Hasbro Announces Quarterly Cash Dividend on Common Shares

Hasbro Reports Revenue and Operating Profit Growth for the Third Quarter 2014

-Third quarter 2014 revenues increased 7% to $1.47 billion; Revenue grew in all major operating segments - the U.S. and Canada, International and Entertainment and Licensing segments; Emerging Markets revenues increased 29%

-Franchise Brand revenues grew 36%; All seven Franchise Brands increased revenues in the third quarter; Boys, Girls and Games category revenues increased;

-Adjusted operating profit increased 9%; Adjusted net earnings increased 9% to $187.8 million or $1.46 per diluted share; As reported, operating profit increased 44% and net earnings increased 43% to $180.5 million or $1.40 per diluted share;

-Repurchased 2.4 million shares of common stock at a total cost of $124.5 million and an average price of $52.56 per share.


PAWTUCKET, R.I.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Hasbro, Inc. (NASDAQ: HAS) today reported financial results for the third quarter 2014. Net revenues for the third quarter 2014 increased 7% to $1.47 billion compared to $1.37 billion in 2013. Foreign exchange had an unfavorable $10.8 million impact on third quarter revenues.

As reported net earnings for the third quarter 2014 were $180.5 million, or $1.40 per diluted share, compared to $126.6 million, or $0.96 per diluted share, in 2013. Adjusted net earnings for the third quarter 2014 were $187.8 million, or $1.46 per diluted share, excluding a pre-tax charge of $11.6 million, or $0.06 per diluted share, related to the restructuring of the Company's investment in the Hub Network joint venture.

In 2013, as reported net earnings for the third quarter included a pre-tax $75.5 million, or $0.50 per diluted share, charge related to an adverse arbitration award; pre-tax $4.1 million, or $0.03 per diluted share, of restructuring and partial pension settlement charges; and a $23.6 million, or $0.18 per diluted share, favorable tax adjustment. Excluding these items, adjusted net earnings for the third quarter 2013 were $172.5 million, or $1.31 per diluted share.

"Our third quarter results continued to reflect the momentum we are building in our franchise brands and key partner brands, the positive results of our investments globally and the benefits of leading with compelling content and storytelling," said Brian Goldner, Hasbro's President and Chief Executive Officer. "In the third quarter, we grew revenues across all operating segments, delivered improved profitability and took strategic steps to grow our brand portfolio and content delivery over the longer term, including forming a new strategic merchandising relationship with Disney Consumer Products for the globally popular Disney Princess and Frozen properties."

"Our third quarter results are indicative of Hasbro's strong financial and competitive position," said Deborah Thomas, Hasbro's Chief Financial Officer. "In this environment of growth and financial strength, we remain focused on improving profitability, returning cash to our shareholders and investing back into our business, through investments in innovation, systems and portfolio expansion across our blueprint."

Third Quarter 2014 Major Segment Performance

Net Revenues ($ Millions) Operating Profit ($ Millions)
Q3 2014 Q3 2013 % Change Q3 2014 Q3 2013 % Change
U.S. and Canada $764.3 $735.6 +4% $169.9 $147.0 +16%
International $649.3 $582.7 +11% $116.5 $105.7 +10%
Entertainment and Licensing $53.4 $48.6 +10% $0.5 $7.6 -94%

Note: Third Quarter 2014 charges related to the restructuring of the Company's investment in the Hub Network joint venture and third quarter 2013 restructuring and related pension settlement charges and arbitration award charges are in Corporate and Eliminations. See attached table: Restructuring of Equity Method Investment and Restructuring, Pension Settlement and Arbitration Award Charges.

U.S. and Canada segment net revenues increased 4% to $764.3 million compared to $735.6 million in 2013. The segment's results reflect growth in the Boys and the Games categories, partially offset by a decline in the Girls and Preschool categories. The U.S. and Canada segment reported operating profit growth of 16% to $169.9 million versus $147.0 million in 2013.

International segment net revenues increased 11% to $649.3 million compared to $582.7 million in 2013. Revenues grew 13% excluding a negative $9.7 million impact from foreign exchange. Revenues in the International segment reflect 7% growth in Europe, 24% growth in Latin America and 11% growth in the Asia Pacific region, as well as growth in the Boys, Girls and Preschool categories, partially offset by a decline in the Games category. In total, Emerging Markets revenues increased 29%. The International segment reported operating profit of $116.5 million, up 10% versus $105.7 million in 2013.

Entertainment and Licensing segment net revenues increased 10% to $53.4 million compared to $48.6 million in 2013. The segment benefited from growth in lifestyle licensing. The Entertainment and Licensing segment reported operating profit of $0.5 million compared to $7.6 million in 2013, primarily due to the impact of the acceleration of certain programming amortization costs.

