Cinemark Holdings, Inc. 10-K

Item 1. Business We are a leader and one of the most geographically diverse operators in the motion picture exhibition industry. As of December 31, 2023, we operated 501 theatres and 5,719 screens in the United States, or “U.S.”, and Latin America. Our U.S. circuit operated 309 theatres and 4,324 screens and our Latin America circuit operated 192 theatres and 1,395 screens across 13 countries. Our significant and diverse presence in the U.S. and Latin America has made us an important distribution channel for movie studios and other content providers. We believe our portfolio of high-quality theatres with multiple platforms provides a preferred destination for moviegoers and has contributed to our consistent industry-leading results. As of December 31, 2023, we managed our business under two reportable operating segments: U.S. markets and international markets. See Note 22 to the consolidated financial statements. Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic had an unprecedented effect on the theatrical exhibition industry. We temporarily closed our theatres in the U.S. and Latin America during March of 2020 at the onset of the COVID-19 outbreak. We reopened theatres as soon as local restrictions and the status of the COVID-19 pandemic would allow. All of our domestic and international theatres were reopened by the end of 2021. After reopening our theatres, we faced ongoing challenges with the significant reduction in the volume of new film releases. The industry has made significant progress in its recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic; however its ongoing recovery continues to be contingent upon several key factors, including the volume of new film content available, which has also been impacted by the recent writers’ and actors’ guild strikes, the box office performance of new film content released, the duration of the exclusive theatrical release window and evolving consumer behavior with competition from other forms of in-and-out of home entertainment. Motion Picture Exhibition Industry Overview Domestic Preliminary estimates indicate that North American box office revenues were approximately $9.1 billion for 2023, up more than 21% compared with 2022 due primarily to an increase in the volume of new films released. The following table represents the results of surveys by Motion Picture Association, or MPA, published in March 2022, and The Cinema Foundation, published in March 2023, outlining the historical trends in North American box office performance for the five-year period from 2018 through 2022. Box office performance has historically been primarily dependent on the quality, quantity and timing of film product. North America Box Office Revenue Attendance Average Ticket Year ($ in billions) (in billions) Price 2018 $ 11.9 1.30 $ 9.11 2019 $ 11.4 1.24 $ 9.16 2020 $ 2.2 0.24 $ 9.37 2021 $ 4.5 0.47 $ 9.57 2022 $ 7.5 n/a (1) $ 10.53 (1) 2022 attendance figures for North America were not published. Films released during the year ended December 31, 2023 included Barbie, The Super Mario Bros. Movie, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, Oppenheimer, The Little Mermaid, Ant-Man 2 and the Wasp: Quantumania, John Wick: Chapter 4, Sound of Freedom, Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour concert film , The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, Five Nights at Freddy’s, Wonka, and Trolls Band Together , among other films. Films scheduled for release in 2024 include Madame Web , Dune: Part Two, Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, Kung Fu Panda 4, The Fall Guy, Furiosa, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, Inside Out 2, A Quiet Place: Day One, Despicable Me 4, Deadpool 3, Joker: Folie à Deux, Venom 3, Wicked - Part I, Mufusa: The Lion King, and Sonic the Hedgehog 3, among other films . International Preliminary estimates for Latin American box office revenues were approximately $2.4 billion for 2023, up more than 33% compared with 2022. Box office performance in Latin America is dependent upon the quantity, quality and timing of Hollywood film product, and to a lesser extent, local film product. The performance in Latin American markets is also impacted by political and social conditions, growing populations, and continued retail development. Drivers of Continued Industry Success We believe the long-term fundamentals of our industry remain intact: Consumer Enthusiasm for Theatrical Movie-Going Remains Strong. Sustained consumer enthusiasm to view compelling films in a shared, larger-than-life, cinematic environment continues to be demonstrated across all genres of films, segments of audiences, and periods of the year. Positive box office growth, aligned with film volume recovery and record-setting results of an expansive range of titles across a wide array of film genres further underscore that experiencing captivating film content in a theatrical setting remains an important part of culture and consumer entertainment agendas. A Theatrical Release Enhances a Film’s Promotional Impact and Overall Asset Value. Theatrical exhibition has long been the primary distribution channel for launching new major motion picture releases. A theatrical release provides an enhanced promotional platform for filmed entertainment content by heightening its exposure, increasing its perceived quality, strengthening recall, and driving greater viewing interest. Furthermore, experiencing content in a shared theatrical environment elevates emotions and engagement with stories and characters, which builds larger brands, franchises, and cultural moments. It also provides an incremental revenue stream, while strengthening performance in downstream distribution channels, including streaming, which enhances overall asset value. Based on these benefits, as well as commentary provided by our film distribution partners, we anticipate the volume of films released each year will continue to recover to historical levels. Resilient Industry Across Technology Innovations and Economic Cycles. Theatrical movie-going remains one of the most convenient and affordable forms of out-of-home entertainment. As such, it has proven resilient to competition for consumers’ leisure spending, as well as inflationary and recessionary periods. For example, North American industry box office grew in six of the last eight recessions. Additionally, theatrical movie-going has demonstrated stable, long-term growth trends across various technological innovations, including VHS, internet, DVD and streaming. Our Strategy Our strategic objectives prioritize experiential consumer-based, revenue-generating, and productivity-driving initiatives, including: Deliver an Extraordinary Guest Experience. We aim to differentiate our theatres through consistent investment in high-demand consumer amenities that provide a larger-than-life, cinematic entertainment experience with top-notch guest service. Examples of amenities include state-of-the-art sight and sound technology, premium large format auditoriums, recliners, and motion seats, as well as expansive food and beverage offerings. We believe our ongoing focus on providing an extraordinary guest experience is a primary factor of our consistent industry-leading results. Maximize Attendance and Box Office While Expanding Revenue Opportunities. We actively focus on maximizing attendance and box office results through pricing strategies, sophisticated showtime planning, and pursuit of alternative content that appeals to a broad consumer base. We also continue to invest in strengthening and leveraging our omni-channel marketing platforms and loyalty programs to expand our audience base, increase moviegoing 3 frequency and strengthen loyalty to our brand. Additionally, we seek to drive ancillary revenue opportunities through expanding the food, beverage and merchandise products we offer, simplifying speed of service through space management improvements and online mobile ordering, and extending the availability of our offerings beyond our theatres via third-party delivery platforms. Furthermore, we look to monetize our facilities with opportunities including game rooms and private events. Maintain a Disciplined Focus on Productivity and Profitability. We remain disciplined in our pursuit of continuous improvement, seeking opportunities to simplify processes, streamline operations, remove inefficiencies, and drive productivity. Areas of emphasis include further enhancing our workforce management tools and processes, strengthening inventory management, optimizing showtime planning, leveraging advanced sourcing strategies, and expanding automation opportunities. We continue to enhance data management and analytics to strengthen our decisions and maximize our overall potential. Furthermore, as part of our ongoing focus on profitability, we continuously optimize our footprint, assessing our global circuit to ascertain the most advantageous strategies for growth, recalibration, and strengthening of our theaters to deliver sustained long-term returns. Competitive Strengths We believe the following strengths have allowed us to compete effectively in the past and will continue to be our guiding principles: Disciplined Operating Philosophy. Our operating philosophy focuses on creating an extraordinary guest experience, maintaining favorable theatre-level economics, controlling operating costs and effectively reacting to changes in economic and market conditions. Balanced Approach to Investment and Capital Allocation. Our balanced and disciplined investment approach centers on thoughtfully reinvesting in our existing theatres, building new theatres and acquiring quality theatres that will complement our circuit. We have long believed in maintaining a strong balance sheet and ensuring our capital investments earn a solid return. This philosophy has proven to be successful for us over varying economic cycles and industry challenges. We remain disciplined with our cash management and capital resource allocation strategies, while continuing to invest in the long-term health of our circuit. Leading Position in Our U.S. and Latin American Markets. We have a leading market share in most of the U.S. markets we serve, which includes a presence in 42 states. For the year ended December 31, 2023, we ranked either first or second, based on box office revenues, in 21 of our top 25 U.S. markets, including Dallas, the San Francisco Bay Area, Houston, Salt Lake City, Sacramento, Cleveland, Austin and Las Vegas. We were one of the first circuits to begin reopening theatres in the U.S. during 2021, gaining market share of the overall North American box office as a result. We maintained a meaningful portion of these market share gains through 2023. We have a significant presence in major cities in Latin America, with theatres in 15 of the 20 largest metropolitan areas in Latin America as of December 31, 2023. We are the largest exhibitor in Brazil and Argentina and have significant market presence in Colombia, Peru and Chile. Our geographic diversity makes us an important global distribution channel for the movie studios. Similar to