Sinclair Stock Price, News & Analysis

Sinclair Broadcast Group (Nasdaq: SBGI) has declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.20 per share on its Class A and Class B common stock. This dividend is set to be paid on June 15, 2021, to shareholders of record as of the close of business on June 1, 2021.

Sinclair continues to be a major player in the media sector, with ownership and operation of 21 regional sports networks and 186 television stations across 87 markets. Its diverse media offerings include local news and national networks, delivered through various platforms.

Sinclair Broadcast Group (SBGI) reported a 6% revenue decline to $1.511 billion for Q1 2021. The operating income plummeted to $35 million from $327 million in Q1 2020, mainly due to $32 million in non-recurring costs. A net loss of $12 million was recorded, contrasting with a $123 million income in the previous year. Adjusted EBITDA fell 35% to $182 million. Despite challenges, CEO Chris Ripley noted a recovery in the advertising market and optimism for continued growth, aided by the recent Bally Sports rebranding and the launch of the Bally Sports App.

Sinclair Broadcast Group (Nasdaq: SBGI) is expanding its original news program, The National Desk, to evening hours starting September 27, 2021. This program will air from 10 p.m.-12 a.m. EDT and 7 p.m.-9 p.m. PDT across 68 stations and Sinclair's digital platforms. Since its launch in January 2021, the program has been well-received for providing local and national news without commentary. Mike Garber will lead the evening content, and a new website and app will be introduced for better access to news. Sinclair aims to continue delivering valuable and immediate news coverage.

Sinclair Broadcast Group (Nasdaq: SBGI) announced significant achievements at the Cynopsis Sports Media Awards, receiving nine awards, including "RSN of the Year" for Bally Sports. Bally Sports Florida led with seven awards, encompassing notable recognitions for local sports programming. Additionally, Tennis Channel's Ken Solomon was honored as a "Hall of Fame Luminary" for innovation in tennis broadcasting. Sinclair's High School Sports Division was acknowledged for its creative programming during the pandemic. These awards highlight Sinclair's commitment to sports broadcasting and audience engagement.

Sinclair Broadcast Group (Nasdaq: SBGI) will announce its first quarter 2021 earnings on May 5, 2021, at 7:30 a.m. ET, followed by a conference call at 9:00 a.m. ET. Investors can join the call via a live webcast available at www.sbgi.net under 'Investors/Webcasts.' The call's dial-in number is 877-407-8033, and participants are advised to connect two minutes early. A replay will be accessible on the company's website. Media representatives can listen but must be in listen-only mode. Further company information is also found on its website.

Sinclair Broadcast Group (Nasdaq: SBGI) has expanded its Board of Directors from nine to eleven members, welcoming Laurie R. Beyer as its first female director. Her appointment, following the unanimous recommendation of independent board members, aims to enhance governance and diversify the board’s experience. Currently the CFO of Greater Baltimore Medical Center, Beyer brings extensive financial expertise. She will stand for re-election at the next annual shareholder meeting. The board also plans to fill an additional vacancy with a suitable candidate in the future.

Sinclair Broadcast Group (NASDAQ: SBGI) announced that its professional wrestling promotion, Ring of Honor (ROH), will celebrate its 500th episode on April 15, airing from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. ET. The event features ten classic matches and two new marquee matches chosen by fans. Notable matches include Jay Briscoe vs. Matt Hardy and The Young Bucks vs. reDRagon. Additionally, an Episode 500 watch party will take place for HonorClub members. This milestone showcases Sinclair's commitment to ROH and highlights the show's popularity since its premiere in 2011.

WGME CBS 13, a Sinclair Broadcast Group affiliate, has won the prestigious Investigative Reporters and Editors (IRE) Award for its work on the Veterans Crisis Line. Reporter Jon Chrisos and the I-Team uncovered critical flaws in the hotline's geolocation technology, which led to emergency responders being dispatched incorrectly. Their findings prompted Senators Susan Collins and Angus King to propose amendments to enhance funding for the hotline’s technology. This recognition marks WGME as the first Maine-based television station to receive the IRE Award, highlighting the significance of local news.