UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
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| x | QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 or 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
For the quarterly period ended October 31, 2024
OR
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| o | TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 or 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
For the transition period from_____ to _____
Commission File No. 001-11507
JOHN WILEY & SONS, INC.
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)
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| New York | | 13-5593032 |
| (State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) | | (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.) |
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| 111 River Street, Hoboken, New Jersey | | 07030 |
| (Address of principal executive offices) | | Zip Code |
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| (201) 748-6000 | |
| Registrant’s telephone number, including area code | |
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| Not Applicable | |
| Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report | |
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
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| Title of each class | | Trading Symbol | | Name of each exchange on which registered |
| Class A Common Stock, par value $1.00 per share | | WLY | | New York Stock Exchange |
| Class B Common Stock, par value $1.00 per share | | WLYB | | New York Stock Exchange |
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 o
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 (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). Yes x No o
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.
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Large accelerated filer x | Accelerated filer o |
Non-accelerated filer o | Smaller reporting company o |
| Emerging growth company o |
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 revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes o No x
The number of shares outstanding of each of the Registrant’s classes of common stock as of November 30, 2024 were:
Class A, par value $1.00 – 45,059,564
Class B, par value $1.00 – 8,969,871
JOHN WILEY & SONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
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| PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION | |
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| Item 5. | | |
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Cautionary Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements “Safe Harbor” Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995:
This report contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 concerning our business, consolidated financial condition, and results of operations. The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) encourages companies to disclose forward-looking information so that investors can better understand a company’s prospects and make informed investment decisions. Forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which are outside our control, which could cause actual results to differ materially from these statements. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements can be identified by such words as “anticipates,” “believes,” “plan,” “assumes,” “could,” “should,” “estimates,” “expects,” “intends,” “potential,” “seek,” “predict,” “may,” “will,” and similar references to future periods. All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this report regarding our strategies, prospects, financial condition, operations, costs, plans, and objectives are forward-looking statements. Examples of forward-looking statements include, among others, anticipated restructuring charges and savings, operations, performance, and financial condition. Reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements, as actual results may differ materially from those described in any forward-looking statements. Any such forward-looking statements are based upon many assumptions and estimates that are inherently subject to uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond our control, and are subject to change based on many important factors. Such factors include, but are not limited to (i) the level of investment by Wiley in new technologies and products; (ii) subscriber renewal rates for our journals; (iii) the financial stability and liquidity of journal subscription agents; (iv) the consolidation of book wholesalers and retail accounts; (v) the market position and financial stability of key retailers; (vi) the seasonal nature of our educational business and the impact of the used book market; (vii) worldwide economic and political conditions; (viii) our ability to protect our copyrights and other intellectual property worldwide; (ix) our ability to successfully integrate acquired operations and realize expected opportunities; (x) the ability to realize operating savings over time and in fiscal year 2025 in connection with our multiyear Global Restructuring Program and completed dispositions; (xi) cyber risk and the failure to maintain the integrity of our operational or security systems or infrastructure, or those of third parties with which we do business; (xii) as a result of acquisitions, we have and may record a significant amount of goodwill and other identifiable intangible assets and we may never realize the full carrying value of these assets; (xiii) our ability to leverage artificial intelligence technologies in our products and services, including generative artificial intelligence, large language models, machine learning, and other artificial intelligence tools; and (xiv) other factors detailed from time to time in our filings with the SEC. We undertake no obligation to update or revise any such forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances.
Please refer to Part I, Item 1A, “Risk Factors,” of our Annual Report on Form 10-K and as revised and updated by our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for important factors that we believe could cause actual results to differ materially from those in our forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement made by us in this report is based only on information currently available to us and speaks only as of the date on which it is made. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise.
Non-GAAP Financial Measures:
We present financial information that conforms to Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (US GAAP). We also present financial information that does not conform to US GAAP, which we refer to as non-GAAP.
In this report, we may present the following non-GAAP performance measures:
•Adjusted Earnings Per Share (Adjusted EPS);
•Free Cash Flow less Product Development Spending;
•Adjusted Revenue;
•Adjusted Operating Income and margin;
•Adjusted Income Before Taxes;
•Adjusted Income Tax Provision;
•Adjusted Effective Tax Rate;
•EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization), Adjusted EBITDA and margin;
•Organic revenue; and
•Results on a constant currency basis.
Management uses these non-GAAP performance measures as supplemental indicators of our operating performance and financial position as well as for internal reporting and forecasting purposes, when publicly providing our outlook, to evaluate our performance and calculate incentive compensation. We present these non-GAAP performance measures in addition to US GAAP financial results because we believe that these non-GAAP performance measures provide useful information to certain investors and financial analysts for operational trends and comparisons over time. The use of these non-GAAP performance measures may also provide a consistent basis to evaluate operating profitability and performance trends by excluding items that we do not consider to be controllable activities for this purpose.
The performance metric used by our chief operating decision maker to evaluate performance of our reportable segments is Adjusted Operating Income. We present both Adjusted Operating Income and Adjusted EBITDA for each of our reportable segments as we believe Adjusted EBITDA provides additional useful information to certain investors and financial analysts for operational trends and comparisons over time. It removes the impact of depreciation and amortization expense, as well as presents a consistent basis to evaluate operating profitability and compare our financial performance to that of our peer companies and competitors.
For example:
•Adjusted EPS, Adjusted Revenue, Adjusted Operating Income and margin, Adjusted Income Before Taxes, Adjusted Income Tax Provision, Adjusted Effective Tax Rate, EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and margin, and organic revenue (excluding acquisitions) provide a more comparable basis to analyze operating results and earnings and are measures commonly used by shareholders to measure our performance.
•Free Cash Flow less Product Development Spending helps assess our ability, over the long term, to create value for our shareholders as it represents cash available to repay debt, pay common stock dividends, and fund share repurchases and acquisitions.
•Results on a constant currency basis remove distortion from the effects of foreign currency movements to provide better comparability of our business trends from period to period. We measure our performance excluding the impact of foreign currency (or at constant currency), which means that we apply the same foreign currency exchange rates for the current and equivalent prior period.
In addition, we have historically provided these or similar non-GAAP performance measures and understand that some investors and financial analysts find this information helpful in analyzing our operating margins and net income, and in comparing our financial performance to that of our peer companies and competitors. Based on interactions with investors, we also believe that our non-GAAP performance measures are regarded as useful to our investors as supplemental to our US GAAP financial results, and that there is no confusion regarding the adjustments or our operating performance to our investors due to the comprehensive nature of our disclosures.
Non-GAAP performance measures do not have standardized meanings prescribed by US GAAP and therefore may not be comparable to the calculation of similar measures used by other companies and should not be viewed as alternatives to measures of financial results under US GAAP. The adjusted metrics have limitations as analytical tools, and should not be considered in isolation from, or as a substitute for, US GAAP information. It does not purport to represent any similarly titled US GAAP information and is not an indicator of our performance under US GAAP. Non-GAAP financial metrics that we present may not be comparable with similarly titled measures used by others. Investors are cautioned against placing undue reliance on these non-GAAP measures.
PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JOHN WILEY & SONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION – UNAUDITED
In thousands
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| October 31, 2024 | | April 30, 2024 |
| Assets: | | | |
| Current assets | | | |
| Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 75,536 | | | $ | 83,249 | |
| Accounts receivable, net of allowance for credit losses of $17.9 million and $17.3 million, respectively | 183,015 | | | 224,198 | |
| Inventories, net | 27,103 | | | 26,219 | |
| Prepaid expenses and other current assets | 84,659 | | | 85,954 | |
| Current assets held-for-sale | — | | | 34,422 | |
| Total current assets | 370,313 | | | 454,042 | |
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| Technology, property and equipment, net | 172,371 | | | 192,438 | |
| Intangible assets, net | 598,262 | | | 615,694 | |
| Goodwill | 1,102,372 | | | 1,091,368 | |
| Operating lease right-of-use assets | 70,527 | | | 69,074 | |
| Other non-current assets | 295,013 | | | 283,719 | |
| Non-current assets held-for-sale | — | | | 19,160 | |
| Total assets | $ | 2,608,858 | | | $ | 2,725,495 | |
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| Liabilities and shareholders' equity: | | | |
| Current liabilities | | | |
| Accounts payable | $ | 40,358 | | | $ | 55,659 | |
| Accrued royalties | 119,043 | | | 97,173 | |
| Short-term portion of long-term debt | 10,000 | | | 7,500 | |
| Contract liabilities | 241,488 | | | 483,778 | |
| Accrued employment costs | 60,935 | | | 96,980 | |
| Short-term portion of operating lease liabilities | 18,080 | | | 18,294 | |
| Other accrued liabilities | 71,567 | | | 76,266 | |
| Current liabilities held-for-sale | — | | | 37,632 | |
| Total current liabilities | 561,471 | | | 873,282 | |
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| Long-term debt | 951,010 | | | 767,096 | |
| Accrued pension liability | 71,082 | | | 70,832 | |
| Deferred income tax liabilities | 98,676 | | | 97,186 | |
| Operating lease liabilities | 88,403 | | | 94,386 | |
| Other long-term liabilities | 82,961 | | | 71,760 | |
| Long-term liabilities held-for-sale | — | | | 11,237 | |
| Total liabilities | 1,853,603 | | | 1,985,779 | |
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| Shareholders’ equity | | | |
| Preferred stock, $1 par value per share: Authorized shares – 2 million, Issued shares - 0 | — | | | — | |
| Class A common stock, $1 par value per share: Authorized shares - 180 million, Issued shares - 70,283 and 70,259 as of October 31, 2024 and April 30, 2024, respectively | 70,283 | | | 70,259 | |
| Class B common stock, $1 par value per share: Authorized shares - 72 million, Issued shares - 12,899 and 12,923 as of October 31, 2024 and April 30, 2024, respectively | 12,899 | | | 12,923 | |
| Additional paid-in-capital | 478,694 | | | 474,406 | |
| Retained earnings | 1,583,974 | | | 1,583,348 | |
| Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax | (496,308) | | | (528,439) | |
| Less treasury shares at cost (Class A – 25,224 and 24,828 as of October 31, 2024 and April 30, 2024, respectively; Class B – 3,929 and 3,928 as of October 31, 2024 and April 30, 2024, respectively) | (894,287) | | | (872,781) | |
| Total shareholders’ equity | 755,255 | | | 739,716 | |
| Total liabilities and shareholders' equity | $ | 2,608,858 | | | $ | 2,725,495 | |
See accompanying Notes to the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
JOHN WILEY & SONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF NET INCOME (LOSS) – UNAUDITED
Dollars in thousands except per share information
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| Three Months Ended
October 31, | | Six Months Ended
October 31, |
| 2024 | | 2023 | | 2024 | | 2023 |
| Revenue, net | $ | 426,595 | | | $ | 492,808 | | | $ | 830,404 | | | $ | 943,821 | |
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| Costs and expenses: | | | | | | | |
| Cost of sales | 107,000 | | | 155,614 | | | 216,220 | | | 312,715 | |
| Operating and administrative expenses | 238,891 | | | 252,282 | | | 487,710 | | | 508,083 | |
| Impairment of goodwill | — | | | — | | | — | | | 26,695 | |
| Restructuring and related charges | 3,627 | | | 25,102 | | | 7,497 | | | 37,225 | |
| Amortization of intangible assets | 12,944 | | | 13,565 | | | 25,871 | | | 29,213 | |
| Total costs and expenses | 362,462 | | | 446,563 | | | 737,298 | | | 913,931 | |
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| Operating income | 64,133 | | | 46,245 | | | 93,106 | | | 29,890 | |
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| Interest expense | (14,463) | | | (12,937) | | | (27,250) | | | (24,271) | |
| Net foreign exchange transaction losses | (3,328) | | | (2,357) | | | (3,094) | | | (3,977) | |
| Net gain (loss) on sale of businesses, assets, and impairment charges related to assets held-for-sale | 369 | | | (51,414) | | | 6,170 | | | (127,343) | |
| Other income (expense), net | 2,226 | | | (1,567) | | | 3,008 | | | (3,052) | |
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| Income (loss) before taxes | 48,937 | | | (22,030) | | | 71,940 | | | (128,753) | |
| Provision (benefit) for income taxes | 8,479 | | | (2,585) | | | 32,918 | | | (17,044) | |
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| Net income (loss) | $ | 40,458 | | | $ | (19,445) | | | $ | 39,022 | | | $ | (111,709) | |
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| Earnings (loss) per share | | | | | | | |
| Basic | $ | 0.75 | | | $ | (0.35) | | | $ | 0.72 | | | $ | (2.02) | |
| Diluted | $ | 0.74 | | | $ | (0.35) | | | $ | 0.71 | | | $ | (2.02) | |
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| Weighted average number of common shares outstanding | | | | | | | |
| Basic | 54,191 | | 55,102 | | 54,284 | | 55,186 |
| Diluted | 54,850 | | 55,102 | | 54,928 | | 55,186 |
See accompanying Notes to the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
JOHN WILEY & SONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) – UNAUDITED
Dollars in thousands
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| Three Months Ended
October 31, | | Six Months Ended
October 31, |
| 2024 | | 2023 | | 2024 | | 2023 |
| Net income (loss) | $ | 40,458 | | | $ | (19,445) | | | $ | 39,022 | | | $ | (111,709) | |
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| Other comprehensive income (loss): | | | | | | | |
| Foreign currency translation adjustment | 27,944 | | | (33,865) | | | 42,907 | | | (22,691) | |
| Unamortized retirement costs, net of tax (expense) benefit of $(463) $(2,796), $166, and $(2,412), respectively | 394 | | | 9,994 | | | (1,646) | | | 8,157 | |
| Unrealized (loss) gains on interest rate swaps, net of tax benefit (expense) of $392, $331, $392 and $(532), respectively | (1,054) | | | (1,054) | | | (9,130) | | | 1,466 | |
| Total other comprehensive income (loss) | 27,284 | | | (24,925) | | | 32,131 | | | (13,068) | |
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| Comprehensive income (loss) | $ | 67,742 | | | $ | (44,370) | | | $ | 71,153 | | | $ | (124,777) | |
See accompanying Notes to the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
JOHN WILEY & SONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS – UNAUDITED
Dollars in thousands | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Six Months Ended
October 31, |
| 2024 | | 2023 |
| Operating activities | | | |
| Net income (loss) | $ | 39,022 | | | $ | (111,709) | |
| Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash used in operating activities: | | | |
| Impairment of goodwill | — | | | 26,695 | |
| Net (gain) loss on sale of businesses, assets, and impairment charges related to assets held-for-sale | (6,170) | | | 127,343 | |
| Amortization of intangible assets | 25,871 | | | 29,213 | |
| Amortization of product development assets | 8,622 | | | 12,937 | |
| Depreciation and amortization of technology, property and equipment | 39,478 | | | 41,752 | |
| Restructuring and related charges | 7,497 | | | 37,225 | |
| Stock-based compensation expense | 12,002 | | | 12,801 | |
| Employee retirement plan expense | 16,901 | | | 17,590 | |
| Net foreign exchange transaction losses | 3,094 | | | 3,977 | |
| Other noncash charges (credits) | 5,570 | | | (39,895) | |
| Net change in operating assets and liabilities | (245,879) | | | (241,415) | |
| Net cash used in operating activities | (93,992) | | | (83,486) | |
| Investing activities | | | |
| Product development spending | (7,127) | | | (8,168) | |
| Additions to technology, property and equipment | (29,030) | | | (40,321) | |
| Businesses acquired in purchase transactions, net of cash acquired | (915) | | | (1,500) | |
| Net cash (transferred) proceeds related to the sale of businesses and assets | (8,117) | | | 1,025 | |
| Acquisitions of publication rights and other | 700 | | | (2,953) | |
| Net cash used in investing activities | (44,489) | | | (51,917) | |
| Financing activities | | | |
| Repayments of long-term debt | (621,801) | | | (381,640) | |
| Borrowings of long-term debt | 805,867 | | | 579,871 | |
| Purchases of treasury shares | (25,421) | | | (22,500) | |
| Change in book overdrafts | (3,329) | | | (2,733) | |
| Cash dividends | (38,264) | | | (38,691) | |
| Impact of tax withholding on stock-based compensation and other | (3,969) | | | (4,605) | |
| Net cash provided by financing activities | 113,083 | | | 129,702 | |
| Effects of exchange rate changes on cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash | 1,441 | | | (1,943) | |
| Cash reconciliation: | | | |
| Cash and cash equivalents | 99,441 | | | 106,714 | |
| Restricted cash included in Prepaid expenses and other current assets | 102 | | | 548 | |
| Balance at beginning of period | 99,543 | | | 107,262 | |
| Decrease for the period | (23,957) | | | (7,644) | |
| Cash and cash equivalents | 75,536 | | | 99,515 | |
| Restricted cash included in Prepaid expenses and other current assets | 50 | | | 103 | |
| Balance at end of period | $ | 75,586 | | | $ | 99,618 | |
| Cash paid during the period for: | | | |
| Interest | $ | 26,305 | | | $ | 22,933 | |
| Income taxes, net of refunds | $ | 29,082 | | | $ | 26,423 | |
See accompanying Notes to the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
JOHN WILEY & SONS, INC., AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY – UNAUDITED
Dollars in thousands
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| Class A common stock | | Class B common stock | | Additional
paid-in capital | | Retained
earnings | | Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax | | Treasury stock | | Total
shareholders' equity |
| Balance at July 31, 2024 | $ | 70,277 | | | $ | 12,905 | | | $ | 473,164 | | | $ | 1,562,666 | | | $ | (523,592) | | | $ | (881,747) | | | $ | 713,673 | |
| Restricted shares issued under stock-based compensation plans | — | | | — | | | (510) | | | — | | | — | | | 597 | | | 87 | |
| Impact of tax withholding on stock-based compensation and other | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | (216) | | | (216) | |
| Stock-based compensation expense | — | | | — | | | 6,040 | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 6,040 | |
| Purchases of treasury shares | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | (12,921) | | | (12,921) | |
| Class A common stock dividends ($0.3525 per share) | — | | | — | | | — | | | (15,988) | | | — | | | — | | | (15,988) | |
| Class B common stock dividends ($0.3525 per share) | — | | | — | | | — | | | (3,162) | | | — | | | — | | | (3,162) | |
| Common stock class conversions | 6 | | | (6) | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | |
| Comprehensive income, net of tax | — | | | — | | | — | | | 40,458 | | | 27,284 | | | — | | | 67,742 | |
| Balance at October 31, 2024 | $ | 70,283 | | | $ | 12,899 | | | $ | 478,694 | | | $ | 1,583,974 | | | $ | (496,308) | | | $ | (894,287) | | | $ | 755,255 | |
See accompanying Notes to the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
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| Class A common stock | | Class B common stock | | Additional
paid-in capital | | Retained
earnings | | Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax | | Treasury stock | | Total
shareholders' equity |
| Balance at July 31, 2023 | $ | 70,231 | | | $ | 12,951 | | | $ | 465,278 | | | $ | 1,749,169 | | | $ | (517,045) | | | $ | (843,378) | | | $ | 937,206 | |
| Restricted shares issued under stock-based compensation plans | — | | | — | | | (620) | | | (1) | | | — | | | 690 | | | 69 | |
| Impact of tax withholding on stock-based compensation and other | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | (275) | | | (275) | |
| Stock-based compensation expense | — | | | — | | | 6,511 | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 6,511 | |
| Purchases of treasury shares | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | (12,500) | | | (12,500) | |
| Class A common stock dividends ($0.3500 per share) | — | | | — | | | — | | | (16,207) | | | — | | | — | | | (16,207) | |
| Class B common stock dividends ($0.3500 per share) | — | | | — | | | — | | | (3,158) | | | — | | | — | | | (3,158) | |
| Common stock class conversions | 3 | | | (3) | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | |
| Comprehensive loss, net of tax | — | | | — | | | — | | | (19,445) | | | (24,925) | | | — | | | (44,370) | |
| Balance at October 31, 2023 | $ | 70,234 | | | $ | 12,948 | | | $ | 471,169 | | | $ | 1,710,358 | | | $ | (541,970) | | | $ | (855,463) | | | $ | 867,276 | |
See accompanying Notes to the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
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| Class A common stock | | Class B common stock | | Additional
paid-in capital | | Retained
earnings | | Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax | | Treasury stock | | Total
shareholders' equity |
| Balance at April 30, 2024 | $ | 70,259 | | | $ | 12,923 | | | $ | 474,406 | | | $ | 1,583,348 | | | $ | (528,439) | | | $ | (872,781) | | | $ | 739,716 | |
| Restricted shares issued under stock-based compensation plans | — | | | — | | | (7,718) | | | — | | | — | | | 7,884 | | | 166 | |
| Impact of tax withholding on stock-based compensation and other | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | (3,969) | | | (3,969) | |
| Stock-based compensation expense | — | | | — | | | 12,006 | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 12,006 | |
| Purchases of treasury shares | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | (25,421) | | | (25,421) | |
| Class A common stock dividends ($0.3525 per share) | — | | | — | | | — | | | (32,070) | | | — | | | — | | | (32,070) | |
| Class B common stock dividends ($0.3525 per share) | — | | | — | | | — | | | (6,326) | | | — | | | — | | | (6,326) | |
| Common stock class conversions | 24 | | | (24) | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | |
| Comprehensive income, net of tax | — | | | — | | | — | | | 39,022 | | | 32,131 | | | — | | | 71,153 | |
| Balance at October 31, 2024 | $ | 70,283 | | | $ | 12,899 | | | $ | 478,694 | | | $ | 1,583,974 | | | $ | (496,308) | | | $ | (894,287) | | | $ | 755,255 | |
See accompanying Notes to the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Class A common stock | | Class B common stock | | Additional
paid-in capital | | Retained
earnings | | Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax | | Treasury stock | | Total
shareholders' equity |
| Balance at April 30, 2023 | $ | 70,231 | | | $ | 12,951 | | | $ | 469,802 | | | $ | 1,860,872 | | | $ | (528,902) | | | $ | (839,927) | | | $ | 1,045,027 | |
| Restricted shares issued under stock-based compensation plans | — | | | — | | | (11,425) | | | — | | | — | | | 11,569 | | | 144 | |
| Impact of tax withholding on stock-based compensation and other | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | (4,605) | | | (4,605) | |
| Stock-based compensation expense | — | | | — | | | 12,792 | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 12,792 | |
| Purchases of treasury shares | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | (22,500) | | | (22,500) | |
| Class A common stock dividends ($0.3500 per share) | — | | | — | | | — | | | (32,488) | | | — | | | — | | | (32,488) | |
| Class B common stock dividends ($0.3500 per share) | — | | | — | | | — | | | (6,317) | | | — | | | — | | | (6,317) | |
| Common stock class conversions | 3 | | | (3) | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | |
| Comprehensive loss, net of tax | — | | | — | | | — | | | (111,709) | | | (13,068) | | | — | | | (124,777) | |
| Balance at October 31, 2023 | $ | 70,234 | | | $ | 12,948 | | | $ | 471,169 | | | $ | 1,710,358 | | | $ | (541,970) | | | $ | (855,463) | | | $ | 867,276 | |
See accompanying Notes to the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
JOHN WILEY & SONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 1 — Basis of Presentation
Throughout this report, when we refer to “Wiley,” the “Company,” “we,” “our,” or “us,” we are referring to John Wiley & Sons, Inc. and all our subsidiaries, except where the context indicates otherwise.