Third Quarter and Nine Month 2014 Product Category Performance

Net Revenues ($ Millions)
Q3 2014 Q3 2013 % Change Nine Months 2014 Nine Months 2013 % Change
Boys $478.5 $392.0 +22% $1,062.1 $888.5 +20%
Games $395.2 $387.4 +2% $841.4 $873.8 -4%
Girls $407.7 $388.7 +5% $710.2 $652.9 +9%
Preschool $188.5 $202.2 -7% $364.8 $385.2 -5%

Boys category revenues increased 22% to $478.5 million in the third quarter 2014, behind growth in NERF, TRANSFORMERS, MARVEL and STAR WARS products.

Games category revenues increased 2% in the third quarter to $395.2 million. Franchise Brands MAGIC: THE GATHERING and MONOPOLY grew in the third quarter, as did SIMON SWIPE and OPERATION. These gains were partially offset by declines in several brands, including Telepods featuring the ANGRY BIRDS™ STAR WARS® II game, JENGA, BOP-IT and DUELMASTERS.

The Girls category grew 5% in the third quarter 2014 to $407.7 million. Growth in MY LITTLE PONY, MY LITTLE PONY EQUESTRIA GIRLS, NERF REBELLE, FURREAL FRIENDS, LITTLEST PET SHOP and the introduction of PLAY-DOH DOHVINCI helped fuel continued growth in the category. Declines in FURBY partially offset these revenue gains.

Preschool category revenues decreased 7% to $188.5 million in the third quarter 2014. PLAY-DOH and TRANSFORMERS RESCUE BOTS revenues continued to grow but were more than offset by declines in other Preschool initiatives, including core PLAYSKOOL and SESAME STREET products.

Dividend and Share Repurchase

The Company paid $54.7 million in cash dividends to shareholders during the third quarter 2014 and $162.8 million in the first nine months of 2014. The next quarterly cash dividend payment of $0.43 per common share is payable on November 17, 2014 to shareholders of record at the close of business on November 3, 2014.

During the third quarter, Hasbro repurchased a total of 2.4 million shares of common stock at a total cost of $124.5 million and an average price of $52.56 per share. Through the first nine months of 2014, the Company repurchased 6.4 million shares of common stock at a total cost of $341.3 million and an average price of $53.57 per share. At quarter-end, $183.6 million remained available in the current share repurchase authorization.

Hub Network Joint Venture

On September 25, Hasbro and Discovery Communications announced Hub Network would become Discovery Family Channel effective October 13, 2014. The network will broaden its programming focus to serve families in primetime and continue to showcase Hasbro Studios award-winning children's content in daytime.

As a result of restructuring the Company's investment in the Hub Network joint venture, the Company recorded a pre-tax charge of $11.6 million, or $0.06 per diluted share, in the third quarter 2014. This net charge is primarily related to the costs associated with recording the fair value of a put/call option exercisable at the end of 2021 that the Company and Discovery entered into related to this transaction.

Conference Call Webcast

Hasbro will webcast its third quarter 2014 earnings conference call at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time today. To listen to the live webcast and access the accompanying presentation slides, please go to http://investor.hasbro.com. The replay of the call will be available on Hasbro's web site approximately 2 hours following completion of the call.

About Hasbro, Inc.

Hasbro, Inc. (NASDAQ: HAS) is a branded play company dedicated to fulfilling the fundamental need for play for children and families through the creative expression of the Company's world class brand portfolio, including TRANSFORMERS, MONOPOLY, PLAY-DOH, MY LITTLE PONY, MAGIC: THE GATHERING, NERF and LITTLEST PET SHOP. From toys and games, to television programming, motion pictures, digital gaming and a comprehensive licensing program, Hasbro strives to delight its global customers with innovative play and entertainment experiences, in a variety of forms and formats, anytime and anywhere. The Company's Hasbro Studios is responsible for entertainment brand-driven storytelling around Hasbro brands across television, film, commercial productions and short-form. Through the Company's deep commitment to corporate social responsibility, including philanthropy, Hasbro is helping to build a safe and sustainable world for future generations and to positively impact the lives of millions of children and families every year. It has been recognized for its efforts by being named one of the "World's Most Ethical Companies" and is ranked as one of Corporate Responsibility Magazine's "100 Best Corporate Citizens." Learn more at http://www.hasbro.com.

