Stagwell Inc - Quarter Report: 2022 March (Form 10-Q)

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q


			☒			QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2022


			☐			TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from ______________ to ______________

Commission File Number: 001-13718

Stagwell Inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)


Delaware		86-1390679
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)		(IRS Employer Identification No.)

One World Trade Center, Floor 65
New York,	New York	10007
(Address of principal executive offices)		(Zip Code)

(646) 429-1800

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:


Title of each class	Trading Symbol(s)	Name of each exchange on which registered
Class A Common Stock, par value $0.001 per share	STGW	NASDAQ

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes ☒ No ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). Yes ☒ No ☐

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


Large accelerated Filer	☐	Accelerated Filer	☒
Non-accelerated Filer	☐	Smaller reporting company	☐
Emerging growth company	☐

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ☐ No ☒

The number of common shares outstanding as of May 5, 2022 was 133,151,845 shares of Class A Common Stock, 3,946 shares of Class B Common Stock, and 164,814,910 shares of Class C Common Stock.

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STAGWELL INC.

QUARTERLY REPORT ON FORM 10-Q

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		Page
	PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1.	Financial Statements	5
	Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the Three Months Ended March 3 1 , 202 2 and 202 1	5
	Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the Three Months Ended March 3 1 , 202 2 and 20 21	6
	Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet as of March 3 1 , 202 2 and Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet as December 31, 20 21	7
	Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Three Months Ended March 3 1 , 202 2 and 202 1	8
	Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity for the Three Months Ended March 3 1 , 202 2 and 202 1	10
	Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements	11
Item 2.	Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations	30
Item 3.	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk	46
Item 4.	Controls and Procedures	46

	PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1.	Legal Proceedings	47
Item 1A.	Risk Factors	47
Item 2.	Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds	47
Item 3.	Defaults Upon Senior Securities	48
Item 4.	Mine Safety Disclosures	48
Item 5.	Other Information	48
Item 6.	Exhibits	49
Signatures		49

EXPLANATORY NOTE

On December 21, 2020, MDC Partners Inc. (“MDC”) and Stagwell Media LP (“Stagwell Media”) announced that they had entered into an agreement, providing for the combination of MDC with the operating businesses and subsidiaries of Stagwell Media (the “Stagwell Subject Entities”) (the “Transaction Agreement”). The Stagwell Subject Entities comprised Stagwell Marketing Group LLC (“Stagwell Marketing” or “SMG”) and its direct and indirect subsidiaries.

On August 2, 2021 (the “Closing Date”), we completed the combination of MDC and the Stagwell Subject Entities and a series of steps and related transactions (such combination and transactions, the “Transactions”). In connection with the Transactions, among other things, (i) MDC completed a series of transactions pursuant to which it emerged as a wholly owned subsidiary of Stagwell Inc. (“the Company” or “Stagwell”), converted into a Delaware limited liability company and changed its name to Midas OpCo Holdings LLC (“OpCo”); (ii) Stagwell Media contributed the equity interests of Stagwell Marketing and its direct and indirect subsidiaries to OpCo; and (iii) the Company converted into a Delaware corporation, succeeded MDC as the publicly-traded company and changed its name to Stagwell Inc.

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results of MDC and may not be comparable with historical information for events occurring or periods ending on or after August 2, 2021.

References in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q to “Stagwell,” “we,” “us,” “our” and the “Company” refer (i) with respect to events occurring or periods ending before August 2, 2021, to Stagwell Marketing and its direct and indirect subsidiaries and (ii) with respect to events occurring or periods ending on or after August 2, 2021, to Stagwell Inc. and its direct and indirect subsidiaries.

All dollar amounts are stated in U.S. dollars unless otherwise stated.

Note About Forward-Looking Statements

This document contains forward-looking statements. within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended. The Company’s representatives may also make forward-looking statements orally or in writing from time to time. Statements in this document that are not historical facts, including, statements about the Company’s beliefs and expectations, future financial performance and future prospects, business and economic trends, potential acquisitions, and estimates of amounts for redeemable noncontrolling interests and deferred acquisition consideration, constitute forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements, which are generally denoted by words such as “anticipate,” “assume,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “create,” “estimate,” “expect,” “focus,” “forecast,” “foresee,” “future,” “guidance,” “intend,” “look,” “may,” “opportunity,” “outlook,” “plan,” “possible,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “target,” “will,” “would” or the negative of such terms or other variations thereof and terms of similar substance used in connection with any discussion of current plans, estimates and projections are subject to change based on a number of factors, including those outlined in this section.

Forward-looking statements in this document are based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by the Company. Although the management of the Company believes that the expectations and assumptions on which such forward-looking statements are based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements because the Company can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. The material assumptions upon which such forward-looking statements are based include, among others, assumptions with respect to general business, economic and market conditions, the competitive environment, anticipated and unanticipated tax consequences and anticipated and unanticipated costs. These forward-looking statements are based on current plans, estimates and projections, and are subject to change based on a number of factors, including those outlined in this section. These forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties, many of which are outside the Company’s control. Therefore, you should not place undue reliance on such statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly any of them in light of new information or future events, if any.

Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of important factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. Such risk factors include, but are not limited to, the following:

•risks associated with international, national and regional unfavorable economic conditions that could affect the Company or its clients;

•the effects of the coronavirus pandemic (“COVID-19”), and the impact on the economy and demand for the Company’s services, which may precipitate or exacerbate other risks and uncertainties;

•an inability to realize expected benefits of the combination of the Company’s business with the business of MDC;

•adverse tax consequences in connection with the Transactions for the Company, its operations and its shareholders, that may differ from the expectations of the Company, including that future changes in tax law, potential increases to corporate tax rates in the United States and disagreements with the tax authorities on the Company’s determination of value and computations of its attributes may result in increased tax costs;

•the occurrence of material Canadian federal income tax (including material “emigration tax”) as a result of the Transactions;

•the Company’s ability to attract new clients and retain existing clients;

•the impact of a reduction in client spending and changes in client advertising, marketing and corporate communications requirements;

•financial failure of the Company’s clients;

•the Company’s ability to retain and attract key employees;

•the Company’s ability to compete in the markets in which it operates;

•the Company’s ability to achieve its cost saving initiatives;

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•the Company’s implementation of strategic initiatives;

•the Company’s ability to remain in compliance with its debt agreements and the Company’s ability to finance its contingent payment obligations when due and payable, including but not limited to those relating to redeemable noncontrolling interests and deferred acquisition consideration;

•the Company’s ability to manage its growth effectively, including the successful completion and integration of acquisitions which complement and expand the Company’s business capabilities;

•the Company’s material weaknesses in internal control over financial reporting and its ability to establish and maintain an effective system of internal control over financial reporting;

•the Company’s ability to protect client data from security incidents or cyberattacks;

•economic disruptions resulting from war and other geopolitical tensions (such as the ongoing military conflict between Russia and Ukraine), terrorist activities and natural disasters;

•stock price volatility; and

•foreign currency fluctuations.

Investors should carefully consider these risk factors, other risk factors described herein, and the additional risk factors outlined in more detail in our 2021 Form 10-K, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on March 17, 2022, and accessible on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov, under the caption “Risk Factors,” and in the Company’s other SEC filings.

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PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1. Financial Statements

STAGWELL INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(amounts in thousands)


	Three Months Ended March 31,
		2022		2021
Revenue		$	642,903	$	181,242
Operating Expenses
Cost of services		411,970		111,999
Office and general expenses		144,512		52,278
Depreciation and amortization		31,204		10,950
Impairment and other losses		557		—
		588,243		175,227
Operating income		54,660		6,015
Other Income (expenses):
Interest expense, net		(18,729)		(1,351)
Foreign exchange, net		(306)		(677)
Other, net		156		1,285
		(18,879)		(743)
Income before income taxes and equity in earnings of non-consolidated affiliates		35,781		5,272
Income tax expense		3,189		673
Income before equity in earnings of non-consolidated affiliates		32,592		4,599
Equity in income of non-consolidated affiliates		1,030		4
Net income		33,622		4,603
Net income attributable to noncontrolling and redeemable noncontrolling interests		(20,947)		(238)
Net income attributable to Stagwell Inc. common shareholders		$	12,675	$	4,365


Income Per Common Share:
Basic
Net income attributable to Stagwell Inc. common shareholders		$	0.10	N/A
Diluted
Net income attributable to Stagwell Inc. common shareholders		$	0.10	N/A
Weighted Average Number of Common Shares Outstanding:
Basic		122,285		N/A
Diluted		297,484		N/A

See notes to the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

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STAGWELL INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(amounts in thousands)


	Three Months Ended March 31,
		2022		2021
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
Net income		$	33,622	$	4,603
Other comprehensive income
Foreign currency translation adjustment		(5,347)		137
Other comprehensive income (loss)		(5,347)		137
Comprehensive income for the period		28,275		4,740
Comprehensive income attributable to the noncontrolling and redeemable noncontrolling interests		(20,947)		(238)
Comprehensive income attributable to Stagwell Inc. common shareholders		$	7,328	$	4,502

See notes to the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

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STAGWELL INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(amounts in thousands)


	March 31, 2022		December 31, 2021
	(Unaudited)
ASSETS
Current Assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$	135,153	$	184,009
Accounts receivable, net	767,147		696,937
Expenditures billable to clients	51,069		63,065
Other current assets	69,009		61,830
Total Current Assets	1,022,378		1,005,841
Fixed assets, net	118,542		118,603
Right-of-use lease assets - operating leases	311,028		311,654
Goodwill	1,651,475		1,652,723
Other intangible assets, net	914,829		937,695

Other assets	33,581		29,064
Total Assets	$	4,051,833	$	4,055,580
LIABILITIES, RNCI, AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current Liabilities
Accounts payable	$	248,619	$	271,769
Accrued media	284,735		237,794
Accruals and other liabilities	224,945		272,533
Advance billings	344,125		361,885
Current portion of lease liabilities - operating leases	70,356		72,255
Current portion of deferred acquisition consideration	75,619		77,946
Total Current Liabilities	1,248,399		1,294,182
Long-term debt	1,222,041		1,191,601
Long-term portion of deferred acquisition consideration	148,649		144,423
Long-term lease liabilities - operating leases	339,168		342,730
Deferred tax liabilities, net	78,401		103,093
Other liabilities	73,097		57,147
Total Liabilities	3,109,755		3,133,176
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests	44,233		43,364
Commitments, Contingencies and Guarantees (Note 10)
Shareholders' Equity:

Common shares - Class A & B	135		118
Common shares - Class C	2		2
Paid-in capital	373,300		382,893
Retained earnings	6,668		(6,982)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(10,625)		(5,278)
Stagwell Inc. Shareholders' Equity	369,480		370,753
Noncontrolling interests	528,365		508,287
Total Shareholders' Equity	897,845		879,040
Total Liabilities, Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests and Shareholders' Equity	$	4,051,833	$	4,055,580

See notes to the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

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STAGWELL INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(amounts in thousands)


	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2022		2021
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$	33,622	$	4,603
Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash (used in) provided by operating activities:
Stock-based compensation	8,021		—
Depreciation and amortization	31,204		10,950
Impairment and other losses	557		—
Provision for bad debt expense	879		255
Deferred income taxes	(1,350)		(181)
Adjustment to deferred acquisition consideration	1,897		3,918


Transaction costs contributed by Stagwell Media LP	—		3,188

Other	(3,526)		(436)

Changes in working capital:
Accounts receivable	(70,039)		59,536
Expenditures billable to clients	11,996		(5,387)
Other assets	(6,100)		(1,134)
Accounts payable	(32,386)		(69,133)
Accruals and other liabilities	(5,592)		(1,411)
Advance billings	(17,760)		1,003

Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities	(48,577)		5,771
Cash flows from investing activities:
Capital expenditures	(6,538)		(3,311)

Acquisitions, net of cash acquired	(935)		—
Other	(816)		—
Net cash used in investing activities	(8,289)		(3,311)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Repayment of borrowings under revolving credit facility	(209,500)		(25,248)
Proceeds from borrowings under revolving credit facility	239,000		10,000
Shares acquired and cancelled	(14,926)		—
Distributions to noncontrolling interests and other	(6,464)		—
Payment of deferred consideration	(1,581)		—




Distributions	—		(25,894)


Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	6,529		(41,142)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	1,481		9
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents	(48,856)		(38,673)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	184,009		92,457
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$	135,153	$	53,784

Supplemental disclosures:
Cash income taxes paid	$	6,623	$	2,361
Cash interest paid	30,798		928

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STAGWELL INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - (continued)

(amounts in thousands)


	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2022	2021
Non-cash investing and financing activities:


Establishment of tax receivable agreement –
Tax receivables agreement liability	20,846	—
Tax receivables deferred tax liability	24,500	—
Non-cash contributions	—	10,268
Non-cash distributions to Stagwell Media LP	—	(13,000)
Non-cash payment of deferred acquisition consideration	—	(7,080)

See notes to the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

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STAGWELL INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

(amounts in thousands)



		Three Months Ended
		March 31, 2022
	Common Shares - Class A & B		Common Shares - Class C			Paid-in Capital		Retained Earnings		Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss		Stagwell Inc. Shareholders' Equity		Noncontrolling Interests		Shareholders' Equity


		Shares	Amount		Shares	Amount
Balance at December 31, 2021		118,252	$	118	179,970	$	2	$	382,893	$	(6,982)	$	(5,278)	$	370,753	$	508,287	$	879,040
Net income attributable to Stagwell Inc.		—	—		—	—		—		12,675		—		12,675		18,537		31,212
Other comprehensive loss		—	—		—	—		—		—		(5,347)		(5,347)		—		(5,347)
Distributions to noncontrolling interests		—	—		—	—		—		—		—		—		(705)		(705)
Changes in redemption value of RNCI		—	—		—	—		—		975		—		975		—		975
Granting of restricted awards		1,787	2		—	—		(2)		—		—		—		—		—
Shares acquired and cancelled		(1,998)			—	—		(14,926)		—		—		(14,926)		—		(14,926)
Stock-based compensation		—	—		—	—		6,714		—		—		6,714		—		6,714
Conversion of shares		15,155	15		(15,155)	—		(15)		—		—		—		—		—

Other		—	—		—	—		(1,364)						(1,364)		2,246		882
Balance at March 31, 2022		133,196	$	135	164,815	$	2	$	373,300	$	6,668	$	(10,625)	$	369,480	$	528,365	$	897,845

See notes to the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.



