ALTICE USA, INC., 10-K filed on 3/6/2018
Annual Report
Document and Entity Information (USD $)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Jun. 30, 2017
Feb. 16, 2018
Common Class A
Feb. 16, 2018
Common Class B
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
 
 
 
 
Entity Registrant Name
Altice USA, Inc. 
 
 
 
Entity Central Index Key
0001702780 
 
 
 
Current Fiscal Year End Date
--12-31 
 
 
 
Entity Filer Category
Non-accelerated Filer 
 
 
 
Document Fiscal Year Focus
2017 
 
 
 
Document Fiscal Period Focus
FY 
 
 
 
Document Type
10-K 
 
 
 
Amendment Flag
false 
 
 
 
Document Period End Date
Dec. 31, 2017 
 
 
 
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer
No 
 
 
 
Entity Voluntary Filers
No 
 
 
 
Entity Current Reporting Status
Yes 
 
 
 
Entity Public Float
 
$ 3,712,484,222 
 
 
Class of Stock [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding
 
 
246,982,292 
490,086,674 
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Current Assets:
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$ 273,329 
$ 486,792 
Restricted cash
252 
16,301 
Accounts receivable, trade (less allowance for doubtful accounts of $13,420 and $11,677)
370,765 
349,626 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets (including a prepayment to an affiliate of $19,563 in 2017) (See Note 14)
135,313 
88,151 
Amounts due from affiliates
21,356 
22,182 
Investment securities pledged as collateral
0 
741,515 
Derivative contracts
52,545 
352 
Total current assets
853,560 
1,704,919 
Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $2,599,579 and $1,039,297
6,063,829 
6,597,635 
Investment in affiliates
930 
5,606 
Investment securities pledged as collateral
1,720,357 
741,515 
Derivative contracts
0 
10,604 
Other assets (including a prepayment to an affiliate of $6,539 in 2017) (See Note 14)
53,254 
48,545 
Amortizable intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization
5,066,454 
6,352,644 
Indefinite-lived cable television franchises
13,020,081 
13,020,081 
Goodwill
7,996,760 
7,992,700 
Total assets
34,775,225 
36,474,249 
Current Liabilities:
 
 
Accounts payable
790,220 
705,672 
Accrued liabilities:
 
 
Interest
397,422 
576,778 
Employee related costs
132,641 
232,864 
Other accrued expenses
408,632 
352,315 
Amounts due to affiliates
13,946 
127,363 
Deferred revenue
104,220 
94,816 
Liabilities under derivative contracts
52,545 
13,158 
Collateralized indebtedness
0 
622,332 
Credit facility debt
42,650 
33,150 
Senior notes and debentures
507,744 
926,045 
Capital lease obligations
9,539 
15,013 
Notes payable
33,424 
5,427 
Total current liabilities
2,492,983 
3,704,933 
Defined benefit plan obligations
103,163 
84,106 
Notes payable to affiliates and related parties
0 
1,750,000 
Other liabilities
137,895 
113,485 
Deferred tax liability
4,775,115 
7,966,815 
Liabilities under derivative contracts
187,406 
78,823 
Collateralized indebtedness
1,349,474 
663,737 
Credit facility debt
4,600,873 
3,411,640 
Senior guaranteed notes
2,291,185 
2,289,494 
Senior notes and debentures
13,061,503 
14,291,786 
Capital lease obligations
12,441 
13,142 
Notes payable
32,478 
8,299 
Deficit investments in affiliates
3,579 
0 
Total liabilities
29,048,095 
34,376,260 
Commitments and contingencies
   
   
Redeemable equity
231,290 
68,147 
Stockholders' Equity:
 
 
Preferred stock, $.01 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized, no shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2017
0 
0 
Paid-in capital
4,642,128 
3,003,554 
Retained earnings (accumulated deficit)
854,824 
(975,978)
Total stockholders' equity before accumulated other comprehensive Income and non-controlling interest
5,504,323 
2,027,576 
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
(10,022)
1,979 
Total stockholders' equity
5,494,301 
2,029,555 
Noncontrolling interest
1,539 
287 
Total stockholders' equity
5,495,840 
2,029,842 
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
34,775,225 
36,474,249 
Common Class A
 
 
Stockholders' Equity:
 
 
Common stock
2,470 
0 
Common Class B
 
 
Stockholders' Equity:
 
 
Common stock
4,901 
0 
Common Class C
 
 
Stockholders' Equity:
 
 
Common stock
0 
0 
Undesignated Common Stock
 
 
Stockholders' Equity:
 
 
Common stock
0 
0 
Customer relationships
 
 
Current Assets:
 
 
Amortizable intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization
4,561,863 
5,345,608 
Trade names
 
 
Current Assets:
 
 
Amortizable intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization
478,509 
983,386 
Amortizable intangible assets
 
 
Current Assets:
 
 
Amortizable intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization
$ 26,082 
$ 23,650 
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) (USD $)
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Current Assets:
 
 
Accounts receivable, trade allowance for doubtful accounts
$ 13,420 
$ 11,677 
Prepayment to affiliate included in prepaid expenses and other current assets
135,313 
88,151 
Property, plant and equipment, accumulated depreciation
2,599,579 
1,039,297 
Amortizable intangible assets, accumulated amortization
2,008,573 
666,766 
Stockholders' Equity:
 
 
Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share)
$ 0.01 
$ 0.01 
Preferred stock, shares authorized (in shares)
100,000,000 
100,000,000 
Preferred stock, shares issued (in shares)
0 
0 
Preferred stock, shares outstanding (in shares)
0 
0 
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)
$ 0.01 
$ 0.01 
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares)
 
1,000 
Common stock, shares issued (in shares)
 
100 
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares)
 
100 
Common Class A
 
 
Stockholders' Equity:
 
 
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)
$ 0.01 
 
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares)
4,000,000,000 
 
Common stock, shares issued (in shares)
246,982,292 
 
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares)
246,982,292 
 
Common Class B
 
 
Stockholders' Equity:
 
 
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)
$ 0.01 
 
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares)
1,000,000,000 
 
Common stock, shares issued (in shares)
490,086,674 
 
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares)
490,086,674 
 
Common Class C
 
 
Stockholders' Equity:
 
 
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)
$ 0.01 
 
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares)
4,000,000,000 
 
Common stock, shares issued (in shares)
0 
 
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares)
0 
 
Customer relationships
 
 
Current Assets:
 
 
Amortizable intangible assets, accumulated amortization
1,409,021 
580,276 
Trade names
 
 
Current Assets:
 
 
Amortizable intangible assets, accumulated amortization
588,574 
83,397 
Amortizable intangible assets
 
 
Current Assets:
 
 
Amortizable intangible assets, accumulated amortization
10,978 
3,093 
Affiliates
 
 
Current Assets:
 
 
Prepayment to affiliate included in prepaid expenses and other current assets
19,563 
 
Prepayment to affiliate in other assets
$ 6,539 
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (USD $)
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Income Statement [Abstract]
 
 
Revenue (including revenue from affiliates of $2,205 and $1,086, respectively) (See Note 14)
$ 9,326,570 
$ 6,017,212 
Operating expenses:
 
 
Programming and other direct costs (including charges from affiliates of $4,176 and $1,947, respectively) (See Note 14)
3,035,655 
1,911,230 
Other operating expenses (including charges from affiliates of $106,084 and $18,854, respectively) (See Note 14)
2,342,655 
1,705,615 
Restructuring and other expense
152,401 
240,395 
Depreciation and amortization (including impairments)
2,930,475 
1,700,306 
Total operating expenses
8,461,186 
5,557,546 
Operating income
865,384 
459,666 
Other income (expense):
 
 
Interest expense (including interest expense to affiliates and related parties of $90,405 and $112,712, respectively) (See Note 14)
(1,603,132)
(1,456,541)
Interest income
1,921 
13,811 
Gain on investments, net
237,354 
141,896 
Loss on derivative contracts, net
(236,330)
(53,696)
Gain (loss) on interest rate swap contracts
5,482 
(72,961)
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs (including $513,723 related to affiliates and related parties in 2017) (See Note 14)
(600,240)
(127,649)
Other income (expense), net
(1,788)
4,329 
Total other income (expense)
(2,196,733)
(1,550,811)
Loss before income taxes
(1,331,349)
(1,091,145)
Income tax benefit
2,852,967 
259,666 
Net income (loss)
1,521,618 
(831,479)
Net loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling interests
(1,587)
(551)
Net income (loss) attributable to Altice USA, Inc. stockholders
$ 1,520,031 
$ (832,030)
Basic income (loss) per share (in dollars per share)
$ 2.18 
$ (1.28)
Basic weighted average common shares (in thousands) (in shares)
696,055,000 
649,525,000 
Diluted income (loss) per share (in dollars per share)
$ 2.18 
$ (1.28)
Diluted weighted average common shares (in thousands) (in shares)
696,055,000 
649,525,000 
Cash dividends declared per common share (in dollars per share)
$ 1.29 
$ 0.69 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (Parenthetical) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Income Statement [Abstract]
 
 
Revenue from affiliates
$ 2,205 
$ 1,086 
Programming and other direct costs from affiliates
4,176 
1,947 
Other operating expenses from affiliates
106,084 
18,854 
Interest expense to related parties and affiliates
90,405 
112,712 
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs (including $513,723 related to affiliates and related parties in 2017) (See Note 14)
$ 513,723 
$ 0 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Sep. 30, 2017
Jun. 30, 2017
Mar. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Sep. 30, 2016
Jun. 30, 2016
Mar. 31, 2016
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income (loss)
$ 2,254,682 
$ (182,086)
$ (474,790)
$ (76,188)
$ (236,049)
$ (172,553)
$ (282,129)
$ (140,748)
$ 1,521,618 
$ (831,479)
Defined benefit pension plans:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Unrecognized actuarial gain (loss)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(18,632)
3,452 
Applicable income taxes
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
7,441 
(1,381)
Unrecognized gain (loss) arising during period, net of income taxes
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(11,191)
2,071 
Curtailment loss, net of settlement losses of $1,845 for 2017 included in net periodic benefit cost
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(1,350)
(154)
Applicable income taxes
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
540 
62 
Curtailment loss, net of settlement losses included in net periodic benefit cost, net of income taxes
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(810)
(92)
Other comprehensive gain (loss)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(12,001)
1,979 
Comprehensive income (loss)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1,509,617 
(829,500)
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(1,587)
(551)
Comprehensive Income (loss) attributable to Altice USA, Inc. stockholders
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 1,508,030 
$ (830,051)
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (Parenthetical) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
 
 
Settlement loss (gain) related to pension plan
$ 1,845 
$ 0 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Total
Organizational Transactions Prior to IPO
IPO
Total Stockholders' Equity
Total Stockholders' Equity
Organizational Transactions Prior to IPO
Total Stockholders' Equity
IPO
Paid-in Capital
Paid-in Capital
Organizational Transactions Prior to IPO
Paid-in Capital
IPO
Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
Non-controlling Interest
Common Class A
Common Stock
Common Class A
Common Stock
Organizational Transactions Prior to IPO
Common Class A
Common Stock
IPO
Common Class B
Common Stock
Common Class B
Common Stock
Organizational Transactions Prior to IPO
Beginning balance at Dec. 31, 2015
$ 2,108,080 
 
 
$ 2,108,080 
 
 
$ 2,252,028 
 
 
$ (143,948)
$ 0 
$ 0 
$ 0 
 
 
 
 
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income (loss) attributable to stockholders
(832,030)
 
 
(832,030)
 
 
 
 
 
(832,030)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Noncontrolling interests acquired
(264)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(264)
 
 
 
 
 
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
551 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
551 
 
 
 
 
 
Pension liability adjustments, net of income taxes
1,979 
 
 
1,979 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1,979 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Share-based compensation expense
14,368 
 
 
14,368 
 
 
14,368 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Change in redeemable equity
(68,148)
 
 
(68,148)
 
 
(68,148)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Contributions from stockholders
1,246,499 
 
 
1,246,499 
 
 
1,246,499 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Distributions to stockholders/non-controlling interest
(445,176)
 
 
(445,176)
 
 
(445,176)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Excess tax benefit on share-based awards
31 
 
 
31 
 
 
31 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tax impact related to the Newsday Holdings, LLC transactions
3,952 
 
 
3,952 
 
 
3,952 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2016
2,029,842 
 
 
2,029,555 
 
 
3,003,554 
 
 
(975,978)
1,979 
287 
0 
 
 
0 
 
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income (loss) attributable to stockholders
1,520,031 
 
 
1,520,031 
 
 
 
 
 
1,520,031 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
1,587 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1,587 
 
 
 
 
 
Pension liability adjustments, net of income taxes
(12,001)
 
 
(12,001)
 
 
 
 
 
 
(12,001)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Share-based compensation expense
57,430 
 
 
57,430 
 
 
57,430 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Change in redeemable equity
(163,142)
 
 
(163,142)
 
 
(163,142)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Contributions from stockholders
1,135 
 
 
1,135 
 
 
1,135 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Distributions to stockholders/non-controlling interest
(840,035)
 
 
(839,700)
 
 
(839,700)
 
 
 
 
(335)
 
 
 
 
 
Transfer of goodwill
(23,101)
 
 
(23,101)
 
 
(23,101)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Recognition of previously unrealized excess tax benefits related to share-based awards in connection with the adoption of ASU 2016-09
310,771 
 
 
310,771 
 
 
 
 
 
310,771 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Issuance of common stock pursuant to IPO
 
2,264,252 
349,071 
 
2,264,252 
349,071 
 
2,257,002 
348,950 
 
 
 
 
2,349 
121 
 
4,901 
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2017
$ 5,495,840 
 
 
$ 5,494,301 
 
 
$ 4,642,128 
 
 
$ 854,824 
$ (10,022)
$ 1,539 
$ 2,470 
 
 
$ 4,901 
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Cash flows from operating activities:
 
 
Net income (loss)
$ 1,521,618 
$ (831,479)
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:
 
 
Depreciation and amortization (including impairments)
2,930,475 
1,700,306 
Impairment of assets included in restructuring charges
0 
2,445 
Gain on sale of affiliate interests
0 
(206)
Equity in net loss of affiliates
10,040 
1,132 
Gain on investments, net
(237,354)
(141,896)
Loss on derivative contracts, net
236,330 
53,696 
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs
600,240 
127,649 
Amortization of deferred financing costs and discounts (premiums) on indebtedness
31,046 
27,799 
Settlement loss related to pension plan
1,845 
3,298 
Share-based compensation expense
57,430 
14,368 
Deferred income taxes
(2,871,144)
(263,989)
Excess tax benefit on share-based awards
0 
(31)
Provision for doubtful accounts
74,183 
53,249 
Change in assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions and dispositions:
 
 
Accounts receivable, trade
(89,683)
(58,760)
Other receivables
(12,832)
9,413 
Prepaid expenses and other assets
(32,927)
56,395 
Amounts due from and due to affiliates
(32,970)
41,351 
Accounts payable
69,088 
(11,814)
Accrued liabilities
(265,031)
312,871 
Deferred revenue
12,310 
9,835 
Liabilities related to interest rate swap contracts
(921)
78,823 
Net cash provided by operating activities
2,001,743 
1,184,455 
Cash flows from investing activities:
 
 
Payment for acquisition, net of cash acquired
(46,703)
(8,988,774)
Net proceeds from sale of affiliate interests
0 
13,825 
Capital expenditures
(991,364)
(625,541)
Proceeds related to sale of equipment, including costs of disposal
9,743 
5,885 
Increase in other investments
(4,773)
(4,608)
Settlement of put-call options
(97,410)
0 
Additions to other intangible assets
(1,707)
(106)
Net cash used in investing activities
(1,132,214)
(9,599,319)
Cash flows from financing activities:
 
 
Proceeds from credit facility debt
5,593,675 
5,510,256 
Repayment of credit facility debt
(4,411,581)
(9,133,543)
Proceeds from notes payable to affiliates and related parties
0 
1,750,000 
Issuance of senior notes
0 
1,310,000 
Proceeds from collateralized indebtedness
838,794 
179,388 
Repayment of collateralized indebtedness and related derivative contracts
(831,059)
(143,102)
Distributions to stockholders
(919,317)
(366,000)
Repayment of senior notes, including premiums and fees
(1,729,400)
0 
Proceeds from notes payable
33,733 
0 
Excess tax benefit on share-based awards
0 
31 
Principal payments on capital lease obligations
(15,157)
(18,837)
Additions to deferred financing costs
(8,600)
(203,712)
Proceeds from IPO, net of fees
349,071 
0 
Contributions from stockholders
1,135 
1,246,499 
Distributions to noncontrolling interests, net
(335)
0 
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
(1,099,041)
131,421 
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
(229,512)
(8,283,443)
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of year
503,093 
8,786,536 
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of year
$ 273,581 
$ 503,093 
CVC - CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries, USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2015
CNYG Class A Common Stock
Dec. 31, 2015
CNYG Class B Common Stock
Dec. 31, 2015
RMG Class A Common Stock
Dec. 31, 2015
RMG Class B Common Stock
Dec. 31, 2015
Cable television franchises
Current Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$ 1,003,279 
 
 
 
 
 
Restricted cash
1,600 
 
 
 
 
 
Accounts receivable, trade (less allowance for doubtful accounts of $13,420 and $11,677)
266,383 
 
 
 
 
 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets (including a prepayment to an affiliate of $19,563 in 2017) (See Note 14)
123,242 
 
 
 
 
 
Amounts due from affiliates
767 
 
 
 
 
 
Deferred tax asset
14,596 
 
 
 
 
 
Investment securities pledged as collateral
455,386 
 
 
 
 
 
Derivative contracts
10,333 
 
 
 
 
 
Total current assets
1,875,586 
 
 
 
 
 
Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $2,599,579 and $1,039,297
3,017,015 
 
 
 
 
 
Investment in affiliates
0 
 
 
 
 
 
Investment securities pledged as collateral
756,596 
 
 
 
 
 
Derivative contracts
72,075 
 
 
 
 
 
Other assets (including a prepayment to an affiliate of $6,539 in 2017) (See Note 14)
32,920 
 
 
 
 
 
Amortizable intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization
36,951 
 
 
 
 
 
Trademarks and other indefinite-lived intangible assets
7,250 
 
 
 
 
 
Indefinite-lived cable television franchises
 
 
 
 
 
731,848 
Goodwill
262,345 
 
 
 
 
 
Deferred financing costs, net of accumulated amortization of $8,150
7,588 
 
 
 
 
 
Total assets
6,800,174 
 
 
 
 
 
Current Liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Accounts payable
453,653 
 
 
 
 
 
Accrued liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest
119,005 
 
 
 
 
 
Employee related costs
344,091 
 
 
 
 
 
Other accrued expenses
169,899 
 
 
 
 
 
Amounts due to affiliates
29,729 
 
 
 
 
 
Deferred revenue
55,545 
 
 
 
 
 
Liabilities under derivative contracts
2,706 
 
 
 
 
 
Credit facility debt
562,898 
 
 
 
 
 
Collateralized indebtedness
416,621 
 
 
 
 
 
Senior notes and debentures
0 
 
 
 
 
 
Capital lease obligations
20,350 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes payable
13,267 
 
 
 
 
 
Total current liabilities
2,187,764 
 
 
 
 
 
Long-term defined benefit plan obligations
99,228 
 
 
 
 
 
Other liabilities
165,768 
 
 
 
 
 
Deferred tax liability
704,835 
 
 
 
 
 
Credit facility debt
1,951,556 
 
 
 
 
 
Collateralized indebtedness
774,703 
 
 
 
 
 
Senior guaranteed notes
0 
 
 
 
 
 
Senior notes and debentures
5,801,011 
 
 
 
 
 
Capital lease obligations
25,616 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes payable
1,277 
 
 
 
 
 
Total liabilities
11,711,758 
 
 
 
 
 
Commitments and contingencies
   
 
 
 
 
 
Stockholders' Equity:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Preferred Stock, $.01 par value, 50,000,000 shares authorized, none issued
0 
 
 
 
 
 
Common Stock
 
3,042 
541 
0 
0 
 
Paid-in capital
792,351 
 
 
 
 
 
Retained earnings (accumulated deficit)
(4,059,411)
 
 
 
 
 
Total stockholders' equity before accumulated other comprehensive Income and non-controlling interest
(3,263,477)
 
 
 
 
 
Treasury stock, at cost (81,624,493 CNYG Class A common shares)
(1,610,167)
 
 
 
 
 
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
(37,672)
 
 
 
 
 
Total stockholders' equity
(4,911,316)
 
 
 
 
 
Noncontrolling interest
(268)
 
 
 
 
 
Total stockholders' equity
(4,911,584)
 
 
 
 
 
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
$ 6,800,174 
 
 
 
 
 
CVC - CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Unaudited) (Parenthetical) (Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries, USD $)
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2015
CNYG Class A Common Stock
Dec. 31, 2015
CNYG Class B Common Stock
Dec. 31, 2015
RMG Class A Common Stock
Dec. 31, 2015
RMG Class B Common Stock
Current Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
Accounts receivable, trade allowance for doubtful accounts
$ 6,039 
 
 
 
 
Property, plant and equipment, accumulated depreciation
9,625,348 
 
 
 
 
Amortizable intangible assets, accumulated amortization
60,310 
 
 
 
 
Deferred financing costs, accumulated amortization
$ 8,150 
 
 
 
 
Stockholders' Equity:
 
 
 
 
 
Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share)
$ 0.01 
 
 
 
 
Preferred stock, shares authorized (in shares)
50,000,000 
 
 
 
 
Preferred stock, shares issued (in shares)
0 
 
 
 
 
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)
 
$ 0.01 
$ 0.01 
$ 0.01 
$ 0.01 
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares)
 
800,000,000 
320,000,000 
600,000,000 
160,000,000 
Common stock, shares issued (in shares)
 
304,196,703 
54,137,673 
0 
0 
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares)
 
222,572,210 
54,137,673 
 
 
Treasury stock (in shares)
 
81,624,493 
 
 
 
CVC - CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS (Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries, USD $)
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Jun. 20, 2016
Dec. 31, 2015
Revenue (including revenue from affiliates of $2,205 and $1,086, respectively) (See Note 14)
$ 3,137,604 
$ 6,545,545 
Operating expenses:
 
 
Programming and other direct costs (including charges from affiliates of $4,176 and $1,947, respectively) (See Note 14)
1,088,555 
2,269,290 
Other operating expenses (including charges from affiliates of $106,084 and $18,854, respectively) (See Note 14)
1,136,970 
2,546,319 
Restructuring and other expense
22,223 
16,213 
Depreciation and amortization (including impairments)
414,550 
865,252 
Total operating expenses
2,662,298 
5,697,074 
Operating income
475,306 
848,471 
Other income (expense):
 
 
Interest expense (including interest expense to affiliates and related parties of $90,405 and $112,712, respectively) (See Note 14)
(287,098)
(585,764)
Interest income
1,590 
925 
Gain on investments, net
129,990 
(30,208)
Loss on equity derivative contracts, net
(36,283)
104,927 
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs (including $513,723 related to affiliates and related parties in 2017) (See Note 14)
0 
(1,735)
Other income, net
4,855 
6,045 
Total other income (expense)
(186,946)
(505,810)
Loss before income taxes
288,360 
342,661 
Income tax benefit
(124,848)
(154,872)
Income from continuing operations, net of income taxes
163,512 
187,789 
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income taxes
0 
(12,541)
Net income (loss)
163,512 
175,248 
Net loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling interests
236 
201 
Net income (loss) attributable to Altice USA, Inc. stockholders
163,748 
175,449 
Basic income (loss) per share attributable to Cablevision Systems Corporation stockholder(s):
 
 
Income from continuing operations, net of income taxes (in dollars per share)
$ 0.60 
$ 0.70 
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income taxes (in dollars per share)
$ 0.00 
$ (0.05)
Net income (in dollars per share)
$ 0.60 
$ 0.65 
Basic weighted average common shares (in thousands) (in shares)
272,035,000 
269,388,000 
Diluted income (loss) per share attributable to Cablevision Systems Corporation stockholder(s):
 
 
Income from continuing operations, net of income taxes (in dollars per share)
$ 0.58 
$ 0.68 
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income taxes (in dollars per share)
$ 0.00 
$ (0.05)
Net income (in dollars per share)
$ 0.58 
$ 0.63 
Diluted weighted average common shares (in thousands)
280,199,000 
276,339,000 
Amounts attributable to Cablevision Systems Corporation stockholder(s):
 
 
Income from continuing operations, net of income taxes
163,748 
187,990 
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income taxes
0 
(12,541)
Net income (loss) attributable to Altice USA, Inc. stockholders
$ 163,748 
$ 175,449 
Cash dividends declared per common share (in dollars per share)
$ 0.00 
$ 0.45 
CVC - CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS (Parenthetical) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Revenue from affiliates
$ 2,205 
$ 1,086 
$ 2,088 
$ 5,343 
Programming and other direct costs from affiliates
4,176 
1,947 
84,636 
176,909 
Related Party Transaction, Other Operating Expense
$ 106,084 
$ 18,854 
$ 2,182 
$ 5,372 
CVC - CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries, USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Jun. 20, 2016
Dec. 31, 2015
Net income
$ 163,512 
$ 175,248 
Defined benefit pension and postretirement plans (see Note 13):
 
 
Unrecognized actuarial gain
68 
2,694 
Applicable income taxes
(28)
(1,106)
Unrecognized gain (loss) arising during period, net of income taxes
40 
1,588 
Amortization of actuarial losses, net included in net periodic benefit cost
929 
1,224 
Applicable income taxes
(388)
(502)
Amortization of actuarial losses, net included in net periodic benefit cost, net of income taxes
541 
722 
Settlement income included in net periodic benefit cost
1,655 
3,822 
Applicable income taxes
(679)
(1,569)
Curtailment loss, net of settlement losses included in net periodic benefit cost, net of income taxes
976 
2,253 
Other comprehensive gain (loss)
1,557 
4,563 
Comprehensive income (loss)
165,069 
179,811 
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests
236 
201 
Comprehensive Income (loss) attributable to Altice USA, Inc. stockholders
$ 165,305 
$ 180,012 
CVC - CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Total
Paid-in Capital
Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
Total Stockholders' Equity (Deficiency)
Non-controlling Interest
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Paid-in Capital
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit)
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Treasury Stock
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Total Stockholders' Equity (Deficiency)
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Non-controlling Interest
CNYG Class A Common Stock
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Common Stock
CNYG Class B Common Stock
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Common Stock
Beginning balance at Dec. 31, 2014
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ (5,040,690)
$ 823,103 
$ (4,234,860)
$ (1,591,021)
$ (42,235)
$ (5,041,469)
$ 779 
$ 3,003 
$ 541 
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income (loss) attributable to stockholders
 
 
 
 
 
 
175,449 
 
175,449 
 
 
175,449 
 
 
 
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
 
 
 
 
 
 
(146)
 
 
 
 
 
(146)
 
 
Pension and postretirement plan liability adjustments, net of income taxes
 
 
 
 
 
 
4,563 
 
 
 
4,563 
4,563 
 
 
 
Proceeds from exercise of options and issuance of restricted shares
 
 
 
 
 
 
18,687 
18,648 
 
 
 
18,687 
 
39 
 
Recognition of equity-based stock compensation arrangements
 
 
 
 
 
 
60,817 
60,817 
 
 
 
60,817 
 
 
 
Treasury stock acquired from forfeiture and acquisition of restricted shares
 
 
 
 
 
 
(19,141)
5 
 
(19,146)
 
(19,141)
 
 
 
Excess tax benefit on share-based awards
 
 
 
 
 
 
5,694 
5,694 
 
 
 
5,694 
 
 
 
Dividends on CNYG Class A and CNYG Class B common stock
 
 
 
 
 
 
(124,752)
(124,752)
 
 
 
(124,752)
 
 
 
Adjustments to/Contributions from noncontrolling interests
 
 
 
 
 
 
7,935 
8,836 
 
 
 
8,836 
(901)
 
 
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2015
2,108,080 
 
 
0 
 
0 
(4,911,584)
792,351 
(4,059,411)
(1,610,167)
(37,672)
(4,911,316)
(268)
3,042 
541 
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income (loss) attributable to stockholders
(140,748)
 
 
 
 
 
94,377 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Ending balance at Mar. 31, 2016
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Beginning balance at Dec. 31, 2015
 
 
 
0 
 
0 
(4,911,584)
792,351 
(4,059,411)
(1,610,167)
(37,672)
(4,911,316)
(268)
3,042 
541 
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income (loss) attributable to stockholders
 
 
 
 
 
 
163,748 
 
163,748 
 
 
163,748 
 
 
 
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
 
 
 
 
 
 
(236)
 
 
 
 
 
(236)
 
 
Pension and postretirement plan liability adjustments, net of income taxes
 
 
 
 
 
 
1,557 
 
 
 
1,557 
1,557 
 
 
 
Proceeds from exercise of options and issuance of restricted shares
 
 
 
 
 
 
14,559 
14,544 
 
 
 
14,559 
 
15 
 
Recognition of equity-based stock compensation arrangements
 
 
 
 
 
 
24,997 
24,997 
 
 
 
24,997 
 
 
 
Treasury stock acquired from forfeiture and acquisition of restricted shares
 
 
 
 
 
 
(41,469)
1 
 
(41,470)
 
(41,469)
 
 
 
Tax withholding associated with shares issued for equity-based compensation
 
 
 
 
 
 
(6,034)
(6,030)
 
 
 
(6,034)
 
(4)
 
Dividends on CNYG Class A and CNYG Class B common stock
 
 
 
 
 
 
(82)
(82)
 
 
 
(82)
 
 
 
Adjustments to/Contributions from noncontrolling interests
 
 
 
 
 
 
240 
 
 
 
 
 
240 
 
 
Ending balance at Jun. 20, 2016
 
 
 
 
 
 
(4,754,140)
825,945 
(3,895,663)
(1,651,637)
(36,115)
(4,753,876)
(264)
3,053 
541 
Beginning balance at Dec. 31, 2015
2,108,080 
2,252,028 
(143,948)
0 
2,108,080 
0 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
541 
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income (loss) attributable to stockholders
(832,030)
 
(832,030)
 
(832,030)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Recognition of equity-based stock compensation arrangements
14,368 
14,368 
 
 
14,368 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2016
2,029,842 
3,003,554 
(975,978)
1,979 
2,029,555 
287 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Beginning balance at Mar. 31, 2016
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income (loss) attributable to stockholders
 
 
 
 
 
 
69,371 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Ending balance at Jun. 20, 2016
 
 
 
 
 
 
(4,754,140)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
541 
Beginning balance at Dec. 31, 2016
2,029,842 
3,003,554 
(975,978)
1,979 
2,029,555 
287 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income (loss) attributable to stockholders
1,520,031 
 
1,520,031 
 
1,520,031 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Recognition of equity-based stock compensation arrangements
57,430 
57,430 
 
 
57,430 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2017
$ 5,495,840 
$ 4,642,128 
$ 854,824 
$ (10,022)
$ 5,494,301 
$ 1,539 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CVC - CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS (Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries, USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Jun. 20, 2016
Dec. 31, 2015
Cash flows from operating activities:
 
 
Net income
$ 163,512 
$ 175,248 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:
 
 
Loss (income) from discontinued operations, net of income taxes
0 
12,541 
Depreciation and amortization (including impairments)
414,550 
865,252 
Loss (gain) on investments, net
(129,990)
30,208 
Loss (gain) on equity derivative contracts, net
36,283 
(104,927)
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs
0 
1,735 
Amortization of deferred financing costs and discounts (premiums) on indebtedness
11,673 
23,764 
Share-based compensation expense
24,778 
60,321 
Settlement loss and amortization of actuarial losses related to pension and postretirement plans
2,584 
5,046 
Deferred income taxes
116,150 
133,396 
Provision for doubtful accounts
13,240 
35,802 
Excess tax benefit on share-based awards
(82)
(5,694)
Change in assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions and dispositions:
 
 
Accounts receivable, trade
(18,162)
(24,760)
Prepaid expenses and other assets
(844)
38,860 
Amounts due from and due to affiliates
(5,082)
1,043 
Accounts payable
36,147 
6,896 
Accrued liabilities
(160,937)
1,200 
Deferred revenue
(9,726)
2,156 
Net cash provided by operating activities
494,094 
1,258,087 
Cash flows from investing activities:
 
 
Capital expenditures
(330,131)
(816,396)
Proceeds related to sale of equipment, including costs of disposal
1,106 
4,407 
Decrease (increase) in other investments
610 
(7,779)
Additions to other intangible assets
(1,709)
(8,035)
Net cash used in investing activities
(330,124)
(827,803)
Cash flows from financing activities:
 
 
Repayment of credit facility debt
(14,953)
(260,321)
Proceeds from collateralized indebtedness
337,149 
774,703 
Repayment of collateralized indebtedness and related derivative contracts
(281,594)
(639,237)
Repayment of notes payable
(1,291)
(2,458)
Proceeds from stock option exercises
14,411 
18,727 
Tax withholding associated with shares issued for equity-based awards
(6,034)
 
Dividend distributions to common stockholders
(4,066)
(125,170)
Principal payments on capital lease obligations
(11,552)
(20,250)
Deemed repurchases of restricted stock
(41,469)
(19,141)
Additions to deferred financing costs
 
(250)
Payment for purchase of noncontrolling interest
 
(8,300)
Contributions from noncontrolling interests, net
240 
 
Distributions to noncontrolling interests, net
 
(901)
Excess tax benefit on share-based awards
82 
5,694 
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
(9,077)
(276,904)
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents from continuing operations
154,893 
153,380 
Cash flows of discontinued operations:
 
 
Net cash used in operating activities
(21,000)
(484)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities
 
(30)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents from discontinued operations
(21,000)
(514)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
1,003,279 
850,413 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year
$ 1,137,172 
$ 1,003,279 
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Revenue Recognition
The Company recognizes pay television, broadband, and telephony services revenues as the services are provided to customers.  Revenue received from customers who purchase bundled services at a discounted rate is allocated to each product in a pro-rata manner based on the individual product’s selling price (generally, the price at which the product is regularly sold on a standalone basis). Installation revenue for the Company's pay television, broadband and telephony services is recognized as installations are completed, as direct selling costs have exceeded this revenue in all periods reported.  Advertising revenues are recognized when commercials are aired.
Revenues derived from other sources are recognized when services are provided or events occur.
Multiple-Element Transactions
In the normal course of business, the Company may enter into multiple-element transactions where it is simultaneously both a customer and a vendor with the same counterparty or in which it purchases multiple products and/or services, or settles outstanding items contemporaneously with the purchase of a product or service, from a single counterparty. The Company's policy for accounting for each transaction negotiated contemporaneously is to record each deliverable of the transaction based on its best estimate of selling price in a manner consistent with that used to determine the price to sell each deliverable on a standalone basis.  In determining the fair value of the respective deliverable, the Company will utilize quoted market prices (as available), historical transactions or comparable transactions.
Gross Versus Net Revenue Recognition
In the normal course of business, the Company is assessed non-income related taxes by governmental authorities, including franchising authorities (generally under multi-year agreements), and collects such taxes from its customers.  The Company's policy is that, in instances where the tax is being assessed directly on the Company, amounts paid to the governmental authorities and amounts received from the customers are recorded on a gross basis.  That is, amounts paid to the governmental authorities are recorded as programming and other direct costs and amounts received from the customer are recorded as revenue.  For the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, the amount of franchise fees and certain other taxes and fees included as a component of revenue aggregated $259,075 and $154,732, respectively.
Technical and Operating Expenses
Costs of revenue related to sales of services are classified as "programming and other direct costs" in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.
Programming Costs
Programming expenses related to the Company's pay television service represent fees paid to programming distributors to license the programming distributed to customers.  This programming is acquired generally under multi-year distribution agreements, with rates usually based on the number of customers that receive the programming.  If there are periods when an existing distribution agreement has expired and the parties have not finalized negotiations of either a renewal of that agreement or a new agreement for certain periods of time, the Company continues to carry and pay for these services until execution of definitive replacement agreements or renewals.  The amount of programming expense recorded during the interim period is based on the Company's estimates of the ultimate contractual agreement expected to be reached, which is based on several factors, including previous contractual rates, customary rate increases and the current status of negotiations.  Such estimates are adjusted as negotiations progress until new programming terms are finalized.
In addition, the Company has received, or may receive, incentives from programming distributors for carriage of the distributors' programming.  The Company generally recognizes these incentives as a reduction of programming costs in "programming and other direct costs", generally over the term of the distribution agreement.
Advertising Expenses
Advertising costs are charged to expense when incurred and are reflected in "other operating expenses" in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.  Advertising costs amounted to $224,120 and $135,513 for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
Share-Based Compensation
Share-based compensation expense is based on the fair value of the portion of share-based payment awards that are ultimately expected to vest. Share-based compensation cost relates to awards of units in a carried unit plan and options.
For carried interest units, the Company measures share-based compensation cost at the grant date fair value and recognizes the expense over the requisite service period or when it is probable any related performance condition will be met. For carried interest units with graded vesting requirement, compensation cost is recognized on an accelerated method under the graded vesting method over the requisite service period for the carried interest unit. Carried interest units that vest entirely at the end of the vesting requirement are expensed on a straight-line basis.
The Company estimated the fair value of carried interest units using an option pricing model. Key inputs that were used in applying the option pricing method were total equity value, equity volatility, risk free rate and time to liquidity event. The estimate of total equity value was determined using a combination of the income approach, which incorporated cash flow projections that were discounted at an appropriate rate, and the market approach, which involved applying a market multiple to the Company’s projected operating results. The Company estimated volatility based on the historical equity volatility of comparable publicly-traded companies. Subsequent to the IPO, such subjective valuations and estimates were no longer necessary as the Company relied on the market price of the Company’s common stock to determine the fair value of share-based compensation awards. See Note 13 to the consolidated financial statements for additional information about our share-based compensation.
For stock option awards, the Company recognizes compensation expense based on the estimated grant date fair value using the Black-Scholes valuation model. For options not subject to performance based vesting conditions, the Company recognizes the compensation expense using a straight-line amortization method.
Income Taxes
The Company's provision for income taxes is based on current period income, changes in deferred tax assets and liabilities and changes in estimates with regard to uncertain tax positions.  Deferred tax assets are subject to an ongoing assessment of realizability.  The Company provides deferred taxes for the outside basis difference of its investment in partnerships. 
Cash and Cash Equivalents
The Company's cash investments are placed with money market funds and financial institutions that are investment grade as rated by Standard & Poor's and Moody's Investors Service.  The Company selects money market funds that predominantly invest in marketable, direct obligations issued or guaranteed by the United States government or its agencies, commercial paper, fully collateralized repurchase agreements, certificates of deposit, and time deposits.
The Company considers the balance of its investment in funds that substantially hold securities that mature within three months or less from the date the fund purchases these securities to be cash equivalents.  The carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents either approximates fair value due to the short-term maturity of these instruments or are at fair value.
Accounts Receivable
Accounts receivable are recorded at net realizable value. The Company periodically assesses the adequacy of valuation allowances for uncollectible accounts receivable by evaluating the collectability of outstanding receivables and general factors such as historical collection experience, length of time individual receivables are past due, and the economic and competitive environment.
Investments
Investment securities and investment securities pledged as collateral are classified as trading securities and are stated at fair value with realized and unrealized holding gains and losses included in net income.
Long-Lived Assets and Amortizable Intangible Assets
Property, plant and equipment, including construction materials, are carried at cost, and include all direct costs and certain indirect costs associated with the construction of cable systems, and the costs of new equipment installations.  Equipment under capital leases is recorded at the present value of the total minimum lease payments.  Depreciation on equipment is calculated on the straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets or, with respect to equipment under capital leases and leasehold improvements, amortized over the shorter of the lease term or the assets' useful lives and reported in depreciation and amortization (including impairments) in the consolidated statements of operations.
The Company capitalizes certain internal and external costs incurred to acquire or develop internal-use software.  Capitalized software costs are amortized over the estimated useful life of the software and reported in depreciation and amortization.
Customer relationships, trade names and other intangibles established in connection with acquisitions that are finite-lived are amortized in a manner that reflects the pattern in which the projected net cash inflows to the Company are expected to occur, such as the sum of the years' digits method, or when such pattern does not exist, using the straight-line basis over their respective estimated useful lives.
The Company reviews its long-lived assets (property, plant and equipment, and intangible assets subject to amortization that arose from acquisitions) for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable.  If the sum of the expected cash flows, undiscounted and without interest, is less than the carrying amount of the asset, an impairment loss is recognized as the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value.
Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets
Goodwill and the value of franchises acquired in purchase business combinations which have indefinite useful lives are not amortized.  Rather, such assets are tested for impairment annually or upon the occurrence of a triggering event.
The Company assesses qualitative factors for its reporting units that carry goodwill.  If the qualitative assessment results in a conclusion that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit exceeds the carrying value, then no further testing is performed for that reporting unit.
When the qualitative assessment is not used, or if the qualitative assessment is not conclusive and it is necessary to calculate the fair value of a reporting unit, then the impairment analysis for goodwill is performed at the reporting unit level using a two-step approach.  The first step of the goodwill impairment test is used to identify potential impairment by comparing the fair value of the reporting unit with its carrying amount, including goodwill utilizing an enterprise-value based premise approach.  If the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the second step of the goodwill impairment test is performed to measure the amount of goodwill impairment loss, if any.  The second step of the goodwill impairment test compares the implied fair value of the reporting unit's goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill.  If the carrying amount of the reporting unit's goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of that goodwill, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.  The implied fair value of goodwill is determined in the same manner as the amount of goodwill which would be recognized in a business combination.
The Company assesses qualitative factors to determine whether it is necessary to perform the one-step quantitative identifiable indefinite-lived intangible assets impairment test.  This quantitative test is required only if the Company concludes that it is more likely than not that a unit of accounting’s fair value is less than its carrying amount.  When the qualitative assessment is not used, or if the qualitative assessment is not conclusive, the impairment test for other intangible assets not subject to amortization requires a comparison of the fair value of the intangible asset with its carrying value.  If the carrying value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.
Deferred Financing Costs
Deferred financing costs are being amortized to interest expense using the effective interest method over the terms of the related debt.
Derivative Financial Instruments
The Company accounts for derivative financial instruments as either assets or liabilities measured at fair value.  The Company uses derivative instruments to manage its exposure to market risks from changes in certain equity prices and interest rates and does not hold or issue derivative instruments for speculative or trading purposes.  These derivative instruments are not designated as hedges, and changes in the fair values of these derivatives are recognized in the statements of operations as gains (losses) on derivative contracts. 
Commitments and Contingencies
Liabilities for loss contingencies arising from claims, assessments, litigation, fines and penalties and other sources are recorded when the Company believes it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the contingency can be reasonably estimated.
Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncement
In March 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2016-09, Compensation—Stock Compensation: Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting, which provides simplification of income tax accounting for share-based payment awards. The new guidance became effective for the Company on January 1, 2017. Amendments related to the timing of when excess tax benefits are recognized, minimum statutory withholding requirements, forfeitures, and intrinsic value were applied using the modified retrospective transition method. Amendments requiring recognition of excess tax benefits and tax deficiencies in the income statement and the practical expedient for estimating expected term were applied prospectively. The Company elected to apply the amendments related to the presentation of excess tax benefits on the statement of cash flows using the prospective transition method. In connection with the adoption on January 1, 2017, a deferred tax asset of approximately $310,771 for previously unrealized excess tax benefits was recognized with the offset recorded to accumulated deficit.
Recently Issued But Not Yet Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
In February 2018, the FASB issued ASU No. 2018-02, Income Statement—Reporting Comprehensive Income (Topic 220) Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income. The primary provision of ASU No. 2018-02 allows for the reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive income to retained earnings for stranded tax effects resulting from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. ASU 2018-02 also requires certain disclosures about stranded tax effects. ASU No. 2018‑02 is effective for the Company on January 1, 2019, with early adoption permitted and will be applied either in the period of adoption or retrospectively to each period (or periods) in which the effect of the change in the U.S. federal corporate income tax rate in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is recognized.
In May 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017‑09, Compensation- Stock Compensation (Topic 718). ASU No. 2017‑09 provides clarity and guidance on which changes to the terms or conditions of a share-based payment award require an entity to apply modification accounting in Topic 718. ASU No. 2017‑09 is effective for the Company on January 1, 2018 and will be applied prospectively.
In March 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017‑07 Compensation-Retirement Benefits (Topic 715). ASU No. 2017‑07 requires that an employer disaggregate the service cost component from the other components of net benefit cost. It also provides guidance on how to present the service cost component and the other components of net benefit cost in the income statement and what component of net benefit cost is eligible for capitalization. ASU No. 2017‑07 is effective for the Company on January 1, 2018 and will be applied retrospectively. In connection with the adoption of ASU 2017-07, the Company will reclassify the non-service cost components of the Company's pension expense from primarily "Other operating expenses" to "Miscellaneous income (expense), net" on its consolidated statements of operations. The Company has elected to apply the practical expedient which allows it to reclassify amounts disclosed previously in the benefits plan note (Note 17 of the consolidated financial statements) as the basis for applying retrospective presentation for comparative periods, as the Company determined it was impracticable to disaggregate the cost components for amounts capitalized and amortized in those periods.
In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017‑04, Intangibles-Goodwill and Other (Topic 350). ASU No. 2017‑04 simplifies the subsequent measurement of goodwill by removing the second step of the two‑step impairment test. The amendment requires an entity to perform its annual, or interim goodwill impairment test by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount. An entity still has the option to perform the qualitative assessment for a reporting unit to determine if the quantitative impairment test is necessary. ASU No. 2017‑04 becomes effective for the Company on January 1, 2020 with early adoption permitted and will be applied prospectively.
In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017‑01, Business Combinations (Topic 805), Clarifying the Definition of a Business, which amends Topic 805 to interpret the definition of a business by adding guidance to assist in evaluating whether transactions should be accounted for as acquisitions (or disposals) of assets or businesses. The new guidance is effective for the Company on January 1, 2018 and will be applied prospectively.
In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments which clarifies how entities should classify certain cash receipts and cash payments on the statement of cash flows. ASU No. 2016-15 also clarifies how the predominance principle should be applied when cash receipts and cash payments have aspects of more than one class of cash flows. The new guidance is effective for the Company on January 1, 2018 and will be applied retrospectively. The Company does not believe that the adoption of ASU No. 2016-15 will have a material effect on its consolidated statements of cash flows.
In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, Leases, which increases transparency and comparability by recognizing a lessee’s rights and obligations resulting from leases by recording them on the balance sheet as lease assets and lease liabilities. The new guidance becomes effective for the Company on January 1, 2019 with early adoption permitted and will be applied using the modified retrospective method. The Company has not yet completed the evaluation of the effect that ASU No. 2016-02 will have on its consolidated financial statements.
In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-01, Financial Instruments - Overall (Subtopic 825-10), Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities.  ASU No. 2016-01 modifies how entities measure certain equity investments and also modifies the recognition of changes in the fair value of financial liabilities measured under the fair value option. Entities will be required to measure equity investments that do not result in consolidation and are not accounted for under the equity method at fair value and recognize any changes in fair value in net income. For financial liabilities measured using the fair value option, entities will be required to record changes in fair value caused by a change in instrument-specific credit risk (own credit risk) separately in other comprehensive income. ASU No. 2016-01 is effective for the Company on January 1, 2018.  The Company does expect the adoption of ASU No. 2016-01 to have any effect on its consolidated financial statements.
In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, requiring an entity to recognize the amount of revenue to which it expects to be entitled for the transfer of promised goods or services to customers. ASU No. 2014-09 will replace most existing revenue recognition guidance in GAAP. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-14 that approved deferring the effective date by one year so that ASU No. 2014-09 is effective for the Company on January 1, 2018.
In December 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-20, Technical Corrections and Improvements to Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, in order to clarify the Codification and to correct any unintended application of the guidance. The amendments in this update affect the guidance in ASU No. 2014-09. The Company will adopt ASU No. 2014-09 on January 1, 2018 and will transition to the standard retrospectively. The adoption of ASU No. 2014-09 will not have a material impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations. The adoption will, however, result in the deferral of certain installation revenue and the deferral of certain commission expenses. Additionally, the Company anticipates changes in the composition of revenue resulting from the allocation of value related to bundled services sold at a discount to residential customers.
Common Stock of Altice USA
At December 31, 2017, the Company had 246,982,292 shares of Class A common stock and 490,086,674 shares of Class B common stock, with a par value of $0.01, issued and outstanding. Each holder of Class A common stock has one vote per share while holders of Class B common stock have twenty-five votes per share. Class B shares can be converted to Class A common stock at anytime with a conversion ratio of one Class A common share for one Class B common share. 
At December 31, 2016, the Company had 100 shares of common stock, with a par value of $0.01, issued and outstanding.
Dividends and Distributions
The Company may pay dividends on its capital stock only from net profits and surplus as determined under Delaware law.  If dividends are paid on the Altice USA common stock, holders of the Altice USA Class A common stock and Altice USA Class B common stock are entitled to receive dividends, and other distributions in cash, stock or property, equally on a per share basis, except that stock dividends with respect to Altice USA Class A common stock may be paid only with shares of Altice USA Class A common stock and stock dividends with respect to Altice USA Class B common stock may be paid only with shares of Altice USA Class B common stock.
The Company's indentures restrict the amount of dividends and distributions in respect of any equity interest that can be made.
Prior to the Company's IPO, the Company declared and paid cash distributions to stockholders aggregating $839,700 in the second quarter of 2017. In 2016, the Company declared cash distributions of $445,176 of which $365,559 were paid in 2016 and $79,617 were paid in the first quarter of 2017.
Net Income (Loss) Per Share
Basic net income (loss) per common share attributable to Altice USA stockholders is computed by dividing net income (loss) attributable to Altice USA stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period.  Diluted income per common share attributable to Altice USA stockholders reflects the dilutive effects of stock options. Diluted net loss per common share attributable to Altice USA stockholders excludes the effects of common stock equivalents as they are anti-dilutive. The weighted average number of shares used to compute basic and diluted net income (loss) per share reflect the retroactive impact of the organizational transactions, discussed in Note 1, that occurred prior to the Company's IPO.
The following table presents a reconciliation of weighted average shares used in the calculation of the basic and diluted net income per share attributable to Altice USA stockholders for the year ended December 31, 2017:
Basic weighted average shares outstanding
696,055,000

 
 
Effect of dilution:
 
Stock options
—

Diluted weighted average shares outstanding
696,055,000


Anti-dilutive shares totaling approximately 14,000 shares, have been excluded from diluted weighted average shares outstanding for the year ended December 31, 2017. 
Concentrations of Credit Risk
Financial instruments that may potentially subject the Company to a concentration of credit risk consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents and trade account receivables.  The Company monitors the financial institutions and money market funds where it invests its cash and cash equivalents with diversification among counterparties to mitigate exposure to any single financial institution.  The Company's emphasis is primarily on safety of principal and liquidity and secondarily on maximizing the yield on its investments.  Management believes that no significant concentration of credit risk exists with respect to its cash and cash equivalents because of its assessment of the creditworthiness and financial viability of the respective financial institutions.
The Company did not have a single customer that represented 10% or more of its consolidated revenues for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, or 10% or more of its consolidated net trade receivables at December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
Use of Estimates in Preparation of Financial Statements
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.  Actual results could differ from those estimates.  See Note 11 for a discussion of fair value estimates.
Reclassifications
Certain reclassifications have been made to the 2016 financial statements to conform to the 2017 presentation.
BUSINESS COMBINATIONS
BUSINESS COMBINATIONS
BUSINESS COMBINATIONS
Cablevision Acquisition
As discussed in Note 1, the Company completed the Cablevision Acquisition on June 21, 2016. The acquisition was accounted for as a business combination in accordance with ASC Topic 805. Accordingly, the Company recorded the fair value of the assets and liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition.
The following table provides the allocation of the total purchase price of $9,958,323 to the identifiable tangible and intangible assets and liabilities of Cablevision based on their respective fair values. The remaining useful lives represent the period over which acquired tangible and intangible assets with a finite life are being depreciated or amortized.
 
Fair Values
 
Estimated Useful Lives
 
 
 
 
Current assets
$
1,923,071

 
 
Accounts receivable
271,305

 
 
Property, plant and equipment
4,864,621

 
2-18 years
Goodwill
5,842,172

 
 
Indefinite-lived cable television franchises
8,113,575

 
Indefinite-lived
Customer relationships
4,850,000

 
8 to 18 years
Trade names (a)
1,010,000

 
12 years
Amortizable intangible assets
23,296

 
1-15 years
Other non-current assets
748,998

 
 
Current liabilities
(2,311,201
)
 
 
Long-term debt
(8,355,386
)
 
 
Deferred income taxes.
(6,832,773
)
 
 
Other non-current liabilities
(189,355
)
 
 
Total
$
9,958,323

 
 
 
(a)
See Note 8 for additional information regarding a change in the remaining estimated useful lives of the Company's trade names.
The fair value of customer relationships and cable television franchises were valued using derivations of the "income" approach. The future expected earnings from these assets were discounted to their present value equivalent.
Trade names were valued using the relief from royalty method, which is based on the present value of the royalty payments avoided as a result of the company owning the intangible asset.
The basis for the valuation methods was the Company’s projections. These projections were based on management’s assumptions including among others, penetration rates for pay television, broadband, and telephony; revenue growth rates; operating margins; and capital expenditures. The assumptions are derived based on the Company’s and its peers’ historical operating performance adjusted for current and expected competitive and economic factors surrounding the cable industry. The discount rates used in the analysis are intended to reflect the risk inherent in the projected future cash flows generated by the respective intangible asset. The value is highly dependent on the achievement of the future financial results contemplated in the projections. The estimates and assumptions made in the valuation are inherently subject to significant uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company's control, and there is no assurance that these results can be achieved. The primary assumptions for which there is a reasonable possibility of the occurrence of a variation that would have significantly affected the value include the assumptions regarding revenue growth, programming expense growth rates, the amount and timing of capital expenditures and the discount rate utilized.
In establishing fair value for the vast majority of the acquired property, plant and equipment, the cost approach was utilized. The cost approach considers the amount required to replace an asset by constructing or purchasing a new asset with similar utility, then adjusts the value in consideration of physical depreciation, and functional and economic obsolescence as of the appraisal date. The cost approach relies on management’s assumptions regarding current material and labor costs required to rebuild and repurchase significant components of property, plant and equipment along with assumptions regarding the age and estimated useful lives of property, plant and equipment.
The estimates of expected useful lives take into consideration the effects of contractual relationships, customer attrition, eventual development of new technologies and market competition.
Long-term debt assumed was valued using quoted market prices (Level 2). The carrying value of most other assets and liabilities approximated fair value as of the acquisition date.
As a result of applying business combination accounting, the Company recorded goodwill, which represented the excess of organization value over amounts assigned to the other identifiable tangible and intangible assets arising from expectations of future operational performance and cash generation.
The following table presents the unaudited pro forma revenue and net loss for the period presented as if the Cablevision Acquisition had occurred on January 1, 2016:
 
Year Ended December 31, 2016
Revenue
$
9,154,816

Net loss
$
(721,257
)

The pro forma results presented above include the impact of additional amortization expense related to the identifiable intangible assets recorded in connection with the Cablevision Acquisition, additional depreciation expense related to the fair value adjustment to property, plant and equipment and the incremental interest resulting from the issuance of debt to fund the Cablevision Acquisition, net of the reversal of interest and amortization of deferred financing costs related to credit facilities that were repaid on the date of the Cablevision Acquisition and the accretion/amortization of fair value adjustments associated with the long-term debt acquired.
Other Acquisitions
In connection with certain acquisitions completed in the first and fourth quarters of 2017, the Company recorded amortizable intangibles of $45,000 relating to customer relationships and $9,400 relating to other amortizable intangibles. The Company recorded goodwill of $23,948, which represents the excess of the estimated purchase price of approximately $80,000 (based on current probability of contingent consideration) over the net book value of assets acquired. These values are based on preliminary fair value information currently available, which is subject to change within the measurement period (up to one year from the acquisition date). The acquired entities are included in the Cablevision segment.
SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION
SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION
SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION
The Company's non-cash investing and financing activities and other supplemental data were as follows:
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Non-Cash Investing and Financing Activities:
 
 
 
Continuing Operations:
 
 
 
Conversion of notes payable to affiliates and related parties of $1,750,000 (together with accrued and unpaid interest and applicable premium) to common stock (See Note 9)
$
2,264,252

 
$
—

Property and equipment accrued but unpaid
171,604

 
155,653

Distributions declared but not paid
—

 
79,617

Leasehold improvements paid by landlord
3,998

 
—

Notes payable to vendor
40,131

 
12,449

Capital lease obligations
9,385

 
—

Deferred financing costs accrued but unpaid
—

 
2,570

Supplemental Data:
 
 
 
Cash interest paid
1,765,126

 
1,192,370

Income taxes paid, net
29,006

 
1,538

RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER EXPENSE
RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER EXPENSE
RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER EXPENSE
Restructuring
Beginning in the first quarter of 2016, the Company commenced its restructuring initiatives (the "2016 Restructuring Plan") that are intended to simplify the Company's organizational structure.
The following table summarizes the activity for the 2016 Restructuring Plan:
 
 
 
Severance and Other Employee Related Costs
 
Facility Realignment and Other Costs
 
Total
Restructuring charges incurred in 2016
$
215,420

 
$
11,157

 
$
226,577

Payments and other
(113,301
)
 
(2,760
)
 
(116,061
)
Accrual balance at December 31, 2016
102,119

 
8,397

 
110,516

Restructuring charges
142,679

 
7,243

 
149,922

Payments and other
(131,324
)
 
(6,014
)
 
(137,338
)
Accrual balance at December 31, 2017
$
113,474

 
$
9,626

 
$
123,100


Cumulative costs to date relating to the 2016 Restructuring Plan amounted to $309,297 and $67,202 for our Cablevision segment and Cequel segment, respectively.
Transaction Costs
For the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company incurred transaction costs of $2,479 related to the acquisition of a business during the first quarter of 2017 and other transactions. For the year ended December 31, 2016, the Company incurred transaction costs of $13,845, related to the acquisitions of Cablevision and Cequel.
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
Costs incurred in the construction of the Company's cable systems, including line extensions to, and upgrade of, the Company's hybrid fiber/coaxial infrastructure, initial placement of the feeder cable to connect a customer that had not been previously connected, and headend facilities are capitalized.  These costs consist of materials, subcontractor labor, direct consulting fees, and internal labor and related costs associated with the construction activities.  The internal costs that are capitalized consist of salaries and benefits of the Company's employees and the portion of facility costs, including rent, taxes, insurance and utilities, that supports the construction activities.  These costs are depreciated over the estimated life of the plant (10 to 25 years) and headend facilities (4 to 25 years).  Costs of operating the plant and the technical facilities, including repairs and maintenance, are expensed as incurred.
Installation costs associated with the initial deployment of new customer premise equipment (“CPE”) necessary to provide pay television, broadband or telephony services are also capitalized. These costs include materials, subcontractor labor, internal labor, and other related costs associated with the connection activities.  The departmental activities supporting the connection process are tracked through specific metrics, and the portion of departmental costs that is capitalized is determined through a time weighted activity allocation of costs incurred based on time studies used to estimate the average time spent on each activity.  These installation costs are amortized over the estimated useful lives of the CPE necessary to provide pay television, broadband or telephony services.  In circumstances where CPE tracking is not available, the Company estimates the amount of capitalized installation costs based on whether or not the business or residence had been previously connected to the network. These installation costs are depreciated over their estimated useful life of 3-5 years. The portion of departmental costs related to disconnecting services and removing CPE from a customer, costs related to connecting CPE that has been previously connected to the network and repair and maintenance are expensed as incurred.
The estimated useful lives assigned to our property, plant and equipment are reviewed on an annual basis or more frequently if circumstances warrant and such lives are revised to the extent necessary due to changing facts and circumstances.  Any changes in estimated useful lives are reflected prospectively.
Property, plant and equipment (including equipment under capital leases) consist of the following assets, which are depreciated or amortized on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives shown below:
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
Estimated
Useful Lives
Customer premise equipment
$
1,093,726

 
$
871,049

 
3 to 5 years
Headends and related equipment
1,626,293

 
1,482,631

 
4 to 25 years
Infrastructure
3,998,503

 
3,740,494

 
3 to 25 years
Equipment and software
917,698

 
735,012

 
3 to 10 years
Construction in progress (including materials and supplies)
286,702

 
84,321

 
 
Furniture and fixtures
52,545

 
45,576

 
5 to 12 years
Transportation equipment
137,886

 
135,488

 
5 to 10 years
Buildings and building improvements
394,421

 
390,337

 
10 to 40 years
Leasehold improvements
108,071

 
104,309

 
Term of lease
Land
47,563

 
47,715

 
 
 
8,663,408

 
7,636,932

 
 
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization
(2,599,579
)
 
(1,039,297
)
 
 
 
$
6,063,829

 
$
6,597,635

 
 

For the years ended December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the Company capitalized certain costs aggregating $151,646 and $75,804, respectively, related to the acquisition and development of internal use software, which are included in the table above. 
Depreciation expense on property, plant and equipment (including capital leases) for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 amounted to $1,588,668 and $1,046,896, respectively.
The gross amount of buildings and equipment and related accumulated depreciation recorded under capital leases is presented below:
 
December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Buildings and equipment
$
48,936

 
$
53,833

Less accumulated depreciation
(12,972
)
 
(6,306
)
 
$
35,964

 
$
47,527

OPERATING LEASES
OPERATING LEASES
OPERATING LEASES
The Company leases certain office, production, and transmission facilities, as well as office equipment, under terms of leases expiring at various dates through 2100.  The leases generally provide for escalating rentals over the term of the lease plus certain real estate taxes and other costs or credits.  Costs associated with such operating leases are recognized on a straight-line basis over the initial lease term.  The difference between rent expense and rent paid is recorded as deferred rent.  In addition, the Company rents space on utility poles for its operations.  The Company's pole rental agreements are for varying terms, and management anticipates renewals as they expire.  Rent expense, including pole rentals, for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 amounted to $95,017 and $65,881, respectively.
The minimum future annual payments for all operating leases (with initial or remaining terms in excess of one year) during the next five years and thereafter, including pole rentals from January 1, 2018 through December 31, 2022, at rates now in force are as follows:
2018
$
74,992

2019
72,142

2020
69,203

2021
63,735

2022
55,234

Thereafter
140,406

INTANGIBLE ASSETS
INTANGIBLE ASSETS
INTANGIBLE ASSETS
The following table summarizes information relating to the Company's acquired amortizable intangible assets: 
 
As of December 31, 2017
 
As of December 31, 2016
 
 
 
Gross Carrying Amount
 
Accumulated Amortization
 
Net Carrying Amount
 
Gross Carrying Amount
 
Accumulated Amortization
 
Net Carrying Amount
 
Estimated Useful Lives
Customer relationships
$
5,970,884

 
$
(1,409,021
)
 
$
4,561,863

 
$
5,925,884

 
$
(580,276
)
 
$
5,345,608

 
8 to 18 years
Trade names (a)
1,067,083

 
(588,574
)
 
478,509

 
1,066,783

 
(83,397
)
 
983,386

 
2 to 5 years
Other amortizable intangibles
37,060

 
(10,978
)
 
26,082

 
26,743

 
(3,093
)
 
23,650

 
1 to 15 years
 
$
7,075,027

 
$
(2,008,573
)
 
$
5,066,454

 
$
7,019,410

 
$
(666,766
)
 
$
6,352,644

 
 
 
(a)
On May 23, 2017, Altice N.V. announced the adoption of a global brand to replace the Company's brands in the future, reducing the remaining useful lives of these trade name intangibles to three years from the date of the adoption, which reflected one year as an in-use asset and two years as a defensive asset. In December 2017, the Company made a decision to postpone the adoption of a global brand that would have replaced the Optimum brand, increasing the useful life of the Optimum trade name intangible asset to 5 years.
Amortization expense for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 and aggregated $1,341,807 and $653,410, respectively.
The following table sets forth the estimated amortization expense on intangible assets for the periods presented:
Estimated amortization expense
 

Year Ending December 31, 2018
$
873,133

Year Ending December 31, 2019
777,846

Year Ending December 31, 2020
696,240

Year Ending December 31, 2021
616,718

Year Ending December 31, 2022
537,100


The following table summarizes information relating to the Company's acquired indefinite-lived intangible assets as of December 31, 2017: 
 
As of December 31, 2017
 
As of December 31, 2016
 
Cablevision
 
Cequel
 
Total
 
Cablevision
 
Cequel
 
Total
Cable television franchises
$
8,113,575

 
$
4,906,506

 
$
13,020,081

 
$
8,113,575

 
$
4,906,506

 
$
13,020,081

Goodwill
5,843,019

 
2,153,741

 
7,996,760

 
5,838,959

 
2,153,741

 
7,992,700

Total
$
13,956,594

 
$
7,060,247

 
$
21,016,841

 
$
13,952,534

 
$
7,060,247

 
$
21,012,781


The carrying amount of goodwill is presented below:
Gross goodwill as of January 1, 2016
$
2,040,402

Goodwill recorded in connection with Cablevision Acquisition
5,838,959

Adjustments to purchase accounting relating to Cequel Acquisition
113,339

Gross goodwill as of January 1, 2017
7,992,700

Goodwill recorded in connection with acquisitions in the first and fourth quarters of 2017 (Cablevision Segment)
23,948

Adjustments to purchase accounting relating to Cablevision Acquisition
3,213

Transfer of Cablevision goodwill related to Altice Technical Services US Corp. (See Note 14 for further details)
(23,101
)
Net goodwill as of December 31, 2017
$
7,996,760

DEBT
DEBT
DEBT
CSC Holdings Credit Facilities
In connection with the Cablevision Acquisition, in October 2015, Finco, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, which merged with and into CSC Holdings on June 21, 2016, entered into a senior secured credit facility, which provides U.S. dollar term loans currently in an aggregate principal amount of $3,000,000 ($2,985,000 outstanding at December 31, 2017) (the “CVC Term Loan Facility”, and the term loans extended under the CVC Term Loan Facility, the “CVC Term Loans”) and U.S. dollar revolving loan commitments in an aggregate principal amount of $2,300,000 (the “CVC Revolving Credit Facility” and, together with the Term Loan Facility, the “CVC Credit Facilities”), which are governed by a credit facilities agreement entered into by, inter alios, CSC Holdings, certain lenders party thereto and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. as administrative agent and security agent (as amended, restated, supplemented or otherwise modified on June 20, 2016, June 21, 2016, July 21, 2016, September 9, 2016, December 9, 2016 and March 15, 2017, respectively, and as further amended, restated, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time, the “CVC Credit Facilities Agreement”).
The amendment to the CVC Credit Facilities Agreement entered into on September 9, 2016, extended the maturity date of the CVC Term Loan Facility to October 11, 2024. In October 2016, CSC Holdings used the net proceeds from the sale of $1,310,000 aggregate principal amount of 5.5% senior guaranteed notes due 2027 (the ‘‘2027 Guaranteed Notes’’) (after the deduction of fees and expenses) to prepay outstanding loans under the CSC Holdings Term Credit Facility that were not extended pursuant to this amendment. In connection with the prepayment of the Term Credit Facility, the Company wrote-off the deferred financing costs and the unamortized discount related to the existing term loan aggregating $102,894. Additionally, the Company recorded deferred financing costs and an original issue discount of $7,249 and $6,250, respectively, which are both being amortized to interest expense over the term of the Term Loan Facility.
The amendment to the CVC Credit Facilities Agreement entered into on March 15, 2017 (“Extension Amendment”) increased the Term Loan by $500,000 to $3,000,000 and the maturity date for this facility was extended to July 17, 2025. The closing of the Extension Amendment occurred in April 2017 and the proceeds were used to refinance the entire $2,493,750 principal amount of existing Term Loans and redeem $500,000 of the 8.625% Senior Notes due September 2017 issued by Cablevision. In connection with the Extension Amendment and the redemption of the senior notes, the Company recorded a loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs aggregating $18,976.
During the year ended December 31, 2017, CSC Holdings borrowed $1,350,000 under its revolving credit facility ($500,000 was used to make cash distributions to its stockholders) and made voluntary repayments aggregating $1,075,256 with cash on hand.
Under the Extension Amendment, the Company is required to make scheduled quarterly payments equal to 0.25% (or $7,500) of the principal amount of the Term Loan, beginning with the fiscal quarter ended September 30, 2017, with the remaining balance scheduled to be paid on July 17, 2025.
The CVC Credit Facilities permit CSC Holdings to request revolving loans, swing line loans or letters of credit from the revolving lenders, swingline lenders or issuing banks, as applicable, thereunder, from time to time prior to November 30, 2021, unless the commitments under the CVC Revolving Credit Facility have been previously terminated.
Loans comprising each eurodollar borrowing or alternate base rate borrowing, as applicable, bear interest at a rate per annum equal to the adjusted LIBO rate or the alternate base rate, as applicable, plus the applicable margin, where the applicable margin is:
•
in respect of the CVC Term Loans, (i) with respect to any alternate base rate loan, 1.25% per annum and (ii) with respect to any eurodollar loan, 2.25% per annum, and
•
in respect of the CVC Revolving Credit Facility loans (i) with respect to any alternate base rate loan, 2.25% per annum and (ii) with respect to any eurodollar loan, 3.25% per annum.
The CVC Credit Facilities Agreement requires the prepayment of outstanding CVC Term Loans, subject to certain exceptions and deductions, with (i) 100% of the net cash proceeds of certain asset sales, subject to reinvestment rights and certain other exceptions; and (ii) commencing with the fiscal year ending December 31, 2017, a pari ratable share (based on the outstanding principal amount of the Term Loans divided by the sum of the outstanding principal amount of all pari passu indebtedness and the Term Loans) of 50% of annual excess cash flow, which will be reduced to 0% if the consolidated net senior secured leverage ratio of CSC Holdings is less than or equal to 4.5 to 1.
The obligations under the CVC Credit Facilities are guaranteed by each restricted subsidiary of CSC Holdings (other than CSC TKR, LLC and its subsidiaries and certain excluded subsidiaries) (the “Initial Guarantors”) and, subject to certain limitations, will be guaranteed by each future material wholly-owned restricted subsidiary of CSC Holdings.  The obligations under the CVC Credit Facilities (including any guarantees thereof) are secured on a first priority basis, subject to any liens permitted by the Credit Facilities, by capital stock held by CSC Holdings or any guarantor in certain subsidiaries of CSC Holdings, subject to certain exclusions and limitations. 
The CVC Credit Facilities Agreement includes certain negative covenants which, among other things and subject to certain significant exceptions and qualifications, limit CSC Holdings' ability and the ability of its restricted subsidiaries to: (i) incur or guarantee additional indebtedness, (ii) make investments, (iii) create liens, (iv) sell assets and subsidiary stock, (v) pay dividends or make other distributions or repurchase or redeem our capital stock or subordinated debt, (vi) engage in certain transactions with affiliates, (vii) enter into agreements that restrict the payment of dividends by subsidiaries or the repayment of intercompany loans and advances; and (viii) engage in mergers or consolidations. In addition, the CVC Revolving Credit Facility includes a financial maintenance covenant solely for the benefit of the lenders under the CVC Revolving Credit Facility consisting of a maximum consolidated net senior secured leverage ratio of CSC Holdings and its restricted subsidiaries of 5.0 to 1.0. The financial covenant will be tested on the last day of any fiscal quarter, but only if on such day there are outstanding borrowings under the CVC Revolving Credit Facility (including swingline loans but excluding any cash collateralized letters of credit and undrawn letters of credit not to exceed $15,000).
The CVC Credit Facilities Agreement also contains certain customary representations and warranties, affirmative covenants and events of default (including, among others, an event of default upon a change of control). If an event of default occurs, the lenders under the CVC Credit Facilities will be entitled to take various actions, including the acceleration of amounts due under the CVC Credit Facilities and all actions permitted to be taken by a secured creditor.
CSC Holdings was in compliance with all of its financial covenants under the CVC Credit Facilities as of December 31, 2017.
Cequel Credit Facilities
On June 12, 2015, Altice US Finance I Corporation, an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Cequel, entered into a senior secured credit facility which currently provides term loans in an aggregate principal amount of $1,265,000 ($1,258,675 outstanding at December 31, 2017) (the “Cequel Term Loan Facility” and the term loans extended under the Cequel Term Loan Facility, the “Cequel Term Loans”) and revolving loan commitments in an aggregate principal amount of $350,000 (the “Cequel Revolving Credit Facility” and, together with the Cequel Term Loan Facility, the “Cequel Credit Facilities”) which are governed by a credit facilities agreement entered into by, inter alios, Altice US Finance I Corporation, certain lenders party thereto and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. (as amended, restated, supplemented or otherwise modified on October 25, 2016, December 9, 2016 and March 15, 2017, and as further amended, restated, supplemented or modified from time to time, the “Cequel Credit Facilities Agreement”).
The amendment to the Cequel Credit Facilities Agreement entered into on March 15, 2017 (“Cequel Extension Amendment”) increased the Term Loan by $450,000 to $1,265,000 and the maturity date for this facility was extended to July 28, 2025. The closing of the Extension Amendment occurred in April 2017 and the proceeds were used to refinance the entire $812,963 principal amount of loans under the Term Loan and redeem $450,000 of the 6.375% Senior Notes due September 15, 2020. In connection with the Cequel Extension Amendment and the redemption of the senior notes, the Company recorded a loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financings costs aggregating $28,684.
Under the Cequel Extension Amendment, the Company is required to make scheduled quarterly payments equal to 0.25% (or $3,163) of the principal amount of the Cequel Term Loan, beginning with the fiscal quarter ended September 30, 2017, with the remaining balance scheduled to be paid on July 28, 2025.
Loans comprising each eurodollar borrowing or alternate base rate borrowing, as applicable, bear interest at a rate per annum equal to the adjusted LIBO rate or the alternate base rate, as applicable, plus the applicable margin, where the applicable margin is:
•
in respect of the Cequel Term Loans, (i) with respect to any alternate base rate loan, 1.25% per annum and (ii) with respect to any eurodollar loan, 2.25% per annum, and
•
in respect of Cequel Revolving Credit Facility loans (i) with respect to any alternate base rate loan, 2.25% per annum and (ii) with respect to any eurodollar loan, 3.25% per annum.
The Cequel Credit Facilities Agreement requires the prepayment of outstanding Term Loans, subject to certain exceptions and deductions, with (i) 100% of the net cash proceeds of certain asset sales, subject to reinvestment rights and certain other exceptions; and (ii) a pari ratable share (based on the outstanding principal amount of the Cequel Term Loans divided by the sum of the outstanding principal amount of all pari passu indebtedness and the Cequel Term Loans) of 50% of annual excess cash flow, which will be reduced to 0% if the consolidated net senior secured leverage ratio is less than or equal to 4.5:1.
The debt under the Cequel Credit Facility is secured by a first priority security interest in the capital stock of Cequel Communications, LLC and substantially all of the present and future assets of Cequel Communications, LLC and its restricted subsidiaries, and is guaranteed by Cequel Communications Holdings II, LLC, an indirect subsidiary of Cequel (the "Parent Guarantor"), as well as all of Cequel Communications, LLC's existing and future direct and indirect subsidiaries, subject to certain exceptions set forth in the Cequel Credit Facilities Agreement. The Cequel Credit Facilities Agreement contains customary representations, warranties and affirmative covenants. In addition, the Cequel Credit Facilities Agreement contains restrictive covenants that limit, among other things, the ability of Cequel Communications, LLC and its subsidiaries to incur indebtedness, create liens, engage in mergers, consolidations and other fundamental changes, make investments or loans, engage in transactions with affiliates, pay dividends, and make acquisitions and dispose of assets. The Cequel Credit Facilities Agreement also contains a maximum senior secured leverage maintenance covenant of 5.0 to 1.0. Additionally, the Cequel Credit Facilities Agreement contains customary events of default, including failure to make payments, breaches of covenants and representations, cross defaults to other indebtedness, unpaid judgments, changes of control and bankruptcy events. The lenders’ commitments to fund amounts under the revolving credit facility are subject to certain customary conditions.
As of December 31, 2017, Cequel was in compliance with all of its financial covenants under the Cequel Credit Facilities Agreement.
The following table provides details of the Company's outstanding credit facility debt:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Carrying Amount (a)
 
Maturity Date
 
Interest Rate
 
Principal
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
CSC Holdings Restricted Group:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revolving Credit Facility (b)
$20,000 on October 9, 2020, remaining balance on November 30, 2021
 
4.75%
 
$
450,000

 
$
425,488

 
$
145,013

Term Loan Facility
July 17, 2025
 
3.74%
 
2,985,000

 
2,967,818

 
2,486,874

Cequel:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revolving Credit Facility (c)
November 30, 2021
 
—
 
—

 
—

 
—

Term Loan Facility
July 28, 2025
 
3.82%
 
1,258,675

 
1,250,217

 
812,903

 
 
 
 
 
$
4,693,675

 
4,643,523

 
3,444,790

Less: Current portion
42,650

 
33,150

Long-term debt
$
4,600,873

 
$
3,411,640


(a)
The carrying amount is net of the unamortized deferred financing costs and/or discounts.
(b)
At December 31, 2017, $115,973 of the revolving credit facility was restricted for certain letters of credit issued on behalf of the Company and $1,734,027 of the facility was undrawn and available, subject to covenant limitations.
(c)
At December 31, 2017, $13,500 of the revolving credit facility was restricted for certain letters of credit issued on behalf of the Company and $336,500 of the facility was undrawn and available, subject to covenant limitations.
Senior Guaranteed Notes, Senior Secured Notes, and Senior Notes and Debentures
The following table summarizes the Company's senior guaranteed notes, senior secured notes and senior notes and debentures:
 
 
 
 
 
Interest Rate
 
Principal Amount
 
Carrying Amount (a)
Issuer
Date Issued
 
Maturity Date
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
Senior notes:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CSC Holdings (b)(f)(n)
February 6, 1998
 
February 15, 2018
 
7.875
%
 
$
300,000

 
$
301,184

 
$
310,334

CSC Holdings (b)(f)
July 21, 1998
 
July 15, 2018
 
7.625
%
 
500,000

 
507,744

 
521,654

CSC Holdings (c)(f)
February 12, 2009
 
February 15, 2019
 
8.625
%
 
526,000

 
541,165

 
553,804

CSC Holdings (c)(f)
November 15, 2011
 
November 15, 2021
 
6.750
%
 
1,000,000

 
960,146

 
951,702

CSC Holdings (c)(f)
May 23, 2014
 
June 1, 2024
 
5.250
%
 
750,000

 
660,601

 
650,193

CSC Holdings (e)
October 9, 2015
 
January 15, 2023
 
10.125
%
 
1,800,000

 
1,777,914

 
1,774,750

CSC Holdings (e)(l)
October 9, 2015
 
October 15, 2025
 
10.875
%
 
1,684,221

 
1,661,135

 
1,970,379

Senior guaranteed notes:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CSC Holdings (e)
October 9, 2015
 
October 15, 2025
 
6.625
%
 
1,000,000

 
986,717

 
985,469

CSC Holdings (g)
September 23, 2016
 
April 15, 2027
 
5.500
%
 
1,310,000

 
1,304,468

 
1,304,025

Senior notes:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cablevision (k)(o)
September 23, 2009
 
September 15, 2017
 
8.625
%
 
—

 
—

 
926,045

Cablevision (c)(f)(n)(o)
April 15, 2010
 
April 15, 2018
 
7.750
%
 
750,000

 
754,035

 
767,545

Cablevision (c)(f)(o)
April 15, 2010
 
April 15, 2020
 
8.000
%
 
500,000

 
492,009

 
488,992

Cablevision (c)(f)(o)
September 27, 2012
 
September 15, 2022
 
5.875
%
 
649,024

 
572,071

 
559,500

Senior notes:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cequel Communications Holdings I and Cequel Capital (d)(m)(p)
Oct. 25, 2012 Dec. 28, 2012
 
September 15, 2020
 
6.375
%
 
1,050,000

 
1,027,493

 
1,457,439

Cequel Communications Holdings I and Cequel Capital (d)(p)
May 16, 2013 Sept. 9, 2014
 
December 15, 2021
 
5.125
%
 
1,250,000

 
1,138,870

 
1,115,767

Cequel Communications Holdings I and Cequel Capital (i)(p)
June 12, 2015
 
July 15, 2025
 
7.750
%
 
620,000

 
604,374

 
602,925

Senior secured notes:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Altice US Finance I Corporation (h)(p)
June 12, 2015
 
