WWE announced Thursday financial results for its fourth quarter ended December 31, 2011. Revenues totaled $112.9 million as compared to $122.5 million in the prior year quarter. Operating loss was $13.1 million as compared to operating income of $14.4 million in the prior year quarter.
WWE reports the revenue decrease was “driven by declines across all of our operating segments.” Revenues from North America decreased by 9%, led by declines in film, television, and WWE.com businesses. Revenues outside North America decreased 5%, primarily due to a decline in licensing business.
“In 2011, we evaluated several paths for creating new programs and distributing all of our content in a way that optimizes its value. Executing this strategy effectively, including the potential creation of a WWE Network, has the power to transform our business,” said Vince McMahon in a press release.
“While we made significant progress toward this objective, our fourth quarter and full year results were impacted primarily by three items: significant non-cash film impairment charges stemming from the weak performance of our movie releases, strategic decisions to withhold several hours of previously licensed television content for distribution on other platforms, and initial start-up operating expenses associated with our emerging content and distribution strategy.
“Regarding the first item, we have taken several measures to improve the profitability of our movie business. And, regarding the other items, we believe that our ongoing investment to expand and maximize the value of our content is the most potent approach for driving our future earnings.”
The full financial report is available here.
