Roku's stock sinks after earnings, but analyst sees 'conservatism' in outlook

By Emily Bary

Company calls out 'uneven ad-market recovery' but gives upbeat forecast

Roku Inc. topped expectations with its latest results and outlook, but shares of the media-streaming company tumbled about 15% in Thursday's extended session.

For the current quarter, Roku (ROKU) models $850 million in revenue and projects it will break even on the basis of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (Ebitda). Analysts were looking for $829 million in revenue along with an $11 million adjusted Ebitda loss.

"We plan to increase revenue and free cash flow and achieve profitability over time," executives said in their shareholder letter. "At the same time, we remain mindful of near-term challenges in the macro environment and an uneven ad-market recovery."

The company expects to deliver positive adjusted Ebitda for 2024.

Evercore ISI analyst Shweta Khajuria said that forecasts for both the quarter and full year look achievable, and "management is likely building in conservatism."

See also: Here's why Walmart may want to buy TV maker Vizio, and who the deal might hurt

The company reported a fourth-quarter net loss of $78 million, or 55 cents a share, compared with a loss of $237 million, or $1.70 a share, in the year-earlier period. Roku matched the consensus view on a per-share basis.

After adjustments, Roku logged adjusted Ebitda of $47.7 million, ahead of the FactSet consensus view, which was for $18 million.

Revenue increased to $984 million from $867 million a year ago, while analysts had been looking for $968 million. The company generated about $829 million in revenue from its platform business, which includes advertising and licensing, as well as about $156 million from its player business, which includes its devices.

-Emily Bary

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02-15-24 2011ET

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