Exhibit 99
EARNINGS PRESS RELEASE | FEBRUARY 24, 2021 VIACOMCBS REPORTS Q4 AND FULL YEAR 2020 EARNINGS RESULTS ï,§ Grew Global Streaming Subscribers to Nearly 30M and Pluto TV Global MAUs to 43M; Domestic Streaming Subscribers Rose to 19.2M, up 71% Year-Over-Year, and Pluto TV Domestic MAUs Increased to 30.1Mï,§ Accelerated Domestic Streaming & Digital Video Revenue Growth to 72% Year-Over-Year in Q4, Driven by Strong Streaming Subscription and Streaming Advertising Revenueï,§ Increased Q4 Affiliate Revenue 13% Year-Over-Year and Advertising Revenue 4% Year-Over-Year, Driving a 3% Year-Over-Year Increase in Total Revenue ï,§ Delivered Year-Over-Year Improvements in Q4 Operating Income, Adjusted OIBDA, Operating Cash Flow From Continuing Operations and Free Cash Flow ï,§ Hosting Virtual Investor Event Today, Detailing Paramount+ – a Differentiated Streaming Offering Spanning Live Sports, Breaking News and a Mountain of Entertainment – Ahead of March 4 Launch STATEMENT FROM “ We started 2020 with clear goals: unlock the power of our combination, build BOB BAKISH robust operating momentum and accelerate our streaming strategy – and we delivered. In Q4, despite the ongoing impacts of COVID-19, we finished the year President & CEO with strong advertising and affiliate results that demonstrate the strength of our core businesses and achieved incredible growth across our linked streaming ecosystem, reaching nearly 30 million global subscribers and over 43 million Pluto TV global MAUs. At today’s streaming investor event, we look forward to showcasing our opportunity to expand our position and bring ViacomCBS content and brands to streaming audiences around the world. ” Q4 & FULL YEAR 2020 RESULTS* $ in millions, except per share amounts Quarter Ended December 31Full Year Ended December 31 GAAP 2020 2019 B/(W) % 2020 2019 B/(W) % Revenues $ 6,874 $ 6,656 3 % $ 25,285 $ 26,998 (6) % Operating income (loss) 1,083 (44) N/M4,139 4,146— Net earnings from continuing operations attributable to ViacomCBS (loss) 783 (302) N/M2,305 3,168 (27)
Diluted EPS from continuing operations attributable to ViacomCBS 1.26 (0.49) N/M3.73 5.13 (27) Operating cash flow from continuing operations (339) (530) 362,215 1,171 89 Non-GAAP† Adjusted OIBDA $ 1,183 $ 1,131 5 % $ 5,132 $ 5,393 (5) % Adjusted net earnings from continuing operations attributable to ViacomCBS 645 570 132,595 2,983 (13) Adjusted diluted EPS from continuing operations attributable to ViacomCBS 1.04 0.92 134.20 4.83 (13) Free cash flow (453) (629) 281,891 826 129 † Non-GAAP measures are detailed in the Supplemental Disclosures at the end of this release. *During the fourth quarter of 2020, ViacomCBS entered into an agreement to sell Simon & Schuster, which was previously reported as the Publishing segment. Simon & Schuster has been presented as a discontinued operation in the company’s consolidated financial statements for all periods. N/M = Not Meaningful1
VIACOMCBS Q4 & FY 2020 EARNINGS
OVERVIEW OF Q4 REVENUE
REVENUE BY TYPE
ï,§ Affiliate revenue increased 13% year-over-year, driven by strong growth in
streaming subscription revenue, higher reverse compensation and AFFILIATE ADVERTISING
retransmission fees, as well as expanded distribution. REVENUE REVENUE
ï,§ Advertising revenue grew 4% year-over-year, reflecting higher streaming
advertising and political advertising sales, which more than offset the adverse
effects of COVID-19. +13% +4%
ï,§ Content licensing revenue decreased 3% year-over-year, reflecting a lower YOY YOY
volume of licensing due to COVID-related production delays.