				Three Months Ended
				March 31, 2021
	Members' capital		Common Shares - Class A & B		Common Shares - Class C			Paid-in Capital		Retained Earnings		Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss		Stagwell Inc. Shareholders' Equity		Noncontrolling Interests		Shareholders' Equity


				Shares	Amount		Shares	Amount
Balance at December 31, 2020	$	358,756		—	$	—	—	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	358,756	$	39,787	$	398,543
Net income attributable to Stagwell Inc.	4,365			—	—		—	—		—				—		4,365		1,153		5,518
Other comprehensive income	137			—	—		—	—		—		—		—		137		—		137
Contributions	10,268			—	—		—	—		—		—		—		10,268		—		10,268
Distributions	(28,004)			—	—		—	—		—		—		—		(28,004)		—		(28,004)
Distributions to noncontrolling interests	—			—	—		—	—		—		—		—		—		(10,890)		(10,890)
Changes in redemption value of RNCI	(400)			—	—		—	—		—		—		—		(400)		—		(400)











Balance at March 31, 2021	$	345,122		—	$	—	—	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	345,122	$	30,050	$	375,172

See notes to the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

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STAGWELL INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(amounts in thousands, unless otherwise stated)

1. Business and Basis of Presentation

Stagwell Inc. (the “Company” or “Stagwell”), incorporated under the laws of Delaware, conducts its business through its networks and their Brands (“Brands”), which provide marketing and business solutions that realize the potential of combining data and creativity. Stagwell’s strategy is to build, grow and acquire market-leading businesses that deliver the modern suite of services that marketers need to thrive in a rapidly evolving business environment.

The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Stagwell and its subsidiaries. Stagwell has prepared the unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements included herein in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”) and pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) for reporting interim financial information on Form 10-Q. Accordingly, the financial statements have been condensed and do not include certain information and disclosures pursuant to these rules. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires us to make judgments, assumptions and estimates about current and future results of operations and cash flows that affect the amounts reported and disclosed. Actual results could differ from these estimates and assumptions. The consolidated results for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of results for the full year and should be read in conjunction with the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021 (“2021 Form 10-K”).

On December 21, 2020, MDC Partners Inc. (“MDC”) and Stagwell Media LP (“Stagwell Media”) announced that they had entered into the Transaction Agreement, providing for the combination of MDC with the operating businesses and subsidiaries of Stagwell Media (the “Stagwell Subject Entities”). The Stagwell Subject Entities comprised Stagwell Marketing Group LLC (“Stagwell Marketing” or “SMG”) and its direct and indirect subsidiaries.

On August 2, 2021, we completed the previously announced combination of MDC and the operating businesses and subsidiaries of Stagwell Media and a series related transactions (such combination and transactions, the “Transactions”). The Transactions were treated as a reverse acquisition for financial reporting purposes, with MDC treated as the legal acquirer and Stagwell Marketing treated as the accounting acquirer. The results of MDC are included within the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the period beginning on the date of the acquisition through the end of the respective period presented and the results of SMG are included for the entire period presented. See Note 3 of the Notes included herein for information in connection with the acquisition of MDC.

The Company continues to monitor the worldwide public health threat and government actions to combat COVID-19 and the impact such developments may have on the overall economy, our clients and operations. The impact of the pandemic and the corresponding actions are reflected in our judgments, assumptions and estimates in the preparation of the financial statements. The judgments, assumptions and estimates will be updated and could result in different results in the future depending on the continued impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In addition, while not material, the Company continues to monitor the war and other geopolitical tensions between Russia and Ukraine and will continue to assess any potential impacts that this conflict may have on the economy, our clients, and our operations.

The accompanying financial statements reflect all adjustments, consisting of normally recurring accruals, which in the opinion of management are necessary for a fair presentation, in all material respects, of the information contained therein. Intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. Certain reclassifications have been made to the prior year financial information to conform to the current year presentation.

We have revised the presentation of Current Liabilities to separately present Accrued media of $237,794 as of December 31, 2021. As a result, the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet has been revised to correct this immaterial classification error by decreasing the previously reported amount for Accruals and other liabilities as of December 31, 2021 by the $237,794 of Accrued media. This revision had no effect on our previously reported Total Current Liabilities, or on any other previously reported amounts in our consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2021.

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Recent Developments

On April 19, 2022, the Company acquired Brand New Galaxy (“BNG”), a leading provider of scaled commerce and marketplace solutions, for approximately $20,000, subject to post-closing adjustments, as well as contingent consideration up to a maximum value of $50,000. The contingent consideration is due upon meeting certain future earnings targets through 2024, with approximately 67% payable in cash and 33% payable in Class A Common Stock. BNG will be included within the Media Network segment. The purchase price allocation has not yet been completed. The Company will provide the purchase price allocation and pro forma operating results of the combined company in its Form 10-Q for the period of June 30, 2022.

2. New Accounting Pronouncements

In March 2020, the Financial Accounting Standards Board, (“FASB”) issued ASU 2020-04, and in January 2021 subsequently issued ASU 2021-01, Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting, to provide optional expedients and exceptions for applying GAAP to contracts, hedging relationships, and other transactions affected by reference rate reform if certain criteria are met. ASU 2020-04 is effective upon issuance, through December 31, 2022. The Company is evaluating the impact of the adoption of this guidance on the Company’s financial statements and disclosures.

3. Acquisitions

2021 Acquisitions

Acquisition of MDC

On December 21, 2020, MDC and Stagwell Media announced that they had entered into the Transaction Agreement, providing for the combination of MDC with the operating businesses and subsidiaries of the Stagwell Subject Entities. The Stagwell Subject Entities comprised Stagwell Marketing and its direct and indirect subsidiaries.

On August 2, 2021 (the “Closing Date”), we completed the combination of MDC and the Stagwell Subject Entities and a series of steps and related transactions (such combination and transactions, the “Transactions”). In connection with the Transactions, among other things, (i) MDC completed a series of transactions pursuant to which it emerged as a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, converted into a Delaware limited liability company and changed its name to Midas OpCo Holdings LLC, which subsequently changed its name to Stagwell Global LLC (“OpCo”); (ii) Stagwell Media contributed the equity interests of Stagwell Marketing and its direct and indirect subsidiaries to OpCo; and (iii) the Company converted into a Delaware corporation, succeeded MDC as the publicly-traded company and changed its name to Stagwell Inc.

In respect of the Transactions, the acquired assets and assumed liabilities, together with acquired processes and employees, represent a business as defined in the FASB’s Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 805, Business Combinations (“ASC 805”). The Transactions were accounted for as a reverse acquisition using the acquisition method of accounting, pursuant to ASC Topic 805-10, Business Combinations, with MDC treated as the legal acquirer and SMG treated as the accounting acquirer. In identifying SMG as the acquiring entity for accounting purposes, MDC and SMG took into account a number of factors, including the relative voting rights and the corporate governance structure of the Company. SMG is considered the accounting acquirer since Stagwell Media controls the board of directors of the Company following the Transactions and received an indirect ownership interest in the Company’s only operating subsidiary, OpCo, of 69.55% ownership of OpCo’s common units. However, no single factor was the sole determinant in the overall conclusion that Stagwell is the acquirer for accounting purposes; rather all factors were considered in arriving at such conclusion. Under the acquisition method of accounting, the assets and liabilities of MDC, as the accounting acquiree, were recorded at their respective fair value as of the date the Transactions were completed.

On August 2, 2021, an aggregate of 179,970 shares of the Company’s Class C Common Stock were issued to Stagwell Media in exchange for $1.80 (the “Stagwell New MDC Contribution”). The Class C Common Stock does not participate in the earnings of the Company. Additionally, an aggregate of 179,970 OpCo common units were issued to Stagwell Media in exchange for the equity interests of the Stagwell Subject Entities (the “Stagwell OpCo Contribution”).

The fair value of the purchase consideration is $429,062, consisting of approximately 80,000 shares of the Company’s Class A and B Common Stock and Common Stock equivalents based on a per share price of approximately $5.42, the closing stock price on the date of the combination.

ASC 805 requires the allocation of the purchase price consideration to the fair value of the identified assets acquired and liabilities assumed upon consummation of a business combination. For this purpose, fair value shall be determined in accordance with the fair value concepts defined in ASC 820, “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures,” (“ASC 820”). Fair value is defined in ASC 820 as “the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date.” Fair value measurements can be highly subjective and can involve a high degree of estimation.

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The total purchase price to acquire MDC has been allocated to the assets acquired and assumed liabilities based upon preliminary estimated fair values, with any excess purchase price allocated to goodwill. The fair value of the acquired assets and assumed liabilities as of the date of acquisition are based on preliminary estimates assisted, in part, by a third-party valuation expert. The estimates are subject to change upon the finalization of appraisals and other valuation analyses, which are expected to be completed no later than one year from the date of acquisition. Although the completion of the valuation activities may result in asset and liability fair values that are different from the preliminary estimates included herein, it is not expected that those differences would alter the understanding of the impact of this transaction on the consolidated financial position and results of operations of the Company.

The preliminary purchase price allocation is as follows:


	Amount
Cash and cash equivalents	$	130,153
Accounts receivable	413,839
Other current assets	41,736
Fixed assets	80,047
Right-of-use lease assets - operating leases	253,629
Intangible assets	810,900
Other assets	18,418
Accounts payable	(171,019)
Accruals and other liabilities	(307,699)
Advance billings	(211,403)
Current portion of lease liabilities	(48,517)
Current portion of deferred acquisition consideration	(53,054)
Long-term debt	(901,736)
Revolving credit facility	(109,954)
Long-term portion of deferred acquisition consideration	(8,056)
Long-term portion of lease liabilities	(289,128)
Other liabilities	(132,394)
Redeemable noncontrolling interests	(25,990)
Preferred shares	(209,980)
Noncontrolling interests	(151,090)
Net liabilities assumed	(871,298)
Goodwill	1,300,360
Purchase price consideration	$	429,062

The excess of purchase consideration over the fair value of the net assets acquired was recorded as goodwill, which is primarily attributed to the assembled workforce of MDC. Goodwill of $1,059,388, $174,710 and $66,262 was assigned to the Integrated Agencies Network, the Media Network and the Communications Network reportable segments, respectively. The majority of the goodwill is non-deductible for income tax purposes. Goodwill has been updated from the previously reported amount of $1,299,374 to reflect a change in certain assets and liabilities. There has been no change that impacts the Consolidated Statement of Operations.

Intangible assets consist of trade names and customer relationships. We amortize purchased intangible assets on a straight-line basis over their respective useful lives. The weighted average life of the total acquired identifiable intangible assets is thirteen years. The following table presents the details of identifiable intangible assets acquired.


	Estimated Fair Value		Estimated Useful Life in Years
Trade Names	$	98,000	10
Customer Relationships	712,900		6-15
Total Acquired Intangible Assets	$	810,900

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Pro Forma Financial Information (unaudited)

The unaudited pro forma information for the periods set forth below gives effect to the acquisition as if it occurred as of January 1, 2021. The pro forma information is presented for informational purposes only and is not necessarily indicative of the results of operations that actually would have been achieved had the acquisitions been consummated as of that time.


	Three Months Ended March 31, 2021
Revenue	$	488,827
Net Income	14,104

Acquisition of Goodstuff Holdings Limited

On December 31, 2021, the Company acquired GoodStuff Holdings Limited (“Goodstuff”) for approximately £21,000 (approximately $28,053) of cash consideration as well as contingent consideration up to a maximum of £22,000. The cash consideration included an initial payment of £8,000, an excess working capital payment of approximately £9,000 and approximately £4,000 of deferred payments. The contingent consideration is tied to employees’ service and will be recognized as deferred acquisition consideration expense through 2026. Therefore, only the cash consideration has been allocated to the assets acquired and assumed liabilities of Goodstuff based upon preliminary estimated fair values, with any excess purchase price allocated to goodwill. The preliminary purchase price allocation is as follows:


	Amount
Cash and cash equivalents	$	30,985
Accounts receivable	28,685
Other current assets	3,207
Fixed assets	237
Right-of-use lease assets - operating leases	2,060
Intangible assets	14,974
Other assets	55
Accounts payable	(6,344)
Accruals and other liabilities	(27,353)
Advance billings	(15,956)
Current portion of lease liabilities	(857)
Income taxes payable	(967)
Long-term portion of lease liabilities	(3,744)
Other liabilities	(1,204)
Net assets assumed	23,778
Goodwill	4,275
Purchase price consideration	$	28,053

The excess of purchase consideration over the fair value of the net assets acquired was recorded as goodwill, which is primarily attributed to the assembled workforce of Goodstuff. Goodwill of $4,275 was assigned to the Media Network. The majority of the goodwill is non-deductible for income tax purposes.

Intangible assets consist of trade names and customer relationships. We amortize purchased intangible assets on a straight-line basis over their respective useful lives. The weighted average life of the total acquired identifiable intangible assets is ten years. The following table presents the details of identifiable intangible assets acquired.


	Estimated Fair Value		Estimated Useful Life in Years
Trade Names	$	1,349	15
Customer Relationships	13,625		10
Total Acquired Intangible Assets	$	14,974

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Pro Forma Financial Information (unaudited)


	Three Months Ended March 31, 2021
Revenue	$	185,428
Net Income	5,111

2021 Purchases of Noncontrolling Interests

On October 1, 2021, the Company entered into an agreement to purchase the approximate 27% remaining interest of Targeted Victory it did not already own, stipulating the purchase of 13.3% on October 1, 2021 and the remaining 13.3% on July 31, 2023, with the option for the seller to delay the second purchase until July 31, 2025. The purchase price of $73,898, was comprised of a contingent deferred acquisition payment and redeemable noncontrolling interest with estimated present values at the acquisition date of $46,618 and $27,280, respectively. The contingent deferred payment and redeemable noncontrolling interest were based on the financial results of the underlying business through 2025. In addition, at the option of the Company, up to 50% of the total purchase price can be paid in shares of Class A Common Stock and in no event may the purchase price exceed $135,000.

On December 1, 2021, the Company acquired the approximate 27% remaining interest of Concentric it did not already own for an aggregate purchase price of $8,058, comprised of a closing cash payment of $1,581 and contingent deferred acquisition payments with an estimated present value at the acquisition date of $6,477. The contingent deferred payments were based on the financial results of the underlying business through 2022 with final payment due in 2023.

On December 31, 2021, the Company acquired the approximate 49% remaining interest of Instrument it did not already own for an aggregate purchase price of $157,072, comprised of a closing payment of $37,500 in cash and $37,500 in shares of Class A Common Stock and deferred acquisition payments with an estimated present value at the acquisition date of $82,072. The deferred payments are not contingent and will be paid in 2023 and 2024.

4. Revenue

The Company’s revenue recognition policies are established in accordance with ASC 606, and accordingly, revenue is recognized when control of the promised goods or services is transferred to our clients, in an amount that reflects the consideration we expect to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or services.

The Stagwell network provides an extensive range of services to our clients, offering a variety of marketing and communication capabilities including strategy, creative and production for advertising campaigns across a variety of platforms (print, digital, social media, television broadcast), public relations services including strategy, editorial, crisis support or issues management, media training, influencer engagement and events management. We also provide media buying and planning across a range of platforms (out-of-home, paid search, social media, lead generation, programmatic, television broadcast), experiential marketing and application/website design and development.

