ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Overview
We strive to be a leading platform for the operation of, and investment in, smaller and specialty market communications services and technology companies. We have a long track record of delivering critical infrastructure-based solutions to underserved markets. Our majority-owned operating subsidiaries provide facilities-based communications services, along with related information technology solutions, in the United States, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. We also have non-controlling investments in several communications and technology companies, and we continue to consider opportunities to make controlling and minority investments in businesses that we believe have the potential for generating substantial and relatively steady cash flows over extended periods of time or have technologies or business models that might prove valuable to our main operating subsidiaries or create significant longer term growth potential for us as a whole.
At the holding company level, we oversee the allocation of capital within and among our subsidiaries, affiliates, minority investments, and stockholders. We also have developed significant operational expertise and resources that we use to augment the capabilities of our individual operating subsidiaries. Over the past 10 years, we have built a platform of resources and expertise to support our operating subsidiaries and to improve their quality of service, and customer acquisition, retention, and satisfaction while maintaining optimal operating efficiencies. We have a number of shared service functions, including billing, network and engineering and customer service, and the parent company also employs personnel with specialized skills that provide greater economies of scale and expertise than would typically be available at the operating subsidiary level.
We were incorporated in Delaware in 1987, began trading publicly in 1991 and spun off more than half of our operations to stockholders in 1998. We actively evaluate potential acquisitions, investment opportunities and other strategic transactions, both domestic and international, that we believe have the potential for generating steady excess cash flows over extended periods of time. In addition, we consider non-controlling investments in earlier stage businesses that we consider strategically relevant, and which may offer long-term growth potential for us, either individually, or as research and development businesses that can support our operating subsidiaries in new technology, product, and service development and offerings. We have used the cash generated from our established operating units, and any asset sales, to re-invest in our existing businesses, to make strategic investments in additional businesses, and to return cash to our investors. We provide management, technical, financial, regulatory, and marketing services to our subsidiaries and typically receive a management fee equal to a percentage of their revenues, which is eliminated in consolidation. For further information about our financial segments and geographical information about our operating revenues and assets, see Notes 1 and 15 to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Report.
Through December 31, 2020, we had identified three operating segments to manage and review our operations and to facilitate investor presentations of our results. These three operating segments are as follows:
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●Renewable Energy. In India, we provided distributed generation solar power to commercial and industrial customers through January 27, 2021. Through November 6, 2018, we also provided distributed generation solar power in the United States in Massachusetts, California and New Jersey. See Sale of Renewable Energy Operations for further details.
The following chart summarizes the operating activities of our principal subsidiaries, the segments in which we reported our revenue and the markets we served as of December 31, 2020:
Segment Services Markets Tradenames
Carrier Services Bermuda, Guyana, US Virgin Islands One, GTT+, Viya
Fixed United States Commnet, Choice, Choice NTUA Wireless, Deploycom
Carrier Services United States Commnet, Essextel
Managed Services United States Choice
Renewable Energy Solar India Vibrant Energy
COVID-19
In March 2020, the World Health Organization declared a novel strain of coronavirus, now referred to as COVID-19, as a pandemic, and the virus has now spread globally to over 200 countries and territories, including the United States and other countries in which we have substantial operations. We are continuing to monitor and assess the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on our commercial operations, the safety of our employees and their families, our sales force and customers and any potential impact on our revenue in 2021.
The preparation of the condensed consolidated financial statements requires us to make estimates, judgments and assumptions that may affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, equity, revenues and expenses and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. On an ongoing basis, we evaluate estimates, judgments and methodologies. We assessed certain accounting matters and estimates that generally require consideration of forecasted financial information in context with the information and estimates reasonably available to us and the unknown future impacts COVID-19 as of December 31, 2020 and through the date of this report. The accounting matters assessed included, but were not limited to, our allowance for credit losses, the carrying value of our goodwill and other long-lived assets, financial assets, valuation allowances for tax assets and revenue recognition. We assessed the impacts of COVID-19 on our consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2020, in particular the impacts on lines of revenues, operating expenses as well as the deferral and savings on other operating expenses and capital expenditures. During the year ended December 31, 2020, while our International Telecom segment experienced strengthened demand for both its Mobility and Fixed services, its Carrier Services revenue declined as a result of a reduction in roaming revenue due to pandemic-related travel and stay-at-home restrictions as compared to 2019. Such restrictions also resulted in decreased Mobility and Carrier Services revenues within our US Telecom segment during the year ended December 31, 2020 as compared to the same period of 2019. However, in response to certain anticipated impacts, we were able to implement operating expense savings, particularly with respect to our International Telecom segment, that when coupled with Company-wide travel expense savings and capital expenditure deferrals, acted to offset much of the revenue loss or
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additional credit loss allowances caused by anticipated customer non-payment activity in the year. As a result, our assessment did not indicate that there was a material impact to our consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2020. However, our future assessments of the impacts of COVID-19 into 2021 or our ability to realize continued operational expense savings, as well as other factors, could result in material impacts to our consolidated financial statements in future reporting periods. For example, the local economies of many of our Caribbean markets are tourism-dependent and the decline in global travel activity resulting from COVID-19 may continue to impact our revenue and cash flows for certain services in these markets as our retail and enterprise customers may be unable to pay for services, and our international roaming revenue may decline as compared to last year. The extent to which the COVID-19 pandemic ultimately impacts our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows, and liquidity may differ from our current estimates due to inherent uncertainties regarding the duration and further spread of the outbreak, its severity, actions taken to contain the virus or treat its impact, and how quickly and to what extent economic conditions normalize and more customary operating conditions resume.
Pending Acquisition of Alaska Communications System Group, Inc.
On December 31, 2020, we announced that we entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger (the “Alaska Merger Agreement”) with Freedom 3 Capital, LLC (“Freedom3”) to acquire all of the shares of Alaska Communications Systems Group, Inc. (“Alaska Communications”), a publicly listed company (Nasdaq:ALSK) for approximately $340 million, including the assumption of debt (the “Alaska Transaction”). Following the closing of the Alaska Transaction, we will, through our subsidiaries, own and control approximately 51% of Alaska Communications and Freedom3, through its affiliates, will own the remaining 49%. In February 2021, the required waiting period under the Hart Scott Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976 expired, however the Alaska Transaction remains subject to customary closing terms and conditions including (i) the approval of Alaska Communications’ stockholders, (ii) the absence of certain legal impediments, and (iii) obtaining the necessary consents from the Federal Communications Commissions (“FCC”) and the Regulatory Commission of Alaska.
Sale of Renewable Energy Operations
International Solar Operations
In January 2021, we completed the sale of 67% of the outstanding equity in our business that owns and operates distributed generation solar power projects operated under the Vibrant (“Vibrant”) name in India (the “Vibrant Transaction”). The post-sale results of our ownership interest in Vibrant will be recorded through the equity method of accounting within the Corporate and Other operating segment. As such, our consolidated financial statements will no longer include revenue and operating expenses from Vibrant, but instead, “other income (expense)” within the Corporate and Other operating segment will include our 33% share of Vibrant’s profits or losses. We will continue to present the historical results of our Renewable Energy segment for comparative purposes.
The operations of Vibrant did not qualify as discontinued operations because the disposition did not represent a strategic shift that had a major effect on our operations and financial results.
US Solar Operations
On November 6, 2018, we completed the sale of our US Solar Operations business that owned and managed distributed generation solar power projects operated under the Ahana name in Massachusetts, California and New Jersey (the “US Solar Transaction”). The US Solar Transaction had a total value of approximately $122.6 million, which included a cash purchase price of $65.3 million and the assumption of approximately $57.3 million in debt, and is subject to certain other post-closing adjustments. Approximately $6.5 million of the purchase price was held in escrow for a period of twelve months after the closing to secure our indemnification obligations. We received the escrow in November 2019.