July 15, 2023
 
5.375
%
 
1,100,000

 
1,082,482

 
1,079,869

Altice US Finance I Corporation (j)(p)
April 26, 2016
 
May 15, 2026
 
5.500
%
 
1,500,000

 
1,488,024

 
1,486,933

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$
16,289,245

 
15,860,432

 
17,507,325

Less: Current portion
 
507,744

 
926,045

Long-term debt
 
$
15,352,688

 
$
16,581,280

 
(a)
The carrying amount is net of the unamortized deferred financing costs and/or discounts/premiums.
(b)
The debentures are not redeemable by CSC Holdings prior to maturity.
(c)
Notes are redeemable at any time at a specified "make-whole" price plus accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date.
(d)
The Company may redeem some or more of all the notes at the redemption price set forth in the relevant indenture, plus accrued and unpaid interest.
(e)
The Company may redeem some or all of the 2023 Notes at any time on or after January 15, 2019, and some or all of the 2025 Notes and 2025 Guaranteed Notes at any time on or after October 15, 2020, at the redemption prices set forth in the relevant indenture, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any.  The Company may also redeem up to 40% of each series of the Cablevision Acquisition Notes using the proceeds of certain equity offerings before October 15, 2018, at a redemption price equal to 110.125% for the 2023 Notes, 110.875% for the 2025 Notes and 106.625% for the 2025 Guaranteed Notes, in each case plus accrued and unpaid interest. In addition, at any time prior to January 15, 2019, CSC Holdings may redeem some or all of the 2023 Notes, and at any time prior to October 15, 2020, the Company may redeem some or all of the 2025 Notes and the 2025 Guaranteed Notes, at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount thereof, plus a “make whole” premium specified in the relevant indenture plus accrued and unpaid interest.
(f)
The carrying value of the notes was adjusted to reflect their fair value on the Cablevision Acquisition Date (aggregate reduction of $52,788).
(g)
The 2027 Guaranteed Notes are redeemable at any time on or after April 15, 2022 at the redemption prices set forth in the indenture, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any.  In addition, up to 40% may be redeemed for each series of the 2027 Guaranteed Notes using the proceeds of certain equity offerings before October 15, 2019, at a redemption price equal to 105.500%, plus accrued and unpaid interest.
(h)
Some or all of these notes may be redeemed at any time on or after July 15, 2018, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any. Up to 40% of the notes may be redeemed using the proceeds of certain equity offerings before July 15, 2018, at a redemption price equal to 105.375%.
(i)
Some or all of these notes may be redeemed at any time on or after July 15, 2020, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any. Up to 40% of the notes may be redeemed using the proceeds of certain equity offerings before July 15, 2018, at a redemption price equal to 107.750%.
(j)
Some or all of these notes may be redeemed at any time on or after May 15, 2021, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any. Up to 40% of the notes may be redeemed using the proceeds of certain equity offerings before May 15, 2019, at a redemption price equal to 105.500%.
(k)
In April 2017, the Company redeemed $500,000 of the senior notes from proceeds from the CVC Term Loan facility. In September 2017, these senior notes matured and the Company repaid the remaining principal balance of $400,000.
(l)
In July 2017, the Company used approximately $350,120 of the proceeds from the IPO to fund the redemption of $315,779 principal amount of CSC Holdings senior notes due October 2025 and the related call premium of approximately $34,341which was recorded as a loss on extinguishment of debt. The Company also recorded a write-off of deferred financings costs in connection with this redemption aggregating $4,516.
(m)
In April 2017, the Company redeemed $450,000 of the senior notes from proceeds from the Cequel Term Loan facility.
(n)
As a result of the repayment of these notes in February 2018, discussed in Note 20, the carrying amount of these Notes has been classified as long-term indebtedness.
(o)
The issuers of these notes have no ability to service interest or principal on the notes, other than through any dividends or distributions received from CSC Holdings. CSC Holdings is restricted, in certain circumstances, from paying dividends or distributions to the issuers by the terms of the CVC Credit Facilities Agreement.
(p)
The issuers of these notes have no ability to service interest or principal on the notes, other than through any contributions/distributions from Cequel Communications, LLC (an indirect subsidiary of Cequel and the parent of Altice US Finance I). Cequel Communications, LLC is restricted in certain circumstances, from paying dividends or distributions to the issuers by the terms of the Cequel Credit Facilities Agreement.
The indentures under which the senior notes and debentures were issued contain various covenants.  The Company was in compliance with all of its financial covenants under these indentures as of December 31, 2017.
CSC Holdings 5.5% Senior Guaranteed Notes due 2027
In September 2016, CSC Holdings issued $1,310,000 aggregate principal amount of 5.50% senior guaranteed notes due April 15, 2027. The 2027 Guaranteed Notes are senior unsecured obligations and rank pari passu in right of payment with all of the existing and future senior indebtedness, including the existing senior notes and the Credit Facilities and rank senior in right of payment to all of existing and future subordinated indebtedness.
As discussed above , in October 2016, CSC Holdings used the proceeds from the issuance of the 2027 Guaranteed Notes (after the deduction of fees and expenses) to prepay the outstanding loans under the CVC Term Credit Facility that were not extended pursuant to the extension amendment on September 9,2016. In connection with the issuance of the 2027 Guaranteed Notes, the Company incurred deferred financing costs of approximately $5,575, which are being amortized to interest expense over the term of the 2027 Guaranteed Notes.
Cablevision Acquisition Notes
The $1,000,000 principal amount of the 2025 Guaranteed Notes bear interest at a rate of 6.625% per annum and were issued at a price of 100.00%. Interest on the 2025 Guaranteed Notes is payable semi-annually on January 15 and July 15, commencing on July 15, 2016. These 2025 Guaranteed Notes are guaranteed on a senior basis by the Initial Guarantors.
The $1,800,000 principal amount of the 2023 Notes and $2,000,000 principal amount of the 2025 Notes, bear interest at a rate of 10.125% and 10.875%, respectively, per annum and were issued at prices of 100.00%. Interest on the 2023 Notes and 2025 Notes is payable semi-annually on January 15 and July 15, which began on July 15, 2016.
Deferred financing costs of approximately $76,579 incurred in connection with the issuance of the Cablevision Acquisition Notes are being amortized to interest expense over the term of the Cablevision Acquisition Notes.
The indentures under which the Cablevision and CSC Holdings Senior Guaranteed Notes and Senior Notes and Debentures were issued contain certain covenants and agreements with respect to investment grade debt securities, including limitations on the ability of CSC Holdings and its restricted subsidiaries to (i) incur or guarantee additional indebtedness, (ii) make investments or other restricted payments, (iii) create liens, (iv) sell assets and subsidiary stock, (v) pay dividends or make other distributions or repurchase or redeem our capital stock or subordinated debt, (vi) engage in certain transactions with affiliates, (vii) enter into agreements that restrict the payment of dividends by subsidiaries or the repayment of intercompany loans and advances, and (viii) engage in mergers or consolidations, in each case subject to certain exceptions. The indentures also contain certain customary events of default. If an event of default occurs, the obligations under the Cablevision Acquisition Notes may be accelerated.
As of December 31, 2017, Cablevision and CSC Holdings were in compliance with all of its financial covenants under the indentures under which the senior notes and debentures and senior guaranteed notes were issued.
Cequel Senior Secured Notes
On June 12, 2015, Altice US Finance I Corporation, an indirect subsidiary of Altice N.V., issued $1,100,000 principal amount of senior secured notes (the ‘‘Cequel 2023 Senior Secured Notes’’), the proceeds from which were placed in escrow to finance a portion of the purchase price for the Cequel Acquisition. The Cequel 2023 Senior Secured Notes bear interest at a rate of 5.375% per annum and were issued at a price of 100.00%. Interest on the Cequel 2023 Senior Secured Notes is payable semi-annually on January 15 and July 15 of each year. Following the consummation of the Cequel Acquisition and related transactions the equity interests in Altice US Finance I Corporation were contributed through one or more intermediary steps to Suddenlink, and the Senior Secured Notes were guaranteed by Cequel Communications Holdings II LLC, Suddenlink and certain of the subsidiaries of Suddenlink and are secured by certain assets of Cequel Communications Holdings II LLC, Suddenlink and its subsidiaries.
On April 26, 2016, Altice US Finance I Corporation issued $1,500,000 aggregate principal amount of senior secured notes (the ‘‘Cequel 2026 Senior Secured Notes’’). The proceeds from the sale were used to repay the $1,477,200 remaining balance under the previous credit facility and to pay related fees and expenses. The Cequel 2026 Senior Secured Notes mature on May 15, 2026 and bear interest at a rate of 5.50% annually. Interest on the Cequel 2026 Senior Secured Notes is payable semi-annually on May 15 and November 15 of each year, commencing on November 15, 2016. Deferred financing costs recorded in connection with the issuance of these notes amounted to $13,773 and are being amortized over the term of the notes.
Cequel Senior Notes
On June 12, 2015, Altice US Finance II Corporation, an indirect subsidiary of Altice N.V., issued $300,000 principal amount of the Cequel 2025 Senior Notes, the proceeds from which were placed in escrow, to finance a portion of the purchase price for the Cequel Acquisition. The Cequel 2025 Senior Notes were issued by the Cequel 2025 Senior Notes Issuer, an indirect subsidiary of Altice N.V., bear interest at a rate of 7.75% per annum and were issued at a price of 100.00%. Interest on the Cequel 2025 Senior Notes is payable semi-annually on January 15 and July 15 of each year. Following the consummation of the Cequel Acquisition and related transactions, the Cequel 2025 Senior Notes Issuer merged into Cequel, the Cequel 2025 Senior Notes became the obligations of Cequel and Cequel Capital Corporation became the co-issuer of the Cequel 2025 Senior Notes.
On June 12, 2015, Altice US Finance S.A., an indirect subsidiary of Altice N.V. issued $320,000 principal amount of the 7.75% Senior Notes due 2025 (the ‘‘Holdco Notes’’), the proceeds from which were placed in escrow, to finance a portion of the purchase price for the Cequel Acquisition. The Holdco Notes bear interest at a rate of 7.75% per annum and were issued at a price of 98.275%. Interest on the Holdco Notes is payable semi-annually on January 15 and July 15 of each year. The Holdco Notes were automatically exchanged into an equal aggregate principal amount of Cequel 2025 Senior Notes at Cequel during the second quarter of 2016.
The Cequel Indentures contain certain covenants, agreements and events of default which are customary with respect to non-investment grade debt securities, including limitations on the Company’s ability to incur additional indebtedness, pay dividends on or make other distributions or repurchase the Company’s capital stock, make certain investments, enter into certain types of transactions with affiliates, create liens and sell certain assets or merge with or into other companies.
Notes Payable to Affiliates and Related Parties
On June 21, 2016, in connection with the Cablevision Acquisition, the Company issued notes payable to affiliates and related parties aggregating $1,750,000, of which $875,000 bore interest at 10.75% and matured on December 20, 2023 and $875,000 bore interest at 11% and matured on December 20, 2024.
As discussed in Note 1, in connection with the Company's IPO, the Company converted the notes payable to affiliates and related parties (together with accrued and unpaid interest of $529 and applicable premium of $513,723) into shares of the Company’s common stock at the IPO price. The premium was recorded as a loss on extinguishment of debt on the Company's statement of operations for the year ended December 31, 2017. In connection with the conversion of the notes, the Company recorded a credit to paid in capital of $2,264,252.
For the year ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company recognized interest expense of $90,405 and $102,557 related to these notes prior to their conversion.
Summary of Debt Maturities
The future maturities of debt payable by the Company under its various debt obligations outstanding as of December 31, 2017, including notes payable, collateralized indebtedness (see Note 10), and capital leases, are as follows:
Years Ending December 31,
Cablevision
 
Cequel
 
Total
2018
$
1,619,094

 
$
16,518

 
$
1,635,612

2019
565,604

 
18,310

 
583,914

2020
552,902

 
1,062,713

 
1,615,615

2021
2,921,269

 
1,262,723

 
4,183,992

2022
680,700

 
12,734

 
693,434

Thereafter
9,380,513

 
4,416,270

 
13,796,783


The amounts in the table above do not include the effects of the debt transactions discussed in Note 20.
DERIVATIVE CONTRACTS AND COLLATERALIZED INDEBTEDNESS
DERIVATIVE CONTRACTS AND COLLATERALIZED INDEBTEDNESS
DERIVATIVE CONTRACTS AND COLLATERALIZED INDEBTEDNESS
Prepaid Forward Contracts
The Company has entered into various transactions to limit the exposure against equity price risk on its shares of Comcast Corporation ("Comcast") common stock.  The Company has monetized all of its stock holdings in Comcast through the execution of prepaid forward contracts, collateralized by an equivalent amount of the respective underlying stock.  At maturity, the contracts provide for the option to deliver cash or shares of Comcast stock with a value determined by reference to the applicable stock price at maturity.  These contracts, at maturity, are expected to offset declines in the fair value of these securities below the hedge price per share while allowing the Company to retain upside appreciation from the hedge price per share to the relevant cap price.  
The Company received cash proceeds upon execution of the prepaid forward contracts discussed above which has been reflected as collateralized indebtedness in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.  In addition, the Company separately accounts for the equity derivative component of the prepaid forward contracts.  These equity derivatives have not been designated as hedges for accounting purposes.  Therefore, the net fair values of the equity derivatives have been reflected in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets as an asset or liability and the net increases or decreases in the fair value of the equity derivative component of the prepaid forward contracts are included in gain (loss) on derivative contracts in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.
All of the Company's monetization transactions are obligations of its wholly-owned subsidiaries that are not part of CSC Holdings' Restricted Group; however, CSC Holdings has provided guarantees of the subsidiaries' ongoing contract payment expense obligations and potential payments that could be due as a result of an early termination event (as defined in the agreements).  If any one of these contracts were terminated prior to its scheduled maturity date, the Company would be obligated to repay the fair value of the collateralized indebtedness less the sum of the fair values of the underlying stock and equity collar, calculated at the termination date.  As of December 31, 2017, the Company did not have an early termination shortfall relating to any of these contracts.
The Company monitors the financial institutions that are counterparties to its equity derivative contracts.  All of the counterparties to such transactions carry investment grade credit ratings as of December 31, 2017.
Put/Call Options
In the third quarter of 2017, the Company entered into a put-call contract that expired in the third quarter of 2018 whereby the Company sold a put option and purchased a call option with the same strike price. These put-call options were settled as of December 31, 2017 and the Company recorded a loss of $97,410 for the year ended December 31, 2017, which represents the difference between the strike price and the closing price of the underlying shares.
Interest Rate Swap Contracts
In June 2016, the Company entered into two fixed to floating interest rate swap contracts. One fixed to floating interest rate swap is converting $750,000 from a fixed rate of 1.6655% to six-month LIBO rate and a second tranche of $750,000 from a fixed rate of 1.68% to six-month LIBO rate. The objective of these swaps is to cover the exposure of the Cequel 2026 Senior Secured Notes issued by Cequel to changes in the market interest rate. These swap contracts were not designated as hedges for accounting purposes. Accordingly, the changes in the fair value of these interest rate swap contracts are recorded through the statements of operations.
The Company does not hold or issue derivative instruments for trading or speculative purposes.
The following represents the location of the assets and liabilities associated with the Company's derivative instruments within the consolidated balance sheets:
 
 
 
 
Asset Derivatives
 
Liability Derivatives
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments
 
Balance Sheet
Location
 
Fair Value at December 31, 2017
 
Fair Value at December 31, 2016
 
Fair Value at December 31, 2017
 
Fair Value at December 31, 2016
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Prepaid forward contracts
 
Derivative contracts, current
 
$
52,545

 
$
352

 
$
(52,545
)
 
$
(13,158
)
Prepaid forward contracts
 
Derivative contracts, long-term
 
—

 
10,604

 
(109,504
)
 
—

Interest rate swap contracts
 
Liabilities under derivative contracts, long-term
 
—

 
—

 
(77,902
)
 
(78,823
)
 
 
 
 
$
52,545

 
$
10,956

 
$
(239,951
)
 
$
(91,981
)

Loss related to the Company's derivative contracts related to the Comcast common stock for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 of $(138,920) and $(53,696), respectively, are reflected in gain (loss) on derivative contracts, net in the Company's consolidated statements of operations.
For the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company recorded a gain on investments of $237,354 and $141,896, respectively, primarily representing the net increase in the fair values of the investment securities pledged as collateral. 
For the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company recorded a gain (loss) on interest rate swap contracts of $5,482 and $(72,961), respectively.
Settlements of Collateralized Indebtedness
The following table summarizes the settlement of the Company's collateralized indebtedness relating to Comcast shares that were settled by delivering cash equal to the collateralized loan value, net of the value of the related equity derivative contracts during the year ended December 31, 2017: 
Number of shares (a)
26,815,368

Collateralized indebtedness settled
$
(774,703
)
Derivatives contracts settled
(56,356
)
 
(831,059
)
Proceeds from new monetization contracts
838,794

Net cash proceeds
$
7,735

 
(a)
Share amounts are adjusted for the 2 for 1 stock split in February 2017.
The cash to settle the collateralized indebtedness was obtained from the proceeds of new monetization contracts covering an equivalent number of Comcast shares.  The terms of the new contracts allow the Company to retain upside participation in Comcast shares up to each respective contract's upside appreciation limit with downside exposure limited to the respective hedge price. 
In April 2017, the Company entered into new monetization contracts related to 32,153,118 shares of Comcast common stock held by Cablevision, which synthetically reversed the existing contracts related to these shares (the "Synthetic Monetization Closeout"). As the existing collateralized debt matures, the Company will settle the contracts with proceeds received from the new monetization contracts. The new monetization contracts mature on April 28, 2021. The new monetization contracts provide the Company with downside protection below the hedge price of $35.47 and upside benefit of stock price appreciation up to $44.72 per share. In connection with the execution of these contracts, the Company recorded (i) the fair value of the equity derivative contracts of $53,316 (in a net asset position), (ii) notes payable of $111,657, representing the fair value of the existing equity derivative contracts, in a liability position, and (iii) a discount on notes payable of $58,341.
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT
The fair value hierarchy is based on inputs to valuation techniques that are used to measure fair value that are either observable or unobservable.  Observable inputs reflect assumptions market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability based on market data obtained from independent sources while unobservable inputs reflect a reporting entity's pricing based upon their own market assumptions.  The fair value hierarchy consists of the following three levels:
•
Level I - Quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets.
•
Level II - Quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations whose inputs are observable or whose significant value drivers are observable.
•
Level III - Instruments whose significant value drivers are unobservable.
The following table presents for each of these hierarchy levels, the Company's financial assets and financial liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
 
Fair Value
Hierarchy
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
Money market funds (of which $14,700 is classified as restricted cash as of December 31, 2016)
Level I
 
$
5,949

 
$
100,139

Investment securities pledged as collateral
Level I
 
1,720,357

 
1,483,030

Prepaid forward contracts
Level II
 
52,545

 
10,956

Liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
Prepaid forward contracts
Level II
 
162,049

 
13,158

Interest rate swap contracts
Level II
 
77,902

 
78,823

Contingent consideration related to 2017 acquisitions
Level III
 
32,233

 
—


The Company's cash equivalents, investment securities and investment securities pledged as collateral are classified within Level I of the fair value hierarchy because they are valued using quoted market prices.
The Company's derivative contracts and liabilities under derivative contracts on the Company's balance sheets are valued using market-based inputs to valuation models.  These valuation models require a variety of inputs, including contractual terms, market prices, yield curves, and measures of volatility.  When appropriate, valuations are adjusted for various factors such as liquidity, bid/offer spreads and credit risk considerations.  Such adjustments are generally based on available market evidence.  Since model inputs can generally be verified and do not involve significant management judgment, the Company has concluded that these instruments should be classified within Level II of the fair value hierarchy.
The fair value of the contingent consideration related to acquisitions in the first and fourth quarters of 2017 of $30,000 and $2,233, respectively, was estimated based on a probability assessment of attaining the targets. The estimated amount recorded as of December 31, 2017 is the full contractual amount for the first quarter acquisition and approximately 51% of the contractual amount for the acquisition that occurred in the fourth quarter.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate fair value of each class of financial instruments for which it is practicable to estimate:
Credit Facility Debt, Collateralized Indebtedness, Senior Notes and Debentures, Senior Secured Notes, Senior Guaranteed Notes, Notes Payable to Affiliates and Related Parties and Notes Payable
The fair values of each of the Company's debt instruments are based on quoted market prices for the same or similar issues or on the current rates offered to the Company for instruments of the same remaining maturities. The fair value of notes payable is based primarily on the present value of the remaining payments discounted at the borrowing cost.
The carrying values, estimated fair values, and classification under the fair value hierarchy of the Company's financial instruments, excluding those that are carried at fair value in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets, are summarized as follows:
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
Fair Value
Hierarchy
 
Carrying
Amount (a)
 
Estimated
Fair Value
 
Carrying
Amount (a)
 
Estimated
Fair Value
Altice USA debt instruments:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes payable to affiliates and related parties
Level II
 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
1,750,000

 
$
1,837,876

CSC Holdings debt instruments:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Credit facility debt
Level II
 
3,393,306

 
3,435,000

 
2,631,887

 
2,675,256

Collateralized indebtedness
Level II
 
1,349,474

 
1,305,932

 
1,286,069

 
1,280,048

Senior guaranteed notes
Level II
 
2,291,185

 
2,420,000

 
2,289,494

 
2,416,375

Senior notes and debentures
Level II
 
6,409,889

 
7,221,846

 
6,732,816

 
7,731,150

Notes payable
Level II
 
56,956

 
55,289

 
13,726

 
13,260

Cablevision senior notes
Level II
 
1,818,115

 
1,931,239

 
2,742,082

 
2,920,056

Cequel debt instruments:
 
 


 


 


 


Cequel credit facility
Level II
 
1,250,217

 
1,258,675

 
812,903

 
815,000

Senior secured notes
Level II
 
2,570,506

 
2,658,930

 
2,566,802

 
2,689,750

Senior notes
Level II
 
2,770,737

 
2,983,615

 
3,176,131

 
3,517,275

Notes payable
Level II
 
8,946

 
8,945

 
—

 
—

 
 
 
$
21,919,331

 
$
23,279,471

 
$
24,001,910

 
$
25,896,046

 
(a)
Amounts are net of unamortized deferred financing costs and discounts/premiums.
The fair value estimates related to the Company's debt instruments presented above are made at a specific point in time, based on relevant market information and information about the financial instrument.  These estimates are subjective in nature and involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgments and therefore cannot be determined with precision.  Changes in assumptions could significantly affect the estimates.
INCOME TAXES
INCOME TAXES
INCOME TAXES
The Company files a federal consolidated and certain state combined income tax returns with its 80% or more owned subsidiaries.
Income tax benefit attributable to the Company's operations for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 consist of the following components:
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Current expense (benefit):
 
 
 
Federal
$
5,657

 
$
(981
)
State
12,509

 
5,310

 
18,166

 
4,329

Deferred benefit:
 
 
 
Federal
(2,088,652
)
 
(223,159
)
State
(782,492
)
 
(40,830
)
 
(2,871,144
)
 
(263,989
)
Tax benefit relating to uncertain tax positions
11

 
(6
)
Income tax benefit
$
(2,852,967
)
 
$
(259,666
)

The income tax benefit attributable to the Company's operations differs from the amount derived by applying the statutory federal rate to pretax loss principally due to the effect of the following items:
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Federal tax benefit at statutory rate
$
(465,972
)
 
$
(381,901
)
State income taxes, net of federal impact
(59,719
)
 
(39,336
)
Changes in the valuation allowance
(111
)
 
297

Impact of Federal Tax Reform
(2,337,900
)
 
—

Changes in the state rates used to measure deferred taxes, net of federal impact
(12,896
)
 
153,239

Tax benefit relating to uncertain tax positions
(253
)
 
(120
)
Non-deductible share-based compensation related to the carried unit plan
20,101

 
5,029

Non-deductible Cablevision Acquisition transaction costs
—

 
4,457

Other non-deductible expenses
3,349

 
1,551

Other, net
434

 
(2,882
)
Income tax benefit
$
(2,852,967
)
 
$
(259,666
)

Pursuant to the enactment of the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act ("Tax Reform") on December 22, 2017, the Company recorded a noncash deferred tax benefit of $2,337,900 to remeasure the net deferred tax liability to adjust for the reduction in the corporate federal income tax rate 35% to 21% which is effective on January 1, 2018. This adjustment results primarily from a decrease in the deferred tax liabilities with regard to fixed assets and intangibles, partially offset by a decrease in the deferred tax asset for the federal net operating loss carry forward (‘‘NOL’’). The noncash deferred tax benefit is provisional. Revised estimates and additional guidance regarding application of Tax Reform may require adjustments during the allowable measurement period.
Overall, Tax Reform will have a favorable impact on the Company’s income tax profile. Additional first-year depreciation deductions represent a significant timing benefit. Since Tax Reform only limits the deduction for NOLs arising in years beginning after December 31, 2017, the timing of the Company’s deductions with regard to its existing NOLs is largely unaffected. The Company will be subject to Tax Reform’s limitation on interest deductibility which is based on a limit calculated without regard to depreciation or amortization through 2021. The resulting interest deduction that is deferred, and can be carried forward indefinitely, is expected to fully reverse. However, as is the case with any future deductible temporary difference, management will evaluate realizability to determine whether a valuation allowance is required. Management does not expect that a valuation allowance will be required based on its preliminary estimate of the current facts and circumstances. Repeal of the alternative minimum tax will reduce projected tax payments in the short term while also providing for the refund of alternative minimum tax credits.
As described in Note 1, in June, 2016, (i) Cequel was contributed to Altice USA and (ii) Altice USA completed the Cablevision Acquisition. Accordingly, in the second quarter of 2016, Cequel and Cablevision joined the federal consolidated and certain state combined income tax returns of Altice USA. As a result, the applicate tax rate used to measure deferred tax assets and liabilities of Cequel increased, resulting in a noncash deferred income tax charge of $153,660.
The tax effects of temporary differences which give rise to significant portions of deferred tax assets or liabilities and the corresponding valuation allowance are as follows.
 
December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Noncurrent
 
 
 
NOLs and tax credit carry forwards
$
784,334

 
$
971,728

Compensation and benefit plans
48,280

 
93,939

Partnership investments
68,054

 
113,473

Restructuring liability
33,247

 
37,393

Other liabilities
38,140

 
45,561

Liabilities under derivative contracts
21,034

 
31,529

Interest deferred for tax purposes
128,516

 
39,633

Other
7,182

 
6,615

Deferred tax asset
1,128,787

 
1,339,871

Valuation allowance
(3,000
)
 
(3,125
)
Net deferred tax asset, noncurrent
1,125,787

 
1,336,746

Fixed assets and intangibles
(5,733,319
)
 
(9,065,635
)
Investments
(113,628
)
 
(187,795
)
Prepaid expenses
(8,007
)
 
(10,172
)
Fair value adjustments related to debt and deferred financing costs
(40,215
)
 
(30,535
)
Other
(5,733
)
 
(9,424
)
Deferred tax liability, noncurrent
(5,900,902
)
 
(9,303,561
)
Total net deferred tax liability
$
(4,775,115
)
 
$
(7,966,815
)

On January 1, 2017, the Company adopted ASU No. 2016-09 using the prospective transition method with respect to the presentation of excess tax benefits in the statement of cash flows. In connection with the adoption, a deferred tax asset of $310,771 for previously unrealized excess tax benefits related to share-based payment awards was recognized with the offset recorded to accumulated deficit.
As of December 31, 2017, the Company's federal NOLs were approximately $2,670,000.  The utilization of certain pre-merger NOLs of Cablevision and Cequel are limited pursuant to Internal Revenue Code Section 382. The Company does not expect such limitations to impact the ability to utilize the NOLs prior to their expiration.
As of December 31, 2017, the Company has $48,995 of alternative minimum tax credits which do not expire and $17,806 of research credits, expiring in varying amounts from 2023 through 2035.
Deferred tax assets have resulted primarily from the Company's future deductible temporary differences and NOLs. In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, management considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax asset will not be realized. In evaluating the need for a valuation allowance, management takes into account various factors, including the expected level of future taxable income, available tax planning strategies and reversals of existing taxable temporary differences. If such estimates and related assumptions change in the future, the Company may be required to record additional valuation allowances against its deferred tax assets, resulting in additional income tax expense in the Company's consolidated statements of operations. Management evaluates the realizability of the deferred tax assets and the need for additional valuation allowances quarterly. Pursuant to the Cablevision Acquisition and Cequel Acquisition, deferred tax liabilities resulting from the book fair value adjustment increased significantly and future taxable income that will result from the reversal of existing taxable temporary differences for which deferred tax liabilities are recognized is sufficient to conclude it is more likely than not that the Company will realize all of its gross deferred tax assets, except those deferred tax assets against which a valuation allowance has been recorded which relate to certain state NOLs.
In the normal course of business, the Company engages in transactions in which the income tax consequences may be uncertain. The Company's income tax returns are filed based on interpretation of tax laws and regulations. Such income tax returns are subject to examination by taxing authorities. For financial statement purposes, the Company only recognizes tax positions that it believes are more likely than not of being sustained. There is considerable judgment involved in determining whether positions taken or expected to be taken on the tax return are more likely than not of being sustained.
A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits associated with uncertain tax positions, excluding associated deferred tax benefits and accrued interest, is as follows:
Balance at January 1, 2016
$
4,025

Increases related to prior year tax positions
11

Balance at December 31, 2017
$
4,036


As of December 31, 2017, if all uncertain tax positions were sustained at the amounts reported or expected to be reported in the Company's tax returns, the elimination of the Company's unrecognized tax benefits, net of the deferred tax impact, would decrease income tax expense by $5,585.
In the second quarter of 2016, the Company changed its accounting policy on a prospective basis to present interest expense relating to uncertain tax positions as additional interest expense. For the year ended December 31, 2017, $659 of interest expense relating to uncertain tax position was recorded to interest expense.
The most significant jurisdictions in which the Company is required to file income tax returns include the states of New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, the City of New York, Texas and West Virginia. The State of New York is presently auditing income tax returns for years 2009 through 2011. The State of New Jersey is presently auditing income tax returns for years 2013 through 2015.
Management does not believe that the resolution of the ongoing income tax examination described above will have a material adverse impact on the financial position of the Company.  Changes in the liabilities for uncertain tax positions will be recognized in the interim period in which the positions are effectively settled or there is a change in factual circumstances.
SHARE BASED COMPENSATION
SHARE BASED COMPENSATION
SHARE BASED COMPENSATION
Carry Unit Plan
Certain employees of the Company and its affiliates received awards of units in a carry unit plan of Neptune Management LP, an entity which has an ownership interest in the Company. The awards generally vest as follows: 50% on the second anniversary of June 21, 2016 for Cablevision employees or December 21, 2015 for Cequel employees ("Base Date"), 25% on the third anniversary of the Base Date, and 25% on the fourth anniversary of the Base Date.  Neptune Holding US GP LLC, the general partner of Neptune Management LP, has the right to repurchase (or to assign to an affiliate, including the Company, the right to repurchase) vested awards held by employees for sixty days following their termination.  For performance-based awards under the plan, vesting occurs upon achievement or satisfaction of a specified performance condition. The Company considered the probability of achieving the established performance targets in determining the share-based compensation with respect to these awards at the end of each reporting period. The carry unit plan has 259,442,785 units authorized for issuance, of which 211,670,834 have been issued to employees of the Company and 11,300,000 have been issued to employees of Altice N.V. and affiliated companies as of December 31, 2017.
Beginning on the fourth anniversary of the Base Date, the holders of carry units have an annual opportunity (a sixty day period determined by the administrator of the plan) to sell their units back to Neptune Holding US GP LLC (or affiliate, including the Company, designated by Neptune Holding US GP LLC). Accordingly, the carry units are presented as temporary equity on the consolidated balance sheets at fair value. Adjustments to fair value at each reporting period are recorded in paid-in capital.
The right of Neptune Holding US GP LLC to assign to an affiliate, including the Company, the right to repurchase an employee’s vested units during the sixty-day period following termination, or to satisfy its obligation to repurchase an employee’s vested units during annual 60 day periods following the fourth anniversary of the Base Date, may be exercised by Neptune Holding US GP LLC in its discretion at the time a repurchase right or obligation arises. The carry unit plan requires the purchase price payable to the employee or former employee, as the case may be, to be paid in cash, a promissory note (with a term of not more than 3 years and bearing interest at the long-term applicable federal rate under Section 1274(d) of the Internal Revenue Code) or combination thereof, in each case as determined by Neptune Holding US GP LLC in its discretion at the time of the repurchase. Neptune Holding US GP LLC expects that vested units will be redeemed for shares of the Company's Class A common stock upon vesting.
The Company measures the cost of employee services received in exchange for carry units based on the fair value of the award at grant date. In addition these units are presented as temporary equity on our consolidated balance sheet at fair value. For carry unit awards granted in 2016, an option pricing model was used which requires subjective assumptions for which changes in these assumptions could materially affect the fair value of the carry units outstanding. The time to liquidity event assumption was based on management’s judgment. The equity volatility assumption was estimated using the historical weekly volatility of publicly traded comparable companies. The risk-free rate assumed was based on the U.S. Constant Maturity Treasury Rates for a period matching the expected time to liquidity event. The discount for lack of marketability was based on Finnerty's (2012) average-strike put option model.
For carry unit awards granted in the first and second quarter of 2017, the Company estimated the grant date fair value based on the value established in the Company's IPO.
The following table summarizes activity relating to carry units:
 
Number of Time
Vesting Awards
 
Number of Performance
Based Vesting Awards
 
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Balance, December 31, 2016
192,800,000

 
10,000,000

 
$
0.37

Granted
28,025,000

 
—

 
3.14

Forfeited
(7,854,166
)
 
—

 
0.37

Vested
(44,420,833
)
 
—

 
0.41

Balance, December 31, 2017
168,550,001

 
10,000,000

 
0.71


The weighted average fair value per unit was $1.76 and $2.50 as of December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2017, respectively. For the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company recognized an expense of $57,430 and $14,368, respectively, related to the push down of share-based compensation related to the carry unit plan of which approximately $55,258 and $9,849 related to units granted to employees of the Company and $2,172 and $4,519 related to employees of Altice N.V. and affiliated companies allocated to the Company.
Stock Option Plan
In connection with the Company's IPO, the Company adopted the Altice USA 2017 Long Term Incentive Plan (the "2017 LTIP"). Under the 2017 LTIP, the Company may grant awards of options, restricted shares, restricted share units, stock appreciation rights, performance stock, performance stock units and other awards. Under the 2017 LTIP, awards may be granted to officers, employees and consultants of the Company or any of its affiliates. The 2017 LTIP will be administered by the Company's Board of Directors (the "Board"), subject to the provision of the stockholders' agreement. The Board has delegated its authority to the Company's Compensation Committee. The Compensation Committee has the full power and authority to, among other things, select eligible participants, to grant awards in accordance with the 2017 LTIP, to determine the number of shares subject to each award or the cash amount payable in connection with an award and determine the terms and conditions of each award. The maximum aggregate number of shares that may be issued under the 2017 LTIP is 9,879,291. The Board has the authority to amend, suspend, or terminate the 2017 LTIP. No amendment, suspension or termination will be effective without the approval of the Company's stockholders if such approval is required under applicable laws, rules and regulations.
On December 30, 2017, the Company granted 5,110,747 nonqualified stock options under the 2017 LTIP. The stock options were granted with an exercise price of $19.48, equal to the 30 day volume weighted average of the closing price of Class A common stock as of the grant date. Certain nonqualified stock options (2,730,949 awards) will vest 100% on December 21, 2020 and 2,379,798 awards will vest 50% on the second anniversary, 25% on the third anniversary and 25% on the fourth anniversary of the date of grant, generally subject to continued employment with the Company or any of its affiliates, and expire ten years from the date of grant.
The Company calculated the fair value of each option award on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes valuation model.  The Company's computation of expected life was determined based on the simplified method (the average of the vesting period and option term) due to the Company's lack of recent historical data for similar awards.  The interest rate for periods within the contractual life of the stock option was based on interest yields for U.S. Treasury instruments in effect at the time of grant.  The Company's computation of expected volatility was based on historical volatility of its common stock and the expected volatility of comparable publicly-traded companies who granted options that had similar expected lives.
The following aggregate assumptions were used to calculate the fair values of stock option awards granted on December 30, 2017:
Risk-free interest rate
 
2.30%
Expected life (in years)
 
6.44
Dividend yield
 
—%
Volatility
 
33.95%
Grant date fair value
 
$8.77
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Commitments
Future cash payments and commitments required under arrangements pursuant to contracts entered into by the Company in the normal course of business as of December 31, 2017 are as follows:
 
Payments Due by Period
 
Total
 
Year 1
 
Years 2-3
 
Years 4-5
 
More than
5 years
Off balance sheet arrangements:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Purchase obligations (a)
$
8,423,735

 
$
3,071,514

 
$
4,179,616

 
$
1,092,786

 
$
79,819

Guarantees (b)
36,224

 
34,716

 
1,508

 
—

 
—

Letters of credit (c)
129,473

 
200

 
120

 
129,153

 
—

Total
$
8,589,432

 
$
3,106,430

 
$
4,181,244

 
$
1,221,939

 
$
79,819

 
(a)
Purchase obligations primarily include contractual commitments with various programming vendors to provide video services to customers and minimum purchase obligations to purchase goods or services.  Future fees payable under contracts with programming vendors are based on numerous factors, including the number of customers receiving the programming.  Amounts reflected above related to programming agreements are based on the number of customers receiving the programming as of December 31, 2017 multiplied by the per customer rates or the stated annual fee, as applicable, contained in the executed agreements in effect as of December 31, 2017. 
(b)
Includes franchise and performance surety bonds primarily for the Company's cable television systems. 
(c)
Represent letters of credit guaranteeing performance to municipalities and public utilities and payment of insurance premiums. Payments due by period for these arrangements represent the year in which the commitment expires although payments under these arrangements are required only in the event of nonperformance.
The table above does not include obligations for payments required to be made under multi-year franchise agreements based on a percentage of revenues generated from video service per year.
Many of the Company's franchise agreements and utility pole leases require the Company to remove its cable wires and other equipment upon termination of the respective agreements.  The Company has concluded that the fair value of these asset retirement obligations cannot be reasonably estimated since the range of potential settlement dates is not determinable.
Legal Matters
Following expiration of the affiliation agreements for carriage of certain Fox broadcast stations and cable networks on October 16, 2010, News Corporation terminated delivery of the programming feeds to Cablevision, and as a result, those stations and networks were unavailable on Cablevision's cable television systems. On October 30, 2010, Cablevision and Fox reached an agreement on new affiliation agreements for these stations and networks, and carriage was restored. Several purported class action lawsuits alleging breach of contract, unjust enrichment, and consumer fraud and seeking unspecified compensatory damages, punitive damages and attorneys' fees were subsequently filed on behalf of Cablevision's customers seeking recovery for the lack of Fox programming. Those lawsuits were consolidated in an action before the U. S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York, and a consolidated complaint was filed in that court on February 22, 2011. On March 28, 2012, in ruling on Cablevision's motion to dismiss, the Court dismissed all of plaintiffs’ claims, except for breach of contract.  On March 30, 2014, the Court granted plaintiffs’ motion for class certification. The parties have entered into a settlement agreement. The Court granted preliminary approval of the settlement agreement on January 8, 2018, and set a hearing for final approval on May 17, 2018. As of December 31, 2016, the Company had an estimated liability associated with a potential settlement totaling $5,200. During the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company recorded an additional liability of $800. The amount ultimately paid in connection with the proposed settlement could exceed the amount recorded.
In October 2015, the New York Attorney General began an investigation into whether the major Internet Service Providers in New York State deliver advertised Internet speeds. The Company is cooperating with this investigation and is currently in discussions with the New York Attorney General about resolving the investigation as to the Company, which resolution may involve operational and/or financial components. While the Company is unable to predict the outcome of the investigation or these discussions, at this time it does not expect that the outcome will have a material adverse effect on its operations, financial conditions or cash flows.
The Company receives notices from third parties and, in some cases, is named as a defendant in certain lawsuits claiming infringement of various patents relating to various aspects of the Company's businesses.  In certain of these cases other industry participants are also defendants.  In certain of these cases the Company expects that any potential liability would be the responsibility of the Company's equipment vendors pursuant to applicable contractual indemnification provisions.  The Company believes that the claims are without merit and intends to defend the actions vigorously, but is unable to predict the outcome of these matters or reasonably estimate a range of possible loss.
In addition to the matters discussed above, the Company is party to various lawsuits, some involving claims for substantial damages.  Although the outcome of these other matters cannot be predicted and the impact of the final resolution of these other matters on the Company's results of operations in a particular subsequent reporting period is not known, management does not believe that the resolution of these other lawsuits will have a material adverse effect on the financial position of the Company or the ability of the Company to meet its financial obligations as they become due.
SEGMENT INFORMATION
SEGMENT INFORMATION
SEGMENT INFORMATION
The Company classifies its operations into two reportable segments: Cablevision and Cequel. The Company's reportable segments are strategic business units that are managed separately. The Company evaluates segment performance based on several factors, of which the primary financial measure is business segment Adjusted EBITDA, a non-GAAP measure.  The Company defines Adjusted EBITDA as net income (loss) excluding income taxes, income (loss) from discontinued operations, non-operating other income or expenses, loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs, gain (loss) on interest rate swap contracts, gain (loss) on derivative contracts, gain (loss) on investments, interest expense (including cash interest expense), interest income, depreciation and amortization (including impairments), share-based compensation expense or benefit, restructuring expense or credits and transaction expenses.  The Company has presented the components that reconcile Adjusted EBITDA to operating income, an accepted GAAP measure:
 
Year Ended December 31, 2017
 
Year Ended December 31, 2016
 
Cablevision
 
Cequel
 
Total
 
Cablevision (a)
 
Cequel
 
Total
Operating income
$
345,063

 
$
520,321

 
$
865,384

 
$
74,865

 
$
384,801

 
$
459,666

Share-based compensation
42,060

 
15,370

 
57,430

 
9,164

 
5,204

 
14,368

Restructuring and other expense
112,384

 
40,017

 
152,401

 
212,150

 
28,245

 
240,395

Depreciation and amortization (including impairments)
2,251,614

 
678,861

 
2,930,475

 
963,665

 
736,641

 
1,700,306

Adjusted EBITDA
$
2,751,121

 
$
1,254,569

 
$
4,005,690

 
$
1,259,844

 
$
1,154,891

 
$
2,414,735

 
(a)
Reflects operating results of Cablevision from the date of acquisition.
A reconciliation of reportable segment amounts to the Company's consolidated balances are as follows:
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Operating income for reportable segments
$
865,384

 
$
459,666

Items excluded from operating income:
 
 
 
Interest expense
(1,603,132
)
 
(1,456,541
)
Interest income
1,921

 
13,811

Gain on investments, net
237,354

 
141,896

Loss on derivative contracts, net
(236,330
)
 
(53,696
)
Gain (loss) on interest rate swap contracts
5,482

 
(72,961
)
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs
(600,240
)
 
(127,649
)
Other income (expense), net
(1,788
)
 
4,329

Loss before income taxes
$
(1,331,349
)
 
$
(1,091,145
)

The following table presents the composition of revenue by segment:
 
Year Ended December 31, 2017
 
Year Ended December 31, 2016
 
Cablevision (a)
 
Cequel
 
Eliminations
 
Total
 
Cablevision (a)
 
Cequel
 
Total
Residential:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Pay TV
$
3,113,238

 
$
1,101,507

 
$
—

 
$
4,214,745

 
$
1,638,691

 
$
1,120,525

 
$
2,759,216

Broadband
1,603,015

 
960,757

 
—

 
2,563,772

 
782,615

 
834,414

 
1,617,029

Telephony
693,478

 
130,503

 
—

 
823,981

 
376,034

 
153,939

 
529,973

Business services and wholesale
923,161

 
375,656

 
—

 
1,298,817

 
468,632

 
350,909

 
819,541

Advertising
321,149

 
73,509

 
(2,792
)
 
391,866

 
163,678

 
88,371

 
252,049

Other
10,747

 
22,642

 
—

 
33,389

 
14,402

 
25,002

 
39,404

Total Revenue
$
6,664,788

 
$
2,664,574

 
$
(2,792
)
 
$
9,326,570

 
$
3,444,052

 
$
2,573,160

 
$
6,017,212

 
(a)
Reflects revenue from the Cablevision Acquisition Date.
Capital expenditures (cash basis) by reportable segment are presented below:
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
 
 
 
 
Cablevision
$
711,432

 
$
298,357

Cequel
279,932

 
327,184

 
$
991,364

 
$
625,541


All revenues and assets of the Company's reportable segments are attributed to or located in the United States.
Total assets by segment are not provided as such amounts are not regularly reviewed by the chief operating decision maker for purposes of decision making regarding resource allocations.
BENEFIT PLANS
Benefit Plans
BENEFIT PLANS
Qualified and Non-qualified Defined Benefit Plans
Retirement Plans (collectively, the "Defined Benefit Plans")
The Company sponsors a non-contributory qualified defined benefit cash balance retirement plan (the "Pension Plan") for the benefit of non-union employees of Cablevision, as well as certain employees covered by a collective bargaining agreement in Brooklyn.
The Company maintains an unfunded non-contributory non-qualified defined benefit excess cash balance plan ("Excess Cash Balance Plan") covering certain current and former employees of Cablevision who participate in the Pension Plan. The Company also maintained an additional unfunded non-contributory, non-qualified defined benefit plan ("CSC Supplemental Benefit Plan") for the benefit of certain former officers and employees of Cablevision which provided that, upon retiring on or after normal retirement age, a participant receives a benefit equal to a specified percentage of the participant's average compensation, as defined.  All participants were 100% vested in the CSC Supplemental Benefit Plan.  The benefits related to the CSC Supplemental Plan were paid to participants in January 2017 and the plan was terminated.   
Cablevision's Pension Plan and the Excess Cash Balance Plan are frozen and no employee of Cablevision who was not already a participant could participate in the plans and no further annual Pay Credits (a certain percentage of employees' eligible pay) are made.  Existing account balances under the plans continue to be credited with monthly interest in accordance with the terms of the plans.
Plan Results for Defined Benefit Plans
Summarized below is the funded status and the amounts recorded on the Company's consolidated balance sheets for all of the Company's Defined Benefit Plans at December 31, 2017 and 2016:
 
December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Change in projected benefit obligation:
 
 
 
Projected benefit obligation at beginning of year
$
382,517

 
$
403,963

Interest cost
11,786

 
14,077

Actuarial loss (gain)
13,171

 
(11,429
)
Curtailments
6,332

 
3,968

Settlements
6,910

 
—

Benefits paid
(121,650
)
 
(28,062
)
Projected benefit obligation at end of year
299,066

 
382,517

 
 
 
 
Change in plan assets:
 
 
 

Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year
284,118

 
297,846

Actual return on plan assets, net
6,356

 
5,829

Employer contributions
26,944

 
8,505

Benefits paid
(121,650
)
 
(28,062
)
Fair value of plan assets at end of year
195,768

 
284,118

Unfunded status at end of year
$
(103,298
)
 
$
(98,399
)

The accumulated benefit obligation for the Company's Defined Benefit Plans aggregated $299,066 and $382,517 at December 31, 2017 and 2016.
The Company's net funded status relating to its Defined Benefit Plans at December 31, 2017 and 2016, is as follows:
 
December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Defined Benefit Plans
$
(103,298
)
 
$
(98,399
)
Less: Current portion related to nonqualified plans
135

 
14,293

Long-term defined benefit plan obligations
$
(103,163
)
 
$
(84,106
)
 
Components of the net periodic benefit cost, recorded in other operating expenses, for the Defined Benefit Plans for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, is as follows:
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
 
2017
 
2016
Interest cost
$
11,786

 
$
6,946

Expected return on plan assets, net
(4,907
)
 
(4,022
)
Curtailment loss
3,137

 
231

Settlement loss (income) (reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss) (a)
1,845

 
(154
)
Net periodic benefit cost
$
11,861

 
$
3,001

 
(a)
As a result of benefit payments to terminated or retired individuals exceeding the service and interest costs for the Pension Plan and the Excess Cash Balance Pension Plan during the year ended December 31, 2017 and during the period June 21, 2016 through December 31, 2016, the Company recognized a non-cash settlement loss that represented the acceleration of the recognition of a portion of the previously unrecognized actuarial losses recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss on the Company’s consolidated balance sheet relating to these plans.
Plan Assumptions for Defined Benefit Plans
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic cost (made at the beginning of the year) and benefit obligations (made at the end of the year) for the Defined Benefit Plans are as follows:
 
Net Periodic Benefit Cost
 
Benefit Obligations at December 31,
 
For the Year Ended December 31, 2017
 
For the Period June 21, 2016 to
December 31, 2016
 
2017
 
2016
Discount rate (a)
3.69
%
 
3.53
%
 
3.50
%
 
3.81
%
Rate of increase in future compensation levels
—
%
 
—
%
 
—
%
 
—
%
Expected rate of return on plan assets (Pension Plan only)
3.90
%
 
3.97
%
 
N/A

 
N/A

 
(a)
The discount rate of 3.53% for the period June 21, 2016 through December 31, 2016, represents the average of the quarterly discount rates used to remeasure the Company's projected benefit obligation and net periodic benefit cost in connection with the recognition of settlement losses discussed above.
The discount rate used by the Company in calculating the net periodic benefit cost for the Cash Balance Plan and the Excess Cash Balance Plan was determined based on the expected future benefit payments for the plans and from the Towers Watson U.S. Rate Link: 40-90 Discount Rate Model. The model was developed by examining the yields on selected highly rated corporate bonds.
The Company's expected long-term return on Pension Plan assets is based on a periodic review and modeling of the plan's asset allocation structure over a long-term horizon.  Expectations of returns and risk for each asset class are the most important of the assumptions used in the review and modeling and are based on comprehensive reviews of historical data, forward looking economic outlook, and economic/financial market theory.  The expected long-term rate of return was chosen as a best estimate and was determined by (a) historical real returns, net of inflation, for the asset classes covered by the investment policy, and (b) projections of inflation over the long-term period during which benefits are payable to plan participants. 
Pension Plan Assets and Investment Policy
The weighted average asset allocations of the Pension Plan at December 31, 2017 and 2016 were as follows:
 
Plan Assets at December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Asset Class:
 
 
 
Mutual funds
32
%
 
43
%
Fixed income securities
66

 
55

Cash equivalents and other
2

 
2

 
100
%
 
100
%

The Pension Plan's investment objectives reflect an overall low risk tolerance to stock market volatility.  This strategy allows for the Pension Plan to invest in portfolios that would obtain a rate of return throughout economic cycles, commensurate with the investment risk and cash flow needs of the Pension Plan. The investments held in the Pension Plan are readily marketable and can be sold to fund benefit payment obligations of the plan as they become payable.
Investment allocation decisions are formally made by the Company's Benefit Committee, which takes into account investment advice provided by its external investment consultant.  The investment consultant takes into account expected long-term risk, return, correlation, and other prudent investment assumptions when recommending asset classes and investment managers to the Company's Benefit Committee. The major categories of the Pension Plan assets are cash equivalents and bonds which are marked-to-market on a daily basis.  Due to the Pension Plan's significant holdings in long-term government and non-government fixed income securities, the Pension Plan's assets are subjected to interest rate risk; specifically, a rising interest rate environment. Consequently, an increase in interest rates may cause a decrease to the overall liability of the Pension Plan thus creating a hedge against rising interest rates. In addition, a portion of the Pension Plan's bond portfolio is invested in foreign debt securities where there could be foreign currency risks associated with them, as well as in non-government securities which are subject to credit risk of the bond issuer defaulting on interest and/or principal payments. 
Investments at Estimated Fair Value
The fair values of the assets of the Pension Plan at December 31, 2017 by asset class are as follows:
Asset Class
Level I
 
Level II
 
Level III
 
Total
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Mutual funds
$
61,833

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
61,833

Fixed income securities held in a portfolio:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign issued corporate debt
—

 
10,721

 
—

 
10,721

U.S. corporate debt
—

 
39,992

 
—

 
39,992

Government debt
—

 
4,645

 
—

 
4,645

U.S. Treasury securities
—

 
62,601

 
—

 
62,601

Asset-backed securities
—

 
10,978

 
—

 
10,978

Other
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

Cash equivalents (a)
6,691

 
2,782

 
—

 
9,473

Total (b)
$
68,524

 
$
131,719

 
$
—

 
$
200,243

 
(a)
A significant portion represents an investment in a short-term investment fund that invests primarily in securities of high quality and low risk.
(b)
Excludes cash and net payables relating to the purchase of securities that were not settled as of December 31, 2017.
The fair values of the assets of the Pension Plan at December 31, 2016 by asset class are as follows:
Asset Class
Level I
 
Level II
 
Level III
 
Total
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Mutual funds
$
121,356

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
121,356

Fixed income securities held in a portfolio:

 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign issued corporate debt
—

 
13,583

 
—

 
13,583

U.S. corporate debt
—

 
48,046

 
—

 
48,046

Government debt
—

 
4,810

 
—

 
4,810

U.S. Treasury securities
—

 
77,285

 
—

 
77,285

Asset-backed securities
—

 
14,065

 
—

 
14,065

Other
—

 
247

 
—

 
247

Cash equivalents (a)
2,593

 
3,089

 
—

 
5,682

Total (b)
$
123,949

 
$
161,125

 
$
—

 
$
285,074

 
(a)
A significant portion represents an investment in a short-term investment fund that invests primarily in securities of high quality and low risk.
(b)
Excludes cash and net payables relating to the purchase of securities that were not settled as of December 31, 2016.
The fair values of mutual funds and cash equivalents were derived from quoted market prices that the Pension Plan administrator has the ability to access.
The fair values of corporate and government debt, treasury securities and asset-back securities were derived from bids received from a vendor or broker not available in an active market that the Pension Plan administrator has the ability to access.
Benefit Payments and Contributions for Defined Benefit Plans
The following benefit payments are expected to be paid during the periods indicated:
2018
$
96,482

2019
18,960

2020
14,052

2021
13,282

2022
13,792

2023-2027
69,369


The Company currently expects to contribute approximately $18,000 to the Pension Plan in 2018. 
Defined Contribution Plans 
The Company maintains the Cablevision 401(k) Savings Plan, a contributory qualified defined contribution plan for the benefit of non-union employees of Cablevision.  Participants can contribute a percentage of eligible annual compensation and the Company will make a matching cash contribution or discretionary contribution, as defined in the plan.  In addition, the Company maintains an unfunded non-qualified excess savings plan which was frozen on January 1, 2017 for which the Company provided a matching contribution similar to the Cablevision 401(k) Savings Plan.  Applicable employees of the Company were eligible for an enhanced employer matching contribution, as well as a year-end employer discretionary contribution to the Cablevision 401(k) Savings Plan and the Cablevision Excess Savings Plan.
Through September 30, 2017, the Company also maintained a 401(k) plan for employees of Cequel. Cequel employees that qualified for participation were able to contribute a percentage of eligible annual compensation and the Company would make a matching cash contribution, as defined in the plan. During the fourth quarter of 2017, the Suddenlink 401(k) plan assets were transferred to the Cablevision 401(k) Savings Plan and the plan was renamed the Altice USA 401(k) Savings Plan.
The cost associated with these plans (including the enhanced employer matching and discretionary contributions on 2016) was $27,577 and $28,501 for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
ALLOWANCE FOR DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS
ALLOWANCE FOR DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS
ALLOWANCE FOR DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS
Activity related to the Company's allowance for doubtful accounts is presented below:
 
Balance at Beginning of Period
 
Provision for Bad Debt
 
Deductions/ Write-Offs and Other Charges
 
Balance at End of Period
Year Ended December 31, 2017
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Allowance for doubtful accounts
$
11,677

 
$
74,183

 
$
(72,440
)
 
$
13,420

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Year Ended December 31, 2016
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Allowance for doubtful accounts
$
1,051

 
$
53,249

 
$
(42,623
)
 
$
11,677

INTERIM FINANCIAL INFORMATION
INTERIM FINANCIAL INFORMATION
INTERIM FINANCIAL INFORMATION (Unaudited)
The following is a summary of the Company's selected quarterly financial data for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016:
 
March 31,
2017
 
June 30,
2017
 
September 30,
2017
 
December 31,
2017 (a)
 
Total
2017
Revenues, net
$
2,305,676

 
$
2,328,341

 
$
2,327,175

 
$
2,365,378

 
$
9,326,570

Operating expenses
(2,057,442
)
 
(2,071,559
)
 
(2,192,311
)
 
(2,139,874
)
 
(8,461,186
)
Operating income
$
248,234

 
$
256,782

 
$
134,864

 
$
225,504

 
$
865,384

Net income (loss)
$
(76,188
)
 
$
(474,790
)
 
$
(182,086
)
 
$
2,254,682

 
$
1,521,618

Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
(237
)
 
(365
)
 
(135
)
 
(850
)
 
(1,587
)
Net income (loss) attributable to Altice USA Inc.'s stockholders
$
(76,425
)
 
$
(475,155
)
 
$
(182,221
)
 
$
2,253,832

 
$
1,520,031

Basic and diluted net income (loss) per share attributable to Altice USA Inc.'s stockholders
$
(0.12
)
 
$
(0.72
)
 
$
(0.25
)
 
$
3.06

 
$
2.18

 
(a)
Pursuant to the enactment of the Tax Reform on December 22, 2017, the Company recorded a noncash deferred tax benefit of $2,337,900 to remeasure the net deferred tax liability to adjust for the reduction in the corporate federal income tax rate 35% to 21% which is effective on January 1, 2018.
 
March 31,
2016
 
June 30,
2016
 
September 30,
2016
 
December 31,
2016
 
Total
2016
Revenues, net
$
627,589

 
$
823,501

 
$
2,260,221

 
$
2,305,901

 
$
6,017,212

Operating expenses
(573,329
)
 
(778,098
)
 
(2,117,442
)
 
(2,088,677
)
 
(5,557,546
)
Operating income
$
54,260

 
$
45,403

 
$
142,779

 
$
217,224

 
$
459,666

Net loss
$
(140,748
)
 
$
(282,129
)
 
$
(172,553
)
 
$
(236,049
)
 
$
(831,479
)
Net loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling interests
—

 
364

 
(256
)
 
(659
)
 
(551
)
Net loss attributable to Altice USA, Inc. stockholders
$
(140,748
)
 
$
(281,765
)
 
$
(172,809
)
 
$
(236,708
)
 
$
(832,030
)
Basic and diluted net loss per share attributable to Altice USA Inc.'s stockholders
$
(0.22
)
 
$
(0.43
)
 
$
(0.27
)
 
$
(0.36
)
 
$
(1.28
)

The Company’s previously reported statements of cash flows for the three months ended March 31, 2017, the six months ended June 30, 2017 and the nine months ended September 30, 2017 reflected distributions to stockholders of $79,617 in cash provided by operating activities. These distributions should have been reflected in financing activities.
SUBSEQUENT EVENT
Subsequent Event
SUBSEQUENT EVENT
In January 2018, CSC Holdings borrowed $150,000 under its revolving credit facility and entered into a new $1,500,000 incremental term loan facility (the "Incremental Term Loan") under its existing CVC Credit Facilities Agreement. The Incremental Term Loan was priced at 99.5% and will mature on January 25, 2026. The Incremental Term Loan is comprised of eurodollar borrowings or alternate base rate borrowings, and bears interest at a rate per annum equal to the adjusted LIBO rate or the alternate base rate, as applicable, plus the applicable margin, where the applicable margin is (i) with respect to any alternate base rate loan, 1.50% per annum and (ii) with respect to any eurodollar loan, 2.50% per annum.
In January 2018, CSC Holdings issued $1,000,000 aggregate principal amount of 5.375% senior guaranteed notes due February 1, 2028 (the "2028 Guaranteed Notes"). The 2028 Guaranteed Notes are senior unsecured obligations and rank pari passu in right of payment with all of the existing and future senior indebtedness, including the existing senior notes and the CVC Credit Facilities and rank senior in right of payment to all of existing and future subordinated indebtedness.
The proceeds from the 2028 Guaranteed Notes, together with proceeds from the Incremental Term Loan, borrowings under the CVC revolving credit facility and cash on hand, were used in February 2018 to repay certain senior notes ($300,000 principal amount of CSC Holdings' senior notes due in February 2018 and $750,000 principal amount of Cablevision senior notes due in April 2018) and will be used to fund a dividend of $1,500,000 to the Company's stockholders immediately prior to and in connection with the Distribution discussed in Note 1.
CVC - DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS, RELATED MATTERS AND BASIS OF PRESENTATION
DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS AND RELATED MATTERS 
DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS AND RELATED MATTERS
The Company and Related Matters
Altice USA, Inc. ("Altice USA" or the "Company") was incorporated in Delaware on September 14, 2015. As of December 31, 2017, Altice USA is majority‑owned by Altice N.V., a public company with limited liability (naamloze vennootshcap) under Dutch law. Upon the completion of the Altice N.V. distribution discussed below, the Company will no longer be majority-owned by Altice N.V.
The Company provides broadband communications and video services in the United States. It delivers broadband, pay television, telephony services, proprietary content and advertising services to residential and business customers.
Altice N.V., through a subsidiary, acquired Cequel Corporation ("Cequel" or "Suddenlink") on December 21, 2015 and Cequel was contributed to Altice USA on June 9, 2016. Altice USA had no operations of its own other than the issuance of debt prior to the contribution of Cequel on June 9, 2016 by Altice N.V. The results of operations of Cequel for the year ended December 31, 2016 have been included in the results of operations of Altice USA for the same periods, as Cequel was under common control with Altice USA.
Altice USA acquired Cablevision Systems Corporation ("Cablevision" or "Optimum") on June 21, 2016 (see discussion below) and the results of operations of Cablevision are included with the results of operations of Cequel for the year ended December 31, 2017. The year ended December 31, 2016 operating results include the operating results of Cablevision from the date of acquisition, June 21, 2016.
The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and all subsidiaries in which the Company has a controlling interest. All significant inter-company accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
The Company classifies its operations into two reportable segments: Cablevision, which operates in the New York metropolitan area, and Cequel, which principally operates in markets in the south‑central United States.
Initial Public Offering
In June 2017, the Company completed its initial public offering ("IPO") of 71,724,139 shares of its Class A common stock (12,068,966 shares sold by the Company and 59,655,173 shares sold by existing stockholders) at a price to the public of $30.00 per share, including the underwriters full exercise of their option to purchase 7,781,110 shares to cover overallotments. At the date of the IPO, Altice N.V. owned approximately 70.2% of the Company's issued and outstanding common stock, which represented approximately 98.2% of the voting power of the Company's outstanding common stock. The Company’s Class A common stock began trading on June 22, 2017, on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "ATUS".
In connection with the sale of its Class A common stock, the Company received proceeds of approximately $362,069, before deducting the underwriting discount and expenses directly related to the issuance of the securities of $12,998. The Company did not receive any proceeds from the sale of shares by the selling stockholders. In July 2017, the Company used approximately $350,120 of the proceeds to fund the redemption of $315,779 principal amount of 10.875% senior notes that mature in 2025 issued by CSC Holdings, an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, and the related call premium of approximately $34,341.
The following organizational transactions were consummated prior to the IPO:
•
the Company amended and restated its certificate of incorporation to, among other things, provide for Class A common stock, Class B common stock and Class C common stock;
•
BC Partners LLP ("BCP") and Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (‘‘CPPIB and together with BCP, the‘‘Co-Investors’’) and Uppernext S.C.S.p. ("Uppernext"), an entity controlled by Mr. Patrick Drahi (founder and controlling stockholder of Altice N.V.), exchanged their indirect ownership interest in the Company for shares of the Company’s common stock;
•
Neptune Management LP (‘‘Management LP’’) redeemed its Class B units for shares of the Company’s common stock that it received from the redemption of its Class B units in Neptune Holding US LP;
•
the Company converted $525,000 aggregate principal amount of notes issued by the Company to the Co-Investors (together with accrued and unpaid interest and applicable premium) into shares of the Company’s common stock at the IPO price (see Note 9 for further details);
•
$1,225,000 aggregate principal amount of notes issued by the Company to a subsidiary of Altice N.V. (together with accrued and unpaid interest and applicable premium) was transferred to CVC 3 B.V., an indirect subsidiary of Altice N.V. ("CVC 3") and then the Company converted such notes into shares of the Company’s common stock at the IPO price (see Note 9 for further details);
•
the Co-Investors, Neptune Holding US LP, A4 S.A. (an entity controlled by the family of Mr. Drahi), and former Class B unitholders of Management LP (including Uppernext) exchanged shares of the Company’s common stock for new shares of the Company’s Class A common stock; and
•
CVC 3 and A4 S.A. exchanged shares of the Company’s common stock for new shares of the Company’s Class B common stock.
Acquisition of Cablevision Systems Corporation
On June 21, 2016 (the "Cablevision Acquisition Date"), pursuant to the Agreement and Plan of Merger (the "Merger Agreement"), dated as of September 16, 2015, by and among Cablevision, Altice N.V., Neptune Merger Sub Corp., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Altice N.V. ("Merger Sub"), Merger Sub merged with and into Cablevision, with Cablevision surviving the merger (the "Cablevision Acquisition").
In connection with the Cablevision Acquisition, each outstanding share of the Cablevision NY Group Class A common stock, par value $0.01 per share ("CNYG Class A Shares"), and Cablevision NY Group Class B common stock, par value $0.01 per share ("CNYG Class B Shares", and together with the CNYG Class A Shares, the "Shares"), and together with the Cablevision NY Group Class A common stock, the "Shares" other than Shares owned by Cablevision, Altice N.V. or any of their respective wholly-owned subsidiaries, in each case not held on behalf of third parties in a fiduciary capacity, received $34.90 in cash without interest, less applicable tax withholdings (the "Cablevision Acquisition Consideration").
Pursuant to an agreement, dated December 21, 2015, by and among CVC 2 B.V., CIE Management IX Limited, for and on behalf of the limited partnerships BC European Capital IX-1 through 11 and Canada Pension Plan Investment Board, certain affiliates of BCP and CPPIB (the "Co-Investors") funded approximately $1,000,000 toward the payment of the aggregate Per Share Cablevision Acquisition Consideration, and indirectly acquired approximately 30% of the Shares of Cablevision.
Also in connection with the Cablevision Acquisition, outstanding equity-based awards granted under Cablevision’s equity plans were cancelled and converted into cash based upon the $34.90 per Share Cablevision Acquisition Consideration in accordance with the original terms of the awards. The total consideration for the outstanding CNYG Class A Shares, the outstanding CNYG Class B Shares, and the equity-based awards amounted to $9,958,323.
In connection with the Cablevision Acquisition, in October 2015, Neptune Finco Corp. ("Finco"), an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Altice N.V. formed to complete the financing described herein and the merger with CSC Holdings, LLC ("CSC Holdings"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Cablevision, borrowed an aggregate principal amount of $3,800,000 under a term loan facility (the "Term Credit Facility") and entered into revolving loan commitments in an aggregate principal amount of $2,000,000 (the "Revolving Credit Facility" and, together with the Term Credit Facility, the "Credit Facilities").
Finco also issued $1,800,000 aggregate principal amount of 10.125% senior notes due 2023 (the "2023 Notes"), $2,000,000 aggregate principal amount of 10.875% senior notes due 2025 (the "2025 Notes"), and $1,000,000 aggregate principal amount of 6.625% senior guaranteed notes due 2025 (the "2025 Guaranteed Notes") (collectively the "Cablevision Acquisition Notes").
On June 21, 2016, immediately following the Cablevision Acquisition, Finco merged with and into CSC Holdings, with CSC Holdings surviving the merger (the "CSC Holdings Merger"), and the Cablevision Acquisition Notes and the Credit Facilities became obligations of CSC Holdings.
On June 21, 2016, in connection with the Cablevision Acquisition, the Company issued notes payable to affiliates and related parties aggregating $1,750,000, of which $875,000 bore interest at 10.75% and $875,000 bore interest at 11%. See Note 9 for a discussion regarding the conversion of these notes payable to shares of the Company's common stock prior to the consummation of the IPO.
The Cablevision Acquisition was accounted for as a business combination in accordance with ASC Topic 805. Accordingly, the Company stepped up 100% of the assets and liabilities assumed to their fair value at the Cablevision Acquisition Date. See Note 3 for further details.
Acquisition of Cequel Corporation
On December 21, 2015, Altice N.V., though a subsidiary, acquired approximately 70% of the total outstanding equity interests in Cequel (the "Cequel Acquisition") from the direct and indirect stockholders of Cequel Corporation (the "Sellers"). The consideration for the acquired equity interests, which was based on a total equity valuation for 100% of the capital and voting rights of Cequel, was $3,973,528, including $2,797,928 of cash consideration, $675,600 of retained equity held by entities affiliated with BC Partners and CPPIB and $500,000 funded by the issuance by an affiliate of Altice N.V. of a senior vendor note that was subscribed by entities affiliated with BC Partners and CPPIB. Following the closing of the Cequel Acquisition, entities affiliated with BC Partners and CPPIB retained a 30% equity interest in a parent entity of the Company. In addition, the carried interest plans of the stockholders were cashed out whereby payments were made to participants in such carried interest plans, including certain officers and directors of Cequel.
Altice N.V. Distribution
On January 8, 2018, Altice N.V. announced plans for the separation of the Company from Altice N.V. Altice N.V. will distribute substantially all of its equity interest in the Company through a distribution in kind to holders of Altice N.V.'s common shares A and common shares B (the “Distribution”). Following the Distribution, Altice N.V. will no longer own a controlling equity interest in the Company, and the Company will operate independently from Altice N.V.
The implementation of the Distribution is expected to be subject to certain conditions precedent being satisfied or waived. Although Altice N.V. and the Company have not yet negotiated the final terms of the Distribution and related transactions, the Company expects that the following will be conditions to the Distribution:
•
Approval of Altice N.V. shareholders of (i) the distribution in kind and (ii) the board resolution approving the change in identity and character of the business of Altice N.V. resulting from the Distribution;
•
Receipt of certain U.S. regulatory approvals, which could take up to 180 days;
•
This Registration Statement filed on January 8, 2018 being declared effective by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the ‘‘Commission’’);
•
The entry into the Master Separation Agreement and the entry into, amendments to or termination of various arrangements between Altice N.V. and the Company, such as a license to use the Altice brand, the stockholders’ agreement among Altice USA, Altice N.V. and certain other parties and the management agreement pursuant to which the Company pays a quarterly management fee to Altice N.V.; and
•
The declaration and payment of a one-time $1.5 billion dividend to Altice USA stockholders as of a record date prior to the Distribution (the ‘‘Pre-Distribution Dividend’’).
Prior to Altice N.V.'s announcement of the Distribution, the Board of Directors of Altice USA, acting through its independent directors, approved in principle the payment of the Pre-Distribution Dividend to all shareholders immediately prior to completion of the separation. Formal approval of the Pre-Distribution Dividend and setting of a record date are expected to occur in the second quarter of 2018. The payment of the Pre-Distribution Dividend will be funded with available Cablevision revolving facility capacity and available cash from new financings, completed in January 2018, at CSC Holdings LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Cablevision. In addition, the Board of Directors of Altice USA has authorized a share repurchase program of $2.0 billion, effective following completion of the separation.
In connection with the Distribution, it is expected that the Management Advisory and Consulting Services Agreement with Altice N.V. which provides certain consulting, advisory and other services will be terminated. Compensation under the terms of the agreement is an annual fee of $30,000 paid by the Company.
Acquisition of Altice Technical Services US Corp
In January 2018, the Company acquired 70% of the equity interests in Altice Technical Services US Corp. ("ATS") for $1.00 (the "ATS Acquisition") and the Company expects to become the owner of 100% of the equity interests in ATS prior to the Distribution. ATS was previously owned by Altice N.V. and a member of ATS's management through a holding company. As a result of the ATS Acquisition, the operations of ATS will be combined with the Company's operations in 2018. As the acquisition is a combination of businesses under common control, the Company will retroactively combine the results of operations and related assets and liabilities of ATS for all periods. The following reflects the retroactive combination of ATS’s revenue, operating expenses and operating income for the period indicated:
 
Year Ended December 31, 2017
 

Revenue
$
9,325,465

Operating expenses
8,482,728

Operating income
$
842,737

In connection with the ATS Acquisition, the Company will record goodwill of $23,101, representing the amount previously transferred to ATS. See Note 14 regarding the Company's activities with ATS in 2017.
DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS AND RELATED MATTERS 
DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS, RELATED MATTERS AND BASIS OF PRESENTATION
The Company and Related Matters
Cablevision Systems Corporation ("Cablevision"), through its wholly-owned subsidiary CSC Holdings, LLC ("CSC Holdings,") and collectively with Cablevision, the "Company"), owns and operates cable systems and owns companies that provide regional news, local programming and advertising sales services for the cable television industry and Ethernet-based data, Internet, voice and video transport and managed services to the business market. The Company operates and reports financial information in one segment. Prior to the sale of a 75% interest in Newsday LLC on July 7, 2016, the Company consolidating the operating results of Newsday. Effective July 7, 2016, the operating results of Newsday are no longer consolidated with those of the Company and the Company's 25% interest in the operating results of Newsday is recorded on the equity basis (see Note 16).
Altice Merger
On June 21, 2016 (the "Merger Date"), pursuant to the Agreement and Plan of Merger (the "Merger Agreement"), dated as of September 16, 2015, by and among Cablevision, Altice N.V. ("Altice"), Neptune Merger Sub Corp., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Altice ("Merger Sub"), Merger Sub merged with and into Cablevision, with Cablevision surviving the merger (the "Merger").
In connection with the Merger, each outstanding share of the Cablevision NY Group Class A common stock, par value $0.01 per share ("CNYG Class A Shares"), and Cablevision NY Group Class B common stock, par value $0.01 per share ("CNYG Class B Shares", and together with the CNYG Class A Shares, the "Shares") other than (i) Shares owned by Cablevision, Altice or any of their respective wholly-owned subsidiaries, in each case not held on behalf of third parties in a fiduciary capacity, received $34.90 in cash without interest, less applicable tax withholdings (the "Merger Consideration").
Pursuant to an agreement, dated December 21, 2015, by and among CVC 2B.V., CIE Management IX Limited, for and on behalf of the limited partnerships BC European Capital IX-1through 11 and Canada Pension Plan Investment Board, certain affiliates of BCP and CPPIB (the "Co-Investors") funded approximately $1,000,000 toward the payment of the aggregate Merger Consideration, and indirectly acquired approximately 30% of the Shares of Cablevision.
Also in connection with the Merger, outstanding equity-based awards granted under Cablevision’s equity plans were cancelled and converted into cash based upon the $34.90 per Share merger price in accordance with the original terms of the awards. The total consideration for the outstanding CNYG Class A Shares, the outstanding CNYG Class B Shares, and the equity-based awards amounted to $9,958,323.
In connection with the Merger, in October 2015, Neptune Finco Corp. ("Finco"), an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Altice formed to complete the financing described herein and the merger with CSC Holdings, borrowed an aggregate principal amount of $3,800,000 under a term loan facility (the "Term Credit Facility") and entered into revolving loan commitments in an aggregate principal amount of $2,000,000 (the "Revolving Credit Facility" and, together with the Term Credit Facility, the "Credit Facilities").

Finco also issued $1,800,000 aggregate principal amount of 10.125% senior notes due 2023 (the "2023 Notes"), $2,000,000 aggregate principal amount of 10.875% senior notes due 2025 (the "2025 Notes"), and $1,000,000 aggregate principal amount of 6.625% senior guaranteed notes due 2025 (the "2025 Guaranteed Notes") (collectively the "Merger Notes").

On June 21, 2016, immediately following the Merger, Finco merged with and into CSC Holdings, with CSC Holdings surviving the merger (the "CSC Holdings Merger"), and the Merger Notes and the Credit Facilities became obligations of CSC Holdings.