Quarter Ended December 31 Full Year Ended December 31
$ IN MILLIONS 2020 2019 $ B/(W) % 2020 2019 $ B/(W) %
Advertising $ 3,145 $ 3,030 $ 115 4 % $ 9,751 $ 11,074 $ (1,323) (12)%
ï,§ Domestic 2,700 2,635 65 2 8,567 9,716 (1,149) (12)
ï,§ International 445 395 50 13 1,184 1,358 (174) (13)
Affiliate 2,410 2,133 277 13 9,166 8,602 564 7
ï,§ Domestic 2,239 1,975 264 13 8,521 7,937 584 7
ï,§ International 171 158 13 8 645 665 (20) (3)
Content Licensing 1,246 1,281 (35) (3) 5,963 6,483 (520) (8)
Theatrical 4 129 (125) (97) 180 547 (367) (67)
Other 69 83 (14) (17) 225 292 (67) (23)
Total Revenues $ 6,874 $ 6,656 $ 218 3 % $ 25,285 $ 26,998 $ (1,713) (6)%
VIACOMCBS 2
In Q4, ViacomCBS delivered robust global streaming & digital video revenue and user growth across its premium, pay and free services. SPOTLIGHT ON STREAMING VIACOMCBS Q4 & FY 2020 EARNINGS *Beginning Q1 2021, streaming & digital video revenue will be presented as global streaming revenue, including global revenue from advertising on the company’s pay and free streaming services, subscription fees for its pay streaming services, and advertising and subscriptions for its other digital video products. Global subscribers include customers who access the company’s domestic or international streaming services, either directly through its owned and operated apps and websites, or through third-party distributors. Streaming metrics are as of December 31, 2020. Global streaming subscribers rose to nearly 30M, up 56% year-over-year. Domestic streaming subscribers reached 19.2M, up 71% year-over-year. Q4 GLOBAL HIGHLIGHTS* Global streaming & digital video revenue increased 71% year-over-year to $888M, driven by 74% growth in streaming subscription revenue and 69% streaming advertising revenue growth. Domestic streaming & digital video revenue growth accelerated from 56% in Q3 to 72% in Q4, resulting in revenue of $845M. STREAMING SUBSCRIBERS Global 30M 56% YOY YOY Domestic 19.2M 71% PLUTO TV MAUs Global 43M 80% YOY YOY Domestic 30.1M 34% 3 GLOBAL 2020 2019 $ B/(W) % Quarter Ended December 31 $ 888 $ 519 $ 369 71 % Full Year Ended December 31 $ 2,561 $ 1,714 $ 847 49 % STREAMING & DIGITAL VIDEO REVENUE $ IN MILLIONS DOMESTIC 2020 2019 $ B/(W) % Quarter Ended December 31 $ 845 $ 492 $ 354 72 % Full Year Ended December 31 $ 2,458 $ 1,632 $ 826 51 % INCLUDES DOMESTIC REVENUE CBS All Access and SHOWTIME OTT delivered their best quarter ever in sign-ups. CBS All Access’ momentum was driven by demand for sports content, including the NFL, UEFA and SEC, as well as original programming, including Star Trek: Discovery and The Stand, and content from ViacomCBS cable brands. SHOWTIME OTT benefitted from strong demand for original programming, including the premieres of Shameless and the limited series Your Honor, as well as theatricals. Pluto TV grew its global monthly active users (MAUs) to 43M, up 80% year-over-year. Pluto TV’s domestic MAUs increased to 30.1M, up 34% year-over-year, and more than doubled its advertising revenue in the quarter. User engagement increased, with strong growth in total viewing minutes and average monthly watch time per user, including across connected TVs and mobile devices. Internationally, Pluto TV MAUs grew to 12.9M, including expanding in Spain and Brazil during the quarter. Pluto TV also closed new global distribution agreements with Samsung and Google.
VIACOMCBS Q4 & FY 2020 EARNINGS
REPORTING SEGMENTS
CABLE
VIACOMCBS REPORTING NETWORKS FILMED
TV ENTERTAINMENT SEGMENTS > ENTERTAINMENT
TV ENTERTAINMENT
• In Q4, CBS was the most-watched network in Daytime and Late Night and claimed the quarter’s top drama, news magazine and 4 of the top 5 comedies, as well as the top new comedy series.
• Q4 2020 revenue benefitted from strong affiliate revenue growth, which ⎯ was offset by lower content licensing revenue.
Affiliate revenue increased 23% year-over-year, driven by growth in reverse compensation and retransmission fees, as well as ⎯ robust streaming subscription revenue from CBS All Access.
Advertising revenue declined 1% year-over-year, reflecting the impacts from the delayed start of the fall broadcast season and the sale of CNET Media Group, which was offset by record ⎯ growth in political advertising.
Content licensing revenue decreased 20% year-over-year due to a lower volume of licensing from COVID-related production delays.
• Adjusted OIBDA decreased 12% year-over-year mainly because of increased expenses to support the growth and expansion of CBS All Access.
