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Echosphere LLC, et al. – ‘S-4/A’ on 9/16/11

On:  Friday, 9/16/11, at 5:21pm ET   ·   Accession #:  1104659-11-52137   ·   File #s:  333-175277, -01, -02, -03, -04

Previous ‘S-4’:  ‘S-4’ on 7/1/11   ·   Next:  ‘S-4’ on 6/26/12   ·   Latest:  ‘S-4/A’ on 7/23/21

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  As Of               Filer                 Filing    For·On·As Docs:Size             Issuer                      Filing Agent

 9/16/11  Echosphere LLC                    S-4/A                 50:17M                                    Toppan Merrill/FA
          DISH Network LLC
          Dish DBS Corp
          Dish Network Service LLC
          Dish Operating L.L.C.

Pre-Effective Amendment to Registration of Securities Issued in a Business-Combination Transaction   —   Form S-4
Filing Table of Contents

Document/Exhibit                   Description                      Pages   Size 

 1: S-4/A       Pre-Effective Amendment to Registration of          HTML   2.95M 
                Securities Issued in a Business-Combination                      
                Transaction                                                      
 3: EX-23.1     Consent of Experts or Counsel                       HTML     18K 
 2: EX-12.1     Statement re: Computation of Ratios                 HTML     57K 
13: R1          Consolidated Balance Sheets                         HTML    148K 
46: R2          Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical)         HTML     40K 
10: R3          Consolidated Statements of Operations and           HTML    101K 
                Comprehensive Income (Loss)                                      
11: R4          Consolidated Statements of Changes in               HTML     65K 
                Stockholder's Equity (Deficit)                                   
39: R5          Consolidated Statements of Changes in               HTML     18K 
                Stockholder's Equity (Deficit) (Parenthetical)                   
27: R6          Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows               HTML    158K 
42: R7          Organization and Business Activities                HTML     33K 
20: R8          Summary of Significant Accounting Policies          HTML     70K 
28: R9          Statements of Cash Flow Data                        HTML     45K 
30: R10         Marketable Investment Securities, Restricted Cash   HTML    397K 
                and Other Investment Securities                                  
36: R11         Inventory                                           HTML     51K 
15: R12         Property and Equipment                              HTML    210K 
26: R13         Long-Term Debt                                      HTML    213K 
22: R14         Income Taxes and Accounting for Uncertainty in      HTML    141K 
                Income Taxes                                                     
24: R15         Employee Benefit Plans                              HTML     42K 
43: R16         Stock-Based Compensation                            HTML    482K 
19: R17         Commitments and Contingencies                       HTML    164K 
35: R18         Financial Information for Subsidiary Guarantors     HTML     21K 
23: R19         Valuation and Qualifying Accounts                   HTML     39K 
45: R20         Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)                HTML     54K 
37: R21         Related Party Transactions                          HTML    175K 
40: R22         Subsequent Events                                   HTML     27K 
12: R23         Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets               HTML    148K 
41: R24         Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets               HTML     40K 
                (Parenthetical)                                                  
18: R25         Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations     HTML    102K 
                and Comprehensive Income (Loss)                                  
14: R26         Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows     HTML    131K 
16: R27         Organization and Business Activities                HTML     33K 
31: R28         Summary of Significant Accounting Policies          HTML     70K 
38: R29         Marketable Investment Securities and Restricted     HTML    397K 
                Cash                                                             
34: R30         Inventory                                           HTML     51K 
29: R31         Property and Equipment                              HTML    210K 
25: R32         Long-Term Debt                                      HTML    213K 
33: R33         Stock-Based Compensation                            HTML    482K 
44: R34         Commitments and Contingencies                       HTML    164K 
21: R35         Financial Information for Subsidiary Guarantors     HTML     21K 
47: R36         Related Party Transactions                          HTML    175K 
50: R37         Subsequent Events                                   HTML     27K 
17: R38         Document and Entity Information                     HTML     34K 
48: XML         IDEA XML File -- Filing Summary                      XML     77K 
49: EXCEL       IDEA Workbook of Financial Reports (.xls)            XLS   3.89M 
 4: EX-101.INS  XBRL Instance -- ddbs-20110630                       XML   2.40M 
 6: EX-101.CAL  XBRL Calculations -- ddbs-20110630_cal               XML    198K 
 9: EX-101.DEF  XBRL Definitions -- ddbs-20110630_def                XML    403K 
 7: EX-101.LAB  XBRL Labels -- ddbs-20110630_lab                     XML    763K 
 8: EX-101.PRE  XBRL Presentations -- ddbs-20110630_pre              XML    569K 
 5: EX-101.SCH  XBRL Schema -- ddbs-20110630                         XSD     88K 
32: ZIP         XBRL Zipped Folder -- 0001104659-11-052137-xbrl      Zip    188K 


‘S-4/A’   —   Pre-Effective Amendment to Registration of Securities Issued in a Business-Combination Transaction
Document Table of Contents

Page (sequential)   (alphabetic) Top
 
11st Page  –  Filing Submission
"Table of Contents
"Where You Can Find More Information
"Disclosure Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
"Summary
"Risk Factors
"Business
"Management's Narrative Analysis of Results of Operations
"The Exchange Offer
"Description of the Notes
"Capitalization
"Description of Material Indebtedness
"Registration Rights
"Certain United States Federal Income Tax Considerations
"Benefit Plan Investor Considerations
"Book-Entry, Delivery and Form
"Plan of Distribution
"Validity of the Notes
"Experts
"Incorporation of Certain Documents by Reference
"Index to Consolidated Financial Statements
"Report of KPMG LLP, Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
"Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2010 and 2009
"Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008
"Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholder's Equity (Deficit) for the years ended December 31, 2008, 2009 and 2010
"Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008
"Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
"Index to Unaudited Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
"Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets -- June 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010 (Unaudited)
"Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the Three Months and Six Months Ended June 30, 2011 and 2010 (Unaudited)
"Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Six Months Ended June 30, 2011 and 2010 (Unaudited)
"Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

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Table of Contents

 

As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 16, 2011.

 

Registration No. 333-175277

 

 

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

 


 

Amendment No. 1 to

 

FORM S-4

 

REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933

 


 

DISH DBS Corporation*

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Colorado
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)

 

5064
(Primary standard industrial
classification code number)

 

84-1328967
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification Number)

 

9601 South Meridian Boulevard

Englewood, Colorado 80112

(303) 723-1000

(Address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code, of Registrants’ principal executive offices)

 


 

R. Stanton Dodge, Esq.

Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary

DISH DBS Corporation

9601 South Meridian Boulevard

Englewood, Colorado 80112

(303) 723-1000

(Name, address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code, of agent for service)

 


 

Copies to:

Scott D. Miller, Esq.
Sullivan & Cromwell LLP
1870 Embarcadero Road
Palo Alto, California 94303
(650) 461-5600

 

* The companies listed on the next page are also included in this Form S-4 Registration Statement as additional Registrants.

 


 

APPROXIMATE DATE OF COMMENCEMENT OF PROPOSED SALE TO PUBLIC: As soon as practicable after the effective date of this registration statement.

 

If the securities being registered on this Form are being offered in connection with the formation of a holding company and there is compliance with General Instruction G, check the following box.  o

 

If this Form is filed to register additional securities for an offering pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act of 1933, please check the following box and list the Securities Act of 1933 registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering.  o

 

If this Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(d) under the Securities Act of 1933, check the following box and list the Securities Act of 1933 registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering. o

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

 

Large accelerated filer  o

 

Accelerated filer  o

 

Non-accelerated filer  x

 

Smaller Reporting Company  o

 

 

 

 

(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)

 

 

 

If applicable, place an X in the box to designate the appropriate rule provision relied upon in conducting this transaction:

 

Exchange Act Rule 13e-4(i) (Cross-Border Issuer Tender Offer)

o

Exchange Act Rule 14d-1(d) (Cross-Border Third Party Tender Offer)

o

 


 

CALCULATION OF REGISTRATION FEE

 

Title of Each Class of
Securities to be Registered

 

Amount to be
Registered

 

Proposed
Maximum Offering
Price Per Note (1)

 

Proposed Maximum
Aggregate Offering
Price (1)

 

Amount of
Registration Fee

 

6.75% Senior Notes due 2021

 

$

2,000,000,000

 

100

%

$

2,000,000,000

 

$

232,200

(4)

Guarantees of 6.75% Senior Notes due 2021 (3)

 

 

(2)

 

(2)

 

(2)

 

(2)

 

ADDITIONAL REGISTRANTS

 

Exact Name of Additional Registrants*

 

Jurisdiction of
Formation

 

IRS Employer
Identification No.

DISH Network L.L.C.

 

Colorado

 

84-1114039

DISH Operating L.L.C.

 

Colorado

 

20-0715965

Echosphere L.L.C.

 

Colorado

 

84-0833457

DISH Network Service L.L.C.

 

Colorado

 

84-1195952

 

*              The address for each of the additional Registrants is c/o DISH DBS Corporation, 9601 South Meridian Boulevard, Englewood, Colorado 80112. The primary standard industrial classification number for each of the additional Registrants is 5064.

 

(1)    Pursuant to rule 457(f), the fee is calculated based upon the book value of the 6.75% Senior Notes due 2021.

(2)  Pursuant to Rule 457(n) under the Securities Act of 1933, no registration fee is required with respect to the guarantees.

(3)  Guaranteed by the additional Registrants below.

(4)  Previously paid.

 

The Registrants hereby amend this Registration Statement on such date or dates as may be necessary to delay its effective date until the Registrants shall file a further amendment which specifically states that this Registration Statement shall thereafter become effective in accordance with Section 8(a) of the Securities Act of 1933 or until the Registration Statement shall become effective on such date as the Commission, acting pursuant to said Section 8(a), may determine.

 

 

 



Table of Contents

 

The information in this prospectus is not complete and may be changed.  We may not sell these securities until the registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission is effective.  This prospectus is not an offer to sell these securities and it is not soliciting an offer to buy these securities in any state where the offer or sale is not permitted.

 

SUBJECT TO COMPLETION. DATED SEPTEMBER 16, 2011

 

PROSPECTUS

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION

 

Offer to Exchange up to $2,000,000,000 aggregate principal amount of new

6.75% Senior Notes due 2021,

which have been registered under the Securities Act of 1933,

for any and all of its outstanding 6.75% Senior Notes due 2021

Subject to the Terms and Conditions described in this Prospectus

 

The Exchange Offer will expire at 5:00 p.m. New York City time, on                , 2011,
unless extended

 


 

We are offering to exchange, upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in this prospectus and the accompanying letter of transmittal, our new 6.75% Senior Notes due 2021 for all of our outstanding old 6.75% Senior Notes due 2021.  We refer to our outstanding 6.75% Senior Notes due 2021 as the “old notes” and to the new 6.75% Senior Notes due 2021 issued in this offer as the “Notes.”  The Notes are substantially identical to the old notes that we issued on May 5, 2011, except for certain transfer restrictions and registration rights provisions relating to the old notes.  The CUSIP numbers for the old notes are 25470X AD7 and U25486 AC2.

 

Material Terms of The Exchange Offer

 

·              You will receive an equal principal amount of Notes for all old notes that you validly tender and do not validly withdraw.

 

·              The exchange should not be a taxable exchange for United States federal income tax purposes.

 

·              There has been no public market for the old notes and we cannot assure you that any public market for the Notes will develop.  We do not intend to list the Notes on any securities exchange or to arrange for them to be quoted on any automated quotation system.

 

·              The terms of the Notes are substantially identical to the old notes, except for transfer restrictions and registration rights relating to the old notes.

 

·              If you fail to tender your old notes for the Notes, you will continue to hold unregistered securities and it may be difficult for you to transfer them.

 


 

Investing in the Notes involves risks.  Consider carefully the “Risk Factors” beginning on page 16 of this prospectus.

 


 

We are not making this exchange offer in any state where it is not permitted.

 

Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities commission has approved or disapproved of these securities or determined that this prospectus is truthful or complete.  Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.

 


 

The date of this prospectus is                       , 2011.

 



Table of Contents

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION

2

DISCLOSURE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

4

SUMMARY

7

RISK FACTORS

16

BUSINESS

32

MANAGEMENT’S NARRATIVE ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

39

THE EXCHANGE OFFER

61

DESCRIPTION OF THE NOTES

68

CAPITALIZATION

102

DESCRIPTION OF MATERIAL INDEBTEDNESS

103

REGISTRATION RIGHTS

104

CERTAIN UNITED STATES FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSIDERATIONS

106

BENEFIT PLAN INVESTOR CONSIDERATIONS

111

BOOK-ENTRY, DELIVERY AND FORM

112

PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION

114

VALIDITY OF THE NOTES

114

EXPERTS

115

INCORPORATION OF CERTAIN DOCUMENTS BY REFERENCE

115

INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

F-1

INDEX TO UNAUDITED INTERIM CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

F-54

 

You should rely only on the information contained in this prospectus.  We have not authorized anyone to provide you with information different from that contained in this prospectus.  This prospectus is an offer to exchange only the Notes offered by this prospectus and only under circumstances and in jurisdictions where it is lawful to do so.  The information contained in this prospectus is accurate only as of its date.

 

WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION

 

We have filed with the SEC a registration statement on Form S-4 under the Securities Act of 1933 (the “Securities Act”) that registers the Notes that will be offered in exchange for the old notes.  The registration statement, including the attached exhibits and schedules, contains additional relevant information about us and the Notes.  The rules and regulations of the SEC allow us to omit from this document certain information included in the registration statement.

 

This prospectus incorporates by reference business and financial information about us that is not included in or delivered with this prospectus. This information is available without charge upon written or oral request directed to: Investor Relations, DISH DBS Corporation, 9601 South Meridian Boulevard, Englewood, Colorado 80112; telephone number: (303) 723-1000. To obtain timely delivery, you must request the information no later than                 , 2011.

 

Additionally, this prospectus contains summaries and other information that we believe are accurate as of the date hereof with respect to the terms of specific documents, but we refer to the actual documents for complete information with respect to those documents, copies of which will be made available without charge to you upon request, for complete information with respect to those documents.  Statements contained in this prospectus as to the contents of any contract or other documents referred to in this prospectus do not purport to be complete.  Where reference is made to the particular provisions of a contract or other document, the provisions are qualified in all respects by reference to all of the provisions of the contract or other document.  Our data and industry data are approximate and reflect rounding in certain cases.

 

We and our parent company, DISH Network Corporation (“DISH”), are each subject to the reporting and informational requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”) and accordingly file

 

2



Table of Contents

 

reports, proxy statements and other information with the SEC.  These reports, proxy statements and other information may be inspected and copied at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, DC 20549.  The public may obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330.  The SEC also maintains a website that contains reports and other information that we file electronically with the SEC.  The address of that website is http://www.sec.gov.  Our filings with the SEC and those of DISH are also accessible free of charge at our website, the address of which is http://www.dishnetwork.com.

 

The Class A common stock of our parent company, DISH, is traded under the symbol “DISH” on the Nasdaq Global Select Market.  DISH has not guaranteed and is not otherwise responsible for the Notes.

 

3



Table of Contents

 

DISCLOSURE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

 

We make “forward-looking statements” throughout this prospectus including the documents incorporated herein by reference.  Whenever you read a statement that is not simply a statement of historical fact (such as when we describe what we “believe,” “intend,” “plan,” “estimate,” “expect” or “anticipate” will occur, and other similar statements), you must remember that our expectations may not be achieved, even though we believe they are reasonable.  We do not guarantee that any future transactions or events described in this prospectus will happen as described or that they will happen at all. You should read this prospectus completely and with the understanding that actual future results may be materially different from what we expect. Whether actual events or results will conform with our expectations and predictions is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. The risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the following:

 

·                  We face intense and increasing competition from satellite and cable television providers, telecommunications companies and providers of video content via the Internet, especially as the pay-TV industry matures, which may require us to increase subscriber acquisition and retention spending or accept lower subscriber acquisitions and higher subscriber churn.

 

·                  Competition from digital media companies that provide/facilitate the delivery of video content via the Internet, could materially adversely affect us.

 

·                  We may pursue acquisitions and other strategic transactions to complement or expand our business that may not be successful and we may lose up to the entire value of our investment in these acquisitions and transactions.

 

·                  If we do not improve our operational performance and customer satisfaction, our gross new subscriber additions may decrease and our subscriber churn may increase.

 

·                  If DISH Network gross new subscriber additions decrease, or if subscriber churn, subscriber acquisition costs or retention costs increase, our financial performance will be adversely affected.

 

·                  Economic weakness, including higher unemployment and reduced consumer spending, may adversely affect our ability to grow or maintain our business.

 

·                  Programming expenses are increasing and could adversely affect our future financial condition and results of operations.

 

·                  We depend on others to provide the programming that we offer to our subscribers and, if we lose access to this programming, our gross new subscriber additions may decline and subscriber churn may increase.

 

·                  We may be required to make substantial additional investments to maintain competitive programming offerings.

 

·                  Technology in our industry changes rapidly and could cause our services and products to become obsolete. We may have to upgrade or replace subscriber equipment and make substantial investments in our infrastructure to remain competitive.

 

·                  Increased distribution of video content via the Internet could expose us to regulatory risk.

 

·                  Our business depends on certain intellectual property rights and on not infringing the intellectual property rights of others.

 

·                  Any failure or inadequacy of our information technology infrastructure could harm our business.

 

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Table of Contents

 

·                  We may need additional capital, which may not be available on acceptable terms or at all, to continue investing in our business and to finance acquisitions and other strategic transactions.

 

·                  If Voom prevails in its breach of contract suit against us, we could be required to pay substantial damages, which would have a material adverse affect on our financial position and results of operations.

 

·                  We rely on EchoStar Corporation, or EchoStar, to design and develop all of our new set-top boxes and certain related components, and to provide transponder capacity, digital broadcast operations and other services to us. Our business would be adversely affected if EchoStar ceases to provide these services to us and we are unable to obtain suitable replacement services from third parties.

 

·                  We rely on one or a limited number of vendors, and the inability of these key vendors to meet our needs could have a material adverse effect on our business.

 

·                  Our programming signals are subject to theft, and we are vulnerable to other forms of fraud that could require us to make significant expenditures to remedy.

 

·                  We depend on third parties to solicit orders for DISH Network services that represent a significant percentage of our total gross subscriber acquisitions.

 

·                  Our competitors may be able to leverage their relationships with programmers so that they are able to reduce their programming costs and offer exclusive content that will place them at a competitive advantage to us.

 

·                  We depend on the Cable Act for access to programming from cable-affiliate programmers at cost-effective rates.

 

·                  We face increasing competition from other distributors of foreign language programming that may limit our ability to maintain our foreign language programming subscriber base.

 

·                  Our local programming strategy faces uncertainty because we may not be able to obtain necessary retransmission consents at acceptable rates from local network stations.

 

·                  The injunction against our retransmission of distant networks, which is currently waived, may be reinstated.

 

·                  We are subject to significant regulatory oversight, and changes in applicable regulatory requirements, including any adoption or modification of laws or regulations relating to the Internet, could adversely affect our business.

 

·                  We have substantial debt outstanding and may incur additional debt.

 

·                  We have limited owned and leased satellite capacity and failures or reduced capacity could adversely affect our business.

 

·                  Our owned and leased satellites are subject to construction, launch, operational and environmental risks that could limit our ability to utilize these satellites.

 

·                  We generally do not have commercial insurance coverage on the satellites we use and could face significant impairment charges if one of our satellites fails.

 

·                  We may have potential conflicts of interest with EchoStar due to DISH’s common ownership and management.

 

·                  We rely on key personnel and the loss of their services may negatively affect our businesses.

 

5



Table of Contents

 

·                  We are party to various lawsuits which, if adversely decided, could have a significant adverse impact on our business, particularly lawsuits regarding intellectual property.

 

·                  Our business depends on Federal Communications Commission, or FCC, licenses that can expire or be revoked or modified and applications for FCC licenses that may not be granted.

 

·                  We are subject to digital HD “carry-one, carry-all” requirements that cause capacity constraints.

 

·                  Our parent, DISH, is controlled by one principal stockholder who is also our Chairman.

 

·                  There can be no assurance that there will not be deficiencies leading to material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting.

 

·                  We may face other risks described from time to time in periodic and current reports we file with the Securities and Exchange Commission, or SEC.

 

All cautionary statements made herein should be read as being applicable to all forward-looking statements wherever they appear. Investors should consider the risks described herein and should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements.

 

Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee future results, events, levels of activity, performance or achievements. We do not assume responsibility for the accuracy and completeness of the forward-looking statements. We assume no responsibility for updating forward-looking information contained or incorporated by reference herein or in any reports we file with the SEC.

 

Should one or more of the risks or uncertainties described in this prospectus, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, our actual results and plans could differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements.

 

You should read carefully the section of this prospectus under the heading “Risk Factors” beginning on page 16.

 

6



Table of Contents

 

SUMMARY

 

In this prospectus, the words “we,” “our,” “us,” “DDBS” and the “Company” refer to DISH DBS Corporation and its subsidiaries, unless otherwise stated or the context otherwise requires. “DISH” refers to DISH Network Corporation, our parent company, and its subsidiaries, including us. “EchoStar” refers to EchoStar Corporation and its subsidiaries.  This summary highlights selected information contained in greater detail elsewhere in this prospectus. This summary may not contain all of the information that you should consider before investing in the Notes. You should carefully read the entire prospectus, including the sections under the headings “Risk Factors” and “Disclosure Regarding Forward-Looking Statements.”

 

DISH DBS Corporation

 

DDBS is a holding company and an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of DISH, a publicly traded company listed on the Nasdaq Global Select Market.  DDBS was formed under Colorado law in January 1996.

 

We operate the DISH Network® television service (“DISH Network”), which is the nation’s third largest pay-TV provider, with approximately 14.056 million subscribers across the United States as of June 30, 2011.

 

On January 1, 2008, DISH completed the distribution of its technology and set-top box business and certain infrastructure assets (the “Spin-off”) into a separate publicly-traded company, EchoStar.  DISH and EchoStar operate as separate publicly-traded companies, and neither entity has any ownership interest in the other. However, a substantial majority of the voting power of the shares of both companies is owned beneficially by Charles W. Ergen, our Chairman, or by certain trusts established by Mr. Ergen for the benefit of his family.

 

Our business strategy is to be the best provider of video services in the United States by providing high-quality products, outstanding customer service, and great value.  We promote the DISH Network programming packages as providing our subscribers with a better “price-to-value” relationship than those available from other subscription television providers.  We believe that there continues to be unsatisfied demand for high quality, reasonably priced television programming services.

 

·                  High-Quality Products. We offer a wide selection of local and national programming, featuring more national and local HD channels than most pay-TV providers.  We have been a technology leader in our industry, introducing award-winning DVRs, dual tuner receivers, 1080p video on demand, and external hard drives.  To maintain and enhance our competitiveness over the long term, we are promoting a suite of integrated products designed to maximize the convenience and ease of watching TV anytime and anywhere, which we refer to as, “TV Everywhere.”  Our TV Everywhere™ service utilizes, among other things, online access and Slingbox “placeshifting” technology.

 

·                  Outstanding Customer Service. We strive to provide outstanding customer service by improving the quality of the initial installation of subscriber equipment, improving the reliability of our equipment, better educating our customers about our products and services, and resolving customer problems promptly and effectively when they arise.

 

·                  Great Value. We have historically been viewed as the low-cost provider in the pay-TV industry in the U.S. because we seek to offer the lowest everyday prices available to consumers after introductory promotions expire.

 


 

Our principal executive offices are located at 9601 South Meridian Boulevard, Englewood, Colorado 80112, and our telephone number is (303) 723-1000. Our filings with the SEC and those of DISH are accessible free of charge at www.dishnetwork.com. None of the information or materials posted, contained or referred to at www.dishnetwork.com is incorporated by reference in, or otherwise made a part of, this prospectus, except as specifically described under the caption “Incorporation of Certain Documents by Reference.”

 

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The Exchange Offer

 

The exchange offer relates to the exchange of up to $2,000,000,000 aggregate principal amount of outstanding 6.75% Senior Notes due 2021, for an equal aggregate principal amount of Notes.  The form and terms of the Notes are identical in all material respects to the form and terms of the corresponding outstanding old notes, except that the Notes will be registered under the Securities Act, and therefore they will not bear legends restricting their transfer.

 

The Exchange Offer

We are offering to exchange $1,000 principal amount of our Notes that we have registered under the Securities Act for each $1,000 principal amount of outstanding old notes. Old notes tendered in the exchange offer must be in minimum denominations of $2,000 principal amount and any integral multiples of $1,000 in excess thereof. In order for us to exchange your old notes, you must validly tender them to us and we must accept them. We will exchange all outstanding old notes that are validly tendered and not validly withdrawn.

 

 

Resale of the Notes

Based on interpretations by the staff of the SEC set forth in no-action letters issued to other parties, we believe that you may offer for resale, resell and otherwise transfer your Notes without compliance with the registration and prospectus delivery provisions of the Securities Act if you are not our affiliate and you acquire the Notes issued in the exchange offer in the ordinary course.

 

You must also represent to us that you are not participating, do not intend to participate and have no arrangement or understanding with any person to participate in the distribution of the Notes we issue to you in the exchange offer.

 

Each broker-dealer that receives Notes in the exchange offer for its own account in exchange for old notes that it acquired as a result of market-making or other trading activities must acknowledge that it will deliver a prospectus meeting the requirements of the Securities Act in connection with any resale of the Notes issued in the exchange offer. You may not participate in the exchange offer if you are a broker-dealer who purchased such outstanding old notes directly from us for resale pursuant to Rule 144A or any other available exemption under the Securities Act.

 

 

Expiration date

The exchange offer will expire at 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on      , 2011, unless we decide to extend the expiration date. We may extend the expiration date for any reason. If we fail to consummate the exchange offer, you will have certain rights against us under the registration rights agreement we entered into as part of the offering of the old notes.

 

 

Special procedures for beneficial owners

If you are the beneficial owner of old notes and you registered your old notes in the name of a broker or other institution, and you wish to participate in the exchange, you should promptly contact the person in whose name you registered your old notes and instruct that person to tender the old notes on your behalf. If you wish to tender on your own behalf, you must, prior to completing and executing the letter of transmittal and delivering your outstanding old notes, either make appropriate arrangements to register ownership of the outstanding old notes in your name or obtain a properly completed bond power from the registered holder. The transfer of record ownership may take considerable time.

 

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Guaranteed delivery procedures

If you wish to tender your old notes and time will not permit your required documents to reach the exchange agent by the expiration date, or you cannot complete the procedure for book-entry transfer on time or you cannot deliver your certificates for registered old notes on time, you may tender your old notes pursuant to the procedures described in this prospectus under the heading “The Exchange Offer—How to use the guaranteed delivery procedures if you will not have enough time to send all documents to us.”

 

 

Withdrawal rights

You may withdraw the tender of your old notes at any time prior to the expiration date.

 

 

Certain United States federal income tax consequences

An exchange of old notes for Notes should not be subject to United States federal income tax. See “Certain United States Federal Income Tax Considerations” below.

 

 

Use of proceeds

We will not receive any proceeds from the issuance of Notes pursuant to the exchange offer. Old notes that are validly tendered and exchanged will be retired and canceled. We will pay all expenses incident to the exchange offer.

 

 

Exchange Agent

You can reach the Exchange Agent, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association at MAC - N9303-121, Corporate Trust Operations, P.O. Box 1517, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55480-1517. For more information with respect to the exchange offer, you may call the Exchange Agent at (800) 344-5128; the fax number for the Exchange Agent is (612) 667-6282.

 

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The Notes

 

The exchange offer applies to $2,000,000,000 aggregate principal amount of 6.75% Senior Notes due 2021.  The form and terms of the Notes are substantially identical to the form and terms of the old notes, except that we will register the Notes under the Securities Act, and therefore the Notes will not bear legends restricting their transfer.  The Notes will be entitled to the benefits of the indenture.  See “Description of the Notes.”  As used in this summary of the Notes, “subsidiaries” refers to our direct and indirect subsidiaries.

 

Issuer

 

DISH DBS Corporation, a Colorado corporation.

 

 

 

Maturity Date

 

June 1, 2021.

 

 

 

Interest rate

 

6.75% per year.

 

 

 

Interest payment dates

 

Semi-annually on June 1 and December 1 of each year, commencing December 1, 2011. Interest will accrue from the most recent date through which interest has been paid, or if no interest has been paid, from the date of original issuance of the old notes.

 

 

 

Ranking

 

The Notes are our unsecured senior obligations and rank equally with all of our current and future unsecured senior debt and senior to all of our future subordinated debt. The Notes effectively rank junior to any of our existing and future secured debt to the extent of the value of the assets securing such debt. As of June 30, 2011, after giving effect to the issuance of the Notes, the Notes would have ranked equally with approximately $6.15 billion of our other debt.

 

 

 

Guarantees by our subsidiaries

 

The Notes are guaranteed by our principal operating subsidiaries on a senior basis. The guarantees are unsecured obligations of the guarantors and rank equally with all of our current and future unsecured senior debt and senior to all existing and future subordinated debt of the guarantors. The guarantees effectively rank junior to any existing and future secured debt of the guarantors to the extent of the value of the assets securing such debt. Neither DISH nor any of its subsidiaries, other than us and our principal operating subsidiaries, is obligated under the Notes or any guarantee of the Notes. See “Description of the Notes — The Guarantees.”

 

 

 

Make-whole redemption

 

The Notes will be redeemable, in whole or in part, at any time at a redemption price equal to 100% of their principal amount plus a “make-whole” premium, together with accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date. Prior to June 1, 2014, we may also redeem up to 35% of the Notes at a purchase price equal to 106.75% of the aggregate principal amount of the Notes redeemed plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, as of the date of redemption with the net cash proceeds from certain equity offerings or capital contributions. See “Description of the Notes — Optional Redemption.”

 

 

 

Change of control

 

If a “Change of Control Event” occurs, as that term is defined in “Description of the Notes — Certain Definitions,” holders of the Notes have the right, subject to certain conditions, to require us to repurchase their Notes at a purchase price equal to 101% of the aggregate principal amount of the Notes repurchased plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, as of the date of repurchase. See “Description of the Notes — Change of Control Offer” for further information regarding the conditions that would

 

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apply if we must offer holders this repurchase right.

 

 

 

Certain covenants

 

The indenture governing the Notes contains covenants limiting our and our restricted subsidiaries’ ability to:

 

·      incur additional debt;

 

·      pay dividends or make distributions on our capital stock or repurchase our capital stock;

 

·      make certain investments;

 

·      create liens or enter into sale and leaseback transactions;

 

·      enter into transactions with affiliates;

 

·      merge or consolidate with another company; and

 

·      transfer and sell assets.

 

These covenants are subject to a number of important limitations and exceptions and in many circumstances may not significantly restrict our ability to take the actions described above. For more details, see “Description of the Notes — Certain Covenants.” If the Notes receive an Investment Grade rating, the covenants in the indenture will be subject to suspension or termination. See “Description of the Notes — Certain Covenants — Investment Grade Rating.”

 

 

 

Registration rights

 

Pursuant to a registration rights agreement between us and the initial purchasers, we agreed:

 

·      to file an exchange offer registration statement within 180 days of May 5, 2011 (i.e., by November 1, 2011);

 

·      to use our reasonable best efforts to cause the exchange offer registration statement to be declared effective by the SEC within 270 days of May 5, 2011 (i.e., by January 30, 2012); and

 

·      to use our reasonable best efforts to cause the exchange offer to be consummated within 315 days of May 5, 2011 (i.e., by March 15, 2012).

 

We intend the registration statement relating to this prospectus to satisfy these obligations. In certain circumstances, we will be required to file a shelf registration statement to cover resales of the Notes. If we do not comply with our obligations under the registration rights agreement, we will be required to pay additional interest on the Notes. See “Registration Rights.”

 

 

 

Risk Factors

 

Investing in the Notes involves substantial risks. You should carefully consider all the information contained in this prospectus prior to investing in the Notes. In particular, we urge you to consider the information set forth under the heading “Risk Factors” for a description of certain risks you should consider before investing in the Notes.

 

 

 

Governing law

 

The indenture is, and the Notes will be, governed by the laws of the State of New York.

 

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Summary Historical Consolidated Financial Data

 

We derived the following summary historical consolidated financial data for the five years ended December 31, 2010 from our audited consolidated financial statements. The following tables also present summary unaudited financial data for the six months ended June 30, 2011 and 2010. In our opinion, this interim data reflects all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments, necessary to fairly present the data for such interim periods. Operating results for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for a full year.

 

You should read this data in conjunction with, and it is qualified by reference to, the sections entitled “Management’s Narrative Analysis of Results of Operations,” in our consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto and the other financial information in each of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010 and our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2011 and the quarter ended June 30, 2011.

 

 

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

For the
Six Months
Ended June 30,

 

 

 

2006

 

2007

 

2008

 

2009

 

2010

 

2010

 

2011

 

 

 

(dollars in millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(unaudited)

 

Statements of Operations Data:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total revenue

 

$

9,813

 

$

11,060

 

$

11,617

 

$

11,663

 

$

12,636

 

$

6,225

 

$

6,552

 

Operating income

 

1,211

 

1,614

 

2,060

 

1,389

 

1,944

 

984

 

1,696

 

Net income

 

601

 

810

 

1,092

 

604

 

949

 

474

 

898

 

 

 

 

As of June 30, 2011

 

 

 

(dollars in millions)
(unaudited)

 

Balance Sheet Data:

 

 

 

Cash, cash equivalents and marketable investment securities

 

$

3,331

 

Total assets

 

9,108

 

Total debt

 

8,501

 

Total stockholder’s equity (deficit)

 

(3,522

)

 

 

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

For the
Six Months
Ended June 30,

 

 

 

2006

 

2007

 

2008

 

2009

 

2010

 

2010

 

2011

 

 

 

(dollars in millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(unaudited)

 

Other Data:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DISH Network® subscribers (000’s)

 

13,105

 

13,780

 

13,678

 

14,100

 

14,133

 

14,318

 

14,056

 

EBITDA(1)

 

$

2,313

 

$

2,934

 

$

3,106

 

$

2,310

 

$

2,927

 

$

1,488

 

$

2,170

 

Net cash flows from:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating activities

 

$

2,500

 

$

2,591

 

$

1,935

 

$

1,994

 

$

2,145

 

$

1,024

 

$

1,146

 

Investing activities

 

(2,000

)

(999

)

(746

)

(2,295

)

(1,442

)

(713

)

(723

)

Financing activities

 

449

 

(2,623

)

(1,573

)

301

 

(294

)

(144

)

456

 

Ratio of earnings to fixed charges(2)

 

3.31

x

4.53

x

5.69

x

3.37

x

4.11

x

4.08

x

6.53

x

 


(1)          EBITDA is defined as net income (loss) plus net interest expense, taxes and depreciation and amortization.

(2)          For purposes of computing the ratio of earnings to fixed charges, earnings consist of earnings before income taxes, plus fixed charges. Fixed charges consist of interest incurred on all indebtedness, including capitalized interest and the imputed interest component of rental expense under noncancelable operating leases.

 

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The following table reconciles EBITDA to net income:

 

 

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

For the
Six Months
Ended June 30,

 

 

 

2006

 

2007

 

2008

 

2009

 

2010

 

2010

 

2011

 

 

 

(dollars in millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(unaudited)

 

EBITDA

 

$

2,313

 

$

2,934

 

$

3,106

 

$

2,310

 

$

2,927

 

$

1,488

 

$

2,170

 

Interest expense, net

 

(268

)

(269

)

(316

)

(393

)

(457

)

(234

)

(255

)

Income tax provision, net

 

(334

)

(534

)

(697

)

(373

)

(538

)

(276

)

(555

)

Depreciation and amortization

 

(1,110

)

(1,321

)

(1,001

)

(940

)

(983

)

(504

)

(462

)

Net income

 

$

601

 

$

810

 

$

1,092

 

$

604

 

$

949

 

$

474

 

$

898

 

 

EBITDA is not a measure determined in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, or GAAP, and should not be considered a substitute for operating income, net income or any other measure determined in accordance with GAAP. EBITDA is used as a measurement of operating efficiency and overall financial performance and we believe it to be a helpful measure for those evaluating companies in the multi-channel video programming distribution industry. Conceptually, EBITDA measures the amount of income generated each period that could be used to service debt, pay taxes and fund capital expenditures because EBITDA is independent of the actual leverage and capital expenditures employed by the business. EBITDA should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with GAAP.

 

Recent Developments

 

TerreStar.  Gamma Acquisition L.L.C. (“Gamma”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of DISH, entered into an asset purchase agreement with TerreStar Networks, Inc. (“TerreStar”) and certain of its subsidiaries on June 14, 2011, under which Gamma would acquire substantially all of the assets of TerreStar and its subsidiaries for a cash purchase price of $1.375 billion, of which $69 million was paid in June 2011, and would agree to assume certain liabilities associated with the ongoing operations of the business being acquired.  On July 7, 2011, the asset purchase agreement was approved by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York, in which the bankruptcy cases of TerreStar and certain of its subsidiaries are being administered.  DISH is a party to the asset purchase agreement solely with respect to certain guaranty obligations.  Consummation of the acquisition contemplated in the asset purchase agreement is subject to, among other things, approval by the FCC and the Canadian federal Department of Industry.  However, funding of the $1.375 billion purchase price is not conditioned on approval of the transaction by the FCC and the Canadian federal Department of Industry.  In the event that the purchase price is funded, but the necessary approvals from the FCC and the Canadian federal Department of Industry are not obtained, Gamma has the right under the purchase agreement to require TerreStar to sell substantially all of its assets to a third party and to receive the proceeds of such sale.  Although the closing of the transaction may not occur until 2012, on August 11, 2011, Gamma funded an additional $1.276 billion of the purchase price, in accordance with the terms of the purchase agreement.  Additionally, Gamma is responsible for any working capital and administrative expenses of TerreStar and certain of its subsidiaries beyond December 31, 2011.

 

On August 10, 2011, we paid a dividend of approximately $700 million to DISH Orbital Corporation, our direct parent company, in connection with, among other things, the funding of DISH’s purchase of TerreStar.

 

DBSD North America.  In February 2011, DISH entered into an investment agreement with DBSD North America, Inc. (“DBSD North America”) under which DISH would acquire 100% of the equity of reorganized DBSD North America, when it emerges from bankruptcy, for a purchase price of approximately $1.4 billion.  In connection with the investment agreement, DISH made a cash tender offer to purchase certain claims against DBSD North America and its affiliates, upon the terms and conditions set forth in the investment agreement.  The tender offer expired on April 18, 2011 and, on April 20, 2011, DISH made payments of approximately $746 million to purchase tendered DBSD North America’s 7.5% Convertible Senior Secured Notes due 2009, certain claims against a debtor affiliate of DBSD North America and claims against DBSD North America.  DISH has also provided a multiple-draw term loan facility to DBSD North America and its affiliates of up to $88 million to fund DBSD North America’s operations and expenses through the date on which it emerges from bankruptcy.

 

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On March 21, 2011 and April 26, 2011, DISH paid $35 million and approximately $280 million, respectively, to ICO Global Communications (Holdings) Limited, the parent company of DBSD North America, pursuant to a related implementation agreement.

 

Blockbuster. On April 26, 2011, DISH completed the acquisition (the “Blockbuster Acquisition”) of most of the assets of Blockbuster Inc. (“Blockbuster”) after DISH was selected as the winning bidder in a bankruptcy court auction.   Taking into account certain closing adjustments, DISH paid approximately $226 million in cash to acquire Blockbuster.

 

On April 19, 2011, we paid a dividend of approximately $1.5 billion to DISH Orbital Corporation, our direct parent company, in connection with, among other things, the funding of DISH’s investments in DBSD North America and DISH’s acquisition of Blockbuster.

 

TiVo.  In connection with DISH’s litigation with TiVo Inc. (“TiVo”), which is described in our periodic reports filed with the SEC, including in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010 under the caption “Item 3.   Legal Proceedings — TiVo Inc.,” on April 20, 2011, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit vacated the District Court’s contempt ruling on infringement, articulated a new standard for determining “colorable difference” and remanded that issue back to the District Court for determination.  The Federal Circuit also vacated the District Court’s amended injunction requiring that DISH inform the court of any further attempts to design around TiVo’s United States Patent No. 6,233,389 (the ‘389 patent) and seek approval from the court before any such design-around is implemented.  The Federal Circuit also vacated the infringement damages for the period after DISH deployed its original alternative technology (although it did not foreclose that damages may be reinstated if upon remand a new court or jury decision found that the original alternative technology infringed TiVo’s ‘389 patent).  The Federal Circuit affirmed the District Court’s contempt ruling on disablement, holding that the original 2006 injunction required that DISH disable DVR functionality in all but approximately 192,000 digital set-top boxes deployed with customers (the “Disablement Provision”) and affirmed the $90 million in contempt sanctions awarded against DISH for violating the Disablement Provision.

 

On April 29, 2011, DISH and EchoStar entered into a settlement agreement with TiVo.  The settlement resolves all pending litigation between DISH and EchoStar, on the one hand, and TiVo, on the other hand, including litigation relating to alleged patent infringement involving certain DISH Network digital video recorders, or DVRs.

 

Under the settlement agreement, all pending litigation has been dismissed with prejudice and all injunctions that permanently restrain, enjoin or compel any action by DISH or EchoStar have been dissolved.  DISH and EchoStar are jointly responsible for making payments to TiVo in the aggregate amount of $500 million, including an initial payment of $300 million and the remaining $200 million in six equal annual installments between 2012 and 2017.  Pursuant to the terms and conditions of the agreements entered into in connection with the Spin-off of EchoStar from DISH, DISH made the initial payment to TiVo in May 2011, except for a contribution from EchoStar totaling approximately $10 million, representing an allocation of liability relating to EchoStar’s sales of DVR-enabled receivers to an international customer.  Future payments will be allocated between DISH and EchoStar based on historical sales of certain licensed products, with DISH being responsible for 95% of each annual payment.

 

As previously disclosed, our total litigation accrual for TiVo was $517 million as of December 31, 2010.  As a result of the settlement agreement, we reversed $335 million of this accrual and made a payment of approximately $290 million for our portion of the initial payment to TiVo.  Of this amount, approximately $182 million relates to prior periods and the remaining $108 million represents a prepayment.  Our $108 million prepayment and our $190 million share of the remaining payments, a total of $298 million, will be expensed ratably as a subscriber-related expense from April 1, 2011 through July 31, 2018, the expiration date of the ‘389 patent.  In connection with our TiVo settlement, TiVo agreed to advertise and market certain of our products and services.  As a result, $6 million was recognized as a reduction of litigation expense and we recorded a pre-paid marketing asset on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) and our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, respectively.

 

In addition, under the settlement agreement, TiVo granted DISH a license under its ‘389 patent and certain related patents, for the remaining life of those patents, with respect to DISH-branded and co-branded products and services.

 

DISH and EchoStar, on the one hand, and TiVo, on the other hand, have also agreed on mutual releases of certain related claims and agreed not to challenge each other’s DVR technology-related patents that are licensed under the settlement agreement.

 

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Because both DISH and EchoStar were defendants in the TiVo lawsuit, DISH and EchoStar were jointly and severally liable to TiVo for any final damages and sanctions that could have been awarded by the District Court.  As previously disclosed, DISH determined that it was obligated under the agreements entered into in connection with the Spin-off to indemnify EchoStar for substantially all liability arising from this lawsuit.  EchoStar contributed an amount equal to its $5 million intellectual property liability limit under the receiver agreement.  DISH and EchoStar further agreed that EchoStar’s $5 million contribution would not exhaust EchoStar’s liability to us for other intellectual property claims that may arise under the receiver agreement. DISH and EchoStar also agreed that DISH and EchoStar would each be entitled to joint ownership of, and a cross-license to use, any intellectual property developed in connection with any potential new alternative technology.  Any amounts that EchoStar is responsible for under the settlement agreement with TiVo are in addition to the $5 million contribution previously made by EchoStar.

 

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RISK FACTORS

 

Investing in the Notes involves a high degree of risk. You should carefully consider the following risk factors and all other information contained and incorporated by reference in this prospectus before deciding whether to exchange your old notes for the Notes. The risks and uncertainties described below are not the only ones facing us.

 

If any of the following events occurs, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected. In that case, the value of the Notes could decline and you may lose some or all of your investment.

 

Risks Related to Our Business

 

We face intense and increasing competition from satellite and cable television providers, telecommunications companies and providers of video content via the Internet, especially as the pay-TV industry matures, which may require us to increase subscriber acquisition and retention spending or accept lower subscriber acquisitions and higher subscriber churn.

 

Our business is focused on providing pay-TV services and we have traditionally competed against satellite and cable television providers, some of whom have greater financial, marketing and other resources than we do.  Many of these competitors offer video services bundled with broadband, telephony services, HD offerings, interactive services and video on demand services that consumers may find attractive.  Moreover, mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures and alliances among cable television providers, telecommunications companies and others may result in, among other things, greater financial leverage and increase the availability of offerings from providers capable of bundling television, broadband and telephone services in competition with our services.  We and our competitors increasingly must seek to attract a greater proportion of new subscribers from each other’s existing subscriber bases rather than from first-time purchasers of pay-TV services.  In addition, because other pay-TV providers may be seeking to attract a greater proportion of their new subscribers from our existing subscriber base we may be required to increase retention spending.

 

Competition has intensified in recent quarters as the pay-TV industry matures and the growth of video being delivered via the Internet and fiber-based pay-TV services offered by telecommunications companies such as Verizon and AT&T continues.  These fiber-based pay-TV services have significantly greater capacity, enabling the telecommunications companies to offer substantial HD programming content as well as bundled services.  In addition, the recent growth of video content being delivered via the Internet has made alternatives to traditional pay-TV services available to customers.  This increasingly competitive environment may require us to increase subscriber acquisition and retention spending or accept lower subscriber acquisitions and higher subscriber churn.

 

Competition from digital media companies that provide/facilitate the delivery of video content via the Internet, could materially adversely affect us.

 

Our business is focused on pay-TV services, and we face competition from providers of digital media, including those companies that offer online services distributing movies, television shows and other video programming.  Moreover, new technologies have been, and will likely continue to be, developed that further increase the number of competitors we face with respect to video services.  For example, online platforms that provide for the distribution and viewing of video programming compete with our pay-TV services.  These online platforms may cause our subscribers to disconnect our services.  In addition, even if our subscribers do not disconnect our services, they may purchase a certain portion of the services that they would have historically purchased from us through these online platforms, such as pay per view movies, resulting in less revenue to us.  Some of these companies have greater financial, marketing and other resources than we do.  In particular, programming offered over the Internet has become more prevalent as the speed and quality of broadband and wireless networks have improved.  In addition, consumers are spending an increasing amount of time accessing video content via the Internet on their mobile devices.  These technological advancements and changes in consumer behavior with regard to the means by which they obtain video content could materially adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition or otherwise disrupt our business.

 

We may pursue acquisitions and other strategic transactions to complement or expand our business that may not be successful and we may lose up to the entire value of our investment in these acquisitions and transactions.

 

Our future success may depend on opportunities to buy other businesses or technologies that could complement, enhance or expand our current business or products or that might otherwise offer us growth opportunities.

 

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We may be unable to obtain in the anticipated timeframe, or at all, any regulatory approvals required to complete proposed acquisitions and other strategic transactions.  Furthermore, the requirements for obtaining any necessary approvals could delay the completion of such transactions for a significant period of time or prevent them from occurring.  We may not be able to complete such transactions and such transactions, if executed, pose significant risks and could have a negative effect on our operations.  Any transactions that we are able to identify and complete may involve a number of risks, including:

 

·                  the diversion of our management’s attention from our existing business to integrate the operations and personnel of the acquired or combined business or joint venture;

 

·                  possible adverse effects on our operating results during the integration process;

 

·                  a high degree of risk involved in these transactions, which could become substantial over time, and higher exposure to significant financial losses if the underlying ventures are not successful;

 

·                  our possible inability to achieve the intended objectives of the transaction; and

 

·                  the risks associated with complying with regulations applicable to the acquired business, which may cause us to incur substantial expenses

 

In addition, we may not be able to successfully or profitably integrate, operate, maintain and manage our newly acquired operations or employees.  We may not be able to maintain uniform standards, controls, procedures and policies, and this may lead to operational inefficiencies.  In addition, the integration process may strain our financial and managerial controls and reporting systems and procedures.

 

New acquisitions, joint ventures and other transactions may require the commitment of significant capital that would otherwise be directed to investments in our existing businesses.  In addition, we may make cash distributions to DISH to finance acquisitions or investments that will not be part of our business.

 

For example, DISH completed the acquisition of most of the assets of Blockbuster in April 2011.  DISH also entered into a transaction to acquire 100% of the equity of reorganized DBSD North America upon DBSD North America’s emergence from bankruptcy and, in April 2011, paid approximately $1.026 billion to acquire capital stock and convertible securities of, and certain claims related to, DBSD North America.  In addition, in June 2011, DISH entered into a transaction to acquire substantially all of the assets of TerreStar for a purchase price of $1.375 billion, of which $69 million was paid in June 2011.  Although the closing of the transaction may not occur until 2012, on August 11, 2011, Gamma funded an additional $1.276 billion of the purchase price.

 

These transactions pose substantial risks and require the commitment of significant capital both to complete the acquisitions and to operate the acquired businesses following their acquisition.  These acquisitions may result in significant financial losses if the intended objectives of the transactions are not achieved.  In addition, these transactions may divert management’s attention from our existing business in connection with DISH’s integration of the operations and personnel of the acquired businesses.  Some of the businesses acquired or to be acquired by DISH have experienced significant operating and financial challenges in their recent history, which in some cases resulted in these businesses commencing bankruptcy proceedings.  There is no assurance that DISH will be able to successfully address the challenges and risks encountered by these businesses following their acquisition.  If DISH is unable to successfully address these challenges and risks, its business, financial condition or results of operations may likely suffer.

 

In particular, following the Blockbuster Acquisition, DISH is in the process of integrating and managing over 13,000 Blockbuster employees and over 1,500 retail store locations across the United States.  Blockbuster’s retail store operations involve the management and distribution of product inventories, and DISH does not have experience in operating retail stores.  Factors that are unique to the Blockbuster business, compared to our existing businesses, include, among other things, maintaining adequate copy depth, controlling shrinkage due to theft and loss, managing excess inventory and product fulfillment.  There is no assurance that DISH will achieve the expected benefits from the acquisition because of the complexity of integration and other challenges.

 

Furthermore, under DISH’s agreements to acquire DBSD North America and TerreStar, DISH has funded, or has committed to fund, substantially all of the purchase price prior to the receipt of certain regulatory approvals (the FCC with respect to DBSD North America, and the FCC and the Canadian federal Department of Industry with respect to TerreStar).  If the required approvals are not obtained, subject to certain exceptions, DISH has the right to direct and require a sale of some or all of the assets of the relevant company to a third party and DISH would be entitled to the proceeds of such a sale.  These

 

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proceeds could however be substantially less than amounts DISH will have funded in the respective transactions.  Therefore, if DISH fails to obtain these necessary regulatory approvals, DISH may suffer significant financial losses.

 

As a result of DISH’s acquisitions or proposed acquisitions of Blockbuster, DBSD North America and TerreStar, we have made, and may make additional, cash distributions to DISH to, among other things, finance these acquisitions and DISH’s integration efforts including compliance with regulations applicable to the acquired business.  Furthermore, if DISH fails to obtain the necessary regulatory approvals for its proposed acquisitions of DBSD and TerreStar, and DISH receives substantially less than the amount DISH funded from the proceeds of any resulting sale of DBSD and TerreStar and suffers significant financial losses, then we will likely need to make additional cash distributions to DISH.

 

If we do not improve our operational performance and customer satisfaction, our gross new subscriber additions may decrease and our subscriber churn may increase.

 

If we are unable to improve our operational performance and customer satisfaction, we may experience a decrease in gross new subscriber additions and an increase in churn, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.  To address our operational inefficiencies, we need to continue to make significant investments in staffing, training, information systems, and other initiatives, primarily in our call center and in-home service operations.  These investments are intended to help combat inefficiencies introduced by the increasing complexity of our business, improve customer satisfaction, reduce churn, increase productivity, and allow us to scale better over the long run.  We cannot, however, be certain that our spending will ultimately be successful in addressing our operational inefficiencies.  In the meantime, we may continue to incur higher costs as a result of both our operational inefficiencies and levels of spending.  While we believe that these costs will be outweighed by longer-term benefits, there can be no assurance when or if we will realize these benefits at all.

 

If DISH Network gross new subscriber additions decrease, or if subscriber churn, subscriber acquisition costs or retention costs increase, our financial performance will be adversely affected.

 

We have not always met and may continue to fail to meet our own standards for performing high-quality installations, effectively resolving subscriber issues when they arise, answering subscriber calls in an acceptable timeframe, effectively communicating with our subscriber base, reducing calls driven by the complexity of our business, improving the reliability of certain systems and subscriber equipment, and aligning the interests of certain third party retailers and installers to provide high-quality service.

 

Most of these factors have affected both gross new subscriber additions as well as existing subscriber churn.  Our future gross new subscriber additions and subscriber churn may continue to be negatively impacted by these factors, which could in turn adversely affect our revenue growth and results of operations.

 

We may incur increased costs to acquire new and retain existing subscribers.  Our subscriber acquisition costs could increase as a result of increased spending for advertising and the installation of more HD and DVR receivers, which are generally more expensive than other receivers.  Meanwhile, retention costs may be driven higher by a faster rate of upgrading existing subscribers’ equipment to HD and DVR receivers.  Additionally, certain of our promotions, including, among others, pay-in-advance, allow consumers with relatively lower credit scores to become subscribers.  These subscribers typically churn at a higher rate.

 

Our subscriber acquisition costs and our subscriber retention costs can vary significantly from period to period and can cause material variability to our net income (loss) and free cash flow.  Any material increase in subscriber acquisition or retention costs from current levels could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial position and results of operations.

 

Economic weakness, including higher unemployment and reduced consumer spending, may adversely affect our ability to grow or maintain our business.

 

A substantial majority of our revenue comes from residential customers whose spending patterns may be affected by sustained economic weakness and uncertainty.  Economic weakness and uncertainty persisted during 2010.  Our ability to grow or maintain our business may be adversely affected by sustained economic weakness and uncertainty, including the effect of wavering consumer confidence, high unemployment and other factors that may adversely affect the pay-TV industry.  In particular, economic weakness and uncertainty could result in the following:

 

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·                  Fewer gross new subscriber additions and increased churn.  We could face fewer gross new subscriber additions and increased churn due to, among other things:  (i) the sustained weak housing market in the United States combined with lower discretionary spending; (ii) increased price competition for our products and services; and (iii) the potential loss of retailers, who generate a significant portion of our new subscribers, because many of them are small businesses that are more susceptible to the negative effects of economic weakness.  In particular, subscriber churn may increase with respect to subscribers who purchase our lower tier programming packages and who may be more sensitive to sustained economic weakness, including, among others, our pay-in-advance subscribers.

 

·                  Lower average monthly revenue per subscriber (“ARPU”).  Our ARPU could be negatively impacted by more aggressive introductory offers by our competitors and the growth of video content being delivered via the Internet.  Furthermore, due to lower levels of disposable income, our customers may downgrade to lower cost programming packages, elect not to purchase premium services or pay per view movies or may disconnect our services and choose to replace them with less expensive alternatives such as video content delivered via the Internet, including, among others, video on demand.

 

·                  Higher subscriber acquisition and retention costs.  Our profits may be adversely affected by increased subscriber acquisition and retention costs necessary to attract and retain subscribers during a period of economic weakness.

 

Programming expenses are increasing and could adversely affect our future financial condition and results of operations.

 

Our programming costs currently represent the largest component of our total expense and we expect these costs to continue to increase.  The pay-TV industry has continued to experience an increase in the cost of programming, especially local broadcast channels and sports programming.  Our ability to compete successfully will depend on our ability to continue to obtain desirable programming and deliver it to our subscribers at competitive prices.

 

When offering new programming, or upon expiration of existing contracts, programming suppliers have historically attempted to increase the rates they charge us for programming.  We expect this practice to continue, which, if successful, would increase our programming costs.  As a result, our margins may face further pressure if we are unable to renew our long-term programming contracts on favorable pricing and other economic terms.

 

In addition, increases in programming costs could cause us to increase the rates that we charge our subscribers, which could in turn cause our existing subscribers to disconnect our service or cause potential new subscribers to choose not to subscribe to our service.  Therefore, we may be unable to pass increased programming costs on to our customers, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

 

We depend on others to provide the programming that we offer to our subscribers and, if we lose access to this programming, our gross new subscriber additions may decline and subscriber churn may increase.

 

We depend on third parties to provide us with programming services.  Our programming agreements have remaining terms ranging from less than one to up to several years and contain various renewal and cancellation provisions.  We may not be able to renew these agreements on favorable terms or at all, and these agreements may be canceled prior to expiration of their original term.  Certain programmers have, in the past, temporarily limited our access to their programming.  For example, during the fourth quarter of 2010, our gross subscriber activations and subscriber churn were negatively impacted as a result of multiple programming interruptions related to contract disputes with several content providers.  If we are unable to renew any of these agreements or the other parties cancel the agreements, there can be no assurance that we would be able to obtain substitute programming, or that such substitute programming would be comparable in quality or cost to our existing programming.  In addition, loss of access to programming could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations, including, among other things, our gross subscriber additions and subscriber churn rate.

 

We may be required to make substantial additional investments to maintain competitive programming offerings.

 

We believe that the availability and extent of HD programming continues to be a significant factor in consumers’ choice among pay-TV providers.  Other pay-TV providers may have more successfully marketed and promoted their HD programming packages and may also be better equipped and have greater resources to increase their HD offerings to respond to increasing consumer demand for this content.  In addition, even though it remains a small portion of the market, consumer demand for 3D televisions and programming will likely increase in the future.  We may be required to make substantial additional investments

 

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in infrastructure to respond to competitive pressure to deliver additional programming, and there can be no assurance that we will be able to compete effectively with programming offerings from other pay-TV providers.

 

Technology in our industry changes rapidly and could cause our services and products to become obsolete.  We may have to upgrade or replace subscriber equipment and make substantial investments in our infrastructure to remain competitive.

 

Technology in the pay-TV industry changes rapidly as new technologies are developed, which could cause our services and products to become obsolete.  Our operating results are dependent to a significant extent upon our ability to continue to introduce new products and services on a timely basis and to reduce costs of our existing products and services.  We may not be able to successfully identify new product or service opportunities or develop and market these opportunities in a timely or cost-effective manner.  The success of new product development depends on many factors, including proper identification of customer need, cost, timely completion and introduction, differentiation from offerings of competitors and market acceptance.  New technologies could also create new competitors for us.  For instance, we face increasing consumer demand for the delivery of digital video services via the Internet, including providing TV Everywhere.  We expect to continue to face increased threats from companies who use the Internet to deliver digital video services as the speed and quality of broadband and wireless networks continues to improve.

 

We and our suppliers may not be able to keep pace with technological developments.  If the new technologies on which we intend to focus our research and development investments fail to achieve acceptance in the marketplace, our competitive position could be negatively impacted causing a reduction in our revenues and earnings.  We may also be at a competitive disadvantage in developing and introducing complex new products and technologies because of the substantial costs we may incur in making these products or technologies available across our installed base of over 14 million subscribers.  For example, our competitors could use proprietary technologies that are perceived by the market as being superior.  Further, after we have incurred substantial costs, one or more of the technologies under our development, or under development by one or more of our strategic partners, could become obsolete prior to it being widely adopted.  In addition, delays in the delivery of components or other unforeseen problems associated with our technology may occur that could materially and adversely affect our ability to generate revenue, offer new services and remain competitive.

 

Technological innovation is important to our success and depends, to a significant degree, on the work of technically skilled employees.  We rely on EchoStar to design and develop set-top boxes with advanced features and functionality and solutions for providing digital video services via the Internet.  If EchoStar is unable to attract and retain appropriately technically skilled employees, our competitive position could be materially and adversely affected.

 

In addition, our competitive position depends in part on our ability to offer new subscribers and upgrade existing subscribers with more advanced equipment, such as receivers with DVR and HD technology and by otherwise making additional infrastructure investments, such as those related to our information technology and call centers.  Furthermore, the continued demand for HD programming continues to require investments in additional satellite capacity.  We may not be able to pass on to our subscribers the entire cost of these upgrades and infrastructure investments.

 

Increased distribution of video content via the Internet could expose us to regulatory risk.

 

As a result of recent updates to certain of our programming agreements which allow us to, among other things, deliver certain authenticated content via the Internet, we are increasingly distributing content to our subscribers via the Internet.  The ability to continue this strategy may depend in part on the FCC’s success in implementing rules prohibiting discrimination of content that is distributed over the networks owned by broadband and wireless Internet providers.  For more information, see “Item 1.  Business — Government Regulations — FCC Regulations under the Communications Act — Net Neutrality” of DISH’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010.

 

Our business depends on certain intellectual property rights and on not infringing the intellectual property rights of others.

 

We rely on our patents, copyrights, trademarks and trade secrets, as well as licenses and other agreements with our vendors and other parties, to use our technologies, conduct our operations and sell our products and services.  Legal challenges to our intellectual property rights and claims of intellectual property infringement by third parties could require that we enter into royalty or licensing agreements on unfavorable terms, incur substantial monetary liability or be enjoined preliminarily or permanently from further use of the intellectual property in question or from the continuation of our businesses as currently conducted, which could require us to change our business practices or limit our ability to compete effectively or could have an adverse effect on our results of operations.  Even if we believe any such challenges or claims are without merit, they can be time-consuming and costly to defend and divert management’s attention and resources away from our business.  Moreover,

 

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because of the rapid pace of technological change, we rely on technologies developed or licensed by third parties, and if we are unable to obtain or continue to obtain licenses from these third parties on reasonable terms, our business, financial position and results of operations could be adversely affected.

 

Any failure or inadequacy of our information technology infrastructure could harm our business.

 

The capacity, reliability and security of our information technology hardware and software infrastructure (including our billing systems) are important to the operation of our current business, which would suffer in the event of system failures.  Likewise, our ability to expand and update our information technology infrastructure in response to our growth and changing needs is important to the continued implementation of our new service offering initiatives.  Our inability to expand or upgrade our technology infrastructure could have adverse consequences, which could include the delayed implementation of new service offerings, service or billing interruptions, and the diversion of development resources.  For example, during 2011, we expect to begin implementing new interactive voice response, scheduling of in-home service and customer care systems.  During 2011, we also plan to begin development and testing of a new billing system that is likely to be installed in 2012.  We are relying on third parties for developing key components of these systems and ongoing service after their implementation.  Third parties may experience errors or disruptions that could adversely impact us and over which we may have limited control.  Interruption, failure and/or delay in transitioning to any of these new systems could disrupt our operations and damage our reputation thus adversely impacting our ability to provide our services, retain our current subscribers and attract new subscribers.  As a result, an unsuccessful transition to these new systems could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

In addition, although we take protective measures and endeavor to modify them as circumstances warrant, our information technology hardware and software infrastructure may be vulnerable to unauthorized access, misuse, computer viruses or other malicious code and other events that could have a security impact.  If one or more of such events occur, this potentially could jeopardize our customer and other information processed and stored in, and transmitted through, our information technology hardware and software infrastructure, or otherwise cause interruptions or malfunctions in our operations, which could result in significant losses or reputational damage. We may be required to expend significant additional resources to modify our protective measures or to investigate and remediate vulnerabilities or other exposures, and we may be subject to litigation and financial losses.

 

We may need additional capital, which may not be available on acceptable terms or at all, to continue investing in our business and to finance acquisitions and other strategic transactions.

 

We may need to raise additional capital in the future, which may not be available on acceptable terms or at all, to among other things, continue investing in our business, construct and launch new satellites, and to pursue acquisitions and other strategic transactions.

 

Furthermore, weakness in the equity markets could make it difficult for DISH to raise equity financing without incurring substantial dilution to DISH’s existing shareholders.  In addition, sustained economic weakness or weak results of operations may limit our ability to generate sufficient internal cash to fund these investments, capital expenditures, acquisitions and other strategic transactions.  As a result, these conditions make it difficult for us to accurately forecast and plan future business activities because we may not have access to funding sources necessary for us to pursue organic and strategic business development opportunities.

 

If Voom prevails in its breach of contract suit against us, we could be required to pay substantial damages, which would have a material adverse affect on our financial position and results of operations.

 

In January 2008, Voom HD Holdings (“Voom”) filed a lawsuit against us in New York Supreme Court, alleging breach of contract and other claims arising from our termination of the affiliation agreement governing carriage of certain Voom HD channels on the DISH Network satellite TV service. At that time, Voom also sought a preliminary injunction to prevent us from terminating the agreement.   The Court denied Voom’s request, finding, among other things, that Voom had not demonstrated that it was likely to prevail on the merits.  In April 2010, we and Voom each filed motions for summary judgment.  Voom later filed two motions seeking discovery sanctions.  On November 9, 2010, the Court issued a decision denying both motions for summary judgment, but granting Voom’s motions for discovery sanctions.  The Court’s decision provides for an adverse inference jury instruction at trial and precludes our damages expert from testifying at trial.  We appealed the grant of Voom’s motion for discovery sanctions to the New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division, First Department.  On February 15, 2011, the appellate Court granted our motion to stay the trial pending our appeal.  Oral arguments on the appeal took place on April 27, 2011.  Voom is claiming over $2.5 billion in damages.  If we are unsuccessful in our suit with Voom, we may be

 

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required to pay substantial damages, which would have a material adverse affect on our financial position and results of operations.

 

We rely on EchoStar to design and develop all of our new set-top boxes and certain related components, and to provide transponder capacity, digital broadcast operations and other services to us.  Our business would be adversely affected if EchoStar ceases to provide these services to us and we are unable to obtain suitable replacement services from third parties.

 

EchoStar is our sole supplier of digital set-top boxes and digital broadcast operations.  In addition, EchoStar is a key supplier of transponder capacity and related services to us.  Our digital set-top box purchases are made and digital broadcast operations are received pursuant to contracts that generally expire on January 1, 2012.  EchoStar has no obligation to supply digital set-top boxes or digital broadcast operations to us after that date.  We may be unable to renew agreements for digital set-top boxes or digital broadcast operations with EchoStar on acceptable terms or at all.  Equipment, transponder leasing and digital broadcast operation costs may increase beyond our current expectations.  EchoStar’s inability to develop and produce, or our inability to obtain, equipment with the latest technology, or our inability to obtain transponder capacity and digital broadcast operations and other services from third parties, could affect our subscriber acquisition and churn and cause related revenue to decline.

 

Furthermore, due to the lack of compatibility of our infrastructure with the set-top boxes of a provider other than EchoStar, any transition to a new supplier of set-top boxes could take a significant period of time to complete, cause us to incur significant costs and negatively affect our gross new subscriber additions and subscriber churn.  For example, the proprietary nature of the Sling technology and certain other technology used in EchoStar’s set-top boxes may significantly limit our ability to obtain set-top boxes with the same or similar features from any other provider of set-top boxes.

 

If we were to switch to another provider of set-top boxes, we may have to implement additional infrastructure to support the set-top boxes purchased from such new provider, which could significantly increase our costs.  In addition, differences in, among other things, the user interface between set-top boxes provided by EchoStar and those of any other provider could cause subscriber confusion, which could increase our costs and have a material adverse effect on our gross new subscriber additions and subscriber churn.  Furthermore, switching to a new provider of set-top boxes may cause a reduction in our supply of set-top boxes and thus delay our ability to ship set-top boxes, which could have a material adverse effect on our gross new subscriber additions and subscriber churn rate.

 

We rely on one or a limited number of vendors, and the inability of these key vendors to meet our needs could have a material adverse effect on our business.

 

Historically, we have contracted with a single vendor or a limited number of vendors to provide certain key products or services to us such as information technology support, billing systems, and security access devices.  If these vendors are unable to meet our needs because they fail to perform adequately, are no longer in business, are experiencing shortages or discontinue a certain product or service we need, our business, financial position and results of operations may be adversely affected.  While alternative sources for these products and services exist, we may not be able to develop these alternative sources quickly and cost-effectively which could materially impair our ability to timely deliver our products to our subscribers or operate our business.  Furthermore, our vendors may request changes in pricing, payment terms or other contractual obligations between the parties, which could cause us to make substantial additional investments.

 

Our programming signals are subject to theft, and we are vulnerable to other forms of fraud that could require us to make significant expenditures to remedy.

 

Increases in theft of our signal or our competitors’ signals could, in addition to reducing new subscriber activations, also cause subscriber churn to increase.  We use microchips embedded in credit card-sized cards, called “smart cards,” or security chips in our receiver systems to control access to authorized programming content (“Security Access Devices”).

 

Our signal encryption has been compromised in the past and may be compromised in the future even though we continue to respond with significant investment in security measures, such as Security Access Device replacement programs and updates in security software, that are intended to make signal theft more difficult.  It has been our prior experience that security measures may only be effective for short periods of time or not at all and that we remain susceptible to additional signal theft.  During 2009, we completed the replacement of our Security Access Devices and re-secured our system.  We expect additional future replacements of these devices will be necessary to keep our system secure.  We cannot ensure that we will be successful in reducing or controlling theft of our programming content and we may incur additional costs in the future if our system’s security is compromised.

 

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We are also vulnerable to other forms of fraud.  While we are addressing certain fraud through a number of actions, including terminating retailers that we believe were in violation of DISH Network’s business rules, there can be no assurance that we will not continue to experience fraud which could impact our subscriber growth and churn.  Sustained economic weakness may create greater incentive for signal theft and other forms of fraud, which could lead to higher subscriber churn and reduced revenue.

 

We depend on third parties to solicit orders for DISH Network services that represent a significant percentage of our total gross subscriber acquisitions.

 

Most of our retailers are not exclusive to us and may favor our competitors’ products and services over ours based on the relative financial arrangements associated with selling our products and those of our competitors.  Furthermore, most of these retailers are significantly smaller than we are and may be more susceptible to sustained economic weaknesses that make it more difficult for them to operate profitably.  Because our retailers receive most of their incentive value at activation and not over an extended period of time, our interests in obtaining and retaining subscribers through good customer service may not always be aligned with our retailers.  It may be difficult to better align our interests with our resellers’ because of their capital and liquidity constraints.  Loss of these relationships could have an adverse effect on our subscriber base and certain of our other key operating metrics because we may not be able to develop comparable alternative distribution channels.

 

Our competitors may be able to leverage their relationships with programmers so that they are able to reduce their programming costs and offer exclusive content that will place them at a competitive advantage to us.

 

The cost of programming represents the largest percentage of our overall costs.  Certain of our competitors own directly or are affiliated with companies that own programming content that may enable them to obtain lower programming costs or offer exclusive programming that may be attractive to prospective subscribers.  Unlike our larger cable and satellite competitors, we have not made significant investments in programming providers.  For example, Comcast and General Electric have joined their programming properties, including NBC, Bravo and many others that are available in the majority of our programming packages, in a venture to be controlled by Comcast.  This transaction may affect us adversely by, among other things, making it more difficult for us to obtain access to their programming networks on nondiscriminatory and fair terms, or at all.  The transaction was approved by the FCC and the Department of Justice in January 2011.  The FCC conditioned its approval on, among other things, Comcast complying with the terms of the FCC’s recent order on network neutrality (even if that order is vacated by judicial or legislative action) and Comcast licensing its affiliated content to us, other traditional pay-TV providers and certain providers of video services over the Internet on fair and nondiscriminatory terms and conditions, including, among others, price.  If Comcast does not license its affiliated content to us on fair and nondiscriminatory terms and conditions, we can seek arbitration and continue to carry such content while the arbitration is pending.  However, it is uncertain how these conditions may be interpreted and enforced by the FCC; therefore, we cannot predict the practical effect of these conditions.

 

We depend on the Cable Act for access to programming from cable-affiliate programmers at cost-effective rates.

 

We purchase a large percentage of our programming from cable-affiliated programmers.  The provisions of the Cable Act prohibiting exclusive contracting practices with cable-affiliated programmers were extended for another five-year period in September 2007.  Cable companies appealed the FCC’s decision, and while that decision was upheld by the D.C. Circuit in March 2010, that court indicated if the market continues to evolve, it is expected that the exclusivity prohibition may no longer be necessary.  Any change in the Cable Act and the FCC’s rules that permit the cable industry or cable-affiliated programmers to discriminate against competing businesses, such as ours, in the sale of programming could adversely affect our ability to acquire cable-affiliated programming at all or to acquire programming on a cost-effective basis.  As a result, we may be limited in our ability to obtain access on nondiscriminatory terms to programming from programmers that are affiliated with cable system operators.  In the case of certain types of programming affiliated with Comcast, Time-Warner Cable, and Liberty, the terms of access to the programming are subject to arbitration if we and the programmer cannot reach agreement on terms, subject to FCC review.  We cannot be sure that this procedure will result in favorable terms for us or that the FCC conditions that establish this procedure will be allowed to expire on their own terms.

 

In addition, affiliates of certain cable providers have denied us access to sports programming they feed to their cable systems terrestrially, rather than by satellite.  The FCC recently held that new denials of such service are unfair if they have the purpose or effect of significantly hindering us from providing programming to consumers.  However, we cannot be sure that we can prevail in a complaint related to such programming, and gain access to it.  Our continuing failure to access such programming could materially and adversely affect our ability to compete in regions serviced by these cable providers.

 

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We face increasing competition from other distributors of foreign language programming that may limit our ability to maintain our foreign language programming subscriber base.

 

We face increasing competition from other distributors of foreign language programming, including programming distributed over the Internet.  There can be no assurance that we will maintain subscribers in our foreign language programming services.  In addition, the increasing availability of foreign language programming from our competitors, which in certain cases has resulted from our inability to renew programming agreements on an exclusive basis or at all, could contribute to an increase in our subscriber churn.  Our agreements with distributors of foreign language programming have varying expiration dates, and some agreements are on a month-to-month basis.  There can be no assurance that we will be able to grow or maintain our foreign language programming subscriber base.

 

Our local programming strategy faces uncertainty because we may not be able to obtain necessary retransmission consents at acceptable rates from local network stations.

 

The Copyright Act generally gives satellite companies a statutory copyright license to retransmit local broadcast channels by satellite back into the market from which they originated, subject to obtaining the retransmission consent of local network station that do not elect “must carry” status, as required by the Communications Act.  If we fail to reach retransmission consent agreements with such broadcasters, we cannot carry their signals.  This could have an adverse effect on our strategy to compete with cable and other satellite companies that provide local signals.  While we have been able to reach retransmission consent agreements with most of these local network stations, there remain stations with which we have not been able to reach an agreement.  We cannot be sure that we will secure these agreements or that we will secure new agreements on acceptable terms (or at all) upon the expiration of our current retransmission consent agreements, some of which are short-term.  In recent years, national broadcasters have used their ownership of certain local broadcast stations to require us to carry additional cable programming in exchange for retransmission consent of their local broadcast stations.  These requirements may place constraints on available capacity on our satellites for other programming.  Furthermore, the rates we are charged for retransmitting local channels have been increasing.  We may be unable to pass these increased programming costs on to our customers, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

 

The injunction against our retransmission of distant networks, which is currently waived, may be reinstated.

 

Pursuant to the Satellite Television Extension and Localism Act of 2010 (“STELA”), we have been able to obtain a waiver of a court injunction that previously prevented us from retransmitting certain distant network signals under a statutory copyright license.  Because of that waiver, we may once again provide distant network signals to eligible subscribers.  To qualify for that waiver, we are required to provide local service in all 210 local markets in the U.S on an ongoing basis.  This condition poses a significant strain on our capacity.  Moreover, we may lose that waiver if we are found to have failed to provide local service in any of the 210 local markets.  If we lose the waiver, the injunction could be reinstated.  Furthermore, depending on the severity of the failure, we may also be subject to other sanctions, which may include, among other things, damages.  Our compliance with certain conditions for the waiver is subject to examination and review.

 

We are subject to significant regulatory oversight, and changes in applicable regulatory requirements, including any adoption or modification of laws or regulations relating to the Internet, could adversely affect our business.

 

DBS operators are subject to significant government regulation, primarily by the FCC and, to a certain extent, by Congress, other federal agencies and foreign, state and local authorities.  Depending upon the circumstances, noncompliance with legislation or regulations promulgated by these entities could result in the suspension or revocation of our licenses or registrations, the termination or loss of contracts or the imposition of contractual damages, civil fines or criminal penalties, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.  Furthermore, the adoption or modification of laws or regulations relating to the Internet or other areas of our business could limit or otherwise adversely affect the manner in which we currently conduct our business.  If we become subject to new regulations or legislation or new interpretations of existing regulations or legislation that govern Internet network neutrality, we may be required to incur additional expenses or alter our business model.  The manner in which legislation governing Internet network neutrality may be interpreted and enforced cannot be precisely determined, which in turn could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.  You should review the regulatory disclosures under the caption “Item 1.  Business — Government Regulation — FCC Regulation under the Communication Act” of DISH’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010.

 

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We have limited owned and leased satellite capacity and failures or reduced capacity could adversely affect our business.

 

Operation of our programming service requires that we have adequate satellite transmission capacity for the programming we offer.  Moreover, current competitive conditions require that we continue to expand our offering of new programming, particularly by expanding local HD coverage and offering more HD national channels.  While we generally have had in-orbit satellite capacity sufficient to transmit our existing channels and some backup capacity to recover the transmission of certain critical programming, our backup capacity is limited.

 

Our ability to earn revenue depends on the usefulness of our satellites, each of which has a limited useful life.  A number of factors affect the useful lives of the satellites, including, among other things, the quality of their construction, the durability of their component parts, the ability to continue to maintain proper orbit and control over the satellite’s functions, the efficiency of the launch vehicle used, and the remaining on-board fuel following orbit insertion.  Generally, the minimum design life of each of our satellites ranges from 12 to 15 years.  We can provide no assurance, however, as to the actual useful lives of the satellites.  Our operating results could be adversely affected if the useful life of any of our satellites were significantly shorter than 12 years from the launch date.

 

In the event of a failure or loss of any of our satellites, we may need to acquire or lease additional satellite capacity or relocate one of our other satellites and use it as a replacement for the failed or lost satellite, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.  Such a failure could result in a prolonged loss of critical programming or a significant delay in our plans to expand programming as necessary to remain competitive.  A relocation would require FCC approval and, among other things, a showing to the FCC that the replacement satellite would not cause additional interference compared to the failed or lost satellite.  We cannot be certain that we could obtain such FCC approval.  If we choose to use a satellite in this manner, this use could adversely affect our ability to meet the operation deadlines associated with our authorizations.  Failure to meet those deadlines could result in the loss of such authorizations, which would have an adverse effect on our ability to generate revenues.

 

Our owned and leased satellites are subject to construction, launch, operational and environmental risks that could limit our ability to utilize these satellites.

 

Construction and launch risks.  A key component of our business strategy is our ability to expand our offering of new programming and services, including increased local and HD programming.  To accomplish this goal, we need to construct and launch satellites.  Satellite construction and launch is subject to significant risks, including construction and launch delays, launch failure and incorrect orbital placement.  Certain launch vehicles that may be used by us have either unproven track records or have experienced launch failures in the recent past.  The risks of launch delay and failure are usually greater when the launch vehicle does not have a track record of previous successful flights.  Launch failures result in significant delays in the deployment of satellites because of the need both to construct replacement satellites, which can take more than three years, and to obtain other launch opportunities.  Significant construction or launch delays could materially and adversely affect our ability to generate revenues.  If we were unable to obtain launch insurance, or obtain launch insurance at rates we deem commercially reasonable, and a significant launch failure were to occur, it could have a material adverse effect on our ability to generate revenues and fund future satellite procurement and launch opportunities.

 

In addition, the occurrence of future launch failures may delay the deployment of our satellites and materially and adversely affect our ability to insure the launch of our satellites at commercially reasonable premiums, if at all.  Please see further discussion under the caption “We generally do not have commercial insurance coverage on the satellites we use and could face significant impairment charges if one of our satellites fails” below.

 

Operational risks.  Satellites are subject to significant operational risks while in orbit.  These risks include malfunctions, commonly referred to as anomalies, that have occurred in our satellites and the satellites of other operators as a result of various factors, such as satellite manufacturers’ errors, problems with the power systems or control systems of the satellites and general failures resulting from operating satellites in the harsh environment of space.

