STOCK TITAN

Kartoon Studios (NYSE American: TOON) turns Q2 profit as litigation gain boosts cash

(High)
(Neutral)
Form Type
8-K

Rhea-AI Filing Summary

Kartoon Studios, Inc. reported second quarter 2026 results while outlining a strategic shift toward owning and monetizing high‑value children’s intellectual property. Revenue for the quarter was $5.8 million, down from $10.3 million a year earlier, mainly due to lower production services activity at Mainframe Studios.

Total expenses fell 32% to $9.2 million, as direct operating costs declined and general and administrative expenses were reduced. Loss from operations was $3.4 million, similar to the prior‑year loss of $3.2 million despite the revenue decline. Other income, net, was $31.1 million, driven by a $39.2 million non‑recurring gain from litigation settlements, partly offset by a $4.0 million non‑operating charge related to a standstill and voting agreement and other items.

Net income for the quarter was $27.0 million, versus a net loss of $(6.3) million in the prior‑year period. As of June 30, 2026, Kartoon Studios held $40.5 million in cash and marketable securities and reported no long‑term debt, with total assets of $94.5 million. Management highlighted a new Amazon Prime distribution partnership for the Hundred Acre Wood franchise, continued development of the Stan Lee Universe, and the sale of the Frederator network business (retaining key IP) as part of a broader transformation toward a focused, IP‑driven, higher‑margin business model.

Positive

  • Net income swung to $26.9 million in Q2 2026 from a $(6.3) million loss a year earlier, primarily due to a large non‑recurring litigation settlement gain.
  • Cash and marketable securities reached $40.5 million with no long‑term debt, giving the company substantial financial flexibility for its IP‑driven strategy.
  • Total expenses decreased 32% to $9.2 million, showing tangible cost discipline despite a 43% revenue decline.
  • $39.2 million in litigation settlements strengthened the balance sheet and supported a significant improvement in equity to $53.6 million from $27.5 million at year‑end 2025.
  • The company announced a distribution partnership with Amazon Prime for its Hundred Acre Wood franchise, supporting future multi‑platform monetization.
  • Kartoon Studios is pivoting to an owned‑IP, franchise‑focused model, emphasizing Hundred Acre Wood and the Stan Lee Universe as cornerstone brands for higher‑margin growth.

Negative

  • Quarterly revenue fell to $5.8 million from $10.3 million year over year, a 43% decline driven mainly by weaker production services.
  • Loss from operations was $3.4 million in Q2 2026, slightly worse than the $3.2 million loss a year earlier despite major cost cuts.
  • The strong quarterly profit depended on a $39.2 million non‑recurring litigation gain, highlighting that underlying operations remain unprofitable.
  • Production‑services revenue, historically important for the company, declined sharply, underscoring execution risk as Kartoon Studios transitions to an IP‑centric model.

Filing Explained

At June 30, 2026, common shares outstanding were 62,204,105 versus 54,857,000 at year-end, reducing existing holders’ percentage ownership absent offsets.

Form 8-K reports specified material events; here, Kartoon Studios furnished its results for the quarter ended June 30, 2026. The filing also reports a higher common-share base, which can reduce existing holders’ percentage ownership if the increase reflects additional issuance.

Common shares issued and outstanding were 62,204,105 at June 30, 2026, versus 54,857,000 at December 31, 2025. Under the supplied dilution definition, additional shares increase the total share count and reduce an existing holder’s percentage ownership absent offsetting changes.

Management’s commentary says another approximately $39.2 million, less legal fees, remained to be distributed from escrow. The filing distinguishes that pending distribution from the $40.5 million of cash and marketable securities reported as of June 30, 2026.

The open item is the escrowed litigation-settlement distribution: the release identifies its distribution as forward-looking rather than a completed receipt.