the U.S., we gained overall market share in Latin America upon reopening all of our theatres during 2021. We have retained a meaningful portion of that market share through 2023. State-of-the-Art Theatre Circuit. We build new theatres and consistently invest in our existing theatres to maintain a state-of-the-art movie-going experience, which we believe makes our theatres preferred destinations for moviegoers in our markets. Making quality investments in our circuit will continue to be one of our primary objectives. We offer our guests a premium large format experience through our 293 XD auditoriums, which represents the largest exhibitor-branded premium large format footprint in the world, 15 IMAX auditoriums and six ScreenX auditoriums across our worldwide circuit. Our XD auditoriums offer a premium experience utilizing the latest in digital projection and enhanced custom sound, including Barco Auro-Max 11.1 sound systems in select locations. The XD experience includes wall-to-wall screens, wrap-around sound, plush seating, reclining seats in a majority of our XD auditoriums and a maximum comfort entertainment environment for an immersive experience. The benefits of our XD auditoriums include program flexibility, as we can show the content of our choice with no additional revenue share component outside of routine film rental. We started a multi-year project in 2022 to strategically convert our auditoriums to more energy efficient Barco RGB laser projectors, which provide greater light output than the current technology, further enhancing the 4 movie-going experience. As of December 31, 2023, we have transitioned approximately 14% of our auditoriums to the new laser projectors across our worldwide circuit. We have incorporated Luxury Lounger heated recliner seats into all of our recent domestic new builds and have repositioned many of our existing domestic theatres to offer this premium seating feature. We currently feature these heated recliner luxury loungers in 68% of our total domestic circuit. We also have auditoriums that offer seats with immersive cinematic motion, which we refer to as motion seats, in 335 auditoriums throughout our circuit. These motion seats are programmed in harmony with the audio and video content of the film and further immerse guests into the on-screen action. We offer enhanced food and beverages such as gourmet pizzas, burgers, and sandwiches, and a selection of beers, wine and cocktails, all of which can be enjoyed in the comfort of the auditoriums, at a majority of our theatres. We also offer full bars or dine-in areas in many of our locations and we are continuing to expand these amenities to additional locations. In the U.S., we offer advanced mobile concession ordering at virtually all of our U.S. theatres allowing guests to pre-order select concession products and pick them up at the concession stand upon arrival or have them delivered to their seat. We also offer mobile concession ordering in all of our Latin American theatres and delivery to seats in a select number of our premier Latin American theatres. Experienced Management. Our global management team has extensive industry experience and proven track records. Many of our key leaders have over 20 years of industry experience. Additionally, our country general managers are local citizens familiar with political, social, cultural and economic factors impacting their country, which enables them to more effectively manage the local business. Our global management team has successfully navigated us through many industry and economic cycles over the years. Theatre Operations As of December 31, 2023, we operated 501 theatres and 5,719 screens in 42 U.S. states and 13 Latin American countries. We opened our first theatre in the U.S. in 1984. Our domestic circuit has expanded through acquisitions and organic growth, and we currently have theatres in 104 designated market areas. We first entered Latin America when we opened a theatre in Santiago, Chile in 1993. Since then, through a focused international growth strategy, we have developed into one of the most geographically diverse theatre circuits in the region. We have balanced our risk through a diversified international portfolio, which included theatres in 15 of the 20 largest metropolitan areas in Latin America as of December 31, 2023. We are a market leader in Brazil and Argentina, where we are the largest exhibitor. We also have significant market presence in Colombia, Peru and Chile. The following table summarizes the geographic locations of our theatre circuit as of December 31, 2023. Country Total Theatres Total Screens United States 309 4,324 Brazil 85 622 Argentina 23 199 Colombia 30 177 Chile 20 142 Central America (1) 17 114 Peru 14 113 Bolivia 1 13 Paraguay 2 15 Total (2) (3) 501 5,719 (1) Includes Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama and Guatemala. (2) In January 2023, we closed our theatre in Curacao. (3) In September 2023, we sold our Ecuador subsidiary. Content We offer a wide variety of content at our theatres. We monitor upcoming film releases and other content and work diligently with film distributors to license content that we believe will be most successful in our theatres. We play mainstream films from many different genres, such as animated films, family films, dramas, comedies, horror and action films. We offer content in both 2-D and 3-D formats in all of our theatres, and in many locations, we offer 5 either our own premium large format, XD or IMAX. We also offer a format that features motion seats and added sensory features. We offer a variety of alternative entertainment content for our guests. Examples include concert, sporting and gaming events, as well as art, independent, faith-based, and multicultural foreign language films. In certain Latin American markets where we operate, we also offer local film product to our guests. Additionally, we have the functionality and technological infrastructure to live-stream events via satellite network across our portfolio of theatres in the U.S. and Latin America. In addition, our joint venture, AC JV, LLC, with Regal Entertainment Group and AMC Entertainment, Inc. provides marketing and distribution of live and pre-recorded entertainment programming to augment theatres’ feature film schedules. AC JV, LLC, referred to as Fathom Events, is the largest distributor of documentaries and inspirational content as well as classic films and performing arts, such as the Metropolitan Opera. Film Licensing In the U.S., our corporate film department negotiates with film distributors to license films for each of our domestic theatres. Local film personnel in our international offices negotiate with local offices of major film distributors, local film distributors and independent content providers to license films for our international theatres. Film distributors determine film release dates and plan and fund the related film marketing campaigns, while we are responsible for booking the films at each of our theatres at the optimal showtimes for our guests. In both our domestic and international locations, film rental fees are based on a film’s box office receipts. The majority of film rental rates are negotiated on a sliding scale formula, under which the rate is based on a standard rate matrix that is established with each content provider prior to a film’s theatrical run. We may also negotiate some film rental rates on a firm terms formula, a percentage of box office receipts negotiated prior to a film’s theatrical run, or a rate that is negotiated after a film’s theatrical run. Food and Beverage Concession sales are our second largest revenue source. We have expanded concession sales by enhancing our offerings and adapting to our customers’ changing preferences, as discussed below. Product Mix. Core concession products offered at all of our theatres include various sizes and types of popcorn, soft drinks, coffees, non-carbonated drinks, candy and quickly-prepared or pre-prepared food, such as hot dogs, pizza, pretzel bites, nachos and ice cream. Our food and beverage offerings may vary in particular markets based on consumer preferences. We offer adult beverage options for our guests including beer, wine and cocktails, freshly-made signature Pizza Hut pizzas, burgers and sandwiches, as well as some healthier snack options and diverse ethnic foods based on market demographics. We have dedicated category managers that monitor product sales, upcoming content and events, and make adjustments to product mix on a theatre-by-theatre or market-by-market basis. This approach also allows us to efficiently activate and manage both national or regional product launches and promotional initiatives to further grow food and beverage sales. New products and promotions are introduced on a regular basis to increase concession purchase incidence from existing consumers as well as to attract new consumers. In certain international countries and in all of our domestic theatres, we offer a free loyalty program that routinely offers food and beverage promotions and rewards. Our paid subscription programs allow our guests to receive exclusive concessions discounts. Innovation. W e offer unique movie-themed merchandise to customers both in our theatres and online to enhance their experience and drive incremental revenue. Additionally, we have partnered with key strategic suppliers to create an online store that offers unique merchandise to guests across the country from the comfort of their homes. We are also the first major theatre exhibition company to partner with Door Dash, Grub Hub, and Uber Eats, to allow consumers to have our concession offerings delivered to their homes. Theatre Design. Our theatres are designed to optimize the guest purchase experience at the concession stands to facilitate serving guests in an expedited manner. We strategically design large concession stands to heighten visibility, reduce the length of concession lines, and improve traffic flow around the concession stands. We incorporate queue lines and self-serve candy cases and bottled drink coolers at our concession stands to help provide convenience for our guests, drive impulse purchases and increase product visibility for these two core categories. We also have 6 self-service cafeteria-style concession areas in many of our domestic theatres, which allow customers to select their own food and refreshments and proceed to the cash register when they are ready. This design allows for more efficient service, and superior visibility of concession items. We also have lobby bars and VIP lounges in many domestic and international theatres. Our proprietary mobile concessions ordering capability allows moviegoers to purchase their cinema snacks in advance and have them waiting to be picked up upon arrival or delivered directly to their seat. This functionality streamlines the guest experience, adding convenience and enhanced guest service for our customers. As of December 31, 2023, mobile concession ordering is available at virtually all of our U.S. theatres. Similarly, guests in our Latin American locations can pre-pay for select concession products