Dolphin ENT | 8-K: FY2026 Q1 Revenue Misses Estimate at USD 12.8 M

Revenue: As of FY2026 Q1, the actual value is USD 12.8 M, missing the estimate of USD 13.56 M.

EPS: As of FY2026 Q1, the actual value is USD -0.22.

EBIT: As of FY2026 Q1, the actual value is USD -1.588 M.

Revenue

Dolphin Entertainment, Inc. reported total revenue of $12.8 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026, marking a 5.2% increase year-over-year from $12.2 million in Q1 2025.

Operating Loss

The operating loss for Q1 2026 was -$2.1 million, compared to an operating loss of -$1.8 million for Q1 2025.

Operating Expenses

Operating expenses for Q1 2026 totaled $14.9 million, including non-cash depreciation and amortization expenses of $0.5 million, a one-time non-recurring distribution guarantee of $0.7 million, and approximately $0.2 million in higher legal and professional fees due to litigation costs. In Q1 2025, operating expenses were $13.9 million, which included $0.6 million for depreciation and amortization and approximately $0.4 million for acquisition costs.

Net Loss

Net loss for Q1 2026 was -$2.7 million, compared to a net loss of -$2.3 million for Q1 2025.

Adjusted EBITDA Loss

Adjusted EBITDA loss for Q1 2026 was approximately -$467,000, representing a 25% improvement compared to approximately -$625,000 in Q1 2025.

Unique Metrics

Dolphin Entertainment, Inc. holds $127 million in Net Operating Loss (NOL) carryforwards.

Outlook / Guidance

Dolphin Entertainment, Inc. reiterates expectations for continued revenue growth, significant free cash flow generation, and Adjusted EBITDA margin expansion in 2026. The company anticipates increased earnings from catalysts such as its DealMaker partnership, a new publishing imprint venture with Copper Books and Simon & Schuster, and future savings from bank debt maturity and lease expirations. Management expects these combined savings, along with NOLs that shield from cash taxes, to directly flow to the bottom line, providing a further tailwind to free cash flow.