THE MOST-WATCHED NETWORK IN DAYTIME & LATE NIGHT
NEWS DRAMA
#1 MAGAZINE #1 SERIES
LATE NEW
#1 NIGHT SHOW #1 COMEDY
Source: programs Nielsen airing Media during Research; M-SA 8P-11/SU L7 Most 7P-11P Current. hours. 4Q’20 Excludes vs. 4Q’19: repeats, 9/21-12/27/20 sports, & movies. vs. 9/23-12/29/19. Prime reflects
Quarter Ended December 31 Full Year Ended December 31
$ IN MILLIONS
2020 2019 $ B/(W) % 2020 2019 $ B/(W) %
Revenue $ 3,112 $ 3,126 $ (14)—% $ 10,700 $ 11,924 $ (1,224 ) (10) %
Advertising 1,650 1,669 (19) (1) 5,035 6,008 (973 ) (16) Affiliate 841 682 159 23 3,129 2,550 579 23 Content Licensing 573 715 (142) (20) 2,369 3,157 (788 ) (25) Other 48 60 (12) (20) 167 209 (42 ) (20)
Expenses 2,563 2,501 (62) (2) 8,843 9,481 638 7 Adjusted OIBDA $ 549 $ 625 $ (76) (12) % $ 1,857 $ 2,443 $ (586 ) (24) %
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VIACOMCBS Q4 & FY 2020 EARNINGS
REPORTING SEGMENTS (CONT.)
CABLE NETWORKS
• In Q4, ViacomCBS owned the most top 30 cable networks among viewers 18-49 and 9 of the top 10 original series with kids 2-11; Showtime also had 2 of the top 4 scripted shows on premium cable in the quarter.
• Q4 2020 revenue increased 11% year-over-year, driven by growth in content licensing, ⎯ affiliate and advertising revenue.
Affiliate revenue increased 8% year-over-year, fueled by growth in streaming subscription revenue, including from SHOWTIME OTT, as well as expanded distribution and contractual rate increases, partially offset by linear ⎯ subscriber declines.
Advertising revenue rose 8% year-over-year, reflecting growth in streaming advertising revenue from Pluto TV as well as higher pricing, which more than ⎯ offset lower linear impressions.
Content licensing revenue increased 48% year-over-year, driven by growth from the licensing of library programming.
• Adjusted OIBDA grew 1% year-over-year as a result of the increase in revenue and savings from restructuring activities, which was mostly offset by increased expenses for programming, participations, advertising and promotions, including to support the growth of the company’s streaming services.
ViacomCBS ViacomCBS Cable Cable Nets: Series: Nielsen Nielsen Media Media Research, Research, C3 L+7 Impressions Impressions – Total – Total Day; Day; 4Q’20 4Q’20 09/28/20-12/27/20. 09/28/20-12/27/20. Minimum Showtime: of The 3 T/C Nielsen and 15 Company; minute program Live+7 average duration; to excludes new episodes. repeats, sports/WWE, news.
Quarter Ended December 31 Full Year Ended December 31
$ IN MILLIONS
2020 2019 $ B/(W) % 2020 2019 $ B/(W) %
Revenue $ 3,438 $ 3,088 $ 350 11 % $ 12,589 $ 12,449 $ 140 1 %
Advertising 1,499 1,387 112 8 4,743 5,129 (386) (8) Affiliate 1,569 1,451 118 8 6,037 6,052 (15) -Content Licensing 370 250 120 48 1,809 1,268 541 43
Expenses 2,637 2,296 (341) (15) 8,843 8,934 91 1 Adjusted OIBDA $ 801 $ 792 $ 9 1 % $ 3,746 $ 3,515 $ 231 7 %
5
VIACOMCBS Q4 & FY 2020 EARNINGS
REPORTING SEGMENTS (CONT.)
FILMED ENTERTAINMENT
• partially Q4 2020 offset revenue by growth decreased in licensing 3% year and -over home -year, entertainment reflecting the revenue decline .in theatrical revenue,
Theatrical capacity of revenue movie theaters was immaterial in response in the to quarter COVID—as 19 .a result of the closure or reduction in
Home catalog entertainment and Miramax revenue titles. increased 14% year-over-year, driven by higher sales of
Licensing revenue grew 39% year-over-year due to higher licensing of catalog titles.
• Adjusted revenue was OIBDA more was than $18M offset compared by lower to distribution a loss of $ 119M costs in from the fewer prior year theatrical quarter releases as lower .
Quarter Ended December 31 Full Year Ended December 31
$ IN MILLIONS
2020 2019 $ B/(W) % 2020 2019 $ B/(W) %
Revenue $ 514 $ 532 $ (18) (3) % $ 2,562 $ 2,990 $ (428) (14) %
Theatrical 4 129 (125) (97) 180 547 (367) (67) Home Entertainment 176 155 21 14 709 623 86 14 Licensing 304 219 85 39 1,598 1,709 (111) (6) Other 30 29 1 3 75 111 (36) (32)
Expenses 496 651 155 24 2,347 2,910 563 19 Adjusted OIBDA $ 18 $ (119) $ 137 N/M $ 215 $ 80 $ 135 169 %
BALANCE SHEET
& LIQUIDITY
For from the continuing full year, operations ViacomCBS and generated $1.9B of $ free 2.2B cash of operating flow†, benefiting cash flow from the timing of production spending and cost savings.