Our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements include all the accounts of the Company and our subsidiaries. We have eliminated all intercompany transactions and balances in consolidation. In the opinion of management, the accompanying Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements contain all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments, necessary to state fairly the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Condition, Results of Operations, Comprehensive Income (Loss) and Cash Flows for the periods presented. Operating results for the interim period are not necessarily indicative of the results expected for the full year. All amounts are presented in United States (US) dollars, unless otherwise specified. All amounts are in thousands, except per share amounts, and approximate due to rounding. These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the most recent audited consolidated financial statements included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended April 30, 2024 as filed with the SEC on June 26, 2024 (2024 Form 10-K).
Our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements were prepared in accordance with the interim reporting requirements of the SEC. As permitted under those rules, annual footnotes or other financial information that are normally required by US GAAP have been condensed or omitted. The preparation of our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in conformity with US GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the condensed consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Note 2 — Recent Accounting Standards
Recently Adopted Accounting Standards
There were no recently adopted accounting standards which would have a material impact on our condensed consolidated financial statements.
Recently Issued Accounting Standards
Disaggregation of Income Statement Expenses
In November 2024 the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2024-03, “Income Statement—Reporting Comprehensive Income—Expense Disaggregation Disclosures (Subtopic 220-40), Disaggregation of Income Statement Expenses.” This ASU requires disclosure about specific types of expenses included in expense captions including purchases of inventory, employee compensation, depreciation, amortization, and depletion. This ASU is effective for our annual disclosures starting fiscal year 2028 and interim periods starting in fiscal year 2029. Early adoption is permitted. A public entity should apply the amendments in this ASU on a prospective basis with the option to apply the standard retrospectively. The Company is currently evaluating this ASU to determine its impact on the Company's disclosures.
Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures
In December 2023 the FASB issued ASU 2023-09, “Income Taxes (Topic 740) - Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures.” This ASU enhances the transparency, effectiveness and comparability of income tax disclosures by requiring consistent categories and greater disaggregation of information related to income tax rate reconciliations and the jurisdictions in which income taxes are paid. This ASU is effective for our annual disclosures starting fiscal year 2026. Early adoption is permitted. A public entity should apply the amendments in this ASU on a prospective basis with the option to apply the standard retrospectively. The Company is currently evaluating this ASU to determine its impact on the Company's disclosures.
Segment Reporting - Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures
In November 2023 the FASB issued ASU 2023-07, “Segment Reporting (Topic 280) - Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures.” This ASU improves reportable segment disclosure requirements, primarily through enhanced disclosures about significant segment expenses. This ASU is effective for our annual fiscal year 2025, and interim periods starting in fiscal year 2026. Early adoption is permitted. A public entity should apply the amendments in this ASU retrospectively to all prior periods presented in the financial statements. The Company is currently evaluating this ASU to determine its impact on the Company's disclosures.
Note 3 — Divestitures
As of October 31, 2024, we completed our plan to divest certain businesses that we determined are non-core businesses. Those businesses are University Services, Wiley Edge, and CrossKnowledge. In accordance with FASB Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) Topic 205, "Presentation of Financial Statements," we determined that the divestitures of University Services, Wiley Edge and CrossKnowledge each do not represent a strategic shift that will have a major effect on our consolidated results of operations, and therefore their results of operations were not reported as discontinued operations. We concluded that the businesses met all the requisite held-for-sale criteria as of June 1, 2023. Therefore, the related assets and liabilities were reclassified as held-for-sale on the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Position until the date of sale.
On January 1, 2024, we sold University Services. On May 31, 2024, we sold Wiley Edge, with the exception of its India operations which sold on August 31, 2024. On August 31, 2024, we also sold CrossKnowledge.
Completed Divestitures
For the three and six months ended October 31, 2024 and 2023, we recorded net pretax gain (loss) on sale of businesses, assets, and impairment charges related to assets held-for-sale as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Three Months Ended
October 31, | | Six Months Ended
October 31, |
| 2024 | | 2023 | | 2024 | | 2023 |
| Wiley Edge | $ | 956 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 788 | | | $ | — | |
| University Services | — | | | (34,807) | | | 1,489 | | | (75,466) | |
| Tuition Manager | — | | | 568 | | | 120 | | | (1,500) | |
| CrossKnowledge | (438) | | | (17,175) | | | 3,922 | | | (50,377) | |
| Sale of assets | (149) | | | — | | | (149) | | | — | |
| Net gain (loss) on sale of businesses, assets, and impairment charges related to assets held-for-sale | $ | 369 | | | $ | (51,414) | | | $ | 6,170 | | | $ | (127,343) | |
These charges are reflected in Net gain (loss) on sale of businesses, assets, and impairment charges related to assets held-for-sale on our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Net Income (Loss).
Fiscal Year 2025
CrossKnowledge
On August 31, 2024, we completed the sale of CrossKnowledge, which was included in our Held for Sale or Sold segment, pursuant to a stock and asset purchase agreement (CrossKnowledge Agreement) with MS International Software, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (MS International). The selling price for CrossKnowledge at the date of sale, which was updated during the three months ended October 31, 2024, had an estimated fair value of $3.0 million which consists of $1.8 million of contingent consideration in the form of two earnouts recorded at fair value (CrossKnowledge Earnouts), and $1.2 million of estimated working capital adjustments. The maximum amount of the CrossKnowledge Earnouts is $25.0 million.
As of October 31, 2024, $0.2 million of the CrossKnowledge Earnouts is reflected in Prepaid expenses and other current assets and $1.6 million is reflected in Other non-current assets in our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Position.
The pretax loss on sale was $51.5 million after accounting for the assets sold, liabilities transferred upon sale, transaction costs, and the write-off of cumulative translation adjustments in earnings. In connection with the held-for-sale classification prior to the sale, we recognized cumulative impairment charges of $51.0 million on the remeasurement of the disposal group at the lower of carrying value or fair value less costs to sell, which included $55.4 million recognized in fiscal year 2024 and a reduction of $4.4 million in the three months ended July 31, 2024. Upon the completion of the sale, we recognized an additional loss of $0.5 million in the three months ended October 31, 2024 due to subsequent changes in the fair value less costs to sell, as well as changes in the carrying amount of the disposal group. This additional loss is included in Net gain (loss) on sale of businesses, assets, and impairment charges related to assets held-for-sale in our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Net Income (Loss) for the three and six months ended October 31, 2024. This resulted in a net reduction in the loss of $3.9 million in the six months ended October 31, 2024.
We entered into a transition services agreement to facilitate the transition of the divested business.
Wiley Edge
On May 31, 2024, we completed the sale of Wiley Edge with the exception of its India operations which sold on August 31, 2024, which was included in our Held for Sale or Sold segment, pursuant to a stock and asset purchase agreement (Edge Agreement) with Inspirit Vulcan Bidco Limited, a private limited company incorporated in England & Wales (Inspirit). The selling price for Wiley Edge at the date of sale including India, which was updated during the three months ended October 31, 2024, had a fair value of $38.3 million paid in the form of: (i) cash of $10 million, of which $2.5 million is deferred, (ii) an unsecured promissory note with an initial aggregate principal amount of $13.3 million (Inspirit Seller Note), subject to customary working capital adjustments, and (iii) $15.0 million of additional contingent consideration in the form of an earnout recorded at fair value based on the gross profit targets during each of the three fiscal years in the period beginning May 1, 2024 and ending April 30, 2027 (Wiley Edge Earnout).
As of October 31, 2024, the Inspirit Seller Note is reflected in Other non-current assets in our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. As of October 31, 2024, $2.4 million of the Wiley Edge Earnout is reflected in Prepaid expenses and other current assets and $12.6 million is reflected in Other non-current assets in our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Position.
The Inspirit Seller Note matures on May 31, 2028 and is prepayable at par plus accrued interest at any time and also if certain conditions are met. The Inspirit Seller Note bears interest at the rate of 8% per annum commencing on May 31, 2024, increasing by 1% per annum each year on the anniversary of issuance. Interest income from the note receivable represents non operating income and is included in Other income (expense), net on the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Net Income (Loss).
The maximum Wiley Edge Earnout amount is $34.0 million. We elected to record the fair value of the Wiley Edge Earnout as of the date of the sale, and will update that fair value as applicable until settled. The fair value of the Wiley Edge Earnout was based on a Monte Carlo simulation. This fair value was categorized as Level 3 within the FASB ASC Topic 820 fair value hierarchy. This method considers the terms and conditions in the Edge Agreement, our best estimates of forecasted gross profit for the Wiley Edge Earnout periods and simulates a range of gross profits over the applicable periods based on an estimate of gross profit volatility. The fair value of the Wiley Edge Earnout was estimated as the present value of the potential range of payouts averaged across the range of simulated gross profits using an estimated risk-adjusted discount rate for the simulated gross profits. The Wiley Edge Earnout amount is subject to change based on final results and calculations.
The pretax loss on sale was $18.6 million after accounting for the assets sold, liabilities transferred upon sale, and transaction costs. In connection with the held-for-sale classification, during fiscal year 2024, we recognized cumulative impairment charges of $19.4 million on the remeasurement of the disposal group at the lower of carrying value or fair value less costs to sell. Upon the completion of the sale, we recognized a net gain of $0.8 million in the six months ended October 31, 2024, which included $1.0 million in the three months ended October 31, 2024, primarily due to the sale of the India operations, partially offset by subsequent changes in the costs to sell. The net gain is included in Net gain (loss) on sale of businesses, assets, and impairment charges related to assets held-for-sale in our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Net Income (Loss) for the three and six months ended October 31, 2024.
We entered into a transition services agreement to facilitate the transition of the divested business.
Fiscal Year 2024
University Services
On January 1, 2024, we completed the sale of University Services, which was included in our Held for Sale or Sold segment, pursuant to a Membership Interest and Asset Purchase Agreement with Academic Partnerships LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (Academic Partnerships), and Education Services Upper Holdings Corp., a Delaware corporation. The pretax loss on sale was $105.6 million after accounting for the assets sold, liabilities transferred upon sale, and transaction costs, which was reduced during the six months ended October 31, 2024 due to third-party customer consents and working capital adjustments of $1.5 million that occurred in the first quarter of fiscal year 2025. This amount is included in Net gain (loss) on sale of businesses, assets, and impairment charges related to assets held-for-sale in our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Net Income (Loss) for the six months ended October 31, 2024.
Tuition Manager
On May 31, 2023, we completed the sale of our tuition manager business (Tuition Manager), which was included in our Held for Sale or Sold segment. The pretax loss on sale was $1.4 million after accounting for the assets sold, liabilities transferred upon sale, and transaction costs, which was reduced during the six months ended October 31, 2024 due to additional cash received after the date of sale of $0.1 million. This amount is included in Net gain (loss) on sale of businesses, assets, and impairment charges related to assets held-for-sale in our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Net Income (Loss) for the six months ended October 31, 2024.
Assets and Liabilities Held-for-Sale
The major categories of assets and liabilities that have been classified as held-for-sale on the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statement of Financial Position as of April 30, 2024 were as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Cross Knowledge | | Wiley Edge | | Total |
| Assets held-for-sale: | | | | | |
| Current assets | | | | | |
| Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 6,305 | | | $ | 9,887 | | | $ | 16,192 | |
| Accounts receivable, net | 12,914 | | | 13,897 | | | 26,811 | |
Prepaid expenses and other current assets | 3,780 | | | 5,548 | | | 9,328 | |
| Valuation allowance | (17,909) | | | — | | | (17,909) | |
| Total current assets held-for-sale | $ | 5,090 | | | $ | 29,332 | | | $ | 34,422 | |
| | | | | |
| Technology, property and equipment, net | 3,786 | | | 2,888 | | | 6,674 | |
| Intangible assets, net | 17,777 | | | 34,612 | | | 52,389 | |
| Operating lease right-of-use assets | 1,091 | | | 1,008 | | | 2,099 | |
| Other non-current assets | 14,877 | | | 53 | | | 14,930 | |
| Valuation allowance | (37,531) | | | (19,401) | | | (56,932) | |
| Total non-current assets held-for-sale | $ | — | | | $ | 19,160 | | | $ | 19,160 | |
| | | | | |
| Liabilities held-for-sale: | | | | | |
| Current liabilities | | | | | |
| Accounts payable | $ | 494 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 494 | |
| Accrued royalties | 268 | | | — | | | 268 | |
| Contract liabilities | 16,796 | | | — | | | 16,796 | |
| Accrued employment costs | 7,805 | | | 3,990 | | | 11,795 | |
| Short-term portion of operating lease liabilities | 319 | | | 468 | | | 787 | |
| Other accrued liabilities | 2,762 | | | 4,730 | | | 7,492 | |
| Total current liabilities held-for-sale | $ | 28,444 | | | $ | 9,188 | | | $ | 37,632 | |
| | | | | |
| Accrued pension liability | 1,037 | | | — | | | 1,037 | |
| Deferred income tax liabilities | 4,420 | | | 4,448 | | | 8,868 | |
| Operating lease liabilities | 251 | | | 159 | | | 410 | |
| Other long-term liabilities | 694 | | | 228 | | | 922 | |
| Total long-term liabilities held-for-sale | $ | 6,402 | | | $ | 4,835 | | | $ | 11,237 | |
Sale of Assets
In the three months ended October 31, 2024 we sold a facility which was reflected in Technology, property, and equipment, net in our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Position which resulted in a pretax loss on sale of $0.2 million, and we received net cash of $8.5 million. This loss was included in Net gain (loss) on sale of businesses, assets, and impairment charges related to assets held-for-sale in our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Net Income (Loss) for the three months ended October 31, 2024.
Note 4 — Revenue Recognition, Contracts with Customers
Disaggregation of Revenue
The following table presents our revenue from contracts with customers disaggregated by segment and product type.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Three Months Ended
October 31, | | Six Months Ended
October 31, |
| 2024 | | 2023 | | 2024 | | 2023 |
| Research: | | | | | | | |
| Research Publishing | $ | 222,667 | | | $ | 219,743 | | | $ | 453,618 | | | $ | 442,743 | |
| Research Solutions | 39,218 | | | 37,927 | | | 73,576 | | | 72,731 | |
| Total Research | 261,885 | | | 257,670 | | | 527,194 | | | 515,474 | |
| | | | | | | |
| Learning: | | | | | | | |
| Academic | 94,788 | | | 89,125 | | | 154,752 | | | 137,417 | |
| Professional | 66,726 | | | 59,815 | | | 131,076 | | | 120,843 | |
| Total Learning | 161,514 | | | 148,940 | | | 285,828 | | | 258,260 | |
| | | | | | | |
| Held for Sale or Sold | 3,196 | | | 86,198 | | | 17,382 | | | 170,087 | |
| | | | | | | |
| Total Revenue | $ | 426,595 | | | $ | 492,808 | | | $ | 830,404 | | | $ | 943,821 | |
The following information describes our disaggregation of revenue by segment and product type. Overall, the majority of our revenue is recognized over time.