The accompanying financial statements represent the operating results and cash flows of the Company for the period January 1, 2016 to June 20, 2016 (Predecessor) and for the year ended December 31, 2015. The operating results of the Company for the period June 21, 2016 to December 31, 2016 (Successor) are incorporated in the consolidated financial statements of Altice USA, Inc.
Basis of Presentation
Principles of Consolidation
The accompanying consolidated financial statements of Cablevision include the accounts of Cablevision and its majority-owned subsidiaries. Cablevision has no business operations independent of CSC Holdings, whose operating results and financial position are consolidated into Cablevision. All significant intercompany transactions and balances between Cablevision and CSC Holdings and their respective consolidated subsidiaries are eliminated in consolidation. 
Use of Estimates in Preparation of Financial Statements
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.  Actual results could differ from those estimates.  See Note 12 for a discussion of fair value estimates.
Reclassifications
Certain reclassifications have been made in the consolidated financial statements in the 2015 financial statements to conform to the 2016 presentation.
CVC - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES 
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Revenue Recognition
The Company recognizes pay television, broadband, and telephony services revenues as the services are provided to customers.  Revenue received from customers who purchase bundled services at a discounted rate is allocated to each product in a pro-rata manner based on the individual product’s selling price (generally, the price at which the product is regularly sold on a standalone basis). Installation revenue for the Company's pay television, broadband and telephony services is recognized as installations are completed, as direct selling costs have exceeded this revenue in all periods reported.  Advertising revenues are recognized when commercials are aired.
Revenues derived from other sources are recognized when services are provided or events occur.
Multiple-Element Transactions
In the normal course of business, the Company may enter into multiple-element transactions where it is simultaneously both a customer and a vendor with the same counterparty or in which it purchases multiple products and/or services, or settles outstanding items contemporaneously with the purchase of a product or service, from a single counterparty. The Company's policy for accounting for each transaction negotiated contemporaneously is to record each deliverable of the transaction based on its best estimate of selling price in a manner consistent with that used to determine the price to sell each deliverable on a standalone basis.  In determining the fair value of the respective deliverable, the Company will utilize quoted market prices (as available), historical transactions or comparable transactions.
Gross Versus Net Revenue Recognition
In the normal course of business, the Company is assessed non-income related taxes by governmental authorities, including franchising authorities (generally under multi-year agreements), and collects such taxes from its customers.  The Company's policy is that, in instances where the tax is being assessed directly on the Company, amounts paid to the governmental authorities and amounts received from the customers are recorded on a gross basis.  That is, amounts paid to the governmental authorities are recorded as programming and other direct costs and amounts received from the customer are recorded as revenue.  For the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, the amount of franchise fees and certain other taxes and fees included as a component of revenue aggregated $259,075 and $154,732, respectively.
Technical and Operating Expenses
Costs of revenue related to sales of services are classified as "programming and other direct costs" in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.
Programming Costs
Programming expenses related to the Company's pay television service represent fees paid to programming distributors to license the programming distributed to customers.  This programming is acquired generally under multi-year distribution agreements, with rates usually based on the number of customers that receive the programming.  If there are periods when an existing distribution agreement has expired and the parties have not finalized negotiations of either a renewal of that agreement or a new agreement for certain periods of time, the Company continues to carry and pay for these services until execution of definitive replacement agreements or renewals.  The amount of programming expense recorded during the interim period is based on the Company's estimates of the ultimate contractual agreement expected to be reached, which is based on several factors, including previous contractual rates, customary rate increases and the current status of negotiations.  Such estimates are adjusted as negotiations progress until new programming terms are finalized.
In addition, the Company has received, or may receive, incentives from programming distributors for carriage of the distributors' programming.  The Company generally recognizes these incentives as a reduction of programming costs in "programming and other direct costs", generally over the term of the distribution agreement.
Advertising Expenses
Advertising costs are charged to expense when incurred and are reflected in "other operating expenses" in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.  Advertising costs amounted to $224,120 and $135,513 for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
Share-Based Compensation
Share-based compensation expense is based on the fair value of the portion of share-based payment awards that are ultimately expected to vest. Share-based compensation cost relates to awards of units in a carried unit plan and options.
For carried interest units, the Company measures share-based compensation cost at the grant date fair value and recognizes the expense over the requisite service period or when it is probable any related performance condition will be met. For carried interest units with graded vesting requirement, compensation cost is recognized on an accelerated method under the graded vesting method over the requisite service period for the carried interest unit. Carried interest units that vest entirely at the end of the vesting requirement are expensed on a straight-line basis.
The Company estimated the fair value of carried interest units using an option pricing model. Key inputs that were used in applying the option pricing method were total equity value, equity volatility, risk free rate and time to liquidity event. The estimate of total equity value was determined using a combination of the income approach, which incorporated cash flow projections that were discounted at an appropriate rate, and the market approach, which involved applying a market multiple to the Company’s projected operating results. The Company estimated volatility based on the historical equity volatility of comparable publicly-traded companies. Subsequent to the IPO, such subjective valuations and estimates were no longer necessary as the Company relied on the market price of the Company’s common stock to determine the fair value of share-based compensation awards. See Note 13 to the consolidated financial statements for additional information about our share-based compensation.
For stock option awards, the Company recognizes compensation expense based on the estimated grant date fair value using the Black-Scholes valuation model. For options not subject to performance based vesting conditions, the Company recognizes the compensation expense using a straight-line amortization method.
Income Taxes
The Company's provision for income taxes is based on current period income, changes in deferred tax assets and liabilities and changes in estimates with regard to uncertain tax positions.  Deferred tax assets are subject to an ongoing assessment of realizability.  The Company provides deferred taxes for the outside basis difference of its investment in partnerships. 
Cash and Cash Equivalents
The Company's cash investments are placed with money market funds and financial institutions that are investment grade as rated by Standard & Poor's and Moody's Investors Service.  The Company selects money market funds that predominantly invest in marketable, direct obligations issued or guaranteed by the United States government or its agencies, commercial paper, fully collateralized repurchase agreements, certificates of deposit, and time deposits.
The Company considers the balance of its investment in funds that substantially hold securities that mature within three months or less from the date the fund purchases these securities to be cash equivalents.  The carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents either approximates fair value due to the short-term maturity of these instruments or are at fair value.
Accounts Receivable
Accounts receivable are recorded at net realizable value. The Company periodically assesses the adequacy of valuation allowances for uncollectible accounts receivable by evaluating the collectability of outstanding receivables and general factors such as historical collection experience, length of time individual receivables are past due, and the economic and competitive environment.
Investments
Investment securities and investment securities pledged as collateral are classified as trading securities and are stated at fair value with realized and unrealized holding gains and losses included in net income.
Long-Lived Assets and Amortizable Intangible Assets
Property, plant and equipment, including construction materials, are carried at cost, and include all direct costs and certain indirect costs associated with the construction of cable systems, and the costs of new equipment installations.  Equipment under capital leases is recorded at the present value of the total minimum lease payments.  Depreciation on equipment is calculated on the straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets or, with respect to equipment under capital leases and leasehold improvements, amortized over the shorter of the lease term or the assets' useful lives and reported in depreciation and amortization (including impairments) in the consolidated statements of operations.
The Company capitalizes certain internal and external costs incurred to acquire or develop internal-use software.  Capitalized software costs are amortized over the estimated useful life of the software and reported in depreciation and amortization.
Customer relationships, trade names and other intangibles established in connection with acquisitions that are finite-lived are amortized in a manner that reflects the pattern in which the projected net cash inflows to the Company are expected to occur, such as the sum of the years' digits method, or when such pattern does not exist, using the straight-line basis over their respective estimated useful lives.
The Company reviews its long-lived assets (property, plant and equipment, and intangible assets subject to amortization that arose from acquisitions) for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable.  If the sum of the expected cash flows, undiscounted and without interest, is less than the carrying amount of the asset, an impairment loss is recognized as the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value.
Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets
Goodwill and the value of franchises acquired in purchase business combinations which have indefinite useful lives are not amortized.  Rather, such assets are tested for impairment annually or upon the occurrence of a triggering event.
The Company assesses qualitative factors for its reporting units that carry goodwill.  If the qualitative assessment results in a conclusion that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit exceeds the carrying value, then no further testing is performed for that reporting unit.
When the qualitative assessment is not used, or if the qualitative assessment is not conclusive and it is necessary to calculate the fair value of a reporting unit, then the impairment analysis for goodwill is performed at the reporting unit level using a two-step approach.  The first step of the goodwill impairment test is used to identify potential impairment by comparing the fair value of the reporting unit with its carrying amount, including goodwill utilizing an enterprise-value based premise approach.  If the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the second step of the goodwill impairment test is performed to measure the amount of goodwill impairment loss, if any.  The second step of the goodwill impairment test compares the implied fair value of the reporting unit's goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill.  If the carrying amount of the reporting unit's goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of that goodwill, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.  The implied fair value of goodwill is determined in the same manner as the amount of goodwill which would be recognized in a business combination.
The Company assesses qualitative factors to determine whether it is necessary to perform the one-step quantitative identifiable indefinite-lived intangible assets impairment test.  This quantitative test is required only if the Company concludes that it is more likely than not that a unit of accounting’s fair value is less than its carrying amount.  When the qualitative assessment is not used, or if the qualitative assessment is not conclusive, the impairment test for other intangible assets not subject to amortization requires a comparison of the fair value of the intangible asset with its carrying value.  If the carrying value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.
Deferred Financing Costs
Deferred financing costs are being amortized to interest expense using the effective interest method over the terms of the related debt.
Derivative Financial Instruments
The Company accounts for derivative financial instruments as either assets or liabilities measured at fair value.  The Company uses derivative instruments to manage its exposure to market risks from changes in certain equity prices and interest rates and does not hold or issue derivative instruments for speculative or trading purposes.  These derivative instruments are not designated as hedges, and changes in the fair values of these derivatives are recognized in the statements of operations as gains (losses) on derivative contracts. 
Commitments and Contingencies
Liabilities for loss contingencies arising from claims, assessments, litigation, fines and penalties and other sources are recorded when the Company believes it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the contingency can be reasonably estimated.
Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncement
In March 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2016-09, Compensation—Stock Compensation: Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting, which provides simplification of income tax accounting for share-based payment awards. The new guidance became effective for the Company on January 1, 2017. Amendments related to the timing of when excess tax benefits are recognized, minimum statutory withholding requirements, forfeitures, and intrinsic value were applied using the modified retrospective transition method. Amendments requiring recognition of excess tax benefits and tax deficiencies in the income statement and the practical expedient for estimating expected term were applied prospectively. The Company elected to apply the amendments related to the presentation of excess tax benefits on the statement of cash flows using the prospective transition method. In connection with the adoption on January 1, 2017, a deferred tax asset of approximately $310,771 for previously unrealized excess tax benefits was recognized with the offset recorded to accumulated deficit.
Recently Issued But Not Yet Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
In February 2018, the FASB issued ASU No. 2018-02, Income Statement—Reporting Comprehensive Income (Topic 220) Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income. The primary provision of ASU No. 2018-02 allows for the reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive income to retained earnings for stranded tax effects resulting from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. ASU 2018-02 also requires certain disclosures about stranded tax effects. ASU No. 2018‑02 is effective for the Company on January 1, 2019, with early adoption permitted and will be applied either in the period of adoption or retrospectively to each period (or periods) in which the effect of the change in the U.S. federal corporate income tax rate in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is recognized.
In May 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017‑09, Compensation- Stock Compensation (Topic 718). ASU No. 2017‑09 provides clarity and guidance on which changes to the terms or conditions of a share-based payment award require an entity to apply modification accounting in Topic 718. ASU No. 2017‑09 is effective for the Company on January 1, 2018 and will be applied prospectively.
In March 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017‑07 Compensation-Retirement Benefits (Topic 715). ASU No. 2017‑07 requires that an employer disaggregate the service cost component from the other components of net benefit cost. It also provides guidance on how to present the service cost component and the other components of net benefit cost in the income statement and what component of net benefit cost is eligible for capitalization. ASU No. 2017‑07 is effective for the Company on January 1, 2018 and will be applied retrospectively. In connection with the adoption of ASU 2017-07, the Company will reclassify the non-service cost components of the Company's pension expense from primarily "Other operating expenses" to "Miscellaneous income (expense), net" on its consolidated statements of operations. The Company has elected to apply the practical expedient which allows it to reclassify amounts disclosed previously in the benefits plan note (Note 17 of the consolidated financial statements) as the basis for applying retrospective presentation for comparative periods, as the Company determined it was impracticable to disaggregate the cost components for amounts capitalized and amortized in those periods.
In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017‑04, Intangibles-Goodwill and Other (Topic 350). ASU No. 2017‑04 simplifies the subsequent measurement of goodwill by removing the second step of the two‑step impairment test. The amendment requires an entity to perform its annual, or interim goodwill impairment test by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount. An entity still has the option to perform the qualitative assessment for a reporting unit to determine if the quantitative impairment test is necessary. ASU No. 2017‑04 becomes effective for the Company on January 1, 2020 with early adoption permitted and will be applied prospectively.
In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017‑01, Business Combinations (Topic 805), Clarifying the Definition of a Business, which amends Topic 805 to interpret the definition of a business by adding guidance to assist in evaluating whether transactions should be accounted for as acquisitions (or disposals) of assets or businesses. The new guidance is effective for the Company on January 1, 2018 and will be applied prospectively.
In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments which clarifies how entities should classify certain cash receipts and cash payments on the statement of cash flows. ASU No. 2016-15 also clarifies how the predominance principle should be applied when cash receipts and cash payments have aspects of more than one class of cash flows. The new guidance is effective for the Company on January 1, 2018 and will be applied retrospectively. The Company does not believe that the adoption of ASU No. 2016-15 will have a material effect on its consolidated statements of cash flows.
In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, Leases, which increases transparency and comparability by recognizing a lessee’s rights and obligations resulting from leases by recording them on the balance sheet as lease assets and lease liabilities. The new guidance becomes effective for the Company on January 1, 2019 with early adoption permitted and will be applied using the modified retrospective method. The Company has not yet completed the evaluation of the effect that ASU No. 2016-02 will have on its consolidated financial statements.
In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-01, Financial Instruments - Overall (Subtopic 825-10), Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities.  ASU No. 2016-01 modifies how entities measure certain equity investments and also modifies the recognition of changes in the fair value of financial liabilities measured under the fair value option. Entities will be required to measure equity investments that do not result in consolidation and are not accounted for under the equity method at fair value and recognize any changes in fair value in net income. For financial liabilities measured using the fair value option, entities will be required to record changes in fair value caused by a change in instrument-specific credit risk (own credit risk) separately in other comprehensive income. ASU No. 2016-01 is effective for the Company on January 1, 2018.  The Company does expect the adoption of ASU No. 2016-01 to have any effect on its consolidated financial statements.
In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, requiring an entity to recognize the amount of revenue to which it expects to be entitled for the transfer of promised goods or services to customers. ASU No. 2014-09 will replace most existing revenue recognition guidance in GAAP. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-14 that approved deferring the effective date by one year so that ASU No. 2014-09 is effective for the Company on January 1, 2018.
In December 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-20, Technical Corrections and Improvements to Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, in order to clarify the Codification and to correct any unintended application of the guidance. The amendments in this update affect the guidance in ASU No. 2014-09. The Company will adopt ASU No. 2014-09 on January 1, 2018 and will transition to the standard retrospectively. The adoption of ASU No. 2014-09 will not have a material impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations. The adoption will, however, result in the deferral of certain installation revenue and the deferral of certain commission expenses. Additionally, the Company anticipates changes in the composition of revenue resulting from the allocation of value related to bundled services sold at a discount to residential customers.
Common Stock of Altice USA
At December 31, 2017, the Company had 246,982,292 shares of Class A common stock and 490,086,674 shares of Class B common stock, with a par value of $0.01, issued and outstanding. Each holder of Class A common stock has one vote per share while holders of Class B common stock have twenty-five votes per share. Class B shares can be converted to Class A common stock at anytime with a conversion ratio of one Class A common share for one Class B common share. 
At December 31, 2016, the Company had 100 shares of common stock, with a par value of $0.01, issued and outstanding.
Dividends and Distributions
The Company may pay dividends on its capital stock only from net profits and surplus as determined under Delaware law.  If dividends are paid on the Altice USA common stock, holders of the Altice USA Class A common stock and Altice USA Class B common stock are entitled to receive dividends, and other distributions in cash, stock or property, equally on a per share basis, except that stock dividends with respect to Altice USA Class A common stock may be paid only with shares of Altice USA Class A common stock and stock dividends with respect to Altice USA Class B common stock may be paid only with shares of Altice USA Class B common stock.
The Company's indentures restrict the amount of dividends and distributions in respect of any equity interest that can be made.
Prior to the Company's IPO, the Company declared and paid cash distributions to stockholders aggregating $839,700 in the second quarter of 2017. In 2016, the Company declared cash distributions of $445,176 of which $365,559 were paid in 2016 and $79,617 were paid in the first quarter of 2017.
Net Income (Loss) Per Share
Basic net income (loss) per common share attributable to Altice USA stockholders is computed by dividing net income (loss) attributable to Altice USA stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period.  Diluted income per common share attributable to Altice USA stockholders reflects the dilutive effects of stock options. Diluted net loss per common share attributable to Altice USA stockholders excludes the effects of common stock equivalents as they are anti-dilutive. The weighted average number of shares used to compute basic and diluted net income (loss) per share reflect the retroactive impact of the organizational transactions, discussed in Note 1, that occurred prior to the Company's IPO.
The following table presents a reconciliation of weighted average shares used in the calculation of the basic and diluted net income per share attributable to Altice USA stockholders for the year ended December 31, 2017:
Basic weighted average shares outstanding
696,055,000

 
 
Effect of dilution:
 
Stock options
—

Diluted weighted average shares outstanding
696,055,000


Anti-dilutive shares totaling approximately 14,000 shares, have been excluded from diluted weighted average shares outstanding for the year ended December 31, 2017. 
Concentrations of Credit Risk
Financial instruments that may potentially subject the Company to a concentration of credit risk consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents and trade account receivables.  The Company monitors the financial institutions and money market funds where it invests its cash and cash equivalents with diversification among counterparties to mitigate exposure to any single financial institution.  The Company's emphasis is primarily on safety of principal and liquidity and secondarily on maximizing the yield on its investments.  Management believes that no significant concentration of credit risk exists with respect to its cash and cash equivalents because of its assessment of the creditworthiness and financial viability of the respective financial institutions.
The Company did not have a single customer that represented 10% or more of its consolidated revenues for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, or 10% or more of its consolidated net trade receivables at December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
Use of Estimates in Preparation of Financial Statements
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.  Actual results could differ from those estimates.  See Note 11 for a discussion of fair value estimates.
Reclassifications
Certain reclassifications have been made to the 2016 financial statements to conform to the 2017 presentation.
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES 
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Revenue Recognition
The Company recognizes video, high-speed data, and voice services revenues as the services are provided to customers.  Revenue received from customers who purchase bundled services at a discounted rate is allocated to each product in a pro-rata manner based on the individual product’s selling price (generally, the price at which the product is regularly sold on a standalone basis). Installation revenue for the Company's video, consumer high-speed data and VoIP services is recognized as installations are completed, as direct selling costs have exceeded this revenue in all periods reported.  Advertising revenues are recognized when commercials are aired.
Revenues derived from other sources are recognized when services are provided or events occur.
Multiple-Element Transactions
In the normal course of business, the Company may enter into multiple-element transactions where it is simultaneously both a customer and a vendor with the same counterparty or in which it purchases multiple products and/or services, or settles outstanding items contemporaneous with the purchase of a product or service from a single counterparty. The Company's policy for accounting for each transaction negotiated contemporaneously is to record each deliverable of the transaction based on its best estimate of selling price in a manner consistent with that used to determine the price to sell each deliverable on a standalone basis.  In determining the fair value of the respective deliverable, the Company will utilize quoted market prices (as available), historical transactions or comparable transactions.
Gross Versus Net Revenue Recognition
In the normal course of business, the Company is assessed non-income related taxes by governmental authorities, including franchising authorities (generally under multi-year agreements), and collects such taxes from its customers.  The Company's policy is that, in instances where the tax is being assessed directly on the Company, amounts paid to the governmental authorities and amounts received from the customers are recorded on a gross basis.  That is, amounts paid to the governmental authorities are recorded as programming and other direct costs and amounts received from the customer are recorded as revenue.  For the period January 1, 2016 through June 20, 2016 and for the year ended December 31, 2015 , the amount of franchise fees and certain other taxes and fees included as a component of revenue aggregated $95,432 and $199,701, respectively.
Technical and Operating Expenses
Costs of revenue related to sales of services are classified as "programming and other direct costs" in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.
Programming Costs
Programming expenses related to the Company's video service represent fees paid to programming distributors to license the programming distributed to subscribers.  This programming is acquired generally under multi-year distribution agreements, with rates usually based on the number of subscribers that receive the programming.  There have been periods when an existing distribution agreement has expired and the parties have not finalized negotiations of either a renewal of that agreement or a new agreement for certain periods of time.  In substantially all these instances, the Company continues to carry and pay for these services until execution of definitive replacement agreements or renewals.  The amount of programming expense recorded during the interim period is based on the Company's estimates of the ultimate contractual agreement expected to be reached, which is based on several factors, including previous contractual rates, customary rate increases and the current status of negotiations.  Such estimates are adjusted as negotiations progress until new programming terms are finalized.
In addition, the Company has received, or may receive, incentives from programming distributors for carriage of the distributors' programming.  The Company generally recognizes these incentives as a reduction of programming costs in "programming and other direct costs", generally over the term of the distribution agreement.
Advertising Expenses
Advertising costs are charged to expense when incurred and are reflected in "other operating expenses" in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.  Advertising costs amounted to $62,760 and $160,671, for the period January 1, 2016 through June 20, 2016 and for the year ended December 31, 2015, respectively.
Share-Based Compensation
Share-based compensation expense is based on the fair value of the portion of share-based payment awards that are ultimately expected to vest. For share-based compensation awards that can be settled in cash, the Company recognizes compensation expense based on the estimated fair value of the award at each reporting period.
For options and performance based option awards, Cablevision recognized compensation expense based on the estimated grant date fair value using the Black-Scholes valuation model.  For options not subject to performance based vesting conditions, Cablevision recognized the compensation expense using a straight-line amortization method.  For options subject to performance based vesting conditions, Cablevision recognized compensation expense based on the probable outcome of the performance criteria over the requisite service period for each tranche of awards.
For restricted shares, Cablevision recognized compensation expense using a straight-line amortization method based on the grant date price of CNYG Class A common stock over the vesting period. For restricted stock units granted to non-employee director which vested 100% on the date of grant, compensation expense was recognized on the date of grant based on the grant date price of CNYG Class A common stock.
For performance based restricted stock units ("PSUs") which cliff vested in three years, Cablevision recognized compensation expense on a straight-line basis over the vesting period based on the estimated number of shares of CNYG Class A common stock expected to be issued.
Income Taxes
The Company's provision for income taxes is based on current period income, changes in deferred tax assets and liabilities and changes in estimates with regard to uncertain tax positions.  Deferred tax assets are subject to an ongoing assessment of realizability.  The Company provides deferred taxes for the outside basis difference of its investment in partnerships.  In the second quarter of 2016, the Company changed its accounting policy on a prospective basis to present interest expense relating to uncertain tax position as additional interest expense.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
The Company's cash investments are placed with money market funds and financial institutions that are investment grade as rated by Standard & Poor's and Moody's Investors Service.  The Company selects money market funds that predominantly invest in marketable, direct obligations issued or guaranteed by the United States government or its agencies, commercial paper, fully collateralized repurchase agreements, certificates of deposit, and time deposits.
The Company considers the balance of its investment in funds that substantially hold securities that mature within three months or less from the date the fund purchases these securities to be cash equivalents.  The carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents either approximates fair value due to the short-term maturity of these instruments or are at fair value.
Accounts Receivable
Accounts receivable are recorded at net realizable value. The Company periodically assesses the adequacy of valuation allowances for uncollectible accounts receivable by evaluating the collectability of outstanding receivables and general factors such as historical collection experience, length of time individual receivables are past due, and the economic and competitive environment.
Investments
Investment securities and investment securities pledged as collateral are classified as trading securities and are stated at fair value with realized and unrealized holding gains and losses included in net income.
Long-Lived Assets and Amortizable Intangible Assets
Property, plant and equipment, including construction materials, are carried at cost, and include all direct costs and certain indirect costs associated with the construction of cable systems, and the costs of new equipment installations.  Equipment under capital leases is recorded at the present value of the total minimum lease payments.  Depreciation on equipment is calculated on the straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets or, with respect to equipment under capital leases and leasehold improvements, amortized over the shorter of the lease term or the assets' useful lives and reported in depreciation and amortization (including impairments) in the consolidated statements of operations.
The Company capitalizes certain internal and external costs incurred to acquire or develop internal-use software.  Capitalized software costs are amortized over the estimated useful life of the software and reported in depreciation and amortization (including impairments).
Customer relationships, trade names and other intangibles established in connection with acquisitions that are finite-lived are amortized in a manner that reflects the pattern in which the projected net cash inflows to the Company are expected to occur, such as the sum of the years' digits method, or when such pattern does not exist, using the straight-line basis over their respective estimated useful lives.
The Company reviews its long-lived assets (property, plant and equipment, and intangible assets subject to amortization that arose from acquisitions) for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable.  If the sum of the expected cash flows, undiscounted and without interest, is less than the carrying amount of the asset, an impairment loss is recognized as the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value.
Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets
Goodwill and the value of franchises, trademarks, and certain other intangibles acquired in purchase business combinations which have indefinite useful lives are not amortized.  Rather, such assets are tested for impairment annually or upon the occurrence of a triggering event.
The Company assesses qualitative factors for its reporting units that carry goodwill.  If the qualitative assessment results in a conclusion that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit exceeds the carrying value, then no further testing is performed for that reporting unit.
When the qualitative assessment is not used, or if the qualitative assessment is not conclusive and it is necessary to calculate the fair value of a reporting unit, then the impairment analysis for goodwill is performed at the reporting unit level using a two-step approach.  The first step of the goodwill impairment test is used to identify potential impairment by comparing the fair value of the reporting unit with its carrying amount, including goodwill utilizing an enterprise-value based premise approach.  If the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the second step of the goodwill impairment test is performed to measure the amount of goodwill impairment loss, if any.  The second step of the goodwill impairment test compares the implied fair value of the reporting unit's goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill.  If the carrying amount of the reporting unit's goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of that goodwill, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.  The implied fair value of goodwill is determined in the same manner as the amount of goodwill which would be recognized in a business combination.
The Company assesses qualitative factors to determine whether it is necessary to perform the one-step quantitative identifiable indefinite-lived intangible assets impairment test.  This quantitative test is required only if the Company concludes that it is more likely than not that a unit of accounting’s fair value is less than its carrying amount.  When the qualitative assessment is not used, or if the qualitative assessment is not conclusive, the impairment test for other intangible assets not subject to amortization requires a comparison of the fair value of the intangible asset with its carrying value.  If the carrying value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.
Deferred Financing Costs
Deferred financing costs are being amortized to interest expense using the effective interest method over the terms of the related debt.
Derivative Financial Instruments
The Company accounts for derivative financial instruments as either assets or liabilities measured at fair value.  The Company uses derivative instruments to manage its exposure to market risks from changes in certain equity prices and interest rates and does not hold or issue derivative instruments for speculative or trading purposes.  These derivative instruments are not designated as hedges, and changes in the fair values of these derivatives are recognized in the statements of income as gains (losses) on derivative contracts. 
Commitments and Contingencies
Liabilities for loss contingencies arising from claims, assessments, litigation, fines and penalties and other sources are recorded when the Company believes it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the contingency can be reasonably estimated.
Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
In November 2015, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2015-17 (Topic 740), Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes. This ASU amends existing guidance to require the presentation of deferred tax liabilities and assets as noncurrent within a classified statement of financial position. ASU No. 2015-17 was adopted by the Company as of June 30, 2016 and was applied prospectively to all deferred tax liabilities and assets.
In September 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-16, Simplifying the Accounting for Measurement-Period Adjustments, which requires that an acquirer recognize adjustments to provisional amounts that are identified during the measurement period in the reporting period in which the adjustment amounts are determined. Prior to the issuance of the standard, entities were required to retrospectively apply adjustments made to provisional amounts recognized in a business combination. ASU No. 2015-16 was adopted by the Company on January 1, 2016.
In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-05, Intangibles-Goodwill and Other-Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40): Customer’s Accounting for Fees Paid in a Cloud Computing Arrangement. ASU No. 2015-05 provides guidance to customers about whether a cloud computing arrangement includes a software license. If a cloud computing arrangement includes a software license, then the customer should account for the software license element of the arrangement consistent with the acquisition of other software licenses. If a cloud computing arrangement does not include a software license, the customer should account for the arrangement as a service contract. ASU No. 2015-05 was adopted by the Company on January 1, 2016 and did not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-03, Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs, which requires debt issuance costs to be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying value of the associated debt liability, consistent with the presentation of a debt discount. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-15, Presentation and Subsequent Measurement of Debt Issuance Costs Associated with Line-of-Credit Arrangements, which clarifies the treatment of debt issuance costs from line-of-credit arrangements after adoption of ASU No. 2015-03. ASU No. 2015-15 clarifies that the Securities and Exchange Commission staff would not object to an entity deferring and presenting debt issuance costs as an asset and subsequently amortizing the deferred debt issuance costs ratably over the term of the line-of-credit arrangement, regardless of whether there are any outstanding borrowings on the line-of-credit arrangement. ASU No. 2015-03 was adopted by the Company on January 1, 2016 representing a change in accounting principle and was applied retrospectively to all periods presented. Debt issuance costs, net for the Company of $67,119, as of December 31, 2015 were reclassified from deferred financing costs and presented as a reduction to debt in the consolidated balance sheets.
Debt issuance costs, net for the Company of $7,588 as of December 31, 2015 relating to its revolving credit facility were not impacted by the adoption of ASU No. 2015-03 and are reflected as long-term assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
In August 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-15, Disclosures of Uncertainties about an Entity's Ability to Continue as a Going Concern, which requires management to evaluate whether there are conditions or events that raise substantial doubt about the entity's ability to continue as a going concern, and to provide certain disclosures when it is probable that the entity will be unable to meet its obligations as they become due within one year after the date that the financial statements are issued. ASU No. 2014-15 was adopted by the Company on January 1, 2016.
In June 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-12, Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Accounting for Share-Based Payments When the Terms of an Award Provide That a Performance Target Could Be Achieved After the Requisite Service Period. ASU No. 2014-12 requires that a performance target that affects vesting and that could be achieved after the requisite service period be treated as a performance condition. Entities may apply the amendments in this ASU either: (a) prospectively to all awards granted or modified after the effective date; or (b) retrospectively to all awards with performance targets that are outstanding as of the beginning of the earliest annual period presented in the financial statements and to all new or modified awards thereafter. ASU No. 2014-12 was adopted by the Company on January 1, 2016 on a prospective basis and did not have any impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
Recently Issued But Not Yet Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, requiring an entity to recognize the amount of revenue to which it expects to be entitled for the transfer of promised goods or services to customers. ASU No. 2014-09 will replace most existing revenue recognition guidance in GAAP when it becomes effective and allows the use of either the retrospective or cumulative effect transition method. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-14 that approved deferring the effective date by one year so that ASU No. 2014-09 would become effective for the Company on January 1, 2018. The FASB also approved, in July 2015, permitting the early adoption of ASU No. 2014-09, but not before the original effective date for the Company of January 1, 2017.
In December 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-20, Technical Corrections and Improvements to Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, in order to clarify the Codification and to correct any unintended application of the guidance. These items are not expected to have a significant effect on the current accounting standard. The amendments in this update affect the guidance in ASU No. 2014-09, which is not yet effective. ASU No. 2014-09 will be effective, reflecting the one-year deferral, for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017 (January 1, 2018 for the Company).  Early adoption of the standard is permitted but not before the original effective date. Companies can transition to the standard either retrospectively or as a cumulative-effect adjustment as of the date of adoption. The Company is in the process of evaluating the impact that the adoption of ASU No. 2014-09 will have on its consolidated financial statements and selecting the method of transition to the new standard. We currently expect the adoption to impact the timing of the recognition of residential installation revenue and the recognition of commission expenses.
In November 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-18, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Restricted Cash, which requires that the statement of cash flows disclose the change during the period in the total of cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents. Restricted cash should be included with cash and cash equivalents when reconciling the beginning-of-period and end-of period total amounts shown on the statement of cash flows. ASU No. 2016-18 provides specific guidance on the presentation of restricted cash in the statement of cash flows. The new guidance becomes effective for the Company on January 1, 2019 with early adoption permitted and will be applied retrospectively.
In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments which clarifies how entities should classify certain cash receipts and cash payments on the statement of cash flows. ASU No. 2016-15 also clarifies how the predominance principle should be applied when cash receipts and cash payments have aspects of more than one class of cash flows. The new guidance becomes effective for the Company on January 1, 2018 with early adoption permitted and will be applied retrospectively. The Company has not yet completed the evaluation of the effect that ASU No. 2016-15 will have on its consolidated financial statements.
In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, Compensation—Stock Compensation: Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting, which provides simplification of income tax accounting for share-based payment awards. The new guidance becomes effective for the Company on January 1, 2017 with early adoption permitted. Amendments related to the timing of when excess tax benefits are recognized, minimum statutory withholding requirements, forfeitures, and intrinsic value will be applied using the modified retrospective transition method. Amendments requiring recognition of excess tax benefits and tax deficiencies in the income statement and the practical expedient for estimating expected term will be applied prospectively. The Company may elect to apply the amendments related to the presentation of excess tax benefits on the statement of cash flows using either a prospective transition method or a retrospective transition method. In connection with the adoption on January 1, 2017, a deferred tax asset of approximately $309,000 for previously unrealized excess tax benefits will be recognized with the offset recorded to accumulated deficit.
In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases, which increases transparency and comparability by recognizing a lessee’s rights and obligations resulting from leases by recording them on the balance sheet as lease assets and lease liabilities. The new guidance becomes effective for the Company on January 1, 2019 with early adoption permitted and will be applied using the modified retrospective method. The Company has not yet completed the evaluation of the effect that ASU No. 2016-02 will have on its consolidated financial statements.
Common Stock of Cablevision
Prior to the Merger, each holder of CNYG Class A common stock had one vote per share while holders of CNYG Class B common stock had ten votes per share.  CNYG Class B shares could be converted to CNYG Class A common stock at anytime with a conversion ratio of one CNYG Class A common share for one CNYG Class B common share.  CNYG Class A stockholders were entitled to elect 25% of Cablevision's Board of Directors.  CNYG Class B stockholders had the right to elect the remaining members of Cablevision's Board of Directors.  In addition, CNYG Class B stockholders were parties to an agreement which had the effect of causing the voting power of these CNYG Class B stockholders to be cast as a block.
The following table provides details of Cablevision's shares of common stock through the Merger Date:
 
Shares of Common Stock Outstanding
 
Class A
Common Stock
 
Class B
Common Stock
Balance at December 31, 2014
220,219,935

 
54,137,673

Employee and non-employee director stock transactions (a)
2,352,275

 
—

Balance at December 31, 2015
222,572,210

 
54,137,673

Employee and non-employee director stock transactions (a)
(185,276
)
 
—

Balance at June 20, 2016
222,386,934

 
54,137,673

 
(a)
Primarily included issuances of common stock in connection with employee and non-employee director exercises of stock options and restricted shares granted to employees, offset by shares acquired by the Company in connection with the fulfillment of employees' statutory tax withholding obligation for applicable income and other employment taxes and forfeited employee restricted shares.

Dividends
Pursuant to the terms of the Merger Agreement, Cablevision was not permitted to declare and pay dividends or repurchase stock, in each case, without the prior written consent of Altice. In accordance with these terms, Cablevision did not declare dividends during the period January 1, 2016 through June 20, 2016.
During the period January 1, 2016 through June 20, 2016, Cablevision paid $4,066 related to restricted shares that vested in respect of dividends declared and accrued on the CNYG common stock in prior periods. 
Prior to the Merger, the Board of Directors of Cablevision had declared and paid the following cash dividends to stockholders of record on both its CNYG Class A common stock and CNYG Class B common stock:
Declaration Date
 
Dividend per Share
 
Record Date
 
Payment Date
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
August 6, 2015
 
$0.15
 
August 21, 2015
 
September 10, 2015
May 1, 2015
 
$0.15
 
May 22, 2015
 
June 12, 2015
February 24, 2015
 
$0.15
 
March 16, 2015
 
April 3, 2015

Cablevision paid dividends aggregating $125,170 during the year ended December 31, 2015, including accrued dividends on vested restricted shares of $3,935. 
Cablevision's and CSC Holdings' indentures and CSC Holdings' credit agreement restrict the amount of dividends and distributions in respect of any equity interest that can be made.
Income (Loss) Per Share
Basic income per common share attributable to Cablevision stockholders was computed by dividing net income attributable to Cablevision stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period.  Diluted income per common share attributable to Cablevision stockholders reflected the dilutive effects of stock options, restricted stock and restricted stock units. For such awards that were performance based, the diluted effect was reflected upon the achievement of the performance criteria.
The following table presents a reconciliation of weighted average shares used in the calculations of the basic and diluted net income per share attributable to Cablevision stockholders:
 
January 1, 2016 to June 20, 2016
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
 
2015
 
 
 
 
Basic weighted average shares outstanding
272,035

 
269,388

 
 
 
 
Effect of dilution:
 
 
 

Stock options
4,444

 
3,532

Restricted stock
3,720

 
3,419

Diluted weighted average shares outstanding
280,199

 
276,339


Anti-dilutive shares (options whose exercise price exceeds the average market price of Cablevision's common stock during the period and certain restricted shares) totaling approximately 1,160,000 shares were excluded from diluted weighted average shares outstanding for the years ended 2015.  There were no anti-dilutive shares excluded from diluted weighted average shares outstanding for the period January 1, 2016 to June 20, 2016. In addition, approximately 1,772,000 performance based restricted stock units for the year ended December 31, 2015 issued pursuant to the Company's former employee stock plan were also excluded from the diluted weighted average shares outstanding as the performance criteria on these awards had not yet been satisfied for the respective period.
Net income (loss) per share for Cablevision subsequent to the merger is not presented since Cablevision's common stock is no longer publicly traded.

Concentrations of Credit Risk

Financial instruments that may potentially subject the Company to a concentration of credit risk consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents and trade account receivables.  The Company monitors the financial institutions and money market funds where it invests its cash and cash equivalents with diversification among counterparties to mitigate exposure to any single financial institution.  The Company's emphasis is primarily on safety of principal and liquidity and secondarily on maximizing the yield on its investments.  Management believes that no significant concentration of credit risk exists with respect to its cash and cash equivalents balances because of its assessment of the creditworthiness and financial viability of the respective financial institutions.

The Company did not have a single customer that represented 10% or more of its consolidated revenues for the period January 1, 2016 through June 20, 2016 and the year ended December 31, 2015, or 10% or more of its consolidated net trade receivables at December 31, 2015.
CVC - ALLOWANCE FOR DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS
ALLOWANCE FOR DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS 
ALLOWANCE FOR DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS
Activity related to the Company's allowance for doubtful accounts is presented below:
 
Balance at Beginning of Period
 
Provision for Bad Debt
 
Deductions/ Write-Offs and Other Charges
 
Balance at End of Period
Year Ended December 31, 2017
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Allowance for doubtful accounts
$
11,677

 
$
74,183

 
$
(72,440
)
 
$
13,420

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Year Ended December 31, 2016
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Allowance for doubtful accounts
$
1,051

 
$
53,249

 
$
(42,623
)
 
$
11,677

ALLOWANCE FOR DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS 
ALLOWANCE FOR DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS
Activity related to the allowance for doubtful accounts:
 
Balance at Beginning of Period
 
Provision for Bad Debt
 
Deductions/ Write-Offs and Other Charges
 
Balance at End of Period
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Period from January 1, 2016 through June 20, 2016
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Allowance for doubtful accounts
$
6,039

 
$
13,240

 
$
(12,378
)
 
$
6,901

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Year Ended December 31, 2015
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Allowance for doubtful accounts
$
12,112

 
$
35,802

 
$
(41,875
)
 
$
6,039

CVC - SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION
SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION 
SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION
The Company's non-cash investing and financing activities and other supplemental data were as follows:
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Non-Cash Investing and Financing Activities:
 
 
 
Continuing Operations:
 
 
 
Conversion of notes payable to affiliates and related parties of $1,750,000 (together with accrued and unpaid interest and applicable premium) to common stock (See Note 9)
$
2,264,252

 
$
—

Property and equipment accrued but unpaid
171,604

 
155,653

Distributions declared but not paid
—

 
79,617

Leasehold improvements paid by landlord
3,998

 
—

Notes payable to vendor
40,131

 
12,449

Capital lease obligations
9,385

 
—

Deferred financing costs accrued but unpaid
—

 
2,570

Supplemental Data:
 
 
 
Cash interest paid
1,765,126

 
1,192,370

Income taxes paid, net
29,006

 
1,538

SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION 
SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION
The Company's non-cash investing and financing activities and other supplemental data were as follows:
 
January 1, 2016 to June 20, 2016
 
Years Ended December 31,
2015
 
 
Non-Cash Investing and Financing Activities:
 
 
 
Continuing Operations:
 
 
 
Property and equipment accrued but unpaid
$
68,356

 
$
63,843

Notes payable to vendor
—

 
8,318

Capital lease obligations
—

 
19,987

Intangible asset obligations
290

 
1,121

Non-Cash Investing and Financing Activities:
 
 
 

Dividends payable on unvested restricted share awards
—

 
3,517

Supplemental Data:
 
 
 
Continuing Operations:
 
 
 
Cash interest paid
258,940

 
560,361

Income taxes paid, net
7,082

 
3,849

CVC - RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER EXPENSE
RESTRUCTURING COSTS AND OTHER EXPENSE 
RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER EXPENSE
Restructuring
Beginning in the first quarter of 2016, the Company commenced its restructuring initiatives (the "2016 Restructuring Plan") that are intended to simplify the Company's organizational structure.
The following table summarizes the activity for the 2016 Restructuring Plan:
 
 
 
Severance and Other Employee Related Costs
 
Facility Realignment and Other Costs
 
Total
Restructuring charges incurred in 2016
$
215,420

 
$
11,157

 
$
226,577

Payments and other
(113,301
)
 
(2,760
)
 
(116,061
)
Accrual balance at December 31, 2016
102,119

 
8,397

 
110,516

Restructuring charges
142,679

 
7,243

 
149,922

Payments and other
(131,324
)
 
(6,014
)
 
(137,338
)
Accrual balance at December 31, 2017
$
113,474

 
$
9,626

 
$
123,100


Cumulative costs to date relating to the 2016 Restructuring Plan amounted to $309,297 and $67,202 for our Cablevision segment and Cequel segment, respectively.
Transaction Costs
For the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company incurred transaction costs of $2,479 related to the acquisition of a business during the first quarter of 2017 and other transactions. For the year ended December 31, 2016, the Company incurred transaction costs of $13,845, related to the acquisitions of Cablevision and Cequel.
RESTRUCTURING COSTS AND OTHER EXPENSE 
RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER EXPENSE
Restructuring
The Company recorded net restructuring charges (credits) of $2,299 and $(1,649), for the period January 1, 2016 through June 20, 2016 and for the year ended December 31, 2015, respectively. The 2016 and 2015 restructuring expense (credit) primarily related to changes to the Company's previous estimates recorded in connection with the Company's prior restructuring plans.
Subsequent to the Altice Merger, the Company commenced its restructuring initiatives (the "2016 Restructuring Plan") that are intended to simplify the Company's organizational structure. The 2016 Restructuring Plan resulted in charges of $188,847 associated with the elimination of positions primarily in corporate, administrative and infrastructure functions across the Company and estimated charges of $10,410 associated with facility realignment and other costs.
Other Expense
In connection with the Altice Merger, the Company incurred transaction costs of $19,924 and $17,862 for the period January 1, 2016 through June 20, 2016 and for the year ended December 31, 2015, respectively, which are reflected in restructuring and other expense in the consolidated statements of operations. Subsequent to the Altice Merger, the Company incurred transaction costs of $12,920.
CVC - DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS (Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries)
DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
Loss from discontinued operations for the year ended December 31, 2015 amounted to $21,272 ($12,541, net of income taxes) and primarily reflects an expense of $21,000 ($12,380, net of income taxes) related to the settlement of a legal matter relating to Rainbow Media Holdings LLC, a business whose operations were previously discontinued (see Note 17).
CVC - PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT 
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
Costs incurred in the construction of the Company's cable systems, including line extensions to, and upgrade of, the Company's hybrid fiber/coaxial infrastructure, initial placement of the feeder cable to connect a customer that had not been previously connected, and headend facilities are capitalized.  These costs consist of materials, subcontractor labor, direct consulting fees, and internal labor and related costs associated with the construction activities.  The internal costs that are capitalized consist of salaries and benefits of the Company's employees and the portion of facility costs, including rent, taxes, insurance and utilities, that supports the construction activities.  These costs are depreciated over the estimated life of the plant (10 to 25 years) and headend facilities (4 to 25 years).  Costs of operating the plant and the technical facilities, including repairs and maintenance, are expensed as incurred.
Installation costs associated with the initial deployment of new customer premise equipment (“CPE”) necessary to provide pay television, broadband or telephony services are also capitalized. These costs include materials, subcontractor labor, internal labor, and other related costs associated with the connection activities.  The departmental activities supporting the connection process are tracked through specific metrics, and the portion of departmental costs that is capitalized is determined through a time weighted activity allocation of costs incurred based on time studies used to estimate the average time spent on each activity.  These installation costs are amortized over the estimated useful lives of the CPE necessary to provide pay television, broadband or telephony services.  In circumstances where CPE tracking is not available, the Company estimates the amount of capitalized installation costs based on whether or not the business or residence had been previously connected to the network. These installation costs are depreciated over their estimated useful life of 3-5 years. The portion of departmental costs related to disconnecting services and removing CPE from a customer, costs related to connecting CPE that has been previously connected to the network and repair and maintenance are expensed as incurred.
The estimated useful lives assigned to our property, plant and equipment are reviewed on an annual basis or more frequently if circumstances warrant and such lives are revised to the extent necessary due to changing facts and circumstances.  Any changes in estimated useful lives are reflected prospectively.
Property, plant and equipment (including equipment under capital leases) consist of the following assets, which are depreciated or amortized on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives shown below:
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
Estimated
Useful Lives
Customer premise equipment
$
1,093,726

 
$
871,049

 
3 to 5 years
Headends and related equipment
1,626,293

 
1,482,631

 
4 to 25 years
Infrastructure
3,998,503

 
3,740,494

 
3 to 25 years
Equipment and software
917,698

 
735,012

 
3 to 10 years
Construction in progress (including materials and supplies)
286,702

 
84,321

 
 
Furniture and fixtures
52,545

 
45,576

 
5 to 12 years
Transportation equipment
137,886

 
135,488

 
5 to 10 years
Buildings and building improvements
394,421

 
390,337

 
10 to 40 years
Leasehold improvements
108,071

 
104,309

 
Term of lease
Land
47,563

 
47,715

 
 
 
8,663,408

 
7,636,932

 
 
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization
(2,599,579
)
 
(1,039,297
)
 
 
 
$
6,063,829

 
$
6,597,635

 
 

For the years ended December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the Company capitalized certain costs aggregating $151,646 and $75,804, respectively, related to the acquisition and development of internal use software, which are included in the table above. 
Depreciation expense on property, plant and equipment (including capital leases) for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 amounted to $1,588,668 and $1,046,896, respectively.
The gross amount of buildings and equipment and related accumulated depreciation recorded under capital leases is presented below:
 
December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Buildings and equipment
$
48,936

 
$
53,833

Less accumulated depreciation
(12,972
)
 
(6,306
)
 
$
35,964

 
$
47,527

PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT 
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
Costs incurred in the construction of the Company's cable systems, including line extensions to, and upgrade of, the Company's hybrid fiber/coaxial infrastructure, initial placement of the feeder cable to connect a customer that had not been previously connected, and headend facilities are capitalized.  These costs consist of materials, subcontractor labor, direct consulting fees, and internal labor and related costs associated with the construction activities.  The internal costs that are capitalized consist of salaries and benefits of the Company's employees and the portion of facility costs, including rent, taxes, insurance and utilities, that supports the construction activities.  These costs are depreciated over the estimated life of the plant (10 to 25 years) and headend facilities (4 to 25 years).  Costs of operating the plant and the technical facilities, including repairs and maintenance, are expensed as incurred.
Costs associated with initial customer installations and the additions of network equipment necessary to enable advanced services are also capitalized. Costs capitalized as part of new customer installations include materials, subcontractor costs and internal direct labor costs, including service technicians and internal overhead costs incurred to connect the customer to the plant from the time of installation scheduling through the time service is activated and functioning. The internal direct labor cost capitalized is based on a combination of the actual and estimated time to complete the installation. Overhead capitalized consists mainly of employee benefits, such as payroll taxes and health insurance, directly associated with that portion of the capitalized labor and vehicle operating costs related to capitalizable activities. New connections are amortized over the estimated useful life of 5 years for customer wiring and feeder cable to the home.  The portion of departmental costs related to disconnecting services, reconnection of a customer, and repair and maintenance are expensed as incurred.
The estimated useful lives assigned to our property, plant and equipment are reviewed on an annual basis or more frequently if circumstances warrant and such lives are revised to the extent necessary due to changing facts and circumstances.  Any changes in estimated useful lives are reflected prospectively.
Property, plant and equipment (including equipment under capital leases) consist of the following assets, which are depreciated or amortized on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives shown below:
 
December 31, 2015
 
Estimated
Useful Lives
Customer equipment
$
1,952,336

 
3 to 5 years
Headends and related equipment
2,388,289

 
4 to 25 years
Infrastructure
5,639,226

 
3 to 25 years
Equipment and software
1,577,616

 
3 to 10 years
Construction in progress (including materials and supplies)
87,412

 
 
Furniture and fixtures
96,561

 
5 to 12 years
Transportation equipment
210,013

 
5 to 18 years
Buildings and building improvements
322,267

 
10 to 40 years
Leasehold improvements
354,136

 
Term of lease
Land
14,507

 
 
 
12,642,363

 
 
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization
(9,625,348
)
 
 
 
$
3,017,015

 
 

During the period January 1, 2016 through June 20, 2016 and the year ended December 31, 2015 , the Company capitalized certain costs aggregating $58,409 and $144,349, respectively, related to the acquisition and development of internal use software, which are included in the table above. 
Depreciation expense on property, plant and equipment (including capital leases) for the period January 1, 2016 through June 20, 2016 and the year ended December 31, 2015 amounted to $404,234 and $857,440, respectively.
At December 31, 2015, the gross amount of equipment and related accumulated amortization recorded under capital leases was as follows:
 
December 31, 2015
Equipment
$
90,099

Less accumulated amortization
(28,119
)
 
$
61,980

CVC - OPERATING LEASES (Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries)
OPERATING LEASES
OPERATING LEASES
The Company leases certain office, production, and transmission facilities under terms of leases expiring at various dates through 2035.  The leases generally provide for escalating rentals over the term of the lease plus certain real estate taxes and other costs or credits.  Costs associated with such operating leases are recognized on a straight-line basis over the initial lease term.  The difference between rent expense and rent paid is recorded as deferred rent.  In addition, the Company rents space on utility poles for its operations.  The Company's pole rental agreements are for varying terms, and management anticipates renewals as they expire.  Rent expense, including pole rentals, for the period January 1, 2016 through June 20, 2016 and the year ended December 31, 2015 amounted to $41,573 and $82,704, respectively.
The minimum future annual payments for all operating leases (with initial or remaining terms in excess of one year) during the next five years and thereafter, including pole rentals from January 1, 2017 through December 31, 2021, are as follows:
2017
$
57,853

2018
52,206

2019
44,908

2020
41,221

2021
38,697

Thereafter
141,063

CVC - INTANGIBLE ASSETS
INTANGIBLE ASSETS 
INTANGIBLE ASSETS
The following table summarizes information relating to the Company's acquired amortizable intangible assets: 
 
As of December 31, 2017
 
As of December 31, 2016
 
 
 
Gross Carrying Amount
 
Accumulated Amortization
 
Net Carrying Amount
 
Gross Carrying Amount
 
Accumulated Amortization
 
Net Carrying Amount
 
Estimated Useful Lives
Customer relationships
$
5,970,884

 
$
(1,409,021
)
 
$
4,561,863

 
$
5,925,884

 
$
(580,276
)
 
$
5,345,608

 
8 to 18 years
Trade names (a)
1,067,083

 
(588,574
)
 
478,509

 
1,066,783

 
(83,397
)
 
983,386

 
2 to 5 years
Other amortizable intangibles
37,060

 
(10,978
)
 
26,082

 
26,743

 
(3,093
)
 
23,650

 
1 to 15 years
 
$
7,075,027

 
$
(2,008,573
)
 
$
5,066,454

 
$
7,019,410

 
$
(666,766
)
 
$
6,352,644

 
 
 
(a)
On May 23, 2017, Altice N.V. announced the adoption of a global brand to replace the Company's brands in the future, reducing the remaining useful lives of these trade name intangibles to three years from the date of the adoption, which reflected one year as an in-use asset and two years as a defensive asset. In December 2017, the Company made a decision to postpone the adoption of a global brand that would have replaced the Optimum brand, increasing the useful life of the Optimum trade name intangible asset to 5 years.
Amortization expense for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 and aggregated $1,341,807 and $653,410, respectively.
The following table sets forth the estimated amortization expense on intangible assets for the periods presented:
Estimated amortization expense
 

Year Ending December 31, 2018
$
873,133

Year Ending December 31, 2019
777,846

Year Ending December 31, 2020
696,240

Year Ending December 31, 2021
616,718

Year Ending December 31, 2022
537,100


The following table summarizes information relating to the Company's acquired indefinite-lived intangible assets as of December 31, 2017: 
 
As of December 31, 2017
 
As of December 31, 2016
 
Cablevision
 
Cequel
 
Total
 
Cablevision
 
Cequel
 
Total
Cable television franchises
$
8,113,575

 
$
4,906,506

 
$
13,020,081

 
$
8,113,575

 
$
4,906,506

 
$
13,020,081

Goodwill
5,843,019

 
2,153,741

 
7,996,760

 
5,838,959

 
2,153,741

 
7,992,700

Total
$
13,956,594

 
$
7,060,247

 
$
21,016,841

 
$
13,952,534

 
$
7,060,247

 
$
21,012,781


The carrying amount of goodwill is presented below:
Gross goodwill as of January 1, 2016
$
2,040,402

Goodwill recorded in connection with Cablevision Acquisition
5,838,959

Adjustments to purchase accounting relating to Cequel Acquisition
113,339

Gross goodwill as of January 1, 2017
7,992,700

Goodwill recorded in connection with acquisitions in the first and fourth quarters of 2017 (Cablevision Segment)
23,948

Adjustments to purchase accounting relating to Cablevision Acquisition
3,213

Transfer of Cablevision goodwill related to Altice Technical Services US Corp. (See Note 14 for further details)
(23,101
)
Net goodwill as of December 31, 2017
$
7,996,760

INTANGIBLE ASSETS 
INTANGIBLE ASSETS
The following table summarizes information relating to the Company's acquired intangible assets: 
 
December 31, 2015
 
Gross Carrying Amount
Accumulated Amortization
Net Carrying Amount
Estimated Useful Lives
 
 
 
 
   
Customer relationships
$
39,414

$
(27,778
)
$
11,636

10 to 18 years
Trade names
—

—

—

 
Other amortizable intangibles
57,847

(32,532
)
25,315

3 to 28 years
 
$
97,261

$
(60,310
)
$
36,951

 

Amortization expense for the period January 1, 2016 through June 20, 2016 and the year ended December 31, 2015 amounted to $10,316 and $7,812, respectively.
The following table summarizes information relating to the Company's acquired indefinite-lived intangible assets: 
 
December 31, 2015
Cable television franchises
$
731,848

Trademarks and other assets
7,250

Goodwill
262,345

Total
$
1,001,443


The carrying amount of goodwill is presented below:
Gross goodwill as of December 31, 2015 (Predecessor)
$
596,403

Accumulated impairment losses
(334,058
)
Net goodwill as of June 20, 2016
$
262,345


Impairment Charges
Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are tested annually for impairment or earlier upon the occurrence of certain events or substantive changes in circumstances. 
No goodwill impairments were recorded for the period January 1, 2016 through June 20, 2016 and for the year ended December 31, 2015, respectively.
CVC - DEBT
DEBT 
DEBT
CSC Holdings Credit Facilities
In connection with the Cablevision Acquisition, in October 2015, Finco, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, which merged with and into CSC Holdings on June 21, 2016, entered into a senior secured credit facility, which provides U.S. dollar term loans currently in an aggregate principal amount of $3,000,000 ($2,985,000 outstanding at December 31, 2017) (the “CVC Term Loan Facility”, and the term loans extended under the CVC Term Loan Facility, the “CVC Term Loans”) and U.S. dollar revolving loan commitments in an aggregate principal amount of $2,300,000 (the “CVC Revolving Credit Facility” and, together with the Term Loan Facility, the “CVC Credit Facilities”), which are governed by a credit facilities agreement entered into by, inter alios, CSC Holdings, certain lenders party thereto and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. as administrative agent and security agent (as amended, restated, supplemented or otherwise modified on June 20, 2016, June 21, 2016, July 21, 2016, September 9, 2016, December 9, 2016 and March 15, 2017, respectively, and as further amended, restated, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time, the “CVC Credit Facilities Agreement”).
The amendment to the CVC Credit Facilities Agreement entered into on September 9, 2016, extended the maturity date of the CVC Term Loan Facility to October 11, 2024. In October 2016, CSC Holdings used the net proceeds from the sale of $1,310,000 aggregate principal amount of 5.5% senior guaranteed notes due 2027 (the ‘‘2027 Guaranteed Notes’’) (after the deduction of fees and expenses) to prepay outstanding loans under the CSC Holdings Term Credit Facility that were not extended pursuant to this amendment. In connection with the prepayment of the Term Credit Facility, the Company wrote-off the deferred financing costs and the unamortized discount related to the existing term loan aggregating $102,894. Additionally, the Company recorded deferred financing costs and an original issue discount of $7,249 and $6,250, respectively, which are both being amortized to interest expense over the term of the Term Loan Facility.
The amendment to the CVC Credit Facilities Agreement entered into on March 15, 2017 (“Extension Amendment”) increased the Term Loan by $500,000 to $3,000,000 and the maturity date for this facility was extended to July 17, 2025. The closing of the Extension Amendment occurred in April 2017 and the proceeds were used to refinance the entire $2,493,750 principal amount of existing Term Loans and redeem $500,000 of the 8.625% Senior Notes due September 2017 issued by Cablevision. In connection with the Extension Amendment and the redemption of the senior notes, the Company recorded a loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs aggregating $18,976.
During the year ended December 31, 2017, CSC Holdings borrowed $1,350,000 under its revolving credit facility ($500,000 was used to make cash distributions to its stockholders) and made voluntary repayments aggregating $1,075,256 with cash on hand.
Under the Extension Amendment, the Company is required to make scheduled quarterly payments equal to 0.25% (or $7,500) of the principal amount of the Term Loan, beginning with the fiscal quarter ended September 30, 2017, with the remaining balance scheduled to be paid on July 17, 2025.
The CVC Credit Facilities permit CSC Holdings to request revolving loans, swing line loans or letters of credit from the revolving lenders, swingline lenders or issuing banks, as applicable, thereunder, from time to time prior to November 30, 2021, unless the commitments under the CVC Revolving Credit Facility have been previously terminated.
Loans comprising each eurodollar borrowing or alternate base rate borrowing, as applicable, bear interest at a rate per annum equal to the adjusted LIBO rate or the alternate base rate, as applicable, plus the applicable margin, where the applicable margin is:
•
in respect of the CVC Term Loans, (i) with respect to any alternate base rate loan, 1.25% per annum and (ii) with respect to any eurodollar loan, 2.25% per annum, and
•
in respect of the CVC Revolving Credit Facility loans (i) with respect to any alternate base rate loan, 2.25% per annum and (ii) with respect to any eurodollar loan, 3.25% per annum.
The CVC Credit Facilities Agreement requires the prepayment of outstanding CVC Term Loans, subject to certain exceptions and deductions, with (i) 100% of the net cash proceeds of certain asset sales, subject to reinvestment rights and certain other exceptions; and (ii) commencing with the fiscal year ending December 31, 2017, a pari ratable share (based on the outstanding principal amount of the Term Loans divided by the sum of the outstanding principal amount of all pari passu indebtedness and the Term Loans) of 50% of annual excess cash flow, which will be reduced to 0% if the consolidated net senior secured leverage ratio of CSC Holdings is less than or equal to 4.5 to 1.
The obligations under the CVC Credit Facilities are guaranteed by each restricted subsidiary of CSC Holdings (other than CSC TKR, LLC and its subsidiaries and certain excluded subsidiaries) (the “Initial Guarantors”) and, subject to certain limitations, will be guaranteed by each future material wholly-owned restricted subsidiary of CSC Holdings.  The obligations under the CVC Credit Facilities (including any guarantees thereof) are secured on a first priority basis, subject to any liens permitted by the Credit Facilities, by capital stock held by CSC Holdings or any guarantor in certain subsidiaries of CSC Holdings, subject to certain exclusions and limitations. 
The CVC Credit Facilities Agreement includes certain negative covenants which, among other things and subject to certain significant exceptions and qualifications, limit CSC Holdings' ability and the ability of its restricted subsidiaries to: (i) incur or guarantee additional indebtedness, (ii) make investments, (iii) create liens, (iv) sell assets and subsidiary stock, (v) pay dividends or make other distributions or repurchase or redeem our capital stock or subordinated debt, (vi) engage in certain transactions with affiliates, (vii) enter into agreements that restrict the payment of dividends by subsidiaries or the repayment of intercompany loans and advances; and (viii) engage in mergers or consolidations. In addition, the CVC Revolving Credit Facility includes a financial maintenance covenant solely for the benefit of the lenders under the CVC Revolving Credit Facility consisting of a maximum consolidated net senior secured leverage ratio of CSC Holdings and its restricted subsidiaries of 5.0 to 1.0. The financial covenant will be tested on the last day of any fiscal quarter, but only if on such day there are outstanding borrowings under the CVC Revolving Credit Facility (including swingline loans but excluding any cash collateralized letters of credit and undrawn letters of credit not to exceed $15,000).
The CVC Credit Facilities Agreement also contains certain customary representations and warranties, affirmative covenants and events of default (including, among others, an event of default upon a change of control). If an event of default occurs, the lenders under the CVC Credit Facilities will be entitled to take various actions, including the acceleration of amounts due under the CVC Credit Facilities and all actions permitted to be taken by a secured creditor.
CSC Holdings was in compliance with all of its financial covenants under the CVC Credit Facilities as of December 31, 2017.
Cequel Credit Facilities
On June 12, 2015, Altice US Finance I Corporation, an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Cequel, entered into a senior secured credit facility which currently provides term loans in an aggregate principal amount of $1,265,000 ($1,258,675 outstanding at December 31, 2017) (the “Cequel Term Loan Facility” and the term loans extended under the Cequel Term Loan Facility, the “Cequel Term Loans”) and revolving loan commitments in an aggregate principal amount of $350,000 (the “Cequel Revolving Credit Facility” and, together with the Cequel Term Loan Facility, the “Cequel Credit Facilities”) which are governed by a credit facilities agreement entered into by, inter alios, Altice US Finance I Corporation, certain lenders party thereto and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. (as amended, restated, supplemented or otherwise modified on October 25, 2016, December 9, 2016 and March 15, 2017, and as further amended, restated, supplemented or modified from time to time, the “Cequel Credit Facilities Agreement”).
The amendment to the Cequel Credit Facilities Agreement entered into on March 15, 2017 (“Cequel Extension Amendment”) increased the Term Loan by $450,000 to $1,265,000 and the maturity date for this facility was extended to July 28, 2025. The closing of the Extension Amendment occurred in April 2017 and the proceeds were used to refinance the entire $812,963 principal amount of loans under the Term Loan and redeem $450,000 of the 6.375% Senior Notes due September 15, 2020. In connection with the Cequel Extension Amendment and the redemption of the senior notes, the Company recorded a loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financings costs aggregating $28,684.
Under the Cequel Extension Amendment, the Company is required to make scheduled quarterly payments equal to 0.25% (or $3,163) of the principal amount of the Cequel Term Loan, beginning with the fiscal quarter ended September 30, 2017, with the remaining balance scheduled to be paid on July 28, 2025.
Loans comprising each eurodollar borrowing or alternate base rate borrowing, as applicable, bear interest at a rate per annum equal to the adjusted LIBO rate or the alternate base rate, as applicable, plus the applicable margin, where the applicable margin is:
•
in respect of the Cequel Term Loans, (i) with respect to any alternate base rate loan, 1.25% per annum and (ii) with respect to any eurodollar loan, 2.25% per annum, and
•
in respect of Cequel Revolving Credit Facility loans (i) with respect to any alternate base rate loan, 2.25% per annum and (ii) with respect to any eurodollar loan, 3.25% per annum.
The Cequel Credit Facilities Agreement requires the prepayment of outstanding Term Loans, subject to certain exceptions and deductions, with (i) 100% of the net cash proceeds of certain asset sales, subject to reinvestment rights and certain other exceptions; and (ii) a pari ratable share (based on the outstanding principal amount of the Cequel Term Loans divided by the sum of the outstanding principal amount of all pari passu indebtedness and the Cequel Term Loans) of 50% of annual excess cash flow, which will be reduced to 0% if the consolidated net senior secured leverage ratio is less than or equal to 4.5:1.
The debt under the Cequel Credit Facility is secured by a first priority security interest in the capital stock of Cequel Communications, LLC and substantially all of the present and future assets of Cequel Communications, LLC and its restricted subsidiaries, and is guaranteed by Cequel Communications Holdings II, LLC, an indirect subsidiary of Cequel (the "Parent Guarantor"), as well as all of Cequel Communications, LLC's existing and future direct and indirect subsidiaries, subject to certain exceptions set forth in the Cequel Credit Facilities Agreement. The Cequel Credit Facilities Agreement contains customary representations, warranties and affirmative covenants. In addition, the Cequel Credit Facilities Agreement contains restrictive covenants that limit, among other things, the ability of Cequel Communications, LLC and its subsidiaries to incur indebtedness, create liens, engage in mergers, consolidations and other fundamental changes, make investments or loans, engage in transactions with affiliates, pay dividends, and make acquisitions and dispose of assets. The Cequel Credit Facilities Agreement also contains a maximum senior secured leverage maintenance covenant of 5.0 to 1.0. Additionally, the Cequel Credit Facilities Agreement contains customary events of default, including failure to make payments, breaches of covenants and representations, cross defaults to other indebtedness, unpaid judgments, changes of control and bankruptcy events. The lenders’ commitments to fund amounts under the revolving credit facility are subject to certain customary conditions.
As of December 31, 2017, Cequel was in compliance with all of its financial covenants under the Cequel Credit Facilities Agreement.
The following table provides details of the Company's outstanding credit facility debt:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Carrying Amount (a)
 
Maturity Date
 
Interest Rate
 
Principal
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
CSC Holdings Restricted Group:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revolving Credit Facility (b)
$20,000 on October 9, 2020, remaining balance on November 30, 2021
 
4.75%
 
$
450,000

 
$
425,488

 
$
145,013

Term Loan Facility
July 17, 2025
 
3.74%
 
2,985,000

 
2,967,818

 
2,486,874

Cequel:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revolving Credit Facility (c)
November 30, 2021
 
—
 
—

 
—

 
—

Term Loan Facility
July 28, 2025
 
3.82%
 
1,258,675

 
1,250,217

 
812,903

 
 
 
 
 
$
4,693,675

 
4,643,523

 
3,444,790

Less: Current portion
42,650

 
33,150

Long-term debt
$
4,600,873

 
$
3,411,640


(a)
The carrying amount is net of the unamortized deferred financing costs and/or discounts.
(b)
At December 31, 2017, $115,973 of the revolving credit facility was restricted for certain letters of credit issued on behalf of the Company and $1,734,027 of the facility was undrawn and available, subject to covenant limitations.
(c)
At December 31, 2017, $13,500 of the revolving credit facility was restricted for certain letters of credit issued on behalf of the Company and $336,500 of the facility was undrawn and available, subject to covenant limitations.
Senior Guaranteed Notes, Senior Secured Notes, and Senior Notes and Debentures
The following table summarizes the Company's senior guaranteed notes, senior secured notes and senior notes and debentures:
 
 
 
 
 
Interest Rate
 
Principal Amount
 
Carrying Amount (a)
Issuer
Date Issued
 
Maturity Date
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
Senior notes:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CSC Holdings (b)(f)(n)
February 6, 1998
 
February 15, 2018
 
7.875
%
 
$
300,000

 
$
301,184

 
$
310,334

CSC Holdings (b)(f)
July 21, 1998
 
July 15, 2018
 
7.625
%
 
500,000

 
507,744

 
521,654

CSC Holdings (c)(f)
February 12, 2009
 
February 15, 2019
 
8.625
%
 
526,000

 
541,165

 
553,804

CSC Holdings (c)(f)
November 15, 2011
 
November 15, 2021
 
6.750
%
 
1,000,000

 
960,146

 
951,702

CSC Holdings (c)(f)
May 23, 2014
 
June 1, 2024
 
5.250
%
 
750,000

 
660,601

 
650,193

CSC Holdings (e)
October 9, 2015
 
January 15, 2023
 
10.125
%
 
1,800,000

 
1,777,914

 
1,774,750

CSC Holdings (e)(l)
October 9, 2015
 
October 15, 2025
 
10.875
%
 
1,684,221

 
1,661,135

 
1,970,379

Senior guaranteed notes:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CSC Holdings (e)
October 9, 2015
 
October 15, 2025
 
6.625
%
 
1,000,000

 
986,717

 
985,469

CSC Holdings (g)
September 23, 2016
 
April 15, 2027
 
5.500
%
 
1,310,000

 
1,304,468

 
1,304,025

Senior notes:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cablevision (k)(o)
September 23, 2009
 
September 15, 2017
 
8.625
%
 
—

 
—

 
926,045

Cablevision (c)(f)(n)(o)
April 15, 2010
 
April 15, 2018
 
7.750
%
 
750,000

 
754,035

 
767,545

Cablevision (c)(f)(o)
April 15, 2010
 
April 15, 2020
 
8.000
%
 
500,000

 
492,009

 
488,992

Cablevision (c)(f)(o)
September 27, 2012
 
September 15, 2022
 
5.875
%
 
649,024

 
572,071

 
559,500

Senior notes:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cequel Communications Holdings I and Cequel Capital (d)(m)(p)
Oct. 25, 2012 Dec. 28, 2012
 
September 15, 2020
 
6.375
%
 
1,050,000

 
1,027,493

 
1,457,439

Cequel Communications Holdings I and Cequel Capital (d)(p)
May 16, 2013 Sept. 9, 2014
 
December 15, 2021
 
5.125
%
 
1,250,000

 
1,138,870

 
1,115,767

Cequel Communications Holdings I and Cequel Capital (i)(p)
June 12, 2015
 
July 15, 2025
 
7.750
%
 
620,000

 
604,374

 
602,925

Senior secured notes:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Altice US Finance I Corporation (h)(p)
June 12, 2015
 
July 15, 2023
 
5.375
%
 
1,100,000

 
1,082,482

 
1,079,869

Altice US Finance I Corporation (j)(p)
April 26, 2016
 
May 15, 2026
 
5.500
%
 
1,500,000

 
1,488,024

 
1,486,933

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$
16,289,245

 
15,860,432

 
17,507,325

Less: Current portion
 
507,744

 
926,045

Long-term debt
 
$
15,352,688

 
$
16,581,280

 
(a)
The carrying amount is net of the unamortized deferred financing costs and/or discounts/premiums.
(b)
The debentures are not redeemable by CSC Holdings prior to maturity.
(c)
Notes are redeemable at any time at a specified "make-whole" price plus accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date.
(d)
The Company may redeem some or more of all the notes at the redemption price set forth in the relevant indenture, plus accrued and unpaid interest.
(e)
The Company may redeem some or all of the 2023 Notes at any time on or after January 15, 2019, and some or all of the 2025 Notes and 2025 Guaranteed Notes at any time on or after October 15, 2020, at the redemption prices set forth in the relevant indenture, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any.  The Company may also redeem up to 40% of each series of the Cablevision Acquisition Notes using the proceeds of certain equity offerings before October 15, 2018, at a redemption price equal to 110.125% for the 2023 Notes, 110.875% for the 2025 Notes and 106.625% for the 2025 Guaranteed Notes, in each case plus accrued and unpaid interest. In addition, at any time prior to January 15, 2019, CSC Holdings may redeem some or all of the 2023 Notes, and at any time prior to October 15, 2020, the Company may redeem some or all of the 2025 Notes and the 2025 Guaranteed Notes, at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount thereof, plus a “make whole” premium specified in the relevant indenture plus accrued and unpaid interest.
(f)
The carrying value of the notes was adjusted to reflect their fair value on the Cablevision Acquisition Date (aggregate reduction of $52,788).
(g)
The 2027 Guaranteed Notes are redeemable at any time on or after April 15, 2022 at the redemption prices set forth in the indenture, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any.  In addition, up to 40% may be redeemed for each series of the 2027 Guaranteed Notes using the proceeds of certain equity offerings before October 15, 2019, at a redemption price equal to 105.500%, plus accrued and unpaid interest.
(h)
Some or all of these notes may be redeemed at any time on or after July 15, 2018, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any. Up to 40% of the notes may be redeemed using the proceeds of certain equity offerings before July 15, 2018, at a redemption price equal to 105.375%.
(i)
Some or all of these notes may be redeemed at any time on or after July 15, 2020, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any. Up to 40% of the notes may be redeemed using the proceeds of certain equity offerings before July 15, 2018, at a redemption price equal to 107.750%.
(j)
Some or all of these notes may be redeemed at any time on or after May 15, 2021, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any. Up to 40% of the notes may be redeemed using the proceeds of certain equity offerings before May 15, 2019, at a redemption price equal to 105.500%.
(k)
In April 2017, the Company redeemed $500,000 of the senior notes from proceeds from the CVC Term Loan facility. In September 2017, these senior notes matured and the Company repaid the remaining principal balance of $400,000.
(l)
In July 2017, the Company used approximately $350,120 of the proceeds from the IPO to fund the redemption of $315,779 principal amount of CSC Holdings senior notes due October 2025 and the related call premium of approximately $34,341which was recorded as a loss on extinguishment of debt. The Company also recorded a write-off of deferred financings costs in connection with this redemption aggregating $4,516.
(m)
In April 2017, the Company redeemed $450,000 of the senior notes from proceeds from the Cequel Term Loan facility.
(n)
As a result of the repayment of these notes in February 2018, discussed in Note 20, the carrying amount of these Notes has been classified as long-term indebtedness.
(o)
The issuers of these notes have no ability to service interest or principal on the notes, other than through any dividends or distributions received from CSC Holdings. CSC Holdings is restricted, in certain circumstances, from paying dividends or distributions to the issuers by the terms of the CVC Credit Facilities Agreement.
(p)
The issuers of these notes have no ability to service interest or principal on the notes, other than through any contributions/distributions from Cequel Communications, LLC (an indirect subsidiary of Cequel and the parent of Altice US Finance I). Cequel Communications, LLC is restricted in certain circumstances, from paying dividends or distributions to the issuers by the terms of the Cequel Credit Facilities Agreement.
The indentures under which the senior notes and debentures were issued contain various covenants.  The Company was in compliance with all of its financial covenants under these indentures as of December 31, 2017.
CSC Holdings 5.5% Senior Guaranteed Notes due 2027
In September 2016, CSC Holdings issued $1,310,000 aggregate principal amount of 5.50% senior guaranteed notes due April 15, 2027. The 2027 Guaranteed Notes are senior unsecured obligations and rank pari passu in right of payment with all of the existing and future senior indebtedness, including the existing senior notes and the Credit Facilities and rank senior in right of payment to all of existing and future subordinated indebtedness.
As discussed above , in October 2016, CSC Holdings used the proceeds from the issuance of the 2027 Guaranteed Notes (after the deduction of fees and expenses) to prepay the outstanding loans under the CVC Term Credit Facility that were not extended pursuant to the extension amendment on September 9,2016. In connection with the issuance of the 2027 Guaranteed Notes, the Company incurred deferred financing costs of approximately $5,575, which are being amortized to interest expense over the term of the 2027 Guaranteed Notes.
Cablevision Acquisition Notes
The $1,000,000 principal amount of the 2025 Guaranteed Notes bear interest at a rate of 6.625% per annum and were issued at a price of 100.00%. Interest on the 2025 Guaranteed Notes is payable semi-annually on January 15 and July 15, commencing on July 15, 2016. These 2025 Guaranteed Notes are guaranteed on a senior basis by the Initial Guarantors.
The $1,800,000 principal amount of the 2023 Notes and $2,000,000 principal amount of the 2025 Notes, bear interest at a rate of 10.125% and 10.875%, respectively, per annum and were issued at prices of 100.00%. Interest on the 2023 Notes and 2025 Notes is payable semi-annually on January 15 and July 15, which began on July 15, 2016.
Deferred financing costs of approximately $76,579 incurred in connection with the issuance of the Cablevision Acquisition Notes are being amortized to interest expense over the term of the Cablevision Acquisition Notes.
The indentures under which the Cablevision and CSC Holdings Senior Guaranteed Notes and Senior Notes and Debentures were issued contain certain covenants and agreements with respect to investment grade debt securities, including limitations on the ability of CSC Holdings and its restricted subsidiaries to (i) incur or guarantee additional indebtedness, (ii) make investments or other restricted payments, (iii) create liens, (iv) sell assets and subsidiary stock, (v) pay dividends or make other distributions or repurchase or redeem our capital stock or subordinated debt, (vi) engage in certain transactions with affiliates, (vii) enter into agreements that restrict the payment of dividends by subsidiaries or the repayment of intercompany loans and advances, and (viii) engage in mergers or consolidations, in each case subject to certain exceptions. The indentures also contain certain customary events of default. If an event of default occurs, the obligations under the Cablevision Acquisition Notes may be accelerated.
As of December 31, 2017, Cablevision and CSC Holdings were in compliance with all of its financial covenants under the indentures under which the senior notes and debentures and senior guaranteed notes were issued.
Cequel Senior Secured Notes
On June 12, 2015, Altice US Finance I Corporation, an indirect subsidiary of Altice N.V., issued $1,100,000 principal amount of senior secured notes (the ‘‘Cequel 2023 Senior Secured Notes’’), the proceeds from which were placed in escrow to finance a portion of the purchase price for the Cequel Acquisition. The Cequel 2023 Senior Secured Notes bear interest at a rate of 5.375% per annum and were issued at a price of 100.00%. Interest on the Cequel 2023 Senior Secured Notes is payable semi-annually on January 15 and July 15 of each year. Following the consummation of the Cequel Acquisition and related transactions the equity interests in Altice US Finance I Corporation were contributed through one or more intermediary steps to Suddenlink, and the Senior Secured Notes were guaranteed by Cequel Communications Holdings II LLC, Suddenlink and certain of the subsidiaries of Suddenlink and are secured by certain assets of Cequel Communications Holdings II LLC, Suddenlink and its subsidiaries.
On April 26, 2016, Altice US Finance I Corporation issued $1,500,000 aggregate principal amount of senior secured notes (the ‘‘Cequel 2026 Senior Secured Notes’’). The proceeds from the sale were used to repay the $1,477,200 remaining balance under the previous credit facility and to pay related fees and expenses. The Cequel 2026 Senior Secured Notes mature on May 15, 2026 and bear interest at a rate of 5.50% annually. Interest on the Cequel 2026 Senior Secured Notes is payable semi-annually on May 15 and November 15 of each year, commencing on November 15, 2016. Deferred financing costs recorded in connection with the issuance of these notes amounted to $13,773 and are being amortized over the term of the notes.
Cequel Senior Notes
On June 12, 2015, Altice US Finance II Corporation, an indirect subsidiary of Altice N.V., issued $300,000 principal amount of the Cequel 2025 Senior Notes, the proceeds from which were placed in escrow, to finance a portion of the purchase price for the Cequel Acquisition. The Cequel 2025 Senior Notes were issued by the Cequel 2025 Senior Notes Issuer, an indirect subsidiary of Altice N.V., bear interest at a rate of 7.75% per annum and were issued at a price of 100.00%. Interest on the Cequel 2025 Senior Notes is payable semi-annually on January 15 and July 15 of each year. Following the consummation of the Cequel Acquisition and related transactions, the Cequel 2025 Senior Notes Issuer merged into Cequel, the Cequel 2025 Senior Notes became the obligations of Cequel and Cequel Capital Corporation became the co-issuer of the Cequel 2025 Senior Notes.
On June 12, 2015, Altice US Finance S.A., an indirect subsidiary of Altice N.V. issued $320,000 principal amount of the 7.75% Senior Notes due 2025 (the ‘‘Holdco Notes’’), the proceeds from which were placed in escrow, to finance a portion of the purchase price for the Cequel Acquisition. The Holdco Notes bear interest at a rate of 7.75% per annum and were issued at a price of 98.275%. Interest on the Holdco Notes is payable semi-annually on January 15 and July 15 of each year. The Holdco Notes were automatically exchanged into an equal aggregate principal amount of Cequel 2025 Senior Notes at Cequel during the second quarter of 2016.
The Cequel Indentures contain certain covenants, agreements and events of default which are customary with respect to non-investment grade debt securities, including limitations on the Company’s ability to incur additional indebtedness, pay dividends on or make other distributions or repurchase the Company’s capital stock, make certain investments, enter into certain types of transactions with affiliates, create liens and sell certain assets or merge with or into other companies.
Notes Payable to Affiliates and Related Parties
On June 21, 2016, in connection with the Cablevision Acquisition, the Company issued notes payable to affiliates and related parties aggregating $1,750,000, of which $875,000 bore interest at 10.75% and matured on December 20, 2023 and $875,000 bore interest at 11% and matured on December 20, 2024.
As discussed in Note 1, in connection with the Company's IPO, the Company converted the notes payable to affiliates and related parties (together with accrued and unpaid interest of $529 and applicable premium of $513,723) into shares of the Company’s common stock at the IPO price. The premium was recorded as a loss on extinguishment of debt on the Company's statement of operations for the year ended December 31, 2017. In connection with the conversion of the notes, the Company recorded a credit to paid in capital of $2,264,252.
For the year ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company recognized interest expense of $90,405 and $102,557 related to these notes prior to their conversion.
Summary of Debt Maturities
The future maturities of debt payable by the Company under its various debt obligations outstanding as of December 31, 2017, including notes payable, collateralized indebtedness (see Note 10), and capital leases, are as follows:
Years Ending December 31,
Cablevision
 
Cequel
 
Total
2018
$
1,619,094

 
$
16,518

 
$
1,635,612

2019
565,604

 
18,310

 
583,914

2020
552,902

 
1,062,713

 
1,615,615

2021
2,921,269

 
1,262,723

 
4,183,992

2022
680,700

 
12,734

 
693,434

Thereafter
9,380,513

 
4,416,270

 
13,796,783


The amounts in the table above do not include the effects of the debt transactions discussed in Note 20.
DEBT 
DEBT
Restricted Group Credit Facility
Prior to the Merger, CSC Holdings and certain of its subsidiaries (the "Restricted Subsidiaries") had a credit agreement (the "Previous Credit Facility") that provided for (1) a revolving credit facility of $1,500,000, (2) a Term A facility of $958,510, and (3) a Term B facility of $1,200,000.  
Loans under the Previous Credit Facility bore interest as follows:
•
Revolving credit loans and Term A loans, either (i) the Eurodollar rate (as defined) plus a spread ranging from 1.50% to 2.25% based on the cash flow ratio (as defined), or (ii) the base rate (as defined) plus a spread ranging from 0.50% to 1.25% based on the cash flow ratio;
•
Term B loans, either (i) the Eurodollar rate plus a spread of 2.50% or (ii) the base rate plus a spread of 1.50%.
There was a commitment fee of 0.30% on undrawn amounts under the revolving credit facility in connection with the Previous Credit Facility.
Repayment of Restricted Group Credit Facility Debt
In April 2015, CSC Holdings made a repayment of $200,000 on its outstanding Term B loan facility with cash on hand. In connection with the repayment, the Company recognized a loss on extinguishment of debt of $731 and wrote-off unamortized deferred financing costs related to this loan facility of $1,004 for the year ended December 31, 2015.
On June 21, 2016, in connection with the Merger, the Previous Credit Facility was repaid.
Newsday LLC Credit Facility
Newsday LLC ("Newsday") had a senior secured credit agreement (the "Newsday Credit Agreement"), which consisted of a $480,000 floating rate term loan.  Interest under the Newsday Credit Agreement was calculated, at the election of Newsday, at either the Eurodollar rate or the base rate, plus 3.50% or 2.50%, respectively, as specified in the Newsday Credit Agreement.  Borrowings under the Newsday Credit Agreement were guaranteed by CSC Holdings on a senior unsecured basis and certain of its subsidiaries that own interests in Newsday on a senior secured basis.  The Newsday Credit Agreement was secured by a lien on the assets of Newsday and Cablevision senior notes with an aggregate principal amount of $611,455 owned by Newsday Holdings. 
On June 21, 2016, in connection with the Merger, Newsday LLC repaid its outstanding indebtedness under the Newsday Credit Agreement.
The following table provides details of the Company's outstanding credit facility debt (net of unamortized financing costs and unamortized discounts):
 
Maturity
Date
 
Interest Rate
 
Principal
 
December 31, 2015 (a)
Restricted Group:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Term A loan facility (b)
April 17, 2018
 
2.17%
 
$
886,621

 
$
885,105

Term B loan facility (b)
April 17, 2020
 
2.92%
 
1,159,031

 
1,150,227

Restricted Group Credit Facilities debt
$
2,035,332

 
(a)
The unamortized discounts and deferred financing costs amounted to $11,200 at December 31, 2015.
(b)
In connection with the Merger, the Company repaid the then outstanding Term A and Term B loan facilities (see discussion above).
Senior Notes and Debentures
The following table summarizes the Company's senior notes and debentures as of December 31, 2015:
 
 
 
 
 
Interest
 
Principal
 
Carrying
Issuer
Date Issued
 
Maturity Date
 
Rate
 
Amount
 
Amount (c)
CSC Holdings (a)
February 6, 1998
 
February 15, 2018
 
7.875
%
 
$
300,000

 
$
299,091

CSC Holdings (a)
July 21, 1998
 
July 15, 2018
 
7.625
%
 
500,000

 
498,942

CSC Holdings (b)
February 12, 2009
 
February 15, 2019
 
8.625
%
 
526,000

 
511,079

CSC Holdings (b)
November 15, 2011
 
November 15, 2021
 
6.750
%
 
1,000,000

 
985,640

CSC Holdings (b)
May 23, 2014
 
June 1, 2024
 
5.250
%
 
750,000

 
737,500

Cablevision (b)
September 23, 2009
 
September 15, 2017
 
8.625
%
 
900,000

 
891,238

Cablevision (b)
April 15, 2010
 
April 15, 2018
 
7.750
%
 
750,000

 
744,402

Cablevision (b)
April 15, 2010
 
April 15, 2020
 
8.000
%
 
500,000

 
494,410

Cablevision (b)
September 27, 2012
 
September 15, 2022
 
5.875
%
 
649,024

 
638,709

Total
$
5,801,011

 
(a)
The debentures are not redeemable by the Company prior to maturity.
(b)
The Company may redeem some or all of the notes at any time at a specified "make-whole" price plus accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date.
(c)
The carrying amount of the notes is net of the unamortized deferred financing costs and/or discounts/premiums.
The table above excludes (i) the principal amount of Cablevision 7.75% senior notes due 2018 of $345,238 and the principal amount of Cablevision 8.00% senior notes due 2020 of $266,217 held by Newsday at December 31, 2015 which are eliminated in the consolidated balance sheets of Cablevision.
Debt Transaction Subsequent to Merger
In connection with the Merger, in October 2015, Finco borrowed an aggregate principal amount of $3,800,000 under the Term Credit Facility and entered into revolving loan commitments in an aggregate principal amount of $2,000,000. The Term Credit Facility was to mature on October 9, 2022 and the Revolving Credit Facility was to mature on October 9, 2020 (see discussion below regarding the extension amendments). In addition, on June 21, 2016 and July 21, 2016, the Company entered into incremental loan assumption agreements whereby the Revolving Credit Facility was increased by $70,000 and $35,000, respectively, to $2,105,000.