¯ In negative Q4, as operating expected, cash the ramp flow up from in continuing production operations spend led of to $339 million and negative free cash flow† of $453 million.
,§ balance As of December sheet and 31, a 2020, committed the company $3.5B revolving had $3B credit of cash facility on its that remains undrawn.
† N/M Non =- GAAP Not Meaningful measures are detailed in the Supplemental Disclosures at the end of this release.
$2.2B $1.9B
Full Year Full Year Operating Cash Flow Free Cash from Continuing Flow† Operations
$3.0B $3.5B
Cash on Undrawn Revolving Balance Sheet Credit Facility
6
VIACOMCBS Q4 & FY 2020 EARNINGS
ABOUT VIACOMCBS
company ViacomCBS that (NASDAQ: creates VIAC; premium VIACA) content is a leading and experiences global media for audiences and entertainment worldwide. Driven Paramount by iconic Pictures, consumer Nickelodeon, brands, MTV, its portfolio Comedy includes Central, CBS, BET, Showtime CBS All Access, Networks, Pluto the TV and US television Simon & Schuster, audience among and boasts others. one The of company the industry’s delivers most the important largest share and of services extensive and libraries digital of video TV and products, film titles. ViacomCBS In addition provides to offering powerful innovative capabilities streaming in production, distribution and advertising solutions for partners on five continents.
For more information about ViacomCBS, please visit www.viacomcbs.com and follow @ViacomCBS on social platforms. VIAC-IR
CAUTIONARY NOTE CONCERNING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
deemed This communication to be, forward-looking contains both statements historical within and forward-looking the Private Securities statements. Litigation All statements Reform Act that of 1995. are not Similarly, statements statements of historical that describe fact are, our or may objectives, be plans and events; or goals generally are or may can be be forward-looking identified by the statements. use of statements These forward-looking that include phrases statements such as reflect “believe,” our current “expect,” expectations “anticipate,” concerning “intend,” “plan,” future results factors “foresee,” that “likely,” are difficult “will,” to “may,” predict “could,” and which “estimate” may cause or other our actual similar results, words or performance phrases; and or involve achievements known to and be unknown different risks, from any uncertainties future results, and other performance in consumer behavior, or achievements as well as expressed evolving or technologies, implied by these distribution statements. platforms These and risks, packaging; uncertainties the impact and other on our factors advertising include, revenues among others: of changes changes in our consumers’ reputation, content and to viewership, offer popular deficiencies programming in audience and other measurement content; increased and advertising costs for market programming, conditions; films our and ability other to rights; maintain competition attractive for brands content, and content; audiences, losses advertising due to asset and distribution; impairment the charges potential for goodwill, for loss of intangible carriage or assets, other FCC reduction licenses in or and the programming; impact of negotiations the risks and for the costs distribution associated of with our the our integration streaming initiatives; of the CBS evolving Corporation business and continuity, Viacom Inc. cybersecurity, businesses and privacy investments and data in protection new businesses, and similar products, risks; content services infringement; and technologies, the impact including of and/or COVID-19 regulatory (and other factors widespread affecting health our businesses emergencies generally; or pandemics) liabilities and related measures to discontinued taken in response operations thereto; and former domestic businesses; and global the political, loss of key economic talent described and strikes in and our other news union releases activity; and potential filings with conflicts the Securities of interest and arising Exchange from Commission, our ownership including structure but with not a limited controlling to our stockholder; most recent and Annual other Report factors on that Form are 10-K not and necessarily reports on known. Form 10-Q The forward-looking and Form 8-K. There statements may be included additional in this risks, communication uncertainties and are made factors only that as we of do the not date currently of this communication, view as material or and we do not undertake any obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances.