The operations sold in connection with the US Solar Transaction did not qualify as discontinued operations because the disposition did not represent a strategic shift that had a major effect on our operations and financial results.
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FirstNet Agreement
In July 2019 and August 2020, we entered into a Network Build and Maintenance Agreement (the “FirstNet Agreement”) and First Amendment to that agreement with AT&T Mobility, LLC (“AT&T”), respectively, to build a portion of AT&T’s network for the First Responder Network Authority (“FirstNet”) as well as a commercial wireless network in or near our current operating area in the Southwestern United States (the “FirstNet Transaction”). Pursuant to the FirstNet Agreement and subject to certain limitations contained therein, all cell sites must be completed and accepted within a specified period of time. We expect to recognize construction revenue of approximately $80 million to $85 million through 2022 that will be mainly offset by construction costs as sites are completed. Revenues from construction are expected to have minimal impact on operating income. Also pursuant to the FirstNet Agreement AT&T has the option to repay construction costs, with interest, over and eight year period. Accordingly, we entered into a receivables credit facility with CoBank, ACB (the “Receivables Credit Facility”) in order to assist with this repayment option. The Receivables Credit Facility provides for a senior secured delayed draw term loan in an aggregate principal amount of up to $75 million with the proceeds being used to acquire the receivables related to the construction costs. The network build portion of the FirstNet Agreement has continued during the COVID-19 pandemic but the overall timing of the build schedule has been delayed. Subject to ongoing delays caused by COVID-19 related restrictions, we currently expect construction revenues to continue through 2022.
Following acceptance of a cell site, AT&T will own the cell site and we will assign to AT&T any third-party tower lease applicable to such cell site. If the cell site is located on a communications tower we own, AT&T will pay us pursuant to a separate lease agreement for an initial term of eight years. In addition to building the network, we will provide ongoing equipment and site maintenance and high capacity transport to and from these cell sites for an initial term ending in 2029.
AT&T will continue to use our wholesale domestic Mobility network for roaming services at a fixed rate per site during the construction period until such time as the cell site is transferred to AT&T. Thereafter, revenue from the maintenance, leasing and transport services provided to AT&T is expected to generally offset revenue from wholesale Mobility roaming services. We began receiving revenue from the FirstNet Transaction in the third quarter of 2019 and expect overall operating income contributions from the FirstNet Transaction to have a relatively steady impact going forward.
See Sources of Cash below for a discussion regarding our March 26, 2020 credit agreement providing the ability to finance the assets built under the FirstNet Agreement.
Universal Service Fund
The Federal Universal Service Fund (“USF”) is a subsidy program managed by the FCC. USF funds are disbursed to telecommunication providers through four programs: the High Cost Program; Low Income Program (“Lifeline Program”); Schools and Libraries Program (“E-Rate Program”); and Rural Health Care Support Program. We participate in the High Cost Program, Lifeline Program, E-Rate Program, and Rural Health Care Support Program as further described below. All of these funding programs are subject to certain operational and reporting compliance requirements. The Company believes it is in compliance with all applicable requirements.
During the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, we recorded $16.4 million, $16.4 million, and $16.5 million, respectively, of revenue from High Cost Support in our International Telecom segment for its US Virgin Islands operations under the “Viya” name. In addition, we recorded revenue of $15.5 million during the year ended December 31, 2018, from additional funding authorized by the FCC following the Hurricanes. In 2018, the FCC initiated a proceeding to reform the High Cost Program in the US Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico in which it proposed to allocate USF funding of up to $18.7 million per year (inclusive of the $16.4 million per year currently allocated to Viya) for 10 years to supplant the $16.4 million that Viya currently receives per year. While Viya applied for Connect USVI Fund support allocated for the US Virgin Islands, on November 16, 2020, the FCC announced that Viya was not the recipient of the provisional award and that the FCC had provisionally accepted a bid of approximately $8.6 million per year for a term of 10 years. Viya has challenged this decision and its challenge remains pending before the FCC. If Viya’s challenge is not granted, pursuant to the terms of the program, Viya’s USF support will be reduced, to two-thirds
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of the legacy total amount, or $10.9 million, during the first year following the finalization of the award and to one-third of the legacy total amount, or $5.5 million, during the second year. Thereafter, Viya will not receive high-cost USF support.
Also, during each year ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, we recorded $1.2 million of High Cost Support revenue in our US Telecom segment. We are subject to certain operational, reporting and construction requirements as a result of this funding and we believe that we are in compliance with all of these requirements.
In August 2018, we were awarded $79.9 million over 10 years under the Connect America Fund Phase II Auction. In connection with this award, we are required to provide Fixed broadband and voice services to certain eligible areas in the United States. We are also subject to operational and reporting requirements under the program and we expect to incur additional capital expenditures to comply with these requirements. We have determined the award is a revenue grant, and as a result we will record the funding as revenue upon receipt. The Company recorded $7.6 million and $5.3 million of revenue in the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively, from the Connect America Fund Phase II program.
We also receive construction grants to build network connectivity for eligible communities. The funding is used to reimburse construction costs and is distributed upon completion of a project. As of December 31, 2020, we were awarded approximately $15.8 million of grants. We were awarded an additional construction grant of $1.0 million in 2020. As of December 31, 2020, we have completed our construction obligations on $10.2 million of these projects and $6.6 million of such construction obligations remain with completion deadlines beginning in September 2021. Once these projects are constructed, we are obligated to provide service to the participants. We receive funds upon construction completion. During 2020, we received $2.9 million, which was used to offset operating activities. During 2019, we received $5.4 million, of which $3.1 million was a reimbursement of capital expenditures and $2.3 million offset operating activities. We expect to meet all requirements associated with these grants.
We also receive funding to provide discounted telecommunication services to eligible customers under the E-Rate, Lifeline, and Rural Health Care Support Programs. During the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018, we recorded revenue of $10.0 million, $6.1 million, and $8.2 million, respectively, in the aggregate from these programs. We are subject to certain operational and reporting requirements under the above mentioned programs and we believe that we are in compliance with all of these requirements.
CARES Act
During the fourth quarter of 2020, we received $16.3 million of funding under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”). The funding was utilized to construct network infrastructure in our US Telecom segment. The construction was completed in the fourth quarter of 2020 and was recorded as a reduction to property, plant and equipment and subsequently will be recorded as a reduction to depreciation expense.
Tribal Bidding Credit
As part of the broadcast television spectrum incentive auction, the FCC implemented a tribal lands bidding credit to encourage deployment of wireless services utilizing 600 MHz spectrum on the lands of federally recognized tribes. We received a bidding credit of $7.4 million under this program in 2018. A portion of these funds will be used to offset network capital costs and a portion will be used to offset the costs of supporting the networks. We currently estimate that we will use $5.8 million to offset capital costs, consequently reducing future depreciation expense and $1.6 million to offset the cost of supporting the network which will reduce future operating expense. Through December 31, 2020, we have spent $5.8 million on capital expenditures and have recorded $0.2 million in offsets to the cost of supporting the network. The credits are subject to certain requirements, including deploying service by January 2021 and meeting minimum coverage metrics. If the requirements are not met the funds may be subject to claw back provisions. We currently expect to comply with all applicable requirements related to these funds.
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CBRS Auction
During the third quarter of 2020, we participated in the FCC’s Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) auction for Priority Access Licenses (PALs) in the 3.5 GHz spectrum band. These PALs are licensed on a county-by-county basis and are awarded for a 10-year renewable term. We were a winning bidder for PALs located strategically throughout the United States at a total cost of approximately $20.4 million. In connection with the awarded licenses, we will have to achieve certain CBRS spectrum build out obligations. We currently expect to comply with all applicable requirements related to these licenses.