online or at kiosks within the theatre and pick them up at the concession stand. Staff Training. Employees are continually trained on proper sales techniques, food preparation and handling, and maintaining the quality of our concession product offerings. Many employees are certified in food safety protocols and in serving alcoholic beverages. Cost Control. We negotiate prices, volume-based rebates and promotional-based rebates for concession products directly with our suppliers. Concession products are generally managed through a distribution network, with theatres placing and receiving orders directly with a distributor. We monitor inventory levels at every theatre to ensure proper stock levels are maintained to appropriately serve our guests. Supply chain interruptions and inflationary pressures may impact costs and limit product availability. Our food and beverage costs have been especially susceptible to inflationary pressures in more recent periods, particularly for core commodities, which recently experienced elevated inflationary pressures. In an effort to mitigate these pressures, we focus on identifying alternative products sourced from a variety of suppliers as well as implementing strategic pricing actions to help offset the impact of these pressures. Screen Advertising Our U.S. theatres are part of the in-theatre digital network operated by National CineMedia, LLC, or NCM. NCM provides advertising to our theatres through its branded “ Noovie ” pre-show entertainment program and also handles certain lobby promotions and displays for our theatres. We believe that the reach, scope and digital delivery capability of NCM’s network provides an effective platform for national, regional and local advertisers to reach our audiences. We receive a monthly theatre access fee for participation in the NCM network, which includes screen rental revenue on a per patron basis and on a revenue share basis depending on the placement of the advertisement. Throughout our international markets, we have developed our Flix Media brand that handles screen advertising functions in all of our Latin American countries. Our Flix Media marketing personnel work with local agencies and advertisers to coordinate screen advertising in our theatres as well as other theatres in our markets. In addition to screen advertising in our theatres, we continue to expand Flix Media’s services to include, among other things, alternative content, digital media and other synergistic advertising opportunities. Marketing and Promotions Digital Marketing . Our investment in digital marketing and customer experience over the past several years has enabled us to expand our reach to our guests, communicate with them on a consistent basis, and streamline their digital customer journey. We continue to adapt our platforms to engage movie-goers more effectively and make it as compelling and simple as possible for them to purchase their next movie ticket and concessions from us. Through both organic and paid marketing efforts, we keep our millions of guests informed through email, social media, website and mobile app updates, and advertising to promote upcoming content and keep Cinemark elevated in the moviegoer consideration set. Transforming the digital customer journey has enabled us to more effectively reach movie-goers through targeted and refined search engine optimization, and gives the customer a better experience once they are directed to our website or app. We regularly conduct comprehensive analysis of the customer journey on our channels, making updates that reduce clicks and decrease the friction from search to ticket purchase. Ongoing enhancements result in higher traffic volume to our digital channels and increased ticket and concession purchases. 7 In an effort to more deeply engage with our guests, the visual identity and physical flow of our theatres are regularly assessed. This includes keeping all signage, merchandise, food and beverage vessels and employee attire updated and reflective of the modern experience. Campaigns and Promotions. We market our theatres and special events, including new theatre grand openings, remodel re-openings and VIP events, using email/in-app push messaging, social media communications, digital advertising, and various forms of traditional media advertising. We exhibit previews of coming attractions and current films as part of our on-screen pre-feature program. We offer guests access to movie times, the ability to buy their tickets and reserve their seats in advance, purchase concessions in advance and purchase gift cards at our website www.cinemark.com and via our mobile applications. Guests can subscribe to our emails and push notifications to receive information about current and upcoming films and events at their preferred Cinemark theatre(s), including details about upcoming XD movies, advanced ticket sales, screenings, special events, concerts, live broadcasts, contests, promotions, and our latest concessions and merchandise offerings. We partner with film distributors on a regular basis to promote upcoming films through local, regional and national programs, many of which are exclusive to our theatres. Social Media. In the evolution of our external communication strategy, we are meeting movie-goers where they are and ensuring we are present as they scroll throughout the day. We interact with moviegoers every day on social media platforms, such as Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok to provide advanced ticketing, promotions, and event information and to monitor and respond to guests’ questions and feedback. Membership and Loyalty. Our domestic subscription membership program, Movie Club, offers guests a standard monthly ticket credit, member-pricing for a companion ticket and concession and other transaction discounts for their choice of a monthly or annual fixed price. Movie Club is a unique option to reward our loyal guests and allows us to stay informed of frequent moviegoers’ preferences. Movie Club includes a premium tier, Movie Club Platinum, allowing members with a high visit frequency and/or high volume of ticket purchases during the year to earn additional movie ticket credits, receive an increased concessions discount and the ability to purchase additional tickets at a discounted price. We offer a free domestic loyalty program, Movie Fan, to our guests in the U.S. Movie Fan allows our moviegoers to earn one point for every dollar they spend. Points can then be redeemed for tickets, concession items and discounts, as well as unique and limited-edition merchandise that relate to films currently playing in our theatres. Our loyalty programs are closely monitored, and new strategies are consistently tested to incentivize consumers to prioritize visiting our theatres. We also have membership and loyalty programs in most of our international markets that either allow customers to pay a nominal fee for an annual membership card that provides them with certain admissions and concession discounts or that allows guests to earn loyalty points for each purchase. Similar to the Movie Fan program, our points-based international programs offer discounts on movie tickets and concessions. Our global loyalty programs put us in direct contact with our moviegoers and provide opportunities for us to partner with the studios and our suppliers through targeted promotions. Competition We are one of the leaders in the motion picture exhibition industry. We compete against local, regional, national and international exhibitors with respect to attracting guests, licensing films and developing new theatre sites. Our primary U.S. competitors include Regal and AMC and our primary international competitors, which vary by country, include Cinépolis, Cine Colombia, CinePlanet, Kinoplex (GSR), UCI, Royal Films and Araujo. We are generally able to book films at our theatres without regard to the film bookings of other exhibitors. Our success in attracting guests can depend on customer service quality, location, theatre capacity, quality of projection and sound equipment, film showtime availability and ticket prices. We compete for new theatre sites with other movie theatre exhibitors as well as other entertainment venues. Securing a potential site depends upon factors such as commercial terms, available investment resources, theatre design and capacity, revenue potential and financial stability of developers as well as exhibitors. We face competition from other forms of out-of-home entertainment competing for the public’s leisure time and disposable income, including family entertainment centers, concerts, theme parks and sporting events. We also 8 face competition for guests from a number of alternative film distribution channels, such as streaming services, digital downloads, video on-demand and network television. Seasonality Our revenues have historically been seasonal, coinciding with the timing of releases of motion pictures by the major distributors. The most successful motion pictures have historically been released during summer months in the U.S., extending from May to July, and during the holiday season, extending from November through year-end. In our Latin American markets, while Hollywood content has similar release dates as in the U.S., the local holidays and seasons vary. The unexpected emergence of a hit film during other periods or the failure of an expected success at a key time could alter this seasonality trend. The timing, quantity and quality of film releases can have a significant effect on our results of operations, and the results of one quarter are not necessarily indicative of results for the next quarter or for the same period in the following year. Corporate Operations Our global headquarters, referred to as the Cinemark Service Center, or CSC, is located in Plano, Texas. Personnel at the CSC provide oversight and support for our domestic and international theatres and includes our executive team and department heads in charge of film licensing, food and beverage, theatre operations, theatre construction and maintenance, real estate, human resources, marketing, legal, finance, accounting, tax and information technology. Our U.S. operations are comprised of regions headed by a regional vice president. We have eight regional offices in Latin America responsible for the local management of theatres in 13 countries as of December 31, 2023 (Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama and Guatemala are managed out of one Central American regional office). Each regional office is headed by a general manager or a member of our international management team with additional personnel responsible for film licensing, marketing, human resources, information technology, operations and finance. We have divisional or regional chief financial officers in several of the international countries in which we operate. Human Capital Our business is seasonal and therefore, our headcount can vary throughout the year depending on the timing and success of movie releases. We do not have unionized employees within our domestic employee base, however many of our international locations are subject to