7
VIACOMCBS Q4 & FY 2020 EARNINGS
CONTACTS
PRESS
Justin Dini
Executive Vice President, Corporate Communications (212) 846-2724 justin.dini@viacomcbs.com
Peter Collins
Vice President, Corporate Communications (917) 826-4182 peter.collins@viacomcbs.com
Justin Blaber
Senior Director, Corporate Communications (646) 823-6616 justin.blaber@viacomcbs.com
Pranita Sookai
Director, Corporate Communications (718) 316-2182 pranita.sookai@viacomcbs.com
INVESTORS
Anthony DiClemente
Executive Vice President, Investor Relations (917) 796-4647 anthony.diclemente@viacom.com
Jaime Morris
Vice President, Investor Relations (646) 824-5450 jaime.morris@viacomcbs.com
Robert Amparo
Manager, Investor Relations (347) 223-1682 robert.amparo@viacom.com
VIACOMCBS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (Unaudited; in millions, except per share amounts) Quarter Ended Year Ended December 31, December 31, 2020 2019 2020 2019 Revenues $ 6,874 $ 6,656 $ 25,285 $ 26,998 Costs and expenses: Operating 4,213 4,668 14,992 16,713 Selling, general and administrative 1,516 1,446 5,320 5,481 Depreciation and amortization 99 119 430 438 Restructuring and other corporate matters 177 467 618 769 Total costs and expenses 6,005 6,700 21,360 23,401 Gain on sales 214 — 214 549 Operating income (loss) 1,083 (44) 4,139 4,146 Interest expense (268) (239) (1,031) (962) Interest income 21 13 60 66 Net gains (losses) from investments 174 (4) 206 85 Loss on extinguishment of debt — — (126) — Other items, net (27) (25) (101) (112) Earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in earnings (loss) of investee companies 983 (299) 3,147 3,223 (Provision) benefit for income taxes (183) 1 (535) 29 Equity in earnings (loss) of investee companies, net of tax 2 — (28) (53) Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations 802 (298) 2,584 3,199 Net earnings from discontinued operations, net of tax 27 44 117 140 Net earnings (loss) (ViacomCBS and noncontrolling interests) 829 (254) 2,701 3,339 Net earnings attributable to noncontrolling interests (19) (4) (279) (31) Net earnings (loss) attributable to ViacomCBS $ 810 $ (258) $ 2,422 $ 3,308 Amounts attributable to ViacomCBS:a Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations $ 783 $ (302) $ 2,305 $ 3,168 Net earnings from discontinued operations 27 44 117 140 Net earnings (loss) attributable to ViacomCBS $ 810 $ (258) $ 2,422 $ 3,308 Basic net earnings (loss) per common share attributable to ViacomCBS: Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations $ 1.27 $ (.49) $ 3.74 $ 5.15 Net earnings from discontinued operations $ .04 $ .07 $ .19 $ .23 Net earnings (loss) $ 1.31 $ (.42) $ 3.93 $ 5.38 Diluted net earnings (loss) per common share attributable to ViacomCBS: Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations $ 1.26 $ (.49) $ 3.73 $ 5.13 Net earnings from discontinued operations $ .04 $ .07 $ .19 $ .23 Net earnings (loss) $ 1.31 $ (.42) $ 3.92 $ 5.36 Weighted average number of common shares outstanding: Basic 617 615 616 615 Diluted 620 615 618 617
VIACOMCBS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (In millions, except per share amounts) At December 31, 2020 2019 ASSETS Current Assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 2,984 $ 632 Receivables, net 7,017 6,837 Programming and other inventory 1,757 2,813 Prepaid expenses 622 399 Other current assets 769 677 Current assets of discontinued operations 630 544 Total current assets 13,779 11,902 Property and equipment, net 1,994 2,045 Programming and other inventory 10,363 8,652 Goodwill 16,612 16,545 Intangible assets, net 2,826 2,990 Operating lease assets 1,602 1,738 Deferred income tax assets, net 993 938 Other assets 3,657 3,955 Assets held for sale 28 23 Assets of discontinued operations 809 797 Total Assets $ 52,663 $ 49,585 LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY Current Liabilities: Accounts payable $ 571 $ 632 Accrued expenses 1,714 1,729 Participants’ share and royalties payable 2,005 1,861 Accrued programming and production costs 1,141 1,500 Deferred revenues 978 737 Debt 16 717 Other current liabilities 1,391 1,439 Current liabilities of discontinued operations 480 433 Total current liabilities 8,296 9,048 Long-term debt 19,717 18,002 Participants’ share and royalties payable 1,317 1,546 Pension and postretirement benefit obligations 2,098 2,121 Deferred income tax liabilities, net 778 565 Operating lease liabilities 1,583 1,705 Program rights obligations 243 356 Other liabilities 2,158 2,436 Liabilities of discontinued operations 220 263 Redeemable noncontrolling interest 197 254 Commitments and contingencies ViacomCBS stockholders’ equity: Class A Common Stock, par value $.001 per share; 375 shares authorized; 52 (2020 and 2019) shares issued — — Class B Common Stock, par value $.001 per share; 5,000 shares authorized; 1,068 (2020) and 1,064 (2019) shares issued 1 1 Additional paid-in capital 29,785 29,590 Treasury stock, at cost; 503 (2020) and 501 (2019) Class B Shares (22,958) (22,908) Retained earnings 10,375 8,494 Accumulated other comprehensive loss (1,832) (1,970) Total ViacomCBS stockholders’ equity 15,371 13,207 Noncontrolling interests 685 82 Total Equity 16,056 13,289 Total Liabilities and Equity $ 52,663 $ 49,585