Platform Investment
During the second quarter of 2018, we invested in a new platform, based inthe United States, to develop in-building wireless network technology that enables building owners to capitalize on the growing demand for better indoor wireless solutions.
RDOF
In the 2020 Rural Digital Opportunity Fund Phase I Auction (“RDOF”), pending the FCC’s conclusion of the award process, we expect to receive approximately $20.1 million over 10 years to provide broadband coverage to over 10,000 households. Once confirmed, we will be obligated to provide broadband and voice services to certain eligible areas in the United States.
Impact of Hurricanes
During September 2017, the US Virgin Islands economy, our customer base and our operations were severely impacted by Hurricanes Irma and Maria (collectively, the “Hurricanes”). Our wireless and wireline networks and commercial operations were all severely damaged by these storms and as a result of the significant damage to the wireline network and the lack of consistent commercial power in the territory, we were unable to provide most of our wireline services, which comprise the majority of our revenue in this business, from mid-September 2017 and through most of 2018.
During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company received $15.5 million in one-time additional funding from the FCC’s USF to further subsidize its operations in the US Virgin Islands. This amount was recorded as revenue during the year ended December 31, 2018.
During the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, we spent $0.1 million and $80.2 million, respectively, for network restoration and resiliency enhancements that allowed the reconnection of a significant majority of affected US Virgin Islands households and businesses.
Presentation of Revenue
Effective January 1, 2020, we changed our presentation of revenue in the Consolidated Income Statements and in the Selected Segment Financial Information tables. This change is intended to better align our financial performance with the views of management and industry competitors, and to facilitate a more constructive dialogue with the investment community.
Specifically, the previously disclosed revenue categories of wireless and wireline revenue are being represented as Mobility, Fixed and Carrier Services revenue within our segment information and are included within communications services revenue within our Income Statements. Managed Services revenue, which was previously a component of wireline revenue, is now included in other revenue along with revenue from our Renewable Energy operations.
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Selected Segment Financial Information
The following represents selected segment information for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 (in thousands):
For the Year Ended December 31, 2020
International US Renewable Corporate and
Telecom Telecom Energy Other (1) Consolidated
Revenue
Communication Services
Other
Renewable Energy — — 4,555 — 4,555
Managed Services 6,467 — — — 6,467
Construction — 10,913 — — 10,913
For the Year Ended December 31, 2019
International US Renewable Corporate and
Telecom Telecom Energy Other (1) Consolidated
Revenue
Communication Services
Other
Renewable Energy — — 5,534 — 5,534
Managed Services 5,080 — — — 5,080
A year-to-date comparison of our segment results is as follows:
International Telecom. Revenues within our International Telecom segment increased $4.1 million, or 1.3%, to $328.6 million from $324.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively, as a result of an increase in broadband services in many of our international telecom markets which more than offset the impact of the
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reduction in Carrier Services and Mobility services (including handset sale revenues) as a result of COVID-19 related travel and stay-at-home restrictions.
Operating expenses within our International Telecom segment decreased by $7.1 million, or 2.6%, to $270.5 million from $277.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The decrease was primarily the result of the impact of COVID-19 and other cost reduction measures which reduced roaming, advertising, contract labor and facility costs throughout all of our markets within this segment.
As a result, our International Telecom segment’s operating income increased $11.2 million, or 23.9%, to $58.1 million from $46.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
US Telecom. Revenue within our US Telecom segment increased by $13.7 million, or 12.6%, to $122.3 million from $108.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively, primarily as a result of an increase in construction revenue from the FirstNet Transaction and an increase in Fixed revenues, including broadband services and funding from the Connect America Fund Phase II program.
Operating expenses within our US Telecom segment increased $14.4 million, or 14.3%, to $114.9 million from $100.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively, as a result of construction costs and other expenses being incurred in connection with the FirstNet Transaction partially offset by the impact of COVID-19 related travel and stay-at-home restrictions.
As a result of the above, our US Telecom segment’s operating income decreased $0.7 million, or 8.6%, to $7.4 million from $8.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
Renewable Energy. Revenue within our Renewable Energy segment decreased $0.9 million, or 16.4%, to $4.6 million from $5.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively, primarily as a result of a decrease in production as a result of the impact of COVID-19.
Operating expenses within our Renewable Energy segment increased to $28.3 million from $6.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 as a result of the loss recorded on the Vibrant Transaction of $21.5 million.
As a result of the above, our Renewable Energy segment’s operating loss increased to $23.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 as compared to a loss of $0.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2019.
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The following represents a year over year discussion and analysis of our results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 (in thousands):
Year Ended Amount of Percent
December 31, Increase Increase
2020 2019 (Decrease) (Decrease)
REVENUE:
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE):
Communications services
Mobility revenue. Our Mobility revenue consists of retail revenue generated within both our International Telecom and US Telecom segments by providing mobile voice and data services over our wireless networks and the sale of related equipment such as handsets and other accessories to our subscribers. Mobility revenue decreased by $2.8 million, or 2.2%, to $92.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 from $95.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2019. The decrease in Mobility revenue, within our segments, consisted of the following:
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We expect that Mobility revenue within both our International and US Telecom segments may continue to decline if the COVID-19 related travel restrictions continue for an extended period of time or become more severe so as to result in significant business interruptions and retail store closures.
Fixed communications revenue. Fixed communications revenue is primarily generated by internet, voice, and video service revenues provided to retail and enterprise customers over our wireline networks. Fixed revenue within our US Telecom segment also includes revenue from the Connect America Fund Phase II program award. Fixed communications revenue increased by $13.9 million, or 5.8%, to $252.6 million from $238.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The increase in Fixed communications revenue, within our segments, consisted of the following:
We expect that Fixed revenue within our International Telecom segment may decline as a result of the response, such as long delays in the return of tourism activity, to the COVID-19 pandemic which could result in significant business interruptions that might impact our customers’ ability to pay for our services. Fixed revenue may also decline in many of our international markets as a result of a decline in video revenues due to subscribers using alternative methods to receive video content.
We expect that Fixed revenue within the US Telecom segment may also decline as a result of our customers’ inability to pay for our services if COVID-19 related travel restrictions continue for an extended period of time or become more severe. However, those declines may be partially offset by the stable nature of our federal support contracts, such as the Connect America Fund Phase II program award, which are expected to provide steady and predictable revenues.
Carrier Services revenue. Carrier Services revenue is generated by both our International Telecom and US Telecom segments. Within our International Telecom segment, Carrier Services revenue includes international long-distance services, roaming revenues generated by other carriers’ customers roaming into our retail markets, transport services and access services provided to other telecommunications carriers. Within our US Telecom segment, Carrier Services revenue includes services provided under the FirstNet Transaction, wholesale roaming revenues, the provision of network switching services, tower lease revenue and other services provided to carriers. Carrier Services revenue decreased by $6.4 million, or 6.9%, to $86.6 million from $93.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The decrease, within our segments, consisted of the following:
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Within our International Telecom segment, we expect that Carrier Services revenue may continue to decline if COVID-19 related travel restrictions continue for an extended period of time or become more severe. Also within our International Telecom segment, we expect that Carrier Services revenue from our international long-distance business in Guyana will continue to decrease as consumers seek to use alternative technology services to place calls. In addition, such revenue may decline as the result of the implementation, by the Government of Guyana, of recently-passed legislation which terminates our right to be the exclusive provider of domestic fixed and international long-distance service in Guyana. While the loss of our exclusive rights may cause an immediate reduction inour Carrier Services revenue, the complete impact of the new legislation to our operations will not be fully known until the Government of Guyana makes the terms and conditions of licenses, issued to two of our competitors, available to us. Over the longer term, such declines may be offset by increased revenue from broadband services to consumers and enterprises in Guyana, an increase in regulated local calling rates in Guyana or possible economic growth within that country. See Note 14 to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements included in this report.