 

Although we work closely with the satellite manufacturers to determine and eliminate the cause of anomalies in new satellites and provide for redundancies of many critical components in the satellites, we may experience anomalies in the future, whether of the types described above or arising from the failure of other systems or components.

 

Any single anomaly or series of anomalies could materially and adversely affect our operations and revenues and our relationship with current customers, as well as our ability to attract new customers for our multi-channel video services.  In particular, future anomalies may result in the loss of individual transponders on a satellite, a group of transponders on that

 

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satellite or the entire satellite, depending on the nature of the anomaly.  Anomalies may also reduce the expected useful life of a satellite, thereby reducing the channels that could be offered using that satellite, or create additional expenses due to the need to provide replacement or back-up satellites.  You should review the disclosures relating to satellite anomalies set forth under Note 6 in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 15 of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010 and Note 5 in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2011 and the quarter ended June 30, 2011, which are incorporated by reference in this prospectus.

 

Environmental risks.  Meteoroid events pose a potential threat to all in-orbit satellites.  The probability that meteoroids will damage those satellites increases significantly when the Earth passes through the particulate stream left behind by comets.  Occasionally, increased solar activity also poses a potential threat to all in-orbit satellites.

 

Some decommissioned spacecraft are in uncontrolled orbits which pass through the geostationary belt at various points, and present hazards to operational spacecraft, including our satellites.  We may be required to perform maneuvers to avoid collisions and these maneuvers may prove unsuccessful or could reduce the useful life of the satellite through the expenditure of fuel to perform these maneuvers.  The loss, damage or destruction of any of our satellites as a result of an electrostatic storm, collision with space debris, malfunction or other event could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

We generally do not have commercial insurance coverage on the satellites we use and could face significant impairment charges if one of our satellites fails.

 

Generally, we do not carry launch or in-orbit insurance on the satellites we use.  We currently do not carry in-orbit insurance on any of our satellites and generally do not use commercial insurance to mitigate the potential financial impact of launch or in-orbit failures because we believe that the cost of insurance premiums is uneconomical relative to the risk of such failures.  If one or more of our in-orbit satellites fail, we could be required to record significant impairment charges.

 

We may have potential conflicts of interest with EchoStar due to DISH’s common ownership and management.

 

We are an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of DISH, which controls all of our voting power and appoints all of our officers and directors. As a result of DISH’s control over us, questions relating to conflicts of interest may arise between EchoStar and us in a number of areas relating to past and ongoing relationships between DISH and EchoStar. Areas in which conflicts of interest between EchoStar and us, as a result of our relationship with DISH, could arise include, but are not limited to, the following:

 

·                  Cross officerships, directorships and stock ownership. We and DISH have significant overlap in directors and executive officers with EchoStar, which may lead to conflicting interests. Two of DISH’s officers provide management services to EchoStar pursuant to a management services agreement between EchoStar and DISH and two executive officers are employees of both DISH and EchoStar.  These individuals may have actual or apparent conflicts of interest with respect to matters involving or affecting each company. Furthermore, DISH’s and our Board of Directors and officers include persons who are members of the Board of Directors of EchoStar, including Charles W. Ergen, who serves as the Chairman of EchoStar and DISH and as one of our directors. The executive officers and the members of DISH’s and our Board of Directors who overlap with EchoStar have fiduciary duties to EchoStar’s shareholders. For example, there is the potential for a conflict of interest when DISH and us, on the one hand, or EchoStar, on the other hand, look at acquisitions and other corporate opportunities that may be suitable for both companies. In addition, certain of DISH’s and our directors and officers own EchoStar stock and options to purchase EchoStar stock, which they acquired or were granted prior to the Spin-off of EchoStar from DISH, including Mr. Ergen, who owns approximately 43.1% of the total equity (assuming conversion of only the Class B Common Stock held by Mr. Ergen into Class A Common Stock) and controls approximately 55.9% of the voting power of EchoStar. Mr. Ergen’s beneficial ownership of EchoStar excludes 18,900,405 shares of its Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion of shares of its Class B Common Stock currently held by certain trusts established by Mr. Ergen for the benefit of his family. These trusts beneficially own approximately 32.8% of EchoStar’s total equity securities (assuming conversion of only the Class B Common Stock held by such trusts into Class A Common Stock) and possess approximately 36.7% of EchoStar’s total voting power. These ownership interests could create actual, apparent or potential conflicts of interest when these individuals are faced with decisions that could have different implications for DISH and us, on the one hand, and EchoStar, on the other hand.

 

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·                  Intercompany agreements related to the Spin-off. DISH has entered into certain agreements with EchoStar pursuant to which DISH provides EchoStar with certain management, administrative, accounting, tax, legal and other services, for which EchoStar pays DISH at its cost plus a fixed margin.  In addition, DISH has entered into a number of intercompany agreements covering matters such as tax sharing and EchoStar’s responsibility for certain liabilities previously undertaken by DISH for certain of EchoStar’s businesses.  DISH and us have also entered into certain commercial agreements with EchoStar pursuant to which EchoStar is, among other things, obligated to sell to DISH and us at specified prices, set-top boxes and related equipment.  The terms of certain of these agreements were established while EchoStar was a wholly-owned subsidiary of DISH and us and were not the result of arm’s length negotiations.  The allocation of assets, liabilities, rights, indemnifications and other obligations between EchoStar and DISH under the separation and other intercompany agreements DISH entered into with EchoStar in connection with the Spin-off of EchoStar may have been different if agreed to by two unaffiliated parties. Had these agreements been negotiated with unaffiliated third parties, their terms may have been more favorable, or less favorable, to DISH. In addition, conflicts could arise between DISH and us, on the one hand, and EchoStar, on the other hand, in the interpretation or any extension or renegotiation of these existing agreements.

 

·                  Additional intercompany transactions. EchoStar or its affiliates have and will continue to enter into transactions with DISH or its subsidiaries or other affiliates. Although the terms of any such transactions will be established based upon negotiations between EchoStar and DISH and, when appropriate, subject to the approval of a committee of the non-interlocking directors or in certain instances non-interlocking management, there can be no assurance that the terms of any such transactions will be as favorable to DISH or its subsidiaries or affiliates as may otherwise be obtained between unaffiliated parties.

 

·                  Business Opportunities. DISH has retained interests in various companies that have subsidiaries or controlled affiliates that own or operate domestic or foreign services that may compete with services offered by EchoStar. DISH may also compete with EchoStar when we participate in auctions for spectrum or orbital slots for satellites. In addition, EchoStar may in the future use its satellites, uplink and transmission assets to compete directly against DISH in the subscription television business.

 

Neither we nor DISH may be able to resolve any potential conflicts, and, even if either we or DISH do so, the resolution may be less favorable than if either we or DISH were dealing with an unaffiliated party.

 

DISH also does not have any agreements with EchoStar that would prevent us from competing with EchoStar.

 

We rely on key personnel and the loss of their services may negatively affect our businesses.

 

We believe that our future success will depend to a significant extent upon the performance of Charles W. Ergen, our Chairman, and certain other executives.  Effective June 20, 2011, Joseph P. Clayton became President and Chief Executive Officer of DISH, while Mr. Ergen continues to serve as DISH’s Chairman.  Mr. Clayton has also been named our President and Chief Executive Officer effective August 11, 2011.  Mr. Ergen, who formerly served as our President and Chief Executive Officer, remains as our Chairman.  The loss of Mr. Ergen or of certain other key executives could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.  Although all of our executives have executed agreements limiting their ability to work for or consult with competitors if they leave us, we do not have employment agreements with any of them.  Pursuant to a management services agreement with EchoStar entered into at the time of the Spin-off, two of our officers provide services to EchoStar.  In addition, Roger J. Lynch also serves as Executive Vice President, Advanced Technologies of EchoStar.  To the extent Mr. Lynch and such other officers are performing services for EchoStar, this may divert their time and attention away from our business and may therefore adversely affect our business.

 

We are party to various lawsuits which, if adversely decided, could have a significant adverse impact on our business, particularly lawsuits regarding intellectual property.

 

We are subject to various legal proceedings and claims which arise in the ordinary course of business, including among other things, disputes with programmers regarding fees.  Many entities, including some of our competitors, have or may in the future obtain patents and other intellectual property rights that cover or affect products or services related to those that we offer.  In general, if a court determines that one or more of our products or services infringes on intellectual property held by others, we may be required to cease developing or marketing those products or services, to obtain licenses from the holders of the intellectual property at a material cost, or to redesign those products or services in such a way as to avoid infringing the intellectual property.  If those intellectual property rights are held by a competitor, we may be unable to obtain the intellectual

 

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property at any price, which could adversely affect our competitive position.  Please see further discussion under “Item 1. Business — Patents and Trademarks” of DISH’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010.

 

We may not be aware of all intellectual property rights that our services or the products used in connection with our services may potentially infringe.  In addition, patent applications in the United States are confidential until the Patent and Trademark Office issues a patent.  Therefore, it is difficult to evaluate the extent to which our services or the products used in connection with our services may infringe claims contained in pending patent applications.  Further, it is often not possible to determine definitively whether a claim of infringement is valid.

 

Our business depends on FCC licenses that can expire or be revoked or modified and applications for FCC licenses that may not be granted.

 

If the FCC were to cancel, revoke, suspend, restrict, significantly condition, or fail to renew any of our licenses or authorizations, or fail to grant our applications for FCC licenses, it could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.  Specifically, loss of a frequency authorization would reduce the amount of spectrum available to us, potentially reducing the amount of services available to our subscribers.  The materiality of such a loss of authorizations would vary based upon, among other things, the location of the frequency used or the availability of replacement spectrum.  In addition, Congress often considers and enacts legislation that affects us and FCC proceedings to implement the Communications Act and enforce its regulations are ongoing.  We cannot predict the outcomes of these legislative or regulatory proceedings or their effect on our business.

 

We are subject to digital HD “carry-one, carry-all” requirements that cause capacity constraints.

 

To provide any full-power local broadcast signal in any market, we are required to retransmit all qualifying broadcast signals in that market (“carry-one, carry-all”).  The FCC has adopted digital carriage rules that require DBS providers to phase in carry-one, carry-all obligations with respect to the carriage of full-power broadcasters’ HD signals by February 2013 in markets in which DISH Network elects to provide local channels in HD.  In addition, STELA has imposed accelerated HD carriage requirements for noncommercial educational stations on DBS providers that do not have a certain contractual relationship with a certain number of such stations.  DISH Network has entered into an agreement with a number of PBS stations to comply with the requirements.  DISH Network has also challenged the constitutionality of this provision but has not prevailed in its effort to obtain temporary injunctive relief.  The carriage of additional HD signals on our DBS system could cause us to experience significant capacity constraints and prevent us from carrying additional popular national programs and/or carrying those national programs in HD.

 

In addition, there is a pending rulemaking before the FCC regarding whether to require DBS providers to carry all broadcast stations in a local market in both standard definition and HD if they carry any station in that market in both standard definition and HD.  If we were required to carry multiple versions of each broadcast station, we would have to dedicate more of our finite satellite capacity to each broadcast station.  We cannot predict the outcome or timing of that rulemaking process.

 

Our parent, DISH, is controlled by one principal stockholder who is also our Chairman.

 

Charles W. Ergen, DISH’s Chairman, currently beneficially owns approximately 53.3% of DISH’s total equity securities (assuming conversion of only the Class B Common Stock held by Mr. Ergen into Class A Common Stock) and possesses approximately 90.4% of the total voting power of DISH.  Mr. Ergen’s beneficial ownership of shares of DISH’s Class A Common Stock excludes 4,245,151 shares of Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion of shares of Class B Common Stock currently held by certain trusts established by Mr. Ergen for the benefit of his family.  These trusts beneficially own approximately 2.0% of DISH’s total equity securities (assuming conversion of only the Class B Common Stock held by such trusts into Class A Common Stock) and possess approximately 1.6% of the total voting power of DISH.  Through his voting power, Mr. Ergen has the ability to elect a majority of DISH’s directors and to control all other matters requiring the approval of DISH’s stockholders.  As a result, DISH is a “controlled company” as defined in the Nasdaq listing rules and is, therefore, not subject to Nasdaq requirements that would otherwise require DISH to have (i) a majority of independent directors; (ii) a nominating committee composed solely of independent directors; (iii) compensation of our executive officers determined by a majority of the independent directors or a compensation committee composed solely of independent directors; and (iv) director nominees selected, or recommended for the Board’s selection, either by a majority of the independent directors or a nominating committee composed solely of independent directors.

 

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There can be no assurance that there will not be deficiencies leading to material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting.

 

We periodically evaluate and test our internal control over financial reporting to satisfy the requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act.  Our management has concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2010.  If in the future we are unable to report that our internal control over financial reporting is effective, investors, customers and business partners could lose confidence in the accuracy of our financial reports, which could in turn have a material adverse effect on our business, investor confidence in our financial results may weaken, and DISH’s stock price may suffer.

 

We may face other risks described from time to time in periodic and current reports we file with the SEC.

 

Risks Related to the Notes and the Exchange Offer

 

There may be adverse consequences if you do not exchange your outstanding notes.

 

If you do not exchange your old notes for Notes in the exchange offer, you will continue to be subject to restrictions on transfer of your old notes as set forth in the prospectus distributed in connection with the private offering of the old notes. In general, the old notes may not be offered or sold unless they are registered or exempt from registration under the Securities Act and applicable state securities laws. Except as required by the registration rights agreement, we do not intend to register resales of the old notes under the Securities Act. You should refer to “Summary — The Exchange Offer” and “The Exchange Offer” for information about how to tender your old notes.

 

The tender of old notes under the exchange offer will reduce the outstanding amount of the old notes, which may have an adverse effect upon, and increase the volatility of, the market prices of the old notes due to a reduction in liquidity.

 

We have substantial debt outstanding and may incur additional debt.

 

As of June 30, 2011, our total debt outstanding, including the debt of our subsidiaries, after giving effect to the issuance of the Notes was approximately $8.5 billion.

 

Our debt levels could have significant consequences, including:

 

·                  making it more difficult to satisfy our obligations;

 

·                  a dilutive effect on our outstanding equity capital or future earnings;

 

·                  increasing our vulnerability to general adverse economic conditions, including changes in interest rates;

 

·                  limiting our ability to obtain additional financing;

 

·                  requiring us to devote a substantial portion of our available cash and cash flow to make interest and principal payments on our debt, thereby reducing the amount of available cash for other purposes;

 

·                  limiting our financial and operating flexibility in responding to changing economic and competitive conditions; and

 

·                  placing us at a disadvantage compared to our competitors that have relatively less debt.

 

In addition, we may incur substantial additional debt in the future. The terms of the indentures relating to our outstanding senior notes and the indenture governing the notes offered hereby permit us to incur substantial additional debt.  If new debt is added to our current debt levels, the risks we now face could intensify.

 

We may be required to raise and refinance indebtedness during unfavorable market conditions.

 

Our business plans may require that we raise additional debt to capitalize on our business opportunities.  Recent developments in the financial markets have made it more difficult for issuers of high yield indebtedness such as us to access capital markets at reasonable rates. Currently, we have not been materially impacted by events in the current credit market.

 

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However, we cannot predict with any certainty whether or not we will be impacted in the future by the current conditions which may adversely affect our ability to secure additional financing to support our growth initiatives.

 

We depend upon our subsidiaries’ earnings to make payments on our indebtedness.

 

We have substantial debt service requirements that make us vulnerable to changes in general economic conditions. Our existing indentures restrict our and certain of our subsidiaries’ ability to incur additional debt. It may therefore be difficult for us to obtain additional debt if required or desired in order to implement our business strategy.

 

Since we conduct substantial operations through subsidiaries, our ability to service our debt obligations may depend upon the earnings of our subsidiaries and the payment of funds by our subsidiaries to us in the form of loans, dividends or other payments. We have few assets of significance other than the capital stock of our subsidiaries. Our subsidiaries are separate legal entities. Furthermore, our subsidiaries are not obligated to make funds available to us, and creditors of our subsidiaries will have a superior claim to certain of our subsidiaries’ assets. In addition, our subsidiaries’ ability to make any payments to us will depend on their earnings, the terms of their indebtedness, business and tax considerations and legal restrictions. We cannot assure you that DISH or our subsidiaries will be able to pay dividends or otherwise contribute or distribute funds to us in an amount sufficient to pay the principal of or interest on the indebtedness owed by us.

 

The Notes are unsecured, and the Notes will be effectively subordinated to any future secured debt.

 

The Notes are unsecured and will rank equal in right of payment with our existing and future unsecured and unsubordinated senior debt. The Notes will be effectively subordinated to any future secured debt to the extent of the value of the assets that secure the indebtedness. In the event of our bankruptcy, liquidation or reorganization or upon acceleration of the Notes, payment on the Notes could be less, ratably, than on any secured indebtedness.  We may not have sufficient assets remaining after payment to our secured creditors to pay amounts due on any or all of the Notes then outstanding.

 

The guarantees of the Notes by our subsidiaries may be subject to challenge.

 

Our obligations under the Notes will be guaranteed jointly and severally by our principal operating subsidiaries. It is possible that if the creditors of the subsidiary guarantors challenge the subsidiary guarantees as a fraudulent conveyance under relevant federal and state statutes, under certain circumstances (including a finding that a subsidiary guarantor was insolvent at the time its guarantee of the Notes was issued), a court could hold that the obligations of a subsidiary guarantor under a subsidiary guarantee may be voided or are subordinate to other obligations of a subsidiary guarantor. In addition, it is possible that the amount for which a subsidiary guarantor is liable under a subsidiary guarantee may be limited. The measure of insolvency for purposes of the foregoing may vary depending on the law of the jurisdiction that is being applied. Generally, however, a company would be considered insolvent if the sum of its debts is greater than all of its property at a fair valuation or if the present fair saleable value of its assets is less than the amount that will be required to pay its probable liability on its existing debts as they become absolute and mature. The Indenture will provide that the obligations of the subsidiary guarantors under the subsidiary guarantees will be limited to amounts that will not result in the subsidiary guarantees being a fraudulent conveyance under applicable law. See “Description of the Notes — Guarantees.”

 

The covenants in the Indenture will not necessarily restrict our ability to take actions that may impair our ability to repay the Notes.

 

Although the Indenture governing the Notes includes covenants that will restrict us from taking certain actions, the terms of these covenants include important exceptions which you should review carefully before investing in the Notes. Notwithstanding the covenants in the Indenture, we expect that we will continue to be able to incur substantial additional indebtedness and to make significant investments and other restricted payments without significant restrictions under the Indenture, including actions which may adversely affect our ability to perform our obligations under the Indenture.  We are able to incur additional indebtedness based on a multiple of our Consolidated Cash Flow for the most recent four fiscal quarters, and we are able to make restricted payments (including investments) in an amount that is based in part upon our cumulative Consolidated Cash Flow since January 1, 2002.  We analyze our available funds and the optimal use of funds from time to time including the payment of dividends to our parent.  Even though historically we have from time to time paid dividends to our parent, including a dividend of approximately $1.5 billion in April 2011 in connection with, among other things, the funding of DISH’s investments in DBSD North America and DISH’s acquisition of Blockbuster, and a dividend of approximately $700 million in August 2011 in connection with, among other things, the funding of DISH’s purchase of TerreStar, currently we have no plan to pay another dividend to our parent.  However, this may change in the future depending on, among other things, our expectations

 

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as to future cash needs as well as our operations, earnings and general financial condition, as well as other internal and external factors that we may deem relevant.  See “Description of the Notes — Certain Covenants.”

 

We may be unable to repay or repurchase the Notes upon a change of control.

 

There is no sinking fund with respect to the Notes, and the entire outstanding principal amount of the Notes will become due and payable on its maturity date. If we experience a Change of Control Event, as defined in the Indenture, you may require us to repurchase all or a portion of your Notes prior to maturity. See “Description of the Notes — Change of Control Offer.” We may not have sufficient funds or be able to arrange for additional financing to repay the Notes at maturity or to repurchase Notes tendered to us following a change of control.

 

The terms of our existing senior notes may require us or them to offer to repurchase those securities upon a change of control of DISH, limiting the amount of funds available to us, if any, to repurchase the Notes. If we have insufficient funds to redeem all Notes that holders tender for purchase upon the occurrence of a change of control, and we are unable to raise additional capital, an event of default could occur under the Indenture. An event of default could cause any other debt that we have to become automatically due, further exacerbating our financial condition and diminishing the value and liquidity of the Notes. We cannot assure you that additional capital would be available to us on acceptable terms, or at all.

 

There may be no public market for the Notes.

 

The Notes will be a new issue of securities with no established trading market.  We cannot assure you that any market for the Notes will develop or, if it does develop, that it will be maintained.  If a trading market is established, various factors could have a material adverse effect on the trading of the Notes, including fluctuations in the prevailing interest rates.  We do not intend to apply for a listing of the Notes on any securities exchange.

 

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BUSINESS

 

Brief Description of Our Business

 

DISH DBS Corporation (which together with its subsidiaries is referred to as “DDBS,” the “Company,” “we,” “us” and/or “our”) is a holding company and an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of DISH Network Corporation (“DISH”). DDBS was formed under Colorado law in January 1996 and its common stock is held by DISH Orbital Corporation, a direct subsidiary of DISH. We operate the DISH Network® direct broadcast satellite (“DBS”) subscription television service (“DISH Network”) in the United States which had 14.056 million subscribers as of June 30, 2011. The DISH Network DBS System consists of our licensed Federal Communications Commission (“FCC”) authorized DBS and Fixed Satellite Service (“FSS”) spectrum, our owned and leased satellites, receiver systems, third-party broadcast operations, customer service facilities, leased fiber network, in-home service and call center operations, and certain other assets utilized in our operations.

 

On January 1, 2008, DISH completed the distribution of its technology and set-top box business and certain infrastructure assets (the “Spin-off”) into a separate publicly-traded company, EchoStar Corporation (“EchoStar”). DISH and EchoStar operate as separate publicly-traded companies, and neither entity has any ownership interest in the other. However, a substantial majority of the voting power of the shares of both companies is owned beneficially by Charles W. Ergen, our Chairman, or by certain trusts established by Mr. Ergen for the benefit of his family.

 

Business Strategy

 

Our business strategy is to be the best provider of video services in the United States by providing high-quality products, outstanding customer service, and great value. We promote the DISH Network programming packages as providing our subscribers with a better “price-to-value” relationship than those available from other subscription television providers. We believe that there continues to be unsatisfied demand for high quality, reasonably priced television programming services.

 

·                  High-Quality Products. We offer a wide selection of local and national programming, featuring more national and local HD channels than most pay-TV providers. We have been a technology leader in our industry, introducing award-winning DVRs, dual tuner receivers, 1080p video on demand, and external hard drives. To maintain and enhance our competitiveness over the long term, we are promoting a suite of integrated products designed to maximize the convenience and ease of watching TV anytime and anywhere, which we refer to as, “TV Everywhere.” Our TV Everywhere™ service utilizes, among other things, online access and Slingbox “placeshifting” technology.

 

·                  Outstanding Customer Service. We strive to provide outstanding customer service by improving the quality of the initial installation of subscriber equipment, improving the reliability of our equipment, better educating our customers about our products and services, and resolving customer problems promptly and effectively when they arise.

 

·                  Great Value. We have historically been viewed as the low-cost provider in the pay-TV industry in the U.S. because we seek to offer the lowest everyday prices available to consumers after introductory promotions expire.

 

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Properties

 

The following table sets forth certain information concerning the principal properties of DISH.

 

 

 

 

 

Leased From

Description/Use/Location

 

Owned

 

EchoStar

 

Other
Third
Party

Corporate headquarters, Englewood, Colorado

 

 

 

X

 

 

Customer call center and general offices, Pine Brook, New Jersey

 

 

 

 

 

X

Customer call center and general offices, Tulsa, Oklahoma

 

 

 

 

 

X

Customer call center, Alvin, Texas

 

 

 

 

 

X

Customer call center, Bluefield, West Virginia

 

X

 

 

 

 

Customer call center, Christiansburg, Virginia

 

X

 

 

 

 

Customer call center, College Point, New York

 

 

 

 

 

X

Customer call center, Harlingen, Texas

 

X

 

 

 

 

Customer call center, Hilliard, Ohio

 

 

 

 

 

X

Customer call center, Littleton, Colorado

 

 

 

X

 

 

Customer call center, Phoenix, Arizona

 

 

 

 

 

X

Customer call center, Thornton, Colorado

 

X

 

 

 

 

Customer call center, warehouse and service center, El Paso, Texas

 

X

 

 

 

 

Service center, Englewood, Colorado

 

 

 

X

 

 

Service center, Spartanburg, South Carolina

 

 

 

 

 

X

Warehouse and distribution center, Denver, Colorado

 

 

 

 

 

X

Warehouse and distribution center, Sacramento, California

 

X

 

 

 

 

Warehouse, Denver, Colorado

 

X

 

 

 

 

Warehouse, distribution and service center, Atlanta, Georgia

 

 

 

 

 

X

 

In addition to the principal properties listed above, we operate several DISH Network service centers strategically located in regions throughout the United States. Furthermore, we own or lease capacity on 13 satellites which are a major component of our DISH Network DBS System.

 

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Legal Proceedings

 

We are involved in a number of legal proceedings (including those described below) concerning matters arising in connection with the conduct of our business activities.  Many of these proceedings are at preliminary stages, and many of these cases seek an indeterminate amount of damages.  We regularly evaluate the status of legal proceedings in which we are involved, to assess whether a loss is probable or there is a reasonable possibility that a loss or additional loss may have been incurred and determine if accruals are appropriate.  We further evaluate each legal proceeding to assess whether an estimate of the possible loss or range of possible loss can be made, if accruals are not appropriate.

 

For certain cases described below, management is unable to provide a meaningful estimate of the possible loss or range of possible loss because, among other reasons, (i) the proceedings are in various stages; (ii) damages have not been sought; (iii) damages are unsupported and/or exaggerated; (iv) there is uncertainty as to the outcome of pending appeals or motions; (v) there are significant factual issues to be resolved; and/or (vi) there are novel legal issues or unsettled legal theories to be presented or a large number of parties (as with many patent-related cases).  For these cases, however, management does not believe, based on currently available information, that the outcomes of these proceedings will have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, though the outcomes could be material to our operating results for any particular period, depending, in part, upon the operating results for such period.

 

Broadcast Innovation, L.L.C.

 

During 2001, Broadcast Innovation, L.L.C. (“Broadcast Innovation”) filed a lawsuit against us, DirecTV, Thomson Consumer Electronics and others in United States District Court in Denver, Colorado.  Broadcast Innovation is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein.  The suit alleges infringement of United States Patent Nos. 6,076,094 (the ‘094 patent) and 4,992,066 (the ‘066 patent).  The ‘094 patent relates to certain methods and devices for transmitting and receiving data along with specific formatting information for the data.  The ‘066 patent relates to certain methods and devices for providing the scrambling circuitry for a pay television system on removable cards.  Subsequently, DirecTV and Thomson settled with Broadcast Innovation leaving us as the only defendant.

 

During 2004, the District Court issued an order finding the ‘066 patent invalid.  Also in 2004, the District Court found the ‘094 patent invalid in a parallel case filed by Broadcast Innovation against Charter and Comcast.  In 2005, the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit overturned that finding of invalidity with respect to the ‘094 patent and remanded the Charter case back to the District Court.  During June 2006, Charter filed a reexamination request with the United States Patent and Trademark Office.  The District Court has stayed the Charter case pending reexamination, and our case has been stayed pending resolution of the Charter case.

 

We intend to vigorously defend this case.  In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe any of the asserted patents, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain user-friendly features that we currently offer to consumers.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

 

Channel Bundling Class Action

 

During 2007, a purported class of cable and satellite subscribers filed an antitrust action against us in the United States District Court for the Central District of California.  The suit also names as defendants DirecTV, Comcast, Cablevision, Cox, Charter, Time Warner, Inc., Time Warner Cable, NBC Universal, Viacom, Fox Entertainment Group and Walt Disney Company.  The suit alleges, among other things, that the defendants engaged in a conspiracy to provide customers with access only to bundled channel offerings as opposed to giving customers the ability to purchase channels on an “a la carte” basis.  On October 16, 2009, the District Court granted defendants’ motion to dismiss with prejudice.  The plaintiffs have appealed.  We intend to vigorously defend this case.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

 

ESPN

 

During 2008, we filed a lawsuit against ESPN, Inc., ESPN Classic, Inc., ABC Cable Networks Group, Soapnet L.L.C. and International Family Entertainment (collectively, “ESPN”) for breach of contract in New York State Supreme Court.  Our complaint alleges that ESPN failed to provide us with certain high-definition feeds of the Disney Channel, ESPN News, Toon and ABC Family. ESPN asserted a counterclaim, and then filed a motion for summary judgment, alleging that we owed approximately $35 million under the applicable affiliation agreements.  We brought a motion to amend our complaint to assert

 

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that ESPN was in breach of certain most-favored-nation provisions under the applicable affiliation agreements.  On April 15, 2009, the New York State Supreme Court granted our motion to amend the complaint, and granted, in part, ESPN’s motion on the counterclaim, finding that we are liable for some of the amount alleged to be owing but that the actual amount owing is disputed.  We appealed the partial grant of ESPN’s motion to the New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division, First Department.  After the partial grant of ESPN’s motion, ESPN sought an additional $30 million under the applicable affiliation agreements.  On March 15, 2010, the New York State Supreme Court affirmed the prior grant of ESPN’s motion and ruled that we owe the full amount of approximately $66 million under the applicable affiliation agreement.  On December 29, 2010, the New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division, First Department affirmed the partial grant of ESPN’s motion on the counterclaim.  As of December 31, 2010, we had $42 million recorded as a “Litigation accrual” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.

 

On June 21, 2011, the First Department affirmed the New York Supreme Court’s ruling that we owe approximately $66 million under the applicable affiliation agreements.  We have sought leave to appeal that decision to New York’s highest court, the New York Court of Appeals.  As a result of the First Department’s ruling, during the three and six months ended June 30, 2011, we recorded $24 million of “Litigation Expense” on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) and increased our “Litigation accrual” to a total of $66 million as of June 30, 2011.  This reflects our estimated exposure for ESPN’s counterclaim.  We intend to vigorously prosecute and defend this case.

 

Ganas L.L.C.

 

During August 2010, Ganas, L.L.C. (“Ganas”) filed suit against us, Sabre Holdings Corporation, SAP America, Inc., SAS Institute Inc., Scottrade, Inc., TD Ameritrade, Inc., The Charles Schwab Corporation, TiVo Inc., Unicoi Systems Inc., Xerox Corporation, Adobe Systems Inc., AOL Inc., Apple Inc., Axibase Corporation, DirecTV, E*Trade Securities L.L.C., Exinda Networks, Fidelity Brokerage Services L.L.C., Firstrade Securities Inc., Hewlett-Packard Company, iControl Inc., International Business Machines Corporation and JPMorgan Chase & Co. in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas alleging infringement of United States Patent Nos.  7,136,913, 7,325,053, and 7,734,756.  The patents relate to hypertext transfer protocol and simple object access protocol.  Ganas is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein.

 

We intend to vigorously defend this case.  In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe any of the asserted patents, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain features that we currently offer to consumers.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

 

InterAD Technologies, LLC

 

On September 16, 2011, InterAD Technologies, LLC filed a complaint against our wholly-owned subsidiary DISH Network L.L.C., as well as EchoStar, EchoStar Technologies L.L.C., a wholly-owned subsidiary of EchoStar, Atlantic Broadband Finance, LLC, AT&T, Inc., Bright House Networks, LLC, Cable One, Inc., Cequel Communications, LLC, Charter Communications Holding Company, LLC, Charter Communications, Inc., Comcast Corporation, Cox Communications, Inc., CSC Holdings, LLC, DirecTV, Inc., Insight Communications Company, Inc., Knology, Inc., Mediacom Broadband, LLC, RCN Telecom Services, LLC, Time Warner Cable, Inc., and Verizon, Inc. in the United States District Court for the District of Delaware alleging infringement of United States Patent No. 5,438,355, which is entitled “Interactive System for Processing Viewer Responses to Television Programming.” As of the filing date of this Form S-4/A, we have not been served with this complaint.

 

If served, we intend to vigorously defend this case. In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe the asserted patent, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain features that we currently offer to consumers. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

 

Katz Communications

 

During 2007, Ronald A. Katz Technology Licensing, L.P. (“Katz”) filed a patent infringement action against us in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California.  The suit alleges infringement of 19 patents owned by Katz.  The patents relate to interactive voice response, or IVR, technology.  The case has been transferred and consolidated for pretrial purposes in the United States District Court for the Central District of California by order of the Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation.

 

We intend to vigorously defend this case.  In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe any of the asserted patents, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain user-friendly features that we currently offer to consumers.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

 

LVL Patent Group, LLC

 

On September 15, 2011, LVL Patent Group, LLC filed a complaint against our wholly-owned subsidiary DISH Network L.L.C., as well as EchoStar, EchoStar Technologies L.L.C., a wholly-owned subsidiary of EchoStar, and DirecTV, Inc. in the United States District Court for the District of Delaware alleging infringement of United States Patent No. 6,044,382, which is entitled “Data Transaction Assembly Server.” As of the filing date of this Form S-4/A, we have not been served with this complaint.

 

If served, we intend to vigorously defend this case. In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe the asserted patent, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain features that we currently offer to consumers. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

 

NorthPoint Technology

 

On July 2, 2009, NorthPoint Technology, Ltd. filed suit against us, EchoStar and DirecTV in the United States District Court for the Western District of Texas alleging infringement of United States Patent No. 6,208,636 (the ‘636 patent).  The ‘636 patent relates to the use of multiple low-noise block converter feedhorns, or LNBFs, which are antennas used for satellite reception.  On April 21, 2011, the US Patent and Trademark Office issued an order granting reexamination of the ‘636 patent.  On June 21, 2011, the District Court entered summary judgment in our favor, finding that all asserted claims of the ‘636 patent are invalid.  The plaintiff has appealed.

 

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We intend to vigorously defend this case.  In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe the asserted patent, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain features that we currently offer to consumers.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

 

Olympic Developments

 

On January 20, 2011, Olympic Developments AG, LLC (“Olympic”) filed suit against us, Atlantic Broadband, Inc., Bright House Networks, LLC, Cable One, Inc., Cequel Communications Holdings I, LLC, CSC Holdings, LLC, GCI Communication Corp., Insight Communications Company, Inc., Knology, Inc., Mediacom Communications Corporation and RCN Telecom Services, LLC in the United States District Court for the Central District of California alleging infringement of  United States Patent Nos. 5,475,585 and 6,246,400.  The patents relate to on-demand services.  Olympic is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein.  On June 13, 2011, the case was transferred to the Northern District of California.

 

We intend to vigorously defend this case.  In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe the asserted patents, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain features that we currently offer to consumers.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

 

Personalized Media Communications

 

During 2008, Personalized Media Communications, Inc. (“PMC”) filed suit against us, EchoStar and Motorola Inc. in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas alleging infringement of United States Patent Nos. 4,694,490; 5,109,414; 4,965,825; 5,233,654; 5,335,277; and 5,887,243, which relate to satellite signal processing.  PMC is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein.  Subsequently, Motorola Inc. settled with PMC leaving EchoStar and us as the only defendants.

 

We intend to vigorously defend this case.  In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe any of the asserted patents, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain user-friendly features that we currently offer to consumers.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

 

Retailer Class Actions

 

During 2000, lawsuits were filed by retailers in Colorado state and federal courts attempting to certify nationwide classes on behalf of certain of our retailers.  The plaintiffs requested that the Courts declare certain provisions of, and changes to, alleged agreements between us and the retailers invalid and unenforceable, and to award damages for lost incentives and payments, charge backs and other compensation.  On September 20, 2010, we agreed to a settlement of both lawsuits that provides, among other things, for mutual releases of the claims underlying the litigation, payment by us of up to $60 million, and the option for certain class members to elect to reinstate certain monthly incentive payments, which the parties agreed have an aggregate maximum value of $23 million.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty how many class members will elect to reinstate these monthly incentive payments.  As a result, a $60 million “Litigation accrual” was recorded as of December 31, 2010 on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.  On February 9, 2011, the court granted final approval of the settlement, and we made a $60 million settlement payment on April 28, 2011.

 

Suomen Colorize Oy

 

During October 2010, Suomen Colorize Oy (“Suomen”) filed suit against DISH Network L.L.C., our indirect wholly owned subsidiary, and EchoStar in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida alleging infringement of United States Patent No. 7,277,398.  Suomen is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein.  The abstract of the patent states that the claims are directed to a method and terminal for providing services in a telecommunication network.  The action has been transferred to the United States District Court for the District of Colorado.

 

We intend to vigorously defend this case.  In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe the asserted patent, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us

 

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to materially modify certain features that we currently offer to consumers.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

 

Technology Development Licensing

 

On January 22, 2009, Technology Development and Licensing L.L.C. (“TDL”) filed suit against us and EchoStar in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois alleging infringement of United States Patent No. Re. 35,952, which relates to certain favorite channel features.  TDL is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein.  In July 2009, the Court granted our motion to stay the case pending two reexamination petitions before the Patent and Trademark Office.

 

We intend to vigorously defend this case.  In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe the asserted patent, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain user-friendly features that we currently offer to consumers.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

 

TiVo Inc.

 

In connection with DISH’s litigation with TiVo, which is described in our periodic reports filed with the SEC, including in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010 under the caption “Item 3.   Legal Proceedings - TiVo Inc.,” on April 20, 2011, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit vacated the District Court’s contempt ruling on infringement, articulated a new standard for determining “colorable difference” and remanded that issue back to the District Court for determination.  The Federal Circuit also vacated the District Court’s amended injunction requiring that DISH inform the court of any further attempts to design around TiVo’s United States Patent No. 6,233,389 (the ‘389 patent) and seek approval from the court before any such design-around is implemented.  The Federal Circuit also vacated the infringement damages for the period after DISH deployed its original alternative technology (although it did not foreclose that damages may be reinstated if upon remand a new court or jury decision found that the original alternative technology infringed TiVo’s ‘389 patent).  The Federal Circuit affirmed the District Court’s contempt ruling on disablement, holding that the original 2006 injunction required that DISH disable DVR functionality in all but approximately 192,000 digital set-top boxes deployed with customers (the “Disablement Provision”) and affirmed the $90 million in contempt sanctions awarded against DISH for violating the Disablement Provision.

 

On April 29, 2011, DISH and EchoStar entered into a settlement agreement with TiVo.  The settlement resolves all pending litigation between DISH and EchoStar, on the one hand, and TiVo, on the other hand, including litigation relating to alleged patent infringement involving certain DISH Network digital video recorders, or DVRs, which litigation is described in our periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission including in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010 under the caption “Item 3.  Legal Proceedings - TiVo Inc.”

 

Under the settlement agreement, all pending litigation has been dismissed with prejudice and all injunctions that permanently restrain, enjoin or compel any action by DISH or EchoStar have been dissolved.  DISH and EchoStar are jointly responsible for making payments to TiVo in the aggregate amount of $500 million, including an initial payment of $300 million and the remaining $200 million in six equal annual installments between 2012 and 2017.  Pursuant to the terms and conditions of the agreements entered into in connection with the Spin-off of EchoStar from DISH, DISH made the initial payment to TiVo in May 2011, except for a contribution from EchoStar totaling approximately $10 million, representing an allocation of liability relating to EchoStar’s sales of DVR-enabled receivers to an international customer.  Future payments will be allocated between DISH and EchoStar based on historical sales of certain licensed products, with DISH being responsible for 95% of each annual payment.

 

As previously disclosed, our total litigation accrual for TiVo was $517 million as of December 31, 2010.  As a result of the settlement agreement, we reversed $335 million of this accrual and made a payment of approximately $290 million for our portion of the initial payment to TiVo.  Of this amount, approximately $182 million relates to prior periods and the remaining $108 million represents a prepayment.  Our $108 million prepayment and our $190 million share of the remaining payments, a total of $298 million, will be expensed ratably as a subscriber-related expense from April 1, 2011 through July 31, 2018, the expiration date of the ‘389 patent.  In connection with our TiVo settlement, TiVo agreed to advertise and market certain of our products and services.  As a result, $6 million was recognized as a reduction of litigation expense and we recorded a pre-paid marketing asset on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) and our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, respectively.

 

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In addition, under the settlement agreement, TiVo granted DISH a license under its ‘389 patent and certain related patents, for the remaining life of those patents, with respect to DISH-branded and co-branded products and services.

 

DISH and EchoStar, on the one hand, and TiVo, on the other hand, have also agreed on mutual releases of certain related claims and agreed not to challenge each other’s DVR technology-related patents that are licensed under the settlement agreement.

 

Because both DISH and EchoStar were defendants in the TiVo lawsuit, DISH and EchoStar were jointly and severally liable to TiVo for any final damages and sanctions that could have been awarded by the District Court.  As previously disclosed, DISH determined that it was obligated under the agreements entered into in connection with the Spin-off to indemnify EchoStar for substantially all liability arising from this lawsuit.  EchoStar contributed an amount equal to its $5 million intellectual property liability limit under the receiver agreement.  DISH and EchoStar further agreed that EchoStar’s $5 million contribution would not exhaust EchoStar’s liability to us for other intellectual property claims that may arise under the receiver agreement. DISH and EchoStar also agreed that DISH and EchoStar would each be entitled to joint ownership of, and a cross-license to use, any intellectual property developed in connection with any potential new alternative technology.  Any amounts that EchoStar is responsible for under the settlement agreement with TiVo are in addition to the $5 million contribution previously made by EchoStar.

 

Voom

 

In January 2008, Voom HD Holdings (“Voom”) filed a lawsuit against us in New York Supreme Court, alleging breach of contract and other claims arising from our termination of the affiliation agreement governing carriage of certain Voom HD channels on the DISH Network satellite TV service.  At that time, Voom also sought a preliminary injunction to prevent us from terminating the agreement.  The Court denied Voom’s request, finding, among other things, that Voom had not demonstrated that it was likely to prevail on the merits.  In April 2010, we and Voom each filed motions for summary judgment.  Voom later filed two motions seeking discovery sanctions.  On November 9, 2010, the Court issued a decision denying both motions for summary judgment, but granting Voom’s motions for discovery sanctions.  The Court’s decision provides for an adverse inference jury instruction at trial and precludes our damages expert from testifying at trial.  We appealed the grant of Voom’s motion for discovery sanctions to the New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division, First Department.  On February 15, 2011, the appellate Court granted our motion to stay the trial pending our appeal.  Oral argument on the appeal took place on April 27, 2011.  Voom is claiming over $2.5 billion in damages.  We intend to vigorously defend this case.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

 

Other

 

In addition to the above actions, we are subject to various other legal proceedings and claims which arise in the ordinary course of business, including, among other things, disputes with programmers regarding fees.  In our opinion, the amount of ultimate liability with respect to any of these actions is unlikely to materially affect our financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

 

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MANAGEMENT’S NARRATIVE ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

Overview

 

The DISH Network® direct broadcast satellite (“DBS”) subscription television service (“DISH Network”) lost approximately 135,000 net subscribers during the three months ended June 30, 2011, compared to a loss of approximately 19,000 net subscribers during the same period in 2010.  The change versus the prior year primarily resulted from a decline in gross new subscriber activations.  During the three months ended June 30, 2011, DISH Network added approximately 572,000 gross new subscribers compared to approximately 747,000 gross new subscribers during the same period in 2010, a decrease of 23.4%.

 

Our gross activations and net subscriber additions were negatively impacted during the second quarter of 2011 compared to the same period in 2010 as a result of increased competitive pressures, including aggressive marketing and the effectiveness of certain competitors’ promotional offers, which included an increased level of discounts.  In addition, telecommunications companies continue to grow their customer base as they build out their fiber-based pay-TV networks.  Also, our gross activations and net subscriber additions continue to be adversely affected during the second quarter of 2011 by sustained economic weakness and uncertainty, including, among other things, the weak housing market in the United States combined with lower discretionary spending.

 

Our average monthly subscriber churn rate for the three months ended June 30, 2011 was 1.67%, compared to 1.78% for the same period in 2010.  While churn improved compared to the same period in 2010, churn continues to be adversely affected by the increased competitive pressures discussed above.  In general, our churn rate is impacted by the quality of subscribers acquired in past quarters, our ability to provide outstanding customer service, and our ability to control piracy.  There can be no assurance that churn will continue at this rate during the remainder of 2011.

 

DISH Network lost approximately 77,000 net subscribers for the six months ended June 30, 2011, compared to a gain of approximately 218,000 net new subscribers for the same period in 2010.  The change versus the prior period was driven primarily by a decrease in gross new subscriber additions.  Our average monthly subscriber churn rate for the six months ended June 30, 2011 was 1.57%, compared to 1.59% for the same period in 2010.  When the size of our subscriber base increases, even if our subscriber churn rate remains constant, increasing numbers of gross new DISH Network subscribers are required to sustain net subscriber growth.

 

“Net income (loss)” for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011 was $349 million and $898 million, respectively, compared to $256 million and $474 million for the same periods in 2010.  During the second quarter of 2011, “Net income (loss)” increased as a result of price increases during the past year and fewer gross new subscriber activations.  During the six months ended June 30, 2011, “Net income (loss)” improved primarily due to a reduction in our accrued expenses related to the TiVo Inc. settlement, price increases during the past year and fewer gross new subscriber activations.

 

Programming costs represent a large percentage of our “Subscriber-related expenses.”  Going forward, our margins may face pressure if we are unable to renew our long-term programming contracts on favorable pricing and other economic terms.  Additionally, our gross new subscriber additions and subscriber churn rate may be negatively impacted if we are unable to renew our long-term programming contracts before they expire.

 

As the pay-TV industry matures, we and our competitors increasingly must seek to attract a greater proportion of new subscribers from each other’s existing subscriber bases rather than from first-time purchasers of pay-TV services.  Some of our competitors have been especially aggressive by offering discounted programming and services for both new and existing subscribers.  In addition, programming offered over the Internet has become more prevalent as the speed and quality of broadband networks have improved.  Significant changes in consumer behavior with regard to the means by which they obtain video entertainment and information in response to digital media competition could materially adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition or otherwise disrupt our business.

 

While economic factors have impacted the entire pay-TV industry, our relative performance has also been driven by issues specific to DISH Network.  In the past, our subscriber growth has been adversely affected by signal theft and other forms of fraud and by operational inefficiencies at DISH Network.

 

To combat signal theft and improve the security of our broadcast system, we completed the replacement of our security access devices to re-secure our system during 2009.  We expect that additional future replacements of these devices will be

 

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necessary to keep our system secure.  To combat other forms of fraud, we continue to monitor our third party distributors and retailers to ensure adherence to our business rules.

 

While we have made improvements in responding to and dealing with customer service issues, we continue to focus on the prevention of these issues, which is critical to our business, financial position and results of operations.  To address our operational inefficiencies, we continue to focus on simplifying and standardizing our operations.  For example, we have streamlined our hardware offerings and continue to make significant investments in staffing, training, information systems, and other initiatives, primarily in our call center and in-home service operations.  These investments are intended to help combat inefficiencies introduced by the increasing complexity of our business, improve customer satisfaction, reduce churn, increase productivity and allow us to scale better over the long run.  We cannot, however, be certain that our increased spending will ultimately be successful in yielding such returns.

 

We have been investing more in advanced technology equipment as part of our subscriber acquisition and retention efforts.  Initiatives to transmit certain programming only in MPEG-4 and to activate most new subscribers only with MPEG-4 receivers have accelerated our deployment of MPEG-4 receivers.  To meet current demand, we have increased the rate at which we upgrade existing subscribers to HD and DVR receivers.  While these efforts may increase our subscriber acquisition and retention costs, we believe that they will help mitigate subscriber churn in the future and reduce costs over the long run.

 

We are also continuing to change equipment for certain subscribers to make more efficient use of transponder capacity in support of HD and other initiatives.  We expect to continue these initiatives through 2011.  We believe that the benefit from the increase in available transponder capacity outweighs the short-term cost of these equipment changes.

 

To maintain and enhance our competitiveness over the long term, we are promoting a suite of integrated products designed to maximize the convenience and ease of watching TV anytime and anywhere, referred to as “TV Everywhere.”  TV Everywhere utilizes, among other things, online access and Slingbox “placeshifting” technology.  There can be no assurance that these integrated products will positively affect our results of operations or our gross new subscriber additions.

 

Recent Developments

 

TerreStar.  Gamma, a wholly-owned subsidiary of DISH, entered into an asset purchase agreement with TerreStar and certain of its subsidiaries on June 14, 2011, under which Gamma would acquire substantially all of the assets of TerreStar and its subsidiaries for a cash purchase price of $1.375 billion, of which $69 million was paid in June 2011, and would agree to assume certain liabilities associated with the ongoing operations of the business being acquired.  On July 7, 2011, the asset purchase agreement was approved by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York, in which the bankruptcy cases of TerreStar and certain of its subsidiaries are being administered.  DISH is a party to the asset purchase agreement solely with respect to certain guaranty obligations.  Consummation of the acquisition contemplated in the asset purchase agreement is subject to, among other things, approval by the FCC and the Canadian federal Department of Industry.  However, funding of the $1.375 billion purchase price is not conditioned on approval of the transaction by the FCC and the Canadian federal Department of Industry.  In the event that the purchase price is funded, but the necessary approvals from the FCC and the Canadian federal Department of Industry are not obtained, Gamma has the right under the purchase agreement to require TerreStar to sell substantially all of its assets to a third party and to receive the proceeds of such sale.  Although the closing of the transaction may not occur until 2012, on August 11, 2011, Gamma funded an additional $1.276 billion of the purchase price, in accordance with the terms of the purchase agreement.  Additionally, Gamma is responsible for any working capital and administrative expenses of TerreStar and certain of its subsidiaries beyond December 31, 2011.

 

On August 10, 2011, we paid a dividend of approximately $700 million to DISH Orbital Corporation, our direct parent company, in connection with, among other things, the funding of DISH’s purchase of TerreStar.

 

TiVo.  In connection with DISH’s litigation with TiVo, which is described in our periodic reports filed with the SEC, including in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010 under the caption “Item 3.   Legal Proceedings - TiVo Inc.,” on April 20, 2011, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit vacated the District Court’s contempt ruling on infringement, articulated a new standard for determining “colorable difference” and remanded that issue back to the District Court for determination.  The Federal Circuit also vacated the District Court’s amended injunction requiring that DISH inform the court of any further attempts to design around TiVo’s United States Patent No. 6,233,389 (the ‘389 patent) and seek approval from the court before any such design-around is implemented.  The Federal Circuit also vacated the infringement damages for the period after DISH deployed its original alternative technology (although it did not foreclose that damages may be reinstated if upon remand a new court or jury decision found that the original alternative technology infringed TiVo’s ‘389 patent).  The Federal Circuit affirmed the District Court’s contempt ruling on disablement, holding that the original

 

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2006 injunction required that DISH disable DVR functionality in all but approximately 192,000 digital set-top boxes deployed with customers (the “Disablement Provision”) and affirmed the $90 million in contempt sanctions awarded against DISH for violating the Disablement Provision.

 

On April 29, 2011, DISH and EchoStar entered into a settlement agreement with TiVo.  The settlement resolves all pending litigation between DISH and EchoStar, on the one hand, and TiVo, on the other hand, including litigation relating to alleged patent infringement involving certain DISH Network digital video recorders, or DVRs.

 

Under the settlement agreement, all pending litigation has been dismissed with prejudice and all injunctions that permanently restrain, enjoin or compel any action by DISH or EchoStar have been dissolved.  DISH and EchoStar are jointly responsible for making payments to TiVo in the aggregate amount of $500 million, including an initial payment of $300 million and the remaining $200 million in six equal annual installments between 2012 and 2017.  Pursuant to the terms and conditions of the agreements entered into in connection with the Spin-off of EchoStar from DISH, DISH made the initial payment to TiVo in May 2011, except for a contribution from EchoStar totaling approximately $10 million, representing an allocation of liability relating to EchoStar’s sales of DVR-enabled receivers to an international customer.  Future payments will be allocated between DISH and EchoStar based on historical sales of certain licensed products, with DISH being responsible for 95% of each annual payment.

 

As previously disclosed, our total litigation accrual for TiVo was $517 million as of December 31, 2010.  As a result of the settlement agreement, we reversed $335 million of this accrual and made a payment of approximately $290 million for our portion of the initial payment to TiVo.  Of this amount, approximately $182 million relates to prior periods and the remaining $108 million represents a prepayment.  Our $108 million prepayment and our $190 million share of the remaining payments, a total of $298 million, will be expensed ratably as a subscriber-related expense from April 1, 2011 through July 31, 2018, the expiration date of the ‘389 patent.  In connection with our TiVo settlement, TiVo agreed to advertise and market certain of our products and services.  As a result, $6 million was recognized as a reduction of litigation expense and we recorded a pre-paid marketing asset on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) and our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, respectively.

 

In addition, under the settlement agreement, TiVo granted DISH a license under its ‘389 patent and certain related patents, for the remaining life of those patents, with respect to DISH-branded and co-branded products and services.

 

DISH and EchoStar, on the one hand, and TiVo, on the other hand, have also agreed on mutual releases of certain related claims and agreed not to challenge each other’s DVR technology-related patents that are licensed under the settlement agreement.

 

Because both DISH and EchoStar were defendants in the TiVo lawsuit, DISH and EchoStar were jointly and severally liable to TiVo for any final damages and sanctions that could have been awarded by the District Court.  As previously disclosed, DISH determined that it was obligated under the agreements entered into in connection with the Spin-off to indemnify EchoStar for substantially all liability arising from this lawsuit.  EchoStar contributed an amount equal to its $5 million intellectual property liability limit under the receiver agreement.  DISH and EchoStar further agreed that EchoStar’s $5 million contribution would not exhaust EchoStar’s liability to us for other intellectual property claims that may arise under the receiver agreement. DISH and EchoStar also agreed that DISH and EchoStar would each be entitled to joint ownership of, and a cross-license to use, any intellectual property developed in connection with any potential new alternative technology.  Any amounts that EchoStar is responsible for under the settlement agreement with TiVo are in addition to the $5 million contribution previously made by EchoStar.

 

Liquidity Drivers

 

Like many companies, we make general investments in property such as satellites, set-top boxes, information technology and facilities that support our overall business.  As a subscriber-based company, however, we also make subscriber-specific investments to acquire new subscribers and retain existing subscribers.  While the general investments may be deferred without impacting the business in the short-term, the subscriber-specific investments are less discretionary.  Our overall objective is to generate sufficient cash flow over the life of each subscriber to provide an adequate return against the upfront investment.  Once the upfront investment has been made for each subscriber, the subsequent cash flow is generally positive.

 

There are a number of factors that impact our future cash flow compared to the cash flow we generate at a given point in time.  The first factor is how successful we are at retaining our current subscribers.  As we lose subscribers from our existing base, the positive cash flow from that base is correspondingly reduced.  The second factor is how successful we are at

 

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maintaining our subscriber-related margins.  To the extent our “Subscriber-related expenses” grow faster than our “Subscriber-related revenue,” the amount of cash flow that is generated per existing subscriber is reduced.  The third factor is the rate at which we acquire new subscribers.  The faster we acquire new subscribers, the more our positive ongoing cash flow from existing subscribers is offset by the negative upfront cash flow associated with new subscribers.  Finally, our future cash flow is impacted by the rate at which we make general investments and any cash flow from financing activities.

 

Our subscriber-specific investments to acquire new subscribers have a significant impact on our cash flow.  While fewer subscribers might translate into lower ongoing cash flow in the long-term, cash flow is actually aided, in the short-term, by the reduction in subscriber-specific investment spending.  As a result, a slow down in our business due to external or internal factors does not introduce the same level of short-term liquidity risk as it might in other industries.

 

Availability of Credit and Effect on Liquidity

 

The ability to raise capital has generally existed for us despite the weak economic conditions.  Because of our cash flow modest fluctuations in the cost of capital will not likely impact our current operational plans.

 

Future Liquidity

 

Voom

 

If Voom prevails in its breach of contract suit against us, we could be required to pay substantial damages, which would have a material adverse affect on our financial position and results of operations.  In January 2008, Voom filed a lawsuit against us in New York Supreme Court, alleging breach of contract and other claims arising from our termination of the affiliation agreement governing carriage of certain Voom HD channels on the DISH Network satellite TV service.  At that time, Voom also sought a preliminary injunction to prevent us from terminating the agreement.  The Court denied Voom’s request, finding, among other things, that Voom had not demonstrated that it was likely to prevail on the merits.  In April 2010, we and Voom each filed motions for summary judgment.  Voom later filed two motions seeking discovery sanctions.  On November 9, 2010, the Court issued a decision denying both motions for summary judgment, but granting Voom’s motions for discovery sanctions.  The Court’s decision provides for an adverse inference jury instruction at trial and precludes our damages expert from testifying at trial.  We appealed the grant of Voom’s motion for discovery sanctions to the New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division, First Department.  On February 15, 2011, the appellate Court granted our motion to stay the trial pending our appeal.  Oral argument on the appeal took place on April 27, 2011.  Voom is claiming over $2.5 billion in damages.

 

The Spin-off.  On January 1, 2008, DISH completed the distribution of its technology and set-top box business and certain infrastructure assets into a separate publicly-traded company, EchoStar.  DISH, including us, and EchoStar operate as separate publicly-traded companies, and neither entity has any ownership interest in the other.  However, a substantial majority of the voting power of the shares of both companies is owned beneficially by Charles W. Ergen, our Chairman or by certain trusts established by Mr. Ergen for the benefit of his family.

 

EXPLANATION OF KEY METRICS AND OTHER ITEMS

 

Subscriber-related revenue.  “Subscriber-related revenue” consists principally of revenue from basic, premium movie, local, HD programming, pay-per-view, Latino and international subscription television services, equipment rental fees and other hardware related fees, including fees for DVRs, equipment upgrade fees and additional outlet fees from subscribers with receivers with multiple tuners, advertising services, fees earned from our in-home service operations and other subscriber revenue.  Certain of the amounts included in “Subscriber-related revenue” are not recurring on a monthly basis.

 

Equipment sales and other revenue.  “Equipment sales and other revenue” principally includes the non-subsidized sales of DBS accessories to retailers and other third-party distributors of our equipment domestically and to DISH Network subscribers.

 

Equipment sales, services and other revenue — EchoStar.  “Equipment sales, services and other revenue — EchoStar” includes revenue related to equipment sales, services, and other agreements with EchoStar.

 

Subscriber-related expenses.  “Subscriber-related expenses” principally include programming expenses, which represent a substantial majority of these expenses.  “Subscriber-related expenses” also include costs incurred in connection with our in-home service and call center operations, billing costs, refurbishment and repair costs related to receiver systems, subscriber retention and other variable subscriber expenses.

 

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Satellite and transmission expenses - EchoStar.  “Satellite and transmission expenses - EchoStar” includes the cost of leasing satellite and transponder capacity from EchoStar and the cost of digital broadcast operations provided to us by EchoStar, including satellite uplinking/downlinking, signal processing, conditional access management, telemetry, tracking and control, and other professional services.

 

Satellite and transmission expenses — other.  “Satellite and transmission expenses — other” includes executory costs associated with capital leases and costs associated with transponder leases and other related services.

 

Equipment, services and other cost of sales.  “Equipment, services and other cost of sales” principally includes the cost of non-subsidized sales of DBS accessories to retailers and other third-party distributors of our equipment domestically and to DISH Network subscribers.  In addition, this category includes costs related to equipment sales, services, and other agreements with EchoStar.

 

Subscriber acquisition costs.  In addition to leasing receivers, we generally subsidize installation and all or a portion of the cost of our receiver systems to attract new DISH Network subscribers.  Our “Subscriber acquisition costs” include the cost of our receiver systems sold to retailers and other third-party distributors of our equipment, the cost of receiver systems sold directly by us to subscribers, including net costs related to our promotional incentives, costs related to our direct sales efforts and costs related to installation and acquisition advertising.  We exclude the value of equipment capitalized under our lease program for new subscribers from “Subscriber acquisition costs.”

 

SAC.  Subscriber acquisition cost measures are commonly used by those evaluating companies in the pay-TV industry.  We are not aware of any uniform standards for calculating the “average subscriber acquisition costs per new subscriber activation,” or SAC, and we believe presentations of SAC may not be calculated consistently by different companies in the same or similar businesses.  Our SAC is calculated as “Subscriber acquisition costs,” plus the value of equipment capitalized under our lease program for new subscribers, divided by gross new subscriber additions.  We include all the costs of acquiring subscribers (e.g., subsidized and capitalized equipment) as our management believes it is a more comprehensive measure of how much we are spending to acquire subscribers.  We also include all new DISH Network subscribers in our calculation, including DISH Network subscribers added with little or no subscriber acquisition costs.

 

General and administrative expenses.  “General and administrative expenses” consists primarily of employee-related costs associated with administrative services such as legal, information systems, accounting and finance, including  non-cash, stock-based compensation expense.  It also includes outside professional fees (e.g., legal, information systems and accounting services) and other items associated with facilities and administration.

 

Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized.  “Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized” primarily includes interest expense, prepayment premiums and amortization of debt issuance costs associated with our senior debt (net of capitalized interest) and interest expense associated with our capital lease obligations.

 

Other, net.  The main components of “Other, net” are gains and losses realized on the sale of investments, impairment of marketable and non-marketable investment securities, unrealized gains and losses from changes in fair value of marketable and non-marketable investments accounted for at fair value, and equity in earnings and losses of our affiliates.

 

Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”).  EBITDA is defined as “Net income (loss)” plus “Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized” net of “Interest income,” “Taxes” and “Depreciation and amortization.”  This “non-GAAP measure” is reconciled to “Net income (loss)” in our discussion of “Results of Operations” below.

 

DISH Network subscribers.  We include customers obtained through direct sales, third-party retailers and other third-party distribution relationships in our DISH Network subscriber count.  We also provide DISH Network service to hotels, motels and other commercial accounts.  For certain of these commercial accounts, we divide our total revenue for these commercial accounts by an amount approximately equal to the retail price of our lowest, widely advertised residential programming package (but taking into account price changes and other factors), and include the resulting number, which is substantially smaller than the actual number of commercial units served, in our DISH Network subscriber count.  Effective during the first quarter of 2011, we made two changes to this calculation methodology compared to prior periods.  Beginning February 1, 2011, the retail price of our lowest, widely advertised residential programming package was our DISH America programming package.  The price for this package was used in the calculation rather than America’s Top 120 programming package, which had been used in prior periods.  We also determined that two of our commercial business lines, which had previously been included in the described calculation, could be more accurately reflected through actual subscriber counts.  The net impact of these two changes

 

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was to increase our subscriber count by approximately 6,000 subscribers in the first quarter of 2011.  Prior period DISH Network subscribers have not been adjusted for this revised commercial accounts calculation as the impacts were immaterial.

 

Average monthly revenue per subscriber (“ARPU”).  We are not aware of any uniform standards for calculating ARPU and believe presentations of ARPU may not be calculated consistently by other companies in the same or similar businesses.  We calculate average monthly revenue per subscriber, or ARPU, by dividing average monthly “Subscriber-related revenue” for the period (total “Subscriber-related revenue” during the period divided by the number of months in the period) by our average DISH Network subscribers for the period.  Average DISH Network subscribers are calculated for the period by adding the average DISH Network subscribers for each month and dividing by the number of months in the period.  Average DISH Network subscribers for each month are calculated by adding the beginning and ending DISH Network subscribers for the month and dividing by two.

 

Average monthly subscriber churn rate.  We are not aware of any uniform standards for calculating subscriber churn rate and believe presentations of subscriber churn rates may not be calculated consistently by different companies in the same or similar businesses.  We calculate subscriber churn rate for any period by dividing the number of DISH Network subscribers who terminated service during the period by the average DISH Network subscribers for the same period, and further dividing by the number of months in the period.  When calculating subscriber churn, the same methodology for calculating average DISH Network subscribers is used as when calculating ARPU.

 

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RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

Three Months Ended June 30, 2011 Compared to the Three Months Ended June 30, 2010.

 

 

 

For the Three Months

 

 

 

 

 

Ended June 30,

 

Variance

 

Statements of Operations Data

 

2011

 

2010

 

Amount

 

%

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Revenue:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Subscriber-related revenue

 

$

3,307,003

 

$

3,140,201

 

$

166,802

 

5.3

 

Equipment sales and other revenue

 

16,021

 

16,505

 

(484

)

(2.9

)

Equipment sales, services and other revenue - EchoStar

 

8,803

 

11,209

 

(2,406

)

(21.5

)

Total revenue

 

3,331,827

 

3,167,915

 

163,912

 

5.2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Costs and Expenses:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Subscriber-related expenses

 

1,727,091

 

1,648,221

 

78,870

 

4.8

 

% of Subscriber-related revenue

 

52.2

%

52.5

%

 

 

 

 

Satellite and transmission expenses - EchoStar

 

115,466

 

107,107

 

8,359

 

7.8

 

% of Subscriber-related revenue

 

3.5

%

3.4

%

 

 

 

 

Satellite and transmission expenses - Other

 

9,692

 

9,985

 

(293

)

(2.9

)

% of Subscriber-related revenue

 

0.3

%

0.3

%

 

 

 

 

Equipment, services and other cost of sales

 

18,192

 

22,004

 

(3,812

)

(17.3

)

Subscriber acquisition costs

 

342,464

 

405,287

 

(62,823

)

(15.5

)

General and administrative expenses

 

150,348

 

153,824

 

(3,476

)

(2.3

)

% of Total revenue

 

4.5

%

4.9

%

 

 

 

 

Litigation expense

 

23,727

 

30,709

 

(6,982

)

(22.7

)

Depreciation and amortization

 

234,138

 

264,368

 

(30,230

)

(11.4

)

Total costs and expenses

 

2,621,118

 

2,641,505

 

(20,387

)

(0.8

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating income (loss)

 

710,709

 

526,410

 

184,299

 

35.0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other Income (Expense):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest income

 

2,734

 

3,847

 

(1,113

)

(28.9

)

Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized

 

(141,205

)

(120,918

)

(20,287

)

(16.8

)

Other, net

 

(1,069

)

123

 

(1,192

)

NM

 

Total other income (expense)

 

(139,540

)

(116,948

)

(22,592

)

(19.3

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income (loss) before income taxes

 

571,169

 

409,462

 

161,707

 

39.5

 

Income tax (provision) benefit, net

 

(221,877

)

(153,932

)

(67,945

)

44.1

 

Effective tax rate

 

38.8

%

37.6

%

 

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

 

$

349,292

 

$

255,530

 

$

93,762

 

36.7

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other Data:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DISH Network subscribers, as of period end (in millions)

 

14.056

 

14.318

 

(0.262

)

(1.8

)

DISH Network subscriber additions, gross (in millions)

 

0.572

 

0.747

 

(0.175

)

(23.4

)

DISH Network subscriber additions, net (in millions)

 

(0.135

)

(0.019

)

(0.116

)

NM

 

Average monthly subscriber churn rate

 

1.67

%

1.78

%

(0.11

)%

(6.2

)

Average monthly revenue per subscriber  (“ARPU”)

 

$

78.06

 

$

73.05

 

$

5.01

 

6.9

 

Average subscriber acquisition cost per subscriber (“SAC”)

 

$

795

 

$

743

 

$

52

 

7.0

 

EBITDA

 

$

943,778

 

$

790,901

 

$

152,877

 

19.3

 

 

DISH Network subscribers.  As of June 30, 2011, we had approximately 14.056 million DISH Network subscribers compared to approximately 14.318 million subscribers at June 30, 2010, a decrease of 1.8%.  DISH Network lost approximately 135,000 net subscribers during the three months ended June 30, 2011, compared to a loss of approximately 19,000 net subscribers during the same period in 2010.  The change versus the prior year primarily resulted from a decline in gross new subscriber activations.  During the three months ended June 30, 2011, DISH Network added approximately 572,000 gross new subscribers compared to approximately 747,000 gross new subscribers during the same period in 2010, a decrease of 23.4%.

 

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Our gross activations and net subscriber additions were negatively impacted during the second quarter of 2011 compared to the same period in 2010 as a result of increased competitive pressures, including aggressive marketing and the effectiveness of certain competitors’ promotional offers, which included an increased level of discounts.  In addition, telecommunications companies continue to grow their customer base as they build out their fiber-based pay-TV networks.  Also, our gross activations and net subscriber additions continue to be adversely affected during the second quarter of 2011 by sustained economic weakness and uncertainty, including, among other things, the weak housing market in the United States combined with lower discretionary spending.

 

Our average monthly subscriber churn rate for the three months ended June 30, 2011 was 1.67%, compared to 1.78% for the same period in 2010.  While churn improved compared to the same period in 2010, churn continues to be adversely affected by the increased competitive pressures discussed above.  In general, our churn rate is impacted by the quality of subscribers acquired in past quarters, our ability to provide outstanding customer service, and our ability to control piracy.  There can be no assurance that churn will continue at this rate during the remainder of 2011.  When the size of our subscriber base increases, even if our subscriber churn rate remains constant, increasing numbers of gross new DISH Network subscribers are required to sustain net subscriber growth.

 

We have not always met our own standards for performing high-quality installations, effectively resolving subscriber issues when they arise, answering subscriber calls in an acceptable timeframe, effectively communicating with our subscriber base, reducing calls driven by the complexity of our business, improving the reliability of certain systems and subscriber equipment, and aligning the interests of certain third party retailers and installers to provide high-quality service.  Most of these factors have affected both gross new subscriber additions as well as existing subscriber churn.  Our future gross new subscriber additions and subscriber churn may be negatively impacted by these factors, which could in turn adversely affect our revenue growth.

 

Subscriber-related revenue. DISH Network “Subscriber-related revenue” totaled $3.307 billion for the three months ended June 30, 2011, an increase of $167 million or 5.3% compared to the same period in 2010. This change was primarily related to the increase in “ARPU” discussed below.

 

ARPU. “Average monthly revenue per subscriber” was $78.06 during the three months ended June 30, 2011 versus $73.05 during the same period in 2010. The $5.01 or 6.9% increase in ARPU was primarily attributable to price increases during the past year.  ARPU also continues to increase as a result of higher hardware related fees which include rental fees and fees earned from our in-home service operations.  This increase was partially offset by increases in the amount of promotional discounts on programming offered to our subscribers.

 

Subscriber-related expenses. “Subscriber-related expenses” totaled $1.727 billion during the three months ended June 30, 2011, an increase of $79 million or 4.8% compared to the same period in 2010. The increase in “Subscriber-related expenses” was primarily attributable to higher programming costs and an increase in customer retention expense.  The increase in programming costs was driven by rate increases in certain of our programming contracts, including the renewal of certain contracts at higher rates.  These increases were partially offset by reduced costs related to our call centers.  We continue to address our operational inefficiencies by streamlining our hardware offerings and making significant investments in staffing, training, information systems, and other initiatives, primarily in our call centers and in-home service operations.  “Subscriber-related expenses” represented 52.2% and 52.5% of “Subscriber-related revenue” during the three months ended June 30, 2011 and 2010, respectively. The improvement in this expense to revenue ratio primarily resulted from an increase in “Subscriber-related revenue,” partially offset by higher programming costs and customer retention expense, discussed above.

 

In the normal course of business, we enter into contracts to purchase programming content in which our payment obligations are fully contingent on the number of subscribers to whom we provide the respective content. Our programming expenses will continue to increase to the extent we are successful in growing our subscriber base. In addition, our “Subscriber-related expenses” may face further upward pressure from price increases and the renewal of long-term programming contracts on less favorable pricing terms.

 

Subscriber acquisition costs. “Subscriber acquisition costs” totaled $342 million for the three months ended June 30, 2011, a decrease of $63 million or 15.5% compared to the same period in 2010. This decrease was primarily attributable to a decline in gross new subscriber additions, partially offset by higher SAC discussed below.

 

SAC. SAC was $795 during the three months ended June 30, 2011 compared to $743 during the same period in 2010, an increase of $52 or 7.0%.  This increase was primarily attributable to an increase in hardware costs per activation. The increase in hardware costs per activation was driven by deployment of more advanced set-top-boxes, such as HD receivers and HD DVRs and by a build-up of partially subsidized inventory to third party retailers and installers.  The build-up of inventory was associated with lower-than-historical subscriber activation rates.

 

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During the three months ended June 30, 2011 and 2010, the amount of equipment capitalized under our lease program for new subscribers totaled $112 million and $149 million, respectively.  This decrease in capital expenditures under our lease program for new subscribers resulted primarily from a decrease in gross new subscribers, partially offset by the increase in hardware costs per activation, discussed above.

 

Capital expenditures resulting from our equipment lease program for new subscribers were partially mitigated by the redeployment of equipment returned by disconnecting lease program subscribers.  However, to remain competitive we upgrade or replace subscriber equipment periodically as technology changes, and the costs associated with these upgrades may be substantial.  To the extent technological changes render a portion of our existing equipment obsolete, we would be unable to redeploy all returned equipment and consequently would realize less benefit from the SAC reduction associated with redeployment of that returned lease equipment.

 

Our SAC calculation does not reflect any benefit from payments we received in connection with equipment not returned to us from disconnecting lease subscribers and returned equipment that is made available for sale or used in our existing customer lease program rather than being redeployed through our new customer lease program.  During the three months ended June 30, 2011 and 2010, these amounts totaled $21 million and $16 million, respectively.

 

We have been deploying receivers that utilize 8PSK modulation technology and receivers that utilize MPEG-4 compression technology for several years.  These technologies, when fully deployed, will allow more programming channels to be carried over our existing satellites.  A majority of our customers today, however, do not have receivers that use MPEG-4 compression and a smaller but still significant percentage do not have receivers that use 8PSK modulation.  We may choose to invest significant capital to accelerate the conversion of customers to MPEG-4 and/or 8PSK to realize the bandwidth benefits sooner.  In addition, given that all of our HD content is broadcast in MPEG-4, any growth in HD penetration will naturally accelerate our transition to these newer technologies and may increase our subscriber acquisition and retention costs.  All new receivers that we purchase from EchoStar now have MPEG-4 technology.  Although we continue to refurbish and redeploy MPEG-2 receivers, as a result of our HD initiatives and current promotions, we currently activate most new customers with higher priced MPEG-4 technology.  This limits our ability to redeploy MPEG-2 receivers and, to the extent that our promotions are successful, will accelerate the transition to MPEG-4 technology, resulting in an adverse effect on our SAC.

 

Our “Subscriber acquisition costs” and “SAC” may materially increase in the future to the extent that we transition to newer technologies, introduce more aggressive promotions, or provide greater equipment subsidies.

 

Litigation expense.  “Litigation expense” totaled $24 million during the three months ended June 30, 2011, a decrease of $7 million compared to the same period in 2010.  See Note 8 in the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion.

 

Depreciation and amortization. “Depreciation and amortization” expense totaled $234 million during the three months ended June 30, 2011, a $30 million or 11.4% decrease compared to the same period in 2010.  This change in “Depreciation and amortization” expense was primarily due to a decrease in depreciation on equipment leased to subscribers, partially offset by an increase in depreciation on satellites.  The increase in depreciation on satellites is a result of EchoStar XIV and EchoStar XV being placed into service during the second and third quarters of 2010, respectively.

 

Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized.  “Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized” totaled $141 million during the three months ended June 30, 2011, an increase of $20 million or 16.8% compared to the same period in 2010.  This change primarily resulted from an increase in interest expense related to the issuance of our 6 3/4% Senior Notes due 2021 during the second quarter of 2011.

 

Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization. EBITDA was $944 million during the three months ended June 30, 2011, an increase of $153 million or 19.3% compared to the same period in 2010.  The following table reconciles EBITDA to the accompanying financial statements.

 

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For the Three Months

 

 

 

Ended June 30,

 

 

 

2011

 

2010

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

EBITDA

 

$

943,778

 

$

790,901

 

Interest expense, net

 

(138,471

)

(117,071

)

Income tax (provision) benefit, net

 

(221,877

)

(153,932

)

Depreciation and amortization

 

(234,138

)

(264,368

)

Net income (loss)

 

$

349,292

 

$

255,530

 

 

EBITDA is not a measure determined in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, or GAAP, and should not be considered a substitute for operating income, net income or any other measure determined in accordance with GAAP.  EBITDA is used as a measurement of operating efficiency and overall financial performance and we believe it to be a helpful measure for those evaluating companies in the pay-TV industry.  Conceptually, EBITDA measures the amount of income generated each period that could be used to service debt, pay taxes and fund capital expenditures. EBITDA should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with GAAP.

 

Income tax (provision) benefit, net. Our income tax provision was $222 million during the three months ended June 30, 2011, an increase of $68 million compared to the same period in 2010.  The increase in the provision was primarily related to the increase in “Income (loss) before income taxes.”

 

Net income (loss). “Net income (loss)” was $349 million during the three months ended June 30, 2011, an increase of $94 million compared to $256 million for the same period in 2010.  The increase was primarily attributable to the changes in revenue and expenses discussed above.

 

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RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

Six Months Ended June 30, 2011 Compared to the Six Months Ended June 30, 2010.

 

 

 

For the Six Months

 

 

 

 

 

Ended June 30,

 

Variance

 

Statements of Operations Data

 

2011

 

2010

 

Amount

 

%

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Revenue:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Subscriber-related revenue

 

$

6,502,669

 

$

6,175,602

 

$

327,067

 

5.3

 

Equipment sales and other revenue

 

31,914

 

30,334

 

1,580

 

5.2

 

Equipment sales, services and other revenue - EchoStar

 

17,834

 

18,641

 

(807

)

(4.3

)

Total revenue

 

6,552,417

 

6,224,577

 

327,840

 

5.3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Costs and Expenses:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Subscriber-related expenses

 

3,419,399

 

3,287,429

 

131,970

 

4.0

 

% of Subscriber-related revenue

 

52.6

%

53.2

%

 

 

 

 

Satellite and transmission expenses - EchoStar

 

224,352

 

208,585

 

15,767

 

7.6

 

% of Subscriber-related revenue

 

3.5

%

3.4

%

 

 

 

 

Satellite and transmission expenses - Other

 

19,770

 

19,856

 

(86

)

(0.4

)

% of Subscriber-related revenue

 

0.3

%

0.3

%

 

 

 

 

Equipment, services and other cost of sales

 

40,264

 

38,906

 

1,358

 

3.5

 

Subscriber acquisition costs

 

697,070

 

817,275

 

(120,205

)

(14.7

)

General and administrative expenses

 

310,148

 

303,529

 

6,619

 

2.2

 

% of Total revenue

 

4.7

%

4.9

%

 

 

 

 

Litigation expense

 

(316,949

)

60,902

 

(377,851

)

NM

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

462,264

 

503,860

 

(41,596

)

(8.3

)

Total costs and expenses

 

4,856,318

 

5,240,342

 

(384,024

)

(7.3

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating income (loss)

 

1,696,099

 

984,235

 

711,864

 

72.3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other Income (Expense):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest income

 

6,374

 

7,374

 

(1,000

)

(13.6

)

Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized

 

(261,178

)

(241,856

)

(19,322

)

(8.0

)

Other, net

 

11,499

 

251

 

11,248

 

NM

 

Total other income (expense)

 

(243,305

)

(234,231

)

(9,074

)

(3.9

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income (loss) before income taxes

 

1,452,794

 

750,004

 

702,790

 

93.7

 

Income tax (provision) benefit, net

 

(554,628

)

(276,249

)

(278,379

)

NM

 

Effective tax rate

 

38.2

%

36.8

%

 

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

 

$

898,166

 

$

473,755

 

$

424,411

 

89.6

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other Data:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DISH Network subscribers, as of period end (in millions)

 

14.056

 

14.318

 

(0.262

)

(1.8

)

DISH Network subscriber additions, gross (in millions)

 

1.253

 

1.580

 

(0.327

)

(20.7

)

DISH Network subscriber additions, net (in millions)

 

(0.077

)

0.218

 

(0.295

)

NM

 

Average monthly subscriber churn rate

 

1.57

%

1.59

%

(0.02

)%

(1.3

)

Average monthly revenue per subscriber (“ARPU”)

 

$

76.72

 

$

72.11

 

$

4.61

 

6.4

 

Average subscriber acquisition cost per subscriber (“SAC”)

 

$

757

 

$

742

 

$

15

 

2.0

 

EBITDA

 

$

2,169,862

 

$

1,488,346

 

$

681,516

 

45.8

 

 

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DISH Network subscribers.  DISH Network lost approximately 77,000 net subscribers for the six months ended June 30, 2011, compared to a gain of approximately 218,000 net new subscribers for the same period in 2010.  The change versus the prior period was driven primarily by a decrease in gross new subscriber additions.  Our average monthly subscriber churn rate for the six months ended June 30, 2011 was 1.57%, compared to 1.59% for the same period in 2010.