Item 2.02 Results of Operations and Financial Condition Financial
Disclosure of earnings results, typically an earnings press release or preliminary financials.
Item 9.01 Financial Statements and Exhibits Exhibits
Financial statements, pro forma financial information, and exhibit attachments filed with this report.
Q2 2026 Revenue $5.8 million Revenue for the quarter ended June 30, 2026
Prior-year Q2 Revenue $10.3 million Revenue for the quarter ended June 30, 2025
Total Expenses Q2 2026 $9.2 million Total operating expenses for the quarter, down 32%
Loss from Operations Q2 2026 $3.4 million Operating loss for the quarter ended June 30, 2026
Litigation Settlement Gain $39.2 million Non-recurring, non-operating gain recorded in Q2 2026
Other Income (Expense), net Q2 2026 $31.1 million Net other income for the quarter, driven by settlements
Net Income Q2 2026 $26.9 million Net income for the quarter versus $(6.3) million prior year
Cash and Marketable Securities $40.5 million Cash and investments as of June 30, 2026
standstill and voting agreement financial
"a $4.0 million non-operating charge related to a standstill and voting agreement"
litigation settlements regulatory
"a $39.2 million non-recurring, non-operating gain from the Company’s litigation settlements"
intellectual property financial
"focus the Company on the ownership, development and commercialization of high-value intellectual property assets"
Intellectual property are legal rights that protect creations of the mind—such as inventions, brand names, designs, software, or secret formulas—giving the owner control over who can use, copy or sell them. For investors, IP is like owning a blueprint or recipe: it can generate steady income through exclusive sales or licensing, boost a company’s competitive edge and valuation, and also create costs or risks if rights must be defended or challenged in court.
production services financial
"The decline primarily reflected lower production services revenue and the timing of project activity"
deferred revenue financial
"Deferred Revenue 2,732 4,391"
Cash a company has already received for goods or services it has promised but not yet delivered; it's recorded as a liability because the company still owes that product, service, or future revenue recognition. For investors, deferred revenue signals upcoming work or deliveries that will convert into reported sales over time and affects short-term obligations, cash flow quality, and how quickly a firm can grow recognized revenue—think of it like prepaid subscriptions or gift cards a business must honor later.
operating lease liabilities financial
"Current Portion of Operating Lease Liabilities 1,080 1,077"
Long-term lease payments a company is legally committed to because it rents assets such as offices, factories, or equipment; under modern accounting rules these future rent obligations are recorded on the balance sheet as liabilities. Investors care because operating lease liabilities act like debt that drains future cash, affects measures of leverage and borrowing capacity, and can change profitability and valuation — think of them as a company’s large, ongoing rent payments that limit its financial flexibility.
Revenue Q2 2026 $5.8 million down from $10.3 million; management cites a 43% decline
Total Expenses Q2 2026 $9.2 million decreased 32% versus prior-year quarter
Loss from Operations Q2 2026 $(3.4) million slightly higher loss than $(3.2) million prior year
Other Income (Expense), net Q2 2026 $31.1 million improved from $(2.9) million other expense prior year
Net Income (Loss) Q2 2026 $26.9 million improved from $(6.3) million net loss prior year
Cash and Marketable Securities $40.5 million higher than balances at December 31, 2025

FAQ

How did Kartoon Studios (TOON) perform financially in Q2 2026?

Kartoon Studios reported Q2 2026 revenue of $5.8 million and net income of $26.9 million. Revenue declined from $10.3 million a year earlier, but a $39.2 million litigation settlement gain drove a sharp swing from a prior net loss.

What is driving Kartoon Studios’ net income improvement in Q2 2026?

The net income improvement to $26.9 million was mainly driven by a $39.2 million non‑recurring, non‑operating gain from litigation settlements. This was partially offset by a $4.0 million standstill and voting agreement charge and an operating loss of $3.4 million.

What is Kartoon Studios’ cash and debt position as of June 30, 2026?

As of June 30, 2026, Kartoon Studios held $7.7 million in cash and $32.8 million in marketable securities, totaling $40.5 million, and reported no long‑term debt. This balance sheet provides financial flexibility for its intellectual property growth strategy.

What strategic changes is Kartoon Studios (TOON) making to its business model?

Kartoon Studios is shifting toward owned and controlled intellectual property, focusing on franchises like Hundred Acre Wood and the Stan Lee Universe. It sold the Frederator network business, retained key IP, and aims for multi‑platform monetization across content, licensing, and consumer products.