Within our US Telecom segment, we expect Carrier Services revenue to decrease as we progress through the construction phase of the FirstNet Transaction and from the impact of continued reduced contractual rates and imposed revenue caps. We believe that maintaining roaming and other Carrier Services favorable to our carrier customers allows us to preserve revenue for a longer period of time while creating the potential for long-lived shared infrastructure solutions for carriers in areas they may consider to be non-strategic.
The most significant competitive factor we face within our US Telecom segment is the extent to which our carrier customers in our wholesale Mobility business choose to roam on our networks and lease our tower space and transport services or elect to build or acquire their own infrastructure in a market, reducing or eliminating their need for our services in those markets. We also face competition from other providers of such shared infrastructure solutions. In the past, we have entered into buildout projects with existing carrier customers to help these customers accelerate the buildout of a given area in exchange for the carrier’s agreement to lease us spectrum in that area and enter into a contract with specific pricing and terms. Historically, these arrangements have differed from our FirstNet Transaction and have typically included a purchase right in favor of the carrier to purchase that portion of the network for a predetermined price, depending on when the right to purchase is exercised.
Other communications services revenue. Other communications services revenue includes miscellaneous services that the operations within our International Telecom segment provide to retail subscribers. Other communications services revenue increased to $1.5 million from $1.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
Other revenue
Renewable energy revenue. Renewable energy revenue includes the generation of power through Power Purchase Agreements (“PPAs”) from our solar plants in India. Our PPAs, which are typically priced at or below local retail electricity rates and allow our customers to secure electricity at predictable and stable prices over the duration of their long-term contracts, provide us with high-quality contracted cash flows.
Renewable energy revenue decreased by $0.9 million, or 16.4%, to $4.6 million from $5.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively, primarily as a result of a decreases in production due to the impact of COVID-19.
As a result of the Vibrant Transaction, we will no longer record renewable energy revenue after recording a nominal amount in the first quarter of 2021.
Managed Services revenue. Managed Services revenue is generated primarily in our International Telecom segment and includes network, application, infrastructure, and hosting services.
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Managed Services revenue increased by $1.4 million, or 27.5%, to $6.5 million from $5.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively, primarily as a result of an increase in consulting and hosting services as well as equipment sales.
We expect that Managed Services revenue may continue to increase but could be negatively impacted if COVID-19 related travel restrictions continue for an extended period of time or become more severe so as to result in significant business interruptions to our customers.
Construction revenue. Construction revenue represents revenue generated within our US Telecom segment for the construction of network cell sites related to the FirstNet Agreement. During the year ended December 31, 2020, we recognized $10.9 million of construction revenue. We expect the construction phase of the FirstNet Agreement to continue through 2022.
Operating expenses
Termination and access fee expenses. Termination and access fee expenses are charges that we incur for voice and data transport circuits (in particular, the circuits between our Mobility sites and our switches), internet capacity, video programming costs, access fees we pay to terminate our calls, telecommunication spectrum fees and direct costs associated with our Managed Services and technology business and our renewable energy operations. Termination and access fees also include bad debt reserves and the cost of handsets and customer resale equipment incurred by our retail businesses.
Termination and access fees decreased by $1.1 million, or 1.0%, to $111.8 million from $112.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The net decrease in termination and access fees, within our segments, consisted of the following:
We expect that termination and access fee expenses may increase within all of our segments due to an expected increase in roaming and other termination costs when the COVID-19 related travel restrictions are lifted. Within the US Telecom segment, we expect an increase in termination and access fees due to the anticipated expansion of our early stage private network business, expenses associated with our recent funding award under the CARES Act, and as a result of our performance under the FirstNet Transaction during the construction phase which is expected to continue through 2022.
Construction costs. Construction costs include the expenses incurred in connection with constructing and making the FirstNet sites available for delivery to ATT in accordance with our FirstNet Agreement. Construction costs, all of which are incurred within our US Telecom segment, were $10.6 million during the year ended December 31, 2020
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and were incurred in connection with the FirstNet Transaction. We expect the construction phase of the FirstNet Agreement to continue through 2022.
Engineering and operations expenses.Engineering and operations expenses include the expenses associated with developing, operating, upgrading and supporting our telecommunications networks and renewable energy operations, including the salaries and benefits paid to employees directly involved in the development and operation of those businesses.
Engineering and operations expenses decreased by $4.2 million, or 5.5%, to $73.4 million from $77.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The net decrease in engineering and operations expenses, within our segments, consisted of the following:
We expect engineering and operating expenses to continue to increase in our US Telecom segment due to the anticipated expansion of our early-stage private network business, expenses associated with our recent funding awarded under the CARES Act, and expenses incurred during the construction phase of the FirstNet Transaction which we expect to continue through 2022. We also expect that engineering and operations expenses to increase within all of our segments when COVID-19 related restrictions are lifted.
Sales and marketing expenses. Sales and marketing expenses include salaries and benefits we pay to sales personnel, customer service expenses, sales commissions and the costs associated with the development and implementation of our promotion and marketing campaigns.
Sales and marketing expenses decreased by $1.1 million, or 3.0%, to $37.6 million from $38.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The net decrease in sales and marketing expenses, within our segments, consisted of the following:
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Within our US Telecom segment, sales and marketing expenses may increase as a result of the expansion of our early stage private network and retail businesses. We also expect sales and marketing expenses to increase in both our International and US Telecom segments when COVID-19 related travel restrictions are lifted.
General and administrative expenses. General and administrative expenses include salaries, benefits and related costs for general corporate functions including executive management, finance and administration, legal and regulatory, facilities, information technology and human resources. General and administrative expenses also include internal costs associated with our performance of due-diligence in connection with acquisition activities.
General and administrative expenses increased by $1.0 million, or 0.9%, to $101.5 million from $100.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The net increase in general and administrative expenses, within our segments, consisted of the following:
Within our US Telecom segment, we expect to incur increased general and administrative expenses to support our early-stage private network operations as well as expenses associated with our recent funding awarded under the CARES Act. In addition, we expect general and administrative expenses within our International and US Telecom segments as well as our Corporate Overhead segment to increase as COVID-19 related travel restrictions are lifted and as we work to further enhance our network security.
As a result of the Vibrant Transaction, we will no longer record general and administrative expenses within our Renewable Energy segment after recording a nominal amount in the first quarter of 2021.
Transaction-related charges. Transaction-related charges include the external costs, such as legal, tax, accounting and consulting fees directly associated with acquisition and disposition-related activities, which are expensed as incurred. Transaction-related charges do not include internal costs, such as employee salary and travel-related expenses, incurred in connection with acquisitions or dispositions or any integration-related costs.
We incurred $1.6 million and $0.2 million of transaction-related charges during the year ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The transaction-related charges incurred during 2020 were primarily related to the Vibrant Transaction and the Alaska Transaction.
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Depreciation and amortization expenses. Depreciation and amortization expenses represent the depreciation and amortization charges we record on our property and equipment and on certain intangible assets.
Depreciation and amortization expenses decreased by $0.8 million, or 0.9%, to $88.3 million from $89.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The net decrease in depreciation and amortization expenses, within our segments, consisted primarily of the following:
We expect depreciation and amortization expense to increase in our International Telecom, US Telecom and Corporate Overhead segments as we acquire tangible assets to expand or upgrade our telecommunications networks. As a result of the Vibrant Transaction, we will no longer record depreciation and amortization within our Renewable Energy segment after recording a nominal amount in the first quarter of 2021.