© 2014 Hasbro, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Certain statements in this release contain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements include expectations concerning the Company's potential performance in the future, including with respect to anticipated future benefits from investments in the Company's business and strategic efforts to grow the Company's brand portfolio and content delivery over the longer-term, and the Company's ability to achieve its other financial and business goals and may be identified by the use of forward-looking words or phrases. The Company's actual actions or results may differ materially from those expected or anticipated in the forward-looking statements due to both known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Specific factors that might cause such a difference include, but are not limited to: (i) the Company's ability to design, develop, produce, manufacture, source and ship products on a timely and cost-effective basis, as well as interest in and purchase of those products by retail customers and consumers in quantities and at prices that will be sufficient to profitably recover the Company's costs; (ii) downturns in economic conditions affecting the Company's markets which can negatively impact the Company's retail customers and consumers, and which can result in lower employment levels, lower consumer disposable income and spending, including lower spending on purchases of the Company's products; (iii) other factors which can lower discretionary consumer spending, such as higher costs for fuel and food, drops in the value of homes or other consumer assets, and high levels of consumer debt; (iv) potential difficulties or delays the Company may experience in implementing cost savings and efficiency enhancing initiatives; (v) other economic and public health conditions or regulatory changes in the markets in which the Company and its customers and suppliers operate which could create delays or increase the Company's costs, such as higher commodity prices, labor costs or transportation costs, or outbreaks of disease; (vi) currency fluctuations, including movements in foreign exchange rates, which can lower the Company's net revenues and earnings, and significantly impact the Company's costs; (vii) the concentration of the Company's customers, potentially increasing the negative impact to the Company of difficulties experienced by any of the Company's customers or changes in their purchasing or selling patterns; (viii) consumer interest in and acceptance of the Discovery Family Channel, and programming created by Hasbro Studios, and other factors impacting the financial performance of the network and Hasbro Studios; (ix) the inventory policies of the Company's retail customers, including retailers' potential decisions to lower their inventories, even if it results in lost sales, as well as the concentration of the Company's revenues in the second half and fourth quarter of the year, which coupled with reliance by retailers on quick response inventory management techniques increases the risk of underproduction of popular items, overproduction of less popular items and failure to achieve compressed shipping schedules; (x) delays, increased costs or difficulties associated with any of our or our partners' planned digital applications or media initiatives; (xi) work disruptions, which may impact the Company's ability to manufacture or deliver product in a timely and cost-effective manner; (xii) the bankruptcy or other lack of success of one of the Company's significant retailers which could negatively impact the Company's revenues or bad debt exposure; (xiii) the impact of competition on revenues, margins and other aspects of the Company's business, including the ability to offer Company products which consumers choose to buy instead of competitive products, the ability to secure, maintain and renew popular licenses and the ability to attract and retain talented employees; (xiv) concentration of manufacturing for many of the Company's products in the People's Republic of China and the associated impact to the Company of social, economic or public health conditions and other factors affecting China, the movement of products into and out of China, the cost of producing products in China and exporting them to other countries; (xv) the risk of product recalls or product liability suits and costs associated with product safety regulations; (xvi) the impact of other market conditions, third party actions or approvals and competition which could reduce demand for the Company's products or delay or increase the cost of implementation of the Company's programs or alter the Company's actions and reduce actual results; (xvii) the impact of litigation or arbitration decisions or settlement actions; and (xviii) other risks and uncertainties as may be detailed from time to time in the Company's public announcements and Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") filings. The Company undertakes no obligation to make any revisions to the forward-looking statements contained in this release or to update them to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this release.

This press release includes a non-GAAP financial measure as defined under SEC rules, specifically EBITDA. EBITDA represents net earnings attributable to Hasbro, Inc. excluding net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests, interest expense, income taxes, depreciation and amortization. As required by SEC rules, we have provided reconciliation on the attached schedule of this measure to the most directly comparable GAAP measure. Management believes that EBITDA is one of the appropriate measures for evaluating the operating performance of the Company because it reflects the resources available for strategic opportunities including, among others, to invest in the business, strengthen the balance sheet, and make strategic acquisitions. However, this measure should be considered in addition to, not as a substitute for, or superior to, net earnings or other measures of financial performance prepared in accordance with GAAP as more fully discussed in the Company's financial statements and filings with the SEC. As used herein, "GAAP" refers to accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

The press release also includes the Company's costs and expenses, operating profit, net earnings and diluted earnings per share excluding the impact of the restructuring of the Company's investment in the HUB Network joint venture in 2014 and the impact of an adverse arbitration award, restructuring and related pension charges, and certain favorable tax adjustments in 2013. Management believes that presenting this data excluding these charges and tax adjustments assists investors in understanding the performance of the Company's underlying business and the results of operations.

BERSEKAEL wrote:I believe this positive numbers are due to figures like "skyfire" and some other toys that have nothing to do with AoE... AoE toys are expensive crap.

Probable the best of the 4 movies, but the worst toy line...

PAWTUCKET, R.I.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Hasbro, Inc. (NASDAQ: HAS) today announced that its Board of Directors has declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.43 per common share. The dividend will be payable on February 17, 2015 to shareholders of record at the close of business on February 3, 2015.