The primary source of the Company’s revenue is from agency arrangements in the form of fees for services performed, commissions, and from performance incentives or bonuses, depending on the terms of the client contract. In all circumstances, revenue is only recognized when collection is reasonably assured. Certain of the Company’s contractual arrangements have more than one performance obligation. For such arrangements, revenue is allocated to each performance obligation based on its relative stand-alone selling price. Stand-alone selling prices are determined based on the prices charged to clients or using expected cost plus margin.

The determination of our performance obligations is specific to the services included within each contract. Based on a client’s requirements within the contract, and how these services are provided, multiple services could represent separate performance obligations or be combined and considered one performance obligation. Contracts that contain services that are not significantly integrated or interdependent, and that do not significantly modify or customize each other, are considered separate performance obligations. Typically, we consider media planning, media buying, creative (or strategy), production and experiential marketing services to be separate performance obligations if included in the same contract as each of these services can be provided on a stand-alone basis, and do not significantly modify or customize each other. Public relations services and application/website design and development are typically each considered one performance obligation as there is a significant integration of these services into a combined output.

Certain of the Company’s contracts consist of a single performance obligation. In these instances, the Company does not consider the underlying activities as separate or distinct performance obligations because its services are highly interrelated, and

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the integration of the various components is essential to the overall promise to the Company’s customer. In certain of the Company’s client contracts, the performance obligation is a stand-ready obligation because the Company provides a constant level of similar services over the term of the contract.

We typically satisfy our performance obligations over time, as services are performed. Fees for services are typically recognized using input methods (direct labor hours, materials and third-party costs) that correspond with efforts incurred to date in relation to total estimated efforts to complete the contract. To a lesser extent, revenue is recognized using output measures, such as impressions or ongoing reporting. For client contracts when the Company has a stand-ready obligation to perform services on an ongoing basis over the life of the contract, where the scope of these arrangements includes an undefined number of broad activities and there are no significant gaps in performing the services, the Company recognizes revenue ratably using a time-based measure. In addition, for client contracts where the Company is providing online subscription-based hosted services, it recognizes revenue ratably over the contract term. Point in time recognition primarily relates to certain commission-based contracts, which are recognized upon the placement of advertisements in various media when the Company has no further performance obligation.

Revenue is recognized net of sales and other taxes due to be collected and remitted to governmental authorities. The Company’s contracts typically provide for termination by either party within 30 to 90 days. Although payment terms vary by client, they are typically within 30 to 60 days. In addition, the Company generally has the right to payment for all services provided through the end of the contract or termination date.

Within each contract, we identify whether the Company is principal or agent at the performance obligation level. In arrangements where the Company has substantive control over the service before transferring it to the client, and is primarily responsible for integrating the services into the final deliverables, we act as principal. In these arrangements, revenue is recorded at the gross amount billed. Accordingly, for these contracts the Company has included reimbursed expenses in revenue. In other arrangements where a third-party supplier, rather than the Company, is primarily responsible for the integration of services into the final deliverables, and thus the Company is solely arranging for the third-party supplier to provide these services to our client, we generally act as agent and record revenue equal to the net amount retained, when the fee or commission is earned. The role of Stagwell’s agencies under a production services agreement is to facilitate a client’s purchasing of production capabilities from a third-party production company in accordance with the client’s strategy and guidelines. The obligation of Stagwell’s agencies under media buying services is to negotiate and purchase advertising media from a third-party media vendor on behalf of a client to execute its media plan. We do not obtain control prior to transferring these services to our clients; therefore, we primarily act as agent for production and media buying services.

A small portion of the Company’s contractual arrangements with clients include performance incentive provisions, which allow the Company to earn additional revenues as a result of its performance relative to both quantitative and qualitative goals. Incentive compensation is primarily estimated using the most likely amount method and is included in revenue up to the amount that is not expected to result in a reversal of a significant amount of cumulative revenue recognized. We recognize revenue related to performance incentives as we satisfy the performance obligation to which the performance incentives are related.

Disaggregated Revenue Data

The Company provides a broad range of services to a large base of clients across the full spectrum of verticals globally. The primary source of revenue is from agency arrangements in the form of fees for services performed, commissions, and from performance incentives or bonuses. Certain clients may engage with the Company in various geographic locations, across multiple disciplines, and through multiple Brands. Representation of a client rarely means that Stagwell handles marketing communications for all Brands or product lines of the client in every geographical location. The Company’s Brands often cooperate with one another through referrals and the sharing of both services and expertise, which enables Stagwell to service clients’ varied marketing needs by crafting custom integrated solutions. Additionally, the Company maintains separate, independent operating companies to enable it to effectively manage potential conflicts of interest by representing competing clients across the Stagwell network.

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The following table presents revenue disaggregated by our principal capabilities for the three months ended March 31, 2022 and 2021:


		Three Months Ended March 31,
Principal Capabilities	Reportable Segment		2022		2021
Digital Transformation	All Segments		$	210,809	$	63,354
Creativity and Communications	Integrated Agencies Network, Communications Network, Other		279,242		23,265
Performance Media and Data	Media Network, Other		99,776		62,716
Consumer Insights and Strategy	Integrated Agencies Network, Other		53,076		31,907
			$	642,903	$	181,242

Stagwell has historically largely focused where the Company was founded in North America, the largest market for its services in the world. The Company has expanded its global footprint to support clients looking for help to grow their businesses in new markets. Stagwell’s Brands are located in the United States and United Kingdom, and more than thirty other countries around the world. In the past, some clients have responded to weakening economic conditions with reductions to their marketing budgets, which included discretionary components that are easier to reduce in the short term than other operating expenses.

The following table presents revenue disaggregated by geography for the three months ended March 31, 2022 and 2021:


		Three Months Ended March 31,
Geographical Location	Reportable Segment		2022		2021
United States	All		$	537,231	$	166,747
United Kingdom	All		39,813		4,705
Other	All		65,859		9,790
			$	642,903	$	181,242

Contract Assets and Liabilities

Contract assets consist of fees and reimbursable outside vendor costs incurred on behalf of clients when providing advertising, marketing and corporate communications services that have not yet been invoiced to clients. Unbilled service fees were $161,912 and $116,558 at March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, respectively, and are included as a component of Accounts receivable on the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. Outside vendor costs incurred on behalf of clients which have yet to be invoiced were $51,069 and $63,065 at March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, respectively, and are included on the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as Expenditures billable to clients. Such amounts are invoiced to clients at various times over the course of providing services.

Contract liabilities consist of fees received from or billed to clients in excess of fees recognized. Such fees are classified as Advance billings presented on the Company’s Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. In arrangements in which we are acting as an agent, the recognition related to the contract liability is presented on a net basis within the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations. Advance billings at March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021 were $344,125 and $361,885, respectively. The decrease in the Advance billings balance of $17,760 for the three months ended March 31, 2022 was primarily driven by cash payments received or due in advance of satisfying our performance obligations, offset by $221,094 of revenues recognized that were included in the Advance billings balances as of December 31, 2021 and reductions due to the incurrence of third-party costs.

Changes in the contract asset and liability balances during the three months ended March 31, 2022 were not materially impacted by write offs, impairment losses or any other factors.

Unsatisfied Performance Obligations

The majority of our contracts are for periods of one year or less. For those contracts with a term of more than one year, we had approximately $28,241 of unsatisfied performance obligations as of March 31, 2022 of which we expect to recognize approximately 67% in the remaining quarters of 2022, 30% in 2023 and 3% in 2024.

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5. Earnings Per Share

The following table sets forth the computations of basic and diluted income per common share:


	Three Months Ended March 31, 2022


Earnings Per Share - Basic
Numerator:
Net income	$	33,622
Net income attributable to Class C shareholders	(17,721)
Net income attributable to other equity interest holders	(3,226)
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(20,947)
Net income attributable to Stagwell Inc. common shareholders	$	12,675

Denominator:
Basic - Weighted Average number of common shares outstanding	122,285

Earnings Per Share - Basic	$	0.10

Earnings Per Share - Diluted
Numerator:
Net income attributable to Stagwell Inc. common shareholders	$	12,675
Net income attributable to Class C shareholders	17,721
	$	30,396

Denominator:
Basic - Weighted Average number of common shares outstanding	122,285
Dilutive shares:

Stock appreciation rights	2,041
Restricted share and restricted unit awards	2,786
Class C shares	170,372
Diluted - Weighted average number of common shares outstanding	297,484


Earnings Per Share - Diluted	$	0.10

The combination of MDC and SMG was completed on August 2, 2021, which was treated as a reverse acquisition for financial reporting purposes. SMG was treated as the accounting acquirer and MDC was the accounting acquiree. Therefore, under applicable accounting principles, the historical financial results of SMG prior to August 2, 2021 are considered our historical financial results. Accordingly, historical information presented in this Form 10-Q for events occurring or periods ending before August 2, 2021 does not reflect the impact of the Transactions or the financial results of MDC and may not be comparable with historical information for events occurring or periods ending on or after August 2, 2021.

SMG’s equity structure, prior to the combination with MDC, was a non-unitized single member limited liability company, resulting in all components of equity attributable to the member being reported within Members' Capital. Given that SMG was a non-unitized single member limited liability company, net income (loss) prior to the combination is not applicable for purposes of calculating earnings per share. Therefore, the earnings per share calculation in the table above includes only the three months ended March 31, 2022 and does not include the corresponding prior year period.

Restricted stock awards of 1,005 as of March 31, 2022 are excluded from the computation of diluted income (loss) per common share because the performance contingency necessary for vesting had not been met as of the reporting date.

6. Deferred Acquisition Consideration

Deferred acquisition consideration on the balance sheet consists of deferred obligations related to contingent and fixed purchase price payments, and contingent and fixed retention payments tied to continued employment of specific personnel.

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Contingent deferred acquisition consideration is recorded at the acquisition date fair value and adjusted at each reporting period through operating income.

The following table presents changes in contingent deferred acquisition consideration, which is measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs, and a reconciliation to the amounts reported on the balance sheets as of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021:


	March 31,		December 31,
	2022		2021
Beginning balance of contingent payments	$	222,369	$	17,847
Payments	(1,581)		(12,431)
Adjustment to deferred acquisition consideration (1)	2,522		18,721
Additions (2)	1,097		198,937
Other	(139)		(705)
Ending balance of contingent payments	$	224,268	$	222,369

(1) Adjustment to deferred acquisition consideration contains fair value changes from the Company’s initial estimates of deferred acquisition payments. Adjustment to deferred acquisition consideration is recorded within Office and general expenses on the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations.

(2) In 2021, approximately $61,000 of additions represent deferred acquisition consideration acquired in connection with the acquisition of MDC. Approximately $136,000 of additions represent deferred acquisition consideration acquired in connection with the purchases of noncontrolling interests. See Note 3 of the Notes included herein for additional information related to the purchases of Concentric, Targeted Victory, and Instrument.

7. Leases

The Company leases office space in North America, Europe, Asia, South America, and Australia. This space is primarily used for office and administrative purposes by the Company’s employees in performing professional services. These leases are classified as operating leases and expire between years 2022 through 2034. The Company’s finance leases are immaterial.

The Company’s leasing policies are established in accordance with ASC 842, and accordingly, the Company recognizes on the balance sheet at the time of lease commencement a right-of-use lease asset and a lease liability, initially measured at the present value of the lease payments. Right-of-use lease assets represent the Company’s right to use an underlying asset for the lease term and lease liabilities represent the Company’s obligation to make lease payments arising from the lease. All right-of-use lease assets are reviewed for impairment. As the Company’s implicit rate in its leases is not readily determinable, in determining the present value of lease payments, the Company uses its incremental borrowing rate based on the information available at the commencement date. Lease payments included in the measurement of the lease liability are comprised of non-cancellable lease payments, payments based upon an index or rate, payments for optional renewal periods where it is reasonably certain the renewal period will be exercised, and payments for early termination options unless it is reasonably certain the lease will not be terminated early.

Lease costs are recognized in the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations over the lease term on a straight-line basis. Leasehold improvements are depreciated on a straight-line basis over the lesser of the term of the related lease or the estimated useful life of the asset.

Some of the Company’s leases contain variable lease payments, including payments based upon an index or rate. Variable lease payments based upon an index or rate are initially measured using the index or rate in effect at the lease commencement date and are included within the lease liabilities. Lease liabilities are not remeasured as a result of changes in the index or rate, rather changes in these types of payments are recognized in the period in which the obligation for those payments is incurred. In addition, some of our leases contain variable payments for utilities, insurance, real estate tax, repairs and maintenance, and other variable operating expenses. Such amounts are not included in the measurement of the lease liability and are recognized in the period when the facts and circumstances which the variable lease payments are based upon occur.

Some of the Company’s leases include options to extend or renew the leases through 2044. The renewal and extension options are not included in the lease term as the Company is not reasonably certain that it will exercise its option.

From time to time, the Company enters into sublease arrangements with unrelated third parties. These leases are classified as operating leases and expire between years 2022 through 2032. Sublease income is recognized over the lease term on a straight-line basis. Currently, the Company subleases office space in North America, Europe and Australia.

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As of March 31, 2022, the Company has entered into four operating leases for which the commencement date has not yet occurred primarily because the premises are in the process of being prepared for occupancy by the landlord. Accordingly, these four leases represent an obligation of the Company that is not reflected within the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of March 31, 2022. The aggregate future liability related to these leases is approximately $3,478.

The discount rate used for leases accounted for under ASC 842 is the Company’s collateralized credit adjusted borrowing rate.

The following table presents lease costs and other quantitative information for the three months ended March 31, 2022 and 2021:


	Three Months Ended March 31,
		2022			2021
Lease Cost:
Operating lease cost		$	14,016		$	5,505
Variable lease cost		5,160			1,053
Sublease rental income		(3,276)			(959)
Total lease cost		$	15,900		$	5,599
Additional information:
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities for operating leases
Operating cash flows		$	22,781		$	5,601

Right-of-use lease assets obtained in exchange for operating lease liabilities and other non-cash adjustments		$	14,162		$	—
Weighted average remaining lease term (in years) - Operating leases		6.9			4.3
Weighted average discount rate - Operating leases		4.2		%	4.0		%

Operating lease expense is included in office and general expenses in the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations. The Company’s lease expense for leases with a term of 12 months or less is immaterial.

The following table presents minimum future rental payments under the Company’s leases at March 31, 2022 and their reconciliation to the corresponding lease liabilities:


	Maturity Analysis
Remaining 2022	$	63,181
2023	86,071
2024	73,027
2025	57,131
2026	43,289
2027 and thereafter	157,507
Total	480,206
Less: Present value discount	(70,682)
Lease liability	$	409,524

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8. Debt

As of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, the Company’s indebtedness was comprised as follows:


	March 31,		December 31,
	2022		2021
Revolving credit facility	$	140,000	$	110,165
5.625% Notes	1,100,000		1,100,000
Debt issuance costs	(17,959)		(18,564)
Total long-term debt	$	1,222,041	$	1,191,601

Interest expense related to long-term debt included in Interest expense, net on the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three months ended March 31, 2022 and 2021 was $18,261 and $1,624, respectively.