Finco also issued $1,800,000 aggregate principal amount of the 2023 Notes, $2,000,000 aggregate principal amount of the 2025 Notes, and $1,000,000 aggregate principal amount of the 2025 Guaranteed Notes.

On June 21, 2016, immediately following the Merger, Finco merged with and into CSC Holdings, with CSC Holdings surviving the merger (the "CSC Holdings Merger"), and the Merger Notes and the Credit Facilities became obligations of CSC Holdings. The 2025 Guaranteed Notes are guaranteed on a senior basis by each restricted subsidiary of CSC Holdings (other than CSC TKR, LLC and its subsidiaries, which own and operate the New Jersey cable television systems, Cablevision Lightpath, Inc. and any subsidiaries of CSC Holdings that are "Excluded Subsidiaries" under the indenture governing the 2025 Guaranteed Notes) (such subsidiaries, the "Initial Guarantors") and the obligations under the Credit Facilities are (i) guaranteed on a senior basis by each Initial Guarantor and (ii) secured on a first priority basis by capital stock held by CSC Holdings and the guarantors in certain subsidiaries of CSC Holdings, subject to certain exclusions and limitations.

Altice used the proceeds from the Term Credit Facility and the Merger Notes, together with an equity contribution from Altice and its Co-Investors and existing cash at Cablevision, to (a) finance the Merger, (b) refinance the credit agreement, dated as of April 17, 2013 (the "Previous Credit Facility"), among CSC Holdings, certain subsidiaries of CSC Holdings and the lenders party thereto ($2,030,699 outstanding at Merger Date), (c) repay the senior secured credit agreement, dated as of October 12, 2012, among Newsday LLC, CSC Holdings, and the lenders party thereto (the "Previous Newsday Credit Facility") of $480,000 at Merger Debt, and (d) pay related fees and expenses.

The Credit Facilities permit CSC Holdings to request revolving loans, swing line loans or letters of credit from the revolving lenders, swingline lenders or issuing banks, as applicable, thereunder, from time to time prior to October 9, 2020, unless the commitments under the Revolving Credit Facility have been previously terminated.

Loans comprising each Eurodollar Borrowing or ABR Borrowing, as applicable, bear interest at a rate per annum equal to the Adjusted LIBO Rate or the Alternate Base Rate, as applicable, plus the Applicable Margin, where the Applicable Margin means: in respect of revolving credit loans with respect to any Eurodollar Loan, 3.25% per annum and (ii) with respect to any ABR Loan, 2.25% per annum.

On September 9, 2016, CSC Holdings entered into an amendment (the "Extension Amendment") to the Credit Facilities and the incremental loan assumption agreements dated June 21, 2016 and July 21, 2016 between CSC Holdings and certain lenders party thereto (the "Extending Lenders") pursuant to which each Extending Lender agreed to extend the maturity of its Term Credit Facility under the Credit Facilities to October 11, 2024 and to certain other amendments to the Credit Facilities. In October 2016, CSC Holdings used the net proceeds from the sale of $1,310,000 aggregate principal amount of 5.5% senior guaranteed notes due 2027 (the "2027 Guaranteed Notes") (after the deduction of fees
and expenses) to prepay outstanding loans under the Term Credit Facility that were not extended pursuant to the Extension Amendment. The total aggregate principal amount of the Term Credit Facility, after giving effect to the use of proceeds of the 2027 Guaranteed Notes, is $2,500,000 (the "Extended Term Loan"). The Extended Term Loan was effective on October 11, 2016. In connection with the prepayment of the Term Credit Facility, the Company wrote-off the deferred financing costs and the unamortized discount related to the existing term loan aggregating $102,894. Additionally, the
Company recorded deferred financing costs and an original issue discount of $7,249 and $6,250, respectively, which are both being amortized to interest expense over the term of the Extended Term Loan.

On December 9, 2016, the Credit Facilities were amended to increase the availability under the Revolving Credit Facility from $2,105,000 to $2,300,000 and extend the maturity on $2,280,000 of this facility to November 30, 2021. The remaining $20,000 will mature on October 9, 2020. The Credit Facilities require CSC Holdings to prepay outstanding term loans, subject to certain exceptions and deductions, with (i) 100%of the net cash proceeds of certain asset sales, subject to reinvestment rights and certain other exceptions, and (ii) commencing with the first full fiscal year after the consummation of the Merger, a ratable share (based on the outstanding principal amount of the Extended Term Loan divided by the sum of the outstanding principal amount of all pari passu indebtedness and the Extended Term Loan) of 50% of the annual excess cash flow of CSC Holdings and its restricted subsidiaries, which will be reduced to 0% if the Consolidated Net Senior Secured Leverage Ratio of CSC Holdings is less than or equal to 4.5 to 1.

Under the Term Credit Facility, CSC Holdings was required to make and made scheduled quarterly payment of $9,500 beginning with the fiscal quarter ending September 30, 2016. Under the Extended Term Loan, CSC Holdings is required to make scheduled quarterly payments equal to 0.25% of the principal amount of the Extended Term Loan, with the remaining balance scheduled to be paid on October 11, 2024, beginning with the fiscal quarter ending March 31, 2017.

Interest will be calculated under the Extended Term Loan subject to a "floor" applicable to the Adjusted LIBO Rate of 0.75% per annum, and the Applicable Margin is (1) with respect to any ABR Loan, 2.00% per annum and (2) with respect to any Eurodollar Loan, 3.00% per annum. If the Adjusted LIBO Rate for the Extended Term Loan is less than 0.75% for any given period, the interest rate is fixed at 3.75% per annum.

The Credit Facilities include negative covenants that are substantially similar to the negative covenants contained in the indentures under which the Merger Notes were issued (see discussion below). The Credit Facilities include one financial maintenance covenant (solely for the benefit of the Revolving Credit Facility), consisting of a maximum Consolidated Net Senior Secured Leverage Ratio of 5.0 to 1, which will be tested on the last day of any fiscal quarter but only if on such day there are outstanding borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility (including swingline loans but excluding any cash collateralized letters of credit and undrawn letters of credit not to exceed $15,000). The Credit Facilities also contain certain customary representations and warranties, affirmative covenants and events of default (including, among others, an event of default upon a change of control). If an event of default occurs, the obligations under the Credit Facilities may be accelerated.

Total amounts payable by the Company under its various debt obligations outstanding, including the debt transaction subsequent to the merger discussed above and including notes payable, collateralized indebtedness, and capital leases, during the periods shown below, are as follows:
Years Ending December 31,
 
2017
$
1,719,180

2018
2,103,441

2019
557,348

2020
526,340

2021
1,200,256

Thereafter
9,884,024

CVC - DERIVATIVE CONTRACTS AND COLLATERALIZED INDEBTEDNESS
DERIVATIVE CONTRACTS AND COLLATERALIZED INDEBTEDNESS 
DERIVATIVE CONTRACTS AND COLLATERALIZED INDEBTEDNESS
Prepaid Forward Contracts
The Company has entered into various transactions to limit the exposure against equity price risk on its shares of Comcast Corporation ("Comcast") common stock.  The Company has monetized all of its stock holdings in Comcast through the execution of prepaid forward contracts, collateralized by an equivalent amount of the respective underlying stock.  At maturity, the contracts provide for the option to deliver cash or shares of Comcast stock with a value determined by reference to the applicable stock price at maturity.  These contracts, at maturity, are expected to offset declines in the fair value of these securities below the hedge price per share while allowing the Company to retain upside appreciation from the hedge price per share to the relevant cap price.  
The Company received cash proceeds upon execution of the prepaid forward contracts discussed above which has been reflected as collateralized indebtedness in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.  In addition, the Company separately accounts for the equity derivative component of the prepaid forward contracts.  These equity derivatives have not been designated as hedges for accounting purposes.  Therefore, the net fair values of the equity derivatives have been reflected in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets as an asset or liability and the net increases or decreases in the fair value of the equity derivative component of the prepaid forward contracts are included in gain (loss) on derivative contracts in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.
All of the Company's monetization transactions are obligations of its wholly-owned subsidiaries that are not part of CSC Holdings' Restricted Group; however, CSC Holdings has provided guarantees of the subsidiaries' ongoing contract payment expense obligations and potential payments that could be due as a result of an early termination event (as defined in the agreements).  If any one of these contracts were terminated prior to its scheduled maturity date, the Company would be obligated to repay the fair value of the collateralized indebtedness less the sum of the fair values of the underlying stock and equity collar, calculated at the termination date.  As of December 31, 2017, the Company did not have an early termination shortfall relating to any of these contracts.
The Company monitors the financial institutions that are counterparties to its equity derivative contracts.  All of the counterparties to such transactions carry investment grade credit ratings as of December 31, 2017.
Put/Call Options
In the third quarter of 2017, the Company entered into a put-call contract that expired in the third quarter of 2018 whereby the Company sold a put option and purchased a call option with the same strike price. These put-call options were settled as of December 31, 2017 and the Company recorded a loss of $97,410 for the year ended December 31, 2017, which represents the difference between the strike price and the closing price of the underlying shares.
Interest Rate Swap Contracts
In June 2016, the Company entered into two fixed to floating interest rate swap contracts. One fixed to floating interest rate swap is converting $750,000 from a fixed rate of 1.6655% to six-month LIBO rate and a second tranche of $750,000 from a fixed rate of 1.68% to six-month LIBO rate. The objective of these swaps is to cover the exposure of the Cequel 2026 Senior Secured Notes issued by Cequel to changes in the market interest rate. These swap contracts were not designated as hedges for accounting purposes. Accordingly, the changes in the fair value of these interest rate swap contracts are recorded through the statements of operations.
The Company does not hold or issue derivative instruments for trading or speculative purposes.
The following represents the location of the assets and liabilities associated with the Company's derivative instruments within the consolidated balance sheets:
 
 
 
 
Asset Derivatives
 
Liability Derivatives
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments
 
Balance Sheet
Location
 
Fair Value at December 31, 2017
 
Fair Value at December 31, 2016
 
Fair Value at December 31, 2017
 
Fair Value at December 31, 2016
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Prepaid forward contracts
 
Derivative contracts, current
 
$
52,545

 
$
352

 
$
(52,545
)
 
$
(13,158
)
Prepaid forward contracts
 
Derivative contracts, long-term
 
—

 
10,604

 
(109,504
)
 
—

Interest rate swap contracts
 
Liabilities under derivative contracts, long-term
 
—

 
—

 
(77,902
)
 
(78,823
)
 
 
 
 
$
52,545

 
$
10,956

 
$
(239,951
)
 
$
(91,981
)

Loss related to the Company's derivative contracts related to the Comcast common stock for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 of $(138,920) and $(53,696), respectively, are reflected in gain (loss) on derivative contracts, net in the Company's consolidated statements of operations.
For the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company recorded a gain on investments of $237,354 and $141,896, respectively, primarily representing the net increase in the fair values of the investment securities pledged as collateral. 
For the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company recorded a gain (loss) on interest rate swap contracts of $5,482 and $(72,961), respectively.
Settlements of Collateralized Indebtedness
The following table summarizes the settlement of the Company's collateralized indebtedness relating to Comcast shares that were settled by delivering cash equal to the collateralized loan value, net of the value of the related equity derivative contracts during the year ended December 31, 2017: 
Number of shares (a)
26,815,368

Collateralized indebtedness settled
$
(774,703
)
Derivatives contracts settled
(56,356
)
 
(831,059
)
Proceeds from new monetization contracts
838,794

Net cash proceeds
$
7,735

 
(a)
Share amounts are adjusted for the 2 for 1 stock split in February 2017.
The cash to settle the collateralized indebtedness was obtained from the proceeds of new monetization contracts covering an equivalent number of Comcast shares.  The terms of the new contracts allow the Company to retain upside participation in Comcast shares up to each respective contract's upside appreciation limit with downside exposure limited to the respective hedge price. 
In April 2017, the Company entered into new monetization contracts related to 32,153,118 shares of Comcast common stock held by Cablevision, which synthetically reversed the existing contracts related to these shares (the "Synthetic Monetization Closeout"). As the existing collateralized debt matures, the Company will settle the contracts with proceeds received from the new monetization contracts. The new monetization contracts mature on April 28, 2021. The new monetization contracts provide the Company with downside protection below the hedge price of $35.47 and upside benefit of stock price appreciation up to $44.72 per share. In connection with the execution of these contracts, the Company recorded (i) the fair value of the equity derivative contracts of $53,316 (in a net asset position), (ii) notes payable of $111,657, representing the fair value of the existing equity derivative contracts, in a liability position, and (iii) a discount on notes payable of $58,341.
DERIVATIVE CONTRACTS AND COLLATERALIZED INDEBTEDNESS 
DERIVATIVE CONTRACTS AND COLLATERALIZED INDEBTEDNESS
The Company has entered into various transactions to limit the exposure against equity price risk on its shares of Comcast Corporation ("Comcast") common stock.  The Company has monetized all of its stock holdings in Comcast through the execution of prepaid forward contracts, collateralized by an equivalent amount of the respective underlying stock.  At maturity, the contracts provide for the option to deliver cash or shares of Comcast stock with a value determined by reference to the applicable stock price at maturity.  These contracts, at maturity, are expected to offset declines in the fair value of these securities below the hedge price per share while allowing the Company to retain upside appreciation from the hedge price per share to the relevant cap price.  
The Company received cash proceeds upon execution of the prepaid forward contracts discussed above which has been reflected as collateralized indebtedness in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.  In addition, the Company separately accounts for the equity derivative component of the prepaid forward contracts.  These equity derivatives have not been designated as hedges for accounting purposes.  Therefore, the net fair values of the equity derivatives have been reflected in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets as an asset or liability and the net increases or decreases in the fair value of the equity derivative component of the prepaid forward contracts are included in gain (loss) on derivative contracts in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.
All of the Company's monetization transactions are obligations of its wholly-owned subsidiaries that are not part of the Restricted Group; however, CSC Holdings has provided guarantees of the subsidiaries' ongoing contract payment expense obligations and potential payments that could be due as a result of an early termination event (as defined in the agreements).  If any one of these contracts were terminated prior to its scheduled maturity date, the Company would be obligated to repay the fair value of the collateralized indebtedness less the sum of the fair values of the underlying stock and equity collar, calculated at the termination date. 
The Company monitors the financial institutions that are counterparties to its equity derivative contracts and it diversifies its equity derivative contracts among various counterparties to mitigate exposure to any single financial institution. 
The following represents the location of the assets and liabilities associated with the Company's derivative instruments within the consolidated balance sheets:
Derivatives Not
Designated as
 Hedging
Instruments
 
Balance
Sheet
Location
 
Asset Derivatives
 
Liability Derivatives
 
 
 
 
 
Fair Value at December 31, 2015
Prepaid forward contracts
 
Current derivative contracts
 
$
10,333

 
$
2,706

Prepaid forward contracts
 
Long-term derivative contracts
 
72,075

 
—

 
 
 
 
$
82,408

 
$
2,706


Unrealized and realized gains (losses) related to Company's equity derivative contracts related to the Comcast common stock for the period January 1, 2016 through June 20, 2016 and the year ended December 31, 2015 of $(36,283) and $104,927, respectively, are reflected in gain (loss) on equity derivative contracts, net in the Company's consolidated statements of operations.
For the period January 1, 2016 through June 20, 2016 and the year ended December 31, 2015 and , the Company recorded a gain (loss) on investments of $129,510 and $(33,935), respectively, representing the net increase (decrease) in the fair values of all investment securities pledged as collateral. 
Settlements of Collateralized Indebtedness
The following table summarizes the settlement of the Company's collateralized indebtedness relating to Comcast shares that were settled by delivering cash equal to the collateralized loan value, net of the value of the related equity derivative contracts. 
 
January 1 to June 20, 2016
 
Year Ended December 31, 2015
 
 
 
 
Number of shares (a)
10,802,118

 
26,815,368

Collateralized indebtedness settled
$
(273,519
)
 
$
(569,562
)
Derivative contracts settled
(8,075
)
 
(69,675
)
 
(281,594
)
 
(639,237
)
Proceeds from new monetization contracts
337,149

 
774,703

Net cash receipt
$
55,555

 
$
135,466

______________________
(a)
Share amounts adjusted for the 2 for 1 stock split in February 2017.
The cash was obtained from the proceeds of new monetization contracts covering an equivalent number of Comcast shares.  The terms of the new contracts allow the Company to retain upside participation in Comcast shares up to each respective contract's upside appreciation limit with downside exposure limited to the respective hedge price.
CVC - FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT 
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT
The fair value hierarchy is based on inputs to valuation techniques that are used to measure fair value that are either observable or unobservable.  Observable inputs reflect assumptions market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability based on market data obtained from independent sources while unobservable inputs reflect a reporting entity's pricing based upon their own market assumptions.  The fair value hierarchy consists of the following three levels:
•
Level I - Quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets.
•
Level II - Quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations whose inputs are observable or whose significant value drivers are observable.
•
Level III - Instruments whose significant value drivers are unobservable.
The following table presents for each of these hierarchy levels, the Company's financial assets and financial liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
 
Fair Value
Hierarchy
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
Money market funds (of which $14,700 is classified as restricted cash as of December 31, 2016)
Level I
 
$
5,949

 
$
100,139

Investment securities pledged as collateral
Level I
 
1,720,357

 
1,483,030

Prepaid forward contracts
Level II
 
52,545

 
10,956

Liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
Prepaid forward contracts
Level II
 
162,049

 
13,158

Interest rate swap contracts
Level II
 
77,902

 
78,823

Contingent consideration related to 2017 acquisitions
Level III
 
32,233

 
—


The Company's cash equivalents, investment securities and investment securities pledged as collateral are classified within Level I of the fair value hierarchy because they are valued using quoted market prices.
The Company's derivative contracts and liabilities under derivative contracts on the Company's balance sheets are valued using market-based inputs to valuation models.  These valuation models require a variety of inputs, including contractual terms, market prices, yield curves, and measures of volatility.  When appropriate, valuations are adjusted for various factors such as liquidity, bid/offer spreads and credit risk considerations.  Such adjustments are generally based on available market evidence.  Since model inputs can generally be verified and do not involve significant management judgment, the Company has concluded that these instruments should be classified within Level II of the fair value hierarchy.
The fair value of the contingent consideration related to acquisitions in the first and fourth quarters of 2017 of $30,000 and $2,233, respectively, was estimated based on a probability assessment of attaining the targets. The estimated amount recorded as of December 31, 2017 is the full contractual amount for the first quarter acquisition and approximately 51% of the contractual amount for the acquisition that occurred in the fourth quarter.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate fair value of each class of financial instruments for which it is practicable to estimate:
Credit Facility Debt, Collateralized Indebtedness, Senior Notes and Debentures, Senior Secured Notes, Senior Guaranteed Notes, Notes Payable to Affiliates and Related Parties and Notes Payable
The fair values of each of the Company's debt instruments are based on quoted market prices for the same or similar issues or on the current rates offered to the Company for instruments of the same remaining maturities. The fair value of notes payable is based primarily on the present value of the remaining payments discounted at the borrowing cost.
The carrying values, estimated fair values, and classification under the fair value hierarchy of the Company's financial instruments, excluding those that are carried at fair value in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets, are summarized as follows:
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
Fair Value
Hierarchy
 
Carrying
Amount (a)
 
Estimated
Fair Value
 
Carrying
Amount (a)
 
Estimated
Fair Value
Altice USA debt instruments:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes payable to affiliates and related parties
Level II
 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
1,750,000

 
$
1,837,876

CSC Holdings debt instruments:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Credit facility debt
Level II
 
3,393,306

 
3,435,000

 
2,631,887

 
2,675,256

Collateralized indebtedness
Level II
 
1,349,474

 
1,305,932

 
1,286,069

 
1,280,048

Senior guaranteed notes
Level II
 
2,291,185

 
2,420,000

 
2,289,494

 
2,416,375

Senior notes and debentures
Level II
 
6,409,889

 
7,221,846

 
6,732,816

 
7,731,150

Notes payable
Level II
 
56,956

 
55,289

 
13,726

 
13,260

Cablevision senior notes
Level II
 
1,818,115

 
1,931,239

 
2,742,082

 
2,920,056

Cequel debt instruments:
 
 


 


 


 


Cequel credit facility
Level II
 
1,250,217

 
1,258,675

 
812,903

 
815,000

Senior secured notes
Level II
 
2,570,506

 
2,658,930

 
2,566,802

 
2,689,750

Senior notes
Level II
 
2,770,737

 
2,983,615

 
3,176,131

 
3,517,275

Notes payable
Level II
 
8,946

 
8,945

 
—

 
—

 
 
 
$
21,919,331

 
$
23,279,471

 
$
24,001,910

 
$
25,896,046

 
(a)
Amounts are net of unamortized deferred financing costs and discounts/premiums.
The fair value estimates related to the Company's debt instruments presented above are made at a specific point in time, based on relevant market information and information about the financial instrument.  These estimates are subjective in nature and involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgments and therefore cannot be determined with precision.  Changes in assumptions could significantly affect the estimates.
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT 
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT
The fair value hierarchy is based on inputs to valuation techniques that are used to measure fair value that are either observable or unobservable.  Observable inputs reflect assumptions market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability based on market data obtained from independent sources while unobservable inputs reflect a reporting entity's pricing based upon their own market assumptions.  The fair value hierarchy consists of the following three levels:
•
Level I - Quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets.
•
Level II - Quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations whose inputs are observable or whose significant value drivers are observable.
•
Level III - Instruments whose significant value drivers are unobservable.
The following table presents for each of these hierarchy levels, the Company's financial assets and financial liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
 
At December 31, 2015
 
Level I
 
Level II
 
Level III
 
Total
Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Money market funds
$
922,765

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
922,765

Investment securities
130

 
—

 
—

 
130

Investment securities pledged as collateral
1,211,982

 
—

 
—

 
1,211,982

Prepaid forward contracts
—

 
82,408

 
—

 
82,408

Liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Prepaid forward contracts
—

 
2,706

 
—

 
2,706

 
The Company's cash equivalents, investment securities and investment securities pledged as collateral are classified within Level I of the fair value hierarchy because they are valued using quoted market prices.
The Company's prepaid forward contracts reflected as derivative contracts and liabilities under derivative contracts on the Company's balance sheets are valued using market-based inputs to valuation models.  These valuation models require a variety of inputs, including contractual terms, market prices, yield curves, and measures of volatility.  When appropriate, valuations are adjusted for various factors such as liquidity, bid/offer spreads and credit risk considerations.  Such adjustments are generally based on available market evidence.  Since model inputs can generally be verified and do not involve significant management judgment, the Company has concluded that these instruments should be classified within Level II of the fair value hierarchy.
In addition, see Note 9 for a discussion of impairment charges related to nonfinancial assets not measured at fair value on a recurring basis.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate fair value of each class of financial instruments for which it is practicable to estimate:
Credit Facility Debt, Collateralized Indebtedness, Senior Notes and Debentures, Senior Guaranteed Notes and Notes Payable
The fair values of each of the Company's debt instruments are based on quoted market prices for the same or similar issues or on the current rates offered to the Company for instruments of the same remaining maturities. The fair value of notes payable is based primarily on the present value of the remaining payments discounted at the borrowing cost.
The carrying values, estimated fair values, and classification under the fair value hierarchy of the Company's financial instruments, excluding those that are carried at fair value in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets, are summarized as follows:
 
  
 
December 31, 2015
 
Fair Value
Hierarchy
 
Carrying
Amount
 
Estimated
Fair Value
 
 
 
 
 
 
Debt instruments:
 
 
 

 
 

Credit facility debt
Level II
 
$
2,514,454

 
$
2,525,654

Collateralized indebtedness
Level II
 
1,191,324

 
1,176,396

Senior notes and debentures
Level II
 
5,801,011

 
5,756,608

Notes payable
Level II
 
14,544

 
14,483

Total debt instruments
 
 
$
9,521,333

 
$
9,473,141


The fair value estimates related to the Company's debt instruments and senior notes receivable presented above are made at a specific point in time, based on relevant market information and information about the financial instrument.  These estimates are subjective in nature and involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgments and therefore cannot be determined with precision.  Changes in assumptions could significantly affect the estimates.
CVC - INCOME TAXES
INCOME TAXES 
INCOME TAXES
The Company files a federal consolidated and certain state combined income tax returns with its 80% or more owned subsidiaries.
Income tax benefit attributable to the Company's operations for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 consist of the following components:
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Current expense (benefit):
 
 
 
Federal
$
5,657

 
$
(981
)
State
12,509

 
5,310

 
18,166

 
4,329

Deferred benefit:
 
 
 
Federal
(2,088,652
)
 
(223,159
)
State
(782,492
)
 
(40,830
)
 
(2,871,144
)
 
(263,989
)
Tax benefit relating to uncertain tax positions
11

 
(6
)
Income tax benefit
$
(2,852,967
)
 
$
(259,666
)

The income tax benefit attributable to the Company's operations differs from the amount derived by applying the statutory federal rate to pretax loss principally due to the effect of the following items:
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Federal tax benefit at statutory rate
$
(465,972
)
 
$
(381,901
)
State income taxes, net of federal impact
(59,719
)
 
(39,336
)
Changes in the valuation allowance
(111
)
 
297

Impact of Federal Tax Reform
(2,337,900
)
 
—

Changes in the state rates used to measure deferred taxes, net of federal impact
(12,896
)
 
153,239

Tax benefit relating to uncertain tax positions
(253
)
 
(120
)
Non-deductible share-based compensation related to the carried unit plan
20,101

 
5,029

Non-deductible Cablevision Acquisition transaction costs
—

 
4,457

Other non-deductible expenses
3,349

 
1,551

Other, net
434

 
(2,882
)
Income tax benefit
$
(2,852,967
)
 
$
(259,666
)

Pursuant to the enactment of the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act ("Tax Reform") on December 22, 2017, the Company recorded a noncash deferred tax benefit of $2,337,900 to remeasure the net deferred tax liability to adjust for the reduction in the corporate federal income tax rate 35% to 21% which is effective on January 1, 2018. This adjustment results primarily from a decrease in the deferred tax liabilities with regard to fixed assets and intangibles, partially offset by a decrease in the deferred tax asset for the federal net operating loss carry forward (‘‘NOL’’). The noncash deferred tax benefit is provisional. Revised estimates and additional guidance regarding application of Tax Reform may require adjustments during the allowable measurement period.
Overall, Tax Reform will have a favorable impact on the Company’s income tax profile. Additional first-year depreciation deductions represent a significant timing benefit. Since Tax Reform only limits the deduction for NOLs arising in years beginning after December 31, 2017, the timing of the Company’s deductions with regard to its existing NOLs is largely unaffected. The Company will be subject to Tax Reform’s limitation on interest deductibility which is based on a limit calculated without regard to depreciation or amortization through 2021. The resulting interest deduction that is deferred, and can be carried forward indefinitely, is expected to fully reverse. However, as is the case with any future deductible temporary difference, management will evaluate realizability to determine whether a valuation allowance is required. Management does not expect that a valuation allowance will be required based on its preliminary estimate of the current facts and circumstances. Repeal of the alternative minimum tax will reduce projected tax payments in the short term while also providing for the refund of alternative minimum tax credits.
As described in Note 1, in June, 2016, (i) Cequel was contributed to Altice USA and (ii) Altice USA completed the Cablevision Acquisition. Accordingly, in the second quarter of 2016, Cequel and Cablevision joined the federal consolidated and certain state combined income tax returns of Altice USA. As a result, the applicate tax rate used to measure deferred tax assets and liabilities of Cequel increased, resulting in a noncash deferred income tax charge of $153,660.
The tax effects of temporary differences which give rise to significant portions of deferred tax assets or liabilities and the corresponding valuation allowance are as follows.
 
December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Noncurrent
 
 
 
NOLs and tax credit carry forwards
$
784,334

 
$
971,728

Compensation and benefit plans
48,280

 
93,939

Partnership investments
68,054

 
113,473

Restructuring liability
33,247

 
37,393

Other liabilities
38,140

 
45,561

Liabilities under derivative contracts
21,034

 
31,529

Interest deferred for tax purposes
128,516

 
39,633

Other
7,182

 
6,615

Deferred tax asset
1,128,787

 
1,339,871

Valuation allowance
(3,000
)
 
(3,125
)
Net deferred tax asset, noncurrent
1,125,787

 
1,336,746

Fixed assets and intangibles
(5,733,319
)
 
(9,065,635
)
Investments
(113,628
)
 
(187,795
)
Prepaid expenses
(8,007
)
 
(10,172
)
Fair value adjustments related to debt and deferred financing costs
(40,215
)
 
(30,535
)
Other
(5,733
)
 
(9,424
)
Deferred tax liability, noncurrent
(5,900,902
)
 
(9,303,561
)
Total net deferred tax liability
$
(4,775,115
)
 
$
(7,966,815
)

On January 1, 2017, the Company adopted ASU No. 2016-09 using the prospective transition method with respect to the presentation of excess tax benefits in the statement of cash flows. In connection with the adoption, a deferred tax asset of $310,771 for previously unrealized excess tax benefits related to share-based payment awards was recognized with the offset recorded to accumulated deficit.
As of December 31, 2017, the Company's federal NOLs were approximately $2,670,000.  The utilization of certain pre-merger NOLs of Cablevision and Cequel are limited pursuant to Internal Revenue Code Section 382. The Company does not expect such limitations to impact the ability to utilize the NOLs prior to their expiration.
As of December 31, 2017, the Company has $48,995 of alternative minimum tax credits which do not expire and $17,806 of research credits, expiring in varying amounts from 2023 through 2035.
Deferred tax assets have resulted primarily from the Company's future deductible temporary differences and NOLs. In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, management considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax asset will not be realized. In evaluating the need for a valuation allowance, management takes into account various factors, including the expected level of future taxable income, available tax planning strategies and reversals of existing taxable temporary differences. If such estimates and related assumptions change in the future, the Company may be required to record additional valuation allowances against its deferred tax assets, resulting in additional income tax expense in the Company's consolidated statements of operations. Management evaluates the realizability of the deferred tax assets and the need for additional valuation allowances quarterly. Pursuant to the Cablevision Acquisition and Cequel Acquisition, deferred tax liabilities resulting from the book fair value adjustment increased significantly and future taxable income that will result from the reversal of existing taxable temporary differences for which deferred tax liabilities are recognized is sufficient to conclude it is more likely than not that the Company will realize all of its gross deferred tax assets, except those deferred tax assets against which a valuation allowance has been recorded which relate to certain state NOLs.
In the normal course of business, the Company engages in transactions in which the income tax consequences may be uncertain. The Company's income tax returns are filed based on interpretation of tax laws and regulations. Such income tax returns are subject to examination by taxing authorities. For financial statement purposes, the Company only recognizes tax positions that it believes are more likely than not of being sustained. There is considerable judgment involved in determining whether positions taken or expected to be taken on the tax return are more likely than not of being sustained.
A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits associated with uncertain tax positions, excluding associated deferred tax benefits and accrued interest, is as follows:
Balance at January 1, 2016
$
4,025

Increases related to prior year tax positions
11

Balance at December 31, 2017
$
4,036


As of December 31, 2017, if all uncertain tax positions were sustained at the amounts reported or expected to be reported in the Company's tax returns, the elimination of the Company's unrecognized tax benefits, net of the deferred tax impact, would decrease income tax expense by $5,585.
In the second quarter of 2016, the Company changed its accounting policy on a prospective basis to present interest expense relating to uncertain tax positions as additional interest expense. For the year ended December 31, 2017, $659 of interest expense relating to uncertain tax position was recorded to interest expense.
The most significant jurisdictions in which the Company is required to file income tax returns include the states of New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, the City of New York, Texas and West Virginia. The State of New York is presently auditing income tax returns for years 2009 through 2011. The State of New Jersey is presently auditing income tax returns for years 2013 through 2015.
Management does not believe that the resolution of the ongoing income tax examination described above will have a material adverse impact on the financial position of the Company.  Changes in the liabilities for uncertain tax positions will be recognized in the interim period in which the positions are effectively settled or there is a change in factual circumstances.
INCOME TAXES 
INCOME TAXES
Income tax expense attributable to the Company's continuing operations consists of the following components:
 
January 1 to June 20, 2016
 
Year Ended December 31, 2015
Current expense:
 
 
 
Federal
$
6,473

 
$
4,844

State
1,917

 
15,869

 
8,390

 
20,713

Deferred (benefit) expense:
 

 
 

Federal
93,253

 
97,927

State
22,897

 
35,469

 
116,150

 
133,396

Tax (benefit) expense relating to uncertain tax positions
308

 
763

Income tax expense
$
124,848

 
$
154,872


Income tax benefit attributable to discontinued operations for the year ended December 31, 2015 of $8,731 is comprised of current and deferred income tax benefit of $111 and $8,620, respectively.
The income tax (benefit) expense attributable to the Company's continuing operations differs from the amount derived by applying the statutory federal rate to pretax income principally due to the effect of the following items:
 
January 1 to June 20, 2016
 
Year Ended December 31, 2015
Federal tax expense at statutory rate
$
100,926

 
$
119,931

State income taxes, net of federal impact
14,825

 
18,874

Changes in the valuation allowance
86

 
(902
)
Changes in the state rates used to measure deferred taxes, net of federal impact
—

 
(1,006
)
Tax expense (benefit) relating to uncertain tax positions
178

 
574

New York tax reform
—

 
16,334

Non-deductible officers' compensation
462

 
846

Non-deductible merger transaction costs
9,392

 
—

Other non-deductible expenses
1,337

 
3,099

Research credit
(850
)
 
(2,630
)
Adjustment to prior year tax expense
—

 
(515
)
Other, net
(1,508
)
 
267

Income tax expense
$
124,848

 
$
154,872


The tax effects of temporary differences which give rise to significant portions of deferred tax assets or liabilities and the corresponding valuation allowance at December 31, 2015 are as follows.
Deferred Tax Asset (Liability)
 
Current
 
NOLs and tax credit carry forwards
$
76,007

Compensation and benefit plans
80,831

Allowance for doubtful accounts
2,196

Merger transaction costs
7,332

Inventory
7,135

Other
26,216

Deferred tax asset
199,717

Valuation allowance
(2,098
)
Net deferred tax asset, current
197,619

Investments
(163,396
)
Prepaid expenses
(19,627
)
Deferred tax liability, current
(183,023
)
Net deferred tax asset, current
$
14,596

Noncurrent
 
NOLs and tax credit carry forwards
36,866

Compensation and benefit plans
97,005

Partnership investments
123,529

Investments
9,798

Other
9,201

Deferred tax asset
276,399

Valuation allowance
(2,816
)
Net deferred tax asset, noncurrent
273,583

Fixed assets and intangibles
(978,418
)
Deferred tax liability, noncurrent
(978,418
)
Net deferred tax liability, noncurrent
(704,835
)
Total net deferred tax liability
$
(690,239
)

The Company used the 'with-and-without' approach to determine the recognition and measurement of excess tax benefits.  Cash flows resulting from excess tax benefits were classified as cash flows from financing activities.  Excess tax benefits are realized tax benefits from tax deductions for options exercised and restricted shares issued in excess of the deferred tax asset attributable to share-based compensation expense for such awards. The Company realized excess tax benefit of $82 and $5,694 for the period January 1, 2016 through June 20, 2016, and for the year ended December 31, 2015, respectively, resulting in an increase to paid-in-capital. 
Deferred tax assets have resulted primarily from the Company's future deductible temporary differences and NOLs. In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, management considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax asset will not be realized. The Company's ability to realize its deferred tax assets depends upon the generation of sufficient future taxable income and tax planning strategies to allow for the utilization of its NOLs and deductible temporary differences. If such estimates and related assumptions change in the future, the Company may be required to record additional valuation allowances against its deferred tax assets, resulting in additional income tax expense in the Company's consolidated statements of income. Management evaluates the realizability of the deferred tax assets and the need for additional valuation allowances quarterly. At this time, based on current facts and circumstances, management believes that it is more likely than not that the Company will realize benefit for its gross deferred tax assets, except those deferred tax assets against which a valuation allowance has been recorded which relate to certain state NOLs.
In the normal course of business, the Company engages in transactions in which the income tax consequences may be uncertain. The Company's income tax returns are filed based on interpretation of tax laws and regulations. Such income tax returns are subject to examination by taxing authorities. For financial statement purposes, the Company only recognizes tax positions that it believes are more likely than not of being sustained. There is considerable judgment involved in determining whether positions taken or expected to be taken on the tax return are more likely than not of being sustained.
A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits associated with uncertain tax positions, excluding associated deferred tax benefits and accrued interest, is as follows:
Balance at December 31, 2015
$
4,022

Increases related to prior year tax positions
3

Increases related to current year tax positions
6

Balance at June 20, 2016
$
4,031


In the second quarter of 2016, the Company changed its accounting policy on a prospective basis to present interest expense relating to uncertain tax positions as additional interest expense. During the period ended June 20, 2016 and December 31, 2015, interest expense of $209 and $314 was included in income tax expense, respectively.
The most significant jurisdictions in which the Company is required to file income tax returns include the states of New York, New Jersey and Connecticut and the City of New York.  The State of New York is presently auditing income tax returns for years 2009 through 2011. 
Management does not believe that the resolution of the ongoing income tax examination described above will have a material adverse impact on the financial position of the Company.  Changes in the liabilities for uncertain tax positions will be recognized in the interim period in which the positions are effectively settled or there is a change in factual circumstances.
CVC - BENEFIT PLANS
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] 
INCOME TAXES
The Company files a federal consolidated and certain state combined income tax returns with its 80% or more owned subsidiaries.
Income tax benefit attributable to the Company's operations for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 consist of the following components:
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Current expense (benefit):
 
 
 
Federal
$
5,657

 
$
(981
)
State
12,509

 
5,310

 
18,166

 
4,329

Deferred benefit:
 
 
 
Federal
(2,088,652
)
 
(223,159
)
State
(782,492
)
 
(40,830
)
 
(2,871,144
)
 
(263,989
)
Tax benefit relating to uncertain tax positions
11

 
(6
)
Income tax benefit
$
(2,852,967
)
 
$
(259,666
)

The income tax benefit attributable to the Company's operations differs from the amount derived by applying the statutory federal rate to pretax loss principally due to the effect of the following items:
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Federal tax benefit at statutory rate
$
(465,972
)
 
$
(381,901
)
State income taxes, net of federal impact
(59,719
)
 
(39,336
)
Changes in the valuation allowance
(111
)
 
297

Impact of Federal Tax Reform
(2,337,900
)
 
—

Changes in the state rates used to measure deferred taxes, net of federal impact
(12,896
)
 
153,239

Tax benefit relating to uncertain tax positions
(253
)
 
(120
)
Non-deductible share-based compensation related to the carried unit plan
20,101

 
5,029

Non-deductible Cablevision Acquisition transaction costs
—

 
4,457

Other non-deductible expenses
3,349

 
1,551

Other, net
434

 
(2,882
)
Income tax benefit
$
(2,852,967
)
 
$
(259,666
)

Pursuant to the enactment of the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act ("Tax Reform") on December 22, 2017, the Company recorded a noncash deferred tax benefit of $2,337,900 to remeasure the net deferred tax liability to adjust for the reduction in the corporate federal income tax rate 35% to 21% which is effective on January 1, 2018. This adjustment results primarily from a decrease in the deferred tax liabilities with regard to fixed assets and intangibles, partially offset by a decrease in the deferred tax asset for the federal net operating loss carry forward (‘‘NOL’’). The noncash deferred tax benefit is provisional. Revised estimates and additional guidance regarding application of Tax Reform may require adjustments during the allowable measurement period.
Overall, Tax Reform will have a favorable impact on the Company’s income tax profile. Additional first-year depreciation deductions represent a significant timing benefit. Since Tax Reform only limits the deduction for NOLs arising in years beginning after December 31, 2017, the timing of the Company’s deductions with regard to its existing NOLs is largely unaffected. The Company will be subject to Tax Reform’s limitation on interest deductibility which is based on a limit calculated without regard to depreciation or amortization through 2021. The resulting interest deduction that is deferred, and can be carried forward indefinitely, is expected to fully reverse. However, as is the case with any future deductible temporary difference, management will evaluate realizability to determine whether a valuation allowance is required. Management does not expect that a valuation allowance will be required based on its preliminary estimate of the current facts and circumstances. Repeal of the alternative minimum tax will reduce projected tax payments in the short term while also providing for the refund of alternative minimum tax credits.
As described in Note 1, in June, 2016, (i) Cequel was contributed to Altice USA and (ii) Altice USA completed the Cablevision Acquisition. Accordingly, in the second quarter of 2016, Cequel and Cablevision joined the federal consolidated and certain state combined income tax returns of Altice USA. As a result, the applicate tax rate used to measure deferred tax assets and liabilities of Cequel increased, resulting in a noncash deferred income tax charge of $153,660.
The tax effects of temporary differences which give rise to significant portions of deferred tax assets or liabilities and the corresponding valuation allowance are as follows.
 
December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Noncurrent
 
 
 
NOLs and tax credit carry forwards
$
784,334

 
$
971,728

Compensation and benefit plans
48,280

 
93,939

Partnership investments
68,054

 
113,473

Restructuring liability
33,247

 
37,393

Other liabilities
38,140

 
45,561

Liabilities under derivative contracts
21,034

 
31,529

Interest deferred for tax purposes
128,516

 
39,633

Other
7,182

 
6,615

Deferred tax asset
1,128,787

 
1,339,871

Valuation allowance
(3,000
)
 
(3,125
)
Net deferred tax asset, noncurrent
1,125,787

 
1,336,746

Fixed assets and intangibles
(5,733,319
)
 
(9,065,635
)
Investments
(113,628
)
 
(187,795
)
Prepaid expenses
(8,007
)
 
(10,172
)
Fair value adjustments related to debt and deferred financing costs
(40,215
)
 
(30,535
)
Other
(5,733
)
 
(9,424
)
Deferred tax liability, noncurrent
(5,900,902
)
 
(9,303,561
)
Total net deferred tax liability
$
(4,775,115
)
 
$
(7,966,815
)

On January 1, 2017, the Company adopted ASU No. 2016-09 using the prospective transition method with respect to the presentation of excess tax benefits in the statement of cash flows. In connection with the adoption, a deferred tax asset of $310,771 for previously unrealized excess tax benefits related to share-based payment awards was recognized with the offset recorded to accumulated deficit.
As of December 31, 2017, the Company's federal NOLs were approximately $2,670,000.  The utilization of certain pre-merger NOLs of Cablevision and Cequel are limited pursuant to Internal Revenue Code Section 382. The Company does not expect such limitations to impact the ability to utilize the NOLs prior to their expiration.
As of December 31, 2017, the Company has $48,995 of alternative minimum tax credits which do not expire and $17,806 of research credits, expiring in varying amounts from 2023 through 2035.
Deferred tax assets have resulted primarily from the Company's future deductible temporary differences and NOLs. In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, management considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax asset will not be realized. In evaluating the need for a valuation allowance, management takes into account various factors, including the expected level of future taxable income, available tax planning strategies and reversals of existing taxable temporary differences. If such estimates and related assumptions change in the future, the Company may be required to record additional valuation allowances against its deferred tax assets, resulting in additional income tax expense in the Company's consolidated statements of operations. Management evaluates the realizability of the deferred tax assets and the need for additional valuation allowances quarterly. Pursuant to the Cablevision Acquisition and Cequel Acquisition, deferred tax liabilities resulting from the book fair value adjustment increased significantly and future taxable income that will result from the reversal of existing taxable temporary differences for which deferred tax liabilities are recognized is sufficient to conclude it is more likely than not that the Company will realize all of its gross deferred tax assets, except those deferred tax assets against which a valuation allowance has been recorded which relate to certain state NOLs.
In the normal course of business, the Company engages in transactions in which the income tax consequences may be uncertain. The Company's income tax returns are filed based on interpretation of tax laws and regulations. Such income tax returns are subject to examination by taxing authorities. For financial statement purposes, the Company only recognizes tax positions that it believes are more likely than not of being sustained. There is considerable judgment involved in determining whether positions taken or expected to be taken on the tax return are more likely than not of being sustained.
A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits associated with uncertain tax positions, excluding associated deferred tax benefits and accrued interest, is as follows:
Balance at January 1, 2016
$
4,025

Increases related to prior year tax positions
11

Balance at December 31, 2017
$
4,036


As of December 31, 2017, if all uncertain tax positions were sustained at the amounts reported or expected to be reported in the Company's tax returns, the elimination of the Company's unrecognized tax benefits, net of the deferred tax impact, would decrease income tax expense by $5,585.
In the second quarter of 2016, the Company changed its accounting policy on a prospective basis to present interest expense relating to uncertain tax positions as additional interest expense. For the year ended December 31, 2017, $659 of interest expense relating to uncertain tax position was recorded to interest expense.
The most significant jurisdictions in which the Company is required to file income tax returns include the states of New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, the City of New York, Texas and West Virginia. The State of New York is presently auditing income tax returns for years 2009 through 2011. The State of New Jersey is presently auditing income tax returns for years 2013 through 2015.
Management does not believe that the resolution of the ongoing income tax examination described above will have a material adverse impact on the financial position of the Company.  Changes in the liabilities for uncertain tax positions will be recognized in the interim period in which the positions are effectively settled or there is a change in factual circumstances.
BENEFIT PLANS 
BENEFIT PLANS
Qualified and Non-qualified Defined Benefit Plans
Retirement Plans (collectively, the "Defined Benefit Plans")
The Company sponsors a non-contributory qualified defined benefit cash balance retirement plan (the "Pension Plan") for the benefit of non-union employees of Cablevision, as well as certain employees covered by a collective bargaining agreement in Brooklyn.
The Company maintains an unfunded non-contributory non-qualified defined benefit excess cash balance plan ("Excess Cash Balance Plan") covering certain current and former employees of Cablevision who participate in the Pension Plan. The Company also maintained an additional unfunded non-contributory, non-qualified defined benefit plan ("CSC Supplemental Benefit Plan") for the benefit of certain former officers and employees of Cablevision which provided that, upon retiring on or after normal retirement age, a participant receives a benefit equal to a specified percentage of the participant's average compensation, as defined.  All participants were 100% vested in the CSC Supplemental Benefit Plan.  The benefits related to the CSC Supplemental Plan were paid to participants in January 2017 and the plan was terminated.   
Cablevision's Pension Plan and the Excess Cash Balance Plan are frozen and no employee of Cablevision who was not already a participant could participate in the plans and no further annual Pay Credits (a certain percentage of employees' eligible pay) are made.  Existing account balances under the plans continue to be credited with monthly interest in accordance with the terms of the plans.
Plan Results for Defined Benefit Plans
Summarized below is the funded status and the amounts recorded on the Company's consolidated balance sheets for all of the Company's Defined Benefit Plans at December 31, 2017 and 2016:
 
December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Change in projected benefit obligation:
 
 
 
Projected benefit obligation at beginning of year
$
382,517

 
$
403,963

Interest cost
11,786

 
14,077

Actuarial loss (gain)
13,171

 
(11,429
)
Curtailments
6,332

 
3,968

Settlements
6,910

 
—

Benefits paid
(121,650
)
 
(28,062
)
Projected benefit obligation at end of year
299,066

 
382,517

 
 
 
 
Change in plan assets:
 
 
 

Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year
284,118

 
297,846

Actual return on plan assets, net
6,356

 
5,829

Employer contributions
26,944

 
8,505

Benefits paid
(121,650
)
 
(28,062
)
Fair value of plan assets at end of year
195,768

 
284,118

Unfunded status at end of year
$
(103,298
)
 
$
(98,399
)

The accumulated benefit obligation for the Company's Defined Benefit Plans aggregated $299,066 and $382,517 at December 31, 2017 and 2016.
The Company's net funded status relating to its Defined Benefit Plans at December 31, 2017 and 2016, is as follows:
 
December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Defined Benefit Plans
$
(103,298
)
 
$
(98,399
)
Less: Current portion related to nonqualified plans
135

 
14,293

Long-term defined benefit plan obligations
$
(103,163
)
 
$
(84,106
)
 
Components of the net periodic benefit cost, recorded in other operating expenses, for the Defined Benefit Plans for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, is as follows:
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
 
2017
 
2016
Interest cost
$
11,786

 
$
6,946

Expected return on plan assets, net
(4,907
)
 
(4,022
)
Curtailment loss
3,137

 
231

Settlement loss (income) (reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss) (a)
1,845

 
(154
)
Net periodic benefit cost
$
11,861

 
$
3,001

 
(a)
As a result of benefit payments to terminated or retired individuals exceeding the service and interest costs for the Pension Plan and the Excess Cash Balance Pension Plan during the year ended December 31, 2017 and during the period June 21, 2016 through December 31, 2016, the Company recognized a non-cash settlement loss that represented the acceleration of the recognition of a portion of the previously unrecognized actuarial losses recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss on the Company’s consolidated balance sheet relating to these plans.
Plan Assumptions for Defined Benefit Plans
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic cost (made at the beginning of the year) and benefit obligations (made at the end of the year) for the Defined Benefit Plans are as follows:
 
Net Periodic Benefit Cost
 
Benefit Obligations at December 31,
 
For the Year Ended December 31, 2017
 
For the Period June 21, 2016 to
December 31, 2016
 
2017
 
2016
Discount rate (a)
3.69
%
 
3.53
%
 
3.50
%
 
3.81
%
Rate of increase in future compensation levels
—
%
 
—
%
 
—
%
 
—
%
Expected rate of return on plan assets (Pension Plan only)
3.90
%
 
3.97
%
 
N/A

 
N/A

 
(a)
The discount rate of 3.53% for the period June 21, 2016 through December 31, 2016, represents the average of the quarterly discount rates used to remeasure the Company's projected benefit obligation and net periodic benefit cost in connection with the recognition of settlement losses discussed above.
The discount rate used by the Company in calculating the net periodic benefit cost for the Cash Balance Plan and the Excess Cash Balance Plan was determined based on the expected future benefit payments for the plans and from the Towers Watson U.S. Rate Link: 40-90 Discount Rate Model. The model was developed by examining the yields on selected highly rated corporate bonds.
The Company's expected long-term return on Pension Plan assets is based on a periodic review and modeling of the plan's asset allocation structure over a long-term horizon.  Expectations of returns and risk for each asset class are the most important of the assumptions used in the review and modeling and are based on comprehensive reviews of historical data, forward looking economic outlook, and economic/financial market theory.  The expected long-term rate of return was chosen as a best estimate and was determined by (a) historical real returns, net of inflation, for the asset classes covered by the investment policy, and (b) projections of inflation over the long-term period during which benefits are payable to plan participants. 
Pension Plan Assets and Investment Policy
The weighted average asset allocations of the Pension Plan at December 31, 2017 and 2016 were as follows:
 
Plan Assets at December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Asset Class:
 
 
 
Mutual funds
32
%
 
43
%
Fixed income securities
66

 
55

Cash equivalents and other
2

 
2

 
100
%
 
100
%

The Pension Plan's investment objectives reflect an overall low risk tolerance to stock market volatility.  This strategy allows for the Pension Plan to invest in portfolios that would obtain a rate of return throughout economic cycles, commensurate with the investment risk and cash flow needs of the Pension Plan. The investments held in the Pension Plan are readily marketable and can be sold to fund benefit payment obligations of the plan as they become payable.
Investment allocation decisions are formally made by the Company's Benefit Committee, which takes into account investment advice provided by its external investment consultant.  The investment consultant takes into account expected long-term risk, return, correlation, and other prudent investment assumptions when recommending asset classes and investment managers to the Company's Benefit Committee. The major categories of the Pension Plan assets are cash equivalents and bonds which are marked-to-market on a daily basis.  Due to the Pension Plan's significant holdings in long-term government and non-government fixed income securities, the Pension Plan's assets are subjected to interest rate risk; specifically, a rising interest rate environment. Consequently, an increase in interest rates may cause a decrease to the overall liability of the Pension Plan thus creating a hedge against rising interest rates. In addition, a portion of the Pension Plan's bond portfolio is invested in foreign debt securities where there could be foreign currency risks associated with them, as well as in non-government securities which are subject to credit risk of the bond issuer defaulting on interest and/or principal payments. 
Investments at Estimated Fair Value
The fair values of the assets of the Pension Plan at December 31, 2017 by asset class are as follows:
Asset Class
Level I
 
Level II
 
Level III
 
Total
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Mutual funds
$
61,833

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
61,833

Fixed income securities held in a portfolio:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign issued corporate debt
—

 
10,721

 
—

 
10,721

U.S. corporate debt
—

 
39,992

 
—

 
39,992

Government debt
—

 
4,645

 
—

 
4,645

U.S. Treasury securities
—

 
62,601

 
—

 
62,601

Asset-backed securities
—

 
10,978

 
—

 
10,978

Other
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

Cash equivalents (a)
6,691

 
2,782

 
—

 
9,473

Total (b)
$
68,524

 
$
131,719

 
$
—

 
$
200,243

 
(a)
A significant portion represents an investment in a short-term investment fund that invests primarily in securities of high quality and low risk.
(b)
Excludes cash and net payables relating to the purchase of securities that were not settled as of December 31, 2017.
The fair values of the assets of the Pension Plan at December 31, 2016 by asset class are as follows:
Asset Class
Level I
 
Level II
 
Level III
 
Total
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Mutual funds
$
121,356

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
121,356

Fixed income securities held in a portfolio:

 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign issued corporate debt
—

 
13,583

 
—

 
13,583

U.S. corporate debt
—

 
48,046

 
—

 
48,046

Government debt
—

 
4,810

 
—

 
4,810

U.S. Treasury securities
—

 
77,285

 
—

 
77,285

Asset-backed securities
—

 
14,065

 
—

 
14,065

Other
—

 
247

 
—

 
247

Cash equivalents (a)
2,593

 
3,089

 
—

 
5,682

Total (b)
$
123,949

 
$
161,125

 
$
—

 
$
285,074

 
(a)
A significant portion represents an investment in a short-term investment fund that invests primarily in securities of high quality and low risk.
(b)
Excludes cash and net payables relating to the purchase of securities that were not settled as of December 31, 2016.
The fair values of mutual funds and cash equivalents were derived from quoted market prices that the Pension Plan administrator has the ability to access.
The fair values of corporate and government debt, treasury securities and asset-back securities were derived from bids received from a vendor or broker not available in an active market that the Pension Plan administrator has the ability to access.
Benefit Payments and Contributions for Defined Benefit Plans
The following benefit payments are expected to be paid during the periods indicated:
2018
$
96,482

2019
18,960

2020
14,052

2021
13,282

2022
13,792

2023-2027
69,369


The Company currently expects to contribute approximately $18,000 to the Pension Plan in 2018. 
Defined Contribution Plans 
The Company maintains the Cablevision 401(k) Savings Plan, a contributory qualified defined contribution plan for the benefit of non-union employees of Cablevision.  Participants can contribute a percentage of eligible annual compensation and the Company will make a matching cash contribution or discretionary contribution, as defined in the plan.  In addition, the Company maintains an unfunded non-qualified excess savings plan which was frozen on January 1, 2017 for which the Company provided a matching contribution similar to the Cablevision 401(k) Savings Plan.  Applicable employees of the Company were eligible for an enhanced employer matching contribution, as well as a year-end employer discretionary contribution to the Cablevision 401(k) Savings Plan and the Cablevision Excess Savings Plan.
Through September 30, 2017, the Company also maintained a 401(k) plan for employees of Cequel. Cequel employees that qualified for participation were able to contribute a percentage of eligible annual compensation and the Company would make a matching cash contribution, as defined in the plan. During the fourth quarter of 2017, the Suddenlink 401(k) plan assets were transferred to the Cablevision 401(k) Savings Plan and the plan was renamed the Altice USA 401(k) Savings Plan.
The cost associated with these plans (including the enhanced employer matching and discretionary contributions on 2016) was $27,577 and $28,501 for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] 
INCOME TAXES
Income tax expense attributable to the Company's continuing operations consists of the following components:
 
January 1 to June 20, 2016
 
Year Ended December 31, 2015
Current expense:
 
 
 
Federal
$
6,473

 
$
4,844

State
1,917

 
15,869

 
8,390

 
20,713

Deferred (benefit) expense:
 

 
 

Federal
93,253

 
97,927

State
22,897

 
35,469

 
116,150

 
133,396

Tax (benefit) expense relating to uncertain tax positions
308

 
763

Income tax expense
$
124,848

 
$
154,872


Income tax benefit attributable to discontinued operations for the year ended December 31, 2015 of $8,731 is comprised of current and deferred income tax benefit of $111 and $8,620, respectively.
The income tax (benefit) expense attributable to the Company's continuing operations differs from the amount derived by applying the statutory federal rate to pretax income principally due to the effect of the following items:
 
January 1 to June 20, 2016
 
Year Ended December 31, 2015
Federal tax expense at statutory rate
$
100,926

 
$
119,931

State income taxes, net of federal impact
14,825

 
18,874

Changes in the valuation allowance
86

 
(902
)
Changes in the state rates used to measure deferred taxes, net of federal impact
—

 
(1,006
)
Tax expense (benefit) relating to uncertain tax positions
178

 
574

New York tax reform
—

 
16,334

Non-deductible officers' compensation
462

 
846

Non-deductible merger transaction costs
9,392

 
—

Other non-deductible expenses
1,337

 
3,099

Research credit
(850
)
 
(2,630
)
Adjustment to prior year tax expense
—

 
(515
)
Other, net
(1,508
)
 
267

Income tax expense
$
124,848

 
$
154,872


The tax effects of temporary differences which give rise to significant portions of deferred tax assets or liabilities and the corresponding valuation allowance at December 31, 2015 are as follows.
Deferred Tax Asset (Liability)
 
Current
 
NOLs and tax credit carry forwards
$
76,007

Compensation and benefit plans
80,831

Allowance for doubtful accounts
2,196

Merger transaction costs
7,332

Inventory
7,135

Other
26,216

Deferred tax asset
199,717

Valuation allowance
(2,098
)
Net deferred tax asset, current
197,619

Investments
(163,396
)
Prepaid expenses
(19,627
)
Deferred tax liability, current
(183,023
)
Net deferred tax asset, current
$
14,596

Noncurrent
 
NOLs and tax credit carry forwards
36,866

Compensation and benefit plans
97,005

Partnership investments
123,529

Investments
9,798

Other
9,201

Deferred tax asset
276,399

Valuation allowance
(2,816
)
Net deferred tax asset, noncurrent
273,583

Fixed assets and intangibles
(978,418
)
Deferred tax liability, noncurrent
(978,418
)
Net deferred tax liability, noncurrent
(704,835
)
Total net deferred tax liability
$
(690,239
)

The Company used the 'with-and-without' approach to determine the recognition and measurement of excess tax benefits.  Cash flows resulting from excess tax benefits were classified as cash flows from financing activities.  Excess tax benefits are realized tax benefits from tax deductions for options exercised and restricted shares issued in excess of the deferred tax asset attributable to share-based compensation expense for such awards. The Company realized excess tax benefit of $82 and $5,694 for the period January 1, 2016 through June 20, 2016, and for the year ended December 31, 2015, respectively, resulting in an increase to paid-in-capital. 
Deferred tax assets have resulted primarily from the Company's future deductible temporary differences and NOLs. In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, management considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax asset will not be realized. The Company's ability to realize its deferred tax assets depends upon the generation of sufficient future taxable income and tax planning strategies to allow for the utilization of its NOLs and deductible temporary differences. If such estimates and related assumptions change in the future, the Company may be required to record additional valuation allowances against its deferred tax assets, resulting in additional income tax expense in the Company's consolidated statements of income. Management evaluates the realizability of the deferred tax assets and the need for additional valuation allowances quarterly. At this time, based on current facts and circumstances, management believes that it is more likely than not that the Company will realize benefit for its gross deferred tax assets, except those deferred tax assets against which a valuation allowance has been recorded which relate to certain state NOLs.
In the normal course of business, the Company engages in transactions in which the income tax consequences may be uncertain. The Company's income tax returns are filed based on interpretation of tax laws and regulations. Such income tax returns are subject to examination by taxing authorities. For financial statement purposes, the Company only recognizes tax positions that it believes are more likely than not of being sustained. There is considerable judgment involved in determining whether positions taken or expected to be taken on the tax return are more likely than not of being sustained.
A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits associated with uncertain tax positions, excluding associated deferred tax benefits and accrued interest, is as follows:
Balance at December 31, 2015
$
4,022

Increases related to prior year tax positions
3

Increases related to current year tax positions
6

Balance at June 20, 2016
$
4,031


In the second quarter of 2016, the Company changed its accounting policy on a prospective basis to present interest expense relating to uncertain tax positions as additional interest expense. During the period ended June 20, 2016 and December 31, 2015, interest expense of $209 and $314 was included in income tax expense, respectively.
The most significant jurisdictions in which the Company is required to file income tax returns include the states of New York, New Jersey and Connecticut and the City of New York.  The State of New York is presently auditing income tax returns for years 2009 through 2011. 
Management does not believe that the resolution of the ongoing income tax examination described above will have a material adverse impact on the financial position of the Company.  Changes in the liabilities for uncertain tax positions will be recognized in the interim period in which the positions are effectively settled or there is a change in factual circumstances.
BENEFIT PLANS 
BENEFIT PLANS
Qualified and Non-qualified Defined Benefit Plans
Cablevision Retirement Plans (collectively, the "Defined Benefit Plans")
The Company sponsors a non-contributory qualified defined benefit cash balance retirement plan (the "Pension Plan") for the benefit of non-union employees other than those of Newsday, as well as certain employees covered by a collective bargaining agreement in Brooklyn.
The Company maintains an unfunded non-contributory non-qualified defined benefit excess cash balance plan ("Excess Cash Balance Plan") covering certain current and former employees of the Company who participate in the Pension Plan, as well as an additional unfunded non-contributory, non-qualified defined benefit plan ("CSC Supplemental Benefit Plan") for the benefit of certain former officers and employees of the Company which provided that, upon retiring on or after normal retirement age, a participant receives a benefit equal to a specified percentage of the participant's average compensation, as defined.  All participants were 100% vested in the CSC Supplemental Benefit Plan.  The benefits related to the CSC Supplemental Plan were paid to participants in January 2017 and the plan was terminated.   
The Company amended the Pension Plan and the Excess Cash Balance Plan to freeze participation and future benefit accruals effective December 31, 2013 for all Company employees except those covered by a collective bargaining agreement in Brooklyn.  Effective April 1, 2015, participation was frozen and future benefit accruals ceased for employees covered by a collective bargaining agreement in Brooklyn. Therefore, after April 1, 2015, no employee of the Company who was not already a participant could participate in the plans and no further annual Pay Credits (a certain percentage of employees' eligible pay) were made.  Existing account balances under the plans continue to be credited with monthly interest in accordance with the terms of the plans.
Plan Results for Defined Benefit Plans
Summarized below is the funded status and the amounts recorded on the Company's consolidated balance sheets for all of the Company's Defined Benefit Plans at December 31, 2015:
Change in projected benefit obligation:
 
Projected benefit obligation at beginning of year
$
430,846

Service cost
344

Interest cost
15,523

Actuarial (gain) loss
(14,912
)
Curtailments
—

Benefits paid
(27,838
)
Projected benefit obligation at end of year
403,963

 
 
Change in plan assets:
 

Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year
303,676

Actual return (loss) on plan assets, net
(3,921
)
Employer contributions
25,929

Benefits paid
(27,838
)
Fair value of plan assets at end of year
297,846

 
 
Unfunded status at end of year
$
(106,117
)

The accumulated benefit obligation for the Company's Defined Benefit Plans aggregated $403,963 at December 31, 2015.
The Company's net funded status relating to its Defined Benefit Plans at December 31, 2015 are as follows:
Defined Benefit Plans
$
(106,117
)
Less: Current portion related to nonqualified plans
6,889

Long-term defined benefit plan obligations
$
(99,228
)
 
Components of the net periodic benefit cost, recorded in other operating expenses, for the Defined Benefit Plans for the period January 1, 2016 to June 20, 2016 and for the year ended December 31, 2015, are as follows:
 
January 1, 2016 to
June 20, 2016
 
Year ended December 31, 2015
 
 
 
 
Service cost
$
—

 
$
344

Interest cost
7,130

 
15,523

Expected return on plan assets, net
(3,565
)
 
(8,297
)
Recognized actuarial loss (reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss)
(1,446
)
 
1,294

Settlement (income) loss (reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss) (a)
1,655

 
3,822

Net periodic benefit cost
$
3,774

 
$
12,686

 
(a)
As a result of benefit payments to terminated or retired individuals exceeding the service and interest costs for the Pension Plan and the Excess Cash Balance Pension Plan during the period January 1, 2016 through June 20, 2016, and year ended December 31, 2015, the Company recognized a non-cash settlement loss that represented the acceleration of the recognition of a portion of the previously unrecognized actuarial losses recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets relating to these plans.
Plan Assumptions for Defined Benefit Plans
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic cost (made at the beginning of the year) and benefit obligations (made at the end of the year) for the Defined Benefit Plans are as follows:
 
Weighted-Average Assumptions
 
Net Periodic Benefit Cost
 
Benefit Obligations
 
January 1, 2016 to
June 20, 2016
 
Year ended December 31, 2015
 
December 31, 2015
Discount rate (a)
3.76
%
 
3.83
%
 
3.94
%
Rate of increase in future compensation levels
—
%
 
—
%
 
—
%
Expected rate of return on plan assets (Pension Plan only)
3.97
%
 
4.03
%
 
N/A

 
(a)
The discount rates of 3.76% and 3.83%, for the period January 1, 2016 through June 20, 2016, and year ended December 31, 2015, respectively, represent the average of the quarterly discount rates used to remeasure the Company's projected benefit obligation and net periodic benefit cost in connection with the recognition of settlement losses discussed above.
The discount rate used by the Company in calculating the net periodic benefit cost for the Cash Balance Plan and the Excess Cash Balance Plan was determined based on the expected future benefit payments for the plans and from the Towers Watson U.S. Rate Link: 40-90 Discount Rate Model. The model was developed by examining the yields on selected highly rated corporate bonds.
The Company's expected long-term return on Pension Plan assets is based on a periodic review and modeling of the plan's asset allocation structure over a long-term horizon.  Expectations of returns and risk for each asset class are the most important of the assumptions used in the review and modeling and are based on comprehensive reviews of historical data, forward looking economic outlook, and economic/financial market theory.  The expected long-term rate of return was chosen as a best estimate and was determined by (a) historical real returns, net of inflation, for the asset classes covered by the investment policy, and (b) projections of inflation over the long-term period during which benefits are payable to plan participants. 
Pension Plan Assets and Investment Policy
The weighted average asset allocations of the Pension Plan at December 31, 2015 are as follows:
 
Plan Assets at
December 31,
 
2015
Asset Class:
 
Mutual funds
39
%
Fixed income securities
61

Cash equivalents and other
—

 
100
%

The Pension Plan's investment objectives reflect an overall low risk tolerance to stock market volatility.  This strategy allows for the Pension Plan to invest in portfolios that would obtain a rate of return throughout economic cycles, commensurate with the investment risk and cash flow needs of the Pension Plan. The investments held in the Pension Plan are readily marketable and can be sold to fund benefit payment obligations of the plan as they become payable.
Investment allocation decisions are formally made by the Altice USA Benefits Committee, which takes into account investment advice provided by its external investment consultant.  The investment consultant takes into account expected long-term risk, return, correlation, and other prudent investment assumptions when recommending asset classes and investment managers to the Company's Investment and Benefit Committee. The major categories of the Pension Plan assets are cash equivalents and bonds which are marked-to-market on a daily basis.  Due to the Pension Plan's significant holdings in long-term government and non-government fixed income securities, the Pension Plan's assets are subjected to interest rate risk; specifically, a rising interest rate environment. Consequently, an increase in interest rates may cause a decrease to the overall liability of the Pension Plan thus creating a hedge against rising interest rates. In addition, a portion of the Pension Plan's bond portfolio is invested in foreign debt securities where there could be foreign currency risks associated with them, as well as in non-government securities which are subject to credit risk of the bond issuer defaulting on interest and/or principal payments. 
Investments at Estimated Fair Value
The fair values of the assets of the Pension Plan at December 31, 2015 by asset class are as follows:
Asset Class
Level I
 
Level II
 
Level III
 
Total
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Mutual funds
$
117,174

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
117,174

Fixed income securities held in a portfolio:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign issued corporate debt
—

 
12,825

 
—

 
12,825

U.S. corporate debt
—

 
54,005

 
—

 
54,005

Government debt
—

 
8,273

 
—

 
8,273

U.S. Treasury securities
—

 
90,414

 
—

 
90,414

Asset-backed securities
—

 
18,563

 
—

 
18,563

Cash equivalents (a)
893

 
—

 
—

 
893

Total (b)
$
118,067

 
$
184,080

 
$
—

 
$
302,147

 
(a)
Represents an investment in a money market fund.
(b)
Excludes cash and net payables relating to the sale of securities that were not settled as of December 31, 2015.
The fair values of mutual funds and cash equivalents were derived from quoted market prices that the Pension Plan administrator has the ability to access.
The fair values of corporate and government debt, treasury securities and asset-back securities were derived from bids received from a vendor or broker not available in an active market that the Pension Plan administrator has the ability to access.
Defined Contribution Plans 
The Company also maintains the Cablevision 401(k) Savings Plan, a contributory qualified defined contribution plan for the benefit of non-union employees of the Company.  Employees can contribute a percentage of eligible annual compensation and the Company will make a matching cash contribution or discretionary contribution, as defined in the plan.  In addition, the Company maintains an unfunded non-qualified excess savings plan for which the Company provides a matching contribution similar to the Cablevision 401(k) Savings Plan. 
Applicable employees of the Company are eligible for an enhanced employer matching contribution, as well as a year-end employer discretionary contribution to the Cablevision 401(k) Savings Plan and the Cablevision Excess Savings Plan.
The cost associated with these plans (including the enhanced employer matching and discretionary contributions) was $26,964 and $61,343 for the period January 1, 2016 through June 20, 2016, and year ended December 31, 2015, respectively.
CVC - EQUITY AND LONG-TERM INCENTIVE PLANS
SHARE BASED COMPENSATION 
SHARE BASED COMPENSATION
Carry Unit Plan
Certain employees of the Company and its affiliates received awards of units in a carry unit plan of Neptune Management LP, an entity which has an ownership interest in the Company. The awards generally vest as follows: 50% on the second anniversary of June 21, 2016 for Cablevision employees or December 21, 2015 for Cequel employees ("Base Date"), 25% on the third anniversary of the Base Date, and 25% on the fourth anniversary of the Base Date.  Neptune Holding US GP LLC, the general partner of Neptune Management LP, has the right to repurchase (or to assign to an affiliate, including the Company, the right to repurchase) vested awards held by employees for sixty days following their termination.  For performance-based awards under the plan, vesting occurs upon achievement or satisfaction of a specified performance condition. The Company considered the probability of achieving the established performance targets in determining the share-based compensation with respect to these awards at the end of each reporting period. The carry unit plan has 259,442,785 units authorized for issuance, of which 211,670,834 have been issued to employees of the Company and 11,300,000 have been issued to employees of Altice N.V. and affiliated companies as of December 31, 2017.
Beginning on the fourth anniversary of the Base Date, the holders of carry units have an annual opportunity (a sixty day period determined by the administrator of the plan) to sell their units back to Neptune Holding US GP LLC (or affiliate, including the Company, designated by Neptune Holding US GP LLC). Accordingly, the carry units are presented as temporary equity on the consolidated balance sheets at fair value. Adjustments to fair value at each reporting period are recorded in paid-in capital.
The right of Neptune Holding US GP LLC to assign to an affiliate, including the Company, the right to repurchase an employee’s vested units during the sixty-day period following termination, or to satisfy its obligation to repurchase an employee’s vested units during annual 60 day periods following the fourth anniversary of the Base Date, may be exercised by Neptune Holding US GP LLC in its discretion at the time a repurchase right or obligation arises. The carry unit plan requires the purchase price payable to the employee or former employee, as the case may be, to be paid in cash, a promissory note (with a term of not more than 3 years and bearing interest at the long-term applicable federal rate under Section 1274(d) of the Internal Revenue Code) or combination thereof, in each case as determined by Neptune Holding US GP LLC in its discretion at the time of the repurchase. Neptune Holding US GP LLC expects that vested units will be redeemed for shares of the Company's Class A common stock upon vesting.
The Company measures the cost of employee services received in exchange for carry units based on the fair value of the award at grant date. In addition these units are presented as temporary equity on our consolidated balance sheet at fair value. For carry unit awards granted in 2016, an option pricing model was used which requires subjective assumptions for which changes in these assumptions could materially affect the fair value of the carry units outstanding. The time to liquidity event assumption was based on management’s judgment. The equity volatility assumption was estimated using the historical weekly volatility of publicly traded comparable companies. The risk-free rate assumed was based on the U.S. Constant Maturity Treasury Rates for a period matching the expected time to liquidity event. The discount for lack of marketability was based on Finnerty's (2012) average-strike put option model.
For carry unit awards granted in the first and second quarter of 2017, the Company estimated the grant date fair value based on the value established in the Company's IPO.
The following table summarizes activity relating to carry units:
 
Number of Time
Vesting Awards
 
Number of Performance
Based Vesting Awards
 
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Balance, December 31, 2016
192,800,000

 
10,000,000

 
$
0.37

Granted
28,025,000

 
—

 
3.14

Forfeited
(7,854,166
)
 
—

 
0.37

Vested
(44,420,833
)
 
—

 
0.41

Balance, December 31, 2017
168,550,001

 
10,000,000

 
0.71


The weighted average fair value per unit was $1.76 and $2.50 as of December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2017, respectively. For the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company recognized an expense of $57,430 and $14,368, respectively, related to the push down of share-based compensation related to the carry unit plan of which approximately $55,258 and $9,849 related to units granted to employees of the Company and $2,172 and $4,519 related to employees of Altice N.V. and affiliated companies allocated to the Company.
Stock Option Plan
In connection with the Company's IPO, the Company adopted the Altice USA 2017 Long Term Incentive Plan (the "2017 LTIP"). Under the 2017 LTIP, the Company may grant awards of options, restricted shares, restricted share units, stock appreciation rights, performance stock, performance stock units and other awards. Under the 2017 LTIP, awards may be granted to officers, employees and consultants of the Company or any of its affiliates. The 2017 LTIP will be administered by the Company's Board of Directors (the "Board"), subject to the provision of the stockholders' agreement. The Board has delegated its authority to the Company's Compensation Committee. The Compensation Committee has the full power and authority to, among other things, select eligible participants, to grant awards in accordance with the 2017 LTIP, to determine the number of shares subject to each award or the cash amount payable in connection with an award and determine the terms and conditions of each award. The maximum aggregate number of shares that may be issued under the 2017 LTIP is 9,879,291. The Board has the authority to amend, suspend, or terminate the 2017 LTIP. No amendment, suspension or termination will be effective without the approval of the Company's stockholders if such approval is required under applicable laws, rules and regulations.
On December 30, 2017, the Company granted 5,110,747 nonqualified stock options under the 2017 LTIP. The stock options were granted with an exercise price of $19.48, equal to the 30 day volume weighted average of the closing price of Class A common stock as of the grant date. Certain nonqualified stock options (2,730,949 awards) will vest 100% on December 21, 2020 and 2,379,798 awards will vest 50% on the second anniversary, 25% on the third anniversary and 25% on the fourth anniversary of the date of grant, generally subject to continued employment with the Company or any of its affiliates, and expire ten years from the date of grant.
The Company calculated the fair value of each option award on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes valuation model.  The Company's computation of expected life was determined based on the simplified method (the average of the vesting period and option term) due to the Company's lack of recent historical data for similar awards.  The interest rate for periods within the contractual life of the stock option was based on interest yields for U.S. Treasury instruments in effect at the time of grant.  The Company's computation of expected volatility was based on historical volatility of its common stock and the expected volatility of comparable publicly-traded companies who granted options that had similar expected lives.
The following aggregate assumptions were used to calculate the fair values of stock option awards granted on December 30, 2017:
Risk-free interest rate
 
2.30%
Expected life (in years)
 
6.44
Dividend yield
 
—%
Volatility
 
33.95%
Grant date fair value
 
$8.77
SHARE BASED COMPENSATION 
EQUITY AND LONG-TERM INCENTIVE PLANS
Equity Plans
In connection with the Merger, outstanding equity-based awards granted under the Company’s equity plans were cancelled and converted into a right to receive cash based upon the $34.90 per Share merger price in accordance with the original terms of the awards. On the Merger Date, the Company had 11,880,700 stock options, 3,769,485 restricted shares, 1,724,940 restricted stock units issued to employees and 466,283 restricted stock units issued to non-employee directors outstanding. The aggregate payment was $439,167 and represents a portion of the merger consideration. Approximately $63,484 of compensation costs related to the acceleration of the vesting of these awards in connection with the Merger and the related employer payroll taxes of $7,929 were recorded on the black line and therefore are not reflected in either the Predecessor or Successor periods.
In March 2015, the Company's Board of Directors approved the Cablevision Systems Corporation 2015 Employee Stock Plan ("2015 Plan"), which was approved by Cablevision's stockholders at its annual stockholders meeting on May 21, 2015. Under the 2015 Plan, the Company was authorized to grant stock options, restricted shares, restricted stock units, stock appreciation rights, and other equity-based awards. As of December 31, 2015, 79,780 equity based awards had been granted under the 2015 Plan.
The Company also had an employee stock plan ("2006 Plan") under which it was authorized to grant incentive stock options, nonqualified stock options, restricted shares, restricted stock units, stock appreciation rights and other equity-based awards and a 2006 Stock Plan for Non-Employee Directors, whereby the Company was authorized to grant nonqualified stock options, restricted stock units and other equity-based awards. In 2015, the Company granted its non-employee directors an aggregate of 73,056 restricted stock units.  Total non-employee director restricted stock units outstanding as of December 31, 2015 were 466,283. 
Since share-based compensation expense is based on awards that are ultimately expected to vest, such compensation expense was reduced for estimated forfeitures.  Forfeitures were estimated based primarily on historical experience.
The following table presents the share-based compensation expense recognized by the Company as other operating expenses:
 
January 1, 2016 to
June 20, 2016
 
Year ended December 31, 2015
Stock options
$
3,848

 
$
9,159

Restricted shares and restricted stock units
20,930

 
51,162

Share-based compensation related to equity classified awards
24,778

 
60,321

Other share-based compensation
453

 
4,965

Total share-based compensation
$
25,231

 
$
65,286


An income tax benefit of $10,357 and $26,718 was recognized in continuing operations resulting from share-based compensation expense for the period from January 1, 2016 through June 20, 2016 and year ended December 31, 2015, respectively.
Cash received from stock option exercises for the period January 1, 2016 through June 20, 2016, and year ended December 31, 2015, respectively was $14,411 and $18,727, respectively.
Valuation Assumptions - Stock Options
The Company calculated the fair value of each option award on the date of grant.  The Company's computation of expected life was determined based on historical experience of similar awards, giving consideration to the contractual terms of the share-based awards and vesting schedules, or by using the simplified method (the average of the vesting period and option term), if applicable.  The interest rate for periods within the contractual life of the stock option was based on interest yields for U.S. Treasury instruments in effect at the time of grant.   The Company's computation of expected volatility was based on historical volatility of its common stock.
The following assumptions were used to calculate the fair values of stock option awards granted in the first quarter of 2015:
 
2015
 
 
Risk-free interest rate
1.82
%
Expected life (in years)
8

Dividend yield
3.63
%
Volatility
39.98
%
Grant date fair value
$
5.45


Share-Based Payment Award Activity
The following table summarizes activity relating to Company employees who held Cablevision stock options for the period January 1, 2016 to June 20, 2016 and for the year ended December 31, 2015:
 
Shares
Under Option
 
Weighted Average
Exercise
Price Per Share
 
Weighted Average Remaining
Contractual Term
(in years)
 
 
 
Time
Vesting Options
 
Performance
Based Vesting Options
 
 
 
Aggregate Intrinsic
Value (a)
Balance, December 31, 2014
5,097,666

 
7,633,500

 
$
14.41

 
7.17
 
$
79,347

Granted
2,000,000

 
—

 
19.17

 
 
 
 

Exercised
(353,666
)
 
(1,024,283
)
 
12.84

 
 
 
 

Balance, December 31, 2015
6,744,000

 
6,609,217

 
15.28

 
6.80
 
221,900

Exercised
(744,000
)
 
(728,517
)
 
13.97

 
 
 
 

Balance, June 20, 2016
6,000,000

 
5,880,700

 
$
15.45

 
 
 
 
 
(a)
The aggregate intrinsic value is calculated as the difference between (i) the exercise price of the underlying award and (ii) the quoted price of CNYG Class A common stock on December 31, 2015, as indicated.
Restricted Stock Award Activity
The following table summarizes activity relating to Company employees who held Cablevision restricted shares and restricted stock units for the period January 1, 2016 to June 20, 2016 and for the year ended December 31, 2015:
 
Number of Restricted Shares
 
Number of Performance Restricted Shares
 
Number of Performance Based Restricted Stock Units ("PSU") (a)
 
Weighted Average Fair Value Per Share at Date of Grant
Unvested award balance, December 31, 2014
5,314,870

 
2,035,300

 
—

 
$
15.46

Granted
1,747,870

 
584,400

 
1,851,700

 
19.43

Vested
(1,598,363
)
 
(739,600
)
 
—

 
14.48

Awards forfeited
(496,629
)
 
—

 
(79,270
)
 
17.28

Unvested award balance, December 31, 2015
4,967,748

 
1,880,100

 
1,772,430

 
17.53

Vested
(2,239,167
)
 
(753,296
)
 
—

 
15.35

Awards forfeited
(85,900
)
 
—

 
(47,490
)
 
18.38

Unvested award balance, June 20, 2016
2,642,681

 
1,126,804

 
1,724,940

 
 
 
(a)
The PSUs entitled the employee to shares of CNYG common stock up to 150% of the number of PSUs granted depending on the level of achievement of the specified performance criteria. If the minimum performance threshold was not met, no shares were issued. Accrued dividends were paid to the extent that a PSU vested and the related stock was issued.
During the first quarter of 2016, 2,992,463 Cablevision restricted shares issued to employees of the Company vested.  To fulfill the employees' statutory minimum tax withholding obligations for the applicable income and other employment taxes, 1,248,875 of these shares, with an aggregate value of $41,469, were surrendered to the Company.  During the year ended December 31, 2015, 2,337,963 Cablevision restricted shares issued to employees of the Company vested.  To fulfill the employees' statutory minimum tax withholding obligations for the applicable income and other employment taxes, 1,004,950 of these shares, with an aggregate value of $19,141 were surrendered to the Company.  These acquired shares had been classified as treasury stock.
Long-Term Incentive Plan Awards
In March 2011, the Company's Board of Directors approved the Cablevision Systems Corporation 2011 Cash Incentive Plan, which was approved by the Company's stockholders at its annual stockholders meeting in May 2011. The Company recorded expenses of $9,169 and $27,170 for the period January 1, 2016 through June 20, 2016, and year ended December 31, 2015, respectively, related to this plan. 
Carried Unit Plan

Subsequent to the merger, in July 2016, certain employees of the Company and its affiliates received awards of units in a Carry Unit Plan of an entity which has an ownership interest in the Company’s parent, Neptune Holding. The awards generally will vest as follows: 50% on the second anniversary of June 21, 2016 (“Base Date”),25% on the third anniversary of the Base Date, and 25% on the fourth anniversary of the Base Date. Prior to the fourth anniversary, the Company has the right to repurchase vested awards held by employees upon their termination. The Carry Unit Plan has 259,442,785 units authorized for issuance, of which 102,500,000 have been issued to employees of the Company and 100,300,000 have been issued to employees of Altice and affiliated companies.
CVC - AFFILIATE AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
AFFILIATE AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS 
AFFILIATE AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Equity Method Investments
In July 2016, the Company completed the sale of a 75% interest in Newsday LLC ("Newsday") to an employee of the Company. The Company retained the remaining 25% ownership interest. Effective July 7, 2016, the operating results of Newsday are no longer consolidated with those of the Company and the Company's 25% interest in the operating results of Newsday is recorded on the equity method.
At December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company's 25% investment in Newsday and its 25% interest in i24NEWS, Altice N.V.'s 24/7 international news and current affairs channel aggregated $(2,649) and $5,606, respectively, and is included in investments in affiliates on our consolidated balance sheets. The operating results of Newsday and i24NEWS are recorded on the equity basis. For the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company recorded equity in net loss of Newsday of $7,219 and $1,132, respectively, and equity in net loss of i24NEWS of $2,821 and $0, respectively.
Affiliate and Related Party Transactions
As the transactions discussed below were conducted between subsidiaries of Altice N.V. under common control and equity method investees, amounts charged for certain services may not have represented amounts that might have been received or incurred if the transactions were based upon arm's length negotiations.
Altice Technical Services US Corp. ("ATS")
As discussed in Note 1, in January 2018, the Company completed the ATS Acquisition and the Company expects to become the owner of 100% of the equity interests in ATS prior to the Distribution. ATS was previously owned by Altice N.V. and a member of ATS's management through a holding company. As a result of the ATS Acquisition, the Company will combine the operations of ATS with Altice USA in 2018. See Note 1 for a summary of the impact that the ATS Acquisition will have on the Company's previously reported revenue, operating expenses and operating income.
ATS was formed to provide network construction and maintenance services and commercial and residential installations, disconnections, and maintenance. In the second quarter of 2017, the Company entered into an Independent Contractor Agreement with ATS that governs the terms of the services described above. The Company believes the services it receives from ATS will be of higher quality and at a lower cost than the Company could achieve without ATS, including for the construction of our new fiber-to-the home ("FTTH") network. The Company also entered into a Transition Services Agreement for the use of the Company's resources to provide various overhead functions to ATS, including accounting, legal and human resources and for the use of certain facilities, vehicles and technician tools during a transitional period that generally ended on December 31, 2017, although the term can be extended on a service-by-service basis. The Transition Services Agreement requires ATS to reimburse the Company for its cost to provide such services.
During the second quarter of 2017, a substantial portion of the Company's technical workforce at the Cablevision segment either accepted employment with ATS or became employees of ATS and ATS commenced operations and began to perform services for the Company. A substantial portion of the Cequel segment technical workforce became employees of ATS in December 2017. For the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company's operating results reflect a reduction in employee related expenses due to certain employees becoming employed by ATS and an increase in contractor costs for services provided by ATS.
From the formation of ATS and up until an equity contribution was made by its parent in June 2017, ATS met the definition of a variable interest entity in accordance with ASC 810-10-15-14. The Company evaluated whether its arrangement under the terms of the Independent Contractor Agreement is a variable interest, whether the Company is the primary beneficiary and whether the Company should consolidate ATS. The Company concluded that it is not the primary beneficiary of ATS because ATS is controlled by its parent, which in turn is controlled by Altice N.V. who has the power to direct the most significant activities of ATS.
As of December 31, 2017, the Company had a prepayment balance of $19,563 to ATS which is reflected in prepaid expenses and other current assets and $6,539 which is reflected in other long-term assets on the Company's balance sheet.
The Company reduced goodwill to reflect the preliminary estimate of the historical value of the goodwill associated with the transfer to ATS described above of $23,101, that has been recorded as a reduction to stockholders' equity.
The following table summarizes the revenue and charges related to services provided to or received from subsidiaries of Altice N.V. and Newsday:
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Revenue
$
2,205

 
$
1,086

Operating expenses:
 
 
 
Programming and other direct costs
$
(4,176
)
 
$
(1,947
)
Other operating expenses, net
(106,084
)
 
(18,854
)
Operating expenses, net
(110,260
)
 
(20,801
)
 
 
 
 
Interest expense (see Note 9)(a)
(90,405
)
 
(112,712
)
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs (see Note 9)
(513,723
)
 
—

Net charges
$
(712,183
)
 
$
(132,427
)
Capital Expenditures
$
133,918

 
$
45,886

 
(a)
The 2016 amount includes $10,155 related to Holdco Notes prior to the exchange in addition to the interest related to notes payable to affiliates and related parties discussed in Note 9.
Revenue
The Company recognized revenue in connection with the sale of pay television, broadband and telephony services to ATS and the sale of advertising to Newsday.
Programming and other direct costs
Programming and other direct costs include costs incurred by the Company for the transport and termination of voice and data services provided by a subsidiary of Altice N.V.
Other operating expenses
Other operating expenses include charges of $72,944 from ATS for the year ended December 31, 2017, pursuant to the Independent Contractor Agreement, net of charges to ATS pursuant to the TSA, discussed above.
Altice N.V. provides certain executive services, as well as consulting, advisory and other services, including, prior to the IPO, CEO, CFO and COO services, to the Company. Compensation under the terms of the agreement is an annual fee of $30,000 to be paid by the Company. Fees associated with this agreement recorded by the Company amounted to approximately $30,000 and $20,556, for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. As of June 20, 2017, the CEO, CFO and COO became employees of the Company and the agreement was assigned to Altice N.V. by a subsidiary of Altice N.V. This agreement will be terminated upon the completion of the Distribution discussed in Note 1.
Other operating expenses also include charges for services provided by other subsidiaries of Altice N.V. aggregating $4,057 and $887, respectively, net of a credit of $917 and $2,589 related to transition services provided to Newsday for the year ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
Capital Expenditures
Capital expenditures for the year ended December 31, 2017 include $111,906 (including advance payments related to the FTTH project of $16,363) for installation and construction activities performed by ATS, $17,434 of equipment purchased from Altice Labs S.A., $4,578 of software development services, that were capitalized, from Altice Management International and other Altice N.V. subsidiaries.
Capital expenditures for the year ended December 31, 2016 include $44,121 of equipment purchased from Altice Management International and $1,025 from another Altice N.V. subsidiary. In addition, the Company acquired certain software development services that were capitalized from Altice Labs S.A. aggregating $740.
Aggregate amounts that were due from and due to related parties are summarized below:
 
December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Due from:
 
 
 
Altice US Finance S.A. (a)
$
12,951

 
$
12,951

Newsday (b)
2,713

 
6,114

Altice Management Americas (b)
33

 
3,117

i24NEWS (b)
4,036

 
—

Other Altice N.V. subsidiaries (b)
1,623

 
—

 
$
21,356

 
$
22,182

Due to:
 
 
 
CVC 3BV (c)
$
—

 
$
71,655

Neptune Holdings US LP (c)
—

 
7,962

Altice Management International (d)
—

 
44,121

ATS (b)(e)
2,948

 
—

Newsday (b)
33

 
275

Altice Labs S.A. (d)
7,354

 
866

Other Altice N.V. subsidiaries (f)
3,611

 
2,484

 
$
13,946

 
$
127,363

 
(a)
Represents interest on senior notes paid by the Company on behalf of the affiliate.
(b)
Represents amounts paid by the Company on behalf of the respective related party and for Newsday and ATS, the net amounts due from the related party also include charges for certain transition services provided.
(c)
Represents distributions payable to stockholders.
(d)
Amounts payable as of December 31, 2016 primarily represent amounts due for equipment purchases and/or software development services discussed above.
(e)
Represents amounts due to ATS for construction, maintenance, and installation services, net of charges to ATS pursuant to the TSA. See discussion above.
(f)
Represents amounts due to affiliates for services provided to the Company.
The table above does not include notes payable to affiliates and related parties of $1,750,000 and the related accrued interest of $102,557 as of December 31, 2016, respectively, which is reflected in accrued interest in the Company's balance sheet. See discussion in Note 9.
In the second quarter of 2017, prior to the Company's IPO, the Company declared and paid cash distributions aggregating $839,700 to stockholders, $500,000 of which were funded with proceeds from borrowings under CSC Holdings' revolving credit facility. In 2016, the Company declared cash distributions of $445,176, of which $365,559 were paid in 2016 and $79,617 were paid in the first quarter of 2017.
AFFILIATE AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS 
AFFILIATE AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Equity Method Investments
In September 2015, the Company purchased the minority interest in Newsday Holdings LLC ("Newsday Holdings") held by Tribune Media Company ("Tribune") for approximately $8,300. As a result of this transaction, Newsday Holdings became a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company. In addition, the indemnity provided by the Company to Tribune for certain taxes incurred by Tribune if Newsday Holdings or its subsidiary sold or otherwise disposed of Newsday assets in a taxable transaction or failed to maintain specified minimum outstanding indebtedness, was amended so that the restriction period lapsed on September 2, 2015.
Subsequent to the Merger, in July 2016, the Company completed the sale of a 75% interest in Newsday LLC. The Company retained the remaining 25% ownership interest.