Research
Total Research revenue was $261.9 million and $527.2 million in the three and six months ended October 31, 2024, respectively. Research products are sold and distributed globally through multiple channels. The majority of revenue generated from Research products is recognized over time.
We disaggregated revenue by Research Publishing and Research Solutions to reflect the different type of products and services provided.
Research Publishing Products
Research Publishing products provide scientific, technical, medical, and scholarly journals, as well as related content and services to academic, corporate, and government libraries, learned societies, and individual researchers and other professionals. Research Publishing revenue was $222.7 million and $453.6 million in the three and six months ended October 31, 2024, respectively, and the majority is recognized over time.
In both the three and six months ended October 31, 2024, Research Publishing products generated approximately 88% of their revenue from contracts with its customers from Journal Subscriptions (pay to read), Open Access (pay to publish) and Transformational Agreements (read and publish), and the remainder from Licensing and other revenue streams.
Research Solutions Products and Services
Research Solutions revenue was $39.2 million and $73.6 million in the three and six months ended October 31, 2024, respectively, and the majority is recognized over time.
Research Solutions products and services generated approximately 56% and 53% of their revenue in the three and six months ended October 31, 2024, respectively, from contracts with customers that include corporate solutions such as job board software and career center services, marketing and education services, licensing, and databases. The remainder of the revenue from contracts with customers includes platforms that enable scholarly and professional societies and publishers to deliver, host, enhance, market, and manage their content, solutions to manage the submission and peer review process, and publishing and editorial services.
Learning
Total Learning revenue was $161.5 million and $285.8 million in the three and six months ended October 31, 2024, respectively. We disaggregated revenue by Academic and Professional to reflect the different types of products and services provided.
Academic
Academic products revenue was $94.8 million and $154.8 million in the three and six months ended October 31, 2024, respectively. Products and services including scientific, professional, and education print and digital books, and digital courseware to libraries, corporations, students, professionals, and researchers. Products are developed for worldwide distribution through multiple channels, including chain and online booksellers, libraries, colleges and universities, corporations, direct to consumer, websites, distributor networks and other online applications.
In the three and six months ended October 31, 2024, Academic products generated approximately 55% and 57%, respectively, of their revenue from contracts with their customers for print and digital publishing, which is recognized at a point in time. Digital Courseware products in the three and six months ended October 31, 2024 generate approximately 35% and 27%, respectively, of their revenue from contracts with their customers which is recognized over time. The remainder of their revenues were from Licensing and other revenue streams, which have a mix of revenue recognized at a point in time and over time.
Professional
Professional products revenue was $66.7 million and $131.1 million in the three and six months ended October 31, 2024, respectively. Professional provides learning, development, publishing, and assessment services for businesses and professionals. Our trade publishing produces professional books, which includes business and finance, technology, professional development for educators, test preparation books and other professional categories, as well as the For Dummies® brand. Products are sold to brick-and-mortar and online retailers, wholesalers who supply such bookstores, college bookstores, individual practitioners, corporations, and government agencies.
In the three and six months ended October 31, 2024, Professional products generated approximately 56% and 54%, respectively, of their revenue from contracts with their customers for trade print and digital publishing, which is recognized at a point in time. Our assessments offering in the three and six months ended October 31, 2024 generates approximately 32% and 30%, respectively, of their revenue from contracts with their customers which has a mix of revenue recognized at a point in time and over time. The remainder of Professional revenues were from Licensing and other revenue streams, which has a mix of revenue recognized at a point in time and over time.
Held for Sale or Sold
Held for Sale or Sold revenue was $3.2 million and $17.4 million in the three and six months ended October 31, 2024, respectively.
Wiley Edge was sold on May 31, 2024 with exception of its India operations which sold on August 31, 2024. Wiley Edge previously sourced, trained, and prepared aspiring students and professionals to meet the skill needs of today’s technology careers, and then places them with some of the world's largest financial institutions, technology companies, and government agencies. Wiley Edge revenue was recognized at the point in time the services were provided to its customers.
CrossKnowledge was sold on August 31, 2024. CrossKnowledge services previously included corporate learning online learning and training solutions for global corporations, universities, and small and medium-sized enterprises sold on a subscription or fee basis. CrossKnowledge revenue was recognized over time.
Held for Sale or Sold also includes the revenue associated with those businesses which were sold in fiscal year 2024 which includes University Services which was sold on January 1, 2024 and Tuition Manager which was sold on May 31, 2023.
Accounts Receivable, net and Contract Liability Balances
When consideration is received, or such consideration is unconditionally due, from a customer prior to transferring goods or services to the customer under the terms of a contract, a contract liability is recorded. Contract liabilities are recognized as revenue when, or as, control of the products or services are transferred to the customer and all revenue recognition criteria have been met.
The following table provides information about accounts receivable, net and contract liabilities from contracts with customers.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| October 31, 2024 | | April 30, 2024 | | Increase/
(Decrease) |
| Balances from contracts with customers: | | | | | |
| Accounts receivable, net | $ | 183,015 | | | $ | 224,198 | | | $ | (41,183) | |
Contract liabilities (1) | 241,488 | | | 483,778 | | | (242,290) | |
| Contract liabilities (included in Other long-term liabilities) | $ | 22,202 | | | $ | 14,819 | | | $ | 7,383 | |
| | | | | |
| (1) | The sales return reserve recorded in Contract liabilities is $24.7 million and $25.4 million, as of October 31, 2024 and April 30, 2024, respectively. |
For the six months ended October 31, 2024, we estimate that we recognized as revenue approximately 74% of the current contract liability balance at April 30, 2024. For the six months ended October 31, 2023, we estimated that we recognized as revenue approximately 74% of the current contract liability balance at April 30, 2023.
The decrease in contract liabilities excluding the sales return reserve was primarily driven by revenue earned on journal subscription agreements, transformational agreements, and open access, partially offset by renewals of journal subscription agreements, transformational agreements, and open access.
Remaining Performance Obligations included in Contract Liability
As of October 31, 2024, the aggregate amount of the transaction price allocated to the remaining performance obligations is approximately $263.7 million, which includes the sales return reserve of $24.7 million. Excluding the sales return reserve, we expect that approximately $216.8 million will be recognized in the next twelve months with the remaining $22.2 million to be recognized thereafter.
Assets Recognized for the Costs to Fulfill a Contract
Costs to fulfill a contract are directly related to a contract that will be used to satisfy a performance obligation in the future and are expected to be recovered. These costs are amortized on a systematic basis that is consistent with the transfer to the customer of the goods or services to which the asset relates. These types of costs are incurred in Research Solutions services which includes customer specific implementation costs per the terms of the contract.
Our assets associated with incremental costs to fulfill a contract, were $2.8 million and $3.1 million at October 31, 2024 and April 30, 2024, respectively, and are included within Other non-current assets on our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. We recorded amortization expense related to these assets within Cost of sales on our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Net Income (Loss) as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Three Months Ended
October 31, | | Six Months Ended
October 31, |
| 2024 | | 2023 | | 2024 | | 2023 |
| Amortization expense | $ | 277 | | | $ | 1,015 | | | $ | 583 | | | $ | 2,665 | |
In the three and six months ended October 31, 2023 amortization expense for costs to fulfill includes the amortization related to the University Services business which was sold on January 1, 2024.
Sales and value-added taxes are excluded from revenues. Shipping and handling costs, which are primarily incurred within the Learning segment, occur before the transfer of control of the related goods. Therefore, in accordance with the revenue standard, it is not considered a promised service to the customer and would be considered a cost to fulfill our promise to transfer the goods. Costs incurred for third party shipping and handling are primarily reflected in Operating and administrative expenses on our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Net Income (Loss) and were incurred as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Three Months Ended
October 31, | | Six Months Ended
October 31, |
| 2024 | | 2023 | | 2024 | | 2023 |
| Shipping and handling costs | $ | 6,098 | | | $ | 6,471 | | | $ | 11,912 | | | $ | 13,132 | |
Note 5 — Operating Leases
We have contractual obligations as a lessee with respect to offices, warehouses and distribution centers, automobiles, and office equipment.
We determine if an arrangement is a lease at inception of the contract in accordance with guidance detailed in the lease standard and we perform the lease classification test as of the lease commencement date. Right-of-use (ROU) assets represent our right to use an underlying asset for the lease term and lease liabilities represent our obligation to make lease payments arising from the lease. Operating lease ROU assets and liabilities are recognized at commencement date based on the present value of lease payments over the lease term.
The present value of the lease payments is calculated using an incremental borrowing rate, which was determined based on the rate of interest that we would have to pay to borrow an amount equal to the lease payments on a collateralized basis over a similar term. We use an unsecured borrowing rate and risk-adjust that rate to approximate a collateralized rate.
We recognize operating lease expense on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease. Lease payments may be fixed or variable. Only lease payments that are fixed, in-substance fixed or depend on a rate or index are included in determining the lease liability. Variable lease payments include payments made to the lessor for taxes, insurance and maintenance of the leased asset and are recognized as operating costs as incurred.
We apply certain practical expedients allowed by ASC 842, "Leases." Leases that are more than one year in duration are capitalized and recorded on our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. Leases with an initial term of 12 months or less are recognized as short term lease operating costs on a straight-line basis over the term. We have also elected to account for the lease and non-lease components as a single component. Some of our leases offer an option to extend the term of such leases. We utilize the reasonably certain threshold criteria in determining which options we will exercise.
For operating leases, the ROU assets and liabilities are presented on our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Position as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| October 31, 2024 | | April 30, 2024 |
| Operating lease ROU assets | $ | 70,527 | | | $ | 69,074 | |
| Short-term portion of operating lease liabilities | 18,080 | | | 18,294 | |
| Operating lease liabilities, non-current | $ | 88,403 | | | $ | 94,386 | |
As a result of our restructuring programs, which included the exit of certain leased office space, we recorded restructuring and related charges, which included impairment charges, the acceleration of expense, and ongoing facility charges associated with certain operating lease ROU assets. See Note 9, “Restructuring and Related Charges” for more information on this program and the charges incurred.
Our total net lease costs are as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Three Months Ended
October 31, | | Six Months Ended
October 31, |
| 2024 | | 2023 | | 2024 | | 2023 |
| Operating lease cost | $ | 3,673 | | | $ | 3,855 | | | $ | 7,128 | | | $ | 7,938 | |
| Variable lease cost | 212 | | | 297 | | | 455 | | | 582 | |
| Short-term lease cost | 82 | | | 292 | | | 214 | | | 570 | |
| Sublease income | (118) | | | (218) | | | (407) | | | (421) | |
Total net lease cost (1) | $ | 3,849 | | | $ | 4,226 | | | $ | 7,390 | | | $ | 8,669 | |
| | | | | |
| (1) | Total net lease cost does not include those costs and sublease income for operating leases we had identified as part of our restructuring programs that would be subleased. The costs and sublease income for those leases are included in Restructuring and related charges on our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Net Income (Loss). See Note 9, “Restructuring and Related Charges” for more information on these programs. |
Other supplemental information includes the following:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Six Months Ended
October 31, |
| 2024 | | 2023 |
| Weighted-average remaining contractual lease term (years) | 7 | | 8 |
| Weighted-average discount rate | 6.13 | % | | 6.01 | % |
| Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities: | | | |
| Operating cash flows from operating leases | $ | 10,741 | | $ | 13,117 |
| Operating lease liabilities arising from obtaining ROU assets | $ | 447 | | $ | 466 |
The table below reconciles the undiscounted cash flows for the first five years and total of the remaining years to the operating lease liabilities recorded in our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statement of Financial Position as of October 31, 2024:
| | | | | | | | |
| Fiscal Year | | Operating Lease
Liabilities |
| 2025 (remaining 6 months) | | $ | 11,915 | |
| 2026 | | 22,442 | |
| 2027 | | 18,051 | |
| 2028 | | 14,622 | |
| 2029 | | 14,489 | |
| Thereafter | | 50,362 | |
| Total future undiscounted minimum lease payments | | 131,881 | |
| | |
| Less: Imputed interest | | 25,398 | |
| | |
| Present value of minimum lease payments | | 106,483 | |
| | |
| Less: Current portion | | 18,080 | |
| | |
| Noncurrent portion | | $ | 88,403 | |
Note 6 — Stock-Based Compensation
We have stock-based compensation plans under which employees may be granted performance-based stock awards, other restricted stock awards and options. We recognize the grant date fair value of stock-based compensation in net income generally on a straight-line basis, net of estimated forfeitures over the requisite service period. The measurement of performance for performance-based stock awards is based on actual financial results for targets established up to three years in advance, or less. We recognized stock-based compensation expense, on a pretax basis, as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Three Months Ended
October 31, | | Six Months Ended
October 31, |
| 2024 | | 2023 | | 2024 | | 2023 |
| Stock-based compensation expense | $ | 6,034 | | | $ | 6,515 | | | $ | 12,002 | | | $ | 12,801 | |
Performance-Based and Other Restricted Stock Activity
Under the terms of our long-term incentive plans, performance-based restricted unit awards are payable in restricted shares of our Class A Common Stock upon the achievement of certain three-year or less financial performance-based targets. During each three-year period or less, we adjust compensation expense based upon our best estimate of expected performance.
We may also grant individual restricted unit awards payable in restricted shares of our Class A Common Stock to key employees in connection with their employment.
The following table summarizes awards we granted to employees (shares in thousands):
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Six Months Ended
October 31, |
| 2024 | | 2023 |
| Restricted Stock: | | | |
| Awards granted (shares) | 708 | | 825 |
| Weighted average fair value of grant | $ | 43.01 | | | $ | 31.66 | |
Stock Option Activity
There were no stock option awards granted during the six months ended October 31, 2024. We granted 10,000 stock option awards during the six months ended October 31, 2023 at fair market value on date of grant. Options are exercisable over a maximum period of ten years from the date of grant. These options generally vest 10%, 20%, 30%, and 40% on April 30, or on each anniversary date after the award is granted.
The following table provides the estimated weighted average fair value for options granted during the six months ended October 31, 2023 using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model, and the significant weighted average assumptions used in their determination.
| | | | | |
| Six Months Ended
October 31, |
| 2023 |
| Weighted average fair value of options on grant date | $ | 7.94 | |
| |
| Weighted average assumptions: | |
| Expected life of options (years) | 6.3 |
| Risk-free interest rate | 3.9 | % |
| Expected volatility | 33.5 | % |
| Expected dividend yield | 4.3 | % |
| Fair value of common stock on grant date | $ | 32.68 | |
| Exercise price of stock option grant | $ | 32.68 | |
President and CEO New Hire Equity Awards
On July 8, 2024, the Company named Mr. Matthew Kissner President and CEO and entered into an employment agreement (Employment Agreement) with him. Mr. Kissner had served as the Company’s interim President and CEO since October 10, 2023. Under the Employment Agreement, Mr. Kissner will be eligible to participate in the Company's Executive Long-Term Incentive Plan (ELTIP), with a target long-term incentive equal to $3.0 million.
Sixty percent of the ELTIP value will be delivered in the form of target performance share units and forty percent in restricted share units. The grant date fair value for the restricted share units was $46.65 per share and included 27,192 restricted share units which vest 25% each year starting on April 30, 2025 to April 30, 2028. The grant date fair value for the performance share units was $46.65 per share and included 40,789 performance share units which vest 100% on June 30, 2027. Awards are subject to forfeiture in the case of voluntary termination prior to vesting, and continued vesting in the case of earlier termination of employment without cause or due to constructive discharge. All other terms and conditions are the same as for other executives, as outlined in the ELTIP grant agreements.
Note 7 — Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Changes in Accumulated other comprehensive loss by component, net of tax, for the three and six months ended October 31, 2024 and 2023 were as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Foreign Currency Translation | | Unamortized Retirement Costs | | Interest Rate Swaps | | Total |
| | | | | | | |
| Balance at July 31, 2024 | $ | (318,864) | | | $ | (202,962) | | | $ | (1,766) | | | $ | (523,592) | |
| Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications | 4,717 | | | (1,142) | | | 189 | | | 3,764 | |
| Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss | 23,227 | | | 1,536 | | | (1,243) | | | 23,520 | |
| Total other comprehensive income (loss) | 27,944 | | | 394 | | | (1,054) | | | 27,284 | |
| Balance at October 31, 2024 | $ | (290,920) | | | $ | (202,568) | | | $ | (2,820) | | | $ | (496,308) | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Balance at April 30, 2024 | $ | (333,827) | | | $ | (200,922) | | | $ | 6,310 | | | $ | (528,439) | |
| Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications | 19,680 | | | (4,691) | | | (6,599) | | | 8,390 | |
| Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss | 23,227 | | | 3,045 | | | (2,531) | | | 23,741 | |
| Total other comprehensive income (loss) | 42,907 | | | (1,646) | | | (9,130) | | | 32,131 | |
| Balance at October 31, 2024 | $ | (290,920) | | | $ | (202,568) | | | $ | (2,820) | | | $ | (496,308) | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Foreign Currency Translation | | Unamortized Retirement Costs | | Interest Rate Swaps | | Total |
| | | | | | | |
| Balance at July 31, 2023 | $ | (315,172) | | | $ | (208,643) | | | $ | 6,770 | | | $ | (517,045) | |
| Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications | (33,865) | | | 8,528 | | | 1,337 | | | (24,000) | |
| Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss | — | | | 1,466 | | | (2,391) | | | (925) | |
| Total other comprehensive (loss) income | (33,865) | | | 9,994 | | | (1,054) | | | (24,925) | |
| Balance at October 31, 2023 | $ | (349,037) | | | $ | (198,649) | | | $ | 5,716 | | | $ | (541,970) | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Balance at April 30, 2023 | $ | (326,346) | | | $ | (206,806) | | | $ | 4,250 | | | $ | (528,902) | |
| Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications | (22,691) | | | 5,204 | | | 6,034 | | | (11,453) | |
| Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss | — | | | 2,953 | | | (4,568) | | | (1,615) | |
| Total other comprehensive (loss) income | (22,691) | | | 8,157 | | | 1,466 | | | (13,068) | |
| Balance at October 31, 2023 | $ | (349,037) | | | $ | (198,649) | | | $ | 5,716 | | | $ | (541,970) | |
In connection with the sale of Wiley Edge and CrossKnowledge, in the three and six months ended October 31, 2024, we reclassified $23.2 million of cumulative translation adjustments out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss and included in the Net gain (loss) on sale of businesses, assets, and impairment charges related to assets held-for-sale in our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Net Income (Loss).
During the three and six months ended October 31, 2024, pretax actuarial losses included in Unamortized Retirement Costs of approximately $2.0 million and $4.1 million, respectively, and in the three and six months ended October 31, 2023, of approximately $2.0 million and $3.9 million, respectively, were amortized from Accumulated other comprehensive loss and recognized as pension and post-retirement benefit expense primarily in Operating and administrative expenses and Other income (expense), net on our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Net Income (Loss).
Our policy for releasing the income tax effects from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income is to release when the corresponding pretax accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income items are reclassified to earnings.
Note 8 — Reconciliation of Weighted Average Shares Outstanding
Basic earnings (loss) per share is computed by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings (loss) per share further includes any common shares available to be issued upon the exercise of unvested, outstanding restricted stock units and other stock awards if such inclusions would be dilutive. The shares associated with performance-based stock awards are considered contingently issuable shares and are included in the diluted weighted average number of common shares outstanding based on when they have met the performance conditions, and when their effect is dilutive. We determine the potentially dilutive common shares for all awards using the treasury stock method.