The amortization of debt issuance costs included in Interest expense, net on the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three months ended March 31, 2022 and 2021 was $605 and $139, respectively.

Revolving Credit Agreement

On November 18, 2019, the Company entered into a debt agreement (“JPM Syndicated Facility”) with a syndicate of banks led by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A (“JPM”). The JPM Syndicated Facility consisted of a five-year revolving credit facility of $265,000 (“JPM Revolver”) with the right to be increased by an additional $150,000. On March 18, 2020, the Company increased the commitments on the JPM Revolver by $60,000 to $325,000.

On August 2, 2021, in connection with the closing of the acquisition of MDC, the Company entered into an amended and restated credit agreement (the “Combined Credit Agreement”) with a syndicate of banks led by JPM to increase commitments on the existing JPM Revolver. The Combined Credit Agreement consists of a $500,000 senior secured revolving credit facility with a five-year maturity.

The Combined Credit Agreement contains sub-limits for revolving loans and letters of credit of $50,000 for loans denominated in pounds sterling or euros. It also includes an accordion feature under which the Company may request, subject to lender approval and certain conditions, to increase the amount of the commitments to an aggregate amount not to exceed $650,000.

Borrowings under the Combined Credit Agreement bear interest at a rate equal to, at the Company’s option, (i) the greatest of (a) the prime rate of interest announced from time to time by JPM, (b) the federal funds effective rate from time to time plus 0.50% and (c) the LIBOR rate plus 1%, in each case, plus the applicable margin (calculated based on the Company’s total leverage ratio) at that time or (ii) the LIBOR rate plus the applicable margin (calculated based on the Company’s total leverage ratio) at that time. The Company is also required to pay an unused revolver fee to the lenders under the Combined Credit Agreement in respect of the unused commitments thereunder ranging from 0.15% to 0.30% of unused commitments depending on the total leverage ratio, as well as customary letter of credit fees.

As of April 27, 2022, the Company amended its Combined Credit Agreement. Among other things, this amendment replaces any previous reference to LIBOR with SOFR. The borrowings bear interest at a rate equal to, at the Company’s option, (i) the greatest of (a) the prime rate of interest in effect on such day, (b) the federal funds effective rate plus 0.50% and (c) the SOFR rate plus 1% in each case, plus the applicable margin (calculated base on the Company’s total leverage ratio) at that time. Additionally, the Combined Credit Agreement was amended to remove certain pre-commencement notice provisions for certain acquisitions under $50,000 in the aggregate, increased the amount permitted for certain investments allowed under the Combined Credit Agreement, and subject to certain conditions, explicitly allows for the repurchase of Stagwell Inc. stock in an amount not to exceed $100,000 in any fiscal year. All other substantive terms of the Combined Credit Agreement remain unchanged.

Advances under the Combined Credit Agreement may be prepaid in whole or in part from time to time without penalty or premium. The Combined Credit Agreement commitment may be reduced by the Company from time to time. Principal amounts outstanding under the Combined Credit Agreement are due and payable in full at maturity within five years of the date of the Combined Credit Agreement.

If an event of default occurs under the Combined Credit Agreement or any future secured indebtedness, the holders of such secured indebtedness will have a prior right to our assets securing such indebtedness, to the exclusion of the holders of the 5.625% Notes (as defined below), even if we are in default with respect to the 5.625% Notes. In that event, our assets securing such indebtedness would first be used to repay in full all indebtedness and other obligations secured by them (including all amounts outstanding under the Combined Credit Agreement), resulting in all or a portion of our assets being unavailable to satisfy the claims of the holders of the 5.625% Notes and other unsecured indebtedness.

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The Combined Credit Agreement contains a number of financial and nonfinancial covenants and is guaranteed by substantially all of our present and future subsidiaries, subject to customary exceptions.

The Company was in compliance with all covenants at March 31, 2022.

A portion of the Combined Credit Agreement in an amount not to exceed $50,000 is available for the issuance of standby letters of credit. At March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, the Company had issued undrawn outstanding letters of credit of $24,943 and $24,332, respectively.

Senior Notes

In August 2021, the Company issued $1,100,000 aggregate principal amount of 5.625% senior notes (“5.625% Notes”). A portion of the proceeds from the issuance of the 5.625% Notes was used to redeem $870,300 aggregate principal amount of the outstanding 7.50% Senior Notes due 2024 (the “Existing Notes”) for a price of $904,200. This price is equal to 101.625% of the outstanding principal amount of the Existing Notes being redeemed, plus, accrued, and unpaid interest on the principal amount of such Existing Notes. The Company did not recognize a gain or loss on redemption.

The 5.625% Notes are due August 15, 2029 and bear interest of 5.625% to be paid on February 15 and August 15 of each year, commencing on February 15, 2022.

The 5.625% Notes are guaranteed on a senior unsecured basis by substantially all of the Company’s subsidiaries. The 5.625% Notes rank (i) equally in right of payment with all of the Company’s or any guarantor’s existing and future unsubordinated indebtedness, (ii) senior in right of payment to the Company’s or any guarantor’s existing and future subordinated indebtedness, (iii) effectively subordinated to any of the Company’s or any guarantor’s existing and future secured indebtedness to the extent of the collateral securing such indebtedness, including the Combined Credit Agreement, and (iv) structurally subordinated to all existing and future liabilities of the Company’s subsidiaries that are not guarantors.

Our obligations under the 5.625% Notes are unsecured and are effectively junior to our secured indebtedness to the extent of the value of the collateral securing such secured indebtedness. Borrowings under the Combined Credit Agreement are secured by substantially all of the assets of the Company, and any existing and future subsidiary guarantors, including all of the capital stock of each restricted subsidiary.

The Company may, at its option, redeem the 5.625% Notes in whole at any time or in part from time to time, on and after August 15, 2024 at a redemption price of 102.813% of the principal amount thereof if redeemed during the twelve-month period beginning on August 15, 2024, at a redemption price of 101.406% of the principal amount thereof if redeemed during the twelve-month period beginning on August 15, 2025 and at a redemption price of 100% of the principal amount thereof if redeemed on August 15, 2026 and thereafter. Prior to August 15, 2024, the Company may, at its option, redeem some or all of the 5.625% Notes at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the 5.625% Notes plus a “make whole” premium and accrued and unpaid interest. The Company may also redeem, at its option, prior to August 15, 2024, up to 40% of the 5.625% Notes with the net proceeds from one or more equity offerings at a redemption price of 105.625% of the principal amount thereof.

If the Company experiences certain kinds of changes of control (as defined in the indenture), holders of the 5.625% Notes may require the Company to repurchase any 5.625% Notes held by them at a price equal to 101% of the principal amount of the 5.625% Notes plus accrued and unpaid interest. In addition, if the Company sells assets under certain circumstances, it must offer to repurchase the 5.625% Notes at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the 5.625% Notes plus accrued and unpaid interest.

The indenture includes covenants that, among other things, restrict the Company’s ability and the ability of its restricted subsidiaries (as defined in the indenture) to incur or guarantee additional indebtedness; pay dividends on or redeem or repurchase the capital stock of the Company; make certain types of investments; create restrictions on the payment of dividends or other amounts from the Company’s restricted subsidiaries; sell assets; enter into transactions with affiliates; create liens; enter into sale and leaseback transactions; and consolidate or merge with or into, or sell substantially all of the Company’s assets to, another person. These covenants are subject to a number of important limitations and exceptions. The 5.625% Notes are also subject to customary events of default, including cross-payment default and cross-acceleration provisions. The Company was in compliance with all covenants at March 31, 2022.

Interest Rate Swap

The Company had an interest rate swap that matured in April 2022 to convert $9,375 of variable rate debt to a fixed rate of 2.7%. The fair value of the swap was $10 and $77 as of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, respectively, and is included in Accruals and other liabilities on the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. The swap closed at the fair value recorded as of March 31, 2022.

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9. Noncontrolling and Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests

Noncontrolling Interests

When acquiring less than 100% ownership of an entity, the Company may enter into agreements that give the Company an option to purchase, or require the Company to purchase, the incremental ownership interests under certain circumstances. Where the option to purchase the incremental ownership is within the Company’s control, the amounts are recorded as noncontrolling interests in the equity section of the Company’s Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. Where the incremental purchase may be required of the Company, the amounts are recorded as redeemable noncontrolling interests in mezzanine equity at their estimated acquisition date redemption value and adjusted at each reporting period for changes to their estimated redemption value through Retained earnings (but not less than their initial redemption value), except for foreign currency translation adjustments.

There were no changes to the Company's ownership interests in our less than 100% owned subsidiaries during the three months ended March 31, 2022 and 2021.

The following table presents net income attributable to noncontrolling interests between holders of Class C shares and other equity interest holders for the three months ended March 31, 2022 and 2021:


	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2022		2021
Net income attributable of Class C shareholders	$	17,721	$	—
Net income attributable of other equity interest holders	816		1,153
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	$	18,537	$	1,153

The following table presents noncontrolling interests between holders of Class C shares and other equity interest holders as of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021:


	March 31,		December 31,
	2022		2021
Noncontrolling interest of Class C shareholders	$	495,395	$	475,373
Noncontrolling interest of other equity interest holders	32,970		32,914
NCI attributable to noncontrolling interests	$	528,365	$	508,287

Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests

The following table presents changes in redeemable noncontrolling interests:


	March 31,		December 31,
	2022		2021
Beginning Balance	$	43,364	$	604
Redemptions	—		(15,231)
Acquisitions (1)	—		53,270
Changes in redemption value	(975)		3,834

Net income (loss) attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interests	1,649		(412)
Other	195		1,299
Ending Balance	$	44,233	$	43,364

(1) As of December 31, 2021, approximately $26,000 represents redeemable noncontrolling interests acquired in connection with the acquisition of MDC. Approximately $27,000 represents redeemable noncontrolling interests acquired in connection with the purchase of the noncontrolling interest of Targeted Victory. See Note 3 of the Notes included herein for additional information related to the purchase of Targeted Victory.

The noncontrolling shareholders’ ability to exercise any such option right is subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions, including conditions requiring notice in advance of exercise and specific employment termination conditions. In addition, these rights cannot be exercised prior to specified staggered exercise dates. The exercise of these rights at their earliest contractual

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date would result in obligations of the Company to fund the related amounts during 2022 to 2025. It is not determinable, at this time, if or when the owners of these rights will exercise all or a portion of these rights.

The redeemable noncontrolling interest of $44,233 as of March 31, 2022, consists of $42,011, assuming that the subsidiaries perform over the relevant periods at their current profit levels, and $2,222 upon termination of such owner’s employment with the applicable subsidiary or death.

These adjustments will not impact the calculation of earnings (loss) per share if the redemption values are less than the estimated fair values. There is no related impact on the Company’s income per share calculations.

10. Commitments, Contingencies, and Guarantees

Legal Proceedings. The Company’s operating entities are involved in legal proceedings of various types. While any litigation contains an element of uncertainty, the Company has no reason to believe that the outcome of such proceedings or claims will have a material adverse effect on the financial condition or results of operations of the Company.

Deferred Acquisition Consideration and Options to Purchase. See Notes 6 and 9 of the Notes included herein for information regarding potential payments associated with deferred acquisition consideration and the acquisition of noncontrolling shareholders’ ownership interest in subsidiaries.

Guarantees. Generally, the Company has indemnified the purchasers of certain assets in the event that a third party asserts a claim against the purchaser that relates to a liability retained by the Company. These types of indemnification guarantees typically extend for a number of years. Historically, the Company has not made any significant indemnification payments under such agreements and no amount has been accrued in the accompanying consolidated financial statements with respect to these indemnification guarantees. The Company continues to monitor the conditions that are subject to guarantees and indemnifications to identify whether it is probable that a loss has occurred and would recognize any such losses under any guarantees or indemnifications in the period when those losses are probable and estimable.

Commitments. At March 31, 2022, the Company had $24,943 of undrawn letters of credit.

The Company entered into four operating leases for which the commencement date has not yet occurred as of March 31, 2022. See Note 7 of the Notes included herein for additional information.

In the ordinary course of business, the Company may enter into long-term, non-cancellable contracts with partner associations that include revenue or profit-sharing commitments related to the provision of its services. These contracts may also include provisions that require the partner associations to meet certain performance targets prior to any obligation to the Company. As of March 31, 2022, the Company estimates its future minimum commitments under these non-cancellable agreements to be: $9,397, $7,403, $2,139, $1,407, $1,207, and $92 for the remainder of 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026, and 2027, respectively.

11. Share Capital

On March 23, 2022, the board of directors authorized a stock repurchase program (the “Repurchase Program”) under which we may repurchase up to $125,000 of shares of our outstanding Class A common stock. The Repurchase Program will expire on March 23, 2025.

Under the Repurchase Program, share repurchases may be made at our discretion from time to time in open market transactions at prevailing market prices (including through trading plans that may be adopted in accordance with Rule 10b5-1 of the Exchange Act), in privately negotiated transactions, or through other means. The timing and number of shares repurchased under the Repurchase Program will depend on a variety of factors, including the performance of our stock price, general market and economic conditions, regulatory requirements, the availability of funds, and other considerations we deem relevant. The Repurchase Program may be suspended, modified or discontinued at any time without prior notice. Our board of directors will review the Repurchase Program periodically and may authorize adjustments of its terms.

The authorized and outstanding share capital of the Company is below.

Class A Common Stock (“Class A Shares”)

There are 1,000,000 shares of Class A Common Stock authorized. There were 133,192 Class A Shares issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2022. The Class A Shares are an unlimited number of subordinate voting shares, carrying one vote each, with a par value of $0.001 entitled to dividends equal to or greater than Class B Shares, and convertible at the option of the holder into one Class B Share for each Class A Share after the occurrence of certain events related to an offer to purchase all Class B shares.

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Class B Common Stock (“Class B Shares”)

There are 5 shares of Class B Common Stock authorized. There were 4 of Class B Shares issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2022. The Class B Shares are an unlimited number of voting shares, carrying twenty votes each, with a par value of $0.001, convertible at any time at the option of the holder into one Class A share for each Class B share.

Class C Common Stock (“Class C Shares”)

There are 250,000 shares of Class C Common Stock authorized. There were 164,815 Class C Shares issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2022. The Class C shares do not participate in the earnings of the Company and have a par value of $.00001. In 2021, an aggregate of 179,970 OpCo common units were issued to Stagwell Media in exchange for the equity interests of the Stagwell Subject Entities. Each Class C Share, together with the related OpCo common unit, is convertible at any time, at the option of the holder, into one Class A Share. In February 2022, holders of Class C Common Stock and OpCo Units (the “Paired Units”) exchanged 15,155 Paired Units for the same number of shares of Class A Common Stock. Approximately 5,000 Paired Units exchanged into an equal number of Class A Shares triggered an employee tax withholding obligation of $14,900. The Company repurchased approximately 2,000 of the 5,000 Class A Shares issued to the employees to satisfy their employee tax withholding obligation.