union contracts. We currently have approximately 17,500 employees in the U.S., approximately 21% of whom are full-time employees and 79% of whom are part-time employees. We have approximately 9,300 employees in our international markets, approximately 57% of whom are full-time employees and approximately 43% of whom are part-time employees. In our Mission, Vision and Values Statement, our employees form the core of our Cinemark Values. We strive to (i) act with honesty and integrity, respect and care for each other, our guests, communities and partners, (ii) provide a safe environment for our global employees and guests, (iii) be the best in what we do and (iv) empower our people to make decisions and take responsibility. Guided by our Cinemark Values, we are committed to creating a company where everyone is included and respected, and where we support each other in reaching our full potential. We take pride in the fact that many of our employees, ranging from field employees to executive management, have significant tenure with the Company. To attract and retain the most qualified talent, we offer competitive benefits, including market-competitive compensation, healthcare, paid time off, parental leave, free movie passes and in the U.S., a 401(k) retirement savings and investment plan with generous Company match. Additionally, many of our CSC employees are eligible to work a hybrid schedule. We support the continuous development of professional, technical and leadership skills of our employees by offering tuition assistance, skills development courses and leadership development training in partnership with reputable institutions. To foster a corporate culture of transparency and collaboration, our senior management regularly conducts “town-hall” style meetings with employees to share, among other matters, the Company’s performance, business conditions and market challenges, strategies and initiatives, and to respond to employee concerns through question-and-answer sessions. Employees in the U.S. are also encouraged to provide feedback about their experience through periodic employee engagement surveys. These voluntary surveys provide overall and department-specific reports and 9 enable us to improve employee experience and culture. We aspire to provide a safe, open and accountable work environment for our employees. We also provide a hotline for all employees to report workplace concerns and violations with the option to report on an anonymous basis. We address such concerns and take appropriate actions that uphold our Cinemark Values. In recognition and gratitude for our moviegoing communities, we strongly encourage team members to give back to the community and host periodic service days for team members. Through Cinemark Cares, we support local and national charitable organizations through monetary and product donations, or donations of employees’ time or expertise. We are a proud long-term partner of several charities and host an annual golf tournament to raise funds for these and other selected charities. Regulations The distribution of motion pictures is largely regulated by antitrust laws and was the subject of numerous antitrust cases in the past. The manner in which we can license films from certain major film distributors has been influenced by consent decrees and other court orders resulting from these cases. Consent decrees that bound certain major film distributors expired during 2022. These consent decrees required distributors to offer and license films to exhibitors, including Cinemark, on a theatre-by-theatre and film-by-film basis. Consequently, exhibitors have not entered into long-term arrangements with major distributors but must negotiate for licenses on a theatre-by-theatre and film-by-film basis. While the consent decrees may no longer be in effect, we are still subject to the antitrust laws, and we do not anticipate a material shift in the way films are licensed. We are subject to various general regulations applicable to our operations including the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, or the ADA, and regulations promulgated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and certain state laws that require nutrition labels for certain menu items. Our domestic and international theatre operations are also subject to federal, state and local laws governing such matters as data privacy, wages, working conditions, citizenship, health and sanitation requirements and various business licensing and permitting. Financial Information About Geographic Areas We currently have operations in the U.S., Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Peru, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Guatemala, Bolivia, and Paraguay, which are reflected in the consolidated financial statements. See Note 22 to the consolidated financial statements for segment information and financial information by geographic area. Item 1A. Ri sk Factors An investment in Holdings’ common stock or Holdings’ or CUSA’s debt securities involves risks and uncertainties, and our actual results and future trends may differ materially from our past or projected future performance. We urge investors to consider carefully the risk factors described below in addition to the other information contained in this report, in evaluating our Company and our business. It is not possible to identify all risk factors, and additional risks and uncertainties not presently known to us or that we currently believe to be immaterial that may also materially impact our business operations. Risks Related to Our Business, Economic, Market and Operating Conditions A variety of uncontrollable events may disrupt our businesses, reduce guest attendance, or increase the cost or reduce the profitability of providing our products and services. Our results of operations can be significantly and adversely affected in the U.S., Latin America or in specific regions as a result of a variety of factors beyond our control, including: health concerns (including as it was by COVID-19 and could be by future health emergencies, endemics, epidemics and pandemics); adverse weather conditions arising from short-term weather patterns or long-term climate change, including catastrophic events or natural disasters such as hurricanes, typhoons, floods, droughts, wildfires and earthquakes; international, political or military developments, including trade and other international disputes and social unrest; macroeconomic conditions, including a decline in economic activity, inflation, deflation and foreign exchange rate fluctuations; and terrorist attacks. These events and others, such as fluctuations in energy costs and computer virus attacks, intrusions, ransom ware or other widespread computing or telecommunications failures, may also damage our ability to provide our services. We may 10 have insurance coverage with respect to some, but not all, of these events. Moreover, the costs of protecting against such incidents reduces the profitability of our operations. For example, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic had an unprecedented impact on the theatrical exhibition industry. While the industry has made significant progress in its recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, our industry and our business continues to be impacted by disruptions in the film production cycle. Most recently the Hollywood writers’ and actors’ guild strikes caused film production to be temporarily halted or delayed and new film releases were postponed, resulting in a reduction in the volume of new films available for theatrical exhibition. As a result, we are not currently generating attendance and revenue from admissions at levels comparable to what we had generated historically. We obtain insurance against the risk of losses relating to some of these events, generally including certain physical damage to our property and resulting business interruption, certain injuries occurring on our property and some liabilities for alleged breach of legal responsibilities. When insurance is obtained it is subject to deductibles, exclusions, terms, conditions and limits of liability. The types and levels of coverage we obtain vary from time to time depending on our view of the likelihood of specific types and levels of loss compared to the cost of obtaining coverage for such types and levels of loss. We may experience material losses not covered by our insurance. Our business depends on film production and performance. Our business depends on both the availability of films for exhibition in our theatres and the success of those films in our markets. Reduced volume of film releases, poor performance of films, the disruption in the production of films due to events such as a strike by directors, writers, actors or other industry related unions or guilds, a reduction in financing options for the film distributors, a reduction in the production and marketing efforts of the film distributors to make and promote their films, or the consolidation of major film distributors could have an adverse effect on our business by resulting in fewer patrons and reduced revenue. For example, the May 2, 2023 strike by the Writers Guild of America, which lasted for almost five months, and the July 14, 2023 strike by members of SAG-AFTRA, the union representing television and movie actors, which lasted almost four months, together resulted in a decrease in film content released in 2023 and will cause a decrease in 2024 film content due to production delays that have forced studios to push films previously slated to be released in 2023 and 2024 to 2025 and 2026. Also, while the quantity of new film releases available for theatrical exhibition continued to improve in 2023 and caused the industry to further recover from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the volume of film content has not reverted to historical levels. The volume of new films has not, and may not, fully recover to pre-pandemic levels which would materially impact our business. In addition, certain studios have reduced the window for video and digital releases or released films directly to alternative distribution channels such as streaming services simultaneous with a theatrical release. Studios may determine that certain types of film content will not be released for theatrical exhibition in the future and will go straight to streaming platforms, further impacting the quantity of films available. Our results of operations fluctuate on a seasonal basis. Our results of operations vary from period to period based upon the quantity and quality of the motion pictures that we show in our theatres. The major film distributors generally release the films they anticipate will be most successful during the summer and holiday seasons. Consequently, we typically generate higher revenue during those periods. In our Latin American markets, while Hollywood content has similar release dates as in the U.S., the local holidays and seasons vary. The unexpected emergence of a successful film during other periods or the failure of an expected success at a key time could alter this seasonality trend. Due to the dependency on the success of films released from one period to the next, results of operations for one period may not be indicative of the results for future periods. 