 

Subscriber-related revenue.  DISH Network “Subscriber-related revenue” totaled $6.503 billion for the six months ended June 30, 2011, an increase of $327 million or 5.3% compared to the same period in 2010.  This change was primarily related to the increase in “ARPU” discussed below.

 

ARPU.  “Average monthly revenue per subscriber” was $76.72 during the six months ended June 30, 2011 versus $72.11 during the same period in 2010.  The $4.61 or 6.4% increase in ARPU was primarily attributable to price increases during the past year.  ARPU also continues to increase as a result of higher hardware related fees which include rental fees and fees earned from our in-home service operations.  This increase was partially offset by increases in the amount of promotional discounts on programming offered to our subscribers.

 

Subscriber-related expenses.  “Subscriber-related expenses” totaled $3.419 billion during the six months ended June 30, 2011, an increase of $132 million or 4.0% compared to the same period in 2010.  The increase in “Subscriber-related expenses” was primarily attributable to higher programming costs and an increase in customer retention expense.  The increase in programming costs was driven by rate increases in certain of our programming contracts, including the renewal of certain contracts at higher rates.  These increases were partially offset by reduced costs related to our call centers and in-home service operations.  “Subscriber-related expenses” represented 52.6% and 53.2% of “Subscriber-related revenue” during the six months ended June 30, 2011 and 2010, respectively.  The improvement in this expense to revenue ratio primarily resulted from an increase in “Subscriber-related revenue,” partially offset by higher programming costs, discussed above.

 

Subscriber acquisition costs. “Subscriber acquisition costs” totaled $697 million for the six months ended June 30, 2011, a decrease of $120 million or 14.7% compared to the same period in 2010. This decrease was primarily attributable to a decline in gross new subscriber additions, partially offset by higher SAC discussed below.

 

SAC.  SAC was $757 during the six months ended June 30, 2011 compared to $742 during the same period in 2010, an increase of $15 or 2.0%.  This increase was primarily attributable to an increase in hardware and advertising costs per activation. The increase in hardware costs per activation was driven by deployment of more advanced set-top-boxes, such as HD receivers and HD DVRs and by a build-up of partially subsidized inventory to third party retailers and installers.  The build-up of inventory was associated with lower-than-historical subscriber activation rates.

 

During the six months ended June 30, 2011 and 2010, the amount of equipment capitalized under our lease program for new subscribers totaled $251 million and $354 million, respectively.  This decrease in capital expenditures under our lease program for new subscribers resulted primarily from a decrease in gross new subscribers, partially offset by the increase in hardware costs per activation, discussed above.

 

Our SAC calculation does not reflect any benefit from payments we received in connection with equipment not returned to us from disconnecting lease subscribers and returned equipment that is made available for sale or used in our existing customer lease program rather than being redeployed through our new customer lease program.  During the six months ended June 30, 2011 and 2010, these amounts totaled $42 million and $39 million, respectively.

 

Litigation expense. “Litigation expense” totaled a negative $317 million during the six months ended June 30, 2011, a reduction in expense of $378 million compared to the same period in 2010. See Note 8 in the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion.

 

Depreciation and amortization. “Depreciation and amortization” expense totaled $462 million during the six months ended June 30, 2011, a $42 million or 8.3% decrease compared to the same period in 2010. This change in “Depreciation and amortization” expense was primarily due to a decrease in depreciation on equipment leased to subscribers, partially offset by an increase in depreciation on satellites.  The increase in depreciation on satellites is a result of EchoStar XIV and EchoStar XV being placed into service during the second and third quarters of 2010, respectively.

 

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Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized.  “Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized” totaled $261 million during the six months ended June 30, 2011, an increase of $19 million or 8.0% compared to the same period in 2010.  This change primarily resulted from an increase in interest expense related to the issuance of our 6 3/4% Senior Notes due 2021 during the second quarter of 2011.

 

Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization.  EBITDA was $2.170 billion during the six months ended June 30, 2011, an increase of $682 million or 45.8% compared to the same period in 2010.  The following table reconciles EBITDA to the accompanying financial statements.

 

 

 

For the Six Months

 

 

 

Ended June 30,

 

 

 

2011

 

2010

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

EBITDA

 

$

2,169,862

 

$

1,488,346

 

Interest expense, net

 

(254,804

)

(234,482

)

Income tax (provision) benefit, net

 

(554,628

)

(276,249

)

Depreciation and amortization

 

(462,264

)

(503,860

)

Net income (loss)

 

$

898,166

 

$

473,755

 

 

EBITDA is not a measure determined in accordance with GAAP and should not be considered a substitute for operating income, net income or any other measure determined in accordance with GAAP.  EBITDA is used as a measurement of operating efficiency and overall financial performance and we believe it to be a helpful measure for those evaluating companies in the pay-TV industry.  Conceptually, EBITDA measures the amount of income generated each period that could be used to service debt, pay taxes and fund capital expenditures.  EBITDA should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with GAAP.

 

Income tax (provision) benefit, net. Our income tax provision was $555 million during the six months ended June 30, 2011, an increase of $278 million compared to the same period in 2010.  The increase in the provision was primarily related to the increase in “Income (loss) before income taxes.”

 

Net income (loss). “Net income (loss)” was $898 million during the six months ended June 30, 2011, an increase of $424 million compared to $474 million for the same period in 2010.  The increase was primarily attributable to the changes in revenue and expenses discussed above.

 

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Table of Contents

 

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

Year Ended December 31, 2010 Compared to the Year Ended December 31, 2009.

 

 

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

Variance

 

Statements of Operations Data

 

2010

 

2009

 

Amount

 

%

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Revenue:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Subscriber-related revenue

 

$

12,538,950

 

$

11,537,703

 

$

1,001,247

 

8.7

 

Equipment sales and other revenue

 

59,607

 

97,856

 

(38,249

)

(39.1

)

Equipment sales, services and other revenue - EchoStar

 

37,180

 

27,559

 

9,621

 

34.9

 

Total revenue

 

12,635,737

 

11,663,118

 

972,619

 

8.3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Costs and Expenses:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Subscriber-related expenses

 

6,675,095

 

6,359,138

 

315,957

 

5.0

 

% of Subscriber-related revenue

 

53.2

%

55.1

%

 

 

 

 

Satellite and transmission expenses - EchoStar

 

418,286

 

319,752

 

98,534

 

30.8

 

% of Subscriber-related revenue

 

3.3

%

2.8

%

 

 

 

 

Satellite and transmission expenses - other

 

39,776

 

33,477

 

6,299

 

18.8

 

% of Subscriber-related revenue

 

0.3

%

0.3

%

 

 

 

 

Equipment, services and other cost of sales

 

76,295

 

121,238

 

(44,943

)

(37.1

)

Subscriber acquisition costs

 

1,652,992

 

1,539,515

 

113,477

 

7.4

 

General and administrative expenses

 

620,924

 

600,110

 

20,814

 

3.5

 

% of Total revenue

 

4.9

%

5.1

%

 

 

 

 

Litigation expense

 

225,456

 

361,024

 

(135,568

)

(37.6

)

Depreciation and amortization

 

983,360

 

939,714

 

43,646

 

4.6

 

Total costs and expenses

 

10,692,184

 

10,273,968

 

418,216

 

4.1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating income (loss)

 

1,943,553

 

1,389,150

 

554,403

 

39.9

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other Income (Expense):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest income

 

13,744

 

13,985

 

(241

)

(1.7

)

Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized

 

(470,890

)

(407,413

)

(63,477

)

(15.6

)

Other, net

 

581

 

(19,129

)

19,710

 

NM

 

Total other income (expense)

 

(456,565

)

(412,557

)

(44,008

)

(10.7

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income (loss) before income taxes

 

1,486,988

 

976,593

 

510,395

 

52.3

 

Income tax (provision) benefit, net

 

(538,312

)

(372,938

)

(165,374

)

(44.3

)

Effective tax rate

 

36.2

%

38.2

%

 

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

 

$

948,676

 

$

603,655

 

$

345,021

 

57.2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other Data:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DISH Network subscribers, as of period end (in millions)

 

14.133

 

14.100

 

0.033

 

0.2

 

DISH Network subscriber additions, gross (in millions)

 

3.052

 

3.118

 

(0.066

)

(2.1

)

DISH Network subscriber additions, net (in millions)

 

0.033

 

0.422

 

(0.389

)

(92.2

)

Average monthly subscriber churn rate

 

1.76

%

1.64

%

0.12

%

7.3

 

Average monthly revenue per subscriber (“ARPU”)

 

$

73.32

 

$

70.04

 

$

3.28

 

4.7

 

Average subscriber acquisition costs per subscriber (“SAC”)

 

$

776

 

$

697

 

$

79

 

11.3

 

EBITDA

 

$

2,927,494

 

$

2,309,735

 

$

617,759

 

26.7

 

 

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DISH Network subscribers.  As of December 31, 2010, we had approximately 14.133 million DISH Network subscribers compared to approximately 14.100 million subscribers at December 31, 2009, an increase of 0.2%. During the year ended December 31, 2010, DISH Network added approximately 3.052 million gross new subscribers compared to approximately 3.118 million gross new subscribers during the same period in 2009, a decrease of 2.1%.  Our gross activations in 2010 were negatively impacted relative to 2009 by increased competitive pressures, including the aggressive marketing and the effectiveness of certain competitors’ promotional offers, which included an increased level of discounts.  DISH Network added approximately 33,000 net new subscribers during the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to approximately 422,000 net new subscribers during the same period in 2009.  This decrease primarily resulted from increased churn.

 

Our average monthly subscriber churn rate for the year ended December 31, 2010 was 1.76%, compared to 1.64% for the same period in 2009.  Churn increased during the year as a result of the increasingly competitive nature of our industry, the current economic conditions, multiple programming interruptions related to contract disputes with several content providers during the fourth quarter of 2010, and our 2010 price increases.  In general, our churn rate is impacted by the quality of subscribers acquired in past quarters, our ability to provide strong customer service, and our ability to control piracy.  Historically, we have experienced slightly higher churn in the months following the expiration of commitments for new subscribers.  In February 2008, we extended our new subscriber commitment from 18 to 24 months.  Consequently, during the second half of 2009, churn was positively impacted by, among other things, this increase in our new subscriber commitment period.

 

When the size of our subscriber base increases, even if our subscriber churn rate remains constant, increasing numbers of gross new DISH Network subscribers are required to sustain net subscriber growth.

 

We have not always met our own standards for performing high-quality installations, effectively resolving subscriber issues when they arise, answering subscriber calls in an acceptable timeframe, effectively communicating with our subscriber base, reducing calls driven by the complexity of our business, improving the reliability of certain systems and subscriber equipment, and aligning the interests of certain third party retailers and installers to provide high-quality service.  Most of these factors have affected both gross new subscriber additions as well as existing subscriber churn.  Our future gross new subscriber additions and subscriber churn may be negatively impacted by these factors, which could in turn adversely affect our revenue growth.

 

Subscriber-related revenue. DISH Network “Subscriber-related revenue” totaled $12.539 billion for the year ended December 31, 2010, an increase of $1.001 billion or 8.7% compared to the same period in 2009.  This change was primarily related to the increase in “ARPU” discussed below as well as a larger average subscriber base during the year ended December 31, 2010 compared to the same period in 2009.

 

ARPU. “Average monthly revenue per subscriber” was $73.32 during the year ended December 31, 2010 versus $70.04 during the same period in 2009. The $3.28 or 4.7% increase in ARPU was primarily attributable to price increases in February and June 2010 and changes in the sales mix toward more advanced hardware offerings.  ARPU increased as a result of higher hardware related fees which include rental fees, fees earned from our in-home service operations, and fees for DVRs.  This increase was partially offset by increases in the amount of promotional discounts on programming offered to our new subscribers.

 

Equipment sales and other revenue. “Equipment sales and other revenue” totaled $60 million during the year ended December 31, 2010, a decrease of $38 million or 39.1% compared to the same period in 2009. The decrease in “Equipment sales and other revenue” primarily resulted from a decline in the sales of non-subsidized DBS receivers and accessories, and digital converter boxes in 2010 compared to the same period in 2009.

 

Subscriber-related expenses. “Subscriber-related expenses” totaled $6.675 billion during the year ended December 31, 2010, an increase of $316 million or 5.0% compared to the same period in 2009.  The increase in “Subscriber-related expenses” was primarily attributable to higher programming costs.  The increase in programming costs was driven by rate increases in certain of our programming contracts, including the renewal of certain contracts at higher rates and by a larger average subscriber base.  This increase was partially offset by reduced costs related to our call centers, customer retention, and in-home service operations.  We continue to address our operational inefficiencies by streamlining our hardware offerings and making significant investments in staffing, training, information systems and other initiatives, primarily in our call centers and in-home service operations.  “Subscriber-related expenses” represented 53.2% and 55.1% of “Subscriber-related revenue” during the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. The improvement in this expense to revenue ratio primarily resulted from an increase in “Subscriber-related revenue” and the reduced costs discussed above, partially offset by higher programming costs.

 

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Table of Contents

 

In the normal course of business, we enter into contracts to purchase programming content in which our payment obligations are fully contingent on the number of subscribers to whom we provide the respective content.  Our programming expenses will continue to increase to the extent we are successful in growing our subscriber base.  In addition, our “Subscriber-related expenses” may face further upward pressure from price increases and the renewal of long-term programming contracts on less favorable pricing terms.

 

Satellite and transmission expenses - EchoStar. “Satellite and transmission expenses - EchoStar” totaled $418 million during the year ended December 31, 2010, an increase of $99 million or 30.8% compared to the same period in 2009. The increase in “Satellite and transmission expenses - EchoStar” is related to an increase in transponder capacity leased from EchoStar primarily related to the Nimiq 5 satellite, which was placed into service in October 2009, an increase in monthly lease rates per transponder on certain satellites based on the terms of our amended lease agreements and the increase in uplink services.  The increase in uplink services was primarily attributable to the launch of additional local channels and increased costs related to additional satellites being placed into service.  See Note 15 in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 15 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further discussion.  “Satellite and transmission expenses - EchoStar” as a percentage of “Subscriber-related revenue” increased to 3.3% in 2010 from 2.8% in 2009 primarily as a result of the increase in expenses discussed above.

 

Equipment, services and other cost of sales. “Equipment, services and other cost of sales” totaled $76 million during the year ended December 31, 2010, a decrease of $45 million or 37.1% compared to the same period in 2009.  This decrease in “Equipment, services and other cost of sales” primarily resulted from a decline in the sales of non-subsidized DBS receivers and accessories and in sales of digital converter boxes, and lower charges for slow moving and obsolete inventory in 2010 compared to the same period in 2009.

 

Subscriber acquisition costs. “Subscriber acquisition costs” totaled $1.653 billion for the year ended December 31, 2010, an increase of $113 million or 7.4% compared to the same period in 2009. This increase was primarily attributable to higher SAC discussed below, partially offset by the decline in gross new subscriber additions.

 

SAC. SAC was $776 during the year ended December 31, 2010 compared to $697 during the same period in 2009, an increase of $79 or 11.3%. This increase was primarily attributable to increased advertising and hardware costs per activation.

 

During the years ended December 31, 2010  and 2009, the amount of equipment capitalized under our lease program for new subscribers totaled $716 million and $634 million, respectively.  This increase in capital expenditures under our lease program for new subscribers resulted primarily from an increase in hardware costs per activation, which was driven by an increase in the deployment of more advanced set-top boxes, such as HD receivers and HD DVRs, and a decrease in the redeployment of remanufactured receivers.  The increase in the deployment of more advanced set-top boxes was partially driven by our HD Free for Life promotion, which began during June 2010.

 

Capital expenditures resulting from our equipment lease program for new subscribers were partially mitigated by the redeployment of equipment returned by disconnecting lease program subscribers.  However, to remain competitive we upgrade or replace subscriber equipment periodically as technology changes, and the costs associated with these upgrades may be substantial.  To the extent technological changes render a portion of our existing equipment obsolete, we would be unable to redeploy all returned equipment and consequently would realize less benefit from the SAC reduction associated with redeployment of that returned lease equipment.

 

Our SAC calculation does not reflect any benefit from payments we received in connection with equipment not returned to us from disconnecting lease subscribers and returned equipment that is made available for sale or used in our existing customer lease program rather than being redeployed through our new lease program.  During the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, these amounts totaled $108 million and $94 million, respectively.

 

We have been deploying receivers that utilize 8PSK modulation technology and receivers that utilize MPEG-4 compression technology for several years.  These technologies, when fully deployed, will allow more programming channels to be carried over our existing satellites.  A majority of our customers today, however, do not have receivers that use MPEG-4 compression and a smaller but still significant percentage do not have receivers that use 8PSK modulation.  We may choose to invest significant capital to accelerate the conversion of customers to MPEG-4 and/or 8PSK to realize the bandwidth benefits sooner.  In addition, given that all of our HD content is broadcast in MPEG-4, any growth in HD penetration will naturally accelerate our transition to these newer technologies and may increase our subscriber acquisition and retention costs.  All new receivers that we have purchased from EchoStar since 2009 utilize MPEG-4 technology.  Although we continue to refurbish and redeploy MPEG-2 receivers, as a result of our HD initiatives and current promotions, we currently activate most new customers with higher priced MPEG-4 technology.  This limits our ability to

 

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Table of Contents

 

redeploy MPEG-2 receivers and, to the extent that our promotions are successful, will accelerate the transition to MPEG-4 technology, resulting in an adverse effect on our SAC.

 

Our “Subscriber acquisition costs” and “SAC” may materially increase in the future to the extent that we transition to newer technologies, introduce more aggressive promotions, or provide greater equipment subsidies.

 

Litigation expense. “Litigation expense” totaled $225 million during the year ended December 31, 2010, a  $136 million or 37.6% decrease compared to the same period in 2009. “Litigation expense” during 2009 included expense related to the Tivo litigation for the period from April 2008 to June 2009 for supplemental damages, contempt sanctions and interest expense.  See Note 11 in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 15 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further discussion.

 

Depreciation and amortization. “Depreciation and amortization” expense totaled $983 million during the year ended December 31, 2010, a $44 million or 4.6% increase compared to the same period in 2009. The change in “Depreciation and amortization” expense was primarily due to an increase in depreciation on satellites, as a result of EchoStar XIV and EchoStar XV being placed into service and on equipment leased to subscribers.

 

Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized. “Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized” totaled $471 million during the year ended December 31, 2010, an increase of $63 million or 15.6% compared to the same period in 2009. This change primarily resulted from an increase in interest expense related to the issuance of debt during the second half of 2009.

 

Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization. EBITDA was $2.927 billion during the year ended December 31, 2010, an increase of $618 million or 26.7% compared to the same period in 2009. The following table reconciles EBITDA to the accompanying financial statements.

 

 

 

For the Years Ended

 

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

EBITDA

 

$

2,927,494

 

$

2,309,735

 

Interest expense, net

 

(457,146

)

(393,428

)

Income tax provision (benefit), net

 

(538,312

)

(372,938

)

Depreciation and amortization

 

(983,360

)

(939,714

)

Net income (loss)

 

$

948,676

 

$

603,655

 

 

EBITDA is not a measure determined in accordance with GAAP and should not be considered a substitute for operating income, net income or any other measure determined in accordance with GAAP. EBITDA is used as a measurement of operating efficiency and overall financial performance and we believe it to be a helpful measure for those evaluating companies in the pay-TV industry. Conceptually, EBITDA measures the amount of income generated each period that could be used to service debt, pay taxes and fund capital expenditures. EBITDA should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with GAAP.

 

Income tax (provision) benefit, net. Our income tax provision was $538 million during the year ended December 31, 2010, an increase of $165 million compared to the same period in 2009. The increase in the provision was primarily related to the increase in “Income (loss) before income taxes.”

 

Net income (loss). “Net income (loss)” was $949 million during the year ended December 31, 2010, an increase of $345 million compared to $604 million for the same period in 2009. The increase was primarily attributable to the changes in revenue and expenses discussed above.

 

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RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

Year Ended December 31, 2009 Compared to the Year Ended December 31, 2008.

 

 

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

Variance

 

Statements of Operations Data

 

2009

 

2008

 

Amount

 

%

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Revenue:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Subscriber-related revenue

 

$

11,537,703

 

$

11,455,575

 

$

82,128

 

0.7

 

Equipment sales and other revenue

 

97,856

 

124,255

 

(26,399

)

(21.2

)

Equipment sales, services and other revenue - EchoStar

 

27,559

 

37,351

 

(9,792

)

(26.2

)

Total revenue

 

11,663,118

 

11,617,181

 

45,937

 

0.4

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Costs and Expenses:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Subscriber-related expenses

 

6,359,138

 

5,977,355

 

381,783

 

6.4

 

% of Subscriber-related revenue

 

55.1

%

52.2

%

 

 

 

 

Satellite and transmission expenses - EchoStar

 

319,752

 

305,322

 

14,430

 

4.7

 

% of Subscriber-related revenue

 

2.8

%

2.7

%

 

 

 

 

Satellite and transmission expenses - other

 

33,477

 

32,407

 

1,070

 

3.3

 

% of Subscriber-related revenue

 

0.3

%

0.3

%

 

 

 

 

Equipment, services and other cost of sales

 

121,238

 

169,917

 

(48,679

)

(28.6

)

Subscriber acquisition costs

 

1,539,515

 

1,531,741

 

7,774

 

0.5

 

General and administrative expenses

 

600,110

 

540,090

 

60,020

 

11.1

 

% of Total revenue

 

5.1

%

4.6

%

 

 

 

 

Litigation expense

 

361,024

 

 

361,024

 

NM

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

939,714

 

1,000,230

 

(60,516

)

(6.1

)

Total costs and expenses

 

10,273,968

 

9,557,062

 

716,906

 

7.5

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating income (loss)

 

1,389,150

 

2,060,119

 

(670,969

)

(32.6

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other Income (Expense):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest income

 

13,985

 

52,755

 

(38,770

)

(73.5

)

Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized

 

(407,413

)

(368,838

)

(38,575

)

(10.5

)

Other, net

 

(19,129

)

45,391

 

(64,520

)

NM

 

Total other income (expense)

 

(412,557

)

(270,692

)

(141,865

)

(52.4

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income (loss) before income taxes

 

976,593

 

1,789,427

 

(812,834

)

(45.4

)

Income tax (provision) benefit, net

 

(372,938

)

(696,946

)

324,008

 

46.5

 

Effective tax rate

 

38.2

%

38.9

%

 

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

 

$

603,655

 

$

1,092,481

 

$

(488,826

)

(44.7

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other Data:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DISH Network subscribers, as of period end (in millions)

 

14.100

 

13.678

 

0.422

 

3.1

 

DISH Network subscriber additions, gross (in millions)

 

3.118

 

2.966

 

0.152

 

5.1

 

DISH Network subscriber additions, net (in millions)

 

0.422

 

(0.102

)

0.524

 

NM

 

Average monthly subscriber churn rate

 

1.64

%

1.86

%

(0.22

)%

(11.8

)

Average monthly revenue per subscriber (“ARPU”)

 

$

70.04

 

$

69.27

 

$

0.77

 

1.1

 

Average subscriber acquisition costs per subscriber (“SAC”)

 

$

697

 

$

720

 

$

(23

)

(3.2

)

EBITDA

 

$

2,309,735

 

$

3,105,740

 

$

(796,005

)

(25.6

)

 

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DISH Network subscribers.   As of December 31, 2009, we had approximately 14.100 million DISH Network subscribers compared to approximately 13.678  million subscribers at December 31, 2008, an increase of 3.1%.  DISH Network added approximately 3.118 million gross new subscribers for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to approximately 2.966 million during the same period in 2008, an increase of 5.1%.

 

DISH Network added approximately 422,000 net new subscribers during the year ended December 31, 2009, compared to a loss of approximately 102,000  net new subscribers during the same period in 2008 as a result of higher gross subscriber additions and reduced churn.  Our increased gross subscriber additions were primarily a result of our sales and marketing promotions during the last half of 2009.  Our average monthly subscriber churn rate for the year ended December 31, 2009 was 1.64%, compared to 1.86% for the same period in 2008.  Churn was positively impacted by, among other things, the completion of our security access device replacement program, an increase in our new subscriber commitment period and initiatives to retain subscribers.  Historically, we have experienced slightly higher churn in the months following the expiration of commitments for new subscribers.  In February 2008, we extended the required new subscriber commitment from 18 to 24 months.  During the last half of 2009, due to the change in promotional mix, we had fewer expiring new subscriber commitments.

 

Subscriber-related revenue. DISH Network “Subscriber-related revenue” totaled $11.538 billion for the year ended December 31, 2009, an increase of $82 million or 0.7% compared to the same period in 2008. This change was primarily related to the increase in “ARPU” discussed below, partially offset by the decline in our subscriber base from second quarter 2008 through first quarter 2009.

 

ARPU. “Average monthly revenue per subscriber” was $70.04 during the year ended December 31, 2009 versus $69.27 during the same period in 2008. The $0.77 or 1.1% increase in ARPU was primarily attributable to price increases in February 2009 and 2008 on some of our most popular programming packages and changes in the sales mix toward HD programming packages and advanced hardware offerings.  As a result of our promotions, which provided an incentive for advanced hardware offerings, we continued to see increased hardware related fees, which included fees earned from our in-home service operations, rental fees and fees for DVRs.  These increases were partially offset by increases in the amount of promotional discounts on programming offered to our new subscribers and retention initiatives offered to existing subscribers, and by decreases in premium movie revenue and pay-per-view buys.

 

Equipment sales and other revenue. “Equipment sales and other revenue” totaled $98 million during the year ended December 31, 2009, a decrease of $26 million or 21.2% compared to the same period during 2008. The decrease in “Equipment sales and other revenue” primarily resulted from a decrease in sales of non-subsidized DBS accessories.

 

Subscriber-related expenses. “Subscriber-related expenses” totaled $6.359 billion during the year ended December 31, 2009, an increase of $382 million or 6.4% compared to the same period 2008. The increase in “Subscriber-related expenses” was primarily attributable to higher costs for programming content and call center operations. The increase in programming content costs was primarily related to price increases in certain of our programming contracts and the renewal of certain contracts at higher rates. The increases related to call center operations were driven in part by our investments in staffing, training, information systems, and other initiatives.  “Subscriber-related expenses” represented 55.1% and 52.2% of “Subscriber-related revenue” during the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

 

Satellite and transmission expenses - EchoStar. “Satellite and transmission expenses - EchoStar” totaled $320 million during the year ended December 31, 2009, an increase of $14 million or 4.7% compared to 2008. The increase in “Satellite and transmission expenses - EchoStar” is primarily related to higher uplink center costs, partially offset by fewer transponders leased during the year ended December 31, 2009 compared to the same period in 2008. The higher uplink center costs were primarily associated with an increase in the charges from EchoStar related to infrastructure costs for new ground equipment to support our new satellites and the routine replacement of existing uplink equipment. The decline in transponder lease expense primarily relates to a reduction in the number of transponders leased as a result of the launch of an owned satellite. This decrease was partially offset by the increase in expense related to the Nimiq 5 satellite, which was placed in service in October 2009. “Satellite and transmission expenses - EchoStar” as a percentage of “Subscriber-related revenue” increased to 2.8% in 2009 from 2.7% in 2008.

 

Equipment, services and other cost of sales. “Equipment services and other cost of sales” totaled $121 million during the year ended December 31, 2009, a decrease of $49 million or 28.6% compared to the same period in 2008. This decrease in “Equipment, services and other cost of sales” primarily resulted from lower non-subsidized sales of DBS accessories, a decline in charges for slow moving and obsolete inventory and a decrease in services provided to EchoStar under our transition services agreement with EchoStar.

 

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Subscriber acquisition costs. “Subscriber acquisition costs” totaled $1.540 billion for the year ended December 31, 2009, an increase of $8 million or 0.5% compared to the same period in 2008. This increase was primarily attributable to the increase in gross new subscribers discussed previously, partially offset by lower SAC discussed below.

 

SAC. SAC was $697 during the year ended December 31, 2009 compared to $720 during the same period in 2008, a decrease of $23, or 3.2%. This decrease was primarily attributable to a change in sales channel mix and a decrease in hardware costs per activation, partially offset by an increase in advertising costs. The decrease in hardware cost per activation was driven by a reduction in manufacturing costs for new receivers and due to more cost-effective deployment of set-top boxes, requiring less equipment per subscriber. These decreases in hardware costs were partially offset by an increase in deployment of more advanced set-top boxes, such as HD receivers and HD DVRs.

 

During the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, the amount of equipment capitalized under our lease program for new subscribers totaled $634 million and $604 million, respectively. This increase in capital expenditures under our lease program for new subscribers resulted primarily from the increase in gross new subscribers.

 

Our SAC calculation does not reflect any benefit from payments we received in connection with equipment not returned to us from disconnecting lease subscribers and returned equipment that is made available for sale or used in our existing customer lease program rather than being redeployed through our new lease program. During the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, these amounts totaled $94 million and $128 million, respectively.

 

General and administrative expenses. “General and administrative expenses” totaled $600 million during the year ended December 31, 2009, an increase of $60 million or 11.1% compared to the same period in 2008. This increase was primarily attributable to additional costs to support the DISH Network television service including personnel costs and professional fees. “General and administrative expenses” represented 5.1% and 4.6% of “Total revenue” during the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively. The increase in the ratio of the expenses to “Total revenue” was primarily attributable to the increase in expenses discussed above.

 

Litigation expense. We recorded $361 million of “Litigation expense” during the year ended December 31, 2009 for supplemental damages, contempt sanctions and interest. See Note 11 in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 15 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further discussion.

 

Depreciation and amortization. “Depreciation and amortization” expense totaled $940 million during the year ended December 31, 2009, a $61 million or 6.1% decrease compared to the same period in 2008. The decrease in “Depreciation and amortization” expense was primarily due to the declines in depreciation expense related to set-top boxes used in our lease programs and the abandonment of a software development project during 2008 that was designed to support our IT systems. The decrease related to set-top-boxes was primarily attributable to capitalization of a higher mix of new advanced equipment in 2009 compared to the same period in 2008, which has a longer estimated useful life. In addition, the satellite depreciation expense declined due to the retirements of certain satellites from commercial service, almost entirely offset by depreciation expense associated with satellites placed in service in 2008.

 

Interest income. “Interest income” totaled $14 million during the year ended December 31, 2009, a decrease of $39 million or 73.5% compared to the same period in 2008. This decrease principally resulted from lower percentage returns earned on our cash and marketable investment securities, partially offset by higher average cash and marketable investment securities balances during the year ended December 31, 2009.

 

Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized.  “Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized” totaled $407 million during the year ended December 31, 2009, an increase of $39 million or 10.5% compared to the same period in 2008. This change primarily resulted from an increase in interest expense related to the issuance of debt during 2009 and 2008 and the Ciel II capital lease, partially offset by a decrease in interest expense associated with 2008 debt redemptions.

 

Other, net. “Other, net” expense totaled $19 million during the year ended December 31, 2009, a change of $65 million compared to the same period in 2008. The year ended December 31, 2008 was positively impacted by the $53 million gain on the sale of a non-marketable investment. In addition, this change resulted from an increase of $8 million in impairments on our marketable and other investment securities during 2009 compared to the same period in 2008.

 

Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization. EBITDA was $2.310 billion during the year ended December 31, 2009, a decrease of $796 million or 25.6% compared to the same period in 2008. EBITDA for the year ended

 

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December 31, 2009 was negatively impacted by the $361 million “Litigation expense.” The following table reconciles EBITDA to the accompanying financial statements.

 

 

 

For the Years Ended

 

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2009

 

2008

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

EBITDA

 

$

2,309,735

 

$

3,105,740

 

Interest expense, net

 

(393,428

)

(316,083

)

Income tax provision (benefit), net

 

(372,938

)

(696,946

)

Depreciation and amortization

 

(939,714

)

(1,000,230

)

Net income (loss)

 

$

603,655

 

$

1,092,481

 

 

EBITDA is not a measure determined in accordance with GAAP and should not be considered a substitute for operating income, net income or any other measure determined in accordance with GAAP. EBITDA is used as a measurement of operating efficiency and overall financial performance and we believe it to be a helpful measure for those evaluating companies in the pay-TV industry. Conceptually, EBITDA measures the amount of income generated each period that could be used to service debt, pay taxes and fund capital expenditures. EBITDA should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with GAAP.

 

Income tax (provision) benefit, net. Our income tax provision was $373 million during the year ended December 31, 2009, a decrease of $324 million compared to the same period in 2008. The decrease in the provision was primarily related to the decrease in “Income (loss) before income taxes.”

 

Net income (loss). “Net income (loss)” was $604 million during the year ended December 31, 2009, a decrease of $489 million compared to $1.092 billion for the same period in 2008. The decrease was primarily attributable to the changes in revenue and expenses discussed above.

 

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QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

 

Market Risks Associated With Financial Instruments

 

Our investments and debt are exposed to market risks, discussed below.

 

Cash, Cash Equivalents and Current Marketable Investment Securities

 

As of June 30, 2011, our cash, cash equivalents and current marketable investment securities had a fair value of $3.331 billion, all of which was invested in (a) cash; (b) variable rate demand notes (“VRDNs”) convertible into cash at par value plus accrued interest generally in five business days or less; (c) debt instruments of the United States Government and its agencies; (d) commercial paper and corporate notes with an overall average maturity of less than one year and rated in one of the four highest rating categories by at least two nationally recognized statistical rating organizations; and/or (e) instruments with similar risk, duration and credit quality characteristics to the commercial paper and corporate obligations described above. The primary purpose of these investing activities has been to preserve principal until the cash is required to, among other things, fund operations, make strategic investments and expand the business. Consequently, the size of this portfolio fluctuates significantly as cash is received and used in our business. The value of this portfolio is negatively impacted by credit losses; however, this risk is mitigated through diversification that limits our exposure to any one issuer.

 

Interest Rate Risk

 

A change in interest rates would affect the fair value of our cash, cash equivalents and current marketable investment securities portfolio. Based on our June 30, 2011 current non-strategic investment portfolio of $3.331 billion, a hypothetical 10% increase in average interest rates would result in a decrease of approximately $17 million in fair value of this portfolio. We normally hold these investments to maturity; however, the hypothetical loss in fair value would be realized if we sold the investments prior to maturity.

 

Our cash, cash equivalents and current marketable investment securities had an average annual rate of return for the six months ended June 30, 2011 of 0.5%. A change in interest rates would affect our future annual interest income from this portfolio, since funds would be re-invested at different rates as the instruments mature. A hypothetical 10% decrease in average interest rates during 2011 would result in a decrease of approximately $1 million in annual interest income.

 

Restricted Cash and Marketable Investment Securities

 

As of June 30, 2011, we had $113 million of restricted cash and marketable investment securities invested in:  (a) cash;  (b) VRDNs convertible into cash at par value plus accrued interest generally in five business days or less; (c) debt instruments of the United States Government and its agencies; (d) commercial paper and corporate notes with an overall average maturity of less than one year and rated in one of the four highest rating categories by at least two nationally recognized statistical rating organizations; and/or (e) instruments with similar risk, duration and credit quality characteristics to the commercial paper described above.  Based on our June 30, 2011 investment portfolio, a hypothetical 10% increase in average interest rates would not have a material impact in the fair value of our restricted cash and marketable investment securities.

 

Fixed Rate Debt, Mortgages and Other Notes Payable

 

As of June 30, 2011, we had long-term debt of $8.225 billion on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.  We estimated the fair value of this debt to be approximately $8.627 billion using quoted market prices for our publicly traded debt, which constitutes approximately 99% of our debt.  The fair value of our debt is affected by fluctuations in interest rates.  A hypothetical 10% decrease in assumed interest rates would increase the fair value of our debt by approximately $233 million.  To the extent interest rates increase, our costs of financing would increase at such time as we are required to refinance our debt.  As of June 30, 2011, a hypothetical 10% increase in assumed interest rates would increase our annual interest expense by approximately $58 million.

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

From time to time, we speculate using derivative financial instruments, such amounts, however, are typically insignificant.

 

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THE EXCHANGE OFFER

 

Purpose of the exchange offer

 

The sole purpose of the exchange offer is to fulfill our obligations with respect to the registration of the old notes.  We originally issued and sold the old notes on May 5, 2011.  We did not register those sales under the Securities Act, in reliance upon the exemption provided in section 4(2) of the Securities Act and Rule 144A and Regulation S promulgated under the Securities Act.  In connection with the sale of the old notes, we agreed to file with the SEC an exchange offer registration statement relating to the exchange offer.  Under the exchange offer registration statement, we will offer the Notes, in exchange for the old notes.

 

How to determine if you are eligible to participate in the exchange offer

 

We hereby offer to exchange, upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in this prospectus and in the letter of transmittal accompanying it, $1,000 in principal amount of Notes for each $1,000 in principal amount of the old notes that you hold.  You may only tender old notes in minimum denominations of $2,000 principal amount and any integral multiples of $1,000 in excess thereof. The terms of the Notes are substantially identical to the terms of the old notes that you may exchange pursuant to this exchange offer, except that, generally, you may freely transfer the Notes, and you will not be entitled to certain registration rights and certain other provisions which are applicable to the old notes under the registration rights agreement.  The Notes will be entitled to the benefits of the indenture.  See “Description of the Notes.”

 

We are not making the exchange offer to, nor will we accept surrenders for exchange from, holders of outstanding old notes in any jurisdiction in which this exchange offer or the acceptance thereof would not be in compliance with the securities or blue sky laws of such jurisdiction.

 

We are not making the exchange offer conditional upon the holders tendering, or us accepting, any minimum aggregate principal amount of old notes.

 

Under existing SEC interpretations, the Notes would generally be freely transferable after the exchange offer without further registration under the Securities Act, except that broker-dealers receiving the Notes in the exchange offer will be subject to a prospectus delivery requirement with respect to their resale.  This view is based on interpretations by the staff of the SEC in no-action letters issued to other issuers in exchange offers like this one.  We have not, however, asked the SEC to consider this particular exchange offer in the context of a no-action letter.  Therefore, the SEC might not treat it in the same way it has treated other exchange offers in the past.  You will be relying on the no-action letters that the SEC has issued to third parties in circumstances that we believe are similar to ours.  Based on these no-action letters, the following conditions must be met:

 

·                  you must not be a broker-dealer that acquired the old notes from us or in market-making transactions;

 

·                  you must acquire the Notes in the ordinary course of your business;

 

·                  you must have no arrangements or understandings with any person to participate in the distribution of the Notes within the meaning of the Securities Act; and

 

·                  you must not be an affiliate of ours, as defined in Rule 405 under the Securities Act.

 

If you wish to exchange old notes for Notes in the exchange offer you must represent to us that you satisfy all of the above listed conditions.  If you do not satisfy all of the above listed conditions:

 

·                  you cannot rely on the position of the SEC set forth in the no-action letters referred to above; and

 

·                  you must comply with the registration and prospectus delivery requirements of the Securities Act in connection with a resale of the new notes.

 

The SEC considers broker-dealers that acquired old notes directly from us, but not as a result of market-making activities or other trading activities, to be making a distribution of the Notes if they participate in the exchange offer.  Consequently, these broker-dealers must comply with the registration and prospectus delivery requirements of the Securities Act in connection with a resale of the Notes.

 

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A broker-dealer that has bought old notes for market-making or other trading activities must deliver a prospectus in order to resell any Notes it receives for its own account in the exchange offer.  The SEC has taken the position that broker-dealers may fulfill their prospectus delivery requirements with respect to the Notes by delivering the prospectus contained in the registration statement for the exchange offer.  Each broker-dealer that receives Notes for its own account pursuant to this exchange offer must acknowledge that it will deliver a prospectus in connection with any resale of such Notes.  The letter of transmittal states that by so acknowledging and by delivering a prospectus, a broker-dealer will not be deemed to admit that it is an “underwriter” within the meaning of the Securities Act.  This prospectus, as it may be amended or supplemented from time to time, may be used by a broker-dealer in connection with resales of Notes received in exchange for old notes where such old notes were acquired by such broker-dealer as a result of market-making activities or other trading activities.  We have agreed that, for a period of one year after we consummate the exchange offer, we will make this prospectus available to any broker-dealer for use in connection with any such resale.

 

By tendering old notes for exchange, you will exchange, assign and transfer the old notes to us and irrevocably appoint the exchange agent as your agent and attorney-in-fact to assign, transfer and exchange the old notes.  You will also represent and warrant that you have full power and authority to tender, exchange, assign and transfer the old notes and to acquire Notes issuable upon the exchange of such tendered old notes.  The letter of transmittal requires you to agree that, when we accept your old notes for exchange, we will acquire good, marketable and unencumbered title to them, free and clear of all security interests, liens, restrictions, charges and encumbrances and that they are not subject to any adverse claim.

 

You will also warrant that you will, upon our request, execute and deliver any additional documents that we believe are necessary or desirable to complete the exchange, assignment and transfer of your tendered old notes.  You must further agree that our acceptance of any tendered old notes and the issuance of Notes in exchange for them will constitute performance in full by us of our obligations under the registration rights agreement and that we will have no further obligations or liabilities under that agreement, except in certain limited circumstances.  All authority conferred by you will survive your death, incapacity, liquidation, dissolution, winding up or any other event relating to you, and every obligation of you shall be binding upon your heirs, personal representatives, successors, assigns, executors and administrators.

 

If you are tendering old notes, we will not require you to pay brokerage commissions or fees or, subject to the instructions in the letter of transmittal, transfer taxes with respect to the exchange of the old notes pursuant to the exchange offer.  Each of the Notes will bear interest from the most recent date through which interest has been paid on the old notes for which they were exchanged.  If we accept your old notes for exchange, you will waive the right to have interest accrue, or to receive any payment in respect to interest, on the old notes from the most recent interest payment date to the date of the issuance of the Notes.  Interest on the Notes is payable semiannually in arrears on June 1 and December 1.

 

Information about the expiration date of the exchange offer and changes to it

 

The exchange offer expires on the expiration date, which is 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on                              , 2011, unless we, in our sole discretion, extend the period during which the exchange offer is open.  If we extend the expiration date for the exchange offer, the term “expiration date” means the latest time and date on which the exchange offer, as so extended, expires.  We reserve the right to extend the exchange offer at any time and from time to time prior to the expiration date by giving written notice to Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, which is the exchange agent, and by timely public announcement communicated by no later than 5:00 p.m. New York City time on the next business day following the expiration date, unless applicable law or regulation requires otherwise, by making a release to the Dow Jones News Service.  During any extension of the exchange offer, all old notes previously tendered pursuant to the exchange offer will remain subject to the exchange offer.

 

The initial exchange date will be the first business day following the expiration date.  We expressly reserve the right to terminate the exchange offer and not accept for exchange any old notes for any reason, including if any of the events set forth below under “We may modify or terminate the exchange offer under some circumstances” have occurred and we have not waived them.  We also reserve the right to amend the terms of the exchange offer in any manner, whether before or after any tender of the old notes.  If we terminate or amend the exchange offer, we will notify the exchange agent in writing and will either issue a press release or give written notice to you as a holder of the old notes as promptly as practicable.  Unless we terminate the exchange offer prior to 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on the expiration date, we will exchange the Notes for old notes on the exchange date.

 

We will mail this prospectus and the related letter of transmittal and other relevant materials to you as a record holder of old notes and we will furnish these items to brokers, banks and similar persons whose names, or the names of whose nominees, appear on the lists of holders for subsequent transmittal to beneficial owners of old notes.

 

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How to tender your old notes

 

If you tender to us any of your old notes pursuant to one of the procedures set forth below, that tender will constitute an agreement between you and us in accordance with the terms and subject to the conditions that we describe below and in the letter of transmittal for the exchange offer.

 

You may tender old notes by properly completing and signing the letter of transmittal or a facsimile of it.  All references in this prospectus to the “letter of transmittal” include a facsimile of the letter.  You must deliver it, together with the certificate or certificates representing the old notes that you are tendering and any required signature guarantees, or a timely confirmation of a book-entry transfer pursuant to the procedure that we describe below, to the exchange agent at its address set forth on the back cover of this prospectus on or prior to the expiration date.  You may also tender old notes by complying with the guaranteed delivery procedures that we describe below.

 

Your signature does not need to be guaranteed if you registered your old notes in your name, you will register the Notes in your name and you sign the letter of transmittal.  In any other case, the registered holder of your notes must endorse them or send them with duly executed written instruments of transfer in the form satisfactory to us.  Also, an “eligible institution,” such as a bank, broker, dealer, credit union, savings association, clearing agency or other institution that is a member of a recognized signature guarantee medallion program within the meaning of Rule 17Ad-15 under the Exchange Act must guarantee the signature on the endorsement or instrument of transfer.  If you want us to deliver the Notes or non-exchanged old notes to an address other than that of the registered holder appearing on the note register for the old notes, an “eligible institution” must guarantee the signature on the letter of transmittal.

 

If your old notes are registered in the name of a broker, dealer, commercial bank, trust company or other nominee and you wish to tender old notes, you should contact the registered holder promptly and instruct the holder to tender old notes on your behalf.  If you wish to tender your old notes yourself, you must, prior to completing and executing the letter of transmittal and delivering your old notes, either make appropriate arrangements to register ownership of the old notes in your name or follow the procedures described in the immediately preceding paragraph.  Transferring record ownership from someone else’s name to your name may take considerable time.

 

How to tender if you hold your old notes through a broker or other institution and you do not have the actual old notes

 

Any financial institution that is a participant in The Depository Trust Company’s (“DTC”) systems may make book-entry delivery of your old notes by causing DTC to transfer your old notes into the exchange agent’s account at DTC in accordance with DTC’s procedures for transfer.  Although you may deliver your old notes through book-entry transfer at DTC, you still must send the letter of transmittal, with any required signature guarantees and any other required documents, to the exchange agent at the address specified on the back cover of this prospectus on or prior to the expiration date and the exchange agent must receive these documents on time.  If you will not be able to send all the documents on time, you can still tender your old notes by using the guaranteed delivery procedures described below.

 

You assume the risk of choosing the method of delivery of old notes and all other documents.  If you send your old notes and your documents by mail, we recommend that you use registered mail, return receipt requested, you obtain proper insurance, and you mail these items sufficiently in advance of the expiration date to permit delivery to the exchange agent on or before the expiration date.

 

If you do not provide your taxpayer identification number, which is your social security number or employer identification number, as applicable, and certify that such number is correct, the exchange agent will withhold 28% of the gross proceeds otherwise payable to you pursuant to the exchange offer, unless an exemption applies under the applicable law and regulations concerning “backup withholding” of federal income tax.  You should complete and sign the main signature form and the Substitute Form W-9 included as part of the letter of transmittal, so as to provide the information and certification necessary to avoid backup withholding, unless an applicable exemption exists and you prove it in a manner satisfactory to us and the exchange agent.

 

How to use the guaranteed delivery procedures if you will not have enough time to send all documents to us

 

If you desire to accept the exchange offer, and time will not permit a letter of transmittal or old notes to reach the exchange agent before the expiration date, you may tender your old notes if the exchange agent has received at its office listed on the letter of transmittal on or prior to the expiration date a letter, telegram or facsimile transmission from an eligible institution

 

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setting forth your name and address, the principal amount of the old notes that you are tendering, the names in which you registered the old notes and, if possible, the certificate numbers of the old notes that you are tendering.

 

The eligible institution’s correspondence to the exchange agent must state that the correspondence constitutes the tender and guarantee that within three New York Stock Exchange trading days after the date that the eligible institution executes such correspondence, the eligible institution will deliver the old notes, in proper form for transfer, together with a properly completed and duly executed letter of transmittal and any other required documents.  We may, at our option, reject the tender if you do not tender your old notes and accompanying documents by either the above-described method or by a timely book-entry confirmation, and if you do not deposit your old notes and tender documents with the exchange agent within the time period set forth above.  Copies of a notice of guaranteed delivery that eligible institutions may use for the purposes described in this paragraph are available from the exchange agent.

 

Valid receipt of your tender will occur as of the date when the exchange agent receives your properly completed letter of transmittal, accompanied by either the old notes or a timely book-entry confirmation.  We will issue Notes in exchange for old notes that you tendered pursuant to a notice of guaranteed delivery or correspondence to similar effect as described above by an eligible institution only against deposit of the letter of transmittal, any other required documents and either the tendered old notes or a timely book-entry confirmation.

 

We reserve the right to determine validity of all tenders

 

We will be the sole judge of all questions as to the validity, form, eligibility, including time of receipt, and acceptance for exchange of your tender of old notes and our judgment will be final and binding.  We reserve the absolute right to reject any or all of your tenders that are not in proper form or the acceptances for exchange of which may, in our opinion or in the opinion of our counsel, be unlawful.  We also reserve the absolute right to waive any of the conditions of the exchange offer or any defect or irregularities in your case.  Neither we, the exchange agent nor any other person will be under any duty to give you notification of any defects or irregularities in tenders nor shall any of us incur any liability for failure to give you any such notification.  Our interpretation of the terms and conditions of the exchange offer, including the letter of transmittal and its instructions, will be final and binding.

 

If you tender old notes pursuant to the exchange offer, you may withdraw them at any time prior to the expiration date

 

For your withdrawal to be effective, the exchange agent must timely receive your written or fax notice of withdrawal prior to the expiration date at the exchange agent’s address set forth on the back cover page of this prospectus.  Your notice of withdrawal must specify the following information:

 

·                  The person named in the letter of transmittal as tendering old notes you are withdrawing;

 

·                  The certificate numbers of old notes you are withdrawing;

 

·                  The principal amount of old notes you are withdrawing;

 

·                  A statement that you are withdrawing your election to have us exchange such old notes; and

 

·                  The name of the registered holder of such old notes, which may be a person or entity other than you, such as your broker-dealer.

 

The person or persons who signed your letter of transmittal, including any eligible institutions that guaranteed signatures on your letter of transmittal, must sign the notice of withdrawal in the same manner as their original signatures on the letter of transmittal including any required signature guarantees.  If such persons and eligible institutions cannot sign your notice of withdrawal, you must send it with evidence satisfactory to us that you now hold beneficial ownership of the old notes that you are withdrawing.  The exchange agent will return the properly withdrawn old notes promptly following receipt of notice of withdrawal.  We will determine all questions as to the validity of notices of withdrawals, including time of receipt, and our determination will be final and binding on all parties.

 

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How we will either exchange your old notes for Notes or return them to you

 

On the exchange date, we will determine which old notes the holders validly tendered, and we will issue Notes in exchange for the validly tendered old notes.  The exchange agent will act as your agent for the purpose of receiving Notes from us and sending the old notes to you in exchange for Notes promptly after acceptance of the tendered old notes.  If we do not accept your old notes for exchange, we will return them without expense to you.  If you tender your old notes by book-entry transfer into the exchange agent’s account at DTC pursuant to the procedures described above and we do not accept your old notes for exchange, DTC will credit your non-exchanged old notes to an account maintained with DTC.  In either case, we will return your non-exchanged old notes to you promptly following the expiration of the exchange offer.

 

We may modify or terminate the exchange offer under some circumstances

 

We are not required to issue Notes in respect of any properly tendered old notes that we have not previously accepted and we may terminate the exchange offer or, at our option, we may modify or otherwise amend the exchange offer.  If we terminate the exchange offer, it will be by oral or written notice to the exchange agent and by timely public announcement communicated no later than 5:00 p.m. on the next business day following the expiration date, unless applicable law or regulation requires us to terminate the exchange offer in the following circumstances:

 

·                  Any court or governmental agency brings a legal action seeking to prohibit the exchange offer or assessing or seeking any damages as a result of the exchange offer, or resulting in a material delay in our ability to accept any of the old notes for exchange offer; or

 

·                  Any government or governmental authority, domestic or foreign, brings or threatens any law or legal action that in our sole judgment, might directly or indirectly result in any of the consequences referred to above; or, if in our sole judgment, such activity might result in the holders of Notes having obligations with respect to resales and transfers of Notes that are greater than those we described above in the interpretations of the staff of the SEC or would otherwise make it inadvisable to proceed with the exchange offer; or

 

·                  A material adverse change has occurred in our business, condition (financial or otherwise), operations or prospects.

 

The foregoing conditions are for our sole benefit and we may assert them with respect to all or any portion of the exchange offer regardless of the circumstances giving rise to such condition.  We also reserve the right to waive these conditions in whole or in part at any time or from time to time in our discretion.  Our failure at any time to exercise any of the foregoing rights will not be a waiver of any such right, and each right will be an ongoing right that we may assert at any time or from time to time.  In addition, we have reserved the right, notwithstanding the satisfaction of each of the foregoing conditions, to terminate or amend the exchange offer.

 

Any determination by us concerning the fulfillment or nonfulfillment of any conditions will be final and binding upon all parties.

 

In addition, we will not accept for exchange any tendered old notes, and we will not issue Notes in exchange for any such old notes, if at that time there is, or the SEC has threatened, any stop order with respect to the registration statement that this prospectus is a part of, or if qualification of the indenture is required under the Trust Indenture Act of 1939.

 

Where to send your documents for the exchange offer

 

We have appointed Wells Fargo Bank, National Association as the exchange agent for the exchange offer.  You must send your letter of transmittal to the exchange agent at:

 

By registered mail or certified mail:
Wells Fargo Bank, National Association
MAC - N9303-121
Corporate Trust Operations
P.O. Box 1517
Minneapolis, Minnesota 55480-1517

 

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By regular mail or overnight courier:
Wells Fargo Bank, National Association
MAC - N9303-121
Corporate Trust Operations
Sixth Street & Marquette Avenue
Minneapolis, Minnesota 55479

 

By hand:
Wells Fargo Bank, National Association
Northstar East Building — 12th floor
Corporate Trust Services
608 Second Avenue South
Minneapolis, Minnesota 55402
By facsimile: (612) 667-6282

 

If you send your documents to any other address or fax number, you will have not validly delivered them and you will not receive Notes in exchange for your old notes.  We will return your old notes to you.

 

We are paying our costs for the exchange offer

 

We have not retained any dealer-manager or similar agent in connection with the exchange offer and will not make any payments to brokers, dealers or others for soliciting acceptances of the exchange offer.  We will, however, pay the exchange agent reasonable and customary fees for its services and will reimburse it for reasonable out-of-pocket expenses.  We will also pay brokerage houses and other custodians, nominees and fiduciaries the reasonable out-of-pocket expenses that they incur in forwarding tenders for their customers.  We will pay the expenses incurred in connection with the exchange offer, including the fees and expenses of the exchange agent and printing, accounting, investment banking and legal fees.  We estimate that these fees are approximately $250,000.

 

No person has been authorized to give you any information or to make any representations to you in connection with the exchange offer other than those that this prospectus contains.

 

If anyone else gives you information or representations about the exchange offer, you should not rely upon that information or representation or assume that we have authorized it.  Neither the delivery of this prospectus nor any exchange made hereunder shall, under any circumstances, create any implication that there has been no change in our affairs since the respective dates as of which this prospectus gives information.  We are not making the exchange offer to, nor will we accept tenders from or on behalf of, holders of old notes in any jurisdiction in which it is unlawful to make the exchange offer or to accept it.  However, we may, at our discretion, take such action as we may deem necessary to make the exchange offer in any such jurisdiction and extend the exchange offer to holders of old notes in such jurisdiction.  In any jurisdiction where the securities laws or blue sky laws require a licensed broker or dealer to make the exchange offer one or more registered brokers or dealers that are licensed under the laws of that jurisdiction is making the exchange offer on our behalf.

 

There are no dissenters’ or appraisal rights

 

Holders of old notes will not have dissenters’ rights or appraisal rights in connection with the exchange offer.

 

Federal income tax consequences to you

 

Your exchange of old notes for Notes should not be a taxable exchange for federal income tax purposes, and you should not recognize any taxable gain or loss or any interest income as a result of the exchange.  See “Certain United States Federal Income Tax Considerations” below.

 

This is the only exchange offer for the old notes that we are required to make

 

Your participation in the exchange offer is voluntary, and you should carefully consider whether to accept the terms and conditions of it.  You are urged to consult your financial and tax advisors in making your own decisions on what action to take with respect to the exchange offer.  If you do not tender your old notes in the exchange offer, you will continue to hold such old notes and you will be entitled to all the rights and limitations applicable to the old notes under the Indenture.  All non-

 

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exchanged old notes will continue to be subject to the restriction on transfer set forth in the Indenture.  If we exchange old notes in the exchange offer, the trading market, if any, for any remaining old notes could be much less liquid.

 

We may in the future seek to acquire non-exchanged old notes in the open market or privately negotiated transactions, through subsequent exchange offers or otherwise.  We have no present plan to acquire any old notes that are not exchanged in the exchange offer.

 

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DESCRIPTION OF THE NOTES

 

The Notes will be issued under an indenture, dated May 5, 2011. We, along with the Guarantors and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Trustee, are parties to the indenture (the “Indenture”). The rights of the holders of the Notes are governed solely by the Indenture and our obligations under the Indenture are solely for the benefit of the holders of the Notes.  The terms of the Notes will be substantially identical to the terms of the old notes. However, the Notes will not be subject to transfer restrictions or registration rights unless held by certain broker-dealers, our affiliates or certain other persons.

 

The following description is a summary of the material provisions of the Indenture. It does not restate the Indenture in its entirety. We urge you to read the Indenture and the Notes because they, and not this description, define your rights as a holder of the Notes. Copies of the Indenture and the Notes are available to you upon request.

 

You can find the definitions of some of the capitalized terms used in this section under the subheading “Certain Definitions.” In this section of the prospectus:

 

·                  the terms “DDBS,” the “Company,” the “issuer,” “we,” “us,” “our” or similar terms refer only to DISH DBS Corporation and not to any of our subsidiaries;

 

·                  references to “Guarantors” shall mean our direct and indirect Wholly Owned Restricted Subsidiaries that guarantee the Notes; and

 

·                  references to “DISH” mean our indirect parent, DISH Network Corporation, together with each Wholly Owned Subsidiary of DISH that beneficially owns 100% of our Equity Interests, but only so long as DISH beneficially owns 100% of the Equity Interests of such subsidiary.

 

The terms of the Notes include those stated in the Indenture and those made part of the Indenture by reference to the Trust Indenture Act of 1939, as amended. The Notes are subject to all such terms, and holders of Notes should refer to the Indenture and the Trust Indenture Act for a statement thereof.

 

Brief Description of the Notes

 

The Notes

 

The Notes will be:

 

·                  general unsecured obligations of us;

 

·                  ranked equally in right of payment with all of our existing and future senior debt;

 

·                  ranked senior in right of payment to all of our existing and future subordinated debt;

 

·                  ranked effectively junior to (i) all debt and other liabilities (including trade payables) of our Subsidiaries (if any) that are Unrestricted Subsidiaries (and thus not Guarantors) or that are otherwise not Guarantors and of any of our Subsidiaries that constitutes a Non-Core Asset if such Subsidiary is released from its Guarantee pursuant to the covenant entitled “Certain Covenants — Dispositions of ETC and Non-Core Assets,” (ii) all debt and other liabilities (including trade payables) of any Guarantor if such Guarantor’s Guarantee is subordinated or avoided by a court of competent jurisdiction, and (iii) all secured obligations to the extent of the value of the collateral securing such obligations, including any borrowings under any of our future secured credit facilities, if any; and

 

·                  unconditionally guaranteed by the Guarantors.

 

Although the Notes are titled “senior,” we have not issued, and do not have any plans to issue, any indebtedness to which the Notes would be senior.

 

The Notes will be issued in fully registered form only, without coupons, in denominations of $2,000 and integral multiples of $1,000 in excess thereof. Any old notes that remain outstanding after the completion of the exchange offer, together with the

 

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Notes issued in connection with the exchange offer, will be treated as a single class of securities for all purposes under the Indenture, including, without limitation, waivers, amendments, redemptions, “Change of Control Offer” and “Excess Proceeds Offer,” each as discussed under their respective subheadings below.

 

The Guarantees

 

The Notes will be guaranteed by the Guarantors, which include our principal operating subsidiaries. The Guarantee of each Guarantor will be:

 

·                  a general unsecured obligation of such Guarantor;

 

·                  ranked equally in right of payment with all other Guarantees of such Guarantor;

 

·                  ranked equally in right of payment with all existing and future senior debt of such Guarantor;

 

·                  ranked senior in right of payment to all existing and future subordinated debt of such Guarantor; and

 

·                  ranked effectively junior to secured obligations of such Guarantor to the extent of the value of the collateral securing such obligations, including any secured guarantees of our obligations under any of our future credit facilities, if any.

 

As of June 30, 2011, on a pro forma basis after giving effect to the issuance of the Notes, there was:

 

·                  approximately $6.15 billion of outstanding debt ranking equally with the Notes and the Guarantees, as the case may be; and

 

·                  no outstanding debt ranking junior to the Notes and the Guarantees.

 

In addition, the Indenture permits us and the Guarantors to incur additional Indebtedness, including secured and unsecured Indebtedness that ranks equally with the Notes. Any secured Indebtedness will, as to the collateral securing such Indebtedness, be effectively senior to the Notes or the Guarantees, as the case may be, to the extent of the value of such collateral.

 

All of our Subsidiaries are Restricted Subsidiaries other than Wright Travel Corporation, DISH Real Estate Corporation V, WS Acquisition L.L.C. and Echosphere De Mexico S. De R.L. De C.V., which are “Unrestricted Subsidiaries.” Unrestricted Subsidiaries are not subject to many of the restrictive covenants in the Indenture. Unrestricted Subsidiaries will not guarantee the Notes.

 

Principal, Maturity and Interest

 

The Notes will be issued in an aggregate principal amount of $2,000,000,000. Additional Notes may be issued under the Indenture from time to time, subject to the limitations set forth under “— Certain Covenants — Limitations on Incurrence of Indebtedness,” without regard to clause (1) under the second paragraph thereof. Any additional Notes will be part of the same series as the Notes offered hereby and will vote on all matters with the Notes offered hereby. The Notes will mature on June 1, 2021.

 

Interest on the Notes accrues at a rate of 6.75% per annum, payable semiannually in arrears in cash on June 1 and December 1 of each year, commencing December 1, 2011 or if any such day is not a business day on the next succeeding business day, to holders of record on the immediately preceding May 15 and November 15, respectively.  Interest on the Notes will accrue from the most recent date to which interest has been paid or, if no interest has been paid, from the date of issuance. Interest on the Notes will be computed on the basis of a 360-day year of twelve 30-day months.

 

The Notes are payable both as to principal and interest at our office or agency maintained for such purpose or, at our option, payment of interest may be made by check mailed to the holders of the Notes at their respective addresses set forth in the register of holders of Notes. Until otherwise designated by us, our office or agency will be the office of the Trustee maintained for such purpose.

 

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Guarantees

 

Each Guarantor will jointly and severally guarantee the Issuer’s obligations under the Notes. The obligations of each Guarantor under its Guarantee for the Notes will be limited as necessary to prevent such Guarantee from constituting a fraudulent conveyance or fraudulent transfer under applicable law. See “Risk Factors — Risks related to the Notes and the Exchange Offer — The guarantees of the Notes by our subsidiaries may be subject to challenge.” Each Guarantor that makes a payment or distribution under a Guarantee will be entitled to a pro rata contribution from each other Guarantor based on the net assets of such Guarantor and each other Guarantor.

 

Each Guarantor may consolidate with or merge into or sell its assets to us or another Guarantor that is a Restricted Subsidiary, or with or to other persons upon the terms and conditions set forth in the Indenture. A Guarantor may not sell or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of its assets, or consolidate with or merge with or into another person (whether or not such Guarantor is the surviving person), unless certain conditions are met. See “— Certain Covenants — Merger, Consolidation, or Sale of Assets.”

 

A Guarantee of a Guarantor will be deemed automatically discharged and released in accordance with the terms of the Indenture:

 

(1)          in connection with any direct or indirect sale, conveyance or other disposition of all of the capital stock or all or substantially all of the assets of that Guarantor (including by way of merger or consolidation), if such sale or disposition is made in compliance with the applicable provisions of the Indenture (see “— Certain Covenants — Asset Sales”);

 

(2)          if such Guarantor is dissolved or liquidated in accordance with the provisions of the Indenture;

 

(3)          if we designate any such Guarantor as an Unrestricted Subsidiary in compliance with the terms of the Indenture; or

 

(4)          without limiting the generality of the foregoing, in the case of any Guarantor which constitutes a Non-Core Asset, upon the sale or other disposition of any Equity Interest of such Guarantor which constitutes a Non-Core Asset, respectively, if such sale or disposition is made in compliance with the applicable provisions of the Indenture. See “— Certain Covenants — Dispositions of ETC and Non-Core Assets.”

 

Optional Redemption

 

Except as stated below, the Notes are not redeemable at our option prior to their stated maturity.

 

The Notes will be redeemable, at our option, at any time in whole, or from time to time in part, upon not less than 30 and not more than 60 days’ notice, at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the Notes plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the redemption date and a make-whole premium. Holders of record on the relevant record date have the right to receive interest due on an interest payment date that is on or prior to the redemption date. The redemption price will never be less than 100% of the principal amount of the Notes being redeemed plus accrued interest to the redemption date.

 

The amount of the make-whole premium on any Note, or portion of a Note, to be redeemed will be equal to the greater of (a) 1% of the principal amount of such Note or such portion of a Note being redeemed and (b) the excess, if any, of:

 

(1)          the sum of the present values, calculated as of the redemption date, of:  (i) each interest payment that, but for the redemption, would have been payable on the Note, or portion of a Note, being redeemed on each interest payment date occurring after the redemption date, excluding any accrued interest for the period prior to the redemption date, plus (ii) the principal amount that, but for the redemption, would have been payable on the maturity date of the Note, or portion of a Note, being redeemed;

 

over

 

(2)          the principal amount of the Note, or portion of a Note, being redeemed.

 

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The present values of interest and principal payments referred to in clause (1) above will be determined in accordance with generally accepted principles of financial analysis. The present values will be calculated by discounting the amount of each payment of interest or principal from the date that each such payment would have been payable, but for the redemption, to the redemption date at a discount rate equal to the Treasury Yield, as defined below, plus 50 basis points.

 

We will appoint an independent investment banking institution of national standing to calculate the make-whole premium; provided that if we fail to appoint an institution at least 45 days prior to the date set for redemption or if the institution that we appoint is unwilling or unable to make such calculation, such calculation will be made by Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., or, if such firm fails to make such calculation, by an independent investment banking institution of national standing appointed by the Trustee (it being understood that the Trustee’s agreement to appoint such an institution is a matter of courtesy and accommodation only and the Trustee shall not be liable to any person as a result).

 

For purposes of determining the make-whole premium, “Treasury Yield” refers to an annual rate of interest equal to the weekly average yield to maturity of United States Treasury Notes that have a constant maturity that corresponds to the remaining term to maturity of the Notes being redeemed, calculated to the nearest one-twelfth of a year, which we call the remaining term.  The Treasury Yield will be determined as of the third business day immediately preceding the applicable redemption date.

 

The weekly average yields of United States Treasury Notes will be determined by reference to the most recent statistical release published by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York and designated “H.15(519) Selected Interest Rates” or any successor release, which we call the H.15 Statistical Release. If the H.15 Statistical Release sets forth a weekly average yield for United States Treasury Notes having a constant maturity that is the same as the remaining term, then the Treasury Yield will be equal to such weekly average yield. In all other cases, the Treasury Yield will be calculated by interpolation, on a straight-line basis, between the weekly average yields on the United States Treasury Notes that have a constant maturity closest to and greater than the remaining term and the United States Treasury Notes that have a constant maturity closest to and less than the remaining term, in each case as set forth in the H.15 Statistical Release.  Any weekly average yields as calculated by interpolation will be rounded to the nearest 0.01%, with any figure of 0.005% or more being rounded upward. If weekly average yields for United States Treasury Notes are not available in the H.15 Statistical Release or otherwise, then the Treasury Yield will be calculated by interpolation of comparable rates selected by the independent investment banking institution.

 

Redemption with the Proceeds of Certain Capital Contributions or Equity Offerings

 

Notwithstanding the foregoing, at any time prior to June 1, 2014, we may redeem up to 35% of the aggregate principal amount of the old notes and Notes outstanding at a redemption price equal to 106.75% of the principal amount thereof, together with accrued and unpaid interest to such redemption date, with the net cash proceeds of any capital contributions or one or more public or private sales (including sales to DISH, regardless of whether DISH obtained such funds from an offering of Equity Interests or Indebtedness of DISH or otherwise) of Equity Interests (other than Disqualified Stock) of us (other than proceeds from a sale to any of our Subsidiaries or any employee benefit plan in which we or any of our Subsidiaries participates); provided that:

 

·                  at least 65% in aggregate of the originally issued principal amount of the old notes and Notes remains outstanding immediately after the occurrence of such redemption; and

 

·                  the sale of such Equity Interests is made in compliance with the terms of the Indenture.

 

Selection and Notice

 

If less than all of the Notes are to be redeemed at any time, the selection of Notes for redemption will be made by the Trustee in compliance with the requirements of the principal national securities exchange, if any, on which the Notes are listed or, if the Notes are not so listed, on a pro rata basis, by lot or by such other method as the Trustee deems fair and appropriate, provided that no Notes with a principal amount of $2,000 or less shall be redeemed in part. Notice of redemption shall be mailed by first-class mail at least 30 but not more than 60 days before the redemption date to each holder of Notes to be redeemed at its registered address. If any Note is to be redeemed in part only, the notice of redemption that relates to such Note shall state the portion of the principal amount thereof to be redeemed. A new Note in principal amount equal to the unredeemed portion thereof will be issued in the name of the holder thereof upon cancellation of the original Note. On and after the redemption date, if we do not default in the payment of the redemption price, interest will cease to accrue on Notes or portions thereof called for redemption.

 

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Change of Control Offer

 

Upon the occurrence of a Change of Control Event, we will be required to make an offer (a “Change of Control Offer”) to each holder of Notes to repurchase all or any part (equal to $2,000 or an integral multiple of $1,000 in excess thereof) of such holder’s Notes at a purchase price equal to 101% of the aggregate principal amount thereof, together with accrued and unpaid interest thereon to the date of repurchase (the “Change of Control Payment”). Within 30 days following any Change of Control Event, we shall mail a notice to each holder stating:

 

(1)          that the Change of Control Offer is being made pursuant to the covenant entitled “Offer to Purchase Upon Change of Control Event”;

 

(2)          the purchase price and the purchase date, which shall be no earlier than 30 days nor later than 60 days after the date such notice is mailed (the “Change of Control Payment Date”);

 

(3)          that any Notes not tendered will continue to accrue interest in accordance with the terms of the Indenture;

 

(4)          that, unless we default in the payment of the Change of Control Payment, all Notes accepted for payment pursuant to the Change of Control Offer shall cease to accrue interest after the Change of Control Payment Date;

 

(5)          that holders will be entitled to withdraw their election if the paying agent receives, not later than the close of business on the second business day preceding the Change of Control Payment Date, a facsimile transmission or letter setting forth the name of the holder, the principal amount of Notes delivered for purchase, and a statement that such holder is withdrawing his election to have such Notes purchased;

 

(6)          that holders whose Notes are being purchased only in part will be issued new Notes equal in principal amount to the unpurchased portion of the Notes surrendered, which unpurchased portion must be equal to $2,000 in principal amount or an integral multiple of $1,000 in excess thereof; and

 

(7)          any other information material to such holder’s decision to tender Notes.

 

We will comply with the requirements of Rule 14e-1 under the Exchange Act and any other securities laws and regulations thereunder to the extent such laws and regulations are applicable in connection with the repurchase of the Notes required in the event of a Change of Control Event. We may not be able to repurchase all of the Notes tendered upon a Change of Control. If we fail to repurchase all of the Notes tendered for purchase upon a Change of Control Event, such failure will constitute an Event of Default. In addition, the terms of other indebtedness to which we may be subject may prohibit us from purchasing the Notes or offering to purchase the Notes, and a Change of Control Offer or a Change of Control Payment could trigger a default or event of default under the terms of such indebtedness. If we were unable to obtain the consent of the holders of any such other indebtedness to make a Change of Control Offer or make the Change of Control Payment or to repay such indebtedness, a Default or Event of Default may occur. See the subheading, “Events of Default.”

 

Except as described above with respect to a Change of Control Event, the Indenture does not contain any provisions that would permit the holders of any of the Notes to require that we repurchase or redeem any Notes in the event of a takeover, recapitalization or similar transaction.

 

Certain Covenants

 

Limitation on Restricted Payments. The Indenture provides that neither we nor any of our Restricted Subsidiaries may, directly or indirectly:

 

(a)          declare or pay any dividend or make any distribution on account of any of our Equity Interests other than dividends or distributions payable in Equity Interests (other than Disqualified Stock) of us;

 

(b)         purchase, redeem or otherwise acquire or retire for value any Equity Interests of DISH, us or any of its or our respective Subsidiaries or Affiliates, other than any such Equity Interests owned by us or by any Wholly Owned Restricted Subsidiary;

 

(c)          purchase, redeem, defease or otherwise acquire or retire for value any Indebtedness that is expressly

 

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subordinated in right of payment to the Notes issued under the Indenture or the Guarantees thereof, except (i) in accordance with the scheduled mandatory redemption, sinking fund or repayment provisions set forth in the original documentation governing such Indebtedness and (ii) the purchase, repurchase or other acquisition of subordinated Indebtedness with a stated maturity earlier than the maturity of the Notes issued under the Indenture or the Guarantees thereof purchased in anticipation of satisfying a payment of principal at the stated maturity thereof, within one year of such stated maturity;

 

(d)         declare or pay any dividend or make any distribution on account of any Equity Interests of any Restricted Subsidiary, other than:

 

(i)             to us or any Wholly Owned Restricted Subsidiary; or

 

(ii)          to all holders of any class or series of Equity Interests of such Restricted Subsidiary on a pro rata basis; provided that in the case of this clause (ii), such dividends or distributions may not be in the form of Indebtedness or Disqualified Stock; or

 

(e)          make any Restricted Investment

 

(all such prohibited payments and other actions set forth in clauses (a) through (e) being collectively referred to as “Restricted Payments”), unless, at the time of such Restricted Payment:

 

(i)             no Default or Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing or would occur as a consequence thereof;

 

(ii)          after giving effect to such Restricted Payment and the incurrence of any Indebtedness the net proceeds of which are used to finance such Restricted Payment, our Indebtedness to Cash Flow Ratio would not have exceeded 8.0 to 1; and

 

(iii)       such Restricted Payment, together with the aggregate of all other Restricted Payments made by us after December 28, 2001, is less than the sum of:

 

(A)                  the difference of:

 

(x)           our cumulative Consolidated Cash Flow determined at the time of such Restricted Payment (or, in case such Consolidated Cash Flow shall be a deficit, minus 100% of such deficit); minus

 

(y)         120% of our Consolidated Interest Expense,

 

each as determined for the period (taken as one accounting period) from January 1, 2002 to the end of our most recently ended fiscal quarter for which internal financial statements are available at the time of such Restricted Payment; plus

 

(B)                    an amount equal to 100% of the aggregate net cash proceeds and, in the case of proceeds consisting of assets used in or constituting a business permitted under the covenant described under “— Limitations on Activities of the Issuer,” 100% of the fair market value of the aggregate net proceeds other than cash received by us either from capital contributions from DISH, or from the issue or sale (including an issue or sale to DISH) of Equity Interests (other than Disqualified Stock) of us (other than Equity Interests sold to any of our Subsidiaries), since December 28, 2001; plus

 

(C)                    if any Unrestricted Subsidiary is designated by us as a Restricted Subsidiary, an amount equal to the fair market value of the net Investment by us or a Restricted Subsidiary in such Subsidiary at the time of such designation; provided, however, that the foregoing sum shall not exceed the amount of the Investments made by us or any Restricted Subsidiary in any such Unrestricted Subsidiary since December 28, 2001; plus

 

(D)                   100% of any cash dividends and other cash distributions received by us and our Wholly Owned Restricted Subsidiaries from an Unrestricted Subsidiary since December 28, 2001 to the extent not included in our cumulative Consolidated Cash Flow; plus

 

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(E)                     to the extent not included in clauses (A) through (D) above, an amount equal to the net reduction in Investments of us and our Restricted Subsidiaries since December 28, 2001 resulting from payments in cash of interest on Indebtedness, dividends, or repayment of loans or advances, or other transfers of property, in each case, to us or to a Wholly Owned Restricted Subsidiary or from the net cash proceeds from the sale, conveyance or other disposition of any such Investment; provided, however, that the foregoing sum shall not exceed, with respect to any person in whom such Investment was made, the amount of Investments previously made by us or any Restricted Subsidiary in such person which were included in computations made pursuant to this clause (iii).

 

The foregoing provisions will not prohibit the following (provided that with respect to clauses (2), (3), (5), (6), (7), (8), (9), (11) and (12) below, no Default or Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing):

 

(1)                      the payment of any dividend or distribution within 60 days after the date of declaration thereof, if at such date of declaration such payment would have complied with the provisions of the Indenture;

 

(2)                      the redemption, repurchase, retirement or other acquisition of any of our Equity Interests in exchange for, or out of the net proceeds of the substantially concurrent capital contribution from DISH or from the substantially concurrent issue or sale (including to DISH) of Equity Interests (other than Disqualified Stock) of us (other than Equity Interests issued or sold to any Subsidiary of us);

 

(3)                      Investments in an aggregate amount not to exceed $500 million plus, to the extent not included in Consolidated Cash Flow, an amount equal to the net reduction in such Investments resulting from payments in cash of interest on Indebtedness, dividends or repayment of loans or advances, or other transfers of property, in each case, to us or to a Wholly Owned Restricted Subsidiary or from the net cash proceeds from the sale, conveyance or other disposition of any such Investment; provided, however, that the foregoing sum shall not exceed, with respect to any person in whom such Investment was made, the amount of Investments previously made by us or any Restricted Subsidiary in such person pursuant to this clause (3);

 

(4)                      Investments to fund the financing activity of DNCC in the ordinary course of its business in an amount not to exceed, as of the date of determination, the sum of

 

(A)      $100 million, plus

 

(B)        50% of the aggregate cost to DNCC for each Satellite Receiver purchased by DNCC and leased by DNCC to a retail consumer in excess of 100,000 units;

 

(5)                      cash dividends or distributions to DISH to the extent required for the purchase, redemption, repurchase or other acquisition or retirement for value of employee stock options to purchase Capital Stock of DISH, or Capital Stock of DISH issued pursuant to any management equity plan, stock option plan or other management or employee benefit plan or agreement, in an aggregate amount not to exceed $25 million in any calendar year;

 

(6)                      a Permitted Refinancing;

 

(7)                      Investments in an amount equal to 100% of the aggregate net proceeds (whether or not in cash) received by us or any Wholly Owned Restricted Subsidiary from capital contributions from DISH or from the issue and sale (including a sale to DISH) of Equity Interests (other than Disqualified Stock) of us (other than Equity Interests issued or sold to a Subsidiary of DISH), on or after December 28, 2001; plus, to the extent not included in Consolidated Cash Flow, an amount equal to the net reduction in such Investments resulting from payments in cash of interest on Indebtedness, dividends, or repayment of loans or advances, or other transfers of property, in each case, to us or to a Wholly Owned Restricted Subsidiary or from the net cash proceeds from the sale, conveyance, or other disposition of any such Investment; provided, however, that the foregoing amount shall not exceed, with respect to any person in whom such Investment was made, the amount of Investments previously made by us or any Restricted Subsidiary in such person pursuant to this clause (7) in each case; provided that such Investments are in businesses of the type described under “— Limitations on Activities of the Issuer”;

 

(8)                      Investments in any Restricted Subsidiary which is not a Wholly Owned Restricted Subsidiary, but which is a Guarantor and Investments in the form of intercompany debt with any direct or indirect parent company or any Wholly Owned Subsidiary of such direct or indirect parent company; provided that such debt is incurred in the ordinary course of business and is used in a business described under “— Limitations on Activities of the Issuer”;

 

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(9)                      Investments in businesses strategically related to businesses described in “— Limitations on Activities of the Issuer” in an aggregate amount not to exceed $700 million;

 

(10)                cash dividends or distributions to DISH to the extent required for the purchase of odd-lots of Equity Interests of DISH, in an aggregate amount not to exceed $15 million in any calendar year;

 

(11)                the making of any Restricted Payment (including the receipt of any Investment) permitted under or resulting from any transaction permitted under the covenants described under “— Dispositions of ETC and Non-Core Assets” occurring at any time since December 28, 2001; provided that all conditions to any such Restricted Payment set forth in such covenants are satisfied;

 

(12)                Investments made as a result of the receipt of non-cash proceeds from Asset Sales made in compliance with the covenants described under “— Asset Sales” and Investments entered into in connection with an acquisition of assets used in or constituting a business permitted under the covenant described under “— Limitations on Activities of the Issuer,” as a result of “earn-outs” or other deferred payments or similar obligations;

 

(13)                any Restricted Payment permitted under any of the DDBS Notes Indentures;

 

(14)                Investments which are used to pay for the construction, launch, operation or insurance of satellites owned or leased by us or any of our Subsidiaries in an amount not to exceed $500 million;

 

(15)                Investments in a foreign direct-to-home satellite provider in an amount not to exceed $500 million; provided that the Investments are made through the supply of satellite receivers and related equipment to the provider, or the proceeds from the Investments are used to purchase satellite receivers and related equipment from DISH or a Subsidiary of DISH;

 

(16)                the redemption, repurchase, defeasance or other acquisition or retirement for value of subordinated Indebtedness, including premium, if any, and accrued and unpaid interest, with the proceeds of, or in exchange for: (a) the proceeds of a capital contribution or a substantially concurrent offering of, shares of Capital Stock of the Company (or options, warrants or other rights to acquire such Capital Stock), or (b) Indebtedness that is at least as subordinated in right of payment to the Notes, including premium, if any, and accrued and unpaid interest, as the Indebtedness being redeemed, repurchased, defeased, acquired or retired and with a final maturity equal to or greater than, and a Weighted Average Life to Maturity equal to or greater than, the final maturity and Weighted Average Life to Maturity, respectively of the Indebtedness being redeemed, repurchased, defeased, acquired or retired;

 

(17)                repurchases of Equity Interests deemed to occur upon (a) the exercise of stock options, warrants or convertible securities issued as compensation if such Equity Interests represent a portion of the exercise price thereof and (b) the withholding of a portion of the Equity Interests granted or awarded to an employee to pay taxes associated therewith (or a dividend or distribution to finance such a deemed repurchase by DISH);

 

(18)                amounts paid by us to DISH or any other person with which we are included in a consolidated tax return equal to the amount of federal, state and local income taxes payable in respect of the income of the Company and its Subsidiaries, including without limitation, any payments made in accordance with tax allocation agreements between the Company and its affiliates in effect from time to time; and

 

(19)                the making of a Restricted Payment so long as after giving effect to such Restricted Payment and the incurrence of any Indebtedness the net proceeds of which are used to finance such Restricted Payment, our Indebtedness to Cash Flow Ratio would not exceed 3.5 to 1.

