Stock events for The E.W. Scripps Co. (SSP)
In Q4 CY2025, Scripps reported revenue ahead of expectations, but its GAAP loss per share was below estimates, although adjusted EBITDA beat estimates. In November 2025, Sinclair Broadcast Group acquired an 8% equity stake and made a takeover proposal. In March 2026, Scripps announced an agreement to acquire WTVQ in Lexington, Kentucky, and there was news of significant insider buying. The stock experienced a drop in March 2026 following the announcement of new global tariffs. Also in March 2026, Scripps completed the sale of WFTX in Fort Myers, Florida, to reduce debt.
Demand Seasonality affecting The E.W. Scripps Co.’s stock price
Demand seasonality for The E.W. Scripps Co. is influenced by advertising cycles, with political advertising during election years being a significant driver of revenue. Advertising revenue is affected by audience ratings, market conditions, and the overall economy. Seasonality analysis suggests recurring patterns in asset prices, with November showing the highest probability of positive returns for SSP, while August has the lowest. The company anticipates advertiser demand to strengthen later in the year, partly supported by premium inventory such as women's sports.
Overview of The E.W. Scripps Co.’s business
The E.W. Scripps Co. is a diversified media enterprise operating in the Communication Services sector, specifically in the Broadcasting industry. Its core business revolves around its Local Media segment, encompassing over 60 local television stations across more than 40 markets in the United States, and Scripps Networks segment, which includes national news outlets and entertainment brands distributed through various platforms. The company's revenue streams primarily consist of advertising sales, retransmission fees, and content licensing.
SSP’s Geographic footprint
The E.W. Scripps Co. has a significant geographic footprint primarily within the United States. It owns and operates over 60 local television stations across more than 40 U.S. markets, reaching approximately 25% of the nation's television households. Its national networks also extend their reach to nearly every television home across the United States through various distribution channels.
SSP Corporate Image Assessment
While The E.W. Scripps Co. emphasizes its commitment to quality, objective local journalism and journalistic integrity, specific events that have significantly impacted its brand reputation were not prominently detailed. The company's focus on local news and its role as the steward of the Scripps National Spelling Bee contribute to its public image.
Ownership
The ownership structure of The E.W. Scripps Co. is a mix of institutional, individual, and public investors, with a dual-class share structure that grants the Scripps family significant voting control. Approximately 33.62% to 49.86% of the company's stock is owned by institutional investors, while insiders hold around 3.76% to 5.75%, and public companies and retail investors hold the remaining shares. Major institutional owners include BlackRock, Inc., Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc, Vanguard Group Inc, Dimensional Fund Advisors Lp, Penn Capital Management Co Inc, Gamco Investors, Inc. Et Al, Wittenberg Investment Management, Inc., D. E. Shaw & Co., Inc., and New York State Common Retirement Fund. Sinclair, Inc. is also noted as a significant institutional holder. Key individual owners and insiders include Director Charles L. Barmonde, President and CEO Adam Symson, TenPercentOwner Jimmy R. Scripps, Margaret Scripps Klenzing, and Corina S. Granado. The Scripps family maintains considerable influence over the company through a voting agreement.