A reconciliation of the shares used in the computation of earnings (loss) per share follows (shares in thousands):
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Three Months Ended
October 31, | | Six Months Ended
October 31, |
| 2024 | | 2023 | | 2024 | | 2023 |
| Weighted average shares outstanding | 54,191 | | 55,102 | | 54,284 | | 55,186 |
| Shares used for basic earnings (loss) per share | 54,191 | | 55,102 | | 54,284 | | 55,186 |
| Dilutive effect of unvested restricted stock units and other stock awards | 659 | | — | | 644 | | — |
| Shares used for diluted earnings (loss) per share | 54,850 | | 55,102 | | 54,928 | | 55,186 |
| Antidilutive options to purchase Class A common shares, restricted shares, and contingently issuable restricted stock which are excluded from the table above | 581 | | 773 | | 598 | | 819 |
In calculating diluted net loss per common share for the three and six months ended October 31, 2023 our diluted weighted average number of common shares outstanding excludes the effect of unvested restricted stock units and other stock awards as the effect was antidilutive. This occurs when a net loss is reported and the effect of using dilutive shares is antidilutive.
Note 9 — Restructuring and Related Charges
Global Restructuring Program
Beginning in fiscal year 2023, the Company initiated a global program (Global Restructuring Program) which was expanded in fiscal year 2024 to include those actions that will focus Wiley on its leading global position in the development and application of new knowledge and drive greater profitability, growth, and cash flow. We will focus on our strongest and most profitable businesses and large market opportunities in Research and Learning, as well as streamline our organization and rightsize our cost structure to reflect these portfolio actions. This program includes severance related charges for the elimination of certain positions, the exit of certain leased office space, and the reduction of our occupancy at other facilities. Under this program, we reduced our real estate square footage occupancy by approximately 35%.
The following tables summarize the pretax restructuring and related charges (credits) related to the Global Restructuring Program:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Three Months Ended
October 31, | | Six Months Ended
October 31, | | Total Charges
Incurred to Date |
| 2024 | | 2023 | | 2024 | | 2023 | |
| Charges (Credits) by Segment: | | | | | | | | | |
| Research | $ | 939 | | | $ | 4,755 | | | $ | 3,262 | | | $ | 6,702 | | | $ | 13,085 | |
| Learning | 110 | | | 5,859 | | | 337 | | | 6,077 | | | 19,589 | |
| Held for Sale or Sold | 125 | | | 2,022 | | | (117) | | | 4,645 | | | 12,995 | |
| Corporate Expenses | 2,507 | | | 12,119 | | | 7,748 | | | 19,111 | | | 75,997 | |
| Total Restructuring and Related Charges | $ | 3,681 | | | $ | 24,755 | | | $ | 11,230 | | | $ | 36,535 | | | $ | 121,666 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| Charges (Credits) by Activity: | | | | | | | | | |
| Severance and termination benefits | $ | 2,244 | | | $ | 18,619 | | | $ | 8,026 | | | $ | 24,563 | | | $ | 62,409 | |
| Impairment of operating lease ROU assets and property and equipment | — | | | — | | | — | | | 1,575 | | | 22,739 | |
| Acceleration of expense related to operating lease ROU assets and property and equipment | — | | | 152 | | | — | | | 516 | | | 6,288 | |
| Facility related charges, net | 1,365 | | | 558 | | | 2,767 | | | 1,387 | | | 11,171 | |
| Consulting (credits) costs | (116) | | | 3,966 | | | (672) | | | 5,789 | | | 10,580 | |
| Other activities | 188 | | | 1,460 | | | 1,109 | | | 2,705 | | | 8,479 | |
| Total Restructuring and Related Charges | $ | 3,681 | | | $ | 24,755 | | | $ | 11,230 | | | $ | 36,535 | | | $ | 121,666 | |
The severance related charges are for certain employees affected by the reduction in force under this program who are entitled to severance payments and certain termination benefits.
The impairment charges include the impairment of operating lease ROU assets related to certain leases that will be subleased, and the related property and equipment described further below. In the six months ended October 31, 2023, these charges were recorded in the Research segment.
Due to the actions taken above, we tested the operating lease ROU assets and the related property and equipment for those being subleased for recoverability by comparing the carrying value of the asset group to an estimate of the future undiscounted cash flows expected to result from the use and eventual disposition of the asset group. Based on the results of the recoverability test, we determined that the undiscounted cash flows of the asset groups were below the carrying values. Therefore, there was an indication of impairment. We then determined the fair value of the asset groups by utilizing the present value of the estimated future cash flows attributable to the assets. The fair value of the operating lease ROU assets and the property and equipment immediately subsequent to the impairment was $0.9 million in the six months ended October 31, 2023 and was categorized as Level 3 within the fair value hierarchy.
In the three and six months ended October 31, 2023, the acceleration of expense includes the acceleration of rent expense associated with operating lease ROU assets related to certain leases that will be abandoned or terminated, and the related depreciation and amortization of property and equipment.
In addition, we incurred ongoing facility-related costs associated with certain properties, consulting costs (credits), and other costs for other activities, which includes relocation and other employee related costs. In the three and six months ended October 31, 2024, the credits in consulting costs are due to changes in the estimates for previously accrued costs.
The following table summarizes the activity for the Global Restructuring Program liability for the six months ended October 31, 2024:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| April 30, 2024 | | Charges (Credits) | | Payments | | Foreign Translation & Other Adjustments | | October 31, 2024 |
| Severance and termination benefits | $ | 5,396 | | | $ | 8,026 | | | $ | (7,593) | | | $ | (890) | | | $ | 4,939 | |
| Consulting costs (credits) | 1,794 | | | (672) | | | (1,280) | | | 1 | | | (157) | |
| Other activities | 1,879 | | | 1,109 | | | (1,901) | | | (663) | | | 424 | |
| Total | $ | 9,069 | | | $ | 8,463 | | | $ | (10,774) | | | $ | (1,552) | | | $ | 5,206 | |
Approximately $3.9 million of the restructuring liability for accrued severance and termination benefits is reflected in Accrued employment costs and approximately $1.0 million is reflected in Other long-term liabilities on our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statement of Financial Position. The liabilities for Consulting costs and Other activities are reflected in Other accrued liabilities on our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statement of Financial Position.
Business Optimization Program
For the three and six months ended October 31, 2024, we recorded net pretax restructuring credits of $(0.1) million and $(3.7) million, respectively, related to this program. The net credits in the six months ended October 31, 2024 are primarily due to the termination of a portion of a lease that was previously impaired in our Corporate Expenses category.
For the three and six months ended October 31, 2023, we recorded pretax restructuring charges of $0.3 million and $0.7 million, respectively, related to this program.
As of fiscal year 2023, we substantially completed this program and we have no restructuring liability outstanding. We currently anticipate immaterial ongoing facility charges and do not anticipate any further material charges related to the Business Optimization Program.
Note 10 — Segment Information
We report our segment information in accordance with the provisions of ASC Topic 280, “Segment Reporting.” These segments reflect the way our chief operating decision maker (CODM) evaluates our business performance, manages the operations, makes operating decisions, and allocates resources. The performance metric used by our chief operating decision maker to evaluate performance of our reportable segments is Adjusted Operating Income. Our segment reporting structure consists of three operating and reportable segments, which are listed below, as well as a Corporate expense category, which includes certain costs that are not allocated to the reportable segments:
•Research
•Learning
•Held for Sale or Sold
Segment information is as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Three Months Ended
October 31, | | Six Months Ended
October 31, |
| 2024 | | 2023 | | 2024 | | 2023 |
Revenue: | | | | | | | |
| Research | $ | 261,885 | | | $ | 257,670 | | | $ | 527,194 | | | $ | 515,474 | |
| Learning | 161,514 | | | 148,940 | | | 285,828 | | | 258,260 | |
| Held for Sale or Sold | 3,196 | | | 86,198 | | | 17,382 | | | 170,087 | |
| Total revenue | $ | 426,595 | | | $ | 492,808 | | | $ | 830,404 | | | $ | 943,821 | |
| | | | | | | |
| Adjusted Operating Income (Loss): | | | | | | | |
| Research | $ | 59,527 | | | $ | 58,856 | | | $ | 114,743 | | | $ | 112,383 | |
| Learning | 55,871 | | | 39,912 | | | 78,371 | | | 47,538 | |
| Held for Sale or Sold | (1,059) | | | 19,100 | | | (3,578) | | | 22,184 | |
| Total adjusted operating income by segment | $ | 114,339 | | | $ | 117,868 | | | $ | 189,536 | | | $ | 182,105 | |
| | | | | | | |
| Depreciation and Amortization: | | | | | | | |
| Research | $ | 22,522 | | | $ | 22,668 | | | $ | 45,081 | | | $ | 45,880 | |
| Learning | 10,897 | | | 13,974 | | | 22,191 | | | 27,526 | |
Held for Sale or Sold (1) | — | | | — | | | — | | | 3,437 | |
| Total depreciation and amortization | 33,419 | | | 36,642 | | | 67,272 | | | 76,843 | |
| Corporate depreciation and amortization | 3,299 | | | 3,532 | | | 6,699 | | | 7,059 | |
| Total depreciation and amortization | $ | 36,718 | | | $ | 40,174 | | | $ | 73,971 | | | $ | 83,902 | |
| | | | | |
| (1) | We ceased to record depreciation and amortization of long-lived assets for these businesses as of the date the assets were classified as held-for-sale. |
The following table shows a reconciliation of our Adjusted Operating Income by Segment to Income (Loss) Before Taxes:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Three Months Ended
October 31, | | Six Months Ended
October 31, |
| 2024 | | 2023 | | 2024 | | 2023 |
| Adjusted Operating Income by Segment | $ | 114,339 | | | $ | 117,868 | | | $ | 189,536 | | | $ | 182,105 | |
| Adjustments: | | | | | | | |
Corporate expenses(1) | (46,579) | | | (46,521) | | | (88,933) | | | (88,295) | |
Impairment of goodwill(2) | — | | | — | | | — | | | (26,695) | |
Restructuring and related charges(2) | (3,627) | | | (25,102) | | | (7,497) | | | (37,225) | |
| Interest expense | (14,463) | | | (12,937) | | | (27,250) | | | (24,271) | |
| Net foreign exchange transaction losses | (3,328) | | | (2,357) | | | (3,094) | | | (3,977) | |
| Net gain (loss) on sale of businesses, assets, and impairment charges related to assets held-for-sale | 369 | | | (51,414) | | | 6,170 | | | (127,343) | |
| Other income (expense), net | 2,226 | | | (1,567) | | | 3,008 | | | (3,052) | |
| Income (Loss) Before Taxes | $ | 48,937 | | | $ | (22,030) | | | $ | 71,940 | | | $ | (128,753) | |
| | | | | |
| (1) | Corporate expenses includes certain costs that are not allocated to the reportable segments. |
| (2) | See Note 9, “Restructuring and Related Charges” and Note 12, “Goodwill and Intangible Assets” for these charges by segment. |
See Note 4, “Revenue Recognition, Contracts with Customers,” for revenue from contracts with customers disaggregated by segment and product type for the three and six months ended October 31, 2024 and 2023.
Note 11 — Inventories
Inventories, net consisted of the following:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| October 31, 2024 | | April 30, 2024 |
| Finished goods | $ | 25,801 | | | $ | 24,295 | |
| Work-in-process | 819 | | | 1,445 | |
| Paper and other materials | 179 | | | 181 | |
| Total inventories before estimated sales returns and LIFO reserve | $ | 26,799 | | | $ | 25,921 | |
| Inventory value of estimated sales returns | 7,839 | | | 7,833 | |
| LIFO reserve | (7,535) | | | (7,535) | |
| Inventories, net | $ | 27,103 | | | $ | 26,219 | |
Note 12 — Goodwill and Intangible Assets
Goodwill
The following table summarizes the activity in goodwill by segment as of October 31, 2024:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| April 30, 2024 (1) | | Foreign Translation Adjustment | | October 31, 2024 |
| Research | $ | 607,289 | | | $ | 13,654 | | | $ | 620,943 | |
| Learning | 484,079 | | | (2,650) | | | 481,429 | |
| Total excluding Held for Sale or Sold segment | 1,091,368 | | | 11,004 | | | 1,102,372 | |
| Held for Sale or Sold | — | | | — | | | — | |
| Total including Held for Sale or Sold segment | $ | 1,091,368 | | | $ | 11,004 | | | $ | 1,102,372 | |
| | | | | |
| (1) | The Held for Sale or Sold goodwill balance as of April 30, 2024 includes accumulated pretax noncash goodwill impairment of $318.2 million which reduced the goodwill of all reporting units within the Held for Sale or Sold segment to zero. |
Fiscal Year 2024
We recorded a goodwill impairment in the six months ended October 31, 2023 of $26.7 million. These charges are reflected in Impairment of goodwill on our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Net Income (Loss).
In the three months ended July 31, 2023, we reorganized our segments. Due to this realignment, we reallocated goodwill in the first quarter of fiscal year 2024 to our reporting units on a relative fair value basis.
As a result of this realignment, we were required to test goodwill for impairment immediately before and after the realignment. Since there were no changes to the Research reportable segment, no impairment test of the Research segment goodwill was required.
Prior to the realignment, the carrying value of the University Services reporting unit was above its fair value which resulted in a pretax noncash goodwill impairment of $11.4 million. Such impairment reduced the goodwill of the University Services reporting unit to zero. After the realignment, the carrying value of the CrossKnowledge reporting unit was above its fair value which resulted in a pretax noncash goodwill impairment of $15.3 million. Such impairment reduced the goodwill of the CrossKnowledge reporting unit to zero.
Intangible Assets
Intangible assets, net were as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| October 31, 2024 | | April 30, 2024 ⁽¹⁾ |
| Intangible assets with definite lives, net: | | | |
| Content and publishing rights | $ | 419,751 | | | $ | 431,259 | |
| Customer relationships | 35,689 | | | 39,709 | |
| Developed technology | 16,687 | | | 19,522 | |
| Brands and trademarks | 5,396 | | | 5,734 | |
| Covenants not to compete | 19 | | | 34 | |
| Total intangible assets with definite lives, net | 477,542 | | | 496,258 | |
| Intangible assets with indefinite lives: | | | |
| Brands and trademarks | 37,000 | | | 37,000 | |
| Publishing rights | 83,720 | | | 82,436 | |
| Total intangible assets with indefinite lives | 120,720 | | | 119,436 | |
| Total intangible assets, net | $ | 598,262 | | | $ | 615,694 | |
| | | | | |
| (1) | The developed technology balance as of April 30, 2024 is presented net of accumulated impairments and write-offs of $2.8 million. The indefinite-lived brands and trademarks balance as of April 30, 2024 is net of accumulated impairments of $93.1 million. |
Note 13 — Income Taxes
The Company's effective income tax rate for the three and six months ended October 31, 2024, respectively, was 17.3% and 45.8% compared with 11.7% and 13.2% for the three and six months ended October 31, 2023, respectively.
The change in the effective income tax rate for the three and six months ended October 31, 2024 compared to the three and six months ended October 31, 2023 was primarily driven by US ordinary losses in the period ended October 31, 2024 for which it is more likely than not that no tax benefit can be recognized as a result of the valuation allowance recorded against the net deferred tax assets.
Note 14 — Retirement Plans
The components of net pension expense for our defined benefit plans were as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Three Months Ended
October 31, | | Six Months Ended
October 31, |
| 2024 | | 2023 | | 2024 | | 2023 |
| Service cost | $ | 138 | | | $ | 132 | | | $ | 304 | | | $ | 266 | |
| Interest cost | 7,043 | | | 6,872 | | | 14,171 | | | 13,819 | |
| Expected return on plan assets | (6,883) | | | (7,398) | | | (13,851) | | | (14,889) | |
| Amortization of prior service cost | (22) | | | (24) | | | (41) | | | (47) | |
| Amortization of net actuarial loss | 2,031 | | | 2,000 | | | 4,090 | | | 4,026 | |
| Curtailment/settlement (credit) | (180) | | | — | | | (180) | | | — | |
| Net pension expense | $ | 2,127 | | | $ | 1,582 | | | $ | 4,493 | | | $ | 3,175 | |
In the three months ended October 31, 2024, due to the sale of the CrossKnowledge business, there was a curtailment and a settlement credit due to the divestment of the CrossKnowledge Pension Plan of $0.2 million which is primarily reflected in Other income (expense), net on our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Net Income (Loss).
The service cost component of net pension expense is reflected in Operating and administrative expenses on our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Net Income (Loss). The other components of net pension expense are reported separately from the service cost component and below Operating income. Such amounts are reflected in Other income (expense), net on our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Net Income (Loss).
Employer defined benefit pension plan contributions were $3.9 million and $7.5 million for the three and six months ended October 31, 2024, respectively and $3.6 million and $7.7 million for the three and six months ended October 31, 2023, respectively.
Defined Contribution Savings Plans
The expense for employer defined contribution savings plans was $5.1 million and $12.4 million for the three and six months ended October 31, 2024, respectively and $6.7 million and $14.4 million for the three and six months ended October 31, 2023, respectively.
Note 15 — Debt and Available Credit Facilities
Our total debt outstanding consisted of the amounts set forth in the following table:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| October 31, 2024 | | April 30, 2024 |
Short-term portion of long-term debt (1) | $ | 10,000 | | | $ | 7,500 | |
| | | |
Term loan A - Amended and Restated CA (2) | 179,499 | | | 184,418 | |
| Revolving credit facility - Amended and Restated CA | 771,511 | | | 582,678 | |
| Total long-term debt, less current portion | 951,010 | | | 767,096 | |
| | | |
| Total debt | $ | 961,010 | | | $ | 774,596 | |
| | | | | |
| (1) | Relates to our term loan A under the Amended and Restated CA. |
| (2) | Amounts are shown net of unamortized issuance costs of $0.5 million as of October 31, 2024 and $0.6 million as of April 30, 2024. |
Amended and Restated CA
On November 30, 2022, we entered into the second amendment to the Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (collectively, the Amended and Restated CA). The Amended and Restated CA provided for senior unsecured credit facilities comprised of (i) a five-year revolving credit facility in an aggregate principal amount up to $1.115 billion, which matures November 2027, (ii) a five-year term loan A facility consisting of $200 million, which matures November 2027, and (iii) $185 million aggregate principal amount revolving credit facility which matured in May 2024.
Under the terms of the Amended and Restated CA, which can be drawn in multiple currencies, we have the option of borrowing at the following floating interest rates depending on the currency borrowed: (i) at a rate based on the US Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR), the Sterling Overnight Index Average Rate (SONIA) or a EURIBOR-based rate, each rate plus an applicable margin ranging from 0.98% to 1.50%, depending on our consolidated net leverage ratio, as defined, or (ii) at the lender’s base rate plus an applicable margin ranging from zero to 0.50%, depending on our consolidated net leverage ratio. With respect to SOFR loans, there is a SOFR adjustment of between 0.10% and 0.25% depending on the duration of the loan. The lender’s base rate is defined as the highest of (i) the US federal funds effective rate plus a 0.50% margin, (ii) the Daily SOFR rate, as defined, plus a 1.00% margin, or (iii) the Bank of America prime lending rate. In addition, we pay a facility fee for the Amended and Restated CA ranging from 0.15% to 0.25% depending on our consolidated net leverage ratio. We also have the option to request an increase in the revolving credit facility by an amount not to exceed $500 million, in minimum increments of $50 million, subject to the approval of the lenders.