12. Fair Value Measurements

A fair value measurement assumes a transaction to sell an asset or transfer a liability occurs in the principal market for the asset or liability or, in the absence of a principal market, the most advantageous market for the asset or liability.

In determining fair value, the Company utilizes valuation techniques that maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs to the extent possible as well as considers counterparty credit risk in its assessment of fair value. The hierarchy for observable and unobservable inputs used to measure fair value into three broad levels are described below:

•Level 1 - Quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for assets or liabilities. The fair value hierarchy gives the highest priority to Level 1 inputs.

•Level 2 - Observable prices that are based on inputs not quoted on active markets, but corroborated by market data.

•Level 3 - Unobservable inputs are used when little or no market data is available. The fair value hierarchy gives the lowest priority to Level 3 inputs.

Financial Instruments that are not Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis

The following table presents certain information for our financial liability that is not measured at fair value on a recurring basis at March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021:

March 31, 2022

December 31, 2021

Carrying
Amount

Fair Value

Carrying
Amount

Fair Value

5.625% Notes

1,100,000

1,042,250

1,100,000

1,120,900

Our long-term debt includes fixed rate debt. The fair value of this instrument is based on quoted market prices in markets that are not active. Therefore, this debt is classified as Level 2 within the fair value hierarchy.

Financial Instruments Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis

The following table presents certain information for our financial instruments that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis at March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021:


	March 31, 2022				December 31, 2021
	Carrying Amount		Fair Value		Carrying Amount		Fair Value
Interest Rate Swap	$	10	$	10	$	77	$	77

The interest rate swap is classified as Level 3 within the fair value hierarchy.

Contingent deferred acquisition consideration (Level 3 fair value measurement) is recorded at the acquisition date fair value and adjusted at each reporting period. The estimated liability is determined in accordance with models of each business' future performance, including revenue growth and free cash flows. These models are dependent upon significant assumptions, such as the growth rate of the earnings of the relevant subsidiary during the contractual period and the discount rate. These growth rates are consistent with the Company’s long-term forecasts. As of March 31, 2022, the discount rate used to measure these liabilities ranged from 3.5% to 7.2%.

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As these estimates require the use of assumptions about future performance, which are uncertain at the time of estimation, the fair value measurements presented on the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets are subject to material uncertainty.

See Note 6 of the Notes included herein for additional information regarding contingent deferred acquisition consideration.

At March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, the carrying amount of the Company’s financial instruments, including cash, cash equivalents, accounts receivable and accounts payable, approximated fair value because of their short-term maturity.

Non-financial Assets and Liabilities that are Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis

Certain non-financial assets are measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis, primarily goodwill, intangible assets (Level 3 fair value measurement) and right-of-use lease assets (Level 2 fair value measurement). Accordingly, these assets are not measured and adjusted to fair value on an ongoing basis but are subject to periodic evaluations for potential impairment. The Company did not recognize an impairment of goodwill in the three months ended March 31, 2022 and 2021. The Company recognized impairments for right-of-use lease assets and intangible assets (Level 3 fair value measurement) in the three months ended March 31, 2022. The Company did not recognize an impairment for right-of-use lease assets and intangible assets in three months ended March 31, 2021.

13. Supplemental Information

Subsidiary Awards

Certain of the Company’s subsidiaries grant awards to their employees providing them with an equity interest in the respective subsidiary (the “profits interests awards”). The awards generally provide the employee the right, but not the obligation, to sell its profits interest in the subsidiary to the Company based on a performance-based formula and, in certain cases, pay a profit share distribution. The profits interests awards are settled in cash and the corresponding liability at fair value was $37,358 at March 31, 2022 (Level 3 fair value model), and included as a component of Accruals and other liabilities and Other liabilities on the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Stock-based Compensation

Total stock-based compensation recognized for the three months ended March 31, 2022 was $8,021. In the three months ended March 31, 2022, the Company granted approximately 3,800 share based awards. Stock-based compensation expense recognized for these grants for the three months ended March 31, 2022 was approximately $1,594.

14. Income Taxes

Our tax provision for interim periods is determined using an estimated annual effective tax rate, adjusted for discrete items arising in interim periods.

The Company had an income tax expense for the three months ended March 31, 2022 of $3,189 (on a pre-tax income of $35,781 resulting in an effective tax rate of 8.9%) compared to income tax expense of $673 (on pre-tax income of $5,272 resulting in an effective tax rate of 12.8%) for the three months ended March 31, 2021.

The difference in the effective tax rate of 8.9% in the three months ended March 31, 2022 as compared to 12.8% in the three months ended March 31, 2021 was primarily related to additional deductions for share based compensation vesting in 2022.

Tax Receivables Agreement

In connection with the closing of the Transactions, we entered into the Tax Receivables Agreement (“TRA”) with OpCo and Stagwell Media, pursuant to which we are required to make cash payments to Stagwell Media equal to 85% of certain U.S. federal, state and local income tax or franchise tax savings, if any, that we actually realize, or in certain circumstances are deemed to realize, as a result of (i) increases in the tax basis of OpCo’s assets resulting from exchanges of Paired Units (defined in Note 11) for shares of our Class A Common Stock or cash, as applicable, and (ii) certain other tax benefits related to us making payments under the TRA.

The Company accounts for amounts payable under the TRA in accordance with ASC 450—Contingencies. We will evaluate the likelihood that we will realize the benefit represented by the deferred tax asset and, to the extent that we estimate that it is more likely than not that we will not realize the benefit, we will reduce the carrying amount of the deferred tax asset with a valuation allowance and a corresponding reduction to the TRA liability. The amounts to be recorded for both the deferred tax assets and the liability under the TRA will be estimated at the time of any purchase or exchange as a reduction to shareholders’ equity, and the effects of changes in any of our estimates after this date will be included in net income or loss. Similarly, the effect of subsequent changes in the enacted tax rates will be included in net income or loss.

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In March 31, 2022, the Company recorded a TRA liability of $20,846 and a reduction in the net deferred tax liability of $24,525 on its consolidated balance sheet in connection with the projected obligations under the TRA.

15. Related Party Transactions

In the ordinary course of business, the Company enters into transactions with related parties, including its affiliates. The transactions may range in the nature and value of services underlying the arrangements. Below are the related party transactions that are significant in nature:

In 2018, the Company entered into a continuous arrangement to provide technological services to a client founded by the Company’s Chief Executive Officer. During the three months ended March 31, 2022 and 2021, the Company recognized $9 and $15, respectively, in revenue related to this transaction. As of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, $175 and $137, respectively, was due from the client.

In 2018, a Brand entered into a continuous arrangement with a third party in which the third party is providing data management services to the Brand. A family member of one of the Brand’s partners holds an executive leadership position in this entity. Under the arrangement, the Brand is expected to pay the affiliate based upon the success of their services with no minimum or maximum spend. During the three months ended March 31, 2022 and 2021, the Company incurred $305 and $304, respectively, in expenses related to this transaction. As of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, $617 and $569, respectively, was due to the vendor.

In 2018, a Brand entered into a continuous arrangement to provide marketing services to a client in which a family member of one of the Brand’s partners holds an executive leadership position. During the three months ended March 31, 2022 and 2021, the Company recognized $186 and $24, respectively, in revenue related to this transaction. As of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, $273 and $88, respectively, was due from the client.

In 2019, a Brand of the Company, entered into a loan agreement with a third party who holds a minority interest in the Brand. The loan receivable of $1,797 and $3,784 due from the third party is included within Other current assets in the Company’s Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, respectively. The Company recognized $43 and $50 of interest income within interest expense, net on its Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three months ended March 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

In 2021, the Company entered into an arrangement to provide polling services to a client in which a family member of the Company’s Chief Executive Officer holds a key leadership position. Under the arrangement, the Company will receive from the client approximately $350 which is expected to be fully recognized in 2022. During the three months ended March 31, 2022 and 2021, the Company recognized revenue of $70 and $15, respectively, related to this arrangement. As of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, $70 and $70 was due from the client, respectively.

In 2021 and 2022, certain of our Brands entered into arrangements to provide marketing and website development services to a client that has a significant interest in the Company. Under the arrangement, the Brands are expected to receive from the Stagwell affiliate approximately $6,152 which will be fully recognized in 2022. During the three months ended March 31, 2022 and 2021, the Company recognized $1,393, and $0, respectively, in revenue related to this transaction. As of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, $1,563 and $502, respectively, was due from the client.

In 2021, a Brand entered into an arrangement to obtain sales and management services from an affiliate for which the CEO of the Brand is a shareholder of the affiliate. Under the arrangement, the Brand has incurred $89 and $49 of related party expense for the three months ended March 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively. As of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, $446 and $442, respectively, was due to the related party.

On a continuous basis, certain of our Brands enter into arrangements to provide typical marketing and advertising services for clients that certain of the Brands’ partners and executives either hold key leadership positions in or are on the Board of Directors of. During the three months ended March 31, 2022 and 2021, the Company recognized revenue of $2,328 and $2124, respectively, related to this transaction. As of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, $4,907 and $4,577, respectively, was due from the client.

In 2022, the Company entered into an arrangement to provide polling services to a client for which the founder of the client has a significant interest in the Company. Under the arrangement, the Company will receive from the client approximately $3,200 which is expected to be fully recognized as of September 2022. During the three months ended March 31, 2022 and 2021, the Company recognized revenue of $242 and $0 related to this arrangement, respectively. As of March 31, 2022, $0 was due from the client.

During the three months ended March 31, 2021, Stagwell Media made additional noncash investments in the Company of $10,300. In March 2021, the Company made a noncash distribution to Stagwell Media of $13,000 for the transfer of the ownership of the Finn Partners Preferred shares. Additionally, the Company made cash distributions to Stagwell Media of $15,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2021.

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16. Segment Information

The Company determines an operating segment if a component (i) engages in business activities from which it earns revenues and incurs expenses, (ii) has discrete financial information, and is (iii) regularly reviewed by the Chief Operating Decision Maker (“CODM”), who is Mark Penn, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman, to make decisions regarding resource allocation for the segment and assess its performance. Once operating segments are identified, the Company performs an analysis to determine if aggregation of operating segments is applicable. This determination is based upon a quantitative analysis of the expected and historic average long-term profitability for each operating segment, together with a qualitative assessment to determine if operating segments have similar operating characteristics.

The CODM uses Adjusted EBITDA (defined below) as a key metric, to evaluate the operating and financial performance of a segment, identify trends affecting the segments, develop projections and make strategic business decisions. Adjusted EBITDA is defined as Net income excluding non-operating income or expense to achieve operating income, plus depreciation and amortization, stock-based compensation, deferred acquisition consideration adjustments, and other items. Other items include restructuring costs, acquisition-related expenses, and non-recurring items.

The Company has three reportable segments as follows: “Integrated Agencies Network,” “Media Network” and the “Communications Network.” In addition, the Company combines and discloses operating segments that do not meet the aggregation criteria as “All Other.” The Company also reports corporate expenses, as further detailed below, as “Corporate.” All segments follow the same basis of presentation and accounting policies as those described throughout the Notes to the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements included herein.

•The Integrated Agencies Network includes four integrated operating segments: the Anomaly Alliance, Constellation, the Code and Theory Network, and the Doner Partner Network. These operating networks are organized for go-to-market and collaboration incentive purposes and to facilitate integrated and flexible offerings for our clients. Each integrated network consists of agencies that offer an array of complementary services spanning our core capabilities of Digital Transformation, Performance Media & Data, Consumer Insights & Strategy, and Creativity & Communications. The Agencies included in the operating segments that comprise the Integrated Agencies Network reportable segment are as follows: Anomaly Alliance (Anomaly, Concentric, Hunter, Mono, YML and Scout agencies), the Code & Theory Network (Code and Theory, Forsman & Bodenfors, National Research Group, Observatory, Hello Design and Colle McVoy agencies), Constellation (72andSunny, Crispin Porter Bogusky, Instrument, Team Enterprises, Harris and Redscout agencies) and the Doner Partner Network (Doner, KWT Global, Bruce Mau Design, Vitro, Harris X, Northstar, Veritas and Yamamoto agencies).

These integrated network operating segments share similar characteristics related to (i) the nature of their services; (ii) the type of clients and the methods used to provide services; and (iii) the extent to which they may be impacted by global economic and geopolitical risks. In addition, these operating segments may occasionally compete with each other for new business or have business move between them.

•The Media Network reportable segment is comprised of a single operating segment, our specialist network branded the Stagwell Media Network (“SMN”). SMN serves as a unified media and data management structure with omni-channel media placement, creative media consulting, influencer and business-to-business marketing capabilities. Our Agencies in this segment aim to provide scaled creative performance through developing and executing sophisticated omnichannel campaign strategies leveraging significant amounts of consumer data. SMN’s Agencies combine media buying and planning across a range of digital and traditional platforms (out-of-home, paid search, social media, lead generation, programmatic, television, broadcast, among others) and includes multichannel agencies Assembly, Goodstuff, MMI Agency, digital creative & transformation consultancy GALE, B2B specialist Multiview, CX specialists Kenna, and travel media experts Ink.

•The Communications Network reportable segment is comprised of a single operating segment, our specialist network that provides advocacy, strategic corporate communications, investor relations, public relations, online fundraising and other services to both corporations and political and advocacy organizations and consists of our Allison & Partners SKDK (including Sloane & Company), and Targeted Victory Agencies.

•All Other  consists of the Company’s digital innovation group, Reputation Defender (which was sold in September 2021) and Stagwell Marketing Cloud products such as PRophet.

•Corporate consists of corporate office expenses incurred in connection with the strategic resources provided to the operating segments, as well as certain other centrally managed expenses that are not fully allocated to the operating segments. These office and general expenses include (i) salaries and related expenses for corporate office employees, including employees dedicated to supporting the operating segments, (ii) occupancy expenses relating to properties occupied by all corporate office employees, (iii) other office and general expenses including professional fees for the financial statement audits and other public company costs, and (iv) certain other professional fees managed by the

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corporate office. Additional expenses managed by the corporate office that are directly related to the operating segments are allocated to the appropriate reportable segment and the All Other category.


