompany allocations that would have been reflected in adjustments to the balance of the Due from iHeartCommunications Note are instead reflected in an intercompany balance that accrues interest at a rate equal to the interest under the Due from iHeartCommunications Note.
As of December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , the asset recorded in “Due from iHeartCommunications” on the consolidated balance sheet was $154.8 million and $212.0 million , respectively.  The Company did not expect that it would be able to recover all of the amounts owed to it under the Due from iHeartCommunications Note upon the implementation of the iHeartMedia Plan of Reorganization. As a result, the Company recognized a loss of $855.6 million on the Due from iHeartCommunications Note during the fourth quarter of 2017 to reflect the estimated recoverable amount of the note as of December 31, 2017, based on management's best estimate of the cash settlement amount. In addition, upon the filing of the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases on March 14, 2018, the Company ceased recording interest income on the pre-petition balance due from iHeartCommunications Note, which amounted to $21.3 million for the period from January 1, 2018 to March 14, 2018, as the collectability of the interest was not considered probable. As a result of the $855.6 million allowance on the Due from iHeartCommunications Note recognized during the fourth quarter of 2017 and the $21.3 million reserve recognized in relation to interest incurred during the pre-petition period in the three months ended March 31, 2018, the outstanding principal amount of $1,031.7 million was reduced to $154.8 million as of December 31, 2018 on our consolidated balance sheet. Pursuant to the Settlement Agreement, we agreed that we will recover 14.44% , or approximately $149.0 million , in cash on our allowed claim of $1,031.7 million under the Due from iHeartCommunications Note. See Note 6 "Related Party Transactions--Stockholder Litigation" for more information about the Settlement Agreement.
On November 29, 2017, the “Due from iHeartCommunications” note was amended to extend its maturity from December 15, 2017 to May 15, 2019. The note's interest rate was also amended and increased from 6.5% to 9.3% . Any balance above $1.0 billion accrued interest capped at a rate of 20.0% , while the balance up to $1.0 billion accrued interest at a rate of 9.3% . As noted above, no interest income was recorded on the pre-petition Due from iHeartCommunications Note during the year ended December 31, 2018 . The net interest income recognized in the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 was $0.4 million , $68.9 million , and $50.3 million , respectively. 
If CCOH does not realize the expected recovery under the Due from iHeartCommunications Note, or does not otherwise obtain sufficient supplemental liquidity as contemplated by the Disclosure Statement filed by the Debtors in the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases, the Company could experience a liquidity shortfall. In addition, any repayments that CCOH received on the Due from iHeartCommunications Note during the one-year preference period prior to the filing of the iHeart Chapter 11 Cases may potentially be avoidable as a preference and subject to recovery by the iHeartCommunications bankruptcy estate, which could further exacerbate any liquidity shortfall.
Other Related Party Transactions
The Company provides advertising space on its billboards for iHeartMedia, Inc. and for radio stations owned by iHeartMedia, Inc. For the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , the Company recorded $7.2 million , $6.9 million , and $3.5 million , respectively, in revenue for these advertisements. Some of these agreements are leasing transactions as they convey to iHeartMedia, Inc. the right to use the Company's advertising structures for a stated period of time.
Under the Corporate Services Agreement between iHeartCommunications and the Company, iHeartCommunications provides management services to the Company, which include, among other things: (i) treasury, payroll and other financial related services; (ii) certain executive officer services; (iii) human resources and employee benefits services; (iv) legal and related services; (v) information systems, network and related services; (vi) investment services; (vii) procurement and sourcing support services; and (viii) other general corporate services.  These services are charged to the Company based on actual direct costs incurred or

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

allocated by iHeartCommunications based on headcount, revenue or other factors on a pro rata basis. For the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , the Company recorded $68.0 million , $68.7 million , and $36.0 million , respectively, as a component of corporate expenses for these services. The iHeart Chapter 11 Cases could cause significant uncertainties and disrupt our operations and/or adversely affect our rights under the Corporate Services Agreement and the other intercompany agreements.
In February 2017, the Company and its indirect parent company, iHeartMedia, entered into an agreement related to the potential purchase at fair value of the Clear Channel registered trademarks and domain names. The agreements provide that CCOH will pay a license fee to iHeartMedia, Inc. in 2017 based on revenues of entities using the Clear Channel name, pursuant to the Amended and Restated License Agreement, dated November 10, 2005, by and between iHM Identity, Inc. and Outdoor Management Services, Inc. Included within the management services expense recognized in the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 are expenses related to this license of $38.7 million and $36.8 million , respectively. As discussed above, the Amended and Restated License Agreement terminated as of January 1, 2019 per the terms of the CCOH Settlement.
Pursuant to the Tax Matters Agreement between iHeartCommunications and the Company, the operations of the Company are included in a consolidated federal income tax return filed by iHeartMedia.  The Company’s provision for income taxes has been computed on the basis that the Company files separate consolidated federal income tax returns with its subsidiaries.  Tax payments are made to iHeartCommunications on the basis of the Company’s separate taxable income.  Tax benefits recognized on the Company’s employee stock option exercises are retained by the Company.
The Company computes its deferred income tax provision using the liability method in accordance with the provisions of ASC 740-10, as if the Company was a separate taxpayer.  Deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on differences between financial reporting basis and tax basis of assets and liabilities and are measured using the enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the periods in which the deferred tax asset or liability is expected to be realized or settled.  Deferred tax assets are reduced by valuation allowances if the Company believes it is more likely than not some portion or all of the asset will not be realized.
Pursuant to the Employee Matters Agreement, the Company’s employees participate in iHeartCommunications’ employee benefit plans, including employee medical insurance and a 401(k) retirement benefit plan.  For the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , the Company recorded $9.2 million , $9.5 million and $9.4 million , respectively, as a component of selling, general and administrative expenses for these services.
Stock Purchases
On August 9, 2010, iHeartCommunications announced that its board of directors approved a stock purchase program under which iHeartCommunications or its subsidiaries may purchase up to an aggregate of $100 million of the Company’s Class A common stock and/or the Class A common stock of iHeartMedia. The stock purchase program did not have a fixed expiration date and could be modified, suspended or terminated at any time at iHeartCommunications’ discretion. As of December 31, 2014, an aggregate $34.2 million was available under this program.  In January 2015, CC Finco, LLC (“CC Finco”), an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of iHeartCommunications, purchased an additional 2,000,000 shares of the Company’s Class A common stock for $20.4 million .  On April 2, 2015, CC Finco purchased an additional 2,172,946 shares of the Company’s Class A common stock for $22.2 million , increasing iHeartCommunications’ collective holdings to represent approximately 90% of the outstanding shares of the Company’s common stock on a fully-diluted basis, assuming the conversion of all of the Company’s Class B common stock into Class A common stock. As a result of this purchase, the stock purchase program concluded. The purchase of shares in excess of the amount available under the stock purchase program was separately approved by the iHeartCommunications’ board of directors.
Dividends
On February 23, 2017, the Company paid a special cash dividend to our stockholders of $282.5 million , using proceeds from the sales of certain non-strategic U.S. markets and of our business in Australia. iHeartCommunications received 89.9% , or approximately $254.0 million , with the remaining 10.1% , or approximately $28.5 million , paid to our public stockholders. The payment of these special dividends reduces the amount of cash available to us for future working capital, capital expenditure, debt service and other funding requirements.
On October 5, 2017, the Company paid a special cash dividend to Class A and Class B stockholders of record at the closing of business on October 2, 2017, in an aggregate amount equal to $25.0 million . On October 31, 2017, the board of directors of the

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CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Company paid a special cash dividend to Class A and Class B stockholders of record at the closing of business on October 26, 2017, in an aggregate amount equal to $25.0 million .
On January 24, 2018, the Company paid a special cash dividend to Class A and Class B stockholders of record at the closing of business on January 19, 2018, in an aggregate amount equal to $30.0 million .
NOTE 8 — INCOME TAXES
The operations of the Company are included in a consolidated U.S. federal income tax return filed by iHeartMedia.  However, for financial reporting purposes, the Company’s provision for income taxes has been computed on the basis that the Company files separate consolidated U.S. federal income tax returns with its subsidiaries.
On December 22, 2017, the U.S. government enacted comprehensive income tax legislation, referred to as The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the "Tax Act"). The Tax Act reduced the U.S. federal corporate tax rate from 35% to 21% effective January 1, 2018, required companies to pay a one-time transition tax on earnings of certain foreign subsidiaries that were previously tax deferred, and created new U.S. taxes on certain foreign earnings. To account for the reduction in the U.S. federal corporate income tax rate, we remeasured our deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the rates at which they were expected to reverse in the future, generally 21%, which resulted in the recording of a provisional deferred tax benefit of $228.0 million during 2017. To determine the impact from the one-time transition tax on accumulated foreign earnings, we analyzed our cumulative foreign earnings and profits in accordance with the rules provided in the Tax Act and determined that no transition tax was due as a result of the net accumulated deficit in our foreign earnings and profits.  As of December 31, 2018, we have completed our accounting for all of the enactment-date income tax effects of the Tax Act and determined that no material adjustments were required to our provisional amounts recorded as of December 31, 2017.
Significant components of the provision for income tax benefit (expense) are as follows:
(In thousands)
Years Ended December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Current - federal
$
—

 
$
(87
)
 
$
—

Current - foreign
(17,566
)
 
(29,403
)
 
(43,743
)
Current - state
(554
)
 
(1,377
)
 
(1,731
)
Total current expense
(18,120
)
 
(30,867
)
 
(45,474
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Deferred - federal
(5,673
)
 
306,078

 
(89,049
)
Deferred - foreign
(6,530
)
 
(2,548
)
 
56,048

Deferred - state
(2,192
)
 
7,555

 
976

Total deferred benefit (expense)
(14,395
)
 
311,085

 
(32,025
)
Income tax benefit (expense)
$
(32,515
)
 
$
280,218

 
$
(77,499
)
For the year ended December 31, 2018 the Company recorded current tax expense of $18.1 million as compared to $30.9 million for the 2017 year. The current tax expense for 2018 was primarily related to foreign income taxes on operating profits generated in certain jurisdictions during the period.
For the year ended December 31, 2017 the Company recorded current tax expense of $30.9 million as compared to $45.5 million for the 2016 year. The current tax expense for 2017 was primarily related to foreign income taxes on operating profits generated in certain jurisdictions during the period.
Deferred tax expense of $14.4 million was recorded for 2018 compared with a deferred tax benefit of $311.1 million for 2017 .  The change in deferred taxes is primarily due to the provisional deferred tax benefit of $228.0 million recorded in 2017 related to the reduction of the U.S. federal corporate tax rate to 21% in connection with the enactment of the Tax Act mentioned above.
Deferred tax benefit of $311.1 million was recorded for 2017 compared with a deferred tax expense of $32.0 million for 2016 .  The change in deferred taxes is primarily due to the provisional deferred tax benefit of $228.0 million recorded in 2017 related to the reduction of the U.S. federal corporate tax rate to 21% in connection with the enactment of the Tax Act mentioned above. The

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

change in foreign deferred taxes was the result of foreign deferred tax benefit recorded in 2016 for the release of valuation allowance against certain net operating loss carryforwards in France.
Significant components of the Company’s deferred tax liabilities and assets as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 are as follows:
(In thousands)
December 31,
 
December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
Deferred tax liabilities:
 
 
 
Intangibles and fixed assets
$
486,873

 
$
507,625

Equity in earnings
2,414

 
2,106

Other
11,574

 
14,058

Total deferred tax liabilities
500,861

 
523,789

Deferred tax assets:
 
 
 
