Connect with us

Technology

2U Reports Results for Fourth Quarter and Full-Year 2023

Published

on

LANHAM, Md., Feb. 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — 2U, Inc. (Nasdaq: TWOU), a leading online education platform company, today reported financial and operating results for the quarter and full-year ended December 31, 2023.

“I am proud to lead 2U through the next chapter of its journey,” said Paul Lalljie, Chief Executive Officer of 2U. “We finished the year with strong performance, particularly in our executive education business, and a new organizational structure designed to enhance transparency and alignment across the company. We are resetting and enhancing our operations with renewed financial discipline. Looking ahead, we believe this renewed focus, along with our market-proven offerings, robust partner network, and scalable technology and services, will allow us to take advantage of increasing demand for high-quality online education and continue to deliver on our mission.”

“Our immediate focus in 2024 is to strengthen the fundamentals of our business in order to extend our debt maturities and restore a healthy balance sheet,” added Matthew Norden, Chief Financial Officer of 2U. “The measures we have already implemented are good first steps to enhancing our operational efficiency and improving our adjusted EBITDA and free cash flow, but we are not done. We are undergoing a comprehensive review of our business to streamline and consolidate costs, implement rigorous criteria for new programs, and optimize staffing levels in key functional areas while maintaining the quality of our offerings to partners and students. We are approaching the future with new financial discipline, providing us with the foundation to actively manage our upcoming maturities and build a scalable business.”

Results for Fourth Quarter 2023 compared to Fourth Quarter 2022

Revenue increased 8% to $255.7 millionDegree Program Segment revenue increased 19% to $163.5 millionAlternative Credential Segment revenue decreased 7% to $92.2 millionNet loss was $42.4 million, or $0.52 per share, and includes non-cash impairment charges of $62.8 million

Non-GAAP Results for Fourth Quarter 2023 compared to Fourth Quarter 2022

Adjusted EBITDA increased 54% to $90.2 million; a margin of 35%Adjusted net income was $49.5 million, or $0.48 per share

Results for Full-Year 2023 compared to Full-Year 2022

Revenue decreased 2% to $946.0 millionDegree Program Segment revenue decreased 2% to $561.0 millionAlternative Credential Segment revenue decreased 2% to $384.9 millionNet loss was $317.6 million, or $3.93 per share, and includes non-cash impairment charges of $196.9 million

Non-GAAP Results for Full-Year 2023 compared to Full-Year 2022

Adjusted EBITDA increased 37% to $170.8 million; a margin of 18%Adjusted net income was $15.4 million, or $0.19 per share

Discussion of 2023 Results

Revenue for the quarter totaled $255.7 million, an 8% increase from $236.0 million in the fourth quarter of 2022. Revenue from the Degree Program Segment increased $26.4 million, or 19%, and included $54.6 million of revenue recognized from the mutually negotiated exit of certain degree programs, also referred to as portfolio management activities. Revenue from the Alternative Credential Segment decreased $6.7 million, or 7%, primarily due to lower enrollments in coding boot camp offerings, partially offset by 8% growth in FCE enrollments in executive education offerings.

Revenue for the year totaled $946.0 million, a 2% decrease from $963.1 million in 2022. Revenue from the Degree Program Segment decreased $10.6 million, or 2%, and included $88.0 million of revenue recognized from portfolio management activities. Revenue from the Alternative Credential Segment decreased $6.6 million, or 2%, primarily due to lower enrollments in coding boot camp offerings, partially offset by 8% growth in FCE enrollments in executive education offerings.

Costs and expenses for the quarter totaled $278.2 million, a 21% increase from $230.6 million in the fourth quarter of 2022. Fourth quarter costs and expenses included $62.8 million of non-cash impairment charges to goodwill for which the company did not have a corresponding expense in the fourth quarter of 2022. The remaining change in costs and expenses, a decrease of $15.2 million, was primarily driven by a $27.2 million decrease in personnel and personnel-related expense and a $4.6 million decrease in depreciation and amortization expense. These decreases were partially offset by a $9.6 million increase in restructuring charges, primarily driven by changes to the company’s organizational structure, a $4.0 million increase in paid marketing costs, and a $3.1 million increase in transaction and integration expense.

Costs and expenses for the year totaled $1.17 billion, a 4% decrease from $1.22 billion in 2022. This $49.5 million decrease in costs and expenses includes a $58.6 million increase in non-cash impairment charges to goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets. The remaining change in costs and expenses, a decrease of $108.1 million, was primarily driven by a $66.6 million decrease in personnel and personnel-related expense, a $25.5 million decrease in paid marketing costs, a $12.8 million decrease in depreciation and amortization expense, and an $11.5 million decrease in lease and facility expense.

Liquidity and Cash Flow

As of December 31, 2023, the company’s cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash totaled $73.4 million, a decrease of $109.2 million from $182.6 million as of December 31, 2022. As of December 31, 2023, the company’s total debt was $904.7 million, including borrowings of $40.0 million under the company’s revolving credit facility.

