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Jun 1, 2026 8:40 AM

INNOVATE Announces Successful Closing of Broadcasting Refinancing and Agrees to Partial Sale of Broadcasting

NEW YORK, June 01, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- INNOVATE Corp. (NYSE:VATE) ("INNOVATE" or the "Company") announced today that HC2 Broadcasting Holdings Inc. ("Broadcasting") closed on a refinancing transaction and that Broadcasting and HC2 Broadcasting Holdco, LLC ("HC2 Holdco"), subsidiaries of INNOVATE, have entered into a definitive agreement pursuant to which INNOVATE will sell a controlling interest in Broadcasting to CONX CORP. ("CONX"), subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including the receipt of required regulatory approvals. After the closing of the transaction, it is expected that CONX will own approximately 75% of Broadcasting and INNOVATE will own approximately 25% of Broadcasting through HC2 Holdco.

"We view this transaction as an important step forward in addressing INNOVATE's capital structure while reinforcing our strategic priorities," said Paul Voigt, Interim CEO of INNOVATE. "Broadcasting and its subsidiaries have successfully acquired and built 260 TV broadcast television stations since 2017, with considerably more underway.  Today the segment operates the largest portfolio of Class A and LPTV licenses in the country, distributing more than 50 broadcast networks in over 40 states."

Refinancing Transaction

Broadcasting entered into a $105 million loan agreement (the "New Loan") with HC2 Merger Sub, LLC, a subsidiary of CONX ("Merger Sub"). The proceeds of the New Loan were used to fully satisfy Broadcasting's existing 8.50% and 11.45% notes, to fund the repurchase of certain equity interests held by Broadcasting's noteholders, and to pay related transaction costs. The New Loan and interest accrued thereon are expected to be extinguished as consideration in the Merger and will not require cash repayment upon closing of the merger. The New Loan matures on May 29, 2027, subject to earlier acceleration in accordance with its terms.

Merger Agreement

INNOVATE has entered into a merger agreement pursuant to which Merger Sub will merge with and into Broadcasting, with Broadcasting as the surviving corporation. As a result of the merger, after the closing it is expected that CONX will own approximately 75% of Broadcasting and INNOVATE will own approximately 25% of Broadcasting through ...