In December 2016, the Company made an investment of $1,966 in i24NEWS, Altice’s 24/7 international news and current affairs channel, representing a 25% ownership interest and the 75% interest is owned by a subsidiary of Altice.

Related Party Transactions
As the transactions discussed below were conducted between subsidiaries under common control, amounts charged for certain services may not have represented amounts that might have been received or incurred if the transactions were based upon arm's length negotiations.
Cablevision is controlled by Charles F. Dolan, certain members of his immediate family and certain family related entities (collectively the “Dolan Family”).  Members of the Dolan Family are also the controlling stockholders of AMC Networks, The Madison Square Garden Company and MSG Networks Inc. ("MSG Networks").
The following table summarizes the revenue and charges (credits) related to services provided to or received from AMC Networks, Madison Square Garden Company and MSG Networks for the Predecessor periods:
 
January 1, 2016 to June 20, 2016
 
Year Ended December 31, 2015
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenue
$
2,088

 
$
5,343

Operating expenses:
 

 
 

Programming and other direct costs, net of credits
$
84,636

 
$
176,909

Other operating expenses, net of credits
2,182

 
5,372

Operating expenses, net
86,818

 
182,281

Net charges
$
84,730

 
$
176,938


Revenue
The Company recognized revenue in connection with television advertisements and print advertising, as well as certain telecommunication services charged by its subsidiaries to AMC Networks, Madison Square Garden and MSG Networks.  The Company and its subsidiaries, together with AMC Networks, Madison Square Garden and MSG Networks may have entered into agreements with third parties in which the amounts paid/received by AMC Networks, Madison Square Garden and MSG Networks, their subsidiaries, or the Company may have differed from the amounts that would have been paid/received if such arrangements were negotiated separately.  Where subsidiaries of the Company have incurred a cost incremental to fair value and AMC Networks, Madison Square Garden and MSG Networks have received a benefit incremental to fair value from these negotiations, the Company and its subsidiaries charged AMC Networks, Madison Square Garden and MSG Networks for the incremental amount.
Programming and other direct costs
Programming and other direct costs included costs incurred by the Company for the carriage of the MSG Networks, as well as for AMC, WE tv, IFC, Sundance Channel and BBC America (2015 period only) on the Company's cable systems.  The Company also purchased certain programming signal transmission and production services from AMC Networks.
Other operating expenses (credits)
The Company, AMC Networks, Madison Square Garden and MSG Networks routinely entered into transactions with each other in the ordinary course of business.  Such transactions included, but were not limited to, sponsorship agreements and cross-promotion arrangements. Additionally, amounts reflected in the tables were net of allocations to AMC Networks, Madison Square Garden and MSG Networks for services performed by the Company on their behalf.  Amounts also included charges to the Company for services performed or paid by the affiliate on the Company's behalf.
Subsequent to the Merger, the Company continues to receive or provide services to these entities, but these entities are no longer related parties.
Transactions with Other Affiliates
During the period ended January 1, 2016 to June 20, 2016 and the year ended December 31, 2015, the Company provided services to or incurred costs on behalf of certain related parties, including from time to time, the Dolan Family.  All costs incurred on behalf of these related parties were reimbursed to the Company. Aggregate amounts that were due from and due to AMC Networks, Madison Square Garden and MSG Networks and other affiliates at December 31, 2015 (Predecessor) is summarized below:
 
December 31,
 
2015
Amounts due from affiliates
$
767

Amounts due to affiliates
29,729

CVC - COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES 
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Commitments
Future cash payments and commitments required under arrangements pursuant to contracts entered into by the Company in the normal course of business as of December 31, 2017 are as follows:
 
Payments Due by Period
 
Total
 
Year 1
 
Years 2-3
 
Years 4-5
 
More than
5 years
Off balance sheet arrangements:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Purchase obligations (a)
$
8,423,735

 
$
3,071,514

 
$
4,179,616

 
$
1,092,786

 
$
79,819

Guarantees (b)
36,224

 
34,716

 
1,508

 
—

 
—

Letters of credit (c)
129,473

 
200

 
120

 
129,153

 
—

Total
$
8,589,432

 
$
3,106,430

 
$
4,181,244

 
$
1,221,939

 
$
79,819

 
(a)
Purchase obligations primarily include contractual commitments with various programming vendors to provide video services to customers and minimum purchase obligations to purchase goods or services.  Future fees payable under contracts with programming vendors are based on numerous factors, including the number of customers receiving the programming.  Amounts reflected above related to programming agreements are based on the number of customers receiving the programming as of December 31, 2017 multiplied by the per customer rates or the stated annual fee, as applicable, contained in the executed agreements in effect as of December 31, 2017. 
(b)
Includes franchise and performance surety bonds primarily for the Company's cable television systems. 
(c)
Represent letters of credit guaranteeing performance to municipalities and public utilities and payment of insurance premiums. Payments due by period for these arrangements represent the year in which the commitment expires although payments under these arrangements are required only in the event of nonperformance.
The table above does not include obligations for payments required to be made under multi-year franchise agreements based on a percentage of revenues generated from video service per year.
Many of the Company's franchise agreements and utility pole leases require the Company to remove its cable wires and other equipment upon termination of the respective agreements.  The Company has concluded that the fair value of these asset retirement obligations cannot be reasonably estimated since the range of potential settlement dates is not determinable.
Legal Matters
Following expiration of the affiliation agreements for carriage of certain Fox broadcast stations and cable networks on October 16, 2010, News Corporation terminated delivery of the programming feeds to Cablevision, and as a result, those stations and networks were unavailable on Cablevision's cable television systems. On October 30, 2010, Cablevision and Fox reached an agreement on new affiliation agreements for these stations and networks, and carriage was restored. Several purported class action lawsuits alleging breach of contract, unjust enrichment, and consumer fraud and seeking unspecified compensatory damages, punitive damages and attorneys' fees were subsequently filed on behalf of Cablevision's customers seeking recovery for the lack of Fox programming. Those lawsuits were consolidated in an action before the U. S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York, and a consolidated complaint was filed in that court on February 22, 2011. On March 28, 2012, in ruling on Cablevision's motion to dismiss, the Court dismissed all of plaintiffs’ claims, except for breach of contract.  On March 30, 2014, the Court granted plaintiffs’ motion for class certification. The parties have entered into a settlement agreement. The Court granted preliminary approval of the settlement agreement on January 8, 2018, and set a hearing for final approval on May 17, 2018. As of December 31, 2016, the Company had an estimated liability associated with a potential settlement totaling $5,200. During the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company recorded an additional liability of $800. The amount ultimately paid in connection with the proposed settlement could exceed the amount recorded.
In October 2015, the New York Attorney General began an investigation into whether the major Internet Service Providers in New York State deliver advertised Internet speeds. The Company is cooperating with this investigation and is currently in discussions with the New York Attorney General about resolving the investigation as to the Company, which resolution may involve operational and/or financial components. While the Company is unable to predict the outcome of the investigation or these discussions, at this time it does not expect that the outcome will have a material adverse effect on its operations, financial conditions or cash flows.
The Company receives notices from third parties and, in some cases, is named as a defendant in certain lawsuits claiming infringement of various patents relating to various aspects of the Company's businesses.  In certain of these cases other industry participants are also defendants.  In certain of these cases the Company expects that any potential liability would be the responsibility of the Company's equipment vendors pursuant to applicable contractual indemnification provisions.  The Company believes that the claims are without merit and intends to defend the actions vigorously, but is unable to predict the outcome of these matters or reasonably estimate a range of possible loss.
In addition to the matters discussed above, the Company is party to various lawsuits, some involving claims for substantial damages.  Although the outcome of these other matters cannot be predicted and the impact of the final resolution of these other matters on the Company's results of operations in a particular subsequent reporting period is not known, management does not believe that the resolution of these other lawsuits will have a material adverse effect on the financial position of the Company or the ability of the Company to meet its financial obligations as they become due.
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES 
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Legal Matters
Cable Operations Litigation
Marchese, et al. v. Cablevision Systems Corporation and CSC Holdings, LLC:
The Company is a defendant in a lawsuit filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey by several present and former Cablevision subscribers, purportedly on behalf of a class of iO video subscribers in New Jersey, Connecticut and New York.  After three versions of the complaint were dismissed without prejudice by the District Court, plaintiffs filed their third amended complaint on August 22, 2011, alleging that the Company violated Section 1 of the Sherman Antitrust Act by allegedly tying the sale of interactive services offered as part of iO television packages to the rental and use of set-top boxes distributed by Cablevision, and violated Section 2 of the Sherman Antitrust Act by allegedly seeking to monopolize the distribution of Cablevision compatible set-top boxes.  Plaintiffs seek unspecified treble monetary damages, attorney's fees, as well as injunctive and declaratory relief.  On September 23, 2011, the Company filed a motion to dismiss the third amended complaint.  On January 10, 2012, the District Court issued a decision dismissing with prejudice the Section 2 monopolization claim, but allowing the Section 1 tying claim and related state common law claims to proceed.  Cablevision's answer to the third amended complaint was filed on February 13, 2012.  On December 7, 2015, the parties entered into a settlement agreement, which is subject to approval by the Court. On December 11, 2015, plaintiffs filed a motion for preliminary approval of the settlement, conditional certification of the settlement class, and approval of a class notice distribution plan. On March 10, 2016 the Court granted preliminary approval of the settlement and approved the class notice distribution plan.
Subsequent to the Merger, the class notice distribution and the claims submission process have now concluded. The Court granted final approval of the settlement on September 12, 2016 in the amount of $15,600, and the effective date of the settlement was October 24, 2016.

In re Cablevision Consumer Litigation:

Following expiration of the affiliation agreements for carriage of certain Fox broadcast stations and cable networks on October 16, 2010, News Corporation terminated delivery of the programming feeds to the Company, and as a result, those stations and networks were unavailable on the Company's cable television systems. On October 30, 2010, the Company and Fox reached an agreement on new affiliation agreements for these stations and networks, and carriage was restored. Several purported class action lawsuits were subsequently filed on behalf of the Company's customers seeking recovery for the lack of Fox programming. Those lawsuits were consolidated in an action before the U. S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York, and a consolidated complaint was filed in that court on February 22, 2011. Plaintiffs asserted claims for breach of contract, unjust enrichment, and consumer fraud, seeking unspecified compensatory damages, punitive damages and attorneys' fees. On March 28, 2012, the Court ruled on the Company's motion to dismiss, denying the motion with regard to plaintiffs' breach of contract claim, but granting it with regard to the remaining claims, which were dismissed. On April 16, 2012, plaintiffs filed a second consolidated amended complaint, which asserts a claim only for breach of contract. The Company's answer was filed on May 2, 2012. On October 10, 2012, plaintiffs filed a motion for class certification and on December 13, 2012, a motion for partial summary judgment. On March 31, 2014, the Court granted plaintiffs' motion for class certification, and denied without prejudice plaintiffs' motion for summary judgment. On May 30, 2014, the Court approved the form of class notice, and on October 7, 2014, approved the class notice distribution plan. The class notice distribution has been completed, and the opt-out period expired on February 27, 2015. Expert discovery commenced on May 5, 2014, and concluded on December 8 and 28, 2015, when the Court ruled on the pending expert discovery motions. On January 26, 2016, the Court approved a schedule for filing of summary judgment motions. Plaintiffs filed a motion for summary judgment on March 31, 2016. The Company filed its own summary judgment motion on June 13, 2016. The parties are actively engaged in settlement discussions although financial terms have not yet been finalized.
Patent Litigation
Cablevision is named as a defendant in certain lawsuits claiming infringement of various patents relating to various aspects of the Company's businesses.  In certain of these cases other industry participants are also defendants.  In certain of these cases the Company expects that any potential liability would be the responsibility of the Company's equipment vendors pursuant to applicable contractual indemnification provisions.  The Company believes that the claims are without merit and intends to defend the actions vigorously, but is unable to predict the outcome of these lawsuits or reasonably estimate a range of possible loss.
In addition to the matters discussed above, the Company is party to various lawsuits, some involving claims for substantial damages.  Although the outcome of these other matters cannot be predicted and the impact of the final resolution of these other matters on the Company's results of operations in a particular subsequent reporting period is not known, management does not believe that the resolution of these other lawsuits will have a material adverse effect on the financial position of the Company or the ability of the Company to meet its financial obligations as they become due.
Other Litigation
In April 2011, Thomas C. Dolan, a director and Executive Vice President, Strategy and Development, in the Office of the Chairman at Cablevision, filed a lawsuit against Cablevision and Rainbow Media Holdings LLC (which was subsequently dismissed as a party) in New York State Supreme Court.  The lawsuit raised compensation-related claims related to events largely from 2005 to 2008.  The matter was handled under the direction of an independent committee of the Board of Directors of Cablevision. In April 2015, the Court granted summary judgment in favor of the plaintiff on liability, with damages to be determined.  On June 18, 2015, the Company filed a notice of appeal. On February 8, 2016, Cablevision and Thomas C. Dolan entered into a settlement pursuant to which the Company agreed to pay plaintiff $21,000 and plaintiff released all claims.  A stipulation of dismissal with prejudice was approved and entered by the Court on February 8, 2016, and payment was made the same day.  The appeal has also been withdrawn. The Company recorded an expense of $21,000 which is reflected in discontinued operations in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations for the year ended December 31, 2015 (see Note 6).
CVC - INTERIM FINANCIAL INFORMATION (Unaudited)
INTERIM FINANCIAL INFORMATION (Unaudited) 
INTERIM FINANCIAL INFORMATION (Unaudited)
The following is a summary of the Company's selected quarterly financial data for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016:
 
March 31,
2017
 
June 30,
2017
 
September 30,
2017
 
December 31,
2017 (a)
 
Total
2017
Revenues, net
$
2,305,676

 
$
2,328,341

 
$
2,327,175

 
$
2,365,378

 
$
9,326,570

Operating expenses
(2,057,442
)
 
(2,071,559
)
 
(2,192,311
)
 
(2,139,874
)
 
(8,461,186
)
Operating income
$
248,234

 
$
256,782

 
$
134,864

 
$
225,504

 
$
865,384

Net income (loss)
$
(76,188
)
 
$
(474,790
)
 
$
(182,086
)
 
$
2,254,682

 
$
1,521,618

Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
(237
)
 
(365
)
 
(135
)
 
(850
)
 
(1,587
)
Net income (loss) attributable to Altice USA Inc.'s stockholders
$
(76,425
)
 
$
(475,155
)
 
$
(182,221
)
 
$
2,253,832

 
$
1,520,031

Basic and diluted net income (loss) per share attributable to Altice USA Inc.'s stockholders
$
(0.12
)
 
$
(0.72
)
 
$
(0.25
)
 
$
3.06

 
$
2.18

 
(a)
Pursuant to the enactment of the Tax Reform on December 22, 2017, the Company recorded a noncash deferred tax benefit of $2,337,900 to remeasure the net deferred tax liability to adjust for the reduction in the corporate federal income tax rate 35% to 21% which is effective on January 1, 2018.
 
March 31,
2016
 
June 30,
2016
 
September 30,
2016
 
December 31,
2016
 
Total
2016
Revenues, net
$
627,589

 
$
823,501

 
$
2,260,221

 
$
2,305,901

 
$
6,017,212

Operating expenses
(573,329
)
 
(778,098
)
 
(2,117,442
)
 
(2,088,677
)
 
(5,557,546
)
Operating income
$
54,260

 
$
45,403

 
$
142,779

 
$
217,224

 
$
459,666

Net loss
$
(140,748
)
 
$
(282,129
)
 
$
(172,553
)
 
$
(236,049
)
 
$
(831,479
)
Net loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling interests
—

 
364

 
(256
)
 
(659
)
 
(551
)
Net loss attributable to Altice USA, Inc. stockholders
$
(140,748
)
 
$
(281,765
)
 
$
(172,809
)
 
$
(236,708
)
 
$
(832,030
)
Basic and diluted net loss per share attributable to Altice USA Inc.'s stockholders
$
(0.22
)
 
$
(0.43
)
 
$
(0.27
)
 
$
(0.36
)
 
$
(1.28
)

The Company’s previously reported statements of cash flows for the three months ended March 31, 2017, the six months ended June 30, 2017 and the nine months ended September 30, 2017 reflected distributions to stockholders of $79,617 in cash provided by operating activities. These distributions should have been reflected in financing activities.
INTERIM FINANCIAL INFORMATION (Unaudited) 
INTERIM FINANCIAL INFORMATION (Unaudited)
The following is a summary of the Company's selected quarterly financial data:
 
Predecessor
2016:
March 31,
2016
 
April 1 to June 20, 2016
 
 
 
 
Revenue
$
1,645,890

 
$
1,491,714

Operating expenses
(1,394,635
)
 
(1,267,663
)
Operating income
$
251,255

 
$
224,051

Net income
$
94,311

 
$
69,201

Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests
66

 
170

Net income attributable to Cablevision Systems Corporation stockholders
$
94,377

 
$
69,371

Basic income per share attributable to Cablevision Systems Corporation stockholders:
Income from continuing operations, net of income taxes
$
0.35

 
$
0.25

Loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes
$
—

 
$
—

Net income
$
0.35

 
$
0.25

Diluted income per share attributable to Cablevision Systems Corporation stockholders:
Income from continuing operations, net of income taxes
$
0.34

 
$
0.25

Loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes
$
—

 
$
—

Net income
$
0.34

 
$
0.25

Amounts attributable to Cablevision Systems Corporation stockholders:
Income from continuing operations, net of income taxes
$
94,377

 
$
69,371

Loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes
—

 
—

Net income
$
94,377

 
$
69,371

 
 
Predecessor
2015:
March 31,
2015
 
June 30,
2015
 
September 30,
2015
 
December 31,
2015
 
Total
2015
Revenue
$
1,622,352

 
$
1,661,940

 
$
1,624,828

 
$
1,636,425

 
$
6,545,545

Operating expenses
(1,398,601
)
 
(1,417,476
)
 
(1,441,712
)
 
(1,439,285
)
 
(5,697,074
)
Operating income
$
223,751

 
$
244,464

 
$
183,116

 
$
197,140

 
$
848,471

Income from continuing operations, net of income taxes
$
54,901

 
$
75,676

 
$
23,431

 
$
33,781

 
$
187,789

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income taxes
(10,502
)
 
—

 
(406
)
 
(1,633
)
 
(12,541
)
Net income
44,399

 
75,676

 
23,025

 
32,148

 
175,248

Net loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling interests
234

 
(81
)
 
78

 
(30
)
 
201

Net income attributable to Cablevision Systems Corporation stockholders
$
44,633

 
$
75,595

 
$
23,103

 
$
32,118

 
$
175,449

Basic income per share attributable to Cablevision Systems Corporation stockholders:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income from continuing operations, net of income taxes
$
0.21

 
$
0.28

 
$
0.09

 
$
0.12

 
$
0.70

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income taxes
$
(0.04
)
 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
(0.01
)
 
$
(0.05
)
Net income
$
0.17

 
$
0.28

 
$
0.09

 
$
0.12

 
$
0.65

Diluted income per share attributable to Cablevision Systems Corporation stockholders:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income from continuing operations, net of income taxes
$
0.20

 
$
0.27

 
$
0.08

 
$
0.12

 
$
0.68

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income taxes
$
(0.04
)
 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
(0.01
)
 
$
(0.05
)
Net income
$
0.16

 
$
0.27

 
$
0.08

 
$
0.12

 
$
0.63

Amounts attributable to Cablevision Systems Corporation stockholders:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income from continuing operations, net of income taxes
$
55,135

 
$
75,595

 
$
23,509

 
$
33,751

 
$
187,990

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income taxes
(10,502
)
 
—

 
(406
)
 
(1,633
)
 
(12,541
)
Net income
$
44,633

 
$
75,595

 
$
23,103

 
$
32,118

 
$
175,449

CVC - BUSINESS COMBINATION
BUSINESS COMBINATIONS 
BUSINESS COMBINATIONS
Cablevision Acquisition
As discussed in Note 1, the Company completed the Cablevision Acquisition on June 21, 2016. The acquisition was accounted for as a business combination in accordance with ASC Topic 805. Accordingly, the Company recorded the fair value of the assets and liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition.
The following table provides the allocation of the total purchase price of $9,958,323 to the identifiable tangible and intangible assets and liabilities of Cablevision based on their respective fair values. The remaining useful lives represent the period over which acquired tangible and intangible assets with a finite life are being depreciated or amortized.
 
Fair Values
 
Estimated Useful Lives
 
 
 
 
Current assets
$
1,923,071

 
 
Accounts receivable
271,305

 
 
Property, plant and equipment
4,864,621

 
2-18 years
Goodwill
5,842,172

 
 
Indefinite-lived cable television franchises
8,113,575

 
Indefinite-lived
Customer relationships
4,850,000

 
8 to 18 years
Trade names (a)
1,010,000

 
12 years
Amortizable intangible assets
23,296

 
1-15 years
Other non-current assets
748,998

 
 
Current liabilities
(2,311,201
)
 
 
Long-term debt
(8,355,386
)
 
 
Deferred income taxes.
(6,832,773
)
 
 
Other non-current liabilities
(189,355
)
 
 
Total
$
9,958,323

 
 
 
(a)
See Note 8 for additional information regarding a change in the remaining estimated useful lives of the Company's trade names.
The fair value of customer relationships and cable television franchises were valued using derivations of the "income" approach. The future expected earnings from these assets were discounted to their present value equivalent.
Trade names were valued using the relief from royalty method, which is based on the present value of the royalty payments avoided as a result of the company owning the intangible asset.
The basis for the valuation methods was the Company’s projections. These projections were based on management’s assumptions including among others, penetration rates for pay television, broadband, and telephony; revenue growth rates; operating margins; and capital expenditures. The assumptions are derived based on the Company’s and its peers’ historical operating performance adjusted for current and expected competitive and economic factors surrounding the cable industry. The discount rates used in the analysis are intended to reflect the risk inherent in the projected future cash flows generated by the respective intangible asset. The value is highly dependent on the achievement of the future financial results contemplated in the projections. The estimates and assumptions made in the valuation are inherently subject to significant uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company's control, and there is no assurance that these results can be achieved. The primary assumptions for which there is a reasonable possibility of the occurrence of a variation that would have significantly affected the value include the assumptions regarding revenue growth, programming expense growth rates, the amount and timing of capital expenditures and the discount rate utilized.
In establishing fair value for the vast majority of the acquired property, plant and equipment, the cost approach was utilized. The cost approach considers the amount required to replace an asset by constructing or purchasing a new asset with similar utility, then adjusts the value in consideration of physical depreciation, and functional and economic obsolescence as of the appraisal date. The cost approach relies on management’s assumptions regarding current material and labor costs required to rebuild and repurchase significant components of property, plant and equipment along with assumptions regarding the age and estimated useful lives of property, plant and equipment.
The estimates of expected useful lives take into consideration the effects of contractual relationships, customer attrition, eventual development of new technologies and market competition.
Long-term debt assumed was valued using quoted market prices (Level 2). The carrying value of most other assets and liabilities approximated fair value as of the acquisition date.
As a result of applying business combination accounting, the Company recorded goodwill, which represented the excess of organization value over amounts assigned to the other identifiable tangible and intangible assets arising from expectations of future operational performance and cash generation.
The following table presents the unaudited pro forma revenue and net loss for the period presented as if the Cablevision Acquisition had occurred on January 1, 2016:
 
Year Ended December 31, 2016
Revenue
$
9,154,816

Net loss
$
(721,257
)

The pro forma results presented above include the impact of additional amortization expense related to the identifiable intangible assets recorded in connection with the Cablevision Acquisition, additional depreciation expense related to the fair value adjustment to property, plant and equipment and the incremental interest resulting from the issuance of debt to fund the Cablevision Acquisition, net of the reversal of interest and amortization of deferred financing costs related to credit facilities that were repaid on the date of the Cablevision Acquisition and the accretion/amortization of fair value adjustments associated with the long-term debt acquired.
Other Acquisitions
In connection with certain acquisitions completed in the first and fourth quarters of 2017, the Company recorded amortizable intangibles of $45,000 relating to customer relationships and $9,400 relating to other amortizable intangibles. The Company recorded goodwill of $23,948, which represents the excess of the estimated purchase price of approximately $80,000 (based on current probability of contingent consideration) over the net book value of assets acquired. These values are based on preliminary fair value information currently available, which is subject to change within the measurement period (up to one year from the acquisition date). The acquired entities are included in the Cablevision segment.
BUSINESS COMBINATIONS 
BUSINESS COMBINATION
As discussed in Note 1, Cablevision completed the Merger on June 21, 2016. The Merger was accounted for as a business combination in accordance with ASC Topic 805. The following table provides the preliminary allocation of the total purchase price of $9,958,323 to the identifiable tangible and intangible assets and liabilities of Cablevision based on preliminary fair value information currently available, which is subject to change within the measurement period (up to one year from the acquisition date).
 
Estimates of Fair Values (As of December 31, 2016)
Estimated Useful Lives
 
 
 
Current assets
$
1,923,071

 
Accounts receivable
271,305

 
Property, plant and equipment
4,864,621

2-18 years
Goodwill
5,838,959

 
Indefinite-lived cable television franchises
8,113,575

Indefinite-lived
Customer relationships
4,850,000

8 to 18 years
Trade names
1,010,000

12 years
Amortizable intangible assets
23,296

1-15 years
Other non-current assets
748,998

 
Current liabilities
(2,305,954
)
 
Long-term debt
(8,355,386
)
 
Deferred income taxes.
(6,834,807
)
 
Other non-current liabilities
(189,355
)
 
Total
$
9,958,323

 

The fair value of identified intangible assets was estimated using derivations of the "income" approach. Customer relationships and cable television franchises were valued using the multiple period excess earnings method (“MPEEM”) approach. The MPEEM approach quantifies the expected earnings of an asset by isolating earnings attributable to the asset from the overall business enterprise earnings and then removing a charge for those assets that contribute to the generation of the isolated earnings. The future expected earnings are discounted to their present value equivalent.

Trade names were valued using the relief from royalty method, which is based on the present value of the royalty payments avoided as a result of the company owning the intangible asset.

The basis for the valuation methods was the Company’s projections. These projections were based on management’s assumptions including among others, penetration rates for video, high speed data, and voice; revenue growth rates; operating margins; and capital expenditures. The assumptions are derived based on the Company’s and its peers’ historical operating performance adjusted for current and expected competitive and economic factors surrounding the cable industry. The discount rates used in the analysis are intended to reflect the risk inherent in the projected future cash flows generated by the respective intangible asset. The value is highly dependent on the achievement of the future financial results contemplated in the projections. The estimates and assumptions made in the valuation are inherently subject to significant uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company's control, and there is no assurance that these results can be achieved. The primary assumptions for which there is a reasonable possibility of the occurrence of a variation that would have significantly affected the value include the assumptions regarding revenue growth, programming expense growth rates, the amount and timing of capital expenditures and the discount rate utilized.

In establishing fair value for the vast majority of the Company’s property, plant and equipment, the cost approach was utilized. The cost approach considers the amount required to replace an asset by constructing or purchasing a new asset with similar utility, then adjusts the value in consideration of physical depreciation, and functional and economic obsolescence as of the appraisal date. The cost approach relies on management’s assumptions regarding current material and labor costs required to rebuild and repurchase significant components of our property, plant and equipment along with assumptions regarding the age and estimated useful lives of our property, plant and equipment.

The estimates of expected useful lives take into consideration the effects of contractual relationships, customer attrition, eventual development of new technologies and market competition.

As a result of applying business combination accounting, the Company recorded goodwill, which represented the excess of organization value over amounts assigned to the other identifiable tangible and intangible assets arising from expectations of future operational performance and cash generation.

The following table sets forth the estimated amortization expense on the intangible assets recorded in the connection with the Merger for the years ending December 31:
Estimated amortization expense
 

Year Ending December 31, 2017
$
701,908

Year Ending December 31, 2018
655,409

Year Ending December 31, 2019
609,245

Year Ending December 31, 2020
562,613

Year Ending December 31, 2021
515,430



The unaudited pro forma revenue, loss from continuing operations and net loss for the years ended December 31, 2015, as if the Merger had occurred on January 1, 2015, are as follows:
Revenue
$
6,545,545

Loss from continuing operations
$
(740,115
)
Net loss
$
(752,656
)

The pro forma results presented above include the impact of additional interest expense related to the debt issued to finance the Merger. The pro forma results also reflect additional amortization expense related to the identifiable intangible assets recorded in connection with the Merger and additional depreciation expense related to the fair value adjustment to property, plant and equipment.
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Policies)
Revenue Recognition 
Revenue Recognition
The Company recognizes pay television, broadband, and telephony services revenues as the services are provided to customers.  Revenue received from customers who purchase bundled services at a discounted rate is allocated to each product in a pro-rata manner based on the individual product’s selling price (generally, the price at which the product is regularly sold on a standalone basis). Installation revenue for the Company's pay television, broadband and telephony services is recognized as installations are completed, as direct selling costs have exceeded this revenue in all periods reported.  Advertising revenues are recognized when commercials are aired.
Revenues derived from other sources are recognized when services are provided or events occur.
Multiple Element Transactions 
Multiple-Element Transactions
In the normal course of business, the Company may enter into multiple-element transactions where it is simultaneously both a customer and a vendor with the same counterparty or in which it purchases multiple products and/or services, or settles outstanding items contemporaneously with the purchase of a product or service, from a single counterparty. The Company's policy for accounting for each transaction negotiated contemporaneously is to record each deliverable of the transaction based on its best estimate of selling price in a manner consistent with that used to determine the price to sell each deliverable on a standalone basis.  In determining the fair value of the respective deliverable, the Company will utilize quoted market prices (as available), historical transactions or comparable transactions.
Gross Versus Net Revenue Recognition 
Gross Versus Net Revenue Recognition
In the normal course of business, the Company is assessed non-income related taxes by governmental authorities, including franchising authorities (generally under multi-year agreements), and collects such taxes from its customers.  The Company's policy is that, in instances where the tax is being assessed directly on the Company, amounts paid to the governmental authorities and amounts received from the customers are recorded on a gross basis.  That is, amounts paid to the governmental authorities are recorded as programming and other direct costs and amounts received from the customer are recorded as revenue.
Programming Costs 
Technical and Operating Expenses
Costs of revenue related to sales of services are classified as "programming and other direct costs" in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.
Programming Costs
Programming expenses related to the Company's pay television service represent fees paid to programming distributors to license the programming distributed to customers.  This programming is acquired generally under multi-year distribution agreements, with rates usually based on the number of customers that receive the programming.  If there are periods when an existing distribution agreement has expired and the parties have not finalized negotiations of either a renewal of that agreement or a new agreement for certain periods of time, the Company continues to carry and pay for these services until execution of definitive replacement agreements or renewals.  The amount of programming expense recorded during the interim period is based on the Company's estimates of the ultimate contractual agreement expected to be reached, which is based on several factors, including previous contractual rates, customary rate increases and the current status of negotiations.  Such estimates are adjusted as negotiations progress until new programming terms are finalized.
In addition, the Company has received, or may receive, incentives from programming distributors for carriage of the distributors' programming.  The Company generally recognizes these incentives as a reduction of programming costs in "programming and other direct costs", generally over the term of the distribution agreement.
Advertising Expenses 
Advertising Expenses
Advertising costs are charged to expense when incurred and are reflected in "other operating expenses" in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.
Share-based Compensation 
Share-Based Compensation
Share-based compensation expense is based on the fair value of the portion of share-based payment awards that are ultimately expected to vest. Share-based compensation cost relates to awards of units in a carried unit plan and options.
For carried interest units, the Company measures share-based compensation cost at the grant date fair value and recognizes the expense over the requisite service period or when it is probable any related performance condition will be met. For carried interest units with graded vesting requirement, compensation cost is recognized on an accelerated method under the graded vesting method over the requisite service period for the carried interest unit. Carried interest units that vest entirely at the end of the vesting requirement are expensed on a straight-line basis.
The Company estimated the fair value of carried interest units using an option pricing model. Key inputs that were used in applying the option pricing method were total equity value, equity volatility, risk free rate and time to liquidity event. The estimate of total equity value was determined using a combination of the income approach, which incorporated cash flow projections that were discounted at an appropriate rate, and the market approach, which involved applying a market multiple to the Company’s projected operating results. The Company estimated volatility based on the historical equity volatility of comparable publicly-traded companies. Subsequent to the IPO, such subjective valuations and estimates were no longer necessary as the Company relied on the market price of the Company’s common stock to determine the fair value of share-based compensation awards. See Note 13 to the consolidated financial statements for additional information about our share-based compensation.
For stock option awards, the Company recognizes compensation expense based on the estimated grant date fair value using the Black-Scholes valuation model. For options not subject to performance based vesting conditions, the Company recognizes the compensation expense using a straight-line amortization method.
Income Taxes 
Income Taxes
The Company's provision for income taxes is based on current period income, changes in deferred tax assets and liabilities and changes in estimates with regard to uncertain tax positions.  Deferred tax assets are subject to an ongoing assessment of realizability.  The Company provides deferred taxes for the outside basis difference of its investment in partnerships.
Cash and Cash Equivalents 
Cash and Cash Equivalents
The Company's cash investments are placed with money market funds and financial institutions that are investment grade as rated by Standard & Poor's and Moody's Investors Service.  The Company selects money market funds that predominantly invest in marketable, direct obligations issued or guaranteed by the United States government or its agencies, commercial paper, fully collateralized repurchase agreements, certificates of deposit, and time deposits.
The Company considers the balance of its investment in funds that substantially hold securities that mature within three months or less from the date the fund purchases these securities to be cash equivalents.  The carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents either approximates fair value due to the short-term maturity of these instruments or are at fair value.
Accounts Receivable 
Accounts Receivable
Accounts receivable are recorded at net realizable value. The Company periodically assesses the adequacy of valuation allowances for uncollectible accounts receivable by evaluating the collectability of outstanding receivables and general factors such as historical collection experience, length of time individual receivables are past due, and the economic and competitive environment.
Investments 
Investments
Investment securities and investment securities pledged as collateral are classified as trading securities and are stated at fair value with realized and unrealized holding gains and losses included in net income.
Long-Lived Assets and Amortizable Intangible Assets - Property, Plant, and Equipment 
The Company reviews its long-lived assets (property, plant and equipment, and intangible assets subject to amortization that arose from acquisitions) for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable.  If the sum of the expected cash flows, undiscounted and without interest, is less than the carrying amount of the asset, an impairment loss is recognized as the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value
Long-Lived Assets and Amortizable Intangible Assets
Property, plant and equipment, including construction materials, are carried at cost, and include all direct costs and certain indirect costs associated with the construction of cable systems, and the costs of new equipment installations.  Equipment under capital leases is recorded at the present value of the total minimum lease payments.  Depreciation on equipment is calculated on the straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets or, with respect to equipment under capital leases and leasehold improvements, amortized over the shorter of the lease term or the assets' useful lives and reported in depreciation and amortization (including impairments) in the consolidated statements of operations.
The Company capitalizes certain internal and external costs incurred to acquire or develop internal-use software.  Capitalized software costs are amortized over the estimated useful life of the software and reported in depreciation and amortization.
Amortizable Intangible Assets 
Customer relationships, trade names and other intangibles established in connection with acquisitions that are finite-lived are amortized in a manner that reflects the pattern in which the projected net cash inflows to the Company are expected to occur, such as the sum of the years' digits method, or when such pattern does not exist, using the straight-line basis over their respective estimated useful lives.
The Company reviews its long-lived assets (property, plant and equipment, and intangible assets subject to amortization that arose from acquisitions) for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable.  If the sum of the expected cash flows, undiscounted and without interest, is less than the carrying amount of the asset, an impairment loss is recognized as the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value.
Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets 
Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets
Goodwill and the value of franchises acquired in purchase business combinations which have indefinite useful lives are not amortized.  Rather, such assets are tested for impairment annually or upon the occurrence of a triggering event.
The Company assesses qualitative factors for its reporting units that carry goodwill.  If the qualitative assessment results in a conclusion that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit exceeds the carrying value, then no further testing is performed for that reporting unit.
When the qualitative assessment is not used, or if the qualitative assessment is not conclusive and it is necessary to calculate the fair value of a reporting unit, then the impairment analysis for goodwill is performed at the reporting unit level using a two-step approach.  The first step of the goodwill impairment test is used to identify potential impairment by comparing the fair value of the reporting unit with its carrying amount, including goodwill utilizing an enterprise-value based premise approach.  If the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the second step of the goodwill impairment test is performed to measure the amount of goodwill impairment loss, if any.  The second step of the goodwill impairment test compares the implied fair value of the reporting unit's goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill.  If the carrying amount of the reporting unit's goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of that goodwill, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.  The implied fair value of goodwill is determined in the same manner as the amount of goodwill which would be recognized in a business combination.
The Company assesses qualitative factors to determine whether it is necessary to perform the one-step quantitative identifiable indefinite-lived intangible assets impairment test.  This quantitative test is required only if the Company concludes that it is more likely than not that a unit of accounting’s fair value is less than its carrying amount.  When the qualitative assessment is not used, or if the qualitative assessment is not conclusive, the impairment test for other intangible assets not subject to amortization requires a comparison of the fair value of the intangible asset with its carrying value.  If the carrying value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.
Deferred Financing Costs 
Deferred Financing Costs
Deferred financing costs are being amortized to interest expense using the effective interest method over the terms of the related debt.
Derivative Financial Instruments 
Derivative Financial Instruments
The Company accounts for derivative financial instruments as either assets or liabilities measured at fair value.  The Company uses derivative instruments to manage its exposure to market risks from changes in certain equity prices and interest rates and does not hold or issue derivative instruments for speculative or trading purposes.  These derivative instruments are not designated as hedges, and changes in the fair values of these derivatives are recognized in the statements of operations as gains (losses) on derivative contracts. 
Commitments and Contingencies 
Commitments and Contingencies
Liabilities for loss contingencies arising from claims, assessments, litigation, fines and penalties and other sources are recorded when the Company believes it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the contingency can be reasonably estimated.
Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements and Recently Issued But Not Yet Adopted Accounting Pronouncements 
Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncement
In March 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2016-09, Compensation—Stock Compensation: Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting, which provides simplification of income tax accounting for share-based payment awards. The new guidance became effective for the Company on January 1, 2017. Amendments related to the timing of when excess tax benefits are recognized, minimum statutory withholding requirements, forfeitures, and intrinsic value were applied using the modified retrospective transition method. Amendments requiring recognition of excess tax benefits and tax deficiencies in the income statement and the practical expedient for estimating expected term were applied prospectively. The Company elected to apply the amendments related to the presentation of excess tax benefits on the statement of cash flows using the prospective transition method. In connection with the adoption on January 1, 2017, a deferred tax asset of approximately $310,771 for previously unrealized excess tax benefits was recognized with the offset recorded to accumulated deficit.
Recently Issued But Not Yet Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
In February 2018, the FASB issued ASU No. 2018-02, Income Statement—Reporting Comprehensive Income (Topic 220) Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income. The primary provision of ASU No. 2018-02 allows for the reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive income to retained earnings for stranded tax effects resulting from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. ASU 2018-02 also requires certain disclosures about stranded tax effects. ASU No. 2018‑02 is effective for the Company on January 1, 2019, with early adoption permitted and will be applied either in the period of adoption or retrospectively to each period (or periods) in which the effect of the change in the U.S. federal corporate income tax rate in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is recognized.
In May 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017‑09, Compensation- Stock Compensation (Topic 718). ASU No. 2017‑09 provides clarity and guidance on which changes to the terms or conditions of a share-based payment award require an entity to apply modification accounting in Topic 718. ASU No. 2017‑09 is effective for the Company on January 1, 2018 and will be applied prospectively.
In March 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017‑07 Compensation-Retirement Benefits (Topic 715). ASU No. 2017‑07 requires that an employer disaggregate the service cost component from the other components of net benefit cost. It also provides guidance on how to present the service cost component and the other components of net benefit cost in the income statement and what component of net benefit cost is eligible for capitalization. ASU No. 2017‑07 is effective for the Company on January 1, 2018 and will be applied retrospectively. In connection with the adoption of ASU 2017-07, the Company will reclassify the non-service cost components of the Company's pension expense from primarily "Other operating expenses" to "Miscellaneous income (expense), net" on its consolidated statements of operations. The Company has elected to apply the practical expedient which allows it to reclassify amounts disclosed previously in the benefits plan note (Note 17 of the consolidated financial statements) as the basis for applying retrospective presentation for comparative periods, as the Company determined it was impracticable to disaggregate the cost components for amounts capitalized and amortized in those periods.
In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017‑04, Intangibles-Goodwill and Other (Topic 350). ASU No. 2017‑04 simplifies the subsequent measurement of goodwill by removing the second step of the two‑step impairment test. The amendment requires an entity to perform its annual, or interim goodwill impairment test by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount. An entity still has the option to perform the qualitative assessment for a reporting unit to determine if the quantitative impairment test is necessary. ASU No. 2017‑04 becomes effective for the Company on January 1, 2020 with early adoption permitted and will be applied prospectively.
In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017‑01, Business Combinations (Topic 805), Clarifying the Definition of a Business, which amends Topic 805 to interpret the definition of a business by adding guidance to assist in evaluating whether transactions should be accounted for as acquisitions (or disposals) of assets or businesses. The new guidance is effective for the Company on January 1, 2018 and will be applied prospectively.
In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments which clarifies how entities should classify certain cash receipts and cash payments on the statement of cash flows. ASU No. 2016-15 also clarifies how the predominance principle should be applied when cash receipts and cash payments have aspects of more than one class of cash flows. The new guidance is effective for the Company on January 1, 2018 and will be applied retrospectively. The Company does not believe that the adoption of ASU No. 2016-15 will have a material effect on its consolidated statements of cash flows.
In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, Leases, which increases transparency and comparability by recognizing a lessee’s rights and obligations resulting from leases by recording them on the balance sheet as lease assets and lease liabilities. The new guidance becomes effective for the Company on January 1, 2019 with early adoption permitted and will be applied using the modified retrospective method. The Company has not yet completed the evaluation of the effect that ASU No. 2016-02 will have on its consolidated financial statements.
In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-01, Financial Instruments - Overall (Subtopic 825-10), Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities.  ASU No. 2016-01 modifies how entities measure certain equity investments and also modifies the recognition of changes in the fair value of financial liabilities measured under the fair value option. Entities will be required to measure equity investments that do not result in consolidation and are not accounted for under the equity method at fair value and recognize any changes in fair value in net income. For financial liabilities measured using the fair value option, entities will be required to record changes in fair value caused by a change in instrument-specific credit risk (own credit risk) separately in other comprehensive income. ASU No. 2016-01 is effective for the Company on January 1, 2018.  The Company does expect the adoption of ASU No. 2016-01 to have any effect on its consolidated financial statements.
In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, requiring an entity to recognize the amount of revenue to which it expects to be entitled for the transfer of promised goods or services to customers. ASU No. 2014-09 will replace most existing revenue recognition guidance in GAAP. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-14 that approved deferring the effective date by one year so that ASU No. 2014-09 is effective for the Company on January 1, 2018.
In December 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-20, Technical Corrections and Improvements to Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, in order to clarify the Codification and to correct any unintended application of the guidance. The amendments in this update affect the guidance in ASU No. 2014-09. The Company will adopt ASU No. 2014-09 on January 1, 2018 and will transition to the standard retrospectively. The adoption of ASU No. 2014-09 will not have a material impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations. The adoption will, however, result in the deferral of certain installation revenue and the deferral of certain commission expenses. Additionally, the Company anticipates changes in the composition of revenue resulting from the allocation of value related to bundled services sold at a discount to residential customers.
Dividends and Distributions 
Dividends and Distributions
The Company may pay dividends on its capital stock only from net profits and surplus as determined under Delaware law.  If dividends are paid on the Altice USA common stock, holders of the Altice USA Class A common stock and Altice USA Class B common stock are entitled to receive dividends, and other distributions in cash, stock or property, equally on a per share basis, except that stock dividends with respect to Altice USA Class A common stock may be paid only with shares of Altice USA Class A common stock and stock dividends with respect to Altice USA Class B common stock may be paid only with shares of Altice USA Class B common stock.
The Company's indentures restrict the amount of dividends and distributions in respect of any equity interest that can be made.
Net Income (Loss) Per Share 
Net Income (Loss) Per Share
Basic net income (loss) per common share attributable to Altice USA stockholders is computed by dividing net income (loss) attributable to Altice USA stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period.  Diluted income per common share attributable to Altice USA stockholders reflects the dilutive effects of stock options. Diluted net loss per common share attributable to Altice USA stockholders excludes the effects of common stock equivalents as they are anti-dilutive. The weighted average number of shares used to compute basic and diluted net income (loss) per share reflect the retroactive impact of the organizational transactions, discussed in Note 1, that occurred prior to the Company's IPO.
Concentrations of Credit Risk 
Concentrations of Credit Risk
Financial instruments that may potentially subject the Company to a concentration of credit risk consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents and trade account receivables.  The Company monitors the financial institutions and money market funds where it invests its cash and cash equivalents with diversification among counterparties to mitigate exposure to any single financial institution.  The Company's emphasis is primarily on safety of principal and liquidity and secondarily on maximizing the yield on its investments.  Management believes that no significant concentration of credit risk exists with respect to its cash and cash equivalents because of its assessment of the creditworthiness and financial viability of the respective financial institutions.
Use of Estimates in Preparation of Financial Statements 
Use of Estimates in Preparation of Financial Statements
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.  Actual results could differ from those estimates.  See Note 11 for a discussion of fair value estimates.
CVC - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Policies)
Use of Estimates in Preparation of Financial Statements 
Use of Estimates in Preparation of Financial Statements
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.  Actual results could differ from those estimates.  See Note 11 for a discussion of fair value estimates.
Multiple-Element Transactions 
Multiple-Element Transactions
In the normal course of business, the Company may enter into multiple-element transactions where it is simultaneously both a customer and a vendor with the same counterparty or in which it purchases multiple products and/or services, or settles outstanding items contemporaneously with the purchase of a product or service, from a single counterparty. The Company's policy for accounting for each transaction negotiated contemporaneously is to record each deliverable of the transaction based on its best estimate of selling price in a manner consistent with that used to determine the price to sell each deliverable on a standalone basis.  In determining the fair value of the respective deliverable, the Company will utilize quoted market prices (as available), historical transactions or comparable transactions.
Gross Versus Net Revenue Recognition 
Gross Versus Net Revenue Recognition
In the normal course of business, the Company is assessed non-income related taxes by governmental authorities, including franchising authorities (generally under multi-year agreements), and collects such taxes from its customers.  The Company's policy is that, in instances where the tax is being assessed directly on the Company, amounts paid to the governmental authorities and amounts received from the customers are recorded on a gross basis.  That is, amounts paid to the governmental authorities are recorded as programming and other direct costs and amounts received from the customer are recorded as revenue.
Advertising Expenses 
Advertising Expenses
Advertising costs are charged to expense when incurred and are reflected in "other operating expenses" in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.
Income Taxes 
Income Taxes
The Company's provision for income taxes is based on current period income, changes in deferred tax assets and liabilities and changes in estimates with regard to uncertain tax positions.  Deferred tax assets are subject to an ongoing assessment of realizability.  The Company provides deferred taxes for the outside basis difference of its investment in partnerships.
Cash and Cash Equivalents 
Cash and Cash Equivalents
The Company's cash investments are placed with money market funds and financial institutions that are investment grade as rated by Standard & Poor's and Moody's Investors Service.  The Company selects money market funds that predominantly invest in marketable, direct obligations issued or guaranteed by the United States government or its agencies, commercial paper, fully collateralized repurchase agreements, certificates of deposit, and time deposits.
The Company considers the balance of its investment in funds that substantially hold securities that mature within three months or less from the date the fund purchases these securities to be cash equivalents.  The carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents either approximates fair value due to the short-term maturity of these instruments or are at fair value.
Investments 
Investments
Investment securities and investment securities pledged as collateral are classified as trading securities and are stated at fair value with realized and unrealized holding gains and losses included in net income.
Long-Lived Assets 
The Company reviews its long-lived assets (property, plant and equipment, and intangible assets subject to amortization that arose from acquisitions) for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable.  If the sum of the expected cash flows, undiscounted and without interest, is less than the carrying amount of the asset, an impairment loss is recognized as the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value
Long-Lived Assets and Amortizable Intangible Assets
Property, plant and equipment, including construction materials, are carried at cost, and include all direct costs and certain indirect costs associated with the construction of cable systems, and the costs of new equipment installations.  Equipment under capital leases is recorded at the present value of the total minimum lease payments.  Depreciation on equipment is calculated on the straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets or, with respect to equipment under capital leases and leasehold improvements, amortized over the shorter of the lease term or the assets' useful lives and reported in depreciation and amortization (including impairments) in the consolidated statements of operations.
The Company capitalizes certain internal and external costs incurred to acquire or develop internal-use software.  Capitalized software costs are amortized over the estimated useful life of the software and reported in depreciation and amortization.
Amortizable Intangible Assets 
Customer relationships, trade names and other intangibles established in connection with acquisitions that are finite-lived are amortized in a manner that reflects the pattern in which the projected net cash inflows to the Company are expected to occur, such as the sum of the years' digits method, or when such pattern does not exist, using the straight-line basis over their respective estimated useful lives.
The Company reviews its long-lived assets (property, plant and equipment, and intangible assets subject to amortization that arose from acquisitions) for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable.  If the sum of the expected cash flows, undiscounted and without interest, is less than the carrying amount of the asset, an impairment loss is recognized as the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value.
Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets 
Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets
Goodwill and the value of franchises acquired in purchase business combinations which have indefinite useful lives are not amortized.  Rather, such assets are tested for impairment annually or upon the occurrence of a triggering event.
The Company assesses qualitative factors for its reporting units that carry goodwill.  If the qualitative assessment results in a conclusion that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit exceeds the carrying value, then no further testing is performed for that reporting unit.
When the qualitative assessment is not used, or if the qualitative assessment is not conclusive and it is necessary to calculate the fair value of a reporting unit, then the impairment analysis for goodwill is performed at the reporting unit level using a two-step approach.  The first step of the goodwill impairment test is used to identify potential impairment by comparing the fair value of the reporting unit with its carrying amount, including goodwill utilizing an enterprise-value based premise approach.  If the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the second step of the goodwill impairment test is performed to measure the amount of goodwill impairment loss, if any.  The second step of the goodwill impairment test compares the implied fair value of the reporting unit's goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill.  If the carrying amount of the reporting unit's goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of that goodwill, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.  The implied fair value of goodwill is determined in the same manner as the amount of goodwill which would be recognized in a business combination.
The Company assesses qualitative factors to determine whether it is necessary to perform the one-step quantitative identifiable indefinite-lived intangible assets impairment test.  This quantitative test is required only if the Company concludes that it is more likely than not that a unit of accounting’s fair value is less than its carrying amount.  When the qualitative assessment is not used, or if the qualitative assessment is not conclusive, the impairment test for other intangible assets not subject to amortization requires a comparison of the fair value of the intangible asset with its carrying value.  If the carrying value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.
Derivative Financial Instruments 
Derivative Financial Instruments
The Company accounts for derivative financial instruments as either assets or liabilities measured at fair value.  The Company uses derivative instruments to manage its exposure to market risks from changes in certain equity prices and interest rates and does not hold or issue derivative instruments for speculative or trading purposes.  These derivative instruments are not designated as hedges, and changes in the fair values of these derivatives are recognized in the statements of operations as gains (losses) on derivative contracts. 
Commitments and Contingencies 
Commitments and Contingencies
Liabilities for loss contingencies arising from claims, assessments, litigation, fines and penalties and other sources are recorded when the Company believes it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the contingency can be reasonably estimated.
Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements and Recently Issued But Not Yet Adopted Accounting Pronouncements 
Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncement
In March 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2016-09, Compensation—Stock Compensation: Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting, which provides simplification of income tax accounting for share-based payment awards. The new guidance became effective for the Company on January 1, 2017. Amendments related to the timing of when excess tax benefits are recognized, minimum statutory withholding requirements, forfeitures, and intrinsic value were applied using the modified retrospective transition method. Amendments requiring recognition of excess tax benefits and tax deficiencies in the income statement and the practical expedient for estimating expected term were applied prospectively. The Company elected to apply the amendments related to the presentation of excess tax benefits on the statement of cash flows using the prospective transition method. In connection with the adoption on January 1, 2017, a deferred tax asset of approximately $310,771 for previously unrealized excess tax benefits was recognized with the offset recorded to accumulated deficit.
Recently Issued But Not Yet Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
In February 2018, the FASB issued ASU No. 2018-02, Income Statement—Reporting Comprehensive Income (Topic 220) Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income. The primary provision of ASU No. 2018-02 allows for the reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive income to retained earnings for stranded tax effects resulting from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. ASU 2018-02 also requires certain disclosures about stranded tax effects. ASU No. 2018‑02 is effective for the Company on January 1, 2019, with early adoption permitted and will be applied either in the period of adoption or retrospectively to each period (or periods) in which the effect of the change in the U.S. federal corporate income tax rate in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is recognized.
In May 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017‑09, Compensation- Stock Compensation (Topic 718). ASU No. 2017‑09 provides clarity and guidance on which changes to the terms or conditions of a share-based payment award require an entity to apply modification accounting in Topic 718. ASU No. 2017‑09 is effective for the Company on January 1, 2018 and will be applied prospectively.
In March 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017‑07 Compensation-Retirement Benefits (Topic 715). ASU No. 2017‑07 requires that an employer disaggregate the service cost component from the other components of net benefit cost. It also provides guidance on how to present the service cost component and the other components of net benefit cost in the income statement and what component of net benefit cost is eligible for capitalization. ASU No. 2017‑07 is effective for the Company on January 1, 2018 and will be applied retrospectively. In connection with the adoption of ASU 2017-07, the Company will reclassify the non-service cost components of the Company's pension expense from primarily "Other operating expenses" to "Miscellaneous income (expense), net" on its consolidated statements of operations. The Company has elected to apply the practical expedient which allows it to reclassify amounts disclosed previously in the benefits plan note (Note 17 of the consolidated financial statements) as the basis for applying retrospective presentation for comparative periods, as the Company determined it was impracticable to disaggregate the cost components for amounts capitalized and amortized in those periods.
In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017‑04, Intangibles-Goodwill and Other (Topic 350). ASU No. 2017‑04 simplifies the subsequent measurement of goodwill by removing the second step of the two‑step impairment test. The amendment requires an entity to perform its annual, or interim goodwill impairment test by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount. An entity still has the option to perform the qualitative assessment for a reporting unit to determine if the quantitative impairment test is necessary. ASU No. 2017‑04 becomes effective for the Company on January 1, 2020 with early adoption permitted and will be applied prospectively.
In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017‑01, Business Combinations (Topic 805), Clarifying the Definition of a Business, which amends Topic 805 to interpret the definition of a business by adding guidance to assist in evaluating whether transactions should be accounted for as acquisitions (or disposals) of assets or businesses. The new guidance is effective for the Company on January 1, 2018 and will be applied prospectively.
In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments which clarifies how entities should classify certain cash receipts and cash payments on the statement of cash flows. ASU No. 2016-15 also clarifies how the predominance principle should be applied when cash receipts and cash payments have aspects of more than one class of cash flows. The new guidance is effective for the Company on January 1, 2018 and will be applied retrospectively. The Company does not believe that the adoption of ASU No. 2016-15 will have a material effect on its consolidated statements of cash flows.
In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, Leases, which increases transparency and comparability by recognizing a lessee’s rights and obligations resulting from leases by recording them on the balance sheet as lease assets and lease liabilities. The new guidance becomes effective for the Company on January 1, 2019 with early adoption permitted and will be applied using the modified retrospective method. The Company has not yet completed the evaluation of the effect that ASU No. 2016-02 will have on its consolidated financial statements.
In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-01, Financial Instruments - Overall (Subtopic 825-10), Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities.  ASU No. 2016-01 modifies how entities measure certain equity investments and also modifies the recognition of changes in the fair value of financial liabilities measured under the fair value option. Entities will be required to measure equity investments that do not result in consolidation and are not accounted for under the equity method at fair value and recognize any changes in fair value in net income. For financial liabilities measured using the fair value option, entities will be required to record changes in fair value caused by a change in instrument-specific credit risk (own credit risk) separately in other comprehensive income. ASU No. 2016-01 is effective for the Company on January 1, 2018.  The Company does expect the adoption of ASU No. 2016-01 to have any effect on its consolidated financial statements.
In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, requiring an entity to recognize the amount of revenue to which it expects to be entitled for the transfer of promised goods or services to customers. ASU No. 2014-09 will replace most existing revenue recognition guidance in GAAP. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-14 that approved deferring the effective date by one year so that ASU No. 2014-09 is effective for the Company on January 1, 2018.
In December 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-20, Technical Corrections and Improvements to Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, in order to clarify the Codification and to correct any unintended application of the guidance. The amendments in this update affect the guidance in ASU No. 2014-09. The Company will adopt ASU No. 2014-09 on January 1, 2018 and will transition to the standard retrospectively. The adoption of ASU No. 2014-09 will not have a material impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations. The adoption will, however, result in the deferral of certain installation revenue and the deferral of certain commission expenses. Additionally, the Company anticipates changes in the composition of revenue resulting from the allocation of value related to bundled services sold at a discount to residential customers.
Principles of Consolidation 
Principles of Consolidation
The accompanying consolidated financial statements of Cablevision include the accounts of Cablevision and its majority-owned subsidiaries. Cablevision has no business operations independent of CSC Holdings, whose operating results and financial position are consolidated into Cablevision. All significant intercompany transactions and balances between Cablevision and CSC Holdings and their respective consolidated subsidiaries are eliminated in consolidation. 
Use of Estimates in Preparation of Financial Statements 
Use of Estimates in Preparation of Financial Statements
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.  Actual results could differ from those estimates.  See Note 12 for a discussion of fair value estimates.
Reclassifications 
Reclassifications
Certain reclassifications have been made in the consolidated financial statements in the 2015 financial statements to conform to the 2016 presentation.
Revenue Recognition 
Revenue Recognition
The Company recognizes video, high-speed data, and voice services revenues as the services are provided to customers.  Revenue received from customers who purchase bundled services at a discounted rate is allocated to each product in a pro-rata manner based on the individual product’s selling price (generally, the price at which the product is regularly sold on a standalone basis). Installation revenue for the Company's video, consumer high-speed data and VoIP services is recognized as installations are completed, as direct selling costs have exceeded this revenue in all periods reported.  Advertising revenues are recognized when commercials are aired.
Revenues derived from other sources are recognized when services are provided or events occur.
Multiple-Element Transactions 
Multiple-Element Transactions
In the normal course of business, the Company may enter into multiple-element transactions where it is simultaneously both a customer and a vendor with the same counterparty or in which it purchases multiple products and/or services, or settles outstanding items contemporaneous with the purchase of a product or service from a single counterparty. The Company's policy for accounting for each transaction negotiated contemporaneously is to record each deliverable of the transaction based on its best estimate of selling price in a manner consistent with that used to determine the price to sell each deliverable on a standalone basis.  In determining the fair value of the respective deliverable, the Company will utilize quoted market prices (as available), historical transactions or comparable transactions.
Gross Versus Net Revenue Recognition 
Gross Versus Net Revenue Recognition
In the normal course of business, the Company is assessed non-income related taxes by governmental authorities, including franchising authorities (generally under multi-year agreements), and collects such taxes from its customers.  The Company's policy is that, in instances where the tax is being assessed directly on the Company, amounts paid to the governmental authorities and amounts received from the customers are recorded on a gross basis.  That is, amounts paid to the governmental authorities are recorded as programming and other direct costs and amounts received from the customer are recorded as revenue.  For the period January 1, 2016 through June 20, 2016 and for the year ended December 31, 2015 , the amount of franchise fees and certain other taxes and fees included as a component of revenue aggregated $95,432 and $199,701, respectively.
Technical and Operating Expenses 
Technical and Operating Expenses
Costs of revenue related to sales of services are classified as "programming and other direct costs" in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.
Programming Costs 
Programming Costs
Programming expenses related to the Company's video service represent fees paid to programming distributors to license the programming distributed to subscribers.  This programming is acquired generally under multi-year distribution agreements, with rates usually based on the number of subscribers that receive the programming.  There have been periods when an existing distribution agreement has expired and the parties have not finalized negotiations of either a renewal of that agreement or a new agreement for certain periods of time.  In substantially all these instances, the Company continues to carry and pay for these services until execution of definitive replacement agreements or renewals.  The amount of programming expense recorded during the interim period is based on the Company's estimates of the ultimate contractual agreement expected to be reached, which is based on several factors, including previous contractual rates, customary rate increases and the current status of negotiations.  Such estimates are adjusted as negotiations progress until new programming terms are finalized.
In addition, the Company has received, or may receive, incentives from programming distributors for carriage of the distributors' programming.  The Company generally recognizes these incentives as a reduction of programming costs in "programming and other direct costs", generally over the term of the distribution agreement.
Advertising Expenses 
Advertising Expenses
Advertising costs are charged to expense when incurred and are reflected in "other operating expenses" in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations. 
Share-Based Compensation 
Share-Based Compensation
Share-based compensation expense is based on the fair value of the portion of share-based payment awards that are ultimately expected to vest. For share-based compensation awards that can be settled in cash, the Company recognizes compensation expense based on the estimated fair value of the award at each reporting period.
For options and performance based option awards, Cablevision recognized compensation expense based on the estimated grant date fair value using the Black-Scholes valuation model.  For options not subject to performance based vesting conditions, Cablevision recognized the compensation expense using a straight-line amortization method.  For options subject to performance based vesting conditions, Cablevision recognized compensation expense based on the probable outcome of the performance criteria over the requisite service period for each tranche of awards.
For restricted shares, Cablevision recognized compensation expense using a straight-line amortization method based on the grant date price of CNYG Class A common stock over the vesting period. For restricted stock units granted to non-employee director which vested 100% on the date of grant, compensation expense was recognized on the date of grant based on the grant date price of CNYG Class A common stock.
For performance based restricted stock units ("PSUs") which cliff vested in three years, Cablevision recognized compensation expense on a straight-line basis over the vesting period based on the estimated number of shares of CNYG Class A common stock expected to be issued.
Income Taxes 
Income Taxes
The Company's provision for income taxes is based on current period income, changes in deferred tax assets and liabilities and changes in estimates with regard to uncertain tax positions.  Deferred tax assets are subject to an ongoing assessment of realizability.  The Company provides deferred taxes for the outside basis difference of its investment in partnerships.  In the second quarter of 2016, the Company changed its accounting policy on a prospective basis to present interest expense relating to uncertain tax position as additional interest expense.
Cash and Cash Equivalents 
Cash and Cash Equivalents
The Company's cash investments are placed with money market funds and financial institutions that are investment grade as rated by Standard & Poor's and Moody's Investors Service.  The Company selects money market funds that predominantly invest in marketable, direct obligations issued or guaranteed by the United States government or its agencies, commercial paper, fully collateralized repurchase agreements, certificates of deposit, and time deposits.
The Company considers the balance of its investment in funds that substantially hold securities that mature within three months or less from the date the fund purchases these securities to be cash equivalents.  The carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents either approximates fair value due to the short-term maturity of these instruments or are at fair value.
Accounts Receivable 
Accounts Receivable
Accounts receivable are recorded at net realizable value. The Company periodically assesses the adequacy of valuation allowances for uncollectible accounts receivable by evaluating the collectability of outstanding receivables and general factors such as historical collection experience, length of time individual receivables are past due, and the economic and competitive environment.
Investments 
Investments
Investment securities and investment securities pledged as collateral are classified as trading securities and are stated at fair value with realized and unrealized holding gains and losses included in net income.
Long-Lived Assets 
Long-Lived Assets and Amortizable Intangible Assets
Property, plant and equipment, including construction materials, are carried at cost, and include all direct costs and certain indirect costs associated with the construction of cable systems, and the costs of new equipment installations.  Equipment under capital leases is recorded at the present value of the total minimum lease payments.  Depreciation on equipment is calculated on the straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets or, with respect to equipment under capital leases and leasehold improvements, amortized over the shorter of the lease term or the assets' useful lives and reported in depreciation and amortization (including impairments) in the consolidated statements of operations.
The Company capitalizes certain internal and external costs incurred to acquire or develop internal-use software.  Capitalized software costs are amortized over the estimated useful life of the software and reported in depreciation and amortization (including impairments).
Customer relationships, trade names and other intangibles established in connection with acquisitions that are finite-lived are amortized in a manner that reflects the pattern in which the projected net cash inflows to the Company are expected to occur, such as the sum of the years' digits method, or when such pattern does not exist, using the straight-line basis over their respective estimated useful lives.
The Company reviews its long-lived assets (property, plant and equipment, and intangible assets subject to amortization that arose from acquisitions) for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable.  If the sum of the expected cash flows, undiscounted and without interest, is less than the carrying amount of the asset, an impairment loss is recognized as the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value.
Amortizable Intangible Assets 
Long-Lived Assets and Amortizable Intangible Assets
Property, plant and equipment, including construction materials, are carried at cost, and include all direct costs and certain indirect costs associated with the construction of cable systems, and the costs of new equipment installations.  Equipment under capital leases is recorded at the present value of the total minimum lease payments.  Depreciation on equipment is calculated on the straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets or, with respect to equipment under capital leases and leasehold improvements, amortized over the shorter of the lease term or the assets' useful lives and reported in depreciation and amortization (including impairments) in the consolidated statements of operations.
The Company capitalizes certain internal and external costs incurred to acquire or develop internal-use software.  Capitalized software costs are amortized over the estimated useful life of the software and reported in depreciation and amortization (including impairments).
Customer relationships, trade names and other intangibles established in connection with acquisitions that are finite-lived are amortized in a manner that reflects the pattern in which the projected net cash inflows to the Company are expected to occur, such as the sum of the years' digits method, or when such pattern does not exist, using the straight-line basis over their respective estimated useful lives.
The Company reviews its long-lived assets (property, plant and equipment, and intangible assets subject to amortization that arose from acquisitions) for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable.  If the sum of the expected cash flows, undiscounted and without interest, is less than the carrying amount of the asset, an impairment loss is recognized as the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value.
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and Amortizable Intangible Assets 
Long-Lived Assets and Amortizable Intangible Assets
Property, plant and equipment, including construction materials, are carried at cost, and include all direct costs and certain indirect costs associated with the construction of cable systems, and the costs of new equipment installations.  Equipment under capital leases is recorded at the present value of the total minimum lease payments.  Depreciation on equipment is calculated on the straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets or, with respect to equipment under capital leases and leasehold improvements, amortized over the shorter of the lease term or the assets' useful lives and reported in depreciation and amortization (including impairments) in the consolidated statements of operations.
The Company capitalizes certain internal and external costs incurred to acquire or develop internal-use software.  Capitalized software costs are amortized over the estimated useful life of the software and reported in depreciation and amortization (including impairments).
Customer relationships, trade names and other intangibles established in connection with acquisitions that are finite-lived are amortized in a manner that reflects the pattern in which the projected net cash inflows to the Company are expected to occur, such as the sum of the years' digits method, or when such pattern does not exist, using the straight-line basis over their respective estimated useful lives.
The Company reviews its long-lived assets (property, plant and equipment, and intangible assets subject to amortization that arose from acquisitions) for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable.  If the sum of the expected cash flows, undiscounted and without interest, is less than the carrying amount of the asset, an impairment loss is recognized as the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value.
Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets 
Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets
Goodwill and the value of franchises, trademarks, and certain other intangibles acquired in purchase business combinations which have indefinite useful lives are not amortized.  Rather, such assets are tested for impairment annually or upon the occurrence of a triggering event.
The Company assesses qualitative factors for its reporting units that carry goodwill.  If the qualitative assessment results in a conclusion that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit exceeds the carrying value, then no further testing is performed for that reporting unit.
When the qualitative assessment is not used, or if the qualitative assessment is not conclusive and it is necessary to calculate the fair value of a reporting unit, then the impairment analysis for goodwill is performed at the reporting unit level using a two-step approach.  The first step of the goodwill impairment test is used to identify potential impairment by comparing the fair value of the reporting unit with its carrying amount, including goodwill utilizing an enterprise-value based premise approach.  If the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the second step of the goodwill impairment test is performed to measure the amount of goodwill impairment loss, if any.  The second step of the goodwill impairment test compares the implied fair value of the reporting unit's goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill.  If the carrying amount of the reporting unit's goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of that goodwill, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.  The implied fair value of goodwill is determined in the same manner as the amount of goodwill which would be recognized in a business combination.
The Company assesses qualitative factors to determine whether it is necessary to perform the one-step quantitative identifiable indefinite-lived intangible assets impairment test.  This quantitative test is required only if the Company concludes that it is more likely than not that a unit of accounting’s fair value is less than its carrying amount.  When the qualitative assessment is not used, or if the qualitative assessment is not conclusive, the impairment test for other intangible assets not subject to amortization requires a comparison of the fair value of the intangible asset with its carrying value.  If the carrying value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.
Deferred Financing Costs 
Deferred Financing Costs
Deferred financing costs are being amortized to interest expense using the effective interest method over the terms of the related debt.
Derivative Financial Instruments 
Derivative Financial Instruments
The Company accounts for derivative financial instruments as either assets or liabilities measured at fair value.  The Company uses derivative instruments to manage its exposure to market risks from changes in certain equity prices and interest rates and does not hold or issue derivative instruments for speculative or trading purposes.  These derivative instruments are not designated as hedges, and changes in the fair values of these derivatives are recognized in the statements of income as gains (losses) on derivative contracts. 
Commitments and Contingencies 
Commitments and Contingencies
Liabilities for loss contingencies arising from claims, assessments, litigation, fines and penalties and other sources are recorded when the Company believes it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the contingency can be reasonably estimated.
Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements and Recently Issued But Not Yet Adopted Accounting Pronouncements 
Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
In November 2015, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2015-17 (Topic 740), Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes. This ASU amends existing guidance to require the presentation of deferred tax liabilities and assets as noncurrent within a classified statement of financial position. ASU No. 2015-17 was adopted by the Company as of June 30, 2016 and was applied prospectively to all deferred tax liabilities and assets.
In September 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-16, Simplifying the Accounting for Measurement-Period Adjustments, which requires that an acquirer recognize adjustments to provisional amounts that are identified during the measurement period in the reporting period in which the adjustment amounts are determined. Prior to the issuance of the standard, entities were required to retrospectively apply adjustments made to provisional amounts recognized in a business combination. ASU No. 2015-16 was adopted by the Company on January 1, 2016.
In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-05, Intangibles-Goodwill and Other-Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40): Customer’s Accounting for Fees Paid in a Cloud Computing Arrangement. ASU No. 2015-05 provides guidance to customers about whether a cloud computing arrangement includes a software license. If a cloud computing arrangement includes a software license, then the customer should account for the software license element of the arrangement consistent with the acquisition of other software licenses. If a cloud computing arrangement does not include a software license, the customer should account for the arrangement as a service contract. ASU No. 2015-05 was adopted by the Company on January 1, 2016 and did not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-03, Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs, which requires debt issuance costs to be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying value of the associated debt liability, consistent with the presentation of a debt discount. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-15, Presentation and Subsequent Measurement of Debt Issuance Costs Associated with Line-of-Credit Arrangements, which clarifies the treatment of debt issuance costs from line-of-credit arrangements after adoption of ASU No. 2015-03. ASU No. 2015-15 clarifies that the Securities and Exchange Commission staff would not object to an entity deferring and presenting debt issuance costs as an asset and subsequently amortizing the deferred debt issuance costs ratably over the term of the line-of-credit arrangement, regardless of whether there are any outstanding borrowings on the line-of-credit arrangement. ASU No. 2015-03 was adopted by the Company on January 1, 2016 representing a change in accounting principle and was applied retrospectively to all periods presented. Debt issuance costs, net for the Company of $67,119, as of December 31, 2015 were reclassified from deferred financing costs and presented as a reduction to debt in the consolidated balance sheets.
Debt issuance costs, net for the Company of $7,588 as of December 31, 2015 relating to its revolving credit facility were not impacted by the adoption of ASU No. 2015-03 and are reflected as long-term assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
In August 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-15, Disclosures of Uncertainties about an Entity's Ability to Continue as a Going Concern, which requires management to evaluate whether there are conditions or events that raise substantial doubt about the entity's ability to continue as a going concern, and to provide certain disclosures when it is probable that the entity will be unable to meet its obligations as they become due within one year after the date that the financial statements are issued. ASU No. 2014-15 was adopted by the Company on January 1, 2016.
In June 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-12, Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Accounting for Share-Based Payments When the Terms of an Award Provide That a Performance Target Could Be Achieved After the Requisite Service Period. ASU No. 2014-12 requires that a performance target that affects vesting and that could be achieved after the requisite service period be treated as a performance condition. Entities may apply the amendments in this ASU either: (a) prospectively to all awards granted or modified after the effective date; or (b) retrospectively to all awards with performance targets that are outstanding as of the beginning of the earliest annual period presented in the financial statements and to all new or modified awards thereafter. ASU No. 2014-12 was adopted by the Company on January 1, 2016 on a prospective basis and did not have any impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
Recently Issued But Not Yet Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, requiring an entity to recognize the amount of revenue to which it expects to be entitled for the transfer of promised goods or services to customers. ASU No. 2014-09 will replace most existing revenue recognition guidance in GAAP when it becomes effective and allows the use of either the retrospective or cumulative effect transition method. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-14 that approved deferring the effective date by one year so that ASU No. 2014-09 would become effective for the Company on January 1, 2018. The FASB also approved, in July 2015, permitting the early adoption of ASU No. 2014-09, but not before the original effective date for the Company of January 1, 2017.
In December 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-20, Technical Corrections and Improvements to Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, in order to clarify the Codification and to correct any unintended application of the guidance. These items are not expected to have a significant effect on the current accounting standard. The amendments in this update affect the guidance in ASU No. 2014-09, which is not yet effective. ASU No. 2014-09 will be effective, reflecting the one-year deferral, for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017 (January 1, 2018 for the Company).  Early adoption of the standard is permitted but not before the original effective date. Companies can transition to the standard either retrospectively or as a cumulative-effect adjustment as of the date of adoption. The Company is in the process of evaluating the impact that the adoption of ASU No. 2014-09 will have on its consolidated financial statements and selecting the method of transition to the new standard. We currently expect the adoption to impact the timing of the recognition of residential installation revenue and the recognition of commission expenses.
In November 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-18, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Restricted Cash, which requires that the statement of cash flows disclose the change during the period in the total of cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents. Restricted cash should be included with cash and cash equivalents when reconciling the beginning-of-period and end-of period total amounts shown on the statement of cash flows. ASU No. 2016-18 provides specific guidance on the presentation of restricted cash in the statement of cash flows. The new guidance becomes effective for the Company on January 1, 2019 with early adoption permitted and will be applied retrospectively.
In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments which clarifies how entities should classify certain cash receipts and cash payments on the statement of cash flows. ASU No. 2016-15 also clarifies how the predominance principle should be applied when cash receipts and cash payments have aspects of more than one class of cash flows. The new guidance becomes effective for the Company on January 1, 2018 with early adoption permitted and will be applied retrospectively. The Company has not yet completed the evaluation of the effect that ASU No. 2016-15 will have on its consolidated financial statements.
In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, Compensation—Stock Compensation: Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting, which provides simplification of income tax accounting for share-based payment awards. The new guidance becomes effective for the Company on January 1, 2017 with early adoption permitted. Amendments related to the timing of when excess tax benefits are recognized, minimum statutory withholding requirements, forfeitures, and intrinsic value will be applied using the modified retrospective transition method. Amendments requiring recognition of excess tax benefits and tax deficiencies in the income statement and the practical expedient for estimating expected term will be applied prospectively. The Company may elect to apply the amendments related to the presentation of excess tax benefits on the statement of cash flows using either a prospective transition method or a retrospective transition method. In connection with the adoption on January 1, 2017, a deferred tax asset of approximately $309,000 for previously unrealized excess tax benefits will be recognized with the offset recorded to accumulated deficit.
In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases, which increases transparency and comparability by recognizing a lessee’s rights and obligations resulting from leases by recording them on the balance sheet as lease assets and lease liabilities. The new guidance becomes effective for the Company on January 1, 2019 with early adoption permitted and will be applied using the modified retrospective method. The Company has not yet completed the evaluation of the effect that ASU No. 2016-02 will have on its consolidated financial statements.
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Tables)
Schedule of Weighted Average Number of Shares
The following table presents a reconciliation of weighted average shares used in the calculation of the basic and diluted net income per share attributable to Altice USA stockholders for the year ended December 31, 2017:
Basic weighted average shares outstanding
696,055,000

 
 
Effect of dilution:
 
Stock options
—

Diluted weighted average shares outstanding
696,055,000

BUSINESS COMBINATIONS (Tables)
Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed 
The following table provides the allocation of the total purchase price of $9,958,323 to the identifiable tangible and intangible assets and liabilities of Cablevision based on their respective fair values. The remaining useful lives represent the period over which acquired tangible and intangible assets with a finite life are being depreciated or amortized.
 