About Hasbro

Hasbro, Inc. (NASDAQ: HAS) is a branded play company dedicated to fulfilling the fundamental need for play for children and families through the creative expression of the Company's world class brand portfolio, including TRANSFORMERS, MONOPOLY, PLAY-DOH, MY LITTLE PONY, MAGIC: THE GATHERING, NERF and LITTLEST PET SHOP. From toys and games, to television programming, motion pictures, digital gaming and a comprehensive licensing program, Hasbro strives to delight its global customers with innovative play and entertainment experiences, in a variety of forms and formats, anytime and anywhere. The Company's Hasbro Studios is responsible for entertainment brand-driven storytelling around Hasbro brands across television, film, commercial productions, and short-form. Through the company's deep commitment to corporate social responsibility, including philanthropy, Hasbro is helping to build a safe and sustainable world for future generations and to positively impact the lives of millions of children and families every year. It has been recognized for its efforts by being named one of the "World's Most Ethical Companies" and is ranked as one of Corporate Responsibility Magazine's "100 Best Corporate Citizens." Learn more at www.hasbro.com and follow us on Twitter (@Hasbro).

© 2014 Hasbro, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

HAS-D



Hasbro, Inc.
Investor Contact:
Debbie Hancock, 401-727-5401
debbie.hancock@hasbro.com
or
Press Contact:
Julie Duffy, 401-727-5931
julie.duffy@hasbro.com

Source: Hasbro, Inc.

Full-year 2014 Boys category revenues increased 20% to $1.48 billion. Growth in TRANSFORMERS, NERF and MARVEL properties more than offset declines in BEYBLADE.

Games category revenues declined 4% for the year to $1.26 billion. Growth in Franchise Brands MAGIC: THE GATHERING and MONOPOLY, as well as SIMON and THE GAME OF LIFE in 2014, was offset by declines in DUEL MASTERS, TWISTER and ANGRY BIRDS games.

2014 Girls category revenues grew 2% to $1.02 billion. Revenue growth in MY LITTLE PONY, MY LITTLE PONY EQUESTRIA GIRLS, NERF REBELLE and the introduction of PLAY-DOH DOHVINCI offset declines in FURBY.

Preschool category revenues decreased 4% to $510.8 million for the full-year 2014. PLAY-DOH and TRANSFORMERS RESCUE BOTS revenue growth was more than offset by declines in other Preschool initiatives, including core PLAYSKOOL and SESAME STREET products.

Hasbro Reports Revenue, Operating Profit and Net Earnings Growth for Full Year 2014

2014 full-year net revenues increased 5% to $4.28 billion compared to 2013 revenues of $4.08 billion; Absent a negative $93.4 million impact of Foreign Exchange, 2014 net revenues grew 7%;
2014 revenues grew in all major operating segments: U.S. and Canada, International and Entertainment and Licensing; Emerging Markets revenues increased 20%;
Franchise Brand revenues grew 31% for full-year 2014; Boys and Girls category revenues increased;
2014 adjusted operating profit increased 7%; Adjusted net earnings increased 10% to $408.7 million or $3.15 per diluted share; As reported, operating profit increased 36% and net earnings increased 45% to $415.9 million or $3.20 per diluted share;
Company Board of Directors raises quarterly dividend 7% or $0.03 per share to $0.46 per share;
Board authorizes additional $500 million in share repurchase authorization;
In 2014 Hasbro returned $677.6 million of cash to shareholders through $216.9 million in dividend payments and $460.7 million for the repurchase of 8.5 million shares of common stock. Cash at year end 2014 was $893.2 million.
PAWTUCKET, R.I.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Hasbro, Inc. (NASDAQ: HAS) today reported financial results for the full year and fourth quarter 2014. Net revenues for the full-year 2014 increased 5% to $4.28 billion compared to $4.08 billion in 2013. Excluding a negative $93.4 million impact from foreign exchange, 2014 revenues increased 7%.

As reported net earnings for the full-year 2014 were $415.9 million, or $3.20 per diluted share, compared to $286.2 million, or $2.17 per diluted share, in 2013. Adjusted net earnings for the full-year 2014 were $408.7 million, or $3.15 per diluted share. Adjusted net earnings exclude pre-tax charges of $28.3 million associated with restructuring of the Company's joint venture television network and $5.2 million associated with other restructuring activities which were more than offset by a pre-tax benefit of $36.0 million from the sale of licensed rights for intellectual property and $6.6 million in favorable tax adjustments related to tax exam settlements.

Net earnings for the full-year 2013 include pre-tax charges of $36.7 million associated with restructuring, $7.0 million of related pension costs, $61.1 million associated with the settlement of an adverse arbitration award, $40.6 million of charges related to certain non-strategic brands as well as a $23.6 million favorable tax adjustment. Excluding these items, 2013 adjusted net earnings were $372.4 million, or $2.83 per diluted share.