Accrued expenses
20,210

 
16,927

Net operating loss carryforwards
363,875

 
229,398

Interest expense carryforwards
67,098

 
—

Bad debt reserves
4,089

 
3,656

Due from iHeartCommunications
—

 
202,461

Other
27,256

 
24,124

Total deferred tax assets
482,528

 
476,566

Less: Valuation allowance
316,682

 
274,219

Net deferred tax assets
165,846

 
202,347

Net deferred tax liabilities
$
335,015

 
$
321,442

The deferred tax liabilities associated with intangibles and fixed assets primarily relates to the difference in book and tax basis of acquired billboard permits and tax deductible goodwill created from the Company’s various stock acquisitions.  In accordance with ASC 350-10, Intangibles—Goodwill and Other, the Company does not amortize its book basis in permits.  As a result, this deferred tax liability will not reverse over time unless the Company recognizes future impairment charges related to its permits and tax deductible goodwill or sells its permits.  As the Company continues to amortize its tax basis in its permits and tax deductible goodwill, the deferred tax liability will increase over time. The Company’s net foreign deferred tax assets for the period ending December 31, 2018 and 2017 were $48.0 million and $53.6 million , respectively.
At December 31, 2018 , the Company had recorded deferred tax assets for net operating loss carryforwards (tax effected) for federal and state income tax purposes of $236.8 million , which expire in various amounts through 2038. In addition, the Company recorded a deferred tax asset of $202.5 million related to the impairment loss on the Due from iHeartCommunications Note for the period ending December 31, 2017 and in 2018 the realization of this deferred tax asset increased the Company’s net operating loss for the period. The Tax Act amended Section 163(j) of the Internal Revenue Code, thereby establishing new rules governing a U.S. taxpayer’s ability to deduct interest expense beginning in 2018. Section 163(j), as amended, generally limits the deduction for business interest expense to thirty percent of adjusted taxable income, and provides that any disallowed interest expense may be carried forward indefinitely. In applying the new rules under Section 163(j), the Company recorded an interest expense limitation and carryforward deferred tax asset for federal and state purposes of $67.1 million as of December 31, 2018. The Company expects to realize the benefits of a portion of its deferred tax assets based upon expected future taxable income from deferred tax liabilities that reverse in the relevant federal and state jurisdictions and carryforward periods.  As of December 31, 2018 , the Company had recorded a valuation allowance of $199.4 million against a portion of these deferred tax assets which it does not expect to realize. The Company recorded a net decrease of $7.8 million in valuation allowances against its foreign deferred tax assets during the year ended December 31, 2018 .  At December 31, 2018 , the Company had recorded $127.1 million (tax-effected) of deferred tax assets for foreign net operating losses, which are offset in part by an associated valuation allowance of $79.3 million .  The remaining deferred tax valuation allowance of $38.0 million offsets other foreign deferred tax assets that are not expected to be realized.  Realization of these foreign deferred tax assets is dependent upon the Company’s ability to generate future taxable income in appropriate tax jurisdictions to obtain benefits.  Due to the Company’s evaluation of all available evidence, including significant negative evidence of cumulative losses in these jurisdictions, the Company continues to record valuation allowances on the foreign deferred tax assets that are not expected to be realized.  The Company expects to realize its remaining gross deferred tax assets

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

based upon its assessment of deferred tax liabilities that will reverse in the same carryforward period and jurisdiction and are of the same character as the net operating loss carryforwards and temporary differences that give rise to the deferred tax assets.  Any deferred tax liabilities associated with billboard permits and tax deductible goodwill intangible assets are not relied upon as a source of future taxable income, as these intangible assets have an indefinite life.
At December 31, 2018 and 2017 , net deferred tax assets include a deferred tax asset of $8.8 million and $9.6 million , respectively, relating to stock-based compensation expense under ASC 718-10, Compensation—Stock Compensation .  Full realization of this deferred tax asset requires stock options to be exercised at a price equaling or exceeding the sum of the grant price plus the fair value of the option at the grant date and restricted stock to vest at a price equaling or exceeding the fair market value at the grant date.   Accordingly, there can be no assurance that the stock price of the Company’s Common Stock will rise to levels sufficient to realize the entire deferred tax benefit currently reflected in our balance sheet.  See Note 8 for additional discussion of ASC 718-10.
Income (loss) before income taxes:
(In thousands)
Years Ended December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
US
$
(158,965
)
 
$
(942,297
)
 
$
182,258

Foreign
(11,365
)
 
35,869

 
53,118

Total income (loss) before income taxes
$
(170,330
)
 
$
(906,428
)
 
$
235,376

The reconciliation of income tax computed at the U.S. federal statutory rates to income tax benefit is:
(In thousands)
Years Ended December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
 
Amount
 
Percent
 
Amount
 
Percent
 
Amount
 
Percent
Income tax benefit (expense) at statutory rates
$
35,769

 
21.0
 %
 
$
317,250

 
35.0
 %
 
$
(82,382
)
 
35.0
 %
State income taxes, net of federal tax effect
11,150

 
6.5
 %
 
23,378

 
2.6
 %
 
(4,602
)
 
2.0
 %
Foreign income taxes
(26,483
)
 
(15.5
)%
 
(19,409
)
 
(2.1
)%
 
(23,555
)
 
9.9
 %
Nondeductible items
(565
)
 
(0.3
)%
 
(646
)
 
(0.1
)%
 
(687
)
 
0.3
 %
Changes in valuation allowance and other estimates
(50,927
)
 
(29.9
)%
 
(148,389
)
 
(16.4
)%
 
34,597

 
(14.7
)%
U.S. tax reform
—

 
—
 %
 
228,010

 
25.2
 %
 
—

 
—
 %
U.S. rate differential on impairment of related party note
—

 
—
 %
 
(115,755
)
 
(12.8
)%
 
—

 
—
 %
Other, net
$
(1,459
)
 
(0.9
)%
 
$
(4,221
)
 
(0.5
)%
 
$
(870
)
 
0.4
 %
Income tax benefit (expense)
$
(32,515
)
 
(19.1
)%
 
$
280,218

 
30.9
 %
 
$
(77,499
)
 
32.9
 %
During 2018 , the Company recorded tax expense of $32.5 million . The 2018 income tax expense and (19.1)% effective tax rate were impacted primarily by the $50.3 million of deferred tax expense attributed to the valuation allowance recorded against federal and state deferred tax assets generated in the current period due to the uncertainty of the ability to utilize those assets in future periods. In addition, losses in certain foreign jurisdictions were not benefited primarily due to the uncertainty of the ability to utilize those losses in future periods.
During 2017 , the Company recorded tax benefit of $280.2 million . The 2017 income tax benefit and 30.9% effective tax rate were impacted primarily by the $228.0 million provisional deferred tax benefits recorded in connection with the reduction in the U.S. federal corporate tax rate to 21% upon enactment of the Tax Act described above. Additionally, subsequent to the enactment of the Tax Act and as further described in Note 7 above, the Company recorded an impairment loss of $855.6 million on the Due from iHeartCommunications Note. In connection with this impairment loss, the Company recorded a deferred tax asset at the newly enacted U.S. federal corporate tax rate. As this deferred tax asset was recorded subsequent to the enactment of the Tax Act, the associated impact to the Company’s 2017 effective tax rate is separately described in the table above “U.S. rate differential on impairment of related party note”. The Company also recorded tax expense of $149.2 million in connection with the valuation

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

allowance recorded against federal and state deferred tax assets generated in the current period due to the uncertainty of the ability to utilize those assets in future periods.
During 2016 , the Company recorded tax expense of $77.5 million . The 2016 income tax expense and 32.9% effective tax rate were impacted primarily by the $32.9 million and $43.3 million deferred tax benefits recorded in connection with the release of valuation allowances in the U.S. and France, respectively. These deferred tax benefits were partially offset by $54.7 million in tax expense attributable to the sale of our Australia outdoor business.
The Company provides for any related tax liability on undistributed earnings that the Company does not intend to be indefinitely reinvested outside the United States and that would become taxable upon remittance within our foreign structure.  The Company has not provided U.S. federal income taxes for temporary differences with respect to investments in our foreign subsidiaries, which at December 31, 2018 currently result in tax basis amounts greater than the financial reporting basis. If any excess cash held by our foreign subsidiaries were needed to fund operations in the U.S., we could presently repatriate available funds without a requirement to accrue or pay U.S. taxes. All tax liabilities owed by the Company are paid either by the Company or on behalf of the Company by iHeartCommunications through an operating account that represents net amounts due to or from iHeartCommunications.
The Company continues to record interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in current income tax expense.  The total amount of interest accrued at December 31, 2018 and 2017 , was $3.3 million and $3.3 million , respectively. The total amount of unrecognized tax benefits including accrued interest and penalties at December 31, 2018 and 2017 , was $31.6 million and $37.7 million , respectively, of which $18.2 million and $20.0 million is included in “Other long-term liabilities.” In addition, $13.4 million and $17.7 million of unrecognized tax benefits are recorded net with the Company’s deferred tax assets for its net operating losses as opposed to being recorded in “Other long-term liabilities” at December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively. The total amount of unrecognized tax benefits at December 31, 2018 and 2017 that, if recognized, would impact the effective income tax rate is $14.3 million and $16.1 million , respectively.
A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:
(In thousands)
 
Years Ended December 31,
Unrecognized Tax Benefits
 
2018
 
2017
Balance at beginning of period
 
$
34,431

 
$
37,174

Increases for tax position taken in the current year
 
3,881

 
4,327

Increases for tax positions taken in previous years
 
830

 
2,165

Decreases for tax position taken in previous years
 
(5,748
)
 
(499
)
Decreases due to settlements with tax authorities
 
—

 
(225
)
Decreases due to lapse of statute of limitations
 
(5,048
)
 
(8,511
)
Balance at end of period
 
$
28,346

 
$
34,431

Pursuant to the Tax Matters Agreement between iHeartCommunications and the Company, the operations of the Company are included in a consolidated U.S. federal income tax return filed by iHeartMedia.  In addition, the Company and its subsidiaries file income tax returns in various state and foreign jurisdictions.  During 2018 and 2017 , the Company reversed $5.2 million and $9.2 million in unrecognized tax benefits, respectively, inclusive of interest, as a result of the expiration of statutes of limitations to assess taxes in certain state and foreign jurisdictions. During 2018 , the Company settled certain tax examinations that resulted in the reduction of uncertain tax positions of $6.4 million , inclusive of interest. All federal income tax matters through 2014 are closed. Substantially all material state, local, and foreign income tax matters have been concluded for years through 2011.


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CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 9 – STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY (DEFICIT)
The Company reports its noncontrolling interests in consolidated subsidiaries as a component of equity separate from the Company’s equity. The following table shows the changes in stockholders’ equity attributable to the Company and the noncontrolling interests of subsidiaries in which the Company has a majority, but not total, ownership interest:
(In thousands)
The Company
 
Noncontrolling
Interests
 
Consolidated
Balances as of January 1, 2018
$
(2,015,334
)
 
$
157,040

 
$
(1,858,294
)
Net income (loss)
(218,240
)
 
15,395

 
(202,845
)
Dividends declared
(29,995
)
 
—

 
(29,995
)
Dividends and other payments to noncontrolling interests
—

 
(4,509
)
 
(4,509
)
Share-based compensation
8,041

 
476

 
8,517

Foreign currency translation adjustments
(7,294
)
 
(8,040
)
 
(15,334
)
Other adjustments to comprehensive loss
(1,498
)
 
—

 
(1,498
)
Reclassifications
2,962

 
—

 
2,962

Other, net
(656
)
 
—

 
(656
)
Balances as of December 31, 2018
$
(2,262,014
)
 
$
160,362

 
$
(2,101,652
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance as of January 1, 2017
$
(1,091,486
)
 
$
144,174

 
$
(947,312
)
Net income (loss)
(644,348
)
 
18,138

 
(626,210
)
Dividends declared
(332,498
)
 
—

 
(332,498
)
Dividends and other payments to noncontrolling interests
—

 
(12,010
)
 
(12,010
)
Disposal of noncontrolling interests
—

 
(2,439
)
 
(2,439
)
Share-based compensation
8,659

 
931

 
9,590

Foreign currency translation adjustments
34,392

 
8,949

 
43,341

Unrealized holding loss on marketable securities
(414
)
 
—

 
(414
)
Other adjustments to comprehensive loss
6,720

 
—

 
6,720

Reclassifications
5,441

 
—

 
5,441

Other, net
(1,800
)
 
(703
)
 
(2,503
)
Balances as of December 31, 2017
$
(2,015,334
)
 
$
157,040

 
$
(1,858,294
)
Share-Based Awards
Stock Options
The Company has granted options to purchase shares of its Class A common stock to certain employees and directors of the Company and its affiliates under its equity incentive plan at no less than the fair value of the underlying stock on the date of grant. These options are granted for a term not exceeding ten years and are forfeited, except in certain circumstances, in the event the employee or director terminates his or her employment or relationship with the Company or one of its affiliates. These options vest solely on continued service over a period of up to five years. The equity incentive plan contains anti-dilutive provisions that permit an adjustment for any change in capitalization.
The Company accounts for its share-based payments using the fair value recognition provisions of ASC 718-10. The fair value of the options is estimated using a Black-Scholes option-pricing model and amortized straight-line to expense over the vesting period. ASC 718-10 requires the cash flows from the tax benefits resulting from tax deductions in excess of the compensation cost recognized for those options (excess tax benefits) to be classified as financing cash flows. The excess tax benefit that is required to be classified as a financing cash inflow after application of ASC 718-10 is not material.
The fair value of each option awarded is estimated on the date of grant using a Black-Scholes option-pricing model. Expected volatilities are based on historical volatility of the Company’s stock over the expected life of the options. The expected life of options granted represents the period of time that options granted are expected to be outstanding. The Company uses historical

