8-K: News Corp Continues $1 Billion Stock Repurchase Program
Stock Repurchase Update
News Corporation reported ongoing progress in its $1 billion stock repurchase program, acquiring additional Class A and Class B common shares.
Summary
- News Corporation is executing its previously authorized stock repurchase program, allowing for the acquisition of up to $1 billion in aggregate of its outstanding Class A and Class B common stock.
- The program aims to enhance shareholder value.
- As of July 8, 2025, the company repurchased 11,527 Class A shares for US$339,629.22 and 5,773 Class B shares for US$196,424.59.
- Cumulatively, the company has purchased approximately US$693,508,507.83 worth of Class A and Class B shares under the program.
- The total number of Class A common stock on issue is 375,408,632, and Class B common stock is 153,129,748.
- The buy-back is conducted through Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC in the open market or otherwise, with prices determined at the time of purchase.
Sentiment
Score: 7
Explanation: The document reports on the ongoing execution of a stock repurchase program, which is generally viewed positively by investors as a means of returning capital and enhancing shareholder value. There are no negative surprises or adverse events reported, indicating a stable and consistent approach to capital management.
Positives
- The ongoing stock repurchase program is intended to enhance shareholder value.
- The company continues to execute on its authorized $1 billion buy-back, demonstrating commitment to capital return.
Risks
- Actual results of the repurchase program may vary materially due to changes in the market price of the company's stock.
- General market conditions could impact the program.
- Applicable securities laws and alternative investment opportunities may affect the program's execution.
- Other risks, uncertainties, and factors described in the company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission could influence the program.
Future Outlook
The company intends to continue repurchasing Class A and Class B common stock from time to time, subject to market conditions, the market price of its stock, applicable securities laws, and alternative investment opportunities. The forward-looking statements are made only as of the report date, and the company does not undertake any obligation to publicly update them, except as required by law.
Industry Context
Stock repurchase programs are a common capital allocation strategy employed by mature companies across various industries to return value to shareholders, reduce share count, and potentially boost earnings per share. News Corporation's ongoing program aligns with this broader trend, indicating a focus on shareholder returns.
Stakeholder Impact
- Shareholders: Potential for enhanced shareholder value through reduced share count and increased earnings per share.
Next Steps
- Continue repurchasing Class A and Class B common stock under the authorized $1 billion program.
- Provide daily disclosure of transactions to the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX).
- Disclose information concerning the Repurchase Program in quarterly and annual reports filed with the SEC.
Key Dates
| Date | Description |
|---|---|
| 2021-09-22 | Anticipated date the buy-back program commenced. |
| 2022-09-29 | Lowest price paid date for Class A common stock (US$14.88) and Class B common stock (US$15.17) under the repurchase program. |
| 2025-02-19 | Highest price paid date for Class A common stock (US$30.69) and Class B common stock (US$35.25) under the repurchase program. |
| 2025-07-08 | Date of earliest event reported in the 8-K filing and the previous day on which securities were bought back. |
| 2025-07-09 | Date of this 8-K report and the daily buy-back notification to ASX. |
Recommendation
holdKeywords
News Corporation, NWSA, NWS, stock repurchase, share buyback, capital return, shareholder value, SEC filing, 8-K, common stock, Class A, Class B, corporate finance
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