Fair Values
 
Estimated Useful Lives
 
 
 
 
Current assets
$
1,923,071

 
 
Accounts receivable
271,305

 
 
Property, plant and equipment
4,864,621

 
2-18 years
Goodwill
5,842,172

 
 
Indefinite-lived cable television franchises
8,113,575

 
Indefinite-lived
Customer relationships
4,850,000

 
8 to 18 years
Trade names (a)
1,010,000

 
12 years
Amortizable intangible assets
23,296

 
1-15 years
Other non-current assets
748,998

 
 
Current liabilities
(2,311,201
)
 
 
Long-term debt
(8,355,386
)
 
 
Deferred income taxes.
(6,832,773
)
 
 
Other non-current liabilities
(189,355
)
 
 
Total
$
9,958,323

 
 
 
(a)
See Note 8 for additional information regarding a change in the remaining estimated useful lives of the Company's trade names.
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information 
The following table presents the unaudited pro forma revenue and net loss for the period presented as if the Cablevision Acquisition had occurred on January 1, 2016:
 
Year Ended December 31, 2016
Revenue
$
9,154,816

Net loss
$
(721,257
)
SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION (Tables)
Non-Cash Investing and Financing Activities and Other Supplemental Data
The Company's non-cash investing and financing activities and other supplemental data were as follows:
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Non-Cash Investing and Financing Activities:
 
 
 
Continuing Operations:
 
 
 
Conversion of notes payable to affiliates and related parties of $1,750,000 (together with accrued and unpaid interest and applicable premium) to common stock (See Note 9)
$
2,264,252

 
$
—

Property and equipment accrued but unpaid
171,604

 
155,653

Distributions declared but not paid
—

 
79,617

Leasehold improvements paid by landlord
3,998

 
—

Notes payable to vendor
40,131

 
12,449

Capital lease obligations
9,385

 
—

Deferred financing costs accrued but unpaid
—

 
2,570

Supplemental Data:
 
 
 
Cash interest paid
1,765,126

 
1,192,370

Income taxes paid, net
29,006

 
1,538

 
RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER EXPENSE (Tables)
Restructuring Cost Activity
The following table summarizes the activity for the 2016 Restructuring Plan:
 
 
 
Severance and Other Employee Related Costs
 
Facility Realignment and Other Costs
 
Total
Restructuring charges incurred in 2016
$
215,420

 
$
11,157

 
$
226,577

Payments and other
(113,301
)
 
(2,760
)
 
(116,061
)
Accrual balance at December 31, 2016
102,119

 
8,397

 
110,516

Restructuring charges
142,679

 
7,243

 
149,922

Payments and other
(131,324
)
 
(6,014
)
 
(137,338
)
Accrual balance at December 31, 2017
$
113,474

 
$
9,626

 
$
123,100

PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT (Tables)
Property, Plant and Equipment 
Property, plant and equipment (including equipment under capital leases) consist of the following assets, which are depreciated or amortized on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives shown below:
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
Estimated
Useful Lives
Customer premise equipment
$
1,093,726

 
$
871,049

 
3 to 5 years
Headends and related equipment
1,626,293

 
1,482,631

 
4 to 25 years
Infrastructure
3,998,503

 
3,740,494

 
3 to 25 years
Equipment and software
917,698

 
735,012

 
3 to 10 years
Construction in progress (including materials and supplies)
286,702

 
84,321

 
 
Furniture and fixtures
52,545

 
45,576

 
5 to 12 years
Transportation equipment
137,886

 
135,488

 
5 to 10 years
Buildings and building improvements
394,421

 
390,337

 
10 to 40 years
Leasehold improvements
108,071

 
104,309

 
Term of lease
Land
47,563

 
47,715

 
 
 
8,663,408

 
7,636,932

 
 
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization
(2,599,579
)
 
(1,039,297
)
 
 
 
$
6,063,829

 
$
6,597,635

 
 
Schedule of Capital Leased Assets 
The gross amount of buildings and equipment and related accumulated depreciation recorded under capital leases is presented below:
 
December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Buildings and equipment
$
48,936

 
$
53,833

Less accumulated depreciation
(12,972
)
 
(6,306
)
 
$
35,964

 
$
47,527

OPERATING LEASES (Tables)
Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases
The minimum future annual payments for all operating leases (with initial or remaining terms in excess of one year) during the next five years and thereafter, including pole rentals from January 1, 2018 through December 31, 2022, at rates now in force are as follows:
2018
$
74,992

2019
72,142

2020
69,203

2021
63,735

2022
55,234

Thereafter
140,406

INTANGIBLE ASSETS (Tables)
Schedule of Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class 
The following table summarizes information relating to the Company's acquired amortizable intangible assets: 
 
As of December 31, 2017
 
As of December 31, 2016
 
 
 
Gross Carrying Amount
 
Accumulated Amortization
 
Net Carrying Amount
 
Gross Carrying Amount
 
Accumulated Amortization
 
Net Carrying Amount
 
Estimated Useful Lives
Customer relationships
$
5,970,884

 
$
(1,409,021
)
 
$
4,561,863

 
$
5,925,884

 
$
(580,276
)
 
$
5,345,608

 
8 to 18 years
Trade names (a)
1,067,083

 
(588,574
)
 
478,509

 
1,066,783

 
(83,397
)
 
983,386

 
2 to 5 years
Other amortizable intangibles
37,060

 
(10,978
)
 
26,082

 
26,743

 
(3,093
)
 
23,650

 
1 to 15 years
 
$
7,075,027

 
$
(2,008,573
)
 
$
5,066,454

 
$
7,019,410

 
$
(666,766
)
 
$
6,352,644

 
 
 
(a)
On May 23, 2017, Altice N.V. announced the adoption of a global brand to replace the Company's brands in the future, reducing the remaining useful lives of these trade name intangibles to three years from the date of the adoption, which reflected one year as an in-use asset and two years as a defensive asset. In December 2017, the Company made a decision to postpone the adoption of a global brand that would have replaced the Optimum brand, increasing the useful life of the Optimum trade name intangible asset to 5 years.
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense 
The following table sets forth the estimated amortization expense on intangible assets for the periods presented:
Estimated amortization expense
 

Year Ending December 31, 2018
$
873,133

Year Ending December 31, 2019
777,846

Year Ending December 31, 2020
696,240

Year Ending December 31, 2021
616,718

Year Ending December 31, 2022
537,100

Schedule of Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets 
The following table summarizes information relating to the Company's acquired indefinite-lived intangible assets as of December 31, 2017: 
 
As of December 31, 2017
 
As of December 31, 2016
 
Cablevision
 
Cequel
 
Total
 
Cablevision
 
Cequel
 
Total
Cable television franchises
$
8,113,575

 
$
4,906,506

 
$
13,020,081

 
$
8,113,575

 
$
4,906,506

 
$
13,020,081

Goodwill
5,843,019

 
2,153,741

 
7,996,760

 
5,838,959

 
2,153,741

 
7,992,700

Total
$
13,956,594

 
$
7,060,247

 
$
21,016,841

 
$
13,952,534

 
$
7,060,247

 
$
21,012,781

Schedule of Goodwill 
The carrying amount of goodwill is presented below:
Gross goodwill as of January 1, 2016
$
2,040,402

Goodwill recorded in connection with Cablevision Acquisition
5,838,959

Adjustments to purchase accounting relating to Cequel Acquisition
113,339

Gross goodwill as of January 1, 2017
7,992,700

Goodwill recorded in connection with acquisitions in the first and fourth quarters of 2017 (Cablevision Segment)
23,948

Adjustments to purchase accounting relating to Cablevision Acquisition
3,213

Transfer of Cablevision goodwill related to Altice Technical Services US Corp. (See Note 14 for further details)
(23,101
)
Net goodwill as of December 31, 2017
$
7,996,760

DEBT (Tables)
Schedule of Line of Credit Facilities 
The following table provides details of the Company's outstanding credit facility debt:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Carrying Amount (a)
 
Maturity Date
 
Interest Rate
 
Principal
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
CSC Holdings Restricted Group:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revolving Credit Facility (b)
$20,000 on October 9, 2020, remaining balance on November 30, 2021
 
4.75%
 
$
450,000

 
$
425,488

 
$
145,013

Term Loan Facility
July 17, 2025
 
3.74%
 
2,985,000

 
2,967,818

 
2,486,874

Cequel:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revolving Credit Facility (c)
November 30, 2021
 
—
 
—

 
—

 
—

Term Loan Facility
July 28, 2025
 
3.82%
 
1,258,675

 
1,250,217

 
812,903

 
 
 
 
 
$
4,693,675

 
4,643,523

 
3,444,790

Less: Current portion
42,650

 
33,150

Long-term debt
$
4,600,873

 
$
3,411,640


(a)
The carrying amount is net of the unamortized deferred financing costs and/or discounts.
(b)
At December 31, 2017, $115,973 of the revolving credit facility was restricted for certain letters of credit issued on behalf of the Company and $1,734,027 of the facility was undrawn and available, subject to covenant limitations.
(c)
At December 31, 2017, $13,500 of the revolving credit facility was restricted for certain letters of credit issued on behalf of the Company and $336,500 of the facility was undrawn and available, subject to covenant limitations.
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments 
The following table summarizes the Company's senior guaranteed notes, senior secured notes and senior notes and debentures:
 
 
 
 
 
Interest Rate
 
Principal Amount
 
Carrying Amount (a)
Issuer
Date Issued
 
Maturity Date
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
Senior notes:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CSC Holdings (b)(f)(n)
February 6, 1998
 
February 15, 2018
 
7.875
%
 
$
300,000

 
$
301,184

 
$
310,334

CSC Holdings (b)(f)
July 21, 1998
 
July 15, 2018
 
7.625
%
 
500,000

 
507,744

 
521,654

CSC Holdings (c)(f)
February 12, 2009
 
February 15, 2019
 
8.625
%
 
526,000

 
541,165

 
553,804

CSC Holdings (c)(f)
November 15, 2011
 
November 15, 2021
 
6.750
%
 
1,000,000

 
960,146

 
951,702

CSC Holdings (c)(f)
May 23, 2014
 
June 1, 2024
 
5.250
%
 
750,000

 
660,601

 
650,193

CSC Holdings (e)
October 9, 2015
 
January 15, 2023
 
10.125
%
 
1,800,000

 
1,777,914

 
1,774,750

CSC Holdings (e)(l)
October 9, 2015
 
October 15, 2025
 
10.875
%
 
1,684,221

 
1,661,135

 
1,970,379

Senior guaranteed notes:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CSC Holdings (e)
October 9, 2015
 
October 15, 2025
 
6.625
%
 
1,000,000

 
986,717

 
985,469

CSC Holdings (g)
September 23, 2016
 
April 15, 2027
 
5.500
%
 
1,310,000

 
1,304,468

 
1,304,025

Senior notes:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cablevision (k)(o)
September 23, 2009
 
September 15, 2017
 
8.625
%
 
—

 
—

 
926,045

Cablevision (c)(f)(n)(o)
April 15, 2010
 
April 15, 2018
 
7.750
%
 
750,000

 
754,035

 
767,545

Cablevision (c)(f)(o)
April 15, 2010
 
April 15, 2020
 
8.000
%
 
500,000

 
492,009

 
488,992

Cablevision (c)(f)(o)
September 27, 2012
 
September 15, 2022
 
5.875
%
 
649,024

 
572,071

 
559,500

Senior notes:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cequel Communications Holdings I and Cequel Capital (d)(m)(p)
Oct. 25, 2012 Dec. 28, 2012
 
September 15, 2020
 
6.375
%
 
1,050,000

 
1,027,493

 
1,457,439

Cequel Communications Holdings I and Cequel Capital (d)(p)
May 16, 2013 Sept. 9, 2014
 
December 15, 2021
 
5.125
%
 
1,250,000

 
1,138,870

 
1,115,767

Cequel Communications Holdings I and Cequel Capital (i)(p)
June 12, 2015
 
July 15, 2025
 
7.750
%
 
620,000

 
604,374

 
602,925

Senior secured notes:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Altice US Finance I Corporation (h)(p)
June 12, 2015
 
July 15, 2023
 
5.375
%
 
1,100,000

 
1,082,482

 
1,079,869

Altice US Finance I Corporation (j)(p)
April 26, 2016
 
May 15, 2026
 
5.500
%
 
1,500,000

 
1,488,024

 
1,486,933

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$
16,289,245

 
15,860,432

 
17,507,325

Less: Current portion
 
507,744

 
926,045

Long-term debt
 
$
15,352,688

 
$
16,581,280

 
(a)
The carrying amount is net of the unamortized deferred financing costs and/or discounts/premiums.
(b)
The debentures are not redeemable by CSC Holdings prior to maturity.
(c)
Notes are redeemable at any time at a specified "make-whole" price plus accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date.
(d)
The Company may redeem some or more of all the notes at the redemption price set forth in the relevant indenture, plus accrued and unpaid interest.
(e)
The Company may redeem some or all of the 2023 Notes at any time on or after January 15, 2019, and some or all of the 2025 Notes and 2025 Guaranteed Notes at any time on or after October 15, 2020, at the redemption prices set forth in the relevant indenture, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any.  The Company may also redeem up to 40% of each series of the Cablevision Acquisition Notes using the proceeds of certain equity offerings before October 15, 2018, at a redemption price equal to 110.125% for the 2023 Notes, 110.875% for the 2025 Notes and 106.625% for the 2025 Guaranteed Notes, in each case plus accrued and unpaid interest. In addition, at any time prior to January 15, 2019, CSC Holdings may redeem some or all of the 2023 Notes, and at any time prior to October 15, 2020, the Company may redeem some or all of the 2025 Notes and the 2025 Guaranteed Notes, at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount thereof, plus a “make whole” premium specified in the relevant indenture plus accrued and unpaid interest.
(f)
The carrying value of the notes was adjusted to reflect their fair value on the Cablevision Acquisition Date (aggregate reduction of $52,788).
(g)
The 2027 Guaranteed Notes are redeemable at any time on or after April 15, 2022 at the redemption prices set forth in the indenture, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any.  In addition, up to 40% may be redeemed for each series of the 2027 Guaranteed Notes using the proceeds of certain equity offerings before October 15, 2019, at a redemption price equal to 105.500%, plus accrued and unpaid interest.
(h)
Some or all of these notes may be redeemed at any time on or after July 15, 2018, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any. Up to 40% of the notes may be redeemed using the proceeds of certain equity offerings before July 15, 2018, at a redemption price equal to 105.375%.
(i)
Some or all of these notes may be redeemed at any time on or after July 15, 2020, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any. Up to 40% of the notes may be redeemed using the proceeds of certain equity offerings before July 15, 2018, at a redemption price equal to 107.750%.
(j)
Some or all of these notes may be redeemed at any time on or after May 15, 2021, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any. Up to 40% of the notes may be redeemed using the proceeds of certain equity offerings before May 15, 2019, at a redemption price equal to 105.500%.
(k)
In April 2017, the Company redeemed $500,000 of the senior notes from proceeds from the CVC Term Loan facility. In September 2017, these senior notes matured and the Company repaid the remaining principal balance of $400,000.
(l)
In July 2017, the Company used approximately $350,120 of the proceeds from the IPO to fund the redemption of $315,779 principal amount of CSC Holdings senior notes due October 2025 and the related call premium of approximately $34,341which was recorded as a loss on extinguishment of debt. The Company also recorded a write-off of deferred financings costs in connection with this redemption aggregating $4,516.
(m)
In April 2017, the Company redeemed $450,000 of the senior notes from proceeds from the Cequel Term Loan facility.
(n)
As a result of the repayment of these notes in February 2018, discussed in Note 20, the carrying amount of these Notes has been classified as long-term indebtedness.
(o)
The issuers of these notes have no ability to service interest or principal on the notes, other than through any dividends or distributions received from CSC Holdings. CSC Holdings is restricted, in certain circumstances, from paying dividends or distributions to the issuers by the terms of the CVC Credit Facilities Agreement.
(p)
The issuers of these notes have no ability to service interest or principal on the notes, other than through any contributions/distributions from Cequel Communications, LLC (an indirect subsidiary of Cequel and the parent of Altice US Finance I). Cequel Communications, LLC is restricted in certain circumstances, from paying dividends or distributions to the issuers by the terms of the Cequel Credit Facilities Agreement.
Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt 
The future maturities of debt payable by the Company under its various debt obligations outstanding as of December 31, 2017, including notes payable, collateralized indebtedness (see Note 10), and capital leases, are as follows:
Years Ending December 31,
Cablevision
 
Cequel
 
Total
2018
$
1,619,094

 
$
16,518

 
$
1,635,612

2019
565,604

 
18,310

 
583,914

2020
552,902

 
1,062,713

 
1,615,615

2021
2,921,269

 
1,262,723

 
4,183,992

2022
680,700

 
12,734

 
693,434

Thereafter
9,380,513

 
4,416,270

 
13,796,783

DERIVATIVE CONTRACTS AND COLLATERALIZED INDEBTEDNESS (Tables)
Location of Assets and Liabilities Associated With Derivative Instruments Within the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets 
The following represents the location of the assets and liabilities associated with the Company's derivative instruments within the consolidated balance sheets:
 
 
 
 
Asset Derivatives
 
Liability Derivatives
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments
 
Balance Sheet
Location
 
Fair Value at December 31, 2017
 
Fair Value at December 31, 2016
 
Fair Value at December 31, 2017
 
Fair Value at December 31, 2016
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Prepaid forward contracts
 
Derivative contracts, current
 
$
52,545

 
$
352

 
$
(52,545
)
 
$
(13,158
)
Prepaid forward contracts
 
Derivative contracts, long-term
 
—

 
10,604

 
(109,504
)
 
—

Interest rate swap contracts
 
Liabilities under derivative contracts, long-term
 
—

 
—

 
(77,902
)
 
(78,823
)
 
 
 
 
$
52,545

 
$
10,956

 
$
(239,951
)
 
$
(91,981
)
Schedule of Collateralized Debt Settlement 
The following table summarizes the settlement of the Company's collateralized indebtedness relating to Comcast shares that were settled by delivering cash equal to the collateralized loan value, net of the value of the related equity derivative contracts during the year ended December 31, 2017: 
Number of shares (a)
26,815,368

Collateralized indebtedness settled
$
(774,703
)
Derivatives contracts settled
(56,356
)
 
(831,059
)
Proceeds from new monetization contracts
838,794

Net cash proceeds
$
7,735

 
(a)
Share amounts are adjusted for the 2 for 1 stock split in February 2017.
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT (Tables)
Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis 
The following table presents for each of these hierarchy levels, the Company's financial assets and financial liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
 
Fair Value
Hierarchy
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
Money market funds (of which $14,700 is classified as restricted cash as of December 31, 2016)
Level I
 
$
5,949

 
$
100,139

Investment securities pledged as collateral
Level I
 
1,720,357

 
1,483,030

Prepaid forward contracts
Level II
 
52,545

 
10,956

Liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
Prepaid forward contracts
Level II
 
162,049

 
13,158

Interest rate swap contracts
Level II
 
77,902

 
78,823

Contingent consideration related to 2017 acquisitions
Level III
 
32,233

 
—

Schedule of Carrying Values and Estimated Fair Values of Debt Instruments 
The carrying values, estimated fair values, and classification under the fair value hierarchy of the Company's financial instruments, excluding those that are carried at fair value in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets, are summarized as follows:
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
Fair Value
Hierarchy
 
Carrying
Amount (a)
 
Estimated
Fair Value
 
Carrying
Amount (a)
 
Estimated
Fair Value
Altice USA debt instruments:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes payable to affiliates and related parties
Level II
 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
1,750,000

 
$
1,837,876

CSC Holdings debt instruments:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Credit facility debt
Level II
 
3,393,306

 
3,435,000

 
2,631,887

 
2,675,256

Collateralized indebtedness
Level II
 
1,349,474

 
1,305,932

 
1,286,069

 
1,280,048

Senior guaranteed notes
Level II
 
2,291,185

 
2,420,000

 
2,289,494

 
2,416,375

Senior notes and debentures
Level II
 
6,409,889

 
7,221,846

 
6,732,816

 
7,731,150

Notes payable
Level II
 
56,956

 
55,289

 
13,726

 
13,260

Cablevision senior notes
Level II
 
1,818,115

 
1,931,239

 
2,742,082

 
2,920,056

Cequel debt instruments:
 
 


 


 


 


Cequel credit facility
Level II
 
1,250,217

 
1,258,675

 
812,903

 
815,000

Senior secured notes
Level II
 
2,570,506

 
2,658,930

 
2,566,802

 
2,689,750

Senior notes
Level II
 
2,770,737

 
2,983,615

 
3,176,131

 
3,517,275

Notes payable
Level II
 
8,946

 
8,945

 
—

 
—

 
 
 
$
21,919,331

 
$
23,279,471

 
$
24,001,910

 
$
25,896,046

 
(a)
Amounts are net of unamortized deferred financing costs and discounts/premiums.
INCOME TAXES (Tables)
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) 
Income tax benefit attributable to the Company's operations for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 consist of the following components:
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Current expense (benefit):
 
 
 
Federal
$
5,657

 
$
(981
)
State
12,509

 
5,310

 
18,166

 
4,329

Deferred benefit:
 
 
 
Federal
(2,088,652
)
 
(223,159
)
State
(782,492
)
 
(40,830
)
 
(2,871,144
)
 
(263,989
)
Tax benefit relating to uncertain tax positions
11

 
(6
)
Income tax benefit
$
(2,852,967
)
 
$
(259,666
)
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation 
The income tax benefit attributable to the Company's operations differs from the amount derived by applying the statutory federal rate to pretax loss principally due to the effect of the following items:
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Federal tax benefit at statutory rate
$
(465,972
)
 
$
(381,901
)
State income taxes, net of federal impact
(59,719
)
 
(39,336
)
Changes in the valuation allowance
(111
)
 
297

Impact of Federal Tax Reform
(2,337,900
)
 
—

Changes in the state rates used to measure deferred taxes, net of federal impact
(12,896
)
 
153,239

Tax benefit relating to uncertain tax positions
(253
)
 
(120
)
Non-deductible share-based compensation related to the carried unit plan
20,101

 
5,029

Non-deductible Cablevision Acquisition transaction costs
—

 
4,457

Other non-deductible expenses
3,349

 
1,551

Other, net
434

 
(2,882
)
Income tax benefit
$
(2,852,967
)
 
$
(259,666
)
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities 
The tax effects of temporary differences which give rise to significant portions of deferred tax assets or liabilities and the corresponding valuation allowance are as follows.
 
December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Noncurrent
 
 
 
NOLs and tax credit carry forwards
$
784,334

 
$
971,728

Compensation and benefit plans
48,280

 
93,939

Partnership investments
68,054

 
113,473

Restructuring liability
33,247

 
37,393

Other liabilities
38,140

 
45,561

Liabilities under derivative contracts
21,034

 
31,529

Interest deferred for tax purposes
128,516

 
39,633

Other
7,182

 
6,615

Deferred tax asset
1,128,787

 
1,339,871

Valuation allowance
(3,000
)
 
(3,125
)
Net deferred tax asset, noncurrent
1,125,787

 
1,336,746

Fixed assets and intangibles
(5,733,319
)
 
(9,065,635
)
Investments
(113,628
)
 
(187,795
)
Prepaid expenses
(8,007
)
 
(10,172
)
Fair value adjustments related to debt and deferred financing costs
(40,215
)
 
(30,535
)
Other
(5,733
)
 
(9,424
)
Deferred tax liability, noncurrent
(5,900,902
)
 
(9,303,561
)
Total net deferred tax liability
$
(4,775,115
)
 
$
(7,966,815
)
Summary of Income Tax Contingencies 
A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits associated with uncertain tax positions, excluding associated deferred tax benefits and accrued interest, is as follows:
Balance at January 1, 2016
$
4,025

Increases related to prior year tax positions
11

Balance at December 31, 2017
$
4,036

SHARE BASED COMPENSATION (Tables)
Activity for Shares 
The following table summarizes activity relating to carry units:
 
Number of Time
Vesting Awards
 
Number of Performance
Based Vesting Awards
 
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Balance, December 31, 2016
192,800,000

 
10,000,000

 
$
0.37

Granted
28,025,000

 
—

 
3.14

Forfeited
(7,854,166
)
 
—

 
0.37

Vested
(44,420,833
)
 
—

 
0.41

Balance, December 31, 2017
168,550,001

 
10,000,000

 
0.71

Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions 
The following aggregate assumptions were used to calculate the fair values of stock option awards granted on December 30, 2017:
Risk-free interest rate
 
2.30%
Expected life (in years)
 
6.44
Dividend yield
 
—%
Volatility
 
33.95%
Grant date fair value
 
$8.77
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES - (Tables)
Contractual Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity Schedule
Future cash payments and commitments required under arrangements pursuant to contracts entered into by the Company in the normal course of business as of December 31, 2017 are as follows:
 
Payments Due by Period
 
Total
 
Year 1
 
Years 2-3
 
Years 4-5
 
More than
5 years
Off balance sheet arrangements:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Purchase obligations (a)
$
8,423,735

 
$
3,071,514

 
$
4,179,616

 
$
1,092,786

 
$
79,819

Guarantees (b)
36,224

 
34,716

 
1,508

 
—

 
—

Letters of credit (c)
129,473

 
200

 
120

 
129,153

 
—

Total
$
8,589,432

 
$
3,106,430

 
$
4,181,244

 
$
1,221,939

 
$
79,819

 
(a)
Purchase obligations primarily include contractual commitments with various programming vendors to provide video services to customers and minimum purchase obligations to purchase goods or services.  Future fees payable under contracts with programming vendors are based on numerous factors, including the number of customers receiving the programming.  Amounts reflected above related to programming agreements are based on the number of customers receiving the programming as of December 31, 2017 multiplied by the per customer rates or the stated annual fee, as applicable, contained in the executed agreements in effect as of December 31, 2017. 
(b)
Includes franchise and performance surety bonds primarily for the Company's cable television systems. 
(c)
Represent letters of credit guaranteeing performance to municipalities and public utilities and payment of insurance premiums. Payments due by period for these arrangements represent the year in which the commitment expires although payments under these arrangements are required only in the event of nonperformance.
SEGMENT INFORMATION (Tables)
Schedule of Reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to Operating Income (Loss) 
The Company has presented the components that reconcile Adjusted EBITDA to operating income, an accepted GAAP measure:
 
Year Ended December 31, 2017
 
Year Ended December 31, 2016
 
Cablevision
 
Cequel
 
Total
 
Cablevision (a)
 
Cequel
 
Total
Operating income
$
345,063

 
$
520,321

 
$
865,384

 
$
74,865

 
$
384,801

 
$
459,666

Share-based compensation
42,060

 
15,370

 
57,430

 
9,164

 
5,204

 
14,368

Restructuring and other expense
112,384

 
40,017

 
152,401

 
212,150

 
28,245

 
240,395

Depreciation and amortization (including impairments)
2,251,614

 
678,861

 
2,930,475

 
963,665

 
736,641

 
1,700,306

Adjusted EBITDA
$
2,751,121

 
$
1,254,569

 
$
4,005,690

 
$
1,259,844

 
$
1,154,891

 
$
2,414,735

 
(a)
Reflects operating results of Cablevision from the date of acquisition.
Reconciliation of Reportable Segment Amounts to Cablevision's and CSC Holdings' Consolidated Balances 
A reconciliation of reportable segment amounts to the Company's consolidated balances are as follows:
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Operating income for reportable segments
$
865,384

 
$
459,666

Items excluded from operating income:
 
 
 
Interest expense
(1,603,132
)
 
(1,456,541
)
Interest income
1,921

 
13,811

Gain on investments, net
237,354

 
141,896

Loss on derivative contracts, net
(236,330
)
 
(53,696
)
Gain (loss) on interest rate swap contracts
5,482

 
(72,961
)
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs
(600,240
)
 
(127,649
)
Other income (expense), net
(1,788
)
 
4,329

Loss before income taxes
$
(1,331,349
)
 
$
(1,091,145
)
Schedule of Revenue by Products and Services and Segments 
The following table presents the composition of revenue by segment:
 
Year Ended December 31, 2017
 
Year Ended December 31, 2016
 
Cablevision (a)
 
Cequel
 
Eliminations
 
Total
 
Cablevision (a)
 
Cequel
 
Total
Residential:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Pay TV
$
3,113,238

 
$
1,101,507

 
$
—

 
$
4,214,745

 
$
1,638,691

 
$
1,120,525

 
$
2,759,216

Broadband
1,603,015

 
960,757

 
—

 
2,563,772

 
782,615

 
834,414

 
1,617,029

Telephony
693,478

 
130,503

 
—

 
823,981

 
376,034

 
153,939

 
529,973

Business services and wholesale
923,161

 
375,656

 
—

 
1,298,817

 
468,632

 
350,909

 
819,541

Advertising
321,149

 
73,509

 
(2,792
)
 
391,866

 
163,678

 
88,371

 
252,049

Other
10,747

 
22,642

 
—

 
33,389

 
14,402

 
25,002

 
39,404

Total Revenue
$
6,664,788

 
$
2,664,574

 
$
(2,792
)
 
$
9,326,570

 
$
3,444,052

 
$
2,573,160

 
$
6,017,212

 
(a)
Reflects revenue from the Cablevision Acquisition Date.
Capital Expenditures by Reportable Segment 
Capital expenditures (cash basis) by reportable segment are presented below:
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
 
 
 
 
Cablevision
$
711,432

 
$
298,357

Cequel
279,932

 
327,184

 
$
991,364

 
$
625,541

BENEFIT PLANS (Tables)
Schedule of Net Funded Status 
Summarized below is the funded status and the amounts recorded on the Company's consolidated balance sheets for all of the Company's Defined Benefit Plans at December 31, 2017 and 2016:
 
December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Change in projected benefit obligation:
 
 
 
Projected benefit obligation at beginning of year
$
382,517

 
$
403,963

Interest cost
11,786

 
14,077

Actuarial loss (gain)
13,171

 
(11,429
)
Curtailments
6,332

 
3,968

Settlements
6,910

 
—

Benefits paid
(121,650
)
 
(28,062
)
Projected benefit obligation at end of year
299,066

 
382,517

 
 
 
 
Change in plan assets:
 
 
 

Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year
284,118

 
297,846

Actual return on plan assets, net
6,356

 
5,829

Employer contributions
26,944

 
8,505

Benefits paid
(121,650
)
 
(28,062
)
Fair value of plan assets at end of year
195,768

 
284,118

Unfunded status at end of year
$
(103,298
)
 
$
(98,399
)
Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet 
The Company's net funded status relating to its Defined Benefit Plans at December 31, 2017 and 2016, is as follows:
 
December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Defined Benefit Plans
$
(103,298
)
 
$
(98,399
)
Less: Current portion related to nonqualified plans
135

 
14,293

Long-term defined benefit plan obligations
$
(103,163
)
 
$
(84,106
)
 
Schedule of Net Benefit Costs 
Components of the net periodic benefit cost, recorded in other operating expenses, for the Defined Benefit Plans for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, is as follows:
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
 
2017
 
2016
Interest cost
$
11,786

 
$
6,946

Expected return on plan assets, net
(4,907
)
 
(4,022
)
Curtailment loss
3,137

 
231

Settlement loss (income) (reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss) (a)
1,845

 
(154
)
Net periodic benefit cost
$
11,861

 
$
3,001

 
(a)
As a result of benefit payments to terminated or retired individuals exceeding the service and interest costs for the Pension Plan and the Excess Cash Balance Pension Plan during the year ended December 31, 2017 and during the period June 21, 2016 through December 31, 2016, the Company recognized a non-cash settlement loss that represented the acceleration of the recognition of a portion of the previously unrecognized actuarial losses recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss on the Company’s consolidated balance sheet relating to these plans.
Schedule of Assumptions Used 
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic cost (made at the beginning of the year) and benefit obligations (made at the end of the year) for the Defined Benefit Plans are as follows:
 
Net Periodic Benefit Cost
 
Benefit Obligations at December 31,
 
For the Year Ended December 31, 2017
 
For the Period June 21, 2016 to
December 31, 2016
 
2017
 
2016
Discount rate (a)
3.69
%
 
3.53
%
 
3.50
%
 
3.81
%
Rate of increase in future compensation levels
—
%
 
—
%
 
—
%
 
—
%
Expected rate of return on plan assets (Pension Plan only)
3.90
%
 
3.97
%
 
N/A

 
N/A

 
(a)
The discount rate of 3.53% for the period June 21, 2016 through December 31, 2016, represents the average of the quarterly discount rates used to remeasure the Company's projected benefit obligation and net periodic benefit cost in connection with the recognition of settlement losses discussed above.
Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets 
The fair values of the assets of the Pension Plan at December 31, 2017 by asset class are as follows:
Asset Class
Level I
 
Level II
 
Level III
 
Total
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Mutual funds
$
61,833

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
61,833

Fixed income securities held in a portfolio:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign issued corporate debt
—

 
10,721

 
—

 
10,721

U.S. corporate debt
—

 
39,992

 
—

 
39,992

Government debt
—

 
4,645

 
—

 
4,645

U.S. Treasury securities
—

 
62,601

 
—

 
62,601

Asset-backed securities
—

 
10,978

 
—

 
10,978

Other
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

Cash equivalents (a)
6,691

 
2,782

 
—

 
9,473

Total (b)
$
68,524

 
$
131,719

 
$
—

 
$
200,243

 
(a)
A significant portion represents an investment in a short-term investment fund that invests primarily in securities of high quality and low risk.
(b)
Excludes cash and net payables relating to the purchase of securities that were not settled as of December 31, 2017.
The fair values of the assets of the Pension Plan at December 31, 2016 by asset class are as follows:
Asset Class
Level I
 
Level II
 
Level III
 
Total
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Mutual funds
$
121,356

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
121,356

Fixed income securities held in a portfolio:

 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign issued corporate debt
—

 
13,583

 
—

 
13,583

U.S. corporate debt
—

 
48,046

 
—

 
48,046

Government debt
—

 
4,810

 
—

 
4,810

U.S. Treasury securities
—

 
77,285

 
—

 
77,285

Asset-backed securities
—

 
14,065

 
—

 
14,065

Other
—

 
247

 
—

 
247

Cash equivalents (a)
2,593

 
3,089

 
—

 
5,682

Total (b)
$
123,949

 
$
161,125

 
$
—

 
$
285,074

 
(a)
A significant portion represents an investment in a short-term investment fund that invests primarily in securities of high quality and low risk.
(b)
Excludes cash and net payables relating to the purchase of securities that were not settled as of December 31, 2016.
The weighted average asset allocations of the Pension Plan at December 31, 2017 and 2016 were as follows:
 
Plan Assets at December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Asset Class:
 
 
 
Mutual funds
32
%
 
43
%
Fixed income securities
66

 
55

Cash equivalents and other
2

 
2

 
100
%
 
100
%
Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments 
The following benefit payments are expected to be paid during the periods indicated:
2018
$
96,482

2019
18,960

2020
14,052

2021
13,282

2022
13,792

2023-2027
69,369

ALLOWANCE FOR DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS (Tables)
Allowance for Credit Losses on Financing Receivables
Activity related to the Company's allowance for doubtful accounts is presented below:
 
Balance at Beginning of Period
 
Provision for Bad Debt
 
Deductions/ Write-Offs and Other Charges
 
Balance at End of Period
Year Ended December 31, 2017
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Allowance for doubtful accounts
$
11,677

 
$
74,183

 
$
(72,440
)
 
$
13,420

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Year Ended December 31, 2016
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Allowance for doubtful accounts
$
1,051

 
$
53,249

 
$
(42,623
)
 
$
11,677

INTERIM FINANCIAL INFORMATION (Tables)
Quarterly Financial Information
The following is a summary of the Company's selected quarterly financial data for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016:
 
March 31,
2017
 
June 30,
2017
 
September 30,
2017
 
December 31,
2017 (a)
 
Total
2017
Revenues, net
$
2,305,676

 
$
2,328,341

 
$
2,327,175

 
$
2,365,378

 
$
9,326,570

Operating expenses
(2,057,442
)
 
(2,071,559
)
 
(2,192,311
)
 
(2,139,874
)
 
(8,461,186
)
Operating income
$
248,234

 
$
256,782

 
$
134,864

 
$
225,504

 
$
865,384

Net income (loss)
$
(76,188
)
 
$
(474,790
)
 
$
(182,086
)
 
$
2,254,682

 
$
1,521,618

Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
(237
)
 
(365
)
 
(135
)
 
(850
)
 
(1,587
)
Net income (loss) attributable to Altice USA Inc.'s stockholders
$
(76,425
)
 
$
(475,155
)
 
$
(182,221
)
 
$
2,253,832

 
$
1,520,031

Basic and diluted net income (loss) per share attributable to Altice USA Inc.'s stockholders
$
(0.12
)
 
$
(0.72
)
 
$
(0.25
)
 
$
3.06

 
$
2.18

 
(a)
Pursuant to the enactment of the Tax Reform on December 22, 2017, the Company recorded a noncash deferred tax benefit of $2,337,900 to remeasure the net deferred tax liability to adjust for the reduction in the corporate federal income tax rate 35% to 21% which is effective on January 1, 2018.
 
March 31,
2016
 
June 30,
2016
 
September 30,
2016
 
December 31,
2016
 
Total
2016
Revenues, net
$
627,589

 
$
823,501

 
$
2,260,221

 
$
2,305,901

 
$
6,017,212

Operating expenses
(573,329
)
 
(778,098
)
 
(2,117,442
)
 
(2,088,677
)
 
(5,557,546
)
Operating income
$
54,260

 
$
45,403

 
$
142,779

 
$
217,224

 
$
459,666

Net loss
$
(140,748
)
 
$
(282,129
)
 
$
(172,553
)
 
$
(236,049
)
 
$
(831,479
)
Net loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling interests
—

 
364

 
(256
)
 
(659
)
 
(551
)
Net loss attributable to Altice USA, Inc. stockholders
$
(140,748
)
 
$
(281,765
)
 
$
(172,809
)
 
$
(236,708
)
 
$
(832,030
)
Basic and diluted net loss per share attributable to Altice USA Inc.'s stockholders
$
(0.22
)
 
$
(0.43
)
 
$
(0.27
)
 
$
(0.36
)
 
$
(1.28
)
CVC - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Tables)
Reconciliation of weighted average shares used in the calculations of the basic and diluted net income per share attributable to Cablevision stockholders 
The following table presents a reconciliation of weighted average shares used in the calculation of the basic and diluted net income per share attributable to Altice USA stockholders for the year ended December 31, 2017:
Basic weighted average shares outstanding
696,055,000

 
 
Effect of dilution:
 
Stock options
—

Diluted weighted average shares outstanding
696,055,000

Schedule of common stock 
The following table provides details of Cablevision's shares of common stock through the Merger Date:
 
Shares of Common Stock Outstanding
 
Class A
Common Stock
 
Class B
Common Stock
Balance at December 31, 2014
220,219,935

 
54,137,673

Employee and non-employee director stock transactions (a)
2,352,275

 
—

Balance at December 31, 2015
222,572,210

 
54,137,673

Employee and non-employee director stock transactions (a)
(185,276
)
 
—

Balance at June 20, 2016
222,386,934

 
54,137,673

 
(a)
Primarily included issuances of common stock in connection with employee and non-employee director exercises of stock options and restricted shares granted to employees, offset by shares acquired by the Company in connection with the fulfillment of employees' statutory tax withholding obligation for applicable income and other employment taxes and forfeited employee restricted shares.

Schedule of cash dividends declared 
Prior to the Merger, the Board of Directors of Cablevision had declared and paid the following cash dividends to stockholders of record on both its CNYG Class A common stock and CNYG Class B common stock:
Declaration Date
 
Dividend per Share
 
Record Date
 
Payment Date
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
August 6, 2015
 
$0.15
 
August 21, 2015
 
September 10, 2015
May 1, 2015
 
$0.15
 
May 22, 2015
 
June 12, 2015
February 24, 2015
 
$0.15
 
March 16, 2015
 
April 3, 2015
Reconciliation of weighted average shares used in the calculations of the basic and diluted net income per share attributable to Cablevision stockholders 
The following table presents a reconciliation of weighted average shares used in the calculations of the basic and diluted net income per share attributable to Cablevision stockholders:
 
January 1, 2016 to June 20, 2016
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
 
2015
 
 
 
 
Basic weighted average shares outstanding
272,035

 
269,388

 
 
 
 
Effect of dilution:
 
 
 

Stock options
4,444

 
3,532

Restricted stock
3,720

 
3,419

Diluted weighted average shares outstanding
280,199

 
276,339

CVC - ALLOWANCE FOR DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS (Tables)
Schedule of activity related to the allowance for doubtful accounts 
Activity related to the Company's allowance for doubtful accounts is presented below:
 
Balance at Beginning of Period
 
Provision for Bad Debt
 
Deductions/ Write-Offs and Other Charges
 
Balance at End of Period
Year Ended December 31, 2017
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Allowance for doubtful accounts
$
11,677

 
$
74,183

 
$
(72,440
)
 
$
13,420

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Year Ended December 31, 2016
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Allowance for doubtful accounts
$
1,051

 
$
53,249

 
$
(42,623
)
 
$
11,677

Schedule of activity related to the allowance for doubtful accounts 
Activity related to the allowance for doubtful accounts:
 
Balance at Beginning of Period
 
Provision for Bad Debt
 
Deductions/ Write-Offs and Other Charges
 
Balance at End of Period
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Period from January 1, 2016 through June 20, 2016
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Allowance for doubtful accounts
$
6,039

 
$
13,240

 
$
(12,378
)
 
$
6,901

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Year Ended December 31, 2015
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Allowance for doubtful accounts
$
12,112

 
$
35,802

 
$
(41,875
)
 
$
6,039

CVC - SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION (Tables)
Schedule of non-cash investing and financing activities and other supplemental data 
The Company's non-cash investing and financing activities and other supplemental data were as follows:
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Non-Cash Investing and Financing Activities:
 
 
 
Continuing Operations:
 
 
 
Conversion of notes payable to affiliates and related parties of $1,750,000 (together with accrued and unpaid interest and applicable premium) to common stock (See Note 9)
$
2,264,252

 
$
—

Property and equipment accrued but unpaid
171,604

 
155,653

Distributions declared but not paid
—

 
79,617

Leasehold improvements paid by landlord
3,998

 
—

Notes payable to vendor
40,131

 
12,449

Capital lease obligations
9,385

 
—

Deferred financing costs accrued but unpaid
—

 
2,570

Supplemental Data:
 
 
 
Cash interest paid
1,765,126

 
1,192,370

Income taxes paid, net
29,006

 
1,538

 
Schedule of non-cash investing and financing activities and other supplemental data 
The Company's non-cash investing and financing activities and other supplemental data were as follows:
 
January 1, 2016 to June 20, 2016
 
Years Ended December 31,
2015
 
 
Non-Cash Investing and Financing Activities:
 
 
 
Continuing Operations:
 
 
 
Property and equipment accrued but unpaid
$
68,356

 
$
63,843

Notes payable to vendor
—

 
8,318

Capital lease obligations
—

 
19,987

Intangible asset obligations
290

 
1,121

Non-Cash Investing and Financing Activities:
 
 
 

Dividends payable on unvested restricted share awards
—

 
3,517

Supplemental Data:
 
 
 
Continuing Operations:
 
 
 
Cash interest paid
258,940

 
560,361

Income taxes paid, net
7,082

 
3,849

 
CVC - PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT (Tables)
Schedule of property, plant and equipment 
Property, plant and equipment (including equipment under capital leases) consist of the following assets, which are depreciated or amortized on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives shown below:
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
Estimated
Useful Lives
Customer premise equipment
$
1,093,726

 
$
871,049

 
3 to 5 years
Headends and related equipment
1,626,293

 
1,482,631

 
4 to 25 years
Infrastructure
3,998,503

 
3,740,494

 
3 to 25 years
Equipment and software
917,698

 
735,012

 
3 to 10 years
Construction in progress (including materials and supplies)
286,702

 
84,321

 
 
Furniture and fixtures
52,545

 
45,576

 
5 to 12 years
Transportation equipment
137,886

 
135,488

 
5 to 10 years
Buildings and building improvements
394,421

 
390,337

 
10 to 40 years
Leasehold improvements
108,071

 
104,309

 
Term of lease
Land
47,563

 
47,715

 
 
 
8,663,408

 
7,636,932

 
 
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization
(2,599,579
)
 
(1,039,297
)
 
 
 
$
6,063,829

 
$
6,597,635

 
 
Schedule of buildings and equipment under capital lease 
The gross amount of buildings and equipment and related accumulated depreciation recorded under capital leases is presented below:
 
December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Buildings and equipment
$
48,936

 
$
53,833

Less accumulated depreciation
(12,972
)
 
(6,306
)
 
$
35,964

 
$
47,527

Schedule of property, plant and equipment 
Property, plant and equipment (including equipment under capital leases) consist of the following assets, which are depreciated or amortized on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives shown below:
 
December 31, 2015
 
Estimated
Useful Lives
Customer equipment
$
1,952,336

 
3 to 5 years
Headends and related equipment
2,388,289

 
4 to 25 years
Infrastructure
5,639,226

 
3 to 25 years
Equipment and software
1,577,616

 
3 to 10 years
Construction in progress (including materials and supplies)
87,412

 
 
Furniture and fixtures
96,561

 
5 to 12 years
Transportation equipment
210,013

 
5 to 18 years
Buildings and building improvements
322,267

 
10 to 40 years
Leasehold improvements
354,136

 
Term of lease
Land
14,507

 
 
 
12,642,363

 
 
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization
(9,625,348
)
 
 
 
$
3,017,015

 
 
Schedule of buildings and equipment under capital lease 
At December 31, 2015, the gross amount of equipment and related accumulated amortization recorded under capital leases was as follows:
 
December 31, 2015
Equipment
$
90,099

Less accumulated amortization
(28,119
)
 
$
61,980

CVC - OPERATING LEASES (Tables) (Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries)
Schedule of future minimum annual payments for all operating leases
The minimum future annual payments for all operating leases (with initial or remaining terms in excess of one year) during the next five years and thereafter, including pole rentals from January 1, 2017 through December 31, 2021, are as follows:
2017
$
57,853

2018
52,206

2019
44,908

2020
41,221

2021
38,697

Thereafter
141,063

CVC - INTANGIBLE ASSETS (Tables)
Schedule of Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class 
The following table summarizes information relating to the Company's acquired amortizable intangible assets: 
 
As of December 31, 2017
 
As of December 31, 2016
 
 
 
Gross Carrying Amount
 
Accumulated Amortization
 
Net Carrying Amount
 
Gross Carrying Amount
 
Accumulated Amortization
 
Net Carrying Amount
 
Estimated Useful Lives
Customer relationships
$
5,970,884

 
$
(1,409,021
)
 
$
4,561,863

 
$
5,925,884

 
$
(580,276
)
 
$
5,345,608

 
8 to 18 years
Trade names (a)
1,067,083

 
(588,574
)
 
478,509

 
1,066,783

 
(83,397
)
 
983,386

 
2 to 5 years
Other amortizable intangibles
37,060

 
(10,978
)
 
26,082

 
26,743

 
(3,093
)
 
23,650

 
1 to 15 years
 
$
7,075,027

 
$
(2,008,573
)
 
$
5,066,454

 
$
7,019,410

 
$
(666,766
)
 
$
6,352,644

 
 
 
(a)
On May 23, 2017, Altice N.V. announced the adoption of a global brand to replace the Company's brands in the future, reducing the remaining useful lives of these trade name intangibles to three years from the date of the adoption, which reflected one year as an in-use asset and two years as a defensive asset. In December 2017, the Company made a decision to postpone the adoption of a global brand that would have replaced the Optimum brand, increasing the useful life of the Optimum trade name intangible asset to 5 years.
Schedule of Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets 
The following table summarizes information relating to the Company's acquired indefinite-lived intangible assets as of December 31, 2017: 
 
As of December 31, 2017
 
As of December 31, 2016
 
Cablevision
 
Cequel
 
Total
 
Cablevision
 
Cequel
 
Total
Cable television franchises
$
8,113,575

 
$
4,906,506

 
$
13,020,081

 
$
8,113,575

 
$
4,906,506

 
$
13,020,081

Goodwill
5,843,019

 
2,153,741

 
7,996,760

 
5,838,959

 
2,153,741

 
7,992,700

Total
$
13,956,594

 
$
7,060,247

 
$
21,016,841

 
$
13,952,534

 
$
7,060,247

 
$
21,012,781

Schedule of Goodwill 
The carrying amount of goodwill is presented below:
Gross goodwill as of January 1, 2016
$
2,040,402

Goodwill recorded in connection with Cablevision Acquisition
5,838,959

Adjustments to purchase accounting relating to Cequel Acquisition
113,339

Gross goodwill as of January 1, 2017
7,992,700

Goodwill recorded in connection with acquisitions in the first and fourth quarters of 2017 (Cablevision Segment)
23,948

Adjustments to purchase accounting relating to Cablevision Acquisition
3,213

Transfer of Cablevision goodwill related to Altice Technical Services US Corp. (See Note 14 for further details)
(23,101
)
Net goodwill as of December 31, 2017
$
7,996,760

Schedule of Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class 
The following table summarizes information relating to the Company's acquired intangible assets: 
 
December 31, 2015
 
Gross Carrying Amount
Accumulated Amortization
Net Carrying Amount
Estimated Useful Lives
 
 
 
 
   
Customer relationships
$
39,414

$
(27,778
)
$
11,636

10 to 18 years
Trade names
—

—

—

 
Other amortizable intangibles
57,847

(32,532
)
25,315

3 to 28 years
 
$
97,261

$
(60,310
)
$
36,951

 
Schedule of Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets 
The following table summarizes information relating to the Company's acquired indefinite-lived intangible assets: 
 
December 31, 2015
Cable television franchises
$
731,848

Trademarks and other assets
7,250

Goodwill
262,345

Total
$
1,001,443

Schedule of Goodwill 
The carrying amount of goodwill is presented below:
Gross goodwill as of December 31, 2015 (Predecessor)
$
596,403

Accumulated impairment losses
(334,058
)
Net goodwill as of June 20, 2016
$
262,345

CVC - DEBT (Tables)
Schedule of Line of Credit Facilities 
The following table provides details of the Company's outstanding credit facility debt:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Carrying Amount (a)
 
Maturity Date
 
Interest Rate
 
Principal
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
CSC Holdings Restricted Group:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revolving Credit Facility (b)
$20,000 on October 9, 2020, remaining balance on November 30, 2021
 
4.75%
 
$
450,000

 
$
425,488

 
$
145,013

Term Loan Facility
July 17, 2025
 
3.74%
 
2,985,000

 
2,967,818

 
2,486,874

Cequel:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revolving Credit Facility (c)
November 30, 2021
 
—
 
—

 
—

 
—

Term Loan Facility
July 28, 2025
 
3.82%
 
1,258,675

 
1,250,217

 
812,903

 
 
 
 
 
$
4,693,675

 
4,643,523

 
3,444,790

Less: Current portion
42,650

 
33,150

Long-term debt
$
4,600,873

 
$
3,411,640


(a)
The carrying amount is net of the unamortized deferred financing costs and/or discounts.
(b)
At December 31, 2017, $115,973 of the revolving credit facility was restricted for certain letters of credit issued on behalf of the Company and $1,734,027 of the facility was undrawn and available, subject to covenant limitations.
(c)
At December 31, 2017, $13,500 of the revolving credit facility was restricted for certain letters of credit issued on behalf of the Company and $336,500 of the facility was undrawn and available, subject to covenant limitations.
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments 
The following table summarizes the Company's senior guaranteed notes, senior secured notes and senior notes and debentures:
 
 
 
 
 
Interest Rate
 
Principal Amount
 
Carrying Amount (a)
Issuer
Date Issued
 
Maturity Date
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
Senior notes:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CSC Holdings (b)(f)(n)
February 6, 1998
 
February 15, 2018
 
7.875
%
 
$
300,000

 
$
301,184

 
$
310,334

CSC Holdings (b)(f)
July 21, 1998
 
July 15, 2018
 
7.625
%
 
500,000

 
507,744

 
521,654

CSC Holdings (c)(f)
February 12, 2009
 
February 15, 2019
 
8.625
%
 
526,000

 
541,165

 
553,804

CSC Holdings (c)(f)
November 15, 2011
 
November 15, 2021
 
6.750
%
 
1,000,000

 
960,146

 
951,702

CSC Holdings (c)(f)
May 23, 2014
 
June 1, 2024
 
5.250
%
 
750,000

 
660,601

 
650,193

CSC Holdings (e)
October 9, 2015
 
January 15, 2023
 
10.125
%
 
1,800,000

 
1,777,914

 
1,774,750

CSC Holdings (e)(l)
October 9, 2015
 
October 15, 2025
 
10.875
%
 
1,684,221

 
1,661,135

 
1,970,379

Senior guaranteed notes:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CSC Holdings (e)
October 9, 2015
 
October 15, 2025
 
6.625
%
 
1,000,000

 
986,717

 
985,469

CSC Holdings (g)
September 23, 2016
 
April 15, 2027
 
5.500
%
 
1,310,000

 
1,304,468

 
1,304,025

Senior notes:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cablevision (k)(o)
September 23, 2009
 
September 15, 2017
 
8.625
%
 
—

 
—

 
926,045

Cablevision (c)(f)(n)(o)
April 15, 2010
 
April 15, 2018
 
7.750
%
 
750,000

 
754,035

 
767,545

Cablevision (c)(f)(o)
April 15, 2010
 
April 15, 2020
 
8.000
%
 
500,000

 
492,009

 
488,992

Cablevision (c)(f)(o)
September 27, 2012
 
September 15, 2022
 
5.875
%
 
649,024

 
572,071

 
559,500

Senior notes:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cequel Communications Holdings I and Cequel Capital (d)(m)(p)
Oct. 25, 2012 Dec. 28, 2012
 
September 15, 2020
 
6.375
%
 
1,050,000

 
1,027,493

 
1,457,439

Cequel Communications Holdings I and Cequel Capital (d)(p)
May 16, 2013 Sept. 9, 2014
 
December 15, 2021
 
5.125
%
 
1,250,000

 
1,138,870

 
1,115,767

Cequel Communications Holdings I and Cequel Capital (i)(p)
June 12, 2015
 
July 15, 2025
 
7.750
%
 
620,000

 
604,374

 
602,925

Senior secured notes:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Altice US Finance I Corporation (h)(p)
June 12, 2015
 
July 15, 2023
 
5.375
%
 
1,100,000

 
1,082,482

 
1,079,869

Altice US Finance I Corporation (j)(p)
April 26, 2016
 
May 15, 2026
 
5.500
%
 
1,500,000

 
1,488,024

 
1,486,933

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$
16,289,245

 
15,860,432

 
17,507,325

Less: Current portion
 
507,744

 
926,045

Long-term debt
 
$
15,352,688

 
$
16,581,280

 
(a)
The carrying amount is net of the unamortized deferred financing costs and/or discounts/premiums.
(b)
The debentures are not redeemable by CSC Holdings prior to maturity.
(c)
Notes are redeemable at any time at a specified "make-whole" price plus accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date.
(d)
The Company may redeem some or more of all the notes at the redemption price set forth in the relevant indenture, plus accrued and unpaid interest.
(e)
The Company may redeem some or all of the 2023 Notes at any time on or after January 15, 2019, and some or all of the 2025 Notes and 2025 Guaranteed Notes at any time on or after October 15, 2020, at the redemption prices set forth in the relevant indenture, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any.  The Company may also redeem up to 40% of each series of the Cablevision Acquisition Notes using the proceeds of certain equity offerings before October 15, 2018, at a redemption price equal to 110.125% for the 2023 Notes, 110.875% for the 2025 Notes and 106.625% for the 2025 Guaranteed Notes, in each case plus accrued and unpaid interest. In addition, at any time prior to January 15, 2019, CSC Holdings may redeem some or all of the 2023 Notes, and at any time prior to October 15, 2020, the Company may redeem some or all of the 2025 Notes and the 2025 Guaranteed Notes, at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount thereof, plus a “make whole” premium specified in the relevant indenture plus accrued and unpaid interest.
(f)
The carrying value of the notes was adjusted to reflect their fair value on the Cablevision Acquisition Date (aggregate reduction of $52,788).
(g)
The 2027 Guaranteed Notes are redeemable at any time on or after April 15, 2022 at the redemption prices set forth in the indenture, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any.  In addition, up to 40% may be redeemed for each series of the 2027 Guaranteed Notes using the proceeds of certain equity offerings before October 15, 2019, at a redemption price equal to 105.500%, plus accrued and unpaid interest.
(h)
Some or all of these notes may be redeemed at any time on or after July 15, 2018, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any. Up to 40% of the notes may be redeemed using the proceeds of certain equity offerings before July 15, 2018, at a redemption price equal to 105.375%.
(i)
Some or all of these notes may be redeemed at any time on or after July 15, 2020, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any. Up to 40% of the notes may be redeemed using the proceeds of certain equity offerings before July 15, 2018, at a redemption price equal to 107.750%.
(j)
Some or all of these notes may be redeemed at any time on or after May 15, 2021, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any. Up to 40% of the notes may be redeemed using the proceeds of certain equity offerings before May 15, 2019, at a redemption price equal to 105.500%.
(k)
In April 2017, the Company redeemed $500,000 of the senior notes from proceeds from the CVC Term Loan facility. In September 2017, these senior notes matured and the Company repaid the remaining principal balance of $400,000.
(l)
In July 2017, the Company used approximately $350,120 of the proceeds from the IPO to fund the redemption of $315,779 principal amount of CSC Holdings senior notes due October 2025 and the related call premium of approximately $34,341which was recorded as a loss on extinguishment of debt. The Company also recorded a write-off of deferred financings costs in connection with this redemption aggregating $4,516.
(m)
In April 2017, the Company redeemed $450,000 of the senior notes from proceeds from the Cequel Term Loan facility.
(n)
As a result of the repayment of these notes in February 2018, discussed in Note 20, the carrying amount of these Notes has been classified as long-term indebtedness.
(o)
The issuers of these notes have no ability to service interest or principal on the notes, other than through any dividends or distributions received from CSC Holdings. CSC Holdings is restricted, in certain circumstances, from paying dividends or distributions to the issuers by the terms of the CVC Credit Facilities Agreement.
(p)
The issuers of these notes have no ability to service interest or principal on the notes, other than through any contributions/distributions from Cequel Communications, LLC (an indirect subsidiary of Cequel and the parent of Altice US Finance I). Cequel Communications, LLC is restricted in certain circumstances, from paying dividends or distributions to the issuers by the terms of the Cequel Credit Facilities Agreement.
Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt 
The future maturities of debt payable by the Company under its various debt obligations outstanding as of December 31, 2017, including notes payable, collateralized indebtedness (see Note 10), and capital leases, are as follows:
Years Ending December 31,
Cablevision
 
Cequel
 
Total
2018
$
1,619,094

 
$
16,518

 
$
1,635,612

2019
565,604

 
18,310

 
583,914

2020
552,902

 
1,062,713

 
1,615,615

2021
2,921,269

 
1,262,723

 
4,183,992

2022
680,700

 
12,734

 
693,434

Thereafter
9,380,513

 
4,416,270

 
13,796,783

Schedule of Line of Credit Facilities 
The following table provides details of the Company's outstanding credit facility debt (net of unamortized financing costs and unamortized discounts):
 
Maturity
Date
 
Interest Rate
 
Principal
 
December 31, 2015 (a)
Restricted Group:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Term A loan facility (b)
April 17, 2018
 
2.17%
 
$
886,621

 
$
885,105

Term B loan facility (b)
April 17, 2020
 
2.92%
 
1,159,031

 
1,150,227

Restricted Group Credit Facilities debt
$
2,035,332

 
(a)
The unamortized discounts and deferred financing costs amounted to $11,200 at December 31, 2015.
(b)
In connection with the Merger, the Company repaid the then outstanding Term A and Term B loan facilities (see discussion above).
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments 
The following table summarizes the Company's senior notes and debentures as of December 31, 2015:
 
 
 
 
 
Interest
 
Principal
 
Carrying
Issuer
Date Issued
 
Maturity Date
 
Rate
 
Amount
 
Amount (c)
CSC Holdings (a)
February 6, 1998
 
February 15, 2018
 
7.875
%
 
$
300,000

 
$
299,091

CSC Holdings (a)
July 21, 1998
 
July 15, 2018
 
7.625
%
 
500,000

 
498,942

CSC Holdings (b)
February 12, 2009
 
February 15, 2019
 
8.625
%
 
526,000

 
511,079

CSC Holdings (b)
November 15, 2011
 
November 15, 2021
 
6.750
%
 
1,000,000

 
985,640

CSC Holdings (b)
May 23, 2014
 
June 1, 2024
 
5.250
%
 
750,000

 
737,500

Cablevision (b)
September 23, 2009
 
September 15, 2017
 
8.625
%
 
900,000

 
891,238

Cablevision (b)
April 15, 2010
 
April 15, 2018
 
7.750
%
 
750,000

 
744,402

Cablevision (b)
April 15, 2010
 
April 15, 2020
 
8.000
%
 
500,000

 
494,410

Cablevision (b)
September 27, 2012
 
September 15, 2022
 
5.875
%
 
649,024

 
638,709

Total
$
5,801,011

 
(a)
The debentures are not redeemable by the Company prior to maturity.
(b)
The Company may redeem some or all of the notes at any time at a specified "make-whole" price plus accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date.
(c)
The carrying amount of the notes is net of the unamortized deferred financing costs and/or discounts/premiums.
Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt 
Total amounts payable by the Company under its various debt obligations outstanding, including the debt transaction subsequent to the merger discussed above and including notes payable, collateralized indebtedness, and capital leases, during the periods shown below, are as follows:
Years Ending December 31,
 
2017
$
1,719,180

2018
2,103,441

2019
557,348

2020
526,340

2021
1,200,256

Thereafter
9,884,024

CVC - DERIVATIVE CONTRACTS AND COLLATERALIZED INDEBTEDNESS (Tables)
Location of Assets and Liabilities Associated With Derivative Instruments Within the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets 
The following represents the location of the assets and liabilities associated with the Company's derivative instruments within the consolidated balance sheets:
 
 
 
 
Asset Derivatives
 
Liability Derivatives
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments
 
Balance Sheet
Location
 
Fair Value at December 31, 2017
 
Fair Value at December 31, 2016
 
Fair Value at December 31, 2017
 
Fair Value at December 31, 2016
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Prepaid forward contracts
 
Derivative contracts, current
 
$
52,545

 
$
352

 
$
(52,545
)
 
$
(13,158
)
Prepaid forward contracts
 
Derivative contracts, long-term
 
—

 
10,604

 
(109,504
)
 
—

Interest rate swap contracts
 
Liabilities under derivative contracts, long-term
 
—

 
—

 
(77,902
)
 
(78,823
)
 
 
 
 
$
52,545

 
$
10,956

 
$
(239,951
)
 
$
(91,981
)
Schedule of Collateralized Debt Settlement 
The following table summarizes the settlement of the Company's collateralized indebtedness relating to Comcast shares that were settled by delivering cash equal to the collateralized loan value, net of the value of the related equity derivative contracts during the year ended December 31, 2017: 
Number of shares (a)
26,815,368

Collateralized indebtedness settled
$
(774,703
)
Derivatives contracts settled
(56,356
)
 
(831,059
)
Proceeds from new monetization contracts
838,794

Net cash proceeds
$
7,735

 
(a)
Share amounts are adjusted for the 2 for 1 stock split in February 2017.
Location of Assets and Liabilities Associated With Derivative Instruments Within the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets 
The following represents the location of the assets and liabilities associated with the Company's derivative instruments within the consolidated balance sheets:
Derivatives Not
Designated as
 Hedging
Instruments
 
Balance
Sheet
Location
 
Asset Derivatives
 
Liability Derivatives
 
 
 
 
 
Fair Value at December 31, 2015
Prepaid forward contracts
 
Current derivative contracts
 
$
10,333

 
$
2,706

Prepaid forward contracts
 
Long-term derivative contracts
 
72,075

 
—

 
 
 
 
$
82,408

 
$
2,706

Schedule of Collateralized Debt Settlement 
The following table summarizes the settlement of the Company's collateralized indebtedness relating to Comcast shares that were settled by delivering cash equal to the collateralized loan value, net of the value of the related equity derivative contracts. 
 
January 1 to June 20, 2016
 
Year Ended December 31, 2015
 
 
 
 
Number of shares (a)
10,802,118

 
26,815,368

Collateralized indebtedness settled
$
(273,519
)
 
$
(569,562
)
Derivative contracts settled
(8,075
)
 
(69,675
)
 
(281,594
)
 
(639,237
)
Proceeds from new monetization contracts
337,149

 
774,703

Net cash receipt
$
55,555

 
$
135,466

CVC - FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT (Tables)
Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis 
The following table presents for each of these hierarchy levels, the Company's financial assets and financial liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
 
Fair Value
Hierarchy
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
Money market funds (of which $14,700 is classified as restricted cash as of December 31, 2016)
Level I
 
$
5,949

 
$
100,139

Investment securities pledged as collateral
Level I
 
1,720,357

 
1,483,030

Prepaid forward contracts
Level II
 
52,545

 
10,956

Liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
Prepaid forward contracts
Level II
 
162,049

 
13,158

Interest rate swap contracts
Level II
 
77,902

 
78,823

Contingent consideration related to 2017 acquisitions
Level III
 
32,233

 
—

Schedule of Carrying Values and Estimated Fair Values of Debt Instruments 
The carrying values, estimated fair values, and classification under the fair value hierarchy of the Company's financial instruments, excluding those that are carried at fair value in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets, are summarized as follows:
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
Fair Value
Hierarchy
 
Carrying
Amount (a)
 
Estimated
Fair Value
 
Carrying
Amount (a)
 
Estimated
Fair Value
Altice USA debt instruments:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes payable to affiliates and related parties
Level II
 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
1,750,000

 
$
1,837,876

CSC Holdings debt instruments:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Credit facility debt
Level II
 
3,393,306

 
3,435,000

 
2,631,887

 
2,675,256

Collateralized indebtedness
Level II
 
1,349,474

 
1,305,932

 
1,286,069

 
1,280,048

Senior guaranteed notes
Level II
 
2,291,185

 
2,420,000

 
2,289,494

 
2,416,375

Senior notes and debentures
Level II
 
6,409,889

 
7,221,846

 
6,732,816

 
7,731,150

Notes payable
Level II
 
56,956

 
55,289

 
13,726

 
13,260

Cablevision senior notes
Level II
 
1,818,115

 
1,931,239

 
2,742,082

 
2,920,056

Cequel debt instruments:
 
 


 


 


 


Cequel credit facility
Level II
 
1,250,217

 
1,258,675

 
812,903

 
815,000

Senior secured notes
Level II
 
2,570,506

 
2,658,930

 
2,566,802

 
2,689,750

Senior notes
Level II
 
2,770,737

 
2,983,615

 
3,176,131

 
3,517,275

Notes payable
Level II
 
8,946

 
8,945

 
—

 
—

 
 
 
$
21,919,331

 
$
23,279,471

 
$
24,001,910

 
$
25,896,046

 
(a)
Amounts are net of unamortized deferred financing costs and discounts/premiums.
Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis 
The following table presents for each of these hierarchy levels, the Company's financial assets and financial liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
 
At December 31, 2015
 
Level I
 
Level II
 
Level III
 
Total
Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Money market funds
$
922,765

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
922,765

Investment securities
130

 
—

 
—

 
130

Investment securities pledged as collateral
1,211,982

 
—

 
—

 
1,211,982

Prepaid forward contracts
—

 
82,408

 
—

 
82,408

Liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Prepaid forward contracts
—

 
2,706

 
—

 
2,706

 
Schedule of Carrying Values and Estimated Fair Values of Debt Instruments 
The carrying values, estimated fair values, and classification under the fair value hierarchy of the Company's financial instruments, excluding those that are carried at fair value in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets, are summarized as follows:
 
  
 
December 31, 2015
 
Fair Value
Hierarchy
 
Carrying
Amount
 
Estimated
Fair Value
 
 
 
 
 
 
Debt instruments:
 
 
 

 
 

Credit facility debt
Level II
 
$
2,514,454

 
$
2,525,654

Collateralized indebtedness
Level II
 
1,191,324

 
1,176,396

Senior notes and debentures
Level II
 
5,801,011

 
5,756,608

Notes payable
Level II
 
14,544

 
14,483

Total debt instruments
 
 
$
9,521,333

 
$
9,473,141

CVC - INCOME TAXES (Tables)
Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Attributable to Continuing Operations 
Income tax benefit attributable to the Company's operations for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 consist of the following components:
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Current expense (benefit):
 
 
 
Federal
$
5,657

 
$
(981
)
State
12,509

 
5,310

 
18,166

 
4,329

Deferred benefit:
 
 
 
Federal
(2,088,652
)
 
(223,159
)
State
(782,492
)
 
(40,830
)
 
(2,871,144
)
 
(263,989
)
Tax benefit relating to uncertain tax positions
11

 
(6
)
Income tax benefit
$
(2,852,967
)
 
$
(259,666
)
Reconciliation of Effective Tax Rate from Continuing Operations 
The income tax benefit attributable to the Company's operations differs from the amount derived by applying the statutory federal rate to pretax loss principally due to the effect of the following items:
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Federal tax benefit at statutory rate
$
(465,972
)
 
$
(381,901
)
State income taxes, net of federal impact
(59,719
)
 
(39,336
)
Changes in the valuation allowance
(111
)
 
297

Impact of Federal Tax Reform
(2,337,900
)
 
—

Changes in the state rates used to measure deferred taxes, net of federal impact
(12,896
)
 
153,239

Tax benefit relating to uncertain tax positions
(253
)
 
(120
)
Non-deductible share-based compensation related to the carried unit plan
20,101

 
5,029

Non-deductible Cablevision Acquisition transaction costs
—

 
4,457

Other non-deductible expenses
3,349

 
1,551

Other, net
434

 
(2,882
)
Income tax benefit
$
(2,852,967
)
 
$
(259,666
)
Significant Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities 
The tax effects of temporary differences which give rise to significant portions of deferred tax assets or liabilities and the corresponding valuation allowance are as follows.
 