"2014 was a good year for Hasbro. We grew revenues, profitability and returned significant capital to our shareholders," said Brian Goldner, Hasbro's President and Chief Executive Officer. "These results highlight the power of building innovative brand experiences based firmly in global consumer insights and supported by compelling stories. Investments in our brand blueprint are unlocking value in our brand portfolio and we begin 2015 well positioned to capitalize on our efforts in ‘Creating the World's Best Play Experiences.'"

"The underlying strength of Hasbro's brands and financials enabled us to grow revenues and earnings despite a significant fourth quarter negative impact from foreign exchange," said Deborah Thomas, Hasbro's Chief Financial Officer. "In 2014, foreign exchange had a $93 million negative impact on revenues and approximately a $25 million negative impact on net earnings. Despite this, our focus on profitable growth delivered our highest operating profit margin in recent years, while generating $454 million in operating cash flow. In 2015, we have tremendous brand initiatives and entertainment upon which to capitalize, but anticipate foreign exchange will remain a significant headwind throughout the year."

Fourth Quarter 2014 Financial Results

For the fourth quarter 2014, net revenues increased 1% to $1.30 billion versus $1.28 billion in 2013. Excluding a negative $75.4 million impact from foreign exchange, fourth quarter 2014 revenues increased 7%.

As reported net earnings for the fourth quarter 2014 were $169.9 million, or $1.34 per diluted share, compared to $129.8 million, or $0.98 per diluted share, in 2013. Adjusted net earnings for the fourth quarter were $154.9 million, or $1.22 per diluted share. Adjusted net earnings exclude pre-tax charges of $16.8 million associated with restructuring of the Company's joint venture television network and $5.2 million associated with other restructuring activities which were more than offset by a pre-tax benefit of $36.0 million from the sale of licensed rights for intellectual property and $6.9 million in favorable tax adjustments related to tax exam settlements.

Fourth quarter 2013 as reported net earnings included pre-tax charges of $48.8 million associated with restructuring and related pension costs and product-related charges, and a benefit of $15.4 million related to the settlement of an adverse arbitration award for less than the previously recorded charge. Excluding these items, as adjusted fourth quarter 2013 net earnings were $148.8 million, or $1.12 per diluted share.

Full-Year 2014 Major Segment Performance

Net Revenues ($ Millions) Operating Profit ($ Millions)
FY 2014 FY 2013 % Change FY 2014 FY 2013 % Change
U.S. and Canada $ 2,022.4 $ 2,006.1 +1 % $ 334.7 $ 313.7 +7 %
International $ 2,023.0 $ 1,873.0 +8 % $ 270.5 $ 235.5 +15 %
Entertainment and Licensing $ 219.5 $ 191.0 +15 % $ 60.6 $ 45.5 +33 %

Note: The impact on full-year 2014 and 2013 segment operating profit from restructuring of equity method investment and restructuring, pension curtailment and settlement, product-related and arbitration award settlement charges is outlined in the attached table: Restructuring of Equity Method Investment and Restructuring, Pension Curtailment and Settlement, Product-related and Arbitration Award Settlement Charges - by Segment.

Full-year 2014 U.S. and Canada segment net revenues increased 1% to $2.02 billion compared to $2.01 billion in 2013. Growth in the Boys category offset declines in the Girls, Games and Preschool categories. The U.S. and Canada segment reported operating profit growth of 7% to $334.7 million, or 16.5% of revenues, compared to $313.7 million, or 15.6% of revenues, in 2013.

International segment net revenues increased 8% to $2.02 billion compared to $1.87 billion in 2013. Revenues grew 13% excluding a negative $87.7 million impact from foreign exchange. Revenues in the International segment reflect 6% growth in Europe, 14% growth in Latin America and 10% growth in the Asia Pacific region, as well as growth in the Boys, Girls and Preschool categories, partially offset by a decline in the Games category. In total, Emerging Markets revenues increased 20% to $689.8 million. The International segment reported operating profit growth of 15% to $270.5 million, or 13.4% of revenues, compared to $235.5 million, or 12.6% of revenues, in 2013.

Entertainment and Licensing segment net revenues increased 15% to $219.5 million compared to $191.0 million in 2013. The segment primarily benefited from growth in lifestyle licensing globally. The Entertainment and Licensing segment reported 33% operating profit growth to $60.6 million, or 27.6% of revenues, compared to $45.5 million, or 23.8% of revenues, in 2013.