VIACOMCBS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (In millions) Year Ended December 31, 2020 2019 Operating Activities: Net earnings (ViacomCBS and noncontrolling interests) $ 2,701 $ 3,339 Less: Net earnings from discontinued operations, net of tax 117 140 Net earnings from continuing operations 2,584 3,199 Adjustments to reconcile net earnings from continuing operations to net cash flow provided by operating activities from continuing operations: Depreciation and amortization 430 438 Television programming and feature film cost amortization 11,045 12,554
Deferred tax provision (benefit) 122 (765) Stock-based compensation 274 286 Gain on sales (214) (549) Net gains from investments (206) (85) Loss on extinguishment of debt 126 — Equity in loss of investee companies, net of tax and distributions 34 58 Change in assets and liabilities Increase in receivables (68) (247) Increase in inventory and related program and participation liabilities, net (12,170) (14,215) Increase in accounts payable and other liabilities 188 302 (Decrease) increase in pension and postretirement benefit obligations (20) 16 Increase in income taxes 2 176 Other, net 88 3 Net cash flow provided by operating activities from continuing operations 2,215 1,171 Net cash flow provided by operating activities from discontinued operations 79 59 Net cash flow provided by operating activities 2,294 1,230 Investing Activities: Investments (59) (171) Capital expenditures (324) (345) Acquisitions, net of cash acquired (147) (399) Proceeds from dispositions 593 756 Other investing activities — 14 Net cash flow provided by (used for) investing activities from continuing operations 63 (145) Net cash flow used for investing activities from discontinued operations (7) (10) Net cash flow provided by (used for) investing activities 56 (155) Financing Activities: (Repayments of) proceeds from short-term debt borrowings, net (706) 25 Proceeds from issuance of senior notes 4,375 492 Repayment of long-term debt (2,901) (910) Dividends (600) (595) Purchase of Company common stock (58) (57) Payment of payroll taxes in lieu of issuing shares for stock-based compensation (93) (56) Proceeds from exercise of stock options 5 15 Other financing activities (112) (130) Net cash flow used for financing activities (90) (1,216) Effect of exchange rate changes on cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash 25 (1) Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash 2,285 (142) Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of year (includes $202 (2020) and $120 (2019) of restricted cash) 834 976 Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of year
(includes $135 (2020) and $202 (2019) of restricted cash) $ 3,119 $ 834
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES REGARDING NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES
(Unaudited; in millions, except per share amounts)
Results for the quarters and years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 included certain items identified as affecting
comparability. Adjusted operating income before depreciation and amortization (“Adjusted OIBDA”), adjusted
earnings from continuing operations before income taxes, adjusted provision for income taxes, adjusted net earnings
from continuing operations attributable to ViacomCBS, and adjusted diluted EPS from continuing operations
(together, the “adjusted measures”) exclude the impact of these items and are measures of performance not
calculated in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”).
We use these measures to, among other things, evaluate our operating performance. These measures are among the
primary measures used by management for planning and forecasting of future periods, and they are important
indicators of our operational strength and business performance. In addition, we use Adjusted OIBDA to, among
other things, value prospective acquisitions. We believe these measures are relevant and useful for investors because
they allow investors to view performance in a manner similar to the method used by our management; provide a
clearer perspective on our underlying performance; and make it easier for investors, analysts and peers to compare
our operating performance to other companies in our industry and to compare our year-over-year results.
Because the adjusted measures are measures of performance not calculated in accordance with GAAP, they should
not be considered in isolation of, or as a substitute for, operating income (loss), earnings (loss) from continuing
operations before income taxes, provision benefit for income taxes, net earnings (loss) from continuing operations
attributable to ViacomCBS or diluted EPS from continuing operations, as applicable, as indicators of operating
performance. These measures, as we calculate them, may not be comparable to similarly titled measures employed
by other companies.
The following tables reconcile the adjusted measures to their most directly comparable financial measures in
accordance with GAAP.