The Amended and Restated CA contains certain customary affirmative and negative covenants, including a financial covenant in the form of a consolidated net leverage ratio and consolidated interest coverage ratio, which we were in compliance with as of October 31, 2024.
The amortization expense of the costs incurred related to the Amended and Restated CA related to the lender and non-lender fees is recognized over a five-year term for credit commitments that mature in November 2027 and an 18-month term for credit commitments that matured in May 2024. Total amortization expense included in Interest expense on our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Net Income (Loss) is as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Three Months Ended
October 31, | | Six Months Ended
October 31, |
| 2024 | | 2023 | | 2024 | | 2023 |
| Amortization expense | $ | 284 | | | $ | 310 | | | $ | 577 | | | $ | 620 | |
Lines of Credit
We have other lines of credit aggregating $1.0 million at various interest rates. There were no outstanding borrowings under these credit lines at October 31, 2024 and April 30, 2024.
As of October 31, 2024, our total available lines of credit including the Amended and Restated RCA were approximately $1,305.8 million, of which approximately $344.3 million was unused. We had letters of credit of $0.2 million outstanding under the Amended and Restated CA, and the aggregate stated amount outstanding of these letter of credits reduces the total borrowing base available under the Amended and Restated CA.
The weighted average interest rates on total debt outstanding during the three and six months ended October 31, 2024 were 6.09% and 6.11%, respectively. The weighted average interest rates on total debt outstanding during the three and six months ended October 31, 2023 were 5.61% and 5.45%, respectively. As of October 31, 2024 and April 30, 2024, the weighted average interest rates for total debt were 6.03% and 6.07%, respectively.
Based on estimates of interest rates currently available to us for loans with similar terms and maturities, the fair value of our debt approximates its carrying value.
Note 16 — Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities
From time to time, we enter into foreign exchange forward and interest rate swap contracts as a hedge against foreign currency asset and liability commitments, changes in interest rates, and anticipated transaction exposures, including intercompany purchases. All derivatives are recognized as assets or liabilities and measured at fair value. Derivatives that are not determined to be effective hedges are adjusted to fair value with a corresponding adjustment to earnings. We do not use financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes.
Interest Rate Contracts
As of October 31, 2024, we had total debt outstanding of $961.0 million, net of unamortized issuance costs of $0.5 million. The $961.5 million of debt outstanding are variable rate loans under the Amended and Restated CA. The carrying value of the debt approximates fair value.
As of October 31, 2024 and April 30, 2024, the interest rate swap agreements we maintained were designated as fully effective cash flow hedges as defined under ASC Topic 815, “Derivatives and Hedging.” As a result, the impact on our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Net Income (Loss) from changes in the fair value of the interest rate swaps was fully offset by changes in the interest expense on the underlying variable rate debt instruments. It is management’s intention that the notional amount of interest rate swaps be less than the variable rate loans outstanding during the life of the derivatives.
The following table summarizes our interest rate swaps designated as cash flow hedges:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Notional Amount | | |
| Hedged Item | Date entered into | Nature of Swap | October 31, 2024 | April 30, 2024 | Fixed Interest Rate | Variable Interest Rate |
| Amended and Restated CA | May 15, 2024 | Pay fixed/receive variable | $ | 50,000 | | $ | — | | 4.288 | % | 1-month SOFR reset every month for a 3-year period ending July 15, 2027 |
Amended and Restated CA (1) | April 09, 2024 | Pay fixed/receive variable | 50,000 | | 50,000 | | 4.243 | % | 1-month SOFR reset every month for a 3-year period ending July 15, 2027 |
| Amended and Restated CA | January 31, 2024 | Pay fixed/receive variable | 50,000 | | 50,000 | | 3.700 | % | 1-month SOFR reset every month for a 3-year period ending April 15, 2027 |
| Amended and Restated CA | January 24, 2024 | Pay fixed/receive variable | 50,000 | | 50,000 | | 3.774 | % | 1-month SOFR reset every month for a 3-year period ending April 15, 2027 |
| Amended and Restated CA | January 05, 2024 | Pay fixed/receive variable | 50,000 | | 50,000 | | 3.689 | % | 1-month SOFR reset every month for a 3-year period ending April 15, 2027 |
| Amended and Restated CA | December 19, 2023 | Pay fixed/receive variable | 50,000 | | 50,000 | | 3.850 | % | 1-month SOFR reset every month for a 3-year period ending January 15, 2027 |
| Amended and Restated CA | March 15, 2023 | Pay fixed/receive variable | 50,000 | | 50,000 | | 3.565 | % | 1-month SOFR reset every month for a 3-year period ending April 15, 2026 |
| Amended and Restated CA | March 14, 2023 | Pay fixed/receive variable | 50,000 | | 50,000 | | 4.053 | % | 1-month SOFR reset every month for a 3-year period ending March 15, 2026 |
| Amended and Restated CA | March 13, 2023 | Pay fixed/receive variable | 50,000 | | 50,000 | | 3.720 | % | 1-month SOFR reset every month for a 3-year period ending March 15, 2026 |
| Amended and Restated CA | December 13, 2022 | Pay fixed/receive variable | 50,000 | | 50,000 | | 3.772 | % | 1-month SOFR reset every month for a 3-year period ending December 15, 2025 |
| Amended and Restated CA | June 16, 2022 | Pay fixed/receive variable | — | | 100,000 | | 3.467 | % | 1-month SOFR reset every month for a 2-year period ending May 15, 2024 |
| $ | 500,000 | | $ | 550,000 | | | |
| | | | | |
| (1) | As of April 30, 2024, this interest rate swap agreement was considered a forward starting contract as the effective date was July 15, 2024. |
We record the fair value of our interest rate swaps on a recurring basis using Level 2 inputs of quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets. The fair value of our interest rate swaps designated as cash flow hedges are reflected on our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Position as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Asset (Liability) | | Balance Sheet Location | October 31, 2024 | | April 30, 2024 |
| Current asset portion | | Prepaid expenses and other current assets | $ | — | | | $ | 154 | |
| Non-current asset portion | | Other non-current assets | 1,296 | | | 9,686 | |
| Non-current liability portion | | Other long-term liabilities | (1,114) | | | — | |
| Total cash flow hedges | | | $ | 182 | | | $ | 9,840 | |
The effect of our interest rate swaps on our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) and Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Net Income (Loss) are as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Three Months Ended
October 31, | | Six Months Ended
October 31, |
| | 2024 | | 2023 | | 2024 | | 2023 |
| Amount of pretax gains (losses) recognized in Other comprehensive income (loss) | | $ | 210 | | | $ | 1,801 | | | $ | (6,150) | | | $ | 8,092 | |
| Amount of pretax gains reclassified from Accumulated other comprehensive loss into Interest expense | | $ | 1,656 | | | $ | 3,186 | | | $ | 3,371 | | | $ | 6,071 | |
Foreign Currency Contracts
We may enter into foreign currency forward contracts to manage our exposure on certain foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities. The foreign currency forward exchange contracts are marked to market through Net foreign exchange transaction losses on our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Net Income (Loss) and carried at fair value on our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. Foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities are remeasured at spot rates in effect on the balance sheet date, with the effects of changes in spot rates reported in Net foreign exchange transaction losses on our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Net Income (Loss).
As of October 31, 2024, and April 30, 2024, we did not maintain any open foreign currency forward contracts. In addition, we did not maintain any open foreign currency forward contracts during the six months ended October 31, 2024 and 2023.
Note 17 — Capital Stock and Changes in Capital Accounts
Share Repurchases
The following table summarizes the share repurchases of Class A and Class B Common Stock (shares in thousands):
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Three Months Ended
October 31, | | Six Months Ended
October 31, |
| 2024 | | 2023 | | 2024 | | 2023 |
| Shares repurchased - Class A | 261 | | | 367 | | | 556 | | | 668 | |
| Shares repurchased - Class B | 1 | | | 1 | | | 1 | | | 1 | |
| Average Price - Class A and Class B | $ | 47.76 | | | $ | 33.97 | | | $ | 44.89 | | | $ | 33.64 | |
The cost of shares repurchased may differ from the repurchases of treasury shares in the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows due to excise taxes incurred on share repurchases.
Dividends
We declared and paid quarterly cash dividends on our Class A and Class B Common Stock for a total of $38.3 million and $38.7 million in the six months ended October 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
Changes in Common Stock
The following is a summary of changes during the six months ended October 31, in shares of our common stock and common stock in treasury (shares in thousands):
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Changes in Class A Common Stock: | 2024 | | 2023 |
| Number of shares, beginning of year | 70,259 | | 70,231 |
| Common stock class conversions | 24 | | 3 |
| Number of shares issued, end of period | 70,283 | | 70,234 |
| | | |
| Changes in Class A Common Stock in treasury: | | | |
| Number of shares held, beginning of year | 24,828 | | 23,983 |
| Restricted shares issued under stock-based compensation plans | (256) | | (384) |
| Impact of tax withholding on stock-based compensation and other | 96 | | 126 |
| Purchases of treasury shares | 556 | | 668 |
| Number of shares held, end of period | 25,224 | | 24,393 |
| Number of Class A Common Stock outstanding, end of period | 45,059 | | 45,841 |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Changes in Class B Common Stock: | 2024 | | 2023 |
| Number of shares, beginning of year | 12,923 | | 12,951 |
| Common stock class conversions | (24) | | (3) | |
| Number of shares issued, end of period | 12,899 | | 12,948 |
| | | |
| Changes in Class B Common Stock in treasury: | | | |
| Number of shares held, beginning of year | 3,928 | | 3,925 |
| Purchases of treasury shares | 1 | | 1 |
| Number of shares held, end of period | 3,929 | | 3,926 |
| Number of Class B Common Stock outstanding, end of period | 8,970 | | 9,022 |
Note 18 — Commitments and Contingencies
Legal Proceedings
We are involved in routine litigation in the ordinary course of our business. A provision for litigation is accrued when information available to us indicates that it is probable a liability has been incurred and the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated. Significant judgment may be required to determine both the probability and estimates of loss. When the amount of the loss can only be estimated within a range, the most likely outcome within that range is accrued. If no amount within the range is a better estimate than any other amount, the minimum amount within the range is accrued. When uncertainties exist related to the probable outcome of litigation and/or the amount or range of loss, we do not record a liability, but disclose facts related to the nature of the contingency and possible losses if management considers the information to be material. Reserves for legal defense costs are recognized when incurred. The accruals for loss contingencies and legal costs are reviewed regularly and may be adjusted to reflect updated information on the status of litigation and advice of legal counsel. In the opinion of management, the ultimate resolution of all pending litigation as of October 31, 2024, will not have a material effect upon our consolidated financial condition or results of operations.
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The information in our Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (MD&A) should be read together with our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and related notes set forth in Item 1 of Part I of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, our MD&A set forth in Item 7 of Part II of our 2024 Form 10-K and our Consolidated Financial Statements and related notes set forth in Item 8 of Part II of our 2024 Form 10-K. See Part II, Item 1A, “Risk Factors,” below and “Cautionary Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements “Safe Harbor” Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995,” above, and the information referenced therein, for a description of risks that we face and important factors that we believe could cause actual results to differ materially from those in our forward-looking statements. All amounts and percentages are approximate due to rounding and all dollars are in thousands, except per share amounts or where otherwise noted. When we cross-reference to a “Note,” we are referring to our “Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements,” unless the context indicates otherwise.
OVERVIEW
Wiley is one of the world’s largest publishers and a global leader in research and learning. The Company’s content, services, platforms, and knowledge networks are tailored to meet the evolving needs of its customers and partners, including researchers, students, instructors, professionals, institutions, and corporations. Wiley empowers knowledge seekers to transform today’s biggest obstacles into tomorrow’s brightest opportunities. For more than two centuries, the Company has been delivering on its timeless mission to unlock human potential. Wiley is a predominantly digital company with over 83% of its revenue for the year ended April 30, 2024 generated by digital products and services excluding the Held for Sale or Sold segment revenue. For the year ended April 30, 2024, 48% of revenue excluding the Held for Sale or Sold segment revenue is recurring which includes revenue that is contractually obligated or set to recur with a high degree of certainty.
On June 1, 2023, Wiley’s Board of Directors approved a plan to divest certain businesses that we determined are non-core businesses. Those businesses are University Services, Wiley Edge, and CrossKnowledge. On January 1, 2024 we completed the sale of University Services. On May 31, 2024 we completed the sale of Wiley Edge with the exception of its India operations which sold on August 31, 2024. On August 31, 2024 we completed the sale of CrossKnowledge.
We report financial information for the following segments, as well as a Corporate category, which includes certain costs that are not allocated to the reportable segments:
•Research includes the reporting lines of Research Publishing and Research Solutions;
•Learning includes the Academic and Professional reporting lines and consists of publishing and related knowledge solutions;
•Held for Sale or Sold includes businesses sold in fiscal year 2025 which includes CrossKnowledge and Wiley Edge and in fiscal year 2024 which includes University Services and Tuition Manager.
Through the Research segment, we provide peer-reviewed scientific, technical, and medical (STM) publishing, content platforms, and related services to academic, corporate, and government customers, academic societies, and individual researchers. The Learning segment provides scientific, professional, and education print and digital books, digital courseware to libraries, corporations, students, professionals, and researchers, as well as assessment services to businesses and professionals.
Wiley’s business strategies are tightly aligned with healthy solid growth trends, including ever-increasing global research and development (R&D) spend leading to consistent growth in scientific research output, the transition to open research, and the increasing application of new knowledge into solutions to solve real world problems. These strategies include driving publishing output to meet the global demand for peer-reviewed research and expanding platform and service offerings for corporations and societies. Learning strategies include selectively scaling high-value digital content, courseware, and assessments where the Company sees opportunity. We continue to implement strategies to efficiently and effectively manage print revenue declines while driving growth in our digital lines of business.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS – THREE MONTHS ENDED OCTOBER 31, 2024
SECOND QUARTER SUMMARY
•US GAAP Results: Consolidated Revenue of $426.6 million (-13%, compared with the prior year), decrease due to the divested businesses, Operating Income of $64.1 million (+39%, compared with the prior year), and Diluted Earnings per Share of $0.74 (+$1.09 per share, compared with the prior year diluted loss per share).
•Adjusted Results at Constant Currency (excluding Held for Sale or Sold segment results): Adjusted Revenue of $423.4 million (+3%, compared with the prior year), Adjusted Operating Income of $68.8 million (+32%, compared with the prior year), Adjusted EBITDA of $105.5 million (+14%, compared with the prior year), and Adjusted EPS of $0.97 (+36%, compared with the prior year).
CONSOLIDATED RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Revenue:
Revenue for the three months ended October 31, 2024, decreased $66.2 million, or 13%, as compared with the prior year. On a constant currency basis, revenue decreased 14% as compared with the prior year.
Excluding the revenues from the Held for Sale or Sold segment, Adjusted Revenue increased 3% on a constant currency basis.
We executed a $21 million content rights project for training GenAI large language models of which $4 million was recognized in the three months ended October 31, 2024, and $17 million in the three months ended July 31, 2024 primarily all in the Learning segment. On a constant currency basis excluding the GenAI project, Adjusted Revenue for the three months ended October 31, 2024 increased 2% as compared with the prior year.
Adjusted Revenue
Below is a reconciliation of our consolidated US GAAP Revenue, net to Non-GAAP Adjusted Revenue, net:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Three Months Ended
October 31, |
| 2024 | | 2023 |
| US GAAP Revenue, net | $ | 426,595 | | | $ | 492,808 | |
Less: Held for Sale or Sold segment (1) | (3,196) | | | (86,198) | |
| Non-GAAP Adjusted Revenue, net | $ | 423,399 | | | $ | 406,610 | |
| | | | | |
| (1) | Our Adjusted Revenue, net excludes the impact of our Held for Sale or Sold segment revenue. |
See the “Segment Operating Results” below for additional details on each segment’s revenue and Adjusted EBITDA performance.
Cost of Sales:
Cost of sales for the three months ended October 31, 2024 of $107.0 million decreased $48.6 million, or 31%, as compared with the prior year. On a constant currency basis, cost of sales decreased 32% as compared with the prior year. This was primarily due to the prior year including employee and marketing costs related to the University Services business which was sold on January 1, 2024 and, to a lesser extent, lower employee costs related to the Wiley Edge business which was sold on May 31, 2024.
Excluding the cost of sales from the Held for Sale or Sold segment, cost of sales decreased 2% as compared with the prior year on a constant currency basis primarily due to lower product development related costs in both Learning and Research.
Operating and Administrative Expenses:
Operating and administrative expenses for the three months ended October 31, 2024 of $238.9 million decreased $13.4 million, or 5% as compared with the prior year. On a constant currency basis, operating and administrative expenses decreased 6% as compared with the prior year primarily due to lower employee related costs.
Excluding operating and administrative expenses from the Held for Sale or Sold segment, operating and administrative expenses were consistent with the prior year on a constant currency basis primarily due to lower employee related costs, offset by higher professional fees.
Restructuring and Related Charges:
We recorded restructuring and related charges in the three months ended October 31, 2024 and 2023 of $3.6 million and $25.1 million, respectively. These charges are reflected in Restructuring and related charges on our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Net Income (Loss).
Global Restructuring Program
Beginning in fiscal year 2023, the Company initiated the Global Restructuring Program which was expanded in fiscal year 2024 to include those actions that will focus Wiley on its leading global position in the development and application of new knowledge and drive greater profitability, growth, and cash flow. We will focus on our strongest and most profitable businesses and large market opportunities in Research and Learning, as well as streamline our organization and rightsize our cost structure to reflect these portfolio actions. Under this program, we reduced our real estate square footage occupancy by approximately 35%.
Excluding actions related to the Held for Sale or Sold segment, we anticipate to yield annualized cost savings of approximately $80 million, with approximately $75 million of that to be realized this fiscal year from actions taken starting in fiscal year 2024.
For the three months ended October 31, 2024 and 2023, we recorded pretax restructuring charges of $3.7 million and $24.8 million, respectively, related to this program.
We anticipate ongoing severance related charges and facility-related costs associated with certain properties to result in additional restructuring charges in future periods.
See Note 9, “Restructuring and Related Charges” for more details on the Global Restructuring Program charges.
Business Optimization Program
For the three months ended October 31, 2024 and 2023, we recorded pretax restructuring credits of $(0.1) million and charges of $0.3 million, respectively, related to this program.
See Note 9, “Restructuring and Related Charges” for more details on the Business Optimization Program charges.
For the impact of our restructuring programs on diluted earnings (loss) per share, see the section below, “Diluted Earnings (Loss) per Share.”
Amortization of Intangible Assets:
Amortization of intangible assets was $12.9 million for the three months ended October 31, 2024, a decrease of $0.6 million, or 5%, as compared with the prior year. On a constant currency basis, amortization of intangible assets decreased 6% as compared with the prior year primarily due to the completion of amortization of certain acquired intangible assets.