What is the significance of the Amazon Prime partnership for Kartoon Studios?

The company disclosed an Amazon Prime distribution partnership for its Hundred Acre Wood franchise, expected to be a cornerstone of its next‑generation strategy. Management views this as a key platform to distribute content and support licensing, publishing, and retail expansion globally.

How did Kartoon Studios’ balance sheet change compared to December 31, 2025?

Total assets increased to $94.5 million from $70.9 million, and total stockholders’ equity rose to $53.6 million from $27.5 million. The improvement reflects the $39.2 million litigation gain and higher cash and securities, while total liabilities decreased slightly.

AI-generated analysis. How Rhea-AI works. Not financial advice.

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false 0001355848 0001355848 2026-08-14 2026-08-14 iso4217:USD xbrli:shares iso4217:USD xbrli:shares

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, DC 20549

 

FORM 8-K

 

CURRENT REPORT

 

Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

 

Date of Report (Date of earliest event reported): August 14, 2026

 

KARTOON STUDIOS, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Nevada

(State or other jurisdiction
of incorporation or organization)

001-37950

(Commission
File Number)

20-4118216

(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)

 

190 N. Canon Drive, 4th Fl., Beverly Hills, CA 90210

(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)

 

(310) 273-4222

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code

 

Check the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K filing is intended to simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of the registrant under any of the following provisions (see General Instruction A.2 below):

 

Written communications pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities Act (17 CFR 230.425)

 

Soliciting material pursuant to Rule 14a-12 under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14a-12)

 

Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 14d-2(b) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14d-2(b))

 

Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 13e-4(c) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.13e-4(c))

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

Title of each class Trading Symbol(s) Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, par value $0.001 per share TOON NYSE American LLC

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an emerging growth company as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act of 1933 (§230.405 of this chapter) or Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (§240.12b-2 of this chapter).

 

Emerging growth company

 

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.

 

 

 

   

 

 

ITEM 2.02. RESULTS OF OPERATIONS AND FINANCIAL CONDITION.

 

On August 14, 2026, Kartoon Studios, Inc., a Nevada corporation, (the “Company”) issued a press release announcing its financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2026. A copy of the press release is furnished with this Current Report on Form 8-K as Exhibit 99.1 and is incorporated herein by reference.

 

The information in this Item 2.02 and in the press release attached as Exhibit 99.1 to this Current Report on Form 8-K shall not be deemed to be “filed” for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or otherwise subject to the liabilities of that section or Sections 11 and 12(a)(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. The information contained in this Item 2.02 and in the press release attached as Exhibit 99.1 to this Current Report on Form 8-K shall not be incorporated by reference into any filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission made by the Company, whether made before or after the date hereof, regardless of any general incorporation language in such filing.

 

ITEM 9.01. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND EXHIBITS.

 

(d) Exhibits

 

Exhibit No.   Description
     
99.1   Press Release of Kartoon Studios, Inc., dated August 14, 2026
104   The cover page from this Current Report on Form 8-K, formatted in Inline XBRL

 

 

Forward Looking Statements

 

This Current Report on Form 8-K contains certain statements which constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the federal securities laws. Words such as "may," "might," "will," "should," "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "estimate," "continue," "predict," "forecast," "project," "plan," "intend" or similar expressions, or statements regarding intent, belief, or current expectations, are forward-looking statements. While the Company believes these forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on any such forward-looking statements, which are based on information available to us on the date of this release. These forward looking statements are based upon current estimates and assumptions and are subject to various risks and uncertainties, including without limitation, our ability to generate revenue or achieve profitability; our ability to obtain additional financing on acceptable terms, if at all; the potential issuance of a significant number of shares, which will dilute our equity holders; fluctuations in the results of our operations from period to period; general economic and financial conditions; our ability to anticipate changes in popular culture, media and movies, fashion and technology; competitive pressure from other distributors of content and within the retail market; our reliance on and relationships with third-party production and animation studios; our ability to market and advertise our products; our reliance on third-parties to promote our products; our ability to keep pace with technological advances; our ability to protect our intellectual property and those other risk factors set forth in the “Risk Factors” section of the Company’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and in the Company’s subsequent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Thus, actual results could be materially different. The Company expressly disclaims any obligation to update or alter statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

 

 

 

 2 

 

 

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 hereunto duly authorized.

