Lahore, November 24, 2022 (PPI-OT):The assigned ratings incorporate HUM Network’s ability to uphold its relative market position within the media industry. With an appreciable presence of HUM TV – the Company’s flagship channel in the entertainment segment, the Company has expanded into multiple TV ventures on a timeline basis including Hum Masala, Hum Sitaray and Hum News. During the year HUM News channel showed improvement and witnessed positive outcomes.
The ratings take into account the improved margins and profitability of the Company, as well as on-balance sheet liquidity to continue supporting the overall risk profile of the Company. With a view to sustainable diversified revenue streams, management is building upon various revenue segments including the growing ‘Subscription Income’ component as well as the development of Hum News.
Furthermore, the Company intends to acquire Tower Sports (Pvt.) Ltd., a company that currently holds the landing rights of Ten Sports and Ten Sports 2. In addition to that, the Company also intends to acquire Sphere Ventures (Pvt.) Ltd, a Company which deals in kid’s content. Furthermore, in order to enhance revenue streams, Hum Network FZ LLC 100% owned by HUMNL entered into an agreement with GS Group Inc. as a general partner and is planning to launch a fund named “Pakistan Katalatic Funds (PKF)” with the expected size of USD~ 50mln. These expansionary plans are further expected to strengthen the business and financial prospects of the Company. The strategic change, expanded business horizon and financial gains have bode well for the Company and contributed towards extinguishing of “Rating Watch’’.
The ratings are dependent upon the sustained business profile of the Company. Improvement in the financial risk profile is vital, significant increase in investment book (TFC’s and Mutual Funds) which will strengthen the bottom line and have an impact on the Company’s performance in the future.
For more information, contact:
Analyst,
The Pakistan Credit Rating Agency Limited (PACRA)
Awami Complex, FB1, Usman Block New Garden Town,
Lahore, Pakistan
Tel: +92-42-5869504-6
Fax: +92-42-5830425
Email: hammad.rashid@pacra.com
Website: www.pacra.com