Operating Income, Adjusted Operating Income (OI) and Adjusted EBITDA:
Operating income of $64.1 million for the three months ended October 31, 2024, increased $17.9 million or 39% as compared with the prior year on a reported basis. On a constant currency basis, operating income increased 39% as compared with prior year. The increase was primarily due to lower costs of sales, restructuring charges and operating and administrative expenses, partially offset by a decrease in revenue.
Adjusted OI on a constant currency basis increased 32% as compared with the prior year. The increase in Adjusted OI was primarily due to an increase in Adjusted Revenue and, to a lesser extent, lower cost of sales.
Adjusted EBITDA on a constant currency basis increased 14% as compared with the prior year primarily due to an increase in Adjusted Revenue.
Adjusted OI
Below is a reconciliation of our consolidated US GAAP Operating Income to Non-GAAP Adjusted OI:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Three Months Ended
October 31, |
| 2024 | | 2023 |
| US GAAP Operating Income | $ | 64,133 | | | $ | 46,245 | |
| Adjustments: | | | |
| Restructuring and related charges | 3,627 | | | 25,102 | |
Held for Sale or Sold segment Adjusted Operating Loss (Income) (1) | 1,059 | | | (19,100) | |
| Non-GAAP Adjusted OI | $ | 68,819 | | | $ | 52,247 | |
| | | | | |
| (1) | Our Adjusted OI excludes the impact of our Held for Sale or Sold segment Adjusted Operating Loss (Income). |
Adjusted EBITDA
Below is a reconciliation of our consolidated US GAAP Net Income (Loss) to Non-GAAP EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Three Months Ended
October 31, |
| 2024 | | 2023 |
| Net Income (Loss) | $ | 40,458 | | | $ | (19,445) | |
| Interest expense | 14,463 | | | 12,937 | |
| Provision (benefit) for income taxes | 8,479 | | | (2,585) | |
| Depreciation and amortization | 36,718 | | | 40,174 | |
| Non-GAAP EBITDA | 100,118 | | | 31,081 | |
| Restructuring and related charges | 3,627 | | | 25,102 | |
| Net foreign exchange transaction losses | 3,328 | | | 2,357 | |
| Net (gain) loss on sale of businesses, assets, and impairment charges related to assets held-for-sale | (369) | | | 51,414 | |
| Other (income) expense, net | (2,226) | | | 1,567 | |
Held for Sale or Sold segment Adjusted EBITDA (1) | 1,059 | | | (19,100) | |
| Non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA | $ | 105,537 | | | $ | 92,421 | |
| | | | | |
| (1) | Our Non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA excludes the Held for Sale or Sold segment Non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA. |
Interest Expense:
Interest expense for the three months ended October 31, 2024, was $14.5 million compared with the prior year of $12.9 million. This increase was primarily due to a higher weighted average effective interest rate.
Net Foreign Exchange Transaction Losses:
Net foreign exchange transaction losses of $(3.3) million for the three months ended October 31, 2024 were primarily due to losses on our foreign currency denominated intercompany accounts receivable and payable balances due to the impact of the change in average foreign exchange rates as compared to the US dollar.
Net foreign exchange transaction losses of $(2.4) million for the three months ended October 31, 2023 were primarily due to losses on our intercompany accounts receivable and payable balances, partially offset by gains on our foreign currency denominated third party accounts receivable and payable balances due to the impact of the change in average foreign exchange rates as compared to the US dollar.
Net Gain (Loss) on Sale of Businesses, Assets, and Impairment Charges Related to Assets Held-For-Sale:
For the three months ended October 31, 2024 and 2023, we recorded net pretax gain (loss) on sale of businesses, assets and impairment charges related to assets held-for-sale as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Three Months Ended
October 31, |
| 2024 | | 2023 |
| Wiley Edge | $ | 956 | | | $ | — | |
| University Services | — | | | (34,807) | |
| Tuition Manager | — | | | 568 | |
| CrossKnowledge | (438) | | | (17,175) | |
| Sale of assets | (149) | | | — | |
| Net gain (loss) on sale of businesses, assets, and impairment charges related to assets held-for-sale | $ | 369 | | | $ | (51,414) | |
These charges are reflected in Net gain (loss) on sale of businesses, assets, and impairment charges related to assets held-for-sale on our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Net Income (Loss).
On August 31, 2024, we completed the sale of CrossKnowledge which was included in our Held for Sale or Sold segment. The pretax loss on sale was $51.5 million. In connection with the held-for-sale classification, we recognized cumulative impairment charges of $51.0 million. Upon the completion of the sale, we recognized an additional loss of $0.5 million in the three months ended October 31, 2024 due to subsequent changes in the fair value less costs to sell, as well as changes in the carrying amount of the disposal group.
On May 31, 2024, we completed the sale of Wiley Edge which was included in our Held for Sale or Sold segment, with the exception of its India operations which sold on August 31, 2024. The total pretax loss on sale was $18.6 million. In connection with the held-for-sale classification, we recognized cumulative impairment charges of $19.4 million. Upon the completion of the sale, we recognized a net gain of $0.8 million in the six months ended October 31, 2024, which included $1.0 million in the three months ended October 31, 2024, primarily due to the sale of the India operations, partially offset by subsequent changes in the costs to sell.
In the three months ended October 31, 2024 we sold a facility which was reflected in Technology, property, and equipment, net in our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Position which resulted in a pretax loss on sale of $0.2 million.
In the three months ended October 31, 2023, we recorded a held-for-sale pretax impairment of $51.9 million which includes $34.8 million for University Services and $17.1 million for CrossKnowledge. Additionally, in the three months ended October 31, 2023, there was a reduction in the pretax loss on the sale of our Tuition Manager business previously in our Held for Sale or Sold segment due to cash received after the closing of approximately $0.5 million.
See Note 3, “Divestitures” for more details on the divestitures.
Provision (Benefit) for Income Taxes:
Below is a reconciliation of our US GAAP Income (Loss) Before Taxes to Non-GAAP Adjusted Income Before Taxes:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Three Months Ended
October 31, |
| 2024 | | 2023 |
| US GAAP Income (Loss) Before Taxes | $ | 48,937 | | | $ | (22,030) | |
| Pretax Impact of Adjustments: | | | |
| Restructuring and related charges | 3,627 | | | 25,102 | |
| Foreign exchange losses on intercompany transactions, including the write off of certain cumulative translation adjustments | 2,943 | | | 3,223 | |
| Amortization of acquired intangible assets | 12,944 | | | 14,303 | |
| Net (gain) loss on sale of businesses, assets, and impairment charges related to assets held-for-sale | (369) | | | 51,414 | |
Held for Sale or Sold segment Adjusted Loss (Income) Before Taxes (1) | 1,059 | | | (19,099) | |
| Non-GAAP Adjusted Income Before Taxes | $ | 69,141 | | | $ | 52,913 | |
| | | | | |
| (1) | Our Adjusted Income Before Taxes excludes the Adjusted Loss (Income) Before Taxes of our Held for Sale or Sold segment. |
Below is a reconciliation of our US GAAP Income Tax Provision (Benefit) to Non-GAAP Adjusted Income Tax Provision, including our US GAAP Effective Tax Rate and our Non-GAAP Adjusted Effective Tax Rate:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Three Months Ended
October 31, |
| 2024 | | 2023 |
| US GAAP Income Tax Provision (Benefit) | $ | 8,479 | | $ | (2,585) |
Income Tax Impact of Adjustments(1): | | | |
| Restructuring and related charges | 161 | | 6,315 |
| Foreign exchange losses on intercompany transactions, including the write off of certain cumulative translation adjustments | 729 | | 888 |
| Amortization of acquired intangible assets | 1,792 | | 3,645 |
| Net (gain) loss on sale of businesses, assets, and impairment charges related to assets held-for-sale | (588) | | 8,542 |
Held for Sale or Sold segment Adjusted Tax Benefit (Provision)(2) | 515 | | (4,270) |
| Income Tax Adjustments | | | |
Impact of valuation allowance on the US GAAP effective tax rate(3) | 4,911 | | — |
| Non-GAAP Adjusted Income Tax Provision | $ | 15,999 | | $ | 12,535 |
| | | |
| US GAAP Effective Tax Rate | 17.3 | % | | 11.7 | % |
| Non-GAAP Adjusted Effective Tax Rate | 23.1 | % | | 23.7 | % |
| | | | | |
| (1) | For the three months ended October 31, 2024 and 2023, substantially all of the tax impact was from deferred taxes. |
| (2) | Our Adjusted Income Tax Provision excludes the Adjusted Tax Benefit (Provision) of our Held for Sale or Sold segment. |
| (3) | In the three months ended October 31, 2024, there was a $4.9 million impact on the US GAAP effective tax rate due to the valuation allowance on deferred tax assets in the US. |
The US GAAP effective tax rate for the three months ended October 31, 2024, was 17.3% compared to 11.7% for the three months ended October 31, 2023. The US GAAP effective tax rate for the three months ended October 31, 2024 was greater than the US GAAP effective tax rate for the three months ended October 31, 2023 primarily driven by US ordinary losses for which no tax benefit can be recognized as a result of the valuation allowance recorded against the net deferred tax assets.
The Non-GAAP Adjusted Effective Tax Rate was 23.1% for the three months ended October 31, 2024 compared to 23.7% for the three months ended October 31, 2023. The slight decrease in the Non-GAAP Adjusted Effective Tax Rate for the three months ended October 31, 2024 compared with the three months ended October 31, 2023 was primarily due to the mix of income.
Diluted Earnings (Loss) per Share:
Diluted earnings per share for the three months ended October 31, 2024 was $0.74 per share compared with a loss per share of $(0.35) per share for the three months ended October 31, 2023. This increase was primarily due to impairment charges related to assets held-for-sale in the prior year and, to a lesser extent, an increase in operating income in the three months ended October 31, 2024. This was partially offset by an income tax benefit in the prior year compared to income tax expense in the three months ended October 31, 2024.
Below is a reconciliation of our US GAAP Earnings (Loss) per Share to Non-GAAP Adjusted EPS. The amount of the pretax, and the related income tax impact for the adjustments included in the table below are presented in the section above, “Provision (Benefit) for Income Taxes.”
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Three Months Ended
October 31, |
| 2024 | | 2023 |
| US GAAP Earnings (Loss) Per Share | $ | 0.74 | | | $ | (0.35) | |
| Adjustments: | | | |
| Restructuring and related charges | 0.06 | | | 0.34 | |
| Foreign exchange losses on intercompany transactions, including the write off of certain cumulative translation adjustments | 0.04 | | | 0.04 | |
| Amortization of acquired intangible assets | 0.21 | | | 0.19 | |
| Net (gain) loss on sale of businesses, assets, and impairment charges related to assets held-for-sale | — | | | 0.77 | |
Held for Sale or Sold segment Adjusted Net Loss (Income)(1) | 0.01 | | | (0.27) | |
| Income tax adjustments | (0.09) | | | — | |
EPS impact of using weighted-average dilutive shares for adjusted EPS calculation (2) | — | | | 0.01 | |
| Non-GAAP Adjusted EPS | $ | 0.97 | | | $ | 0.73 | |
| | | | | |
| (1) | Our Adjusted EPS excludes the Adjusted Net Loss (Income) of our Held for Sale or Sold segment. |
| (2) | Represents the impact of using diluted weighted-average number of common shares outstanding (55.6 million shares for the three months ended October 31, 2023) included in the Non-GAAP Adjusted EPS calculation in order to apply the dilutive impact on adjusted net income due to the effect of unvested restricted stock units and other stock awards. This impact occurs when a US GAAP net loss is reported and the effect of using dilutive shares is antidilutive. |
On a constant currency basis, Adjusted EPS increased 36% primarily due to an increase in Adjusted Operating Income.
SEGMENT OPERATING RESULTS
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Three Months Ended
October 31, | | % Change
Favorable
(Unfavorable) | | Constant Currency % Change Favorable (Unfavorable) |
| RESEARCH | 2024 | | 2023 | | |
| Revenue: | | | | | | | |
| Research Publishing | $ | 222,667 | | $ | 219,743 | | 1 | % | | 1 | % |
| Research Solutions | 39,218 | | 37,927 | | 3 | % | | 2 | % |
| Total Research Revenue | 261,885 | | 257,670 | | 2 | % | | 1 | % |
| | | | | | | |
| Cost of Sales | 67,527 | | 71,300 | | 5 | % | | 6 | % |
| Operating Expenses | 123,745 | | 116,228 | | (6) | % | | (5) | % |
| Amortization of Intangible Assets | 11,086 | | 11,286 | | 2 | % | | 3 | % |
| Adjusted Operating Income | 59,527 | | 58,856 | | 1 | % | | 2 | % |
| Depreciation and amortization | 22,522 | | 22,668 | | 1 | % | | 2 | % |
| Adjusted EBITDA | $ | 82,049 | | $ | 81,524 | | 1 | % | | 1 | % |
| Adjusted EBITDA Margin | 31.3% | | 31.6% | | | | |
Revenue:
Research revenue for the three months ended October 31, 2024 increased $4.2 million, or 2%, as compared with the prior year on a reported basis. On a constant currency basis, revenue increased 1% as compared with the prior year. Research Publishing revenue increased primarily due to gold open access and, to a lesser extent, institutional models, partially offset by a decline in legacy print and licensing revenue. Research Solutions revenue increased primarily due to managed services, databases and, to a lesser extent, career centers, partially offset by a decline in advertising. Open access article output growth was approximately 16% as compared with the prior year.
Adjusted EBITDA:
On a constant currency basis, Adjusted EBITDA increased 1% as compared with the prior year. This increase was primarily due to higher revenue and lower royalty costs, partially offset by higher professional fees, employment costs, and travel and entertainment costs.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Three Months Ended
October 31, | | % Change Favorable (Unfavorable) | | Constant Currency % Change Favorable (Unfavorable) |
| LEARNING | 2024 | | 2023 | | |
| Revenue: | | | | | | | |
| Academic | $ | 94,788 | | $ | 89,125 | | 6 | % | | 5 | % |
| Professional | 66,726 | | 59,815 | | 12 | % | | 11 | % |
| Total Learning Revenue | 161,514 | | 148,940 | | 8 | % | | 7 | % |
| | | | | | | |
| Cost of Sales | 38,188 | | 35,617 | | (7) | % | | (6) | % |
| Operating Expenses | 65,434 | | 71,132 | | 8 | % | | 9 | % |
| Amortization of Intangible Assets | 2,021 | | 2,279 | | 11 | % | | 11 | % |
| Adjusted Operating Income | 55,871 | | 39,912 | | 40 | % | | 38 | % |
| Depreciation and amortization | 10,897 | | 13,974 | | 22 | % | | 23 | % |
| Adjusted EBITDA | $ | 66,768 | | $ | 53,886 | | 24 | % | | 23 | % |
| Adjusted EBITDA Margin | 41.3% | | 36.2% | | | | |
Revenue:
Learning revenue increased $12.6 million, or 8%, as compared with the prior year on a reported basis. On a constant currency basis, revenue increased 7% as compared with the prior year. On a constant currency basis, excluding the $21 million content rights project for training GenAI large language models of which $4 million was recognized in the three months ended October 31, 2024, and $17 million in the three months ended July 31, 2024, Learning revenue increased 5% as compared with the prior year. Professional revenue on a constant currency basis excluding GenAI increased 8% due to an increase in print books due to an improved retail channel environment and increased sell through. Academic revenue on a constant currency basis excluding GenAI increased 3% due to licensing, inclusive access and, to a lesser extent, zyBooks digital courseware, partially offset by a decline in print books.
Adjusted EBITDA:
On a constant currency basis, Adjusted EBITDA increased 23% as compared with the prior year. This increase was primarily due to revenue performance and, to a lesser extent, a decrease in employee costs after recent restructuring actions, partially offset by higher royalty costs.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Three Months Ended
October 31, | | % Change Favorable (Unfavorable) | | Constant Currency % Change Favorable (Unfavorable) |
| HELD FOR SALE OR SOLD | 2024 | | 2023 | | |
| Total Held for Sale or Sold Revenue | $ | 3,196 | | $ | 86,198 | | (96) | % | | (96) | % |
| | | | | | | |
| Cost of Sales | 1,285 | | 48,697 | | 97 | % | | 97 | % |
| Operating Expenses | 2,970 | | 18,401 | | 84 | % | | 84 | % |
| Adjusted Operating (Loss) Income | (1,059) | | 19,100 | | # | | # |
| Depreciation and amortization | — | | — | | # | | # |
| Adjusted EBITDA | $ | (1,059) | | $ | 19,100 | | # | | # |
| Adjusted EBITDA Margin | (33.1)% | | 22.2% | | | | |
# Not meaningful
Revenue:
Revenue for Held for Sale or Sold decreased $83.0 million, or 96%, as compared with the prior year on a reported basis. On a constant currency basis, revenue decreased 96% as compared with the prior year. This was primarily due to a decrease in University Services revenue due to the sale of the business on January 1, 2024, placement revenues due to the sale of the Wiley Edge business on May 31, 2024 and, to a lesser extent, a decrease in CrossKnowledge revenue due to the sale of the business on August 31, 2024.
Adjusted EBITDA:
On a constant currency basis, Adjusted EBITDA decreased $20.2 million as compared with the prior year. This decrease was primarily due to lower revenue, partially offset by lower employment and marketing costs due to the sale of the University Services and Wiley Edge businesses.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Three Months Ended
October 31, | | % Change Favorable (Unfavorable) | | Constant Currency % Change Favorable (Unfavorable) |
| CORPORATE EXPENSES | 2024 | | 2023 | | |
| Operating Expenses | $ | 46,742 | | $ | 46,521 | | 0 | % | | 0 | % |
| Amortization of Intangible Assets | (163) | | — | | # | | # |
| Adjusted Corporate Expenses | (46,579) | | (46,521) | | 0 | % | | 0 | % |
| Depreciation and amortization | 3,299 | | 3,532 | | 7 | % | | 7 | % |
| Adjusted EBITDA | $ | (43,280) | | $ | (42,989) | | (1) | % | | 0 | % |
# Not meaningful
On a constant currency basis, adjusted corporate expenses of $43.3 million on an Adjusted EBITDA basis was consistent with the prior year. This was primarily due to higher executive severance costs in the prior year, and a decrease in employee costs, offset by higher technology related costs.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS – SIX MONTHS ENDED OCTOBER 31, 2024
SIX MONTHS SUMMARY
•US GAAP Results: Consolidated Revenue of $830.4 million (-12%, compared with the prior year), Operating Income of $93.1 million (+$63.2 million, compared with the prior year), and Diluted Earnings per Share of $0.71 ($+2.73 per share, compared with the prior year diluted loss per share).
•Adjusted Results at Constant Currency (excluding Held for Sale or Sold segment results): Adjusted Revenue of $813.0 million (+5%, compared with the prior year), Adjusted Operating Income of $104.2 million (+46%, compared with the prior year), Adjusted EBITDA of $178.2 million (+17%, compared with the prior year), and Adjusted EPS of $1.44 (+47%, compared with the prior year).
CONSOLIDATED RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Revenue:
Revenue for the six months ended October 31, 2024, decreased $113.4 million, or 12%, as compared with the prior year. On a constant currency basis, revenue decreased 12% as compared with the prior year.
