WWE releases 2012 financial numbers, Vince McMahon comments

WWE announced revenues totaling $484.0 million for 2012, which compares to $483.9 million last year, and $477.7 million the prior year. Operating income came in at $43.2 million compared to 37.0 million in 2011 and $82.3 million in 2010.

WWE announced total revenue of $115.1 million for the fourth quarter of 2011, compared to $112.9 million for the fourth quarter in 2011, and $122.5 million in the same quarter in 2010.

"In the fourth quarter, we continued to make important progress on our key strategic initiatives, expanding the production and licensing of new programs and enhancing our brands," Vince McMahon stated in the press release. "Although we did not announce the launch of a domestic television network during the year, we believe, now more than ever, that we can realize the full value of our intellectual property using a variety of approaches in our global markets. Our confidence is based on the rising value of content and the tremendous global appeal of our brands." Read the full report at 4-traders.com.

Powell's POV: Vince McMahon and other members of senior management will address the financial report in a conference call this morning. He is expected to have more to say about the WWE Network as well. I will be covering the event live beginning at 10:00 a.m. CT. It will also be a major topic of conversation in today's Dot Net Weekly audio show, which is available exclusively to Dot Net Members.