Sirius XM forecasts 2025 revenue below expectations, shares dip

Sirius XM Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:SIRI) is set to open lower as the company’s revenue projection for 2025 fell short of market expectations. The satellite radio company anticipates revenues of $8.5 billion, which is below the consensus estimate of $8.7 billion. Consequently, shares have decreased by 3.7%.

The company has outlined its strategy for the next few years, focusing on its core subscription business and advertising prowess, while also aiming to improve operational efficiency and prioritize shareholder returns. Sirius XM’s CEO, Jennifer Witz, expressed confidence in the company’s ability to navigate market challenges and deliver value to shareholders.

In a bid to enhance profitability and cash flow, Sirius XM is concentrating on its dominant automotive subscriber segment, which constitutes 90% of its current subscriber base. The company plans to reallocate resources from high-churn streaming audiences to more stable revenue-generating areas.

Additionally, Sirius XM is set to continue investing in its streaming services as a complement to its in-car offerings. This includes integrating its streaming solution into Tesla (NASDAQ:TSLA)’s IP-enabled operating system, expanding its reach to over two million vehicles.

Content remains a key focus for the company, with plans to invest in its unique music channels, sports coverage, audio talent, and growing podcast network. The advertising aspect of the business will also be enhanced, with investments in adtech and innovative in-car ad experiences.

Efficiency improvements are on the agenda, with Sirius XM targeting an additional $200 million in annualized savings by the end of 2025. This comes after achieving approximately $350 million in savings for 2023 and 2024.

The company’s financial strategy includes maintaining a strong balance sheet and optimizing free cash flow. Sirius XM plans to reduce its debt by $700 million in 2025 and maintain its current quarterly dividend of $0.27 per share. The existing $1.166 billion stock repurchase program also remains in effect.

For 2025, Sirius XM anticipates an adjusted EBITDA of $2.6 billion and free cash flow of $1.15 billion, with a target of $1.5 billion in free cash flow by 2027. These figures follow the reaffirmation of its 2024 guidance for total revenue of approximately $8.675 billion.

In line with these strategic updates, Wayne D. Thorsen has been appointed as the new Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, effective December 16. Thorsen brings a wealth of experience from his previous roles at ADT Inc., Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOGL)., and Social Finance, Inc. Meanwhile, Joseph Inzerillo has departed from his position as Chief Product and Technology Officer.

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