 

 

  KARTOON STUDIOS, INC.
   
Date: August 14, 2026 By: /s/ Andy Heyward
  Name: Andy Heyward
  Title: Chief Executive Officer

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 3 

 

Exhibit 99.1

 

 

 

Kartoon Studios Reports Second Quarter 2026 Financial Results and Accelerates Strategic Transformation

 

8-K Filed Announcing Agreement with Amazon Prime

 

Strengthened Balance Sheet with $40 million in Cash and No Long-Term Debt

 

Focus on Intellectual Property Ownership for Next Phase of Growth

 

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif., August 14, 2026 -- Kartoon Studios, Inc. (NYSE American: TOON) (“Kartoon Studios” or the “Company”), a global entertainment company creating, producing, distributing and licensing children’s and family content, today announced financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2026, and provided an update on a strategic transformation designed to focus the Company on the ownership, development and commercialization of high-value intellectual property assets for children.

 

Following the receipt of approximately $39.2 million from previously announced litigation settlements, Kartoon Studios ended the quarter with approximately $40.5 million in cash and marketable securities and no long-term debt, providing substantial financial flexibility to execute its long-term growth strategy. The Company also filed a separate 8-K notice of a significant distribution partnership for its flagship Hundred Acre Wood franchise based on A.A. Milne’s Winnie-the-Pooh with Amazon Prime, while continuing to expand development initiatives surrounding the Stan Lee Universe. Together, these milestones represent important building blocks in the Company’s evolution toward a focused, scalable and profitable intellectual property-driven business model.

 

Recent Operational Highlights

 

·Ended the second quarter with approximately $40.5 million in cash and marketable securities and no long-term debt following receipt of initial litigation settlement proceeds, significantly strengthening the Company’s financial position.

 

·An additional $39.2 million remains in escrow and which will be distributed to the Company after legal fees are determined and paid.

 

·8-K disclosed an agreement with Amazon Prime for Hundred Acre Wood, based on A.A. Milne’s Winnie-the-Pooh, launching on February 18, 2027 featuring promotional support including Hero Banner placement and participation in Amazon’s Shop the Show program, creating integrated streaming and merchandising opportunities.

 

·In July, completed the sale of the Frederator channel network business while retaining Frederator Studios intellectual property, including Castlevania, Bee and Puppycat, among other properties, sharpening the Company’s strategic focus on owned and controlled IP assets.

 

·Appointed Brooke Bacon, formerly head of consumer product licensing at Activision, as Senior Vice President of Consumer Products and Licensing to lead the monetization of Kartoon Studios’ growing portfolio of owned intellectual property through licensing, retail, consumer products and strategic partnerships.

 

 

 

 

 1 

 

 

Strategic Update

 

Following a comprehensive review of its portfolio, operating structure and capital allocation priorities, Kartoon Studios has implemented a strategic transformation designed to create a leaner, more focused and more profitable enterprise centered on owned and controlled intellectual property for children.

 

The Company is concentrating investments on high profile animated franchises where it owns or controls the underlying rights and will participate across multiple revenue streams, including content distribution, licensing, consumer products, publishing, digital commerce and brand extensions. Management believes this pivot offers substantial long-term value creation, and a change in direction from the Company’s historical reliance on production services and third-party-owned properties.

 

Consistent with this transformation, the Company completed the sale of the Frederator network business in July while retaining key intellectual property assets. As the Board and management continue to evaluate all operating units and capital investments through the lens of ownership economics, and long-term profitability, the objective is to simplify the business, improve capital efficiency, accelerate franchise monetization and create durable shareholder value.

 

Management Commentary

 

“We are building a fundamentally different Kartoon Studios,” said Andy Heyward, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “Over the last several months, we have strengthened our balance sheet, streamlined our operations, sharpened our strategic focus, and assembled the IP building blocks for our next phase of growth.”