Excluding the revenues from the Held for Sale or Sold segment, Adjusted Revenue increased 5% on a constant currency basis.
On a constant currency basis excluding the GenAI project as described above, Adjusted Revenue for the six months ended October 31, 2024 increased 2% as compared with the prior year.
Adjusted Revenue
Below is a reconciliation of our consolidated US GAAP Revenue, net to Non-GAAP Adjusted Revenue, net:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Six Months Ended
October 31, |
| 2024 | | 2023 |
| US GAAP Revenue, net | $ | 830,404 | | | $ | 943,821 | |
Less: Held for Sale or Sold segment (1) | (17,382) | | | (170,087) | |
| Non-GAAP Adjusted Revenue, net | $ | 813,022 | | | $ | 773,734 | |
| | | | | |
| (1) | Our Adjusted Revenue, net excludes the impact of our Held for Sale or Sold segment revenue. |
See the “Segment Operating Results” below for additional details on each segment’s revenue and Adjusted EBITDA performance.
Cost of Sales:
Cost of sales for the six months ended October 31, 2024 of $216.2 million decreased $96.5 million, or 31%, as compared with the prior year. On a constant currency basis, cost of sales decreased 31% as compared with the prior year. This was primarily due to the prior year including employee and marketing costs related to the University Services business which was sold on January 1, 2024 and, to a lesser extent, lower employee costs related to the Wiley Edge business which was sold on May 31, 2024.
Excluding the cost of sales from the Held for Sale or Sold segment, cost of sales decreased 1% as compared with the prior year on a constant currency basis primarily due to lower product development and inventory related costs, partially offset by higher royalty costs in Learning.
Operating and Administrative Expenses:
Operating and administrative expenses for the six months ended October 31, 2024 of $487.7 million decreased $20.4 million, or 4% as compared with the prior year. On a constant currency basis, operating and administrative expenses decreased 4% as compared with the prior year primarily reflecting lower employee related costs.
Excluding operating and administrative expenses from the Held for Sale or Sold segment, operating and administrative expenses increased 1% on a constant currency basis as compared with the prior year primarily due to higher professional fees, travel and entertainment costs, and advertising and marketing costs, partially offset by lower employment costs and, to a lesser extent, lower technology related costs, depreciation, and facility costs.
Impairment of Goodwill:
We recorded an impairment of goodwill for the six months ended October 31, 2023, of $26.7 million. This charge is reflected in the Impairment of goodwill in the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Net Income (Loss).
In accordance with applicable accounting standards, we were required to test goodwill for impairment immediately before and after our segment realignment in the three months ended July 31, 2023. Prior to the realignment, we concluded that the fair value of the University Services reporting unit within the former Academic segment was below its carrying value, which resulted in a pretax noncash goodwill impairment of $11.4 million.
After the realignment, we concluded that the fair value of the CrossKnowledge reporting unit within the Held for Sale or Sold segment was below its carrying value, which resulted in a pretax noncash goodwill impairment of $15.3 million.
Restructuring and Related Charges:
We recorded restructuring and related charges in the six months ended October 31, 2024 and 2023 of $7.5 million and $37.2 million, respectively. These charges are reflected in Restructuring and related charges on our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Net Income (Loss).
Global Restructuring Program
For the six months ended October 31, 2024 and 2023, we recorded pretax restructuring charges of $11.2 million and $36.5 million, respectively, related to this program.
We anticipate ongoing severance related charges and facility-related costs associated with certain properties to result in additional restructuring charges in future periods.
See Note 9, “Restructuring and Related Charges” for more details on the Global Restructuring Program charges.
Business Optimization Program
For the six months ended October 31, 2024 and 2023, we recorded pretax restructuring credits of $(3.7) million and charges of $0.7 million, respectively, related to this program.
See Note 9, “Restructuring and Related Charges” for more details on the Business Optimization Program credits and charges.
For the impact of our restructuring programs on diluted earnings (loss) per share, see the section below, “Diluted Earnings (Loss) per Share.”
Amortization of Intangible Assets:
Amortization of intangible assets was $25.9 million for the six months ended October 31, 2024, a decrease of $3.3 million, or 11%, as compared with the prior year. On a constant currency basis, amortization of intangible assets decreased 12% as compared with the prior year primarily due to the cessation of amortization for held-for-sale assets and, to a lesser extent, the completion of amortization of certain acquired intangible assets. See Note 3, “Divestitures” for more details on these divestitures.
Operating Income, Adjusted Operating Income (OI) and Adjusted EBITDA:
Operating income of $93.1 million for the six months ended October 31, 2024, increased $63.2 million compared with the prior year. The increase was primarily due to lower costs of sales, restructuring charges, a goodwill impairment in the six months ended October 31, 2023, and lower operating and administrative expenses, partially offset by a decrease in revenue.
Adjusted OI on a constant currency basis increased 46% as compared with the prior year. The increase in Adjusted OI was primarily due to an increase in Adjusted Revenue and, to a lesser extent, lower costs of sales, partially offset by higher operating and administrative expenses.
Adjusted EBITDA on a constant currency basis increased 17% as compared with the prior year primarily due to an increase in Adjusted Revenue, partially offset by higher operating and administrative expenses and, to a lesser extent higher cost of sales.
Adjusted OI
Below is a reconciliation of our consolidated US GAAP Operating Income to Non-GAAP Adjusted OI:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Six Months Ended
October 31, |
| 2024 | | 2023 |
| US GAAP Operating Income | $ | 93,106 | | | $ | 29,890 | |
| Adjustments: | | | |
| Restructuring and related charges | 7,497 | | | 37,225 | |
| Impairment of goodwill | — | | | 26,695 | |
Held for Sale or Sold segment Adjusted Operating Loss (Income)(1) | 3,578 | | | (22,184) | |
| Non-GAAP Adjusted OI | $ | 104,181 | | | $ | 71,626 | |
| | | | | |
| (1) | Our Adjusted OI excludes the impact of our Held for Sale or Sold segment Adjusted Operating Loss or (Income). |
Adjusted EBITDA
Below is a reconciliation of our consolidated US GAAP Net Income (Loss) to Non-GAAP EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Six Months Ended
October 31, |
| 2024 | | 2023 |
| Net Income (Loss) | $ | 39,022 | | | $ | (111,709) | |
| Interest expense | 27,250 | | | 24,271 | |
| Provision (benefit) for income taxes | 32,918 | | | (17,044) | |
| Depreciation and amortization | 73,971 | | | 83,902 | |
| Non-GAAP EBITDA | 173,161 | | | (20,580) | |
| Impairment of goodwill | — | | | 26,695 | |
| Restructuring and related charges | 7,497 | | | 37,225 | |
| Net foreign exchange transaction losses | 3,094 | | | 3,977 | |
| Net (gain) loss on sale of businesses, assets, and impairment charges related to assets held-for-sale | (6,170) | | | 127,343 | |
| Other (income) expense, net | (3,008) | | | 3,052 | |
Held for Sale or Sold segment Adjusted EBITDA (1) | 3,578 | | | (25,621) | |
| Non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA | $ | 178,152 | | | $ | 152,091 | |
| | | | | |
| (1) | Our Non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA excludes the Held for Sale or Sold segment Non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA. |
Interest Expense:
Interest expense for the six months ended October 31, 2024, was $27.3 million compared with the prior year of $24.3 million. This increase was primarily due to a higher weighted average effective interest rate.
Net Foreign Exchange Transaction Losses:
Net foreign exchange transaction losses of $(3.1) million for the six months ended October 31, 2024 were primarily due to losses on our third-party receivable and payable balances and, to a lesser extent, losses on our foreign currency denominated intercompany accounts receivable and payable balances due to the impact of the change in average foreign exchange rates as compared to the US dollar. In the six months ended October 31, 2024, we wrote off an additional net $0.3 million in cumulative translation adjustments in earnings due to the closure of our operations in Russia.
Foreign exchange transaction losses of $(4.0) million for the six months ended October 31, 2023 were primarily due to losses on our intercompany accounts receivable and payable balances and, to a lesser extent, on our foreign currency denominated third party accounts receivable and payable balances due to the impact of the change in average foreign exchange rates as compared to the US dollar. In fiscal year 2023, due to the closure of our operations in Russia, our Russian entity was deemed substantially liquidated. As a result, cumulative translation adjustments associated with that entity were recognized. In the six months ended October 31, 2023, we wrote off an additional $1.0 million in cumulative translation adjustments from our Russian entity.
Net Gain (Loss) on Sale of Businesses, Assets, and Impairment Charges Related to Assets Held-for-Sale:
For the six months ended October 31, 2024 and 2023, we recorded net pretax gain (loss) on sale of businesses, assets, and impairment charges related to assets held-for-sale as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Six Months Ended
October 31, |
| 2024 | | 2023 |
| Wiley Edge | $ | 788 | | | $ | — | |
| University Services | 1,489 | | | (75,466) | |
| Tuition Manager | 120 | | | (1,500) | |
| CrossKnowledge | 3,922 | | | (50,377) | |
| Sale of assets | (149) | | | — | |
| Net gain (loss) on sale of businesses, assets, and impairment charges related to assets held-for-sale | $ | 6,170 | | | $ | (127,343) | |
These charges are reflected in Net gain (loss) on sale of businesses, assets, and impairment charges related to assets held-for-sale on our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Net Income (Loss).
On August 31, 2024, we completed the sale of CrossKnowledge which was included in our Held for Sale or Sold segment. The pretax loss on sale was $51.5 million. In connection with the held-for-sale classification, we recognized cumulative impairment charges of $51.0 million which included $55.4 million recognized in fiscal year 2024 and a reduction of $4.4 million in the three months ended July 31, 2024. Upon completion of the sale, we recognized a net reduction in the loss of $3.9 million in the six months ended October 31, 2024.
On May 31, 2024, we completed the sale of Wiley Edge which was included in our Held for Sale or Sold segment, with the exception of its India operations which sold on August 31, 2024. The total pretax loss on sale was $18.6 million. In connection with the held-for-sale classification, we recognized cumulative impairment charges of $19.4 million in the year ended April 30, 2024. Upon the completion of the sale, we recognized a net gain of $0.8 million in the six months ended October 31, 2024, which included $1.0 million in the three months ended October 31, 2024, primarily due to the sale of the India operations, partially offset by subsequent changes in the costs to sell.
On January 1, 2024 we completed the sale of University Services, which was included in our Held for Sale or Sold segment. The pretax loss on sale was $105.6 million which was reduced during the six months ended October 31, 2024 due to third-party customer consents and working capital adjustments of $1.5 million that occurred in the first quarter of fiscal year 2025. In the six months ended October 31, 2024, there was a reduction in the pretax loss on the sale of our Tuition Manager business previously in our Held for Sale or Sold segment of $0.1 million due to a selling price adjustment for cash received after the closing.
In the three months ended October 31, 2024 we sold a facility which was reflected in Technology, property, and equipment, net in our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Position which resulted in a pretax loss on sale of $0.2 million.
In the six months ended October 31, 2023, we recorded a held-for-sale pretax impairment of $125.8 million which includes $75.4 million for University Services, and $50.4 million for CrossKnowledge. Additionally, in the six months ended October 31, 2023 there was a pretax loss on the sale of our Tuition Manager business previously in our Held for Sale or Sold segment, of approximately $1.5 million.
See Note 3, “Divestitures” for more details on the divestitures.
Provision (Benefit) for Income Taxes:
Below is a reconciliation of our US GAAP Income (Loss) Before Taxes to Non-GAAP Adjusted Income Before Taxes:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Six Months Ended
October 31, |
| 2024 | | 2023 |
| US GAAP Income (Loss) Before Taxes | $ | 71,940 | | | $ | (128,753) | |
| Pretax Impact of Adjustments: | | | |
| Impairment of goodwill | — | | | 26,695 | |
| Restructuring and related charges | 7,497 | | | 37,225 | |
| Foreign exchange losses on intercompany transactions, including the write off of certain cumulative translation adjustments | 351 | | | 3,217 | |
| Amortization of acquired intangible assets | 25,913 | | | 30,971 | |
| Net (gain) loss on sale of businesses, assets, and impairment charges related to assets held-for-sale | (6,170) | | | 127,343 | |
Held for Sale or Sold segment Adjusted Loss (Income) Before Taxes (1) | 3,578 | | | (24,133) | |
| Non-GAAP Adjusted Income Before Taxes | $ | 103,109 | | | $ | 72,565 | |
| | | | | |
| (1) | Our Adjusted Income Before Taxes excludes the Adjusted Loss (Income) Before Taxes of our Held for Sale or Sold segment. |
Below is a reconciliation of our US GAAP Income Tax Provision (Benefit) to Non-GAAP Adjusted Income Tax Provision, including our US GAAP Effective Tax Rate and our Non-GAAP Adjusted Effective Tax Rate:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Six Months Ended
October 31, |
| 2024 | | 2023 |
| US GAAP Income Tax Provision (Benefit) | $ | 32,918 | | $ | (17,044) |
Income Tax Impact of Adjustments(1): | | | |
| Impairment of goodwill | — | | 2,697 |
| Restructuring and related charges | 911 | | 9,251 |
| Foreign exchange losses on intercompany transactions, including the write off of certain cumulative translation adjustments | 338 | | 854 |
| Amortization of acquired intangible assets | 3,601 | | 7,517 |
| Net (gain) loss on sale of businesses, assets, and impairment charges related to assets held-for-sale | (1,513) | | 19,203 |
Held for Sale or Sold segment Adjusted Tax Benefit (Provision)(2) | 887 | | (5,266) |
| Income Tax Adjustments | | | |
Impact of valuation allowance on the US GAAP effective tax rate(3) | (13,119) | | — |
| Non-GAAP Adjusted Income Tax Provision | $ | 24,023 | | $ | 17,212 |
| | | |
| US GAAP Effective Tax Rate | 45.8 | % | | 13.2 | % |
| Non-GAAP Adjusted Effective Tax Rate | 23.3 | % | | 23.7 | % |
| | | | | |
| (1) | For the six months ended October 31, 2024 and 2023, substantially all of the tax impact was from deferred taxes. |
| (2) | Our Adjusted Income Tax Provision excludes the Adjusted Tax Benefit (Provision) of our Held for Sale or Sold segment. |
| (3) | In the six months ended October 31, 2024, there was a $13.1 million impact on the US GAAP effective tax rate due to the valuation allowance on deferred tax assets in the US. |
The US GAAP effective tax rate for the six months ended October 31, 2024, was 45.8% compared to 13.2% for the six months ended October 31, 2023. The US GAAP effective tax rate for the six months ended October 31, 2024 was greater than the US GAAP effective tax rate for the six months ended October 31, 2023 primarily driven by US ordinary losses for which no tax benefit can be recognized as a result of the valuation allowance recorded against the net deferred tax assets.
The Non-GAAP Adjusted Effective Tax Rate was 23.3% for the six months ended October 31, 2024 compared to 23.7% for the six months ended October 31, 2023. The slight decrease in the Non-GAAP Adjusted Effective Tax Rate for the six months ended October 31, 2024 compared with the six months ended October 31, 2023 was primarily due to the mix of income.
Diluted Earnings (Loss) per Share:
Diluted earnings per share for the six months ended October 31, 2024 was $0.71 per share compared with a loss per share of $(2.02) per share for the six months ended October 31, 2023. This increase was primarily due to impairment charges related to assets held-for-sale in the prior year and, to a lesser extent, an increase in operating income, partially offset by an income tax benefit in the prior year compared to income tax expense in the six months ended October 31, 2024.
Below is a reconciliation of our US GAAP Earnings (Loss) per Share to Non-GAAP Adjusted EPS. The amount of the pretax, and the related income tax impact for the adjustments included in the table below are presented in the section above, “Provision (Benefit) for Income Taxes.”
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Six Months Ended
October 31, |
| 2024 | | 2023 |
| US GAAP Earnings (Loss) Per Share | $ | 0.71 | | | $ | (2.02) | |
| Adjustments: | | | |
| Impairment of goodwill | — | | | 0.43 | |
| Restructuring and related charges | 0.12 | | | 0.50 | |
| Foreign exchange losses on intercompany transactions, including the write off of certain cumulative translation adjustments | — | | | 0.04 | |
| Amortization of acquired intangible assets | 0.40 | | | 0.42 | |
| Net (gain) loss on sale of businesses, assets, and impairment charges related to assets held-for-sale | (0.08) | | | 1.94 | |
Held for Sale or Sold segment Adjusted Net Loss (Income)(1) | 0.05 | | | (0.34) | |
| Income tax adjustments | 0.24 | | | — | |
EPS impact of using weighted-average dilutive shares for adjusted EPS calculation (2) | — | | | 0.02 | |
| Non-GAAP Adjusted EPS | $ | 1.44 | | | $ | 0.99 | |
| | | | | |
| (1) | Our Adjusted EPS excludes the Adjusted Net Loss (Income) of our Held for Sale or Sold segment. |
| (2) | Represents the impact of using diluted weighted-average number of common shares outstanding (55.7 million shares for the six months ended October 31, 2023) included in the Non-GAAP Adjusted EPS calculation in order to apply the dilutive impact on adjusted net income due to the effect of unvested restricted stock units and other stock awards. This impact occurs when a US GAAP net loss is reported and the effect of using dilutive shares is antidilutive. |
On a constant currency basis, Adjusted EPS increased 47% primarily due to an increase in Adjusted Operating Income.
SEGMENT OPERATING RESULTS
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Six Months Ended
October 31, | | % Change
Favorable
(Unfavorable) | | Constant Currency % Change Favorable (Unfavorable) |
| RESEARCH | 2024 | | 2023 | | |
| Revenue: | | | | | | | |
| Research Publishing | $ | 453,618 | | $ | 442,743 | | 2 | % | | 2 | % |
| Research Solutions | 73,576 | | 72,731 | | 1 | % | | 1 | % |
| Total Research Revenue | 527,194 | | 515,474 | | 2 | % | | 2 | % |
| | | | | | | |
| Cost of Sales | 138,249 | | 141,567 | | 2 | % | | 3 | % |
| Operating Expenses | 252,074 | | 238,862 | | (6) | % | | (5) | % |
| Amortization of Intangible Assets | 22,128 | | 22,662 | | 2 | % | | 3 | % |
| Adjusted Operating Income | 114,743 | | 112,383 | | 2 | % | | 3 | % |
| Depreciation and amortization | 45,081 | | 45,880 | | 2 | % | | 2 | % |
| Adjusted EBITDA | $ | 159,824 | | $ | 158,263 | | 1 | % | | 1 | % |
| Adjusted EBITDA Margin | 30.3% | | 30.7% | | | | |
Revenue:
Research revenue for the six months ended October 31, 2024 increased $11.7 million, or 2%, as compared with the prior year on a reported basis. On a constant currency basis, revenue increased 2% as compared with the prior year. Research Publishing revenue increased primarily due to institutional models, and open access, partially offset by a decrease in legacy print and licensing revenue. Research Solutions revenue increased primarily due to managed services and, to a lesser extent, databases, partially offset by advertising. Open access article output growth was approximately 15% as compared with the prior year.
