Russ Cohen

The Unstoppable Rise of Netflix Stock: Where to Next?

Streaming video is synonymous with supremacy, thanks to the trailblazing efforts of Netflix (NASDAQ: NFLX). As the reigning monarch of internet-delivered television, Netflix has solidified its position as the undisputed leader in the realm of streaming services. Surpassing its previous heights, Netflix quietly scaled a new pinnacle this week, edging past $700 per share and marking a historic milestone in its upward trajectory. Since its public debut in 2002, Netflix stock has defied all odds, skyrocketing an astonishing 63,725% as of the latest market close.

Residing in the shadows for some time now, Netflix’s resurgence indicates that the stock may have more room to ascend.

Friends sitting on a couch watching television.

Image source: Getty Images.

The Exponential Growth of Netflix’s Advertising Business

A breakthrough moment arrived earlier this month when Netflix unveiled its remarkable gains from the “upfronts,” a traditional event where television network executives and major advertisers unite. At this gathering, companies typically vend off a substantial portion of their commercial slots in advance. Netflix emerged victorious from this year’s edition, manifesting a 150% year-over-year surge in ad sales, fueled by the escalating popularity of its ad-supported plan. Distinguished content offerings and the entrée into live events further amplified Netflix’s allure to advertisers.

A Catalog of Blockbuster Hits

Coveted by advertisers and subscribers alike, Netflix’s collection of hit shows continues to be a driving force behind its growth. From chart-toppers like Squid Game and Wednesday to timeless favorites such as Stranger Things, Bridgerton, and The Crown, the platform boasts an impressive array of content. Recent additions like Outer Banks, American Murder, Ripley, and Emily in Paris have further solidified Netflix’s standing as a fountain of entertainment.

Dabbling in Sports Programming

Netflix’s pivot towards live sports marks a pivotal shift in its strategy. From hosting its golf tournament and tennis match, labeled The Netflix Cup and The Netflix Slam, to securing exclusive rights to WWE’s acclaimed Raw, Netflix’s foray into sports promises a new dimension of entertainment. Noteworthy additions to its lineup include broadcasting marquee NFL games on Christmas Day, enticing football aficionados and diversifying its viewer base.

Expanding Subscriber Base

The linchpin of Netflix’s triumph lies in its unparalleled ability to attract and retain subscribers across various tiers. In the face of intensifying competition from industry stalwarts like Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Hulu, and Warner Bros. Discovery, Netflix reigns supreme in the streaming arena. With a surge in streaming paid memberships to 278 million in the second quarter, marking a 17% year-over-year uptick, Netflix’s subscriber growth has been on a steady ascent. This growth spurt, underpinned by the introduction of the ad-supported tier and stringent password policies, underscores Netflix’s unwavering appeal to viewers.

Surging Revenue and Profit Margins

Powered by its robust subscriber base and pricing prowess, Netflix has witnessed a surge in revenue and profits. Despite economic headwinds, Netflix charted a 7% revenue growth in 2023, complemented by a 21% spike in earnings per share (EPS). The momentum has only accelerated in 2024, with a 16% surge in revenue and an impressive 65% leap in EPS during the initial half of the year. This financial buoyancy is a testament to Netflix’s operational efficiency, where each new subscriber propels profits to greater heights.

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Unanimous Industry Acclaim

Beyond personal conviction, industry sentiment echoes a bullish stance on Netflix’s prospective trajectory. A chorus of bullish analyses from Wall Street, with 29 out of 46 analysts advocating a buy or strong buy rating in July, signifies overwhelming optimism towards Netflix’s future prospects. Analyst Jeff Wlodarczak’s resounding endorsement further underscores Netflix’s dominance in the streaming arena, substantiating the case for continued growth and investment in the streaming giant.

Unlocking the Potential of Netflix Stock

Amidst unequivocal industry acclaim and an unassailable market position, Netflix stock emerges as an enticing prospect for investors seeking sustained growth and unparalleled entertainment prowess.

Is Now the Time to Invest in Netflix?

Before diving into Netflix stock, it’s imperative to weigh the potential risks and rewards associated with this formidable player in the streaming landscape.

The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team recently identified Netflix as a promising opportunity, shedding light on the compelling allure of investing in this industry trailblazer.







Investors’ Delight: Monster Returns from Top Stock Picks

Investors’ Delight: Monster Returns from Top Stock Picks

Lucrative Stock Selections Omit Netflix

In a surprising turn of events, a recent compilation unveils the 10 best stocks for investors to delve into – with Netflix failing to secure a spot. These selected stocks are anticipated to yield colossal returns over the years to come.

Nvidia’s Monumental Growth in Time-Tested Example

Reflecting on the past reveals the meteoric rise of Nvidia, which earned its place on this prestigious list back on April 15, 2005. Investors who heeded the advice and invested $1,000 during that period would now boast a staggering $731,449 in returns!

Stock Advisor: A Beacon of Prosperity

Guided by Stock Advisor, investors are provided with a clear-cut roadmap to success, replete with insights on crafting a winning portfolio, frequent updates from seasoned analysts, and a bi-monthly array of fresh stock recommendations. Over the years, the Stock Advisor service has outperformed the S&P 500 by more than four times since its inception in 2002.

Further Exploration of the Elite Stocks

For those intrigued to explore the elite 10 stocks that made the list, on the chase for robust returns, eager eyes can discover the 10 stocks – a collection that excludes Netflix.

*Stock Advisor returns as of August 26, 2024