11 A deterioration in relationships with film distributors could adversely affect our ability to obtain commercially successful films. We rely on the film distributors to supply the films shown in our theatres. The film distribution business is highly concentrated, with six major film distributors accounting for approximately 85% of U.S. box office revenues and 45 of the top 50 grossing films during 2023. Film distributors license films to exhibitors on a theatre-by-theatre and film-by-film basis. Consequently, we cannot guarantee a supply of films by entering into long-term arrangements with major distributors. A deterioration in our relationship with any of the major film distributors could adversely affect our ability to obtain commercially successful films and to negotiate favorable licensing terms for such films, both of which could adversely affect our business and operating results. We face intense competition for patrons and films which may adversely affect our business. The motion picture exhibition industry is highly competitive. We compete against local, regional, national and international exhibitors in many of our markets. We compete for both patrons and licensing of films. In markets where we do not face nearby competitive theatres, there is a risk of new theatres being built. The degree of competition for patrons is dependent upon such factors as location, theatre capacity, presentation quality, film showtime and availability, customer service quality, products and amenities offered, and ticket prices. The principal competitive factors with respect to film licensing include the theatre’s location and its demographics, the condition, capacity and grossing potential of each theatre, and licensing terms. We also face competition from new concept theatres such as dine-in theatres, tavern style theatres and family entertainment centers that open in close proximity to our conventional theatres. If we are unable to attract patrons or license successful films, our business may be adversely affected. An increase in competing forms of entertainment or the use of alternative film distribution channels may reduce movie theatre attendance and limit revenue growth. We compete with other forms of out-of-home entertainment, such as family entertainment centers, concerts, theme parks, gaming and sporting events, for our patrons’ leisure time and disposable income. We also face competition for patrons from a number of alternative film distribution channels, such as streaming, digital downloads, video on-demand and network television. We have seen an expansion in some of these distribution channels in recent years. A significant increase in popularity of these alternative film distribution channels, competing forms of entertainment or improvements in technologies available at home could have an adverse effect on our business and results of operations. Our results of operations may be impacted by the reduction, or elimination of, video and digital release windows. The average video and digital release window, which represents the time that elapses from the date of a film’s theatrical release to the date a film is available for DVD, was approximately 90 days and digital purchase for ownership (also known as electronic sell-through) was approximately 74 days for several years prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. During the COVID-19 pandemic, certain studios adopted strategies that reduced, or in some cases eliminated, the release windows. While the dynamic release window has coalesced to around 45 days for major films, select studios may release certain movie titles to their own streaming platforms either simultaneously with theatrical releases or bypass theatrical releases altogether. While this trend has largely diminished in 2022 and 2023, studios may reduce or eliminate the windows for certain films. If our guests choose to wait for an in-home release rather than attend a theatre to view the film, our business and results of operations, financial condition and cash flows may be adversely impacted. Our foreign operations are subject to adverse regulations, economic instability and currency exchange risk. We had 192 theatres with 1,395 screens in 13 countries in Latin America as of December 31, 2023. Brazil represented approximately 7.6% of our consolidated 2023 revenue. Governmental regulation of the motion picture industry in foreign markets differs from that in the U.S. Changes in regulations affecting prices and quota systems requiring the exhibition of locally-produced films may adversely affect our international operations. Our international operations are subject to certain political, economic and other uncertainties not encountered by our domestic operations, including risks of severe economic downturns and high inflation. We also face risks of currency fluctuations, hard currency shortages and controls of foreign currency exchange and cash payments to the U.S., all of which could have an adverse effect on the results of our operations and liquidity. Tight labor market and loss of key personnel may negatively impact our operations and operating results. Labor shortages may affect our ability to hire and retain employees. The success of our business depends on our ability to recruit and retain our theatre staff. Without proper staffing, wait times to buy tickets and concessions 12 may be extended and operating hours may be reduced. These conditions could result in a poor guest experience, which could adversely affect future attendance. We could face similar challenges with respect to retaining corporate employees. Losing the services of one or more senior executives, or other key personnel, could adversely affect our ability to execute our business strategies and could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations, especially if we were unable to timely employ a qualified replacement. Labor shortages could also result in rising wages, affecting our profits. We are subject to impairment losses due to potential declines in the fair value of our assets. We have a significant amount of long-lived assets. We evaluate long-lived assets for impairment at the theatre level. Therefore, if a theatre is directly and individually impacted by increased competition, adverse changes in market demographics, or adverse changes in the development or condition of the areas surrounding the theatre, we may record impairment charges to reflect the decline in estimated fair value of that theatre. We also have a significant amount of goodwill and tradename intangible assets. Declines in our stock price or market capitalization, or declines in our attendance due to increased competition, macroeconomic conditions or other factors could result in impairments of goodwill and our intangible assets. We are subject to uncertainties relating to future expansion plans, including our ability to identify suitable acquisition candidates or new theatre site locations, and to obtain financing for such activities on favorable terms or at all. We have expanded our operations through targeted worldwide theatre development and acquisitions. We continue to pursue a strategy of expansion that involves the development of new theatres and may involve acquisitions of existing theatres and theatre circuits both in the U.S. and internationally. There is significant competition for new site locations and for existing theatre and theatre circuit acquisition opportunities. As a result of such competition, we may not be able to acquire attractive new site locations, existing theatres or theatre circuits on terms we consider acceptable. The pace of our growth may also be impacted by delays in site development caused by other parties. Acquisitions and expansion opportunities may divert a significant amount of management’s time away from the operation of our business. Growth by acquisition also involves risks relating to difficulties in integrating the operations and personnel of acquired companies and the potential loss of key employees of acquired companies. Our potential expansion strategy may not result in improvements to our business, financial condition, profitability or cash flows. Further, our expansion programs may require financing above our existing borrowing capacity and operating cash flows. We may not be able to obtain such financing on acceptable terms, or at all. Risks Related to Financing and Liquidity We have substantial long-term lease and debt obligations, which may restrict our ability to fund current and future operations and that restrict our ability to enter into certain transactions. We have significant long-term debt service obligations and long-term lease obligations. As of December 31, 2023, Holdings had $2,432.1 million in long-term debt obligations, which included $1,972.1 million of CUSA debt and excludes unamortized debt issuance costs and original issue discount. As of December 31, 2023, Holdings and CUSA had $87.8 million in finance lease obligations and $853.3 million in long-term operating lease obligations. The substantial lease and debt obligations could: • require us to dedicate a substantial portion of our cash flows to payments on our lease and debt obligations, thereby reducing the availability of our cash flows from operations to fund working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions and other corporate requirements and to pay dividends on Holdings’ common stock; • impede our ability to obtain additional financing in the future for working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions and other purposes; • subject us to the risk of increased sensitivity to interest rate increases on our variable rate debt; • limit our ability to invest in innovations in technology and implement new platforms or concepts in our theatres; and 13 • make us more vulnerable to adverse economic, market and industry conditions, limit our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our business operations or to our industry overall, and place us at a disadvantage in relation to our competitors that may have lower debt levels. Holdings’ and CUSA’s ability to make scheduled payments of principal and interest on their respective indebtedness will depend on our ability to generate positive cash flows and on our future financial results. Our ability to generate positive cash flows is subject to general economic, financial, competitive, regulatory and other factors, some of which are beyond our control. As our industry recovers from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the recent writers’ and actors’ guild strikes, we may not be able to generate cash flows at historical levels, or guarantee that future borrowings will be available under our senior secured credit facility, in an amount sufficient to enable us to pay our indebtedness. If our cash flows and capital resources are insufficient to fund our lease and debt service obligations, we may be forced to reduce or delay capital expenditures, sell assets