SEC Questions AOL's Accounting of Bertelsmann Ad Deal

Inspiration meets innovation at Brandweek, the ultimate marketing experience. Join industry luminaries, rising talent and strategic experts in Phoenix, Arizona this September 23–26 to assess challenges, develop solutions and create new pathways for growth. Register early to save.

NEW YORK The Securities and Exchange Commission is examining transactions between AOL Time Warner’s America Online Internet unit and Bertelsmann A.G., which could result in further financial restatements.

New York-based AOL Time Warner has already restated $190 million in ad revenue, an outcome of an internal review.

According to AOL Time Warner’s annual report filed Friday, the SEC has expressed that at least some of the $400 million in advertising purchased by Bertelsmann since 2001 should not be recognized as ad revenue.



AW+

WORK SMARTER - LEARN, GROW AND BE INSPIRED.

Subscribe today!

To Read the Full Story Become an Adweek+ Subscriber

View Subscription Options

Already a member? Sign in