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CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

data to estimate option exercise and employee terminations within the valuation model. The risk free interest rate is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant for periods equal to the expected life of the option. The Company does not estimate forfeitures at grant date, but rather has elected to account for forfeitures when they occur. The following assumptions were used to calculate the fair value of the Company’s options on the date of grant:
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Expected volatility
44%
 
42%
 
42% – 44%
Expected life in years
6.3
 
6.3
 
6.3
Risk-free interest rate
2.76%
 
2.12%
 
1.12% – 1.41%
Dividend yield
—%
 
—%
 
—%
The following table presents a summary of the Company's stock options outstanding at and stock option activity during the year ended December 31, 2018 :
(In thousands, except per share data)
Options
 
Price (3)
 
Weighted
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term
 
Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value
Outstanding, January 1, 2018
4,110

 
$
6.10

 
4.1 years
 
$
2,378

Granted (1)
1

 
5.10

 
 
 
 
Exercised (2)
(31
)
 
2.37

 
 
 
 
Forfeited
(26
)
 
6.56

 
 
 
 
Expired
(809
)
 
10.73

 
 
 
 
Outstanding, December 31, 2018
3,245

 
4.97

 
3.8 years
 
$
2,938

Exercisable
2,822

 
5.10

 
3.4 years
 
$
2,915

Expected to vest
423

 
4.15

 
6.6 years
 
$
23

(1)
The weighted average grant date fair value of the Company’s options granted during the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 was $2.39 , $2.04 and $2.82 per share, respectively.
(2)
Cash received from option exercises during the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 was $0.1 million , $0.2 million and $0.6 million , respectively.  The total intrinsic value of the options exercised during the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 was $0.1 million , $0.2 million and $0.4 million , respectively.
(3)
Reflects the weighted average exercise price per share.
A summary of the Company’s unvested options at and changes during the year ended December 31, 2018 is presented below:
(In thousands, except per share data)
Options
 
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Unvested, January 1, 2018
718

 
$
4.19

Granted
1

 
2.39

Vested (1)
(274
)
 
4.28

Forfeited
(22
)
 
3.90

Unvested, December 31, 2018
423

 
$
4.15

(1)
The total fair value of the Company’s options vested during the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 was $1.2 million , $1.6 million and $2.7 million , respectively.

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Restricted Stock Awards
The Company has also granted both restricted stock and restricted stock unit awards to its employees and affiliates under its equity incentive plan. The restricted stock awards represent shares of Class A common stock that contain a legend which restricts their transferability for a term of up to five years. The restricted stock units represent the right to receive shares upon vesting, which is generally over a period of up to five years . Both restricted stock awards and restricted stock units are forfeited, except in certain circumstances, in the event the employee terminates his or her employment or relationship with the Company prior to the lapse of the restriction.
The following table presents a summary of the Company's restricted stock and restricted stock units outstanding at and activity during the year ended December 31, 2018 (“Price” reflects the weighted average share price at the date of grant):
(In thousands, except per share data)
Awards
 
Price
Outstanding, January 1, 2018
3,900

 
$
5.61

Granted
2,054

 
5.37

Vested (restriction lapsed)
(592
)
 
8.09

Forfeited
(229
)
 
5.64

Outstanding, December 31, 2018
5,133

 
5.23

Share-Based Compensation Cost
The share-based compensation cost is measured at the grant date based on the fair value of the award and is recognized as expense on a straight-line basis over the vesting period. Share-based compensation payments are recorded in corporate expenses and were $8.5 million , $9.6 million and $10.3 million , during the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively.
The tax benefit related to the share-based compensation expense for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 was $2.2 million , $3.3 million and $3.9 million , respectively.
As of December 31, 2018 , there was $15.5 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested share-based compensation arrangements that will vest based on service conditions.  This cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of approximately three years .
Net Income (Loss) per Share
The following table presents the computation of earnings (loss) per share for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 :
(In thousands, except per share data)
Years Ended December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
NUMERATOR:
 
 
 
 
 
Net income (loss) attributable to the Company – common shares
$
(218,240
)
 
$
(644,348
)
 
$
135,070

 
 
 
 
 
 
DENOMINATOR:
 

 
 

 
 

Weighted average common shares outstanding – basic
361,740

 
361,141

 
360,294

Stock options and restricted stock (1) :
—

 
—

 
1,318

Weighted average common shares outstanding – diluted
361,740

 
361,141

 
361,612

 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income (loss) attributable to the Company per common share:
 

 
 

 
 

Basic
$
(0.60
)
 
$
(1.78
)
 
$
0.37

Diluted
$
(0.60
)
 
$
(1.78
)
 
$
0.37

(1)
Outstanding stock options and restricted shares of 7.7 million , 8.0 million and 5.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively, were not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share because to do so would have been anti-dilutive.

102


CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


NOTE 10 – EMPLOYEE STOCK AND SAVINGS PLANS
The Company’s U.S. employees are eligible to participate in various 401(k) savings and other plans provided by iHeartCommunications for the purpose of providing retirement benefits for substantially all employees.  Under these plans, a Company employee can make pre-tax contributions and the Company will match 50% of the employee’s first 5% of pay contributed to the plan.  Employees vest in these Company matching contributions based upon their years of service to the Company.  Contributions to these plans of $2.2 million , $2.2 million and $2.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively, were recorded as a component of operating expenses.
In addition, employees in the Company’s International markets participate in retirement plans administered by the Company which are not part of the 401(k) savings and other plans sponsored by iHeartCommunications.  Contributions to these plans of $11.5 million , $13.1 million and $15.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively, were recorded as a component of operating expenses.
Certain highly compensated executives of the Company are eligible to participate in a non-qualified deferred compensation plan sponsored by iHeartCommunications, under which such executives were able to make an annual election to defer up to 50% of their annual salary and up to 80% of their bonus before taxes. The Company suspended all salary and bonus deferral and company matching contributions to the deferred compensation plan on January 1, 2010. Matching credits on amounts deferred may be made in the sole discretion of iHeartCommunications and iHeartCommunications retains ownership of all assets until distributed.  Participants in the plan have the opportunity to allocate their deferrals and any matching credits among different investment options, the performance of which is used to determine the amounts paid to participants under the plan.  There is no liability recorded by the Company under this deferred compensation plan as the liability of this plan is that of iHeartCommunications.

NOTE 11 — OTHER INFORMATION
The following table discloses the components of “Other income (expense)” for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively:
(In thousands)
Years Ended December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Foreign exchange loss
$
(33,580
)
 
$
29,563

 
$
(69,599
)
Other
(1,717
)
 
(808
)
 
(552
)
Total other income (expense) — net
$
(35,297
)
 
$
28,755

 
$
(70,151
)
For the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 the total increase (decrease) in other comprehensive income (loss) related to the impact of pensions on deferred income tax liabilities were $0.7 million , ($0.3) million and $(1.0) million , respectively.
The following table discloses the components of “Other current assets” as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively:
(In thousands)
As of December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
Inventory
$
18,061

 
$
21,940

Deposits
1,035

 
1,720

Other receivables
5,088

 
4,906

Restricted cash
4,221

 
26,096

Other
2,896

 
4,052

Total other current assets
$
31,301

 
$
58,714

During 2017, CCOH established a separate bi-lateral letter of credit facility to issue additional letters of credit to be supported by cash collateral posted by the Company.  As of December 31, 2017, the amount of letters of credit issued under this facility totaled $24.7 million and was backed by cash collateral of $25.4 million , which is classified as Restricted cash. On June 1, 2018, a

103


CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

subsidiary of the Company's Outdoor advertising subsidiary, CCO, refinanced CCOH's senior revolving credit facility and replaced it with a receivables-based credit facility and the letters of credit that previously were supported by cash collateral were transferred to the receivables-based credit facility.
The following table discloses the components of “Other assets” as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively:
(In thousands)
As of December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
Investments
$
9,889

 
$
10,042

Deposits
23,515

 
23,096

Prepaid expenses
53,833

 
60,294

Restricted cash
16,192

 
18,095

Other
29,075

 
13,007

Total other assets
$
132,504

 
$
124,534

The following table discloses the components of “Other long-term liabilities” as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively:
(In thousands)
As of December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
Unrecognized tax benefits
$
18,186

 
$
20,044

Asset retirement obligation
43,981

 
44,779

Deferred income
19,133

 
23,394

Deferred rent
109,385

 
105,324

Employee related liabilities
48,432

 
52,212

Other
21,033

 
38,216

Total other long-term liabilities
$
260,150

 
$
283,969

The following table discloses the components of “Accumulated other comprehensive loss,” net of tax, as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively:
(In thousands)
As of December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
Cumulative currency translation adjustments and other
$
(344,489
)
 
$
(341,267
)
Cumulative unrealized gain on securities
—

 
1,173

Total accumulated other comprehensive loss
$
(344,489
)
 
$
(340,094
)


104


CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 12 — QUARTERLY RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (Unaudited)
(In thousands, except per share data)
 
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
Three Months Ended
June 30,
 
Three Months Ended
September 30,
 
Three Months Ended
December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
2018
 
2017
 
2018
 
2017
 
2018
 
2017
Revenue
$
598,398

 
$
544,280

 
$
711,980

 
$
671,588

 
$
663,739

 
$
644,430

 
$
747,588

 
$
728,404

Operating expenses:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Direct operating expenses
361,289

 
329,212

 
372,936

 
352,017

 
361,681

 
357,946

 
374,762

 
370,592

Selling, general and administrative expenses
127,408

 
115,941

 
125,289

 
126,117

 
128,797

 
128,539

 
141,424

 
128,616

Corporate expenses
35,435

 
34,540

 
37,928

 
35,340

 
37,729

 
35,333

 
40,998

 
38,465

Depreciation and amortization
84,060

 
77,494

 
82,767

 
78,290

 
77,405

 
81,096

 
74,720

 
89,111

Impairment charges
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
7,772

 
1,591

 
—

 
2,568

Other operating income (expense), net
(54
)
 
32,611

 
929

 
7,829

 
825

 
(11,783
)
 
798

 
(2,266
)
Operating income (loss)
(9,848
)
 
19,704

 
93,989

 
87,653

 
51,180

 
28,142

 
116,482

 
96,786

Interest expense
97,264

 
92,633

 
96,987

 
94,702

 
97,158

 
95,467

 
96,724

 
96,899

Interest income (expense) on Due from (to) iHeartCommunications
—

 
14,807

 
210

 
15,383

 
363

 
17,087

 
(180
)
 
21,594

Loss on Due from iHeartCommunications
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(855,648
)
Equity in earnings (loss) of nonconsolidated affiliates
188

 
(472
)
 
(6
)
 
271

 
202

 
(628
)
 
520

 
(161
)
Other income (expense), net
19,453

 
3,867

 
(35,396
)
 
8,773

 
(6,087
)
 
9,164

 
(13,267
)
 
6,951

Income (loss) before income taxes
(87,471
)
 
(54,727
)
 
(38,190
)
 
17,378

 
(51,500
)
 
(41,702
)
 
6,831

 
(827,377
)
Income tax benefit (expense)
(45,367
)
 
21,837

 
(4,753
)
 
(18,390
)
 
(6,896
)
 
(16,347
)
 
24,501

 
293,118

Consolidated net income (loss)
(132,838
)
 
(32,890
)
 
(42,943
)
 
(1,012
)
 
(58,396
)
 
(58,049
)
 
31,332

 
(534,259
)
Less amount attributable to noncontrolling interest
(4,416
)
 
(2,086
)
 
7,440

 
6,473

 
6,692

 
6,159

 
5,679

 
7,592

Net income (loss) attributable to the Company
$
(128,422
)
 
$
(30,804
)
 
$
(50,383
)
 
$
(7,485
)
 
$
(65,088
)
 
$
(64,208
)
 
$
25,653

 
$
(541,851
)
Net income (loss) per common share:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic
$
(0.36
)
 
$
(0.09
)
 
$
(0.14
)
 
$
(0.02
)
 
$
(0.18
)
 
$
(0.18
)
 
$
0.07

 
$
(1.50
)
Diluted
$
(0.36
)
 
$
(0.09
)
 
$
(0.14
)
 
$
(0.02
)
 
$
(0.18
)
 
$
(0.18
)
 
$
0.07

 
$
(1.50
)

105


CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 13 – SEGMENT DATA
The Company has two reportable segments, which it believes best reflect how the Company is currently managed – Americas and International.  The Americas segment consists of operations primarily in the United States and the International segment primarily includes operations in Europe, Asia and Latin America. The Americas and International display inventory consists primarily of billboards, street furniture displays and transit displays.  Corporate includes infrastructure and support including information technology, human resources, legal, finance and administrative functions of each of the Company’s reportable segments, as well as overall executive, administrative and support functions.  Share-based payments are recorded in corporate expenses.
During the first quarter of 2018, the Company revised its segment reporting, as discussed in Note 1.


