Roku Inc

SWB:R35

Roku Inc., founded in 2002 by Anthony Wood, has grown from a modest startup into a key player in the streaming industry, transforming how consumers access content in the digital age. Situated at the intersection of media, technology, and consumer preference, Roku developed its business around making television viewing more convenient and personalized. The company's rise began with its now-iconic streaming devices, which offer a straightforward, user-friendly interface for accessing a plethora of streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+. By embedding its operating system in smart TVs, Roku extended its influence, offering a seamless viewing experience that simplified the often fragmented ecosystem of internet-based television. This strategic focus on user experience catapulted Roku into millions of homes, effectively positioning the company as a gatekeeper to the world of streaming content.

The company’s business model rests on two primary revenue streams: platform revenue and player revenue. While initially deriving income from selling its streaming devices, Roku has increasingly leaned into the higher-margin platform side of its business. This aspect includes advertising via its own channel and from partnerships with other streaming services. It's through this ad-based model that Roku has found lucrative opportunities, capitalizing on its wide user base by selling ad space and marketing services directly on its platform. Additionally, Roku earns revenue through licensing arrangements with TV manufacturers to integrate its operating system and receives a share of subscription fees when users subscribe to services through its platform. This dual-revenue approach has allowed Roku to not only survive but thrive in a fiercely competitive landscape, marrying hardware with a robust advertising and subscription ecosystem.