Radio One Reports 1Q Loss

Radio One Inc. on Thursday reported a loss of $2.3 million in its first quarter. The Silver Spring, Maryland-based company said it had a loss of 5 cents per share.

The broadcast media company that serves African-American and urban listeners posted revenue of $101.3 million in the period.

The company's shares closed at $2.85. A year ago, they were trading at $2.20.

Broadcast and digital operating income was approximately $34.9 million, a decrease of 11.9% from the same period in 2016. The Company reported operating income of approximately $16.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017, compared to $18.8 million for the same period in 2016. Net loss was approximately $2.3 million or $0.05 per share (basic) compared to approximately $3.9 million or $0.08 per share (basic) for the same period in 2016.

Alfred C. Liggins III

Alfred C. Liggins, III, Radio One's CEO and President stated, "A combination of tough political comps in radio, and non-recurring major client spending at Reach Media, made for a weak start to the year in radio advertising.

"TV One ratings held up well overall (+4% Household, and flat 24-54 total day), although we were down in the younger-end demographic. Despite this, we were able to post growth in Adjusted EBITDA for the division. Our digital business will be bolstered by the acquisition of the Bossip and Madame Noire brands, which will be immediately accretive. MGM National Harbor continues to perform well, and we have accrued approximately $1.5 million of income in the first quarter.

"We remain committed to growing our cash flow in 2017, despite the slow start to the year. Our name change to Urban One will become effective on May 5th, and will better reflect our diversified multimedia platform."