106


CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The following table presents the Company’s reportable segment results for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 :
(In thousands)
Americas Outdoor Advertising
 
International Outdoor Advertising
 
Corporate and other reconciling items
 
Consolidated
Year Ended December 31, 2018
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenue
$
1,189,348

 
$
1,532,357

 
$
—

 
$
2,721,705

Direct operating expenses
524,659

 
946,009

 
—

 
1,470,668

Selling, general and administrative expenses
199,688

 
323,230

 
—

 
522,918

Corporate expenses
—

 
—

 
152,090

 
152,090

Depreciation and amortization
166,806

 
148,199

 
3,947

 
318,952

Impairment charges
—

 
—

 
7,772

 
7,772

Other operating income, net
—

 
—

 
2,498

 
2,498

Operating income (loss)
$
298,195

 
$
114,919

 
$
(161,311
)
 
$
251,803

Segment assets
$
2,782,662

 
$
1,568,346

 
$
171,020

 
$
4,522,028

Capital expenditures
$
76,867

 
$
129,962

 
$
4,250

 
$
211,079

Share-based compensation expense
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
8,517

 
$
8,517

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Year Ended December 31, 2017
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenue
$
1,161,059

 
$
1,427,643

 
$
—

 
$
2,588,702

Direct operating expenses
527,536

 
882,231

 
—

 
1,409,767

Selling, general and administrative expenses
197,390

 
301,823

 
—

 
499,213

Corporate expenses
—

 
—

 
143,678

 
143,678

Depreciation and amortization
179,119

 
141,812

 
5,060

 
325,991

Impairment charges
—

 
—

 
4,159

 
4,159

Other operating income, net
—

 
—

 
26,391

 
26,391

Operating income (loss)
$
257,014

 
$
101,777

 
$
(126,506
)
 
$
232,285

Segment assets
$
2,850,303

 
$
1,568,388

 
$
252,091

 
$
4,670,782

Capital expenditures
$
70,936

 
$
150,036

 
$
3,266

 
$
224,238

Share-based compensation expense
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
9,590

 
$
9,590

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Year Ended December 31, 2016
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenue
$
1,187,180

 
$
1,492,642

 
$
—

 
$
2,679,822

Direct operating expenses
528,769

 
889,550

 
—

 
1,418,319

Selling, general and administrative expenses
203,427

 
311,994

 
—

 
515,421

Corporate expenses
—

 
—

 
117,436

 
117,436

Depreciation and amortization
175,438

 
162,974

 
5,712

 
344,124

Impairment charges
—

 
—

 
7,274

 
7,274

Other operating expense, net
—

 
—

 
354,688

 
354,688

Operating income
$
279,546

 
$
128,124

 
$
224,266

 
$
631,936

Segment assets
$
3,046,369

 
$
1,460,884

 
$
1,201,117

 
$
5,708,370

Capital expenditures
$
78,289

 
$
146,900

 
$
4,583

 
$
229,772

Share-based compensation expense
—

 
—

 
$
10,291

 
$
10,291

Revenue of $1.5 billion , $1.4 billion and $1.5 billion derived from the Company’s foreign operations are included in the data above for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively. Revenue of $0.3 billion , $0.3 billion and $0.3 billion derived from France and revenue of $0.3 billion , $0.3 billion and $0.2 billion derived from China are included in the data above for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively. Revenue of $1.2 billion , $1.1 billion and $1.1 billion derived from the Company’s U.S. operations are included in the data above for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 .

107


CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Identifiable long-lived assets of $0.6 billion , $0.6 billion and $0.5 billion derived from the Company’s foreign operations are included in the Segment assets data above for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively. Identifiable long-lived assets of $0.2 billion , $0.3 billion and $0.2 billion derived from China are included in the Segment assets data above for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively. Identifiable long-lived assets of $0.7 billion , $0.8 billion and $0.9 billion derived from the Company’s U.S. operations are included in the data above for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively.

108


CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 14 – GUARANTOR SUBSIDIARIES
The Company and certain of the Company’s direct and indirect wholly-owned domestic subsidiaries (the “Guarantor Subsidiaries”) fully and unconditionally guarantee on a joint and several basis certain of the outstanding indebtedness of CCWH.  The following consolidating schedules present financial information on a combined basis in conformity with the SEC’s Regulation S-X Rule 3-10(d):
(In thousands)
December 31, 2018
 
Parent
 
Subsidiary
 
Guarantor
 
Non-Guarantor
 
 
 
 
 
Company
 
Issuer
 
Subsidiaries
 
Subsidiaries
 
Eliminations
 
Consolidated
Cash and cash equivalents
$
1,560

 
$
—

 
$
18,464

 
$
162,432

 
$
—

 
$
182,456

Accounts receivable, net of allowance
—

 
—

 
226,230

 
480,079

 
—

 
706,309

Intercompany receivables
—

 
773,844

 
2,807,601

 
66,551

 
(3,647,996
)
 
—

Prepaid expenses
329

 
1,211

 
52,052

 
42,142

 
—

 
95,734

Other current assets
—

 
—

 
2,857

 
28,444

 
—

 
31,301

Total Current Assets
1,889

 
775,055

 
3,107,204

 
779,648

 
(3,647,996
)
 
1,015,800

Structures, net
—

 
—

 
594,456

 
458,560

 
—

 
1,053,016

Other property, plant and equipment, net
—

 
—

 
127,449

 
108,473

 
—

 
235,922

Indefinite-lived intangibles
—

 
—

 
971,163

 
—

 
—

 
971,163

Other intangibles, net
—

 
—

 
235,326

 
17,536

 
—

 
252,862

Goodwill
—

 
—

 
507,820

 
198,183

 
—

 
706,003

Due from iHeartCommunications
154,758

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
154,758

Intercompany notes receivable
182,026

 
5,116,629

 
4,895

 
16,272

 
(5,319,822
)
 
—

Other assets
252,239

 
44,792

 
1,291,278

 
80,466

 
(1,536,271
)
 
132,504

Total Assets
$
590,912

 
$
5,936,476

 
$
6,839,591

 
$
1,659,138

 
$
(10,504,089
)
 
$
4,522,028

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 


Accounts payable
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
30,206

 
$
83,508

 
$
—

 
$
113,714

Intercompany payable
2,807,601

 
—

 
840,395

 
—

 
(3,647,996
)
 
—

Accrued expenses
33,632

 
1,599

 
68,484

 
427,108

 
—

 
530,823

Deferred income
—

 
—

 
45,914

 
39,138

 
—

 
85,052

Current portion of long-term debt
—

 
—

 
227

 
—

 
—

 
227

Total Current Liabilities
2,841,233

 
1,599

 
985,226

 
549,754

 
(3,647,996
)
 
729,816

Long-term debt
—

 
4,902,447

 
3,654

 
371,007

 
—

 
5,277,108

Intercompany notes payable
—

 
16,273

 
5,039,418

 
264,131

 
(5,319,822
)
 
—

Due to iHeartCommunications, post iHeart Chapter 11 Cases
21,591

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
21,591

Deferred tax liability
(46,739
)
 
853

 
428,319

 
(47,418
)
 
—

 
335,015

Other long-term liabilities
542

 
—

 
139,647

 
119,961

 
—

 
260,150

Total stockholders' equity (deficit)
(2,225,715
)
 
1,015,304

 
243,327

 
401,703

 
(1,536,271
)
 
(2,101,652
)
Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity
$
590,912

 
$
5,936,476

 
$
6,839,591

 
$
1,659,138

 
$
(10,504,089
)
 
$
4,522,028


109


CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(In thousands)
December 31, 2017
 
Parent
 
Subsidiary
 
Guarantor
 
Non-Guarantor
 
 
 
 
 
Company
 
Issuer
 
Subsidiaries
 
Subsidiaries
 
Eliminations
 
Consolidated
Cash and cash equivalents
$
2,212

 
$
—

 
$
22,841

 
$
119,066

 
$
—

 
$
144,119

Accounts receivable, net of allowance
—

 
—

 
192,493

 
466,970

 
—

 
659,463

Intercompany receivables
—

 
785,075

 
2,924,888

 
88,053

 
(3,798,016
)
 
—

Prepaid expenses
291

 
3,433

 
50,028

 
58,124

 
—

 
111,876

Other current assets
25,441

 
—

 
2,552

 
30,721

 
—

 
58,714

Total Current Assets
27,944

 
788,508

 
3,192,802

 
762,934

 
(3,798,016
)
 
974,172

Structures, net
—

 
—

 
675,443

 
505,439

 
—

 
1,180,882

Other property, plant and equipment, net
—

 
—

 
119,856

 
94,291

 
—

 
214,147

Indefinite-lived intangibles
—

 
—

 
977,152

 
—

 
—

 
977,152

Other intangibles, net
—

 
—

 
248,674

 
25,188

 
—

 
273,862

Goodwill
—

 
—

 
507,820

 
206,223

 
—

 
714,043

Due from iHeartCommunications
211,990

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
211,990

Intercompany notes receivable
182,026

 
5,087,742

 
12,437

 
16,273

 
(5,298,478
)
 
—

Other assets
431,671

 
94,543

 
1,343,032

 
70,897

 
(1,815,609
)
 
124,534

Total Assets
$
853,631

 
$
5,970,793

 
$
7,077,216

 
$
1,681,245

 
$
(10,912,103
)
 
$
4,670,782

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Accounts payable
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
7,592

 
$
80,368

 
$
—

 
$
87,960

Intercompany payable
2,924,888

 
—

 
873,128

 
—

 
(3,798,016
)
 
—

Accrued expenses
1,167

 
(1,315
)
 
91,325

 
418,624

 
—

 
509,801

Deferred income
—

 
—

 
25,278

 
33,900

 
—

 
59,178

Current portion of long-term debt
—

 
—

 
115

 
458

 
—

 
573

Total Current Liabilities
2,926,055

 
(1,315
)
 
997,438

 
533,350

 
(3,798,016
)
 
657,512

Long-term debt
—

 
4,895,104

 
1,820

 
369,229

 
—

 
5,266,153

Intercompany notes payable
—

 
16,273

 
5,046,119

 
236,086

 
(5,298,478
)
 
—

Deferred tax liability
(93,111
)
 
853

 
466,827

 
(53,127
)
 
—

 
321,442

Other long-term liabilities
1,157

 
—

 
140,272

 
142,540

 
—

 
283,969

Total stockholders' equity (deficit)
(1,980,470
)
 
1,059,878

 
424,740

 
453,167

 
(1,815,609
)
 
(1,858,294
)
Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity
$
853,631

 
$
5,970,793

 
$
7,077,216

 
$
1,681,245

 
$
(10,912,103
)
 
$
4,670,782


110


CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(In thousands)
Year Ended December 31, 2018
 
Parent
 
Subsidiary
 
Guarantor
 
Non-Guarantor
 
 
 
 
 
Company
 
Issuer
 
Subsidiaries
 
Subsidiaries
 
Eliminations
 
Consolidated
Revenue
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
1,180,636

 
$
1,541,069

 
$
—

 
$
2,721,705

Operating expenses:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Direct operating expenses
—

 
—

 
518,646

 
952,022

 
—

 
1,470,668

Selling, general and administrative expenses
—

 
—

 
198,721

 
324,197

 
—

 
522,918

Corporate expenses
5,041

 
—

 
105,550

 
41,499

 
—

 
152,090

Depreciation and amortization
—

 
—

 
169,712

 
149,240

 
—

 
318,952

Impairment charges
—

 
—

 
7,772

 
—

 
—

 
7,772

Other operating income (expense), net
(383
)
 
—

 
(1,086
)
 
3,967

 
—

 
2,498

Operating income (loss)
(5,424
)
 
—

 
179,149

 
78,078

 
—

 
251,803

Interest (income) expense, net
(26
)
 
352,425

 
1,353

 
34,381

 
—

 
388,133

Interest income on Due from iHeartCommunications
393

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
393

Intercompany interest income
15,860

 
361,519

 
22,111

 
—

 
(399,490
)
 
