GoPro’s stock gains on better-than-expected Q4 results

GoPro Inc.’s (GPRO) shares gained 1.3% in aftermarket hours on Wednesday after the company topped expectations for revenues and swung to profitability in the fourth quarter of 2018.

Total revenue grew 13% to $377.3 million versus the same quarter last year. GoPro.com represented more than 10% of revenue in the quarter and grew over 50% year-over-year.

On a GAAP basis, the company reported a net income of $32 million, or $0.22 per share, compared to a net loss of $55.8 million, or $0.41 per share, in the prior-year period. Adjusted net income totaled $42 million, or $0.30 per share, beating consensus estimates.

Founder and CEO Nicholas Woodman said, “Thanks to a strong product line-up and efficient execution, GoPro grew both camera unit sell-through and market share in 2018, resulting in GAAP profitability in the fourth quarter and second half of the year. With this momentum and a continued focus on expense management, we’re planning for growth and profitability in 2019.”

During the quarter, GoPro’s camera unit sell-through rose 20% year-over-year. In the US, the company captured 97% dollar share and 87% unit share of the action camera category. In Japan, GoPro captured 57% unit share, up from 50% last year, according to GfK.

Also see: GoPro Q4 2018 Earnings Conference Call Transcript

In China, unit sell-through grew by 2% year-over-year, while in Thailand, sell-through grew by 169% in units and 154% in dollars, according to GfK. GoPro Plus subscription service reached 199,000 active paying subscribers as of today, up over 50% year-over-year.

In December, GoPro said it was planning to move some of its camera production out of China to avoid tariffs. The company did not specify a location but the shift is expected to take place by the summer of 2019.

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