	Three Months Ended March 31,
		2022		2021
Revenue:		(Dollars in Thousands)


Integrated Agencies Network		$	378,372	$	69,898



Media Network		169,886		62,773



Communications Network		91,535		42,708




All Other		3,110		5,863
Total Revenue		$	642,903	$	181,242








Adjusted EBITDA:
Integrated Agencies Network		$	71,473	$	13,500
Media Network		29,164		4,688
Communications Network		15,937		7,974
All Other		(124)		(1,611)
Corporate		(15,038)		(709)
Total Adjusted EBITDA		$	101,412	$	23,842

Depreciation and amortization		$	(31,204)	$	(10,950)
Impairment and other losses		(557)		—
Stock-based compensation		(8,021)		—
Deferred acquisition consideration		(1,897)		(3,936)
Other items, net		(5,073)		(2,941)
Total Operating Income		$	54,660	$	6,015

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	Three Months Ended March 31,
		2022		2021
		(Dollars in Thousands)
Other Income (expenses):
Interest expense, net		$	(18,729)	$	(1,351)
Foreign exchange, net		(306)		(677)
Other, net		156		1,285
Income before income taxes and equity in earnings of non-consolidated affiliates		35,781		5,272
Income tax expense		3,189		673
Income before equity in earnings of non-consolidated affiliates		32,592		4,599
Equity in income of non-consolidated affiliates		1,030		4
Net income		33,622		4,603
Net income attributable to noncontrolling and redeemable noncontrolling interests		(20,947)		(238)
Net income attributable to Stagwell Inc. common shareholders		$	12,675	$	4,365



Depreciation and amortization:
Integrated Agencies Network		$	20,211	$	2,666
Media Network		6,865		5,195
Communications Network		2,540		1,582
All Other		501		1,022
Corporate		1,087		485
Total		$	31,204	$	10,950

Stock-based compensation:
Integrated Agencies Network		$	5,547	$	—
Media Network		786		—
Communications Network		(243)		—
All Other		8		—
Corporate		1,923		—
Total		$	8,021	$	—

The Company’s CODM does not use segment assets to allocate resources or to assess performance of the segments and therefore, total segment assets have not been disclosed.

See Note 4 of the Notes included herein for a summary of the Company’s revenue by geographic region for the three months ended March 31, 2022 and 2021.

Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

The following discussion and analysis are based on and should be read in conjunction with our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and the notes related thereto included elsewhere in this Form 10-Q. The following discussion and analysis contains forward-looking statements and should be read in conjunction with the disclosures and information contained and referenced under the captions “Cautionary Statement Concerning Forward-Looking Statements” and “Risk Factors” in this Form 10-Q. The following discussion and analysis also includes a discussion of certain non-GAAP financial measures. A description of the non-GAAP measures discussed in this section and reconciliations to the comparable GAAP measures are below.

In this section, the terms “Stagwell,” “we,” “us,” “our” and the “Company” refer (i) with respect to events occurring or periods ending before August 2, 2021, to Stagwell Marketing Group LLC and its direct and indirect subsidiaries and (ii) with respect to events occurring or periods ending on or after August 2, 2021, to Stagwell Inc. and its direct and indirect subsidiaries.

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References to a “fiscal year” mean the Company’s year commencing on January 1 of that year and ending December 31 of that year (e.g., fiscal 2022 means the period beginning January 1, 2022, and ending December 31, 2022).

Executive Summary

Business Combination

On December 21, 2020, MDC and Stagwell Media LP announced that they had entered into the Transaction Agreement, providing for the combination of MDC with the “Stagwell Subject Entities”. The Stagwell Subject Entities comprised Stagwell Marketing and its direct and indirect subsidiaries.

On August 2, 2021 (the “Closing Date”), we completed the Transactions. In connection with the Transactions, among other things, (i) MDC completed a series of transactions pursuant to which it emerged as a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, converted into a OpCo; (ii) Stagwell Media contributed the equity interests of Stagwell Marketing and its direct and indirect subsidiaries to OpCo; and (iii) the Company converted into a Delaware corporation, succeeded MDC as the publicly-traded company and changed its name to Stagwell Inc.

The Transactions were treated as a reverse acquisition for financial reporting purposes, with MDC treated as the legal acquirer and Stagwell Marketing treated as the accounting acquirer. As a result of the Transactions and the change in our business and operations, under applicable accounting principles, the historical financial results of Stagwell Marketing prior to August 2, 2021 are considered our historical financial results. Accordingly, historical information presented in this Form 10-Q for events occurring or periods ending before August 2, 2021 does not reflect the impact of the Transactions and may not be comparable with historical information for events occurring or periods ending on or after August 2, 2021, which do not include the financial results of MDC. See Note 3 of the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements included herein for additional information regarding the Transactions.

Overview

Stagwell conducts its business through its networks, which provide marketing and business solutions that realize the potential of combining data and creativity. Stagwell’s strategy is to build, grow and acquire market-leading businesses that deliver the modern suite of services that marketers need to thrive in a rapidly evolving business environment. Stagwell’s differentiation lies in its creative roots and proven entrepreneurial leaders, which together with innovations in technology and data, bring transformational marketing, activation, communications and strategic consulting services to clients. Stagwell leverages its range of services in an integrated manner, offering strategic, creative and innovative solutions that are technologically forward and media-agnostic. The Company’s work is designed to challenge the industry status quo, realize outsized returns on investment, and drive transformative growth and business performance for its clients and stakeholders.

Stagwell manages its business by monitoring several financial and non-financial performance indicators. The key indicators that we focus on are revenue, operating expenses, capital expenditures and the non-GAAP measures described below. Revenue growth is analyzed by reviewing a mix of measurements, including (i) growth by major geographic location, (ii) growth from existing clients and the addition of new clients, (iii) growth by principal capability, (iv) growth from currency changes, and (v) growth from acquisitions. In addition to monitoring the foregoing financial indicators, the Company assesses and monitors several non-financial performance indicators relating to the business performance of our networks. These indicators may include a network’s recent new client win/loss record; the depth and scope of a pipeline of potential new client account activity; the overall quality of the services provided to clients; and the relative strength of the network’s next generation team that is in place as part of a potential succession plan to succeed the current senior executive team.

While a recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic appears to be underway, we expect economic conditions will continue to be volatile as long as COVID-19 remains a public health threat. We will continue to monitor the worldwide public health threat, government actions to combat COVID-19 and the impact or potential impact that such developments may have on the overall economy, our clients and our operations. If the impact of the pandemic continues to go beyond expectations, we believe we are well positioned through the actions implemented at the onset of the pandemic to successfully work through the effects of COVID-19 on our business. The impact of the pandemic and the corresponding actions are reflected in our judgments, assumptions and estimates in the preparation of our financial statements. The judgments, assumptions and estimates will be updated and could result in different results in the future depending on the severity, duration, and continued impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Recent Developments

On April 19, 2022, the Company acquired Brand New Galaxy (“BNG”), a leading provider of scaled commerce and marketplace solutions, for approximately $20 million, subject to post-closing adjustments, as well as contingent consideration up to a maximum value of $50 million. The contingent consideration is due upon meeting certain future earnings targets through 2024, with approximately 67% payable in cash and 33% payable in Class A Common Stock. BNG will be included within the Media Network segment. The purchase price allocation has not yet been completed. The Company will provide the purchase price allocation and pro forma operating results of the combined company in its Form 10-Q for the period of June 30, 2022.

Significant Factors Affecting our Business and Results of Operations

The most significant factors affecting our business and results of operations include national, regional, and local economic conditions, our clients’ profitability, mergers and acquisitions of our clients, changes in top management of our clients and our ability to retain and attract key employees. New business wins and client losses occur due to a variety of factors. The two most significant factors are (i) our clients’ desire to change marketing communication firms, and (ii) the digital and data-driven products that our brands offer. A client may choose to change marketing communication firms for several reasons, such as a change in leadership where new management wants to retain an agency that it may have previously worked with. In addition, if the client is merged or acquired by another company, the marketing communication firm is often changed. Clients also change firms as a result of the firm’s failure to meet marketing performance targets or other expectations in client service delivery.

Seasonality

Historically, we typically generate the highest quarterly revenue during the fourth quarter in each year. In addition, client concentration increases during election years due to the cyclical nature of our advocacy Brands. The highest volumes of retail related consumer marketing increase with the back-to-school season through the end of the holiday season.

Non-GAAP Measures

The Company reports its financial results in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”). In addition, the Company has included non-GAAP financial measures and ratios, which management uses to operate the business, which it believes provide useful supplemental information to both management and readers of this report in making period-to-period comparisons in measuring the financial performance and financial condition of the Company. These measures do not have a standardized meaning prescribed by GAAP and should not be construed as an alternative to other titled measures determined in accordance with GAAP. The non-GAAP measures included are “organic revenue growth or decline” and “Adjusted EBITDA.”

“Organic revenue growth” and “organic revenue decline” refer to the positive or negative results, respectively, of subtracting both the foreign exchange and acquisition (disposition) components from total revenue growth. The acquisition (disposition) component is calculated by aggregating prior period revenue for any acquired businesses, less the prior period revenue of any businesses that were disposed of during the current period. The organic revenue growth (decline) component reflects the constant currency impact of (a) the change in revenue of the brands that the Company has held throughout each of the comparable periods presented, and (b) “Net acquisitions (divestitures).” Net acquisitions (divestitures) consists of (i) for acquisitions during the current year, the revenue effect from such acquisition as if the acquisition had been owned during the equivalent period in the prior year and (ii) for acquisitions during the previous year, the revenue effect from such acquisitions as if they had been owned during that entire year (or the same prior year period as the current reportable period), taking into account their respective pre-acquisition revenues for the applicable periods, and (iii) for dispositions, the revenue effect from such disposition as if they had been disposed of during the equivalent period in the prior year.

Adjusted EBITDA is defined as Net income (loss) attributable to Stagwell Inc. common shareholders excluding non-operating income or expense to achieve operating income (loss), plus depreciation and amortization, stock-based compensation, deferred acquisition consideration adjustments, and other items. Other items include restructuring costs, acquisition-related expenses, and non-recurring items.

The following discussion focuses on the operating performance of the Company for the three months ended March 31, 2022 and 2021 and the financial condition of the Company as of March 31, 2022. This analysis should be read in conjunction with the interim Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements presented in this interim report and the annual Audited Consolidated Financial Statements and Management’s Discussion and Analysis presented in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021 (the “2021 Form 10-K”).

All amounts are in dollars unless otherwise stated. Amounts reported in millions herein are computed based on the amounts in thousands. As a result, the sum of the components, and related calculations, reported in millions may not equal the total amounts due to rounding.

The percentage changes included in the tables herein Item 2 that are not considered meaningful are presented as “NM.”

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Segments

The CODM uses Adjusted EBITDA as a key metric, to evaluate the operating and financial performance of a segment, identify trends affecting the segments, develop projections and make strategic business decisions.

In addition, Stagwell reports its corporate office expenses incurred in connection with the strategic resources provided to the networks, as well as certain other centrally managed expenses that are not fully allocated to the operating segments as Corporate. Corporate provides client and business development support to the networks as well as certain strategic resources, including accounting, administrative, financial, real estate, human resource and legal functions.

The following discussion focuses on the operating performance of the Company for the three months ended March 31, 2022 and 2021 and the financial condition of the Company as of March 31, 2022.

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Results of Operations:


	Three Months Ended March 31,
		2022		2021
		(Dollars in Thousands)
Revenue
Integrated Agencies Network		$	378,372	$	69,898
Media Network		169,886		62,773
Communications Network		91,535		42,708
All Other		3,110		5,863
Total Revenue		$	642,903	$	181,242

Operating Income		$	54,660	$	6,015

Other Income (Expenses)
Interest expense, net		$	(18,729)	$	(1,351)
Foreign exchange, net		(306)		(677)
Other, net		156		1,285
Income before income taxes and equity in earnings of non-consolidated affiliates		35,781		5,272
Income tax expense		3,189		673
Income before equity in earnings of non-consolidated affiliates		32,592		4,599
Equity in income of non-consolidated affiliates		1,030		4
Net income		33,622		4,603
Net income attributable to noncontrolling and redeemable noncontrolling interests		(20,947)		(238)
Net income attributable to Stagwell Inc. common shareholders		$	12,675	$	4,365

Reconciliation to Adjusted EBITDA
Net income attributable to Stagwell Inc. common shareholders		$	12,675	$	4,365
Non-operating items		41,985		1,650
Operating income		54,660		6,015
Depreciation and amortization		31,204		10,950
Impairment and other losses		557		—
Stock-based compensation		8,021		—
Deferred acquisition consideration		1,897		3,936
Total other items, net		5,073		2,941
Adjusted EBITDA		$	101,412	$	23,842

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THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2022 COMPARED TO THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2021

Consolidated Results of Operations

The components of operating results for the three months ended March 31, 2022 compared to the three months ended March 31, 2021 were as follows:


	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2022		2021			Change
	(Dollars in Thousands)
							$		%
Revenue:	$	642,903		$	181,242		$	461,661	NM
Operating Expenses:
Cost of services sold	411,970			111,999			299,971		NM
Office and general expenses	144,512			52,278			92,234		NM
Depreciation and amortization	31,204			10,950			20,254		NM
Impairment and other losses	$	557		$	—		$	557	100.0	%
	$	588,243		$	175,227		$	413,016	NM
Operating income	$	54,660		$	6,015		$	48,645	NM


	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2022		2021		Change
	(Dollars in Thousands)
					$		%
Net Revenue	$	526,637	$	158,074	$	368,563	NM
Billable costs	116,266		23,168		93,098		NM
Revenue	642,903		181,242		$	461,661	NM

Billable costs	116,266		23,168		93,098		NM
Staff costs	340,638		97,910		242,728		NM
Administrative costs	56,294		20,054		36,240		NM
Unbillable and other costs, net	28,293		16,268		12,025		73.9	%
Adjusted EBITDA	101,412		23,842		77,570		NM
Stock-based compensation	8,021		—		8,021		100.0	%
Depreciation and amortization	31,204		10,950		20,254		NM
Deferred acquisition consideration	1,897		3,936		(2,039)		(51.8)	%
Impairment and other losses	557		—		557		100.0	%
Other items, net	5,073		2,941		2,132		72.5	%
Operating Income (1)	$	54,660	$	6,015	$	48,645	NM

(1) See the Results of Operations section above for a reconciliation of Operating Income to Net Income attributable to Stagwell Inc. common shareholders.

Revenue

Revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2022 was $642.9 million compared to $181.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2021, an increase of $461.7 million.

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Net Revenue

The components of the fluctuations in net revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2022 compared to the three months ended March 31, 2021 were as follows:


			Net Revenue - Components of Change										Change
	Three Months Ended March 31, 2021		Foreign Currency		Net Acquisitions (Divestitures)		Organic		Total Change		Three Months Ended March 31, 2022		Organic		Total
	(Dollars in Thousands)
Integrated Agencies Network	$	68,063	$	3,240	$	218,363	$	42,994	$	264,597	$	332,660	63.2	%	NM
Media Network	55,661		(156)		37,509		35,401		72,754		128,415		63.6	%	NM
Communications Network	28,487		201		19,044		14,720		33,965		62,452		51.7	%	NM
All Other	5,863		(11)		(5,256)		2,514		(2,753)		3,110		42.9	%	(47.0)	%
	$	158,074	$	3,274	$	269,660	$	95,629	$	368,563	$	526,637	60.5	%	NM
Component % change			2.1%		NM		60.5%		NM

For the three months ended March 31, 2022, organic net revenue increased $95.6 million, or 60.5%. The organic revenue growth was across all segments, primarily attributable to increased spending by existing clients and business with new clients. The increase in net acquisition (divestitures) was primarily driven by the inclusion of MDC in results subsequent to the acquisition.