—

Intercompany interest expense
393

 
953

 
377,379

 
20,765

 
(399,490
)
 
—

Equity in earnings (loss) of nonconsolidated affiliates
(177,018
)
 
(51,825
)
 
(42,804
)
 
(313
)
 
272,864

 
904

Other loss, net
—

 
—

 
(3,231
)
 
(32,066
)
 
—

 
(35,297
)
Loss before income taxes
(166,556
)
 
(43,684
)
 
(223,507
)
 
(9,447
)
 
272,864

 
(170,330
)
Income tax benefit (expense)
(51,684
)
 
(2,964
)
 
46,489

 
(24,356
)
 
—

 
(32,515
)
Consolidated net loss
(218,240
)
 
(46,648
)
 
(177,018
)
 
(33,803
)
 
272,864

 
(202,845
)
Less amount attributable to noncontrolling interest
—

 
—

 
—

 
15,395

 
—

 
15,395

Net loss attributable to the Company
$
(218,240
)
 
$
(46,648
)
 
$
(177,018
)
 
$
(49,198
)
 
$
272,864

 
$
(218,240
)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign currency translation adjustments
—

 
—

 
(1,353
)
 
(13,981
)
 
—

 
(15,334
)
Other adjustments to comprehensive income (loss)
—

 
—

 
—

 
(1,498
)
 
—

 
(1,498
)
Reclassification adjustments
—

 
—

 
—

 
2,962

 
—

 
2,962

Equity in subsidiary comprehensive income
(5,830
)
 
639

 
(4,477
)
 
—

 
9,668

 
—

Comprehensive loss
(224,070
)
 
(46,009
)
 
(182,848
)
 
(61,715
)
 
282,532

 
(232,110
)
Less amount attributable to noncontrolling interest
—

 
—

 
—

 
(8,040
)
 
—

 
(8,040
)
Comprehensive loss attributable to the Company
$
(224,070
)
 
$
(46,009
)
 
$
(182,848
)
 
$
(53,675
)
 
$
282,532

 
$
(224,070
)

111


CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(In thousands)
Year Ended December 31, 2017
 
Parent
 
Subsidiary
 
Guarantor
 
Non-Guarantor
 
 
 
 
 
Company
 
Issuer
 
Subsidiaries
 
Subsidiaries
 
Eliminations
 
Consolidated
Revenue
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
1,137,003

 
$
1,451,699

 
$
—

 
$
2,588,702

Operating expenses:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Direct operating expenses
—

 
—

 
510,271

 
899,496

 
—

 
1,409,767

Selling, general and administrative expenses
—

 
—

 
192,452

 
306,761

 
—

 
499,213

Corporate expenses
14,660

 
—

 
93,232

 
35,786

 
—

 
143,678

Depreciation and amortization
—

 
—

 
181,906

 
144,085

 
—

 
325,991

Impairment charges
—

 
—

 
—

 
4,159

 
—

 
4,159

Other operating income (expense), net
(406
)
 
—

 
34,943

 
(8,146
)
 
—

 
26,391

Operating income (loss)
(15,066
)
 
—

 
194,085

 
53,266

 
—

 
232,285

Interest (income) expense, net
(414
)
 
353,082

 
(205
)
 
27,238

 
—

 
379,701

Interest income on Due from iHeartCommunications
68,871

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
68,871

Intercompany interest income
16,349

 
339,925

 
69,424

 
184

 
(425,882
)
 
—

Intercompany interest expense
68,871

 
406

 
356,458

 
147

 
(425,882
)
 
—

Loss on Due from iHeartCommunications
(855,648
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(855,648
)
Equity in earnings (loss) of nonconsolidated affiliates
114,363

 
117

 
(22,754
)
 
(1,981
)
 
(90,735
)
 
(990
)
Other income, net
3,167

 
—

 
11,232

 
14,356

 
—

 
28,755

Income (loss) before income taxes
(736,421
)
 
(13,446
)
 
(104,266
)
 
38,440

 
(90,735
)
 
(906,428
)
Income tax benefit (expense)
92,073

 
2,405

 
218,629

 
(32,889
)
 
—

 
280,218

Consolidated net income (loss)
(644,348
)
 
(11,041
)
 
114,363

 
5,551

 
(90,735
)
 
(626,210
)
Less amount attributable to noncontrolling interest
—

 
—

 
—

 
18,138

 
—

 
18,138

Net income (loss) attributable to the Company
$
(644,348
)
 
$
(11,041
)
 
$
114,363

 
$
(12,587
)
 
$
(90,735
)
 
$
(644,348
)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign currency translation adjustments
—

 
—

 
235

 
43,106

 
—

 
43,341

Other adjustments to comprehensive loss
—

 
—

 
—

 
6,306

 
—

 
6,306

Reclassification adjustments
—

 
—

 
—

 
5,441

 
—

 
5,441

Equity in subsidiary comprehensive income
46,139

 
36,442

 
45,904

 
—

 
(128,485
)
 
—

Comprehensive income (loss)
(598,209
)
 
25,401

 
160,502

 
42,266

 
(219,220
)
 
(589,260
)
Less amount attributable to noncontrolling interest
—

 
—

 
—

 
8,949

 
—

 
8,949

Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to the Company
$
(598,209
)
 
$
25,401

 
$
160,502

 
$
33,317

 
$
(219,220
)
 
$
(598,209
)

112


CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(In thousands)
Year Ended December 31, 2016
 
Parent
 
Subsidiary
 
Guarantor
 
Non-Guarantor
 
 
 
 
 
Company
 
Issuer
 
Subsidiaries
 
Subsidiaries
 
Eliminations
 
Consolidated
Revenue
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
1,144,445

 
$
1,535,377

 
$
—

 
$
2,679,822

Operating expenses:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Direct operating expenses
—

 
—

 
497,634

 
920,685

 
—

 
1,418,319

Selling, general and administrative expenses
—

 
—

 
196,006

 
319,415

 
—

 
515,421

Corporate expenses
13,157

 
—

 
61,926

 
42,353

 
—

 
117,436

Depreciation and amortization
—

 
—

 
177,918

 
166,206

 
—

 
344,124

Impairment charges
—

 
—

 
—

 
7,274

 
—

 
7,274

Other operating income (expense), net
(427
)
 
—

 
291,717

 
63,398

 
—

 
354,688

Operating income (loss)
(13,584
)
 
—

 
502,678

 
142,842

 
—

 
631,936

Interest expense, net
(1,195
)
 
353,447

 
721

 
22,056

 
—

 
375,029

Interest income on Due from iHeartCommunications
50,309

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
50,309

Intercompany interest income
16,142

 
341,472

 
52,103

 
—

 
(409,717
)
 
—

Intercompany interest expense
50,309

 
15

 
357,614

 
1,779

 
(409,717
)
 
—

Equity in earnings (loss) of nonconsolidated affiliates
130,558

 
38,440

 
(25,902
)
 
(2,837
)
 
(141,948
)
 
(1,689
)
Other income (expense), net
3,429

 
—

 
(6,626
)
 
(66,954
)
 
—

 
(70,151
)
Income before income taxes
137,740

 
26,450

 
163,918

 
49,216

 
(141,948
)
 
235,376

Income tax benefit (expense)
(2,670
)
 
(55,574
)
 
(33,360
)
 
14,105

 
—

 
(77,499
)
Consolidated net income (loss)
135,070

 
(29,124
)
 
130,558

 
63,321

 
(141,948
)
 
157,877

Less amount attributable to noncontrolling interest
—

 
—

 
—

 
22,807

 
—

 
22,807

Net income (loss) attributable to the Company
$
135,070

 
$
(29,124
)
 
$
130,558

 
$
40,514

 
$
(141,948
)
 
$
135,070

Other comprehensive income, net of tax:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign currency translation adjustments
—

 
—

 
(8,000
)
 
31,357

 
—

 
23,357

Other adjustments to comprehensive loss
—

 
—

 
—

 
(12,390
)
 
—

 
(12,390
)
Reclassification adjustments
—

 
—

 
—

 
46,730

 
—

 
46,730

Equity in subsidiary comprehensive income
65,735

 
67,318

 
73,735

 
—

 
(206,788
)
 
—

Comprehensive income
200,805

 
38,194

 
196,293

 
106,211

 
(348,736
)
 
192,767

Less amount attributable to noncontrolling interest
—

 
—

 
—

 
(8,038
)
 
—

 
(8,038
)
Comprehensive income attributable to the Company
$
200,805

 
$
38,194

 
$
196,293

 
$
114,249

 
$
(348,736
)
 
$
200,805


113


CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(In thousands)
Year Ended December 31, 2018
 
Parent
 
Subsidiary
 
Guarantor
 
Non-Guarantor
 
 
 
 
 
Company
 
Issuer
 
Subsidiaries
 
Subsidiaries
 
Eliminations
 
Consolidated
Cash flows from operating activities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated net loss
$
(218,240
)
 
$
(46,648
)
 
$
(177,018
)
 
$
(33,803
)
 
$
272,864

 
$
(202,845
)
Reconciling items:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Impairment charges
—

 
—

 
7,772

 
—

 
—

 
7,772

Depreciation and amortization
—

 
—

 
169,712

 
149,240

 
—

 
318,952

Deferred taxes
46,372

 
—

 
(38,508
)
 
6,531

 
—

 
14,395

Provision for doubtful accounts
—

 
—

 
4,384

 
3,003

 
—

 
7,387

Amortization of deferred financing charges and note discounts, net
—

 
8,952

 
—

 
1,778

 
—

 
10,730

Share-based compensation
—

 
—

 
5,383

 
3,134

 
—

 
8,517

(Gain) loss on disposal of operating assets, net
—

 
—

 
935

 
(4,299
)
 
—

 
(3,364
)
Equity in (earnings) loss of nonconsolidated affiliates
177,018

 
51,825

 
42,804

 
313

 
(272,864
)
 
(904
)
Foreign exchange transaction loss
—

 
—

 
37

 
33,543

 
—

 
33,580

Other reconciling items, net
—

 
—

 
(232
)
 
(1,324
)
 
—

 
(1,556
)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions and dispositions:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Increase in accounts receivable
—

 
—

 
(38,120
)
 
(36,478
)
 
—

 
(74,598
)
(Increase) decrease in prepaids and other current assets
(38
)
 
2,222

 
(8,373
)
 
8,266

 
—

 
2,077

Increase (decrease) in accrued expenses
32,589

 
1,910

 
(23,008
)
 
13,903

 
—

 
25,394

Increase in accounts payable
—

 
—

 
22,613

 
6,634

 
—

 
29,247

Increase in accrued interest
—

 
1,004

 
42

 
339

 
—

 
1,385

Increase in deferred income
—

 
—

 
34,069

 
7,278

 
—

 
41,347

Changes in other operating assets and liabilities
(1,981
)
 
—

 
(10,415
)
 
(17,845
)
 
—

 
(30,241
)
Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities
$
35,720

 
$
19,265

 
$
(7,923
)
 
$
140,213

 
$
—

 
$
187,275

Cash flows from investing activities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Purchases of property, plant and equipment
—

 
—

 
(80,718
)
 
(130,361
)
 
—

 
(211,079
)
Proceeds from disposal of assets
—

 
—

 
6,295

 
3,475

 
—

 
9,770

Purchases of other operating assets
—

 
—

 
(1,782
)
 
(51
)
 
—

 
(1,833
)
Increase in intercompany notes receivable, net
—

 
(28,887
)
 
—

 
—

 
28,887

 
—

Dividends from subsidiaries
—

 
—

 
1,111

 
—

 
(1,111
)
 
—

Change in other, net
—

 
—

 
(3
)
 
(447
)
 
—

 
(450
)
Net cash used for investing activities
$
—

 
$
(28,887
)
 
$
(75,097
)
 
$
(127,384
)
 
$
27,776

 
$
(203,592
)
Cash flows from financing activities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Payments on long-term debt
—

 
—

 
(188
)
 
(444
)
 
—

 
(632
)
Net transfers to iHeartCommunications
78,823

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
78,823

Dividends and other payments to noncontrolling interests
—

 
—

 
—

 
(4,505
)
 
—

 
(4,505
)
Dividends paid
(30,678
)
 
—

 
—

 
(1,111
)
 
1,111

 
(30,678
)
Increase in intercompany notes payable, net
—

 
—

 
—

 
28,887

 
(28,887
)
 
—

Intercompany funding
(109,246
)
 
11,232

 
78,831

 
19,183

 
—

 
—

Change in other, net
(712
)
 