Goodwill impairment. During the year ended December 31, 2019, we recorded a $3.3 million goodwill impairment charge within our Renewable Energy segment. See Note 8 to the Consolidated Financial Statements in this Report.
Loss on disposition of long-lived assets. During the year ended December 31, 2020, we recorded a loss on the disposition of long-lived assets of $21.6 million, primarily related to the Vibrant Transaction.
During the year ended December 31, 2019, we recorded a $2.8 million loss on the disposition of long-lived assets primarily in connection with certain asset disposals and partner settlement agreements within our Renewable Energy segment.
Interest income. Interest income represents interest earned on our cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash and short term investment balances.
Interest income decreased $1.9 million to $0.4 million from $2.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively, as a result of a reduction in the balances of our cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments as well as our return on those balances.
Interest expense. We incur interest expense on the Viya Debt and the One Communications Debt (each as defined below), as well as commitment fees, letter of credit fees and the amortization of debt issuance costs on our 2019 Credit Facility (as defined below). Beginning on March 26, 2020, we also began incurring interest expense, related to the amortization of debt issuance costs, on the Receivables Credit Facility (as defined below).
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Interest expense increased by $0.3 million, or 6.7%, to $5.3 million from $5.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively, primarily as a result of the amortization of debt issuance costs related to the Receivables Credit Facility partially offset by a reduction in our long-term debt.
We expect that interest expense may increase in future periods as a result of future borrowings under the Receivables Credit Facility.
Other expenses. Other expenses represents miscellaneous non-operational income earned and expenses incurred.
For the year ended December 31, 2020, other expenses was $4.1 million which was primarily related to $3.4 million of losses related to non-controlling investments and $1.4 million relating to losses on foreign currency transactions. These expenses were partially offset by $0.6 million of income recognized on certain employee benefit plans.
For the year ended December 31, 2019, other expense was $4.6 million which was primarily related to a $4.7 million write down of a non-controlling equity investment and $1.6 million relating to a net loss on foreign currency transactions. These expenses were partially offset by $1.0 million of income recognized on certain employee benefit plans.
We expect that the impact of foreign currency fluctuations may decline as a result of the Vibrant Transaction as we will no longer be exposed to fluctuations in the value of the Indian Rupee.
Income taxes.Our effective tax rate for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 was 858.3% and 67.6%, respectively. On March 27, 2020, the U.S. federal government enacted the CARES Act. The CARES Act, among other things, allows NOLs incurred in 2018, 2019, and 2020 to be carried back to each of the five preceding taxable years to generate a refund of previously paid income taxes. Our effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2020 was primarily impacted by the following items: (i) a $3.1 million net benefit attributable to the remeasurement of domestic losses at a higher tax rate due to carryback provisions as provided by the CARES Act (ii) a $2.1 million net increase of unrecognized tax positions, (iii) a $1.5 million net increase for permanently non-deductible expenses, (iv) a $21.5 million loss on the sale of Vibrant with no tax benefit, and (v) the mix of income generated among the jurisdictions in which we operate along with the exclusion of losses in jurisdictions where we cannot benefit from those losses as required by ASC 740-270-30-36(a), primarily in the US Virgin Islands.
The effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2019 was primarily impacted by the following items: (i) a $3.9 million net increase of unrecognized tax positions, (ii) a $3.8 million net increase for permanently non-deductible expenses, (iii) a $1.2 million deferred tax benefit related to an investment tax credit, and (iv) the mix of income generated among the jurisdictions in which we operate along with the exclusion of losses in jurisdictions where we cannot benefit from those losses as required by ASC 740-270-30-36(a), primarily in the US Virgin Islands and India.
Our effective tax rate is based upon estimated income before provision for income taxes for the year, composition of the income in different countries, and adjustments, if any, in the applicable quarterly periods for potential tax consequences, benefits and/or resolutions of tax contingencies. Our consolidated tax rate will continue to be impacted by any transactional or one-time items in the future and the mix of income in any given year generated among the jurisdictions in which we operate. While we believe we have adequately provided for all tax positions, amounts asserted by taxing authorities could materially differ from our accrued positions as a result of uncertain and complex applications of tax law and regulations. Additionally, the recognition and measurement of certain tax benefits include estimates and judgments by management. Accordingly, we could record additional provisions or benefits for US federal, state, and foreign tax matters in future periods as new information becomes available.
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Net income attributable to non-controlling interests, net of tax. Net income attributable to non-controlling interests, net of tax reflected an allocation of $13.4 million and $12.8 million of income generated by our less than wholly owned subsidiaries for the year ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively, an increase of $0.6 million, or 5.5%. Changes in net income attributable to non-controlling interests, net of tax, within our segments, consisted of the following:
Net loss attributable to ATN International, Inc. stockholders. Net loss attributable to ATN International, Inc. stockholders was $14.1 million and $10.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
On a per diluted share basis, net loss was $0.89 and $0.68 per diluted share for the year ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
Selected Segment Financial Information
The following represents selected segment information for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018 (in thousands):
For the Year Ended December 31, 2019
International US Renewable Corporate and
Telecom Telecom Energy Other (1) Consolidated
Revenue
Communication Services
Other
Renewable Energy — — 5,534 — 5,534
Managed Services 5,080 — — — 5,080
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For the Year Ended December 31, 2018
International US Renewable Corporate and
Telecom Telecom Energy Other (1) Consolidated
Revenue
Communication Services
Other
Renewable Energy — — 22,158 — 22,158
Managed Services 3,726 — — — 3,726
A year-to-date comparison of our segment results is as follows:
International Telecom. Revenues within our International Telecom segment increased $10.9 million, or 3.5%, to $324.5 million from $313.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively, as a result of an increase in broadband revenues in many of our international telecom markets. In addition, the year ended December 31, 2018 includes $15.5 million of non-recurring funding from the USF to help our US Virgin Islands operations recover from the impact of the Hurricanes.
Operating expenses within our International Telecom segment increased by $9.0 million, or 3.4%, to $277.6 million from $268.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively. The increase was primarily the result of increased expenses in the US Virgin Islands as their operations became more normalized following the impact of the Hurricanes.
As a result, our International Telecom segment’s operating income increased $1.9 million, or 4.2%, to $46.9 million from $45.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively.
US Telecom. Revenue within our US Telecom segment decreased by $6.9 million, or 6.0%, to $108.6 million from $115.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively.
Carrier Services revenue decreased by $12.0 million, or 12.5%, to $83.9 million from $95.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively. This decrease was primarily the result of the July 2018 sale of approximately 100 cell sites, which generated $4.3 million in revenue during the year ended December 31, 2018, and a reduction in wholesale traffic.
Fixed communications revenue increased $6.3 million, or 79.7%, to $14.2 million from $7.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively, as a result of increased revenue from the Connect America Fund Phase II program and an increase in subscribers.
Operating expenses within our US Telecom segment increased $21.9 million, or 27.8%, to $100.6 million from $78.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively. This increase in operating expenses was primarily related to the $15.2 million gain on the July 2018 sale of approximately 100 cell sites, the completion of the
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Phase I Mobility Fund support in 2018 which was recorded as a $3.5 million offset to expenses during the year ended December 31, 2018 and an increase within our early-stage private network business which began operations in mid-2018.
As a result of the above, our US Telecom segment’s operating income decreased $28.7 million, or 78.0%, to $8.1 million from $36.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively.