or operations, seek additional capital or restructure or refinance our indebtedness. We may not be able to take any of these actions, and these actions may not be successful or permit us to meet our scheduled debt service obligations. Certain actions may be restricted under the terms of our existing or future debt agreements, including our senior secured credit facility. If we fail to make any required payment under the agreements governing our indebtedness or fail to comply with the financial and operating covenants contained in our debt instruments, we would be in default. As a result, our debt holders would have the ability to accelerate the repayment of our outstanding indebtedness, and the lenders under our senior secured credit facility could terminate their commitments and foreclose against the assets securing their borrowings. We could be forced into bankruptcy or liquidation. The acceleration of our indebtedness under one agreement may permit acceleration of indebtedness under other agreements that contain cross-default and cross-acceleration provisions. If our indebtedness is accelerated, we may not be able to repay our indebtedness or borrow sufficient funds to refinance it. Even if we are able to obtain new financing, it may not be on commercially reasonable terms or on terms that are acceptable to us. If our debt holders require immediate payment, we may not have sufficient assets to satisfy our obligations under our indebtedness. A lowering or withdrawal of the ratings assigned or a change in outlook to our outstanding debt securities by rating agencies may increase our future borrowing costs and reduce our access to capital. We are rated by nationally recognized rating agencies. The rating scales and methodologies used to derive individual ratings may vary from agency to agency. Credit ratings are issued by credit rating agencies based on evaluations of our ability to pay back our outstanding debt and the likelihood that we would default on that debt prior to its maturity. The credit ratings issued by the rating agencies represent the rating agency's evaluation of both qualitative and quantitative information for our company. The credit ratings that are issued are based on the rating agency’s judgment and experience in determining what information should be considered in giving a rating to a particular company. Ratings are always subject to change and there can be no assurance that our current ratings will remain the same for any given period of time. Our debt currently has a non-investment grade rating, and any rating assigned could be lowered (or outlook thereof could be changed) or withdrawn entirely by a rating agency if, in that rating agency’s judgment, future circumstances relating to the basis of the rating, such as adverse changes in our business or industry, so warrant. Any future lowering of our ratings likely would make it more difficult or more expensive for us to obtain additional debt financing. In particular, our access to the capital markets may be impacted, our other funding sources may decrease, the cost of debt may increase as a result of increased interest rates or fees, and we may be required to provide additional credit assurances, including collateral, under certain contracts or arrangements. Holdings’ inability to raise funds necessary to settle conversions of, or to repurchase, the 4.50% Convertible Senior Notes (as defined below), upon a fundamental change as described in the indenture governing the 4.50% Convertible Senior Notes, may lead to defaults under such indenture and under agreements governing our existing or future indebtedness. If Holdings settles the 4.50% Convertible Senior Notes with cash, or by a combination of cash and shares of our common stock, upon a fundamental change as described in the indenture governing the 4.50% Convertible Senior Notes, Holdings will be required to make cash payments with respect to the 4.50% Convertible Senior Notes being converted. However, Holdings may not have enough available cash or be able to obtain financing at the time it is required to settle the 4.50% Convertible Senior Notes being surrendered or converted. In addition, Holdings’ ability to settle the 4.50% Convertible Senior Notes or to pay cash upon conversion of the 4.50% Convertible Senior Notes is limited by the agreements governing CUSA’s existing indebtedness and may also be limited by law, by regulatory 14 authority or by agreements that will govern future indebtedness. Holdings’ failure to settle the 4.50% Convertible Senior Notes at a time when the repurchase is required by the indenture governing the 4.50% Convertible Senior Notes or to pay cash payable on future conversions of the 4.50% Convertible Senior Notes as required by such indenture would constitute a default under such indenture. A default under the indenture governing the 4.50% Convertible Senior Notes or the fundamental change itself could also lead to a default under agreements governing CUSA’s existing or future indebtedness. The conditional conversion feature of the 4.50% Convertible Senior Notes, if triggered, may adversely affect our financial condition and operating results. In the event the conditional conversion feature of the 4.50% Convertible Senior Notes is triggered, holders of the 4.50% Convertible Senior Notes will be entitled to convert the 4.50% Convertible Senior Notes at any time during specified periods at their option. If one or more holders elect to convert their 4.50% Convertible Senior Notes, Holdings may elect to satisfy its conversion obligations by payment and delivery of a combination of cash and shares of its common stock. Settlement of this conversion obligation through the payment of cash could adversely affect Holdings’ and CUSA’s liquidity. In addition, even if holders do not elect to convert their 4.50% Convertible Senior Notes, Holdings could be required under applicable accounting rules to reclassify all or a portion of the outstanding principal of the 4.50% Convertible Senior Notes as a current rather than long-term liability, which would result in a material reduction of its net working capital. Conversion of the 4.50% Convertible Senior Notes may dilute the ownership interest of existing stockholders, or may otherwise depress the price of Holdings’ common stock. The conversion of some or all of the 4.50% Convertible Senior Notes will dilute the ownership interests of existing stockholders to the extent Holdings delivers shares of its common stock upon conversion of any of the 4.50% Convertible Senior Notes. The 4.50% Convertible Senior Notes may from time to time in the future be convertible at the option of their holders prior to their scheduled terms under certain circumstances. Any sales in the public market of the common stock issuable upon such conversion could adversely affect prevailing market prices of its common stock. In addition, the existence of the 4.50% Convertible Senior Notes may encourage short selling by market participants because the conversion of the 4.50% Convertible Senior Notes could be used to satisfy short positions, or anticipated conversion of the 4.50% Convertible Senior Notes into shares of Holdings’ common stock could depress the price of Holdings’ common stock. The 4.50% Convertible Senior Notes Hedge Transactions and Warrant Transactions (each as defined below) may affect the value of Holdings’ common stock. In connection with the pricing of the 4.50% Convertible Senior Notes, Holdings entered into Hedge Transactions with, and sold Warrants (as defined below) to, Option Counterparties (as defined below). The Hedge Transactions are expected generally to reduce the potential dilution to Holdings’ common stock upon any conversion of the 4.50% Convertible Senior Notes and/or offset any cash payments Holdings is required to make in excess of the principal amount of converted 4.50% Convertible Senior Notes, as the case may be. The Warrants would separately have a dilutive effect to the extent that the market price per share of Holdings’ common stock exceeds the strike price of any Warrants on the applicable expiration dates unless, subject to the terms of the Warrants, Holdings elects to cash settle the Warrants. In addition, the Option Counterparties or their respective affiliates may modify their hedge positions by entering into or unwinding various derivatives with respect to Holdings’ common stock and/or purchasing or selling Holdings’ common stock or other securities of Holdings’ in secondary market transactions prior to the maturity of the 4.50% Convertible Senior Notes (and are likely to do so during any observation period related to a conversion of the 4.50% Convertible Senior Notes or following any repurchase of the 4.50% Convertible Senior Notes by us in connection with any fundamental change repurchase date or otherwise). This activity could also cause or avoid an increase or decrease in the market price of Holdings’ common stock. In addition, if any such Hedge Transactions and Warrants fail to become effective, the Option Counterparties or their respective affiliates may unwind their hedge positions with respect to Holdings’ common stock, which could adversely affect the market price of its common stock. The potential effect, if any, of these transactions and activities on the market price of Holdings’ common stock will depend in part on market conditions and cannot be ascertained at this time. Any of these activities could adversely affect the value of Holdings’ common stock. 