 

Restricted Payments made pursuant to clauses (1), (2), (4), (7), (16) (but only to the extent that net proceeds received by us as set forth in such clause (2), (7) or (16) were included in the computations made in clause (iii)(B) of the first paragraph of this covenant), (10) or (13) (but only to the extent such Restricted Payment is included as a Restricted Payment in any computation made pursuant to clause (iii) of the first paragraph of the Restricted Payments covenants contained in the DDBS Notes Indentures), shall be included as Restricted Payments in any computation made pursuant to clause (iii) of the first paragraph of this covenant.

 

Restricted Payments made pursuant to clauses (3), (5), (6), (7), (16) (but only to the extent that net proceeds received by us as set forth in such clause (7) or (16) were not included in the computations made in clause (iii)(B) of the first paragraph of this

 

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covenant), (8), (9), (11), (12), (13) (to the extent such Restricted Payment is not included as a Restricted Payment in any computation made pursuant to clause (iii) of the first paragraph of the Restricted Payments covenants contained in any DDBS Notes Indenture), (14), (15), (17), (18) or (19) shall not be included as Restricted Payments in any computation made pursuant to clause (iii) of the first paragraph of this covenant.

 

If we or any Restricted Subsidiary makes an Investment that was included in computations made pursuant to this covenant and the person in which such Investment was made subsequently becomes a Restricted Subsidiary that is a Guarantor, to the extent such Investment resulted in a reduction in the amounts calculated under clause (iii) of the first paragraph of or under any other provision of this covenant, then such amount shall be increased by the amount of such reduction.

 

Not later than ten business days following a request from the Trustee, we shall deliver to the Trustee an officers’ certificate stating that each Restricted Payment made in the six months preceding the date of the request is permitted and setting forth the basis upon which the calculations required by the covenant “— Limitation on Restricted Payments” were computed, which calculations shall be based upon our latest available financial statements.

 

Limitation on Incurrence of Indebtedness. The Indenture provides that we shall not, and shall not permit any of our Restricted Subsidiaries to, directly or indirectly, create, incur, issue, assume, guarantee or otherwise become directly or indirectly liable with respect to (collectively, “incur”) any Indebtedness (including Acquired Debt); provided, however, that, notwithstanding the foregoing, we and any Guarantor may incur Indebtedness (including Acquired Debt), if, after giving effect to the incurrence of such Indebtedness and the application of the net proceeds thereof on a pro forma basis (including in the case of an acquisition, merger or other business combination giving pro forma effect to such transaction), either (a) our Indebtedness to Cash Flow Ratio would not have exceeded 8.0 to 1 or (b) the aggregate amount of our Indebtedness and that of the Guarantors would not exceed $1,500 per Subscriber.

 

The foregoing limitation does not apply to any of the following incurrences of Indebtedness:

 

(1)                      Indebtedness represented by the Notes, the Guarantees thereof and the Indenture;

 

(2)                      the incurrence by us or any Guarantor of Acquired Subscriber Debt not to exceed $1,750 per Acquired Subscriber (less any amount used to incur Indebtedness pursuant to clause (b) of the prior paragraph);

 

(3)                      the incurrence by us or any Guarantor of Deferred Payments and letters of credit with respect thereto;

 

(4)                      Indebtedness of us or any Guarantor in an aggregate principal amount not to exceed $1,050,000,000 at any one time outstanding;

 

(5)                      Indebtedness between and among us and any Guarantor;

 

(6)                      Acquired Debt of a person, incurred prior to the date upon which such person was acquired by us or any Guarantor (excluding Indebtedness incurred by such entity other than in the ordinary course of its business in connection with, or in contemplation of, such entity being so acquired) in an amount not to exceed (A) $250 million in the aggregate for all such persons other than those described in the immediately following clause (B); and (B) Acquired Debt owed to us or any Restricted Subsidiaries;

 

(7)                      Existing Indebtedness;

 

(8)                      the incurrence of Purchase Money Indebtedness by us or any Guarantor in an amount not to exceed the cost of construction, acquisition or improvement of assets used in any business permitted under the covenant described under “— Limitations on Activities of Issuer,” as well as any launch costs and insurance premiums related to such assets;

 

(9)                      The incurrence by the Company or any of the Restricted Subsidiaries of Hedging Obligations that are incurred in the ordinary course of business and not for speculative purposes, including without limitation Hedging Obligations covering the principal amount of Indebtedness entered into in order to protect us or any of our Restricted Subsidiaries from fluctuation in interest rates on Indebtedness;

 

(10)                Indebtedness of us or any of our Restricted Subsidiaries in respect of performance bonds or letters of credit of us or any Restricted Subsidiary or surety bonds provided by us or any Restricted Subsidiary incurred in the ordinary

 

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course of business and on ordinary business terms in connection with the businesses permitted under the covenant described under “— Limitations on Activities of the Issuer”;

 

(11)                Indebtedness of us or any Guarantor the proceeds of which are used solely to finance the construction and development of a call center owned by us or any of our Restricted Subsidiaries or any refinancing thereof; provided that the aggregate of all Indebtedness incurred pursuant to this clause (11) shall in no event exceed $100 million at any one time outstanding;

 

(12)                the incurrence by us or any Guarantor of Indebtedness issued in exchange for, or the proceeds of which are used to extend, refinance, renew, replace, substitute or refund in whole or in part Indebtedness referred to in the first paragraph of this covenant or in clauses (1), (2), (3), (6), (7) or (8) above (“Refinancing Indebtedness”); provided, however, that:

 

(A)      the principal amount of such Refinancing Indebtedness shall not exceed the principal amount and accrued interest of the Indebtedness so exchanged, extended, refinanced, renewed, replaced, substituted or refunded and any premiums payable and reasonable fees, expenses, commissions and costs in connection therewith;

 

(B)        the Refinancing Indebtedness shall have a final maturity equal to or later than, and a Weighted Average Life to Maturity equal to or greater than, the final maturity and Weighted Average Life to Maturity, respectively, of the Indebtedness being exchanged, extended, refinanced, renewed, replaced, substituted or refunded; and

 

(C)        the Refinancing Indebtedness shall be subordinated in right of payment to the Notes issued under the Indenture and the Guarantees thereof, if at all, on terms at least as favorable to the holders of the Notes issued under the Indenture as those contained in the documentation governing the Indebtedness being extended, refinanced, renewed, replaced, substituted or refunded (a “Permitted Refinancing”);

 

(13)                the guarantee by us or any Guarantor of Indebtedness of us or a Restricted Subsidiary that was permitted to be incurred by another provision of this covenant;

 

(14)                Indebtedness under Capital Lease Obligations of us or any Guarantor with respect to no more than seven direct broadcast satellites at any time; and

 

(15)                Indebtedness of the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary owed to (including obligations in respect of letters of credit for the benefit of) any person in connection with workers’ compensation, health, disability or other employee benefits or property, casualty or liability insurance provided by such person to us or such Restricted Subsidiary pursuant to reimbursement or indemnification obligations to such person, in each case incurred in the ordinary course of business and consistent with industry practices.

 

For purposes of determining compliance with this covenant, if an item of Indebtedness meets the criteria of more than one of the categories described in clauses (1) through (15) above or is permitted to be incurred pursuant to the first paragraph of this covenant and also meets the criteria of one or more of the categories described in clauses (1) through (15) above, we shall, in our sole discretion, classify such item of Indebtedness in any manner that complies with this covenant and may from time to time reclassify such item of Indebtedness in any manner in which such item could be incurred at the time of such reclassification. Accrual of interest and the accretion of accreted value will not be deemed to be an incurrence of Indebtedness for purposes of this covenant.

 

Asset Sales. The Indenture provides that if we or any Restricted Subsidiary, in a single transaction or a series of related transactions:

 

(a)                      sells, leases (in a manner that has the effect of a disposition), conveys or otherwise disposes of any of its assets (including by way of a sale-and-leaseback transaction), other than:

 

(i)             sales or other dispositions of inventory in the ordinary course of business;

 

(ii)          sales or other dispositions to us or a Wholly Owned Restricted Subsidiary by us or any Restricted Subsidiary;

 

(iii)       sales or other dispositions of accounts receivable to DNCC for cash in an amount at least equal to the fair market value of such accounts receivable;

 

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(iv)      sales or other dispositions of rights to construct or launch satellites; and

 

(v)         sales or other dispositions permitted under “— Dispositions of ETC and Non-Core Assets” (provided that the sale, lease, conveyance or other disposition of all or substantially all of our assets shall be governed by the provisions of the Indenture, as described below under the subheading “— Merger, Consolidation, or Sale of Assets”); or

 

(b)                     issues or sells Equity Interests of any Restricted Subsidiary (other than any issue or sale of Equity Interests of ETC or a Subsidiary which constitute a Non-Core Asset permitted under “— Dispositions of ETC and Non-Core Assets”),

 

in either case, which assets or Equity Interests: (1) have a fair market value in excess of $100 million (as determined in good faith by our Board of Directors evidenced by a resolution of our Board of Directors set forth in an officers’ certificate delivered to the Trustee); or (2) are sold or otherwise disposed of for net proceeds in excess of $100 million (each of the foregoing, an “Asset Sale”), then:

 

(A)                  we or such Restricted Subsidiary, as the case may be, must receive consideration at the time of such Asset Sale at least equal to the fair market value (as determined in good faith by our Board of Directors evidenced by a resolution of our Board of Directors and set forth in an officers’ certificate delivered to the Trustee not later than ten business days following a request from the Trustee, which certificate shall cover each Asset Sale made in the six months preceding the date of the request, as the case may be) of the assets sold or otherwise disposed of; and

 

(B)                    at least 75% of the consideration therefor received by us or such Restricted Subsidiary, as the case may be, must be in the form of:

 

(x)           Cash, Cash Equivalents or Marketable Securities;

 

(y)         any asset which is promptly (and in no event later than 180 days after the date of transfer to us or a Restricted Subsidiary) converted into cash; provided that to the extent that such conversion is at a price that is less than the fair market value (as determined above) of such asset at the time of the Asset Sale in which such asset was acquired, we shall be deemed to have made a Restricted Payment in the amount by which such fair market value exceeds the cash received upon conversion; and/or

 

(z)           properties and capital assets (including Capital Stock of an entity owning such property or assets so long as the receipt of such Capital Stock otherwise complies with the covenant described under “— Limitation on Restricted Payments” (other than clause (12) of the second paragraph thereof)) to be used by us or any of our Restricted Subsidiaries in a business permitted under the covenant described under “— Limitations on Activities of the Issuer”;

 

provided, however, that up to $100 million of assets in addition to assets specified in clause (x), (y) or (z) above at any one time may be considered to be cash for purposes of this clause (B), so long as the provisions of the next paragraph are complied with as such non-cash assets are converted to cash. The amount of any liabilities of us or any Restricted Subsidiary that are assumed by or on behalf of the transferee in connection with an Asset Sale (and from which we or such Restricted Subsidiary are unconditionally released) shall be deemed to be cash for the purpose of this clause (B).

 

The Indenture also provides that the Net Proceeds from an Asset Sale shall be used only to acquire assets used in, or stock or other ownership interests in a person that upon the consummation of such Asset Sale becomes a Restricted Subsidiary and will be engaged primarily in, a business permitted under the covenant described under “— Limitations on Activities of the Issuer”, to repurchase the old notes, Notes or DDBS Notes, to prepay, repay or purchase other senior Indebtedness or, if we sell any of our satellites after launch such that we or our Restricted Subsidiaries own fewer than three in-orbit satellites, only to purchase a replacement satellite. Any Net Proceeds from any Asset Sale that are not applied or invested as provided in the preceding sentence within 365 days after such Asset Sale shall constitute “Excess Proceeds” and shall be applied to an offer to purchase Notes and other senior Indebtedness of us if and when required under “— Excess Proceeds Offer.”

 

Clause (B) of the second preceding paragraph shall not apply to all or such portion of the consideration:

 

(1)          as is properly designated by us in connection with an Asset Sale as being subject to this paragraph; and

 

(2)          with respect to which the aggregate fair market value at the time of receipt of all consideration received by us or

 

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any Restricted Subsidiary in all such Asset Sales so designated does not exceed the amount that we and our subsidiaries are permitted to designate as a result of the cash contributions made to us by DISH pursuant to any of the DDBS Notes Indentures plus, to the extent any such consideration did not satisfy clauses (B)(x) or (B)(z) above, upon the exchange or repayment of such consideration for or with assets which satisfy either or both such clauses, an amount equal to the fair market value of such consideration (evidenced by a resolution of our Board of Directors and set forth in an officers’ certificate delivered to the Trustee as set forth in clause (A) above).

 

In addition, clause (B) above shall not apply to any Asset Sale:

 

(x)           where assets not essential to the direct broadcast satellite business are contributed to a joint venture between us or one of our Restricted Subsidiaries and a third party that is not an Affiliate of DISH or any of its Subsidiaries; provided that following the sale, lease, conveyance or other disposition we or one of our Wholly Owned Restricted Subsidiaries owns at least 50% of the voting and equity interest in such joint venture,

 

(y)         to the extent the consideration therefor received by us or any of our Restricted Subsidiaries would constitute Indebtedness or Equity Interests of a person that is not an Affiliate of DISH, us or one of their or our respective Subsidiaries; provided that the acquisition of such Indebtedness or Equity Interests is permitted under the provisions of the covenant described under “— Limitation on Restricted Payments”; and

 

(z)           where assets sold are satellites, uplink centers or call centers; provided that, in the case of this clause (z) we and our Restricted Subsidiaries continue to own at least three satellites, one uplink center and one call center.

 

Transactions described under clause (xii) of the covenant described under “— Transactions with Affiliates” and “Restricted Payments” permitted under the covenant described under “— Limitation on Restricted Payments” shall not be subject to this covenant.

 

Limitations on Liens. The Indenture provides that we shall not, and shall not permit any Restricted Subsidiary to, directly or indirectly, create, incur, assume or suffer to exist any Lien on any asset now owned or hereafter acquired, or on any income or profits therefrom or assign or convey any right to receive income therefrom, except Permitted Liens.

 

Limitations on Activities of the Issuer. The Indenture provides that neither we nor any of our Restricted Subsidiaries may engage in any business other than developing, owning, engaging in and dealing with all or any part of the business of domestic and international media, entertainment, electronics or communications, and reasonably related extensions thereof, including but not limited to the purchase, ownership, operation, leasing and selling of, and generally dealing in or with, one or more communications satellites and the transponders thereon, and communications uplink centers, the acquisition, transmission, broadcast, production and other provision of programming relating thereto and the manufacturing, distribution and financing of equipment (including consumer electronic equipment) relating thereto.

 

Dispositions of ETC and Non-Core Assets.

 

Notwithstanding the provisions of the covenants described under “— Limitation on Restricted Payments” and “— Asset Sales,” if our Indebtedness to Cash Flow Ratio would not have exceeded 6.0 to 1 on a pro forma basis after giving effect to the sale of all Equity Interests in or assets of ETC owned by us and our Subsidiaries, then:

 

(1)          the payment of any dividend or distribution consisting of Equity Interests in or assets of ETC or the proceeds of a sale, conveyance or other disposition of such Equity Interests or assets or the sale, conveyance or other disposition of Equity Interests in or assets of ETC or the proceeds of a sale, conveyance or other disposition of such Equity Interests or assets shall not constitute a Restricted Payment;

 

(2)          the sale, conveyance or other disposition of the Equity Interests in or assets of ETC or the proceeds of a sale, conveyance or other disposition of such Equity Interests or assets shall not constitute an Asset Sale; and

 

(3)          upon delivery of an officers’ certificate to the Trustee evidencing satisfaction of the conditions to such release and a written request to the Trustee requesting such release, ETC shall be discharged and released from its Guarantee and, so long as we designate ETC as an Unrestricted Subsidiary, ETC shall be discharged and released from all covenants and restrictions contained in the Indenture;

 

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provided that no such payment, sale, conveyance or other disposition (collectively, a “Payout”) described in clauses (1) or (2) above shall be permitted if at the time of such Payout:

 

(a)          after giving pro forma effect to such Payout, we would not have been permitted under the covenant described under “— Limitation on Restricted Payments” to make a Restricted Payment in an amount equal to the total (the “ETC Amount Due”) of:

 

(i)             the amount of all Investments (other than the contribution of:

 

(x)           title to the headquarters building of ETC in Inverness, Colorado and the tangible assets therein to the extent used by ETC as of the date of the Indenture; and

 

(y)         patents, trademarks and copyrights applied for or granted as of the date of the Indenture to the extent used by ETC or result from the business of ETC, in each case, to ETC);

 

made in ETC by us or our Restricted Subsidiaries since the date of the Indenture (which, in the case of Investments in exchange for assets, shall be valued at the fair market value of each such asset at the time each such Investment was made); minus

 

(ii)          the amount of the after-tax value of all cash returns on such Investments paid to us or our Wholly Owned Restricted Subsidiaries (or, in the case of a non-Wholly Owned Restricted Subsidiary, the pro rata portion thereof attributable to us); minus

 

(iii)       $100 million; and

 

(b)         any contract, agreement or understanding between ETC and us or any Restricted Subsidiary of us and any loan or advance to or guarantee with, or for the benefit of, ETC issued or made by us or one of our Restricted Subsidiaries, is on terms that are no less favorable to us or our Restricted Subsidiaries than those that would have been obtained in a comparable transaction by us or such Restricted Subsidiaries with an unrelated person, all as evidenced by a resolution of our Board of Directors set forth in an officers’ certificate delivered within ten business days of a request by the Trustee certifying that each such contract, agreement, understanding, loan, advance and guarantee has been approved by a majority of the members of our Board of Directors.

 

If at the time of such Payout, the condition set forth in clause (a) of the proviso of the preceding sentence cannot be satisfied, ETC may seek to have a person other than us or one of our Restricted Subsidiaries pay in cash an amount to us or our Restricted Subsidiaries such that after taxes, such amount is greater than or equal to the ETC Amount Due or the portion of the ETC Amount Due which would not have been permitted to be made as a Restricted Payment by us; provided that such payment shall be treated for purposes of this covenant as a cash return on the Investments made in ETC; and, provided further, that for all purposes under the Indenture, such payment shall not be included in any calculation under clauses (iii)(A) through (iii)(E) of the first paragraph of the covenant described under “— Limitation on Restricted Payments.” To the extent that the ETC Amount Due or any portion thereof would have been permitted to be made as a Restricted Payment by us and was not paid by another person as permitted by the preceding sentence, we shall be deemed to have made a Restricted Payment in the amount of such ETC Amount Due or portion thereof, as the case may be.

 

Notwithstanding the provisions of the covenants described under “— Limitation on Restricted Payments” and “— Asset Sales”:

 

(1)                      the payment of any dividend or distribution consisting of Equity Interests in or assets of any Non-Core Asset or the proceeds of a sale, conveyance or other disposition of such Equity Interests or assets or the sale, conveyance or other disposition of Equity Interests in or assets of any Non-Core Asset or the proceeds of a sale, conveyance or other disposition of such Equity Interests or assets shall not constitute a Restricted Payment;

 

(2)                      the sale, conveyance or other disposition of the Equity Interests in or assets of any Non-Core Asset or the proceeds of a sale, conveyance or other disposition of such Equity Interests or assets shall not constitute an Asset Sale; and

 

(3)                      upon delivery of an officers’ certificate to the Trustee evidencing satisfaction of the conditions to such release and a written request to the Trustee requesting such a release, any such Non-Core Asset that is a Guarantor shall be discharged and released from its Guarantees and so long as we designate such Non-Core Asset as an Unrestricted Subsidiary, such Non-Core Asset shall be released from all covenants and restrictions contained in the Indenture;

 

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provided that no Payout of any Non-Core Asset shall be permitted such as described in clauses (1) and (2) above if at the time of such Payout:

 

(a)          after giving pro forma effect to such Payout, we would not have been permitted under the covenant described under “— Limitation on Restricted Payments” to make a Restricted Payment in an amount equal to the total (the “Non-Core Asset Amount Due”) of:

 

(i)             the amount of all Investments made in such Non-Core Asset by us or our Restricted Subsidiaries since the date of the Indenture (which, in the case of Investments in exchange for assets, shall be valued at the fair market value of each such asset at the time each such Investment was made); minus

 

(ii)          the amount of the after-tax value of all cash returns on such Investments paid to us or our Wholly Owned Restricted Subsidiaries (or, in the case of a non-Wholly Owned Restricted Subsidiary, the pro rata portion thereof attributable to us); minus

 

(iii)       $100 million in the aggregate for all such Payouts and $25 million for any single such Payout; and

 

(b)         any contract, agreement or understanding between or relating to a Non-Core Asset and us or a Restricted Subsidiary and any loan or advance to or guarantee with, or for the benefit of, a Restricted Subsidiary which is a Non-Core Asset issued or made by us or one of our Restricted Subsidiaries, is on terms that are less favorable to us or our Restricted Subsidiaries than those that would have been obtained in a comparable transaction by us or such Restricted Subsidiaries with an unrelated person, all as evidenced by a resolution of our Board of Directors as set forth in an officers’ certificate delivered within ten business days of a request by the Trustee certifying that each such contract, agreement, understanding, loan, advance and guarantee has been approved by a majority of our Board of Directors.

 

If at the time of such Payout, the condition set forth in clause (a) of the proviso of the preceding sentence cannot be satisfied, such Restricted Subsidiary which is a Non-Core Asset may seek to have a person other than us or one of our Restricted Subsidiaries pay in cash an amount to us such that, after taxes, such amount, is greater than or equal to the Non-Core Asset Amount Due or the portion of the Non-Core Asset Amount Due which would not have been permitted to be made as a Restricted Payment by us; provided that such payment shall be treated for purposes of this covenant as a cash return on the Investments made in a Non-Core Asset; and provided further that for all purposes under the Indenture, such payment shall not be included in any calculation under clauses (iii)(A) through (iii)(E) of the first paragraph of the covenant described under “— Limitation on Restricted Payments.” To the extent that the Non-Core Asset Amount Due or any portion thereof would have been permitted to be made as a Restricted Payment by us and was not paid by another person as permitted by the preceding sentence, we shall be deemed to have made a Restricted Payment in the amount of such Non-Core Asset Amount Due or portion thereof, as the case may be.

 

Promptly after any Payout pursuant to the terms of this covenant, within ten business days of a request by the Trustee, we shall deliver to the Trustee an officers’ certificate to the Trustee setting forth the Investments made by us or our Restricted Subsidiaries in a Non-Core Asset, as the case may be, and certifying that the requirements of this covenant have been satisfied in connection with the making of such Payout.

 

Notwithstanding anything contained in this covenant to the contrary, any disposition of ETC or Non-Core Assets permitted pursuant to the DDBS Notes Indentures shall also be permitted pursuant to the Indenture and shall not be considered a “Restricted Payment” or “Asset Sale” for purposes of the Indenture.

 

Additional Subsidiary Guarantees. The Indenture provides that if we or any Guarantor transfers or causes to be transferred, in one transaction or a series of related transactions, property or assets (including, without limitation, businesses, divisions, real property, assets or equipment) having a fair market value (as determined in good faith by our Board of Directors evidenced by a resolution of our Board of Directors and set forth in an officers’ certificate delivered to the Trustee no later than five business days following April 1 of each year or ten business days following a request from the Trustee, which certificate shall cover the six months preceding April 1 or the date of request, as the case may be) exceeding the sum of $100 million in the aggregate for all such transfers after the date of the Indenture (fair market value being determined as of the time of such acquisition) to Restricted Subsidiaries that are not Guarantors, the Issuer shall, or shall cause each of such Subsidiaries to which any amount exceeding such $100 million (less such fair market value) is transferred to:

 

(i)             execute and deliver to the Trustee a supplemental indenture to the Indenture in form and substance

 

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reasonably satisfactory to the Trustee pursuant to which such Subsidiary shall unconditionally guarantee all of our obligations under the Notes issued under the Indenture on the terms set forth in the Indenture; and

 

(ii)          deliver to the Trustee an opinion of counsel reasonably satisfactory to the Trustee that such supplemental Indenture and Guarantee have been duly authorized, executed and delivered by and are valid and binding obligations of such Subsidiary or such owner, as the case may be;

 

provided, however, that the foregoing provisions shall not apply to transfers of property or assets (other than cash) by us or any Guarantor in exchange for cash, Cash Equivalents or Marketable Securities in an amount equal to the fair market value (as determined in good faith by our Board of Directors evidenced by a resolution of our Board of Directors and set forth in an officers’ certificate delivered to the Trustee no later than five business days following April 1 and October 1 of each year or ten business days following a request from the Trustee, which certificate shall cover the six months preceding April 1, October 1, or the date of request, as the case may be) of such property or assets. In addition, if (i) we or any of our Restricted Subsidiaries acquires or creates another Restricted Subsidiary or (ii) an Unrestricted Subsidiary is redesignated as a Restricted Subsidiary or otherwise ceases to be and Unrestricted Subsidiary, such Subsidiary shall execute a supplemental indenture to the Indenture and deliver an opinion of counsel, each as required in the preceding sentence; provided that no supplemental indenture or opinion shall be required if the fair market value (as determined in good faith by our Board of Directors and set forth in an officers’ certificate delivered to the Trustee no later than five business days following April 1 and October 1 of each year or ten business days following a request from the Trustee, which certificate shall cover the six months preceding such April 1, October 1, or the date of request, as the case may be) of all such Restricted Subsidiaries created, acquired or designated since the date of the Indenture (fair market value being determined as of the time of creation, acquisition or designation) does not exceed the sum of $100 million in the aggregate minus the fair market value of the assets transferred to any Subsidiaries which do not execute supplemental indentures pursuant to the preceding sentences; provided further that to the extent a Restricted Subsidiary is subject to the terms of any instrument governing Acquired Debt, as in effect at the time of acquisition (except to the extent such Indebtedness was incurred in connection with or in contemplation of such acquisition) which instrument or restriction prohibits such Restricted Subsidiary from issuing a Guarantee, such Restricted Subsidiary shall not be required to execute such a supplemental indenture until it is permitted to issue such Guarantee pursuant to the terms of such Acquired Debt.

 

Limitation on Dividend and Other Payment Restrictions Affecting Subsidiaries. The Indenture provides that we shall not, and shall not permit any Restricted Subsidiary of us to, directly or indirectly, create or otherwise cause or suffer to exist or become effective any encumbrance or restriction on the ability of any Restricted Subsidiary to:

 

(a)          pay dividends or make any other distribution to us or any of our Restricted Subsidiaries on its Capital Stock or with respect to any other interest or participation in, or measured by, its profits, or pay any Indebtedness owed to us or any of our Subsidiaries;

 

(b)         make loans or advances to us or any of our Subsidiaries; or

 

(c)          transfer any of its properties or assets to us or any of our Subsidiaries;

 

except for such encumbrances or restrictions existing under or by reasons of:

 

(i)             Existing Indebtedness and existing agreements as in effect on the date of the Indenture;

 

(ii)          applicable law or regulation;

 

(iii)       any instrument governing Acquired Debt as in effect at the time of acquisition (except to the extent such Indebtedness was incurred in connection with, or in contemplation of, such acquisition), which encumbrance or restriction is not applicable to any person, or the properties or assets of any person, other than the person, or the property or assets of the person, so acquired; provided that the Consolidated Cash Flow of such person shall not be taken into account in determining whether such acquisition was permitted by the terms of the Indenture; except to the extent that dividends or other distributions are permitted notwithstanding such encumbrance or restriction and could have been distributed;

 

(iv)      by reason of customary non-assignment provisions in leases entered into in the ordinary course of business and consistent with past practices;

 

(v)         Refinancing Indebtedness (as defined in “— Limitation on Incurrence of Indebtedness”); provided that the

 

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restrictions contained in the agreements governing such Refinancing Indebtedness are no more restrictive than those contained in the agreements governing the Indebtedness being refinanced;

 

(vi)      the Indenture or any of the Notes;

 

(vii)   Permitted Liens; or

 

(viii) any agreement for the sale of any Subsidiary or its assets that restricts distributions by that Subsidiary pending its sale; provided that during the entire period in which such encumbrance or restriction is effective, such sale (together with any other sales pending) would be permitted under the terms of the Indenture.

 

Accounts Receivable Subsidiary. The Indenture provides that we:

 

(a)                      may, and may permit any of our Subsidiaries to, notwithstanding the provisions of the covenant entitled “— Limitation on Restricted Payments,” make Investments in an Accounts Receivable Subsidiary:

 

(i)             the proceeds of which are applied within five business days of the making thereof solely to finance:

 

(A)      the purchase of accounts receivable of us and our Subsidiaries; or

 

(B)        payments required in connection with the termination of all then existing arrangements relating to the sale of accounts receivable or participation interests therein by an Accounts Receivable Subsidiary (provided that the Accounts Receivable Subsidiary shall receive cash, Cash Equivalents and accounts receivable having an aggregate fair market value not less than the amount of such payments in exchange therefor); and

 

(ii)          in the form of Accounts Receivable Subsidiary Notes to the extent permitted by clause (b) below;

 

(b)                     shall not, and shall not permit any of our Subsidiaries to, sell accounts receivable to an Accounts Receivable Subsidiary except for consideration in an amount not less than that which would be obtained in an arm’s length transaction and solely in the form of cash or Cash Equivalents; provided that an Accounts Receivable Subsidiary may pay the purchase price for any such accounts receivable in the form of Accounts Receivable Subsidiary Notes so long as, after giving effect to the issuance of any such Accounts Receivable Subsidiary Notes, the aggregate principal amount of all Accounts Receivable Subsidiary Notes outstanding shall not exceed 20% of the aggregate purchase price paid for all outstanding accounts receivable purchased by an Accounts Receivable Subsidiary since the date of the Indenture (and not written off or required to be written off in accordance with the normal business practice of an Accounts Receivable Subsidiary);

 

(c)                      shall not permit an Accounts Receivable Subsidiary to sell any accounts receivable purchased from us or our Subsidiaries or participation interests therein to any other person except on an arm’s length basis and solely for consideration in the form of cash or Cash Equivalents or certificates representing undivided interests of a Receivables Trust; provided an Accounts Receivable Subsidiary may not sell such certificates to any other person except on an arm’s length basis and solely for consideration in the form of cash or Cash Equivalents;

 

(d)                     shall not, and shall not permit any of its Subsidiaries to, enter into any guarantee, subject any of our or their respective properties or assets (other than the accounts receivable sold by them to an Accounts Receivable Subsidiary) to the satisfaction of any liability or obligation or otherwise incur any liability or obligation (contingent or otherwise), in each case, on behalf of an Accounts Receivable Subsidiary or in connection with any sale of accounts receivable or participation interests therein by or to an Accounts Receivable Subsidiary, other than obligations relating to breaches of representations, warranties, covenants and other agreements of us or any of our Subsidiaries with respect to the accounts receivable sold by us or any of our Subsidiaries to an Accounts Receivable Subsidiary or with respect to the servicing thereof; provided that neither we nor any of our Subsidiaries shall at any time guarantee or be otherwise liable for the collectibility of accounts receivable sold by them;

 

(e)                      shall not permit an Accounts Receivable Subsidiary to engage in any business or transaction other than the purchase and sale of accounts receivable or participation interests therein of us and our Subsidiaries and activities incidental thereto;

 

(f)                        shall not permit an Accounts Receivable Subsidiary to incur any Indebtedness other than the Accounts Receivable

 

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Subsidiary Notes, Indebtedness owed to us and Non-Recourse Indebtedness; provided that the aggregate principal amount of all such Indebtedness of an Accounts Receivable Subsidiary shall not exceed the book value of its total assets as determined in accordance with GAAP;

 

(g)                     shall cause any Accounts Receivable Subsidiary to remit to us or a Restricted Subsidiary of us on a monthly basis as a distribution all available cash and Cash Equivalents not held in a collection account pledged to acquirors of accounts receivable or participation interests therein, to the extent not applied to:

 

(i)             pay interest or principal on the Accounts Receivable Subsidiary Notes or any Indebtedness of such Accounts Receivable Subsidiary owed to us;

 

(ii)          pay or maintain reserves for reasonable operating expenses of such Accounts Receivable Subsidiary or to satisfy reasonable minimum operating capital requirements or;

 

(iii)       to finance the purchase of additional accounts receivable of us and our Subsidiaries; and

 

(h)                     shall not, and shall not permit any of its Subsidiaries to, sell accounts receivable to, or enter into any other transaction with or for the benefit of, an Accounts Receivable Subsidiary:

 

(i)             if such Accounts Receivable Subsidiary pursuant to or within the meaning of any bankruptcy law:

 

(A)      commences a voluntary case;

 

(B)        consents to the entry of an order for relief against it in an involuntary case;

 

(C)        consents to the appointment of a custodian of it or for all or substantially all of its property;

 

(D)       makes a general assignment for the benefit of its creditors; or

 

(E)         generally is not paying its debts as they become due; or

 

(ii)          if a court of competent jurisdiction enters an order or decree under any bankruptcy law that:

 

(A)      is for relief against such Accounts Receivable Subsidiary in an involuntary case;

 

(B)        appoints a custodian of such Accounts Receivable Subsidiary or for all or substantially all of the property of such Accounts Receivable Subsidiary; or

 

(C)        orders the liquidation of such Accounts Receivable Subsidiary, and, with respect to this clause (ii), the order or decree remains unstayed and in effect for 60 consecutive days.

 

Merger, Consolidation, or Sale of Assets. The Indenture provides that we shall not consolidate or merge with or into (whether or not we are the surviving entity), or sell, assign, transfer, lease, convey or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of our properties or assets in one or more related transactions to, another person unless:

 

(a)                      we are the surviving person or the person formed by or surviving any such consolidation or merger (if other than us) or to which such sale, assignment, transfer, lease, conveyance or other disposition shall have been made is a corporation organized or existing under the laws of the United States, any state thereof or the District of Columbia;

 

(b)                     the person formed by or surviving any such consolidation or merger (if other than us) or the person to which such sale, assignment, transfer, lease, conveyance or other disposition will have been made assumes all the obligations of us under the Indenture and the Notes issued under the Indenture pursuant to a supplemental indenture to the Indenture in form reasonably satisfactory to the Trustee;

 

(c)                      immediately after such transaction, no Default or Event of Default exists; and

 

(d)                     we or the person formed by or surviving any such consolidation or merger (if other than us) or to which such sale,

 

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assignment, transfer, lease, conveyance or other disposition will have been made:

 

(i)             will have Consolidated Net Worth immediately after the transaction (but prior to any purchase accounting adjustments or accrual of deferred tax liabilities resulting from the transaction) not less than our Consolidated Net Worth immediately preceding the transaction; and

 

(ii)          would, at the time of such transaction after giving pro forma effect thereto as if such transaction had occurred at the beginning of the applicable four-quarter period, be permitted to incur at least $1.00 of additional Indebtedness pursuant to the Indebtedness to Cash Flow Ratio test set forth in the covenant described under “— Limitation on Incurrence of Indebtedness,” above.

 

Notwithstanding the foregoing, we may merge with another person if:

 

(a)                      we are the surviving person;

 

(b)                     the consideration issued or paid by us in such merger consists solely of our Equity Interests (other than Disqualified Stock) or Equity Interests of DISH; and

 

(c)                      immediately after giving effect to such merger (determined on a pro forma basis), our Indebtedness to Cash Flow Ratio either (i) does not exceed 8.0 to 1 or (ii) does not exceed our Indebtedness to Cash Flow Ratio immediately prior to such merger.

 

The Indenture provides that each Guarantor of the Notes issued thereunder (other than any Guarantor whose Guarantee is to be released in accordance with the terms of such Guarantee and the Indenture and other than ETC and any Non-Core Asset in connection with any transaction permitted under “— Dispositions of ETC and Non-Core Assets”) will not, and we will not cause or permit any Guarantor to, consolidate or merge with or into (whether or not such Guarantor is the surviving entity), or sell, assign, transfer, lease, convey, or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of its properties or assets in one or more related transactions to, any person other than to us or a Guarantor unless:

 

(a)                      the Guarantor is the surviving person or the person formed by or surviving any such consolidation or merger (if other than the Guarantor) or to which such sale, assignment, transfer, lease, conveyance or other disposition shall have been made is a corporation organized or existing under the laws of the United States, any state thereof or the District of Columbia;

 

(b)                     the person formed by or surviving any such consolidation or merger (if other than the Guarantor) or the person to which such sale, assignment, transfer, lease, conveyance or other disposition shall have been made assumes all the obligations of the Guarantor under the Indenture and the Notes issued under the Indenture, pursuant to a supplemental indenture to the Indenture in form reasonably satisfactory to the Trustee; and

 

(c)                      immediately after such transaction, no Default or Event of Default exists.

 

Transactions with Affiliates. The Indenture provides that we shall not and shall not permit any Restricted Subsidiary to, sell, lease, transfer or otherwise dispose of any of our or their properties or assets to, or purchase any property or assets from, or enter into any contract, agreement, understanding, loan, advance or Guarantee with, or for the benefit of, any Affiliate (including any Unrestricted Subsidiary) (each of the foregoing, an “Affiliate Transaction”), unless:

 

(a)                      such Affiliate Transaction is on terms that are no less favorable to us or our Restricted Subsidiaries than those that would have been obtained in a comparable transaction by us or such Subsidiaries with an unrelated person; and

 

(b)                     if such Affiliate Transaction involves aggregate payments in excess of $200 million, such Affiliate Transaction has either (i) been approved by a majority of the disinterested members of our Board of Directors or (ii) if there are no disinterested members of our Board of Directors, the Company or such Restricted Subsidiary has obtained the favorable opinion of an independent expert as to the fairness of such Affiliate Transaction to the Company or the relevant Restricted Subsidiary, as the case may be, from a financial point of view, and we deliver to the Trustee no later than ten business days following a request from the Trustee a resolution of our Board of Directors set forth in an officers’ certificate certifying that such Affiliate Transaction has been so approved and complies with clause (a) above;

 

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provided, however, that

 

(i)             the payment of reasonable fees, compensation or employee benefit arrangements to, and any indemnity provided for the benefit of, directors, officers, consultants or employees of DISH and its Subsidiaries;

 

(ii)          transactions between or among us and our Wholly Owned Subsidiaries (other than Unrestricted Subsidiaries);

 

(iii)       any issuance of securities, or other payments, awards or grants in cash, securities or otherwise pursuant to, or the funding of employment arrangements, stock options and stock ownership plans approved by our Board of Directors;

 

(iv)      transactions in the ordinary course of business, including loans, expense allowances, reimbursements or extensions of credit (including indemnity arrangements) between the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries on the one hand, and any employee of the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries, on the other hand;

 

(v)         the granting and performance of registration rights for shares of Capital Stock of the Company under a written registration rights agreement approved by a majority of the members of our Board of Directors that are disinterested with respect to these transactions;

 

(vi)      transactions with Affiliates solely in their capacity as holders of Indebtedness or Capital Stock of the Company or any of its Subsidiaries, so long as a significant amount of Indebtedness or Capital Stock of the same class is also held by persons that are not Affiliates of the Company and these Affiliates are treated no more favorably than holders of the Indebtedness or the Capital Stock generally;

 

(vii)   any dividend, distribution, sale, conveyance or other disposition of any assets of, or Equity Interests in, any Non-Core Assets or the proceeds of a sale, conveyance or other disposition thereof, in accordance with the provisions of the Indenture;

 

(viii) Restricted Payments that are permitted by the provisions of the covenant described under the caption “— Limitation on Restricted Payments”;

 

(ix)        any transactions pursuant to agreements in effect on the date of the Indenture and any modifications, extensions or renewals thereof that are no less favorable to the Company or the applicable Restricted Subsidiary than such agreement as in effect on the date of the Indenture;

 

(x)           so long as it complies with clause (a) above, the provision of backhaul, uplink, transmission, billing, customer service, programming acquisition and other ordinary course services by us or any of our Restricted Subsidiaries to Satellite Communications Operating Corporation and to Transponder Encryption Services Corporation on a basis consistent with past practice;

 

(xi)        the provision of services to DISH and its Affiliates by us or any of our Restricted Subsidiaries so long as no cash or other assets are transferred by us or our Restricted Subsidiaries in connection with such transactions (other than up to $100 million in cash in any fiscal year and other than nonmaterial assets used in the operations of the business in the ordinary course pursuant to the agreement governing the provision of the services), and so long as such transaction or agreement is determined by a majority of the members of our Board of Directors to be fair to us and our Restricted Subsidiaries when taken together with all other such transactions and agreements entered into with DISH and its Affiliates;

 

(xii)     the disposition of assets of us and our Restricted Subsidiaries in exchange for assets of DISH and its Affiliates so long as (i) the value to us in our business of the assets we receive is determined by a majority of the members of our Board of Directors to be substantially equivalent or greater than the value to us in our business of the assets disposed of, and (ii) the assets acquired by us and our Restricted Subsidiaries constitute properties and capital assets (including Capital Stock of an entity owning such property or assets so long as the receipt of such Capital Stock otherwise complies with the covenant described under “— Limitation on Restricted Payments” (other than clause (12) of the second paragraph thereof)) to be used by us or any of our Restricted Subsidiaries in a business permitted as described under “— Limitations on Activities of the Issuer”;

 

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(xiii) sales of Equity Interests (other than Disqualified Stock) to Affiliates of the Company;

 

(xiv) any transactions between us or any of our Restricted Subsidiaries and any Affiliate of us the Equity Interests of which Affiliate are owned solely by us or one of our Restricted Subsidiaries, on the one hand, and by persons who are not Affiliates of us or Restricted Subsidiaries of us, on the other hand; and

 

(xv) transactions with EchoStar or any of its controlled Affiliates that have been approved by a majority of the members of the audit committee of DISH or a special committee of the DISH board of directors consisting solely of members of the DISH board of directors who are not directors, officers or employees of EchoStar or any of its controlled Affiliates,

 

shall, in each case, not be deemed Affiliate Transactions.

 

Reports. The Indenture provides that in the event (i) we are no longer subject to the reporting requirements of Section 13(a) and 15(d) under the Exchange Act and (ii) any Notes are outstanding, we will furnish to the holders of the Notes all quarterly and annual financial information that would be required to be contained in a filing with the SEC on Forms 10-Q and 10-K if we were required to file such forms, and, with respect to the annual information only, a report thereon by our independent registered public accounting firm.

 

Payments for Consent. The Indenture will provide that we shall not, and shall not permit any of our Subsidiaries to, directly or indirectly, pay or cause to be paid any consideration, whether by way of interest, fee or otherwise, to any holder of a Note for or as an inducement to any consent, waiver or amendment of any of the terms or provisions of the Indenture or the Notes unless such consideration is offered to be paid or agreed to be paid to all holders of the old notes and Notes that consent, waive or agree to amend in the time frame set forth in the solicitation documents relating to such consent, waiver or agreement.

 

Excess Proceeds Offer. The Indenture will provide that when the cumulative amount of Excess Proceeds that have not been applied in accordance with the covenants entitled “— Asset Sales” or this paragraph exceeds $100 million, we will be obligated to make an offer to all holders of the Notes (an “Excess Proceeds Offer”) to purchase the maximum principal amount of Notes that may be purchased out of such Excess Proceeds at an offer price in cash in an amount equal to 101% of the principal amount thereof, together with accrued and unpaid interest to the date fixed for the closing of such offer in accordance with the procedures set forth in the applicable Indenture. To the extent we or a Restricted Subsidiary are required under the terms of Indebtedness of us or such Restricted Subsidiary which is ranked equally with the Notes to make an offer to purchase such other Indebtedness with any proceeds which constitute Excess Proceeds under the Indenture, we shall make a pro rata offer to the holders of all other parity Indebtedness (including the Notes) with such proceeds. If the aggregate principal amount of Notes and other parity indebtedness surrendered by holders thereof exceeds the amount of such Excess Proceeds, the Trustee shall select the Notes and other parity Indebtedness to be purchased on a pro rata basis. To the extent that the principal amount of Notes tendered pursuant to an Excess Proceeds Offer is less than the amount of such Excess Proceeds, we may use any remaining Excess Proceeds for general corporate purposes. Upon completion of an Excess Proceeds Offer, the amount of Excess Proceeds shall be reset at zero.

 

Investment Grade Rating. The Indenture will provide that if, on any date following the issuance of the Notes, the Notes receive an Investment Grade Rating from both Rating Agencies and no Default or Event of Default has occurred and is continuing (a “Fall Away Event”) then, beginning on that date and continuing at all times thereafter regardless of any subsequent changes in the rating of the Notes, the provisions of the Indenture summarized under the following captions will no longer be applicable:

 

(1) “—Certain Covenants — Limitation on Restricted Payments”;

 

(2) “—Certain Covenants — Limitation on Incurrence of Indebtedness”;

 

(3) “—Certain Covenants — Asset Sales”;

 

(4) “—Certain Covenants — Limitations on Activities of the Issuer”;

 

(5) “—Certain Covenants — Dispositions of ETC and Non-Core Assets”;

 

(6) “—Certain Covenants — Limitation on Dividend and Other Payment Restrictions Affecting Subsidiaries”;

 

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(7) “—Certain Covenants — Accounts Receivable Subsidiary”;

 

(8) —clauses (d)(i) and (ii) of the first paragraph under “—Certain Covenants — Merger, Consolidation, or Sale of Assets”;

 

(9) “—Certain Covenants — Transactions with Affiliates”;

 

(10) “—Certain Covenants — Excess Proceeds Offer”; and

 

(11) “Change of Control Offer”

 

(collectively, the “Fall Away Covenants”).

 

In addition to the foregoing, during any period in which the Notes have an Investment Grade Rating from one of the Rating Agencies and no Default or Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, the Fall Away Covenants will not apply to the Notes. Upon the termination or suspension of the Fall Away Covenants under either of the two preceding paragraphs, the amount of Excess Proceeds for purposes of “— Certain Covenants — Excess Proceeds Offer” shall be set at zero.

 

Events of Default

 

The Indenture will provide that each of the following shall constitute an Event of Default:

 

(a)                      default for 30 days in the payment when due of interest on the Notes;

 

(b)                     default in payment when due of principal of the Notes at maturity, upon repurchase, redemption or otherwise;

 

(c)                      failure to comply with the provisions described under “Change of Control Offer,” “Certain Covenants — Transactions with Affiliates,” or “Certain Covenants — Asset Sales”;

 

(d)                     default under the provisions described under “Certain Covenants — Limitation on Restricted Payments” or “Certain Covenants — Limitation on Incurrence of Indebtedness” which default remains uncured for 30 days, or the breach of any representation or warranty, or the making of any untrue statement, in any certificate delivered by us pursuant to the Indenture;

 

(e)                      failure by us for 60 days after notice from the Trustee or the holders of at least 25% in principal amount then outstanding of the old notes and Notes issued under the Indenture to comply with any of our other agreements in the Indenture, the old notes or the Notes;

 

(f)                        default under any mortgage, indenture or instrument under which there may be issued or by which there may be secured or evidenced any Indebtedness for money borrowed by us or any of our Restricted Subsidiaries (or the payment of which is guaranteed by us or any of our Restricted Subsidiaries), which default is caused by a failure to pay when due principal or interest on such Indebtedness within the grace period provided in such Indebtedness (a “Payment Default”), and the principal amount of any such Indebtedness, together with the principal amount of any other such Indebtedness under which there has been a Payment Default, aggregates $250 million or more;

 

(g)                     default under any mortgage, indenture or instrument under which there may be issued or by which there may be secured or evidenced any Indebtedness for money borrowed by us or any of our Restricted Subsidiaries (or the payment of which is guaranteed by us or any of our Restricted Subsidiaries), which default results in the acceleration of such Indebtedness prior to its express maturity and the principal amount of any such Indebtedness, together with the principal amount of any other such Indebtedness under which there has been a Payment Default or the maturity of which has been so accelerated, aggregates $250 million or more; provided that any acceleration (other than an acceleration which is the result of a Payment Default under clause (f) above) of Indebtedness under the Outstanding Deferred Payments in aggregate principal amount not to exceed $250 million shall be deemed not to constitute an acceleration pursuant to this clause (g);

 

(h)                     failure by us or any of our Restricted Subsidiaries to pay final judgments (other than any judgment as to which a reputable insurance company has accepted full liability) aggregating in excess of $250 million, which judgments are

 

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not stayed within 60 days after their entry;

 

(i)                         DISH, us or any of our Significant Subsidiaries pursuant to or within the meaning of any Bankruptcy Law:  (i) commences a voluntary case; (ii) consents to the entry of an order for relief against it in an involuntary case; (iii) consents to the appointment of a custodian of it or for all or substantially all of its property; or (iv) makes a general assignment for the benefit of creditors;

 

(j)                         a court of competent jurisdiction enters an order or decree under any Bankruptcy Law that:  (i) is for relief against DISH, us or any of our Significant Subsidiaries in an involuntary case; (ii) appoints a custodian of DISH, us or any of our Significant Subsidiaries or for all or substantially all of the property of DISH, us or any of our Significant Subsidiaries; or (iii) orders the liquidation of DISH or any of our Significant Subsidiaries, and the order or decree remains unstayed and in effect for 60 consecutive days; and

 

(k)                      any Guarantee of the Notes shall be held in a judicial proceeding to be unenforceable or invalid or shall cease for any reason to be in full force and effect, or any Guarantor of the Notes, or any person acting on behalf of any Guarantor, shall deny or disaffirm its obligations under its Guarantee of the Notes.

 

If any Event of Default occurs and is continuing, the Trustee or the holders of at least 25% in principal amount then outstanding of the old notes and Notes may declare all the Notes to be due and payable immediately (plus, in the case of an Event of Default that is the result of an action by us or any of our Subsidiaries intended to avoid restrictions on or premiums related to redemptions of the Notes contained in the Indenture or the Notes, an amount of premium that would have been applicable pursuant to the Notes or as set forth in the Indenture). Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the case of an Event of Default arising from the events of bankruptcy or insolvency with respect to us or any Guarantor of the Notes described in (i) above, all outstanding Notes will become due and payable without further action or notice. Holders of the Notes may not enforce the Indenture or the Notes except as provided in the Indenture. Subject to certain limitations, holders of a majority in principal amount of the then outstanding old notes and Notes may direct the Trustee in its exercise of any trust or power. The Trustee may withhold from holders of the Notes notice of any continuing Default or Event of Default (except a Default or Event of Default relating to the payment of principal or interest) if it determines that withholding notice is in such holders’ interest.

 

The holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount then outstanding of the old notes and Notes, by notice to the Trustee, may on behalf of the holders of all of the Notes waive any existing Default or Event of Default and its consequences under the Indenture, except a continuing Default or Event of Default in the payment of interest or premium on, or principal of, the Notes.

 

We are required to deliver to the Trustee, in its capacity as trustee of an Indenture, annually a statement regarding compliance with the Indenture, and we are required upon becoming aware of any Default or Event of Default thereunder to deliver to the Trustee a statement specifying such Default or Event of Default.

 

All powers of the Trustee under an Indenture, in its capacity as trustee of the Indenture, will be subject to applicable provisions of the Communications Act, including without limitation, the requirements of prior approval for de facto or de jure transfer of control or assignment of Title III licenses.

 

No Personal Liability Of Directors, Owners, Employees, Incorporator and Stockholders

 

No director, officer, employee, incorporator or stockholder of us or any of our Affiliates, as such, shall have any liability for any obligations of us or any of our Affiliates under the Notes, the Guarantees or the Indenture or for any claim based on, in respect of, or by reason of, such obligations or their creation. Each holder of Notes by accepting a Note waives and releases all such liability. The waiver and release are part of the consideration for issuance of the Notes. Such waiver may not be effective to waive liabilities under the federal securities laws and it is the view of the SEC that such a waiver is against public policy.

 

Legal Defeasance and Covenant Defeasance

 

The Indenture provides that with respect to the Notes, we may, at our option and at any time, elect to have all obligations discharged with respect to the Notes (“Legal Defeasance”). Such Legal Defeasance means that we will be deemed to have paid and discharged the entire indebtedness represented by the Notes, except for:

 

(a)                      the rights of holders of outstanding Notes to receive payments in respect of the principal of, premium, if any, and interest on the Notes when such payments are due, or on the redemption date, as the case may be;

 

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(b)                     our obligations with respect to the Notes concerning issuing temporary Notes, registration of Notes, mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen Notes and the maintenance of an office or agency for payment and money for security payments held in trust;

 

(c)                      the rights, powers, trust, duties and immunities of the Trustee, and our obligations in connection therewith; and

 

(d)                     the Legal Defeasance provisions of the Indenture.

 

In addition, the Indenture provides that we may, at our option and at any time, elect to have all obligations released with respect to certain covenants that are described in the Indenture (“Covenant Defeasance”) and thereafter any omission to comply with such obligations shall not constitute a Default or Event of Default. If Covenant Defeasance occurs, certain events (not including non-payment, bankruptcy, receivership, rehabilitation and insolvency events) described under “Events of Default” will no longer constitute an Event of Default with respect to the Notes.

 

In order to exercise either Legal Defeasance or Covenant Defeasance, the Indenture provides that:

 

(i)             we must irrevocably deposit with the Trustee, in trust, for the benefit of the holders of the Notes, cash in United States dollars, non-callable United States government obligations, or a combination thereof, in such amounts as will be sufficient, in the opinion of a nationally recognized firm of independent public accountants selected by us, to pay the principal of, premium, if any, and interest on the outstanding Notes on the stated maturity or on the applicable optional redemption date, as the case may be;

 

(ii)          in the case of Legal Defeasance, we shall have delivered to the Trustee an opinion of counsel in the United States reasonably acceptable to the Trustee confirming that

 

(A)      we have received from, or there has been published by, the IRS a ruling or

 

(B)        since the date of the Indenture, there has been a change in the applicable federal income tax law, in each case to the effect that, and based thereon such opinion of counsel shall confirm that, the holders of the Notes will not recognize income, gain or loss for federal income tax purposes as a result of such Legal Defeasance, and will be subject to federal income tax in the same amount, in the same manner and at the same times as would have been the case if such Legal Defeasance had not occurred;

 

(iii)       in the case of Covenant Defeasance, we shall have delivered to the Trustee an opinion of counsel reasonably acceptable to such Trustee confirming that the holders of the Notes will not recognize income, gain or loss for federal income tax purposes as a result of such Covenant Defeasance and will be subject to federal income tax on the same amounts, in the same manner and at the same times as would have been the case if such Covenant Defeasance had not occurred;

 

(iv)      no Default or Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing on the date of such deposit or insofar as Events of Default from bankruptcy or insolvency events are concerned, at any time in the period ending on the 91st day after the date of deposit;

 

(v)         such Legal Defeasance or Covenant Defeasance shall not result in a breach or violation of, or constitute a default under, the Indenture or any other material agreement or instrument to which we or any of our Subsidiaries is a party or by which we or any of our Subsidiaries is bound;

 

(vi)      we shall have delivered to the Trustee an officers’ certificate stating that the deposit was not made by us with the intent of preferring the holders of the Notes over any of our other creditors or with the intent of defeating, hindering, delaying or defrauding any of our other creditors or others; and

 

(vii)   we shall have delivered to the Trustee an officers’ certificate stating that all conditions precedent provided for or relating to the Legal Defeasance or the Covenant Defeasance relating to the Notes have been complied with.

 

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Amendment, Supplement and Waiver

 

Except as provided in the next paragraph, the Indenture and the Notes may be amended or supplemented with the consent of the holders of at least a majority in principal amount of the old notes and Notes then outstanding under the Indenture that are affected by such amendment or supplement (including consents obtained in connection with a tender offer or exchange offer for Notes), and any existing default or compliance with any provision of the Indenture or the Notes may be waived with the consent of the holders of a majority in principal amount of the old notes and Notes then outstanding that are affected by such amendment or supplement (including consents obtained in connection with a tender offer or exchange offer for the Notes).

 

Without the consent of each holder affected, however, an amendment or waiver may not (with respect to any Note held by a non-consenting holder):

 

(a)                      reduce the aggregate principal amount of old notes and Notes whose holders must consent to an amendment, supplement or waiver;

 

(b)                     reduce the principal of or change the fixed maturity of any Note or alter the provisions with respect to the redemption of such Note;

 

(c)                      reduce the rate of or change the time for payment of interest on any Note;

 

(d)                     waive a Default or Event of Default in the payment of principal of or premium, if any, or interest on the Notes (except a rescission of acceleration of the Notes by the holders of at least a majority in aggregate principal amount of the old notes and Notes and a waiver of the payment default that resulted from such acceleration);

 

(e)                      make any Note payable in money other than that stated in such Note;

 

(f)                        make any change in the provisions of the Indenture relating to waivers of past Defaults or the rights of holders of Notes issued under the Indenture to receive payments of principal of or interest on the Notes;

 

(g)                     waive a redemption payment or mandatory redemption with respect to any Note; or

 

(h)                     make any change in the foregoing amendment and waiver provisions.

 

In addition, without the consent of holders of at least 66 2/3% of the principal amount of the old notes and Notes then outstanding, an amendment or a waiver may not make any change to the covenants in the Indenture entitled “Asset Sales,” “Change of Control Offer,” and “Excess Proceeds Offer” (including, in each case, the related definitions) as such covenants apply to the Notes.

 

Notwithstanding the foregoing, without the consent of any holder of old notes and Notes, we, the Guarantors and the Trustee may amend or supplement the Indenture or the Notes or the Guarantees thereof to cure any ambiguity, defect or inconsistency, to provide for uncertificated Notes or Guarantees in addition to or in place of certificated Notes or Guarantees, to provide for the assumption of the obligations of us or any Guarantor to holders of the Notes in the case of a merger or consolidation, to make any change that would provide any additional rights or benefits to the holders of the Notes or that does not adversely affect the legal rights under the Indenture of any such holder, or to comply with requirements of the SEC in order to effect or maintain the qualification of the Indenture under the Trust Indenture Act.

 

Concerning the Trustee

 

The Indenture contains certain limitations on the rights of the Trustee, if the Trustee becomes a creditor of us or our Subsidiaries, to obtain payment of claims in certain cases, or to realize on certain property received in respect of any such claim as security or otherwise. The Trustee will be permitted to engage in other transactions with us and our Subsidiaries; however, if the Trustee acquires any conflicting interest, it must eliminate such conflict within 90 days, apply to the SEC for permission to continue as Trustee or resign.

 

With respect to the Notes, the holders of a majority in principal amount of the then outstanding old notes and Notes will have the right to direct the time, method and place of conducting any proceeding for exercising any remedy available to the Trustee, subject to certain exceptions. The Indenture provides that in case an Event of Default shall occur thereunder (which

 

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shall not be cured), the Trustee will be required, in the exercise of its power, to use the degree of care of a prudent person in the conduct of his or her own affairs. The Trustee will not be relieved from liabilities for its own negligent action, its own negligent failure to act or its own willful misconduct, except that:

 

(i)             this sentence shall not limit the preceding sentence of this paragraph;

 

(ii)          the Trustee shall not be liable for any error of judgment made in good faith, unless it is proved that the Trustee was negligent in ascertaining the pertinent facts; and

 

(iii)       the Trustee shall not be liable with respect to any action it takes or omits to take in good faith in accordance with a direction received by it pursuant to the first sentence of this paragraph.

 

Subject to such provisions, the Trustee will be under no obligation to exercise any of its rights or powers under an Indenture at the request of any holder of Notes issued under the Indenture, unless such holder shall have offered to the Trustee security and indemnity satisfactory to it against any loss, liability or expense.

 

Certain Definitions

 

Set forth below are certain defined terms used in the Indenture. Reference is made to the Indenture for a full disclosure of all such terms, as well as any other capitalized terms used herein for which no definition is provided.

 

“Accounts Receivable Subsidiary” means one Unrestricted Subsidiary of us specifically designated as an Accounts Receivable Subsidiary for the purpose of financing our accounts receivable; provided that any such designation shall not be deemed to prohibit us from financing accounts receivable through any other entity, including, without limitation, any other Unrestricted Subsidiary.

 

“Accounts Receivable Subsidiary Notes” means the notes to be issued by the Accounts Receivable Subsidiary for the purchase of accounts receivable.

 

“Acquired Debt” means, with respect to any specified person, Indebtedness of any other person existing at the time such other person merges with or into or becomes a Subsidiary of such specified person, or Indebtedness incurred by such specified person in connection with the acquisition of assets, including Indebtedness incurred in connection with, or in contemplation of, such other person merging with or into or becoming a Subsidiary of such specified person or the acquisition of such assets, as the case may be.

 

“Acquired Subscriber” means a subscriber to a telecommunications service provided by a telecommunications service provider that is not an Affiliate of us at the time we or one of our Restricted Subsidiaries purchases the right to provide telecommunications services to such subscriber from such telecommunications service provider, whether directly or through the acquisition of the entity providing telecommunications services or assets used or to be used to provide telecommunications service to such subscriber.

 

“Acquired Subscriber Debt” means (i) Indebtedness, the proceeds of which are used to pay the purchase price for Acquired Subscribers or to acquire the entity which has the right to provide telecommunications services to such Acquired Subscribers or to acquire from such entity or an Affiliate of such entity assets used or to be used in connection with such telecommunications business; provided that such Indebtedness is incurred within three years after the date of the acquisition of such Acquired Subscriber and (ii) Acquired Debt of any such entity being acquired; provided that in no event shall the amount of such Indebtedness and Acquired Debt for any Acquired Subscriber exceed the sum of the actual purchase price (inclusive of such Acquired Debt) for such Acquired Subscriber, such entity and such assets plus the cost of converting such Acquired Subscriber to usage of a delivery format for telecommunications services made available by us or any of our Restricted Subsidiaries.

 

“Affiliate” of any specified person means any other person directly or indirectly controlling or controlled by or under direct or indirect common control with such specified person. For purposes of this definition, “control” (including, with correlative meanings, the terms “controlling,” “controlled by” and “under common control with”), as used with respect to any person, shall mean the possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct or cause the direction of the management or policies of such person, whether through the ownership of voting securities, by agreement or otherwise; provided, however, that no individual, other than a director of DISH or us or an officer of DISH or us with a policy making function, shall be deemed an Affiliate of us or any of our Subsidiaries solely by reason of such individual’s employment, position or responsibilities by or with respect to DISH, us or any of their or our respective Subsidiaries.

 

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“Asset Sale” means in a single transaction or a series of related transactions, if we or any Restricted Subsidiary:

 

(a)          sells, leases (in a manner that has the effect of a disposition), conveys or otherwise disposes of any of its assets (including by way of a sale-and-leaseback transaction), other than:

 

(i)             sales or other dispositions of inventory in the ordinary course of business;

 

(ii)          sales or other dispositions to us or a Wholly Owned Restricted Subsidiary by us or any Restricted Subsidiary;

 

(iii)       sales or other dispositions of accounts receivable to DNCC for cash in an amount at least equal to the fair market value of such accounts receivable;

 

(iv)      sales or other dispositions of rights to construct or launch satellites; and

 

(v)         sales or other dispositions permitted under “— Dispositions of ETC and Non-Core Assets” (provided that the sale, lease, conveyance or other disposition of all or substantially all of our assets shall be governed by the provisions of the Indenture described under “— Merger, Consolidation, or Sale of Assets”); or

 

(b)         issues or sells Equity Interests of any Restricted Subsidiary (other than any issue or sale of Equity Interests of ETC or a Subsidiary which constitutes a Non-Core Asset permitted under “— Dispositions of ETC and Non-Core Assets”),

 

in either case, which assets or Equity Interests: (1) have a fair market value in excess of $100 million (as determined in good faith by our Board of Directors evidenced by a resolution of our Board of Directors set forth in an officers’ certificate delivered to the Trustee); or (2) are sold or otherwise disposed of for net proceeds in excess of $100 million (each of the foregoing, an “Asset Sale”).

 

“Bankruptcy Law” means title 11, U.S. Code or any similar federal or state law for the relief of debtors.

 

“Capital Lease Obligation” means, as to any person, the obligations of such person under a lease that are required to be classified and accounted for as capital lease obligations under GAAP and, for purposes of this definition, the amount of such obligations at the time any determination thereof is to be made shall be the amount of the liability in respect of a capital lease that would at such time be so required to be capitalized on a balance sheet in accordance with GAAP.

 

“Capital Stock” means any and all shares, interests, participations, rights or other equivalents, however designated, of corporate stock or partnership or membership interests, whether common or preferred.

 

“Cash Equivalents” means: (a) United States dollars; (b) securities issued or directly and fully guaranteed or insured by the United States government or any agency or instrumentality thereof having maturities of not more than two years from the date of acquisition; (c) certificates of deposit and eurodollar time deposits with maturities of one year or less from the date of acquisition, bankers’ acceptances with maturities not exceeding one year and overnight bank deposits, in each case with any domestic commercial bank having capital and surplus in excess of $500 million; (d) repurchase obligations with a term of not more than 30 days for underlying securities of the types described in clauses (b) and (c) entered into with any financial institution meeting the qualifications specified in clause (c) above; (e) commercial paper rated P-2, A-2 or better or the equivalent thereof by Moody’s or S&P, respectively, and in each case maturing within twelve months after the date of acquisition and (f) money market funds offered by any domestic commercial or investment bank having capital and surplus in excess of $500 million at least 95% of the assets of which constitute Cash Equivalents of the kinds described in clauses (a) through (e) of this definition.

 

“Change of Control” means: (a) any transaction or series of transactions the result of which is that any person (other than the Principal or a Related Party) individually owns more than 50% of the total Equity Interest of DISH; (b) the first day on which a majority of the members of the Board of Directors of DISH are not Continuing Directors; or (c) any time that DISH shall cease to beneficially own 100% of our Equity Interests.

 

“Change of Control Event” means the occurrence of a Change of Control and a Rating Decline.

 

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“Consolidated Cash Flow” means, with respect to any person for any period, the Consolidated Net Income of such person for such period, plus, to the extent deducted in computing Consolidated Net Income: (a) provision for taxes based on income or profits; (b) Consolidated Interest Expense; (c) depreciation and amortization (including amortization of goodwill and other intangibles) of such person for such period; and (d) any extraordinary loss and any net loss realized in connection with any Asset Sale, in each case, on a consolidated basis determined in accordance with GAAP; provided that Consolidated Cash Flow shall not include interest income derived from the net proceeds of the offering of the Notes.

 

“Consolidated Interest Expense” means, with respect to any person for any period, consolidated interest expense of such person for such period, whether paid or accrued, including amortization of original issue discount and deferred financing costs, non-cash interest payments and the interest component of Capital Lease Obligations, on a consolidated basis determined in accordance with GAAP; provided, however, that with respect to the calculation of the consolidated interest expense of us, the interest expense of Unrestricted Subsidiaries shall be excluded.

 

“Consolidated Net Income” means, with respect to any person for any period, the aggregate of the Net Income of such person and its Subsidiaries or, if such person is DDBS, of DDBS and its Restricted Subsidiaries for such period, on a consolidated basis, determined in accordance with GAAP; provided, however, that: (a) the Net Income of any person that is not a Subsidiary or that is accounted for by the equity method of accounting shall be included only to the extent of the amount of dividends or distributions paid in cash to the referent person, in the case of a gain, or to the extent of any contributions or other payments by the referent person, in the case of a loss; (b) the Net Income of any person that is a Subsidiary that is not a Wholly Owned Subsidiary shall be included only to the extent of the amount of dividends or distributions paid in cash to the referent person; (c) the Net Income of any person acquired in a pooling of interests transaction for any period prior to the date of such acquisition shall be excluded; (d) the Net Income of any Subsidiary of such person shall be excluded to the extent that the declaration or payment of dividends or similar distributions is not at the time permitted by operation of the terms of its charter or bylaws or any other agreement, instrument, judgment, decree, order, statute, rule or government regulation to which it is subject; and (e) the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principles shall be excluded.

 

“Consolidated Net Tangible Assets” means, with respect to any person, the aggregate amount of assets of such person (less applicable reserves and other properly deductible items) after deducting therefrom (to the extent otherwise included therein) (a) all current liabilities and (b) all goodwill, trade names, trademarks, patents, unamortized debt discount and expense and other like intangibles, all as set forth on the books and records of such person and its consolidated Subsidiaries as of the end of the most recently ended fiscal quarter and computed in accordance with GAAP.

 

“Consolidated Net Worth” means, with respect to any person, the sum of: (a) the stockholders’ equity of such person; plus (b) the amount reported on such person’s most recent balance sheet with respect to any series of preferred stock (other than Disqualified Stock) that by its terms is not entitled to the payment of dividends unless such dividends may be declared and paid only out of net earnings in respect of the year of such declaration and payment, but only to the extent of any cash received by such person upon issuance of such preferred stock, less: (i) all write-ups (other than write-ups resulting from foreign currency translations and write-ups of tangible assets of a going concern business made within 12 months after the acquisition of such business) subsequent to the date of the Indenture in the book value of any asset owned by such person or a consolidated Subsidiary of such person; and (ii) all unamortized debt discount and expense and unamortized deferred charges, all of the foregoing determined on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP.

 

“Continuing Director” means, as of any date of determination, any member of the Board of Directors of DISH who: (a) was a member of such Board of Directors on the date of the Indenture; or (b) was nominated for election or elected to such Board of Directors with the affirmative vote of a majority of the Continuing Directors who were members of such Board at the time of such nomination or election or was nominated for election or elected by the Principal and his Related Parties.

 

“Default” means any event that is, or with the passage of time or the giving of notice or both would be, an Event of Default.

 

“Deferred Payments” means Indebtedness owed to satellite construction or launch contractors incurred after the date of the Indenture in connection with the construction or launch of one or more satellites of us or our Restricted Subsidiaries used by us and/or them in the businesses described in the covenant “— Limitations on Activities of the Issuer” in an aggregate principal amount not to exceed $400 million at any one time outstanding.

 

“DISH Network®” means the direct broadcast satellite service of us and our Subsidiaries.

 

“DNCC” means Dish Network Credit Corporation, a Colorado corporation.

 

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“DNLLC” means DISH Network L.L.C., a Colorado limited liability company.

 

“Disqualified Stock” means any Capital Stock which, by its terms (or by the terms of any security into which it is convertible or for which it is exchangeable), or upon the happening of any event, matures or is mandatorily redeemable, pursuant to a sinking fund obligation or otherwise, or redeemable at the option of the holder thereof, in whole or in part, on or prior to the date on which the Notes mature; provided, however, that any such Capital Stock may require the issuer of such Capital Stock to make an offer to purchase such Capital Stock upon the occurrence of certain events if the terms of such Capital Stock provide that such an offer may not be satisfied and the purchase of such Capital Stock may not be consummated until the 91st day after the old notes and Notes have been paid in full.

 

“DDBS” means DISH DBS Corporation, a Colorado corporation.

 

“DDBS Notes” means the 2003 DDBS Notes, the 2004 DDBS Notes, the 2006 DDBS Notes, the 2008 DDBS Notes and the 2009 DDBS Notes.

 

“DDBS Notes Indentures” means the 2003 DDBS Notes Indenture, the 2004 DDBS Notes Indenture, the 2006 DDBS Notes Indentures, the 2008 DDBS Notes Indenture and the 2009 DDBS Notes Indenture.

 

“Eligible Institution” means a commercial banking institution that has combined capital and surplus of not less than $500 million or its equivalent in foreign currency, whose debt is rated Investment Grade at the time as of which any investment or rollover therein is made.

 

“Equity Interests” means Capital Stock and all warrants, options or other rights to acquire Capital Stock (but excluding any debt security that is convertible into, or exchangeable for, Capital Stock).

 

ETC” means EchoStar Technologies Corporation, a Texas corporation.

 

“Existing Indebtedness” means the Notes and any other Indebtedness of us and our Subsidiaries in existence on the date of the Indenture until such amounts are repaid.

 

“GAAP” means United States generally accepted accounting principles set forth in the opinions and pronouncements of the Accounting Principles Board of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and statements and pronouncements of the Financial Accounting Standards Board or in such other statements by such other entity as may be approved by a significant segment of the accounting profession of the United States, which are applicable as of the date of determination; provided that, except as otherwise specifically provided, all calculations made for purposes of determining compliance with the terms of the provisions of the Indenture shall utilize GAAP as in effect on the date of the Indenture.

 

“Government Securities” means direct obligations of, or obligations guaranteed by, the United States of America for the payment of which guarantee or obligations the full faith and credit of the United States of America is pledged.

 

“guarantee” means a guarantee (other than by endorsement of negotiable instruments for collection in the ordinary course of business), direct or indirect, in any manner (including, without limitation, letters of credit and reimbursement agreements in respect thereof), of all or any part of any Indebtedness.

 

“Guarantee” means a guarantee by a Guarantor of the Notes.

 

“Guarantor” means any entity that executes a Guarantee of the obligations of DDBS under the Notes, and their respective successors and assigns.

 

“Hedging Obligations” means, with respect to any person, the obligations of such person pursuant to any arrangement with any other person, whereby, directly or indirectly, such person is entitled to receive from time to time periodic payments calculated by applying either floating or a fixed rate of interest on a stated notional amount in exchange for periodic payments made by such other person calculated by applying a fixed or a floating rate of interest on the same notional amount and shall include, without limitation, interest rate swaps, caps, floors, collars and similar agreements designed to protect such person against fluctuations in interest rates.

 

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“Indebtedness” means, with respect to any person, any indebtedness of such person, whether or not contingent, in respect of borrowed money or evidenced by bonds, notes, debentures or similar instruments or letters of credit (or reimbursement agreements in respect thereof) or representing the balance deferred and unpaid of the purchase price of any property (including pursuant to capital leases) or representing any Hedging Obligations, except any such balance that constitutes an accrued expense or trade payable, if and to the extent any of the foregoing (other than Hedging Obligations) would appear as a liability upon a balance sheet of such person prepared in accordance with GAAP, and also includes, to the extent not otherwise included, the amount of all obligations of such person with respect to the redemption, repayment or other repurchase of any Disqualified Stock or, with respect to any Subsidiary of such person, the liquidation preference with respect to, any Preferred Equity Interests (but excluding, in each case, any accrued dividends) as well as the guarantee of items that would be included within this definition.

 

“Indebtedness to Cash Flow Ratio” means, with respect to any person, the ratio of: (a) the Indebtedness of such person and its Subsidiaries (or, if such person is DDBS, of DDBS and its Restricted Subsidiaries) as of the end of the most recently ended fiscal quarter, plus the amount of any Indebtedness incurred subsequent to the end of such fiscal quarter; to (b) such person’s Consolidated Cash Flow for the most recently ended four full fiscal quarters for which internal financial statements are available immediately preceding the date on which such event for which such calculation is being made shall occur (the “Measurement Period”); provided, however, that if such person or any of its Subsidiaries (or, if such person is the Issuer, any of its Restricted Subsidiaries) consummates an acquisition, merger or other business combination or an Asset Sale or other disposition of assets subsequent to the commencement of the Measurement Period for which the calculation of the Indebtedness to Cash Flow Ratio is made, then the Indebtedness to Cash Flow Ratio shall be calculated giving pro forma effect to such transaction(s) as if the same had occurred at the beginning of the applicable period.

 

“Investment Grade” means, with respect to a security, that such security is rated at least BBB- or higher by S&P or Baa3 or higher by Moody’s (or, in the event of a change in ratings systems, the equivalent of such ratings by S&P or Moody’s), or the equivalent rating of another nationally recognized statistical rating organization.

 

“Investments” means, with respect to any person, all investments by such person in other persons (including Affiliates) in the forms of loans (including guarantees), advances or capital contributions (excluding commission, travel and similar advances to officers and employees made in the ordinary course of business), purchases or other acquisitions for consideration of Indebtedness, Equity Interests or other securities and all other items that are or would be classified as investments on a balance sheet prepared in accordance with GAAP.

 

“Lien” means, with respect to any asset, any mortgage, lien, pledge, charge, security interest or encumbrance of any kind in respect of such asset, whether or not filed, recorded or otherwise perfected under applicable law (including any conditional sale or other title retention agreement, any lease in the nature thereof, any option or other agreement to sell or give a security interest in and any filing of or agreement to give any financing statement under the Uniform Commercial Code (or equivalent statute) of any jurisdiction).

 

“Marketable Securities” means: (a) Government Securities; (b) any certificate of deposit maturing not more than 365 days after the date of acquisition issued by, or time deposit of, an Eligible Institution; (c) commercial paper or corporate securities maturing not more than 18 months after the date of acquisition issued by a corporation (other than an Affiliate of us) with an Investment Grade rating, at the time as of which any investment therein is made, issued or offered by an Eligible Institution; (d) any bankers’ acceptances or money market deposit accounts issued or offered by an Eligible Institution; and (e) any fund investing exclusively in investments of the types described in clauses (a) through (d) above.

 

“Maximum Secured Amount” means 3.75 times the Trailing Cash Flow Amount, or, if greater and (i) following a Fall Away Event or (ii) during a period in which covenants do not apply as a result of the occurrence of the event described in the second paragraph under “— Investment Grade Rating” above, 15% of our Consolidated Net Tangible Assets.

 

“Moody’s” means Moody’s Investors Service, Inc., a subsidiary of Moody’s Corporation.

 

“Net Income” means, with respect to any person, the net income (loss) of such person, determined in accordance with GAAP, excluding, however, any gain (but not loss), together with any related provision for taxes on such gain (but not loss), realized in connection with any Asset Sale (including, without limitation, dispositions pursuant to sale and leaseback transactions), and excluding any extraordinary gain (but not loss), together with any related provision for taxes on such extraordinary gain (but not loss) and excluding any unusual gain (but not loss) relating to recovery of insurance proceeds on satellites, together with any related provision for taxes on such extraordinary gain (but not loss).