Renewable Energy. Revenue within our Renewable Energy segment decreased $16.7 million, or 75.2%, to $5.5 million from $22.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively, primarily as a result the US Solar Transaction.
Operating expenses within our Renewable Energy segment increased by $4.0 million, or 45.2%, to $12.8 million from $8.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2019 and 2018. For the year ended December 31, 2019, operating expenses within our renewable energy segment includes a $3.3 million impairment of intangibles and a $2.6 million loss on the settlement of certain partner settlement agreements. During the year ended December 31, 2018, operating expenses within our renewable energy segment included a $4.0 million loss on the settlement of certain agreements and transaction-related charges associated with the US Solar Transaction of $2.1 million. Those charges were offset by the gain on the US Solar Transaction of $12.4 million. The remaining decrease of $8.4 million was related to the US operations which were sold with the US Solar Transaction.
As a result of the above, our Renewable Energy segment’s operating income decreased by $20.6 million to a loss of $7.2 million compared to income of $13.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively.
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The following represents a year over year discussion and analysis of our results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018 (in thousands):
Year Ended Amount of Percent
December 31, Increase Increase
2019 2018 (Decrease) (Decrease)
REVENUE:
Restructuring charges — 515 (515) (100.0)
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE):
Other income and expense, net (7,305) (7,281) (24) 0.3
Communications services
Mobility revenue. Mobility revenue decreased by $1.8 million, or 1.9%, to $95.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2019 from $96.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2018. The decrease in Mobility revenue, within our segments, consisted of the following:
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Fixed communications revenue. Fixed revenue within our US Telecom segment also includes revenue from the Connect America Fund Phase II program award. Fixed communications revenue increased by $17.1 million, or 7.7%, to $238.7 million from $221.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively. The net increase in Fixed communications revenue, within our segments, consisted of the following:
Carrier Services revenue. Within our US Telecom segment, Carrier Services revenue includes services provided under the FirstNet Transaction, wholesale roaming revenues, the provision of network switching services, tower lease revenue and other services provided to carriers. Carrier Services revenue decreased by $11.7 million, or 11.2%, to $93.0 million from $104.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively. The decrease, within our segments, consisted of the following:
Other communications services revenue. Other communications services revenue includes miscellaneous services that our operations within our International Telecom segment provide to retail subscribers. Other communications services revenue increased to $1.3 million from $2.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively.
Other revenue
Renewable energy revenue. Renewable energy revenue decreased by $16.7 million, or 75.0%, to $5.5 million from $22.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively, primarily as a result of the impact of the US Solar Transaction.
Managed Services revenue. Managed Services revenue increased by $1.4 million, or 37.8%, to $5.1 million from $3.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively, primarily as a result of an increase in consulting services and equipment sales.
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Operating expenses
Termination and access fee expenses. Termination and access fees decreased by $1.6 million, or 1.3%, to $112.9 million from $114.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively. The net decrease in termination and access fees, within our segments, consisted of the following:
Engineering and operations expenses. Engineering and operations expenses increased by $4.6 million, or 6.3%, to $77.6 million from $73.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively. The net increase in engineering and operations expenses, within our segments, consisted of the following:
Sales and marketing expenses. Sales and marketing expenses increased by $3.5 million, or 10.0%, to $38.7 million from $35.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively. The net increase in sales and marketing expenses, within our segments, consisted of the following:
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General and administrative expenses. General and administrative expenses decreased by $3.7 million, or 3.6%, to $100.5 million from $104.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively. The net decrease in general and administrative expenses, within our segments, consisted of the following:
Transaction-related charges. We incurred $0.2 million of transaction-related costs during the year ended December 31, 2019. During the year ended December 31, 2018, we incurred $2.6 million of transaction-related charges relating to our early-stage private network and large-scale fiber network businesses.
Restructuring charges. Restructuring charges are costs incurred as a result of reorganizing our operations from acquisition or disposition activities. During the year ended December 31, 2018, we incurred $0.5 million of restructuring charges which were primarily related to the US Solar Transaction. There were no restructuring charges incurred during 2019.
Depreciation and amortization expenses. Depreciation and amortization expenses increased by $3.4 million, or 4.0%, to $89.1 million from $85.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively. The net increase in depreciation and amortization expenses, within our segments, consisted primarily of the following:
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Goodwill impairment. During the year ended December 31, 2019, we recorded a $3.3 million goodwill impairment charge within our Renewable Energy segment. See Note 8 to the Consolidated Financial Statements in this Report.
(Gain) loss on disposition of long-lived assets. During the year ended December 31, 2019, we recorded a $2.8 million loss on the disposition of long-lived assets primarily in connection with certain asset disposals and partner settlement agreements within our Renewable Energy segment.
During the year ended December 31, 2018, we recorded a gain on the disposition of long-lived assets of $26.4 million. Within our US Telecom segment, we recorded a gain of $17.2 million primarily as the result of a $15.2 million gain on the sale of approximately 100 cell sites and a $2.9 million gain on the sale of certain telecommunication licenses. Within our Renewable Energy segment, we recorded a gain on the US Solar Transaction of $12.4 million. These gains were partially offset by a $3.2 million loss recorded in connection with certain asset disposals and partner settlement agreements within our Renewable Energy segment and a $1.1 million loss on the disposal of miscellaneous assets within our US wireless operations.
Loss on damaged assets and other Hurricane-related charges. During the year ended December 31, 2018, we incurred $0.8 million in expenses associated with the procurement of continued building maintenance, security services, the supply of alternative power and related professional fees.
Interest income. Interest income increased $0.5 million, or 25.0%, to $2.3 million from $1.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively, as the higher rate of return on our cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments was partially offset by a decrease in those balances.
Interest expense. Interest expense decreased by $3.0 million, or 37.2%, to $5.0 million from $8.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, respectively, primarily as a result of the US Solar Transaction and the effects of the April 2019 amendment to our primary credit facility.
During the year ended December 31, 2019, we incurred interest expense on the Viya Debt and the One Communications Debt as well as commitment fees, letter of credit fees and the amortization of debt issuance costs on our outstanding credit facilities. During the year ended December 31, 2018, we also incurred $2.9 million of interest expense on the Ahana Debt which was assumed by the acquirer in November 2018 as a part of the US Solar Transaction.
Other expenses. For the year ended December 31, 2019, other expenses were $4.6 million which was primarily related to a $4.7 million write down of previously acquired non-controlling equity investments and $1.6 million relating to a net loss on foreign currency transactions. These expenses were partially offset by $1.0 million of income recognized on certain employee benefit plans.
For the year ended December 31, 2018, we recorded $1.1 million of other expenses which were primarily related to $2.4 million in losses on foreign currency transactions partially offset by $1.3 million in income related to certain employee benefit plans.
Income taxes. Our effective tax rate for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018 was 67.6% and 35.1%, respectively. The effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2019 was primarily impacted by the following items: (i) a $3.9 million net increase of unrecognized tax positions, (ii) a $3.8 million net increase for permanently non-deductible expenses, (iii) a $1.2 million deferred tax benefit related to an investment tax credit, and (iv) the mix of income generated among the jurisdictions in which we operate along with the exclusion of losses in jurisdictions where
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we cannot benefit from those losses as required by ASC 740-270-30-36(a), primarily in the US Virgin Islands and India.
The effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2018 was primarily impacted by the following items: (i) a $10.6 million net increase of unrecognized tax positions, (ii) a $4.7 million net benefit to record a return to accrual adjustment, (iii) a $1.2 million benefit to recognize a capital loss carryover due to capital gains on sale of wireless licenses, (iv) a $1.4 million net benefit to record a valuation allowance release on an indefinite lived intangible asset, (v) a $1.7 million provision associated with the intercompany sale of assets from the US to the US Virgin Islands, and (vi) the mix of income generated among the jurisdictions in which we operate along with the exclusion of losses in jurisdictions where we cannot benefit from those losses as required by ASC 740-270-30-36(a), primarily in the US Virgin Islands and India.
