Eultelsat Communications… Financially Speaking…

[SatNews] Eutelsat Communications (ISIN: FR0010221234 – Euronext Paris: ETL) has reported revenues for the first quarter ended September 30, 2011.

The Company has enjoyed two recent launch successes, bringing new capacity to support growth in fast developing markets:

• ATLANTIC BIRD™ 7 entry into service 23 October, enhanced coverage of Middle East and North Africa broadcast markets
• W3C to enter into service 9 November, serving broadcast markets in Central Europe, Indian Ocean islands and data markets in Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Central Asia
• Accelerated top-line growth expected in the second half of the year
• Positive Outlook: Current fiscal year and three-year targets confirmed

Commenting on the first quarter, Michel de Rosen, Eutelsat CEO, said, “Eutelsat generated revenue growth of 3.4 percent in the first quarter. This reflects a temporary transitional period for the Group until current capacity constraints, resulting from two years of stronger than expected up-take of our in-orbit resources, are alleviated. Two new satellites, ATLANTIC BIRD™ 7 and W3C, will enter into full commercial service during the second quarter. Both of these satellites cover fast-growing video markets including the Middle East, North Africa and Central Europe. The W3C satellite will also significantly expand our capacity to serve data markets in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia. The availability of these replacement and expansion resources, and a further five satellites to be launched between now and June 2014, will enable us to meet continued solid underlying demand in our markets. We therefore confirm our revenue target for the current year of above 1,235 million euros, and of above 7 percent CAGR for the 2011-2014 outlook period accompanied by an EBITDA margin of above 77 percent.” To read the entire financial report, access this direct link.