The geographic mix in net revenues for the three months ended March 31, 2022 and 2021 is as follows:


	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2022		2021
	(Dollars in Thousands)
United States	$	429,532	$	137,510
United Kingdom	38,285		12,547
Other	58,820		8,017
Total	$	526,637	$	158,074

Operating Income

Operating income for the three months ended March 31, 2022 was $54.7 million compared to $6.0 million for the three months ended March 31, 2021, representing an increase of $48.6 million.

The three months ended March 31, 2022 was impacted primarily by an increase in revenue and expenses due to the inclusion of MDC in results subsequent to the acquisition and costs associated with an increase in services provided. Stock-based compensation expense increased, driven by awards issued to employees in the first quarter of 2022. Depreciation and amortization was higher due to the recognition of amortizable intangible assets in connection with the inclusion of MDC in results subsequent to the acquisition.

Other, net

Other, net, for the three months ended March 31, 2022 was income of $0.2 million, compared to income of $1.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2021.

Foreign Exchange Transaction Gain (Loss)

The foreign exchange loss for the three months ended March 31, 2022 was $0.3 million compared to a loss of $0.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2021.

Interest Expense, Net

Interest expense, net, for the three months ended March 31, 2022 was $18.7 million compared to $1.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2021, representing an increase of $17.4 million, primarily driven by a higher level of debt in connection with the inclusion of MDC in results subsequent to the acquisition.

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Income Tax Expense (Benefit)

The Company had an income tax expense for the three months ended March 31, 2022 of $3.2 million (on a pre-tax income of $35.8 million resulting in an effective tax rate of 8.9%) compared to income tax expense of $0.7 million (on pre-tax income of $5.3 million resulting in an effective tax rate of 12.8%) for the three months ended March 31, 2021.

Noncontrolling and Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests

The effect of noncontrolling and redeemable noncontrolling interests for the three months ended March 31, 2022 was $20.9 million compared to $0.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2021.

Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Stagwell Inc. Common Shareholders

As a result of the foregoing, net income attributable to Stagwell Inc. common shareholders for the three months ended March 31, 2022 was $12.7 million compared to net income attributable to Stagwell Inc. common shareholders of $4.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2021.

Adjusted EBITDA

Adjusted EBITDA for the three months ended March 31, 2022 was $101.4 million, compared to $23.8 million for the three months ended March 31, 2021, representing an increase of $77.6 million, driven by the increase in revenue, partially offset by higher operating expenses and the impact of the inclusion of MDC in results subsequent to the acquisition.

Integrated Agencies Network

The components of operating results for the three months ended March 31, 2022 compared to the three months ended March 31, 2021 were as follows:


	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2022		2021		Change
	(Dollars in Thousands)
					$		%
Revenue	$	378,372	$	69,898	$	308,474	NM
Operating expenses
Cost of services sold	244,904		41,883		203,021		NM
Office and general expenses	67,155		18,717		48,438		NM
Depreciation and amortization	20,211		2,666		17,545		NM
Impairment and other losses	279		—		279		100.0	%
	$	332,549	$	63,266	$	269,283	NM
Operating income	$	45,823	$	6,632	$	39,191	NM

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	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2022		2021		Change
	(Dollars in Thousands)
					$		%
Net Revenue	$	332,660	$	68,063	$	264,597	NM
Billable costs	45,712		1,835		43,877		NM
Revenue	378,372		69,898		308,474		NM

Billable costs	45,712		1,835		43,877		NM
Staff costs	213,467		35,851		177,616		NM
Administrative costs	30,293		6,230		24,063		NM
Unbillable and other costs, net	17,427		12,482		4,945		39.6	%
Adjusted EBITDA	71,473		13,500		57,973		NM
Stock-based compensation	5,547		—		5,547		100.0	%
Depreciation and amortization	20,211		2,666		17,545		NM
Deferred acquisition consideration	(1,325)		3,936		(5,261)		NM
Impairment	279		—		279		100.0	%
Other items, net	938		266		672		NM
Operating Income	$	45,823	$	6,632	$	39,191	NM

Revenue

Revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2022 was $378.4 million compared to $69.9 million for the three months ended March 31, 2021, an increase of $308.5 million.

Net Revenue

The components of the fluctuations in net revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2022 compared to the three months ended March 31, 2021 were as follows:


			Net Revenue - Components of Change										Change
	Three Months Ended March 31, 2021		Foreign Currency		Net Acquisitions (Divestitures)		Organic		Total Change		Three Months Ended March 31, 2022		Organic		Total
	(Dollars in Thousands)
Integrated Agencies Network	$	68,063	$	3,240	$	218,363	$	42,994	$	264,597	$	332,660	63.2	%	NM
Component % change			4.8%		NM		63.2%		NM

The increase in organic net revenue was attributable to increased spending by existing and new clients, primarily driven by creative, digital transformation and consumer insights services. The increase in net acquisition (divestitures) was driven by the inclusion of MDC in results subsequent to the acquisition.

The increase in expenses was driven by the impact of the inclusion of MDC in results subsequent to the acquisition and costs associated with an increase in services provided. Stock-based compensation expense increased, driven by awards issued to employees in connection with the merger, as well as retention awards issued to employees. Depreciation and amortization grew due to the recognition of amortizable intangible assets in connection with the inclusion of MDC in results subsequent to the acquisition.

Operating income and Adjusted EBITDA were higher driven by an increase in revenues, partially offset by higher expenses as detailed above.

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Media Network

The components of operating results for the three months ended March 31, 2022 compared to the three months ended March 31, 2021 were as follows:


	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2022		2021		Change
	(Dollars in Thousands)
					$		%
Revenue	$	169,886	$	62,773	$	107,113	NM
Operating expenses
Cost of services sold	105,412		39,242		66,170		NM
Office and general expenses	39,115		19,080		20,035		NM
Depreciation and amortization	6,865		5,195		1,670		32.1	%
Impairment and other losses	278		—		278		100.0	%
	$	151,670	$	63,517	$	88,153	NM
Operating income (loss)	$	18,216	$	(744)	$	18,960	NM


	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2022		2021		Change
	(Dollars in Thousands)
					$		%
Net Revenue	$	128,415	$	55,661	$	72,754	NM
Billable costs	41,471		7,112		34,359		NM
Revenue	169,886		62,773		107,113		NM

Billable costs	41,471		7,112		34,359		NM
Staff costs	75,856		37,423		38,433		NM
Administrative costs	12,580		8,496		4,084		48.1	%
Unbillable and other costs, net	10,815		5,054		5,761		NM
Adjusted EBITDA	29,164		4,688		24,476		NM
Stock-based compensation	786		—		786		100.0	%
Depreciation and amortization	6,865		5,195		1,670		32.1	%
Deferred acquisition consideration	2,132		—		2,132		100.0	%
Impairment	278		—		278		100.0	%
Other items, net	887		237		650		NM
Operating Income (Loss)	$	18,216	$	(744)	$	18,960	NM

Revenue

Revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2022 was $169.9 million compared to $62.8 million for the three months ended March 31, 2021, an increase of $107.1 million.

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Net Revenue

The components of the fluctuations in net revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2022 compared to the three months ended March 31, 2021 were as follows:


			Net Revenue - Components of Change										Change
	Three Months Ended March 31, 2021		Foreign Currency		Net Acquisitions (Divestitures)		Organic		Total Change		Three Months Ended March 31, 2022		Organic		Total
	(Dollars in Thousands)
Media Network	$	55,661	$	(156)	$	37,509	$	35,401	$	72,754	$	128,415	63.6	%	NM
Component % change			(0.3)%		67.4%		63.6%		NM

The increase in organic net revenue was primarily attributable to new clients and increased spending by existing clients, primarily driven by the seasonal business of a new client and the recovery of the travel industry. The increase in net acquisition (divestitures) was driven by the inclusion of MDC in results subsequent to the acquisition and Goodstuff Holdings Limited.

The increase in expenses was driven by the impact of the inclusion of MDC in results subsequent to the acquisition and costs associated with an increase in services provided. Stock-based compensation expense increased, driven by awards issued to employees in connection with the merger, as well as retention awards issued to employees. Deferred acquisition consideration expense increased due to the assumption of additional liabilities in connection with the inclusion of MDC in results subsequent to the acquisition. Depreciation and amortization expense increased due to the recognition of amortizable intangible assets in connection with the inclusion of MDC in results subsequent to the acquisition.

Operating income and Adjusted EBITDA were driven by an increase in revenues, partially offset by higher expenses as detailed above.

Communications Network

The components of operating results for the three months ended March 31, 2022 compared to the three months ended March 31, 2021 were as follows:


	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2022		2021		Change
	(Dollars in Thousands)
					$		%
Revenue	$	91,535	$	42,708	$	48,827	NM
Operating expenses
Cost of services sold	60,031		28,444		31,587		NM
Office and general expenses	16,486		6,290		10,196		NM
Depreciation and amortization	2,540		1,582		958		60.6	%

	$	79,057	$	36,316	$	42,741	NM
Operating income	$	12,478	$	6,392	$	6,086	95.2	%

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	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2022		2021		Change
	(Dollars in Thousands)
					$		%
Net Revenue	$	62,452	$	28,487	$	33,965	NM
Billable costs	29,083		14,221		14,862		NM
Revenue	91,535		42,708		48,827		NM

Billable costs	29,083		14,221		14,862		NM
Staff costs	39,623		18,442		21,181		NM
Administrative costs	6,844		2,161		4,683		NM
Unbillable and other costs, net	48		(90)		138		NM
Adjusted EBITDA	15,937		7,974		7,963		99.9	%
Stock-based compensation	(243)		—		(243)		(100.0)	%
Depreciation and amortization	2,540		1,582		958		60.6	%
Deferred acquisition consideration	1,090		—		1,090		100.0	%

Other items, net	72		—		72		100.0	%
Operating Income	$	12,478	$	6,392	$	6,086	95.2	%

Revenue

Revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2022 was $91.5 million compared to $42.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2021, an increase of $48.8 million.

Net Revenue

The components of the fluctuations in net revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2022 compared to the three months ended March 31, 2021 were as follows:


			Net Revenue - Components of Change										Change
	Three Months Ended March 31, 2021		Foreign Currency		Net Acquisitions (Divestitures)		Organic		Total Change		Three Months Ended March 31, 2022		Organic		Total
	(Dollars in Thousands)
Communications Network	$	28,487	$	201	$	19,044	$	14,720	$	33,965	$	62,452	51.7	%	NM
Component % change			0.7%		66.9%		51.7%		NM

The increase in organic net revenue was attributable to increased spending by existing and new clients, primarily driven by higher public relations and advocacy services. The increase in net acquisition (divestitures) was driven by the inclusion of MDC in results subsequent to the acquisition.

The increase in expenses was driven by the impact from the inclusion of MDC in results subsequent to the acquisition and costs associated with an increase in services provided. Deferred acquisition consideration expense increased due to the assumption of additional liabilities in connection with the inclusion of MDC in results subsequent to the acquisition. Depreciation and amortization grew due to the recognition of amortizable intangible assets in connection with the inclusion of MDC in results subsequent to the acquisition.

Operating income and Adjusted EBITDA were driven by an increase in revenues, partially offset by higher expenses as detailed above.

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All Other

The components of operating results for the three months ended March 31, 2022 compared to the three months ended March 31, 2021 were as follows:


	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2022		2021		Change
	(Dollars in Thousands)
					$		%
Revenue	$	3,110	$	5,863	$	(2,753)	(47.0)	%
Operating expenses
Cost of services sold	1,623		2,430		(807)		(33.2)	%
Office and general expenses	1,619		5,044		(3,425)		(67.9)	%
Depreciation and amortization	501		1,022		(521)		(51.0)	%

	$	3,743	$	8,496	$	(4,753)	(55.9)	%
Operating loss	$	(633)	$	(2,633)	$	2,000	(76.0)	%


	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2022		2021		Change
	(Dollars in Thousands)
					$		%
Net Revenue	$	3,110	$	5,863	$	(2,753)	(47.0)	%
Billable costs	—		—		—		—	%
Revenue	3,110		5,863		(2,753)		(47.0)	%

Billable costs	—		—		—		—	%
Staff costs	2,536		5,023		(2,487)		(49.5)	%
Administrative costs	695		3,773		(3,078)		(81.6)	%
Unbillable and other costs, net	3		(1,322)		1,325		NM
Adjusted EBITDA	(124)		(1,611)		1,487		(92.3)	%
Stock-based compensation	8		—		8		100.0	%
Depreciation and amortization	501		1,022		(521)		(51.0)	%



Operating Loss	$	(633)	$	(2,633)	$	2,000	(76.0)	%

Revenue

Revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2022 was $3.1 million compared to $5.9 million for the three months ended March 31, 2021, a decrease of $2.8 million.

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Net Revenue

The components of the fluctuations in net revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2022 compared to the three months ended March 31, 2021 were as follows:


			Net Revenue - Components of Change										Change
	Three Months Ended March 31, 2021		Foreign Currency		Net Acquisitions (Divestitures)		Organic		Total Change		Three Months Ended March 31, 2022		Organic		Total
	(Dollars in Thousands)
All Other	$	5,863	$	(11)	$	(5,256)	$	2,514	$	(2,753)	$	3,110	42.9	%	(47.0)	%
Component % change			(0.2)%		(89.6)%		42.9%		(47.0)%

The increase in organic net revenue was attributable to services at the central innovations group.

The decrease related to net acquisitions (divestitures) was attributable to the sale of Reputation Defender in the third quarter of 2021.

Increase in operating income and Adjusted EBITDA were driven by decrease in revenues, more than offset by lower expenses driven by the sale of Reputation Defender.

Corporate

The components of operating results for the three months ended March 31, 2022 compared to the three months ended March 31, 2021 were as follows:


	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2022		2021		Change
	(Dollars in Thousands)
					$		%





Staff costs	$	9,156	$	1,171	$	7,985	NM
Administrative costs	5,882		(606)		6,488		NM
Unbillable and other costs, net	—		144		(144)		(100.0)	%
Adjusted EBITDA	(15,038)		(709)		(14,329)		NM
Stock-based compensation	1,923		—		1,923		100.0	%
Depreciation and amortization	1,087		485		602		NM

Other items, net	3,176		2,438		738		30.3	%
Operating Income	$	(21,224)	$	(3,632)	$	(17,592)	NM

Operating expenses increased primarily in connection with the inclusion of MDC in results subsequent to the acquisition, including professional fees associated with the transaction.

Liquidity and Capital Resources:

The following table provides summary information about the Company’s liquidity position:


	March 31, 2022		March 31, 2021
	(Dollars in Thousands)
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities	$	(48,577)	$	5,771
Net cash used in investing activities	$	(8,289)	$	(3,311)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	$	6,529	$	(41,142)

We continue to monitor the worldwide public health threat, government actions to combat COVID-19 and the impact such developments may have on our liquidity. If the impact of the pandemic is beyond our expectation, we believe we are well positioned through the actions implemented at the beginning of the pandemic to successfully work through the effects of COVID-19 for the foreseeable future. We will also continue to monitor any potential impact that the military conflict between Russia and Ukraine has on our liquidity but do not expect material adverse impacts.