Our effective tax rate is based upon income before provision for income taxes for the year, composition of the income in different countries, and adjustments, if any, in the applicable quarterly periods for potential tax consequences, benefits and/or resolutions of tax contingencies. Our consolidated tax rate will continue to be impacted by any transactional or one-time items in the future and the mix of income in any given year generated among the jurisdictions in which we operate. While we believe we have adequately provided for all tax positions, amounts asserted by taxing authorities could materially differ from our accrued positions as a result of uncertain and complex applications of tax laws and regulations. Additionally, the recognition and measurement of certain tax benefits include estimates and judgments by management. Accordingly, we could record additional provisions or benefits for US federal, state, and foreign tax matters in future periods as new information becomes available.
Net income attributable to non-controlling interests, net of tax. Net income attributable to non-controlling interests, net of tax reflected an allocation of $12.8 million and $15.1 million of income generated by our less than wholly owned subsidiaries for the year ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively, a decrease of $2.3 million, or 15.2%. Changes in net income attributable to non-controlling interests, net of tax, within our segments, consisted of the following:
Net income (loss) attributable to ATN International, Inc. stockholders. Net income (loss) attributable to ATN International, Inc. stockholders was a loss of $10.8 million and income of $19.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively.
On a per diluted share basis, net income (loss) per diluted share was a loss of $0.68 and income of $1.24 per diluted share for the year ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively.
Regulatory and Tax Issues
We are involved in a number of regulatory and tax proceedings. A material and adverse outcome in one or more of these proceedings could have a material adverse impact on our financial condition and future operations. For a discussion of ongoing proceedings, see Note 14 to the Consolidated Financial Statements in this Report.
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CARES Act
On March 27, 2020, the CARES Act was enacted in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The CARES Act, among other things, permits NOL carryovers and carrybacks to offset 100% of taxable income for taxable years beginning before 2021. In addition, the CARES Act allows NOLs incurred in 2018, 2019, and 2020 to be carried back to each of the five preceding taxable years to generate a refund of previously paid income taxes. Certain provisions of the CARES Act impact our income tax provision computations.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Historically, we have met our operational liquidity needs through a combination of cash-on-hand and internally generated funds and have funded capital expenditures and acquisitions with a combination of internally generated funds, cash-on-hand, proceeds from dispositions, borrowings under our credit facilities and seller financings. We believe our current cash, cash equivalents, short term investments and availability under our current credit facility will be sufficient to meet our cash needs for at least the next twelve months for working capital needs and capital expenditures.
Total liquidity. As of December 31, 2020, we had approximately $105.0 million in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash. Of this amount, $39.7 million was held by our foreign subsidiaries and is indefinitely invested outside the United States. In addition, we had approximately $72.8 million of debt, net of unamortized deferred financing costs, as of December 31, 2020. How and when we deploy our balance sheet capacity will figure prominently in our longer-term growth prospects and stockholder returns.
Uses of Cash
Acquisitions and investments. We funded our acquisitions with a combination of cash-on-hand, borrowings under our credit facilities as well as equity investor and seller financings.
Alaska Transaction. We have secured a commitment for certain debt financing in connection with the Alaska Transaction. See Pending Acquisition of Alaska Communications System Group, Inc.
We continue to explore opportunities to expand our telecommunications business or acquire new businesses and telecommunications licenses in the United States, the Caribbean and elsewhere. Such acquisitions may require external financing. While there can be no assurance as to whether, when or on what terms we will be able to acquire any such businesses or licenses or make such investments, such acquisitions may be accomplished through the issuance of shares of our capital stock, payment of cash or incurrence of additional debt. From time to time, we may raise capital ahead of any definitive use of proceeds to allow us to move more quickly and opportunistically if an attractive investment materializes.
Cash used in investing activities. Cash used in investing activities was $70.2 million and $88.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The net decrease in cash used for investing activities of $18.1 million was primarily related to a $34.6 million reduction in the net cash used for strategic investments offset by the increase in the usage of cash for the acquisition of telecommunications licenses of $20.4 million and capital expenditures of $2.6 million. During the year ended December 31, 2020, we also received an additional $13.2 million in government grants as compared to 2019 and cash from investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2019 includes $6.4 million received as part of the US Solar Transaction.
Cash used in financing activities. Cash used in financing activities was $73.4 million and $29.9 million during the year ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The increase in cash used for financing activities of $43.5 million was primarily related to a $24.4 million increase in cash used to acquire non-controlling interests in One Communications (our subsidiary in Bermuda and the Cayman Islands), a $9.1 million increase in the repayments of long-term debt, a $6.4 million increase in cash used for the repurchase of our Common Stock under the 2016 Repurchase Plan (as defined below) and a $3.2 million increase in the distributions made to minority shareholders.
Working Capital.Historically, we have internally funded our working capital needs. Pursuant to the FirstNet Agreement AT&T has the option to repay construction costs, with interest, over an eight year period. To fund the
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working capital needs created by AT&T’s option to extend its payment terms, we completed the Receivables Credit Facility, as discussed below, on March 26, 2020.
Capital expenditures. Historically, a significant use of our cash has been for capital expenditures to expand and upgrade our telecommunications networks and to expand our renewable energy operations.
For the year ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, we spent approximately $75.3 million and $72.7 million, respectively, on capital expenditures. The following notes our capital expenditures, by operating segment, for these periods (in thousands):
Capital Expenditures
International US Renewable Corporate and
We are continuing to invest in our telecommunication networks along with our operating and business support systems in many of our markets. Such investments include the upgrade and expansion of both our Mobility and Fixed telecommunications networks as well as our service delivery platforms. For 2021, we expect International Telecom capital expenditures to be approximately $45 million to $55 million. In the US Telecom segment, we expect capital expenditures to be approximately $40 million to $50 million for 2021 including $20 million to $30 million related to towers and backhaul in conjunction with the FirstNet Agreement.
We expect to fund our current capital expenditures primarily from our current cash balances, cash generated from operations and our existing credit facilities including the FirstNet Receivables Credit Facility.
Income taxes. We have historically used cash-on-hand to make payments for income taxes. Our policy is to allocate capital where we believe we will get the best returns and to date has been to indefinitely reinvest the undistributed earnings of our foreign subsidiaries. As we continue to reinvest our remaining foreign earnings, outside of dividends from Guyana made in 2020, no additional provision for income taxes has been made on accumulated earnings of foreign subsidiaries.
Dividends. We use cash-on-hand to make dividend payments to our stockholders when declared by our Board of Directors. For the three months ended December 31, 2020, our Board of Directors declared $2.7 million of dividends to our stockholders which includes a $0.17 per share dividend declared on December 14, 2020 and paid on January 8, 2021. We have declared quarterly dividends for the last 88 fiscal quarters.
Stock Repurchase Plan. On September 19, 2016, our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $50.0 million of our Common Stock from time to time on the open market or in privately negotiated transactions (the “2016 Repurchase Plan”). We repurchased $6.6 million and $0.2 million of our Common Stock under the 2016 Repurchase Plan during the year ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. As of December 31, 2020, we have $30.9 million authorized and available for share repurchases under the 2016 Repurchase Plan.