Quarter Ended December 31, Year Ended December 31,
2020 2019 2020 2019
Operating Income (Loss) (GAAP) $ 1,083 $ (44) $ 4,139 $ 4,146
Depreciation and amortization (a) 99 119 430 438
Restructuring and other corporate matters (b) 177 467 618 769
Programming charges (b) 38 589 159 589
Gain on sales (b) (214) — (214) (549)
Adjusted OIBDA (Non-GAAP) $ 1,183 $ 1,131 $ 5,132 $ 5,393
(a) The year ended December 31, 2020 includes an impairment charge of $ 25 million to reduce the carrying value of intangible assets to fair value and
accelerated depreciation of $12 million for technology that was abandoned in connection with synergy plans related to the merger of Viacom Inc.
with and into CBS Corporation (the “Merger”). The quarter and year ended December 31, 2019 include an impairment charge of $20 million to
reduce the carrying value of intangible assets to fair value.
(b) See notes on the following tables for additional information on items affecting comparability.
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES REGARDING NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES (Continued) (Unaudited; in millions, except per share amounts) Quarter Ended December 31, 2020 Net Earnings Earnings fromfrom ContinuingContinuing Diluted EPS OperationsOperations from Before Income Provision for Attributable to Continuing Taxes Income Taxes ViacomCBS Operations Reported (GAAP) $ 983 $ (183) $ 783 $ 1.26 Items affecting comparability: Restructuring and other corporate matters (a) 177 (40) 137 .22 Programming charges (b) 38 (10) 28 .05 Gain on sales (c) (214) 31 (183) (.30) Net gain from investments (d) (174) 42 (132) (.21) Discrete tax items — 12 12 .02 Adjusted (Non-GAAP) $ 810 $ (148) $ 645 $ 1.04 (a) Reflects severance, exit costs and other costs related to the Merger. (b) Programming charges primarily related to the abandonment of certain incomplete programs resulting from production shutdowns related to COVID-19. (c) Reflects a gain on the sale of CNET Media Group (“CMG”). (d) Primarily reflects an increase in the value of our investment in fuboTV, Inc. (“fuboTV”), which was sold in the fourth quarter of 2020. Quarter Ended December 31, 2019 EarningsNet Earnings (Loss) from(Loss) from ContinuingContinuing Diluted EPS Operations (Provision) Operations from Before Income Benefit for Attributable to Continuing Taxes Income Taxes ViacomCBS Operations (a) Reported (GAAP) $ (299) $ 1 $ (302) $ (.49) Items affecting comparability: Restructuring and other corporate matters (b) 467 (88) 379 .61 Impairment charge (c) 20 (6) 14 .02 Programming charges (d) 589 (142) 447 .73 Net loss from investments (e) 4 (3) 1 — Discrete tax items — 31 31 .05 Adjusted (Non-GAAP) $ 781 $ (207) $ 570 $ .92 (a) Reported EPS excludes the dilutive impact to shares since we reported a net loss. Adjusted EPS is calculated based on diluted weighted average shares outstanding of 618 million. (b) Reflects severance and exit costs relating to restructuring activities and costs incurred in connection with the Merger. (c) Reflects a charge to reduce the carrying value of our international broadcast licenses in Australia to their fair value. (d) Programming charges principally reflect accelerated amortization associated with changes in the expected monetization of certain programs, and decisions to cease airing, alter future airing patterns or not renew certain programs, in connection with management changes implemented as a result of the Merger. (e) Includes an impairment charge of $50 million to write down an investment to its fair value; a gain on marketable securities of $35 million and gains on the sale and acquisition of joint ventures of $11 million.
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES REGARDING NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES (Continued)
(Unaudited; in millions, except per share amounts)
Year Ended December 31, 2020
Net Earnings
Earnings from from
Continuing Continuing Diluted EPS
Operations Operations from
Before Income Provision for Attributable to Continuing
Taxes Income Taxes ViacomCBS Operations
Reported (GAAP) $ 3,147 $ (535) $ 2,305 $ 3.73
Items affecting comparability:
Restructuring and other corporate matters (a) 618 (133) 485 .79
Impairment charge (b) 25 (6) 19 .03
Depreciation of abandoned technology (c) 12 (3) 9 .01
Programming charges (d) 159 (39) 120 .20
Gain on sales (e) (214) 31 (183) (.30)
Net gains from investments (f) (206) 50 (156) (.25)
Loss on extinguishment of debt 126 (29) 97 .16
Discrete tax items (g) — (110) (110) (.18)
Impairment of equity-method investment — — 9 .01
Adjusted (Non-GAAP) $ 3,667 $ (774) $ 2,595 $ 4.20
(a) Reflects severance, exit costs and other costs related to the Merger and a charge to write down property and equipment classified as held for sale.
(b) Reflects a charge to reduce the carrying values of FCC licenses in two markets to their fair values.
(c) Reflects accelerated depreciation for technology that was abandoned in connection with synergy plans related to the Merger.
