Netflix's Surprising Strategy - How A Licensing Game-Changer And A Stock's Resilience Are Redefining The Streaming Wars

• Netflix stock performance has seen a 16% rise in 2024 and a 64% increase in 2023.

Disney's decision to license more TV shows to Netflix Inc NFLX is crucial in the ongoing battle for dominance in the streaming industry. This move significantly enhances Netflix's already extensive content library.

Known for its vast collection of content, Netflix has been aggressively investing in expanding its offerings, with yearly expenditures exceeding $17 billion at one point. This strategic focus on content has been a fundamental element of Netflix's overall approach.

Despite its success, Netflix has faced various challenges along the way. These challenges include subscription fatigue and increased competition from other streaming services, resulting in lower profitability and a decline in subscriber numbers.

To combat these issues, Netflix has taken proactive measures such as implementing cost-cutting strategies and adopting new approaches. One specific strategy involves addressing the widespread practice of password sharing, which has negatively impacted subscription revenues. Netflix has also introduced ad-supported tiers, providing viewers with a more affordable option and creating additional sources of revenue.

The company's heavy debt load poses a problem, surpassing $14 billion. However, there is hope on the horizon. Positive signs include a notable improvement in the company's operating margin, with forecasts pointing towards a potential increase to 24%.

With a 16% stock price increase in 2024 and a bullish run of 64% in 2023, the stock's performance has been remarkable. Last week, the stock faced a hurdle in attempting to break past $500, but the release of earnings provided a much-needed boost.

Post-earnings announcement, the stock opened 9% higher. Interestingly, despite the Q4 earnings estimate falling short at $2.11 compared to the estimated $2.22, the stock price climbed higher. This highlights the ongoing confidence investors have in Netflix, showing that negative earnings don't necessarily result in a decrease in stock price.

Moving forward, all eyes are on whether Netflix's stock can surpass its all-time high of $700 achieved in November 2021. This achievement would not only be a significant milestone for the company, but also a strong testament to its adaptability and resilience in the ever-evolving streaming industry.

After the closing bell on Friday, January 26, the stock closed at $570.42, trading up by 1.52%.

This article is from an unpaid external contributor. It does not represent Benzinga's reporting and has not been edited for content or accuracy.