 

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“Net Proceeds” means the aggregate cash proceeds received by us or any of our Restricted Subsidiaries, as the case may be, in respect of any Asset Sale, net of the direct costs relating to such Asset Sale (including, without limitation, legal, accounting and investment banking fees, and sales commissions) and any relocation expenses incurred as a result thereof, taxes paid or payable as a result thereof (after taking into account any available tax credits or deductions and any tax sharing arrangements), amounts required to be applied to the repayment of Indebtedness secured by a Lien on the asset or assets that are the subject of such Asset Sale and any reserve for adjustment in respect of the sale price of such asset or assets. Net Proceeds shall exclude any non-cash proceeds received from any Asset Sale, but shall include such proceeds when and as converted by us or any Restricted Subsidiary to cash.

 

“Non-Core Assets” means:

 

(1)          all intangible present and possible future authorizations, rights, interests and other intangible assets related to all “western” direct broadcast satellite orbital locations other than the 148 degree orbital slot (as the term “western” is used by the FCC) held by us and/or any of our Subsidiaries at any time;

 

(2)          all intangible present and possible future authorizations, rights, interests and other intangible assets related to the fixed satellite service in the Ku-band, extended Ku-band, Ka-band and C-band held by us and/or any of our Subsidiaries at any time;

 

(3)          all present and possible future intangible authorizations, rights, interests and other intangible assets related to any mobile satellite service held by us and/or any of our Subsidiaries at any time;

 

(4)          all present and possible future intangible authorizations, rights, interests and other intangible assets related to local multi-point distribution service; and

 

(5)          any Subsidiary of us the assets of which consist solely of (i) any combination of the foregoing and (ii) other assets to the extent permitted under the provision described under the second paragraph of “Certain Covenants — Dispositions of ETC and Non-Core Assets.”

 

“Non-Recourse Indebtedness” of any person means Indebtedness of such person that: (i) is not guaranteed by any other person (except a Wholly Owned Subsidiary of the referent person); (ii) is not recourse to and does not obligate any other person (except a Wholly Owned Subsidiary of the referent person) in any way; (iii) does not subject any property or assets of any other person (except a Wholly Owned Subsidiary of the referent person), directly or indirectly, contingently or otherwise, to the satisfaction thereof, and (iv) is not required by GAAP to be reflected on the financial statements of any other person (other than a Subsidiary of the referent person) prepared in accordance with GAAP.

 

“Permitted Investments” means: (a) Investments in us or in a Wholly Owned Restricted Subsidiary that is a Guarantor; (b) Investments in Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities; and (c) Investments by us or any of our Subsidiaries in a person if, as a result of such Investment: (i) such person becomes a Wholly Owned Restricted Subsidiary and becomes a Guarantor, or (ii) such person is merged, consolidated or amalgamated with or into, or transfers or conveys substantially all of its assets to, or is liquidated into, us or a Wholly Owned Restricted Subsidiary that is a Guarantor; provided that if at any time a Restricted Subsidiary shall cease to be a Subsidiary of us, we shall be deemed to have made a Restricted Investment in the amount of its remaining investment, if any, in such former Subsidiary.

 

“Permitted Liens” means:

 

(a)          Liens securing the old notes and Notes and Liens securing any Guarantee;

 

(b)         Liens securing the Deferred Payments;

 

(c)          Liens securing any Indebtedness permitted under the covenant described under “Limitation on Incurrence of Indebtedness” above; provided that such Liens under this clause (c) shall not secure Indebtedness in an amount exceeding the Maximum Secured Amount at the time that such Lien is incurred;

 

(d)         Liens securing Purchase Money Indebtedness; provided that such Indebtedness was permitted to be incurred by the terms of the applicable Indenture and such Liens do not extend to any of assets of us or our Restricted Subsidiaries other than the assets so acquired;

 

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(e)          Liens securing Indebtedness the proceeds of which are used to develop, construct, launch or insure any satellites other than EchoStar I and EchoStar II; provided that such Indebtedness was permitted to be incurred by the terms of the Indenture and such Liens do not extend to any of assets of us or our Restricted Subsidiaries other than such satellites being developed, constructed, launched or insured, and to the related licenses, permits and construction, launch and TT&C contracts;

 

(f)            Liens on orbital slots, licenses and other assets and rights of us; provided that such orbital slots, licenses and other assets and rights relate solely to the satellites referred to in clause (e) of this definition;

 

(g)         Liens on property of a person existing at the time such person is merged into or consolidated with us or any of our Restricted Subsidiaries; provided that such Liens were not incurred in connection with, or in contemplation of, such merger or consolidation, other than in the ordinary course of business;

 

(h)         Liens on property of an Unrestricted Subsidiary at the time that it is designated as a Restricted Subsidiary pursuant to the definition of “Unrestricted Subsidiary”; provided that such Liens were not incurred in connection with, or in contemplation of, such designation;

 

(i)             Liens on property existing at the time of acquisition thereof by us or any Restricted Subsidiary of us; provided that such Liens were not incurred in connection with, or in contemplation of, such acquisition and do not extend to any assets of us or any of our Restricted Subsidiaries other than the property so acquired;

 

(j)             Liens to secure the performance of statutory obligations, surety or appeal bonds or performance bonds, or landlords’, carriers’, warehousemen’s, mechanics’, suppliers’, materialmen’s or other like Liens, in any case incurred in the ordinary course of business and with respect to amounts not yet delinquent or being contested in good faith by appropriate process of law, if a reserve or other appropriate provision, if any, as is required by GAAP shall have been made therefore;

 

(k)          Liens existing on the date of the Indenture;

 

(l)             Liens for taxes, assessments or governmental charges or claims that are not yet delinquent or that are being contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings promptly instituted and diligently concluded; provided that any reserve or other appropriate provision as shall be required in conformity with GAAP shall have been made therefor;

 

(m)       Liens incurred in the ordinary course of the business of us or any of our Restricted Subsidiaries (including, without limitation, Liens securing Purchase Money Indebtedness) with respect to obligations that do not exceed $100 million in principal amount in the aggregate at any one time outstanding;

 

(n)         Liens securing Indebtedness in an amount not to exceed $50 million incurred pursuant to clause (11) of the second paragraph of the covenant described under “Limitation on Incurrence of Indebtedness”;

 

(o)         Liens on any asset of us or any of our Restricted Subsidiaries securing Indebtedness in an amount not to exceed $50 million;

 

(p)         Liens securing Indebtedness permitted under clause (12) of the second paragraph of the provision described under “Limitation on Incurrence of Indebtedness”; provided that such Liens shall not extend to assets other than the assets that secure such Indebtedness being refinanced;

 

(q)         any interest or title of a lessor under any Capital Lease Obligations; provided that such Capital Lease Obligation is permitted under the other provisions of the applicable Indenture;

 

(r)            Liens permitted to be incurred under the DDBS Notes Indentures;

 

(s)          Liens not provided for in clauses (a) through (r) above, securing Indebtedness incurred in compliance with the terms of the Indenture; provided that the Notes are secured by the assets subject to such Liens on an equal and ratable basis or on a basis prior to such Liens; provided further that to the extent that such Lien secured Indebtedness that is subordinated to the Notes, such Lien shall be subordinated to and be later in priority than the Notes on the same basis; and

 

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(t)            extensions, renewals or refundings of any Liens referred to in clauses (a) through (q) above; provided that (i) any such extension, renewal or refunding does not extend to any assets or secure any Indebtedness not securing or secured by the Liens being extended, renewed or refinanced and (ii) any extension, renewal or refunding of a Lien originally incurred pursuant to clause (c) above shall not secure Indebtedness in an amount greater than the Maximum Secured Amount at the time of such extension, renewal or refunding.

 

“Preferred Equity Interest,” in any person, means an Equity Interest of any class or classes (however designated) which is preferred as to the payment of dividends or distributions, or as to the distribution of assets upon any voluntary or involuntary liquidation or dissolution of such person, over Equity Interests of any other class in such person.

 

“Principal” means Charles W. Ergen.

 

“Purchase Money Indebtedness” means (i) Indebtedness of us or any Guarantor incurred (within 365 days of such purchase) to finance the purchase of any assets (including the purchase of Equity Interests of persons that are not our Affiliates or Guarantors): (a) to the extent the amount of Indebtedness thereunder does not exceed 100% of the purchase cost of such assets; and (b) to the extent that no more than $50 million of such Indebtedness at any one time outstanding is recourse to us or any of our Restricted Subsidiaries or any of their respective assets, other than the assets so purchased; and (ii) Indebtedness of us or any Guarantor which refinances Indebtedness referred to in clause (i) of this definition; provided that such refinancing satisfies subclauses (a) and (b) of such clause (i).

 

“Rating Agency” or “Rating Agencies” means:

 

(a)          S&P;

 

(b)         Moody’s; or

 

(c)          if S&P or Moody’s or both shall not make a rating of the Notes publicly available, a nationally recognized securities rating agency or agencies, as the case may be, selected by the Issuer, which shall be substituted for S&P or Moody’s or both, as the case may be.

 

“Rating Decline” means the occurrence on any date from and after the date of the public notice by us or another person seeking to effect a Change of Control of an arrangement that, in our good faith judgment, is expected to result in a Change of Control until the end of the 60 day period following public notice of the occurrence of a Change of Control or abandonment of the expected Change of Control transaction (which period shall be extended so long as the rating of the Notes is under publicly announced consideration for possible downgrade by any Rating Agency) of a decline in the rating of the Notes by either Rating Agency by at least one notch in the gradation of the rating scale (e.g., + or — for S&P or 1, 2 and 3 for Moody’s) from such Rating Agency’s rating of the Notes.

 

“Receivables Trust” means a trust organized solely for the purpose of securitizing the accounts receivable held by the Accounts Receivable Subsidiary that:

 

(a)          shall not engage in any business other than (i) the purchase of accounts receivable or participation interests therein from the Accounts Receivable Subsidiary and the servicing thereof, (ii) the issuance of and distribution of payments with respect to the securities permitted to be issued under clause (b) below and (iii) other activities incidental to the foregoing;

 

(b)         shall not at any time incur Indebtedness or issue any securities, except (i) certificates representing undivided interests in the trust issued to the Accounts Receivable Subsidiary and (ii) debt securities issued in an arm’s length transaction for consideration solely in the form of cash and Cash Equivalents, all of which (net of any issuance fees and expenses) shall promptly be paid to the Accounts Receivable Subsidiary; and

 

(c)          shall distribute to the Accounts Receivable Subsidiary as a distribution on the Accounts Receivable Subsidiary’s beneficial interest in the trust no less frequently than once every six months all available cash and Cash Equivalents held by it, to the extent not required for reasonable operating expenses or reserves therefor or to service any securities issued pursuant to clause (b) above that are not held by the Accounts Receivable Subsidiary.

 

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“Related Party” means, with respect to the Principal, (a) the spouse and each immediate family member of the Principal and (b) each trust, corporation, partnership or other entity of which the Principal beneficially holds an 80% or more controlling interest.

 

“Restricted Investment” means an Investment other than Permitted Investments.

 

“Restricted Subsidiary” or “Restricted Subsidiaries” means any corporation, association or other business entity of which more than 50% of the total voting power of shares of Capital Stock entitled (without regard to the occurrence of any contingency) to vote in the election of directors, managers or trustees thereof is at the time owned or controlled, directly or indirectly, by us or one or more Subsidiaries of us or a combination thereof, other than Unrestricted Subsidiaries.

 

“S&P” means Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services, a division of The McGraw Hill Companies, Inc.

 

“Satellite Receiver” means any satellite receiver capable of receiving programming from the DISH Network®.

 

“Significant Subsidiary” means any Subsidiary that would be a “significant subsidiary” as defined in Article 1, Rule 1-02 of Regulation S-X promulgated pursuant to the Securities Act, as such regulation as in effect on the date of the Indenture.

 

“Subsidiary” or “Subsidiaries” means, with respect to any person, any corporation, association or other business entity of which more than 50% of the total voting power of shares of Capital Stock entitled (without regard to the occurrence of any contingency) to vote in the election of directors, managers or trustees thereof is at the time owned or controlled, directly or indirectly, by such person or one or more of the other Subsidiaries of such person or a combination thereof.

 

“Trailing Cash Flow Amount” means our Consolidated Cash Flow during the most recent four fiscal quarters for which financial statements are available; provided that if we or any of our Restricted Subsidiaries consummates a merger, acquisition or other business combination or an Asset Sale or other disposition of assets subsequent to the commencement of such period but prior to or contemporaneously with the event for which the calculation of Trailing Cash Flow Amount is made, then Trailing Cash Flow Amount shall be calculated giving pro forma effect to such material acquisition or Asset Sale or other disposition of assets, as if the same had occurred at the beginning of the applicable period.

 

“TT&C” means telemetry, tracking and control.

 

“2003 DDBS Notes” means the $1,000,000,000 aggregate principal amount of 63/8% Senior Notes due 2011.

 

“2003 DDBS Notes Indenture” means the indenture, dated as of October 2, 2003 between the Company and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee, as the same may be amended, modified or supplemented from time to time.

 

“2004 DDBS Notes” means the $1,000,000,000 aggregate principal original issue amount of 65/8% Senior Notes due 2014 issued by the Company.

 

“2004 DDBS Notes Indenture” means the indenture dated as of October 1, 2004 between the Company and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee, as the same may be amended, modified or supplemented from time to time.

 

“2006 DDBS Notes” means the $1,500,000,000 aggregate principal original issue amount of 71/8% Senior Notes due 2016 and the $500,000,000 aggregate principal original issue amount of 7% Senior Notes due 2013.

 

“2006 DDBS Notes Indentures” means the indentures dated as of February 2, 2006 and October 18, 2006 between the Company and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee, as the same may be amended, modified or supplemented from time to time.

 

“2008 DDBS Notes” means the $750,000,000 aggregate principal original issue amount of 7.75% Senior Notes due 2015 issued by the Company.

 

“2008 DDBS Notes Indenture” means the indenture dated as of May 27, 2008 between the Company and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee, as the same may be amended, modified or supplemented from time to time.

 

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“2009 DDBS Notes” means the $1,400 million aggregate principal original issue amount of 7.875% Senior Notes due 2019 issued by the Company.

 

“2009 DDBS Notes Indenture” means the indenture dated as of August 17, 2009 between the Company and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee, as the same may be amended, modified or supplemented from time to time.

 

“Unrestricted Subsidiary” or “Unrestricted Subsidiaries” means: (A) Wright Travel Corporation, DISH Real Estate Corporation V, WS Acquisition L.L.C. and Echosphere De Mexico S. De R.L. De C.V.; and (B) any Subsidiary of us designated as an Unrestricted Subsidiary in a resolution of our Board of Directors:

 

(a)          no portion of the Indebtedness or any other obligation (contingent or otherwise) of which, immediately after such designation: (i) is guaranteed by us or any other Subsidiary of us (other than another Unrestricted Subsidiary); (ii) is recourse to or obligates us or any other Subsidiary of us (other than another Unrestricted Subsidiary) in any way; or (iii) subjects any property or asset of us or any other Subsidiary of us (other than another Unrestricted Subsidiary), directly or indirectly, contingently or otherwise, to satisfaction thereof;

 

(b)         with which neither we nor any other Subsidiary of us (other than another Unrestricted Subsidiary) has any contract, agreement, arrangement, understanding or is subject to an obligation of any kind, written or oral, other than on terms no less favorable to us or such other Subsidiary than those that might be obtained at the time from persons who are not our Affiliates; and

 

(c)          with which neither we nor any other Subsidiary of us (other than another Unrestricted Subsidiary) has any obligation: (i) to subscribe for additional shares of Capital Stock or other equity interests therein; or (ii) to maintain or preserve such Subsidiary’s financial condition or to cause such Subsidiary to achieve certain levels of operating results;

 

provided, however, that neither DNLLC nor Echosphere L.L.C. may be designated as an Unrestricted Subsidiary. If at any time after the date of the Indenture we designate an additional Subsidiary (other than ETC or a Subsidiary that constitutes a Non-Core Asset) as an Unrestricted Subsidiary, we will be deemed to have made a Restricted Investment in an amount equal to the fair market value (as determined in good faith by our Board of Directors evidenced by a resolution of our Board of Directors and set forth in an officers’ certificate delivered to the Trustee no later than ten business days following a request from the Trustee, which certificate shall cover the six months preceding the date of the request) of such Subsidiary and to have incurred all Indebtedness of such Unrestricted Subsidiary. An Unrestricted Subsidiary may be designated as a Restricted Subsidiary of us if, at the time of such designation after giving pro forma effect thereto, no Default or Event of Default shall have occurred or be continuing.

 

“Weighted Average Life To Maturity” means, when applied to any Indebtedness at any date, the number of years obtained by dividing (a) the then outstanding principal amount of such Indebtedness into (b) the total of the product obtained by multiplying (i) the amount of each then remaining installment, sinking fund, serial maturity or other required payments of principal, including payment at final maturity, in respect thereof, by (ii) the number of years (calculated to the nearest one-twelfth) that will elapse between such date and the making of such payment.

 

“Wholly Owned Restricted Subsidiary” means a Wholly Owned Subsidiary of us that is a Restricted Subsidiary.

 

“Wholly Owned Subsidiary” means, with respect to any person, any Subsidiary all of the outstanding voting stock (other than directors’ qualifying shares) of which is owned by such person, directly or indirectly.

 

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CAPITALIZATION

 

The following table presents our cash, cash equivalents and marketable investment securities plus consolidated capitalization as of June 30, 2011: (i) on an actual basis and (ii) as adjusted for the payment of the $700 million dividend to our direct parent, DISH Orbital Corporation, on August 10, 2011. This table is derived from and should be read in conjunction with our unaudited consolidated financial statements which are included as part of this prospectus.

 

 

 

As of June 30, 2011

 

 

 

Actual

 

As Adjusted
for the August 10, 2011
Dividend

 

 

 

(Unaudited)
(in millions)

 

Cash, cash equivalents and marketable investment securities

 

$

3,331

 

$

2,631

 

Debt

 

 

 

 

 

63/8% Senior Notes due 2011

 

$

1,000

 

$

1,000

 

7% Senior Notes due 2013

 

500

 

500

 

65/8% Senior Notes due 2014

 

1,000

 

1,000

 

73/4% Senior Notes due 2015

 

750

 

750

 

71/8% Senior Notes due 2016

 

1,500

 

1,500

 

77/8% Senior Notes due 2019

 

1,400

 

1,400

 

63/4% Senior Notes due 2021

 

2,000

 

2,000

 

Capital lease obligations, mortgages and other notes payable, including current portion

 

351

 

351

 

Total debt

 

8,501

 

8,501

 

Total stockholder’s equity (deficit)

 

(3,522

)

(4,222

)

Total capitalization

 

$

4,979

 

$

4,279

 

 

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DESCRIPTION OF MATERIAL INDEBTEDNESS

 

The Notes offered hereby will be issued under an indenture, dated as of May 5, 2011, pursuant to which we issued $2,000,000,000 in aggregate principal amount of our 6.75% Senior Notes due 2021, or the old notes.  Our other outstanding debt securities as of June 30, 2011 (which, along with the old notes, are summarized in the table below) are governed by indentures that are similar in certain respects to the indenture that governs the Notes.  However, these other existing indentures also contain provisions that are different from those that are contained in the indenture that governs the Notes including, but not limited to, those in respect of maturity, interest rates, redemption prices and periods during which we may exercise our options to redeem the notes issued thereunder, as well as in respect of the scope and content of many of the restrictive covenants contained therein. The existing notes described below are guaranteed on a senior basis by our principal operating subsidiaries. Copies of these existing indentures may be obtained from DISH’s filings with the SEC that are available to the public on the SEC’s Internet website at http://www.sec.gov and from us. See “Where You Can Find More Information” above.

 

Series

 

Principal amount
(as of June 30,
2011
)

 

Redeemable Beginning

 

Maturity

 

 

 

(dollars in millions)

 

 

 

 

 

63/8% Senior Notes due 2011

 

$

1,000

 

At any time on payment of “make-whole” premium

 

October 1, 2011

 

7% Senior Notes due 2013

 

$

500

 

At any time on payment of “make-whole” premium

 

October 1, 2013

 

65/8% Senior Notes due 2014

 

$

1,000

 

At any time on payment of “make-whole” premium

 

October 1, 2014

 

73/4% Senior Notes due 2015

 

$

750

 

At any time on payment of “make-whole” premium

 

May 31, 2015

 

71/8% Senior Notes due 2016

 

$

1,500

 

At any time on payment of “make-whole” premium

 

February 1, 2016

 

77/8% Senior Notes due 2019

 

$

1,400

 

At any time on payment of “make-whole” premium

 

September 1, 2019

 

63/4% Senior Notes due 2021

 

$

2,000

 

At any time on payment of “make-whole” premium

 

June 1, 2021

 

 

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REGISTRATION RIGHTS

 

We are making the exchange offer to comply with our obligations under the registration rights agreement to register the exchange of the Notes for the old notes.  In the registration rights agreement, we also agreed under certain circumstances, described below, to file a shelf registration statement to register the resale of certain old notes and Notes.  The following summary of the registration rights that are provided in the registration rights agreement and the Notes is not complete.  You should refer to the registration rights agreement and the Notes for a full description of the registration rights that apply to the Notes.

 

We and the initial purchasers entered into the registration rights agreement on May 5, 2011.  In the registration rights agreement relating to the Notes, we agreed to file the exchange offer registration statement relating to the Notes with the SEC within 180 days of the closing date of the initial sale of the Notes to the initial purchasers, and use our reasonable best efforts to have it then declared effective within 270 days of the closing date.  We also agreed to use our reasonable best efforts to cause that exchange offer registration statement to be effective continuously, to keep the exchange offer open for a period of not less than 20 business days and cause the exchange offer to be consummated no later than the 315th day after that closing date.  Pursuant to the exchange offer, certain holders of old notes that constitute “transfer restricted securities” will be allowed to exchange their transfer restricted securities for registered Notes.

 

If (i) we determine, after consultation with counsel, either (x) that an exchange offer is not permitted by applicable law or SEC policy or (y) that an exchange offer is not effective to make the Notes freely tradeable to the extent contemplated by the registration rights agreement under applicable law or SEC policy or (ii) any holder of the old notes that are transfer restricted securities notifies us prior to the consummation of such exchange offer that (a) it is prohibited by law or policy of the SEC from participating in the exchange offer; (b) it may not resell the Notes acquired by it in the exchange offer to the public without delivering a prospectus, and the prospectus contained in the exchange offer registration statement is not appropriate or available for such resales by it, other than by reason of such holder being an affiliate of the Company; or (c) it is a broker-dealer and holds the old notes acquired directly from us or any of our affiliates, we will file with the SEC a shelf registration statement to register for public resale the transfer restricted securities held by any such holder who provides us with certain information for inclusion in the shelf registration statement.

 

For purposes of the registration rights agreement, “transfer restricted securities” means each old note until the earliest on the date of which (i) such old note is exchanged in the exchange offer and is entitled to be resold to the public by the holder thereof without complying with the prospectus delivery requirements of the Securities Act, (ii) such old note has been disposed of in accordance with the shelf registration statement, (iii) such old note is disposed of by a broker-dealer pursuant to the “Plan of Distribution” contemplated by the exchange offer registration statement (including delivery of the prospectus contained therein), or (iv) such old note may be sold to the public in accordance with Rule 144 under the Securities Act by a person that is not an “affiliate” (as defined in Rule 144 under the Securities Act) of us where no conditions of Rule 144 are then applicable (other than the holding period requirement in paragraph (d)(1)(ii) of Rule 144 so long as such holding period requirement is satisfied at such time of determination).

 

The registration rights agreement provides that the following events will constitute a “registration default”:

 

·                  if we fail to file an exchange offer registration statement with the SEC on or prior to the 180th day after the closing date of the initial sale of the Notes to the initial purchasers (i.e., by November 1, 2011);

 

·                  if the exchange offer registration statement is not declared effective by the SEC on or prior to the 270th day after that closing date (i.e., by January 30, 2012);

 

·                  if the exchange offer is not consummated on or before the 315th day after that closing date (i.e., by March 15, 2012);

 

·                  if obligated to file the shelf registration statement and we fail to file the shelf registration statement with the SEC on or prior to the later of (i) the 180th day after the closing date or (ii) the 90th day after such filing obligation arises (such later date, the “Filing Deadline”);

 

·                  if obligated to file a shelf registration statement and the shelf registration statement is not declared effective on or prior to the 270th day after the Filing Deadline; or

 

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·                  except in certain circumstances, if the exchange offer registration statement or the shelf registration statement, as the case may be, is declared effective but thereafter (and before the second anniversary of the initial sale of the old notes) ceases to be effective or useable in connection with resales of the transfer restricted securities, for such time of non-effectiveness or non-usability.

 

If there is a registration default, then we will pay to each holder of transfer restricted securities affected thereby additional interest in an amount equal to $0.05 per week per $1,000 in principal amount of transfer restricted securities held by such holder for each week or portion thereof that the registration default continues for the first 90-day period immediately following the occurrence of that registration default. The amount of the additional interest shall increase by an additional $0.05 per week per $1,000 in principal amount of transfer restricted securities with respect to each subsequent 90-day period until all registration defaults have been cured or until the transfer restricted securities become freely tradable without registration under the Securities Act, up to a maximum amount of additional interest of $0.25 per week per $1,000 in principal amount of transfer restricted securities. We shall not be required to pay additional interest for more than one of these registration defaults at any given time. Following the cure of all of these registration defaults, the accrual of additional interest will cease.

 

We will pay all accrued additional interest to holders entitled thereto by wire transfer to the accounts specified by them or by mailing checks to their registered address if no such accounts have been specified.

 

Holders of old notes are required to make certain representations to us, as described elsewhere in this prospectus, in order to participate in the exchange offer and are required to deliver information to be used in connection with the shelf registration statement and to provide comments on the shelf registration statement within the time periods set forth in the registration rights agreement in order to have their old notes included in the shelf registration statement and benefit from the provisions regarding additional interest set forth above.

 

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CERTAIN UNITED STATES FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSIDERATIONS

 

United States Internal Revenue Service Circular 230 Notice: To ensure compliance with Internal Revenue Service Circular 230, prospective investors are hereby notified that:  (a) any discussion of United States federal tax issues contained or referred to in this prospectus or any document referred to herein is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used by prospective investors for the purpose of avoiding penalties that may be imposed on them under the U.S. Internal Revenue Code; (b) such discussion is written for use in connection with the promotion or marketing of the transactions or matters addressed herein; and (c) prospective investors should seek advice based on their particular circumstances from an independent tax advisor.

 

The following discussion summarizes certain United States federal income tax considerations that may be relevant to the acquisition, ownership and disposition of the Notes, but does not purport to be a complete analysis of all the potential tax considerations relating thereto. For purposes of this discussion, references to “Notes” include old notes while references to “Exchange Notes” include all Notes except for old notes.  This summary deals only with holders that will hold the Notes as capital assets and does not address tax considerations applicable to investors that may be subject to special tax rules such as dealers in securities, traders in securities that elect to use a mark-to-market method of accounting for their securities holdings, financial institutions, life insurance companies, tax-exempt entities, persons holding the Notes as part of a hedging or conversion transaction, a straddle or a constructive sale, United States Holders whose functional currency is not the United States dollar, and holders of Notes that did not acquire the Notes in the initial distribution thereof at their original issue price. In addition, this discussion does not consider the effect of any estate, gift or other tax laws.

 

As used in this summary:

 

A “United States Holder” means a beneficial owner of the Notes, who or that:

 

·                  is a citizen or resident of the United States;

 

·                  is a domestic corporation;

 

·                  is an estate the income of which is subject to United States federal income taxation regardless of its source; or

 

·                  is a trust if a United States court is able to exercise primary supervision over the administration of the trust and one or more United States persons have authority to control all substantial decisions of the trust; or a trust that was in existence on August 20, 1996, and on August 19, 1996 was treated as a domestic trust and has elected to be treated as a U.S. person.

 

A “Foreign Holder” is a beneficial owner of the Notes who or that:

 

·                  is a non-resident alien individual;

 

·                  is a foreign corporation; or

 

·                  is an estate or trust that, in either case, is not subject to United States federal income tax on a net income basis on income or gain from a Note.

 

“Code” means the United States Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended to date.

 

“IRS” means the United States Internal Revenue Service.

 

For United States federal income tax purposes, income earned through a foreign or domestic partnership or other flow-through entity is attributed to its owners. Accordingly, if a partnership or other flow-through entity holds Notes, the United States federal income tax treatment of a partner in the partnership or owner of an equity interest in the flow-through entity will generally depend on the status of the partner or owner and the activities of the partnership or other flow-through entity.  A partner in a partnership holding the Notes should consult its tax advisor with regard to the United States federal income tax treatment of an investment in the Notes.

 

Special rules may apply to certain Foreign Holders, such as “controlled foreign corporations,” “passive foreign investment companies” and “foreign personal holding companies,” that are subject to special treatment under the Code. Such entities

 

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should consult their own tax advisors to determine the United States federal, state, local and other tax consequences that may be relevant to them or their shareholders.

 

THE DISCUSSION OF THE UNITED STATES FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSIDERATIONS BELOW IS BASED ON CURRENTLY EXISTING PROVISIONS OF THE CODE, THE APPLICABLE TREASURY REGULATIONS PROMULGATED AND PROPOSED UNDER THE CODE, JUDICIAL DECISIONS, AND ADMINISTRATIVE INTERPRETATIONS, ALL OF WHICH ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE, POSSIBLY ON A RETROACTIVE BASIS. BECAUSE INDIVIDUAL CIRCUMSTANCES MAY DIFFER EACH HOLDER IS STRONGLY URGED TO CONSULT ITS TAX ADVISOR WITH RESPECT TO ITS PARTICULAR TAX SITUATION AND THE PARTICULAR TAX EFFECTS OF ANY STATE, LOCAL, FOREIGN OR OTHER TAX LAWS AND POSSIBLE CHANGES IN THE TAX LAWS.

 

Exchange Offer

 

If a Holder exchanges an old note for an Exchange Note in the exchange offer, the exchange should not be a taxable transaction for United States federal income tax purposes.  Accordingly, Holders should not recognize any gain or loss when they receive the Exchange Note, and should be required to continue to include interest on the Exchange Note in gross income as described below.  Further, the Exchange Notes should have the same issue price as the old notes immediately before the exchange, and a Holder’s adjusted tax basis and holding period in the Exchange Notes should be equal to the adjusted tax basis and holding period that the Holder had in the old note immediately before the exchange.

 

United States Holders

 

Stated Interest. A United States Holder will be required to include in gross income the stated interest on an Exchange Note at the time that such interest accrues or is received, in accordance with the United States Holder’s regular method of accounting for federal income tax purposes.

 

Sale, Exchange or Redemption of the Notes. A United States Holder’s tax basis in a Note will generally be its cost. Except as provided under “Exchange Offer,” a United States Holder generally will recognize gain or loss on the sale, exchange or retirement (including a redemption by us) of a Note in an amount equal to the difference between the amount of cash plus the fair market value of any property received (except to the extent attributable to accrued interest which is taxable as ordinary income), and the United States Holder’s tax basis in the Note. Gain or loss recognized on the sale, exchange or retirement of a Note generally will be a capital gain or loss. Capital gain of a non-corporate United States Holder is generally taxed at preferential rates where the property is held more than one year. The deductibility of capital losses is subject to certain limitations.

 

Change of Control Event. Following the occurrence of a Change in Control Event, holders of the Notes will have the right, subject to certain conditions, to require us to repurchase their Notes at a price equal to 101% of the aggregate principal amount of Notes repurchased plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of repurchase. See “Description of the Notes — Change of Control Offer.”  However, under applicable U.S. Treasury regulations, the possibility of one or more contingent payments on the Notes may be disregarded for the purposes of determining whether the Notes provide for one or more contingent payments for United States federal income tax purposes if on the date the Notes are issued the possibility of such contingent payments occurring is incidental or remote. We intend to treat the possibility  that a Change of Control Event will occur as a remote or incidental contingency, and therefore we believe that any additional interest that is payable upon the repurchase of the Notes following a Change of Control Event should be taxable to United States Holders only at the time the interest accrues or is received in accordance with each such holder’s method of accounting.

 

Our determination that there is a remote likelihood of the occurrence of a Change of Control Event is binding on each United States Holder unless the holder explicitly discloses in the manner required by applicable United States Treasury regulations that its determination is different from ours. Our determination is not, however, binding on the IRS.

 

Medicare Tax.  For taxable years beginning after December 31, 2012, a United States person that is an individual or estate, or a certain type of trust, will be subject to a 3.8% tax (the “Medicare tax”) on the lesser of (1) the United States person’s “net investment income” for the relevant taxable year and (2) the excess of the United States person’s modified adjusted gross income for the taxable year over a certain threshold (which in the case of individuals will be between $125,000 and $250,000, depending on the individual’s circumstances). A holder’s net investment income will generally include its interest income and its net gains from the disposition of debt securities, unless such interest income or net gains are derived in the ordinary course of the conduct of a trade or business (other than a trade or business that consists of certain passive or trading activities). United

 

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States Holders that are individuals, estates or trusts are urged to consult their tax advisors regarding the applicability of the Medicare tax to their income and gains in respect of their investment in the Notes.

 

Foreign Holders

 

Stated Interest. Payments of interest on a Note to a Foreign Holder will not be subject to United States federal withholding tax provided that:

 

·                  the holder does not actually or constructively own 10% or more of the total combined voting power of all classes of our stock entitled to vote;

 

·                  the holder is not a controlled foreign corporation that is related to us, actually or by attribution, through stock ownership;

 

·                  the holder is not a bank receiving interest pursuant to a loan agreement entered into in the ordinary course of its trade or business;

 

·                  the interest is not effectively connected with the conduct by the Foreign Holder of a trade or business in the United States; and

 

·                  the U.S. payor does not have actual knowledge or reason to know that the holder is a United States person and:

 

1.               the holder has furnished to the U.S. payor an IRS Form W-8BEN or an acceptable substitute form upon which the holder certifies, under penalties of perjury, that it is a non-United States person,

 

2.               in the case of payments made outside the United States to a holder at an offshore account (generally, an account maintained by the holder at a bank or other financial institution at any location outside the United States), the holder has furnished to the U.S. payor documentation that establishes a holder’s identity and the holder’s status as a non-United States person,

 

3.               the U.S. payor has received a withholding certificate (furnished on an appropriate IRS Form W-8 or an acceptable substitute form) from a person claiming to be:

 

·                  a withholding foreign partnership (generally a foreign partnership that has entered into an agreement with the IRS to assume primary withholding responsibility with respect to distributions and guaranteed payments it makes to its partners),

 

·                  a qualified intermediary (generally a non-United States financial institution or clearing organization or a non-United States branch or office of a United States financial institution or clearing organization that is a party to a withholding agreement with the IRS), or

 

·                  a U.S. branch of a non-United States bank or of a non-United States insurance company,

 

and the withholding foreign partnership, qualified intermediary or U.S. branch has received documentation upon which it may rely to treat the payment as made to a non-United States person that is, for United States federal income tax purposes, the beneficial owner of the payment on the Notes in accordance with United States Treasury regulations (or, in the case of a qualified intermediary, in accordance with its agreement with the IRS),

 

4.               the U.S. payor receives a statement from a securities clearing organization, bank or other financial institution that holds customers’ securities in the ordinary course of its trade or business,

 

·                  certifying to the U.S. payor under penalties of perjury that an IRS Form W-8BEN or an acceptable substitute form has been received from the holder by it or by a similar financial institution between it and the holder, and

 

·                  to which is attached a copy of the IRS Form W-8BEN or acceptable substitute form, or

 

5.               the U.S. payor otherwise possesses documentation upon which it may rely to treat the payment as made to a non-

 

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United States person that is, for United States federal income tax purposes, the beneficial owner of the payment on the Notes in accordance with United States Treasury regulations.

 

For purposes of this summary, we refer to this exemption from United States federal withholding tax as the “Portfolio Interest Exemption.”

 

The gross amount of payments to a Foreign Holder of interest that does not qualify for the Portfolio Interest Exemption and that is not effectively connected to a United States trade or business will be subject to United States federal withholding tax at the rate of 30%, unless a United States income tax treaty applies to reduce or eliminate withholding.

 

A Foreign Holder will generally be subject to tax in the same manner as a United States Holder with respect to payments of interest if such payments are effectively connected with the conduct of a trade or business by the Foreign Holder in the United States and, if an applicable tax treaty so provides, such gain is attributable to a United States permanent establishment maintained by the Foreign Holder. Such effectively connected income received by a Foreign Holder that is a corporation may in certain circumstances be subject to an additional “branch profits tax” at a 30% rate or, if applicable, a lower treaty rate.

 

To claim the benefit of a lower treaty rate or to claim exemption from withholding because the income is effectively connected with a United States trade or business, the Foreign Holder must provide a properly executed IRS Form W-8BEN or Form W-8ECI (or a suitable substitute form), as applicable, prior to the payment of interest. Such certificate must contain, among other information, the name and address of the Foreign Holder.

 

Foreign Holders should consult their own tax advisors regarding applicable income tax treaties, which may provide different rules.

 

Sale, Exchange or Redemption of the Notes. A Foreign Holder generally will not be subject to United States federal income tax or withholding tax on gain realized on the sale or exchange of Notes for cash unless:

 

·                  the Foreign Holder is an individual who was present in the United States for 183 days or more in the taxable year of the sale and certain other conditions are met, or

 

·                  the gain is effectively connected with the conduct of a trade or business of the Foreign Holder in the United States and, if an applicable tax treaty so provides, such gain is attributable to a United States permanent establishment maintained by such holder.

 

If a Foreign Holder is a corporation, gain realized by that holder that is effectively connected with the conduct of a trade or business by the holder in the United States may be subject to an additional “branch profits tax” at a 30% rate or, if applicable, a lower treaty rate.

 

Information Reporting and Backup Withholding

 

Certain United States Holders may be subject to information reporting requirements on payments of principal and interest on a Note and payments of the proceeds of the sale of a Note, and backup withholding tax (currently imposed at a rate of 28%) may apply to such payment if the United States Holder:

 

·                  fails to furnish an accurate taxpayer identification number to the payor in the manner required,

 

·                  is notified by the IRS that he has failed to report payments of interest or dividends properly, or

 

·                  under certain circumstances, fails to comply with certain certification requirements.

 

Information reporting requirements will apply to payments of interest to Foreign Holders where such interest is subject to withholding or exempt from United States withholding tax pursuant to a tax treaty, or where such interest is exempt from United States tax under the Portfolio Interest Exemption discussed above. Copies of these information returns may also be made available under the provisions of a specific treaty or agreement to the tax authorities of the country in which the Foreign Holder resides.

 

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Backup withholding (currently imposed at a rate of 28%) and information reporting will not apply to payments of principal on the Notes by us to a Foreign Holder if the Foreign Holder certifies as to its status as a Foreign Holder under penalties of perjury or otherwise establishes an exemption (provided that neither we nor our paying agent has actual knowledge or reason to know that the Foreign Holder is a United States person or that the conditions of any other exemption are not, in fact, satisfied).

 

Payment of the proceeds from the disposition of Notes to or through the United States office of a broker will be subject to information reporting and possible backup withholding unless the owner certifies as to its non-United States status under penalty of perjury or otherwise establishes an exemption, provided that the broker does not have actual knowledge or reason to know that the Foreign Holder is a United States person or that the conditions of any other exemption are not, in fact, satisfied.

 

Payment of the proceeds from the disposition of a Note to or through a non-United States office of a non-United States broker that is not a United States related person generally will not be subject to information reporting or backup withholding. For this purpose, a “United States related person” is:

 

·                  a “controlled foreign corporation” for United States federal income tax purposes; or

 

·                  a foreign person 50% or more of whose gross income from all sources for the three-year period ending with the close of its taxable year preceding the payment, or for such part of the period that the broker has been in existence, is derived from activities that are effectively connected with the conduct of a United States trade or business; or

 

·                  a foreign partnership, if at any time during its tax year:

 

1.               one or more of its partners are “U.S. persons,” as defined in United States treasury regulations, who in the aggregate hold more than 50% of the income or capital interest in the partnership, or

 

2.               such foreign partnership is engaged in the conduct of a United States trade or business.

 

In the case of the payment of proceeds from the disposition of Notes to or through a non-United States office of a broker that is either a United States person or a United States related person, the payments may be subject to information reporting unless the broker has documentary evidence in its files that the owner is a Foreign Holder and the broker has no actual knowledge or reason to know to the contrary. Backup withholding will apply if the sale is subject to information reporting and the broker has actual knowledge that a holder is a United States person.

 

Any amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules will be allowed as a refund or a credit against such Holder’s United States federal income tax liability provided certain required information is furnished to the IRS.

 

Holders of the Notes should consult their tax advisors regarding the application of the information and reporting and backup withholding rules, including such treasury regulations.

 

THE ABOVE SUMMARY DOES NOT DISCUSS ALL ASPECTS OF UNITED STATES FEDERAL INCOME TAXATION THAT MAY BE RELEVANT TO A PARTICULAR HOLDER OF NOTES IN LIGHT OF HIS, HER OR ITS PARTICULAR CIRCUMSTANCES AND INCOME TAX SITUATION. EACH HOLDER OF NOTES SHOULD CONSULT HIS, HER OR ITS TAX ADVISOR AS TO THE SPECIFIC TAX CONSEQUENCES TO THE HOLDER OF THE OWNERSHIP AND DISPOSITION OF THE NOTES INCLUDING THE APPLICATION AND EFFECT OF STATE, LOCAL, FOREIGN AND OTHER TAX LAWS, OR SUBSEQUENT REVISIONS OF THESE TAX LAWS.

 

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BENEFIT PLAN INVESTOR CONSIDERATIONS

 

A fiduciary of a pension, profit-sharing or other employee benefit plan subject to the U.S. Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended (“ERISA”) (each, a “Plan”), should consider the fiduciary standards of ERISA in the context of the Plan’s particular circumstances before authorizing an investment in the Notes. Among other factors, the fiduciary should consider whether the investment would satisfy the prudence and diversification requirements of ERISA and would be consistent with the documents and instruments governing the Plan, and whether the investment would involve a prohibited transaction under ERISA or the U.S. Internal Revenue Code (the “Code”).

 

Section 406 of ERISA and Section 4975 of the Code prohibit Plans, as well as individual retirement accounts, Keogh plans any other plans that are subject to Section 4975 of the Code (also “Plans”), from engaging in certain transactions involving “plan assets” with persons who are “parties in interest” under ERISA or “disqualified persons” under the Code with respect to the Plan. A violation of these prohibited transaction rules may result in excise tax or other liabilities under ERISA or the Code for those persons, unless exemptive relief is available under an applicable statutory, regulatory or administrative exemption. Employee benefit plans that are governmental plans (as defined in Section 3(32) of ERISA), certain church plans (as defined in Section 3(33) of ERISA) and non-U.S. plans (as described in Section 4(b)(4) of ERISA) (“Non-ERISA Arrangements”) are not subject to the requirements of  Section 406 of ERISA or Section 4975 of the Code but may be subject to similar provisions under applicable federal, state, local, non-U.S or other laws (“Similar Laws”).

 

The acquisition and holding of the Notes by a Plan or any entity whose underlying assets include “plan assets” by reason of any Plan’s investment in the entity (a “Plan Asset Entity”) with respect to which the Issuer, the Guarantor, the Calculation Agent, the Registrar and Paying Agent or a Manager or any of their respective affiliates is or becomes a party in interest or disqualified person may result in a prohibited transaction under ERISA or Section 4975 of the Code, unless the Notes are acquired and held pursuant to an applicable exemption. The U.S. Department of Labor has issued five prohibited transaction class exemptions, or “PTCEs”, that may provide exemptive relief if required for direct or indirect prohibited transactions that may arise from the purchase or holding of the Notes. These exemptions are PTCE 84-14 (for certain transactions determined by independent qualified professional asset managers), PTCE 90-1 (for certain transactions involving insurance company pooled separate accounts), PTCE 91-38 (for certain transactions involving bank collective investment funds), PTCE 95-60 (for transactions involving certain insurance company general accounts), and PTCE 96-23 (for transactions managed by in-house asset managers). In addition, ERISA Section 408(b)(17) and Section 4975(d)(20) of the Code provide an exemption for the purchase and sale of the Notes, provided that neither the issuer of the Notes nor any of its affiliates have or exercise any discretionary authority or control or render any investment advice with respect to the assets of any Plan involved in the transaction, and provided further that the Plan pays no more and receives no less than “adequate consideration” in connection with the transaction (the “service provider exemption”).  There can be no assurance that all of the conditions of any such exemptions will be satisfied.

 

Any purchaser or holder of the Notes or any interest therein will be deemed to have represented by its purchase and holding of the Notes or any interest therein that it either (1) is not a Plan, a Plan Asset Entity or a Non-ERISA Arrangement and is not purchasing the Notes on behalf of or with the assets of any Plan, a Plan Asset Entity or Non-ERISA Arrangement or (2) the purchase and holding of the lthe Notes will not constitute a non-exempt prohibited transaction under ERISA or the Code or a similar violation under any applicable Similar Laws.

 

Due to the complexity of these rules and the penalties that may be imposed upon persons involved in non-exempt prohibited transactions, it is important that fiduciaries or other persons considering purchasing the Notes on behalf of or with the assets of any Plan, a Plan Asset Entity or Non-ERISA Arrangement consult with their counsel regarding the availability of exemptive relief under any of the PTCEs listed above, the service provider exemption or the potential consequences of any purchase or holding under Similar Laws, as applicable. Purchasers of the Notes have exclusive responsibility for ensuring that their purchase and holding of the Notes do not violate the fiduciary or prohibited transaction rules of ERISA or the Code or any similar provisions of Similar Laws. The sale of any Notes to a Plan, Plan Asset Entity or Non-ERISA Arrangement is in no respect a representation by us or any of our affiliates or representatives that such an investment meets all relevant legal requirements with respect to investments by any such Plans, Plan Asset Entities or Non-ERISA Arrangements generally or any particular Plan, Plan Asset Entity or Non-ERISA Arrangement or that such investment is appropriate for such Plans, Plan Asset Entities or Non-ERISA Arrangements generally or any particular Plan, Plan Asset Entity or Non-ERISA Arrangement.

 

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BOOK-ENTRY, DELIVERY AND FORM

 

We will issue the Notes sold in the form of one or more global Notes.  The global Notes will be deposited with, or on behalf of, the clearing agency registered under the Exchange Act that is designated to act as depositary for the Notes and registered in the name of the depositary or its nominee.  The DTC will be the initial depositary.

 

Investors may hold their interests in a global Note directly through DTC if they are DTC participants, or indirectly through organizations that are DTC participants.

 

Except as set forth below, the global Notes may be transferred, in whole or in part, only to another nominee of DTC or to a successor of DTC or its nominee.

 

Depositary Procedures

 

DTC has advised us that DTC is:

 

·                  a limited-purpose trust company organized under the laws of the State of New York;

 

·                  a member of the Federal Reserve System;

 

·                  a “clearing corporation” within the meaning of the New York Uniform Commercial Code; and

 

·                  a “clearing agency” registered pursuant to the provisions of Section 17A of the Exchange Act.

 

DTC was created to hold securities of its participants and to facilitate the clearance and settlement of securities transactions among its participants in securities through electronic book-entry changes in accounts of the participants, thereby eliminating the need for physical movement of securities certificates.  DTC’s participants include:

 

·                  securities brokers and dealers;

 

·                  banks;

 

·                  trust companies;

 

·                  clearing corporations; and

 

·                  certain other organizations.

 

Access to DTC’s book-entry system is also available to others such as banks, brokers, dealers and trust companies that clear through or maintain a custodial relationship with a participant, whether directly or indirectly.

 

We expect that pursuant to the procedures established by DTC (i) upon the issuance of the global Notes, DTC will credit, on its book-entry registration and transfer system, the respective principal amount of the individual beneficial interests represented by the global Notes to the accounts of participants, and (ii) ownership of beneficial interests in the global Notes will be shown on, and the transfer of those ownership interests will be effected only through, records maintained by DTC (with respect to participants’ interests) and the participants (with respect to the owners of beneficial interests in the global Notes other than participants).  The accounts to be credited will be designated by the initial purchasers of the beneficial interests.  Ownership of beneficial interests in global Notes is limited to participants or persons that may hold interests through participants.

 

So long as DTC or its nominee is the registered holder and owner of the global Notes, DTC or its nominee, as the case may be, will be considered the sole legal owner of the Notes represented by the global Notes for all purposes under the Indenture and the Notes issued thereunder.  Except as set forth below, owners of beneficial interests in the global Notes will not be entitled to receive definitive notes and will not be considered to be the owners or holders of any notes under the global Notes.  We understand that under existing industry practice, in the event an owner of a beneficial interest in a global exchange note desires to take any action that DTC, as the holder of the global Notes, is entitled to take, DTC would authorize the participants to take the action, and that participants would authorize beneficial owners owning through the participants to take the action or would

 

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otherwise act upon the instructions of beneficial owners owning through them.  No beneficial owner of an interest in global Notes will be able to transfer the interest except in accordance with DTC’s applicable procedures, in addition to those provided for under the Indenture.

 

We will make payments of the principal of, and interest on, the Notes represented by the global Notes registered in the name of and held by DTC or its nominee to DTC or its nominee, as the case may be, as the registered owner and holder of the global Notes.

 

We expect that DTC or its nominee, upon receipt of any payment of principal or interest in respect of the global Notes, will credit participants’ accounts with payments in amounts proportionate to their respective beneficial interests in the principal amount of the global Notes as shown on the records of DTC or its nominee.  We also expect that payments by participants and indirect participants to owners of beneficial interests in the global Notes held through such participants will be governed by standing instructions and customary practices, as is now the case with securities held for accounts of customers registered in the names of nominees for these customers.  The payments, however, will be the responsibility of the participants and indirect participants, and neither we, the trustee nor any paying agent will have any responsibility or liability for:

 

·                  any aspect of the records relating to, or payments made on account of, beneficial ownership interest in the global Notes;

 

·                  maintaining, supervising or reviewing any records relating to the beneficial ownership interests;

 

·                  any other aspect of the relationship between DTC and its participants; or

 

·                  the relationship between the participants and indirect participants and the owners of beneficial interests in global Notes.

 

Unless and until it is exchanged in whole or in part for definitive notes, global Notes may not be transferred except as a whole by DTC to a nominee of DTC or by a nominee of DTC to DTC or another nominee of DTC.

 

Participants in DTC will effect transfers with other participants in the ordinary way in accordance with DTC rules and will settle transfers in same-day funds.  Participants in Euroclear and Clearstream Banking will effect transfers with other participants in the ordinary way in accordance with the rules and operating procedures of Euroclear and Clearstream Banking, as applicable.  If a holder requires physical delivery of a definitive note for any reason, including to sell notes to persons in jurisdictions which require physical delivery or to pledge notes, the holder must transfer its interest in the global Notes in accordance with the normal procedures of DTC and the procedures set forth in the Indenture.

 

We expect that DTC will take any action permitted to be taken by a holder of notes (including the presentation of notes for exchange as described below) only at the direction of one or more participants to whose accounts at the DTC interests in the global Notes are credited and only in respect of the portion of the aggregate principal amount of the Notes as to which the participant or participants has or have given direction.  However, if there is an event of default under the Notes, DTC will exchange the global Notes for definitive notes, which it will distribute to its participants.  These definitive notes are subject to certain restrictions on registration of transfers and will bear appropriate legends restricting their transfer.  Although we expect that DTC will agree to the foregoing procedures in order to facilitate transfers of interests in global Notes among participants of DTC, DTC is under no obligation to perform or continue to perform these procedures, and these procedures may be discontinued at any time.  Neither we nor the trustee have any responsibility for the performance by DTC or its participants or indirect participants of their obligations under the rules and procedures governing its operations.

 

If DTC is at any time unwilling or unable to continue as a depositary for the global Notes or ceases to be a clearing agency registered under the Exchange Act and we do not appoint a successor depositary within 90 days, we will issue definitive notes in exchange for the global Notes.  The definitive notes will be subject to certain restrictions on registration of transfers and will bear appropriate legends concerning these restrictions.

 

The information in this section concerning DTC and its book-entry systems has been obtained from sources that we believe are reliable, but we take no responsibility for the accuracy thereof.

 

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PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION

 

Based on interpretations by the Staff set forth in no-action letters issued to third parties, including “Exxon Capital Holdings Corporation,” available May 13, 1988, “Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated,” available June 5, 1991, “Mary Kay Cosmetics, Inc.,” available June 5, 1991, and “Warnaco, Inc.,” available October 11, 1991, we believe that Notes issued in exchange for the old notes may be offered for resale, resold and otherwise transferred by holders so long as such holder is not (i) our affiliate, (ii) a broker-dealer who acquired old notes directly from us or our affiliate or (iii) a broker-dealer who acquired old notes as a result of market-making or other trading activities.  Offers, sales and transfers may be made without compliance with the registration and prospectus delivery provisions of the Securities Act, provided that such Notes are acquired in the ordinary course of such holders’ business, and such holders are not engaged in, and do not intend to engage in, and have no arrangement or understanding with any person to participate in, a distribution of such Notes and that participating broker-dealers receiving Notes in the exchange offer will be subject to a prospectus delivery requirement with respect to resales of such Notes.  To date, the staff of the SEC has taken the position that participating broker-dealers may fulfill their prospectus delivery requirements with respect to transactions involving an exchange of securities such as the exchange pursuant to the exchange offer (other than a resale of an unsold allotment from the sale of the old notes to the initial purchasers) with the prospectus contained in the registration statement relating to the exchange offer.  Pursuant to the registration rights agreement, we have agreed to permit participating broker-dealers and other persons, if any, subject to similar prospectus delivery requirements to use this prospectus in connection with the resale of such Notes.  We have agreed that, for a period of one year after the consummation of the exchange offer, we will make this prospectus and any amendment or supplement to this prospectus available to any broker-dealer that requests such documents in the letter of transmittal for the exchange offer.  Each holder of the old notes who wishes to exchange its old notes for Notes in the exchange offer will be required to make certain representations to us as set forth in “The Exchange Offer.”  In addition, each holder who is a broker-dealer and who receives Notes for its own account in exchange for the old notes that were acquired by it as a result of market-making activities or other trading activities will be required to acknowledge that it will deliver a prospectus in connection with any resale by it of such Notes.

 

We will not receive any proceeds from any sale of Notes by broker-dealers.  Notes received by brokers-dealers for their own account pursuant to the exchange offer may be sold from time to time in one or more transactions in the over-the-counter market, in negotiated transactions, through the writing of options on the Notes or a combination of such methods of resale, at market prices prevailing at the time of resale, at prices related to such prevailing market prices or at negotiated prices.  Any such resale may be made directly to purchasers or to or through brokers or dealers who may receive compensation in the form of commissions or concessions from any such broker-dealer and/or the purchasers of any such Notes.  Any broker-dealer that resells Notes that were received by it for its own account pursuant to the exchange offer and any broker or dealer that participates in a distribution of such Notes may be deemed to be an “underwriter” within the meaning of the Securities Act and any profit on any such resale of Notes and any commissions or concessions received by any such persons may be deemed to be underwriting compensation under the Securities Act.  The letter of transmittal for the exchange offer states that by acknowledging that it will deliver and by delivering a prospectus, a broker-dealer will not be deemed to admit that it is an “underwriter” within the meaning of the Securities Act.

 

We will pay all out-of-pocket expenses (other than commissions or concessions of any brokers or dealers) that we reasonably incur in connection with the registration of the Notes, including SEC filing fees and the fees of our counsel and independent accountants, as set forth in the purchase agreement relating to the offering of the old notes.  We will indemnify holders of the Notes (including any broker-dealers) against certain liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act, as set forth in the registration rights agreement.

 

Following consummation of the exchange offer, we may, in our sole discretion, commence one or more additional exchange offers to holders of old notes who did not exchange their old notes for Notes in the exchange offer, on terms that may differ from those contained in the registration statement.  This prospectus, as it may be amended or supplemented from time to time, may be used by us in connection with any such additional exchange offers.  Such additional exchange offers will take place from time to time until all outstanding old notes have been exchanged for Notes pursuant to the terms and conditions herein.

 

VALIDITY OF THE NOTES

 

The validity of the Notes offered hereby will be passed upon on our behalf by Sullivan & Cromwell LLP, Palo Alto, California. Sullivan & Cromwell LLP will rely on the opinion of R. Stanton Dodge, Esq., Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary of DDBS, as to matters of Colorado law.  As of August 31, 2011, Mr. Dodge owned, directly and indirectly, 178,030 shares of DISH’s Class A common stock and exercisable options that include the right to acquire 175,000 additional shares of DISH’s Class A common stock within 60 days of August 31, 2011.

 

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EXPERTS

 

The consolidated financial statements of DISH DBS Corporation and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, and for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2010, have been included herein in reliance upon the report of KPMG LLP, independent registered public accounting firm, appearing elsewhere herein, and upon the authority of said firm as experts in accounting and auditing.

 

INCORPORATION OF CERTAIN DOCUMENTS BY REFERENCE

 

We may incorporate by reference in this prospectus information filed with the SEC, which means that we can disclose important information to you by referring you to those documents. The information incorporated by reference is considered to be part of this prospectus and information that we file later with the SEC will automatically update and supersede previously filed information, including information contained in this document.

 

We incorporate by reference the documents listed below (other than in each case, information that is deemed not to have been filed in accordance with SEC rules) and any future filings we will make with the SEC under Section 13(a), 13(c), 14 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act until we complete this offering (other than in each case, information that is deemed not to have been filed in accordance with SEC rules):

 

·                  our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010;

 

·                  our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2011 and the quarter ended June 30, 2011; and

 

·                  our Current Reports on Form 8-K filed on February 1, 2011, February 25, 2011, March 15, 2011, April 6, 2011, April 20, 2011, May 2, 2011, May 3, 2011, May 5, 2011, May 16, 2011 and June 16, 2011.

 

You can obtain any of the documents incorporated by reference in this prospectus from the SEC through the SEC’s website at the address described above.  You may request free copies of any of these filings by writing or calling us at our principal offices, which are located at the following address:

 

DISH DBS Corporation
9601 South Meridian Boulevard
Englewood, Colorado 80112
Attention: R. Stanton Dodge
(303) 723-1000

 

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INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

Report of KPMG LLP, Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

F-2

Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2010 and 2009

 

F-3

Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008

 

F-4

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholder’s Equity (Deficit) for the years ended December 31, 2008, 2009 and 2010

 

F-5

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008

 

F-6

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

F-7

 

F-1



Table of Contents

 

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

The Board of Directors and Stockholder

 

DISH DBS Corporation:

 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of DISH DBS Corporation and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, and the related consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss), changes in stockholder’s equity (deficit), and cash flows for each of the years in the three year period ended December 31, 2010. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of DISH DBS Corporation’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits.

 

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of DISH DBS Corporation and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the three year period ended December 31, 2010, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

 

 

 

/s/ KPMG LLP

 

Denver, Colorado
February 25, 2011

 

F-2



Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(In thousands, except share amounts)

 

 

 

As of  December 31,

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

Assets

 

 

 

 

 

Current Assets:

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

$

 507,266

 

$

 98,226

 

Marketable investment securities (Note 4)

 

1,592,911

 

1,709,131

 

Trade accounts receivable - other, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $29,650 and $16,372, respectively

 

771,383

 

741,351

 

Trade accounts receivable - EchoStar, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of zero

 

14,155

 

38,347

 

Inventory

 

487,046

 

295,950

 

Deferred tax assets (Note 8)

 

281,957

 

189,058

 

Other current assets

 

70,515

 

61,730

 

Total current assets

 

3,725,233

 

3,133,793

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Noncurrent Assets:

 

 

 

 

 

Restricted cash and marketable investment securities (Note 4)

 

132,395

 

128,474

 

Property and equipment, net (Note 6)

 

3,230,849

 

2,601,180

 

FCC authorizations

 

679,570

 

679,570

 

Other noncurrent assets, net

 

67,586

 

75,776

 

Total noncurrent assets

 

4,110,400

 

3,485,000

 

Total assets

 

$

 7,835,633

 

$

 6,618,793

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Liabilities and Stockholder’s Equity (Deficit)

 

 

 

 

 

Current Liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

Trade accounts payable - other

 

$

 161,413

 

$

 141,213

 

Trade accounts payable - EchoStar

 

238,629

 

269,542

 

Deferred revenue and other

 

803,737

 

815,864

 

Accrued programming

 

1,089,976

 

985,928

 

Litigation accrual (Note 11)

 

619,022

 

393,566

 

Other accrued expenses

 

512,705

 

485,637

 

Current portion of long-term debt and capital lease obligations (Note 7)

 

1,030,895

 

26,518

 

Total current liabilities

 

4,456,377

 

3,118,268

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Long-Term Obligations, Net of Current Portion:

 

 

 

 

 

Long-term debt and capital lease obligations, net of current portion (Note 7)

 

5,484,041

 

6,470,046

 

Deferred tax liabilities

 

621,943

 

370,226

 

Long-term deferred revenue, distribution and carriage payments and other long-term liabilities

 

215,832

 

291,565

 

Total long-term obligations, net of current portion

 

6,321,816

 

7,131,837

 

Total liabilities

 

10,778,193

 

10,250,105

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Commitments and Contingencies (Note 11)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stockholder’s Equity (Deficit):

 

 

 

 

 

Common stock, $.01 par value, 1,000,000 shares authorized, 1,015 shares issued and outstanding

 

 

 

Additional paid-in capital

 

1,170,560

 

1,154,614

 

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

 

3,765

 

3,833

 

Accumulated earnings (deficit)

 

(4,116,885

)

(4,789,759

)

Total stockholder’s equity (deficit)

 

(2,942,560

)

(3,631,312

)

Total liabilities and stockholder’s equity (deficit)

 

$

 7,835,633

 

$

 6,618,793

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

F-3



Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

(In thousands)

 

 

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Revenue:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Subscriber-related revenue

 

$

12,538,950

 

$

11,537,703

 

$

11,455,575

 

Equipment sales and other revenue

 

59,607

 

97,856

 

124,255

 

Equipment sales - EchoStar

 

3,127

 

7,457

 

11,601

 

Services and other revenue - EchoStar

 

34,053

 

20,102

 

25,750

 

Total revenue

 

12,635,737

 

11,663,118

 

11,617,181

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Costs and Expenses:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Subscriber-related expenses (exclusive of depreciation shown below - Note 6)

 

6,675,095

 

6,359,138

 

5,977,355

 

Satellite and transmission expenses (exclusive of depreciation shown below - Note 6):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

EchoStar

 

418,286

 

319,752

 

305,322

 

Other

 

39,776

 

33,477

 

32,407

 

Equipment, services and other cost of sales

 

76,295

 

121,238

 

169,917

 

Subscriber acquisition costs:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cost of sales - subscriber promotion subsidies - EchoStar (exclusive of depreciation shown below - Note 6)

 

175,777

 

188,793

 

167,508

 

Other subscriber promotion subsidies

 

1,104,652

 

1,071,655

 

1,124,103

 

Subscriber acquisition advertising

 

372,563

 

279,067

 

240,130

 

Total subscriber acquisition costs

 

1,652,992

 

1,539,515

 

1,531,741

 

General and administrative expenses - EchoStar

 

47,429

 

45,356

 

53,373

 

General and administrative expenses

 

573,495

 

554,754

 

486,717

 

Litigation expense (Note 11)

 

225,456

 

361,024

 

 

Depreciation and amortization (Note 6)

 

983,360

 

939,714

 

1,000,230

 

Total costs and expenses

 

10,692,184

 

10,273,968

 

9,557,062

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating income (loss)

 

1,943,553

 

1,389,150

 

2,060,119

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other Income (Expense):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest income

 

13,744

 

13,985

 

52,755

 

Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized

 

(470,890

)

(407,413

)

(368,838

)

Other, net

 

581

 

(19,129

)

45,391

 

Total other income (expense)

 

(456,565

)

(412,557

)

(270,692

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income (loss) before income taxes

 

1,486,988

 

976,593

 

1,789,427

 

Income tax (provision) benefit, net (Note 8)

 

(538,312

)

(372,938

)

(696,946

)

Net income (loss)

 

$

948,676

 

$

603,655

 

$

1,092,481

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Comprehensive Income (Loss):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Unrealized holding gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities

 

(68

)

12,625

 

6,436

 

Recognition of previously unrealized (gains) losses on available-for-sale securities included in net income (loss)

 

 

 

(11,247

)

Deferred income tax (expense) benefit

 

 

 

(1,577

)

Comprehensive income (loss)

 

$

948,608

 

$

616,280

 

$

1,086,093

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

F-4



Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDER’S EQUITY (DEFICIT)

(In thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accumulated

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Additional

 

Other

 

Accumulated

 

 

 

 

 

Common

 

Paid-In

 

Comprehensive

 

Earnings

 

 

 

 

 

Stock

 

Capital

 

Income (Loss)

 

(Deficit)

 

Total

 

Balance, December 31, 2007

 

$

 

$

1,121,012

 

$

396

 

$

(3,125,120

)

$

(2,003,712

)

Capital contribution from DISH (Note 15)

 

 

5,221

 

 

 

5,221

 

Dividends to DISH Orbital Corporation (Note 15)

 

 

 

 

(1,150,000

)

(1,150,000

)

Stock-based compensation

 

 

15,349

 

 

 

15,349

 

Income tax (expense) benefit related to stock awards and other

 

 

947

 

 

 

947

 

Change in unrealized holding gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities, net

 

 

 

(4,811

)

 

(4,811

)

Deferred income tax (expense) benefit attributable to unrealized holding gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities

 

 

 

(1,577

)

 

(1,577

)

Capital distribution to affiliate

 

 

 

 

(130,299

)

(130,299

)

Capital contribution to DISH in connection with the Spin-off

 

 

 

(2,800

)

(1,030,476

)

(1,033,276

)

Net income (loss)

 

 

 

 

1,092,481

 

1,092,481

 

Balance, December 31, 2008

 

$

 

$

1,142,529

 

$

(8,792

)

$

(4,343,414

)

$

(3,209,677

)

Dividends to DISH Orbital Corporation (Note 15)

 

 

 

 

(1,050,000

)

(1,050,000

)

Stock-based compensation

 

 

12,227

 

 

 

12,227

 

Income tax (expense) benefit related to stock awards and other

 

 

(142

)

 

 

(142

)

Change in unrealized holding gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities, net

 

 

 

12,625

 

 

12,625

 

Net income (loss)

 

 

 

 

603,655

 

603,655

 

Balance, December 31, 2009

 

$

 

$

1,154,614

 

$

3,833

 

$

(4,789,759

)

$

(3,631,312

)

Capital distribution to affiliate

 

 

 

 

(266,699

)

(266,699

)

Stock-based compensation

 

 

15,387

 

 

 

15,387

 

Income tax (expense) benefit related to stock awards and other

 

 

559

 

 

 

559

 

Change in unrealized holding gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities, net

 

 

 

(68

)

 

(68

)

Capital transaction with EchoStar in connection with purchases of strategic investments, net of tax of $2,895 (see Note 15)

 

 

 

 

(9,103

)

(9,103

)

Net income (loss)

 

 

 

 

948,676

 

948,676

 

Balance, December 31, 2010

 

$

 

$

1,170,560

 

$

3,765

 

$

(4,116,885

)

$

(2,942,560

)

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

F-5



Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(In thousands)

 

 

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Cash Flows From Operating Activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

 

$

948,676

 

$

603,655

 

$

1,092,481

 

Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash flows from operating activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

983,360

 

939,714

 

1,000,230

 

Equity in losses (earnings) of affiliates

 

 

1,975

 

(1,739

)

Realized and unrealized losses (gains) on investments

 

 

18,933

 

(42,226

)

Non-cash, stock-based compensation

 

15,387

 

12,227

 

15,349

 

Deferred tax expense (benefit) (Note 8)

 

182,859

 

(32,513

)

180,245

 

Other, net

 

375

 

5,851

 

7,400

 

Change in noncurrent assets

 

443

 

6,507

 

7,744

 

Change in long-term deferred revenue, distribution and carriage payments and other long-term liabilities

 

(98,131

)

11,857

 

(98,957

)

Changes in current assets and current liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Trade accounts receivable - other

 

(41,311

)

56,460

 

(142,614

)

Allowance for doubtful accounts

 

13,279

 

1,165

 

1,188

 

Advances to affiliates

 

 

 

78,578

 

Trade accounts receivable - EchoStar

 

24,192

 

(16,777

)

(20,604

)

Inventory

 

(228,625

)

51,411

 

(157,761

)

Other current assets

 

(8,781

)

9,587

 

3,106

 

Trade accounts payable

 

20,200

 

(33,809

)

(110,912

)

Trade accounts payable - EchoStar

 

(31,913

)

(28,087

)

297,629

 

Advances from affiliates

 

 

 

(85,613

)

Deferred revenue and other

 

(11,913

)

(14,116

)

(23,262

)

Litigation accrual (Note 11)

 

225,456

 

361,024

 

 

Accrued programming and other accrued expenses

 

151,427

 

39,333

 

(65,106

)

Net cash flows from operating activities

 

2,144,980

 

1,994,397

 

1,935,156

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash Flows From Investing Activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Purchases of marketable investment securities

 

(4,352,377

)

(5,590,668

)

(4,372,496

)

Sales and maturities of marketable investment securities

 

4,468,529

 

4,277,251

 

4,595,360

 

Purchases of property and equipment

 

(1,547,523

)

(922,420

)

(1,155,377

)

Change in restricted cash and marketable investment securities

 

(3,921

)

(57,731

)

79,898

 

Purchase of strategic investments included in noncurrent other investment securities

 

(11,742

)

(1,214

)

 

Proceeds from sale of strategic investments

 

4,000

 

 

106,200

 

Other

 

703

 

 

3

 

Net cash flows from investing activities

 

(1,442,331

)

(2,294,782

)

(746,412

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash Flows From Financing Activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Contribution of cash and cash equivalents to EchoStar in connection with the Spin-off

 

 

 

(27,723

)

Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt

 

 

1,400,000

 

750,000

 

Deferred debt issuance costs

 

 

(23,090

)

(4,972

)

Repayment of long-term debt and capital lease obligations

 

(26,910

)

(26,300

)

(1,010,000

)

Dividend to DISH Orbital Corporation

 

 

(1,050,000

)

(1,150,000

)

Capital distribution to affiliate

 

(266,699

)

 

(130,299

)

Net cash flows from financing activities

 

(293,609

)

300,610

 

(1,572,994

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

 

409,040

 

225

 

(384,250

)

Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period

 

98,226

 

98,001

 

482,251

 

Cash and cash equivalents, end of period

 

$

507,266

 

$

98,226

 

$

98,001

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

F-6



Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

1.     Organization and Business Activities

 

Principal Business

 

DISH DBS Corporation (which together with its subsidiaries is referred to as “DDBS,” the “Company,” “we,” “us” and/or “our”) is a holding company and an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of DISH Network Corporation (“DISH”). DDBS was formed under Colorado law in January 1996 and its common stock is held by DISH Orbital Corporation, a direct subsidiary of DISH. We operate the DISH Network® direct broadcast satellite (“DBS”) subscription television service (“DISH Network”) in the United States which had 14.133 million subscribers as of December 31, 2010. We have deployed substantial resources to develop the “DISH Network DBS System.” The DISH Network DBS System consists of our licensed Federal Communications Commission (“FCC”) authorized DBS and Fixed Satellite Service (“FSS”) spectrum, our owned and leased satellites, receiver systems, third-party broadcast operations, customer service facilities, leased fiber network, in-home service and call center operations, and certain other assets utilized in our operations.

 

Spin-off of Technology and Certain Infrastructure Assets

 

On January 1, 2008, DISH completed the distribution of its technology and set-top box business and certain infrastructure assets (the “Spin-off”) into a separate publicly-traded company, EchoStar Corporation (“EchoStar”). DISH, including us, and EchoStar operate as separate publicly-traded companies, and neither entity has any ownership interest in the other. However, a substantial majority of the voting power of the shares of both companies is owned beneficially by Charles W. Ergen, our Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer or by certain trusts established by Mr. Ergen for the benefit of his family.

 

The two entities consist of the following:

 

·                  DISH Network Corporation - which retained its subscription television business, the DISH Network®, and

 

·                  EchoStar Corporation - which sells equipment, including set-top boxes and related components, to DISH Network and international customers, and provides digital broadcast operations and satellite services to DISH Network and other customers.

 

Following the Spin-off, DDBS operates in only one reportable segment, the DISH Network segment, which provides a DBS subscription television service in the United States.

 

2.     Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

 

Principles of Consolidation and Basis of Presentation

 

We consolidate all majority owned subsidiaries, investments in entities in which we have controlling influence and variable interest entities where we have been determined to be the primary beneficiary. Non-majority owned investments are accounted for using the equity method when we have the ability to significantly influence the operating decisions of the investee. When we do not have the ability to significantly influence the operating decisions of an investee, the cost method is used. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation.

 

Use of Estimates

 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”) requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expense for each reporting period. Estimates are used in accounting for, among other things, allowances for doubtful accounts, self-insurance obligations, deferred taxes and related valuation allowances, uncertain tax positions, loss contingencies, fair value of financial instruments, fair value of options granted under our stock-based compensation plans, fair value of assets and liabilities acquired in business combinations, capital leases, asset impairments, useful lives of property, equipment and intangible assets, retailer incentives, programming expenses, subscriber lives and royalty obligations. Weak economic conditions have increased the inherent uncertainty in the estimates and assumptions indicated above. Actual results may differ

 

F-7



Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued

 

from previously estimated amounts, and such differences may be material to our Consolidated Financial Statements. Estimates and assumptions are reviewed periodically, and the effects of revisions are reflected prospectively in the period they occur.

 

Cash and Cash Equivalents

 

We consider all liquid investments purchased with an original maturity of 90 days or less to be cash equivalents. Cash equivalents as of December 31, 2010 and 2009 may consist of money market funds, government bonds, corporate notes and commercial paper. The cost of these investments approximates their fair value.

 

Marketable Investment Securities

 

We currently classify all marketable investment securities as available-for-sale. We adjust the carrying value of our available-for-sale securities to fair value and report the related temporary unrealized gains and losses as a separate component of “Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)” within “Total stockholder’s equity (deficit),” net of related deferred income tax. Declines in the fair value of a marketable investment security which are determined to be “other-than-temporary” are recognized in our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss), thus establishing a new cost basis for such investment.

 

We evaluate our marketable investment securities portfolio on a quarterly basis to determine whether declines in the fair value of these securities are other-than-temporary. This quarterly evaluation consists of reviewing, among other things:

 

·                  the fair value of our marketable investment securities compared to the carrying amount,

 

·                  the historical volatility of the price of each security, and

 

·                  any market and company specific factors related to each security.

 

Declines in the fair value of investments below cost basis are generally accounted for as follows:

 

Length of Time Investment
Has Been In a Continuous
Loss Position

 

Treatment of the Decline in Value
(absent specific factors to the contrary)

Less than six months

 

Generally, considered temporary.

Six to nine months

 

Evaluated on a case by case basis to determine whether any company or market-specific factors exist which would indicate that such decline is other-than-temporary.

Greater than nine months

 

Generally, considered other-than-temporary. The decline in value is recorded as a charge to earnings.

 

In situations where the fair value of a debt security is below its carrying amount, we consider the decline to be other-than-temporary and record a charge to earnings if any of the following factors apply:

 

·                  we have the intent to sell the security.

 

·                  it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell the security before maturity or recovery.

 

·                  we do not expect to recover the security’s entire amortized cost basis, even if there is no intent to sell the security.

 

In general, we use the first in, first out method to determine the cost basis on sales of marketable investment securities.

 

F-8



Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued

 

Accounts Receivable

 

Management estimates the amount of required allowances for the potential non-collectability of accounts receivable based upon past collection experience and consideration of other relevant factors. However, past experience may not be indicative of future collections and therefore additional charges could be incurred in the future to reflect differences between estimated and actual collections.

 

Inventory

 

Inventory is stated at the lower of cost or market value. Cost is determined using the first-in, first-out method. We depend on EchoStar for the production of our receivers and many components of our receiver systems. Manufactured inventory includes materials, labor, freight-in, royalties and manufacturing overhead.

 

Property and Equipment

 

Property and equipment are stated at cost. The costs of satellites under construction, including certain amounts prepaid under our satellite service agreements, are capitalized during the construction phase, assuming the eventual successful launch and in-orbit operation of the satellite. If a satellite were to fail during launch or while in-orbit, the resultant loss would be charged to expense in the period such loss was incurred. The amount of any such loss would be reduced to the extent of insurance proceeds estimated to be received, if any. Depreciation is recorded on a straight-line basis over useful lives ranging from one to forty years. Repair and maintenance costs are charged to expense when incurred. Renewals and improvements that add value or extend the asset’s useful life are capitalized.

 

Long-Lived Assets

 

We review our long-lived assets and identifiable finite lived intangible assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. We evaluate our satellite fleet for recoverability as one asset group. For assets which are held and used in operations, the asset would be impaired if the carrying value of the asset (or asset group) exceeded its undiscounted future net cash flows. Once an impairment is determined, the actual impairment is reported as the difference between the carrying value and the fair value as estimated using discounted cash flows. Assets which are to be disposed of are reported at the lower of the carrying amount or fair value less costs to sell. We consider relevant cash flow, estimated future operating results, trends and other available information in assessing whether the carrying value of assets are recoverable.

 

Other Intangible Assets

 

We do not amortize indefinite lived intangible assets, but test these assets for impairment annually or whenever indicators of impairments arise. Intangible assets that have finite lives are amortized over their estimated useful lives and tested for impairment as described above for long-lived assets. Our intangible assets with indefinite lives primarily consist of FCC licenses. Generally, we have determined that our FCC licenses have indefinite useful lives due to the following:

 

·                  FCC spectrum is a non-depleting asset;

 

·                  Existing DBS licenses are integral to our business and will contribute to cash flows indefinitely;

 

·                  Replacement satellite applications are generally authorized by the FCC subject to certain conditions, without substantial cost under a stable regulatory, legislative and legal environment;

 

·                  Maintenance expenditures to obtain future cash flows are not significant;

 

·                  DBS licenses are not technologically dependent; and

 

·                  We intend to use these assets indefinitely.

 

F-9



Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued

 

We combine all our indefinite lived FCC licenses into a single unit of accounting. The analysis encompasses future cash flows from satellites transmitting from such licensed orbital locations, including revenue attributable to programming offerings from such satellites, the direct operating and subscriber acquisition costs related to such programming, and future capital costs for replacement satellites. Projected revenue and cost amounts include current and projected subscribers. In conducting our annual impairment test in 2010, we determined that the estimated fair value of the FCC licenses, calculated using a discounted cash flow analysis, exceeded their carrying amounts.

 

Other Investment Securities

 

Generally, we account for our unconsolidated equity investments under either the equity method or cost method of accounting. Because these equity securities are generally not publicly traded, it is not practical to regularly estimate the fair value of the investments; however, these investments are subject to an evaluation for other-than-temporary impairment on a quarterly basis. This quarterly evaluation consists of reviewing, among other things, company business plans and current financial statements, if available, for factors that may indicate an impairment of our investment. Such factors may include, but are not limited to, cash flow concerns, material litigation, violations of debt covenants and changes in business strategy. The fair value of these equity investments is not estimated unless there are identified changes in circumstances that may indicate an impairment exists and these changes are likely to have a significant adverse effect on the fair value of the investment. When impairments occur related to our foreign investments, any cumulative translation adjustment associated with these investments will remain in “Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)” within “Total stockholder’s equity (deficit)” on our Consolidated Balance Sheets until the investments are sold or otherwise liquidated; at which time, they will be released into our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).

 

Long-Term Deferred Revenue, Distribution and Carriage Payments

 

Certain programmers provide us up-front payments. Such amounts are deferred and recognized as reductions to “Subscriber-related expenses” on a straight-line basis over the relevant remaining contract term (generally up to 10 years). The current and long-term portions of these deferred credits are recorded in our Consolidated Balance Sheets in “Deferred revenue and other” and “Long-term deferred revenue, distribution and carriage payments and other long-term liabilities,” respectively.

 

Sales Taxes

 

We account for sales taxes imposed on our goods and services on a net basis in our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss). Since we primarily act as an agent for the governmental authorities, the amount charged to the customer is collected and remitted directly to the appropriate jurisdictional entity.

 

Income Taxes

 

We establish a provision for income taxes currently payable or receivable and for income tax amounts deferred to future periods. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recorded for the estimated future tax effects of differences that exist between the book and tax basis of assets and liabilities. Deferred tax assets are offset by valuation allowances when we believe it is more likely than not that such net deferred tax assets will not be realized.

