DISH Network Corp. (DISH) Stumbles Along, but the Hopper Is a Winner

It’s a very good point. Why is targeted advertising the method du jour for ultra-disruptive Web companies with an ad-based revenue model, but traditional media insists on making me watch Androgel commercials? I may need topical testosterone juice one day, but right now I think I am just fine. And no, menstrual cramps aren’t keeping me from getting through my day. Cable companies could charge more for ads if they were specifically targeted to the current show’s audience.

The Hopper has great potential for DISH if it were to refocus on its core business — satellite television. Unfortunately, DISH is still fixated on spectrum.

Spectrum and guidance
To be honest, the spectrum and wireless network could end up being a huge win for DISH in the near future. For me, though, it’s too much of a guessing game and dependent on factors beyond management’s control.

Overall, DISH had its ups and downs for the quarter and the year as a whole. The stock has fared better — up more than 25% in the last 12 months. With EPS estimates at $0.60 for the coming quarter, the company has its work cut out for it to reverse the trends from the fourth quarter.

Investors should remain cautious looking ahead. The spectrum game is a pricey one to play, and with no guarantee of a payout. As always, I would steer interested investors to the company’s competitor, DIRECTV.

The article DISH Stumbles Along, but the Hopper Is a Winner originally appeared on Fool.com and is written by Michael B. Lewis.

Fool contributor Michael B. Lewis has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned.

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