Adjusted EBITDA:
On a constant currency basis, Adjusted EBITDA increased 1% as compared with the prior year. This increase was primarily due to higher revenue and, to a lesser extent, lower cost of sales, partially offset by higher employment and technology related costs.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Six Months Ended
October 31, | | % Change Favorable (Unfavorable) | | Constant Currency % Change Favorable (Unfavorable) |
| LEARNING | 2024 | | 2023 | | |
| Revenue: | | | | | | | |
| Academic | $ | 154,752 | | $ | 137,417 | | 13 | % | | 12 | % |
| Professional | 131,076 | | 120,843 | | 8 | % | | 8 | % |
| Total Learning Revenue | 285,828 | | 258,260 | | 11 | % | | 10 | % |
| | | | | | | |
| Cost of Sales | 70,216 | | 66,941 | | (5) | % | | (4) | % |
| Operating Expenses | 133,175 | | 139,233 | | 4 | % | | 5 | % |
| Amortization of Intangible Assets | 4,066 | | 4,548 | | 11 | % | | 11 | % |
| Adjusted Operating Income | 78,371 | | 47,538 | | 65 | % | | 63 | % |
| Depreciation and amortization | 22,191 | | 27,526 | | 19 | % | | 20 | % |
| Adjusted EBITDA | $ | 100,562 | | $ | 75,064 | | 34 | % | | 33 | % |
| Adjusted EBITDA Margin | 35.2% | | 29.1% | | | | |
Revenue:
Learning revenue increased $27.6 million, or 11%, as compared with the prior year on a reported basis. On a constant currency basis, revenue increased 10% as compared with the prior year. On a constant currency basis, excluding the $21 million content rights project for training GenAI large language models, Learning revenue increased 2% as compared with the prior year. Academic revenue on a constant currency basis excluding GenAI increased 4% due to licensing, zyBooks digital courseware, and inclusive access, partially offset by a decrease in print book sales. Professional revenue on a constant currency basis excluding GenAI increased 1% due to an increase in print book sales, partially offset by a decrease in digital content.
Adjusted EBITDA:
On a constant currency basis, Adjusted EBITDA increased 33% as compared with the prior year. This increase was primarily due to revenue performance and, to a lesser extent, a decrease in employee costs after recent restructuring actions, partially offset by higher royalty costs.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Six Months Ended
October 31, | | % Change Favorable (Unfavorable) | | Constant Currency % Change Favorable (Unfavorable) |
| HELD FOR SALE OR SOLD | 2024 | | 2023 | | |
| Total Held for Sale or Sold Revenue | $ | 17,382 | | $ | 170,087 | | (90) | % | | (90) | % |
| | | | | | | |
| Cost of Sales | 7,755 | | 104,207 | | 93 | % | | 93 | % |
| Operating Expenses | 13,205 | | 41,693 | | 68 | % | | 68 | % |
| Amortization of Intangible Assets | — | | 2,003 | | # | | # |
| Adjusted Operating (Loss) Income | (3,578) | | 22,184 | | # | | # |
| Depreciation and amortization | — | | 3,437 | | # | | # |
| Adjusted EBITDA | $ | (3,578) | | $ | 25,621 | | # | | # |
| Adjusted EBITDA Margin | (20.6)% | | 15.1% | | | | |
# Not meaningful
Revenue:
Revenue for Held for Sale or Sold decreased $152.7 million, or 90%, as compared with the prior year on a reported and constant currency basis. This was primarily due to a decrease in University Services revenue due to the sale of the business on January 1, 2024 and, to a lesser extent, placement revenues due to the sale of the Wiley Edge business on May 31, 2024.
Adjusted EBITDA:
On a constant currency basis, Adjusted EBITDA decreased $29.2 million as compared with the prior year. This decrease was primarily due to lower revenue, partially offset by lower employment and marketing costs due to the sale of the University Services and Wiley Edge businesses.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Six Months Ended
October 31, | | % Change Favorable (Unfavorable) | | Constant Currency % Change Favorable (Unfavorable) |
| CORPORATE EXPENSES | 2024 | | 2023 | | |
| Operating Expenses | $ | 89,256 | | $ | 88,295 | | (1) | % | | (1) | % |
| Amortization of Intangible Assets | (323) | | — | | # | | # |
| Adjusted Corporate Expenses | (88,933) | | (88,295) | | (1) | % | | 0 | % |
| Depreciation and amortization | 6,699 | | 7,059 | | 5 | % | | 5 | % |
| Adjusted EBITDA | $ | (82,234) | | $ | (81,236) | | (1) | % | | (1) | % |
# Not meaningful
On a constant currency basis, adjusted corporate expenses of $82.2 million on an Adjusted EBITDA basis increased 1% as compared with the prior year. This was primarily due to an increase in technology related costs, partially offset by a decrease in employee costs and, to a lesser extent, higher executive severance costs in the prior year.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
Principal Sources of Liquidity
We believe that our operating cash flow, together with our revolving credit facilities and other available debt financing, will be adequate to meet our operating, investing, and financing needs in the next twelve months. Operating cash flow provides the primary source of cash to fund operating needs and capital expenditures. Excess operating cash is used to fund shareholder dividends. Other discretionary uses of cash flow include share repurchases and acquisitions to complement our portfolio of businesses. As necessary, we may supplement operating cash flow with debt to fund these activities. The overall cash position of the Company reflects our durable business results and a global cash management strategy that considers liquidity management, economic factors and tax considerations. Our cash and cash equivalents are maintained at a number of financial institutions. To mitigate the risk of uninsured balances, we select financial institutions based on their credit ratings and financial strength, and we perform ongoing evaluations of these institutions to limit our concentration risk exposure to any financial institution.
As of October 31, 2024, we had cash and cash equivalents of $75.5 million, of which approximately all was located outside the US. Maintenance of these cash and cash equivalent balances outside the US does not have a material impact on the liquidity or capital resources of our operations. We intend to repatriate earnings from our non-US subsidiaries, and to the extent we repatriate these funds to the US, we will be required to pay income taxes in various US state and local jurisdictions and applicable non-US withholding or similar taxes in the periods in which such repatriation occurs. Accordingly, as of October 31, 2024, we have recorded a deferred tax liability of approximately $3.0 million related to the estimated taxes that would be incurred upon repatriating certain non-US earnings to the US.
On November 30, 2022, we entered into the second amendment to the Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (collectively, the Amended and Restated CA). See Note 15, “Debt and Available Credit Facilities” for more details on the amendment. The Amended and Restated CA provided for senior unsecured credit facilities comprised of the following (i) a five-year revolving credit facility in an aggregate principal amount up to $1.115 billion, which matures November 2027, (ii) a five-year term loan A facility consisting of $200 million, which matures November 2027, and (iii) $185 million aggregate principal amount revolving credit facility which matured in May 2024.
As of October 31, 2024, we had approximately $961.0 million of debt outstanding, net of unamortized issuance costs of $0.5 million, and approximately $344.3 million of unused borrowing capacity under our Amended and Restated CA and other facilities. Our Amended and Restated CA contains certain restrictive covenants related to our consolidated leverage ratio and interest coverage ratio, which we were in compliance with as of October 31, 2024.
Analysis of Historical Cash Flows
The following table shows the changes in our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Six Months Ended
October 31, |
| 2024 | | 2023 |
| Net cash used in operating activities | $ | (93,992) | | | $ | (83,486) | |
| Net cash used in investing activities | (44,489) | | | (51,917) | |
| Net cash provided by financing activities | 113,083 | | | 129,702 | |
| Effect of foreign currency exchange rate changes on cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash | $ | 1,441 | | | $ | (1,943) | |
Cash flow from operations is seasonally a use of cash in the first half of Wiley’s fiscal year principally due to the timing of collections for annual journal subscriptions, which typically occurs in the beginning of the second half of our fiscal year.
Free cash flow less product development spending helps assess our ability, over the long term, to create value for our shareholders, as it represents cash available to repay debt, pay common dividends, and fund share repurchases, and acquisitions. Below are the details of Free cash flow less product development spending.
Free Cash Flow less Product Development Spending:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Six Months Ended
October 31, |
| 2024 | | 2023 |
| Net cash used in operating activities | $ | (93,992) | | | $ | (83,486) | |
| Less: Additions to technology, property and equipment | (29,030) | | | (40,321) | |
| Less: Product development spending | (7,127) | | | (8,168) | |
| Free cash flow less product development spending | $ | (130,149) | | | $ | (131,975) | |
Net Cash Used in Operating Activities
The following is a summary of the $10.5 million change in Net cash used in operating activities for the six months ended October 31, 2024 compared with the six months ended October 31, 2023 (amounts in millions).
| | | | | |
| Net cash used in operating activities – Six months ended October 31, 2023 | $ | (83.5) | |
| Net income (loss) adjusted for items to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash used in operating activities, which would include such noncash items as depreciation and amortization, impairment of goodwill, (gains) losses on sale of businesses, assets, and impairment charges related to assets held-for-sale, restructuring charges, and the change in deferred taxes | (6.0) | |
| Working capital changes: | |
| Accounts receivable, net and contract liabilities | (7.5) | |
| Accounts payable and accrued royalties | 42.0 | |
| Changes in other assets and liabilities | (39.0) | |
| Net cash used in operating activities – Six months ended October 31, 2024 | $ | (94.0) | |
The unfavorable change in accounts receivable, net and contract liabilities was primarily due to higher Adjusted Revenues, and the timing of invoicing.
The favorable change in accounts payable and accrued royalties was primarily due to the timing of payments.
The unfavorable changes in other assets and liabilities noted in the table above was primarily due to higher payments for annual incentive compensation in fiscal year 2025 related to the prior fiscal year.
Our negative working capital (current assets less current liabilities) was $191.2 million and $419.2 million as of October 31, 2024 and April 30, 2024, respectively. This $228.0 million change in negative working capital was primarily due to the seasonality of our business. The primary driver of the negative working capital is the benefit realized from unearned contract liabilities related to subscriptions for which cash has been collected in advance. The contract liabilities will be recognized as income when the products are shipped or made available online to the customers over the term of the subscription. Current liabilities as of October 31, 2024 and as of April 30, 2024 includes $241.5 million and $483.8 million, respectively, primarily related to deferred subscription revenue for which cash was collected in advance.
Cash collected in advance for subscriptions is used by us for a number of purposes, including funding operations, capital expenditures, acquisitions, debt repayments, dividend payments, and share repurchases.
Net Cash Used In Investing Activities
Net cash used in investing activities for the six months ended October 31, 2024 was $44.5 million compared to $51.9 million in the prior year. The decrease in net cash used in investing activities was primarily due to a decrease in cash used of $11.3 million for additions to technology, property and equipment, and cash proceeds from a life insurance settlement of $2.1 million in fiscal year 2025, partially offset by the net cash transferred in fiscal year 2025 related to the sale of businesses and assets. See Note 3, "Divestitures" for further details.
Net Cash Provided By Financing Activities
Net cash provided by financing activities was $113.1 million for the six months ended October 31, 2024 compared to $129.7 million for the six months ended October 31, 2023. This decrease in cash provided by financing activities was primarily due to lower net borrowings in fiscal year 2025 of $14.1 million and, to a lesser extent, an increase in cash used to repurchase shares of $2.9 million in fiscal year 2025.
In the six months ended October 31, 2024, we increased our quarterly dividend to shareholders to $1.41 per share annualized versus $1.40 per share annualized in the prior year.
The following table summarizes the shares repurchased of Class A and Class B Common Stock (shares in thousands):
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Six Months Ended
October 31, |
| 2024 | | 2023 |
| Shares repurchased – Class A | 556 | | | 668 | |
| Shares repurchased – Class B | 1 | | | 1 | |
| Average price – Class A and Class B | $ | 44.89 | | | $ | 33.64 | |
The cost of shares repurchased may differ from the repurchases of treasury shares in the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows due to excise taxes incurred on share repurchases.
ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
We are exposed to market risk primarily related to interest rates, foreign exchange, and credit risk. It is our policy to monitor these exposures and to use derivative financial investments and/or insurance contracts from time to time to reduce fluctuations in earnings and cash flows when it is deemed appropriate to do so. We do not use derivative financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes.
Interest Rates
From time to time, we may use interest rate swaps, collars, or options to manage our exposure to fluctuations in interest rates. It is management’s intention that the notional amount of interest rate swaps be less than the variable rate loans outstanding during the life of the derivatives.
The information set forth in Note 16, “Derivatives Instruments and Hedging Activities,” of the Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements under the caption “Interest Rate Contracts,” is incorporated herein by reference.
On an annual basis, a hypothetical one percent change in interest rates for the $461.5 million of unhedged variable rate debt as of October 31, 2024 would affect net income and cash flow by approximately $3.5 million.
Foreign Exchange Rates
Fluctuations in the currencies of countries where we operate outside the US may have a significant impact on financial results. We are primarily exposed to movements in British pound sterling, euros, Canadian and Australian dollars, and certain currencies in Asia. The statements of financial position of non-US business units are translated into US dollars using period-end exchange rates for assets and liabilities and the statements of income are translated into US dollars using weighted-average exchange rates for revenues and expenses.
Our significant investments in non-US businesses are exposed to foreign currency risk. Adjustments resulting from translating assets and liabilities are reported as a separate component of Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax within Shareholders’ Equity under the caption Foreign currency translation adjustment.
During the three and six months ended October 31, 2024, we recorded foreign currency translation gains in Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax of approximately $27.9 million and $42.9 million, respectively, primarily as a result of the fluctuations of the US dollar relative to the euro and, to a lesser extent, the British pound sterling. During the three and six months ended October 31, 2023, we recorded foreign currency translation losses in Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax of approximately $(33.9) million and $(22.7) million, respectively, primarily as a result of the fluctuations of the US dollar relative to the British pound sterling and, to a lesser extent, the euro.
Exchange rate gains or losses related to foreign currency transactions are recognized as transaction gains or losses on the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Net Income (Loss) as incurred. Under certain circumstances, we may enter into derivative financial instruments in the form of foreign currency forward contracts to hedge against specific transactions, including intercompany purchases and loans.
The information set forth in Note 16, “Derivatives Instruments and Hedging Activities,” of the Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements under the caption “Foreign Currency Contracts,” is incorporated herein by reference.
Sales Return Reserves
The estimated allowance for print book sales returns is based upon historical return patterns, as well as current market trends in the businesses in which we operate. In connection with the estimated sales return reserves, we also include a related increase to inventory and a reduction to accrued royalties as a result of the expected returns.
The reserves are reflected in the following accounts of our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Position:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| October 31, 2024 | | April 30, 2024 |
| Increase in Inventories, net | $ | 7,839 | | | $ | 7,833 | |
| Decrease in Accrued royalties | $ | (3,112) | | | $ | (3,112) | |
| Increase in Contract liabilities | $ | 25,393 | | | $ | 25,393 | |
| Print book sales return reserve net liability balance | $ | (14,442) | | | $ | (14,448) | |
A one percent change in the estimated sales return rate could affect net income by approximately $0.6 million. A change in the pattern or trends in returns could affect the estimated allowance.
Customer Credit Risk
In the journal publishing business, some subscriptions are sourced through journal subscription agents who, acting as agents for library customers, facilitate ordering by consolidating the subscription orders/billings of each subscriber with various publishers. Cash is generally collected in advance from subscribers by the subscription agents and is principally remitted to us between the months of December and April. Although currently we have minimal credit risk exposure to these agents, future calendar-year subscription receipts from these agents are highly dependent on their financial condition and liquidity. Subscription agents account for approximately 16% of total annual consolidated revenue, and no one affiliated group of subscription agents accounts for more than 10% of total annual consolidated revenue.
Our book business is not dependent upon a single customer; however, the industry is concentrated in national, regional, and online bookstore chains. No single book customer accounts for more than 7% of total consolidated revenue and 20% of accounts receivable at October 31, 2024. The top 10 book customers account for approximately 14% of total consolidated revenue and approximately 43% of accounts receivable at October 31, 2024.
ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
The Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Interim Chief Financial Officer, together with other members of the Company’s management, have conducted an evaluation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”) as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on this evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Interim Chief Financial Officer have concluded that the Company's disclosure controls and procedures were effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Company in reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is (i) recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified by the Securities and Exchange Commission's rules and forms and (ii) accumulated and communicated to the Company’s management, including its Chief Executive Officer and Interim Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) during the quarter ended October 31, 2024 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
PART II - OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
There have been no significant developments related to legal proceedings during the three months ended October 31, 2024. For information regarding legal proceedings, see our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended April 30, 2024 Note 16, “Commitment and Contingencies”.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
There have been no material changes from the risk factors previously disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended April 30, 2024, that if they were to occur, could materially adversely affect our businesses, consolidated financial condition, and results of operations. For a discussion of our risk factors, refer to Item 1A. “Risk Factors” contained in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended April 30, 2024.
ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
During the three months ended October 31, 2024, we made the following purchases of Class A and Class B Common Stock under our publicly announced stock repurchase programs:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Total Number
of Shares
Purchased | | Average Price Paid Per Share(1) | | Total Number
of Shares Purchased
as part of a Publicly
Announced Program | | Maximum Number
of Shares that May
be Purchased
Under the Program | | Maximum Dollar
Value of Shares
that May be Purchased
Under Additional Plans
or Programs
(Dollars in millions) |
| August 2024 | — | | $ | — | | | — | | — | | $ | 104.9 | |
| September 2024 | 139,000 | | 45.89 | | | 139,000 | | — | | 98.6 | |
| October 2024 | 122,710 | | 49.88 | | | 122,710 | | — | | 92.4 | |
| Total | 261,710 | | $ | 47.76 | | | 261,710 | | — | | $ | 92.4 | |
| | | | | |
| (1) | Average price per share excludes excise taxes payable on share repurchases. |
ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION
Directors and Executive Officers Trading Arrangements
During the period covered by this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, none of our directors or officers adopted, modified or terminated a “Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement” or a “non-Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement” as such terms are defined under Item 408 of Regulation S-K.
ITEM 6. EXHIBITS
| | | | | | | | |
| Material Contracts | |
| John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Director Restricted Share Unit Grant Agreement pursuant to the 2022 Omnibus Stock Plan and Long-Term Incentive Plan. | |
| | |
| Certifications Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 | |
| Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. | |
| | |
| Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. | |
| | |
| Certifications Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 | |
| Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. | |
| | | |
| Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. | |
| | |
| Inline XBRL | |
| 101.INS* | Inline XBRL Instance Document (the instance document does not appear in the Interactive Data File because its XBRL tags are embedded within the Inline XBRL document). | |
| 101.SCH* | Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document. | |
| 101.CAL* | Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document. | |
| 101.DEF* | Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document. | |
| 101.LAB* | Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document. | |
| 101.PRE* | Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document. | |
| 104 | Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted as inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101) | |
| | |
*Filed herewith
** Furnished herewith
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements 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.
| | | | | | | | |
| | JOHN WILEY & SONS, INC. Registrant |
| | |
| | |
| By | /s/ Matthew S. Kissner |
| | Matthew S. Kissner |
| | President and Chief Executive Officer |
| | |
| By | /s/ Christopher F. Caridi |
| | Christopher F. Caridi |
| | Senior Vice President, Global Corporate Controller and Chief Accounting Officer and Interim Chief Financial Officer |
| | |
| | Dated: December 6, 2024 |
