DRC and Rwanda vow to draft peace deal by May 2
The DRC and Rwanda have pledged to draft a peace deal by May 2 and stop backing armed groups, as part of new efforts to end conflict in eastern Congo.
Netflix added 18.9M subscribers, reaching 302M. Squid Game S2 and an NFL game with Beyoncé boosted growth. Revenue rose 16% to $10.2B, with ad-supported plans driving sign-ups. Stock surged 13%, adding $50B in value.
Netflix has once again underscored its dominance in the streaming industry, reporting a record-breaking increase in subscribers during the holiday quarter. The platform added 18.9 million users, bringing its global subscriber base to an impressive 302 million, far outstripping its competitors in the sector.
The company’s success has been attributed to a compelling blend of high-quality programming, live events, and popular returning series. Notable highlights from the fourth quarter include the second season of the hit dystopian thriller Squid Game, which is on track to become one of Netflix’s most-viewed original series, and a Christmas Day NFL game featuring a halftime performance by Beyoncé that attracted an average of 30 million global viewers.
In line with its robust growth, Netflix has implemented price adjustments in key markets such as the United States, Canada, Portugal, and Argentina. Its ad-supported plan in the U.S. now costs $7.99 per month, up from $6.99, while the premium plan has risen to $24.99. These changes come as the company increases its investment in diverse programming, including live-streamed events and major sports rights such as the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2027 and 2031.
Netflix's Co-CEO, Greg Peters, highlighted the platform’s success in the advertising sector, noting that ad-supported subscriptions accounted for 55% of new sign-ups in markets where the option is available. Advertising revenue doubled in 2023, and the company expects similar growth in 2024. Analysts project ad revenue could reach $2 billion this year, driven by advancements in advertising technology and the popularity of live events.
The company's fourth-quarter financial results surpassed expectations, with per-share earnings of $4.27, exceeding the forecasted $4.20. Revenue rose by 16% year-on-year to $10.2 billion, while annual operating income exceeded $10 billion for the first time. Investors responded positively, with Netflix’s stock surging by 13% in after-hours trading, adding nearly $50 billion to its market value.
Netflix also announced plans to discontinue reporting subscriber additions, shifting focus to other performance indicators such as revenue and profitability. Revised guidance projects revenue of $43.5 billion to $44.5 billion in 2025, reflecting stronger business fundamentals.
In a further move to reward investors, Netflix's board approved an additional $15 billion for share repurchases, bringing the total authorisation to $17.1 billion. This strategic decision underscores the company's confidence in its growth trajectory and market leadership.
As Netflix continues to expand its programming slate, including the return of fan-favourite series such as Stranger Things and Wednesday, its focus on high-quality content and strategic pricing adjustments positions it firmly at the forefront of the streaming market.
China has rolled out the world’s first 10-gigabit (10G) fixed broadband network in Xiong'an New Area, promising ultra-fast speeds and low latency through cutting-edge optical infrastructure.
The Holy Fire ceremony stands as one of Christianity's most enduring and mysterious rituals, drawing thousands of pilgrims to Jerusalem each year.
Pope Francis's relationship with Azerbaijan has evolved significantly over the years, characterized by diplomatic exchanges, promotion of religious tolerance, and peace advocacy in the Caucasus region.
Russia launched a major missile and drone assault on Kyiv overnight on April 24, killing at least twelve people and injuring 90, including children and a pregnant woman, according to Mayor Vitali Klitschko.
China’s pivot away from U.S. liquefied petroleum gas under new tariffs is shaking global energy flows, slashing demand, and fuelling a scramble for alternatives across Asia, with Middle Eastern suppliers and rival buyers seizing the moment.
President Donald Trump on Thursday signed an executive order aimed at boosting the deep-sea mining industry, marking his latest attempt to boost U.S. access to nickel, copper and other critical minerals used widely across the economy.
Uzbekistan and Iran have agreed to establish a Joint Business Council aimed at fostering development of business ties and facilitating the resolution of issues between entrepreneurs from both countries.
Brussels has fined Apple and Meta over €700 million combined, launching its first crackdown under the Digital Markets Act aimed at curbing big tech’s power and boosting competition in the digital economy.
The Trump administration is considering reducing tariffs on Chinese imports, aiming to ease tensions with Beijing as trade negotiations continue, a source familiar with the matter said on Wednesday.
Iran informed China on Wednesday about ongoing nuclear negotiations with the US, expressing a commitment to diplomacy despite past setbacks and urging stronger bilateral cooperation under their 25-year strategic agreement.
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