December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Noncurrent
 
 
 
NOLs and tax credit carry forwards
$
784,334

 
$
971,728

Compensation and benefit plans
48,280

 
93,939

Partnership investments
68,054

 
113,473

Restructuring liability
33,247

 
37,393

Other liabilities
38,140

 
45,561

Liabilities under derivative contracts
21,034

 
31,529

Interest deferred for tax purposes
128,516

 
39,633

Other
7,182

 
6,615

Deferred tax asset
1,128,787

 
1,339,871

Valuation allowance
(3,000
)
 
(3,125
)
Net deferred tax asset, noncurrent
1,125,787

 
1,336,746

Fixed assets and intangibles
(5,733,319
)
 
(9,065,635
)
Investments
(113,628
)
 
(187,795
)
Prepaid expenses
(8,007
)
 
(10,172
)
Fair value adjustments related to debt and deferred financing costs
(40,215
)
 
(30,535
)
Other
(5,733
)
 
(9,424
)
Deferred tax liability, noncurrent
(5,900,902
)
 
(9,303,561
)
Total net deferred tax liability
$
(4,775,115
)
 
$
(7,966,815
)
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits Associated with Uncertain Tax Positions, Excluding Associated Deferred Tax Benefits and Accrued Interest 
A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits associated with uncertain tax positions, excluding associated deferred tax benefits and accrued interest, is as follows:
Balance at January 1, 2016
$
4,025

Increases related to prior year tax positions
11

Balance at December 31, 2017
$
4,036

Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits Associated with Uncertain Tax Positions, Excluding Associated Deferred Tax Benefits and Accrued Interest 
A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits associated with uncertain tax positions, excluding associated deferred tax benefits and accrued interest, is as follows:
Balance at December 31, 2015
$
4,022

Increases related to prior year tax positions
3

Increases related to current year tax positions
6

Balance at June 20, 2016
$
4,031

CVC - BENEFIT PLANS (Tables)
Components of Net Benefit Cost for defined Benefit Plans 
Components of the net periodic benefit cost, recorded in other operating expenses, for the Defined Benefit Plans for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, is as follows:
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
 
2017
 
2016
Interest cost
$
11,786

 
$
6,946

Expected return on plan assets, net
(4,907
)
 
(4,022
)
Curtailment loss
3,137

 
231

Settlement loss (income) (reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss) (a)
1,845

 
(154
)
Net periodic benefit cost
$
11,861

 
$
3,001

 
(a)
As a result of benefit payments to terminated or retired individuals exceeding the service and interest costs for the Pension Plan and the Excess Cash Balance Pension Plan during the year ended December 31, 2017 and during the period June 21, 2016 through December 31, 2016, the Company recognized a non-cash settlement loss that represented the acceleration of the recognition of a portion of the previously unrecognized actuarial losses recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss on the Company’s consolidated balance sheet relating to these plans.
Plan Assumptions for Defined Benefit Plans 
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic cost (made at the beginning of the year) and benefit obligations (made at the end of the year) for the Defined Benefit Plans are as follows:
 
Net Periodic Benefit Cost
 
Benefit Obligations at December 31,
 
For the Year Ended December 31, 2017
 
For the Period June 21, 2016 to
December 31, 2016
 
2017
 
2016
Discount rate (a)
3.69
%
 
3.53
%
 
3.50
%
 
3.81
%
Rate of increase in future compensation levels
—
%
 
—
%
 
—
%
 
—
%
Expected rate of return on plan assets (Pension Plan only)
3.90
%
 
3.97
%
 
N/A

 
N/A

 
(a)
The discount rate of 3.53% for the period June 21, 2016 through December 31, 2016, represents the average of the quarterly discount rates used to remeasure the Company's projected benefit obligation and net periodic benefit cost in connection with the recognition of settlement losses discussed above.
Fair Values of the Pension Plan Assets by Asset Category 
The fair values of the assets of the Pension Plan at December 31, 2017 by asset class are as follows:
Asset Class
Level I
 
Level II
 
Level III
 
Total
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Mutual funds
$
61,833

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
61,833

Fixed income securities held in a portfolio:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign issued corporate debt
—

 
10,721

 
—

 
10,721

U.S. corporate debt
—

 
39,992

 
—

 
39,992

Government debt
—

 
4,645

 
—

 
4,645

U.S. Treasury securities
—

 
62,601

 
—

 
62,601

Asset-backed securities
—

 
10,978

 
—

 
10,978

Other
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

Cash equivalents (a)
6,691

 
2,782

 
—

 
9,473

Total (b)
$
68,524

 
$
131,719

 
$
—

 
$
200,243

 
(a)
A significant portion represents an investment in a short-term investment fund that invests primarily in securities of high quality and low risk.
(b)
Excludes cash and net payables relating to the purchase of securities that were not settled as of December 31, 2017.
The fair values of the assets of the Pension Plan at December 31, 2016 by asset class are as follows:
Asset Class
Level I
 
Level II
 
Level III
 
Total
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Mutual funds
$
121,356

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
121,356

Fixed income securities held in a portfolio:

 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign issued corporate debt
—

 
13,583

 
—

 
13,583

U.S. corporate debt
—

 
48,046

 
—

 
48,046

Government debt
—

 
4,810

 
—

 
4,810

U.S. Treasury securities
—

 
77,285

 
—

 
77,285

Asset-backed securities
—

 
14,065

 
—

 
14,065

Other
—

 
247

 
—

 
247

Cash equivalents (a)
2,593

 
3,089

 
—

 
5,682

Total (b)
$
123,949

 
$
161,125

 
$
—

 
$
285,074

 
(a)
A significant portion represents an investment in a short-term investment fund that invests primarily in securities of high quality and low risk.
(b)
Excludes cash and net payables relating to the purchase of securities that were not settled as of December 31, 2016.
The weighted average asset allocations of the Pension Plan at December 31, 2017 and 2016 were as follows:
 
Plan Assets at December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Asset Class:
 
 
 
Mutual funds
32
%
 
43
%
Fixed income securities
66

 
55

Cash equivalents and other
2

 
2

 
100
%
 
100
%
Funded Status for All Qualified and Non-Qualified defined Benefit Plans 
Summarized below is the funded status and the amounts recorded on the Company's consolidated balance sheets for all of the Company's Defined Benefit Plans at December 31, 2015:
Change in projected benefit obligation:
 
Projected benefit obligation at beginning of year
$
430,846

Service cost
344

Interest cost
15,523

Actuarial (gain) loss
(14,912
)
Curtailments
—

Benefits paid
(27,838
)
Projected benefit obligation at end of year
403,963

 
 
Change in plan assets:
 

Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year
303,676

Actual return (loss) on plan assets, net
(3,921
)
Employer contributions
25,929

Benefits paid
(27,838
)
Fair value of plan assets at end of year
297,846

 
 
Unfunded status at end of year
$
(106,117
)
Net Funded Status Relating to Defined Benefit Plans 
The Company's net funded status relating to its Defined Benefit Plans at December 31, 2015 are as follows:
Defined Benefit Plans
$
(106,117
)
Less: Current portion related to nonqualified plans
6,889

Long-term defined benefit plan obligations
$
(99,228
)
 
Components of Net Benefit Cost for defined Benefit Plans 
Components of the net periodic benefit cost, recorded in other operating expenses, for the Defined Benefit Plans for the period January 1, 2016 to June 20, 2016 and for the year ended December 31, 2015, are as follows:
 
January 1, 2016 to
June 20, 2016
 
Year ended December 31, 2015
 
 
 
 
Service cost
$
—

 
$
344

Interest cost
7,130

 
15,523

Expected return on plan assets, net
(3,565
)
 
(8,297
)
Recognized actuarial loss (reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss)
(1,446
)
 
1,294

Settlement (income) loss (reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss) (a)
1,655

 
3,822

Net periodic benefit cost
$
3,774

 
$
12,686

 
(a)
As a result of benefit payments to terminated or retired individuals exceeding the service and interest costs for the Pension Plan and the Excess Cash Balance Pension Plan during the period January 1, 2016 through June 20, 2016, and year ended December 31, 2015, the Company recognized a non-cash settlement loss that represented the acceleration of the recognition of a portion of the previously unrecognized actuarial losses recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets relating to these plans.
Plan Assumptions for Defined Benefit Plans 
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic cost (made at the beginning of the year) and benefit obligations (made at the end of the year) for the Defined Benefit Plans are as follows:
 
Weighted-Average Assumptions
 
Net Periodic Benefit Cost
 
Benefit Obligations
 
January 1, 2016 to
June 20, 2016
 
Year ended December 31, 2015
 
December 31, 2015
Discount rate (a)
3.76
%
 
3.83
%
 
3.94
%
Rate of increase in future compensation levels
—
%
 
—
%
 
—
%
Expected rate of return on plan assets (Pension Plan only)
3.97
%
 
4.03
%
 
N/A

 
(a)
The discount rates of 3.76% and 3.83%, for the period January 1, 2016 through June 20, 2016, and year ended December 31, 2015, respectively, represent the average of the quarterly discount rates used to remeasure the Company's projected benefit obligation and net periodic benefit cost in connection with the recognition of settlement losses discussed above.
Weighted Average Asset Allocations of Pension Plan 
The weighted average asset allocations of the Pension Plan at December 31, 2015 are as follows:
 
Plan Assets at
December 31,
 
2015
Asset Class:
 
Mutual funds
39
%
Fixed income securities
61

Cash equivalents and other
—

 
100
%
Fair Values of the Pension Plan Assets by Asset Category 
The fair values of the assets of the Pension Plan at December 31, 2015 by asset class are as follows:
Asset Class
Level I
 
Level II
 
Level III
 
Total
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Mutual funds
$
117,174

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
117,174

Fixed income securities held in a portfolio:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign issued corporate debt
—

 
12,825

 
—

 
12,825

U.S. corporate debt
—

 
54,005

 
—

 
54,005

Government debt
—

 
8,273

 
—

 
8,273

U.S. Treasury securities
—

 
90,414

 
—

 
90,414

Asset-backed securities
—

 
18,563

 
—

 
18,563

Cash equivalents (a)
893

 
—

 
—

 
893

Total (b)
$
118,067

 
$
184,080

 
$
—

 
$
302,147

 
(a)
Represents an investment in a money market fund.
(b)
Excludes cash and net payables relating to the sale of securities that were not settled as of December 31, 2015.
CVC - EQUITY AND LONG-TERM INCENTIVE PLANS (Tables)
Schedule of assumptions were used to calculate the fair values of stock option awards granted 
The following aggregate assumptions were used to calculate the fair values of stock option awards granted on December 30, 2017:
Risk-free interest rate
 
2.30%
Expected life (in years)
 
6.44
Dividend yield
 
—%
Volatility
 
33.95%
Grant date fair value
 
$8.77
Summary of share-based compensation expense 
The following table presents the share-based compensation expense recognized by the Company as other operating expenses:
 
January 1, 2016 to
June 20, 2016
 
Year ended December 31, 2015
Stock options
$
3,848

 
$
9,159

Restricted shares and restricted stock units
20,930

 
51,162

Share-based compensation related to equity classified awards
24,778

 
60,321

Other share-based compensation
453

 
4,965

Total share-based compensation
$
25,231

 
$
65,286

Schedule of assumptions were used to calculate the fair values of stock option awards granted 
The following assumptions were used to calculate the fair values of stock option awards granted in the first quarter of 2015:
 
2015
 
 
Risk-free interest rate
1.82
%
Expected life (in years)
8

Dividend yield
3.63
%
Volatility
39.98
%
Grant date fair value
$
5.45

Summary of activity relating of stock options 
The following table summarizes activity relating to Company employees who held Cablevision stock options for the period January 1, 2016 to June 20, 2016 and for the year ended December 31, 2015:
 
Shares
Under Option
 
Weighted Average
Exercise
Price Per Share
 
Weighted Average Remaining
Contractual Term
(in years)
 
 
 
Time
Vesting Options
 
Performance
Based Vesting Options
 
 
 
Aggregate Intrinsic
Value (a)
Balance, December 31, 2014
5,097,666

 
7,633,500

 
$
14.41

 
7.17
 
$
79,347

Granted
2,000,000

 
—

 
19.17

 
 
 
 

Exercised
(353,666
)
 
(1,024,283
)
 
12.84

 
 
 
 

Balance, December 31, 2015
6,744,000

 
6,609,217

 
15.28

 
6.80
 
221,900

Exercised
(744,000
)
 
(728,517
)
 
13.97

 
 
 
 

Balance, June 20, 2016
6,000,000

 
5,880,700

 
$
15.45

 
 
 
 
 
(a)
The aggregate intrinsic value is calculated as the difference between (i) the exercise price of the underlying award and (ii) the quoted price of CNYG Class A common stock on December 31, 2015, as indicated.
Summary of activity relating of restricted shares and restricted stock units 
Restricted Stock Award Activity
The following table summarizes activity relating to Company employees who held Cablevision restricted shares and restricted stock units for the period January 1, 2016 to June 20, 2016 and for the year ended December 31, 2015:
 
Number of Restricted Shares
 
Number of Performance Restricted Shares
 
Number of Performance Based Restricted Stock Units ("PSU") (a)
 
Weighted Average Fair Value Per Share at Date of Grant
Unvested award balance, December 31, 2014
5,314,870

 
2,035,300

 
—

 
$
15.46

Granted
1,747,870

 
584,400

 
1,851,700

 
19.43

Vested
(1,598,363
)
 
(739,600
)
 
—

 
14.48

Awards forfeited
(496,629
)
 
—

 
(79,270
)
 
17.28

Unvested award balance, December 31, 2015
4,967,748

 
1,880,100

 
1,772,430

 
17.53

Vested
(2,239,167
)
 
(753,296
)
 
—

 
15.35

Awards forfeited
(85,900
)
 
—

 
(47,490
)
 
18.38

Unvested award balance, June 20, 2016
2,642,681

 
1,126,804

 
1,724,940

 
 
 
(a)
The PSUs entitled the employee to shares of CNYG common stock up to 150% of the number of PSUs granted depending on the level of achievement of the specified performance criteria. If the minimum performance threshold was not met, no shares were issued. Accrued dividends were paid to the extent that a PSU vested and the related stock was issued.
CVC - RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS (Tables)
Summary of related party transactions 
The following table summarizes the revenue and charges related to services provided to or received from subsidiaries of Altice N.V. and Newsday:
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Revenue
$
2,205

 
$
1,086

Operating expenses:
 
 
 
Programming and other direct costs
$
(4,176
)
 
$
(1,947
)
Other operating expenses, net
(106,084
)
 
(18,854
)
Operating expenses, net
(110,260
)
 
(20,801
)
 
 
 
 
Interest expense (see Note 9)(a)
(90,405
)
 
(112,712
)
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs (see Note 9)
(513,723
)
 
—

Net charges
$
(712,183
)
 
$
(132,427
)
Capital Expenditures
$
133,918

 
$
45,886

 
(a)
The 2016 amount includes $10,155 related to Holdco Notes prior to the exchange in addition to the interest related to notes payable to affiliates and related parties discussed in Note 9.
Aggregate amounts that were due from and due to related parties are summarized below:
 
December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
Due from:
 
 
 
Altice US Finance S.A. (a)
$
12,951

 
$
12,951

Newsday (b)
2,713

 
6,114

Altice Management Americas (b)
33

 
3,117

i24NEWS (b)
4,036

 
—

Other Altice N.V. subsidiaries (b)
1,623

 
—

 
$
21,356

 
$
22,182

Due to:
 
 
 
CVC 3BV (c)
$
—

 
$
71,655

Neptune Holdings US LP (c)
—

 
7,962

Altice Management International (d)
—

 
44,121

ATS (b)(e)
2,948

 
—

Newsday (b)
33

 
275

Altice Labs S.A. (d)
7,354

 
866

Other Altice N.V. subsidiaries (f)
3,611

 
2,484

 
$
13,946

 
$
127,363

 
(a)
Represents interest on senior notes paid by the Company on behalf of the affiliate.
(b)
Represents amounts paid by the Company on behalf of the respective related party and for Newsday and ATS, the net amounts due from the related party also include charges for certain transition services provided.
(c)
Represents distributions payable to stockholders.
(d)
Amounts payable as of December 31, 2016 primarily represent amounts due for equipment purchases and/or software development services discussed above.
(e)
Represents amounts due to ATS for construction, maintenance, and installation services, net of charges to ATS pursuant to the TSA. See discussion above.
(f)
Represents amounts due to affiliates for services provided to the Company.
Summary of related party transactions 
The following table summarizes the revenue and charges (credits) related to services provided to or received from AMC Networks, Madison Square Garden Company and MSG Networks for the Predecessor periods:
 
January 1, 2016 to June 20, 2016
 
Year Ended December 31, 2015
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenue
$
2,088

 
$
5,343

Operating expenses:
 

 
 

Programming and other direct costs, net of credits
$
84,636

 
$
176,909

Other operating expenses, net of credits
2,182

 
5,372

Operating expenses, net
86,818

 
182,281

Net charges
$
84,730

 
$
176,938

Aggregate amounts that were due from and due to AMC Networks, Madison Square Garden and MSG Networks and other affiliates at December 31, 2015 (Predecessor) is summarized below:
 
December 31,
 
2015
Amounts due from affiliates
$
767

Amounts due to affiliates
29,729

CVC - INTERIM FINANCIAL INFORMATION (Unaudited) (Tables)
Selected Quarterly Financial Information 
The following is a summary of the Company's selected quarterly financial data for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016:
 
March 31,
2017
 
June 30,
2017
 
September 30,
2017
 
December 31,
2017 (a)
 
Total
2017
Revenues, net
$
2,305,676

 
$
2,328,341

 
$
2,327,175

 
$
2,365,378

 
$
9,326,570

Operating expenses
(2,057,442
)
 
(2,071,559
)
 
(2,192,311
)
 
(2,139,874
)
 
(8,461,186
)
Operating income
$
248,234

 
$
256,782

 
$
134,864

 
$
225,504

 
$
865,384

Net income (loss)
$
(76,188
)
 
$
(474,790
)
 
$
(182,086
)
 
$
2,254,682

 
$
1,521,618

Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
(237
)
 
(365
)
 
(135
)
 
(850
)
 
(1,587
)
Net income (loss) attributable to Altice USA Inc.'s stockholders
$
(76,425
)
 
$
(475,155
)
 
$
(182,221
)
 
$
2,253,832

 
$
1,520,031

Basic and diluted net income (loss) per share attributable to Altice USA Inc.'s stockholders
$
(0.12
)
 
$
(0.72
)
 
$
(0.25
)
 
$
3.06

 
$
2.18

 
(a)
Pursuant to the enactment of the Tax Reform on December 22, 2017, the Company recorded a noncash deferred tax benefit of $2,337,900 to remeasure the net deferred tax liability to adjust for the reduction in the corporate federal income tax rate 35% to 21% which is effective on January 1, 2018.
 
March 31,
2016
 
June 30,
2016
 
September 30,
2016
 
December 31,
2016
 
Total
2016
Revenues, net
$
627,589

 
$
823,501

 
$
2,260,221

 
$
2,305,901

 
$
6,017,212

Operating expenses
(573,329
)
 
(778,098
)
 
(2,117,442
)
 
(2,088,677
)
 
(5,557,546
)
Operating income
$
54,260

 
$
45,403

 
$
142,779

 
$
217,224

 
$
459,666

Net loss
$
(140,748
)
 
$
(282,129
)
 
$
(172,553
)
 
$
(236,049
)
 
$
(831,479
)
Net loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling interests
—

 
364

 
(256
)
 
(659
)
 
(551
)
Net loss attributable to Altice USA, Inc. stockholders
$
(140,748
)
 
$
(281,765
)
 
$
(172,809
)
 
$
(236,708
)
 
$
(832,030
)
Basic and diluted net loss per share attributable to Altice USA Inc.'s stockholders
$
(0.22
)
 
$
(0.43
)
 
$
(0.27
)
 
$
(0.36
)
 
$
(1.28
)
Selected Quarterly Financial Information 
The following is a summary of the Company's selected quarterly financial data:
 
Predecessor
2016:
March 31,
2016
 
April 1 to June 20, 2016
 
 
 
 
Revenue
$
1,645,890

 
$
1,491,714

Operating expenses
(1,394,635
)
 
(1,267,663
)
Operating income
$
251,255

 
$
224,051

Net income
$
94,311

 
$
69,201

Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests
66

 
170

Net income attributable to Cablevision Systems Corporation stockholders
$
94,377

 
$
69,371

Basic income per share attributable to Cablevision Systems Corporation stockholders:
Income from continuing operations, net of income taxes
$
0.35

 
$
0.25

Loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes
$
—

 
$
—

Net income
$
0.35

 
$
0.25

Diluted income per share attributable to Cablevision Systems Corporation stockholders:
Income from continuing operations, net of income taxes
$
0.34

 
$
0.25

Loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes
$
—

 
$
—

Net income
$
0.34

 
$
0.25

Amounts attributable to Cablevision Systems Corporation stockholders:
Income from continuing operations, net of income taxes
$
94,377

 
$
69,371

Loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes
—

 
—

Net income
$
94,377

 
$
69,371

 
 
Predecessor
2015:
March 31,
2015
 
June 30,
2015
 
September 30,
2015
 
December 31,
2015
 
Total
2015
Revenue
$
1,622,352

 
$
1,661,940

 
$
1,624,828

 
$
1,636,425

 
$
6,545,545

Operating expenses
(1,398,601
)
 
(1,417,476
)
 
(1,441,712
)
 
(1,439,285
)
 
(5,697,074
)
Operating income
$
223,751

 
$
244,464

 
$
183,116

 
$
197,140

 
$
848,471

Income from continuing operations, net of income taxes
$
54,901

 
$
75,676

 
$
23,431

 
$
33,781

 
$
187,789

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income taxes
(10,502
)
 
—

 
(406
)
 
(1,633
)
 
(12,541
)
Net income
44,399

 
75,676

 
23,025

 
32,148

 
175,248

Net loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling interests
234

 
(81
)
 
78

 
(30
)
 
201

Net income attributable to Cablevision Systems Corporation stockholders
$
44,633

 
$
75,595

 
$
23,103

 
$
32,118

 
$
175,449

Basic income per share attributable to Cablevision Systems Corporation stockholders:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income from continuing operations, net of income taxes
$
0.21

 
$
0.28

 
$
0.09

 
$
0.12

 
$
0.70

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income taxes
$
(0.04
)
 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
(0.01
)
 
$
(0.05
)
Net income
$
0.17

 
$
0.28

 
$
0.09

 
$
0.12

 
$
0.65

Diluted income per share attributable to Cablevision Systems Corporation stockholders:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income from continuing operations, net of income taxes
$
0.20

 
$
0.27

 
$
0.08

 
$
0.12

 
$
0.68

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income taxes
$
(0.04
)
 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
(0.01
)
 
$
(0.05
)
Net income
$
0.16

 
$
0.27

 
$
0.08

 
$
0.12

 
$
0.63

Amounts attributable to Cablevision Systems Corporation stockholders:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income from continuing operations, net of income taxes
$
55,135

 
$
75,595

 
$
23,509

 
$
33,751

 
$
187,990

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income taxes
(10,502
)
 
—

 
(406
)
 
(1,633
)
 
(12,541
)
Net income
$
44,633

 
$
75,595

 
$
23,103

 
$
32,118

 
$
175,449

CVC - BUSINESS COMBINATION (Tables)
Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed 
The following table provides the allocation of the total purchase price of $9,958,323 to the identifiable tangible and intangible assets and liabilities of Cablevision based on their respective fair values. The remaining useful lives represent the period over which acquired tangible and intangible assets with a finite life are being depreciated or amortized.
 
Fair Values
 
Estimated Useful Lives
 
 
 
 
Current assets
$
1,923,071

 
 
Accounts receivable
271,305

 
 
Property, plant and equipment
4,864,621

 
2-18 years
Goodwill
5,842,172

 
 
Indefinite-lived cable television franchises
8,113,575

 
Indefinite-lived
Customer relationships
4,850,000

 
8 to 18 years
Trade names (a)
1,010,000

 
12 years
Amortizable intangible assets
23,296

 
1-15 years
Other non-current assets
748,998

 
 
Current liabilities
(2,311,201
)
 
 
Long-term debt
(8,355,386
)
 
 
Deferred income taxes.
(6,832,773
)
 
 
Other non-current liabilities
(189,355
)
 
 
Total
$
9,958,323

 
 
 
(a)
See Note 8 for additional information regarding a change in the remaining estimated useful lives of the Company's trade names.
Schedule of future amortization expense 
The following table sets forth the estimated amortization expense on intangible assets for the periods presented:
Estimated amortization expense
 

Year Ending December 31, 2018
$
873,133

Year Ending December 31, 2019
777,846

Year Ending December 31, 2020
696,240

Year Ending December 31, 2021
616,718

Year Ending December 31, 2022
537,100

Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information 
The following table presents the unaudited pro forma revenue and net loss for the period presented as if the Cablevision Acquisition had occurred on January 1, 2016:
 
Year Ended December 31, 2016
Revenue
$
9,154,816

Net loss
$
(721,257
)
Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed 
The following table provides the preliminary allocation of the total purchase price of $9,958,323 to the identifiable tangible and intangible assets and liabilities of Cablevision based on preliminary fair value information currently available, which is subject to change within the measurement period (up to one year from the acquisition date).
 
Estimates of Fair Values (As of December 31, 2016)
Estimated Useful Lives
 
 
 
Current assets
$
1,923,071

 
Accounts receivable
271,305

 
Property, plant and equipment
4,864,621

2-18 years
Goodwill
5,838,959

 
Indefinite-lived cable television franchises
8,113,575

Indefinite-lived
Customer relationships
4,850,000

8 to 18 years
Trade names
1,010,000

12 years
Amortizable intangible assets
23,296

1-15 years
Other non-current assets
748,998

 
Current liabilities
(2,305,954
)
 
Long-term debt
(8,355,386
)
 
Deferred income taxes.
(6,834,807
)
 
Other non-current liabilities
(189,355
)
 
Total
$
9,958,323

 
Schedule of future amortization expense 
The following table sets forth the estimated amortization expense on the intangible assets recorded in the connection with the Merger for the years ending December 31:
Estimated amortization expense
 

Year Ending December 31, 2017
$
701,908

Year Ending December 31, 2018
655,409

Year Ending December 31, 2019
609,245

Year Ending December 31, 2020
562,613

Year Ending December 31, 2021
515,430

Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information 
The unaudited pro forma revenue, loss from continuing operations and net loss for the years ended December 31, 2015, as if the Merger had occurred on January 1, 2015, are as follows:
Revenue
$
6,545,545

Loss from continuing operations
$
(740,115
)
Net loss
$
(752,656
)
DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS AND RELATED MATTERS - Narrative (Details) (USD $)
1 Months Ended 3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 1 Months Ended 1 Months Ended 0 Months Ended 0 Months Ended 0 Months Ended 0 Months Ended 1 Months Ended 0 Months Ended 1 Months Ended
Jun. 30, 2017
Jun. 30, 2017
Dec. 31, 2017
segment
Dec. 31, 2016
Oct. 12, 2012
Jul. 31, 2017
10.875% Notes due October 15, 2025
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
10.125% Notes due January 15, 2023
Dec. 31, 2016
Senior Notes
10.125% Notes due January 15, 2023
Jul. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
10.875% Notes due October 15, 2025
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
10.875% Notes due October 15, 2025
Jun. 30, 2017
Senior Notes
10.875% Notes due October 15, 2025
Dec. 31, 2016
Senior Notes
10.875% Notes due October 15, 2025
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
6.625% Notes due October 15, 2025
Dec. 31, 2016
Senior Notes
6.625% Notes due October 15, 2025
Jun. 30, 2017
Common Class A
Dec. 31, 2017
Common Class A
Dec. 31, 2017
Common Class B
Jun. 21, 2016
Affiliates
Notes payable
Jun. 21, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Sep. 16, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Dec. 31, 2017
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Common Class A
Dec. 31, 2017
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Common Class B
Oct. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Neptune Finco Corp.
Term Loan
Senior Secured Credit Facilities
Oct. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Neptune Finco Corp.
Term Loan
Revolving Credit Facility
Senior Secured Credit Facilities
Oct. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Neptune Finco Corp.
Senior Notes
10.125% Notes due January 15, 2023
Oct. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Neptune Finco Corp.
Senior Notes
10.875% Notes due October 15, 2025
Oct. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Neptune Finco Corp.
Senior Notes
6.625% Notes due October 15, 2025
Sep. 16, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Affiliates
Sep. 16, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Affiliates
Jun. 21, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Affiliates
Notes payable
Jun. 21, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Affiliates
Notes payable
Notes Payable at 10.75%
Jun. 21, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Affiliates
Notes payable
Notes Payable at 11%
Dec. 21, 2015
Cequel Corp.
Dec. 21, 2015
Cequel Corp.
Dec. 21, 2015
Cequel Corp.
Affiliates
Senior Notes
Jun. 30, 2017
Over-Allotment Option
Jul. 31, 2017
IPO
May 31, 2017
Co-investors
May 31, 2017
Subsidiary of Altice N.V.
Jan. 8, 2018
Subsequent Event
Jan. 8, 2018
Subsequent Event
Jan. 31, 2018
Subsequent Event
Altice Technical Services
Feb. 28, 2018
Subsequent Event
Altice Technical Services
Dec. 31, 2017
Fees for Executive Services
Affiliates
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Number of reportable business segments
 
 
2 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Transfer of Goodwill to an Affiliate in Connection With the Transfer of a Substantial Portion of the Company's Workforce
 
 
$ 23,101,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Business Combination, Description [Abstract]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Number of shares issued (in shares)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
71,724,139 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
7,781,110 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Initial public offering shares sold by company
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
12,068,966 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Initial public offering shares sold by existing shareholders (in shares)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
59,655,173 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Price per share
$ 30.00 
$ 30.00 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Percentage of issued stock owned by the parent company
70.20% 
70.20% 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Voting power of parent company, percentage
98.20% 
98.20% 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Proceeds from issuance or sale of equity
362,069,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Underwriting discount and share issuance expense
12,998,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consideration received on transaction, used to repay long term debt
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
350,120,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Senior Notes
 
 
15,860,432,000 
17,507,325,000 
 
 
 
1,777,914,000 
1,774,750,000 
315,779,000 
1,661,135,000 
 
1,970,379,000 
986,717,000 
985,469,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Stated interest rate
 
 
 
 
 
10.875% 
 
10.125% 
 
 
10.875% 
 
 
6.625% 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
10.125% 
10.875% 
6.625% 
 
 
 
10.75% 
11.00% 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gain (loss) on extinguishment of debt
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(34,341,000)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Conversion of notes payable to affiliates and related parties to common stock
 
 
2,264,252,000 
0 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
525,000,000 
1,225,000,000 
 
 
 
 
 
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)
 
 
$ 0.01 
$ 0.01 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 0.01 
$ 0.01 
 
 
 
$ 0.01 
$ 0.01 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Business acquisition, share price (dollars per share)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 34.90 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consideration transfered
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
9,958,323,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1,000,000,000 
 
 
 
 
3,973,528,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Indirect ownership interest by co-investors
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
30.00% 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Principal Amount
 
 
4,693,675,000 
 
 
 
16,289,245,000 
1,800,000,000 
 
 
1,684,221,000 
2,000,000,000 
 
1,000,000,000 
 
 
 
 
1,750,000,000 
 
 
 
 
3,800,000,000 
 
1,800,000,000 
2,000,000,000 
1,000,000,000 
 
 
1,750,000,000 
875,000,000 
875,000,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Line of credit facility, aggregate principal amount
 
 
 
 
480,000,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2,000,000,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Percentage of shares acquired
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
70.00% 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
100.00% 
 
Cash consideration
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2,797,928,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Retained equity
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
675,600,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consideration transferred, debt issuance by an affiliate of parent company
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
500,000,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Ownership percentage by noncontrolling owners
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
30.00% 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash distributions to shareholders
 
839,700,000 
840,035,000 
445,176,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1,500,000,000 
 
 
 
 
Stock repurchase program, authorized amount
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2,000,000,000.0 
 
 
 
Related party transaction, annual fee
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
30,000,000 
Percentage of voting interest acquired
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
70.00% 
 
 
Consideration transferred
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 1.00 
 
 
DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS AND RELATED MATTERS - Retroactive Consolidation of ATS (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Sep. 30, 2017
Jun. 30, 2017
Mar. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Sep. 30, 2016
Jun. 30, 2016
Mar. 31, 2016
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Revenues, net
$ 2,365,378 
$ 2,327,175 
$ 2,328,341 
$ 2,305,676 
$ 2,305,901 
$ 2,260,221 
$ 823,501 
$ 627,589 
$ 9,326,570 
$ 6,017,212 
Operating expenses
2,139,874 
2,192,311 
2,071,559 
2,057,442 
2,088,677 
2,117,442 
778,098 
573,329 
8,461,186 
5,557,546 
Operating income
225,504 
134,864 
256,782 
248,234 
217,224 
142,779 
45,403 
54,260 
865,384 
459,666 
Pro Forma
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues, net
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
9,325,465 
 
Operating expenses
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
8,482,728 
 
Operating income
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 842,737 
 
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 0 Months Ended
Jun. 30, 2017
Mar. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Dec. 31, 2017
Common Class A
vote
Dec. 31, 2017
Common Class B
vote
Jan. 8, 2018
Subsequent Event
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Franchise fees and other taxes and fees
 
 
$ 259,075 
$ 154,732 
 
 
 
Advertising costs
 
 
224,120 
135,513 
 
 
 
Unrealized excess tax benefits recognized with the adoption of ASU 2016-09
 
 
310,771 
 
 
 
 
Class of Stock [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares)
 
 
 
100 
246,982,292 
490,086,674 
 
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)
 
 
$ 0.01 
$ 0.01 
$ 0.01 
$ 0.01 
 
Common stock number of votes per share
 
 
 
 
1 
25 
 
Common stock conversion ratio
 
 
1 
 
 
 
 
Cash distributions to shareholders
839,700 
 
840,035 
445,176 
 
 
1,500,000 
Payments of dividends
 
$ 79,617 
$ 919,317 
$ 366,000 
 
 
 
Antidilutive securities
 
 
14,000 
 
 
 
 
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Reconciliation of Weighted Average Shares (Details)
3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding Reconciliation [Abstract]
 
 
 
Basic weighted average common shares (in thousands) (in shares)
 
696,055,000 
649,525,000 
Effect of dilution:
 
 
 
Stock options (in shares)
 
0 
 
Diluted weighted average common shares (in shares)
696,055,000 
696,055,000 
649,525,000 
BUSINESS COMBINATIONS - Assets and Liabilities Acquired (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
0 Months Ended 0 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 0 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 0 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 0 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 0 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Dec. 31, 2015
Jun. 21, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Jun. 21, 2016
Customer relationships
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Jun. 21, 2016
Trade names
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Jun. 21, 2016
Trade names
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Jun. 21, 2016
Amortizable intangible assets
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Jun. 21, 2016
Minimum
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Dec. 31, 2017
Minimum
Customer relationships
Jun. 21, 2016
Minimum
Customer relationships
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Dec. 31, 2017
Minimum
Trade names
Dec. 31, 2017
Minimum
Amortizable intangible assets
Jun. 21, 2016
Minimum
Amortizable intangible assets
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Jun. 21, 2016
Maximum
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Dec. 31, 2017
Maximum
Customer relationships
Jun. 21, 2016
Maximum
Customer relationships
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Dec. 31, 2017
Maximum
Trade names
Dec. 31, 2017
Maximum
Amortizable intangible assets
Jun. 21, 2016
Maximum
Amortizable intangible assets
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Current assets
 
 
 
$ 1,923,071 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Accounts receivable
 
 
 
271,305 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Property, plant and equipment
 
 
 
4,864,621 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Goodwill
7,996,760 
7,992,700 
2,040,402 
5,842,172 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Indefinite-lived cable television franchises
 
 
 
8,113,575 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Finite-lived intangible assets
 
 
 
 
4,850,000 
 
1,010,000 
23,296 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other non-current assets
 
 
 
748,998 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Current liabilities
 
 
 
(2,311,201)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Long-term debt
 
 
 
(8,355,386)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Deferred income taxes.
 
 
 
(6,832,773)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other non-current liabilities
 
 
 
(189,355)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total
 
 
 
$ 9,958,323 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Property, plant and equipment, useful life
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2 years 
 
 
 
 
 
18 years 
 
 
 
 
 
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life
 
 
 
 
 
12 years 
 
 
 
8 years 
8 years 
2 years 
1 year 
1 year 
 
18 years 
18 years 
5 years 
15 years 
15 years 
BUSINESS COMBINATIONS - Narrative (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended 0 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Jun. 21, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Dec. 31, 2017
2017 Acquisition
Dec. 31, 2017
Customer relationships
2017 Acquisition
Dec. 31, 2017
Other amortizable intangible assets
2017 Acquisition
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consideration transfered
 
 
$ 9,958,323 
$ 80,000 
 
 
Amortizable intangible assets acquired
 
 
 
 
45,000 
9,400 
Goodwill acquired
$ 23,948 
$ 5,838,959 
 
$ 23,948 
 
 
BUSINESS COMBINATIONS - Pro Forma Information (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2016
Business Combinations [Abstract]
 
Revenue
$ 9,154,816 
Net loss
$ (721,257)
SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION (Details) (USD $)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Jun. 21, 2016
Affiliates
Notes payable
Continuing Operations:
 
 
 
Conversion of notes payable to affiliates and related parties of $1,750,000 (together with accrued and unpaid interest and applicable premium) to common stock (See Note 9)
$ 2,264,252,000 
$ 0 
 
Property and equipment accrued but unpaid
171,604,000 
155,653,000 
 
Distributions declared but not paid
0 
79,617,000 
 
Leasehold improvements paid by landlord
3,998,000 
0 
 
Notes payable to vendor
40,131,000 
12,449,000 
 
Capital lease obligations
9,385,000 
0 
 
Deferred financing costs accrued but unpaid
0 
2,570,000 
 
Supplemental Data:
 
 
 
Cash interest paid
1,765,126,000 
1,192,370,000 
 
Income taxes paid, net
29,006,000 
1,538,000 
 
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
 
 
 
Principal Amount
$ 4,693,675,000 
 
$ 1,750,000,000 
RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER EXPENSE (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
 
 
Accrual, beginning balance
$ 110,516 
 
Restructuring charges
149,922 
226,577 
Payments and other
(137,338)
(116,061)
Accrual, ending balance
123,100 
110,516 
Transaction costs
2,479 
13,845 
Severance and Other Employee Related Costs
 
 
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
 
 
Accrual, beginning balance
102,119 
 
Restructuring charges
142,679 
215,420 
Payments and other
(131,324)
(113,301)
Accrual, ending balance
113,474 
102,119 
Facility Realignment and Other Costs
 
 
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
 
 
Accrual, beginning balance
8,397 
 
Restructuring charges
7,243 
11,157 
Payments and other
(6,014)
(2,760)
Accrual, ending balance
9,626 
8,397 
Cablevision Systems Corp.
 
 
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
 
 
Cumulative restructuring costs
309,297 
 
Cequel Corp.
 
 
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
 
 
Cumulative restructuring costs
$ 67,202 
 
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT - Summary (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Dec. 31, 2017
Customer premise equipment
Dec. 31, 2016
Customer premise equipment
Dec. 31, 2017
Customer premise equipment
Minimum
Dec. 31, 2017
Customer premise equipment
Maximum
Dec. 31, 2017
Headends and related equipment
Dec. 31, 2016
Headends and related equipment
Dec. 31, 2017
Headends and related equipment
Minimum
Dec. 31, 2017
Headends and related equipment
Maximum
Dec. 31, 2017
Infrastructure
Dec. 31, 2016
Infrastructure
Dec. 31, 2017
Infrastructure
Minimum
Dec. 31, 2017
Infrastructure
Maximum
Dec. 31, 2017
Equipment and software
Dec. 31, 2016
Equipment and software
Dec. 31, 2017
Equipment and software
Minimum
Dec. 31, 2017
Equipment and software
Maximum
Dec. 31, 2017
Construction in progress (including materials and supplies)
Dec. 31, 2016
Construction in progress (including materials and supplies)
Dec. 31, 2017
Furniture and fixtures
Dec. 31, 2016
Furniture and fixtures
Dec. 31, 2017
Furniture and fixtures
Minimum
Dec. 31, 2017
Furniture and fixtures
Maximum
Dec. 31, 2017
Transportation equipment
Dec. 31, 2016
Transportation equipment
Dec. 31, 2017
Transportation equipment
Minimum
Dec. 31, 2017
Transportation equipment
Maximum
Dec. 31, 2017
Buildings and building improvements
Dec. 31, 2016
Buildings and building improvements
Dec. 31, 2017
Buildings and building improvements
Minimum
Dec. 31, 2017
Buildings and building improvements
Maximum
Dec. 31, 2017
Leasehold improvements
Dec. 31, 2016
Leasehold improvements
Dec. 31, 2017
Land
Dec. 31, 2016
Land
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Property, plant and equipment, gross
$ 8,663,408 
$ 7,636,932 
$ 1,093,726 
$ 871,049 
 
 
$ 1,626,293 
$ 1,482,631 
 
 
$ 3,998,503 
$ 3,740,494 
 
 
$ 917,698 
$ 735,012 
 
 
$ 286,702 
$ 84,321 
$ 52,545 
$ 45,576 
 
 
$ 137,886 
$ 135,488 
 
 
$ 394,421 
$ 390,337 
 
 
$ 108,071 
$ 104,309 
$ 47,563 
$ 47,715 
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization
(2,599,579)
(1,039,297)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Property, plant and equipment, net
$ 6,063,829 
$ 6,597,635 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Property, plant and equipment, useful life
 
 
 
 
3 years 
5 years 
 
 
4 years 
25 years 
 
 
3 years 
25 years 
 
 
3 years 
10 years 
 
 
 
 
5 years 
12 years 
 
 
5 years 
10 years 
 
 
10 years 
40 years 
 
 
 
 
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT - Narrative (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
 
 
Depreciation
$ 1,588,668 
$ 1,046,896 
Plant |
Minimum
 
 
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
 
 
Property, plant and equipment, useful life
10 years 
 
Plant |
Maximum
 
 
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
 
 
Property, plant and equipment, useful life
25 years 
 
Headends and related equipment |
Minimum
 
 
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
 
 
Property, plant and equipment, useful life
4 years 
 
Headends and related equipment |
Maximum
 
 
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
 
 
Property, plant and equipment, useful life
25 years 
 
Installation costs |
Minimum
 
 
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
 
 
Property, plant and equipment, useful life
3 years 
 
Installation costs |
Maximum
 
 
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
 
 
Property, plant and equipment, useful life
5 years 
 
Acquisition and development of internal use software
 
 
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
 
 
Property, plant and equipment capitalized
$ 151,646 
$ 75,804 
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT - Capital Leased Assets (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
 
 
Buildings and equipment
$ 48,936 
$ 53,833 
Less accumulated depreciation
(12,972)
(6,306)
Capital leased assets, net
$ 35,964 
$ 47,527 
OPERATING LEASES - Narrative (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Leases [Abstract]
 
 
Rent expense
$ 95,017 
$ 65,881 
OPERATING LEASES - Future Minimum Lease Payments (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Dec. 31, 2017
Leases [Abstract]
 
2018
$ 74,992 
2019
72,142 
2020
69,203 
2021
63,735 
2022
55,234 
Thereafter
$ 140,406 
INTANGIBLE ASSETS - Summary of Acquired Intangible Assets (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
1 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
 
 
 
Gross Carrying Amount
$ 7,075,027 
$ 7,075,027 
$ 7,019,410 
Accumulated Amortization
(2,008,573)
(2,008,573)
(666,766)
Net Carrying Amount
5,066,454 
5,066,454 
6,352,644 
Amortization expense, 2018
873,133 
873,133 
 
Amortization expense, 2019
777,846 
777,846 
 
Amortization expense, 2020
696,240 
696,240 
 
Amortization expense, 2021
616,718 
616,718 
 
Amortization expense, 2022
537,100 
537,100 
 
Customer relationships
 
 
 
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
 
 
 
Gross Carrying Amount
5,970,884 
5,970,884 
5,925,884 
Accumulated Amortization
(1,409,021)
(1,409,021)
(580,276)
Net Carrying Amount
4,561,863 
4,561,863 
5,345,608 
Trade names
 
 
 
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
 
 
 
Gross Carrying Amount
1,067,083 
1,067,083 
1,066,783 
Accumulated Amortization
(588,574)
(588,574)
(83,397)
Net Carrying Amount
478,509 
478,509 
983,386 
Remaining amortization period
5 years 
3 years 
 
Remaining amortization period, in-use period
 
1 year 
 
Remaining amortization period, defensive asset
 
2 years 
 
Other amortizable intangible assets
 
 
 
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
 
 
 
Gross Carrying Amount
37,060 
37,060 
26,743 
Accumulated Amortization
(10,978)
(10,978)
(3,093)
Net Carrying Amount
$ 26,082 
$ 26,082 
$ 23,650 
Minimum |
Customer relationships
 
 
 
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
 
 
 
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life
 
8 years 
 
Minimum |
Trade names
 
 
 
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
 
 
 
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life
 
2 years 
 
Minimum |
Other amortizable intangible assets
 
 
 
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
 
 
 
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life
 
1 year 
 
Maximum |
Customer relationships
 
 
 
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
 
 
 
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life
 
18 years 
 
Maximum |
Trade names
 
 
 
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
 
 
 
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life
 
5 years 
 
Maximum |
Other amortizable intangible assets
 
 
 
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
 
 
 
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life
 
15 years 
 
INTANGIBLE ASSETS - Narrative (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Jun. 20, 2016
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Dec. 31, 2015
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
 
 
 
 
Amortization of intangible assets
$ 10,316 
$ 1,341,807 
$ 653,410 
$ 7,812 
INTANGIBLE ASSETS - Summary of Acquired Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Dec. 31, 2015
Acquired Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
 
 
 
Cable television franchises
$ 13,020,081 
$ 13,020,081 
 
Goodwill
7,996,760 
7,992,700 
2,040,402 
Total
21,016,841 
21,012,781 
 
Cablevision Systems Corp.
 
 
 
Acquired Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
 
 
 
Cable television franchises
8,113,575 
8,113,575 
 
Goodwill
5,843,019 
5,838,959 
 
Total
13,956,594 
13,952,534 
 
Cequel Corp.
 
 
 
Acquired Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
 
 
 
Cable television franchises
4,906,506 
4,906,506 
 
Goodwill
2,153,741 
2,153,741 
 
Total
$ 7,060,247 
$ 7,060,247 
 
INTANGIBLE ASSETS - Goodwill (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
 
 
Goodwill, beginning balance
$ 7,992,700 
$ 2,040,402 
Goodwill acquired
23,948 
5,838,959 
Adjustments to purchase accounting relating to acquisitions
3,213 
113,339 
Transfer of Cablevision goodwill related to Altice Technical Services US Corp.
(23,101)
 
Goodwill, ending balance
$ 7,996,760 
$ 7,992,700 
DEBT - CSC Holdings Credit Facilities (Details) (USD $)
0 Months Ended 3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 0 Months Ended 1 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 0 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 1 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Mar. 15, 2017
Apr. 26, 2016
Jun. 30, 2017
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Oct. 12, 2012
Oct. 12, 2012
Alternate Base Rate
Oct. 12, 2012
Eurodollar
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
Apr. 30, 2017
CSC Holdings 8.625% Notes due September 15, 2017 [Member]
Senior Notes
Dec. 31, 2017
5.5% Notes due April 15, 2027
Senior Notes
Sep. 30, 2016
5.5% Notes due April 15, 2027
Senior Notes
Dec. 31, 2017
8.625% Notes due September 15, 2017
Senior Notes
Apr. 30, 2017
8.625% Notes due September 15, 2017
Senior Notes
Dec. 31, 2017
CSC Credit Facilities
Jun. 20, 2016
Revolving Credit Facility
Eurodollar
Jun. 30, 2017
Revolving Credit Facility
CSC Holdings Revolving Credit Facility
Dec. 31, 2017
Revolving Credit Facility
CSC Holdings Revolving Credit Facility
Dec. 31, 2016
Revolving Credit Facility
CSC Holdings Revolving Credit Facility
Jun. 21, 2016
Revolving Credit Facility
CSC Holdings Revolving Credit Facility
Dec. 31, 2017
Revolving Credit Facility
CSC Holdings Revolving Credit Facility
Alternate Base Rate
Dec. 31, 2017
Revolving Credit Facility
CSC Holdings Revolving Credit Facility
Eurodollar
Apr. 17, 2013
Term Loan
Oct. 12, 2012
Term Loan
Oct. 11, 2016
Term Loan
Jun. 20, 2016
Term Loan
Alternate Base Rate
Apr. 30, 2017
Term Loan
CSC Holdings Term Loan Facility
Oct. 31, 2016
Term Loan
CSC Holdings Term Loan Facility
Dec. 31, 2017
Term Loan
CSC Holdings Term Loan Facility
Mar. 15, 2017
Term Loan
CSC Holdings Term Loan Facility
Dec. 31, 2016
Term Loan
CSC Holdings Term Loan Facility
Dec. 31, 2017
Term Loan
CSC Holdings Term Loan Facility
Alternate Base Rate
Dec. 31, 2017
Term Loan
CSC Holdings Term Loan Facility
Eurodollar
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Principal Amount
 
 
 
$ 4,693,675,000 
 
 
 
 
$ 16,289,245,000 
 
$ 1,310,000,000 
$ 1,310,000,000 
$ 0 
 
 
 
 
$ 450,000,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 2,985,000,000 
$ 3,000,000,000 
 
 
 
Credit facility
 
 
 
4,643,523,000 
3,444,790,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
425,488,000 
145,013,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2,967,818,000 
 
2,486,874,000 
 
 
Line of credit facility, aggregate principal amount
 
 
 
 
 
480,000,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2,300,000,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
3,000,000,000 
 
 
 
 
Stated interest rate
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
5.50% 
5.50% 
8.625% 
8.625% 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Write-off the deferred financing costs and the unamortized discount
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
102,894,000 
 
 
 
 
 
Deferred financing costs
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
5,575,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
7,249,000 
 
 
 
7,249,000 
 
 
 
 
Issue Discount
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
6,250,000 
 
 
 
6,250,000 
 
 
 
 
Line of credit facility, increase in borrowing capacity
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
500,000,000 
 
 
 
Repayments of lines of credit
 
1,477,200,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1,075,256,000 
 
 
 
 
2,030,699,000 
480,000,000 
 
 
2,493,750,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Redemption of debt amount
 
 
 
1,729,400,000 
0 
 
 
 
 
500,000,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs
18,976,000 
 
 
600,240,000 
127,649,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Proceeds from credit facility debt
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
500,000,000 
1,350,000,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash distributions to shareholders
 
 
839,700,000 
840,035,000 
445,176,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
500,000,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Line of credit facility periodic payment, percentage of principal
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
0.25% 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Line of credit facility, periodic payment amount
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
7,500,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basis spread on variable rate
 
 
 
 
 
 
2.50% 
3.50% 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
3.25% 
 
 
 
 
2.25% 
3.25% 
 
 
 
2.25% 
 
 
 
 
 
1.25% 
2.25% 
Percentage of proceeds from asset sales required to pay down term loans
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
100.00% 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Percentage of excess cash flow required when minimum leverage ratio is not met
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
50.00% 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Percentage of excess cash flow required to pay down term loans when minimum leverage ratio is fulfilled
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
0.00% 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Minimum debt leverage ratio required for zero percent of excess cash flow obligation to prepay debt
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
4.5 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Line of credit facility, covenant, leverage ratio
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
5.0 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Line of credit facility, covenant, minimum undrawn letters of credit
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 15,000,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
DEBT - Cequel Credit Facilities (Details) (USD $)
0 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 0 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 0 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 0 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Mar. 15, 2017
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Oct. 12, 2012
Oct. 12, 2012
Alternate Base Rate
Oct. 12, 2012
Eurodollar
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
Jun. 20, 2016
Revolving Credit Facility
Eurodollar
Jun. 20, 2016
Term Loan
Alternate Base Rate
Mar. 15, 2017
Cequel Term Loan Facility
Term Loan
Dec. 31, 2017
Cequel Term Loan Facility
Term Loan
Mar. 15, 2017
Cequel Term Loan Facility
Term Loan
Dec. 31, 2016
Cequel Term Loan Facility
Term Loan
Dec. 31, 2017
Cequel Term Loan Facility
Term Loan
Alternate Base Rate
Dec. 31, 2017
Cequel Term Loan Facility
Term Loan
Eurodollar
Dec. 31, 2017
Cequel Revolving Credit Facility
Revolving Credit Facility
Dec. 31, 2016
Cequel Revolving Credit Facility
Revolving Credit Facility
Dec. 31, 2017
Cequel Revolving Credit Facility
Revolving Credit Facility
Alternate Base Rate
Dec. 31, 2017
Cequel Revolving Credit Facility
Revolving Credit Facility
Eurodollar
Mar. 15, 2017
6.375% Senior Notes due September 15, 2020
Senior Notes
Dec. 31, 2017
6.375% Senior Notes due September 15, 2020
Senior Notes
Mar. 15, 2017
6.375% Senior Notes due September 15, 2020
Senior Notes
Dec. 31, 2017
Cequel Credit Facilities
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Line of credit facility, aggregate principal amount
 
 
 
$ 480,000,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 1,265,000,000 
$ 1,265,000,000 
 
 
 
$ 350,000,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Principal Amount
 
4,693,675,000 
 
 
 
 
16,289,245,000 
 
 
 
1,258,675,000 
 
 
 
 
0 
 
 
 
 
1,050,000,000 
 
 
Line of credit facility, increase in borrowing capacity
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
450,000,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Credit facility
 
4,643,523,000 
3,444,790,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1,250,217,000 
812,963,000 
812,903,000 
 
 
0 
0 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Redemption of debt amount
 
1,729,400,000 
0 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
450,000,000 
 
 
 
Stated interest rate
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
6.375% 
6.375% 
 
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs
18,976,000 
600,240,000 
127,649,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
28,684,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Line of credit facility periodic payment, percentage of principal
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
0.25% 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Line of credit facility, periodic payment amount
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 3,163,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basis spread on variable rate
 
 
 
 
2.50% 
3.50% 
 
3.25% 
2.25% 
 
 
 
 
1.25% 
2.25% 
 
 
2.25% 
3.25% 
 
 
 
 
Percentage of proceeds from asset sales required to pay down term loans
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
100.00% 
Percentage of excess cash flow required when minimum leverage ratio is not met
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
50.00% 
Percentage of excess cash flow required to pay down term loans when minimum leverage ratio is fulfilled
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
0.00% 
Minimum debt leverage ratio required for zero percent of excess cash flow obligation to prepay debt
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
4.5 
Leverage maintenance covenant
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
5.0 
DEBT - Credit Facilities Outstanding (Details) (USD $)
Dec. 31, 2017
Mar. 15, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
 
 
 
Principal Amount
$ 4,693,675,000 
 
 
Credit facility, Carrying Value
4,643,523,000 
 
3,444,790,000 
Less: Current portion
42,650,000 
 
33,150,000 
Credit facility, noncurrent
4,600,873,000 
 
3,411,640,000 
CSC Holdings Revolving Credit Facility |
Revolving Credit Facility
 
 
 
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
 
 
 
Stated interest rate
4.75% 
 
 
Principal Amount
450,000,000 
 
 
Credit facility, Carrying Value
425,488,000 
 
145,013,000 
Letters of credit outstanding
115,973,000 
 
 
Line of credit facility, remaining borrowing capacity
1,734,027,000 
 
 
CSC Holdings Revolving Credit Facility, Portion Due October 9, 2020 |
Revolving Credit Facility
 
 
 
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
 
 
 
Principal Amount
20,000,000 
 
 
CSC Holdings Term Loan Facility |
Term Loan
 
 
 
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
 
 
 
Stated interest rate
3.74% 
 
 
Principal Amount
2,985,000,000 
3,000,000,000 
 
Credit facility, Carrying Value
2,967,818,000 
 
2,486,874,000 
Cequel Revolving Credit Facility |
Revolving Credit Facility
 
 
 
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
 
 
 
Stated interest rate
0.00% 
 
 
Principal Amount
0 
 
 
Credit facility, Carrying Value
0 
 
0 
Letters of credit outstanding
13,500,000 
 
 
Line of credit facility, remaining borrowing capacity
336,500,000 
 
 
Cequel Term Loan Facility |
Term Loan
 
 
 
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
 
 
 
Stated interest rate
3.82% 
 
 
Principal Amount
1,258,675,000 
 
 
Credit facility, Carrying Value
$ 1,250,217,000 
$ 812,963,000 
$ 812,903,000 
DEBT - Senior Guaranteed Notes and Senior Notes and Debentures (Details) (USD $)
12 Months Ended 1 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 1 Months Ended 0 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 0 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 1 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Jul. 31, 2017
10.875% Notes due October 15, 2025
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
7.875% Notes due February 15, 2018
Dec. 31, 2016
Senior Notes
7.875% Notes due February 15, 2018
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
7.625% Notes due July 15, 2018
Dec. 31, 2016
Senior Notes
7.625% Notes due July 15, 2018
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
8.625% Notes due February 15, 2019
Dec. 31, 2016
Senior Notes
8.625% Notes due February 15, 2019
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
6.75% Notes due November 15, 2021
Dec. 31, 2016
Senior Notes
6.75% Notes due November 15, 2021
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
5.25% Notes due June 1, 2024
Dec. 31, 2016
Senior Notes
5.25% Notes due June 1, 2024
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
10.125% Notes due January 15, 2023
Dec. 31, 2016
Senior Notes
10.125% Notes due January 15, 2023
Jul. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
10.875% Notes due October 15, 2025
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
10.875% Notes due October 15, 2025
Jun. 30, 2017
Senior Notes
10.875% Notes due October 15, 2025
Dec. 31, 2016
Senior Notes
10.875% Notes due October 15, 2025
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
6.625% Notes due October 15, 2025
Dec. 31, 2016
Senior Notes
6.625% Notes due October 15, 2025
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
5.5% Notes due April 15, 2027
Dec. 31, 2016
Senior Notes
5.5% Notes due April 15, 2027
Sep. 30, 2016
Senior Notes
5.5% Notes due April 15, 2027
Sep. 30, 2017
Senior Notes
8.625% Notes due September 15, 2017
Apr. 30, 2017
Senior Notes
8.625% Notes due September 15, 2017
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
8.625% Notes due September 15, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Senior Notes
8.625% Notes due September 15, 2017
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
7.75% Notes due April 15, 2018
Dec. 31, 2016
Senior Notes
7.75% Notes due April 15, 2018
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
8.0% Notes due April 15, 2020
Dec. 31, 2016
Senior Notes
8.0% Notes due April 15, 2020
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
5.875% Notes due September 15, 2022
Dec. 31, 2016
Senior Notes
5.875% Notes due September 15, 2022
Mar. 15, 2017
Senior Notes
6.375% Senior Notes due September 15, 2020
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
6.375% Senior Notes due September 15, 2020
Mar. 15, 2017
Senior Notes
6.375% Senior Notes due September 15, 2020
Dec. 31, 2016
Senior Notes
6.375% Senior Notes due September 15, 2020
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
5.125% Senior Notes due December 15, 2021
Dec. 31, 2016
Senior Notes
5.125% Senior Notes due December 15, 2021
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
7.75% Senior Notes due July 15, 2025
Dec. 31, 2016
Senior Notes
7.75% Senior Notes due July 15, 2025
Jun. 12, 2015
Senior Notes
7.75% Senior Notes due July 15, 2025
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
5.375% Senior Notes due July 15, 2023
Dec. 31, 2016
Senior Notes
5.375% Senior Notes due July 15, 2023
Jun. 12, 2015
Senior Notes
5.375% Senior Notes due July 15, 2023
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
5.5% Senior Notes due May 15, 2026
Dec. 31, 2016
Senior Notes
5.5% Senior Notes due May 15, 2026
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
Senior Notes due in 2025
Dec. 31, 2017
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Senior Notes
10.125% Notes due January 15, 2023
Dec. 31, 2017
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Senior Notes
10.875% Notes due October 15, 2025
Dec. 31, 2017
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Senior Notes
6.625% Notes due October 15, 2025
Jun. 21, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Senior Notes
CSC Holdings Senior Notes
Dec. 31, 2017
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Senior Notes
CSC Holdings Senior Notes
Jul. 31, 2017
IPO
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest Rate
 
 
10.875% 
 
7.875% 
 
7.625% 
 
8.625% 
 
6.75% 
 
5.25% 
 
10.125% 
 
 
10.875% 
 
 
6.625% 
 
5.50% 
 
5.50% 
 
8.625% 
8.625% 
 
7.75% 
 
8.00% 
 
5.875% 
 
 
6.375% 
6.375% 
 
5.125% 
 
7.75% 
 
7.75% 
5.375% 
 
5.375% 
5.50% 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Principal Amount
$ 4,693,675,000 
 
 
$ 16,289,245,000 
$ 300,000,000 
 
$ 500,000,000 
 
$ 526,000,000 
 
$ 1,000,000,000 
 
$ 750,000,000 
 
$ 1,800,000,000 
 
 
$ 1,684,221,000 
$ 2,000,000,000 
 
$ 1,000,000,000 
 
$ 1,310,000,000 
 
$ 1,310,000,000 
 
 
$ 0 
 
$ 750,000,000 
 
$ 500,000,000 
 
$ 649,024,000 
 
 
$ 1,050,000,000 
 
 
$ 1,250,000,000 
 
$ 620,000,000 
 
$ 300,000,000 
$ 1,100,000,000 
 
$ 1,100,000,000 
$ 1,500,000,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Carrying Amount
15,860,432,000 
17,507,325,000 
 
 
301,184,000 
310,334,000 
507,744,000 
521,654,000 
541,165,000 
553,804,000 
960,146,000 
951,702,000 
660,601,000 
650,193,000 
1,777,914,000 
1,774,750,000 
315,779,000 
1,661,135,000 
 
1,970,379,000 
986,717,000 
985,469,000 
1,304,468,000 
1,304,025,000 
 
 
 
0 
926,045,000 
754,035,000 
767,545,000 
492,009,000 
488,992,000 
572,071,000 
559,500,000 
 
1,027,493,000 
 
1,457,439,000 
1,138,870,000 
1,115,767,000 
604,374,000 
602,925,000 
 
1,082,482,000 
1,079,869,000 
 
1,488,024,000 
1,486,933,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Less: Current portion
507,744,000 
926,045,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Long-term debt
15,352,688,000 
16,581,280,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Redeemable debt, percent
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
40.00% 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
40.00% 
 
 
40.00% 
 
 
40.00% 
 
 
 
 
 
 
40.00% 
 
Redemption price, percentage
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
105.50% 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
107.75% 
 
 
105.375% 
 
 
105.50% 
 
100.00% 
110.125% 
110.875% 
106.625% 
 
 
 
Adjustment to fair value
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
52,788,000 
 
 
Extinguishment of debt
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
400,000,000 
500,000,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consideration received on transaction, used to repay long term debt
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
350,120,000 
Loss on extinguishment of debt
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
34,341,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Write-off of deferred financings costs
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
4,516,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Redemption of debt amount
$ 1,729,400,000 
$ 0 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 450,000,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
DEBT - Senior Notes (Details) (USD $)
0 Months Ended
Apr. 26, 2016
Dec. 31, 2017
Jul. 31, 2017
10.875% Notes due October 15, 2025
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
5.5% Notes due April 15, 2027
Sep. 30, 2016
Senior Notes
5.5% Notes due April 15, 2027
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
6.625% Notes due October 15, 2025
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
10.875% Notes due October 15, 2025
Jun. 30, 2017
Senior Notes
10.875% Notes due October 15, 2025
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
10.125% Notes due January 15, 2023
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
Cablevision Acquisition Notes
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
5.375% Senior Notes due July 15, 2023
Jun. 12, 2015
Senior Notes
5.375% Senior Notes due July 15, 2023
Apr. 26, 2016
Senior Notes
5.5% Senior Notes due May 15, 2026
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
Cequel Senior Secured Notes
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
7.75% Senior Notes due July 15, 2025
Jun. 12, 2015
Senior Notes
7.75% Senior Notes due July 15, 2025
Jun. 12, 2015
Senior Notes
Holdco Senior Notes 7.75% due 2025
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Principal Amount
 
$ 4,693,675,000 
 
$ 16,289,245,000 
$ 1,310,000,000 
$ 1,310,000,000 
$ 1,000,000,000 
$ 1,684,221,000 
$ 2,000,000,000 
$ 1,800,000,000 
 
$ 1,100,000,000 
$ 1,100,000,000 
$ 1,500,000,000 
 
$ 620,000,000 
$ 300,000,000 
$ 320,000,000 
Stated interest rate
 
 
10.875% 
 
5.50% 
5.50% 
6.625% 
10.875% 
 
10.125% 
 
5.375% 
5.375% 
5.50% 
 
7.75% 
7.75% 
7.75% 
Issued percentage of par
 
 
 
 
 
 
100.00% 
100.00% 
 
100.00% 
 
 
100.00% 
 
 
 
100.00% 
98.275% 
Deferred financing costs
 
 
 
 
 
5,575,000 
 
 
 
 
76,579,000 
 
 
 
13,773,000 
 
 
 
Repayments of lines of credit
$ 1,477,200,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
DEBT - Notes Payable to Affiliates and Related Perties (Details) (USD $)
12 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Affiliates
Jun. 21, 2016
Affiliates
Notes payable
Dec. 31, 2017
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Affiliates
Notes payable
Dec. 31, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Affiliates
Notes payable
Jun. 21, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Affiliates
Notes payable
Jul. 31, 2017
10.875% Notes due October 15, 2025
Jun. 21, 2016
Notes Payable at 10.75%
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Affiliates
Notes payable
Jun. 21, 2016
Notes Payable at 11%
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Affiliates
Notes payable
Dec. 31, 2017
Organizational Transactions Prior to IPO
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Principal Amount
$ 4,693,675,000 
 
$ 1,750,000,000 
 
 
$ 1,750,000,000 
 
$ 875,000,000 
$ 875,000,000 
 
Stated interest rate
 
 
 
 
 
 
10.875% 
10.75% 
11.00% 
 
Interest payable
 
102,557,000 
 
 
 
529,000 
 
 
 
 
Debt premium
 
 
 
 
 
513,723,000 
 
 
 
 
Credit to APIC upon conversion of debt
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2,264,252,000 
Interest expense
 
 
 
$ 90,405,000 
$ 102,557,000 
 
 
 
 
 
DEBT - Summary of Debt Maturities (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Dec. 31, 2017
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
 
2018
$ 1,635,612 
2019
583,914 
2020
1,615,615 
2021
4,183,992 
2022
693,434 
Thereafter
13,796,783 
Cablevision Systems Corp.
 
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
 
2018
1,619,094 
2019
565,604 
2020
552,902 
2021
2,921,269 
2022
680,700 
Thereafter
9,380,513 
Cequel Corp.
 
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
 
2018
16,518 
2019
18,310 
2020
1,062,713 
2021
1,262,723 
2022
12,734 
Thereafter
$ 4,416,270 
DERIVATIVE CONTRACTS AND COLLATERALIZED INDEBTEDNESS - Narrative (Details) (USD $)
12 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 1 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Apr. 30, 2017
Notes payable
Notes related to derivative contracts
Dec. 31, 2017
Put-Call Options
Dec. 31, 2017
Interest Rate Swap
Dec. 31, 2016
Interest Rate Swap
Jun. 30, 2016
Interest Rate Swap
Not Designated as Hedging Instruments
instrument
Jun. 30, 2016
Interest Rate Swap, Conversion, Tranche One
Not Designated as Hedging Instruments
Jun. 30, 2016
Interest Rate Swap, Conversion, Tranche Two
Not Designated as Hedging Instruments
Dec. 31, 2017
Prepaid forward contracts
Dec. 31, 2016
Prepaid forward contracts
Apr. 30, 2017
Monetization contract
Derivative [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Loss on settlement of derivative
 
 
 
$ 97,410,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Number of derivative instruments held
 
 
 
 
 
 
2 
 
 
 
 
 
Derivative notional amount
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
750,000,000 
750,000,000 
 
 
 
Derivative, fixed interest rate
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1.6655% 
1.68% 
 
 
 
Amount of gain (loss) recognized
 
 
 
 
5,482,000 
(72,961,000)
 
 
 
(138,920,000)
(53,696,000)
 
Gain on investments, net
237,354,000 
141,896,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Shares related to monetization contracts (in shares)
26,815,368 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
32,153,118 
Maximum hedge price at which downside protection is provided (in dollars per share)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 35.47 
Maximum hedge price at which upside benefit is provided (in dollars per share)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 44.72 
Fair value of derivative contracts, net
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
53,316,000 
Long-term debt
 
 
111,657,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Discount on notes
 
 
$ 58,341,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
DERIVATIVE CONTRACTS AND COLLATERALIZED INDEBTEDNESS - Location of Assets and Liabilities Within the Consolidated Balance Sheets (Details) (Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Derivative Instruments, Fair Value [Abstract]
 
 
Asset Derivatives
$ 52,545 
$ 10,956 
Liability Derivatives
(239,951)
(91,981)
Prepaid forward contracts |
Current derivative contracts
 
 
Derivative Instruments, Fair Value [Abstract]
 
 
Asset Derivatives
52,545 
352 
Liability Derivatives
(52,545)
(13,158)
Prepaid forward contracts |
Long-term derivative contracts
 
 
Derivative Instruments, Fair Value [Abstract]
 
 
Asset Derivatives
0 
10,604 
Liability Derivatives
(109,504)
0 
Interest Rate Swap |
Long-term liabilities under derivative contracts
 
 
Derivative Instruments, Fair Value [Abstract]
 
 
Asset Derivatives
0 
0 
Liability Derivatives
$ (77,902)
$ (78,823)
DERIVATIVE CONTRACTS AND COLLATERALIZED INDEBTEDNESS - Settlements of Collateralized Indebtedness (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended 1 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Feb. 28, 2017
Comcast
Derivative [Line Items]
 
 
 
Number of shares (in shares)
26,815,368 
 
 
Collateralized indebtedness settled
$ (774,703)
 
 
Derivatives contracts settled
(56,356)
 
 
Derivatives contracts settled
(831,059)
(143,102)
 
Proceeds from new monetization contracts
838,794 
179,388 
 
Net cash proceeds
$ 7,735 
 
 
Stock spit, conversion ratio
 
 
2 
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT - Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis (Details) (USD $)
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Fair Value Measured on a Recurring Basis |
Level III
 
 
Liabilities:
 
 
Contingent consideration related to 2017 acquisitions
$ 32,233,000 
$ 0 
Prepaid forward contracts |
Fair Value Measured on a Recurring Basis |
Level II
 
 
Assets:
 
 
Derivative asset
52,545,000 
10,956,000 
Liabilities:
 
 
Derivative liability
162,049,000 
13,158,000 
Interest rate swap contracts |
Fair Value Measured on a Recurring Basis |
Level II
 
 
Liabilities:
 
 
Derivative liability
77,902,000 
78,823,000 
Investment securities pledged as collateral |
Fair Value Measured on a Recurring Basis |
Level I
 
 
Assets:
 
 
Investment securities
1,720,357,000 
1,483,030,000 
Money market funds (of which $14,700 is classified as restricted cash as of December 31, 2016)
 
 
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
 
 
Restricted cash
 
14,700,000 
Money market funds (of which $14,700 is classified as restricted cash as of December 31, 2016) |
Fair Value Measured on a Recurring Basis |
Level I
 
 
Assets:
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$ 5,949,000 
$ 100,139,000 
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT - Narrative (Details) (USD $)
3 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
First Quarter Acquisitions
 
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
 
Contingent consideration related to 2017 acquisitions
$ 30,000,000 
Fourth Quarter Acquisition
 
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
 
Contingent consideration related to 2017 acquisitions
$ 2,233 
Percent of contractual amount of acquisitions recognized
51.00% 
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT - Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Carrying Amount
 
 
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
 
 
Debt, fair value
$ 21,919,331 
$ 24,001,910 
Estimated Fair Value
 
 
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
 
 
Debt, fair value
23,279,471 
25,896,046 
Altice N.V. |
Notes payable to affiliates and related parties |
Carrying Amount |
Level II
 
 
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
 
 
Debt, fair value
0 
1,750,000 
Altice N.V. |
Notes payable to affiliates and related parties |
Estimated Fair Value |
Level II
 
 
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
 
 
Debt, fair value
0 
1,837,876 
CSC Holdings |
Credit facility debt |
Carrying Amount |
Level II
 
 
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
 
 
Debt, fair value
3,393,306 
2,631,887 
CSC Holdings |
Credit facility debt |
Estimated Fair Value |
Level II
 
 
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
 
 
Debt, fair value
3,435,000 
2,675,256 
CSC Holdings |
Collateralized indebtedness |
Carrying Amount |
Level II
 
 
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
 
 
Debt, fair value
1,349,474 
1,286,069 
CSC Holdings |
Collateralized indebtedness |
Estimated Fair Value |
Level II
 
 
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
 
 
Debt, fair value
1,305,932 
1,280,048 
CSC Holdings |
Senior guaranteed notes |
Carrying Amount |
Level II
 
 
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
 
 
Debt, fair value
2,291,185 
2,289,494 
CSC Holdings |
Senior guaranteed notes |
Estimated Fair Value |
Level II
 
 
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
 
 
Debt, fair value
2,420,000 
2,416,375 
CSC Holdings |
Senior notes and debentures |
Carrying Amount |
Level II
 
 
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
 
 
Debt, fair value
6,409,889 
6,732,816 
CSC Holdings |
Senior notes and debentures |
Estimated Fair Value |
Level II
 
 
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
 
 
Debt, fair value
7,221,846 
7,731,150 
CSC Holdings |
Notes payable |
Carrying Amount |
Level II
 
 
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
 
 
Debt, fair value
56,956 
13,726 
CSC Holdings |
Notes payable |
Estimated Fair Value |
Level II
 
 
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
 
 
Debt, fair value
55,289 
13,260 
Cablevision Systems Corp. |
Senior notes and debentures |
Carrying Amount |
Level II
 
 
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
 
 
Debt, fair value
1,818,115 
2,742,082 
Cablevision Systems Corp. |
Senior notes and debentures |
Estimated Fair Value |
Level II
 
 
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
 
 
Debt, fair value
1,931,239 
2,920,056 
Cequel Corp. |
Credit facility debt |
Carrying Amount |
Level II
 
 
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
 
 
Debt, fair value
1,250,217 
812,903 
Cequel Corp. |
Credit facility debt |
Estimated Fair Value |
Level II
 
 
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
 
 
Debt, fair value
1,258,675 
815,000 
Cequel Corp. |
Senior notes and debentures |
Carrying Amount |
Level II
 
 
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
 
 
Debt, fair value
2,770,737 
3,176,131 
Cequel Corp. |
Senior notes and debentures |
Estimated Fair Value |
Level II
 
 
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
 
 
Debt, fair value
2,983,615 
3,517,275 
Cequel Corp. |
Notes payable |
Carrying Amount |
Level II
 
 
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
 
 
Debt, fair value
8,946 
0 
Cequel Corp. |
Notes payable |
Estimated Fair Value |
Level II
 
 
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
 
 
Debt, fair value
8,945 
0 
Cequel Corp. |
Senior secured notes |
Carrying Amount |
Level II
 
 
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
 
 
Debt, fair value
2,570,506 
2,566,802 
Cequel Corp. |
Senior secured notes |
Estimated Fair Value |
Level II
 
 
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
 
 
Debt, fair value
$ 2,658,930 
$ 2,689,750 
INCOME TAXES - Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Continuing Operations (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Current expense (benefit):
 
 
Federal
$ 5,657 
$ (981)
State
12,509 
5,310 
Total current expense (benefit)
18,166 
4,329 
Deferred benefit:
 
 
Federal
(2,088,652)
(223,159)
State
(782,492)
(40,830)
Total deferred benefit
(2,871,144)
(263,989)
Tax benefit relating to uncertain tax positions
11 
(6)
Income tax benefit
$ (2,852,967)
$ (259,666)
INCOME TAXES - Narrative (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended 3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Jun. 30, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Dec. 31, 2017
Federal Tax Reform
Dec. 31, 2016
Federal Tax Reform
Dec. 31, 2017
Alternative Minimum Tax Credit Carryforward
Dec. 31, 2017
Research Tax Credit Carryforward
Dec. 31, 2017
Accounting Standards Update 2016-09
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Impact from changes in tax rates, benefit
 
 
 
$ 2,337,900 
$ 0 
 
 
 
Deferred income taxes
(2,871,144)
(263,989)
153,660 
 
 
 
 
 
Unrealized excess tax benefits recognized with the adoption of ASU 2016-09
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
310,771 
Net operating loss carryforward
2,670,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tax credit carryforward
 
 
 
 
 
48,995 
17,806 
 
Unrecognized tax benefits that would impact effective tax rate
5,585 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tax expense related to uncertain tax positions
$ 659 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
INCOME TAXES - Effective Tax Rate Reconciliation (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Income Tax Examination [Line Items]
 
 
Federal tax benefit at statutory rate
$ (465,972)
$ (381,901)
State income taxes, net of federal impact
(59,719)
(39,336)
Changes in the valuation allowance
(111)
297 
Tax benefit relating to uncertain tax positions
(253)
(120)
Non-deductible share-based compensation related to the carried unit plan
20,101 
5,029 
Non-deductible Cablevision Acquisition transaction costs
0 
4,457 
Other non-deductible expenses
3,349 
1,551 
Other, net
434 
(2,882)
Income tax benefit
(2,852,967)
(259,666)
Federal Tax Reform
 
 
Income Tax Examination [Line Items]
 
 
Impact from changes in tax rates
(2,337,900)
0 
State and Local Jurisdiction
 
 
Income Tax Examination [Line Items]
 
 
Impact from changes in tax rates
$ (12,896)
$ 153,239 
INCOME TAXES - Deferred Tax Assets (Liabilities) (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Deferred Tax Assets, Net [Abstract]
 
 
NOLs and tax credit carry forwards
$ 784,334 
$ 971,728 
Compensation and benefit plans
48,280 
93,939 
Partnership investments
68,054 
113,473 
Restructuring liability
33,247 
37,393 
Other liabilities
38,140 
45,561 
Liabilities under derivative contracts
21,034 
31,529 
Interest deferred for tax purposes
128,516 
39,633 
Other
7,182 
6,615 
Deferred tax asset
1,128,787 
1,339,871 
Valuation allowance
(3,000)
(3,125)
Net deferred tax asset, noncurrent
1,125,787 
1,336,746 
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net [Abstract]
 
 
Fixed assets and intangibles
(5,733,319)
(9,065,635)
Investments
(113,628)
(187,795)
Prepaid expenses
(8,007)
(10,172)
Fair value adjustments related to debt and deferred financing costs
(40,215)
(30,535)
Other
(5,733)
(9,424)
Deferred tax liability, noncurrent
(5,900,902)
(9,303,561)
Total net deferred tax liability
$ (4,775,115)
$ (7,966,815)
INCOME TAXES - Unrecognized Tax Benefits (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
 
Beginning balance
$ 4,025 
Increases related to prior year tax positions
11 
Ending balance
$ 4,036 
SHARE BASED COMPENSATION - Narrative (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended 0 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 0 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 0 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Dec. 31, 2017
Carry Unit Awards
Dec. 31, 2016
Carry Unit Awards
Jun. 21, 2016
Carry Unit Awards
Tranche One
Jun. 21, 2016
Carry Unit Awards
Tranche Two
Dec. 31, 2017
Carry Unit Awards
Tranche Two
Jun. 21, 2016
Carry Unit Awards
Tranche Three
Dec. 31, 2017
Carry Unit Awards
Tranche Three
Jun. 20, 2016
Stock Options
Dec. 31, 2015
Stock Options
Dec. 31, 2017
Employee
Carry Unit Awards
Dec. 31, 2017
Affiliates
Carry Unit Awards
Dec. 30, 2017
2017 LTIP
Dec. 31, 2017
2017 LTIP
Dec. 31, 2017
2017 LTIP
December 30, 2017 - Grant One
Dec. 31, 2017
2017 LTIP
December 30, 2017 - Grant Two
Dec. 31, 2017
2017 LTIP
Stock Options
December 30, 2017 - Grant One
Dec. 31, 2017
2017 LTIP
Stock Options
Tranche One
December 30, 2017 - Grant Two
Dec. 31, 2017
2017 LTIP
Stock Options
Tranche Two
December 30, 2017 - Grant Two
Dec. 31, 2017
2017 LTIP
Stock Options
Tranche Three
December 30, 2017 - Grant Two
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Award vesting percentage
 
 
 
 
50.00% 
25.00% 
25.00% 
25.00% 
25.00% 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
100.00% 
50.00% 
25.00% 
25.00% 
Awards authorized (in shares)
 
 
259,442,785 
259,442,785 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
9,879,291 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Granted (in shares)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
211,670,834 
11,300,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Repurchase period following termination
 
 
60 days 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Repurchase period following fourth anniversary
 
 
60 days 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Carry unit plan, written promissory note period
 
 
3 years 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Weighted average fair value (in dollars per unit)
 
 
$ 2.50 
$ 1.76 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Employee and non-employee share-based compensation expense
$ 57,430 
$ 14,368 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Employee share-based compensation expense
55,258 
9,849 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
3,848 
9,159 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Non-employee share-based compensation expense
$ 2,172 
$ 4,519 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Options granted (in shares)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
5,110,747 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Exercise price (in dollars per share)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 19.48 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Options nonvested (in shares)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2,730,949 
2,379,798 
 
 
 
 
SHARE BASED COMPENSATION -Carrying Unit Award Activity (Details) (USD $)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Time Vesting Awards
 
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
 
Beginning balance (in shares)
192,800,000 
Granted (in shares)
28,025,000 
Forfeited (in shares)
(7,854,166)
Vested (in shares)
(44,420,833)
Ending balance (in shares)
168,550,001 
Performance Based Vesting Awards
 
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
 
Beginning balance (in shares)
10,000,000 
Granted (in shares)
0 
Forfeited (in shares)
0 
Vested (in shares)
0 
Ending balance (in shares)
10,000,000 
Carry Unit Awards
 
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
 
Balance at beginning of period, weighted average grant date fair value (in dollars per share)
$ 0.37 
Granted weighted average grant date fair value (in dollars per share)
$ 3.14 
Forfeited weighted average grant date fair value (in dollars per share)
$ 0.37 
Vested weighted average grant date fair value (in dollars per share)
$ 0.41 
Balance at end of period, weighted average grant date fair value (in dollars per share)
$ 0.71 
SHARE BASED COMPENSATION - Fair Value Assumptions For Stock Options (Details)
0 Months Ended
Dec. 30, 2017
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
 
Risk-free interest rate
2.30% 
Expected life (in years)
6 years 5 months 9 days 
Dividend yield
0.00% 
Volatility
33.95% 
Grant date fair value
$ 8.77 
AFFILIATE AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS - Narrative (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 0 Months Ended
Jun. 30, 2017
Mar. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Dec. 31, 2017
Affiliates
Dec. 31, 2016
Affiliates
Dec. 31, 2017
Other Operating Expenses
Affiliates
Dec. 31, 2017
Fees for Executive Services
Affiliates
Dec. 31, 2016
Fees for Executive Services
Affiliates
Dec. 31, 2017
Installation and Construction
Affiliates
Dec. 31, 2017
Fiber To The Home Network
Dec. 31, 2016
Equipment Purchase Costs
Affiliates
Dec. 31, 2017
Equipment Purchase Costs
Altice Labs S.A.
Dec. 31, 2016
Equipment Purchase Costs
Altice Management International
Dec. 31, 2016
Software Development Service Costs
Altice Labs S.A.
Dec. 31, 2017
Software Development Service Costs
Altice Management International
Dec. 31, 2017
Newsday
Dec. 31, 2016
Newsday
Jul. 6, 2016
Newsday
Dec. 31, 2017
I24News and Altice NV 24/7
Dec. 31, 2016
I24News and Altice NV 24/7
Dec. 31, 2017
Newsday And i24News
Dec. 31, 2016
Newsday And i24News
Jun. 30, 2017
CSC Holdings Revolving Credit Facility
Revolving Credit Facility
Dec. 31, 2017
CSC Holdings Revolving Credit Facility
Revolving Credit Facility
Dec. 31, 2017
Other Operating Expense
Transition Services
Affiliates
Dec. 31, 2016
Other Operating Expense
Transition Services
Affiliates
Jan. 8, 2018
Subsequent Event
Feb. 28, 2018
Altice Technical Services
Subsequent Event
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Ownership percentage of noncontrolling interest
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
75.00% 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Ownership percentage
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
25.00% 
 
 
25.00% 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Investment in affiliates and related parties
 
 
$ 930 
$ 5,606 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ (2,649)
$ 5,606 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Equity in net income (loss) from investment in related party
 
 
(10,040)
(1,132)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
7,219 
1,132 
 
2,821 
0 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Percentage of shares acquired
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
100.00% 
Prepayment to affiliate included in prepaid expenses and other current assets
 
 
135,313 
88,151 
19,563 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Prepayment to affiliate in other assets
 
 
 
 
6,539 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Transfer of goodwill
 
 
(23,101)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Related party expense
 
 
712,183 
132,427 
 
 
72,944 
30,000 
20,556 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Related party transaction, annual fee
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
30,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other operating expenses, charges for related party services
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
4,057 
887 
 
 
Transition services credit
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
917 
2,589 
 
 
Capital expenditures
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
111,906 
 
1,025 
17,434 
44,121 
740 
4,578 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Payments of advances for capital expenditure
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
16,363 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Related party note
 
 
 
 
 
1,750,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Due to related parties and affiliates
 
 
 
 
 
102,557 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash distributions to shareholders
839,700 
 
840,035 
445,176 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
500,000 
 
 
1,500,000 
 
Proceeds from credit facility debt
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
500,000 
1,350,000 
 
 
 
 
Cash distributions
 
$ 79,617 
$ 919,317 
$ 366,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
AFFILIATE AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS - Revenue and Related Charges (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
 
 
Revenue
$ 2,205 
$ 1,086 
Operating expenses:
 
 
Programming and other direct costs
(4,176)
(1,947)
Other operating expenses, net
(106,084)
(18,854)
Operating expenses, net
(110,260)
(20,801)
Interest expense
(90,405)
(112,712)
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs
(513,723)
0 
Net charges
(712,183)
(132,427)
Capital Expenditures
133,918 
45,886 
Holdco Notes and Notes Payable to Affiliates
 
 
Operating expenses:
 
 
Interest expense
 
$ (10,155)
AFFILIATE AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS - Amounts Due From and Due to Related Parties (Details) (Affiliates, USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
 
 
Due from related parties and affiliates
$ 21,356 
$ 22,182 
Due to related parties and affiliates
13,946 
127,363 
Altice US Finance S.A.
 