Debt Service and Other Contractual Commitments Table. The following table discloses aggregate information about our debt, lease and other obligations as of December 31, 2020 and the periods in which payments are due:
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Less Than More Than
Contractual Obligations Total 1 Year 1 – 3 Years 4 – 5 Years 5 Years
(In thousands)
We have omitted uncertain income tax liabilities from this table due to the inherent uncertainty regarding the timing of potential issue resolution. Specifically, either the underlying positions have not been fully developed enough under audit to quantify at this time or the years relating to the issues for certain jurisdictions are not currently under audit. At December 31, 2020, we had $40.8 million of gross unrecognized uncertain tax benefits of which $35.8 million is included in “Other Liabilities” and $5.0 million is included in “Accrued Taxes” in the consolidated balance sheet.
Sources of Cash
Cash provided by operations. Cash provided by operating activities was $86.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 as compared to $87.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2019. The decrease of $1.6 million was primarily related to an increase in working capital investments made as a part of the FirstNet construction project partially offset by lower tax payments and improved operating income, net of the impact of the Vibrant Transaction.
Credit facility. On April 10, 2019, we entered into the 2019 Credit Facility, with CoBank, ACB and a syndicate of other lenders (the “2019 Credit Facility”). The 2019 Credit Facility provides for a $200 million revolving credit facility that includes (i) up to $75 million for standby or trade letters of credit and (ii) up to $10 million under a swingline sub-facility. Approximately $16.0 million of performance letters of credit have been issued and remain outstanding and undrawn as of December 31, 2020. The 2019 Credit Facility matures on April 10, 2024.
Amounts borrowed under the 2019 Credit Facility bear interest at a rate equal to, at our option, either (i) the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) plus an applicable margin ranging between 1.25% to 2.25% or (ii) a base rate plus an applicable margin ranging from 0.25% to 1.25%. Swingline loans bear interest at the base rate plus the applicable margin for base rate loans. The base rate is equal to the higher of (i) 1.00% plus the higher of (x) LIBOR for an interest period of one month and (y) LIBOR for an interest period of one week; (ii) the Federal Funds Effective Rate (as defined in the 2019 Credit Facility) plus 0.50% per annum; and (iii) the Prime Rate (as defined in the 2019 Credit Facility). The applicable margin is determined based on the Total Net Leverage Ratio (as defined in the 2019 Credit Facility). Under the terms of the 2019 Credit Facility, we must also pay a fee ranging from 0.150% to 0.375% of the average daily unused portion of the 2019 Credit Facility over each calendar quarter.
The 2019 Credit Facility contains customary representations, warranties and covenants, including a financial covenant that imposes a maximum ratio of indebtedness to EBITDA as well as covenants limiting additional indebtedness, liens, guaranties, mergers and consolidations, substantial asset sales, investments and loans, sale and leasebacks, transactions with affiliates and fundamental changes. Our investments in “unrestricted” subsidiaries and certain dividend payments to our stockholders are not limited unless the Total Net Leverage Ratio is equal to or greater than 1.75 to 1.0. The Total Net Leverage Ratio is measured each fiscal quarter and is required to be less than or equal to 2.75 to 1.0. In the event of a Qualifying Acquisition (as defined in the 2019 Credit Facility), the Total Net Leverage Ratio increases to 3.25 to 1.0 for the subsequent three fiscal quarters.
The 2019 Credit Facility also provides for the incurrence by us of incremental term loan facilities, when combined with increases to revolving loan commitments, in an aggregate amount not to exceed $200 million (the “Accordion”). Amounts borrowed under the Accordion are also subject to proforma compliance with a net leverage ratio financial covenant.
As of December 31, 2020, we were in compliance with all of the financial covenants, had no outstanding borrowings and, net of the $16.0 million of outstanding performance letters of credit, had $184.0 million of availability under the 2019 Credit Facility.
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FirstNet Receivables Credit Facility
On March 26, 2020, Commnet Finance, a wholly owned subsidiary of Commnet Wireless, entered into receivables credit facility with the Company, Commnet Wireless, and CoBank, ACB (the “Receivables Credit Facility”).
The Receivables Credit Facility provides for a senior secured delayed draw term loan in an aggregate principal amount of up to $75 million and the proceeds may be used to acquire certain receivables from Commnet Wireless. The receivables to be financed and sold under the Receivables Credit Facility, which provide the loan security, relate to the obligations of AT&T under the FirstNet Agreement. The delayed draw period will expire on December 31, 2021.
The maturity date for each loan will be set by CoBank and will match the weighted average maturity of the certain receivables financed.
Interest on the loans accrues at a rate based on (i) LIBOR plus 2.50%, (ii) a base rate plus 1.50% or (iii) a fixed annual interest rate to be quoted by CoBank
The Receivables Credit Facility contains customary events of termination, representations and warranties, affirmative and negative covenants and events of default customary for facilities of this type.
As of December 31, 2020, we had no outstanding borrowings under the Receivables Credit Facility.
Viya Debt
We, and certain of our subsidiaries, have entered into a $60.0 million loan agreement (the “Viya Debt”) with Rural Telephone Finance Cooperative (“RTFC”). The Viya Debt agreement contains customary representations, warranties and affirmative and negative covenants (including limitations on additional debt, guaranties, sale of assets and liens) and a financial covenant that limits the maximum ratio of indebtedness to annual operating cash flow to 3.5 to 1.0 (the “Net Leverage Ratio”). This covenant is tested on an annual basis at the end of each fiscal year. Interest is paid quarterly at a fixed rate of 4.0% and principal repayment is not required until maturity on July 1, 2026. Prepayment of the Viya Debt may be subject to a fee under certain circumstances. The debt is secured by certain assets of our Viya subsidiaries and is guaranteed by us. With RTFC’s consent, we funded the restoration of Viya’s network, following the Hurricanes in 2017, through an intercompany loan arrangement with a $75.0 million limit. We were not in compliance with the Net Leverage Ratio covenant of the Viya Debt agreement for the year ending December 31, 2020 and received a waiver from the RTFC on February 25, 2021.
We paid a fee of $0.9 million in 2016 to lock the interest rate at 4% per annum over the term of the Viya Debt. The fee was recorded as a reduction to the Viya Debt carrying amount and is being amortized over the life of the loan.
As of December 31, 2020, $60.0 million of the Viya Debt remained outstanding and $0.5 million of the rate lock fee was unamortized.
One Communications Debt
We have an outstanding loan from HSBC Bank Bermuda Limited (the “One Communications Debt”) which is scheduled to mature on May 22, 2022 and bears interest at the one-month LIBOR plus a margin ranging between 2.5% to 2.75%, paid quarterly.
The One Communications Debt contains customary representations, warranties and affirmative and negative covenants (including limitations on additional debt, guaranties, sale of assets and liens) and financial covenants, tested annually as of and for the twelve months ended December 31st, that limit the ratio of tangible net worth to long term debt and total net debt to EBITDA and require a minimum debt service coverage ratio (as defined in the One Communications Debt agreement). We were in compliance with our covenants as of December 31, 2020.
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As a condition of the One Communications Debt, we were required to enter into a hedging arrangement with a notional amount equal to at least 30% of the outstanding loan balance and a term corresponding to the term of the One Communications Debt. As such, we entered into an amortizing interest rate swap that has been designated as a cash flow hedge, which had an original notional amount of $11.0 million, has an interest rate of 1.874%, and expires in March 2022. As of December 31, 2020, the swap had an unamortized notional amount of $7.3 million.
We capitalized $0.3 million of fees associated with the One Communications Debt which are being amortized over the life of the debt and are recorded as a reduction to the debt carrying amount.
As of December 31, 2020, $13.4 million of the One Communications Debt was outstanding and $0.1 million of the capitalized fees remained unamortized.
Ahana Debt
On November 6, 2018, we consummated the US Solar Transaction which included the transfer of the Ahana Debt (as defined below) to the purchaser.