(d) Programming charges primarily related to the abandonment of certain incomplete programs resulting from production shutdowns related to
COVID-19.
(e) Reflects a gain on the sale of CMG.
(f) Primarily reflects an increase in the value of our investment in fuboTV, which was sold in the fourth quarter of 2020.
(g) Primarily reflects a benefit from the remeasurement of our U.K. net deferred income tax asset as a result of an increase in the U.K. corporate income
tax rate from 17% to 19% enacted during the third quarter of 2020.
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES REGARDING NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES (Continued)
(Unaudited; in millions, except per share amounts)
Year Ended December 31, 2019
Net Earnings
Earnings from from
Continuing Continuing Diluted EPS
Operations Benefit Operations from
Before Income (Provision) for Attributable to Continuing
Taxes Income Taxes ViacomCBS Operations
Reported (GAAP) $ 3,223 $ 29 $ 3,168 $ 5.13
Items affecting comparability:
Restructuring and other corporate matters (a) 769 (133) 636 1.03
Impairment charge (b) 20 (6) 14 .02
Programming charges (c) 589 (142) 447 .73
Gain on sales (d) (549) 163 (386) (.63)
Net gains from investments (e) (85) 16 (69) (.11)
Discrete tax items (f) — (827) (827) (1.34)
Adjusted (Non-GAAP) $ 3,967 $ (900) $ 2,983 $ 4.83
(a) Reflects severance and exit costs relating to restructuring activities, costs incurred in connection with the Merger, legal proceedings
involving the Company and other corporate matters.
(b) Reflects a charge to reduce the carrying value of our international broadcast licenses in Australia to their fair value.
(c) Programming charges principally reflect accelerated amortization associated with changes in the expected monetization of certain
programs, and decisions to cease airing, alter future airing patterns or not renew certain programs, in connection with management
changes implemented as a result of the Merger.
(d) Reflects a gain on the sale of CBS Television City property and sound stage operation.
(e) Reflects a gain on marketable securities of $113 million; gains of $22 million on the sale and acquisition of joint ventures; and an
impairment charge of $50 million to write down an investment to its fair value.
(f) Primarily reflects a deferred tax benefit of $768 million resulting from the transfer of intangible assets between our subsidiaries in
connection with a reorganization of our international operations; a tax benefit of $ 44 million realized in connection with the
preparation of the 2018 federal tax return, based on further clarity provided by the United States government on tax positions
relating to federal tax legislation enacted in December 2017; and a tax benefit of $39 million triggered by the bankruptcy of an
investee.
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES REGARDING NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES (Continued) (Unaudited; in millions, except per share amounts) Free Cash Flow Free cash flow is a non-GAAP financial measure. Free cash flow reflects our net cash flow provided by operating activities (used for) from continuing operation less capital expenditures. Our calculation of free cash flow includes capital expenditures because investment in capital expenditures is a use of cash that is directly related to our operations. Our net cash flow provided by operating activities from continuing operations is the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure. Management believes free cash flow provides investors with an important perspective on the cash available to us to service debt, make strategic acquisitions and investments, maintain our capital assets, satisfy our tax obligations, and fund ongoing operations and working capital needs. As a result, free cash flow is a significant measure of our ability to generate long-term value. It is useful for investors to know whether this ability is being enhanced or degraded as a result of our operating performance. We believe the presentation of free cash flow is relevant and useful for investors because it allows investors to evaluate the cash generated from our underlying operations in a manner similar to the method used by management. Free cash flow is among several components of incentive compensation targets for certain management personnel. In addition, free cash flow is a primary measure used externally by our investors, analysts and industry peers for purposes of valuation and comparison of our operating performance to other companies in our industry. As free cash flow is not a measure calculated in accordance with GAAP, free cash flow should not be considered in isolation of, or as a substitute for, either net cash flow provided by (used for) operating activities from continuing operations as a measure of liquidity or net earnings (loss) as a measure of operating performance. Free cash flow, as we calculate it, may not be comparable to similarly titled measures employed by other companies. In addition, free cash flow as a measure of liquidity has certain limitations, does not necessarily represent funds available for discretionary use and is not necessarily a measure of our ability to fund our cash needs. The following table presents a reconciliation of our net cash flow provided by (used for) operating activities from continuing operations to free cash flow: Quarter Ended Year Ended December 31, December 31, 2020 2019 2020 2019 Net cash flow provided by (used for) operating activities from continuing operations (GAAP) (339) (530) 2,215 1,171 Capital expenditures (114) (99) (324) (345) Free cash flow (Non-GAAP) $ (453) $ (629) $ 1,891 $ 826