 

“With more than $40 million in cash, no long-term debt, a partnership with Amazon Prime, and ownership of valuable intellectual property including Hundred Acre Wood and the Stan Lee Universe, and another $39.2 million minus legal fees yet to be distributed to Company, we believe we are uniquely positioned to create meaningful long-term shareholder value through the development of what we believe will be enduring global franchises.”

 

“This is not simply a turnaround—it is a strategic transformation. We are transforming Kartoon Studios from a company that historically generated much of its revenue by creating and producing valuable content for others, e.g. Barbie, Cocomelon, and other high-profile IP, we are now focused on producing that high profile IP for ourselves and our shareholders. Specifically that means owning, building and monetizing valuable intellectual property franchises across streaming, consumer products, publishing, gaming, licensing and other platforms.”

 

“Our goal is to own more of the intellectual property we create, participate more fully in the economics generated across multiple platforms, and transform our creative assets into sustainable, high-margin revenue streams. We believe the actions we have taken this year position us to pursue that objective from a position of strength, and we specifically are looking forward to a rollout of Hundred Acre Wood this year to lead, followed by properties from the great Stan Lee, which the Company has developed,” Heyward concluded.

 

“While our reported second quarter results largely reflect the Company’s legacy operating model, the strategic actions we have taken over the past several months are designed to reshape Kartoon Studios into a more focused and financially disciplined organization,” said Brian Parisi, Chief Financial Officer. “Despite a decline in revenue, during the period, we reduced total expenses by 32%, demonstrating continued cost discipline and progress in aligning our operating structure with our long-term strategic objectives. Combined with our strong cash position and no long-term debt on our balance sheet, we believe Kartoon Studios is well positioned to execute its transformation strategy, as our two flagship brands, Hundred Acre Wood and Stan Lee Universe, are finally coming into the marketplace in 2027.”

 

 

 

 

 2 

 

 

Hundred Acre Wood

 

Hundred Acre Wood is expected to serve as the cornerstone of Kartoon Studios’ next-generation franchise strategy.

 

The property combines one of the world’s most beloved story universes with distribution support from one of the most influential platforms in entertainment and commerce in the world.

 

Management believes the property’s unique multi-generational appeal creates the potential for a long-term franchise extending across content, publishing, licensing and retail categories worldwide.

 

 

 

Copyright Kartoon Studios, Inc. 2026

 

 

 

 

 3 

 

 

Stan Lee Superhero Pets

 

Through its rights to the Stan Lee Universe, Kartoon Studios continues to evaluate multiple opportunities to develop new franchises inspired by one of the most iconic creative legacies in entertainment history.

 

Initial development efforts include Stan Lee Superhero Pets, which management believes has significant potential across animation, publishing, licensing, consumer products and interactive entertainment. Recent box office based on Stan Lee creations has shown the extraordinary power of this one man’s imagination.

 

 

 

Copyright Kartoon Studios, Inc. 2026

 

 

 

 

 4 

 

 

Second Quarter 2026 Financial Results

 

The financial results reported for the second quarter primarily reflect Kartoon Studios’ historical operating model. They do not yet reflect the anticipated impact of the Company’s strategic transformation, the launch of Hundred Acre Wood, growth initiatives surrounding the Stan Lee Universe, or expanded consumer products opportunities.

 

Management believes these initiatives establish the foundation for the Company’s next phase of growth and are intended to improve profitability, expand ownership economics and create long-term shareholder value.

 

Revenue for the second quarter of 2026 was $5.8 million, compared with $10.3 million in the prior-year period. The decline primarily reflected lower production services revenue and the timing of project activity at Mainframe Studios, the Company’s for-hire production studio. The quarter largely reflects the Company’s historical operating mix, which management is actively reshaping around owned intellectual property and stronger ownership economics.

 

Total expenses decreased 32% to $9.2 million, reflecting the Company’s continued focus on simplifying operations and aligning its cost structure with a more focused strategy. Direct operating costs declined 35% to $4.6 million, primarily due to lower third-party production-related headcount and reduced Frederator network costs. General and administrative expenses decreased 28% to $4.5 million, driven by lower personnel, consulting and administrative expenses.