 

Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes

 

From time to time, we engage in transactions where the tax consequences may be subject to uncertainty. We record a liability when, in management’s judgment, a tax filing position does not meet the more likely than not threshold. For tax positions that meet the more likely than not threshold, we may record a liability depending on management’s assessment of how the tax position will ultimately be settled. We adjust our estimates periodically for ongoing examinations by and settlements with various taxing authorities, as well as changes in tax laws, regulations and precedent. We classify interest and penalties, if any, associated with our uncertain tax positions as a component of “Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized” and “Other, net,” respectively.

 

F-10



Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued

 

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

 

The carrying value for cash and cash equivalents, marketable investment securities, trade accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts, and current liabilities is equal to or approximates fair value due to their short-term nature.

 

Fair values for our publicly traded debt securities are based on quoted market prices. The fair values of our private debt is estimated based on an analysis in which we evaluate market conditions, related securities, various public and private offerings, and other publicly available information. In performing this analysis, we make various assumptions, among other things, regarding credit spreads, and the impact of these factors on the value of the notes. See Note 7 for the fair value of our long-term debt.

 

Deferred Debt Issuance Costs

 

Costs of issuing debt are generally deferred and amortized to interest expense ratably over the terms of the respective notes (see Note 7).

 

Revenue Recognition

 

We recognize revenue when an arrangement exists, prices are determinable, collectibility is reasonably assured and the goods or services have been delivered. Revenue from our subscription television services is recognized when programming is broadcast to subscribers. Payments received from subscribers in advance of the broadcast or service period are recorded as “Deferred revenue and other” in our Consolidated Balance Sheets until earned. For certain of our promotions relating to our receiver systems and HD programming, subscribers are charged an upfront fee. A portion of this fee may be deferred and recognized over the estimated subscriber life for new subscribers or the estimated remaining life for existing subscribers ranging from 18 months to five years. Revenue from advertising sales is recognized when the related services are performed.

 

Subscriber fees for equipment rental, including DVRs, additional outlets and fees for receivers with multiple tuners, and our in-home service operations are recognized as revenue as earned. Revenue from equipment sales and equipment upgrades are recognized upon shipment to customers.

 

Certain of our existing and new subscriber promotions include programming discounts. Programming revenues are recorded as earned at the discounted monthly rate charged to the subscriber. See “Subscriber Acquisition Costs” below for discussion regarding the accounting for costs under these promotions.

 

Subscriber-Related Expenses

 

The cost of television programming distribution rights is generally incurred on a per subscriber basis and various upfront carriage payments are recognized when the related programming is distributed to subscribers. Recently, we entered into long-term flat rate programming contracts that are charged to expense using the straight-line method over the term of the agreement.

 

In addition, the cost of television programming rights to distribute live sporting events for a season or tournament is charged to expense using the straight-line method over the course of the season or tournament. “Subscriber-related expenses” in our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) principally include programming expenses, costs incurred in connection with our in-home service and call center operations, billing costs, refurbishment and repair costs related to receiver systems, subscriber retention and other variable subscriber expenses. These costs are recognized as the services are performed or as incurred.

 

Subscriber Acquisition Costs

 

Subscriber acquisition costs in our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) consist of costs incurred to acquire new subscribers through third parties and our direct sales distribution channel. Subscriber acquisition costs include the following line items from our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss):

 

F-11



Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued

 

·                  “Cost of sales - subscriber promotion subsidies - EchoStar” includes the cost of our receiver systems sold to retailers and other distributors of our equipment and receiver systems sold directly by us to subscribers.

 

·                  “Other subscriber promotion subsidies” includes net costs related to promotional incentives and costs related to installation.

 

·                  “Subscriber acquisition advertising” includes advertising and marketing expenses related to the acquisition of new DISH Network subscribers. Advertising costs are expensed as incurred.

 

We characterize amounts paid to our independent dealers as consideration for equipment installation services and for equipment buydowns (incentives and rebates) as a reduction of revenue. We expense payments for equipment installation services as “Other subscriber promotion subsidies.” Our payments for equipment buydowns represent a partial or complete return of the dealer’s purchase price and are, therefore, netted against the proceeds received from the dealer. We report the net cost from our various sales promotions through our independent dealer network as a component of “Other subscriber promotion subsidies.” Net proceeds from the sale of subscriber related equipment pursuant to our subscriber acquisition promotions are not recognized as revenue.

 

Equipment Lease Programs

 

DISH Network subscribers have the choice of leasing or purchasing the satellite receiver and other equipment necessary to receive our programming. Most of our new subscribers choose to lease equipment and thus we retain title to such equipment. Equipment leased to new and existing subscribers is capitalized and depreciated over their estimated useful lives.

 

Foreign Currency Translation

 

The functional currency of the majority of our foreign subsidiaries is the U.S. dollar because their sales and purchases are predominantly denominated in that currency.  However, for our subsidiaries where the functional currency is the local currency, we translate assets and liabilities into U.S. dollars at the period-end exchange rate and revenues and expenses based on the exchange rates at the time such transactions arise, if known, or at the average rate for the period.  The difference is recorded to equity as a component of other comprehensive income (loss).  Financial assets and liabilities denominated in currencies other than the functional currency are recorded at the exchange rate at the time of the transaction and subsequent gains and losses related to changes in the foreign currency are included in “Other, net” income or expense in our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).  Net transaction gains (losses) during 2010, 2009 and 2008 were not significant.

 

New Accounting Pronouncements

 

Revenue Recognition - Multiple-Deliverable Arrangements

 

In October 2009, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update 2009-13 (“ASU 2009-13”), Revenue Recognition - Multiple-Deliverable Revenue Arrangements. ASU 2009-13 changes the requirements for establishing separate units of accounting in a multiple deliverable arrangement and requires the allocation of arrangement consideration to each deliverable to be based on the relative selling price. This standard is effective January 1, 2011.  We do not expect the adoption of ASU 2009-13 to have a material impact on our financial position or results of operations.

 

3.     Statements of Cash Flow Data

 

The following presents our supplemental cash flow statement disclosure.

 

F-12



Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued

 

 

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Cash paid for interest

 

$

472,586

 

$

357,419

 

$

375,763

 

Capitalized interest

 

 

 

5,607

 

Cash received for interest

 

13,744

 

13,985

 

52,755

 

Cash paid for income taxes

 

12,978

 

12,384

 

34,814

 

Cash paid for income taxes to DISH

 

428,591

 

400,468

 

602,282

 

Vendor financing

 

40,000

 

 

23,314

 

Satellite and other assets financed under capital lease obligations

 

5,282

 

140,109

 

1,155

 

Net assets contributed in connection with the Spin-off, excluding cash and cash equivalents

 

 

 

1,005,553

 

 

4.     Marketable Investment Securities, Restricted Cash and Other Investment Securities

 

Our marketable investment securities, restricted cash and other investment securities consist of the following:

 

 

 

As of December 31,

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Marketable investment securities:

 

 

 

 

 

Current marketable investment securities - VRDNs

 

$

1,021,697

 

$

963,913

 

Current marketable investment securities - other

 

571,214

 

745,218

 

Total current marketable investment securities

 

1,592,911

 

1,709,131

 

Restricted marketable investment securities (1)

 

59,638

 

11,042

 

Total marketable investment securities

 

1,652,549

 

1,720,173

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Restricted cash and cash equivalents (1)

 

72,757

 

117,432

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total marketable investment securities and restricted cash

 

$

1,725,306

 

$

1,837,605

 

 


(1)       Restricted marketable investment securities and restricted cash and cash equivalents are included in “Restricted cash and marketable investment securities” on our Consolidated Balance Sheets.

 

Marketable Investment Securities

 

Our marketable investment securities portfolio consists of various debt instruments, all of which are classified as available-for-sale (see Note 2).

 

Current Marketable Investment Securities - VRDNs

 

Variable rate demand notes (“VRDNs”) are long-term floating rate municipal bonds with embedded put options that allow the bondholder to sell the security at par plus accrued interest. All of the put options are secured by a pledged liquidity source. Our VRDN portfolio is comprised of investments in many municipalities, which are backed by financial institutions or other highly rated companies that serve as the pledged liquidity source. While they are classified as marketable investment securities, the put option allows VRDNs to be liquidated generally on a same day or on a five business day settlement basis.

 

F-13



Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued

 

Current Marketable Investment Securities - Other

 

Our current marketable investment securities portfolio includes investments in various debt instruments including corporate and government bonds.

 

Restricted Cash and Marketable Investment Securities

 

As of December 31, 2010 and 2009, our restricted marketable investment securities, together with our restricted cash, included amounts required as collateral for our letters of credit or surety bonds. Restricted cash and marketable investment securities as of December 31, 2010 and 2009 included $62 million related to our litigation with Tivo, respectively.

 

Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Marketable Investment Securities

 

As of December 31, 2010 and 2009, we had accumulated net unrealized gains of $4 million net of related tax effect, respectively, as a part of “Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)” within “Total stockholder’s equity (deficit).” A full valuation allowance has been established against any deferred taxes that are capital in nature. The components of our available-for-sale investments are detailed in the table below.

 

 

 

As of December 31,

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

 

 

Marketable

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Marketable

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Investment

 

Unrealized

 

Investment

 

Unrealized

 

 

 

Securities

 

Gains

 

Losses

 

Net

 

Securities

 

Gains

 

Losses

 

Net

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Debt securities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VRDNs

 

$

1,021,697

 

$

 

$

 

$

 

$

963,913

 

$

1

 

$

(3

)

$

(2

)

Other (including restricted)

 

630,852

 

4,905

 

(1,140

)

3,765

 

756,260

 

5,336

 

(1,501

)

3,835

 

Total marketable investment securities

 

$

1,652,549

 

$

4,905

 

$

(1,140

)

$

3,765

 

$

1,720,173

 

$

5,337

 

$

(1,504

)

$

3,833

 

 

As of December 31, 2010, restricted and non-restricted marketable investment securities include debt securities of $1.578 billion with contractual maturities of one year or less and $75 million with contractual maturities greater than one year. Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities as a result of our ability to sell these securities prior to maturity.

 

F-14



Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued

 

Marketable Investment Securities in a Loss Position

 

The following table reflects the length of time that the individual securities, accounted for as available-for-sale, have been in an unrealized loss position, aggregated by investment category. As of December 31, 2010 and 2009, the unrealized losses on our investments in debt securities primarily represent investments in mortgage backed securities. We do not intend to sell our investments in these debt securities before they recover or mature, and it is more likely than not that we will hold these investments until that time. In addition, we are not aware of any specific factors indicating that the underlying issuers of these debt securities would not be able to pay interest as it becomes due or repay the principal at maturity. Therefore, we believe that these changes in the estimated fair values of these marketable investment securities are related to temporary market fluctuations.

 

 

 

Primary

 

As of December 31, 2010

 

 

 

Reason for

 

Total

 

Less than Six Months

 

Six to Nine Months

 

Nine Months or More

 

Investment

 

Unrealized

 

Fair

 

Fair

 

Unrealized

 

Fair

 

Unrealized

 

Fair

 

Unrealized

 

Category

 

Loss

 

Value

 

Value

 

Loss

 

Value

 

Loss

 

Value

 

Loss

 

 

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Debt securities

 

Temporary market fluctuations

 

$

197,600

 

$

71,279

 

$

(133

)

$

20,051

 

$

(79

)

$

106,270

 

$

(928

)

Total

 

 

 

$

197,600

 

$

71,279

 

$

(133

)

$

20,051

 

$

(79

)

$

106,270

 

$

(928

)

 

 

 

 

 

As of December 31, 2009

 

 

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Debt securities

 

Temporary market fluctuations

 

$

190,760

 

$

144,819

 

$

(277

)

$

6,892

 

$

(41

)

$

39,049

 

$

(1,186

)

Total

 

 

 

$

190,760

 

$

144,819

 

$

(277

)

$

6,892

 

$

(41

)

$

39,049

 

$

(1,186

)

 

Fair Value Measurements

 

We determine fair value based on the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants. Market or observable inputs are the preferred source of values, followed by unobservable inputs or assumptions based on hypothetical transactions in the absence of market inputs. We apply the following hierarchy in determining fair value:

 

·                  Level 1, defined as observable inputs being quoted prices in active markets for identical assets;

 

·                  Level 2, defined as observable inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1, including quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations in which significant inputs and significant value drivers are observable in active markets; and

 

·                  Level 3, defined as unobservable inputs for which little or no market data exists, consistent with reasonably available assumptions made by other participants, therefore requiring assumptions based on the best information available.

 

Our assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis were as follows:

 

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Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued

 

 

 

As of December 31,

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

 

 

Total

 

Level 1

 

Level 2

 

Level 3

 

Total

 

Level 1

 

Level 2

 

Level 3

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Debt securities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VRDNs

 

$

1,021,697

 

$

 

$

1,021,697

 

$

 

$

963,913

 

$

 

$

963,913

 

$

 

Other (including restricted)

 

630,852

 

10,738

 

620,114

 

 

756,260

 

11,042

 

745,218

 

 

Total marketable investment securities

 

$

1,652,549

 

$

10,738

 

$

1,641,811

 

$

 

$

1,720,173

 

$

11,042

 

$

1,709,131

 

$

 

 

Gains and Losses on Sales and Changes in Carrying Values of Investments

 

“Other, net” income and expense included on our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) includes other changes in the carrying amount of our marketable and non-marketable investments as follows:

 

 

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

Other Income (Expense):

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Marketable investment securities - other-than-temporary impairments

 

$

 

$

 

$

(11,247

)

Other investment securities - other-than-temporary impairments

 

 

(18,933

)

 

Other investment securities - gains (losses) on sales

 

 

 

53,473

 

Other

 

581

 

(196

)

3,165

 

Total

 

$

581

 

$

(19,129

)

$

45,391

 

 

5.     Inventory

 

Inventory consists of the following:

 

 

 

As of December 31,

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Finished goods - DBS

 

$

304,552

 

$

199,189

 

Raw materials

 

143,100

 

60,837

 

Work-in-process - used

 

36,186

 

34,204

 

Work-in-process - new

 

3,208

 

1,720

 

Total inventory

 

$

487,046

 

$

295,950

 

 

As of December 31, 2010 our inventory balance was $487 million, an increase of $191 million.  The increase was due to fewer gross subscriber additions than anticipated in 2010.  In addition, the inventory balance at December 31, 2009 was lower than normal due to more gross subscriber additions and less churn than forecasted during the second half of 2009.

 

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Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued

 

6.     Property and Equipment

 

Property and equipment consists of the following:

 

 

 

Depreciable

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Life

 

As of December 31,

 

 

 

(In Years)

 

2010

 

2009

 

 

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Equipment leased to customers

 

2-5

 

$

3,495,360

 

$

3,295,298

 

EchoStar I

 

12

 

201,607

 

201,607

 

EchoStar VII

 

12

 

177,000

 

177,000

 

EchoStar X

 

12

 

177,192

 

177,192

 

EchoStar XI

 

12

 

200,198

 

200,198

 

EchoStar XIV

 

15

 

316,518

 

 

EchoStar XV

 

15

 

277,533

 

 

Satellites acquired under capital lease agreements

 

10-15

 

499,819

 

499,819

 

Furniture, fixtures, equipment and other

 

1-10

 

480,217

 

454,048

 

Buildings and improvements

 

1-40

 

69,165

 

65,306

 

Land

 

 

3,760

 

3,760

 

Construction in progress

 

 

16,844

 

13,686

 

Total property and equipment

 

 

 

5,915,213

 

5,087,914

 

Accumulated depreciation

 

 

 

(2,684,364

)

(2,486,734

)

Property and equipment, net

 

 

 

$

3,230,849

 

$

2,601,180

 

 

Construction in progress consists of the following:

 

 

 

As of December 31,

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Software related projects

 

$

3,469

 

$

7,440

 

Other

 

13,375

 

6,246

 

Construction in progress

 

$

16,844

 

$

13,686

 

 

Depreciation and amortization expense consists of the following:

 

 

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Equipment leased to customers

 

$

822,442

 

$

799,169

 

$

827,599

 

Satellites

 

110,510

 

86,430

 

89,435

 

Buildings, furniture, fixtures, equipment and other

 

50,408

 

54,115

 

83,196

 

Total depreciation and amortization

 

$

983,360

 

$

939,714

 

$

1,000,230

 

 

Cost of sales and operating expense categories included in our accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) do not include depreciation expense related to satellites or equipment leased to customers.

 

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Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued

 

The cost of our satellites includes capitalized interest of $6 million during the year ended December 31, 2008. We did not record any capitalized interest during the years ended December 31, 2010 or 2009.

 

Satellites

 

We currently utilize 13 satellites in geostationary orbit approximately 22,300 miles above the equator, six of which we own. We currently utilize capacity on five satellites from EchoStar, which are accounted for as operating leases. We also lease two satellites from third parties, which are accounted for as capital leases and are depreciated over the shorter of the economic life or the term of the satellite agreement.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Original

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Degree

 

Useful

 

 

 

 

 

Launch

 

Orbital

 

Life

 

Lease Term

 

Satellites

 

Date

 

Location

 

(Years)

 

(Years)

 

Owned:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

EchoStar I (1)

 

December 1995

 

77

 

12

 

 

 

EchoStar VII

 

February 2002

 

119

 

12

 

 

 

EchoStar X

 

February 2006

 

110

 

12

 

 

 

EchoStar XI

 

July 2008

 

110

 

12

 

 

 

EchoStar XIV

 

March 2010

 

119

 

15

 

 

 

EchoStar XV

 

July 2010

 

61.5

 

15

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Leased from EchoStar:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

EchoStar VI (1)

 

July 2000

 

77

 

12

 

 

 

EchoStar VIII (1)(2)

 

August 2002

 

77

 

12

 

 

 

EchoStar IX (1)(2)(3)

 

August 2003

 

121

 

12

 

 

 

EchoStar XII (1)

 

July 2003

 

61.5

 

10

 

 

 

Nimiq 5 (1)(2)

 

September 2009

 

72.7

 

10

 

10

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Leased from Other Third Party:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Anik F3

 

April 2007

 

118.7

 

15

 

15

 

Ciel II

 

December 2008

 

129

 

10

 

10

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Under Construction:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Leased from EchoStar

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

QuetzSat-1

 

Late 2011

 

77

 

10

 

10

 

EchoStar XVI

 

2012

 

61.5

 

10

 

10

 

 


(1)          See Note 15 for further discussion of our Related Party Agreements.

(2)          We lease a portion of the capacity on these satellites.

(3)          Leased on a month to month basis.

 

EchoStar XIV.  Our EchoStar XIV satellite was launched on March 20, 2010 and commenced commercial operations at the 119 degree orbital location during May 2010.  EchoStar XIV has both spot beam capabilities and the ability to provide service to the entire continental United States (“CONUS”) that has allowed us, among other things, to expand our HD offerings.

 

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DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued

 

EchoStar XV.  Our EchoStar XV satellite was launched on July 10, 2010 and commenced commercial operations at the 61.5 degree orbital location during August 2010.  EchoStar XV is a CONUS satellite that has allowed us, among other things, to expand our HD offerings.  EchoStar XV is expected to be used as an in-orbit spare when EchoStar XVI commences commercial operations during the second half of 2012.

 

Satellite Anomalies

 

Operation of our programming service requires that we have adequate satellite transmission capacity for the programming we offer. Moreover, current competitive conditions require that we continue to expand our offering of new programming, particularly by expanding local HD coverage and offering more HD national channels. While we generally have had in-orbit satellite capacity sufficient to transmit our existing channels and some backup capacity to recover the transmission of certain critical programming, our backup capacity is limited.

 

In the event of a failure or loss of any of our satellites, we may need to acquire or lease additional satellite capacity or relocate one of our other satellites and use it as a replacement for the failed or lost satellite. Such a failure could result in a prolonged loss of critical programming or a significant delay in our plans to expand programming as necessary to remain competitive and thus may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

Prior to 2010, certain satellites in our fleet experienced anomalies, some of which have had a significant adverse impact on their remaining useful life and/or commercial operation. There can be no assurance that future anomalies will not further impact the remaining useful life and/or commercial operation of any of these satellites. See “Long-Lived Satellite Assets” below for further discussion of evaluation of impairment. There can be no assurance that we can recover critical transmission capacity in the event one or more of our in-orbit satellites were to fail. We do not anticipate carrying insurance for any of the in-orbit satellites that we use, and we will bear the risk associated with any in-orbit satellite failures. Recent developments with respect to certain of our satellites are discussed below.

 

Owned Satellites

 

EchoStar VII.  EchoStar VII, which is being used as an in-orbit spare, was designed with four gyros, of which three are required to properly control the positioning of the satellite.  During October 2010, EchoStar VII experienced an anomaly which caused one of its gyros to temporarily stop functioning.  Testing during December 2010 confirmed that this gyro is functioning again.  In addition, during July 2010, EchoStar VII experienced a thruster anomaly.  Thrusters control spacecraft location and maintain spacecraft pointing.  While these anomalies did not reduce the estimated useful life of the satellite to less than 12 years or impact commercial operation of the satellite, there can be no assurance that future anomalies will not reduce its useful life or impact its commercial operation.

 

EchoStar X.  EchoStar X was designed with 49 spot beams which use up to 42 active 140 watt traveling wave tube amplifiers (“TWTAs”) and 24 solar array circuits, of which approximately 22 are required to assure full power for the original minimum 12-year useful life of the satellite.  During May and September of 2010, EchoStar X experienced anomalies which affected seven solar array circuits reducing the number of functional solar array circuits to 17.  While these anomalies did not reduce the estimated useful life of the satellite to less than 12 years or impact commercial operation of the satellite based on the satellite’s current configuration, there can be no assurance that future anomalies will not reduce its useful life or impact its commercial operation.

 

Leased Satellites

 

EchoStar VI.  EchoStar VI was designed with 108 solar array strings, of which approximately 102 are required to assure full power availability for the original minimum 12-year useful life of the satellite.  During March and August of 2010, EchoStar VI experienced anomalies resulting in the loss of 24 solar array strings, reducing the number of functional solar array strings to 84. While these anomalies did not reduce the estimated useful life of the satellite to less than 12 years, commercial operation has been impacted and there can be no assurance that future anomalies will not reduce its useful life or further impact its commercial operation.  The satellite was designed to operate 32 DBS transponders in CONUS at approximately 125 watts per channel, switchable to 16 DBS transponders operating at approximately 250 watts per channel.  The power reduction resulting from the solar array failures currently limits us to operating 24 DBS transponders in CONUS at approximately 125 watts per

 

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Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued

 

channel, switchable to 12 DBS transponders operating at approximately 250 watts per channel.  The number of transponders to which power can be provided is expected to decline in the future at the rate of approximately one transponder every three years.

 

EchoStar VIIIEchoStar VIII was designed to operate 32 DBS transponders in CONUS at approximately 120 watts per channel, switchable to 16 DBS transponders operating at approximately 240 watts per channel.  EchoStar VIII was also designed with spot-beam technology.  This satellite has experienced several anomalies prior to 2011, but none have reduced its useful life or impacted its commercial operation.  During January 2011, the satellite experienced an anomaly, which temporarily disrupted electrical power to some components causing an interruption of broadcast service.  Testing is being performed to determine if this anomaly will reduce the satellite’s useful life or impact its commercial operations.  There can be no assurance that this anomaly or any future anomalies will not reduce its useful life or impact its commercial operation.

 

Long-Lived Satellite Assets.  We evaluate our satellite fleet for impairment as one asset group and test for recoverability whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that its carrying amount may not be recoverable.  While certain of the anomalies discussed above, and previously disclosed, may be considered to represent a significant adverse change in the physical condition of an individual satellite, based on the redundancy designed within each satellite and considering the asset grouping, these anomalies are not considered to be significant events that would require evaluation for impairment recognition.  Unless and until a specific satellite is abandoned or otherwise determined to have no service potential, the net carrying amount related to the satellite would not be written off.

 

FCC Authorizations.  We currently do not have any satellites positioned at the 148 degree orbital location as a result of the retirement of EchoStar V.  While we have requested the necessary approval from the FCC for the continued use of this orbital location, there can be no assurance that the FCC will determine that our proposed future use of this orbital location complies fully with all licensing requirements.  If the FCC decides to revoke this license, we may be required to write-off its $68 million carrying value.

 

7.     Long-Term Debt

 

6 3/8% Senior Notes due 2011

 

The 6 3/8% Senior Notes mature October 1, 2011. Interest accrues at an annual rate of 6 3/8% and is payable semi-annually in cash, in arrears on April 1 and October 1 of each year.

 

The 6 3/8% Senior Notes are redeemable, in whole or in part, at any time at a redemption price equal to 100% of their principal amount plus a “make-whole” premium, as defined in the related indenture, together with accrued and unpaid interest.

 

The 6 3/8% Senior Notes are:

 

·                  general unsecured senior obligations of DDBS;

 

·                  ranked equally in right of payment with all of DDBS’ and the guarantors’ existing and future unsecured senior debt; and

 

·                  ranked effectively junior to our and the guarantors’ current and future secured senior indebtedness up to the value of the collateral securing such indebtedness.

 

The indenture related to the 6 3/8% Senior Notes contains restrictive covenants that, among other things, impose limitations on the ability of DDBS and its restricted subsidiaries to:

 

·                  incur additional indebtedness or enter into sale and leaseback transactions;

 

·                  pay dividends or make distribution on DDBS’ capital stock or repurchase DDBS’ capital stock;

 

·                  make certain investments;

 

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Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued

 

·                  create liens;

 

·                  enter into transactions with affiliates;

 

·                  merge or consolidate with another company; and

 

·                  transfer or sell assets.

 

In the event of a change of control, as defined in the related indenture, we would be required to make an offer to repurchase all or any part of a holder’s 6 3/8% Senior Notes at a purchase price equal to 101% of the aggregate principal amount thereof, together with accrued and unpaid interest thereon, to the date of repurchase.

 

7% Senior Notes due 2013

 

The 7% Senior Notes mature October 1, 2013. Interest accrues at an annual rate of 7% and is payable semi-annually in cash, in arrears on April 1 and October 1 of each year.

 

The 7% Senior Notes are redeemable, in whole or in part, at any time at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount plus a “make-whole” premium, as defined in the related indenture, together with accrued and unpaid interest.

 

The 7% Senior Notes are:

 

·                  general unsecured senior obligations of DDBS;

 

·                  ranked equally in right of payment with all of DDBS’ and the guarantors’ existing and future unsecured senior debt; and

 

·                  ranked effectively junior to our and the guarantors’ current and future secured senior indebtedness up to the value of the collateral securing such indebtedness.

 

The indenture related to the 7% Senior Notes contains restrictive covenants that, among other things, impose limitations on the ability of DDBS and its restricted subsidiaries to:

 

·                  incur additional debt;

 

·                  pay dividends or make distribution on DDBS’ capital stock or repurchase DDBS’ capital stock;

 

·                  make certain investments;

 

·                  create liens or enter into sale and leaseback transactions;

 

·                  enter into transactions with affiliates;

 

·                  merge or consolidate with another company; and

 

·                  transfer or sell assets.

 

In the event of a change of control, as defined in the related indenture, we would be required to make an offer to repurchase all or any part of a holder’s 7% Senior Notes at a purchase price equal to 101% of the aggregate principal amount thereof, together with accrued and unpaid interest thereon, to the date of repurchase.

 

F-21



Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued

 

6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2014

 

The 6 5/8% Senior Notes mature October 1, 2014. Interest accrues at an annual rate of 6 5/8% and is payable semi-annually in cash, in arrears on April 1 and October 1 of each year.

 

The 6 5/8% Senior Notes are redeemable, in whole or in part, at any time at a redemption price equal to 100% of their principal amount plus a “make-whole” premium, as defined in the related indenture, together with accrued and unpaid interest.

 

The 6 5/8% Senior Notes are:

 

·                  general unsecured senior obligations of DDBS;

 

·                  ranked equally in right of payment with all of DDBS’ and the guarantors’ existing and future unsecured senior debt; and

 

·                  ranked effectively junior to our and the guarantors’ current and future secured senior indebtedness up to the value of the collateral securing such indebtedness.

 

The indenture related to the 6 5/8% Senior Notes contains restrictive covenants that, among other things, impose limitations on the ability of DDBS and its restricted subsidiaries to:

 

·                  incur additional indebtedness or enter into sale and leaseback transactions;

 

·                  pay dividends or make distribution on DDBS’ capital stock or repurchase DDBS’ capital stock;

 

·                  make certain investments;

 

·                  create liens;

 

·                  enter into transactions with affiliates;

 

·                  merge or consolidate with another company; and

 

·                  transfer or sell assets.

 

In the event of a change of control, as defined in the related indenture, we would be required to make an offer to repurchase all or any part of a holder’s 6 5/8% Senior Notes at a purchase price equal to 101% of the aggregate principal amount thereof, together with accrued and unpaid interest thereon, to the date of repurchase.

 

7 3/4% Senior Notes due 2015

 

The 7 3/4% Senior Notes mature May 31, 2015. Interest accrues at an annual rate of 7 3/4% and is payable semi-annually in cash, in arrears on May 31 and November 30 of each year.

 

The 7 3/4% Senior Notes are redeemable, in whole or in part, at any time at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount plus a “make-whole” premium, as defined in the related indenture, together with accrued and unpaid interest. Prior to May 31, 2011, we may also redeem up to 35% of each of the 7 3/4% Senior Notes at specified premiums with the net cash proceeds from certain equity offerings or capital contributions.

 

The 7 3/4% Senior Notes are:

 

·                  general unsecured senior obligations of DDBS;

 

F-22



Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued

 

·                  ranked equally in right of payment with all of DDBS’ and the guarantors’ existing and future unsecured senior debt; and

 

·                  ranked effectively junior to our and the guarantors’ current and future secured senior indebtedness up to the value of the collateral securing such indebtedness.

 

The indenture related to the 7 3/4% Senior Notes contains restrictive covenants that, among other things, impose limitations on the ability of DDBS and its restricted subsidiaries to:

 

·                  incur additional debt;

 

·                  pay dividends or make distribution on DDBS’ capital stock or repurchase DDBS’ capital stock;

 

·                  make certain investments;

 

·                  create liens or enter into sale and leaseback transactions;

 

·                  enter into transactions with affiliates;

 

·                  merge or consolidate with another company; and

 

·                  transfer or sell assets.

 

In the event of a change of control, as defined in the related indenture, we would be required to make an offer to repurchase all or any part of a holder’s 7 3/4% Senior Notes at a purchase price equal to 101% of the aggregate principal amount thereof, together with accrued and unpaid interest thereon, to the date of repurchase.

 

7 1/8% Senior Notes due 2016

 

The 7 1/8% Senior Notes mature February 1, 2016. Interest accrues at an annual rate of 7 1/8% and is payable semi-annually in cash, in arrears on February 1 and August 1 of each year.

 

The 7 1/8% Senior Notes are redeemable, in whole or in part, at any time at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount plus a “make-whole” premium, as defined in the related indenture, together with accrued and unpaid interest.

 

The 7 1/8% Senior Notes are:

 

·                  general unsecured senior obligations of DDBS;

 

·                  ranked equally in right of payment with all of DDBS’ and the guarantors’ existing and future unsecured senior debt; and

 

·                  ranked effectively junior to our and the guarantors’ current and future secured senior indebtedness up to the value of the collateral securing such indebtedness.

 

The indenture related to the 7 1/8% Senior Notes contains restrictive covenants that, among other things, impose limitations on the ability of DDBS and its restricted subsidiaries to:

 

·                  incur additional debt;

 

·                  pay dividends or make distribution on DDBS’ capital stock or repurchase DDBS’ capital stock;

 

·                  make certain investments;

 

F-23



Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued

 

·                  create liens or enter into sale and leaseback transactions;

 

·                  enter into transactions with affiliates;

 

·                  merge or consolidate with another company; and

 

·                  transfer or sell assets.

 

In the event of a change of control, as defined in the related indenture, we would be required to make an offer to repurchase all or any part of a holder’s 7 1/8% Senior Notes at a purchase price equal to 101% of the aggregate principal amount thereof, together with accrued and unpaid interest thereon, to the date of repurchase.

 

7 7/8% Senior Notes due 2019

 

On August 17, 2009, we issued $1.0 billion aggregate principal amount of our ten-year, 7 7/8% Senior Notes due September 1, 2019 at an issue price of 97.467%. Interest accrues at an annual rate of 7 7/8% and is payable semi-annually in cash, in arrears on March 1 and September 1 of each year.

 

On October 5, 2009, we issued $400 million aggregate principal amount of additional 7 7/8% Senior Notes due 2019 at an issue price of 101.750% plus accrued interest from August 17, 2009. These notes were issued as additional notes under the indenture, dated as of August 17, 2009, pursuant to which we issued the $1.0 billion discussed above. These notes and the notes previously issued under the related indenture will be treated as a single class of debt securities.

 

The 7 7/8% Senior Notes are redeemable, in whole or in part, at any time at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount plus a “make-whole” premium, as defined in the related indenture, together with accrued and unpaid interest. Prior to September 1, 2012, we may also redeem up to 35% of each of the 7 7/8% Senior Notes at specified premiums with the net cash proceeds from certain equity offerings or capital contributions.

 

The 7 7/8% Senior Notes are:

 

·                  general unsecured senior obligations of DDBS;

 

·                  ranked equally in right of payment with all of DDBS’ and the guarantors’ existing and future unsecured senior debt; and

 

·                  ranked effectively junior to our and the guarantors’ current and future secured senior indebtedness up to the value of the collateral securing such indebtedness.

 

The Indenture related to the 7 7/8% Senior Notes contains restrictive covenants that, among other things, impose limitations on the ability of DDBS and its restricted subsidiaries to:

 

·                  incur additional debt;

 

·                  pay dividends or make distributions on DDBS’ capital stock or repurchase DDBS’ capital stock;

 

·                  make certain investments;

 

·                  create liens or enter into sale and leaseback transactions;

 

·                  enter into transactions with affiliates;

 

·                  merge or consolidate with another company; and

 

F-24



Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued

 

·                  transfer or sell assets.

 

In the event of a change of control, as defined in the related indenture, we would be required to make an offer to repurchase all or any part of a holder’s 7 7/8% Senior Notes at a purchase price equal to 101% of the aggregate principal amount thereof, together with accrued and unpaid interest thereon, to the date of repurchase.

 

Interest on Long-Term Debt

 

 

 

 

 

Annual

 

 

 

Semi-Annual

 

Debt Service

 

 

 

Payment Dates

 

Requirements

 

 

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

6 3/8% Senior Notes due 2011

 

April 1 and October 1

 

$

63,750

 

7% Senior Notes due 2013

 

April 1 and October 1

 

$

35,000

 

6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2014

 

April 1 and October 1

 

$

66,250

 

7 3/4% Senior Notes due 2015

 

May 31 and November 30

 

$

58,125

 

7 1/8% Senior Notes due 2016

 

February 1 and August 1

 

$

106,875

 

7 7/8% Senior Notes due 2019

 

March 1 and September 1

 

$

110,250

 

 

Our ability to meet our debt service requirements will depend on, among other factors, the successful execution of our business strategy, which is subject to uncertainties and contingencies beyond our control.

 

Fair Value of our Long-Term Debt

 

The following table summarizes the carrying and fair values of our debt facilities as of December 31, 2010 and 2009:

 

 

 

As of December 31,

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

 

 

Carrying
Value

 

Fair Value

 

Carrying
Value

 

Fair Value

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

6 3/8% Senior Notes due 2011

 

$

1,000,000

 

$

1,032,500

 

$

1,000,000

 

$

1,028,750

 

7 % Senior Notes due 2013

 

500,000

 

532,815

 

500,000

 

515,000

 

6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2014

 

1,000,000

 

1,032,500

 

1,000,000

 

1,010,000

 

7 3/4% Senior Notes due 2015

 

750,000

 

798,750

 

750,000

 

789,375

 

7 1/8% Senior Notes due 2016

 

1,500,000

 

1,548,600

 

1,500,000

 

1,548,750

 

7 7/8% Senior Notes due 2019

 

1,400,000

 

1,463,000

 

1,400,000

 

1,473,500

 

Mortgages and other notes payable

 

77,965

 

77,965

 

42,107

 

42,107

 

Subtotal

 

6,227,965

 

$

6,486,130

 

6,192,107

 

$

6,407,482

 

Capital lease obligations (1)

 

286,971

 

 

 

304,457

 

 

 

Total long-term debt and capital lease obligations (including current portion)

 

$

6,514,936

 

 

 

$

6,496,564

 

 

 

 


(1)       Disclosure regarding fair value of capital leases is not required.

 

F-25



Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued

 

Other Long-Term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations

 

Other long-term debt and capital lease obligations consist of the following:

 

 

 

As of December 31,

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Satellites and other capital lease obligations

 

$

286,971

 

$

304,457

 

8% note payable for EchoStar VII satellite vendor financing, payable over 13 years from launch

 

7,577

 

8,773

 

6% note payable for EchoStar X satellite vendor financing, payable over 15 years from launch

 

10,862

 

11,704

 

6% note payable for EchoStar XI satellite vendor financing, payable over 15 years from launch

 

15,951

 

16,748

 

6% note payable for EchoStar XIV satellite vendor financing, payable over 15 years from launch

 

22,000

 

 

6% note payable for EchoStar XV satellite vendor financing, payable over 15 years from launch

 

18,000

 

 

Mortgages and other unsecured notes payable due in installments through 2017 with interest rates ranging from approximately 2% to 13%

 

3,575

 

4,882

 

Total

 

364,936

 

346,564

 

Less current portion

 

(30,895

)

(26,518

)

Other long-term debt and capital lease obligations, net of current portion

 

$

334,041

 

$

320,046

 

 

Capital Lease Obligations

 

Anik F3. Anik F3, an FSS satellite, was launched and commenced commercial operation during April 2007. This satellite is accounted for as a capital lease and depreciated over the term of the satellite service agreement. We have leased 100% of the Ku-band capacity on Anik F3 for a period of 15 years.

 

Ciel II. Ciel II, a Canadian DBS satellite, was launched in December 2008 and commenced commercial operation during February 2009. This satellite is accounted for as a capital lease and depreciated over the term of the satellite service agreement. We have leased 100% of the capacity on Ciel II for an initial ten-year term.

 

As of December 31, 2010 and 2009, we had $500 million capitalized for the estimated fair value of satellites acquired under capital leases included in “Property and equipment, net,” with related accumulated depreciation of $109 million and $66 million, respectively. In our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss), we recognized $43 million, $40 million and $15 million in depreciation expense on satellites acquired under capital lease agreements during the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

 

F-26



Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued

 

Future minimum lease payments under the capital lease obligation, together with the present value of the net minimum lease payments as of December 31, 2010 are as follows (in thousands):

 

For the Years Ending December 31,

 

 

 

2011

 

$

82,184

 

2012

 

77,110

 

2013

 

75,970

 

2014

 

75,970

 

2015

 

75,970

 

Thereafter

 

390,239

 

Total minimum lease payments

 

777,443

 

Less: Amount representing lease of the orbital location and estimated executory costs (primarily insurance and maintenance) including profit thereon, included in total minimum lease payments

 

(357,982

)

Net minimum lease payments

 

419,461

 

Less: Amount representing interest

 

(132,490

)

Present value of net minimum lease payments

 

286,971

 

Less: Current portion

 

(24,801

)

Long-term portion of capital lease obligations

 

$

262,170

 

 

The summary of future maturities of our outstanding long-term debt as of December 31, 2010 is included in the commitments table in Note 11.

 

8.     Income Taxes and Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes

 

Income Taxes

 

Our income tax policy is to record the estimated future tax effects of temporary differences between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and amounts reported on our Consolidated Balance Sheets, as well as probable operating loss, tax credit and other carryforwards. Deferred tax assets are offset by valuation allowances when we believe it is more likely than not that net deferred tax assets will not be realized. We periodically evaluate our need for a valuation allowance. Determining necessary valuation allowances requires us to make assessments about historical financial information as well as the timing of future events, including the probability of expected future taxable income and available tax planning opportunities.

 

As of December 31, 2010, we had no net operating loss carryforwards (“NOLs”) for federal income tax purposes and $1 million of NOL benefit for state income tax purposes. The state NOLs begin to expire in the year 2020.  In addition, there are $8 million of tax benefits related to credit carryforwards which are offset by a valuation allowance.  The credit carryforwards begin to expire in the year 2022.

 

DDBS and its domestic subsidiaries join with DISH in filing U.S. consolidated federal income tax returns and, in some states, combined or consolidated returns. The federal and state income tax provisions or benefits recorded by DDBS are generally those that would have been recorded if DDBS and its domestic subsidiaries had filed returns as a consolidated group independent of DISH. Cash is due and paid to DISH based on amounts that would be payable based on DDBS consolidated or combined group filings. Amounts are receivable from DISH on a basis similar to when they would be receivable from the IRS or other state taxing authorities. The amounts paid to DISH during the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 were $429 million, $400 million and $602 million, respectively.

 

F-27



Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued

 

The components of the (provision for) benefit from income taxes are as follows:

 

 

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Current (provision) benefit:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Federal

 

$

(286,491

)

$

(360,974

)

$

(459,864

)

State

 

(68,962

)

(44,399

)

(56,837

)

Foreign

 

 

(78

)

 

 

 

(355,453

)

(405,451

)

(516,701

)

Deferred (provision) benefit:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Federal

 

(195,869

)

38,828

 

(156,589

)

State

 

18,711

 

789

 

(19,354

)

Decrease (increase) in valuation allowance

 

(5,701

)

(7,104

)

(4,302

)

 

 

(182,859

)

32,513

 

(180,245

)

Total benefit (provision)

 

$

(538,312

)

$

(372,938

)

$

(696,946

)

 

The actual tax provisions for 2010, 2009 and 2008 reconcile to the amounts computed by applying the statutory Federal tax rate to income before taxes as follows:

 

 

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

 

 

% of pre-tax (income)/loss

 

Statutory rate

 

(35.0

)

(35.0

)

(35.0

)

State income taxes, net of Federal benefit

 

(2.5

)

(3.4

)

(2.6

)

Stock option compensation

 

0.3

 

(0.2

)

 

Other

 

1.0

 

1.1

 

(1.1

)

Decrease (increase) in valuation allowance

 

 

(0.7

)

(0.2

)

Total benefit (provision) for income taxes

 

(36.2

)

(38.2

)

(38.9

)

 

F-28



Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued

 

The temporary differences, which give rise to deferred tax assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, are as follows:

 

 

 

As of December 31,

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Deferred tax assets:

 

 

 

 

 

Unrealized losses on investments

 

$

9,595

 

$

9,595

 

Accrued expenses

 

255,273

 

174,982

 

Stock compensation

 

17,683

 

9,109

 

Deferred revenue

 

56,324

 

43,328

 

State taxes net of federal effect

 

17,941

 

5,250

 

Total deferred tax assets

 

356,816

 

242,264

 

Valuation allowance

 

(15,784

)

(9,891

)

Deferred tax asset after valuation allowance

 

341,032

 

232,373

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deferred tax liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

(681,018

)

(413,541

)

Total deferred tax liabilities

 

(681,018

)

(413,541

)

Net deferred tax asset (liability)

 

$

(339,986

)

$

(181,168

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current portion of net deferred tax asset (liability)

 

281,957

 

189,058

 

Noncurrent portion of net deferred tax asset (liability)

 

(621,943

)

(370,226

)

Total net deferred tax asset (liability)

 

$

(339,986

)

$

(181,168

)

 

Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes

 

In addition to filing federal income tax returns, we and one or more of our subsidiaries file income tax returns in all states that impose an income tax and a small number of foreign jurisdictions where we have immaterial operations. We are subject to U.S. federal, state and local income tax examinations by tax authorities for the years beginning in 1996 due to the carryover of previously incurred net operating losses. As of December 31, 2010, no taxing authority has proposed any significant adjustments to our tax positions. We have no significant current tax examinations in process.

 

F-29



Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued

 

A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows (in thousands):

 

 

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

Unrecognized tax benefit

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

 

 

(In thousands)

Balance as of beginning period

 

$

199,172

 

$

201,271

 

$

17,593

 

Additions based on tax positions related to the current year

 

7,382

 

7,952

 

37,583

 

Additions based on tax positions related to prior years

 

11,507

 

4,072

 

182,880

 

Reductions based on tax positions related to prior years

 

(43,141

)

(6,042

)

(36,785

)

Reductions based on tax positions related to settlements with taxing authorities

 

(493

)

(5,899

)

 

Reductions based on tax positions related to the lapse of the statute of limitations

 

(4,201

)

(2,182

)

 

Balance as of end of period

 

$

170,226

 

$

199,172

 

$

201,271

 

 

We have $161 million in unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, could favorably affect our effective tax rate. We do not expect any portion of this amount to be paid or settled within the next twelve months.

 

Accrued interest and penalties on uncertain tax positions are recorded as a component of “Other, net” on our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).  During the year ended December 31, 2010, we recorded $4 million in interest and penalty benefit to earnings.  During the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, we recorded $8 million and $5 million in interest and penalty expense to earnings, respectively.  Accrued interest and penalties were $11 million and $15 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.  The above table excludes these amounts.

 

9.     Employee Benefit Plans

 

Employee Stock Purchase Plan

 

Our employees participate in the DISH employee stock purchase plan (the “ESPP”), in which DISH is authorized to issue 1.8 million shares of Class A common stock.  At December 31, 2010, DISH had 0.5 million shares of Class A common stock which remain available for issuance under this plan. Substantially all full-time employees who have been employed by DISH for at least one calendar quarter are eligible to participate in the ESPP.  Employee stock purchases are made through payroll deductions.  Under the terms of the ESPP, employees may not deduct an amount which would permit such employee to purchase DISH’s capital stock under all of DISH’s stock purchase plans at a rate which would exceed $25,000 in fair value of capital stock in any one year. The purchase price of the stock is 85% of the closing price of DISH’s Class A common stock on the last business day of each calendar quarter in which such shares of Class A common stock are deemed sold to an employee under the ESPP. During the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, employee purchases of Class A common stock through the ESPP totaled approximately 0.1 million, 0.2 million and 0.1 million shares, respectively.

 

401(k) Employee Savings Plan

 

DISH sponsors a 401(k) Employee Savings Plan (the “401(k) Plan”) for eligible employees. Voluntary employee contributions to the 401(k) Plan may be matched 50% by DISH, subject to a maximum annual contribution of $1,500 per employee. Forfeitures of unvested participant balances which are retained by the 401(k) Plan may be used to fund matching and discretionary contributions. DISH also may make an annual discretionary contribution to the plan with approval by our Board of Directors, subject to the maximum deductible limit provided by the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. These contributions may be made in cash or in DISH’s stock.

 

F-30



Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued

 

The following table summarizes the expense associated with our matching contributions and discretionary contributions:

 

 

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

Expense Recognized Related to the 401(k) Plan

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Matching contributions, net of forfeitures

 

$

1,598

 

$

6,116

 

$

4,641

 

Discretionary stock contributions, net of forfeitures

 

$

24,954

 

$

29,004

 

$

12,436

 

 

10.  Stock-Based Compensation

 

Stock Incentive Plans

 

DISH maintains stock incentive plans to attract and retain officers, directors and key employees. Our employees participate in the DISH stock incentive plans. Stock awards under these plans include both performance and non-performance based stock incentives. As of December 31, 2010, there were outstanding under these plans stock options to acquire 18.4 million shares of DISH’s Class A common stock and 1.3 million restricted stock units associated with our employees. Stock options granted prior to and on December 31, 2010 were granted with exercise prices equal to or greater than the market value of DISH Class A common stock at the date of grant and with a maximum term of approximately ten years. While historically DISH’s board of directors has issued stock awards subject to vesting, typically at the rate of 20% per year, some stock awards have been granted with immediate vesting and other stock awards vest only upon the achievement of certain DISH-specific objectives. As of December 31, 2010, DISH had 76.2 million shares of its Class A common stock available for future grant under its stock incentive plans.

 

During December 2009, DISH paid a dividend in cash of $2.00 per share on their outstanding Class A and Class B common stock to shareholders of record on November 20, 2009. In light of such dividend, during February 2010, the exercise price of 16.9 million stock options, affecting approximately 400 of our employees, was reduced by $2.00 per share (the “Stock Option Adjustment”). Except as noted below, all information discussed below reflects the Stock Option Adjustment.

 

In connection with the Spin-off, as permitted by existing stock incentive plans and consistent with the Spin-off exchange ratio, each DISH stock option was converted into two stock options as follows:

 

·                  an adjusted DISH stock option for the same number of shares that were exercisable under the original DISH stock option, with an exercise price equal to the exercise price of the original DISH stock option multiplied by 0.831219.

 

·                  a new EchoStar stock option for one-fifth of the number of shares that were exercisable under the original DISH stock option, with an exercise price equal to the exercise price of the original DISH stock option multiplied by 0.843907.

 

Similarly, each holder of DISH restricted stock units retained his or her DISH restricted stock units and received one EchoStar restricted stock unit for every five DISH restricted stock units that they held.

 

Consequently, the fair value of the DISH stock award and the new EchoStar stock award immediately following the Spin-off was equivalent to the fair value of such stock award immediately prior to the Spin-off.

 

F-31



Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued

 

As of December 31, 2010, the following stock awards were outstanding:

 

 

 

As of December 31, 2010

 

 

 

DISH Awards

 

EchoStar Awards

 

Stock Awards Outstanding

 

Stock
Options

 

Restricted
Stock
Units

 

Stock
Options

 

Restricted
Stock
Units

 

Held by DDBS employees

 

18,447,004

 

1,271,984

 

1,037,974

 

58,784

 

 

DISH is responsible for fulfilling all stock awards related to DISH common stock and EchoStar is responsible for fulfilling all stock awards related to EchoStar common stock, regardless of whether such stock awards are held by our or EchoStar’s employees. Notwithstanding the foregoing, our stock-based compensation expense, resulting from stock awards outstanding at the Spin-off date, is based on the stock awards held by our employees regardless of whether such stock awards were issued by DISH or EchoStar. Accordingly, stock-based compensation that we expense with respect to EchoStar stock awards is included in “Additional paid-in capital” on our Consolidated Balance Sheets.

 

Exercise prices for DISH stock options outstanding and exercisable associated with our employees as of December 31, 2010 are as follows:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Options Outstanding

 

Options Exercisable

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Number
Outstanding
as of
December 31,

 

Weighted-
Average
Remaining
Contractual

 

Weighted-
Average
Exercise

 

Number
Exercisable
as of
December 31,

 

Weighted-
Average
Remaining
Contractual

 

Weighted-
Average
Exercise

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2010

 

Life

 

Price

 

2010

 

Life

 

Price

 

$

 —

 

 

$

10.00

 

6,203,472

 

7.26

 

$

9.09

 

593,272

 

7.55

 

$

9.09

 

$

 10.00

 

 

$

15.00

 

1,031,414

 

7.73

 

$

13.99

 

107,102

 

7.15

 

$

13.89

 

$

 15.00

 

 

$

20.00

 

2,532,838

 

9.18

 

$

18.15

 

46,999

 

7.25

 

$

17.80

 

$

 20.00

 

 

$

25.00

 

5,713,713

 

4.74

 

$

22.42

 

2,716,113

 

4.09

 

$

22.81

 

$

 25.00

 

 

$

30.00

 

2,426,412

 

5.89

 

$

26.54

 

1,572,614

 

5.40

 

$

26.36

 

$

 30.00

 

 

$

35.00

 

480,655

 

5.77

 

$

33.77

 

266,253

 

5.27

 

$

33.58

 

$

 35.00

 

 

$

40.00

 

58,500

 

6.68

 

$

36.79

 

23,400

 

6.64

 

$

36.72

 

$

 —

 

 

$

40.00

 

18,447,004

 

6.55

 

$

17.76

 

5,325,753

 

5.02

 

$

22.70

 

 

F-32



Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued

 

Stock Award Activity

 

DISH stock option activity associated with our employees was as follows:

 

 

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

 

 

Options

 

Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price

 

Options

 

Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price

 

Options

 

Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price

 

Total options outstanding, beginning of period (1)

 

18,094,235

 

$

20.86

 

18,267,950

 

$

21.86

 

14,786,967

 

$

22.80

 

Granted

 

2,450,500

 

$

18.34

 

3,077,000

 

$

15.69

 

7,998,500

 

$

13.67

 

Exercised

 

(408,231

)

$

9.99

 

(233,795

)

$

10.95

 

(669,117

)

$

20.74

 

Forfeited and cancelled

 

(1,689,500

)

$

21.69

 

(3,016,920

)

$

22.44

 

(3,848,400

)

$

12.92

 

Total options outstanding, end of period

 

18,447,004

 

$

17.76

 

18,094,235

 

$

20.86

 

18,267,950

 

$

21.86

 

Performance based options outstanding, end of period (2)

 

9,907,250

 

$

15.29

 

8,253,500

 

$

16.27

 

9,094,250

 

$

16.28

 

Exercisable at end of period

 

5,325,753

 

$

22.70

 

5,722,735

 

$

28.36

 

4,898,400

 

$

30.00

 

 


(1)

The beginning of period weighted-average exercise price of $20.86 does not reflect the Stock Option Adjustment, which occurred subsequent to December 31, 2009.

(2)

These stock options, which are included in the caption “Total options outstanding, end of period,” were issued pursuant to performance-based stock incentive plans. Vesting of these stock options is contingent upon meeting certain DISH-specific goals which are not yet probable of being achieved. See discussion of the 2005 LTIP, 2008 LTIP and other employee performance awards below.

 

We realized tax benefits from stock awards exercised during the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 as follows:

 

 

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Tax benefit from stock awards exercised

 

$

1,665

 

$

1,116

 

$

2,905

 

 

Based on the closing market price of DISH Class A common stock on December 31, 2010, the aggregate intrinsic value of stock options associated with our employees was as follows:

 

 

 

As of December 31, 2010

 

 

 

Options
Outstanding

 

Options
Exercisable

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Aggregate intrinsic value

 

$

75,225

 

$

6,973

 

 

F-33



Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued

 

DISH restricted stock unit activity associated with our employees was as follows:

 

 

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

 

 

Restricted
Stock
Units

 

Weighted-
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value

 

Restricted
Stock
Units

 

Weighted-
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value

 

Restricted
Stock
Units

 

Weighted-
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value

 

Total restricted stock units outstanding, beginning of period

 

857,719

 

$

25.04

 

987,625

 

$

24.88

 

1,008,636

 

$

26.38

 

Granted

 

600,000

 

$

18.15

 

6,666

 

$

11.11

 

88,322

 

$

11.09

 

Exercised

 

 

$

 

(38,072

)

$

22.76

 

(30,000

)

$

26.66

 

Forfeited and cancelled

 

(185,735

)

$

23.07

 

(98,500

)

$

23.33

 

(79,333

)

$

28.33

 

Total restricted stock units outstanding, end of period

 

1,271,984

 

$

22.06

 

857,719

 

$

25.04

 

987,625

 

$

24.88

 

Restricted Performance Units outstanding, end of period (1)

 

1,271,984

 

$

22.06

 

857,719

 

$

25.04

 

917,625

 

$

24.78

 

 


(1)

These Restricted Performance Units, which are included in the caption “Total restricted stock units outstanding, end of period,” were issued pursuant to performance-based stock incentive plans. Vesting of these Restricted Performance Units is contingent upon meeting certain DISH-specific goals which are not yet probable of being achieved. See discussion of the 2005 LTIP, 2008 LTIP and other employee performance awards below.

 

Long-Term Performance-Based Plans

 

2005 LTIP. During 2005, DISH adopted a long-term, performance-based stock incentive plan (the “2005 LTIP”). The 2005 LTIP provides stock options and restricted stock units, either alone or in combination, which vest over seven years at the rate of 10% per year during the first four years, and at the rate of 20% per year thereafter. Exercise of the stock awards is subject to a performance condition that a DISH-specific subscriber goal is achieved by March 31, 2015.

 

Contingent compensation related to the 2005 LTIP will not be recorded in our financial statements unless and until management concludes achievement of the performance condition is probable. Given the competitive nature of DISH’s business, small variations in subscriber churn, gross new subscriber addition rates and certain other factors can significantly impact subscriber growth. Consequently, while it was determined that achievement of the goal was not probable as of December 31, 2010, that assessment could change at any time.

 

If all of the stock awards under the 2005 LTIP were vested and the goal had been met or if management had determined that achievement of the goal was probable during the year ended December 31, 2010, we would have recorded total non-cash, stock-based compensation expense for our employees as indicated in the table below. If the goal is met and there are unvested stock awards at that time, the vested amounts would be expensed immediately on our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss), with the unvested portion recognized ratably over the remaining vesting period.

 

 

 

2005 LTIP

 

 

 

Total

 

Vested Portion

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

DISH awards held by DDBS employees

 

$

38,134

 

$

20,533

 

EchoStar awards held by DDBS employees

 

7,466

 

4,013

 

Total

 

$

45,600

 

$

24,546

 

 

2008 LTIP. During 2008, DISH adopted a long-term, performance-based stock incentive plan (the “2008 LTIP”). The 2008 LTIP provides stock options and restricted stock units, either alone or in combination, which vest based on DISH-specific subscriber and financial goals. Exercise of the stock awards is contingent on achieving these goals by December 31, 2015.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued

 

Although no awards vest until DISH attains the performance goals, compensation related to the 2008 LTIP will be recorded based on management’s assessment of the probability of meeting the remaining goals.  If the remaining goals are probable of being achieved, we will begin recognizing the associated non-cash, stock-based compensation expense on our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) over the estimated period to achieve the goal.  See table below titled “Estimated Remaining Non-Cash, Stock-Based Compensation Expense.”

 

DISH determined that 25% of the 2008 LTIP performance goals were probable of achievement, of which 10% of the goals have been fully achieved.  As a result, we recorded non-cash, stock-based compensation expense for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, as indicated in the table below titled “Non-Cash, Stock-Based Compensation Expense Recognized.”

 

Other Employee Performance Awards.  In addition to the above long-term, performance stock incentive plans, DISH has other stock awards that vest based on certain other DISH-specific subscriber and financial goals.  Exercise of these stock awards is contingent on achieving certain performance goals.

 

Additional compensation related to these awards will be recorded based on management’s assessment of the probability of meeting the remaining performance goals.  If the remaining goals are probable of being achieved, we will begin recognizing the associated non-cash, stock-based compensation expense on our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) over the estimated period to achieve the goal.  See table below titled “Estimated Remaining Non-Cash, Stock-Based Compensation Expense.”

 

Although no awards vest until the performance goals are attained, DISH determined that certain goals were probable of achievement and, as a result, recorded non-cash, stock-based compensation expense for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, as indicated in the table below titled “Non-Cash, Stock-Based Compensation Expense Recognized.”

 

Given the competitive nature of DISH’s business, small variations in subscriber churn, gross new subscriber addition rates and certain other factors can significantly impact subscriber growth.  Consequently, while it was determined that achievement of certain DISH-specific subscriber and financial goals was not probable as of December 31, 2010, that assessment could change at any time.

 

Estimated Remaining Non-Cash, Stock-Based Compensation Expense

 

2008 LTIP

 

Other
Employee
Performance
Awards (1)

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Expense estimated to be recognized during 2011

 

$

1,065

 

$

271

 

Estimated contingent expense subsequent to 2011

 

26,378

 

25,273

 

Total estimated remaining expense over the term of the plan

 

$

27,443

 

$

25,544

 

 


(1)

Certain long-term, performance stock awards expired without vesting during the first quarter of 2011. As a result, the non-cash, stock-based compensation expense associated with those awards is excluded from this table.

 

 

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

Non-Cash, Stock-Based Compensation Expense Recognized

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

2008 LTIP

 

$

2,984

 

$

3,560

 

$

 

Other employee performance awards

 

271

 

234

 

 

Total non-cash, stock-based compensation expense recognized for performance-based awards

 

$

3,255

 

$

3,794

 

$

 

 

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DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued

 

Of the 18.4 million stock options and 1.3 million restricted stock units outstanding under the DISH stock incentive plans associated with our employees as of December 31, 2010, the following awards were outstanding pursuant to the performance based stock incentive plans:

 

 

 

As of December 31, 2010

 

 

 

Number of
Awards

 

Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price

 

Performance Based Stock Options

 

 

 

 

 

 

2005 LTIP

 

2,414,000

 

$

23.27

 

2008 LTIP

 

5,493,250

 

$

10.64

 

Other employee performance awards

 

2,000,000

 

$

18.41

 

Total

 

9,907,250

 

$

15.29

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Restricted Performance Units and Other

 

 

 

 

 

2005 LTIP

 

293,996

 

 

 

2008 LTIP

 

45,750

 

 

 

Other employee performance awards

 

932,238

 

 

 

Total

 

1,271,984

 

 

 

 

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DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued

 

Stock-Based Compensation

 

During the year ended December 31, 2010, we incurred $3 million of additional non-cash, stock-based compensation cost in connection with the Stock Option Adjustment discussed previously. This amount is included in the table below.

 

Total non-cash, stock-based compensation expense for all of our employees is shown in the following table for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 and was allocated to the same expense categories as the base compensation for such employees:

 

 

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Subscriber-related

 

$

1,160

 

$

1,069

 

$

797

 

General and administrative

 

14,227

 

11,158

 

14,552

 

Total non-cash, stock-based compensation

 

$

15,387

 

$

12,227

 

$

15,349

 

 

As of December 31, 2010, our total unrecognized compensation cost related to the non-performance based unvested stock awards was $20 million and includes compensation expense that we will recognize for EchoStar stock awards held by our employees as a result of the Spin-off. This cost is based on an estimated future forfeiture rate of approximately 3.7% per year and will be recognized over a weighted-average period of approximately three years. Share-based compensation expense is recognized based on stock awards ultimately expected to vest and is reduced for estimated forfeitures. Forfeitures are estimated at the time of grant and revised, if necessary, in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from those estimates. Changes in the estimated forfeiture rate can have a significant effect on share-based compensation expense since the effect of adjusting the rate is recognized in the period the forfeiture estimate is changed.

 

Valuation

 

The fair value of each stock award for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 was estimated at the date of the grant using a Black-Scholes option valuation model with the following assumptions:

 

 

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

Stock options

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Risk-free interest rate

 

1.50% - 2.89%

 

1.70% - 3.19%

 

1.00% - 3.42%

 

Volatility factor

 

33.33% - 38.63%

 

29.72% - 45.97%

 

19.98% - 39.90%

 

Expected term of options in years

 

5.2 - 7.5

 

3.0 - 7.3

 

3.0 - 7.5

 

Weighted-average fair value of options granted

 

$6.83 - $8.14

 

$3.86 - $8.29

 

$3.12 - $8.72

 

 

In December 2009, DISH paid a $2.00 cash dividend per share on its outstanding Class A and Class B common stock.  While DISH currently does not intend to declare additional dividends on its common stock, they may elect to do so from time to time.  Accordingly, the dividend yield percentage used in the Black-Scholes option valuation model is set at zero for all periods. The Black-Scholes option valuation model was developed for use in estimating the fair value of traded stock options which have no vesting restrictions and are fully transferable. Consequently, our estimate of fair value may differ from other valuation models. Further, the Black-Scholes option valuation model requires the input of subjective assumptions. Changes in the subjective input assumptions can materially affect the fair value estimate. Therefore, we do not believe the existing models provide as reliable a single measure of the fair value of stock-based compensation awards as a market-based model would.

 

We will continue to evaluate the assumptions used to derive the estimated fair value of DISH’s stock options as new events or changes in circumstances become known.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued

 

11.  Commitments and Contingencies

 

Commitments

 

As of December 31, 2010, future maturities of our long-term debt, capital lease and contractual obligations are summarized as follows:

 

 

 

Payments due by period

 

 

 

Total

 

2011

 

2012

 

2013

 

2014

 

2015

 

Thereafter

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Long-term debt obligations

 

$

6,227,965

 

$

1,006,094

 

$

6,444

 

$

506,114

 

$

1,005,778

 

$

756,160

 

$

2,947,375

 

Capital lease obligations

 

286,971

 

24,801

 

21,700

 

22,630

 

24,881

 

27,339

 

165,620

 

Interest expense on long-term debt and capital lease obligations

 

2,443,097

 

467,758

 

401,896

 

399,672

 

362,274

 

264,500

 

546,997

 

Satellite-related obligations

 

2,416,671

 

229,492

 

242,308

 

250,749

 

230,731

 

230,514

 

1,232,877

 

Operating lease obligations

 

115,533

 

48,647

 

31,739

 

19,232

 

8,355

 

3,077

 

4,483

 

Purchase obligations

 

1,917,381

 

1,022,932

 

256,998

 

253,947

 

240,543

 

136,701

 

6,260

 

Total

 

$

13,407,618

 

$

2,799,724

 

$

961,085

 

$

1,452,344

 

$

1,872,562

 

$

1,418,291

 

$

4,903,612

 

 

The “Satellite-related obligations” in our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009 as filed on March 9, 2010 inadvertently excluded the EchoStar XVI ten-year satellite lease commitment, which was agreed to in December 2009, and is expected to commence during the fourth quarter of 2012.  The obligations associated with this lease would have increased the previously reported “Satellite-related obligations” during 2012, 2013, 2014, and thereafter by approximately $18 million, $72 million, $72 million and $553 million, respectively.  These amounts are included in the table above.

 

In certain circumstances the dates on which we are obligated to make these payments could be delayed. These amounts will increase to the extent we procure insurance for our satellites or contract for the construction, launch or lease of additional satellites.

 

The table above does not include $170 million of liabilities associated with unrecognized tax benefits which were accrued, discussed in Note 8, and are included on our Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2010. We do not expect any portion of this amount to be paid or settled within the next twelve months.

 

We entered into a commitment following December 31, 2010 relating to DBSD North America, which is not included in the table above. See Note 16 for further discussion.

 

Satellite-Related Obligations

 

Satellites Under Construction. As of December 31, 2010, we have agreed to lease capacity on two satellites from EchoStar that are currently under construction. Future commitments related to these satellites are included in the table above under “Satellite-related obligations.”

 

·                  QuetzSat-1. During 2008, we entered into a ten-year transponder service agreement with EchoStar to lease capacity on QuetzSat-1, a DBS satellite, which is expected to be launched during the second half of 2011.

 

·                  EchoStar XVI. During December 2009, we entered into a ten-year transponder service agreement with EchoStar to lease all of the capacity on EchoStar XVI, a DBS satellite, which is expected to be launched during the second half of 2012.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued

 

Guarantees

 

In connection with the Spin-off, we distributed certain satellite lease agreements to EchoStar and remained the guarantor under those capital leases for payments totaling approximately $290 million over approximately the next four years that are not included in the table above.

 

In addition, during the third quarter of 2009, EchoStar entered into a new satellite transponder service agreement for Nimiq 5 through 2024. We sublease this capacity from EchoStar and DISH guarantees a certain portion of its obligation under this agreement through 2019. As of December 31, 2010, the remaining obligation under this agreement, including the guarantee of $553 million, is included in the table above.

 

As of December 31, 2010, we have not recorded a liability on the balance sheet for any of these guarantees.

 

Purchase Obligations

 

Our 2011 purchase obligations primarily consist of binding purchase orders for receiver systems and related equipment, digital broadcast operations, satellite and transponder leases, engineering and for products and services related to the operation of our DISH Network. Our purchase obligations also include certain guaranteed fixed contractual commitments to purchase programming content. Our purchase obligations can fluctuate significantly from period to period due to, among other things, management’s control of inventory levels, and can materially impact our future operating asset and liability balances, and our future working capital requirements.

 

Programming Contracts

 

In the normal course of business, we enter into contracts to purchase programming content in which our payment obligations are fully contingent on the number of subscribers to whom we provide the respective content. These programming commitments are not included in the “Commitments” table above. The terms of our contracts typically range from one to ten years with annual rate increases. Our programming expenses will continue to increase to the extent we are successful growing our subscriber base. In addition, our margins may face further downward pressure from price increases and the renewal of long term programming contracts on less favorable pricing terms.

 

Rent Expense

 

Total rent expense for operating leases was $263 million, $189 million and $204 million in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

 

Patents and Intellectual Property

 

Many entities, including some of our competitors, now have and may in the future obtain patents and other intellectual property rights that cover or affect products or services directly or indirectly related to those that we offer. We may not be aware of all patents and other intellectual property rights that our products may potentially infringe. Damages in patent infringement cases can include a tripling of actual damages in certain cases. Further, we cannot estimate the extent to which we may be required in the future to obtain licenses with respect to patents held by others and the availability and cost of any such licenses. Various parties have asserted patent and other intellectual property rights with respect to components within our direct broadcast satellite system. We cannot be certain that these persons do not own the rights they claim, that our products do not infringe on these rights, that we would be able to obtain licenses from these persons on commercially reasonable terms or, if we were unable to obtain such licenses, that we would be able to redesign our products to avoid infringement.

 

Contingencies

 

In connection with the Spin-off, DISH entered into a separation agreement with EchoStar, which provides, among other things, for the division of certain liabilities, including liabilities resulting from litigation. Under the terms of the separation agreement, EchoStar has assumed certain liabilities that relate to its business including certain designated liabilities for acts or omissions prior to the Spin-off. Certain specific provisions govern intellectual property related claims under which, generally, EchoStar will only be liable for its acts or omissions following the Spin-off and DISH will indemnify EchoStar for any liabilities or

 

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DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued

 

damages resulting from intellectual property claims relating to the period prior to the Spin-off as well as its acts or omissions following the Spin-off.

 

Acacia

 

During 2004, Acacia Media Technologies (“Acacia”) filed a lawsuit against us and EchoStar in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California.  The suit also named DirecTV, Comcast, Charter, Cox and a number of smaller cable companies as defendants.  Acacia is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein.  The suit alleges infringement of United States Patent Nos. 5,132,992; 5,253,275; 5,550,863; 6,002,720; and 6,144,702, which relate to certain systems and methods for transmission of digital data.  On September 25, 2009, the District Court granted summary judgment to the defendants on invalidity grounds, and dismissed the action with prejudice.  On October 8, 2010, the Federal Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed the dismissal.  Acacia may no longer appeal this dismissal since their time to seek en banc review with the Federal Circuit Court of Appeals or petition the United States Supreme Court for certiorari has now expired.

 

Broadcast Innovation, L.L.C.

 

During 2001, Broadcast Innovation, L.L.C. (“Broadcast Innovation”) filed a lawsuit against us, DirecTV, Thomson Consumer Electronics and others in United States District Court in Denver, Colorado.  Broadcast Innovation is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein.  The suit alleges infringement of United States Patent Nos. 6,076,094 (the ‘094 patent) and 4,992,066 (the ‘066 patent).  The ‘094 patent relates to certain methods and devices for transmitting and receiving data along with specific formatting information for the data.  The ‘066 patent relates to certain methods and devices for providing the scrambling circuitry for a pay television system on removable cards.  Subsequently, DirecTV and Thomson settled with Broadcast Innovation leaving us as the only defendant.

 

During 2004, the District Court issued an order finding the ‘066 patent invalid.  Also in 2004, the District Court found the ‘094 patent invalid in a parallel case filed by Broadcast Innovation against Charter and Comcast.  In 2005, the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit overturned that finding of invalidity with respect to the ‘094 patent and remanded the Charter case back to the District Court.  During June 2006, Charter filed a reexamination request with the United States Patent and Trademark Office.  The District Court has stayed the Charter case pending reexamination, and our case has been stayed pending resolution of the Charter case.

 

We intend to vigorously defend this case.  In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe any of the asserted patents, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain user-friendly features that we currently offer to consumers.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

 

Channel Bundling Class Action

 

During 2007, a purported class of cable and satellite subscribers filed an antitrust action against us in the United States District Court for the Central District of California.  The suit also names as defendants DirecTV, Comcast, Cablevision, Cox, Charter, Time Warner, Inc., Time Warner Cable, NBC Universal, Viacom, Fox Entertainment Group and Walt Disney Company.  The suit alleges, among other things, that the defendants engaged in a conspiracy to provide customers with access only to bundled channel offerings as opposed to giving customers the ability to purchase channels on an “a la carte” basis.  On October 16, 2009, the District Court granted defendants’ motion to dismiss with prejudice.  The plaintiffs have appealed.  We intend to vigorously defend this case.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

 

ESPN

 

During 2008, we filed a lawsuit against ESPN, Inc., ESPN Classic, Inc., ABC Cable Networks Group, Soapnet L.L.C. and International Family Entertainment (collectively, “ESPN”) for breach of contract in New York State Supreme Court.  Our complaint alleges that ESPN failed to provide us with certain high-definition feeds of the Disney Channel, ESPN News, Toon and ABC Family.  ESPN asserted a counterclaim, and then filed a motion for summary judgment, alleging that we owed approximately $35 million under the applicable affiliation agreements.  We brought a motion to amend our complaint to assert

 

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DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued

 

that ESPN was in breach of certain most-favored-nation provisions under the applicable affiliation agreements.  On April 15, 2009, the New York State Supreme Court granted our motion to amend the complaint, and granted, in part, ESPN’s motion on the counterclaim, finding that we are liable for some of the amount alleged to be owing but that the actual amount owing is disputed.  We appealed the partial grant of ESPN’s motion to the New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division, First Department.  After the partial grant of ESPN’s motion, ESPN sought an additional $30 million under the applicable affiliation agreements.  On March 15, 2010, the New York State Supreme Court affirmed the prior grant of ESPN’s motion and ruled that we owe the full amount of approximately $65 million under the applicable affiliation agreement.  There can be no assurance that ESPN will not seek, and that the New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division, First Department will not award a higher amount.  On December 29, 2010, the New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division, First Department affirmed the partial grant of ESPN’s motion on the counterclaim.  However, it did not rule on the amount that we owe ESPN pursuant to its counterclaim.  The appellate court will determine this amount as part of a separate proceeding.  For the year ended December 31, 2010, we recorded $42 million as a “Litigation accrual” on our Consolidated Balance Sheets and in “Litigation expense” on our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss), which reflects our estimated exposure for ESPN’s counterclaim. We intend to vigorously prosecute and defend this case.

 

Finisar Corporation

 

Finisar Corporation (“Finisar”) obtained a $100 million verdict in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas against DirecTV for patent infringement.  Finisar, an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein, alleged that DirecTV’s electronic program guide and other elements of its system infringe United States Patent No. 5,404,505 (the ‘505 patent).

 

During 2006, we and EchoStar, together with NagraStar L.L.C., filed a Complaint for Declaratory Judgment in the United States District Court for the District of Delaware against Finisar that asks the Court to declare that we do not infringe, and have not infringed, any valid claim of the ‘505 patent.  Finisar brought counterclaims against us, EchoStar and NagraStar alleging that we infringed the ‘505 patent.  During April 2008, the Federal Circuit reversed the judgment against DirecTV and ordered a new trial.  On remand, the District Court granted summary judgment in favor of DirecTV and during January 2010, the Federal Circuit affirmed the District Court’s grant of summary judgment, and dismissed the action with prejudice.  Finisar then agreed to dismiss its counterclaims against us, EchoStar and NagraStar without prejudice.  We also agreed to dismiss our Declaratory Judgment action without prejudice.

 

Ganas L.L.C.

 

During August 2010, Ganas, L.L.C. (“Ganas”) filed suit against us, Sabre Holdings Corporation, SAP America, Inc., SAS Institute Inc., Scottrade, Inc., TD Ameritrade, Inc., The Charles Schwab Corporation, Tivo Inc., Unicoi Systems Inc., Xerox Corporation, Adobe Systems Inc., AOL Inc., Apple Inc., Axibase Corporation, DirecTV, E*Trade Securities L.L.C., Exinda Networks, Fidelity Brokerage Services L.L.C., Firstrade Securities Inc., Hewlett-Packard Company, iControl Inc., International Business Machines Corporation and JPMorgan Chase & Co. in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas alleging infringement of United States Patent Nos. 7,136,913, 7,325,053, and 7,734,756. The patents relate to hypertext transfer protocol and simple object access protocol. Ganas is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein.

 

We intend to vigorously defend this case.  In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe any of the asserted patents, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain features that we currently offer to consumers.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

 

Katz Communications

 

During 2007, Ronald A. Katz Technology Licensing, L.P. (“Katz”) filed a patent infringement action against us in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California. The suit alleges infringement of 19 patents owned by Katz. The patents relate to interactive voice response, or IVR, technology.

 

We intend to vigorously defend this case. In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe any of the asserted patents, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages and/or an injunction that could require us

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued

 

to materially modify certain user-friendly features that we currently offer to consumers. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

 

NorthPoint Technology

 

On July 2, 2009, NorthPoint Technology, Ltd. filed suit against us, EchoStar and DirecTV in the United States District Court for the Western District of Texas alleging infringement of United States Patent No. 6,208,636 (the ‘636 patent). The ‘636 patent relates to the use of multiple low-noise block converter feedhorns, or LNBFs, which are antennas used for satellite reception.

 

We intend to vigorously defend this case. In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe the asserted patent, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain features that we currently offer to consumers. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

 

Olympic Developments

 

On January 20, 2011, Olympic Developments AG, LLC (“Olympic”) filed suit against us, Atlantic Broadband, Inc., Bright House Networks, LLC, Cable One, Inc., Cequel Communications Holdings I, LLC, CSC Holdings, LLC, GCI Communication Corp., Insight Communications Company, Inc., Knology, Inc., Mediacom Communications Corporation and RCN Telecom Services, LLC in the United States District Court for the Central District of California alleging infringement of United States Patent Nos. 5,475,585 and 6,246,400.  The patents relate to on-demand services.  Olympic is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein.

 

We intend to vigorously defend this case.  In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe the asserted patents, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain features that we currently offer to consumers.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

 

Personalized Media Communications

 

During 2008, Personalized Media Communications, Inc. (“PMC”) filed suit against us, EchoStar and Motorola Inc. in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas alleging infringement of United States Patent Nos. 4,694,490; 5,109,414; 4,965,825; 5,233,654; 5,335,277; and 5,887,243, which relate to satellite signal processing. PMC is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein.

 

We intend to vigorously defend this case. In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe any of the asserted patents, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain user-friendly features that we currently offer to consumers. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

 

Retailer Class Actions

 

During 2000, lawsuits were filed by retailers in Colorado state and federal courts attempting to certify nationwide classes on behalf of certain of our retailers.  The plaintiffs requested that the Courts declare certain provisions of, and changes to, alleged agreements between us and the retailers invalid and unenforceable, and to award damages for lost incentives and payments, charge backs and other compensation.  On September 20, 2010, we agreed to a settlement of both lawsuits that provides, among other things, for mutual releases of the claims underlying the litigation, payment by us of up to $60 million, and the option for certain class members to elect to reinstate certain monthly incentive payments, which the parties agreed have an aggregate maximum value of $23 million.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty how many class members will elect to reinstate these monthly incentive payments.   As a result, we recorded $60 million as a “Litigation accrual” on our Consolidated Balance Sheets and in “Litigation expense” for the year ended December 31, 2010 on our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).  On February 9, 2011, the court granted final approval of the settlement; however, our payment of the settlement amount is still subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions, including the lapse of all applicable appeal periods.

 

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Suomen Colorize Oy

 

During October 2010, Suomen Colorize Oy (“Suomen”) filed suit against DISH Network L.L.C., our indirect wholly owned subsidiary, and EchoStar in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida alleging infringement of United States Patent No. 7,277,398.  Suomen is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein.  The abstract of the patent states that the claims are directed to a method and terminal for providing services in a telecommunication network.

 

We intend to vigorously defend this case.  In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe the asserted patent, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain features that we currently offer to consumers.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

 

Technology Development Licensing

 

On January 22, 2009, Technology Development and Licensing L.L.C. (“TDL”) filed suit against us and EchoStar in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois alleging infringement of United States Patent No. Re. 35,952, which relates to certain favorite channel features. TDL is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein. In July 2009, the Court granted our motion to stay the case pending two re-examination petitions before the Patent and Trademark Office.

 

We intend to vigorously defend this case. In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe the asserted patent, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain user-friendly features that we currently offer to consumers. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

 

Tivo Inc.

 

During January 2008, the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit affirmed in part and reversed in part the April 2006 jury verdict concluding that certain of our digital video recorders, or DVRs, infringed a patent held by Tivo.  As of September 2008, we had recorded a total accrual of $132 million on our Consolidated Balance Sheets to reflect the April 2006 jury verdict, supplemental damages through September 2006 and pre-judgment interest awarded by the Texas court, together with the estimated cost of potential further software infringement prior to implementation of our alternative technology, discussed below, plus interest subsequent to entry of the judgment.  In its January 2008 decision, the Federal Circuit affirmed the jury’s verdict of infringement on Tivo’s “software claims,” and upheld the award of damages from the District Court.  The Federal Circuit, however, found that we did not literally infringe Tivo’s “hardware claims,” and remanded such claims back to the District Court for further proceedings.  On October 6, 2008, the Supreme Court denied our petition for certiorari.  As a result, approximately $105 million of the total $132 million accrual was released from an escrow account to Tivo.

