Netflix: The Hottest Large-Cap Stock Right Now?
Sunday, Jan 5, 2025 10:12 am ET

Netflix, Inc. (NASDAQ:NFLX) has been on a roll lately, with its stock price reaching all-time highs and analysts raving about its prospects. But is it the hottest large-cap stock right now? Let's dive into the data and find out.
First, let's look at Netflix's recent performance. The company's stock price has surged by approximately 93% over the past year, reaching an all-time high of $772.07 as of October 21, 2024. This impressive run has been driven by strong subscriber growth and a focus on original content and exclusive licensing agreements.
One of the key factors contributing to Netflix's success is its international expansion strategy. The company has been aggressively expanding its reach into new markets, particularly in Asia. This strategy has led to a significant increase in its subscriber base, with global streaming paid memberships rising by 14.4% year-over-year to 282.72 million as of the third quarter of 2024. This growth has been fueled by Netflix's investment in local content and its ability to cater to diverse audiences.

Another aspect of Netflix's success is its ability to manage costs and maintain profitability despite increased content spending. The company has consistently demonstrated a strong focus on cost management, which has allowed it to invest heavily in content while maintaining healthy profit margins. For instance, in the third quarter of 2024, Netflix's operating margin rose to 30% from 22% in the same period the previous year, despite a significant increase in content spending.
Netflix's focus on original content and exclusive licensing agreements has also been a key driver of its subscriber growth and valuation. By providing unique and appealing content, Netflix has been able to differentiate itself from competitors and attract a large and growing subscriber base. This strategy has contributed to Netflix's strong stock performance, with the company's stock price rising by an impressive 180% over the past five years.
In conclusion, Netflix, Inc. (NASDAQ:NFLX) has been on a tear lately, with its stock price reaching all-time highs and analysts raving about its prospects. The company's focus on original content, exclusive licensing agreements, international expansion, and cost management has driven its impressive subscriber growth and valuation. While it's difficult to say whether Netflix is the hottest large-cap stock right now, its strong performance and growth prospects make it an attractive investment option for many investors. As always, it's essential to do your own research and consider your risk tolerance before making any investment decisions.