15 Holdings is subject to counterparty risk with respect to the 4.50% Convertible Senior Notes Hedge Transactions. The Option Counterparties are financial institutions or affiliates of financial institutions, and Holdings will be subject to the risk that one or more of such Option Counterparties may default under the Hedge Transactions. Holdings’ exposure to the credit risk of the Option Counterparties will not be secured by any collateral. If any Option Counterparty becomes subject to insolvency proceedings, Holdings will become an unsecured creditor in those proceedings with a claim equal to its exposure at that time under its transactions with that counterparty. Holdings’ exposure will depend on many factors but, generally, the increase in Holdings’ exposure will be correlated to the increase in Holdings’ common stock market price and the volatility of the market price of Holdings’ common stock. In addition, upon a default by the Option Counterparty, Holdings may suffer adverse tax consequences and more dilution than it currently anticipates with respect to its common stock. Holdings can provide no assurance as to the financial stability or viability of any Option Counterparty. A credit market crisis may adversely affect our ability to raise capital and may materially impact our operations. Severe dislocations and liquidity disruptions in the credit markets could materially impact our ability to obtain debt financing on reasonable terms or at all. The inability to access debt financing on reasonable terms could materially impact our ability to make acquisitions, invest in technology innovations or significantly expand our business in the future. Holdings’ ability to pay dividends may be limited or otherwise restricted. Holdings’ ability to pay dividends is limited by its status as a holding company and the terms of CUSA’s senior notes indentures and CUSA’s senior secured credit facility, which restrict Holdings’ ability to pay dividends and the ability of certain of its subsidiaries to pay dividends, directly or indirectly, to Holdings. Under CUSA’s debt instruments, we may pay a cash dividend up to a specified amount, provided we have satisfied certain financial covenants in, and are not in default under, CUSA’s debt instruments. The declaration of future dividends on Holdings’ common stock, par value $0.001 per share, or Common Stock, will be at the discretion of Holdings’ board of directors and will depend upon many factors, including our results of operations, cash flows, financial condition, earnings, capital requirements, limitations in CUSA’s debt agreements and legal requirements. Holdings suspended its dividend in March 2020 due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and it is uncertain when Holdings will resume paying dividends. Future sales of Holdings’ common stock may adversely affect the prevailing market price. Future sales of substantial amounts of Holdings’ common stock in the open market and the issuance of the shares reserved for potential future issuance under Holdings’ incentive plan, in exchange for outstanding warrants, conversion of outstanding 4.50% Convertible Senior Notes, or in connection with acquisitions or other corporate events, will be dilutive to Holdings’ existing stockholders and could result in a decrease in Holdings’ stock price. Holdings cannot predict whether substantial amounts of its common stock will be sold in the open market in anticipation of, or following, any divestiture by any of its large stockholders, its directors or executive officers of their shares of common stock. Holdings can also issue shares of its common stock which are authorized but unissued and not reserved for any specific purpose without any action or approval by its stockholders. We may not be able to generate additional revenue or continue to realize value from our investment in NCMI. As of December 31, 2023, we owned 4.4 million shares of National Cinemedia, Inc. (“NCMI”), which represented an ownership interest in NCM of approximately 4.5%. NCMI is a holding company that serves as the sole manager of NCM. NCM comprises approximately the entire balance of NCMI’s assets, liabilities and operating cash flows. CUSA receives monthly theatre access and advertising fees under an Exhibitor Services Agreement with NCM, and CUSA is entitled to receive quarterly distributions of excess cash from NCM pursuant to NCM’s operating agreement. During the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, Holdings and CUSA each recorded approximately $44.1 million, $52.2 million and $53.3 million in other revenue related to NCM, respectively, and $0.3 million, $0 million and $0 million in cash distributions, respectively. On April 11, 2023, NCM filed a petition for reorganization under Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code. NCMI continued to manage NCM, the “debtor in possession,” under the jurisdiction of the bankruptcy court and in accordance with the applicable bankruptcy laws and orders of the bankruptcy court. In general, as debtor in possession under the Bankruptcy Code, NCM was authorized to continue to operate as an ongoing business but could not engage in transactions outside the ordinary course of business without the prior approval of the bankruptcy court. On August 3, 2023, NCMI announced that it had effected a 1-for-10 reverse stock split of its common stock. NCMI’s common stock automatically began trading 16 on a split adjusted basis at the opening of the market on August 4, 2023. After giving effect to the reverse stock split, the Company owns approximately 4.4 million shares of NCMI common stock. NCM emerged from bankruptcy on August 7, 2023, and the Company’s ownership interest in NCMI was reduced to less than 5%. Distributions of excess cash from NCM to its members, including NCMI, were restricted through December 2023 in accordance with the credit agreement amendment NCM entered into with its lenders and as a result of their bankruptcy filing. NCMI also suspended its dividend. Cinema advertising is a small component of the U.S. advertising market and therefore, NCM competes with larger, more established and well-known media platforms such as broadcast radio and television, cable and satellite television, outdoor advertising and Internet portals. In-theatre advertising may not continue to attract advertisers or NCM’s in-theatre advertising format may not continue to be received favorably by theatre patrons. If NCM is unable to continue to generate consistent advertising revenue, its results of operations may be adversely affected and our investment in NCM may be adversely impacted. Since NCM's revenues are primarily dependent on theatre attendance, future NCM revenues and future dividends from NCMI will depend on the continued recovery of the motion picture exhibition industry. Regulatory Risks We are subject to various government regulations which could result in substantial costs. We are subject to various federal, state and local laws, regulations and administrative practices in the U.S. and internationally. We must comply with laws regulating, among other things, antitrust activities, employment environment, sale of concession goods, alcoholic beverages, data protection and privacy and Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 ("ADA") and similar state disability rights laws. Compliance with the ADA and similar disability rights laws requires us as a public accommodation to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. This applies to the construction of new theatres, certain renovations, existing theatres, websites and mobile applications and presentations for the blind, deaf and hard of hearing. Changes in existing laws, regulations or administrative practices or new laws, regulations or administrative practices could have a significant impact on our business. We may face data protection, data security, and privacy risks in connection with privacy regulation. Strict data privacy laws regulating the collection, transmission, storage and use of employee data and consumers’ personally identifying information are evolving in the U.S. and other jurisdictions in which we operate. These laws impose compliance obligations for the collection, use, retention, security, processing, transfer and deletion of personally identifiable information of individuals and creates enhanced rights for individuals. These changes in the legal and regulatory environments in the areas of customer and employee privacy, data security, and cross-border data flows could have a material adverse effect on our business, primarily through the impairment of our marketing and transaction processing activities, the limitation on the types of information that we may collect, process and retain, the resulting costs of complying with such legal and regulatory requirements and potential monetary forfeitures and penalties for noncompliance. We may be subject to increased labor and benefits costs. In the U.S., we are subject to United States federal and state laws governing such matters as minimum wages, working conditions and overtime. We are also subject to union regulations in certain of our international markets, which can specify wage rates as well as minimum hours to be paid to certain employees. As federal and state minimum wage rates increase, we may need to increase not only the wages of our minimum wage employees, but also the wages paid to employees at wage rates that are above minimum wage. Labor market conditions have also recently driven increases in wages across our labor base and similar increases may continue in the future. Labor shortages, increased employee turnover and health care mandates could also increase our labor costs. This in turn could lead us to increase prices, which could impact our sales. Conversely, if competitive pressures or other factors prevent us from offsetting increased labor costs by increases in prices, our results of operations may be adversely impacted. 17 Provisions in Holdings’ corporate documents and certain of CUSA’s agreements, as well as Delaware law, may hinder a change of control. Provisions in the Holdings amended and restated certificate of incorporation and bylaws, as well as provisions of the Delaware General Corporation Law, could discourage unsolicited proposals to acquire us. These provisions include: • authorization of Holdings’ board of directors to issue shares of preferred stock without stockholder approval; • a board of directors classified into three classes of directors with the directors of each class having staggered, three-year terms; • provisions regulating the ability of Holdings’ stockholders to nominate directors for election or to bring matters for action at annual meetings of its stockholders; and • provisions of Delaware law that restrict many business combinations and provide that directors serving on classified boards of directors, may be removed only for cause. Certain provisions of CUSA’s 8.75% secured notes indenture, 5.25% senior notes indenture, CUSA’s 5.875% senior notes indenture and CUSA’s senior secured credit facility may have the effect of delaying or preventing future transactions involving a “change of control.” A “change of control” would require us to make an offer to the holders of each of its 8.75% Secured Notes, 5.25% Senior Notes and 5.875% Senior Notes to repurchase all of the outstanding notes at a purchase price equal to 101% of the aggregate principal amount outstanding plus accrued and unpaid interest to the date of purchase. A “change of control” would also be an event of default under CUSA’s senior secured credit facility. Risks Related to Information Security and Business Disruptions An information security incident, including a cyber security breach, and our failure to protect our electronically stored data could adversely affect our business or reputation. We collect, use, store and maintain electronic information and data necessary to conduct our business, including confidential and proprietary information of the company, our customers, and our employees. We also rely on the availability of information technology systems to operate our business, including for communications, receiving and displaying movies, ticketing, guest services, payments, and other general operations. We rely on some of our vendors to store and process certain data and to manage, host, and/or provide some of our information technology systems. Because of the scope and complexity of our information technology systems, our reliance on vendors to provide, support and protect our systems and data, and the constantly evolving cyber-threat landscape, our information technology systems are subject to the risk of disruption, failure, unauthorized access, cyber-terrorism, human error, misuse, tampering, theft, and other cyber-attacks. These or similar