Context: The consolidation of the "hot AC" format contrasted with the near-demise of most other AC formats: Beginning with the 2005-2007 economic downturn and eventual recession most stations went for the more chart-based CHR, along with the top 40, urban and even Latino formats. Diminishing physical record sales also proved a major blow to the AC genre.

Question: Along with the recession, what broad economic trend marked the decline of adult contemporary radio stations?
Answer: the 2005-2007 economic downturn

Question: Along with CHR, Top 40 and Latino, what format have former AC stations transitioned to?
Answer: urban

Question: What AC format is still viable?
Answer: hot AC

Question: Declining sales of what items harmed the adult contemporary genre?
Answer: physical record