Walmart’s recent announcement of a $2.3 billion acquisition deal with TV manufacturer Vizio has stirred up the market, particularly affecting the shares of Roku, a competitor in the streaming space.
According to Laura Martin, a senior media and internet analyst at Needham & Co., the market’s response to the acquisition may be exaggerated. She sees the deal as potentially positive for Roku, contrary to initial concerns.
Martin points out several potential advantages for Roku arising from the acquisition. With Vizio no longer in the picture as a competitor, Roku could strengthen its position in the advertising market. Walmart’s acquisition of Vizio, known for its significant ad sales on connected TVs, could make Roku a dominant player in the advertising realm, potentially boosting its ad revenue considerably.
Furthermore, Martin highlights Roku’s focused approach on streaming and its agile decision-making process as strengths. Unlike conglomerates like Samsung and LG, Roku’s streamlined structure allows for quick decision-making, which could help it maintain market share and thrive amidst competition.
In essence, Martin’s analysis suggests that the Walmart-Vizio deal might ultimately work in Roku’s favor, positioning it for continued success in the streaming and advertising sectors.