Fourth Quarter and Full-Year 2014 Product Category Performance

Net Revenues ($ Millions)
Q4 2014 Q4 2013 % Change FY 2014 FY 2013 % Change
Boys $421.9 $349.1 +21% $1,484.0 $1,237.6 +20%
Games $418.3 $437.4 -4% $1,259.8 $1,311.2 -4%
Girls $312.4 $348.8 -10% $1,022.6 $1,001.7 +2%
Preschool $146.0 $146.4 -- $510.8 $531.6 -4%

Full-year 2014 Boys category revenues increased 20% to $1.48 billion. Growth in TRANSFORMERS, NERF and MARVEL properties more than offset declines in BEYBLADE.

Games category revenues declined 4% for the year to $1.26 billion. Growth in Franchise Brands MAGIC: THE GATHERING and MONOPOLY, as well as SIMON and THE GAME OF LIFE in 2014, was offset by declines in DUEL MASTERS, TWISTER and ANGRY BIRDS games.

2014 Girls category revenues grew 2% to $1.02 billion. Revenue growth in MY LITTLE PONY, MY LITTLE PONY EQUESTRIA GIRLS, NERF REBELLE and the introduction of PLAY-DOH DOHVINCI offset declines in FURBY.

Preschool category revenues decreased 4% to $510.8 million for the full-year 2014. PLAY-DOH and TRANSFORMERS RESCUE BOTS revenue growth was more than offset by declines in other Preschool initiatives, including core PLAYSKOOL and SESAME STREET products.

Dividend and Share Repurchase

In 2014, Hasbro returned $677.6 million to shareholders including $216.9 million in cash dividends. Hasbro's Board of Directors has declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.46 per common share. This represents an increase of $0.03 per share, or 7%, from the previous quarterly dividend of $0.43 per common share. The dividend will be payable on May 15, 2015 to shareholders of record at the close of business on May 1, 2015.

In addition, the Board of Directors has authorized the Company to repurchase an additional $500 million of its common stock. At year-end, $64.2 million remained available in the current share repurchase authorization. In 2014, Hasbro repurchased 8.5 million shares at a total cost of $460.7 million and an average price of $54.26 per share.

Conference Call Webcast

Hasbro will webcast its fourth quarter and full-year 2014 earnings conference call at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time today. To listen to the live webcast and access the accompanying presentation slides, please go to http://investor.hasbro.com. The replay of the call will be available on Hasbro's web site approximately 2 hours following completion of the call.

About Hasbro

Hasbro (NASDAQ: HAS) is a global company committed to Creating the World's Best Play Experiences, by leveraging its beloved brands, including LITTLEST PET SHOP, MAGIC: THE GATHERING, MONOPOLY, MY LITTLE PONY, NERF, PLAY-DOH and TRANSFORMERS and premier partner brands. From toys and games, television programming, motion pictures, digital gaming and a comprehensive lifestyle licensing program, Hasbro fulfills the fundamental need for play and connection for children and families around the world. The Company's Hasbro Studios creates entertainment brand-driven storytelling across mediums, including television, film and more. Through the Company's commitment to corporate social responsibility, including philanthropy, Hasbro is helping to build a safe and sustainable world and to positively impact the lives of millions of children and families every year. Learn more at http://www.hasbro.com and follow us on Twitter (@Hasbro & @HasbroNews).