In January 2024, the company entered into a receivables factoring transaction with Morgan Stanley Senior Funding (“Morgan Stanley”) whereby Morgan Stanley has committed to purchase up to $86.2 million of receivables owing to the company related to portfolio management activities at a purchase rate of 88%.

The company expects that if it does not amend or refinance its term loan, or raise capital to reduce its debt in the short term, and in the event the obligations under its term loan accelerate or come due within twelve months from the date of its financial statement issuance in accordance with its current terms, there is substantial doubt about its ability to continue as a going concern. The company’s financial statements will be included in the company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023. 

Business Highlights

Transitioned to a new organizational structure with an executive leading each of the company’s business segments. Andrew Hermalyn has been appointed President of the Degree Program Segment, and Aaron McCullough has been appointed President of the Alternative Credential Segment.Announced new offerings under our flexible degree partnership model:The University of Birmingham – seven new online master’s degrees across in-demand fields including data science, digital media, and marketing;The University of Surrey – fifteen online master’s degrees to be launched over three years, plus more than 15 professional certificate programs in the fields of technology, business, healthcare, communications technologies, and sustainability.Added 98 new edX courses from 41 unique institutions.Added new edX members including the University of Birmingham, Howard University, and Avado.

Forward-Looking Guidance

As of February 12, 2024, the company is initiating its first quarter and full-year 2024 guidance as follows:

First quarter 2024

Revenue to range from $195 million to $198 millionNet loss to range from $60 million to $55 millionAdjusted EBITDA to range from $10 million to $12 million

Full-year 2024

Revenue to range from $805 million to $815 millionNet loss to range from $90 million to $85 millionAdjusted EBITDA to range from $120 million to $125 million

The company is undergoing a comprehensive performance improvement exercise, the potential results of which are not reflected in the guidance above. This effort aims to improve our profitability through cost control and contribution margin improvement across both segments, optimize our operating model, ensure staffing levels align with business priorities across functional areas, and deleverage our balance sheet. In addition, guidance assumes the following: (i) no new portfolio management activities in 2024 and (ii) revenue from 2023 portfolio management activities of $10 million in the first quarter of 2024 and $15 million in full-year 2024.

For full-year 2024, we anticipate approximately $45 million in capital expenditures and weighted average shares outstanding of 85 million.

Non-GAAP Measures

To provide investors and others with additional information regarding 2U’s results, the company has disclosed the following non-GAAP financial measures: adjusted EBITDA (loss), adjusted EBITDA margin, adjusted free cash flow, adjusted unlevered free cash flow, adjusted net income (loss), and adjusted net income (loss) per share. The company has provided a reconciliation of each non-GAAP financial measure used in this earnings release to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure. The company defines adjusted EBITDA (loss) as net income or net loss, as applicable, before net interest income (expense), other income (expense), net, taxes, depreciation and amortization expense, transaction costs, integration costs, restructuring-related costs, stockholder activism costs, certain litigation-related costs, consisting of fees for certain non-ordinary course litigation and other proceedings, impairment charges, debt modification expense and loss on debt extinguishment, and stock-based compensation expense. The company defines adjusted EBITDA margin as adjusted EBITDA divided by revenue. The company defines adjusted free cash flow as net cash provided by (used in) operating activities, less capital expenditures, payments to university clients, and certain non-ordinary cash payments. The company defines adjusted unlevered free cash flow as adjusted free cash flow less cash interest payments on debt. The company defines adjusted net income (loss) as net income or net loss, as applicable, before other income (expense), net, acquisition-related gains or losses, deferred revenue fair value adjustments, transaction costs, integration costs, restructuring-related costs, stockholder activism costs, certain litigation-related costs, consisting of fees for certain non-ordinary course litigation and other proceedings, impairment charges, debt modification expense and loss on debt extinguishment, and stock-based compensation expense. Adjusted net income (loss) per share is calculated as adjusted net income (loss) divided by diluted weighted-average shares of common stock outstanding for periods that result in adjusted net income, and basic weighted-average shares outstanding for periods that result in an adjusted net loss. Some of the adjustments described above may not be applicable in any given reporting period and may vary from period to period.

The company’s management uses these non-GAAP financial measures to understand and compare operating results across accounting periods, to understand cash that is generated by or available for operational expenses and investment in the business after capital expenditures, for internal budgeting and forecasting purposes, for short- and long-term operating plans, and to evaluate the company’s financial performance. Management believes these non-GAAP financial measures reflect the company’s ongoing business in a manner that allows for meaningful period-to-period comparisons and analysis of trends in the company’s business as they exclude expenses that are not reflective of ongoing operating results. Management also believes that these non-GAAP financial measures provide useful information to investors and others in understanding and evaluating the company’s operating results and prospects in the same manner as management and in comparing financial results across accounting periods and to those of peer companies.

