British satellite TV operator BSkyB has reported positive free cash flow and narrowing losses for the year to the end of June in its first set of results to incorporate the collapse of rival ITV Digital in April.
Britain's top pay-TV operator, which is backed by Rupert Murdoch, reported a pre-tax loss of £22m sterling before goodwill and exceptional charges, narrowed from £214m last year. Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation swelled to £273m, against £224m a year ago.
BSkyB said it had signed up 214,000 new subscribers in the fourth quarter, bringing the total to 6.1 million and taking it closer to its goal of seven million by the end of 2003.
BSkyB has strengthened its position in its market after a gruelling 12 months for British pay-TV during which ITV Digital service shut down and cash strains hit cable firms NTL and Telewest.