 

We also developed and deployed “next-generation” DVR software.  This improved software was automatically downloaded to our current customers’ DVRs, and is fully operational (our “original alternative technology”).  The download was completed as of April 2007.  We received written legal opinions from outside counsel that concluded our original alternative technology does not infringe, literally or under the doctrine of equivalents, either the hardware or software claims of Tivo’s patent.  Tivo filed a motion for contempt alleging that we are in violation of the Court’s injunction.  We opposed this motion on the grounds that the injunction did not apply to DVRs that have received our original alternative technology, that our original alternative technology does not infringe Tivo’s patent, and that we were in compliance with the injunction.

 

In June 2009, the United States District Court granted Tivo’s motion for contempt, finding that our original alternative technology was not more than colorably different than the products found by the jury to infringe Tivo’s patent, that our original alternative technology still infringed the software claims, and that even if our original alternative technology was “non-infringing,” the original injunction by its terms required that we disable DVR functionality in all but approximately 192,000 digital set-top boxes in the field.  The District Court also amended its original injunction to require that we inform the court of any further attempts to design around Tivo’s patent and seek approval from the court before any such design-around is implemented.  The District Court awarded Tivo $103 million in supplemental damages and interest for the period from September 2006 through April 2008, based on an assumed $1.25 per subscriber per month royalty rate.  We posted a bond to

 

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secure that award pending appeal of the contempt order.  On July 1, 2009, the Federal Circuit Court of Appeals granted a permanent stay of the District Court’s contempt order pending resolution of our appeal.

 

The District Court held a hearing on July 28, 2009 on Tivo’s claims for contempt sanctions.  Tivo sought up to $975 million in contempt sanctions for the period from April 2008 to June 2009 based on, among other things, profits Tivo alleges we made from subscribers using DVRs.  We opposed Tivo’s request arguing, among other things, that sanctions are inappropriate because we made good faith efforts to comply with the Court’s injunction.  We also challenged Tivo’s calculation of profits. On September 4, 2009, the District Court partially granted Tivo’s motion for contempt sanctions and awarded $2.25 per DVR subscriber per month for the period from April 2008 to July 2009 (as compared to the award for supplemental damages for the prior period from September 2006 to April 2008, which was based on an assumed $1.25 per DVR subscriber per month).  By the District Court’s estimation, the total award for the period from April 2008 to July 2009 is approximately $200 million.  The District Court also awarded Tivo its attorneys’ fees and costs incurred during the contempt proceedings.  Enforcement of these awards has been stayed by the District Court pending resolution of our appeal of the underlying June 2009 contempt order.  On February 8, 2010, we and Tivo submitted a stipulation to the District Court that the attorneys’ fees and costs, including expert witness fees and costs, that Tivo incurred during the contempt proceedings amounted to $6 million.  During the year ended December 31, 2009, we increased our total accrual by $361 million to reflect the supplemental damages and interest for the period from implementation of our original alternative technology through April 2008 and for the estimated cost of alleged software infringement (including contempt sanctions for the period from April 2008 through June 2009) for the period from April 2008 through December 2009 plus interest.  During the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, we recorded $124 million and $361 million, respectively, of “Litigation expense” on our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).  During the year ended December 31, 2008, we did not record any litigation expense related to this case.  Our total accrual at December 31, 2010 was $517 million and is included in “Litigation accrual” on our Consolidated Balance Sheets.

 

In light of the District Court’s finding of contempt, and its description of the manner in which it believes our original alternative technology infringed the ‘389 patent, we are also developing and testing potential new alternative technology in an engineering environment.  As part of EchoStar’s development process, EchoStar downloaded several of our design-around options to less than 1,000 subscribers for “beta” testing.  On March 11, 2010, we requested that the District Court approve the implementation of one of our design-around options on an expedited basis.  There can be no assurance that the District Court will approve this request.

 

Oral argument on our appeal of the contempt ruling took place on November 2, 2009, before a three-judge panel of the Federal Circuit Court of Appeals.  On March 4, 2010, the Federal Circuit affirmed the District Court’s contempt order in a 2-1 decision.  On May 14, 2010, our petition for en banc review of that decision by the full Federal Circuit was granted and the opinion of the three-judge panel was vacated.  Oral argument occurred on November 9, 2010.  There can be no assurance that the full Federal Circuit will reverse the decision of the three-judge panel.  Tivo has stated that it will seek additional damages for the period from June 2009 to the present.  Although we have accrued our best estimate of damages, contempt sanctions and interest through December 31, 2010, there can be no assurance that Tivo will not seek, and that the court will not award, an amount that exceeds our accrual.

 

On October 6, 2010, the Patent and Trademark Office (the “PTO”) issued an office action confirming the validity of certain of the software claims of United States Patent No. 6,233,389 (the ‘389 patent).  However, the PTO only confirmed the validity of the ‘389 patent after Tivo made statements that we believe narrow the scope of its claims.  The claims that were confirmed thus should not have the same scope as the claims that we were found to have infringed and which underlie the contempt ruling that we are now appealing.  Therefore, we believe that the PTO’s conclusions are relevant to the issues on appeal.  The PTO’s conclusions support our position that our original alternative technology does not infringe and that we acted in good faith to design around Tivo’s patent.

 

If we are unsuccessful in overturning the District Court’s ruling on Tivo’s motion for contempt, we are not successful in developing and deploying potential new alternative technology and we are unable to reach a license agreement with Tivo on reasonable terms, we may be required to eliminate DVR functionality in all but approximately 192,000 digital set-top boxes in the field and cease distribution of digital set-top boxes with DVR functionality.  In that event we would be at a significant disadvantage to our competitors who could continue offering DVR functionality, which would likely result in a significant decrease in new subscriber additions as well as a substantial loss of current subscribers.  Furthermore, the inability to offer DVR functionality could cause certain of our distribution channels to terminate or significantly decrease their marketing of DISH

 

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Network services.  The adverse effect on our financial position and results of operations if the District Court’s contempt order is upheld is likely to be significant.  Additionally, the supplemental damage award of $103 million and further award of approximately $200 million does not include damages, contempt sanctions or interest for the period after June 2009.  In the event that we are unsuccessful in our appeal, we could also have to pay substantial additional damages, contempt sanctions and interest.  Depending on the amount of any additional damage or sanction award or any monetary settlement, we may be required to raise additional capital at a time and in circumstances in which we would normally not raise capital.  Therefore, any capital we raise may be on terms that are unfavorable to us, which might adversely affect our financial position and results of operations and might also impair our ability to raise capital on acceptable terms in the future to fund our own operations and initiatives.  We believe the cost of such capital and its terms and conditions may be substantially less attractive than our previous financings.

 

If we are successful in overturning the District Court’s ruling on Tivo’s motion for contempt, but unsuccessful in defending against any subsequent claim in a new action that our original alternative technology or any potential new alternative technology infringes Tivo’s patent, we could be prohibited from distributing DVRs or could be required to modify or eliminate our then-current DVR functionality in some or all set-top boxes in the field.  In that event we would be at a significant disadvantage to our competitors who could continue offering DVR functionality and the adverse effect on our business would be material.  We could also have to pay substantial additional damages.

 

Because both we and EchoStar are defendants in the Tivo lawsuit, we and EchoStar are jointly and severally liable to Tivo for any final damages and sanctions that may be awarded by the District Court. DISH has determined that it is obligated under the agreements entered into in connection with the Spin-off to indemnify EchoStar for substantially all liability arising from this lawsuit. EchoStar contributed an amount equal to its $5 million intellectual property liability limit under the Receiver Agreement. DISH and EchoStar have further agreed that EchoStar’s $5 million contribution would not exhaust EchoStar’s liability to DISH for other intellectual property claims that may arise under the Receiver Agreement. DISH and EchoStar also agreed that they would each be entitled to joint ownership of, and a cross-license to use, any intellectual property developed in connection with any potential new alternative technology.

 

Voom

 

In January 2008, Voom HD Holdings (“Voom”) filed a lawsuit against us in New York Supreme Court, alleging breach of contract and other claims arising from our termination of the affiliation agreement governing carriage of certain Voom HD channels on the DISH Network satellite TV service.  At that time, Voom also sought a preliminary injunction to prevent us from terminating the agreement.  The Court denied Voom’s request, finding, among other things, that Voom had not demonstrated that it was likely to prevail on the merits.  In April 2010, we and Voom each filed motions for summary judgment.  Voom later filed two motions seeking discovery sanctions.  On November 9, 2010, the Court issued a decision denying both motions for summary judgment, but granting Voom’s motions for discovery sanctions.  The Court’s decision provides for an adverse inference jury instruction at trial and precludes our damages expert from testifying at trial.  We appealed the grant of Voom’s motion for discovery sanctions to the New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division, First Department.  On February 15, 2011, the appellate Court granted our motion to stay the trial pending our appeal.  Voom is claiming over $2.5 billion in damages.  We intend to vigorously defend this case.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

 

Other

 

In addition to the above actions, we are subject to various other legal proceedings and claims which arise in the ordinary course of business, including, among other things, disputes with programmers regarding fees. In our opinion, the amount of ultimate liability with respect to any of these actions is unlikely to materially affect our financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

 

12.  Financial Information for Subsidiary Guarantors

 

DDBS’s senior notes are fully, unconditionally and jointly and severally guaranteed by all of our subsidiaries other than minor subsidiaries and the stand alone entity DDBS has no independent assets or operations. Therefore, supplemental financial information on a condensed consolidating basis of the guarantor subsidiaries is not required. There are no restrictions on our

 

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ability to obtain cash dividends or other distributions of funds from the guarantor subsidiaries, except those imposed by applicable law.

 

13.  Valuation and Qualifying Accounts

 

Our valuation and qualifying accounts as of December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 are as follows:

 

Allowance for doubtful accounts

 

Balance at
Beginning of
Year

 

Charged to
Costs and
Expenses

 

Deductions

 

Balance at
End of Year

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

For the years ended:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

December 31, 2010

 

$

16,372

 

$

115,478

 

$

(102,200

)

$

29,650

 

December 31, 2009

 

$

15,207

 

$

112,025

 

$

(110,860

)

$

16,372

 

December 31, 2008

 

$

14,019

 

$

98,629

 

$

(97,441

)

$

15,207

 

 

14.  Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)

 

Our quarterly results of operations are summarized as follows:

 

 

 

For the Three Months Ended

 

 

 

March 31

 

June 30

 

September 30

 

December 31

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Year ended December 31, 2010:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total revenue

 

$

3,056,662

 

$

3,167,915

 

$

3,206,371

 

$

3,204,789

 

Operating income (loss)

 

457,825

 

526,410

 

455,386

 

503,932

 

Net income (loss)

 

218,225

 

255,530

 

232,293

 

242,628

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Year ended December 31, 2009:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total revenue

 

$

2,905,320

 

$

2,903,699

 

$

2,891,793

 

$

2,962,306

 

Operating income (loss)

 

574,778

 

263,001

 

195,305

 

356,066

 

Net income (loss)

 

303,645

 

85,594

 

52,528

 

161,888

 

 

15.  Related Party Transactions

 

Related Party Transactions with DISH

 

On January 1, 2008, DISH spun off EchoStar as a separate publicly-traded company in the form of a stock dividend distributed to DISH shareholders.  In connection with the Spin-off, DISH contributed certain satellites, uplink and satellite transmission assets, real estate and other assets and related liabilities held by us to EchoStar.  On December 30, 2007, we paid a dividend of $1.615 billion to DOC to enable DISH to fund the $1.0 billion cash contribution to EchoStar and for other general corporate purposes.

 

During 2008, we paid dividends totaling $1.150 billion to DOC for general corporate purposes.  In addition, we purchased EchoStar XI from DISH Orbital II L.L.C. (“DOLLC II”), an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of DISH, and our affiliate, formerly known as EchoStar Orbital II L.L.C., for its fair value of approximately $330 million.  We assumed $17 million in

 

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vendor financing and the difference, or $313 million, was paid to our affiliate.  We recorded the satellite at DOLLC II’s carrying value of $200 million and recorded the difference, or $130 million, as a capital distribution to DOC.

 

On November 6, 2009, the board of directors of DISH declared a dividend of $2.00 per share on its outstanding Class A and Class B common stock, or $894 million in the aggregate.  On December 1, 2009, we paid a dividend of $1.050 billion to DOC to fund the payment of DISH’s dividend and other potential DISH cash needs.

 

During the second quarter 2010, we purchased EchoStar XIV from DISH Orbital II L.L.C. (“DOLLC II”), an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of DISH, and our affiliate, for its fair value of approximately $448 million. We assumed $22 million in vendor financing and the difference, or $426 million, was paid to our affiliate. We recorded the satellite at DOLLC II’s carrying value of $317 million and recorded the difference, or $131 million, as a capital distribution to our parent company, DISH Orbital Corporation (“DOC”).

 

During the third quarter 2010, we purchased EchoStar XV from DOLLC II for its fair value of approximately $413 million. We assumed $18 million in vendor financing and the difference, or $395 million, was paid to our affiliate. We recorded the satellite at DOLLC II’s carrying value of $278 million and recorded the difference, or $135 million, as a capital distribution to DOC.

 

Related Party Transactions with EchoStar

 

Following the Spin-off, EchoStar has operated as a separate public company, and we have no continued ownership interest in EchoStar. However, a substantial majority of the voting power of the shares of both companies is owned beneficially by our Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, Charles W. Ergen or by certain trusts established by Mr. Ergen for the benefit of his family.

 

EchoStar is our primary supplier of set-top boxes and digital broadcast operations and our key supplier of transponder capacity. Generally, the prices charged for products and services provided under the agreements entered into in connection with the Spin-off are based on pricing equal to EchoStar’s cost plus a fixed margin (unless noted differently below), which will vary depending on the nature of the products and services provided.

 

In connection with the Spin-off and subsequent to the Spin-off, we and EchoStar have entered into certain agreements pursuant to which we obtain certain products, services and rights from EchoStar, EchoStar obtains certain products, services and rights from us, and we and EchoStar have indemnified each other against certain liabilities arising from our respective businesses. We also may enter into additional agreements with EchoStar in the future. The following is a summary of the terms of the principal agreements that we have entered into with EchoStar that may have an impact on our financial position and results of operations.

 

“Equipment sales - EchoStar”

 

Remanufactured Receiver Agreement. In connection with the Spin-off, we entered into a remanufactured receiver agreement with EchoStar pursuant to which EchoStar has the right, but not the obligation, to purchase remanufactured receivers and accessories from us at cost plus a fixed margin, which varies depending on the nature of the equipment purchased. This agreement expires on January 1, 2012. EchoStar may terminate the remanufactured receiver agreement for any reason upon at least 60 days notice to us. We may also terminate this agreement if certain entities acquire us.

 

“Services and other revenue - EchoStar”

 

Transition Services Agreement. In connection with the Spin-off, DISH entered into a transition services agreement with EchoStar pursuant to which EchoStar had the right, but not the obligation, to receive the following services from DISH: finance, information technology, benefits administration, travel and event coordination, human resources, human resources development (training), program management, internal audit, legal, accounting and tax, and other support services. The fees for the services provided under the transition services agreement were calculated at cost plus a fixed margin, which varied depending on the nature of the services provided. The transition services agreement expired on January 1, 2010. However, DISH and EchoStar have agreed that following January 1, 2010 EchoStar shall continue to have the right, but not the obligation, to receive from DISH certain of the services previously provided under the transition services agreement pursuant to the Professional Services Agreement, as discussed below.

 

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Professional Services Agreement. During 2009, DISH and EchoStar agreed that EchoStar shall continue to have the right, but not the obligation, to receive from DISH the following services, among others, certain of which were previously provided under the transition services agreement: information technology, travel and event coordination, internal audit, legal, accounting and tax, benefits administration, program management and other support services. Additionally, DISH and EchoStar agreed that DISH shall continue to have the right, but not the obligation, to engage EchoStar to manage the process of procuring new satellite capacity for them (as discussed below, previously provided under the satellite procurement agreement) and receive logistics, procurement and quality assurance services from EchoStar (as discussed below, previously provided under the services agreement). The professional services agreement expires on January 1, 2012, but renews automatically for successive one-year periods thereafter, unless terminated earlier by either party upon at least 60 days notice. However, either party may terminate the services it receives with respect to a particular service for any reason upon at least 30 days notice.

 

Management Services Agreement. In connection with the Spin-off, DISH entered into a management services agreement with EchoStar pursuant to which DISH makes certain of its officers available to provide services (which are primarily legal and accounting services) to EchoStar. Specifically, R. Stanton Dodge and Paul W. Orban remain employed by DISH, but also serve as EchoStar’s Executive Vice President and General Counsel, and Senior Vice President and Controller, respectively. EchoStar makes payments to DISH based upon an allocable portion of the personnel costs and expenses incurred by DISH with respect to such officers (taking into account wages and fringe benefits). These allocations are based upon the estimated percentages of time to be spent by DISH’s executive officers performing services for EchoStar under the management services agreement. EchoStar also reimburses DISH for direct out-of-pocket costs incurred by DISH for management services provided to EchoStar. DISH and EchoStar evaluate all charges for reasonableness at least annually and make any adjustments to these charges as DISH and EchoStar mutually agree upon.

 

The management services agreement automatically renewed on January 1, 2011 for an additional one-year period until January 1, 2012 and renews automatically for successive one-year periods thereafter, unless terminated earlier: (i) by EchoStar at any time upon at least 30 days prior notice; (ii) by DISH at the end of any renewal term, upon at least 180 days notice; or (iii) by DISH upon notice to EchoStar, following certain changes in control.

 

Satellite Capacity Leased to EchoStar. During 2009, we entered into a satellite capacity agreement pursuant to which EchoStar leases certain satellite capacity from us on EchoStar I. The fee for the services provided under this satellite capacity agreement depends, among other things, upon the orbital location of the satellite and the length of the lease.

 

The lease generally terminates upon the earlier of: (i) the end of life or replacement of the satellite (unless EchoStar determines to renew on a year-to-year basis); (ii) the date the satellite fails; (iii) the date the transponder on which service is being provided fails; or (iv) a certain date, which depends, among other things, upon the estimated useful life of the satellite, whether the replacement satellite fails at launch or in orbit prior to being placed into service, and the exercise of certain renewal options. EchoStar generally has the option to renew this lease on a year-to-year basis through the end of the satellite’s life. There can be no assurance that any options to renew this agreement will be exercised.

 

Real Estate Lease Agreement. During 2008, DISH entered into a sublease for space at 185 Varick Street, New York, New York to EchoStar for a period of approximately seven years. The rent on a per square foot basis for this sublease was comparable to per square foot rental rates of similar commercial property in the same geographic area at the time of the sublease, and EchoStar is responsible for its portion of the taxes, insurance, utilities and maintenance of the premises.

 

Packout Services Agreement. In connection with the Spin-off, we entered into a packout services agreement with EchoStar, whereby EchoStar had the right, but not the obligation, to engage us to package and ship satellite receivers to customers that are not associated with us. This agreement expired on January 1, 2010.

 

“Satellite and transmission expenses - EchoStar”

 

Broadcast Agreement. In connection with the Spin-off, we entered into a broadcast agreement pursuant to which EchoStar provides certain broadcast services to us, including teleport services such as transmission and downlinking, channel origination services, and channel management services for a period ending on January 1, 2012. We may terminate channel origination services and channel management services for any reason and without any liability upon at least 60 days notice to EchoStar. If we terminate teleport services for a reason other than EchoStar’s breach, we are obligated to pay EchoStar the aggregate amount of the remainder of the expected cost of providing the teleport services. The fees for services provided under the broadcast

 

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agreement are calculated at cost plus a fixed margin, which varies depending on the nature of the products and services provided.

 

Broadcast Agreement for Certain Sports Related Programming. During May 2010, we entered into a broadcast agreement pursuant to which EchoStar provides certain broadcast services to us in connection with our carriage of certain sports related programming. The term of this agreement is for ten years. If we terminate this agreement for a reason other than EchoStar’s breach, we are generally obligated to reimburse EchoStar for any direct costs EchoStar incurs related to any such termination that it cannot reasonably mitigate. The fees for the broadcast services provided under this agreement depend, among other things, upon the cost to develop and provide such services.

 

Satellite Capacity Leased from EchoStar.  In connection with the Spin-off and subsequent to the Spin-off, we entered into certain satellite capacity agreements pursuant to which we lease certain satellite capacity on certain satellites owned or leased by EchoStar. The fees for the services provided under these satellite capacity agreements depend, among other things, upon the orbital location of the applicable satellite and the length of the lease. The term of each of the leases is set forth below:

 

EchoStar III, VI, VIII and XII. We lease certain satellite capacity from EchoStar on EchoStar VI, VIII and XII. The leases generally terminate upon the earlier of: (i) the end of life or replacement of the satellite (unless we determine to renew on a year-to-year basis); (ii) the date the satellite fails; (iii) the date the transponder on which service is being provided fails; or (iv) a certain date, which depends upon, among other things, the estimated useful life of the satellite, whether the replacement satellite fails at launch or in orbit prior to being placed into service and the exercise of certain renewal options. We generally have the option to renew each lease on a year-to-year basis through the end of the respective satellite’s life. There can be no assurance that any options to renew such agreements will be exercised. In August 2010, our lease of EchoStar III terminated when it was replaced by EchoStar XV.

 

EchoStar IX.  We lease certain satellite capacity from EchoStar on EchoStar IX.  Subject to availability, we generally have the right to continue to lease satellite capacity from EchoStar on EchoStar IX on a month-to-month basis.

 

EchoStar XVI. We will lease certain satellite capacity from EchoStar on EchoStar XVI after its service commencement date and this lease generally terminates upon the earlier of: (i) the end of life or replacement of the satellite; (ii) the date the satellite fails; (iii) the date the transponder(s) on which service is being provided under the agreement fails; or (iv) ten years following the actual service commencement date. Upon expiration of the initial term, we have the option to renew on a year-to-year basis through the end of life of the satellite. There can be no assurance that any options to renew this agreement will be exercised. EchoStar XVI is expected to be launched during the second half of 2012.

 

EchoStar XV. EchoStar XV is owned by us and is operated at the 61.5 degree orbital location. The FCC has granted EchoStar an authorization to operate the satellite at the 61.5 degree orbital location. For so long as EchoStar XV remains in service at the 61.5 degree orbital location, we are obligated to pay EchoStar a fee which varies depending on the number of frequencies being used by EchoStar XV.

 

Nimiq 5 Agreement. During 2009, EchoStar entered into a fifteen-year satellite service agreement with Telesat Canada (“Telesat”) to receive service on all 32 DBS transponders on the Nimiq 5 satellite at the 72.7 degree orbital location (the “Telesat Transponder Agreement”). During 2009, EchoStar also entered into a satellite service agreement (the “DISH Telesat Agreement”) with us, pursuant to which we will receive service from EchoStar on all 32 of the DBS transponders covered by the Telesat Transponder Agreement. We and EchoStar are currently receiving service on 23 of these DBS transponders and will receive service on the remaining nine DBS transponders over a phase-in period that will be completed in 2012. We have also guaranteed certain obligations of EchoStar under the Telesat Transponder Agreement. See discussions under “Guarantees” in Note 11.

 

Under the terms of the DISH Telesat Agreement, we make certain monthly payments to EchoStar that commenced in 2009 when the Nimiq 5 satellite was placed into service and continue through the service term. Unless earlier terminated under the terms and conditions of the DISH Telesat Agreement, the service term will expire ten years following the date it was placed into service. Upon expiration of the initial term we have the option to renew the DISH Telesat Agreement on a year-to-year basis through the end of life of the Nimiq 5 satellite. Upon in-orbit failure or end of life of the Nimiq 5 satellite, and in certain other circumstances, we have certain rights to receive service from EchoStar on a replacement satellite. There can be no assurance

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued

 

that any options to renew this agreement will be exercised or that we will exercise our option to receive service on a replacement satellite.

 

QuetzSat-1 Lease Agreement. During 2008, EchoStar entered into a ten-year satellite service agreement with SES Latin America S.A. (“SES”), which provides, among other things, for the provision by SES to EchoStar of service on 32 DBS transponders on the QuetzSat-1 satellite expected to be placed into service at the 77 degree orbital location during the second half of 2011. During 2008, EchoStar also entered into a transponder service agreement (“QuetzSat-1 Transponder Agreement”) with us pursuant to which we will receive service from EchoStar on 24 of the DBS transponders.

 

Under the terms of the QuetzSat-1 Transponder Agreement, we will make certain monthly payments to EchoStar commencing when the QuetzSat-1 satellite is placed into service and continuing through the service term. Unless earlier terminated under the terms and conditions of the QuetzSat-1 Transponder Agreement, the service term will expire ten years following the actual service commencement date. Upon expiration of the initial term, we have the option to renew the QuetzSat-1 Transponder Agreement on a year-to-year basis through the end of life of the QuetzSat-1 satellite. Upon a launch failure, in-orbit failure or end of life of the QuetzSat-1 satellite, and in certain other circumstances, we have certain rights to receive service from EchoStar on a replacement satellite. There can be no assurance that any options to renew this agreement will be exercised or that we will exercise our option to receive service on a replacement satellite.

 

TT&C Agreement. In connection with the Spin-off, we entered into a telemetry, tracking and control (“TT&C”) agreement pursuant to which we receive TT&C services from EchoStar for a period ending on January 1, 2012. The fees for services provided under the TT&C agreement are calculated at cost plus a fixed margin. We may terminate the TT&C agreement for any reason upon at least 60 days notice.

 

Satellite Procurement Agreement. In connection with the Spin-off, we entered into a satellite procurement agreement pursuant to which we had the right, but not the obligation, to engage EchoStar to manage the process of procuring new satellite capacity for DISH. The satellite procurement agreement expired on January 1, 2010. However, we and EchoStar agreed that following January 1, 2010, we shall continue to have the right, but not the obligation, to engage EchoStar to manage the process of procuring new satellite capacity for DISH pursuant to the Professional Services Agreement as discussed above.

 

“Cost of sales - subscriber promotion subsidies - EchoStar”

 

Receiver Agreement. EchoStar is currently our sole supplier of set-top box receivers. The table below indicates the dollar value of set-top boxes and other equipment that we purchased from EchoStar as well as the amount of purchases that are included in “Cost of sales - subscriber promotion subsidies - EchoStar” on our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss). The remaining amount is included in “Inventory” and “Property and equipment, net” on our Consolidated Balance Sheets.

 

 

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Set-top boxes and other equipment purchased from EchoStar

 

$

1,470,173

 

$

1,174,763

 

$

1,491,556

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Set-top boxes and other equipment purchased from EchoStar included in “Cost of sales — subscriber promotion subsidies — EchoStar”

 

$

175,777

 

$

188,793

 

$

167,508

 

 

In connection with the Spin-off, we entered into a receiver agreement pursuant to which we have the right, but not the obligation, to purchase digital set-top boxes and related accessories, and other equipment from EchoStar for a period ending on January 1, 2012. The receiver agreement allows us to purchase digital set-top boxes, related accessories and other equipment from EchoStar at cost plus a fixed margin, which varies depending on the nature of the equipment purchased. Additionally, EchoStar provides us with standard manufacturer warranties for the goods sold under the receiver agreement. We may terminate the receiver agreement for any reason upon at least 60 days notice to EchoStar. EchoStar may terminate the receiver agreement

 

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Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued

 

if certain entities were to acquire us. The receiver agreement also includes an indemnification provision, whereby the parties indemnify each other for certain intellectual property matters.

 

“General and administrative expenses - EchoStar”

 

Product Support Agreement. In connection with the Spin-off, we entered into a product support agreement pursuant to which we have the right, but not the obligation, to receive product support from EchoStar (including certain engineering and technical support services) for all set-top boxes and related accessories that EchoStar has previously sold and in the future may sell to us. The fees for the services provided under the product support agreement are calculated at cost plus a fixed margin, which varies depending on the nature of the services provided. The term of the product support agreement is the economic life of such receivers and related accessories, unless terminated earlier. We may terminate the product support agreement for any reason upon at least 60 days notice. In the event of an early termination of this agreement, we are entitled to a refund of any unearned fees paid to EchoStar for the services.

 

Real Estate Lease Agreements. We have entered into lease agreements pursuant to which we lease certain real estate from EchoStar. The rent on a per square foot basis for each of the leases is comparable to per square foot rental rates of similar commercial property in the same geographic area, and EchoStar is responsible for its portion of the taxes, insurance, utilities and maintenance of the premises. The term of each of the leases is set forth below:

 

Inverness Lease Agreement.  The lease for certain space at 90 Inverness Circle East in Englewood, Colorado expires on January 1, 2012.

 

Meridian Lease Agreement.  The lease for all of 9601 S. Meridian Blvd. in Englewood, Colorado is for a period ending on January 1, 2012 with a renewal option for one additional year.

 

Santa Fe Lease Agreement.  The lease for all of 5701 S. Santa Fe Dr. in Littleton, Colorado is for a period ending on January 1, 2012 with a renewal option for one additional year.

 

EchoStar Data Networks Sublease Agreement.  The sublease for certain space at 211 Perimeter Center in Atlanta, Georgia is for a period ending on October 31, 2016.

 

Gilbert Lease Agreement.  The lease for certain space at 801 N. DISH Dr. in Gilbert, Arizona expired on January 1, 2010.

 

Services Agreement. In connection with the Spin-off, DISH entered into a services agreement pursuant to which it had the right, but not the obligation, to receive logistics, procurement and quality assurance services from EchoStar. This agreement expired on January 1, 2010. However, DISH and EchoStar have agreed that following January 1, 2010, DISH shall continue to have the right, but not the obligation, to receive from EchoStar certain of the services previously provided under the services agreement pursuant to the Professional Services Agreement as discussed above.

 

DISHOnline.com Services Agreement. Effective January 1, 2010, we entered into a two-year agreement with EchoStar pursuant to which we will receive certain services associated with an online video portal. The fees for the services provided under this services agreement depend, among other things, upon the cost to develop and operate such services. We have the option to renew this agreement for three successive one year terms and the agreement may be terminated for any reason upon at least 120 days notice to EchoStar.

 

DISH Remote Access Services Agreement. Effective February 23, 2010, we entered into an agreement with EchoStar pursuant to which we will receive, among other things, certain remote DVR management services. The fees for the services provided under this services agreement depend, among other things, upon the cost to develop and operate such services. This agreement has a term of five years with automatic renewal for successive one year terms and may be terminated for any reason upon at least 120 days notice to EchoStar.

 

SlingService Services Agreement. Effective February 23, 2010, we entered into an agreement with EchoStar pursuant to which we will receive certain place-shifting services. The fees for the services provided under this services agreement depend, among

 

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DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued

 

other things, upon the cost to develop and operate such services. This agreement has a term of five years with automatic renewal for successive one year terms and may be terminated for any reason upon at least 120 days notice to EchoStar.

 

Other Agreements - EchoStar

 

Tax Sharing Agreement. In connection with the Spin-off, DISH entered into a tax sharing agreement with EchoStar which governs our respective rights, responsibilities and obligations after the Spin-off with respect to taxes for the periods ending on or before the Spin-off. Generally, all pre-Spin-off taxes, including any taxes that are incurred as a result of restructuring activities undertaken to implement the Spin-off, are borne by DISH, and DISH will indemnify EchoStar for such taxes. However, DISH is not liable for and will not indemnify EchoStar for any taxes that are incurred as a result of the Spin-off or certain related transactions failing to qualify as tax-free distributions pursuant to any provision of Section 355 or Section 361 of the Code because of: (i) a direct or indirect acquisition of any of EchoStar’s stock, stock options or assets; (ii) any action that EchoStar takes or fails to take; or (iii) any action that EchoStar takes that is inconsistent with the information and representations furnished to the IRS in connection with the request for the private letter ruling, or to counsel in connection with any opinion being delivered by counsel with respect to the Spin-off or certain related transactions. In such case, EchoStar is solely liable for, and will indemnify DISH for, any resulting taxes, as well as any losses, claims and expenses. The tax sharing agreement will only terminate after the later of the full period of all applicable statutes of limitations, including extensions, or once all rights and obligations are fully effectuated or performed.

 

Tivo. Because both we and EchoStar are defendants in the Tivo lawsuit, we and EchoStar are jointly and severally liable to Tivo for any final damages and sanctions that may be awarded by the District Court. DISH has determined that it is obligated under the agreements entered into in connection with the Spin-off to indemnify EchoStar for substantially all liability arising from this lawsuit. EchoStar contributed an amount equal to its $5 million intellectual property liability limit under the Receiver Agreement. DISH and EchoStar have further agreed that EchoStar’s $5 million contribution would not exhaust EchoStar’s liability to DISH for other intellectual property claims that may arise under the Receiver Agreement. DISH and EchoStar also agreed that they would each be entitled to joint ownership of, and a cross-license to use, any intellectual property developed in connection with any potential new alternative technology.

 

Multimedia Patent Trust. In December 2009, DISH determined that it is obligated under the agreements entered into in connection with the Spin-off to indemnify EchoStar for all of the costs to settle this lawsuit relating to the period prior to the Spin-off and a portion of such settlement costs relating to the period after the Spin-off. EchoStar has agreed that its contribution towards such settlement costs shall not be applied against EchoStar’s aggregate liability cap under the Receiver Agreement.

 

EchoStar XV Launch Service.  During 2009, EchoStar assigned certain of its rights under a launch contract to us for EchoStar’s fair value of $103 million.  This amount was paid to EchoStar during the first quarter of 2010.  We recorded these rights at EchoStar’s net book value of $89 million and recorded the $14 million difference between EchoStar’s net book value and our purchase price as a capital transaction with EchoStar.  We used these rights to launch EchoStar XV in July 2010.

 

Weather Related Programming Agreement. During May 2010, we entered into an agreement pursuant to which, among other things, EchoStar agreed to develop certain weather related programming and we received the right to distribute such programming. This agreement was terminated during June 2010. In July 2010, we purchased EchoStar’s interest in the entity that held such weather related programming for $5 million.

 

International Programming Rights Agreement.  During the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, we purchased approximately $2 million, $8 million and $8 million, respectively,  of certain international rights for sporting events from EchoStar, included in “Subscriber-related expenses” on our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss), of which EchoStar only retained a certain portion.

 

Acquisition of South.com, L.L.C. During October 2010, we purchased all of South.com, L.L.C. from EchoStar and another party for $5 million. South.com, L.L.C. is an entity that holds certain authorizations for multichannel video and data distribution service (MVDDS) spectrum in the United States.

 

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DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued

 

Other Agreements

 

In November 2009, Mr. Roger Lynch became employed by both DISH and EchoStar as Executive Vice President. Mr. Lynch is responsible for the development and implementation of advanced technologies that are of potential utility and importance to both DISH and EchoStar. Mr. Lynch’s compensation consists of cash and equity compensation and is borne by both EchoStar and DISH.

 

Related Party Transactions with NagraStar L.L.C.

 

Prior to the Spin-off, we owned 50% of NagraStar L.L.C. (“NagraStar”), which was contributed to EchoStar in connection with the Spin-off.  NagraStar is a joint venture between EchoStar and Nagra USA, Inc. that is our provider of encryption and related security systems intended to assure that only paying customers have access to our programming.  During the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, we incurred security access and other fees and purchased security access devices at an aggregate cost to us of $80 million, $82 million and $59 million, respectively, from NagraStar.  As of December 31, 2010 and 2009, amounts payable to NagraStar totaled $13 million and $17 million, respectively.

 

16.       Subsequent Events

 

On February 24, 2011, we amended and restated our previously announced investment agreement, dated as of February 1, 2011, with DBSD North America, Inc. (“DBSD North America”), pursuant to which we had originally committed to acquire 100% of the equity of reorganized DBSD North America upon DBSD North America’s emergence from bankruptcy for approximately $1 billion subject to certain adjustments, including interest accruing on DBSD North America’s existing debt (the “Original Investment Agreement”). Under our February 24, 2011 amended and restated investment agreement (the “Revised Investment Agreement”), which remains subject to approval by the Bankruptcy Court, we intend to make a cash tender offer to purchase certain claims against DBSD North America and its affiliates, upon the terms and conditions set forth in the Revised Investment Agreement for an amount up to approximately $1 billion. This amount will be paid after the tender offer is accepted in accordance with its terms. The closing of the tender offer is not conditioned upon receipt of approval from the Federal Communications Commission (the “FCC”).

 

In connection with our Original Investment Agreement, we had also proposed an $87.5 million debtor-in-possession credit facility (the “Original Credit Facility”) to DBSD North America and certain of its affiliates in connection with filings by DBSD North America and such affiliates for protection under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code.

 

On February 24, 2011, we also proposed a revised Credit Facility (the “Revised Credit Facility”) to provide DBSD North America and its affiliates with a non-revolving, multiple draw term loan in the aggregate principal amount of $87.5 million, with drawings subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the Revised Credit Facility. The Revised Credit Facility remains subject to approval by the Bankruptcy Court.

 

Under the Revised Investment Agreement, we remain committed to support DBSD North America’s plan of reorganization under which we will acquire 100% of the equity of reorganized DBSD North America upon DBSD North America’s emergence from bankruptcy. Under the Revised Investment Agreement: (i) all claims under those 7.5% Convertible Senior Secured Notes due 2009, issued under that certain indenture dated August 15, 2005, as supplemented and amended, among DBSD North America, the guarantors named therein, and The Bank of New York Mellon (f/k/a The Bank of New York), as trustee, will be paid in full; (ii) all of DBSD North America’s obligations under the Revised Credit Facility will be paid in full; (iii) the holders of general unsecured claims of DBSD North America shall receive partial payment; and (iv) certain additional claims in bankruptcy will also be paid in full.

 

Our ultimate acquisition of 100% of the equity of reorganized DBSD North America is subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions, including approval by the FCC and DBSD North America’s emergence from bankruptcy.

 

F-53



Table of Contents

 

INDEX TO UNAUDITED INTERIM CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets — June 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010 (Unaudited)

F-55

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the Three Months and Six Months Ended June 30, 2011 and 2010 (Unaudited)

F-56

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Six Months Ended June 30, 2011 and 2010 (Unaudited)

F-57

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

F-58

 

F-54



Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(Dollar in thousands, except share amounts)
(Unaudited)

 

 

 

As of

 

 

 

June 30,

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2011

 

2010

 

Assets

 

 

 

 

 

Current Assets:

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

$

1,386,486

 

$

507,266

 

Marketable investment securities (Note 3)

 

1,944,622

 

1,592,911

 

Trade accounts receivable - other, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $16,547 and $29,650, respectively

 

794,344

 

771,383

 

Trade accounts receivable - EchoStar, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of zero

 

23,826

 

14,155

 

Inventory

 

429,958

 

487,046

 

Deferred tax assets

 

284,157

 

281,957

 

Other current assets

 

99,454

 

70,515

 

Total current assets

 

4,962,847

 

3,725,233

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Noncurrent Assets:

 

 

 

 

 

Restricted cash and marketable investment securities (Note 3)

 

112,553

 

132,395

 

Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $2,770,414 and $2,684,364, respectively

 

3,198,022

 

3,230,849

 

FCC authorizations

 

679,570

 

679,570

 

Other noncurrent assets, net

 

155,076

 

67,586

 

Total noncurrent assets

 

4,145,221

 

4,110,400

 

Total assets

 

$

9,108,068

 

$

7,835,633

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Liabilities and Stockholder’s Equity (Deficit)

 

 

 

 

 

Current Liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

Trade accounts payable - other

 

$

142,086

 

$

161,413

 

Trade accounts payable - EchoStar

 

272,506

 

238,629

 

Deferred revenue and other

 

823,458

 

803,737

 

Accrued programming

 

1,029,426

 

1,089,976

 

Litigation accrual (Note 8)

 

65,580

 

619,022

 

Other accrued expenses

 

593,429

 

512,705

 

Current portion of long-term debt and capital lease obligations

 

1,030,085

 

1,030,895

 

Total current liabilities

 

3,956,570

 

4,456,377

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Long-Term Obligations, Net of Current Portion:

 

 

 

 

 

Long-term debt and capital lease obligations, net of current portion

 

7,471,328

 

5,484,041

 

Deferred tax liabilities

 

999,677

 

621,943

 

Long-term deferred revenue, distribution and carriage payments and other long-term liabilities

 

202,140

 

215,832

 

Total long-term obligations, net of current portion

 

8,673,145

 

6,321,816

 

Total liabilities

 

12,629,715

 

10,778,193

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Commitments and Contingencies (Note 8)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stockholder’s Equity (Deficit):

 

 

 

 

 

Common stock, $.01 par value, 1,000,000 shares authorized, 1,015 shares issued and outstanding

 

 

 

Additional paid-in capital

 

1,192,803

 

1,170,560

 

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

 

4,269

 

3,765

 

Accumulated earnings (deficit)

 

(4,718,719

)

(4,116,885

)

Total stockholder’s equity (deficit)

 

(3,521,647

)

(2,942,560

)

Total liabilities and stockholder’s equity (deficit)

 

$

9,108,068

 

$

7,835,633

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

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Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

(In thousands)
(Unaudited)

 

 

 

For the Three Months

 

For the Six Months

 

 

 

Ended June 30,

 

Ended June 30,

 

 

 

2011

 

2010

 

2011

 

2010

 

Revenue:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Subscriber-related revenue

 

$

3,307,003

 

$

3,140,201

 

$

6,502,669

 

$

6,175,602

 

Equipment sales and other revenue

 

16,021

 

16,505

 

31,914

 

30,334

 

Equipment sales - EchoStar

 

20

 

1,281

 

23

 

2,193

 

Services and other revenue - EchoStar

 

8,783

 

9,928

 

17,811

 

16,448

 

Total revenue

 

3,331,827

 

3,167,915

 

6,552,417

 

6,224,577

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Costs and Expenses (exclusive of depreciation shown separately below - Note 5):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Subscriber-related expenses

 

1,727,091

 

1,648,221

 

3,419,399

 

3,287,429

 

Satellite and transmission expenses

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

EchoStar

 

115,466

 

107,107

 

224,352

 

208,585

 

Other

 

9,692

 

9,985

 

19,770

 

19,856

 

Equipment, services and other cost of sales

 

18,192

 

22,004

 

40,264

 

38,906

 

Subscriber acquisition costs:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cost of sales - subscriber promotion subsidies - EchoStar

 

62,868

 

39,733

 

117,294

 

66,636

 

Other subscriber promotion subsidies

 

211,927

 

266,428

 

438,749

 

580,111

 

Subscriber acquisition advertising

 

67,669

 

99,126

 

141,027

 

170,528

 

Total subscriber acquisition costs

 

342,464

 

405,287

 

697,070

 

817,275

 

General and administrative expenses - EchoStar

 

12,532

 

11,539

 

24,472

 

22,969

 

General and administrative expenses

 

137,816

 

142,285

 

285,676

 

280,560

 

Litigation expense (Note 8)

 

23,727

 

30,709

 

(316,949

)

60,902

 

Depreciation and amortization (Note 5)

 

234,138

 

264,368

 

462,264

 

503,860

 

Total costs and expenses

 

2,621,118

 

2,641,505

 

4,856,318

 

5,240,342

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating income (loss)

 

710,709

 

526,410

 

1,696,099

 

984,235

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other Income (Expense):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest income

 

2,734

 

3,847

 

6,374

 

7,374

 

Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized

 

(141,205

)

(120,918

)

(261,178

)

(241,856

)

Other, net

 

(1,069

)

123

 

11,499

 

251

 

Total other income (expense)

 

(139,540

)

(116,948

)

(243,305

)

(234,231

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income (loss) before income taxes

 

571,169

 

409,462

 

1,452,794

 

750,004

 

Income tax (provision) benefit, net

 

(221,877

)

(153,932

)

(554,628

)

(276,249

)

Net income (loss)

 

$

349,292

 

$

255,530

 

$

898,166

 

$

473,755

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Comprehensive Income (Loss):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Unrealized holding gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities, net of tax

 

(1,895

)

(1,980

)

504

 

(1,242

)

Comprehensive income (loss)

 

$

347,397

 

$

253,550

 

$

898,670

 

$

472,513

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

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Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(In thousands)
(Unaudited)

 

 

 

For the Six Months

 

 

 

Ended June 30,

 

 

 

2011

 

2010

 

Cash Flows From Operating Activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

 

$

898,166

 

$

473,755

 

Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash flows from operating activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

462,264

 

503,860

 

Realized and unrealized losses (gains) on investments

 

(11,210

)

 

Non-cash, stock-based compensation

 

18,860

 

9,210

 

Deferred tax expense (benefit)

 

372,554

 

28,033

 

Other, net

 

3,265

 

2,851

 

Change in noncurrent assets

 

(63,244

)

(1,192

)

Change in long-term deferred revenue, distribution and carriage payments and other long-term liabilities

 

(13,692

)

(34,657

)

Changes in current assets and current liabilities, net

 

(520,616

)

42,144

 

Net cash flows from operating activities

 

1,146,347

 

1,024,004

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash Flows From Investing Activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Purchases of marketable investment securities

 

(2,864,894

)

(2,584,768

)

Sales and maturities of marketable investment securities

 

2,513,687

 

2,622,346

 

Purchases of property and equipment

 

(401,513

)

(747,622

)

Change in restricted cash and marketable investment securities

 

19,842

 

(3,270

)

Proceeds from sale of strategic investments

 

10,000

 

 

Other

 

20

 

108

 

Net cash flows from investing activities

 

(722,858

)

(713,206

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash Flows From Financing Activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt

 

2,000,000

 

 

Deferred debt issuance costs

 

(27,167

)

 

Repayment of long-term debt and capital lease obligations

 

(17,102

)

(12,780

)

Capital distribution to affiliate

 

(1,500,000

)

(131,212

)

Net cash flows from financing activities

 

455,731

 

(143,992

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

 

879,220

 

166,806

 

Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period

 

507,266

 

98,226

 

Cash and cash equivalents, end of period

 

$

1,386,486

 

$

265,032

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information:

 

 

 

 

 

Cash paid for interest (including capitalized interest)

 

$

234,693

 

$

237,977

 

Cash received for interest

 

$

6,133

 

$

7,374

 

Cash paid for income taxes

 

$

7,618

 

$

480

 

Cash paid for income taxes to DISH

 

$

126,903

 

$

241,339

 

Vendor financing

 

$

 

$

22,000

 

Satellites and other assets financed under capital lease obligations

 

$

3,583

 

$

786

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

F-57



Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(unaudited)

 

1.              Organization and Business Activities

 

Principal Business

 

DISH DBS Corporation (which together with its subsidiaries is referred to as “DDBS,” the “Company,” “we,” “us” and/or “our”) is a holding company and an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of DISH Network Corporation (“DISH”).  DDBS was formed under Colorado law in January 1996 and its common stock is held by DISH Orbital Corporation, a direct subsidiary of DISH.  We operate the DISH Network® direct broadcast satellite (“DBS”) subscription television service (“DISH Network”) in the United States which had 14.056 million subscribers as of June 30, 2011.  The DISH Network DBS System consists of our licensed Federal Communications Commission (“FCC”) authorized DBS and Fixed Satellite Service (“FSS”) spectrum, our owned and leased satellites, receiver systems, third-party broadcast operations, customer service facilities, leased fiber network, in-home service and call center operations, and certain other assets utilized in our operations.

 

On January 1, 2008, DISH completed the distribution of its technology and set-top box business and certain infrastructure assets (the “Spin-off”) into a separate publicly-traded company, EchoStar Corporation (“EchoStar”).  DISH, including us, and EchoStar operate as separate publicly-traded companies, and neither entity has any ownership interest in the other.  However, a substantial majority of the voting power of the shares of both companies is owned beneficially by Charles W. Ergen, our Chairman or by certain trusts established by Mr. Ergen for the benefit of his family.

 

2.              Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

 

Basis of Presentation

 

The accompanying unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”) and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X for interim financial information.  Accordingly, these statements do not include all of the information and notes required for complete financial statements prepared under GAAP.  In our opinion, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring adjustments) considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included.  Our results of operations for the interim periods presented are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the full year.  For further information, refer to the Consolidated Financial Statements and notes thereto included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010 (“2010 10-K”).  Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation.

 

Principles of Consolidation

 

We consolidate all majority owned subsidiaries, investments in entities in which we have controlling influence and variable interest entities where we have been determined to be the primary beneficiary.  Non-majority owned investments are accounted for using the equity method when we have the ability to significantly influence the operating decisions of the investee.  When we do not have the ability to significantly influence the operating decisions of an investee, the cost method is used.  All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

 

Use of Estimates

 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expense for each reporting period.  Estimates are used in accounting for, among other things, allowances for doubtful accounts, self-insurance obligations, deferred taxes and related valuation allowances, uncertain tax positions, loss contingencies, fair value of financial instruments, fair value of options granted under our stock-based compensation plans, fair value of assets and liabilities acquired in business combinations, capital leases, asset impairments, useful lives of property, equipment and intangible assets, retailer incentives, programming expenses, subscriber lives and royalty obligations.  Weak economic conditions have increased the inherent uncertainty in the estimates and assumptions indicated above.

 

F-58



Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued
(unaudited)

 

Actual results may differ from previously estimated amounts, and such differences may be material to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.  Estimates and assumptions are reviewed periodically, and the effects of revisions are reflected prospectively in the period they occur.

 

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

 

As of June 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, the carrying value for cash and cash equivalents, marketable investment securities, trade accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts, and current liabilities is equal to or approximates fair value due to their short-term nature or proximity to current market rates.

 

Fair values for our publicly traded debt securities are based on quoted market prices.  The fair values of our private debt is estimated based on an analysis in which we evaluate market conditions, related securities, various public and private offerings, and other publicly available information.  In performing this analysis, we make various assumptions regarding, among other things, credit spreads, and the impact of these factors on the value of the notes.  See Note 6 for the fair value of our long-term debt.

 

3.              Marketable Investment Securities and Restricted Cash

 

Our marketable investment securities, restricted cash and other investment securities consist of the following:

 

 

 

As of

 

 

 

June 30,

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2011

 

2010

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Marketable investment securities:

 

 

 

 

 

Current marketable investment securities - VRDNs

 

$

1,130,264

 

$

1,021,697

 

Current marketable investment securities - other

 

814,358

 

571,214

 

Total current marketable investment securities

 

1,944,622

 

1,592,911

 

Restricted marketable investment securities (1)

 

55,274

 

59,638

 

Total marketable investment securities

 

1,999,896

 

1,652,549

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Restricted cash and cash equivalents (1)

 

57,279

 

72,757

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total marketable investment securities and restricted cash

 

$

2,057,175

 

$

1,725,306

 

 


(1)         Restricted marketable investment securities and restricted cash and cash equivalents are included in “Restricted cash and marketable investment securities” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.

 

Marketable Investment Securities

 

Our marketable investment securities portfolio consists of various debt instruments, all of which are classified as available-for-sale.

 

Current Marketable Investment Securities - VRDNs

 

Variable rate demand notes (“VRDNs”) are long-term floating rate municipal bonds with embedded put options that allow the bondholder to sell the security at par plus accrued interest.  All of the put options are secured by a pledged liquidity source.  Our VRDN portfolio is comprised of investments in many municipalities, which are backed by financial institutions or other highly rated companies that serve as the pledged liquidity source.  While they are classified as marketable investment securities, the put option allows VRDNs to be liquidated generally on a same day or on a five business day settlement basis.

 

F-59



Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued
(unaudited)

 

Current Marketable Investment Securities - Other

 

Our current marketable investment securities portfolio includes investments in various debt instruments including corporate and government bonds.

 

Restricted Cash and Marketable Investment Securities

 

As of June 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, our restricted marketable investment securities, together with our restricted cash, included amounts required as collateral for our letters of credit or surety bonds and for our litigation with ESPN (See Note 8).

 

Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Marketable Investment Securities

 

As of June 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, we had accumulated net unrealized gains of $4 million and $4 million, both net of related tax effect, respectively, as a part of “Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)” within “Total stockholder’s equity (deficit).” A full valuation allowance has been established against any deferred taxes that are capital in nature. The components of our available-for-sale investments are detailed in the table below.

 

 

 

As of June 30, 2011

 

As of December 31, 2010

 

 

 

Marketable

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Marketable

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Investment

 

Unrealized

 

Investment

 

Unrealized

 

 

 

Securities

 

Gains

 

Losses

 

Net

 

Securities

 

Gains

 

Losses

 

Net

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Debt securities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VRDNs

 

$

1,130,264

 

$

 

$

 

$

 

$

1,021,697

 

$

 

$

 

$

 

Other (including restricted)

 

869,632

 

5,929

 

(1,660

)

4,269

 

630,852

 

4,905

 

(1,140

)

3,765

 

Total marketable investment securities

 

$

1,999,896

 

$

5,929

 

$

(1,660

)

$

4,269

 

$

1,652,549

 

$

4,905

 

$

(1,140

)

$

3,765

 

 

As of June 30, 2011, restricted and non-restricted marketable investment securities include debt securities of $1.819 billion with contractual maturities of one year or less and $181 million with contractual maturities greater than one year.  Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities as a result of our ability to sell these securities prior to maturity.

 

Marketable Investment Securities in a Loss Position

 

The following table reflects the length of time that the individual securities, accounted for as available-for-sale, have been in an unrealized loss position, aggregated by investment category.  As of June 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, the unrealized losses on our investments in debt securities primarily represent investments in mortgage backed securities.  We do not intend to sell our investments in these debt securities before they recover or mature, and it is more likely than not that we will hold these investments until that time.  In addition, we are not aware of any specific factors indicating that the underlying issuers of these debt securities would not be able to pay interest as it becomes due or repay the principal at maturity.  Therefore, we believe that these changes in the estimated fair values of these marketable investment securities are related to temporary market fluctuations.

 

F-60



Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued
(unaudited)

 

 

 

Primary

 

As of June 30, 2011

 

 

 

Reason for

 

Total

 

Less than Six Months

 

Six to Nine Months

 

Nine Months or More

 

Investment

 

Unrealized

 

Fair

 

Fair

 

Unrealized

 

Fair

 

Unrealized

 

Fair

 

Unrealized

 

Category

 

Loss

 

Value

 

Value

 

Loss

 

Value

 

Loss

 

Value

 

Loss

 

 

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Debt securities

 

Temporary market fluctuations

 

$

399,836

 

$

394,347

 

$

(1,231

)

$

1,278

 

$

(2

)

$

4,211

 

$

(427

)

Total

 

 

 

$

399,836

 

$

394,347

 

$

(1,231

)

$

1,278

 

$

(2

)

$

4,211

 

$

(427

)

 

 

 

 

 

As of December 31, 2010

 

 

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Debt securities

 

Temporary market fluctuations

 

$

197,600

 

$

71,279

 

$

(133

)

$

20,051

 

$

(79

)

$

106,270

 

$

(928

)

Total

 

 

 

$

197,600

 

$

71,279

 

$

(133

)

$

20,051

 

$

(79

)

$

106,270

 

$

(928

)

 

Fair Value Measurements

 

We determine fair value based on the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants.  Market or observable inputs are the preferred source of values, followed by unobservable inputs or assumptions based on hypothetical transactions in the absence of market inputs. We apply the following hierarchy in determining fair value:

 

·                  Level 1, defined as observable inputs being quoted prices in active markets for identical assets;

 

·                  Level 2, defined as observable inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1, including quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations in which significant inputs and significant value drivers are observable in active markets; and

 

·                  Level 3, defined as unobservable inputs for which little or no market data exists, consistent with reasonably available assumptions made by other participants therefore requiring assumptions based on the best information available.

 

Our assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis were as follows:

 

 

 

As of

 

 

 

June 30, 2011

 

December 31, 2010

 

 

 

Total

 

Level 1

 

Level 2

 

Level 3

 

Total

 

Level 1

 

Level 2

 

Level 3

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Debt securities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VRDNs

 

$

1,130,264

 

$

 

$

1,130,264

 

$

 

$

1,021,697

 

$

 

$

1,021,697

 

$

 

Other (including restricted)

 

869,632

 

 

869,632

 

 

630,852

 

10,738

 

620,114

 

 

Total marketable investment securities

 

$

1,999,896

 

$

 

$

1,999,896

 

$

 

$

1,652,549

 

$

10,738

 

$

1,641,811

 

$

 

 

F-61



Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued
(unaudited)

 

Gains and Losses on Sales and Changes in Carrying Values of Investments

 

“Other, net” income and expense included on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) includes other changes in the carrying amount of our marketable and non-marketable investments as follows:

 

 

 

For the Three Months

 

For the Six Months

 

 

 

Ended June 30,

 

Ended June 30,

 

Other Income (Expense):

 

2011

 

2010

 

2011

 

2010

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Other investment securities - gains (losses) on sales

 

$

 

$

 

$

10,000

 

$

 

Marketable investment securities - unrealized gains (losses) on investments accounted for at fair value

 

(1,243

)

 

1,210

 

 

Other

 

174

 

123

 

289

 

251

 

Total

 

$

(1,069

)

$

123

 

$

11,499

 

$

251

 

 

4.     Inventory

 

Inventory consists of the following:

 

 

 

As of

 

 

 

June 30,

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2011

 

2010

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Finished goods - DBS

 

$

316,322

 

$

304,552

 

Raw materials

 

80,471

 

143,100

 

Work-in-process - used

 

30,658

 

36,186

 

Work-in-process - new

 

2,507

 

3,208

 

Total inventory

 

$

429,958

 

$

487,046

 

 

5.     Property and Equipment

 

Depreciation and Amortization Expense

 

Depreciation and amortization expense consists of the following:

 

 

 

For the Three Months

 

For the Six Months

 

 

 

Ended June 30,

 

Ended June 30,

 

 

 

2011

 

2010

 

2011

 

2010

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Equipment leased to customers

 

$

189,030

 

$

225,348

 

$

372,017

 

$

430,746

 

Satellites

 

32,087

 

25,699

 

64,178

 

47,882

 

Buildings, furniture, fixtures, equipment and other

 

13,021

 

13,321

 

26,069

 

25,232

 

Total depreciation and amortization

 

$

234,138

 

$

264,368

 

$

462,264

 

$

503,860

 

 

Cost of sales and operating expense categories included in our accompanying Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) do not include depreciation expense related to satellites or equipment leased to customers.

 

F-62



Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued
(unaudited)

 

Satellites

 

We currently utilize 13 satellites in geostationary orbit approximately 22,300 miles above the equator, six of which we own. We currently utilize capacity on five satellites from EchoStar, which are accounted for as operating leases. See Note 10 for further discussion of our satellite leases with EchoStar. We also lease two satellites from third parties, which are accounted for as capital leases and are depreciated over the shorter of the economic life or the term of the satellite agreement.

 

Operation of our subscription television service requires that we have adequate satellite transmission capacity for the programming we offer.  Moreover, current competitive conditions require that we continue to expand our offering of new programming, particularly by expanding local high definition (“HD”) coverage and offering more HD national channels.  While we generally have had in-orbit satellite capacity sufficient to transmit our existing channels and some backup capacity to recover the transmission of certain critical programming, our backup capacity is limited.

 

In the event of a failure or loss of any of our satellites, we may need to acquire or lease additional satellite capacity or relocate one of our other satellites and use it as a replacement for the failed or lost satellite. Such a failure could result in a prolonged loss of critical programming or a significant delay in our plans to expand programming as necessary to remain competitive and thus may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

Prior to 2011, certain satellites in our fleet experienced anomalies, some of which have had a significant adverse impact on their remaining useful life and/or commercial operation. There can be no assurance that future anomalies will not further impact the remaining useful life and/or commercial operation of any of these satellites. See “Long-Lived Satellite Assets” below for further discussion of evaluation of impairment. There can be no assurance that we can recover critical transmission capacity in the event one or more of our in-orbit satellites were to fail. We do not anticipate carrying insurance for any of the in-orbit satellites that we use, and we will bear the risk associated with any in-orbit satellite failures. Recent developments with respect to certain of our satellites are discussed below.

 

Leased Satellites

 

EchoStar VIII.  EchoStar VIII was designed to operate 32 DBS transponders in the continental United States at approximately 120 watts per channel, switchable to 16 DBS transponders operating at approximately 240 watts per channel.  EchoStar VIII was also designed with spot-beam technology.  This satellite has experienced several anomalies prior to 2011 and during January 2011, the satellite experienced an anomaly, which temporarily disrupted electrical power to some components causing an interruption of broadcast service.  In addition, one of the two on board computers used to control the satellite failed in connection with this anomaly.  None of these anomalies has impacted the commercial operation or estimated useful life of the satellite.  However, there can be no assurance that this anomaly or any future anomalies will not reduce its useful life or impact its commercial operation.

 

Long-Lived Satellite Assets

 

We evaluate our satellite fleet for impairment as one asset group and test for recoverability whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that its carrying amount may not be recoverable.  While certain of the anomalies discussed above, and previously disclosed, may be considered to represent a significant adverse change in the physical condition of an individual satellite, based on the redundancy designed within each satellite and considering the asset grouping, these anomalies are not considered to be significant events that would require evaluation for impairment recognition.  Unless and until a specific satellite is abandoned or otherwise determined to have no service potential, the net carrying amount related to the satellite would not be written off.

 

F-63



Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued
(unaudited)

 

6.     Long-Term Debt

 

6 3/4% Senior Notes due 2021

 

On May 5, 2011, we issued $2.0 billion aggregate principal amount of our ten-year, 6 3/4% Senior Notes due June 1, 2021 at an issue price of 99.093%.  Interest accrues at an annual rate of 6 3/4% and is payable semi-annually in cash, in arrears on June 1 and December 1 of each year, commencing on December 1, 2011.

 

The 6 3/4% Senior Notes are redeemable, in whole or in part, at any time at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount plus a “make-whole” premium, as defined in the related indenture, together with accrued and unpaid interest.  Prior to June 1, 2014, we may also redeem up to 35% of each of the 6 3/4% Senior Notes at specified premiums with the net cash proceeds from certain equity offerings or capital contributions.

 

The 6 3/4% Senior Notes are:

 

·                  general unsecured senior obligations of DDBS;

 

·                  ranked equally in right of payment with all of DDBS’ and the guarantors’ existing and future unsecured senior debt; and

 

·                  ranked effectively junior to our and the guarantors’ current and future secured senior indebtedness up to the value of the collateral securing such indebtedness.

 

The indenture related to the 6 3/4% Senior Notes contains restrictive covenants that, among other things, impose limitations on the ability of DDBS and its restricted subsidiaries to:

 

·                  incur additional debt;

 

·                  pay dividends or make distributions on DDBS’ capital stock or repurchase DDBS’ capital stock;

 

·                  make certain investments;

 

·                  create liens or enter into sale and leaseback transactions;

 

·                  enter into transactions with affiliates;

 

·                  merge or consolidate with another company; and

 

·                  transfer or sell assets.

 

In the event of a change of control, as defined in the related indenture, we would be required to make an offer to repurchase all or any part of a holder’s 6 3/4% Senior Notes at a purchase price equal to 101% of the aggregate principal amount thereof, together with accrued and unpaid interest thereon, to the date of repurchase.

 

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Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued
(unaudited)

 

Fair Value of our Long-Term Debt

 

The following table summarizes the carrying and fair values of our debt facilities as of June 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010:

 

 

 

As of

 

 

 

June 30, 2011

 

December 31, 2010

 

 

 

Carrying

 

 

 

Carrying

 

 

 

 

 

Value

 

Fair Value

 

Value

 

Fair Value

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

6 3/8% Senior Notes due 2011 (1)

 

$

1,000,000

 

$

1,010,000

 

$

1,000,000

 

$

1,032,500

 

7 % Senior Notes due 2013

 

500,000

 

538,750

 

500,000

 

532,815

 

6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2014

 

1,000,000

 

1,062,500

 

1,000,000

 

1,032,500

 

7 3/4% Senior Notes due 2015

 

750,000

 

813,750

 

750,000

 

798,750

 

7 1/8% Senior Notes due 2016

 

1,500,000

 

1,595,625

 

1,500,000

 

1,548,600

 

7 7/8% Senior Notes due 2019

 

1,400,000

 

1,519,000

 

1,400,000

 

1,463,000

 

6 3/4% Senior Notes due 2021

 

2,000,000

 

2,012,140

 

 

 

Mortgages and other notes payable

 

75,072

 

75,072

 

77,965

 

77,965

 

Subtotal

 

$

8,225,072

 

$

8,626,837

 

$

6,227,965

 

$

6,486,130

 

Capital lease obligations (2)

 

276,341

 

NA

 

286,971

 

NA

 

Total long-term debt and capital lease obligations (including current portion)

 

$

8,501,413

 

 

 

$

6,514,936

 

 

 

 


(1)

Our 6 3/8% Senior Notes with an aggregate principal balance of $1.0 billion mature on October 1, 2011.

(2)

Disclosure regarding fair value of capital leases is not required.

 

7.     Stock-Based Compensation

 

Stock Incentive Plans

 

DISH maintains stock incentive plans to attract and retain officers, directors and key employees.  Our employees participate in the DISH stock incentive plans.  Stock awards under these plans include both performance and non-performance based stock incentives.  As of June 30, 2011, there were outstanding under these plans stock options to acquire 19.5 million shares of DISH’s Class A common stock and 1.2 million restricted stock units associated with our employees.  Stock options granted prior to and on June 30, 2011 were granted with exercise prices equal to or greater than the market value of DISH Class A common stock at the date of grant and with a maximum term of approximately ten years.  While historically DISH’s board of directors has issued stock awards subject to vesting, typically at the rate of 20% per year, some stock awards have been granted with immediate vesting and other stock awards vest only upon the achievement of certain DISH-specific objectives.  As of June 30, 2011, DISH had 73.1 million shares of its Class A common stock available for future grant under its stock incentive plans.

 

During December 2009, DISH paid a dividend in cash of $2.00 per share on their outstanding Class A and Class B common stock to shareholders of record on November 20, 2009.  In light of such dividend, during February 2010, the exercise price of 16.9 million stock options, affecting approximately 400 of our employees, was reduced by $2.00 per share (the “Stock Option Adjustment”).  Except as noted below, all information discussed below reflects the Stock Option Adjustment.

 

In connection with the Spin-off, as permitted by existing stock incentive plans and consistent with the Spin-off exchange ratio, each DISH stock option was converted into two stock options as follows:

 

·                  an adjusted DISH stock option for the same number of shares that were exercisable under the original DISH stock option, with an exercise price equal to the exercise price of the original DISH stock option multiplied by 0.831219.

 

F-65



Table of Contents

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued
(unaudited)

 

·                  a new EchoStar stock option for one-fifth of the number of shares that were exercisable under the original DISH stock option, with an exercise price equal to the exercise price of the original DISH stock option multiplied by 0.843907.

 

Similarly, each holder of DISH restricted stock units retained his or her DISH restricted stock units and received one EchoStar restricted stock unit for every five DISH restricted stock units that they held.

 

Consequently, the fair value of the DISH stock award and the new EchoStar stock award immediately following the Spin-off was equivalent to the fair value of such stock award immediately prior to the Spin-off.

 

As of June 30, 2011, the following stock awards were outstanding:

 

 

 

As of June 30, 2011

 

 

 

DISH Awards

 

EchoStar Awards

 

Stock Awards Outstanding

 

Stock
Options

 

Restricted
Stock
Units

 

Stock
Options

 

Restricted
Stock
Units

 

Held by DDBS employees

 

19,517,884

 

1,214,205

 

914,471

 

55,952

 

 

DISH is responsible for fulfilling all stock awards related to DISH common stock and EchoStar is responsible for fulfilling all stock awards related to EchoStar common stock, regardless of whether such stock awards are held by our or EchoStar’s employees.  Notwithstanding the foregoing, our stock-based compensation expense, resulting from stock awards outstanding at the Spin-off date, is based on the stock awards held by our employees regardless of whether such stock awards were issued by DISH or EchoStar.  Accordingly, stock-based compensation that we expense with respect to EchoStar stock awards is included in “Additional paid-in capital” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.

 

Stock Award Activity

 

DISH stock option activity associated with our employees was as follows:

 

 

 

For the Six Months

 

 

 

Ended June 30, 2011

 

 

 

Options

 

Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price

 

Total options outstanding, beginning of period

 

18,447,004

 

$

17.76

 

Granted

 

3,000,000

 

$

28.80

 

Exercised

 

(1,112,169

)

$

13.05

 

Forfeited and cancelled

 

(816,951

)

$

18.09

 

Total options outstanding, end of period

 

19,517,884

 

$

20.18

 

Performance based options outstanding, end of period (1)

 

9,925,225

 

$

17.78

 

Exercisable at end of period

 

5,584,558

 

$

22.34

 

 


(1)

These stock options, which are included in the caption “Total options outstanding, end of period,” were issued pursuant to performance based stock incentive plans. Vesting of these stock options is contingent upon meeting certain DISH-specific goals which are not yet probable of being achieved. See discussion of the 2005 LTIP, 2008 LTIP and other employee performance awards below.

 

We realized tax benefits from stock awards exercised during the three and six months ended June 30, 2011 and 2010 as follows:

 

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DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued
(unaudited)

 

 

 

For the Three Months

 

For the Six Months

 

 

 

Ended June 30,

 

Ended June 30,

 

 

 

2011

 

2010

 

2011

 

2010

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Tax benefit from stock awards exercised

 

$

5,614

 

$

1,184

 

$

6,409

 

$

1,271

 

 

Based on the closing market price of DISH Class A common stock on June 30, 2011, the aggregate intrinsic value of stock options associated with our employees was as follows:

 

 

 

As of June 30, 2011

 

 

 

Options
Outstanding

 

Options
Exercisable

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Aggregate intrinsic value

 

$

213,585

 

$

47,292

 

 

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DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued
(unaudited)

 

DISH restricted stock unit activity associated with our employees was as follows:

 

 

 

For the Six Months

 

 

 

Ended June 30, 2011

 

 

 

Restricted
Stock
Awards

 

Weighted-
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value

 

Total restricted stock units outstanding, beginning of period

 

1,271,984

 

$

22.06

 

Granted

 

300,000

 

$

30.67

 

Vested

 

(6,875

)

$

11.09

 

Forfeited and cancelled

 

(350,904

)

$

27.09

 

Total restricted stock units outstanding, end of period

 

1,214,205

 

$

23.02

 

Restricted performance units outstanding, end of period (1)

 

1,214,205

 

$

23.02

 

 


(1)

These Restricted Performance Units, which are included in the caption “Total restricted stock units outstanding, end of period,” were issued pursuant to performance based stock incentive plans. Vesting of these Restricted Performance Units is contingent upon meeting certain DISH-specific goals which are not yet probable of being achieved. See discussion of the 2005 LTIP, 2008 LTIP and other employee performance awards below.

 

Long-Term Performance Based Plans

 

2005 LTIP. During 2005, DISH adopted a long-term, performance based stock incentive plan (the “2005 LTIP”).  The 2005 LTIP provides stock options and restricted stock units, either alone or in combination, which vest over seven years at the rate of 10% per year during the first four years, and at the rate of 20% per year thereafter.  Exercise of the stock awards is subject to a performance condition that a DISH-specific subscriber goal is achieved by March 31, 2015.

 

Contingent compensation related to the 2005 LTIP will not be recorded in our financial statements unless and until management concludes achievement of the performance condition is probable.  Given the competitive nature of DISH’s business, small variations in subscriber churn, gross new subscriber addition rates and certain other factors can significantly impact subscriber growth.  Consequently, while it was determined that achievement of the goal was not probable as of June 30, 2011, that assessment could change at any time.

 

If all of the stock awards under the 2005 LTIP were vested and the goal had been met or if management had determined that achievement of the goal was probable during the six months ended June 30, 2011, we would have recorded total non-cash, stock-based compensation expense for our employees as indicated in the table below.  If the goal is met and there are unvested stock awards at that time, the vested amounts would be expensed immediately on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss), with the unvested portion recognized ratably over the remaining vesting period.

 

 

 

2005 LTIP

 

 

 

 

 

Vested

 

 

 

Total

 

Portion

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

DISH awards held by DDBS employees

 

$

36,323

 

$

23,445

 

EchoStar awards held by DDBS employees

 

7,110

 

4,582

 

Total

 

$

43,433

 

$

28,027

 

 

2008 LTIP.  During 2008, DISH adopted a long-term, performance based stock incentive plan (the “2008 LTIP”). The 2008 LTIP provides stock options and restricted stock units, either alone or in combination, which vest based on DISH-specific subscriber and financial goals.  Exercise of the stock awards is contingent on achieving these goals by December 31, 2015.

 

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DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued
(unaudited)

 

Although no awards vest until DISH attains the performance goals, compensation related to the 2008 LTIP will be recorded based on management’s assessment of the probability of meeting the remaining goals.  If the remaining goals are probable of being achieved, we will begin recognizing the associated non-cash, stock-based compensation expense on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) over the estimated period to achieve the goal.  See table below titled “Estimated Remaining Non-Cash, Stock-Based Compensation Expense.”

 

During the first quarter of 2011, DISH determined that the 2008 LTIP performance goals are probable of achievement.  As of June 30, 2011, 25% of the 2008 LTIP awards had vested.  We are recognizing the associated non-cash stock-based compensation expense on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) over the estimated period to achieve the remaining 75%, as indicated in the table below titled “Non-Cash, Stock-Based Compensation Expense Recognized.”

 

Other Employee Performance Awards.  In addition to the above long-term, performance stock incentive plans, DISH has other stock awards that vest based on certain other DISH-specific subscriber and financial goals.  Exercise of these stock awards is contingent on achieving certain performance goals.

 

Additional compensation related to these awards will be recorded based on management’s assessment of the probability of meeting the remaining performance goals.  If the remaining goals are probable of being achieved, we will begin recognizing the associated non-cash, stock-based compensation expense on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) over the estimated period to achieve the goal.  See table below titled “Estimated Remaining Non-Cash, Stock-Based Compensation Expense.”

 

Although no awards vest until the performance goals are attained, DISH determined that certain goals were probable of achievement and, as a result, recorded non-cash, stock-based compensation expense for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011 and 2010, as indicated in the table below titled “Non-Cash, Stock-Based Compensation Expense Recognized.”

 

Given the competitive nature of DISH’s business, small variations in subscriber churn, gross new subscriber addition rates and certain other factors can significantly impact subscriber growth. Consequently, while it was determined that achievement of certain DISH-specific subscriber and financial goals was not probable as of June 30, 2011, that assessment could change at any time.

 

The non-cash stock-based compensation expense associated with these awards is as follows:

 

Estimated Remaining Non-Cash, Stock-Based Compensation Expense

 

2008 LTIP

 

Other
Employee
Performance
Awards

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Remaining expense estimated to be recognized during 2011

 

$

3,378

 

$

1,024

 

Estimated contingent expense subsequent to 2011

 

9,406

 

51,457

 

Total estimated remaining expense over the term of the plan

 

$

12,784

 

$

52,481

 

 

 

 

For the Three Months

 

For the Six Months

 

 

 

Ended June 30,

 

Ended June 30,

 

 

 

2011

 

2010

 

2011

 

2010

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

2008 LTIP

 

$

1,495

 

$

1,028

 

$

14,299

 

$

1,611

 

Other employee performance awards

 

(87

)

(76

)

(12

)

232

 

Total non-cash, stock-based compensation expense recognized for performance based awards

 

$

1,408

 

$

952

 

$

14,287

 

$

1,843

 

 

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DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued
(unaudited)

 

Of the 19.5 million stock options and 1.2 million restricted stock units outstanding under the DISH stock incentive plans associated with our employees as of June 30, 2011, the following awards were outstanding pursuant to the performance based stock incentive plans:

 

 

 

As of June 30, 2011

 

 

 

Number of
Awards

 

Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price

 

Performance Based Stock Options

 

 

 

 

 

2005 LTIP

 

2,306,000

 

$

23.18

 

2008 LTIP

 

4,419,225

 

$

11.17

 

Other employee performance awards

 

3,200,000

 

$

23.01

 

Total

 

9,925,225

 

$

17.78

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Restricted Performance Units and Other

 

 

 

 

 

2005 LTIP

 

279,830

 

 

 

2008 LTIP

 

34,375

 

 

 

Other employee performance awards

 

900,000

 

 

 

Total

 

1,214,205

 

 

 

 

Stock-Based Compensation

 

During the six months ended June 30, 2010, we incurred $3 million of additional non-cash, stock-based compensation cost in connection with the Stock Option Adjustment discussed previously.  This amount is included in the table below.  Total non-cash, stock-based compensation expense for all of our employees is shown in the following table for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011 and 2010 and was allocated to the same expense categories as the base compensation for such employees:

 

 

 

For the Three Months

 

For the Six Months

 

 

 

Ended June 30,

 

Ended June 30,

 

 

 

2011

 

2010

 

2011

 

2010

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Subscriber-related

 

$

340

 

$

234

 

$

1,317

 

$

683

 

General and administrative

 

3,378

 

2,660

 

17,543

 

8,527

 

Total non-cash, stock-based compensation

 

$

3,718

 

$

2,894

 

$

18,860

 

$

9,210

 

 

As of June 30, 2011, our total unrecognized compensation cost related to the non-performance based unvested stock awards was $33 million and includes compensation expense that we will recognize for EchoStar stock awards held by our employees as a result of the Spin-off.  This cost is based on an estimated future forfeiture rate of approximately 4.0% per year and will be recognized over a weighted-average period of approximately three years.  Share-based compensation expense is recognized based on stock awards ultimately expected to vest and is reduced for estimated forfeitures.  Forfeitures are estimated at the time of grant and revised, if necessary, in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from those estimates.  Changes in the estimated forfeiture rate can have a significant effect on share-based compensation expense since the effect of adjusting the rate is recognized in the period the forfeiture estimate is changed.

 

Valuation

 

The fair value of each stock option for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011 and 2010 was estimated at the date of the grant using a Black-Scholes option valuation model with the following assumptions:

 

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DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued
(unaudited)

 

 

 

For the Three Months

 

For the Six Months

 

 

 

Ended June 30,

 

Ended June 30,

 

Stock Options

 

2011

 

2010

 

2011

 

2010

 

Risk-free interest rate

 

1.76% - 3.18%

 

2.07% - 2.60%

 

1.76% - 3.18%

 

2.07% - 2.89%

 

Volatility factor

 

31.74% - 41.00%

 

33.33% - 36.29%

 

31.74% - 41.00%

 

33.33% - 36.29%

 

Expected term of options in years

 

4.7 - 10.0

 

5.7 - 7.5

 

4.7 - 10.0

 

5.7 - 7.5

 

Weighted-average fair value of options granted

 

$11.33 - $14.77

 

$6.83 - $7.54

 

$9.16 - $14.77

 

$6.83 - $8.14

 

 

While DISH currently does not intend to declare additional dividends on its common stock, they may elect to do so from time to time.  Accordingly, the dividend yield percentage used in the Black-Scholes option valuation model is set at zero for all periods. The Black-Scholes option valuation model was developed for use in estimating the fair value of traded stock options which have no vesting restrictions and are fully transferable. Consequently, our estimate of fair value may differ from other valuation models. Further, the Black-Scholes option valuation model requires the input of subjective assumptions. Changes in the subjective input assumptions can materially affect the fair value estimate.

 

We will continue to evaluate the assumptions used to derive the estimated fair value of DISH’s stock options as new events or changes in circumstances become known.

 

8.     Commitments and Contingencies

 

Commitments

 

On May 5, 2011, we issued $2.0 billion aggregate principal amount of our ten-year, 6 3/4% Senior Notes due June 1, 2021 at an issue price of 99.093%.  Interest accrues at an annual rate of 6 3/4% and is payable semi-annually in cash, in arrears on June 1 and December 1 of each year, commencing on December 1, 2011.

 

TiVo.  DISH is responsible for making future payments to TiVo of $190 million in six equal annual installments between 2012 and 2017 related to the TiVo settlement.  See further discussion under “TiVo Inc.” below.

 

Guarantees

 

In connection with the Spin-off, we distributed certain satellite lease agreements to EchoStar and remained the guarantor under those capital leases for payments totaling approximately $245 million over approximately the next four years.

