Broadcast television ad revenues dropped 4% in the second quarter compared with the same period a year ago, according to an analysis of figures from TNS Media Intelligence by the Television Bureau of Advertising.

A bright spot in the quarter was syndication, which showed a 9.1% increase in ad revenues.

Network television was down 4.8% and local broadcast was down 6.1%.

The TVB said 17 of the top 25 advertising categories showed declines, including a 17% falloff for the largest category, automotive.