Fitbit On Competition: Big Difference Between 'Barriers To Entry' And 'Barriers To Success'

Oppenheimer analyst Andrew Uerkwitz recently had the chance to host Fitbit Inc FIT VP Brad Samson at Oppenheimer’s Technology, Internet & Communications Conference in Boston. Samson provided some insight into several questions Oppenheimer had about the company following its Q2 earnings report.

First, in terms of products, Samson highlighted the Alta, which he describes as a mix of style and user engagement at a competitive price.

The lines between fitness trackers and smartwatches have become blurred in recent months, but one common distinction is the ability for smartwatches to run third-party apps. Samson said Fitbit is always open-minded about innovation, but he noted the battery-drain tradeoff of running third-party apps.

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When it comes to digital health integration, Samson said there is plenty of opportunities in the data already being generated by Fitbit customers and that advancement in health monitoring doesn't necessarily hinge on the addition of new sensors.

One of the most common Fitbit bear arguments is the idea that there is a very low barrier to entry into the wearable fitness tracker market. Samson argues the true barrier is not creating a device, but building a brand, growing a distribution network and developing unique and easy-to-use software.

Apparently Uerkwitz liked what he heard.

“We continue to like FIT’s market-leading position in a growing wearables space, attractive valuation, room for international growth, and a cash-loaded balance sheet,” he explained.

Oppenheimer maintains an Outperform rating on Fitbit.