“East Asian satellite video demand remains strong” was the strong message in Hong Kong-based AsiaSat’s full-year results. Revenues were up 6.5 per cent on last year, and represents an extremely positive results when – seemingly – most other major satellite operators reported falling revenues.

AsiaSat reported 2018 revenue of 1.442 billion Hong Kong dollars ($184.1 million). Operating profit, at 658.9 million Hong Kong dollars, was up 2.7 per cent over 2017.

AsiaSat admits that overall headwinds still remain but the positive up-side more than offset those problems. AsiaSat is carrying 100 high-def channels, with the shift from SD to HD now very apparent.  The operator’s all-important ‘fill-rate’ was also up, at 72 per cent (69 per cent a year ago), with 131 transponders utilised.

“We believe that the demand for satellite transmission capacity will be outstripping net distribution capacity,” AsiaSat Chairman Gregory M. Zeluck said in a note to investors.

“International video distribution, including premium television channels from our global customers, has remained a key revenue driver,” Zeluck added. “Our video neighbourhoods and the value of our premier orbital locations continue to benefit from the demand of consumers hungry for live video content, which requires a highly scalable and reliable means of delivery. During 2018, the mega markets of China, India and Indonesia have continued to deliver solid revenue while demand for rural connectivity in Australia has generated additional returns. Meanwhile, international video distribution, including premium television channels from our global customers has remained a key revenue driver.”

Categories: Articles, Business, Results