 

Loss from operations was $3.4 million for the second quarter of 2026, compared with $3.2 million in the prior-year period. Despite a 43% decline in revenue, the operating loss increased by only $0.2 million as the Company reduced total expenses by 32% reflecting the impact of ongoing cost discipline and efforts to align the operating structure with a leaner, more focused business model.

 

Other income, net, was $31.1 million in the second quarter of 2026, compared with other expense, net, of $(2.9) million in the prior-year period. The increase primarily reflected a $39.2 million non-recurring, non-operating gain from the Company’s litigation settlements, partially offset by a $4.0 million non-operating charge related to a standstill and voting agreement entered into with one of the settling parties and other non-operating expenses. These items are separate from the Company’s underlying operating performance.

 

Net income was $27.0 million for the second quarter of 2026, compared with a net loss of $(6.3) million in the prior-year period. The improvement was primarily driven by the non-recurring gain recognized from the litigation settlements, partially offset by the Company’s $(3.4) million loss from operations and other non-operating expenses.

 

Cash and marketable securities as of June 30, 2026, was $40.5 million.

 

About Kartoon Studios

 

Kartoon Studios (NYSE American: TOON) is a global, vertically integrated children’s and family entertainment company turning owned and controlled intellectual property into enduring, multi-platform franchises. The Company develops, produces, distributes, licenses and monetizes content across the full value chain, creating multiple revenue opportunities and long-term brand value.

 

Kartoon Studios’ growth portfolio includes Hundred Acre Wood and the Stan Lee Universe, alongside established brands and an extensive programming library. The Company operates Mainframe Studios and Toon Media Networks, as well as Beacon Media Group, a full-service marketing, communications, and media agency subsidiary of Kartoon Studios focused on children and family. Together, these assets provide production capabilities, direct audience access and distribution across linear television, AVOD, SVOD, FAST channels and streaming platforms in more than 60 territories. Kartoon Studios is focused on converting its intellectual property, infrastructure and global reach into scalable franchise growth and long-term shareholder value.

 

For more information, visit www.kartoonstudios.com.

 

 

 

 5 

 

  

Important Cautions Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

 