(1,610
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(2,322
)
Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities
(61,813
)
 
9,622

 
78,643

 
42,010

 
(27,776
)
 
40,686

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
—

 
—

 
—

 
(9,810
)
 
—

 
(9,810
)
Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash
(26,093
)
 
—

 
(4,377
)
 
45,029

 
—

 
14,559

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of year
27,653

 
—

 
22,841

 
137,816

 
—

 
188,310

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of year
$
1,560

 
$
—

 
$
18,464

 
$
182,845

 
$
—

 
$
202,869


114


CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(In thousands)
Year Ended December 31, 2017
 
Parent
 
Subsidiary
 
Guarantor
 
Non-Guarantor
 
 
 
 
 
Company
 
Issuer
 
Subsidiaries
 
Subsidiaries
 
Eliminations
 
Consolidated
Cash flows from operating activities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated net income (loss)
$
(644,348
)
 
$
(11,041
)
 
$
114,363

 
$
5,551

 
$
(90,735
)
 
$
(626,210
)
Reconciling items:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Impairment charges
—

 
—

 
—

 
4,159

 
—

 
4,159

Depreciation and amortization
—

 
—

 
181,906

 
144,085

 
—

 
325,991

Deferred taxes
(93,882
)
 
(514
)
 
(218,955
)
 
2,266

 
—

 
(311,085
)
Provision for doubtful accounts
—

 
—

 
10,083

 
(3,343
)
 
—

 
6,740

Amortization of deferred financing charges and note discounts, net
—

 
8,786

 
—

 
1,741

 
—

 
10,527

Share-based compensation
—

 
—

 
6,432

 
3,158

 
—

 
9,590

(Gain) loss on sale of operating and fixed assets
—

 
—

 
(35,020
)
 
5,673

 
—

 
(29,347
)
Loss on Due from iHeartCommunications
855,648

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
855,648

Equity in (earnings) loss of nonconsolidated affiliates
(114,363
)
 
(117
)
 
22,754

 
1,981

 
90,735

 
990

Foreign exchange transaction gain
—

 
—

 
(27
)
 
(29,536
)
 
—

 
(29,563
)
Other reconciling items, net
—

 
—

 
(3,423
)
 
(242
)
 
—

 
(3,665
)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions and dispositions:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Increase in accounts receivable
—

 
—

 
(9,104
)
 
(30,686
)
 
—

 
(39,790
)
Decrease in prepaids and other current assets
1,072

 
—

 
2,410

 
6,126

 


 
9,608

Increase (decrease) in accrued expenses
(436
)
 
(59,968
)
 
56,926

 
(3,838
)
 
—

 
(7,316
)
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable
—

 
—

 
(7,305
)
 
3,179

 
—

 
(4,126
)
Increase (decrease) in accrued interest
—

 
—

 
(77
)
 
508

 
—

 
431

Decrease in deferred income
—

 
—

 
(8,401
)
 
(4,872
)
 
—

 
(13,273
)
Changes in other operating assets and liabilities
—

 
—

 
(3,067
)
 
3,876

 
—

 
809

Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities
$
3,691

 
$
(62,854
)
 
$
109,495

 
$
109,786

 
$
—

 
$
160,118

Cash flows from investing activities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Purchases of property, plant and equipment
—

 
—

 
(73,641
)
 
(150,597
)
 
—

 
(224,238
)
Proceeds from disposal of assets
—

 
—

 
55,747

 
16,302

 
—

 
72,049

Purchases of other operating assets
—

 
—

 
(757
)
 
(80
)
 
—

 
(837
)
(Increase) decrease in intercompany notes receivable, net
—

 
149,612

 
11

 
(11,284
)
 
(138,339
)
 
—

Dividends from subsidiaries
—

 
—

 
10,710

 
—

 
(10,710
)
 
—

Change in other, net
—

 
—

 
(5
)
 
(1,491
)
 
—

 
(1,496
)
Net cash provided by (used for) investing activities
$
—

 
$
149,612

 
$
(7,935
)
 
$
(147,150
)
 
$
(149,049
)
 
$
(154,522
)
Cash flows from financing activities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Payments on credit facilities
—

 
—

 
—

 
(909
)
 
—

 
(909
)
Proceeds from long-term debt
—

 
—

 
—

 
156,000

 
—

 
156,000

Payments on long-term debt
—

 
—

 
(100
)
 
(648
)
 
—

 
(748
)
Net transfers to iHeartCommunications
(181,939
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(181,939
)
Dividends and other payments to noncontrolling interests
—

 
—

 
—

 
(12,010
)
 
—

 
(12,010
)
Dividends paid
(332,824
)
 
—

 
—

 
(10,710
)
 
10,710

 
(332,824
)
Increase (decrease) in intercompany notes payable, net
—

 
11,273

 
—

 
(149,612
)
 
138,339

 
—

Intercompany funding
239,908

 
(98,031
)
 
(140,160
)
 
(1,717
)
 
—

 
—

Change in other, net
(1,468
)
 
—

 
(1
)
 
(5,614
)
 
—

 
(7,083
)
Net cash used for financing activities
(276,323
)
 
(86,758
)
 
(140,261
)
 
(25,220
)
 
149,049

 
(379,513
)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
—

 
—

 
—

 
9,536

 
—

 
9,536

Net decrease in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash
(272,632
)
 
—

 
(38,701
)
 
(53,048
)
 
—

 
(364,381
)
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of year
300,285

 
—

 
61,542

 
190,864

 
—

 
552,691

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of  year
$
27,653

 
$
—

 
$
22,841

 
$
137,816

 
$
—

 
$
188,310


115


CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(In thousands)
Year Ended December 31, 2016
 
Parent
 
Subsidiary
 
Guarantor
 
Non-Guarantor
 
 
 
 
 
Company
 
Issuer
 
Subsidiaries
 
Subsidiaries
 
Eliminations
 
Consolidated
Cash flows from operating activities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated net income (loss)
$
135,070

 
$
(29,124
)
 
$
130,558

 
$
63,321

 
$
(141,948
)
 
$
157,877

Reconciling items:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Impairment charges
—

 
—

 
—

 
7,274

 
—

 
7,274

Depreciation and amortization
—

 
—

 
177,918

 
166,206

 
—

 
344,124

Deferred taxes
—

 
—

 
88,083

 
(56,058
)
 
—

 
32,025

Provision for doubtful accounts
—

 
—

 
5,565

 
5,094

 
—

 
10,659

Amortization of deferred financing charges and note discounts, net
—

 
8,741

 
—

 
1,831

 
—

 
10,572

Share-based compensation
—

 
—

 
5,658

 
4,633

 
—

 
10,291

Gain on sale of operating and fixed assets
—

 
—

 
(293,802
)
 
(69,683
)
 
—

 
(363,485
)
Equity in (earnings) loss of nonconsolidated affiliates
(130,558
)
 
(38,440
)
 
25,902

 
2,837

 
141,948

 
1,689

Foreign exchange transaction loss
—

 
—

 
22,874

 
46,725

 
—

 
69,599

Other reconciling items, net
—

 
—

 
1,506

 
(2,172
)
 
—

 
(666
)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions and dispositions:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Decrease in accounts receivable
—

 
—

 
13,660

 
16,648

 
—

 
30,308

(Increase) decrease in prepaids and other current assets
60

 
—

 
5,662

 
(21,661
)
 
—

 
(15,939
)
Increase (decrease) in accrued expenses
(227
)
 
59,359

 
(70,834
)
 
37,220

 
—

 
25,518

Increase (decrease) in accounts payable
—

 
—

 
2,764

 
(6,561
)
 
—

 
(3,797
)
Increase (decrease) in accrued interest
—

 
—

 
(571
)
 
765

 
—

 
194

Decrease in deferred income
—

 
—

 
(5,265
)
 
(12,854
)
 
—

 
(18,119
)
Changes in other operating assets and liabilities
—

 
—

 
9,846

 
540

 
—

 
10,386

Net cash provided by operating activities
4,345

 
536

 
119,524

 
184,105

 
—

 
308,510

Cash flows from investing activities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Purchases of property, plant and equipment
—

 
—

 
(77,034
)
 
(152,738
)
 
—

 
(229,772
)
Proceeds from disposal of assets
—

 
—

 
358,906

 
449,288

 
—

 
808,194

Purchases of other operating assets
—

 
—

 
(1,689
)
 
(555
)
 
—

 
(2,244
)
Decrease in intercompany notes receivable, net
—

 
220,038

 
—

 
—

 
(220,038
)
 
—

Dividends from subsidiaries
—

 
—

 
235,467

 
—

 
(235,467
)
 
—

Change in other, net
—

 
(79
)
 
—

 
(2,098
)
 
79

 
(2,098
)
Net cash provided by investing activities
—

 
219,959

 
515,650

 
293,897

 
(455,426
)
 
574,080

Cash flows from financing activities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Payments on credit facilities
—

 
—

 
—

 
(2,100
)
 
—

 
(2,100
)
Proceeds from long-term debt
—

 
—

 
801

 
6,055

 
—

 
6,856

Payments on long-term debt
—

 
—

 
(79
)
 
(2,255
)
 
—

 
(2,334
)
Net transfer from iHeartCommunications
45,099

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
45,099

Dividends and other payments to noncontrolling interests
—

 
—

 
—

 
(16,917
)
 
—

 
(16,917
)
Dividends paid
(755,538
)
 
—

 
(913
)
 
(234,554
)
 
235,467

 
(755,538
)
Increase (decrease) in intercompany notes payable, net
—

 
5,000

 
(3,604
)
 
(221,434
)
 
220,038

 
—

Intercompany funding
789,044

 
(225,495
)
 
(588,292
)
 
24,743

 
—

 
—

Change in other, net
(1,366
)
 
—

 
—

 
(120
)
 
(79
)
 
(1,565
)
Net cash provided by (used by) financing activities
77,239

 
(220,495
)
 
(592,087
)
 
(446,582
)
 
455,426

 
(726,499
)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
—

 
—

 
—

 
(5,330
)
 
—

 
(5,330
)
Net increase in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash
81,584

 
—

 
43,087

 
26,090

 
—

 
150,761

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of year
218,701

 
—

 
18,455

 
164,774

 
—

 
401,930

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of year
$
300,285

 
$
—

 
$
61,542

 
$
190,864

 
$
—

 
$
552,691


116



ITEM 9.  CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
Not Applicable
ITEM 9A.  CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Disclosure Controls and Procedures
As required by Rule 13a-15(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), under the supervision and with the participation of management, including our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer, we have carried out an evaluation of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Exchange Act) as of the end of the period covered by this report.  Our disclosure controls and procedures are designed to provide reasonable assurance that information we are required to disclose in reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure and is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified by the SEC. Our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of December 31, 2018 .
Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting.  Our internal control over financial reporting is a process designed under the supervision of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer to provide reasonable assurance regarding the preparation and reliability of financial reporting and preparation of our financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
There are inherent limitations to the effectiveness of any control system, however well designed, including the possibility of human error and the possible circumvention or overriding of controls. Further, the design of a control system must reflect the fact that there are resource constraints, and the benefits of controls must be considered relative to their costs. The design of a control system also is based in part upon assumptions and judgments made by management about the likelihood of future events, and there can be no assurance that a control will be effective under all potential future conditions. As a result, even an effective system of internal control over financial reporting can provide no more than reasonable assurance with respect to the fair presentation of financial statements and the processes under which they were prepared.
Remediation of Prior Year Material Weakness
As of December 31, 2018 , management assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting based on the criteria for effective internal control over financial reporting established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 Framework).  Based on the assessment, management determined that we maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2018, based on those criteria. In assessing the effectiveness of our internal controls over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017, we determined that there was a material weakness in internal control over financial reporting with respect to Clear Media Limited, our outdoor business in China. Clear Media Limited is an indirect, non-wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company whose ordinary shares are listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. Specifically, falsification of bank statements and other supporting documentation used to complete bank reconciliations, collusion and circumvention of controls enabled an employee of Clear Media Limited to misappropriate $10.2 million over several years and resulted in discrepancies between actual cash balances and cash amounts included in the Company’s accounting records.
The errors arising from the deficiencies identified at our China business are not material to the consolidated financial statements reported in any interim or annual period. However, the control deficiencies could have resulted in misstatements of the aforementioned accounts and disclosures that could have resulted in a material misstatement or omission to the annual or interim consolidated financial statements that would not have been prevented or detected in a timely manner. It was determined that our China business had control deficiencies related to: circumvention of controls and the related control environment through collusion and override of control processes; inadequate segregation of duties; and inadequate controls regarding the safeguarding of authorization mechanisms for bank accounts. We determined that these control deficiencies constituted a material weakness as of December 31, 2017.