events, whether accidental or intentional, could result in theft, unauthorized access or disclosure, loss, fraudulent or unlawful use of customer, employee or company data, which could harm our reputation or result in a loss of business, as well as remedial and other costs, fines, investigations, enforcement actions or lawsuits. These or similar events could also lead to an interruption in the operation of our systems resulting in business impact, including loss of business. These same factors could also affect our ability to adapt to and comply with changing regulations and contractual obligations applicable to data security and privacy, which are increasingly demanding, both in the United States and in other jurisdictions where we operate. In order to address these risks, we have adopted security measures and technology, operate a security program, and work continuously to evaluate and improve our security posture. However, the development and maintenance of these systems and programs are costly and require ongoing monitoring and updating as technologies change and efforts to overcome security measures become more sophisticated. As such, there can be no assurance that these or similar events will not occur in the future or will not have an adverse effect on our business and results of operations. In addition to Company-specific cyber threats or events, our business and results of operations could also be impacted by cyber-related events affecting our peers and partners within the entertainment industry, as well as other retail companies. We maintain insurance designed to provide coverage for cyber risks related to what we believe to be adequate and collectible insurance in the event of the theft, loss, fraudulent or unlawful use of customer, employee or company data, but the foregoing events or future events could result in costs and business impacts which may not be covered or may be in excess of any available insurance that we may have procured. As a result, future events could have a material impact on our business and adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations. 18 Other General Risks A failure to adapt to future technological innovations could impact our ability to compete effectively and could adversely affect our results of operations. While we continue to invest in technological innovations, such as laser projectors and motion seats, new technological innovations continue to impact our industry. If we are unable to respond to or invest in changes in technology and the technological preferences of our customers, we may not be able to compete with other exhibitors or other entertainment venues, which could adversely affect our results of operations. Legislative or regulatory initiatives related to global warming/climate change concerns may negatively impact our business. Recently, there has been an increasing focus and continuous debate on global climate change including increased attention from regulatory agencies and legislative bodies. This increased focus may lead to new initiatives directed at regulating an as-yet unspecified array of environmental matters. Legislative, regulatory or other efforts in the U.S. to combat climate change could result in future increases in the cost of raw materials, taxes, transportation and utilities for our vendors and for us which would result in higher operating costs for the Company. Also, compliance of our theatres and accompanying real estate with new and revised environmental, zoning, land-use or building codes, laws, rules or regulations, could have a material and adverse effect on our business. However, we are unable to predict at this time, the potential effects, if any, that any future environmental initiatives may have on our business. We may be subject to liability under environmental laws and regulations. We own and operate a large number of theatres and other properties within the U.S. and internationally, which may be subject to various foreign, federal, state and local laws and regulations relating to the protection of the environment or human health. Such environmental laws and regulations include those that impose liability for the investigation and remediation of spills or releases of hazardous materials. We may incur such liability, including for any currently or formerly owned, leased or operated property, or for any site, to which we may have disposed, or arranged for the disposal of, hazardous materials or wastes. Certain of these laws and regulations may impose liability, including joint and several liability, which can result in a liable party being obliged to pay for greater than its share, regardless of fault or the legality of the original disposal. Environmental conditions relating to our properties or operations could have an adverse effect on our business and results of operations and cash flows. Product recalls and associated costs could adversely affect our reputation and financial condition. We may be found liable if the consumption of any of the products we sell causes illness or injury. We are also subject to recall by product manufacturers or if the food products become contaminated. Recalls could result in losses due to the cost of the recall, the destruction of the product and lost sales due to the unavailability of the product for a period of time. Item 1B. Unresolv ed Staff Comments None. Item 1C. Cybersecurity Risk Management and Strategy. The Company has developed an information security program to address material risks from cybersecurity threats. The program includes policies and procedures that identify how security measures and controls are developed, implemented, and maintained. Risk-based analysis and judgment, along with a recognized security framework, are used to select security controls to address risks. During this process, the following factors, among others, are considered: likelihood and severity of risk, impact on the Company and others if a risk materializes, feasibility and cost of controls, and impact of controls on operations and others. Specific controls that are used to some extent include endpoint threat detection and response (EDR), identity and access management (IAM), privileged access management (PAM), logging and monitoring involving the use of security information and event management (SIEM), multi-factor authentication (MFA), firewalls and intrusion detection and prevention, and vulnerability and patch management. Third-party security firms are used in different capacities to provide or operate some of these controls and technology systems, including cloud-based platforms and services, as well as a security operations center. For example, third parties are used to conduct assessments, such as vulnerability scans and penetration testing. The 19 Company uses a variety of processes to address cybersecurity threats related to the use of third-party technology and services, including pre-acquisition diligence, imposition of contractual obligations, and performance monitoring. The Company has a written incident response plan and conducts tabletop exercises to enhance incident response preparedness. Business continuity and disaster recovery plans are used to prepare for the potential for a disruption in technology we rely on. The Company is a member of an industry cybersecurity intelligence and risk sharing organization. Employees undergo security awareness training when hired and annually. The Company (or third parties it relies on) may not be able to fully, continuously, and effectively implement security controls as intended. As described above, we utilize a risk-based approach and judgment to determine the security controls to implement, and it is possible we may not implement appropriate controls if we do not recognize or underestimate a particular risk. In addition, security controls, no matter how well designed or implemented, may only mitigate and not fully eliminate risks. And events, when detected by security tools or third parties, may not always be immediately understood or acted upon. Additionally, in Item 1A Risk Factors , under the heading of Risk Related to Information Security and Business Disruptions, forward-looking cybersecurity threats that could have a material impact on the Company are discussed. Those sections of Item 1A Risk Factors should be read in conjunction with this Item 1C Cybersecurity . Governance . The Chief Technology Officer (CTO) is the management position with primary responsibility for the development, operation, and maintenance of our information security program. The Company’s CTO, Doug Fay, has served as the Chief Technology Officer & Sr. Vice President for Cinemark since August 2006. Mr. Fay has a background in software engineering and application architecture and has worked in the information technology field since the early 1990s. The CTO routinely reviews risks and security measures and meets monthly with the general counsel, CFO, and Global Controller to review security measures and risks. Oversight of the information security program at the Board level sits with Audit Committee. Presentations regarding security measures and risks to the Audit Committee occur semi-annually. The Company’s incident response plan defines the process for escalating incidents based on level of severity to the management team and Audit Committee. Item 2. Pr operties The following table sets forth a summary of our theatres in U.S. and international markets as of December 31, 2023: Leased Owned Segment Theatres Theatres U.S. 269 40 International 192 — Total 461 40 See also Item 1, Business – Theatre Operations , for a summary of the geographic locations for our U.S. and international theatre circuit as of December 31, 2023. The Company conducts a significant part of its theatre operations in leased properties under noncancelable operating and finance leases with base terms generally ranging from 10 to 25 years. In addition to fixed lease payments, some of the leases provide for variable lease payments and some require the payment of taxes, insurance, common area maintenance and other costs applicable to the property. Variable lease payments include payments based on a percentage of sales over defined thresholds. Other variable lease payments include payments adjusted periodically for inflation, changes in attendance or changes in average ticket price. The Company can renew, at its option, many of its leases at defined or then market rental rates for various renewal periods. Some leases also provide for escalating rent payments throughout the lease term. See Note 4 to the consolidated financial statements for further discussion of our leases. In addition to our theatre properties, we currently own an office building in Plano, Texas, which is our global headquarters. We lease office space in Frisco, Texas and a warehouse in McKinney, Texas. We also lease office space in seven regions in Latin America for our local office teams. 20 Item 3. Legal Proceedings For a discussion of contingencies related to legal proceedings, see Note 21 to the consolidated financial statements, which is hereby incorporated by reference. Item 4. Mine Safety Di sclosures Not applicable. 21 PART II