Certain statements in this press release that are not historical facts may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended, and are subject to risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements include statements concerning the Company accelerating strategic transformation, focus on intellectual property position ownership for next phase of growth, strategic transformation designed to focus the Company on the ownership, development and commercialization of high-value intellectual property assets, the Company’s distribution partnership with Amazon; the Company expanding development initiatives surrounding the Stan Lee Universe; the distribution to the Company of any additional amounts from the escrowed litigation settlements; the Company’s expectations regarding the distribution of its content, the timing and availability of streaming content, promotional support, consumer product sales, the sale of Federator sharpening the Company’s strategic focus on owned and controlled IP assets; the Company implementing a strategic transformation designed to create a leaner, more focused and more profitable enterprise centered on owned and controlled intellectual property; the Company’s concentrating investments on high profile animated franchises where it owns or controls the underlying rights and can participate across multiple revenue streams, including content distribution, licensing, consumer products, publishing, digital commerce and brand extensions; management’s belief that their owned IP strategy offers substantially greater long-term value creation potential than the Company’s historical reliance on production services and third-party-owned properties; building a fundamentally different Company; the Company’s belief that it is uniquely positioned to create meaningful long-term shareholder value through the development of what it believes will be enduring global franchises; transforming from a company that historically generated much of its revenue by creating and producing content for others, into one increasingly focused on owning, building and monetizing valuable intellectual property franchises across streaming, consumer products, publishing, gaming, licensing and other platforms; Company’s goal to own more of the intellectual property it creates, and to participate more fully in the economics generated across multiple platforms, and transform its creative assets into sustainable, high-margin revenue streams; the Company’s belief that the actions taken this year positions the Company to pursue its objectives from a position of strength, two flagship brands, Hundred Acre Wood and Stan Lee Universe, coming into the marketplace in 2027, Hundred Acre Wood is expected to serve as the cornerstone of the Company’s next-generation franchise strategy, management’s belief that Stan Lee Superhero Pets has significant potential across animation, publishing, licensing, consumer products and interactive entertainment, the belief that the launch of Hundred Acre Wood, growth initiatives surrounding the Stan Lee Universe and expanded consumer product initiatives will establish the foundation for the Company’s next phase of growth and are intended to improve profitability, expand ownership economics and create long-term shareholder value.. Words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “forecast,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “potential,” “project,” “should,” “will” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. These statements are based on the Company’s current plans, estimates, assumptions and expectations and are not guarantees that such plans, estimates or expectations will be achieved. Actual events,  the timing of events ,results and performance may differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements due to various risks, uncertainties and other factors, including the Company’s ability to execute its transition to an intellectual property-driven growth model; the Company’s ability to advance its flagship franchise initiatives; the Company’s ability to leverage prior investments in platform, content, and infrastructure, to support a more scalable operating foundation and the broader commercialization of the Company’s intellectual property portfolio; the Company’s ability to advance its flagship franchises as multi-platform initiatives extending across content, licensing, and consumer products; the Company’s ability to bring properties to market and convert its franchises into scalable, higher-margin revenue opportunities to drive long-term value; the Company’s ability to launch and expand Hundred Acre Wood and the Stan Lee Universe in the US and globally as planned; the Company’s ability to capture value across the full lifecycle of its intellectual property by combining production capabilities, owned distribution platforms, marketing infrastructure, and licensing operations; the Company’s ability to move quicker and with purpose faster than its competitors; the Company’s ability to execute against its platform while continuing to expand higher-margin, IP-driven revenue streams; the Company’s ability to improve operating performance and margin profile over time as its initiatives scale; the Company’s ability to benefit from its investments in infrastructure and IP; the Company’s ability to obtain additional financing on acceptable terms, if at all; fluctuations in the results of the Company’s operations from period to period; general economic and financial conditions; the Company’s ability to anticipate changes in popular culture, media and movies, fashion and technology; competitive pressure from other distributors of content and within the retail market; the Company’s ability to market and advertise its products; the Company’s reliance on third parties to promote its products; the Company’s ability to keep pace with technological advances; the Company’s ability to protect its intellectual property and those other risks described under the heading “Risk Factors” in Part I, Item 1A of the Company’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and in its other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which are available at www.sec.gov. Additional risks and uncertainties that are not currently known to the Company or that the Company currently considers immaterial may also cause actual events, results or performance to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release, and Kartoon Studios undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

 

INVESTOR RELATIONS CONTACT:

 

Lytham Partners, LLC

Robert Blum

602-889-9700

toon@lythampartners.com

 

 

 6 

 

 

Kartoon Studios, Inc.

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

(in thousands, except for share data)

 

   As of 
   June 30, 2026   December 31, 2025 
   (Unaudited)     
ASSETS          
Current Assets:          
Cash  $7,742   $2,943 
Investments in Marketable Securities (amortized cost of $32,754 and $3,953, respectively)   32,763    3,978 
Accounts Receivable (net of allowance of $7 and $3, respectively)   2,059    9,632 
Tax Credits Receivable (net of allowance of $427 and $423, respectively)   17,494    16,800 
Other Receivable   1,346    1,571 
Prepaid Expenses and Other Assets   1,643    841 
Total Current Assets   63,047    35,765 
           
Noncurrent Assets:          
Property and Equipment, net   1,327    1,635 
Operating Lease Right-of-Use Assets, net   4,511    5,114 
Finance Lease Right-of-Use Assets, net   210    312 
Film and Television Costs, net   7,283    4,878 
Investment in Your Family Entertainment AG   1,863    5,481 
Intangible Assets, net   16,178    17,604 
Other Assets   114    118 
Total Assets  $94,533   $70,907 
           
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY          
Current Liabilities:          
Accounts Payable  $5,666   $12,115 
Participations Payable   1,161    1,024 
Accrued Expenses   1,776    744 
Accrued Salaries and Wages   1,390    1,370 
Deferred Revenue   2,732    4,391 
Production Facilities, net   12,928    11,819 
Current Portion of Operating Lease Liabilities   1,080    1,077 
Current Portion of Finance Lease Liabilities   116    156 
Due to Related Party       5 
Standstill Agreement Payable   4,000     
Other Current Liabilities   750    750 
Total Current Liabilities   31,599    33,451 
           