117


During 2018, we implemented a plan of remediation to strengthen the internal controls over the cash management process and financial reporting of our China business.  The remediation plan implemented at Clear Media Limited included:
▪ implementation of additional monitoring controls through revising and formalizing the cash and cash equivalent review processes;
▪ enhancement of the formality and rigor of review and reconciliation procedures;
▪ strengthening of the controls around access and use of banking authorization tokens and chops; and
▪ formalization of the review and approval processes around related party transactions;
Based on the successful implementation and testing of these new and enhanced control processes, we have concluded that the material weakness reported has been remediated as of December 31, 2018 .
The effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2018 has been audited by Ernst & Young LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report which appears in this Item under the heading “Report of Independent Registered Accounting Firm.”
Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Except as noted above, there were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the most recent fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

118


Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Stockholders and the Board of Directors of Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc.
Opinion on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
We have audited Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc. and subsidiaries' (the Company) internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2018 , based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework) (the COSO criteria). In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2018 , based on the COSO criteria.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the 2018 consolidated financial statements of the Company and our report dated March 5, 2019 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.
Basis for Opinion
The Company's management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying Management's Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the 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. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.
Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Definition and Limitations on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
A company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company's internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company's assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
/s/ Ernst & Young LLP
San Antonio, Texas
March 5, 2019

119


ITEM 9B.  OTHER INFORMATION
Not Applicable

120


PART III
ITEM 10.  DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
The information required by this item with respect to our executive officers is set forth at the end of Part I of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Our Code of Business Conduct and Ethics (the “Code of Conduct”) applies to all of our officers, directors and employees, including our principal executive officer, principal financial officer and principal accounting officer.  The Code of Conduct is publicly available on our internet website at www.clearchanneloutdoor.com.  We intend to satisfy the disclosure requirements of Item 5.05 of Form 8-K regarding any amendment to, or waiver from, a provision of the Code of Conduct that applies to our principal executive officer, principal financial officer or principal accounting officer and relates to any element of the definition of code of ethics set forth in Item 406(b) of Regulation S-K by posting such information on our website, www.clearchanneloutdoor.com.
All other information required by this item is incorporated by reference to the information set forth in a Form 10-K/A, which we expect to file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) within 120 days after our fiscal year end.
ITEM 11.  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The information required by this item is incorporated by reference to a Form 10-K/A.
ITEM 12.  SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
The following table summarizes information as of December 31, 2018 relating to our equity compensation plans pursuant to which grants of options, restricted stock or other rights to acquire shares may be granted from time to time.
Plan Category
 
Number of Securities to be issued upon exercise of outstanding options, warrants and rights
 
Weighted-Average exercise price of outstanding options, warrants and rights
(1)
 
Number of Securities remaining available for future issuance under equity compensation plans (excluding securities reflected in column (A))
Equity Compensation Plans approved by security holders (2)
 
8,377,943 (3)

 
$
4.97

 
26,023,553

Equity Compensation Plans not approved by security holders
 
—

 
—

 
—

Total
 
8,377,943

 
$
4.97

 
26,023,553

(1)
The weighted-average exercise price is calculated based solely on the exercise prices of the outstanding options and does not reflect the shares that will be issued upon the vesting of outstanding awards of restricted stock or RSUs, which have no exercise price.
(2)
Represents the 2005 Stock Incentive Plan and the 2012 Stock Incentive Plan. The 2005 Stock Incentive Plan automatically terminated (other than with respect to outstanding awards) upon stockholder approval of the 2012 Stock Incentive Plan at our Annual Stockholder Meeting on May 18, 2012 and, as a result, there are no shares available for grant under the 2005 Stock Incentive Plan.
(3)
This number includes shares subject to outstanding awards granted, of which 3,245,349 shares are subject to outstanding options, 3,508,550 shares are subject to outstanding restricted shares and 1,624,044 shares are subject to outstanding RSUs.
All other information required by this item is incorporated by reference to a Form 10-K/A.

121



ITEM 13.  CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE
The information required by this item is incorporated by reference to a Form 10-K/A.
ITEM 14.  PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES
The information required by this item is incorporated by reference to a Form 10-K/A.
PART IV
ITEM 15.  EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
(a)1.  Financial Statements.
The following consolidated financial statements are included in Item 8:
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 .
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the Years Ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 .
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity (Deficit) for the Years Ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 .
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 .
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(a)2. Financial Statement Schedule.
The following financial statement schedule for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 and related report of independent auditors is filed as part of this report and should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements.
Schedule II Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
All other schedules for which provision is made in the applicable accounting regulation of the Securities and Exchange Commission are not required under the related instructions or are inapplicable, and therefore have been omitted.


122


SCHEDULE II
VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
(In thousands)
 
 
 
Charges
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance at
 
to Costs,
 
Write-off
 
 
 
Balance
 
 
Beginning
 
Expenses
 
of Accounts
 
 
 
at End of
Description
 
of period
 
and other
 
Receivable
 
Other (1)
 
Period
Year ended December 31, 2016
 
$
25,348

 
$
10,659

 
$
13,069

 
$
(540
)
 
$
22,398

Year ended December 31, 2017
 
$
22,398

 
$
6,740

 
$
8,057

 
$
1,406

 
$
22,487

Year ended December 31, 2018
 
$
22,487

 
$
7,387

 
$
4,707

 
$
(943
)
 
$
24,224

(1)
Primarily foreign currency adjustments and acquisition and/or divestiture activity.
SCHEDULE II
VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
Deferred Tax Asset Valuation Allowance
(In thousands)
 
 
 
Charges
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance at
 
to Costs,
 
 
 
 
 
Balance
 
 
Beginning
 
Expenses
 
 
 
 
 
at end of
Description
 
of Period
 
and other (1)
 
Reversal (2)
 
Adjustments (3)
 
Period
Year ended December 31, 2016
 
$
185,079

 
$
47,795

 
$
(82,475
)
 
$
(14,360
)
 
$
136,039

Year ended December 31, 2017
 
$
136,039

 
$
158,857

 
$
(12,155
)
 
$
(8,522
)
 
$
274,219

Year ended December 31, 2018
 
$
274,219

 
$
60,522

 
$
(2,835
)
 
$
(15,224
)
 
$
316,682

(1)
During 2016 , 2017 and 2018 , the Company recorded valuation allowances on deferred tax assets attributable to net operating losses in certain foreign jurisdictions due to the uncertainty of the ability to utilize those losses in future periods. During 2018 , the Company recorded $50.3 million in valuation allowance related to federal and state deferred tax assets and $10.2 million in valuation allowance on foreign deferred tax assets due to the uncertainty of the ability to utilize these assets in future periods.
(2)
During 2016 , 2017 and 2018 , the Company realized the tax benefits associated with certain foreign deferred tax assets, primarily related to foreign loss carryforwards, on which a valuation allowance was previously recorded.  The associated valuation allowance was reversed in the period in which, based on the weight of available evidence, it is more-likely-than-not that the deferred tax asset will be realized. During 2016, the Company released valuation allowances in the U.S. of $32.9 million and in France of $43.3 million .
(3)
During 2016 , 2017 and 2018 , the Company adjusted certain valuation allowances as a result of changes in tax rates in certain jurisdictions as a result of the expiration of carryforward periods for net operating loss carryforwards, and as a result of foreign exchange rate movements.



123


(a)3. Exhibits
Exhibit Number
 
Description
3.1
 
 
3.2
 
 
4.1
 
 
4.2
 
 
4.3
 
 
4.4
 
 
4.5
 
 
4.6
 
 
4.7
 

4.8
 
4.9
 


124


10.1
 
 
10.2
 
 
10.3
 
 
10.4
 
 
10.5
 
 
10.6
 
 
10.7
 
 
10.8
 

10.9
 
 
10.10
 
 
10.11
 
 
10.12
 


125


10.13
 

10.14
 

10.15
 

10.16
 
 
10.17
 
 
10.18
 
 
10.19
 
 
10.2
 
 
10.21
 
 
10.22
 
 
10.23§
 
 
10.24§
 
 
10.25§
 
 
10.26§
 
 
10.27§
 
 

126


10.28§
 
 
10.29§
 
 
10.30§
 
 
10.31§
 
 
10.32§
 
 
10.33§
 
 
10.34§
 
 
10.35§
 
 
10.36§
 
 
10.37§
 
 
10.38§
 
 
10.39§
 
 
10.40§
 
 
10.41§
 
 
10.42§
 
 
10.43§
 
 

127


10.44§
 
 
10.45§
 
 
10.46§
 
 
10.47§
 
 
10.48§
 
 
10.49§
 
 
10.50§
 
 
10.51§
 
 
10.52§
 
 
10.53§
 
 
10.54
 
 
10.55§
 
 
10.56§
 
 
10.57§
 
 

128


10.58
 
 
10.59§
 

10.60§
 

10.61§
 

10.62§
 

10.63§
 

10.64§
 

10.65§
 

10.66§
 
10.67*§
 
10.68
 

10.69§
 
21*
 
 
23*
 
 
24*
 
Power of Attorney (included on signature page).
 
31.1*
 
 
31.2*
 
 

129


32.1**
 
 
32.2**
 
 
101.INS*
 
XBRL Instance Document.
 
101.SCH*
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.
 
101.CAL*
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.
 
101.DEF*
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.
 
101.LAB*
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.
 
101.PRE*
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.
 
_________________
*              Filed herewith.
**           This exhibit is furnished herewith and shall not be deemed “filed” for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, or otherwise subject to the liability of that section, and shall not be deemed to be incorporated by reference into any filing under the Securities Act of 1933 or the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
§              A management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement required to be filed as an exhibit pursuant to Item 601 of Regulation S-K.
ITEM 16.  Form 10-K Summary
None

130


SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, on March 5, 2019 .
CLEAR CHANNEL OUTDOOR HOLDINGS, INC.
By: /s/ Robert W. Pittman
Robert W. Pittman
Chairman & Chief Executive Officer
Power of Attorney
Each person whose signature appears below authorizes Robert W. Pittman, Richard J. Bressler and Scott D. Hamilton, or any one of them, each of whom may act without joinder of the others, to execute in the name of each such person who is then an officer or director of the Registrant and to file any amendments to this Annual Report on Form 10-K necessary or advisable to enable the Registrant to comply with the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and any rules, regulations and requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission in respect thereof, which amendments may make such changes in such report as such attorney-in-fact may deem appropriate.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
Name
Title
Date
/s/ Robert W. Pittman
Robert W. Pittman
Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer)
March 5, 2019
/s/ Richard J. Bressler
Richard J. Bressler
Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)
 
March 5, 2019
/s/ Scott D. Hamilton
Scott D. Hamilton
Senior Vice President, Chief Accounting Officer (Principal Accounting Officer) and Assistant Secretary
March 5, 2019
/s/ Blair E. Hendrix
Blair E. Hendrix
Director
 
March 5, 2019
/s/ Paul Keglevic
Paul Keglevic
Director
 
March 5, 2019
/s/ Daniel G. Jones
Daniel G. Jones
Director
 
March 5, 2019
/s/ Vicente Piedrahita
Vicente Piedrahita
Director
 
March 5, 2019
/s/ Olivia C. Sabine
Olivia C. Sabine
Director
 
March 5, 2019
/s/ Harvey L. Tepner
Harvey L. Tepner
Director
 
March 5, 2019
/s/ Dale W. Tremblay
Dale W. Tremblay
Director
 
March 5, 2019


131

THIRD AMENDMENT TO EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT AND
FIRST AMENDMENT TO INCENTIVE PAYMENT AGREEMENT

WHEREAS, iHeartMedia, Inc. (formerly known as CC Media Holdings, Inc.) (“Company”) and Steven J. Macri (“Employee”) entered into an Employment Agreement effective October 7, 2013, as amended on July 3, 2017 and February 27, 2018 (“Employment Agreement”);

WHEREAS, Company and Employee entered into an Incentive Payment Agreement on or about February 26, 2018 (“Incentive Payment Agreement”);

WHEREAS, the parties desire to amend the above-referenced Employment Agreement and Incentive Payment Agreement as provided herein;

NOW, THEREFORE, for good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which is hereby acknowledged by the parties hereto, the parties enter into this Third Amendment to Employment Agreement and First Amendment to Incentive Payment Agreement.

1. The Third Amendment to Employment Agreement and First Amendment to Incentive Payment Agreement are effective upon complete execution by the parties.

2.      Section 1 (Term of Employment) of the Employment Agreement is amended such that the Employment Period is extended through June 30, 2019.