 

In addition, during the third quarter 2009, EchoStar entered into a new satellite transponder service agreement for Nimiq 5 through 2024.  We sublease this capacity from EchoStar and DISH guarantees a certain portion of its obligation under this agreement through 2019.  As of June 30, 2011, the remaining obligation under this agreement is the guarantee of $529 million.

 

As of June 30, 2011, we have not recorded a liability on the balance sheet for any of these guarantees.

 

Contingencies

 

Separation Agreement

 

In connection with the Spin-off, DISH entered into a separation agreement with EchoStar that provides, among other things, for the division of certain liabilities, including liabilities resulting from litigation.  Under the terms of the separation agreement, EchoStar has assumed certain liabilities that relate to its business including certain designated liabilities for acts or omissions prior to the Spin-off.  Certain specific provisions govern intellectual property related claims under which, generally, EchoStar will only be liable for its acts or omissions following the Spin-off and DISH will indemnify EchoStar for any liabilities or damages resulting from intellectual property claims relating to the period prior to the Spin-off as well as our acts or omissions following the Spin-off.

 

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DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued
(unaudited)

 

Litigation

 

We are involved in a number of legal proceedings (including those described below) concerning matters arising in connection with the conduct of our business activities.  Many of these proceedings are at preliminary stages, and many of these cases seek an indeterminate amount of damages.  We regularly evaluate the status of legal proceedings in which we are involved, to assess whether a loss is probable or there is a reasonable possibility that a loss or additional loss may have been incurred and determine if accruals are appropriate.  We further evaluate each legal proceeding to assess whether an estimate of the possible loss or range of possible loss can be made, if accruals are not appropriate.

 

For certain cases described below, management is unable to provide a meaningful estimate of the possible loss or range of possible loss because, among other reasons, (i) the proceedings are in various stages; (ii) damages have not been sought; (iii) damages are unsupported and/or exaggerated; (iv) there is uncertainty as to the outcome of pending appeals or motions; (v) there are significant factual issues to be resolved; and/or (vi) there are novel legal issues or unsettled legal theories to be presented or a large number of parties (as with many patent-related cases).  For these cases, however, management does not believe, based on currently available information, that the outcomes of these proceedings will have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, though the outcomes could be material to our operating results for any particular period, depending, in part, upon the operating results for such period.

 

Broadcast Innovation, L.L.C.

 

During 2001, Broadcast Innovation, L.L.C. (“Broadcast Innovation”) filed a lawsuit against us, DirecTV, Thomson Consumer Electronics and others in United States District Court in Denver, Colorado.  Broadcast Innovation is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein.  The suit alleges infringement of United States Patent Nos. 6,076,094 (the ‘094 patent) and 4,992,066 (the ‘066 patent).  The ‘094 patent relates to certain methods and devices for transmitting and receiving data along with specific formatting information for the data.  The ‘066 patent relates to certain methods and devices for providing the scrambling circuitry for a pay television system on removable cards.  Subsequently, DirecTV and Thomson settled with Broadcast Innovation leaving us as the only defendant.

 

During 2004, the District Court issued an order finding the ‘066 patent invalid.  Also in 2004, the District Court found the ‘094 patent invalid in a parallel case filed by Broadcast Innovation against Charter and Comcast.  In 2005, the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit overturned that finding of invalidity with respect to the ‘094 patent and remanded the Charter case back to the District Court.  During June 2006, Charter filed a reexamination request with the United States Patent and Trademark Office.  The District Court has stayed the Charter case pending reexamination, and our case has been stayed pending resolution of the Charter case.

 

We intend to vigorously defend this case.  In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe any of the asserted patents, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain user-friendly features that we currently offer to consumers.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

 

Channel Bundling Class Action

 

During 2007, a purported class of cable and satellite subscribers filed an antitrust action against us in the United States District Court for the Central District of California.  The suit also names as defendants DirecTV, Comcast, Cablevision, Cox, Charter, Time Warner, Inc., Time Warner Cable, NBC Universal, Viacom, Fox Entertainment Group and Walt Disney Company.  The suit alleges, among other things, that the defendants engaged in a conspiracy to provide customers with access only to bundled channel offerings as opposed to giving customers the ability to purchase channels on an “a la carte” basis.  On October 16, 2009, the District Court granted defendants’ motion to dismiss with prejudice.  The plaintiffs have appealed.  We intend to vigorously defend this case.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

 

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DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued
(unaudited)

 

ESPN

 

During 2008, we filed a lawsuit against ESPN, Inc., ESPN Classic, Inc., ABC Cable Networks Group, Soapnet L.L.C. and International Family Entertainment (collectively, “ESPN”) for breach of contract in New York State Supreme Court.  Our complaint alleges that ESPN failed to provide us with certain high-definition feeds of the Disney Channel, ESPN News, Toon and ABC Family. ESPN asserted a counterclaim, and then filed a motion for summary judgment, alleging that we owed approximately $35 million under the applicable affiliation agreements.  We brought a motion to amend our complaint to assert that ESPN was in breach of certain most-favored-nation provisions under the applicable affiliation agreements.  On April 15, 2009, the New York State Supreme Court granted our motion to amend the complaint, and granted, in part, ESPN’s motion on the counterclaim, finding that we are liable for some of the amount alleged to be owing but that the actual amount owing is disputed.  We appealed the partial grant of ESPN’s motion to the New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division, First Department.  After the partial grant of ESPN’s motion, ESPN sought an additional $30 million under the applicable affiliation agreements.  On March 15, 2010, the New York State Supreme Court affirmed the prior grant of ESPN’s motion and ruled that we owe the full amount of approximately $66 million under the applicable affiliation agreement.  On December 29, 2010, the New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division, First Department affirmed the partial grant of ESPN’s motion on the counterclaim.  As of December 31, 2010, we had $42 million recorded as a “Litigation accrual” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.

 

On June 21, 2011, the First Department affirmed the New York Supreme Court’s ruling that we owe approximately $66 million under the applicable affiliation agreements.  We intend to seek leave to appeal that decision to New York’s highest court, the New York Court of Appeals.  As a result of the First Department’s ruling, during the three and six months ended June 30, 2011, we recorded $24 million of “Litigation Expense” on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) and increased our “Litigation accrual” to a total of $66 million as of June 30, 2011.  This reflects our estimated exposure for ESPN’s counterclaim.  We intend to vigorously prosecute and defend this case.

 

Ganas L.L.C.

 

During August 2010, Ganas, L.L.C. (“Ganas”) filed suit against us, Sabre Holdings Corporation, SAP America, Inc., SAS Institute Inc., Scottrade, Inc., TD Ameritrade, Inc., The Charles Schwab Corporation, TiVo Inc., Unicoi Systems Inc., Xerox Corporation, Adobe Systems Inc., AOL Inc., Apple Inc., Axibase Corporation, DirecTV, E*Trade Securities L.L.C., Exinda Networks, Fidelity Brokerage Services L.L.C., Firstrade Securities Inc., Hewlett-Packard Company, iControl Inc., International Business Machines Corporation and JPMorgan Chase & Co. in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas alleging infringement of United States Patent Nos.  7,136,913, 7,325,053, and 7,734,756.  The patents relate to hypertext transfer protocol and simple object access protocol.  Ganas is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein.

 

We intend to vigorously defend this case.  In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe any of the asserted patents, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain features that we currently offer to consumers.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

 

Katz Communications

 

During 2007, Ronald A. Katz Technology Licensing, L.P. (“Katz”) filed a patent infringement action against us in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California.  The suit alleges infringement of 19 patents owned by Katz.  The patents relate to interactive voice response, or IVR, technology.  The case has been transferred and consolidated for pretrial purposes in the United States District Court for the Central District of California by order of the Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation.

 

We intend to vigorously defend this case.  In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe any of the asserted patents, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain user-friendly features that we currently offer to consumers.  We

 

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DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued
(unaudited)

 

cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

 

NorthPoint Technology

 

On July 2, 2009, NorthPoint Technology, Ltd. filed suit against us, EchoStar and DirecTV in the United States District Court for the Western District of Texas alleging infringement of United States Patent No. 6,208,636 (the ‘636 patent).  The ‘636 patent relates to the use of multiple low-noise block converter feedhorns, or LNBFs, which are antennas used for satellite reception.  On April 21, 2011, the US Patent and Trademark Office issued an order granting reexamination of the ‘636 patent.  On June 21, 2011, the District Court entered summary judgment in our favor, finding that all asserted claims of the ‘636 patent are invalid.  The plaintiff has appealed.

 

We intend to vigorously defend this case.  In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe the asserted patent, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain features that we currently offer to consumers.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

 

Olympic Developments

 

On January 20, 2011, Olympic Developments AG, LLC (“Olympic”) filed suit against us, Atlantic Broadband, Inc., Bright House Networks, LLC, Cable One, Inc., Cequel Communications Holdings I, LLC, CSC Holdings, LLC, GCI Communication Corp., Insight Communications Company, Inc., Knology, Inc., Mediacom Communications Corporation and RCN Telecom Services, LLC in the United States District Court for the Central District of California alleging infringement of  United States Patent Nos. 5,475,585 and 6,246,400.  The patents relate to on-demand services.  Olympic is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein.  On June 13, 2011, the case was transferred to the Northern District of California.

 

We intend to vigorously defend this case.  In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe the asserted patents, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain features that we currently offer to consumers.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

 

Personalized Media Communications

 

During 2008, Personalized Media Communications, Inc. (“PMC”) filed suit against us, EchoStar and Motorola Inc. in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas alleging infringement of United States Patent Nos. 4,694,490; 5,109,414; 4,965,825; 5,233,654; 5,335,277; and 5,887,243, which relate to satellite signal processing.  PMC is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein.  Subsequently, Motorola Inc. settled with PMC leaving EchoStar and us as the only defendants.

 

We intend to vigorously defend this case.  In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe any of the asserted patents, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain user-friendly features that we currently offer to consumers.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

 

Retailer Class Actions

 

During 2000, lawsuits were filed by retailers in Colorado state and federal courts attempting to certify nationwide classes on behalf of certain of our retailers.  The plaintiffs requested that the Courts declare certain provisions of, and changes to, alleged agreements between us and the retailers invalid and unenforceable, and to award damages for lost incentives and payments, charge backs and other compensation.  On September 20, 2010, we agreed to a settlement of both lawsuits that provides, among other things, for mutual releases of the claims underlying the litigation, payment by us of up to $60 million, and the option for certain class members to elect to reinstate certain

 

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DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued
(unaudited)

 

monthly incentive payments, which the parties agreed have an aggregate maximum value of $23 million.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty how many class members will elect to reinstate these monthly incentive payments.  As a result, a $60 million “Litigation accrual” was recorded as of December 31, 2010 on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.  On February 9, 2011, the court granted final approval of the settlement, and we made a $60 million settlement payment on April 28, 2011.

 

Suomen Colorize Oy

 

During October 2010, Suomen Colorize Oy (“Suomen”) filed suit against DISH Network L.L.C., our indirect wholly owned subsidiary, and EchoStar in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida alleging infringement of United States Patent No. 7,277,398.  Suomen is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein.  The abstract of the patent states that the claims are directed to a method and terminal for providing services in a telecommunication network.  The action has been transferred to the United States District Court for the District of Colorado.

 

We intend to vigorously defend this case.  In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe the asserted patent, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain features that we currently offer to consumers.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

 

Technology Development Licensing

 

On January 22, 2009, Technology Development and Licensing L.L.C. (“TDL”) filed suit against us and EchoStar in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois alleging infringement of United States Patent No. Re. 35,952, which relates to certain favorite channel features.  TDL is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein.  In July 2009, the Court granted our motion to stay the case pending two reexamination petitions before the Patent and Trademark Office.

 

We intend to vigorously defend this case.  In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe the asserted patent, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain user-friendly features that we currently offer to consumers.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

 

TiVo Inc.

 

In connection with DISH’s litigation with TiVo Inc. (“TiVo”), which is described in our periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010 under the caption “Item 3.   Legal Proceedings - TiVo Inc.,” on April 20, 2011, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit vacated the District Court’s contempt ruling on infringement, articulated a new standard for determining “colorable difference” and remanded that issue back to the District Court for determination.  The Federal Circuit also vacated the District Court’s amended injunction requiring that DISH inform the court of any further attempts to design around TiVo’s United States Patent No. 6,233,389 (the ‘389 patent) and seek approval from the court before any such design-around is implemented.  The Federal Circuit also vacated the infringement damages for the period after DISH deployed its original alternative technology (although it did not foreclose that damages may be reinstated if upon remand a new court or jury decision found that the original alternative technology infringed TiVo’s ‘389 patent).  The Federal Circuit affirmed the District Court’s contempt ruling on disablement, holding that the original 2006 injunction required that DISH disable DVR functionality in all but approximately 192,000 digital set-top boxes deployed with customers (the “Disablement Provision”) and affirmed the $90 million in contempt sanctions awarded against DISH for violating the Disablement Provision.

 

On April 29, 2011, DISH and EchoStar entered into a settlement agreement with TiVo.  The settlement resolves all pending litigation between DISH and EchoStar, on the one hand, and TiVo, on the other hand, including litigation relating to alleged patent infringement involving certain DISH Network digital video recorders, or DVRs, which litigation is described in our periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission including in our

 

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NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued
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annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010 under the caption “Item 3.  Legal Proceedings - TiVo Inc.”

 

Under the settlement agreement, all pending litigation has been dismissed with prejudice and all injunctions that permanently restrain, enjoin or compel any action by DISH or EchoStar have been dissolved.  DISH and EchoStar are jointly responsible for making payments to TiVo in the aggregate amount of $500 million, including an initial payment of $300 million and the remaining $200 million in six equal annual installments between 2012 and 2017.  Pursuant to the terms and conditions of the agreements entered into in connection with the Spin-off of EchoStar from DISH, DISH made the initial payment to TiVo in May 2011, except for a contribution from EchoStar totaling approximately $10 million, representing an allocation of liability relating to EchoStar’s sales of DVR-enabled receivers to an international customer.  Future payments will be allocated between DISH and EchoStar based on historical sales of certain licensed products, with DISH being responsible for 95% of each annual payment.

 

As previously disclosed, our total litigation accrual for TiVo was $517 million as of December 31, 2010.  As a result of the settlement agreement, we reversed $335 million of this accrual and made a payment of approximately $290 million for our portion of the initial payment to TiVo.  Of this amount, approximately $182 million relates to prior periods and the remaining $108 million represents a prepayment.  Our $108 million prepayment and our $190 million share of the remaining payments, a total of $298 million, will be expensed ratably as a subscriber-related expense from April 1, 2011 through July 31, 2018, the expiration date of the ‘389 patent.  In connection with our TiVo settlement, TiVo agreed to advertise and market certain of our products and services.  As a result, $6 million was recognized as a reduction of litigation expense and we recorded a pre-paid marketing asset on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) and our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, respectively.

 

In addition, under the settlement agreement, TiVo granted DISH a license under its ‘389 patent and certain related patents, for the remaining life of those patents, with respect to DISH-branded and co-branded products and services.

 

DISH and EchoStar, on the one hand, and TiVo, on the other hand, have also agreed on mutual releases of certain related claims and agreed not to challenge each other’s DVR technology-related patents that are licensed under the settlement agreement.

 

Because both DISH and EchoStar were defendants in the TiVo lawsuit, DISH and EchoStar were jointly and severally liable to TiVo for any final damages and sanctions that could have been awarded by the District Court.  As previously disclosed, DISH determined that it was obligated under the agreements entered into in connection with the Spin-off to indemnify EchoStar for substantially all liability arising from this lawsuit.  EchoStar contributed an amount equal to its $5 million intellectual property liability limit under the receiver agreement.  DISH and EchoStar further agreed that EchoStar’s $5 million contribution would not exhaust EchoStar’s liability to us for other intellectual property claims that may arise under the receiver agreement. DISH and EchoStar also agreed that DISH and EchoStar would each be entitled to joint ownership of, and a cross-license to use, any intellectual property developed in connection with any potential new alternative technology.  Any amounts that EchoStar is responsible for under the settlement agreement with TiVo are in addition to the $5 million contribution previously made by EchoStar.

 

Voom

 

In January 2008, Voom HD Holdings (“Voom”) filed a lawsuit against us in New York Supreme Court, alleging breach of contract and other claims arising from our termination of the affiliation agreement governing carriage of certain Voom HD channels on the DISH Network satellite TV service.  At that time, Voom also sought a preliminary injunction to prevent us from terminating the agreement.  The Court denied Voom’s request, finding, among other things, that Voom had not demonstrated that it was likely to prevail on the merits.  In April 2010, we and Voom each filed motions for summary judgment.  Voom later filed two motions seeking discovery sanctions.  On November 9, 2010, the Court issued a decision denying both motions for summary judgment, but granting Voom’s motions for discovery sanctions.  The Court’s decision provides for an adverse inference jury instruction at trial and precludes our damages expert from testifying at trial.  We appealed the grant of Voom’s motion for discovery sanctions to the New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division, First Department.  On February 15,

 

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NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued
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2011, the appellate Court granted our motion to stay the trial pending our appeal.  Oral argument on the appeal took place on April 27, 2011.  Voom is claiming over $2.5 billion in damages.  We intend to vigorously defend this case.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

 

Other

 

In addition to the above actions, we are subject to various other legal proceedings and claims which arise in the ordinary course of business, including, among other things, disputes with programmers regarding fees.  In our opinion, the amount of ultimate liability with respect to any of these actions is unlikely to materially affect our financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

 

9.     Financial Information for Subsidiary Guarantors

 

Our senior notes are fully, unconditionally and jointly and severally guaranteed by all of our subsidiaries other than minor subsidiaries and the stand alone entity DDBS has no independent assets or operations.  Therefore, supplemental financial information on a condensed consolidating basis of the guarantor subsidiaries is not required.  There are no restrictions on our ability to obtain cash dividends or other distributions of funds from the guarantor subsidiaries, except those imposed by applicable law.

 

10.  Related Party Transactions

 

Related Party Transactions with DISH

 

On April 19, 2011, we paid a dividend of approximately $1.5 billion to DISH Orbital Corporation, our direct parent company, in connection with, among other things, the funding of DISH’s investments in DBSD North America and DISH’s acquisition of Blockbuster.

 

Related Party Transactions with EchoStar

 

Following the Spin-off, EchoStar has operated as a separate public company, and we have no continued ownership interest in EchoStar.  However, a substantial majority of the voting power of the shares of both companies is owned beneficially by Charles W. Ergen, our Chairman or by certain trusts established by Mr. Ergen for the benefit of his family.

 

EchoStar is our primary supplier of set-top boxes and digital broadcast operations and our key supplier of transponder capacity.  Generally, the prices charged for products and services provided under the agreements entered into in connection with the Spin-off are based on pricing equal to EchoStar’s cost plus a fixed margin (unless noted differently below), which will vary depending on the nature of the products and services provided.

 

In connection with the Spin-off and subsequent to the Spin-off, we and EchoStar have entered into certain agreements pursuant to which we obtain certain products, services and rights from EchoStar, EchoStar obtains certain products, services and rights from us, and we and EchoStar have indemnified each other against certain liabilities arising from our respective businesses.  We also may enter into additional agreements with EchoStar in the future.  The following is a summary of the terms of the principal agreements that we have entered into with EchoStar that may have an impact on our financial position and results of operations.

 

“Equipment sales - EchoStar”

 

Remanufactured Receiver Agreement. In connection with the Spin-off, we entered into a remanufactured receiver agreement with EchoStar pursuant to which EchoStar has the right, but not the obligation, to purchase remanufactured receivers and accessories from us at cost plus a fixed margin, which varies depending on the nature of the equipment purchased. This agreement expires on January 1, 2012. EchoStar may terminate the remanufactured receiver agreement for any reason upon at least 60 days notice to us. We may also terminate this agreement if certain entities acquire us.

 

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NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued
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“Services and other revenue - EchoStar”

 

Professional Services Agreement. Prior to 2010, in connection with the Spin-off, DISH entered into various agreements with EchoStar including the transition services agreement, satellite procurement agreement and services agreement, which all expired on January 1, 2010 and were replaced by the professional services agreement.  During 2009, DISH and EchoStar agreed that EchoStar shall continue to have the right, but not the obligation, to receive from DISH the following services, among others: information technology, travel and event coordination, internal audit, legal, accounting and tax, benefits administration, program management and other support services. Additionally, DISH and EchoStar agreed that DISH shall continue to have the right, but not the obligation, to engage EchoStar to manage the process of procuring new satellite capacity for them and receive logistics, procurement and quality assurance services from EchoStar. The professional services agreement expires on January 1, 2012, but renews automatically for successive one-year periods thereafter, unless terminated earlier by either party upon at least 60 days notice. However, either party may terminate the services it receives with respect to a particular service for any reason upon at least 30 days notice.

 

Management Services Agreement. In connection with the Spin-off, DISH entered into a management services agreement with EchoStar pursuant to which DISH makes certain of its officers available to provide services (which are primarily legal and accounting services) to EchoStar.  Specifically, R. Stanton Dodge and Paul W. Orban remain employed by DISH, but also serve as EchoStar’s Executive Vice President and General Counsel, and Senior Vice President and Controller, respectively.  EchoStar makes payments to DISH based upon an allocable portion of the personnel costs and expenses incurred by DISH with respect to such officers (taking into account wages and fringe benefits).  These allocations are based upon the estimated percentages of time to be spent by DISH’s executive officers performing services for EchoStar under the management services agreement.  EchoStar also reimburses DISH for direct out-of-pocket costs incurred by DISH for management services provided to EchoStar.  DISH and EchoStar evaluate all charges for reasonableness at least annually and make any adjustments to these charges as DISH and EchoStar mutually agree upon.

 

The management services agreement automatically renewed on January 1, 2011 for an additional one-year period until January 1, 2012 and renews automatically for successive one-year periods thereafter, unless terminated earlier (i) by EchoStar at any time upon at least 30 days prior notice; (ii) by DISH at the end of any renewal term, upon at least 180 days notice; or (iii) by DISH upon notice to EchoStar, following certain changes in control.

 

Satellite Capacity Leased to EchoStar. During 2009, we entered into a satellite capacity agreement pursuant to which EchoStar leases certain satellite capacity from us on EchoStar I. The fee for the services provided under this satellite capacity agreement depends, among other things, upon the orbital location of the satellite and the length of the lease.

 

The lease generally terminates upon the earlier of:  (i) the end of life or replacement of the satellite (unless EchoStar determines to renew on a year-to-year basis); (ii) the date the satellite fails; (iii) the date the transponder on which service is being provided fails; or (iv) a certain date, which depends, among other things, upon the estimated useful life of the satellite, whether the replacement satellite fails at launch or in orbit prior to being placed into service, and the exercise of certain renewal options.  EchoStar generally has the option to renew this lease on a year-to-year basis through the end of the satellite’s life.  There can be no assurance that any options to renew this agreement will be exercised.

 

Real Estate Lease Agreement. During 2008, DISH entered into a sublease for space at 185 Varick Street, New York, New York to EchoStar for a period of approximately seven years.  The rent on a per square foot basis for this sublease was comparable to per square foot rental rates of similar commercial property in the same geographic area at the time of the sublease, and EchoStar is responsible for its portion of the taxes, insurance, utilities and maintenance of the premises.

 

“Satellite and transmission expenses - EchoStar”

 

Broadcast Agreement. In connection with the Spin-off, we entered into a broadcast agreement pursuant to which EchoStar provides certain broadcast services to us, including teleport services such as transmission and

 

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downlinking, channel origination services, and channel management services for a period ending on January 1, 2012. We may terminate channel origination services and channel management services for any reason and without any liability upon at least 60 days notice to EchoStar. If we terminate teleport services for a reason other than EchoStar’s breach, we are obligated to pay EchoStar the aggregate amount of the remainder of the expected cost of providing the teleport services. The fees for services provided under the broadcast agreement are calculated at cost plus a fixed margin, which varies depending on the nature of the products and services provided.

 

Broadcast Agreement for Certain Sports Related Programming. During May 2010, we entered into a broadcast agreement pursuant to which EchoStar provides certain broadcast services to us in connection with our carriage of certain sports related programming.  The term of this agreement is for ten years.  If we terminate this agreement for a reason other than EchoStar’s breach, we are generally obligated to reimburse EchoStar for any direct costs EchoStar incurs related to any such termination that it cannot reasonably mitigate.  The fees for the broadcast services provided under this agreement depend, among other things, upon the cost to develop and provide such services.

 

Satellite Capacity Leased from EchoStar.  In connection with the Spin-off and subsequent to the Spin-off, we entered into certain satellite capacity agreements pursuant to which we lease certain satellite capacity on certain satellites owned or leased by EchoStar.  The fees for the services provided under these satellite capacity agreements depend, among other things, upon the orbital location of the applicable satellite and the length of the lease.  The term of each of the leases is set forth below:

 

EchoStar III, VI, VIII and XII. We lease certain satellite capacity from EchoStar on EchoStar VI, VIII and XII.  The leases generally terminate upon the earlier of:  (i) the end of life or replacement of the satellite (unless we determine to renew on a year-to-year basis); (ii) the date the satellite fails; (iii) the date the transponder on which service is being provided fails; or (iv) a certain date, which depends upon, among other things, the estimated useful life of the satellite, whether the replacement satellite fails at launch or in orbit prior to being placed into service and the exercise of certain renewal options.  We generally have the option to renew each lease on a year-to-year basis through the end of the respective satellite’s life.  There can be no assurance that any options to renew such agreements will be exercised.  In August 2010, our lease of EchoStar III terminated when it was replaced by EchoStar XV.

 

EchoStar IX.  We lease certain satellite capacity from EchoStar on EchoStar IX.  Subject to availability, we generally have the right to continue to lease satellite capacity from EchoStar on EchoStar IX on a month-to-month basis.

 

EchoStar XVI. We will lease certain satellite capacity from EchoStar on EchoStar XVI after its service commencement date and this lease generally terminates upon the earlier of:  (i) the end of life or replacement of the satellite; (ii) the date the satellite fails; (iii) the date the transponder(s) on which service is being provided under the agreement fails; or (iv) ten years following the actual service commencement date.  Upon expiration of the initial term, we have the option to renew on a year-to-year basis through the end of life of the satellite.  There can be no assurance that any options to renew this agreement will be exercised.  EchoStar XVI is expected to be launched during the second half of 2012.

 

EchoStar XV. EchoStar XV is owned by us and is operated at the 61.5 degree orbital location.  The FCC has granted EchoStar an authorization to operate the satellite at the 61.5 degree orbital location.  For so long as EchoStar XV remains in service at the 61.5 degree orbital location, we are obligated to pay EchoStar a fee, which varies depending on the number of frequencies being used by EchoStar XV.

 

Nimiq 5 Agreement. During 2009, EchoStar entered into a fifteen-year satellite service agreement with Telesat Canada (“Telesat”) to receive service on all 32 DBS transponders on the Nimiq 5 satellite at the 72.7 degree orbital location (the “Telesat Transponder Agreement”).  During 2009, EchoStar also entered into a satellite service agreement (the “DISH Telesat Agreement”) with us, pursuant to which we will receive service from EchoStar on all 32 of the DBS transponders covered by the Telesat Transponder Agreement.  We and EchoStar are currently receiving service on 25 of these DBS transponders and will receive service on the remaining seven DBS

 

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transponders over a phase-in period that will be completed in 2012.  We have also guaranteed certain obligations of EchoStar under the Telesat Transponder Agreement.  See discussions under “Guarantees” in Note 8.

 

Under the terms of the DISH Telesat Agreement, we make certain monthly payments to EchoStar that commenced in 2009 when the Nimiq 5 satellite was placed into service and continue through the service term.  Unless earlier terminated under the terms and conditions of the DISH Telesat Agreement, the service term will expire ten years following the date it was placed into service.  Upon expiration of the initial term we have the option to renew the DISH Telesat Agreement on a year-to-year basis through the end of life of the Nimiq 5 satellite.  Upon in-orbit failure or end of life of the Nimiq 5 satellite, and in certain other circumstances, we have certain rights to receive service from EchoStar on a replacement satellite.  There can be no assurance that any options to renew this agreement will be exercised or that we will exercise our option to receive service on a replacement satellite.

 

QuetzSat-1 Lease Agreement. During 2008, EchoStar entered into a ten-year satellite service agreement with SES Latin America S.A. (“SES”), which provides, among other things, for the provision by SES to EchoStar of service on 32 DBS transponders on the QuetzSat-1 satellite expected to be placed into service at the 77 degree orbital location during the third quarter of 2011.  During 2008, EchoStar also entered into a transponder service agreement (“QuetzSat-1 Transponder Agreement”) with us pursuant to which we will receive service from EchoStar on 24 of the DBS transponders.

 

Under the terms of the QuetzSat-1 Transponder Agreement, we will make certain monthly payments to EchoStar commencing when the QuetzSat-1 satellite is placed into service and continuing through the service term.  Unless earlier terminated under the terms and conditions of the QuetzSat-1 Transponder Agreement, the service term will expire ten years following the actual service commencement date.  Upon expiration of the initial term, we have the option to renew the QuetzSat-1 Transponder Agreement on a year-to-year basis through the end of life of the QuetzSat-1 satellite.  Upon a launch failure, in-orbit failure or end of life of the QuetzSat-1 satellite, and in certain other circumstances, we have certain rights to receive service from EchoStar on a replacement satellite.  There can be no assurance that any options to renew this agreement will be exercised or that we will exercise our option to receive service on a replacement satellite.

 

TT&C Agreement. In connection with the Spin-off, we entered into a telemetry, tracking and control (“TT&C”) agreement pursuant to which we receive TT&C services from EchoStar for a period ending on January 1, 2012.  The fees for services provided under the TT&C agreement are calculated at cost plus a fixed margin.  We may terminate the TT&C agreement for any reason upon at least 60 days notice.

 

“Cost of sales - subscriber promotion subsidies - EchoStar”

 

Receiver Agreement. EchoStar is currently our sole supplier of set-top box receivers. The table below indicates the dollar value of set-top boxes and other equipment that we purchased from EchoStar as well as the amount of purchases that are included in “Cost of sales — subscriber promotion subsidies — EchoStar” on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).  The remaining amount is included in “Inventory” and “Property and equipment, net” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.

 

 

 

For the Three Months

 

For the Six Months

 

 

 

Ended June 30,

 

Ended June 30,

 

 

 

2011

 

2010

 

2011

 

2010

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Set-top boxes and other equipment purchased from EchoStar

 

$

270,629

 

$

382,839

 

$

542,755

 

$

768,687

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Set-top boxes and other equipment purchased from EchoStar included in “Cost of sales — subscriber promotion subsidies — EchoStar”

 

$

62,868

 

$

39,733

 

$

117,294

 

$

66,636

 

 

In connection with the Spin-off, we entered into a receiver agreement pursuant to which we have the right, but not the obligation, to purchase digital set-top boxes and related accessories, and other equipment from EchoStar for a period ending on January 1, 2012. The receiver agreement allows us to purchase digital set-top boxes, related accessories and other equipment from EchoStar at cost plus a fixed margin, which varies depending on the nature of the equipment purchased. Additionally, EchoStar provides us with standard manufacturer warranties for the goods

 

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sold under the receiver agreement. We may terminate the receiver agreement for any reason upon at least 60 days notice to EchoStar. EchoStar may terminate the receiver agreement if certain entities were to acquire us. The receiver agreement also includes an indemnification provision, whereby the parties indemnify each other for certain intellectual property matters.

 

“General and administrative expenses - EchoStar”

 

Product Support Agreement. In connection with the Spin-off, we entered into a product support agreement pursuant to which we have the right, but not the obligation, to receive product support from EchoStar (including certain engineering and technical support services) for all set-top boxes and related accessories that EchoStar has previously sold and in the future may sell to us.  The fees for the services provided under the product support agreement are calculated at cost plus a fixed margin, which varies depending on the nature of the services provided.  The term of the product support agreement is the economic life of such receivers and related accessories, unless terminated earlier.  We may terminate the product support agreement for any reason upon at least 60 days notice.  In the event of an early termination of this agreement, we are entitled to a refund of any unearned fees paid to EchoStar for the services.

 

Real Estate Lease Agreements. We have entered into lease agreements pursuant to which we lease certain real estate from EchoStar.  The rent on a per square foot basis for each of the leases is comparable to per square foot rental rates of similar commercial property in the same geographic area, and EchoStar is responsible for its portion of the taxes, insurance, utilities and maintenance of the premises.  The term of each of the leases is set forth below:

 

Inverness Lease Agreement.  The lease for certain space at 90 Inverness Circle East in Englewood, Colorado expires on January 1, 2012.

 

Meridian Lease Agreement.  The lease for all of 9601 S. Meridian Blvd. in Englewood, Colorado was recently extended for a period ending on December 31, 2016.

 

Santa Fe Lease Agreement.  The lease for all of 5701 S. Santa Fe Dr. in Littleton, Colorado is for a period ending on January 1, 2012 with a renewal option for one additional year.

 

EDN Sublease Agreement.  The sublease for certain space at 211 Perimeter Center in Atlanta, Georgia is for a period ending on October 31, 2016.

 

Gilbert Lease Agreement.  The lease for certain space at 801 N. DISH Dr. in Gilbert, Arizona is a month to month lease and can be terminated by either party upon 30 days prior notice.

 

DISHOnline.com Services Agreement. Effective January 1, 2010, we entered into a two-year agreement with EchoStar pursuant to which we will receive certain services associated with an online video portal.  The fees for the services provided under this services agreement depend, among other things, upon the cost to develop and operate such services.  We have the option to renew this agreement for three successive one year terms and the agreement may be terminated for any reason upon at least 120 days notice to EchoStar.

 

DISH Remote Access Services Agreement. Effective February 23, 2010, we entered into an agreement with EchoStar pursuant to which we will receive, among other things, certain remote DVR management services.  The fees for the services provided under this services agreement depend, among other things, upon the cost to develop and operate such services.  This agreement has a term of five years with automatic renewal for successive one year terms and may be terminated for any reason upon at least 120 days notice to EchoStar.

 

SlingService Services Agreement. Effective February 23, 2010, we entered into an agreement with EchoStar pursuant to which we will receive certain place-shifting services.  The fees for the services provided under this services agreement depend, among other things, upon the cost to develop and operate such services.  This agreement has a term of five years with automatic renewal for successive one year terms and may be terminated for any reason upon at least 120 days notice to EchoStar.

 

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Other Agreements - EchoStar

 

Tax Sharing Agreement. In connection with the Spin-off, DISH entered into a tax sharing agreement with EchoStar which governs our respective rights, responsibilities and obligations after the Spin-off with respect to taxes for the periods ending on or before the Spin-off.  Generally, all pre-Spin-off taxes, including any taxes that are incurred as a result of restructuring activities undertaken to implement the Spin-off, are borne by DISH, and DISH will indemnify EchoStar for such taxes.  However, DISH is not liable for and will not indemnify EchoStar for any taxes that are incurred as a result of the Spin-off or certain related transactions failing to qualify as tax-free distributions pursuant to any provision of Section 355 or Section 361 of the Code because of: (i) a direct or indirect acquisition of any of EchoStar’s stock, stock options or assets; (ii) any action that EchoStar takes or fails to take; or (iii) any action that EchoStar takes that is inconsistent with the information and representations furnished to the IRS in connection with the request for the private letter ruling, or to counsel in connection with any opinion being delivered by counsel with respect to the Spin-off or certain related transactions.  In such case, EchoStar is solely liable for, and will indemnify DISH for, any resulting taxes, as well as any losses, claims and expenses.  The tax sharing agreement will only terminate after the later of the full period of all applicable statutes of limitations, including extensions, or once all rights and obligations are fully effectuated or performed.

 

TiVo. On April 29, 2011, DISH and EchoStar entered into a settlement agreement with TiVo Inc.  See Note 8 for further discussion.

 

EchoStar XV Launch Service.  During 2009, EchoStar assigned certain of its rights under a launch contract to us for EchoStar’s fair value of $103 million.  This amount was paid to EchoStar during the first quarter of 2010.  We recorded these rights at EchoStar’s net book value of $89 million and recorded the $14 million difference between EchoStar’s net book value and our purchase price as a capital transaction with EchoStar.  We used these rights to launch EchoStar XV in July 2010.

 

Weather Related Programming Agreement.  During May 2010, we entered into an agreement pursuant to which, among other things, EchoStar agreed to develop certain weather related programming and we received the right to distribute such programming.  This agreement was terminated during June 2010.  In July 2010, we purchased EchoStar’s interest in the entity that held such weather related programming for $5 million.

 

International Programming Rights Agreement.  During the three and six months ended June 30, 2011 we made no purchases and for the three and six months ended June 30, 2010 we purchased less than $1 million and $2 million, respectively, of certain international rights for sporting events from EchoStar, included in “Subscriber-related expenses” on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss), of which EchoStar only retained a certain portion.

 

Acquisition of South.com, L.L.C.  During October 2010, we purchased all of South.com, L.L.C. from EchoStar and another party for $5 million.  South.com, L.L.C. is an entity that holds certain authorizations for multichannel video and data distribution service (MVDDS) spectrum in the United States.

 

Other Agreements

 

In November 2009, Mr. Roger Lynch became employed by both DISH and EchoStar as Executive Vice President.  Mr. Lynch is responsible for the development and implementation of advanced technologies that are of potential utility and importance to both DISH and EchoStar.  Mr. Lynch’s compensation consists of cash and equity compensation and is borne by both EchoStar and DISH.

 

Related Party Transactions with NagraStar L.L.C.

 

Prior to the Spin-off, DISH owned 50% of NagraStar L.L.C. (“NagraStar”), which was contributed to EchoStar in connection with the Spin-off.  NagraStar is a joint venture between EchoStar and Nagra USA, Inc. that is our provider of encryption and related security systems intended to assure that only paying customers have access to our programming.

 

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DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — Continued
(unaudited)

 

The table below summarizes our transactions with NagraStar.

 

 

 

For the Three Months

 

For the Six Months

 

 

 

Ended June 30,

 

Ended June 30,

 

 

 

2011

 

2010

 

2011

 

2010

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Purchases (including fees):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Purchases from NagraStar

 

$

19,716

 

$

19,636

 

$

40,445

 

$

39,709

 

 

 

 

As of

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

June 30,

 

December 31,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2011

 

2010

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

Amounts Payable and Commitments:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Amounts payable to NagraStar

 

$

6,876

 

$

13,272

 

 

 

 

 

 

11.  Subsequent Events

 

TerreStar.  Gamma Acquisition L.L.C. (“Gamma”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of DISH, entered into an asset purchase agreement with TerreStar Networks, Inc. (“TerreStar”) and certain of its subsidiaries on June 14, 2011, under which Gamma would acquire substantially all of the assets of TerreStar and its subsidiaries for a cash purchase price of $1.375 billion, of which $69 million was paid in June 2011, and would agree to assume certain liabilities associated with the ongoing operations of the business being acquired.  On July 7, 2011, the asset purchase agreement was approved by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York, in which the bankruptcy cases of TerreStar and certain of its subsidiaries are being administered.  DISH is a party to the asset purchase agreement solely with respect to certain guaranty obligations.  Consummation of the acquisition contemplated in the asset purchase agreement is subject to, among other things, approval by the FCC and the Canadian federal Department of Industry.  However, funding of the $1.375 billion purchase price is not conditioned on approval of the transaction by the FCC and the Canadian federal Department of Industry.  In the event that the purchase price is funded, but the necessary approvals from the FCC and the Canadian federal Department of Industry are not obtained, Gamma has the right under the purchase agreement to require TerreStar to sell substantially all of its assets to a third party and to receive the proceeds of such sale.  Although the closing of the transaction may not occur until 2012, on August 11, 2011, Gamma funded an additional $1.276 billion of the purchase price, in accordance with the terms of the purchase agreement.  Additionally, Gamma is responsible for any working capital and administrative expenses of TerreStar and certain of its subsidiaries beyond December 31, 2011.

 

On August 10, 2011, we paid a dividend of approximately $700 million to DISH Orbital Corporation, our direct parent company, in connection with, among other things, the funding of DISH’s purchase of TerreStar.

 

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DISH DBS Corporation

 

Offer to Exchange up to $2,000,000,000 aggregate principal amount of new

6.75% Senior Notes due 2021,

which have been registered under the Securities Act of 1933,

for any and all of its outstanding 6.75% Senior Notes due 2021

 


 

PROSPECTUS

 

       , 2011

 


 

All tendered old notes, executed letters of transmittal and other related documents should be directed to the exchange agent at the numbers and address below.  Requests for assistance and for additional copies of the prospectus, the letter of transmittal and other related documents should also be directed to the exchange agent.

 

The exchange agent for the exchange offer is:

 

WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION

 

By Facsimile:
(612) 667-6282

 

For Information or Confirmation by telephone:
(800) 344-5128

 

By registered mail or certified

mail:

Wells Fargo Bank, National Association

MAC - N9303-121

Corporate Trust Operations

P.O. Box 1517

Minneapolis, Minnesota 55480-1517

 

By regular mail or overnight

courier:

Wells Fargo Bank, National Association

MAC - N9303-121

Corporate Trust Operations

Sixth Street & Marquette Avenue

Minneapolis, Minnesota 55479

 

By hand:

Wells Fargo Bank, National Association

Northstar East Building — 12th floor

Corporate Trust Services

608 Second Avenue South

Minneapolis, Minnesota 55402

 



Table of Contents

 

PART II
INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS

 

ITEM 20. Indemnification of Directors and Officers

 

The following subparagraphs briefly describe indemnification provisions for directors, officers and controlling persons of the Registrants against liability, including liability under the Securities Act.

 

Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act of 1933 (the “Act”) may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of the Registrants pursuant to the foregoing provisions, each of the Registrants has been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Act and is therefore unenforceable.

 

Colorado Corporations

 

As provided in the Articles of Incorporation of DDBS, a Colorado corporation, DDBS may eliminate or limit the personal liability of a director to DDBS or to its shareholders for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director; except that, in accordance with Section 7-108-402 of the Colorado Business Corporation Act (the “Colorado Act”), such provision shall not eliminate or limit the liability of a director to the Registrant or to its shareholders for monetary damages for: any breach of the director’s duty of loyalty to DDBS or to its shareholders; acts or omissions not in good faith or that involve intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law; acts specified in Section 7-108-403 of the Colorado Act; or any transaction from which the director derived an improper personal benefit.  No such provisions eliminate or limit the liability of a director to DDBS or to its shareholders for monetary damages for any act or omission occurring prior to the date when such provision becomes effective.

 

Under provisions of the Bylaws of DDBS and the Colorado Act, each person who is or was a director or officer of the Registrant will be indemnified by the Registrant as a matter of right summarized as follows:

 

(a)          Under the Colorado Act, a person who is wholly successful on the merits in defense of a suit or proceeding brought against him by reason of the fact that he is a director or officer of DDBS shall be indemnified against reasonable expenses (including attorneys’ fees) in connection with such suit or proceeding;

 

(b)         Except as provided in subparagraph (c) below, a director may be indemnified under such law against both (1) reasonable expenses (including attorneys’ fees), and (2) judgments, penalties, fines and amounts paid in settlement, if he acted in good faith and reasonably believed, in the case of conduct in his official capacity as a director, that his conduct was in DDBS’s best interests, or in all other cases that his conduct was not opposed to the best interests of DDBS, and with respect to any criminal action, he had not reasonable cause to believe his conduct was unlawful, but DDBS may not indemnify the director if the director is found liable to DDBS or is found liable on the basis that personal benefit was improperly received by the director in connection with any suit or proceeding charging improper personal benefit to the director;

 

(c)          In connection with a suit or proceeding by or in the right of DDBS, indemnification is limited to reasonable expenses incurred in connection with the suit or proceeding, but DDBS may not indemnify the director if the director was found liable to DDBS; and

 

(d)         Officers of DDBS will be indemnified to the same extent as directors as described in (a), (b) and (c).

 

Colorado Limited Liability Companies

 

Each of DISH Network L.L.C., DISH Operating L.L.C., Dish Network Service L.L.C. and EchoSphere L.L.C. is a limited liability company organized under the laws of the State of Colorado.  Section 7-80-407 of the Colorado Limited Liability Company Act empowers a Colorado limited liability company to reimburse a person who is or was a member or manager for payments made, and indemnify a person who is or was a member or manager for liabilities incurred by the person, in the ordinary course of the business of the limited liability company or for the preservation

 

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of its business or property, if such payments were made or liabilities incurred without violation of the person’s duties to the limited liability company.

 

In accordance with this provision, the Articles of Organization of each of DISH Network L.L.C., DISH Operating L.L.C., Dish Network Service L.L.C. and EchoSphere L.L.C. state that such company shall indemnify, to the maximum extent permitted under applicable law, any person, and the estate and personal representative of any such person, against all liability and expense incurred by reason of the fact that such person is or was a manager, officer, employee or fiduciary of the company or, while serving as manager, officer, employee or fiduciary of the company, such person is or was serving at the request of the company as a manager, director, officer, partner, trustee, employee, fiduciary or agent of, or in any similar managerial fiduciary position of, another domestic or foreign entity or other individual or entity or of an employee benefit plan.

 

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ITEM 21. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules

 

(a)   Exhibits

 

EXHIBIT NO.

 

DESCRIPTION

 

 

 

3.1(a)*

 

Articles of Incorporation of DDBS (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.4(a) to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-4, Registration No. 333-31929).

3.1(b)*

 

Certificate of Amendment of the Articles of Incorporation of DDBS, dated as of August 25, 2003 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1(b) to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of DDBS for the year ended December 31, 2003, Commission File No. 333-31929).

3.1(c)*

 

Amendment of the Articles of Incorporation of DDBS, effective December 12, 2008 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of DDBS filed December 12, 2008, Registration No. 333-31929).

3.1(d)*

 

Bylaws of DDBS (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.4(b) to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-4, Registration No. 333-31929).

4.1*

 

Indenture relating to the DISH DBS Corporation 6.75% Senior Notes due 2021, dated as of May 5, 2011, by and among DDBS, the Guarantors and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as trustee (incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K that was filed with the SEC on May 5, 2011).

4.2*

 

Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of May 5, 2011, among DDBS, the Guarantors, Deutsche Bank Securities Inc. and Jefferies & Company, Inc. (incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K that was filed with the SEC on May 5, 2011).

4.3*

 

Form of Note for 6.75% Senior Notes due 2021 (included as part of Exhibit 4.1).

5.1(P)

 

Opinion of Sullivan & Cromwell LLP regarding the legality of the securities being registered.

10.1*

 

2002 Class B CEO Stock Option Plan (incorporated by reference to Appendix A to DISH’s Definitive Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A dated April 9, 2002).**

10.2*

 

Satellite Service Agreement, dated as of March 21, 2003, between SES Americom, Inc., EchoStar Satellite Corporation and DISH (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of DISH for the quarter ended March 31, 2003, Commission File No. 0-26176).

10.3*

 

Amendment No. 1 to Satellite Service Agreement dated March 31, 2003 between SES Americom Inc. and DISH (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of DISH for the quarter ended September 30, 2003, Commission File No. 0-26176).

10.4*

 

Satellite Service Agreement dated as of August 13, 2003 between SES Americom Inc. and DISH (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of DISH for the quarter ended September 30, 2003, Commission File No. 0-26176).

10.5*

 

Satellite Service Agreement, dated February 19, 2004, between SES Americom, Inc. and DISH (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of DISH for the quarter ended March 31, 2004, Commission File No. 0-26176).

10.6*

 

Amendment No. 1 to Satellite Service Agreement, dated March 10, 2004, between SES Americom, Inc. and DISH (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of DISH for the quarter ended March 31, 2004, Commission File No. 0-26176).

10.7*

 

Amendment No. 3 to Satellite Service Agreement, dated February 19, 2004, between SES Americom, Inc. and DISH (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of DISH for the quarter ended March 31, 2004, Commission File No. 0-26176).

10.8*

 

Whole RF Channel Service Agreement, dated February 4, 2004, between Telesat Canada and DISH (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of DISH for the quarter ended March 31, 2004, Commission File No. 0-26176).

10.9*

 

Letter Amendment to Whole RF Channel Service Agreement, dated March 25, 2004, between Telesat Canada and DISH (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of DISH for the quarter ended March 31, 2004, Commission File No. 0-26176).

10.10*

 

Amendment No. 2 to Satellite Service Agreement, dated April 30, 2004, between SES Americom, Inc. and DISH (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of DISH for the quarter ended June 30, 2004, Commission File No. 0-26176).

10.11*

 

Second Amendment to Whole RF Channel Service Agreement, dated May 5, 2004, between Telesat Canada and DISH (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of DISH for the quarter ended June 30, 2004, Commission File No. 0-26176).

10.12*

 

Third Amendment to Whole RF Channel Service Agreement, dated October 12, 2004, between Telesat Canada and DISH (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.22 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of DISH for the year ended December 31, 2004, Commission File No. 0-26176).

10.13*

 

Amendment No. 4 to Satellite Service Agreement, dated October 21, 2004, between SES Americom, Inc. and DISH (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.23 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of DISH for the year ended December 31, 2004, Commission File No. 0-26176).

 

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EXHIBIT NO.

 

DESCRIPTION

10.14*

 

Amendment No. 3 to Satellite Service Agreement, dated November 19, 2004 between SES Americom, Inc. and DISH (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.24 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of DISH for the year ended December 31, 2004, Commission File No. 0-26176).

10.15*

 

Amendment No. 5 to Satellite Service Agreement, dated November 19, 2004, between SES Americom, Inc. and DISH (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.25 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of DISH for the year ended December 31, 2004, Commission File No. 0-26176).

10.16*

 

Amendment No. 6 to Satellite Service Agreement, dated December 20, 2004, between SES Americom, Inc. and DISH (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.26 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of DISH for the year ended December 31, 2004, Commission File No. 0-26176).

10.17*

 

Description of the 2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan dated January 26, 2005 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of DISH for the quarter ended March 31, 2005, Commission File No. 0-26176).**

10.18*

 

Amendment No. 4 to Satellite Service Agreement, dated April 6, 2005, between SES Americom, Inc. and DISH (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of DISH for the quarter ended June 30, 2005, Commission File No. 0-26176).

10.19*

 

Amendment No. 5 to Satellite Service Agreement, dated June 20, 2005, between SES Americom, Inc. and DISH (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of DISH for the quarter ended June 30, 2005, Commission File No. 0-26176).

10.20*

 

Incentive Stock Option Agreement (Form A) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of DISH filed July 7, 2005, Commission File No. 0-26176).**

10.21*

 

Incentive Stock Option Agreement (Form B) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of DISH filed July 7, 2005, Commission File No. 0-26176).**

10.22*

 

Restricted Stock Unit Agreement (Form A) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of DISH filed July 7, 2005, Commission File No. 0-26176).**

10.23*

 

Restricted Stock Unit Agreement (Form B) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.4 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of DISH filed July 7, 2005, Commission File No. 0-26176).**

10.24*

 

Incentive Stock Option Agreement (1999 Long-Term Incentive Plan) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.5 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of DISH filed July 7, 2005, Commission File No. 0-26176).**

10.25*

 

Nonemployee Director Stock Option Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.6 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of DISH filed July 7, 2005, Commission File No.0-26176).**

10.26*

 

Nonqualifying Stock Option Agreement (2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.7 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of DISH filed July 7, 2005, Commission File No. 0-26176).**

10.27*

 

Restricted Stock Unit Agreement (2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.8 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of DISH filed July 7, 2005, Commission File No. 0-26176).**

10.28*

 

Separation Agreement between EchoStar and DISH (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 2.1 to the Form 10 (File No. 001-33807) of EchoStar).

10.29*

 

Tax Sharing Agreement between EchoStar and DISH (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.2 to the Form 10 (File No. 001-33807) of EchoStar).

10.30*

 

Employee Matters Agreement between EchoStar and DISH (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.3 to the Form 10 (File No. 001-33807) of EchoStar).

10.31*

 

Intellectual Property Matters Agreement between EchoStar, EchoStar Acquisition L.L.C., Echosphere L.L.C., DDBS, EIC Spain SL, EchoStar Technologies L.L.C. and DISH (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.4 to the Form 10 (File No. 001-33807) of EchoStar).

10.32*

 

Management Services Agreement between EchoStar and DISH (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.5 to the Form 10 (File No. 001-33807) of EchoStar).

10.33*

 

Form of Satellite Capacity Agreement between EchoStar Holding Corporation and EchoStar Satellite L.L.C. (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.28 to the Amendment No. 2 to Form 10 of EchoStar Corporation filed on December 26, 2007, Commission File No. 001-33807).

10.34*

 

Amendment No. 1 to Receiver Agreement dated December 31, 2007 between EchoSphere L.L.C. and EchoStar Technologies L.L.C. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of DISH for the quarter ended September 30, 2008, Commission File No.0-26176).

10.35*

 

Amendment No. 1 to Broadcast Agreement dated December 31, 2007 between EchoStar and EchoStar Satellite L.L.C. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.2 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of DISH for the quarter ended September 30, 2008, Commission File No.0-26176).

10.36*

 

Description of the 2008 Long-Term Incentive Plan dated December 22, 2008 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.42 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of DISH for the year ended December 31, 2008, Commission File No. 0-26176).**

10.37*

 

DISH Network Corporation 2009 Stock Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to the Definitive Proxy Statement on Form 14A filed on March 31, 2009, Commission File No. 000-26176).**

10.38*

 

Amended and Restated DISH Network Corporation 2001 Nonemployee Director Stock Option Plan (incorporated by reference to the Definitive Proxy Statement on Form 14A filed on March 31, 2009, Commission File No. 000-26176).**

10.39*

 

Amended and Restated DISH Network Corporation 1999 Stock Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to the Definitive Proxy Statement on Form 14A filed on March 31, 2009, Commission File No. 000-26176).**

10.40*

 

Amended and Restated DISH Network Corporation 1995 Stock Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to the Definitive Proxy Statement on Form 14A filed on March 31, 2009, Commission File No. 000-26176).**

10.41*

 

NIMIQ 5 Whole RF Channel Service Agreement, dated September 15, 2009, between Telesat Canada and EchoStar (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.29 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of EchoStar for the year ended December 31, 2009, Commission File No. 001-33807).

 

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EXHIBIT NO.

 

DESCRIPTION

10.42*

 

NIMIQ 5 Whole RF Channel Service Agreement, dated September 15, 2009, between EchoStar and DISH Network L.L.C. (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.30 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of EchoStar for the year ended December 31, 2009, Commission File No. 001-33807).

10.43*

 

Professional Services Agreement, dated August 4, 2009, between EchoStar and DISH Network (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.3 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of EchoStar for the quarter ended September 30, 2009, Commission File No. 001-33807).

10.44*

 

Allocation Agreement, dated August 4, 2009, between EchoStar and DISH Network (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.4 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of EchoStar for the quarter ended September 30, 2009, Commission File No. 001-33807).

10.45*

 

Amendment to Form of Satellite Capacity Agreement (Form A) between EchoStar Corporation and DISH Network L.L.C. (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.33 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of EchoStar for the year ended December 31, 2009, Commission File No. 001-33807).

10.46*

 

Amendment to Form of Satellite Capacity Agreement (Form B) between EchoStar Corporation and DISH Network L.L.C. (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.34 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of EchoStar for the year ended December 31, 2009, Commission File No. 001-33807).

10.47*

 

EchoStar XVI Satellite Capacity Agreement between EchoStar Satellite Services L.L.C. and DISH Network L.L.C. (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.35 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of EchoStar for the year ended December 31, 2009, Commission File No. 001-33807).

10.48*

 

Assignment of Rights Under Launch Service Contract from EchoStar to DISH Orbital II L.L.C. (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.36 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of EchoStar for the year ended December 31, 2009, Commission File No. 001-33807).

12.1(H)

 

Statement regarding computation of ratio of earnings to fixed charges.

21(P)

 

Subsidiaries of DISH DBS Corporation

23.1(H)

 

Consent of KPMG LLP.

23.2(P)

 

Consent of Sullivan & Cromwell LLP (included as part of Exhibit 5.1).

24.1(P)

 

Powers of Attorney (included on the signature pages to the Registration Statement on Form S-4 of DISH DBS Corporation filed on July 1, 2011 (Commission File No. 333-175277)).

24.2(H)

 

Powers of Attorney of Joseph P. Clayton (included on the signature pages hereto).

25.1(P)

 

Statement of Eligibility on Form T-1 under the Trust Indenture Act of 1939 of Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as trustee of the Indenture.

99.1(P)

 

Form of Letter of Transmittal.

99.2(P)

 

Form of Notice of Guaranteed Delivery.

101 (H)***

 

The following materials from (A) the Annual Report on Form 10-K of DISH DBS Corporation for the year ended December 31, 2010, filed on February 25, 2011, formatted in eXtensible Business Reporting Language (“XBRL”): (i) Consolidated Balance Sheets, (ii) Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss), (iii) Consolidated Statement of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity (Deficit), (iv) Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, and (v) related notes to these financial statements tagged as blocks of text and (B) the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of DISH DBS Corporation for the quarter ended June 30, 2011, filed on August 12, 2011, formatted in XBRL: (i) Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, (ii) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss), (iii) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows and (iv) related notes to these financial statements tagged as blocks of text.

 


(H)          Filed herewith.

(P)           Previously filed.

*              Incorporated by reference.

**           Constitutes a management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.

***                       In accordance with Rule 402 of Regulation S-T, the information in this Exhibit 101 shall not be deemed “filed” for the purposes of section 18 of the Exchange Act or otherwise subject to the liability of that section, and shall not be incorporated by reference into any registration statement or other document filed under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Exchange Act, except as shall be expressly set forth by the specific reference in such filing.

 

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ITEM 22. Undertakings

 

(a)          Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of the Registrants pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, the Registrants have been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Act and is, therefore, unenforceable.  In the event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the Registrants of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling person of the Registrants in the successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer or controlling person in connection with the securities being registered, the Registrants will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of approximate jurisdiction the question of whether such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.

 

(b)         The undersigned Registrants hereby undertake to respond to requests for information that is incorporated by reference into the prospectus pursuant to items 4, 10(b), 11, or 13 of this Form, within one business day of receipt of such request, and to send the incorporating documents by first class mail or other equally prompt means.  This includes information contained in the documents filed subsequent to the effective date of the Registration Statement through the date of responding to the request.

 

(c)          The undersigned Registrants hereby undertake to supply by means of a post-effective amendment all information concerning a transaction, and the company being acquired involved therein, that was not the subject of and included in the Registration Statement when it became effective.

 

(d)         The undersigned Registrants hereby undertake that, for purposes of determining any liability under the Securities Act of 1933, each filing of the Registrants’ annual report pursuant to section 13(a) or section 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (and, where applicable, each filing of an employee benefit plan’s annual report pursuant to section 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) that is incorporated by reference in the Registration Statement shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.

 

(e)          The undersigned Registrants hereby undertake:

 

(1)          To file, during any period in which offers or sales are being made, a post-effective amendment to this Registration Statement:

 

(i)                         To include any prospectus required by section 10(a)(3) of the Securities Act.

 

(ii)                      To reflect in the prospectus any facts or events arising after the effective date of the Registration Statement (or the most recent post-effective amendment thereof) which, individually or in the aggregate, represent a fundamental change in the information set forth in the Registration Statement.  Notwithstanding the foregoing, any increase or decrease in volume of securities offered (if the total dollar value of securities offered would not exceed that which was registered) and any deviation from the low or high end of the estimated maximum offering range may be reflected in the form of prospectus filed with the SEC pursuant to Rule 424(b) if, in the aggregate, the changes in volume and price represent no more than a 20% change in the maximum aggregate offering price set forth in the “Calculation of Registration Fee” table in the effective Registration Statement.

 

(iii)                   To include any material information with respect to the plan of distribution not previously disclosed in the Registration Statement or any material change to such information in the Registration Statement.

 

(2)          That, for the purpose of determining any liability under the Securities Act, each such post-effective amendment shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.

 

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(3)          To remove from registration by means of a post-effective amendment any of the securities being registered which remain unsold at the termination of the offering.

 

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Table of Contents

 

SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the Registrant certifies that it has reasonable grounds to believe that it meets all of the requirements for filing this Amendment to Registration Statement on Form S-4 and has duly caused this Amendment to Registration Statement on Form S-4 to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Englewood, State of Colorado, on September 16, 2011.

 

DISH DBS CORPORATION

 

 

 

 

 

By:

/s/ Joseph P. Clayton

 

 

Name:

Joseph P. Clayton

 

 

Title:

President and Chief Executive Officer

 

 

II-8



Table of Contents

 

POWER OF ATTORNEY

 

KNOW ALL PERSONS BY THESE PRESENTS, that each person whose signature appears below constitutes and appoints R. Stanton Dodge his true and lawful attorney-in-fact and agent, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign any and all amendments (including post-effective amendments) to this registration statement and any and all additional registration statements pursuant to Rule 462(b) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto, and all other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting unto each said attorney-in-fact and agent full power and authority to do and perform each and every act in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorney-in-fact and agent or his substitute or substitutes may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Amendment to Registration Statement on Form S-4 has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated:

 

Signature

 

Title

 

Date

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ Joseph P. Clayton

 

President and Chief Executive Officer

 

 

Joseph P. Clayton

 

(Principal Executive Officer)

 

September 16, 2011

 

II-9



Table of Contents

 

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Amendment to Registration Statement on Form S-4 has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated:

 

Signature

 

Title

 

Date

 

 

Executive Vice President

 

 

 

 

and Chief Financial Officer

 

 

*

 

(Principal Financial

 

 

Robert E. Olson

 

and Accounting Officer)

 

September 16, 2011

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

*

 

 

 

 

James DeFranco

 

Director

 

September 16, 2011

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ R. Stanton Dodge

 

 

 

 

R. Stanton Dodge

 

Director

 

September 16, 2011

 

 

By:

/s/ R. Stanton Dodge

 

 

*R. Stanton Dodge, as attorney-in-fact for each of the persons indicated

 

 

II-10



Table of Contents

 

SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the Registrants certify that they have reasonable grounds to believe that they meet all of the requirements for filing this Amendment to Registration Statement on Form S-4 and have duly caused this Amendment to Registration Statement on Form S-4 to be signed on their behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Englewood, State of Colorado, on September 16, 2011.

 

DISH NETWORK L.L.C.

 

 

 

 

 

DISH NETWORK SERVICE L.L.C.

 

 

 

 

 

ECHOSPHERE L.L.C.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By:

*

 

 

 

Name:

Charles W. Ergen

 

 

 

Title:

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By:

/s/ R. Stanton Dodge

 

 

 

*R. Stanton Dodge, as attorney-in-fact for each of the persons indicated

 

 

 

II-11



Table of Contents

 

POWER OF ATTORNEY

 

KNOW ALL PERSONS BY THESE PRESENTS, that each person whose signature appears below constitutes and appoints R. Stanton Dodge his true and lawful attorney-in-fact and agent, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign any and all amendments (including post-effective amendments) to this registration statement and any and all additional registration statements pursuant to Rule 462(b) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto, and all other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting unto each said attorney-in-fact and agent full power and authority to do and perform each and every act in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorney-in-fact and agent or his substitute or substitutes may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Amendment to Registration Statement on Form S-4 has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated:

 

Signature

 

Title

 

Date

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ Joseph P. Clayton

 

 

 

 

DISH DBS Corporation

 

 

 

 

As Sole Member

 

 

 

 

By: Joseph P. Clayton

 

 

 

 

President and Chief Executive Officer

 

Sole Member

 

September 16, 2011

 

II-12



Table of Contents

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Amendment to Registration Statement on Form S-4 has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated:

 

Signature

 

Title

 

Date

 

 

 

 

 

*

 

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

 

 

Charles W. Ergen

 

(Principal Executive Officer)

 

September 16, 2011

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Executive Vice President

 

 

 

 

and Chief Financial Officer

 

 

*

 

(Principal Financial

 

 

Robert E. Olson

 

and Accounting Officer)

 

September 16, 2011

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ Joseph P. Clayton

 

 

 

 

DISH DBS Corporation

 

 

 

 

As Sole Member

 

 

 

 

By: Joseph P. Clayton

 

 

 

 

President and Chief Executive Officer

 

Sole Member

 

September 16, 2011

 

 

By:

/s/ R. Stanton Dodge

 

 

*R. Stanton Dodge, as attorney-in-fact for each of the persons indicated

 

 

II-13



Table of Contents

 

SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the Registrant certifies that it has reasonable grounds to believe that it meets all of the requirements for filing this Amendment to Registration Statement on Form S-4 and has duly caused this Amendment to Registration Statement on Form S-4 to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Englewood, State of Colorado, on September 16, 2011.

 

DISH OPERATING L.L.C.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By:

*

 

 

 

Name:

Charles W. Ergen

 

 

 

Title:

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By:

/s/ R. Stanton Dodge

 

 

 

*R. Stanton Dodge, as attorney-in-fact for each of the persons indicated

 

 

 

II-14



Table of Contents

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Amendment to Registration Statement on Form S-4 has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated:

 

Signature

 

Title

 

Date

 

 

 

 

 

*

 

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

 

 

Charles W. Ergen

 

(Principal Executive Officer)

 

September 16, 2011

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Executive Vice President

 

 

 

 

and Chief Financial Officer

 

 

*

 

(Principal Financial

 

 

Robert E. Olson

 

and Accounting Officer)

 

September 16, 2011

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

*

 

 

 

 

DISH Network L.L.C.

 

 

 

 

As Sole Member

 

 

 

 

By: Charles W. Ergen

 

 

 

 

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

 

Sole Member

 

September 16, 2011

 

 

By:

/s/ R. Stanton Dodge

 

 

*R. Stanton Dodge, as attorney-in-fact for each of the persons indicated

 

 

II-15



Table of Contents

 

INDEX TO EXHIBITS

 

EXHIBIT NO.

 

DESCRIPTION

 

 

 

3.1(a)*

 

Articles of Incorporation of DDBS (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.4(a) to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-4, Registration No. 333-31929).

3.1(b)*

 

Certificate of Amendment of the Articles of Incorporation of DDBS, dated as of August 25, 2003 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1(b) to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of DDBS for the year ended December 31, 2003, Commission File No. 333-31929).

3.1(c)*

 

Amendment of the Articles of Incorporation of DDBS, effective December 12, 2008 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of DDBS filed December 12, 2008, Registration No. 333-31929).

3.1(d)*

 

Bylaws of DDBS (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.4(b) to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-4, Registration No. 333-31929).

4.1*

 

Indenture relating to the DISH DBS Corporation 6.75% Senior Notes due 2021, dated as of May 5, 2011, by and among DDBS, the Guarantors and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as trustee (incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K that was filed with the SEC on May 5, 2011). 

4.2*

 

Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of May 5, 2011, among DDBS, the Guarantors, Deutsche Bank Securities Inc. and Jefferies & Company, Inc. (incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8-K that was filed with the SEC on May 5, 2011). 

4.3*

 

Form of Note for 6.75% Senior Notes due 2021 (included as part of Exhibit 4.1).

5.1(P)

 

Opinion of Sullivan & Cromwell LLP regarding the legality of the securities being registered.

10.1*

 

2002 Class B CEO Stock Option Plan (incorporated by reference to Appendix A to DISH’s Definitive Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A dated April 9, 2002).**

10.2*

 

Satellite Service Agreement, dated as of March 21, 2003, between SES Americom, Inc., EchoStar Satellite Corporation and DISH (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of DISH for the quarter ended March 31, 2003, Commission File No. 0-26176).

10.3*

 

Amendment No. 1 to Satellite Service Agreement dated March 31, 2003 between SES Americom Inc. and DISH (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of DISH for the quarter ended September 30, 2003, Commission File No. 0-26176). 

10.4*

 

Satellite Service Agreement dated as of August 13, 2003 between SES Americom Inc. and DISH (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of DISH for the quarter ended September 30, 2003, Commission File No. 0-26176).

10.5*

 

Satellite Service Agreement, dated February 19, 2004, between SES Americom, Inc. and DISH (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of DISH for the quarter ended March 31, 2004, Commission File No. 0-26176).

10.6*

 

Amendment No. 1 to Satellite Service Agreement, dated March 10, 2004, between SES Americom, Inc. and DISH (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of DISH for the quarter ended March 31, 2004, Commission File No. 0-26176).

10.7*

 

Amendment No. 3 to Satellite Service Agreement, dated February 19, 2004, between SES Americom, Inc. and DISH (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of DISH for the quarter ended March 31, 2004, Commission File No. 0-26176).

10.8*

 

Whole RF Channel Service Agreement, dated February 4, 2004, between Telesat Canada and DISH (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of DISH for the quarter ended March 31, 2004, Commission File No. 0-26176).

10.9*

 

Letter Amendment to Whole RF Channel Service Agreement, dated March 25, 2004, between Telesat Canada and DISH (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of DISH for the quarter ended March 31, 2004, Commission File No. 0-26176).  

10.10*

 

Amendment No. 2 to Satellite Service Agreement, dated April 30, 2004, between SES Americom, Inc. and DISH (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of DISH for the quarter ended June 30, 2004, Commission File No. 0-26176).

10.11*

 

Second Amendment to Whole RF Channel Service Agreement, dated May 5, 2004, between Telesat Canada and DISH (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of DISH for the quarter ended June 30, 2004, Commission File No. 0-26176).

10.12*

 

Third Amendment to Whole RF Channel Service Agreement, dated October 12, 2004, between Telesat Canada and DISH (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.22 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of DISH for the year ended December 31, 2004, Commission File No. 0-26176).

10.13*

 

Amendment No. 4 to Satellite Service Agreement, dated October 21, 2004, between SES Americom, Inc. and DISH (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.23 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of DISH for the year ended December 31, 2004, Commission File No. 0-26176).

10.14*

 

Amendment No. 3 to Satellite Service Agreement, dated November 19, 2004 between SES Americom, Inc. and DISH (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.24 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of DISH for the year ended

 

1



Table of Contents

 

EXHIBIT NO.

 

DESCRIPTION

 

 

December 31, 2004, Commission File No. 0-26176).

10.15*

 

Amendment No. 5 to Satellite Service Agreement, dated November 19, 2004, between SES Americom, Inc. and DISH (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.25 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of DISH for the year ended December 31, 2004, Commission File No. 0-26176). 

10.16*

 

Amendment No. 6 to Satellite Service Agreement, dated December 20, 2004, between SES Americom, Inc. and DISH (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.26 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of DISH for the year ended December 31, 2004, Commission File No. 0-26176).

10.17*

 

Description of the 2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan dated January 26, 2005 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of DISH for the quarter ended March 31, 2005, Commission File No. 0-26176).**

10.18*

 

Amendment No. 4 to Satellite Service Agreement, dated April 6, 2005, between SES Americom, Inc. and DISH (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of DISH for the quarter ended June 30, 2005, Commission File No. 0-26176).

10.19*

 

Amendment No. 5 to Satellite Service Agreement, dated June 20, 2005, between SES Americom, Inc. and DISH (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of DISH for the quarter ended June 30, 2005, Commission File No. 0-26176).

10.20*

 

Incentive Stock Option Agreement (Form A) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of DISH filed July 7, 2005, Commission File No. 0-26176).**

10.21*

 

Incentive Stock Option Agreement (Form B) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of DISH filed July 7, 2005, Commission File No. 0-26176).**

10.22*

 

Restricted Stock Unit Agreement (Form A) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of DISH filed July 7, 2005, Commission File No. 0-26176).**

10.23*

 

Restricted Stock Unit Agreement (Form B) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.4 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of DISH filed July 7, 2005, Commission File No. 0-26176).**

10.24*

 

Incentive Stock Option Agreement (1999 Long-Term Incentive Plan) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.5 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of DISH filed July 7, 2005, Commission File No. 0-26176).**

10.25*

 

Nonemployee Director Stock Option Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.6 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of DISH filed July 7, 2005, Commission File No.0-26176).**

10.26*

 

Nonqualifying Stock Option Agreement (2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.7 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of DISH filed July 7, 2005, Commission File No. 0-26176).** 

10.27*

 

Restricted Stock Unit Agreement (2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.8 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of DISH filed July 7, 2005, Commission File No. 0-26176).**

10.28*

 

Separation Agreement between EchoStar and DISH (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 2.1 to the Form 10 (File No. 001-33807) of EchoStar).

10.29*

 

Tax Sharing Agreement between EchoStar and DISH (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.2 to the Form 10 (File No. 001-33807) of EchoStar).

10.30*

 

Employee Matters Agreement between EchoStar and DISH (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.3 to the Form 10 (File No. 001-33807) of EchoStar).

10.31*

 

Intellectual Property Matters Agreement between EchoStar, EchoStar Acquisition L.L.C., Echosphere L.L.C., DDBS, EIC Spain SL, EchoStar Technologies L.L.C. and DISH (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.4 to the Form 10 (File No. 001-33807) of EchoStar).

10.32*

 

Management Services Agreement between EchoStar and DISH (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.5 to the Form 10 (File No. 001-33807) of EchoStar).

10.33*

 

Form of Satellite Capacity Agreement between EchoStar Holding Corporation and EchoStar Satellite L.L.C. (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.28 to the Amendment No. 2 to Form 10 of EchoStar Corporation filed on December 26, 2007, Commission File No. 001-33807).

10.34*

 

Amendment No. 1 to Receiver Agreement dated December 31, 2007 between EchoSphere L.L.C. and EchoStar Technologies L.L.C. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of DISH for the quarter ended September 30, 2008, Commission File No.0-26176).

10.35*

 

Amendment No. 1 to Broadcast Agreement dated December 31, 2007 between EchoStar and EchoStar Satellite L.L.C. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.2 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of DISH for the quarter ended September 30, 2008, Commission File No.0-26176).

10.36*

 

Description of the 2008 Long-Term Incentive Plan dated December 22, 2008 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.42 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of DISH for the year ended December 31, 2008, Commission File No. 0-26176).**

10.37*

 

DISH Network Corporation 2009 Stock Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to the Definitive Proxy Statement on Form 14A filed on March 31, 2009, Commission File No. 000-26176).**

10.38*

 

Amended and Restated DISH Network Corporation 2001 Nonemployee Director Stock Option Plan (incorporated by reference to the Definitive Proxy Statement on Form 14A filed on March 31, 2009, Commission File No. 000-26176).**

10.39*

 

Amended and Restated DISH Network Corporation 1999 Stock Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to the Definitive Proxy Statement on Form 14A filed on March 31, 2009, Commission File No. 000-26176).**

10.40*

 

Amended and Restated DISH Network Corporation 1995 Stock Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to the Definitive Proxy Statement on Form 14A filed on March 31, 2009, Commission File No. 000-26176).**

10.41*

 

NIMIQ 5 Whole RF Channel Service Agreement, dated September 15, 2009, between Telesat Canada and EchoStar (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.29 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of EchoStar for the year ended December 31, 2009, Commission File No. 001-33807).

10.42*

 

NIMIQ 5 Whole RF Channel Service Agreement, dated September 15, 2009, between EchoStar and DISH Network L.L.C. (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.30 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of EchoStar for the year

 

2



Table of Contents

 

EXHIBIT NO.

 

DESCRIPTION

 

 

ended December 31, 2009, Commission File No. 001-33807).

10.43*

 

Professional Services Agreement, dated August 4, 2009, between EchoStar and DISH Network (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.3 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of EchoStar for the quarter ended September 30, 2009, Commission File No. 001-33807).

10.44*

 

Allocation Agreement, dated August 4, 2009, between EchoStar and DISH Network (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.4 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of EchoStar for the quarter ended September 30, 2009, Commission File No. 001-33807).

10.45*

 

Amendment to Form of Satellite Capacity Agreement (Form A) between EchoStar Corporation and DISH Network L.L.C. (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.33 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of EchoStar for the year ended December 31, 2009, Commission File No. 001-33807).

10.46*

 

Amendment to Form of Satellite Capacity Agreement (Form B) between EchoStar Corporation and DISH Network L.L.C. (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.34 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of EchoStar for the year ended December 31, 2009, Commission File No. 001-33807).

10.47*

 

EchoStar XVI Satellite Capacity Agreement between EchoStar Satellite Services L.L.C. and DISH Network L.L.C. (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.35 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of EchoStar for the year ended December 31, 2009, Commission File No. 001-33807).

10.48*

 

Assignment of Rights Under Launch Service Contract from EchoStar to DISH Orbital II L.L.C. (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.36 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of EchoStar for the year ended December 31, 2009, Commission File No. 001-33807).

12.1(H)

 

Statement regarding computation of ratio of earnings to fixed charges.

21(P)

 

Subsidiaries of DISH DBS Corporation

23.1(H)

 

Consent of KPMG LLP.

23.2(P)

 

Consent of Sullivan & Cromwell LLP (included as part of Exhibit 5.1).

24.1(P)

 

Powers of Attorney (included on the signature pages to the Registration Statement on Form S-4 of DISH DBS Corporation filed on July 1, 2011 (Commission File No. 333-175277)).

24.2(H)

 

Powers of Attorney of Joseph P. Clayton (included on the signature pages hereto).

25.1(P)

 

Statement of Eligibility on Form T-1 under the Trust Indenture Act of 1939 of Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as trustee of the Indenture.

99.1(P)

 

Form of Letter of Transmittal.

99.2(P)

 

Form of Notice of Guaranteed Delivery.

101 (H)***

 

The following materials from (A) the Annual Report on Form 10-K of DISH DBS Corporation for the year ended December 31, 2010, filed on February 25, 2011, formatted in eXtensible Business Reporting Language (“XBRL”): (i) Consolidated Balance Sheets, (ii) Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss), (iii) Consolidated Statement of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity (Deficit), (iv) Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, and (v) related notes to these financial statements tagged as blocks of text and (B) the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of DISH DBS Corporation for the quarter ended June 30, 2011, filed on August 12, 2011, formatted in XBRL: (i) Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, (ii) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss), (iii) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows and (iv) related notes to these financial statements tagged as blocks of text.

 

 


(H)          Filed herewith.

(P)           Previously filed.

*              Incorporated by reference.

**           Constitutes a management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.

***                       In accordance with Rule 402 of Regulation S-T, the information in this Exhibit 101 shall not be deemed “filed” for the purposes of section 18 of the Exchange Act or otherwise subject to the liability of that section, and shall not be incorporated by reference into any registration statement or other document filed under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Exchange Act, except as shall be expressly set forth by the specific reference in such filing.

 

3



Dates Referenced Herein   and   Documents Incorporated by Reference

This ‘S-4/A’ Filing    Date    Other Filings
6/1/21
9/1/19
7/31/18
12/31/1610-K
10/31/16
2/1/16
12/31/1510-K
5/31/15
3/31/1510-Q
10/1/14
6/1/14
10/1/13
12/31/1210-K
9/1/12
3/15/12
1/30/12
1/1/12
12/31/1110-K
12/1/11
11/1/11
10/1/11
Filed on:9/16/11
9/15/11
8/31/11
8/12/1110-Q
8/11/11
8/10/11
7/7/11
7/1/11S-4
6/30/1110-Q,  S-4
6/21/11
6/20/11
6/16/118-K
6/14/11
6/13/11
5/31/11
5/16/118-K
5/5/118-K
5/3/118-K
5/2/1110-Q,  8-K
4/29/11
4/28/11
4/27/11
4/26/11
4/21/11
4/20/118-K
4/19/11
4/18/11
4/6/118-K
4/1/11
3/31/1110-Q
3/21/11
3/15/118-K
2/25/1110-K,  8-K
2/24/118-K
2/15/11
2/9/11
2/1/118-K
1/20/11
1/1/11
12/31/1010-K
12/29/10
11/9/1010-Q
10/8/10
10/6/10
9/20/10
7/10/10
6/30/1010-Q
5/14/108-K
3/20/10
3/15/10CT ORDER
3/11/10
3/9/1010-K
3/4/108-K
2/23/10
2/8/10
1/1/10
12/31/09
12/1/09
11/20/09
11/6/09
11/2/09
10/16/09
10/5/098-K
9/30/0910-Q
9/25/098-K
9/15/09
9/4/09
8/17/098-K
8/4/09
7/28/09
7/2/098-K
7/1/09CORRESP
4/15/09
3/31/0910-K/A,  10-Q,  8-K
1/22/09
12/31/0810-K,  10-K/A
12/22/08
12/12/088-K
10/6/08
9/30/0810-Q
5/27/088-K
1/1/088-K
12/31/0710-K,  10-K/A
12/30/07
12/26/07
10/18/068-K,  S-4
6/30/0610-Q
2/2/068-K
8/15/05
7/7/058-K
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Filing Submission 0001104659-11-052137   –   Alternative Formats (Word / Rich Text, HTML, Plain Text, et al.)

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