Noncurrent Liabilities:          
Deferred Revenue   3,415    3,369 
Operating Lease Liabilities, net of Current Portion   3,829    4,488 
Finance Lease Liabilities, net of Current Portion   86    144 
Deferred Tax Liability, net   1,181    1,225 
Factoring Liability   776    689 
Other Noncurrent Liabilities   22    8 
Total Liabilities   40,908    43,374 
           
Commitments and Contingencies (Note 19)          
           
Stockholders’ Equity:          
Preferred Stock, 10,000,000 shares authorized, 0 shares issued and outstanding as of June 30, 2026 and December 31, 2025        
0% Series A Convertible Preferred Stock, $0.001 par value, 6,000 shares authorized, 0 shares issued and outstanding as of June 30, 2026 and December 31, 2025        
Series B Preferred Stock, $0.001 par value, 0 shares authorized, 0 shares issued and outstanding as of June 30, 2026 and December 31, 2025        
Series C Preferred Stock, $0.001 par value, 50,000 shares authorized, 0 shares issued and outstanding as of June 30, 2026 and December 31, 2025        
Common Stock, $0.001 par value, 190,000,000 shares authorized, 62,629,255 and 55,282,150 shares issued and 62,204,105 and 54,857,000 shares outstanding as of June 30, 2026 and December 31, 2025, respectively   62    55 
Additional Paid-in Capital   799,305    793,814 
Treasury Stock at Cost, 425,150 shares of common stock as of June 30, 2026 and December 31, 2025   (604)   (604)
Accumulated Deficit   (743,197)   (763,817)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss   (3,188)   (3,238)
Total Kartoon Studios, Inc. Stockholders’ Equity   52,378    26,210 
Non-Controlling Interests in Consolidated Subsidiaries   1,247    1,323 
Total Stockholders’ Equity   53,625    27,533 
           
Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity  $94,533   $70,907 

 

 

 

 7 

 

 

Kartoon Studios, Inc.

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations

(in thousands, except for share data)

(Unaudited)

 

   Three Months Ended June 30,   Six Months Ended June 30, 
   2026   2025   2026   2025 
Revenues:                    
Production Services  $3,459   $7,359   $7,552   $13,931 
Content Distribution   1,853    1,992    4,126    3,973 
Licensing and Royalties   61    86    134    170 
Media Advisory and Advertising Services   448    842    1,247    1,709 
Total Revenues   5,821    10,279    13,059    19,783 
                     
Operating Expenses:                    
Marketing and Sales   139    167    331    353 
Direct Operating Costs   4,634    7,113    9,352    13,797 
General and Administrative   4,458    6,214    9,589    11,927 
Total Operating Expenses   9,231    13,494    19,272    26,077 
                     
Loss from Operations   (3,410)   (3,215)   (6,213)   (6,294)
                     
Interest Expense   (175)   (165)   (408)   (293)
Other Income (Expense), net   31,107    (2,887)   27,738    (6,271)
                     
Profit (Loss) Before Income Tax Expense   27,522    (6,267)   21,117    (12,858)
                     
Income Tax Expense   (573)       (573)    
                     
Net Income (Loss)   26,949    (6,267)   20,544    (12,858)
                     
Net Loss Attributable to Non-Controlling Interests   36    104    76    169 
                     
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Kartoon Studios, Inc.  $26,985   $(6,163)  $20,620   $(12,689)
                     
Net Income (Loss) per Share (Basic)  $0.41   $(0.13)  $0.32   $(0.27)
Net Income (Loss) per Share (Diluted)  $0.38   $(0.13)  $0.30   $(0.27)
                     
Weighted Average Shares Outstanding (Basic)   66,155,559    47,805,923    64,457,474    47,252,544 
Weighted Average Shares Outstanding (Diluted)   70,969,988    47,805,923    68,184,187    47,252,544 

 

 

 

 8 

 

Filing Exhibits & Attachments

4 documents