3.      Section 1 (Supplemental Incentive Payment) of the Incentive Payment Agreement is amended to insert the following between the second and third sentences of the second paragraph:

Termination of employment upon expiration of the Employment Period provided in your Employment Agreement shall not constitute a Bad Leaver Termination.

4.      This Third Amendment to Employment Agreement and First Amendment to Incentive Payment Agreement represent the complete and total understanding of the parties with respect to the content thereof, and cannot be modified or altered except if done so in writing, and executed by all parties. All other provisions of the aforementioned agreements shall remain in full force and effect.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Third Amendment to Employment Agreement and First Amendment to Incentive Payment Agreement on the date written below and upon full execution by all parties, this Agreement shall be effective as set forth in Section 1 above.


EMPLOYEE:


_____________________________________            Date: _________________________
Steven J. Macri


COMPANY:


_____________________________________            Date: _________________________
Richard J. Bressler
President, Chief Operating Officer and
Chief Financial Officer

APPROVED & PREPARED BY: LW/ti





EXHIBIT 21 – Subsidiaries of Registrant, Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc.
 
Name
State of Incorporation
1567 Media, LLC
DE
Brazil Outdoor NewCo, LLC
DE
CC CV LP, LLC
DE
CCHCV LP, LLC
DE
CCO Barco Airport Venture, LLC
DE
CCOI Holdco III, LLC
DE
CCOI Holdco Parent I, LLC
DE
CCOI Holdco Parent II, LLC
DE
Clear Channel Adshel, Inc.
DE
Clear Channel Airports of Texas, JV
TX
Clear Channel Brazil Holdco, LLC
DE
Clear Channel Brazil Holdings, LLC
DE
Clear Channel Electrical Services, LLC
DE
Clear Channel Interstate, LLC
DE
Clear Channel Metra, LLC
DE
Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings Company Canada
DE
Clear Channel Outdoor, Inc.
DE
Clear Channel Peoples, LLC
DE
Clear Channel Spectacolor, LLC
DE
Clear Channel Worldwide Holdings, Inc.
NV
Eller-PW Company, LLC
CA
Exceptional Outdoor Advertising, Inc.
FL
Get Outdoors Florida, LLC
FL
Interspace Airport Advertising International, LLC
PA
IN-TER-SPACE Services, Inc.
PA
Keller Booth Sumners Joint Venture
TX
Kelnic II Joint Venture
TX
Mexico MinorityCo, LLC
DE
Miami Airport Concession LLC
DE
Milpitas Sign Company, LLC
DE
Outdoor Management Services, Inc.
NV
 




Name
Country of Incorporation
Allied Outdoor Advertising Ltd.
United Kingdom
Arcadia Cooper Properties Ltd.
United Kingdom
Barrett Petrie Sutcliffe London Ltd.
United Kingdom
Barrett Petrie Sutcliffe Ltd.
United Kingdom
Brasil Outdoor Ltda
Brazil
C.F.D. Billboards Ltd.
United Kingdom
CCO International Holdings BV
Netherlands
CCO Ontario Holdings, Inc.
Canada
China Outdoor Media Investment (HK) Co., Ltd.
Hong Kong
China Outdoor Media Investment Inc.
British Virgin Islands
Cine Guarantors II, Ltd.
Canada
Cine Movile SA de CV
Mexico
Cinemobile Systems International NV
Curacao
Clear Channel (Central) Ltd.
United Kingdom
Clear Channel (Midlands) Ltd.
United Kingdom
Clear Channel (Northwest) Ltd.
United Kingdom
Clear Channel (Scotland) Ltd.
Scotland
Clear Channel Affitalia SRL
Italy
Clear Channel AIDA GmbH
Switzerland
Clear Channel AWI AG
Switzerland
Clear Channel Baltics & Russia AB
Sweden
Clear Channel Banners Ltd.
United Kingdom
Clear Channel Belgium Sprl
Belgium
Clear Channel CAC AG
Switzerland
Clear Channel Chile Publicidad Ltda
Chile
Clear Channel CV
Netherlands
Clear Channel Danmark AS
Denmark
Clear Channel Entertainment of Brazil Ltda
Brazil
Clear Channel Espana SLU
Spain
Clear Channel Espectaculos SL
Spain
Clear Channel Estonia OU
Estonia
Clear Channel European Holdings SAS
France
Clear Channel Felice GmbH
Switzerland
Clear Channel France SAS
France
Clear Channel GMBH
Switzerland
Clear Channel Holding AG
Switzerland
Clear Channel Holding Italia SPA
Italy
Clear Channel Holdings CV
Netherlands
Clear Channel Holdings, Ltd.
United Kingdom
Clear Channel Infotrak AG
Switzerland
Clear Channel International BV
Netherlands
Clear Channel International Holdings BV
Netherlands
Clear Channel International Ltd.
United Kingdom
Clear Channel Interpubli AG
Switzerland
Clear Channel Ireland Ltd.
Ireland




Clear Channel Italy Outdoor SRL
Italy
Clear Channel Jolly Pubblicita SPA
Italy
Clear Channel KNR Neth Antilles NV
Curacao
Clear Channel Nederland BV
Netherlands
Clear Channel Nederland Holdings BV
Netherlands
Clear Channel NI Ltd.
United Kingdom
Clear Channel Norway AS
Norway
Clear Channel Ofex AG
Switzerland
Clear Channel Outdoor Hungary KFT
Hungary
Clear Channel Overseas Ltd.
United Kingdom
Clear Channel Pacific Pte Ltd.
Singapore
Clear Channel Plakatron AG
Switzerland
Clear Channel Poland SP .Z.O.O.
Poland
Clear Channel Sales AB
Sweden
Clear Channel Schweiz AG
Switzerland
Clear Channel Singapore Pte Ltd.
Singapore
Clear Channel South America S.A.C.
Peru
Clear Channel SouthWest Ltd.
United Kingdom
Clear Channel Suomi Oy
Finland
Clear Channel Sverige AB
Sweden
Clear Channel UK Ltd
United Kingdom
Clear Channel UK One Ltd.
United Kingdom
Clear Channel UK Three Ltd.
United Kingdom
Clear Channel UK Two Ltd.
United Kingdom
Clear Media Limited
Bermuda
Comurben SA
Morocco
Eller Media Asesorias Y Comercializacion Publicitaria Ltda
Chile
Eller Media Servicios Publicitarios Ltda
Chile
Epiclove Ltd.
United Kingdom
Equipamientos Urbanos de Canarias SA
Spain
Equipamientos Urbanos Del Sur SL
Spain
FM Media Ltd.
United Kingdom
Foxmark (UK) Ltd.
United Kingdom
Giganto Holding Cayman
Cayman Islands
Giganto Outdoor Servicios Publicitarios Ltda.
Chile
Grosvenor Advertising Ltd.
United Kingdom
Hainan Whitehorse Advertising Media Investment Company Ltd.
China
Illuminated Awnings Systems Ltd.
Ireland
Interspace Airport Advertising Curacao N.V.
Curacao
Interspace Airport Advertising Grand Cayman
Cayman Islands
Interspace Airport Advertising Netherlands Antilles N.V.
Netherlands Antilles
Interspace Airport Advertising TCI Ltd.
Turks & Caicos
Interspace Airport Advertising Trinidad & Tobago Ltd.
Republic of Trinidad & Tobago
Interspace Airport Advertising West Indies Ltd.
West Indies
Interspace Costa Rica Airport Advertising SA
Costa Rica
KMS Advertising Ltd.
United Kingdom




L & C Outdoor Ltda.
Brazil
Maurice Stam Ltd
United Kingdom
Ming Wai Holdings Ltd.
British Virgin Islands
More O'Ferrall Ireland Ltd.
Ireland
Multimark Ltd.
United Kingdom
Nitelites (Ireland) Ltd.
Ireland
Nobro SC
Mexico
NWP Street Limited
United Kingdom
Outdoor (Brasil) Ltda
Brazil
Outdoor Brasil Holding Ltda
Brazil
Outdoor Holding Company Cayman I
Cayman Islands
Outdoor Holding Company Cayman II
Cayman Islands
Outdoor Mexico Operaciones, S. de R.L. de C.V.
Mexico
Outdoor Mexico Servicios Publicitarios S. de R.L. de C.V.
Mexico
Outdoor Mexico Servicios Publicitarios Sub, S. de R.L. de C.V.
Mexico
Outdoor Mexico, Servicios Administrativos, S. de R.L. de C.V.
Mexico
Outdoor Mexico, Servicios Corporativos, S. de R.L. de C.V.
Mexico
Outdoor Sao Paulo Participacoes Ltda
Brazil
Clear Channel Outdoor Spanish Holdings SL (fka Outdoor spanish Holdings)
Spain
Outstanding Media I Stockholm AB
Sweden
Paneles Napsa S.R.L.
Peru
Parkin Advertising Ltd.
United Kingdom
Postermobile Advertising Ltd.
United Kingdom
Premium Outdoor Ltd.
United Kingdom
Publicidade Klimes Sao Paulo Ltda
Brazil
Racklight S. de R.L. de C.V.
Mexico
Regentfile Ltd.
United Kingdom
Rockbox Ltd.
United Kingdom
Service2Cities
Belgium
SIA Clear Channel Latvia
Latvia
Signways Ltd.
United Kingdom
Sites International Ltd.
United Kingdom
Storm Outdoor Ltd.
United Kingdom
The Canton Property Investment Co. Ltd.
United Kingdom
The Kildoon Property Co. Ltd.
United Kingdom
Torpix Ltd.
United Kingdom
Town & City Posters Advertising. Ltd.
United Kingdom
Trainer Advertising Ltd.
United Kingdom
UAB Clear Channel Lietuva
Lithuania
Vision Media Group UK Ltd.
United Kingdom
Vision Posters Ltd.
United Kingdom





EXHIBIT 23 - CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
 
We consent to the incorporation by reference in the following Registration Statements:
 
1.
Registration Statement (Form S-8) pertaining to the Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc. 2012 Stock Incentive Plan (No. 333-181514);
2.
Registration Statement (Form S-8) pertaining to the Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc. 2005 Stock Incentive Plan (No. 333-130229); and
3.
Registration Statements (Form S-8) pertaining to the Clear Channel Communications, Inc. 401(k) Savings Plan (Nos. 333-167468 and 333-132950)
 
of our reports dated March 5, 2019 , with respect to the consolidated financial statements and schedule of Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc., and the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting of Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc., included in this Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended December 31, 2018 .
 
/s/ Ernst & Young LLP
San Antonio, Texas
March 5, 2019





EXHIBIT 31.1 -   CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO RULES 13A-14(A) AND 15D-14(A) UNDER THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934, AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION 302 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
 
I, Robert W. Pittman, certify that:
1.
I have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 10-K of Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc.;
2.
Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
3.
Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
4.
The registrant's other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:
(a)
Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
(b)
Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
(c)
Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
(d)
Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and
5.
The registrant's other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee  of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
(a)
All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
(b)
Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.
 
Date:  March 5, 2019
 
 
 
/s/ ROBERT w. PITTMAN
Robert W. Pittman
Chief Executive Officer





EXHIBIT 31.2 -   CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO RULES 13A-14(A) AND 15D-14(A) UNDER THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934, AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION 302 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
 
I, Richard J. Bressler, certify that:
1.
I have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 10-K of Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc.;
2.
Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
3.
Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
4.
The registrant's other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:
(a)
Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
(b)
Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
(c)
Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
(d)
Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and
5.
The registrant's other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee  of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
(a)
All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
(b)
Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.
 
Date:  March 5, 2019
 
 
 
/s/ RICHARD J. BRESSLER             
Richard J. Bressler
Chief Financial Officer





EXHIBIT 32.1 –  CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350, AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
 
 
This certification is provided pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, and accompanies the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Form 10-K”) of Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc. (the “Company”).  The undersigned hereby certifies that to his knowledge, the Form 10-K fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or Section 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and that the information contained in the Form 10-K fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.
 
 
Dated:  March 5, 2019
 
 
By:         /s/ ROBERT W. PITTMAN
Name:    Robert W. Pittman
Title:       Chief Executive Officer





EXHIBIT 32.2 – CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350, AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
 
This certification is provided pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and accompanies the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Form 10-K”) of Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc. (the “Company”). The undersigned hereby certifies that to his knowledge, the Form 10-K fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or Section 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and that the information contained in the Form 10-K fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.
 
 
Dated:  March 5, 2019
 
 
By:         /s/ RICHARD J. BRESSLER           
Name:    Richard J. Bressler
Title:       Chief Financial Officer