The use of adjusted EBITDA (loss), adjusted free cash flow, adjusted unlevered free cash flow, adjusted net income (loss), and adjusted net income (loss) per share measures has certain limitations, as they do not reflect all items of income and expense that affect the company’s operations. The company compensates for these limitations by reconciling the non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures. These non-GAAP financial measures should be considered in addition to, not as a substitute for or in isolation from, measures prepared in accordance with GAAP. Further, these non-GAAP measures may differ from the non-GAAP information used by other companies, including peer companies, and therefore comparability may be limited. Management encourages investors and others to review the company’s financial information in its entirety and not rely on a single financial measure.

Conference Call Information

What:

2U’s fourth quarter and full-year 2023 financial results conference call

When:

Monday, February 12, 2024

Time:

4:30 p.m. ET

Live Call:

(888) 330-2446

Conference ID #:

1153388

Webcast:

investor.2U.com

About 2U, Inc. (Nasdaq: TWOU)

2U is a global leader in online education. Guided by its founding mission to eliminate the back row in higher education, 2U has spent 15 years advancing the technology and innovation to deliver world-class learning outcomes at scale. Through its global online learning platform edX, 2U connects more than 83 million people with thousands of affordable, career-relevant learning opportunities in partnership with 260 of the world’s leading universities, institutions, and industry experts. From free courses to full degrees, 2U is creating a better future for all through the power of high-quality online education. Learn more at 2U.com.

Cautionary Language Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements regarding 2U, Inc.’s future business expectations, which are subject to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this press release, including statements regarding future results of operations and financial position of 2U, including financial targets, business strategy, and plans and objectives for future operations, are forward-looking statements. 2U has based these forward-looking statements largely on its estimates of its financial results and its current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that it believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy, short-term and long-term business operations and objectives, and financial needs as of the date of this press release. The company undertakes no obligation to update these statements as a result of new information or future events. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results predicted, including, but not limited to:

trends in the higher education market and the market for online education, and expectations for growth in those markets;the company’s ability to maintain minimum recurring revenues or other financial ratios through the maturity date of its amended term loan facilities;the acceptance, adoption and growth of online learning by colleges and universities, faculty, students, employers, accreditors and state and federal licensing bodies;the impact of competition on the company’s industry and innovations by competitors;the company’s ability to comply with evolving regulations and legal obligations related to data privacy, data protection and information security;the company’s expectations about the potential benefits of its cloud-based software-as-a-service technology and technology-enabled services to university clients and students;the company’s dependence on third parties to provide certain technological services or components used in its platform;the company’s expectations about the predictability, visibility and recurring nature of its business model;the company’s ability to meet the anticipated launch dates of its offerings;the company’s ability to acquire new clients and expand its offerings with existing university clients;the company’s ability to successfully integrate the operations of its acquisitions, including the edX acquisition, to achieve the expected benefits of its acquisitions and manage, expand and grow the combined company;the company’s ability to refinance its indebtedness on attractive terms, if at all, to better align with its focus on profitability and address impending maturities;the company’s ability to service its substantial indebtedness and comply with the covenants and conversion obligations contained in the indentures governing its 2.25% convertible senior notes due 2025 and 4.50% convertible senior notes due 2030 and the credit agreement governing its revolving credit facility; the company’s ability to implement its platform strategy and achieve the expected benefits; the company’s ability to generate sufficient future operating cash flows from recent acquisitions to ensure related goodwill is not impaired;the company’s ability to execute its growth strategy, including internationally and growing its enterprise business;the company’s ability to continue to recruit prospective students for its offerings;the company’s ability to maintain or increase student retention rates in its degree programs;the company’s ability to attract, hire and retain senior management and other key personnel;the company’s expectations about the scalability of its cloud-based platform;potential changes in laws, regulations or guidance applicable to the company or its university clients;the company’s expectations regarding the amount of time its cash balances and other available financial resources will be sufficient to fund its operations;the impact and cost of stockholder activism;the potential negative impact of the significant decline in the market price of the company’s common stock, including the impairment of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets;the expected impact of our 2022 Strategic Realignment Plan, or similar performance improvement initiatives, and the estimated savings and amounts expected to be incurred in connection therewith;the impact of any natural disasters or public health emergencies, such as the COVID-19 pandemic;the company’s expectations regarding the effect of the capped call transactions and regarding actions of the option counterparties and/or their respective affiliates; andother factors beyond the company’s control.

These and other potential risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from the results predicted are more fully detailed under the heading “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022, and other SEC filings. Moreover, 2U operates in a very competitive and rapidly changing environment. New risks emerge from time to time. It is not possible for 2U management to predict all risks, nor can 2U assess the impact of all factors on its business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements 2U may make. In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the forward-looking events and circumstances discussed in this press release may not occur and actual results could differ materially and adversely from those anticipated.

Investor Relations Contact: investorinfo@2U.com

Media Contact: media@2U.com

 

2U, Inc.

