Shares of Cable One experienced a decline after the company released its fourth-quarter results, indicating a slowdown in growth in average revenue per user. This decrease reflects the company’s discounted pricing strategy aimed at combating the increasing competition in the broadband sector.
Stock Performance
The stock saw a dive of over 8% to $437.20 in morning trading, hitting its lowest point since 2016. With shares down by 40% over the past year, investors are closely monitoring the company’s strategic moves.
Pricing and Packaging Revamp
CEO Julie Laulis highlighted the company’s methodical approach to adjusting its pricing and packaging to appeal to both new and existing customers. She assured analysts on a conference call that Cable One has a relatively lower level of competition in its markets compared to other cable providers focused on major cities. However, she emphasized the importance of competitive pricing strategies when faced with new rivals entering the market. Laulis dismissed wireless competitors, asserting that Cable One offers a superior product.
Financial Results
In the fourth quarter, Cable One reported revenue of $411.8 million, falling short of the $418.7 million anticipated by analysts surveyed by FactSet. Despite a 2.7% increase in Residential Data ARPU, the growth rate was lower than in previous quarters.
Customer Growth
The strategic shift in pricing seems to have positively impacted Cable One’s customer acquisition. The company recorded a sequential addition of 1,600 residential data primary service units in the quarter.
For more news and updates, stay connected.