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The Company had cash and cash equivalents of $135.2 million and $184.0 million as of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, respectively. The Company expects to maintain sufficient cash and/or available borrowings to fund operations for the next twelve months. The Company has historically been able to maintain and expand its business using cash generated from operating activities, funds available under its revolving credit agreement, and other initiatives, such as obtaining additional debt and equity financing. At March 31, 2022, the Company had $140.0 million of borrowings outstanding, $24.9 million of outstanding and undrawn letters of credit resulting in $335.1 million available under its $500.0 million revolving credit agreement.

The Company’s obligations extending beyond twelve months primarily consist of deferred acquisition payments, purchases of noncontrolling interests, capital expenditures, scheduled lease obligation payments, and interest payments on borrowings under the Company’s 5.625% Notes. The Company may also make cash payments in the future to satisfy obligations under the Tax Receivables Agreement (see Note 14 of the Notes to the Financial Statements for additional details). The amount and timing of payments are contingent on the Company achieving certain tax savings, if any, that we actually realize, or in certain circumstances are deemed to realize as a result of (i) increases in the tax basis of OpCo’s assets resulting from exchanges of Paired Units (defined in Note 11) for shares of our Class A Common Stock or cash, as applicable, and (ii) certain other tax benefits related to us making payments under the TRA. Based on the current outlook, the Company believes future cash flows from operations, together with the Company’s existing cash balance and availability of funds under the Company’s revolving credit agreement, will be sufficient to meet the Company’s anticipated cash needs for the next twelve months. The Company’s ability to make scheduled deferred acquisition payments, principal and interest payments, to refinance indebtedness or to fund planned capital expenditures or other obligations will depend on future performance, which is subject to general economic conditions, the competitive environment and other factors, including those described in this Form 10-Q and in the Company’s other SEC filings.

Cash Flows

Operating Activities

Cash flows used in operating activities for the three months ended March 31, 2022 were $48.6 million, primarily driven by earnings, more than offset by unfavorable working capital requirements, including the timing of media supplier payments.

Cash flows provided by operating activities for the three months ended March 31, 2021 were $5.8 million, primarily driven by earnings, partially offset by unfavorable working capital requirements.

Investing Activities

Cash flows used in investing activities were $8.3 million and $3.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively, primarily driven by capital expenditures.

Financing Activities

During the three months ended March 31, 2022, cash flows provided by financing activities were $6.5 million, primarily driven by $29.5 million in net borrowings under the revolving credit agreement, partially offset by $14.9 million in connection with shares withheld to satisfy employee tax withholding obligations associated with employee stock awards vesting.

During the three months ended March 31, 2021, cash flows used in financing activities was $41.1 million, driven by $15.2 million in net payments under the revolving credit agreement and distributions of $25.9 million to Stagwell Media.

Total Debt

Debt, net of debt issuance costs, as of March 31, 2022 was $1,222.0 million as compared to $1,191.6 million outstanding at December 31, 2021. See Note 8 to the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements included herein for information regarding the Company’s 5.625% Notes and $500.0 million revolving credit agreement (the “Credit Agreement”).

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The Company is currently in compliance with all of the terms and conditions of the Credit Agreement, and management believes, based on its current financial projections, that the Company will be in compliance with its covenants over the next twelve months.

If the Company loses all or a substantial portion of its lines of credit under the Credit Agreement, or if the Company uses the maximum available amount under the agreement, it will be required to seek other sources of liquidity. If the Company were unable to find these sources of liquidity, for example through an equity offering or access to the capital markets, the Company’s ability to fund its working capital needs and any contingent obligations with respect to acquisitions and redeemable noncontrolling interests would be adversely affected.

As of April 27, 2022, the Company amended the Credit Agreement. Among other things, this amendment replaces any previous reference to LIBOR with SOFR. The borrowings bear interest at a rate equal to, at the Company’s option, (i) the greatest of (a) the prime rate of interest in effect on such day, (b) the federal funds effective rate plus 0.50% and (c) the SOFR rate plus 1% in each case, plus the applicable margin (calculated based on the Company’s total leverage ratio) at that time. Additionally, the Credit Agreement was amended to remove certain pre-commencement notice provisions for certain acquisitions under $50,000 in the aggregate, increased the amount permitted for certain investments allowed under the Credit Agreement, and subject to certain conditions, and explicitly allows for the repurchase of Stagwell Inc. stock in an amount not to exceed $100,000 in any fiscal year. All other substantive terms of the Credit Agreement remain unchanged.

Pursuant to the Credit Agreement, the Company must comply with its total leverage ratio covenant, as such term is specifically defined in the agreement. For the period ended March 31, 2022, the Company’s calculation of each of these covenants, and the specific requirements under the revolving credit agreement, respectively, were calculated based on the trailing twelve months as follows:


			March 31, 2022
Total Leverage Ratio			3.10
Maximum per covenant			4.50

These ratios and measures are not based on GAAP and are not presented as alternative measures of operating performance or liquidity. Some of these ratios and measures include, among other things, pro forma adjustments for acquisitions, one-time charges, and other items, as defined in the Credit Agreement. They are presented here to demonstrate compliance with the covenants in the Credit Agreement, as non-compliance with such covenants could have a material adverse effect on the Company.

Material Cash Requirements

The Company’s Agencies enter into contractual commitments with media providers and agreements with production companies on behalf of its clients at levels that exceed the revenue from services. Some of our agencies purchase media for clients and act as an agent for a disclosed principal. These commitments are included in Accounts payable and Accruals and other liabilities when the media services are delivered by the media providers. Stagwell takes precautions against default on payment for these services and has historically had a very low incidence of default. Stagwell is still exposed to the risk of significant uncollectible receivables from our clients. The risk of a material loss could significantly increase in periods of severe economic downturn.

Deferred acquisition consideration on the balance sheet consists of deferred obligations related to contingent and fixed purchase price payments. See Note 6 of the Notes included herein for additional information regarding contingent deferred acquisition consideration.

The Company intends to finance the cash portion of these contingent payment obligations using available cash from operations, borrowings under the revolving Credit Agreement (or any refinancings thereof), and, if necessary, through the incurrence of additional debt and/or issuance of additional equity. The ultimate amount payable in the future relating to these transactions will vary because it is dependent on the future results of operations of the subject businesses and the timing of when these rights are exercised.

Critical Accounting Policies

See the Company’s 2021 Form 10-K for information regarding the Company’s critical accounting policies.

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Website Access to Company Reports and Information

Stagwell Inc. is the successor SEC registrant to MDC Partners Inc. Stagwell Inc.’s Internet website address is www.stagwellglobal.com. The Company’s Annual Reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K, and any amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to the Exchange Act, will be made available free of charge through the Company’s website as soon as reasonably practical after those reports are electronically filed with, or furnished to, the SEC.  From time to time, the Company uses its website as a channel of distribution of material company information, including webcasts of earnings calls and other investor events and notifications of news or announcements regarding its financial performance, including SEC filings, investor events, press releases and earnings releases. The information found on, or otherwise accessible through, the Company’s website is not incorporated into, and does not form a part of, this Form 10-Q.

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

In the normal course of business, the Company is exposed to market risk related to interest rates, foreign currencies and impairment risk.

Debt Instruments: At March 31, 2022, the Company’s debt obligations consisted of amounts outstanding under its Credit Agreement and the 5.625% Notes. The 5.625% Notes bear a fixed 5.625% interest rate. The revolving credit agreement bears interest at variable rates based upon the U.S. bank prime rate, U.S. base rate, LIBOR or its replacement SOFR, EURIBOR, and SONIA depending on the duration of the borrowing product. The Company’s ability to obtain the required bank syndication commitments depends in part on conditions in the bank market at the time of syndication.

As of April 27, 2022, the Company amended its Credit Agreement. This amendment replaces any previous reference to LIBOR with SOFR. With regard to our variable rate debt, a 10% increase or decrease in interest rates would not be material to our interest expense or cash flows.

Foreign Exchange: While the Company primarily conducts business in markets that use the U.S. dollar, the Canadian dollar, the Euro and the British Pound, its non-U.S. operations transact business in numerous different currencies. The Company’s results of operations are subject to risk from the translation to the U.S. dollar of the revenue and expenses of its non-U.S. operations. The effects of currency exchange rate fluctuations on the translation of the Company’s results of operations are discussed in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and in Note 2 of the Company’s 2021 Form 10-K. For the most part, revenues and expenses incurred related to the non-U.S. operations are denominated in their functional currency. This reduces the impact that fluctuations in exchange rates will have on profit margins. Translation of intercompany debt, which is not intended to be repaid, is included in cumulative translation adjustments. Translation of current intercompany balances are included in net income (loss). The Company generally does not enter into foreign currency forward exchange contracts or other derivative financial instruments to hedge the effects of adverse fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates.

Impairment Risk: At March 31, 2022, the Company did not have any impairment of goodwill. The Company reviews goodwill for impairment annually as of October 1st of each year or more frequently if indicators of potential impairment exist. See the Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates section in the Company’s 2021 Form 10-K for information related to impairment testing and the risk of potential impairment charges in future periods.

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be included in our SEC reports is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the applicable time periods specified by the SEC’s rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”), who is our principal executive officer, and Chief Financial Officer (“CFO”), who is our principal financial officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosures. There are inherent limitations to the effectiveness of any system of disclosure controls and procedures, including the possibility of human error and the circumvention or overriding of the controls and procedures. Accordingly, even effective disclosure controls and procedures can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving their control objectives. However, our disclosure controls and procedures are designed to provide reasonable assurances of achieving our control objectives.

We conducted an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our CEO, CFO and management Disclosure Committee, of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this report pursuant to Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) of the Exchange Act. Based on that evaluation, and in light of the material weaknesses identified in our internal control over financial reporting as disclosed in our Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021, our CEO and CFO concluded that, as of March 31, 2022, our disclosure controls and procedures were not effective at a reasonable assurance level.

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Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

The Company identified material weaknesses in its internal controls over financial reporting as of December 31, 2021 as described in its 2021 Form 10-K. We are continuing to formulate our remediation plan to enhance and improve our internal controls over financial reporting, which includes the hiring of third-party consultants to assist in the design and implementation of new control activities, enhancing existing control activities and assessing the size and structure of our staff. The remediation plan is expected to continue through the end of 2022 with the goal of having the system of internal controls designed and in operation as of December 31, 2022. However, the material weaknesses will not be considered remediated as of December 31, 2022 as the system of internal controls will need to operate for a sufficient period of time and be subject to testing by management in 2023 in order to conclude the system of internal controls is operating effectively. The Company will provide an update on the progress of its remediation plan throughout the fiscal year.

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

In the ordinary course of business, we are involved in various legal proceedings. We do not currently expect that these proceedings will have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, cash flows or financial position.

Item 1A. Risk Factors

There have been no material changes to the risk factors in Part I, Item 1A “Risk Factors” of our 2021 Form 10-K. These risks could materially and adversely affect our business, results of operations, financial condition, cash flows, projected results and future prospects. These risks are not exclusive and additional risks to which we are subject include the factors listed under “Note About Forward-Looking Statements” and the risks described in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in this Form 10-Q.

Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

In the three months ended March 31, 2022, the Company issued 32,407 shares of Class A Common Stock in transactions exempt from registration under Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. These shares were granted to employees as inducement for employment.

Purchase of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers

For the three months ended March 31, 2022, the Company made no open market purchases of its Class A, B, or C shares. Pursuant to its Combined Credit Agreement and the indenture governing the 5.625% Notes, the Company is currently limited as to the dollar value of shares it may repurchase in the open market.

For the three months ended March 31, 2022, the Company’s employees surrendered shares of Class A Common Stock in connection with the required tax withholding resulting from the conversion of Class C Common Stock to Class A Common Stock. The Company paid these withholding taxes on behalf of the related employees. These shares of Class A Common Stock were subsequently retired and no longer remain outstanding as of March 31, 2022.

On March 23, 2022, the board of directors authorized a stock repurchase program (the “Repurchase Program”) under which we may repurchase up to $125,000,000 of shares of our outstanding Class A common stock. The Repurchase Program will expire on March 23, 2025. Under the Repurchase Program, share repurchases may be made at our discretion from time to time in open market transactions at prevailing market prices (including through trading plans that may be adopted in accordance with Rule 10b5-1 of the Exchange Act), in privately negotiated transactions, or through other means. The timing and number of shares repurchased under the Repurchase Program will depend on a variety of factors, including the performance of our stock price, general market and economic conditions, regulatory requirements, the availability of funds, and other considerations we

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deem relevant. The Repurchase Program may be suspended, modified or discontinued at any time without prior notice. Our board of directors will review the Repurchase Program periodically and may authorize adjustments of its terms.

The following table details those shares withheld during the first quarter of 2022:


Period	Total Number of Shares Purchased	Average Price Paid Per Share		Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Program	Appropriate Dollar Value of Shares That May Yet Be Purchased Under the Program
1/1/2022 - 1/31/2022	—	$	—	—	—
2/1/2022 - 2/28/2022	1,998,143	5.42		—	—
3/1/2022 - 3/31/2022	—	—		—	—
Total	1,998,143	$	5.42	—	—

Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities

None.

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures

Not applicable.

Item 5. Other Information

None

Item 6. Exhibits

The exhibits required by this item are listed on the Exhibit Index.

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EXHIBIT INDEX


Exhibit No.						Description
3.1						Second Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Stagwell Inc., as amended (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Company’s Form 10-K filed on March 17, 2022).
3.2						Amended and Restated Bylaws of Stagwell Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed on August 2, 2021).
10.1						Second Amended and Restated Limited Liability Company Agreement of Stagwell Global LLC dated as of March 23, 2022 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed on March 28, 2022).
10.2†						Second Amended and Restated Employment Agreement Amendment, dated as of March 11, 2022, by and between the Company and Mark Penn (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.10 to the Company’s Form 10-K filed on March 17, 2022).
10.3†						Amended and Restated Stock Appreciation Rights Agreement by and between the Company and Mark Penn, dated as of March 11, 2022 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.10.2 to the Company’s Form 10-K filed on March 17, 2022).
31.1						Certification by Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Rules 13a - 14(a) and 15d - 14(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.*
31.2						Certification by Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rules 13a - 14(a) and 15d - 14(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.*
32.1						Certification by Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 USC. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.**
32.2						Certification by Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 USC. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.**
101						Interactive Data File, for the period ended March 31, 2022. The instance document does not appear in the interactive data file because its XBRL tags are embedded within the inline XBRL document.*
104						Cover Page Interactive Data File. The cover page XBRL tags are embedded within the inline XBRL document and are included in Exhibit 101.*

* Filed herewith.

** Furnished herewith

† Indicates management contract or compensatory plan.

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.


STAGWELL INC.

/s/ Mark Penn
Mark Penn
Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer)
May 10, 2022

/s/ Frank Lanuto
Frank Lanuto
Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)
May 10, 2022