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

December 31,
2023

December 31,
2022

(unaudited)

Assets

Current assets

Cash and cash equivalents

$           60,689

$         167,518

Restricted cash

12,710

15,060

Accounts receivable, net

115,944

62,826

Other receivables, net

28,293

33,813

Prepaid expenses and other assets

33,828

43,090

Total current assets

251,464

322,307

Other receivables, net, non-current

12,507

14,788

Property and equipment, net

40,233

45,855

Right-of-use assets

63,986

72,361

Goodwill

651,498

734,620

Intangible assets, net

371,198

549,755

Other assets, non-current

68,797

71,173

Total assets

$      1,459,683

$      1,810,859

Liabilities and stockholders’ equity

Current liabilities

Accounts payable and accrued expenses

$         103,378

$         110,020

Deferred revenue

81,949

90,161

Lease liability

15,158

13,909

Accrued restructuring liability

14,506

6,692

Other current liabilities

44,348

58,210

Total current liabilities

259,339

278,992

Long-term debt

896,514

928,564

Deferred tax liabilities, net

323

282

Lease liability, non-current

83,297

99,709

Other liabilities, non-current

1,165

1,796

Total liabilities

1,240,638

1,309,343

Stockholders’ equity

Preferred stock, $0.001 par value, 5,000,000 shares authorized, none issued

Common stock, $0.001 par value, 200,000,000 shares authorized, 82,260,619 shares issued

and outstanding as of December 31, 2023; 78,334,666 shares issued and outstanding as of

December 31, 2022

83

78

Additional paid-in capital

1,741,657

1,700,855

Accumulated deficit

(1,497,579)

(1,179,972)

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

(25,116)

(19,445)

Total stockholders’ equity

219,045

501,516

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

$      1,459,683

$      1,810,859

 

2U, Inc.

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss

(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

Three Months Ended

December 31,

Year Ended

December 31,

2023

2022

2023

2022

(unaudited)

(unaudited)

(unaudited)

Revenue

$         255,661

$         236,049

$         945,953

$         963,080

Costs and expenses

Curriculum and teaching

30,219

32,953

129,304

129,886

Servicing and support

27,120

35,002

128,298

147,797

Technology and content development

40,607

49,823

176,218

190,472

Marketing and sales

79,816

80,504

372,129

422,147

General and administrative

23,972

28,272

132,680

159,418

Restructuring charges

13,674

4,067

36,256

33,239

Impairment charges

62,754

196,871

138,291

Total costs and expenses

278,162

230,621

1,171,756

1,221,250

(Loss) income from operations

(22,501)

5,428

(225,803)

(258,170)

Interest income

862

398

1,961

1,165

Interest expense

(19,533)

(18,525)

(74,573)

(62,234)

Debt modification expense and loss on debt extinguishment

(16,735)

Other (expense) income, net

(52)

427

(803)

(3,815)

Loss before income taxes

(41,224)

(12,272)

(315,953)

(323,054)

Income tax (expense) benefit

(1,224)

429

(1,654)

903

Net loss

$          (42,448)

$          (11,843)

$       (317,607)

$       (322,151)

Net loss per share, basic and diluted

$              (0.52)

$              (0.15)

$              (3.93)

$              (4.17)

Weighted-average shares of common stock outstanding, basic and diluted

82,140,194

78,261,601

80,891,146

77,327,850

Other comprehensive loss (income)

Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of tax of $0 for all periods presented

1,448

2,448

(5,671)

(3,534)

Comprehensive loss

$          (41,000)

$            (9,395)

$       (323,278)

$       (325,685)

 

2U, Inc.

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(in thousands)

Year Ended

December 31,

2023

2022

2021

(unaudited)

Cash flows from operating activities

Net loss

$           (317,607)

$           (322,151)

$           (194,766)

Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash (used in) provided by operating activities:

Non-cash interest expense

13,652

19,835

25,403

Depreciation and amortization expense

115,322

128,153

108,448

Stock-based compensation expense

39,688

80,220

97,766

Non-cash lease expense

17,404

21,020

18,933

Restructuring

866

9,555

5,014

Impairment charges

196,871

138,291

Provision for credit losses

10,017

8,610

8,036

Loss on debt extinguishment

12,123

1,101

Gain on sale of investment

(27,762)

Other

965

5,443

2,515

Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of assets and liabilities acquired:

Accounts receivable, net

(58,972)

(3,041)

(31,756)

Other receivables, net

2,980

(517)

(27,001)

Prepaid expenses and other assets

13,504

4,833

(7,636)

Accounts payable and accrued expenses

(436)

(42,735)

21,212

Deferred revenue

(8,657)

5,326

9,388

Other liabilities, net

(41,151)

(41,915)

(26,969)

Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities

(3,431)

10,927

(18,074)

Cash flows from investing activities

Purchase of a business, net of cash acquired

5,010

(761,118)

Additions of amortizable intangible assets

(44,010)

(62,445)

(60,546)

Purchases of property and equipment

(6,021)

(11,755)

(9,788)

Purchase of investments

(1,000)

Proceeds from investments

38,818

Advances made to university clients

(310)