© 2015 Hasbro, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Certain statements in this release contain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements include expectations concerning the Company's potential performance in the future, including with respect to anticipated future benefits from investments in the Company's business and strategic efforts to grow the Company's brand portfolio and content delivery over the longer-term, and the Company's ability to achieve its other financial and business goals and may be identified by the use of forward-looking words or phrases. The Company's actual actions or results may differ materially from those expected or anticipated in the forward-looking statements due to both known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Specific factors that might cause such a difference include, but are not limited to: (i) the Company's ability to design, develop, produce, manufacture, source and ship products on a timely and cost-effective basis, as well as interest in and purchase of those products by retail customers and consumers in quantities and at prices that will be sufficient to profitably recover the Company's costs; (ii) downturns in economic conditions affecting the Company's markets which can negatively impact the Company's retail customers and consumers, and which can result in lower employment levels, lower consumer disposable income and spending, including lower spending on purchases of the Company's products; (iii) other factors which can lower discretionary consumer spending, such as higher costs for fuel and food, drops in the value of homes or other consumer assets, and high levels of consumer debt; (iv) potential difficulties or delays the Company may experience in implementing cost savings and efficiency enhancing initiatives; (v) other economic and public health conditions or regulatory changes in the markets in which the Company and its customers and suppliers operate which could create delays or increase the Company's costs, such as higher commodity prices, labor costs or transportation costs, or outbreaks of disease; (vi) currency fluctuations, including movements in foreign exchange rates, which can lower the Company's net revenues and earnings, and significantly impact the Company's costs; (vii) the concentration of the Company's customers, potentially increasing the negative impact to the Company of difficulties experienced by any of the Company's customers or changes in their purchasing or selling patterns; (viii) consumer interest in and acceptance of the Discovery Family Channel, and programming created by Hasbro Studios, and other factors impacting the financial performance of the network and Hasbro Studios; (ix) the inventory policies of the Company's retail customers, including retailers' potential decisions to lower their inventories, even if it results in lost sales, as well as the concentration of the Company's revenues in the second half and fourth quarter of the year, which coupled with reliance by retailers on quick response inventory management techniques increases the risk of underproduction of popular items, overproduction of less popular items and failure to achieve compressed shipping schedules; (x) delays, increased costs or difficulties associated with any of our or our partners' planned digital applications or media initiatives; (xi) work disruptions, which may impact the Company's ability to manufacture or deliver product in a timely and cost-effective manner; (xii) the bankruptcy or other lack of success of one of the Company's significant retailers which could negatively impact the Company's revenues or bad debt exposure; (xiii) the impact of competition on revenues, margins and other aspects of the Company's business, including the ability to offer Company products which consumers choose to buy instead of competitive products, the ability to secure, maintain and renew popular licenses and the ability to attract and retain talented employees; (xiv) concentration of manufacturing for many of the Company's products in the People's Republic of China and the associated impact to the Company of social, economic or public health conditions and other factors affecting China, the movement of products into and out of China, the cost of producing products in China and exporting them to other countries; (xv) the risk of product recalls or product liability suits and costs associated with product safety regulations; (xvi) the impact of other market conditions, third party actions or approvals and competition which could reduce demand for the Company's products or delay or increase the cost of implementation of the Company's programs or alter the Company's actions and reduce actual results; (xvii) the impact of litigation or arbitration decisions or settlement actions; and (xviii) other risks and uncertainties as may be detailed from time to time in the Company's public announcements and Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") filings. The Company undertakes no obligation to make any revisions to the forward-looking statements contained in this release or to update them to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this release.

This press release includes a non-GAAP financial measure as defined under SEC rules, specifically EBITDA. EBITDA represents net earnings attributable to Hasbro, Inc. excluding net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests, interest expense, income taxes, depreciation and amortization. As required by SEC rules, we have provided reconciliation on the attached schedule of this measure to the most directly comparable GAAP measure. Management believes that EBITDA is one of the appropriate measures for evaluating the operating performance of the Company because it reflects the resources available for strategic opportunities including, among others, to invest in the business, strengthen the balance sheet, and make strategic acquisitions. However, this measure should be considered in addition to, not as a substitute for, or superior to, net earnings or other measures of financial performance prepared in accordance with GAAP as more fully discussed in the Company's financial statements and filings with the SEC. As used herein, "GAAP" refers to accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

The press release also includes the Company's costs and expenses, operating profit, net earnings and diluted earnings per share excluding the impact of charges related to the restructuring of the Company's investment in the Hub Network joint venture in 2014, charges related to restructuring activities in both 2014 and 2013, restructuring related pension charges in 2013, product-related charges in 2013 from brands which the Company exited or have reduced expectations, charges related to the settlement of an adverse arbitration award in 2013, a gain on sale of intellectual property license rights in 2014, and certain favorable tax adjustments in both 2014 and 2013 related to the settlement of tax examinations. Management believes that presenting this data excluding these charges, benefits and tax adjustments assists investors in understanding the performance of the Company's underlying business and the results of operations.

Hasbro Reports Revenue and Operating Profit Growth for the First Quarter 2015

* First quarter 2015 revenues grew 5% to $713.5 million; Absent a negative $62.6 million impact of foreign exchange, first quarter 2015 revenues grew 14%

* Revenue and operating profit grew in the U.S. and Canada and Entertainment and Licensing Segments; International segment revenues increased 20% absent foreign exchange

* Franchise Brand revenues grew 20%; Boys, Games and Preschool category revenues increased in the quarter

* Operating profit increased 25%; Net earnings of $26.7 million or $0.21 per diluted share; Net earnings increased 43% excluding $13.5 million, or $0.10 per diluted share, of favorable tax adjustments in the first quarter 2014


*Generated $315.3 million in operating cash flow; $1.1 billion in cash at quarter end

*Repurchased approximately 436,000 shares of common stock at a total cost of $25.2 million and an average price of $57.80 per share.


PAWTUCKET, R.I.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Hasbro, Inc. (NASDAQ: HAS) today reported financial results for the first quarter 2015. Net revenues for the first quarter 2015 increased 5% to $713.5 million versus $679.5 million in 2014. Excluding a negative $62.6 million impact from foreign exchange, revenues increased 14%.

Net earnings for the first quarter 2015 were $26.7 million, or $0.21 per diluted share, compared to $32.1 million, or $0.24 per diluted share, in 2014. Net earnings for the first quarter 2015 increased 43% versus adjusted net earnings of $18.6 million, or $0.14 per diluted share, in 2014. As reported first quarter 2014 net earnings included favorable tax adjustments of $13.5 million or $0.10 per diluted share.

