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.
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Belarus is set to hold a presidential election on 26 January with five registered candidates, including incumbent Alexander Lukashenko. The OSCE was not invited to observe the vote, calling it a blow to transparency, while the CIS mission reported a calm electoral process.
A military plane crashed in the city of Kabudarahang, located in Iran’s Hamadan province, on Wednesday morning.
Kazakhstan is enhancing its air transport infrastructure by constructing three new airports and upgrading terminals in Almaty, Shymkent, and Kyzylorda, increasing capacity and expanding routes.
The U.S. Deep South is facing a powerful winter storm, causing heavy snow, freezing rain, and widespread disruptions. At least 9 deaths have been reported, along with flight cancellations, highway closures, and power outages.
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Davos on 22 January to discuss bilateral ties, energy cooperation, and regional security.
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