Advances repaid by university clients

200

200

200

Other

(50)

Net cash used in investing activities

(49,831)

(69,350)

(793,434)

Cash flows from financing activities

Proceeds from debt

329,223

696

569,477

Payments on debt

(375,283)

(7,181)

(4,334)

Prepayment premium on extinguishment of senior secured term loan facility

(5,666)

Payment of debt issuance costs

(4,411)

(11,575)

Tax withholding payments associated with settlement of restricted stock units

(1,093)

(2,850)

(18,780)

Proceeds from exercise of stock options

110

1,128

6,489

Proceeds from employee stock purchase plan share purchases

2,102

1,282

3,583

Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities

(55,018)

(6,925)

544,860

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash

(899)

(1,983)

(2,309)

Net decrease in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash

(109,179)

(67,331)

(268,957)

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning of period

182,578

249,909

518,866

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of period

$               73,399

$             182,578

$             249,909

 

2U, Inc.

Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures – Adjusted EBITDA

(unaudited)

The following table presents a reconciliation of adjusted EBITDA to net loss for each of the periods indicated.

Three Months Ended

December 31,

Year Ended

December 31,

2023

2022

2023

2022

(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

Revenue

$      255,661

$      236,049

$      945,953

$      963,080

Net loss

$      (42,448)

$      (11,843)

$    (317,607)

$    (322,151)

Stock-based compensation expense

3,702

17,480

39,688

80,220

Other expense (income), net

52

(427)

803

3,815

Amortization of acquired intangible assets

7,688

10,901

34,225

53,417

Income tax benefit on amortization of acquired intangible assets

(19)

(1)

(76)

(1,202)

Impairment charges

62,754

196,871

138,291

Debt modification expense and loss on debt extinguishment

16,735

Restructuring charges

13,674

4,067

36,256

33,239

Other*

4,079

(1,677)

8,462

3,348

  Adjusted net income (loss)

49,482

18,500

15,357

(11,023)

Net interest expense

18,671

18,127

72,612

61,069

Income tax expense (benefit)

1,243

(428)

1,730

299

Depreciation and amortization expense

20,788

22,182

81,097

74,736

  Adjusted EBITDA

$        90,184

$        58,381

$      170,796

$      125,081

Adjusted EBITDA margin

35 %

25 %

18 %

13 %

Net loss per share, basic and diluted

$          (0.52)

$          (0.15)

$          (3.93)

$          (4.17)

Adjusted net income (loss) per share, basic

$            0.60

$            0.24

$            0.19

$          (0.14)

Adjusted net income (loss) per share, diluted**

$            0.48

$            0.23

$            0.19

$          (0.14)

Weighted-average shares of common stock outstanding, basic

82,140,194

78,261,601

80,891,146

77,327,850

Weighted-average shares of common stock outstanding, diluted

112,909,097

78,921,457

82,331,052

77,327,850

*

Includes (i) transaction and integration expense of $3.3 million and $0.2 million for the three months ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, and $3.6 million and $3.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively and (ii) litigation-related expense (recoveries) of $0.8 million and $(1.9) million for the three months ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, and $4.9 million and $(0.3) million for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

**

For the purposes of calculating adjusted net income per share on a diluted basis, interest expense associated with the company’s convertible notes of $5.0 million has been added back to adjusted net income for the three months ended December 31, 2023.  For all other periods presented, no such adjustment was made as the result would be anti-dilutive.

 

2U, Inc.

Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures – Adjusted EBITDA by Segment

(unaudited)

The following table presents a reconciliation of adjusted EBITDA (loss) to net income (loss) by segment for each of the periods indicated.

Degree Program Segment

Alternative Credential Segment

Consolidated

Three Months Ended

December 31,

Three Months Ended

December 31,

Three Months Ended

December 31,

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

(in thousands)

Revenue

$   163,466

$   137,109

$     92,195

$     98,940

$   255,661

$   236,049

Net income (loss)

$     38,120

$     15,093

$    (80,568)

$    (26,936)

$    (42,448)

$    (11,843)

Adjustments:

Stock-based compensation expense

2,180

9,754

1,522

7,726

3,702

17,480

Other expense (income), net

2

(806)

50

379

52

(427)

Net interest expense (income)

18,778

18,197

(107)

(70)

18,671

18,127

Income tax expense (benefit)

100

132

1,124

(561)

1,224

(429)

Depreciation and amortization expense

14,777

16,506

13,699

16,577

28,476

33,083

Impairment charges

62,754

62,754

Restructuring charges

12,701

3,292

973

775

13,674

4,067

Other

4,079

(1,705)

28

4,079

(1,677)

Total adjustments

52,617

45,370

80,015

24,854

132,632

70,224

Total adjusted EBITDA (loss)

$     90,737

$     60,463

$         (553)

$      (2,082)

$     90,184

$     58,381

Adjusted EBITDA margin

56 %

44 %

(1) %

(2) %

35 %

25 %

 

2U, Inc.

Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures – Adjusted EBITDA by Segment

(unaudited)

The following table presents a reconciliation of adjusted EBITDA (loss) to net loss by segment for each of the periods indicated.

Degree Program Segment

Alternative Credential Segment

Consolidated

Year Ended

December 31,

Year Ended

December 31,

Year Ended

December 31,

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

(in thousands)

Revenue

$   561,044

$   571,608

$   384,909

$   391,472

$   945,953

$   963,080

Net income (loss)

$        3,934

$    (10,797)

$ (321,541)

$ (311,354)

$ (317,607)

$ (322,151)

Adjustments:

Stock-based compensation expense

23,382

44,378

16,306

35,842

39,688

80,220

Other (income) expense, net

(1,398)

882

2,201

2,933

803

3,815

Net interest expense (income)

73,041

61,341

(429)

(272)

72,612

61,069

Income tax expense (benefit)

415

5

1,239

(908)

1,654

(903)

Depreciation and amortization expense

57,029

57,779

58,293

70,374

115,322

128,153

Impairment charges

196,871

138,291

196,871

138,291

Debt modification expense and loss on debt extinguishment

16,735

16,735

Restructuring charges

33,127

24,528

3,129

8,711

36,256

33,239

Other

8,434

2,611

28

737

8,462

3,348

Total adjustments

210,765

191,524

277,638

255,708

488,403

447,232

Total adjusted EBITDA (loss)

$   214,699

$   180,727

$    (43,903)

$    (55,646)

$   170,796

$   125,081

Adjusted EBITDA margin

38 %

32 %

(11) %

(14) %

18 %

13 %

 

2U, Inc.

Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures – Adjusted Free Cash Flow and Adjusted Unlevered Free Cash Flow

(unaudited)

The following table presents a reconciliation of adjusted unlevered free cash flow to net cash (used in) provided by operating activities for each of the twelve-month

periods indicated.

Trailing Twelve Months Ended

December 31,

2023

September 30,

2023

June 30,

2023

March 31,

2023

(in thousands)

Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities

$            (3,431)

$            (5,149)

$          (16,536)

$           38,472

Additions of amortizable intangible assets

(44,010)

(44,733)

(50,619)

(55,544)

Purchases of property and equipment

(6,021)

(7,313)

(8,640)

(11,210)

Payments to university clients

1,050

1,050

3,550

6,425

Non-ordinary cash payments*

36,653

34,618

36,101

32,282

Adjusted free cash flow

(15,759)

(21,527)

(36,144)

10,425

Cash interest payments on debt

61,194

53,473

47,802

48,118

Adjusted unlevered free cash flow

$           45,435

$           31,946

$           11,658

$           58,543

*

Includes transaction, integration, restructuring-related, stockholder activism, and litigation-related expense.

 

2U, Inc.

Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures

(unaudited)

The following table presents a reconciliation of adjusted EBITDA guidance to net loss guidance, at the midpoint of the ranges

provided by the company, for the periods indicated.

Three Months Ending

March 31, 2024

Year Ending

December 31, 2024

(in millions)

Net loss

$                 (57.5)

$                 (87.5)

Stock-based compensation expense

12.0

30.0

Amortization of acquired intangible assets

8.0

32.5

Restructuring charges

3.0

12.0

Other

5.5

7.5

  Adjusted net income

(29.0)

(5.5)

Net interest expense

20.0

70.0

Depreciation and amortization expense

20.0

58.0

  Adjusted EBITDA

$                   11.0

$                122.5

 

2U, Inc.

Key Financial Performance Metrics

(unaudited)

Full Course Equivalent Enrollments

Degree Program Segment

The following table presents FCE enrollments and average revenue per FCE enrollment in the company’s Degree Program Segment for the last eight quarters.

Q4 ’23

Q3 ’23

Q2 ’23

Q1 ’23

Q4 ’22

Q3 ’22

Q2 ’22

Q1 ’22

Degree Program Segment FCE enrollments

43,309

45,284

50,490

55,491

53,631

57,092

60,303

62,609

Degree Program Segment average revenue per FCE enrollment*

$  3,774

$  3,039

$  2,367

$  2,532

$  2,557

$  2,404

$  2,373

$  2,462

*

Average revenue per FCE enrollment includes revenue from portfolio management activities.

 

Alternative Credential Segment*

The following table presents FCE enrollments and average revenue per FCE enrollment in the company’s Alternative Credential Segment for the last eight quarters.

Q4 ’23

Q3 ’23

Q2 ’23

Q1 ’23

Q4 ’22

Q3 ’22

Q2 ’22

Q1 ’22

Alternative Credential Segment FCE enrollments

24,499

25,318

25,840

21,990

24,236

23,128

23,443

22,664

Alternative Credential Segment average revenue per FCE enrollment

$  3,500

$  3,428

$  3,591

$  4,193

$  3,840

$  3,850

$  3,891

$  4,012

*

FCE enrollments and average revenue per FCE enrollment exclude the impact of enrollments in edX offerings and the related revenue of $6.4 million and $5.9 million for the three months ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, and $27.4 million and $27.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

 

 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/2u-reports-results-for-fourth-quarter-and-full-year-2023-302059834.html

SOURCE 2U, Inc.

Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Technology

Travelport Releases Second Annual State of Modern Retailing Report: ‘Travel’s Tipping Point’

Published

on

By

New proprietary research from Travelport, combined with cross-industry insights, highlights key trends that will transform the travel industry in 2025

LANGLEY, United Kingdom, Jan. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Travelport, a global technology company that powers travel bookings for hundreds of thousands of travel agencies and suppliers worldwide, today unveiled its 2025 State of Modern Retailing Report. This report, combining new proprietary research and cross-industry insights, outlines critical trends reshaping the travel industry in 2025, including heightened demand for transparency, the emergence of new subscription models, and AI-driven advancements in the travel retail experience.

“Consumers are clear about what they want from the travel industry: simplicity, transparency, and trust,” said Jen Catto, Chief Marketing and Product Officer at Travelport. “Our latest research shows that travel has reached a tipping point. Modern retailers who embrace radical transparency, adopt AI responsibly, and deliver streamlined experiences will thrive in this evolving landscape.”

Five Key Trends to Watch in 2025:

Consumer-washing ends; Radical transparency begins
Travel companies face growing criticism for “consumer washing,” a practice where businesses advertise deceptively low prices, hiding fees or conditions until checkout. Nearly half (44%) of surveyed consumers ranked airlines, hotels, and travel companies as major offenders, second only to credit card companies (45%).

Modern retailing requires honesty at every stage of the customer journey. Brands that eliminate hidden fees and agencies that present clear, comparable options across suppliers will earn customer loyalty. Radical transparency is not just a necessity—it’s a competitive advantage.

Disruptors Delivering Simplicity Will Outpace the Laggards
Fintech disruptors have reshaped banking, with 47% of consumers agreeing they’ve made personal finances easier to manage. However, the travel industry lags behind. Over half of consumers (56%) report that airline offers have become more confusing over the past decade.

To match fintech’s success, travel brands must embrace agile, API-led technology that enables seamless integration of new content, data, and features. Those who simplify the shopping experience will stand out in a crowded market.

Distribution Partnerships Drive Consumer Growth
The overwhelming number of content options across industries has led to choice overload. In streaming services, for example, 56% of consumers feel overwhelmed by the amount of content available on traditional and streaming channels, and 75% would prefer one bundled subscription.

Travel is no different. Forward-thinking companies are forming unconventional partnerships to meet consumers where they shop. For example, low-cost carriers (LCCs) are opening up their content to travel retailers, recognizing that a multi-channel approach simplifies the consumer experience while driving loyalty.

Travel Subscriptions Gain Traction
Travelers are increasingly turning to subscriptions. Online travel agencies (OTAs) like eDreams ODIGEO have demonstrated the potential of this approach, boasting more than 6.5 million Prime subscribers. Its subscription model is currently the company’s largest contributor of revenues and margins.

1 in 3 consumers (35%) surveyed said that they would consider a travel subscription in 2025, highlighting that this business model is primed for growth. Benefits such as convenience, cost savings, and exclusive perks make subscriptions a compelling alternative to traditional loyalty programs.

AI Raises the Bar for Travel Retailing
AI adoption is accelerating, with 58% of people using AI in their personal or professional lives. Travel ranks in top three industries for AI trust, with 42% of consumers trusting travel brands to use AI responsibly. In fact, 80% of frequent travelers already feel comfortable using AI for trip planning.

AI-driven tools will revolutionize travel retailing in 2025, from predicting travel behavior to curating personalized offers. For agencies, AI will simplify managing multi-source content and enable more effective customer service and upselling.

To read the full report or to learn more about Travelport, please visit Travelport.com/Trends-2025.

About Travelport
Travelport is a global technology company that powers bookings for hundreds of thousands of travel suppliers worldwide. Buyers and sellers of travel are connected by the company’s next generation marketplace, Travelport+, which simplifies how brands connect, upgrades how travel is sold, and enables modern digital retailing. Headquartered in the United Kingdom and operating in more than 165 countries around the world, Travelport is focused on driving innovation that simplifies the complex travel ecosystem.

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1481912/TRAVELPORT_LOGO_BLACK_CMYK_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/travelport-releases-second-annual-state-of-modern-retailing-report-travels-tipping-point-302351283.html

Continue Reading

Technology

HONGQI Showcases Flagship Electric Vehicles at the Brussels Motor Show 2025

Published

on

By

BRUSSELS, Jan. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — HONGQI, the benchmark of China’s luxury automotive industry, proudly unveils its flagship electric vehicle lineup at the Brussels Motor Show 2025, held from January 10 to 19 at the Brussels Expo. The event gathers leading automotive brands from around the globe, offering a platform to showcase cutting-edge technologies and sustainable innovation. HONGQI’s E-HS9, EH7, and EHS7 take centre stage, highlighting the brand’s excellence in design, performance, and forward-looking technology.

