3 Things Investors Need to Know About Walt Disney Right Now

Walt Disney, the iconic entertainment conglomerate, continues to captivate investors with its diverse portfolio of offerings, from theme parks to streaming services. As the company navigates an ever-evolving landscape, here are three key aspects investors should be aware of.

1. **Streaming Success and Competition**

Disney's streaming services, particularly Disney+, have experienced remarkable growth since their launch. As of Q3 2024, Disney+ has amassed 210 million paid subscribers worldwide, demonstrating the platform's appeal. However, the intense competition in the streaming market, with rivals like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, has led to increased marketing spend and content investments. According to Disney's Q3 2024 earnings report, total segment operating income for the Entertainment segment increased by 19% year over year, driven by strong performance at Direct-to-Consumer and Content Sales/Licensing and Other. Despite the competition, Disney+ has managed to maintain a positive profitability for its combined streaming businesses in Q3 2024, one quarter ahead of the company's previous guidance.



2. **Original Content and Bundling Strategy**

Disney's original content investments, such as The Mandalorian and WandaVision, have significantly contributed to its streaming service success. These exclusives have helped Disney+ stand out in the competitive streaming landscape. Additionally, the integration of Hulu and ESPN+ into the Disney+ bundle has significantly boosted the company's subscriber base and revenue. As of Q3 2024, Disney+ had 235 million paid subscribers globally, with the Disney+ bundle contributing to this growth. The bundle offers consumers more value, with access to a broader range of content, including live sports and exclusive Hulu content.



3. **Theme Park Performance and Experiences Segment**

In Q3 FY24, Disney's Experiences segment revenue increased by 2% while segment operating income decreased by 3%. Despite this, attendance was comparable year-over-year, and per capita spending was slightly up. However, demand moderation towards the end of Q3 exceeded expectations, impacting results. Disney Cruise Line, on the other hand, saw strong demand in Q4, although pre-launch expenses for the Disney Adventure and Disney Treasure will impact fiscal Q4 results. For Q4 FY24, Disney expects Experiences segment operating income to decline by mid-single digits due to demand moderation in domestic businesses and impacts at Disneyland Paris from reduced consumer travel due to the Olympics, as well as some cyclical softening in China.



In conclusion, investors should be aware of the ongoing success and competition in Disney's streaming services, the strategic importance of original content and bundling, and the performance of the Experiences segment, including theme parks and cruise lines. By staying informed about these aspects, investors can make more informed decisions about their investments in Walt Disney.