"2015 is off to a good start with continued momentum in our business, led by growth in all of our Franchise Brands and the underlying strength in demand across international markets, including the emerging markets," said Brian Goldner, Hasbro's President and Chief Executive Officer. "For the first quarter, we grew revenue, improved profitability and delivered growth in adjusted net earnings despite significant foreign exchange headwinds. While the first quarter is the least significant quarter of the year, the global Hasbro team delivered a strong start to the year."

"Our first quarter results highlighted the strength of our brands, our global reach and our balance sheet," said Deborah Thomas, Hasbro's Chief Financial Officer. "Foreign exchange did negatively impact both revenues and earnings in the quarter; however, several factors helped mitigate the negative impact to profitability. These included the continued momentum in our Franchise Brands, the benefit of favorable foreign exchange product cost hedges and a larger contribution of higher-margin Entertainment and Licensing revenues. Our first quarter results keep us on track to achieve our previously stated targets."

Shockwave7 wrote:That's what can happen, Hasbro - when you stop making crappy stuff like the AoE line and put out stuff that people will actually BUY, like the CW line....

Deathsaurus1 wrote:At my local toysrus, all deluxes are $19.99. Aoe voyagers are $29.99, while Combiner wars voyagers are $24.99.
I am really worried about the masterpiece releases this year. I hope mp bluestreak isn't $90+

Everywhere else, deluxes are $14.99 and voyagers $24.99

The quality of combiner wars figures isn't that great either.The plastic they are made of is fine but the damn loose joints really bug me.

Good to see hasbro is making profit though

Slashercon wrote:

Deathsaurus1 wrote:At my local toysrus, all deluxes are $19.99. Aoe voyagers are $29.99, while Combiner wars voyagers are $24.99.
I am really worried about the masterpiece releases this year. I hope mp bluestreak isn't $90+

Everywhere else, deluxes are $14.99 and voyagers $24.99

The quality of combiner wars figures isn't that great either.The plastic they are made of is fine but the damn loose joints really bug me.

Good to see hasbro is making profit though

My Toys R Us still has previous Generations figures (and I when I mean figures, I mean Rattrap) that are $12.99, but the Generations figures are also $19.99. The huge gap in prices is insane. The Voyagers are also like yours in that the AOE voyagers are $30.00 while the combiner War are $24.99.

At Kmart, the Combiner wars deluxes are $17.99 though. At least at Walmart and Target they're $14.99.

It's also worth noting that of the three figures I have from the line, none suffer from severly loose joints. It sadly might be your batch of figures.

Sure. Our plan right now with the studio and film makers, you may have read something about some writers being hired. We have in fact brought in a to lead a group of writers to really create a strategic plan around Transformers many we think there's any number of stories to be told. It's a brand that's been around for 30 years with amazing Cannon and mythology. We would expect the sequel to transformer movie to happen in 2017.

shockblast2 wrote:Would anyone else care to argue with the FACT that corporate greed and shareholder dividends are not the reason for insane price increases with the Transformers brand since 2007?

Or are you sticking with the material price BS that they use to rebuff anyone who asks? I can tell you first hand that is a LIE. Why? Because I run the AP department of one of the worlds largest plastics injection molders and I have been doing so for almost ten years. I see the prices of EVERYTHING that comes in and out of this facility. And resin has not increased much, and in some cases has went down, since 2010. Let alone mold costs or salaries for the average engineer or CAD design tech.

So, tell us another lie Hasbro.......

mooncake623 wrote:
What are you talking about? How did Hasbro lie to you?

mooncake623 wrote:

shockblast2 wrote:Would anyone else care to argue with the FACT that corporate greed and shareholder dividends are not the reason for insane price increases with the Transformers brand since 2007?

Or are you sticking with the material price BS that they use to rebuff anyone who asks? I can tell you first hand that is a LIE. Why? Because I run the AP department of one of the worlds largest plastics injection molders and I have been doing so for almost ten years. I see the prices of EVERYTHING that comes in and out of this facility. And resin has not increased much, and in some cases has went down, since 2010. Let alone mold costs or salaries for the average engineer or CAD design tech.

So, tell us another lie Hasbro.......

What are you talking about? How did Hasbro lie to you?

Shockwave7 wrote:Eeeechh - another bayverse nightmare? And another three quarters or so of Bumblebee repaints clotting store shelves with no one buying, and Hasbro blaming US for not wanting that garbage....

shockblast2 wrote:Well, their price increase was about 5%, so why is this a revelation?

Keep this up and by 2020 we will be paying 19.99 for a deluxe, just so we can have the honor of lining the pockets of the upper management of Hasbro.