The E-HS9, a full-size smart electric SUV, embodies spaciousness and refinement. Its dual-motor all-wheel-drive system and high-performance battery deliver exceptional power and stability. The cabin, designed with premium materials, ensures both comfort and elegance, making it a perfect choice for executives and families alike.

The EH7 is designed to meet the expectations of discerning customers in the premium upper mid-sized electric sedan. With a WLTP range of 655 km, it excels in delivering long-distance comfort. Its powerful drivetrain, producing 455 kW and 756 Nm of torque, enables acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.5 seconds, offering an exhilarating driving experience while maintaining efficiency. For those who value a combination of high performance and extended range, the EH7 is an irresistible choice.

The EHS7 is a premium upper mid-sized electric SUV that offers powerful driving performance and smooth handling. Its advanced braking system achieves a stopping distance of just 36 meters from 100 km/h, ensuring precise control and safety. As the only vehicle in its class equipped with rear-wheel steering, the EHS7 delivers exceptional agility and handling. Equipped with IPX8 waterproof battery safety features, it guarantees stable performance across various environments. With ultra-fast charging capabilities and outstanding manoeuvrability, the EHS7 is the ideal choice for drivers who prioritise practicality and superior driving dynamics.

In 2024, HONGQI captivated audiences with appearances at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, Automechanika Frankfurt, and the Paris Motor Show. Each event highlighted the unique features of the E-HS9, EH7, and EHS7, demonstrating HONGQI’s global commitment to luxury EV innovation.

The HONGQI booth at the Brussels Motor Show 2025 offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the flagship models E-HS9, EH7, and EHS7 up close. Attendees can explore these models firsthand, discovering HONGQI’s dedication to luxury design, new energy innovation, and cutting-edge technology. The exhibit highlights the HONGQI’s continuous efforts to advance electric mobility and enhance premium driving experiences on a global scale.

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2598627/image_5028817_33338130.jpg 

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/hongqi-showcases-flagship-electric-vehicles-at-the-brussels-motor-show-2025-302351621.html

Continue Reading

Technology

Start the New Year Right: Corra Group Highlights the Importance of Background Checks as Businesses Start the New Year Strong

Published

on

By

Background Checks Are Essential for Organizations Seeking to Build Trusted Teams and Create Safe Work Environments.

EL SEGUNDO, Calif., Jan. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The start of the new year is peak season for hiring, and businesses are gearing up to tackle early-year demands for a thriving 2025. Corra Group, a nationwide provider of background checks and drug testing, highlights the critical role of background screening at the start of the new year.

“January and February are typically active months for hiring, as companies bring on new employees to drive business growth and address early-year needs,” said Nick Gustavson, Corra Group Cofounder. “Background checks not only protect a company’s reputation and provide a safe work environment, but also foster a culture of safety, compliance, and reliability for teams and customers.”

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor, the U.S. economy added over 350,000 jobs last January, significantly surpassing forecasts. Failing to perform comprehensive background checks can lead to increased risk and turnover, costing companies time and resources. Corra Group’s streamlined background check services help companies hire with confidence, starting the year with safe, dependable, and qualified teams.

Background checks are especially important for New Year hiring, particularly after the holiday season. It is easy to move too quickly as the new year ramps up, and the post-holiday season is a great opportunity for employers to utilize background checks to reduce turnover costs, transition temporary holiday hires into permanent roles, and stay safe while expanding.

“January also typically brings the launch of hiring initiatives, restructuring, and expansion,” adds Gustavson. “This results in increased hiring and a need for integrity, professionalism, culture fit, and alignment with company values in new or expanded roles.”

2025 is also seeing many companies implementing stricter full-time Return To Office (RTO) mandates, a trend already underway at major organizations like Amazon, JPMorgan, Disney, Google, Boeing, and Apple. With employees transitioning from remote work to working full-time side by side in physical office spaces, businesses need to prioritize safety, trust, and a secure work environment. Corra Group offers a number of background check services including Criminal Checks, Nationwide Registered Sex Offender Search, Drug Testing & Alcohol ScreeningMotor Vehicle Records, Employment Verification and Social Media Background Screening.

“We hope everyone starts the new year right,” said Gustavson. “Stay safe and compliant, and we wish everyone a Happy New Year!”

About Corra Group:

Corra Group is a full-service background screening company that provides background checks and employment screening to clients throughout the United States and around the world. With over 20 years of experience, Corra Group’s goal is to help clients make informed decisions and provide a first-class candidate experience during the hiring process. It is also one of the few companies that will answer the phone. Corra Group is headquartered in El Segundo, California. To learn more, visit CorraGroup.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/start-the-new-year-right-corra-group-highlights-the-importance-of-background-checks-as-businesses-start-the-new-year-strong-302350693.html

SOURCE Corra Group

Continue Reading

Trending