 
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
 
 
Due from related parties and affiliates
12,951 
12,951 
Newsday
 
 
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
 
 
Due from related parties and affiliates
2,713 
6,114 
Due to related parties and affiliates
33 
275 
Altice Labs S.A.
 
 
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
 
 
Due to related parties and affiliates
7,354 
866 
Altice Management Americas
 
 
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
 
 
Due from related parties and affiliates
33 
3,117 
I24
 
 
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
 
 
Due from related parties and affiliates
4,036 
0 
Other Related Party
 
 
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
 
 
Due from related parties and affiliates
1,623 
0 
Due to related parties and affiliates
3,611 
2,484 
CVC 3BV
 
 
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
 
 
Due to related parties and affiliates
0 
71,655 
Neptune Holdings US LP
 
 
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
 
 
Due to related parties and affiliates
0 
7,962 
Altice Management International
 
 
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
 
 
Due to related parties and affiliates
0 
44,121 
Altice Technical Services
 
 
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
 
 
Due to related parties and affiliates
$ 2,948 
$ 0 
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
 
 
Estimated litigation liability
 
$ 5,200 
Increase in estimated litigation liability
$ 800 
 
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES - Future Cash Payments and Commitments (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Dec. 31, 2017
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
 
Purchase obligation
$ 8,423,735 
Purchase obligation, due in year 1
3,071,514 
Purchase obligation, due in years 2 and 3
4,179,616 
Purchase obligation, due in years 4 and 5
1,092,786 
Purchase obligation, due after year 5
79,819 
Guarantees
36,224 
Guarantees, due in year 1
34,716 
Guarantees, due in years 2 and 3
1,508 
Guarantees, due in years 4 and 5
0 
Guarantees, due after year 5
0 
Letters of credit
129,473 
Letters of credit, due in year 1
200 
Letters of credit, due in years 2 and 3
120 
Letters of credit, due in years 4 and 5
129,153 
Letters of credit, due after year 5
0 
Total contractual obligation
8,589,432 
Total contractual obligation, due in year 1
3,106,430 
Total contractual obligation, due in years 2 and 3
4,181,244 
Total contractual obligation, due in years 4 and 5
1,221,939 
Total contractual obligation, due after year 5
$ 79,819 
SEGMENT INFORMATION - Narrative (Details)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
segment
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
 
Number of reportable business segments
2 
SEGMENT INFORMATION - Reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to Operating Income (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Sep. 30, 2017
Jun. 30, 2017
Mar. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Sep. 30, 2016
Jun. 30, 2016
Mar. 31, 2016
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Operating Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes [Abstract]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating income
$ 225,504 
$ 134,864 
$ 256,782 
$ 248,234 
$ 217,224 
$ 142,779 
$ 45,403 
$ 54,260 
$ 865,384 
$ 459,666 
Share-based compensation expense
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
57,430 
14,368 
Restructuring and other expense
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
152,401 
240,395 
Depreciation and amortization (including impairments)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2,930,475 
1,700,306 
Adjusted EBITDA
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
4,005,690 
2,414,735 
Cablevision Systems Corp.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes [Abstract]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating income
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
345,063 
74,865 
Share-based compensation expense
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
42,060 
9,164 
Restructuring and other expense
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
112,384 
212,150 
Depreciation and amortization (including impairments)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2,251,614 
963,665 
Adjusted EBITDA
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2,751,121 
1,259,844 
Cequel Corp.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes [Abstract]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating income
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
520,321 
384,801 
Share-based compensation expense
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
15,370 
5,204 
Restructuring and other expense
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
40,017 
28,245 
Depreciation and amortization (including impairments)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
678,861 
736,641 
Adjusted EBITDA
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 1,254,569 
$ 1,154,891 
SEGMENT INFORMATION - Reconciliation of Reportable Segments to Consolidated Balances (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
0 Months Ended 3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Mar. 15, 2017
Dec. 31, 2017
Sep. 30, 2017
Jun. 30, 2017
Mar. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Sep. 30, 2016
Jun. 30, 2016
Mar. 31, 2016
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Operating Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes [Abstract]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating income for reportable segments
 
$ 225,504 
$ 134,864 
$ 256,782 
$ 248,234 
$ 217,224 
$ 142,779 
$ 45,403 
$ 54,260 
$ 865,384 
$ 459,666 
Items excluded from operating income:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest expense
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(1,603,132)
(1,456,541)
Interest income
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1,921 
13,811 
Gain on investments, net
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
237,354 
141,896 
Loss on derivative contracts, net
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(236,330)
(53,696)
Gain (loss) on interest rate swap contracts
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
5,482 
(72,961)
Loss on extinguishment of debt and write-off of deferred financing costs
(18,976)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(600,240)
(127,649)
Other income (expense), net
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(1,788)
4,329 
Loss before income taxes
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ (1,331,349)
$ (1,091,145)
SEGMENT INFORMATION - Summary of Revenue by Segment (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Sep. 30, 2017
Jun. 30, 2017
Mar. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Sep. 30, 2016
Jun. 30, 2016
Mar. 31, 2016
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues, net
$ 2,365,378 
$ 2,327,175 
$ 2,328,341 
$ 2,305,676 
$ 2,305,901 
$ 2,260,221 
$ 823,501 
$ 627,589 
$ 9,326,570 
$ 6,017,212 
Pay TV
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues, net
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
4,214,745 
2,759,216 
Broadband
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues, net
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2,563,772 
1,617,029 
Telephony
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues, net
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
823,981 
529,973 
Business services and wholesale
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues, net
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1,298,817 
819,541 
Advertising
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues, net
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
391,866 
252,049 
Other
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues, net
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
33,389 
39,404 
Operating Segments |
Cablevision Systems Corp.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues, net
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
6,664,788 
3,444,052 
Operating Segments |
Cablevision Systems Corp. |
Pay TV
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues, net
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
3,113,238 
1,638,691 
Operating Segments |
Cablevision Systems Corp. |
Broadband
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues, net
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1,603,015 
782,615 
Operating Segments |
Cablevision Systems Corp. |
Telephony
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues, net
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
693,478 
376,034 
Operating Segments |
Cablevision Systems Corp. |
Business services and wholesale
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues, net
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
923,161 
468,632 
Operating Segments |
Cablevision Systems Corp. |
Advertising
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues, net
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
321,149 
163,678 
Operating Segments |
Cablevision Systems Corp. |
Other
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues, net
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
10,747 
14,402 
Operating Segments |
Cequel Corp.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues, net
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2,664,574 
2,573,160 
Operating Segments |
Cequel Corp. |
Pay TV
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues, net
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1,101,507 
1,120,525 
Operating Segments |
Cequel Corp. |
Broadband
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues, net
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
960,757 
834,414 
Operating Segments |
Cequel Corp. |
Telephony
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues, net
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
130,503 
153,939 
Operating Segments |
Cequel Corp. |
Business services and wholesale
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues, net
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
375,656 
350,909 
Operating Segments |
Cequel Corp. |
Advertising
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues, net
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
73,509 
88,371 
Operating Segments |
Cequel Corp. |
Other
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues, net
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
22,642 
25,002 
Eliminations
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues, net
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(2,792)
 
Eliminations |
Pay TV
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues, net
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
0 
 
Eliminations |
Broadband
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues, net
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
0 
 
Eliminations |
Telephony
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues, net
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
0 
 
Eliminations |
Business services and wholesale
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues, net
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
0 
 
Eliminations |
Advertising
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues, net
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(2,792)
 
Eliminations |
Other
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues, net
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 0 
 
SEGMENT INFORMATION - Capital Expenditures by Reportable Segment (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Segment Reporting Information, Capital Expenditures [Abstract]
 
 
Capital expenditures
$ 991,364 
$ 625,541 
Cablevision Systems Corp.
 
 
Segment Reporting Information, Capital Expenditures [Abstract]
 
 
Capital expenditures
711,432 
298,357 
Cequel Corp.
 
 
Segment Reporting Information, Capital Expenditures [Abstract]
 
 
Capital expenditures
$ 279,932 
$ 327,184 
BENEFIT PLANS - Funded Status (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2016
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Change in projected benefit obligation:
 
 
 
Benefit obligation, beginning of year
 
$ 382,517 
$ 403,963 
Interest cost
6,946 
11,786 
14,077 
Actuarial loss (gain)
 
13,171 
(11,429)
Curtailments
 
6,332 
3,968 
Settlements
 
6,910 
0 
Benefits paid
 
(121,650)
(28,062)
Benefit obligation, end of year
382,517 
299,066 
382,517 
Change in plan assets:
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year
 
284,118 
297,846 
Actual return on plan assets, net
 
6,356 
5,829 
Employer contributions
 
26,944 
8,505 
Benefits paid
 
(121,650)
(28,062)
Fair value of plan assets, end of year
284,118 
195,768 
284,118 
Unfunded status at end of year
$ (98,399)
$ (103,298)
$ (98,399)
BENEFIT PLANS - Net Funded Status (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
 
 
Defined Benefit Plans
$ (103,298)
$ (98,399)
Less: Current portion related to nonqualified plans
135 
14,293 
Long-term defined benefit plan obligations
$ (103,163)
$ (84,106)
BENEFIT PLANS - Narrative (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
 
 
Accumulated benefit obligation
$ 299,066 
$ 382,517 
Expected future employer contributions, next fiscal year
18,000 
 
Defined contribution plan cost
$ 27,577 
$ 28,501 
BENEFIT PLANS - Components of Net Periodic Benefit Costs (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2016
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
 
 
 
Interest cost
$ 6,946 
$ 11,786 
$ 14,077 
Expected return on plan assets, net
(4,022)
(4,907)
 
Curtailment loss
231 
3,137 
 
Settlement loss (income) (reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss)
(154)
1,845 
 
Net periodic benefit cost
$ 3,001 
$ 11,861 
 
BENEFIT PLANS - Weighted Average Assumptions Used to Determine Benefit Obligation and Cost (Details)
6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2016
Dec. 31, 2017
Net Periodic Benefit Cost
 
 
Discount rate
3.53% 
3.69% 
Rate of increase in future compensation levels
0.00% 
0.00% 
Expected rate of return on plan assets (Pension Plan only)
3.97% 
3.90% 
Benefit Obligations
 
 
Discount rate
3.81% 
3.50% 
Rate of increase in future compensation levels
0.00% 
0.00% 
BENEFIT PLANS - Weighted Average Asset Allocations (Details)
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
Asset allocation
100.00% 
100.00% 
Mutual funds
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
Asset allocation
32.00% 
43.00% 
Fixed income securities
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
Asset allocation
66.00% 
55.00% 
Cash equivalents and other
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
Asset allocation
2.00% 
2.00% 
BENEFIT PLANS - Fair Value of Plan Assets (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Dec. 31, 2015
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
$ 195,768 
$ 284,118 
$ 297,846 
Plan Assets, Excluding Cash And Net Payables [Member]
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
200,243 
285,074 
 
Plan Assets, Excluding Cash And Net Payables [Member] |
Level I
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
68,524 
123,949 
 
Plan Assets, Excluding Cash And Net Payables [Member] |
Level II
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
131,719 
161,125 
 
Plan Assets, Excluding Cash And Net Payables [Member] |
Level III
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
0 
0 
 
Mutual funds
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
61,833 
121,356 
 
Mutual funds |
Level I
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
61,833 
121,356 
 
Mutual funds |
Level II
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
0 
0 
 
Mutual funds |
Level III
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
0 
0 
 
Foreign issued corporate debt
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
10,721 
13,583 
 
Foreign issued corporate debt |
Level I
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
0 
0 
 
Foreign issued corporate debt |
Level II
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
10,721 
13,583 
 
Foreign issued corporate debt |
Level III
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
0 
0 
 
U.S. corporate debt
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
39,992 
48,046 
 
U.S. corporate debt |
Level I
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
0 
0 
 
U.S. corporate debt |
Level II
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
39,992 
48,046 
 
U.S. corporate debt |
Level III
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
0 
0 
 
Government debt
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
4,645 
4,810 
 
Government debt |
Level I
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
0 
0 
 
Government debt |
Level II
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
4,645 
4,810 
 
Government debt |
Level III
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
0 
0 
 
U.S. Treasury securities
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
62,601 
77,285 
 
U.S. Treasury securities |
Level I
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
0 
0 
 
U.S. Treasury securities |
Level II
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
62,601 
77,285 
 
U.S. Treasury securities |
Level III
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
0 
0 
 
Asset-backed securities
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
10,978 
14,065 
 
Asset-backed securities |
Level I
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
0 
0 
 
Asset-backed securities |
Level II
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
10,978 
14,065 
 
Asset-backed securities |
Level III
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
0 
0 
 
Other
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
0 
247 
 
Other |
Level I
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
0 
0 
 
Other |
Level II
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
0 
247 
 
Other |
Level III
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
0 
0 
 
Cash equivalents
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
9,473 
5,682 
 
Cash equivalents |
Level I
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
6,691 
2,593 
 
Cash equivalents |
Level II
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
2,782 
3,089 
 
Cash equivalents |
Level III
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
$ 0 
$ 0 
 
BENEFIT PLANS - Expected Benefit Payments (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Dec. 31, 2017
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
 
2018
$ 96,482 
2019
18,960 
2020
14,052 
2021
13,282 
2022
13,792 
2023-2027
$ 69,369 
ALLOWANCE FOR DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable [Roll Forward]
 
 
Beginning balance
$ 11,677 
$ 1,051 
Provision for doubtful accounts
74,183 
53,249 
Deductions/ Write-Offs and Other Charges
(72,440)
(42,623)
Ending balance
$ 13,420 
$ 11,677 
INTERIM FINANCIAL INFORMATION (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified
3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Sep. 30, 2017
Jun. 30, 2017
Mar. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Sep. 30, 2016
Jun. 30, 2016
Mar. 31, 2016
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues, net
$ 2,365,378 
$ 2,327,175 
$ 2,328,341 
$ 2,305,676 
$ 2,305,901 
$ 2,260,221 
$ 823,501 
$ 627,589 
$ 9,326,570 
$ 6,017,212 
Operating expenses
(2,139,874)
(2,192,311)
(2,071,559)
(2,057,442)
(2,088,677)
(2,117,442)
(778,098)
(573,329)
(8,461,186)
(5,557,546)
Operating income
225,504 
134,864 
256,782 
248,234 
217,224 
142,779 
45,403 
54,260 
865,384 
459,666 
Net income (loss)
2,254,682 
(182,086)
(474,790)
(76,188)
(236,049)
(172,553)
(282,129)
(140,748)
1,521,618 
(831,479)
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
(850)
(135)
(365)
(237)
(659)
(256)
364 
0 
(1,587)
(551)
Net income (loss) attributable to Altice USA, Inc. stockholders
2,253,832 
(182,221)
(475,155)
(76,425)
(236,708)
(172,809)
(281,765)
(140,748)
1,520,031 
(832,030)
Basic and diluted income (loss) per share attributable to Altice USA Inc.'s stockholders (in dollars per share)
$ 3.06 
$ (0.25)
$ (0.72)
$ (0.12)
$ (0.36)
$ (0.27)
$ (0.43)
$ (0.22)
$ 2.18 
$ (1.28)
Quarterly Financial Information [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Payments of dividends
 
 
 
79,617 
 
 
 
 
919,317 
366,000 
Domestic Tax Authority [Member]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Quarterly Financial Information [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Impact from changes in tax rates
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ (2,337,900)
$ 0 
SUBSEQUENT EVENT (Details) (USD $)
12 Months Ended 1 Months Ended 0 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 1 Months Ended 0 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 1 Months Ended 1 Months Ended 1 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Jan. 31, 2018
Subsequent Event
Dec. 31, 2017
Revolving Credit Facility
CSC Holdings Revolving Credit Facility
Jan. 31, 2018
Revolving Credit Facility
CSC Holdings Revolving Credit Facility
Subsequent Event
Jan. 31, 2018
Term Loan
CSC Holdings Incremental Term Loan
Subsequent Event
Oct. 12, 2012
Alternate Base Rate
Dec. 31, 2017
Alternate Base Rate
Revolving Credit Facility
CSC Holdings Revolving Credit Facility
Jun. 20, 2016
Alternate Base Rate
Term Loan
Jan. 31, 2018
Alternate Base Rate
Term Loan
CSC Holdings Incremental Term Loan
Subsequent Event
Oct. 12, 2012
Eurodollar
Jun. 20, 2016
Eurodollar
Revolving Credit Facility
Dec. 31, 2017
Eurodollar
Revolving Credit Facility
CSC Holdings Revolving Credit Facility
Jan. 31, 2018
Eurodollar
Term Loan
CSC Holdings Incremental Term Loan
Subsequent Event
Jan. 31, 2018
Senior Guaranteed Notes
5.375% Senior Guaranteed Notes Due February 1, 2028
Subsequent Event
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
7.875% Notes due February 15, 2018
Feb. 28, 2018
Senior Notes
7.875% Notes due February 15, 2018
Subsequent Event
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
7.75% Notes due April 15, 2018
Feb. 28, 2018
Senior Notes
7.75% Notes due April 15, 2018
Subsequent Event
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Proceeds from credit facility
$ 5,593,675,000 
$ 5,510,256,000 
 
 
$ 150,000,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Principal Amount
4,693,675,000 
 
 
450,000,000 
 
1,500,000,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1,000,000,000 
16,289,245,000 
300,000,000 
 
750,000,000 
 
Issued percentage of par
 
 
 
 
 
99.50% 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basis spread on variable rate
 
 
 
 
 
 
2.50% 
2.25% 
2.25% 
1.50% 
3.50% 
3.25% 
3.25% 
2.50% 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Stated interest rate
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
5.375% 
 
7.875% 
 
7.75% 
 
Extinguishment of debt
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
300,000,000 
 
750,000,000 
Distributions declared but not paid
$ 0 
$ 79,617,000 
$ 1,500,000,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CVC - DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS, RELATED MATTERS AND BASIS OF PRESENTATION (Details) (USD $)
12 Months Ended 0 Months Ended 0 Months Ended 0 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 0 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
segment
Dec. 31, 2016
Oct. 12, 2012
Jul. 31, 2017
10.875% Notes due October 15, 2025
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
10.125% Notes due January 15, 2023
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
10.875% Notes due October 15, 2025
Jun. 30, 2017
Senior Notes
10.875% Notes due October 15, 2025
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
6.625% Notes due October 15, 2025
Dec. 31, 2017
Common Class A
Dec. 31, 2017
Common Class B
Jun. 21, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Sep. 16, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Dec. 31, 2017
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Common Class A
Dec. 31, 2017
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Common Class B
Oct. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Neptune Finco Corp.
Term Loan
Senior Secured Credit Facilities
Oct. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Neptune Finco Corp.
Term Loan
Revolving Credit Facility
Senior Secured Credit Facilities
Oct. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Neptune Finco Corp.
Senior Notes
10.125% Notes due January 15, 2023
Oct. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Neptune Finco Corp.
Senior Notes
10.875% Notes due October 15, 2025
Oct. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Neptune Finco Corp.
Senior Notes
6.625% Notes due October 15, 2025
Sep. 16, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Affiliates
Sep. 16, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Affiliates
Jun. 21, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
segment
Dec. 9, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Revolving Credit Facility
Jul. 21, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Revolving Credit Facility
Oct. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Revolving Credit Facility
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Common Class A
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Common Class B
Jun. 21, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Altice N.V.
Sep. 16, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Altice N.V.
Oct. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Neptune Finco Corp.
Term Loan
Revolving Credit Facility
Senior Secured Credit Facilities
Oct. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Neptune Finco Corp.
Senior Notes
10.125% Notes due January 15, 2023
Oct. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Neptune Finco Corp.
Senior Notes
10.875% Notes due October 15, 2025
Oct. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Neptune Finco Corp.
Senior Notes
6.625% Notes due October 15, 2025
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Affiliates
Altice N.V.
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Dec. 31, 2017
Newsday
Jul. 6, 2016
Newsday
Jul. 31, 2016
Newsday
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Jul. 6, 2016
Newsday
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Number of reportable business segments
2 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Ownership percentage of noncontrolling interest
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
75.00% 
75.00% 
75.00% 
Ownership percentage
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
25.00% 
 
25.00% 
25.00% 
Net interest expense
$ 1,603,132,000 
$ 1,456,541,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 287,098,000 
$ 585,764,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Business Combination, Description [Abstract]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)
$ 0.01 
$ 0.01 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 0.01 
$ 0.01 
 
 
$ 0.01 
$ 0.01 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 0.01 
$ 0.01 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Business acquisition, share price (dollars per share)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 34.90 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 34.90 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 34.90 
 
 
 
 
Consideration transfered
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
9,958,323,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1,000,000,000 
 
9,958,323,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
9,958,323,000 
 
 
 
 
 
1,000,000,000 
439,167,000 
 
 
 
 
Indirect ownership interest by co-investors
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
30.00% 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
30.00% 
 
 
 
 
 
Principal Amount
4,693,675,000 
 
 
 
16,289,245,000 
1,800,000,000 
1,684,221,000 
2,000,000,000 
1,000,000,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
3,800,000,000 
 
1,800,000,000 
2,000,000,000 
1,000,000,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
3,800,000,000 
1,800,000,000 
2,000,000,000 
1,000,000,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Line of credit facility, aggregate principal amount
 
 
$ 480,000,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 2,000,000,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 2,300,000,000 
$ 2,105,000,000 
$ 2,000,000,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Stated interest rate
 
 
 
10.875% 
 
10.125% 
10.875% 
 
6.625% 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
10.125% 
10.875% 
6.625% 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
10.125% 
10.875% 
6.625% 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CVC - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Share-Based Compensation (Details)
6 Months Ended
Jun. 20, 2016
Performance Shares
 
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
 
Award vesting period (years)
3 years 
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
 
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
 
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Rights, Percentage
100.00% 
CVC - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended 0 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Jan. 1, 2017
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2015
Revolving Credit Facility
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Gross Versus Net Revenue Recognition [Abstract]
 
 
 
 
 
 
Franchise fees and other taxes and fees
$ 259,075 
$ 154,732 
 
$ 95,432 
$ 199,701 
 
Advertising Expenses [Abstract]
 
 
 
 
 
 
Advertising expenses
224,120 
135,513 
 
62,760 
160,671 
 
Share-Based Compensation [Abstract]
 
 
 
 
 
 
Award vesting percentage
 
 
 
100.00% 
 
 
Recently Issued But Not Yet Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
 
 
 
 
 
 
Unrealized excess tax benefits recognized with the adoption of ASU 2016-09
 
 
309,000 
 
 
 
Deferred financing costs, net of accumulated amortization
 
 
 
 
$ 67,119 
$ 7,588 
CVC - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Common Stock of Cablevision (Details)
6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2016
Jun. 20, 2016
CNYG Class A Common Stock
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2016
CNYG Class A Common Stock
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Vote
Dec. 31, 2015
CNYG Class A Common Stock
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2016
CNYG Class B Common Stock
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Vote
Jun. 20, 2016
CNYG Class B Common Stock
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2014
CNYG Class B Common Stock
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Common Stock of Cablevision [Abstract]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Number of votes per share of common stock
 
 
1 
 
10 
 
 
Number of shares of common stock issued upon conversion (in shares)
 
 
1 
 
 
 
 
Number of shares of common stock converted (in shares)
 
 
 
 
1 
 
 
Percentage of Board of Directors stockholders are entitled to elect (in hundredths)
 
 
25.00% 
 
 
 
 
Common Stock Outstanding [Roll Forward]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding, Beginning Balance
100 
222,572,210 
222,572,210 
220,219,935 
54,137,673 
54,137,673 
54,137,673 
Employee and non-employee director stock transactions (in shares)
 
(185,276)
 
2,352,275 
 
 
 
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding, Ending Balance
100 
222,386,934 
 
222,572,210 
 
54,137,673 
54,137,673 
CVC - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Dividends (Details) (Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries, USD $)
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified
6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 0 Months Ended
Jun. 20, 2016
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2015
Restricted Stock
Aug. 6, 2015
Dividend Declared 2015 Q3
CNYG Class A Common Stock
Aug. 6, 2015
Dividend Declared 2015 Q3
CNYG Class B Common Stock
May 1, 2015
Dividend Declared 2015 Q2
CNYG Class A Common Stock
May 1, 2015
Dividend Declared 2015 Q2
CNYG Class B Common Stock
Feb. 24, 2015
Dividend Declared 2015 Q1
CNYG Class A Common Stock
Feb. 24, 2015
Dividend Declared 2015 Q1
CNYG Class B Common Stock
Dividends [Abstract]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Dividend, declaration date
 
 
 
Aug. 06, 2015 
Aug. 06, 2015 
May 01, 2015 
May 01, 2015 
Feb. 24, 2015 
Feb. 24, 2015 
Dividend per share (in dollars per share)
$ 0.00 
$ 0.45 
 
$ 0.15 
$ 0.15 
$ 0.15 
$ 0.15 
$ 0.15 
$ 0.15 
Dividend, record date
 
 
 
Aug. 21, 2015 
Aug. 21, 2015 
May 22, 2015 
May 22, 2015 
Mar. 16, 2015 
Mar. 16, 2015 
Dividend, payment date
 
 
 
Sep. 10, 2015 
Sep. 10, 2015 
Jun. 12, 2015 
Jun. 12, 2015 
Apr. 03, 2015 
Apr. 03, 2015 
Dividends paid by Cablevision
$ 4,066 
$ 125,170 
$ 3,935 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CVC - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Income (Loss) Per Common Share (Details)
3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2016
Stock Options
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2015
Stock Options
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2015
Performance Shares
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Reconciliation of Weighted Average Shares Used in Calculations of Basic and Diluted Net Income Per Share [Abstract]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic weighted average common shares (in thousands)
 
696,055,000 
649,525,000 
272,035,000 
272,035,000 
269,388,000 
 
 
 
Effect of dilution:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Stock options (in shares)
 
 
 
 
4,444,000 
3,532,000 
 
 
 
Restricted stock awards (in shares)
 
 
 
 
3,720,000 
3,419,000 
 
 
 
Diluted weighted average common shares (in shares)
696,055,000 
696,055,000 
649,525,000 
280,199,000 
280,199,000 
276,339,000 
 
 
 
Antidilutive securities excluded from diluted weighted average shares outstanding (in shares)
 
14,000 
 
 
 
 
0 
1,160,000 
1,772,000 
CVC - ALLOWANCE FOR DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Activity related to the allowance for doubtful accounts
 
 
 
 
Beginning balance
$ 11,677 
$ 1,051 
$ 6,039 
$ 12,112 
Provision for Bad Debt
74,183 
53,249 
13,240 
35,802 
Deductions/Write-Offs and Other Charges
(72,440)
(42,623)
(12,378)
(41,875)
Ending balance
$ 13,420 
$ 11,677 
$ 6,901 
$ 6,039 
CVC - SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Restricted Stock
Continuing Operations:
 
 
 
 
 
Property and equipment accrued but unpaid
$ 171,604 
$ 155,653 
$ 68,356 
$ 63,843 
 
Notes payable to vendor
40,131 
12,449 
 
8,318 
 
Capital lease obligations
9,385 
0 
 
19,987 
 
Intangible asset obligations
 
 
290 
1,121 
 
Dividends payable on unvested restricted share awards
 
 
 
 
3,517 
Supplemental Data:
 
 
 
 
 
Cash interest paid
1,765,126 
1,192,370 
258,940 
560,361 
 
Income taxes paid, net
$ 29,006 
$ 1,538 
$ 7,082 
$ 3,849 
 
CVC - RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER EXPENSE (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended 0 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 0 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Dec. 31, 2017
Elimination of positions
Dec. 31, 2016
Elimination of positions
Dec. 31, 2017
Facility Realignment and Other Costs
Dec. 31, 2016
Facility Realignment and Other Costs
Jun. 21, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Jun. 21, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Elimination of positions
2016 Restructuring Plan
Jun. 21, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Facility Realignment and Other Costs
2016 Restructuring Plan
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Restructuring charges
$ 149,922 
$ 226,577 
$ 142,679 
$ 215,420 
$ 7,243 
$ 11,157 
 
$ 2,299 
$ (1,649)
$ 188,847 
$ 10,410 
Transaction costs
$ 2,479 
$ 13,845 
 
 
 
 
$ 12,920 
$ 19,924 
$ 17,862 
 
 
CVC - DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS (Details) (Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries, USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Jun. 20, 2016
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
 
 
DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
 
 
Income (loss) before income taxes
 
$ 21,272 
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income taxes
0 
12,541 
Discontinued operations, legal matter expense
 
21,000 
Discontinued operations legal matter, aggregate expense, including statutory interest, net of taxes
 
$ 12,380 
CVC - PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Dec. 31, 2017
Headends and related equipment
Dec. 31, 2016
Headends and related equipment
Dec. 31, 2017
Infrastructure
Dec. 31, 2016
Infrastructure
Dec. 31, 2017
Equipment and software
Dec. 31, 2016
Equipment and software
Dec. 31, 2017
Construction in progress (including materials and supplies)
Dec. 31, 2016
Construction in progress (including materials and supplies)
Dec. 31, 2017
Furniture and fixtures
Dec. 31, 2016
Furniture and fixtures
Dec. 31, 2017
Transportation equipment
Dec. 31, 2016
Transportation equipment
Dec. 31, 2017
Buildings and building improvements
Dec. 31, 2016
Buildings and building improvements
Dec. 31, 2017
Leasehold improvements
Dec. 31, 2016
Leasehold improvements
Dec. 31, 2017
Land
Dec. 31, 2016
Land
Dec. 31, 2017
Minimum
Headends and related equipment
Dec. 31, 2017
Minimum
Infrastructure
Dec. 31, 2017
Minimum
Equipment and software
Dec. 31, 2017
Minimum
Furniture and fixtures
Dec. 31, 2017
Minimum
Transportation equipment
Dec. 31, 2017
Minimum
Buildings and building improvements
Dec. 31, 2017
Maximum
Headends and related equipment
Dec. 31, 2017
Maximum
Infrastructure
Dec. 31, 2017
Maximum
Equipment and software
Dec. 31, 2017
Maximum
Furniture and fixtures
Dec. 31, 2017
Maximum
Transportation equipment
Dec. 31, 2017
Maximum
Buildings and building improvements
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
New Connections for Residence Wiring
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Customer equipment
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Headends and related equipment
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Infrastructure
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Equipment and software
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Construction in progress (including materials and supplies)
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Furniture and fixtures
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Transportation equipment
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Buildings and building improvements
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Leasehold improvements
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Land
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Software Development
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Software Development
Dec. 31, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Minimum
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Minimum
Cable Television System Plant
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Minimum
Headend Facilities
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Minimum
Customer equipment
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Minimum
Headends and related equipment
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Minimum
Infrastructure
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Minimum
Equipment and software
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Minimum
Furniture and fixtures
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Minimum
Transportation equipment
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Minimum
Buildings and building improvements
Dec. 31, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Maximum
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Maximum
Cable Television System Plant
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Maximum
Headend Facilities
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Maximum
Customer equipment
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Maximum
Headends and related equipment
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Maximum
Infrastructure
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Maximum
Equipment and software
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Maximum
Furniture and fixtures
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Maximum
Transportation equipment
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Maximum
Buildings and building improvements
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Property, plant and equipment, gross
$ 8,663,408 
$ 7,636,932 
$ 1,626,293 
$ 1,482,631 
$ 3,998,503 
$ 3,740,494 
$ 917,698 
$ 735,012 
$ 286,702 
$ 84,321 
$ 52,545 
$ 45,576 
$ 137,886 
$ 135,488 
$ 394,421 
$ 390,337 
$ 108,071 
$ 104,309 
$ 47,563 
$ 47,715 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 12,642,363 
 
$ 1,952,336 
$ 2,388,289 
$ 5,639,226 
$ 1,577,616 
$ 87,412 
$ 96,561 
$ 210,013 
$ 322,267 
$ 354,136 
$ 14,507 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization
(2,599,579)
(1,039,297)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(9,625,348)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Property, plant and equipment, net
6,063,829 
6,597,635 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
3,017,015 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Property, plant and equipment, useful life
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
4 years 
3 years 
3 years 
5 years 
5 years 
10 years 
25 years 
25 years 
10 years 
12 years 
10 years 
40 years 
 
 
5 years 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2 years 
10 years 
4 years 
3 years 
4 years 
3 years 
3 years 
5 years 
5 years 
10 years 
18 years 
25 years 
25 years 
5 years 
25 years 
25 years 
10 years 
12 years 
18 years 
40 years 
Aggregate capitalized costs
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
58,409 
144,349 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Depreciation expense on property, plant and equipment, including capital leases
$ 1,588,668 
$ 1,046,896 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 404,234 
$ 857,440 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CVC - PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT - Assets under Capital Lease (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Equipment
Assets under capital lease
 
 
 
Buildings and equipment
$ 48,936 
$ 53,833 
$ 90,099 
Less accumulated amortization
(12,972)
(6,306)
(28,119)
Capital leased assets, net
$ 35,964 
$ 47,527 
$ 61,980 
CVC - OPERATING LEASES (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Rent expense, including pole rentals
 
$ 41,573 
$ 82,704 
Future minimum annual payments for all operating leases
 
 
 
2017
74,992 
57,853 
 
2018
72,142 
52,206 
 
2019
69,203 
44,908 
 
2020
63,735 
41,221 
 
2021
55,234 
38,697 
 
Thereafter
$ 140,406 
$ 141,063 
 
CVC - INTANGIBLE ASSETS - Summary of Acquired Intangible Assets (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Jun. 20, 2016
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Dec. 31, 2015
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
Gross Carrying Amount
 
$ 7,075,027 
$ 7,019,410 
 
Accumulated Amortization
 
(2,008,573)
(666,766)
 
Net Carrying Amount
 
5,066,454 
6,352,644 
 
Amortization of intangible assets
10,316 
1,341,807 
653,410 
7,812 
Customer relationships
 
 
 
 
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
Gross Carrying Amount
 
5,970,884 
5,925,884 
 
Accumulated Amortization
 
(1,409,021)
(580,276)
 
Net Carrying Amount
 
4,561,863 
5,345,608 
 
Amortizable intangible assets
 
 
 
 
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
Gross Carrying Amount
 
37,060 
26,743 
 
Accumulated Amortization
 
(10,978)
(3,093)
 
Net Carrying Amount
 
26,082 
23,650 
 
Minimum |
Customer relationships
 
 
 
 
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life
 
8 years 
 
 
Minimum |
Amortizable intangible assets
 
 
 
 
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life
 
1 year 
 
 
Maximum |
Customer relationships
 
 
 
 
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life
 
18 years 
 
 
Maximum |
Amortizable intangible assets
 
 
 
 
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life
 
15 years 
 
 
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
 
 
 
 
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
Gross Carrying Amount
 
 
 
97,261 
Accumulated Amortization
 
 
 
(60,310)
Net Carrying Amount
 
 
 
36,951 
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries |
Customer relationships
 
 
 
 
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
Gross Carrying Amount
 
 
 
39,414 
Accumulated Amortization
 
 
 
(27,778)
Net Carrying Amount
 
 
 
11,636 
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries |
Amortizable intangible assets
 
 
 
 
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
Gross Carrying Amount
 
 
 
57,847 
Accumulated Amortization
 
 
 
(32,532)
Net Carrying Amount
 
 
 
$ 25,315 
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries |
Minimum |
Customer relationships
 
 
 
 
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life
 
 
8 years 
10 years 
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries |
Minimum |
Amortizable intangible assets
 
 
 
 
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life
 
 
1 year 
3 years 
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries |
Maximum |
Customer relationships
 
 
 
 
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life
 
 
18 years 
18 years 
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries |
Maximum |
Amortizable intangible assets
 
 
 
 
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life
 
 
15 years 
28 years 
CVC - INTANGIBLE ASSETS - Summary of Acquired Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Cable television franchises
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Trademarks and other assets
Acquired Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cable television franchises
$ 13,020,081 
$ 13,020,081 
 
 
 
 
$ 731,848 
$ 7,250 
Goodwill
7,996,760 
7,992,700 
2,040,402 
5,838,959 
262,345 
262,345 
 
 
Total
$ 21,016,841 
$ 21,012,781 
 
 
 
$ 1,001,443 
 
 
CVC - INTANGIBLE ASSETS - Goodwill (Details) (USD $)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2015
Predecessor
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Goodwill, beginning balance
$ 7,996,760,000 
$ 7,992,700,000 
$ 2,040,402,000 
 
$ 5,838,959,000 
$ 262,345,000 
$ 596,403,000 
Accumulated impairment losses
 
 
 
 
 
(334,058,000)
 
Goodwill, ending balance
7,996,760,000 
7,992,700,000 
2,040,402,000 
262,345,000 
5,838,959,000 
262,345,000 
596,403,000 
Goodwill impairments
 
 
 
$ 0 
 
 
 
CVC - DEBT - Restricted Group Credit Facility (Details) (USD $)
0 Months Ended 0 Months Ended 1 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 0 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 0 Months Ended
Oct. 12, 2012
Oct. 12, 2012
Eurodollar
Oct. 12, 2012
Base Rate
Dec. 31, 2015
Restricted Group
Apr. 17, 2013
Restricted Group
Revolving Credit Facility
Apr. 17, 2013
Restricted Group
Term A Loan Facility
Apr. 17, 2013
Restricted Group
Term A Loan Facility
Eurodollar
Minimum
Apr. 17, 2013
Restricted Group
Term A Loan Facility
Eurodollar
Maximum
Apr. 17, 2013
Restricted Group
Term A Loan Facility
Base Rate
Minimum
Apr. 17, 2013
Restricted Group
Term A Loan Facility
Base Rate
Maximum
Apr. 30, 2015
Restricted Group
Term B Loan Facility
Dec. 31, 2015
Restricted Group
Term B Loan Facility
Apr. 17, 2013
Restricted Group
Term B Loan Facility
Apr. 17, 2013
Restricted Group
Term B Loan Facility
Eurodollar
Apr. 17, 2013
Restricted Group
Term B Loan Facility
Base Rate
Dec. 9, 2016
Revolving Credit Facility
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Jul. 21, 2016
Revolving Credit Facility
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Oct. 31, 2015
Revolving Credit Facility
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Jun. 20, 2016
Revolving Credit Facility
Eurodollar
Apr. 17, 2013
Revolving Credit Facility
Restricted Group
Restricted Group Credit Facility [Abstract]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Line of credit facility, aggregate principal amount
$ 480,000,000 
 
 
 
$ 1,500,000,000 
$ 958,510,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 1,200,000,000 
 
 
$ 2,300,000,000 
$ 2,105,000,000 
$ 2,000,000,000 
 
 
Write-off of deferred financings costs
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1,004,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Issue Discount
 
 
 
11,200,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basis spread on variable rate
 
3.50% 
2.50% 
 
 
 
1.50% 
2.25% 
0.50% 
1.25% 
 
 
 
2.50% 
1.50% 
 
 
 
3.25% 
 
Commitment fee percentage (in hundredths)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
0.30% 
Repayments of credit facility debt
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
200,000,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gain (loss) on extinguishment of debt
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 731,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CVC - DEBT - Newsday LLC Credit Facility (Details) (USD $)
0 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Oct. 12, 2012
Oct. 12, 2012
Base Rate
Oct. 12, 2012
Eurodollar
Credit facility debt [Abstract]
 
 
 
 
 
Line of credit facility, aggregate principal amount
 
 
$ 480,000,000 
 
 
Basis spread on variable rate
 
 
 
2.50% 
3.50% 
Notes payable to affiliates and related parties
$ 0 
$ 1,750,000,000 
$ 611,455,000 
 
 
CVC - DEBT - Credit Facility Debt (Details) (USD $)
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Dec. 31, 2015
Restricted Group
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Restricted Group
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Restricted Group
Term A Loan Facility
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Restricted Group
Term B Loan Facility
Credit facility debt [Abstract]
 
 
 
 
 
 
Stated interest rate
 
 
 
 
2.17% 
2.92% 
Principal
$ 4,693,675,000 
 
 
 
$ 886,621,000 
$ 1,159,031,000 
Credit facility
4,643,523,000 
3,444,790,000 
 
2,035,332,000 
885,105,000 
1,150,227,000 
Debt unamortized discount
 
 
$ 11,200,000 
 
 
 
CVC - DEBT - Senior Notes and Debentures (Details) (USD $)
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Oct. 12, 2012
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Debentures
7.875% Debentures due February 2018
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Debentures
7.625% Debentures due July 2018
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Senior Notes
Senior 8.625% Notes due February 2019
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Senior Notes
Senior 6.75% Notes due November 2021
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Senior Notes
Senior 5.25% Notes due June 1, 2024
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Senior Notes
Senior 8.625% Notes due September 2017
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Senior Notes
Senior 7.75% Notes due April 2018
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Senior Notes
Senior 8% Notes due April 2020
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Senior Notes
Senior 5.875% Notes due September 2022
Senior Notes and Debentures [Abstract]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Stated interest rate
 
 
 
 
7.875% 
7.625% 
8.625% 
6.75% 
5.25% 
8.625% 
7.75% 
8.00% 
5.875% 
Principal Amount
$ 4,693,675,000 
 
 
$ 16,289,245,000 
$ 300,000,000 
$ 500,000,000 
$ 526,000,000 
$ 1,000,000,000 
$ 750,000,000 
$ 900,000,000 
$ 750,000,000 
$ 500,000,000 
$ 649,024,000 
Carrying amount
 
 
 
 
299,091,000 
498,942,000 
511,079,000 
985,640,000 
737,500,000 
891,238,000 
744,402,000 
494,410,000 
638,709,000 
Senior notes due to Newsday
$ 0 
$ 1,750,000,000 
$ 611,455,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 345,238,000 
$ 266,217,000 
 
CVC - DEBT - Issuance of Debt Securities (Details) (USD $)
1 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Apr. 30, 2015
Restricted Group
Term B Loan Facility
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Restricted Group
Term B Loan Facility
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Senior Notes
Senior 5.25% Notes due June 1, 2024
Issuance of Debt Securities [Abstract]
 
 
 
 
 
Principal Amount
$ 4,693,675,000 
 
$ 16,289,245,000 
$ 1,159,031,000 
$ 750,000,000 
Stated interest rate
 
 
 
 
5.25% 
Repayments of credit facility debt
 
$ 200,000,000 
 
 
 
CVC - DEBT - Repurchases of Cablevision Senior Notes (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Oct. 12, 2012
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Senior Notes
Due April152018 [Member]
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Senior Notes
Senior 5.875% Notes due September 2022
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Senior Notes
Due April152020 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes payable to affiliates and related parties
$ 0 
$ 1,750,000 
$ 611,455 
$ 345,238 
 
$ 266,217 
Repurchases of Cablevision Senior Notes [Abstract]
 
 
 
 
 
 
Stated interest rate
 
 
 
7.75% 
5.875% 
8.00% 
CVC - DEBT - Debt Transaction Subsequent to Merger (Details) (USD $)
0 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 0 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 0 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 1 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 0 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 9 Months Ended 6 Months Ended
Apr. 26, 2016
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Oct. 12, 2012
Oct. 12, 2012
Base Rate
Oct. 12, 2012
Eurodollar
Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes
Dec. 31, 2017
CSC Credit Facilities
Jun. 20, 2016
Revolving Credit Facility
Eurodollar
Apr. 17, 2013
Term Loan
Oct. 12, 2012
Term Loan
Oct. 11, 2016
Term Loan
Jun. 20, 2016
Term Loan
Base Rate
Oct. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Senior Notes Due 2023
Senior Notes
Oct. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Senior Notes Due 2025
Senior Notes
Oct. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Guaranteed Senior Notes Due 2025
Senior Notes
Oct. 31, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Guaranteed Senior Notes Due 2027
Senior Notes
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
CSC Credit Facilities
Dec. 9, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Revolving Credit Facility
Jul. 21, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Revolving Credit Facility
Jun. 21, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Revolving Credit Facility
Oct. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Revolving Credit Facility
Dec. 9, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Revolving Credit Facility
Revolving Credit Facility Due 2020
Dec. 9, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Revolving Credit Facility
Revolving Credit Facility Due 2021
Oct. 11, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Term Loan
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Term Loan
Sep. 30, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Term Loan
Oct. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Term Loan
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Term Loan
Base Rate
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Term Loan
Extended Term Loan
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Term Loan
Extended Term Loan
Eurodollar
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Term Loan
Extended Term Loan
LIBOR
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Principal Amount
 
$ 4,693,675,000 
 
 
 
 
$ 16,289,245,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 1,800,000,000 
$ 2,000,000,000 
$ 1,000,000,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 3,800,000,000 
 
 
 
 
Credit facility
 
4,643,523,000 
3,444,790,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Line of credit facility, aggregate principal amount
 
 
 
480,000,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2,300,000,000 
2,105,000,000 
 
2,000,000,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Line of credit facility, increase in borrowing capacity
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
35,000,000 
70,000,000 
 
20,000,000 
2,280,000,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Stated interest rate
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
5.50% 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Proceeds from credit facility debt
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1,310,000,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Line of credit facility periodic payment, percentage of principal
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
0.25% 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Repayments of lines of credit
1,477,200,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2,030,699,000 
480,000,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basis spread on variable rate
 
 
 
 
2.50% 
3.50% 
 
 
3.25% 
 
 
 
2.25% 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2.00% 
3.75% 
3.00% 
0.75% 
Write-off the deferred financing costs and the unamortized discount
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
102,894,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Deferred financing costs
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
7,249,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Issue Discount
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
6,250,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Percentage of proceeds from asset sales required to pay down term loans
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
100.00% 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
100.00% 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Percentage of excess cash flow required when minimum leverage ratio is not met
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
50.00% 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
50.00% 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Percentage of excess cash flow required to pay down term loans when minimum leverage ratio is fulfilled
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
0.00% 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
0.00% 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Minimum debt leverage ratio required for zero percent of excess cash flow obligation to prepay debt
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
4.5 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
4.5 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Line of credit facility, periodic payment amount
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
9,500,000 
 
 
 
 
 
Line of credit facility, covenant, leverage ratio
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
5.0 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
5.0 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Line of credit facility, covenant, minimum undrawn letters of credit
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 15,000,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 15,000,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Document Period End Date
 
Dec. 31, 2017 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CVC - DEBT - Summary of Debt Maturities (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Dec. 31, 2017
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Summary of Debt Maturities [Abstract]
 
 
2017
$ 1,635,612 
$ 9,884,024 
2018
583,914 
1,200,256 
2019
1,615,615 
526,340 
2020
4,183,992 
557,348 
2021
693,434 
2,103,441 
Thereafter
$ 13,796,783 
$ 1,719,180 
CVC - DERIVATIVE CONTRACTS AND COLLATERALIZED INDEBTEDNESS - Location of Assets and Liabilities Within the Consolidated Balance Sheets (Details) (Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Dec. 31, 2017
Prepaid forward contracts
Current derivative contracts
Dec. 31, 2016
Prepaid forward contracts
Current derivative contracts
Dec. 31, 2017
Prepaid forward contracts
Long-term derivative contracts
Dec. 31, 2016
Prepaid forward contracts
Long-term derivative contracts
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Prepaid forward contracts
Current derivative contracts
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Prepaid forward contracts
Long-term derivative contracts
Derivative Instruments, Fair Value [Abstract]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Asset Derivatives
$ 52,545 
$ 10,956 
$ 52,545 
$ 352 
$ 0 
$ 10,604 
$ 82,408 
$ 10,333 
$ 72,075 
Liability Derivatives
$ 239,951 
$ 91,981 
$ 52,545 
$ 13,158 
$ 109,504 
$ 0 
$ 2,706 
$ 2,706 
 
CVC - DERIVATIVE CONTRACTS AND COLLATERALIZED INDEBTEDNESS - Settlements of Collateralized Indebtedness (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended 1 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Feb. 28, 2017
Comcast
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Derivative [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
Number of shares (in shares)
26,815,368 
 
 
10,802,118 
26,815,368 
Collateralized indebtedness settled
$ (774,703)
 
 
$ (273,519)
$ (569,562)
Derivative contracts settled
(56,356)
 
 
(8,075)
(69,675)
Derivatives contracts settled
(831,059)
(143,102)
 
(281,594)
(639,237)
Proceeds from new monetization contracts
838,794 
179,388 
 
337,149 
774,703 
Net cash proceeds
$ 7,735 
 
 
$ 55,555 
$ 135,466 
Stock spit, conversion ratio
 
 
2 
 
 
CVC - DERIVATIVE CONTRACTS AND COLLATERALIZED INDEBTEDNESS - Narrative (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Dec. 31, 2017
Prepaid forward contracts
Dec. 31, 2016
Prepaid forward contracts
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Investment securities pledged as collateral
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Investment securities pledged as collateral
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Prepaid forward contracts
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Prepaid forward contracts
Derivative [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Unrealized and realized gains (losses) of derivative contracts
 
 
$ (138,920)
$ (53,696)
 
 
 
 
$ (36,283)
$ 104,927 
Gain on investments, net
237,354 
141,896 
 
 
129,990 
(30,208)
129,510 
(33,935)
 
 
Amount of gain (loss) recognized
 
 
(138,920)
(53,696)
 
 
 
 
(36,283)
104,927 
Investment securities pledged as collateral
$ 0 
$ 741,515 
 
 
 
$ 455,386 
 
 
 
 
Document Period End Date
Dec. 31, 2017 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CVC - FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT - Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis (Details) (Fair Value Measured on a Recurring Basis, USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Dec. 31, 2017
Prepaid forward contracts
Level II
Dec. 31, 2016
Prepaid forward contracts
Level II
Dec. 31, 2017
Investment securities pledged as collateral
Level I
Dec. 31, 2016
Investment securities pledged as collateral
Level I
Dec. 31, 2017
Money market funds (of which $14,700 is classified as restricted cash as of December 31, 2016)
Level I
Dec. 31, 2016
Money market funds (of which $14,700 is classified as restricted cash as of December 31, 2016)
Level I
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Level I
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Prepaid forward contracts
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Prepaid forward contracts
Level II
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Investment securities pledged as collateral
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Investment securities pledged as collateral
Level I
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Money market funds (of which $14,700 is classified as restricted cash as of December 31, 2016)
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Money market funds (of which $14,700 is classified as restricted cash as of December 31, 2016)
Level I
Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
 
 
 
 
$ 5,949 
$ 100,139 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 922,765 
$ 922,765 
Investment securities
 
 
1,720,357 
1,483,030 
 
 
130 
130 
 
 
1,211,982 
1,211,982 
 
 
Derivative asset
52,545 
10,956 
 
 
 
 
 
 
82,408 
82,408 
 
 
 
 
Liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Derivative liability
$ 162,049 
$ 13,158 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 2,706 
$ 2,706 
 
 
 
 
CVC - FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT - Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2017
Carrying Amount
Dec. 31, 2016
Carrying Amount
Dec. 31, 2017
Estimated Fair Value
Dec. 31, 2016
Estimated Fair Value
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Carrying Amount
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Estimated Fair Value
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Credit facility debt
Carrying Amount
Level II
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Credit facility debt
Estimated Fair Value
Level II
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Term Loan
Carrying Amount
Level II
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Term Loan
Estimated Fair Value
Level II
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Senior notes and debentures
Carrying Amount
Level II
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Senior notes and debentures
Estimated Fair Value
Level II
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Notes payable
Carrying Amount
Level II
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Notes payable
Estimated Fair Value
Level II
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Document Period End Date
Dec. 31, 2017 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Debt, fair value
 
$ 21,919,331 
$ 24,001,910 
$ 23,279,471 
$ 25,896,046 
$ 9,521,333 
$ 9,473,141 
$ 2,514,454 
$ 2,525,654 
$ 1,191,324 
$ 1,176,396 
$ 5,801,011 
$ 5,756,608 
$ 14,544 
$ 14,483 
CVC - INCOME TAXES - Income tax benefit (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Dec. 31, 2015
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Current expense (benefit):
 
 
 
 
 
Federal
$ 5,657 
$ (981)
 
$ 6,473 
$ 4,844 
State
12,509 
5,310 
 
1,917 
15,869 
Total current expense (benefit)
18,166 
4,329 
 
8,390 
20,713 
Deferred benefit:
 
 
 
 
 
Federal
(2,088,652)
(223,159)
 
93,253 
97,927 
State
(782,492)
(40,830)
 
22,897 
35,469 
Total deferred benefit
(2,871,144)
(263,989)
 
116,150 
133,396 
Tax benefit relating to uncertain tax positions
11 
(6)
 
308 
763 
Income tax benefit
(2,852,967)
(259,666)
 
124,848 
154,872 
Income tax benefit attributable to discontinued operations
 
 
8,731 
 
 
Current income tax benefit, discontinued operations
 
 
111 
 
 
Deferred income tax benefit, noncurrent
 
 
$ 8,620 
 
 
CVC - INCOME TAXES - Rate reconciliation (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Income Taxes [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
Federal tax benefit at statutory rate
$ (465,972)
$ (381,901)
$ 100,926 
$ 119,931 
State income taxes, net of federal impact
(59,719)
(39,336)
14,825 
18,874 
Changes in the valuation allowance
(111)
297 
86 
(902)
Changes in the state rates used to measure deferred taxes, net of federal benefit
 
 
 
(1,006)
Tax expense (benefit) relating to uncertain tax positions
 
 
178 
574 
New York tax reform
 
 
 
16,334 
Non-deductible officers' compensation
 
 
462 
846 
Non-deductible merger transaction costs
 
 
9,392 
 
Other non-deductible expenses
3,349 
1,551 
1,337 
3,099 
Research credit
 
 
(850)
(2,630)
Adjustment to prior year tax expense
 
 
 
(515)
Other, net
434 
(2,882)
(1,508)
267 
Income tax benefit
$ (2,852,967)
$ (259,666)
$ 124,848 
$ 154,872 
CVC - INCOME TAXES - Deferred taxes (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Income tax
 
 
 
 
Deferred income tax charge
$ (2,871,144)
$ (263,989)
$ 116,150 
$ 133,396 
Deferred Tax Asset (Liability), Current [Abstract]
 
 
 
 
NOLs and tax credit carry forwards
 
 
 
76,007 
Compensation and benefit plans
48,280 
93,939 
 
80,831 
Allowance for doubtful accounts
 
 
 
2,196 
Merger-related costs
 
 
 
7,332 
Inventory valuation adjustment
 
 
 
7,135 
Other liabilities
38,140 
45,561 
 
26,216 
Deferred tax asset
 
 
 
199,717 
Valuation allowance
 
 
 
(2,098)
Net deferred tax asset, current
 
 
 
197,619 
Investments
 
 
 
(163,396)
Prepaid expenses
(8,007)
(10,172)
 
(19,627)
Deferred tax liability, current
 
 
 
(183,023)
Net deferred tax asset, current
 
 
 
14,596 
Deferred Tax Asset (Liability), Noncurrent [Abstract]
 
 
 
 
NOLs and tax credit carry forwards
 
 
 
36,866 
Compensation and benefit plans
 
 
 
97,005 
Partnership investments
 
 
 
123,529 
Investments
 
 
 
9,798 
Other
7,182 
6,615 
 
9,201 
Deferred tax asset
 
 
 
276,399 
Valuation allowance
 
 
 
(2,816)
Net deferred tax asset, noncurrent
 
 
 
273,583 
Fixed assets and intangibles
(5,733,319)
(9,065,635)
 
(978,418)
Deferred tax liability, noncurrent
 
 
 
(978,418)
Net deferred tax liability, noncurrent
 
 
 
(704,835)
Total net deferred tax liability
(4,775,115)
(7,966,815)
 
(690,239)
Excess tax benefit on share-based awards
$ 0 
$ 31 
$ 82 
$ 5,694 
CVC - INCOME TAXES - Uncertain tax positions (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits associated with uncertain tax positions
 
 
 
Beginning balance
$ 4,025 
$ 4,022 
 
Increases related to prior year tax positions
11 
3 
 
Increases related to current year tax positions
 
6 
 
Ending balance
4,036 
4,031 
4,022 
Uncertain tax positions
 
 
 
Interest expense relating to uncertain tax position
$ 659 
$ 209 
$ 314 
CVC - BENEFIT PLANS - Defined Benefit Plans (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2016
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Cablevision Defined Benefit Plans
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Cablevision Defined Benefit Plans
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Excess Cash Balance Plan and CSC Supplemental Benefit Plan [Member]
Change in projected benefit obligation:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Benefit obligation, beginning of year
 
$ 382,517 
$ 403,963 
 
$ 403,963 
$ 430,846 
 
Service cost
 
 
 
 
 
344 
 
Interest cost
6,946 
11,786 
14,077 
 
7,130 
15,523 
 
Actuarial (gain) loss
 
13,171 
(11,429)
 
 
(14,912)
 
Benefits paid
 
(121,650)
(28,062)
 
 
(27,838)
 
Benefit obligation, end of year
382,517 
299,066 
382,517 
 
 
403,963 
 
Change in plan assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year
 
284,118 
297,846 
 
297,846 
303,676 
 
Actual return on plan assets, net
 
6,356 
5,829 
 
 
(3,921)
 
Employer contributions
 
26,944 
8,505 
 
 
25,929 
 
Benefits paid
 
(121,650)
(28,062)
 
 
(27,838)
 
Fair value of plan assets, end of year
284,118 
195,768 
284,118 
 
 
297,846 
 
Unfunded status at end of year
(98,399)
(103,298)
(98,399)
 
 
(106,117)
 
Accumulated benefit obligation
382,517 
299,066 
382,517 
 
 
403,963 
 
Net funded status relating to defined benefit plans [Abstract]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plans
(98,399)
(103,298)
(98,399)
 
 
(106,117)
 
Less: Current portion related to nonqualified plans
14,293 
135 
14,293 
 
 
 
6,889 
Long-term defined benefit plan obligations
(84,106)
(103,163)
(84,106)
(99,228)
 
(99,228)
 
Components of net periodic benefit cost [Abstract]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Service cost
 
 
 
 
 
344 
 
Interest cost
6,946 
11,786 
14,077 
 
7,130 
15,523 
 
Expected return on plan assets, net
(4,022)
(4,907)
 
 
(3,565)
(8,297)
 
Curtailment loss
231 
3,137 
 
 
(1,446)
1,294 
 
Settlement loss (reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss)
(154)
1,845 
 
 
1,655 
3,822 
 
Net periodic benefit cost
$ 3,001 
$ 11,861 
 
 
$ 3,774 
$ 12,686 
 
CVC - BENEFIT PLANS - Plan Assumptions for Defined Benefit Plans (Details)
6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2016
Dec. 31, 2017
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Cablevision Defined Benefit Plans
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Cablevision Defined Benefit Plans
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Pension Plan
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Pension Plan
Net Periodic Benefit Cost
 
 
 
 
 
 
Discount rate (in hundredths)
3.53% 
3.69% 
3.76% 
3.83% 
 
 
Rate of increase in future compensation levels
0.00% 
0.00% 
 
 
 
 
Expected rate of return on plan assets (Pension Plan only)
3.97% 
3.90% 
 
 
3.97% 
4.03% 
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations [Abstract]
 
 
 
 
 
 
Discount rate (in hundredths)
3.81% 
3.50% 
 
3.94% 
 
 
CVC - BENEFIT PLANS - Asset Allocation and Fair Values of Pension Plan Assets (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Dec. 31, 2015
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
 
 
 
Weighted average asset allocation (in hundredths)
100.00% 
100.00% 
 
Fair value of plan assets
$ 195,768 
$ 284,118 
$ 297,846 
Fixed income securities
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
 
 
 
Weighted average asset allocation (in hundredths)
66.00% 
55.00% 
 
Foreign issued corporate debt
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
10,721 
13,583 
 
Foreign issued corporate debt |
Level I
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
0 
0 
 
Foreign issued corporate debt |
Level II
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
10,721 
13,583 
 
U.S. corporate debt
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
39,992 
48,046 
 
U.S. corporate debt |
Level I
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
0 
0 
 
U.S. corporate debt |
Level II
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
39,992 
48,046 
 
Government debt
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
4,645 
4,810 
 
Government debt |
Level I
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
0 
0 
 
Government debt |
Level II
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
4,645 
4,810 
 
U.S. Treasury securities
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
62,601 
77,285 
 
U.S. Treasury securities |
Level I
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
0 
0 
 
U.S. Treasury securities |
Level II
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
62,601 
77,285 
 
Asset-backed securities
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
10,978 
14,065 
 
Asset-backed securities |
Level I
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
0 
0 
 
Asset-backed securities |
Level II
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
10,978 
14,065 
 
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries |
Pension Plan
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
 
 
 
Weighted average asset allocation (in hundredths)
 
 
100.00% 
Fair value of plan assets
 
 
302,147 
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries |
Pension Plan |
Level I
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
 
 
118,067 
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries |
Pension Plan |
Level II
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
 
 
184,080 
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries |
Pension Plan |
Mutual funds
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
 
 
 
Weighted average asset allocation (in hundredths)
 
 
39.00% 
Fair value of plan assets
 
 
117,174 
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries |
Pension Plan |
Mutual funds |
Level I
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
 
 
117,174 
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries |
Pension Plan |
Fixed income securities
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
 
 
 
Weighted average asset allocation (in hundredths)
 
 
61.00% 
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries |
Pension Plan |
Foreign issued corporate debt
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
 
 
12,825 
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries |
Pension Plan |
Foreign issued corporate debt |
Level II
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
 
 
12,825 
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries |
Pension Plan |
U.S. corporate debt
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
 
 
54,005 
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries |
Pension Plan |
U.S. corporate debt |
Level II
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
 
 
54,005 
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries |
Pension Plan |
Government debt
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
 
 
8,273 
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries |
Pension Plan |
Government debt |
Level II
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
 
 
8,273 
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries |
Pension Plan |
U.S. Treasury securities
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
 
 
90,414 
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries |
Pension Plan |
U.S. Treasury securities |
Level II
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
 
 
90,414 
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries |
Pension Plan |
Asset-backed securities
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
 
 
18,563 
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries |
Pension Plan |
Asset-backed securities |
Level II
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
 
 
18,563 
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries |
Pension Plan |
Cash Equivalents
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
 
 
893 
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries |
Pension Plan |
Cash Equivalents |
Level I
 
 
 
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets
 
 
$ 893 
CVC - BENEFIT PLANS - Benefit Payments and Defined Contribution Benefit Plans (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Defined Contribution Plan [Abstract]
 
 
 
 
Cost associated with defined contribution benefit plans
$ 27,577 
$ 28,501 
$ 26,964 
$ 61,343 
CVC - EQUITY AND LONG-TERM INCENTIVE PLANS, Cablevision's Equity Plans (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 0 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 0 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Jun. 20, 2016
Stock Options
Dec. 31, 2015
Stock Options
Jun. 21, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Stock Options
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Restricted Stock
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Restricted Stock
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Stock Appreciation Rights
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Stock Appreciation Rights
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Performance Based Restricted Stock
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Cablevision Systems Corporation 2015 Employee Stock Plan
CNYG Class A Common Stock
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Cablevision Systems Corporation Stock Plan for Non-Employee Directors
Restricted Stock
Dec. 31, 2015
Employee
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Restricted Stock
Jun. 21, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Sep. 16, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Cablevision Systems Corporation Employee Stock Plan
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Employee
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Cablevision's Equity Plans [Abstract]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Business acquisition, share price (dollars per share)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 34.90 
$ 34.90 
 
 
Awards authorized (in shares)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
11,880,700 
 
3,769,485 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Granted (in shares)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1,747,870 
 
 
584,400 
79,780 
 
1,724,940 
 
 
 
 
 
Consideration transfered
 
 
 
 
$ 9,958,323 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 9,958,323 
 
$ 439,167 
 
 
Employers payroll taxes
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
7,929 
Number of restricted stock units granted to non-employee directors (in shares)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
466,283 
 
 
 
 
73,056 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Non-option equity instruments, outstanding (shares)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
466,283 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Share-based compensation
55,258 
9,849 
3,848 
9,159 
 
25,231 
65,286 
 
20,930 
51,162 
453 
4,965 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Share-based compensation related to equity classified awards
57,430 
14,368 
 
 
 
24,778 
60,321 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
63,484 
 
Income tax benefit recognized in continuing operations resulting from share-based compensation expense
 
 
 
 
 
10,357 
26,718 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Proceeds from stock option exercises
 
 
 
 
 
$ 14,411 
$ 18,727 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CVC - EQUITY AND LONG-TERM INCENTIVE PLANS, Valuation Assumptions (Details)
0 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 30, 2017
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Stock Options
Assumptions Used to Calculate the Fair Value of Stock Option Awards Granted [Abstract]
 
 
Risk-free rate (in percentage)
2.30% 
1.82% 
Expected life (in years)
6 years 5 months 9 days 
8 years 
Dividend yield (in hundredths)
0.00% 
3.63% 
Volatility (in hundredths)
 
39.98% 
Grant date fair value
$ 8.77 
$ 5.45 
CVC - EQUITY AND LONG-TERM INCENTIVE PLANS, Stock Option Award Activity (Details) (Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries, USD $)
12 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Jun. 20, 2016
Jun. 20, 2016
Time Vesting Options
Dec. 31, 2015
Time Vesting Options
Jun. 20, 2016
Performance Based Vesting Options
Dec. 31, 2015
Performance Based Vesting Options
Stock Options Outstanding [Roll Forward]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance at beginning of period (in shares)
 
 
 
6,744,000 
5,097,666 
6,609,217 
7,633,500 
Granted (in shares)
 
 
 
 
2,000,000 
 
 
Exercised (in shares)
 
 
 
(744,000)
(353,666)
(728,517)
(1,024,283)
Balance at end of period (in shares)
 
 
 
6,000,000 
6,744,000 
5,880,700 
6,609,217 
Stock Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Roll Forward]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance at beginning of period, weighted average exercise price per share (in dollars per share)
$ 14.41 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Granted, weighted average exercise price per share (in dollars per share)
$ 19.17 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Exercised, weighted average exercise price per share (in dollars per share)
$ 12.84 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance at end of period, weighted average exercise price per share (in dollars per share)
$ 15.28 
$ 14.41 
 
 
 
 
 
Options exercisable at end of period, weighted average exercise price per share (in dollars per share)
 
 
$ 13.97 
 
 
 
 
Options expected to vest in the future, weighted average exercise price per share (in dollars per share)
 
 
$ 15.45 
 
 
 
 
Stock Options Outstanding, Additional Disclosures [Abstract]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Weighted average remaining contractual term (in years)
6 years 9 months 18 days 
7 years 2 months 1 day 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance at beginning of period, aggregate intrinsic value
$ 79,347 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance at end of period, aggregate intrinsic value
$ 221,900 
$ 79,347 
 
 
 
 
 
CVC - EQUITY AND LONG-TERM INCENTIVE PLANS, Restricted Stock Award Activity (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Performance Shares
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Restricted Stock
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Restricted Stock
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Performance Based Restricted Stock
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Performance Based Restricted Stock
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Performance Shares
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Performance Shares
Mar. 31, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Cablevision Systems Corporation Employee Stock Plan
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Cablevision Systems Corporation Employee Stock Plan
Mar. 31, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Cablevision Systems Corporation Employee Stock Plan
Restricted Stock
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Cablevision Systems Corporation Employee Stock Plan
Restricted Stock
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Beginning balance (in shares)
 
 
 
4,967,748 
5,314,870 
1,880,100 
2,035,300 
1,772,430 
 
 
 
 
 
Granted (in shares)
 
 
 
 
1,747,870 
 
584,400 
 
1,851,700 
 
 
 
 
Vested (in shares)
 
 
 
(2,239,167)
(1,598,363)
(753,296)
(739,600)
 
 
 
 
(2,992,463)
(2,337,963)
Forfeited (in shares)
 
 
 
(85,900)
(496,629)
 
 
(47,490)
(79,270)
 
 
 
 
Ending balance (in shares)
 
 
 
2,642,681 
4,967,748 
1,126,804 
1,880,100 
1,724,940 
1,772,430 
 
 
 
 
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance at beginning of period, weighted average grant date fair value (in dollars per share)
 
$ 17.53 
$ 15.46 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Granted weighted average grant date fair value (in dollars per share)
 
 
$ 19.43 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Vested weighted average grant date fair value (in dollars per share)
 
$ 15.35 
$ 14.48 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Awards forfeited, weighted average fair value per share at date of grant (in dollars per share)
 
$ 18.38 
$ 17.28 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance at end of period, weighted average grant date fair value (in dollars per share)
 
 
$ 17.53 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Restricted Shares, Additional Disclosures [Abstract]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Share-based compensation arrangement by share-based payment award, purchase price of common stock (percent)
150.00% 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2,337,963.00% 
 
 
Number of restricted shares surrendered by employees (in shares)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1,248,875 
1,004,950 
 
 
Aggregate value of restricted shares surrendered by employees
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 41,469 
$ 19,141 
 
 
CVC - EQUITY AND LONG-TERM INCENTIVE PLANS, Long-term Incentive Plans (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended 0 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 0 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 0 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Carry Unit Awards
Dec. 31, 2016
Carry Unit Awards
Dec. 31, 2017
Carry Unit Awards
Affiliates
Jun. 21, 2016
Carry Unit Awards
Tranche One
Jun. 21, 2016
Carry Unit Awards
Tranche Two
Dec. 31, 2017
Carry Unit Awards
Tranche Two
Jun. 21, 2016
Carry Unit Awards
Tranche Three
Dec. 31, 2017
Carry Unit Awards
Tranche Three
Dec. 31, 2017
Employee
Carry Unit Awards
Jun. 21, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation Cash Incentive Plan
Employee
Carry Unit Awards
Jun. 21, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation Cash Incentive Plan
Employee
Carry Unit Awards
Affiliates
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Cablevision Systems Corporation Cash Incentive Plan
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Cablevision Systems Corporation Cash Incentive Plan
Long-Term Incentive Plans [Abstract]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Long-term incentive awards compensation expense
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 9,169 
$ 27,170 
Award vesting percentage
 
 
 
50.00% 
25.00% 
25.00% 
25.00% 
25.00% 
 
 
 
100.00% 
 
 
Awards authorized (in shares)
259,442,785 
259,442,785 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Granted (in shares)
 
 
11,300,000 
 
 
 
 
 
211,670,834 
102,500,000 
100,300,000 
 
 
 
CVC - AFFILIATE AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS - Narrative (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Dec. 31, 2017
I24News and Altice NV 24/7
Dec. 31, 2017
Newsday
Jul. 6, 2016
Newsday
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
I24News and Altice NV 24/7
Jul. 31, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Newsday
Jul. 6, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Newsday
Sep. 30, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Newsday
Dec. 31, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Other Related Party
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Document Period End Date
Dec. 31, 2017 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Ownership percentage of noncontrolling interest
 
 
 
 
75.00% 
 
 
75.00% 
75.00% 
 
 
Ownership percentage
 
 
25.00% 
25.00% 
 
 
25.00% 
25.00% 
25.00% 
 
75.00% 
Investment in affiliates and related parties
$ 930 
$ 5,606 
 
 
 
$ 0 
$ 1,966 
 
 
$ 8,300 
 
CVC - AFFILIATE AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS - Revenue and Related Charges (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
Revenue
$ 2,205 
$ 1,086 
$ 2,088 
$ 5,343 
Operating expenses:
 
 
 
 
Programming and other direct costs, net of credits
4,176 
1,947 
84,636 
176,909 
Other operating expenses from affiliates
106,084 
18,854 
2,182 
5,372 
Operating expenses, net
110,260 
20,801 
86,818 
182,281 
Net charges
$ 712,183 
$ 132,427 
$ 84,730 
$ 176,938 
CVC - AFFILIATE AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS - Amounts Due From and Due to Related Parties (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2017
Affiliates
Dec. 31, 2016
Affiliates
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Affiliates
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
Document Period End Date
Dec. 31, 2017 
 
 
 
Amounts due from affiliates
 
$ 21,356 
$ 22,182 
$ 767 
Amounts due to affiliates
 
$ 13,946 
$ 127,363 
$ 29,729 
CVC - COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES - Legal Matters (Details) (Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries, USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
0 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 0 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Sep. 12, 2016
Marchese, et al. v. Cablevision Systems Corporation and CSC Holdings, LLC
Jun. 20, 2016
Marchese, et al. v. Cablevision Systems Corporation and CSC Holdings, LLC
item
Feb. 8, 2016
Compensation Related Claims
Discontinued Operations, Disposed of by Sale
Dec. 31, 2015
Compensation Related Claims
Discontinued Operations, Disposed of by Sale
Legal Matters
 
 
 
 
Number of versions of complaint dismissed without prejudice by the District Court
 
3 
 
 
Litigation settlement amount
$ 15,600 
 
$ 21,000 
 
Legal expenses
 
 
 
$ 21,000 
CVC - INTERIM FINANCIAL INFORMATION (Unaudited) (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified
3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 3 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Sep. 30, 2017
Jun. 30, 2017
Mar. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Sep. 30, 2016
Jun. 30, 2016
Mar. 31, 2016
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Mar. 31, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2015
Predecessor
Sep. 30, 2015
Predecessor
Jun. 30, 2015
Predecessor
Mar. 31, 2015
Predecessor
Dec. 31, 2015
Predecessor
Selected Quarterly Financial Information
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues, net
$ 2,365,378 
$ 2,327,175 
$ 2,328,341 
$ 2,305,676 
$ 2,305,901 
$ 2,260,221 
$ 823,501 
$ 627,589 
$ 9,326,570 
$ 6,017,212 
$ 1,491,714 
$ 1,645,890 
$ 3,137,604 
$ 6,545,545 
$ 1,636,425 
$ 1,624,828 
$ 1,661,940 
$ 1,622,352 
$ 6,545,545 
Operating expenses
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(1,267,663)
(1,394,635)
 
 
(1,439,285)
(1,441,712)
(1,417,476)
(1,398,601)
(5,697,074)
Operating income
225,504 
134,864 
256,782 
248,234 
217,224 
142,779 
45,403 
54,260 
865,384 
459,666 
224,051 
251,255 
475,306 
848,471 
197,140 
183,116 
244,464 
223,751 
848,471 
Income from continuing operations, net of income taxes
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
163,512 
187,789 
33,781 
23,431 
75,676 
54,901 
187,789 
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income taxes
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
0 
(12,541)
(1,633)
(406)
 
(10,502)
(12,541)
Net income (loss)
2,254,682 
(182,086)
(474,790)
(76,188)
(236,049)
(172,553)
(282,129)
(140,748)
1,521,618 
(831,479)
69,201 
94,311 
163,512 
175,248 
32,148 
23,025 
75,676 
44,399 
175,248 
Net loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling interests
(850)
(135)
(365)
(237)
(659)
(256)
364 
0 
(1,587)
(551)
170 
66 
236 
201 
(30)
78 
(81)
234 
201 
Net income (loss) attributable to Altice USA, Inc. stockholders
2,253,832 
(182,221)
(475,155)
(76,425)
(236,708)
(172,809)
(281,765)
(140,748)
1,520,031 
(832,030)
69,371 
94,377 
163,748 
175,449 
32,118 
23,103 
75,595 
44,633 
175,449 
Basic income per share attributable to Cablevision Systems Corporation stockholders:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income from continuing operations, net of income taxes
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 0.25 
$ 0.35 
$ 0.60 
$ 0.70 
$ 0.12 
$ 0.09 
$ 0.28 
$ 0.21 
$ 0.70 
Loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 0.00 
$ (0.05)
$ (0.01)
 
 
$ (0.04)
$ (0.05)
Net income (in dollars per share)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 2.18 
$ (1.28)
$ 0.25 
$ 0.35 
$ 0.60 
$ 0.65 
$ 0.12 
$ 0.09 
$ 0.28 
$ 0.17 
$ 0.65 
Diluted income per share attributable to Cablevision Systems Corporation stockholders:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income from continuing operations, net of income taxes
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 0.25 
$ 0.34 
$ 0.58 
$ 0.68 
$ 0.12 
$ 0.08 
$ 0.27 
$ 0.20 
$ 0.68 
Loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 0.00 
$ (0.05)
$ (0.01)
 
 
$ (0.04)
$ (0.05)
Net income (in dollars per share)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 2.18 
$ (1.28)
$ 0.25 
$ 0.34 
$ 0.58 
$ 0.63 
$ 0.12 
$ 0.08 
$ 0.27 
$ 0.16 
$ 0.63 
Amounts attributable to Cablevision Systems Corporation stockholder(s):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income from continuing operations, net of income taxes
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
69,371 
94,377 
 
 
33,751 
23,509 
75,595 
55,135 
187,990 
Loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
0 
(12,541)
(1,633)
(406)
 
(10,502)
(12,541)
Net income
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 69,371 
$ 94,377 
 
 
$ 32,118 
$ 23,103 
$ 75,595 
$ 44,633 
$ 175,449 
CVC - BUSINESS COMBINATION - Narrative (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
0 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Jun. 21, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Jun. 21, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Cablevision Systems Corp.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
 
 
 
Consideration transfered
$ 9,958,323 
$ 9,958,323 
$ 439,167 
CVC - BUSINESS COMBINATION - Assets and Liabilities Acquired (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2017
Minimum
Customer relationships
Dec. 31, 2017
Minimum
Trade names
Dec. 31, 2017
Minimum
Amortizable intangible assets
Dec. 31, 2017
Maximum
Customer relationships
Dec. 31, 2017
Maximum
Trade names
Dec. 31, 2017
Maximum
Amortizable intangible assets
Dec. 31, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Jun. 20, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Dec. 31, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Customer relationships
Dec. 31, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Trade names
Dec. 31, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Amortizable intangible assets
Dec. 31, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Minimum
Dec. 31, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Minimum
Customer relationships
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Minimum
Customer relationships
Dec. 31, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Minimum
Amortizable intangible assets
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Minimum
Amortizable intangible assets
Dec. 31, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Maximum
Dec. 31, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Maximum
Customer relationships
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Maximum
Customer relationships
Dec. 31, 2016
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Maximum
Amortizable intangible assets
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Maximum
Amortizable intangible assets
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Current assets
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 1,923,071 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Accounts receivable
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
271,305 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Property, plant and equipment
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
4,864,621 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Goodwill
7,996,760 
7,992,700 
2,040,402 
 
 
 
 
 
 
5,838,959 
262,345 
262,345 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Indefinite-lived cable television franchises
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
8,113,575 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Finite-lived intangible assets
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
4,850,000 
1,010,000 
23,296 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other non-current assets
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
748,998 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Current liabilities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(2,305,954)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Long-term debt
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(8,355,386)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Deferred income taxes.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(6,834,807)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other non-current liabilities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(189,355)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
9,958,323 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Property, plant and equipment, useful life
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2 years 
 
 
 
 
18 years 
 
 
 
 
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life
 
 
 
8 years 
2 years 
1 year 
18 years 
5 years 
15 years 
 
 
 
 
12 years 
 
 
8 years 
10 years 
1 year 
3 years 
 
18 years 
18 years 
15 years 
28 years 
Estimated amortization expense
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Year Ending December 31, 2017
873,133 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
701,908 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Amortization expense, 2018
777,846 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
655,409 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Amortization expense, 2019
696,240 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
609,245 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Amortization expense, 2020
616,718 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
562,613 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Year Ending December 31, 2021
$ 537,100 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$ 515,430 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CVC - BUSINESS COMBINATION - Pro Forma Information (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended 3 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2016
Dec. 31, 2015
Cablevision Systems Corporation And Subsidiaries
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
 
 
Revenue
$ 9,154,816 
$ 6,545,545 
Loss from continuing operations
 
(740,115)
Net loss
$ (721,257)
$ (752,656)