In the ever-changing landscape of financial markets, investors eyeing Netflix (NFLX) might consider a strategic pause as charts signal a note of caution.
In October of the previous year, Netflix exceeded third-quarter estimates, solidifying its position in the streaming space. It addressed the challenge of password sharing, expanded with ad-supported tiers, and navigated through the turbulence of strikes involving writers and actors. Analysts project a 30% growth in EPS this year and an ambitious 60% in the next.
However, within this optimism, there are seeds of apprehension. With whispers of a recession in 2024, there's a fear of price elasticity of demand affecting Netflix. High expectations, along with projected growth, inflate the forward valuation, raising concerns for cautious investors.
At the current price of $486.50, with expected earnings of $15.94, the PE ratio stands at a significant 30.50 times 2024 earnings. The present PE is 39.70 with earnings at $12.25. It's a delicate balance on the edge.
Examining Relative Rotation, a technique developed by Julius de Kempenaer, concerns intensify. The trio of communications giants – META, GOOGL, and NFLX – once led in the top right green quadrant, indicating leadership. However, the arrows now point south, suggesting a waning momentum for NFLX, a cause for vigilance.
On the weekly RRG, where dynamics unfold on a smaller scale, NFLX stands apart from its peers. While GOOGL and META reaffirm their dominance, NFLX charts a different course, a divergence not lost on the discerning eye.
👉 Check Out Video --> NFLX Price Analysis (After Hours)
👉 Check Out Video --> NFLX Price Analysis (Next Day)
Netflix reveals its Q4 (Dec) performance – a mix of financial metrics that both align and clash with market expectations. As the earnings narrative unfolds, the streaming giant reports earnings of $2.11 per share, missing the FactSet Consensus by $0.11. Yet, in a counterpoint of triumph, revenues rise by 12.5% year over year to $8.83 billion, surpassing the $8.72 billion forecast.
- Global streaming paid net additions in Q4 are significant, totaling +13.12 million. A beat on revenue coupled with robust net additions paints a picture of mixed tones, leaving investors in contemplation.
- The operational overture reveals a Q4 operating margin of 16.9%, defying prior guidance at 13.3%. The plot thickens as Netflix guides Q1 operating margin to 26.2%, adding suspense to the unfolding drama.
- Guiding us through the upcoming act, Netflix issues Q1 guidance, forecasting an EPS of $4.49, a bullish stance above the $4.10 FactSet Consensus. However, a subtle twist reveals Q1 revenues in line with expectations at $9.24 billion, a delicate dance that keeps investors on the edge of their seats.
- The global streaming paid net additions outlook, a subplot in this financial saga, unfolds with anticipation. Netflix anticipates a sequential decline in Q1, attributing it to typical seasonality and a probable pull forward from the robust Q4'23 performance. Nevertheless, a promise of an upward trajectory versus Q1'23 paid net additions of 1.8 million injects a plot twist.
- Advertising emerges as a subplot in Netflix's narrative, a tale of investment and growth. The company envisions robust ad business growth in 2024, albeit off a modest base. Aiming to transform ads into a substantial revenue stream, Netflix paints a vision of sustained, healthy revenue growth in 2025 and beyond.
Guiding us through the financial labyrinth, Netflix revises its full-year 2024 operating margin forecast, elevating it from 22%-23% to 24%. Factors like the weakening US dollar, stellar Q4'23 performance, and future expectations interweave in this financial saga.
In a subplot of industry dynamics, Netflix acknowledges the logical anticipation of further consolidation, particularly among entities with large and declining linear networks. However, the protagonist asserts its disinterest in acquiring such linear assets. A skeptical view is cast upon the impact of traditional entertainment M&A on the competitive landscape, considering the extensive consolidation witnessed in the past decade.
As the final scenes of Netflix's financial epic unfold, the industry remains a highly competitive stage, echoing with the reverberations of a dynamic narrative poised for the next act.
Tonight's earnings report will be scrutinized closely, and reactions will shape decisions on our 3% allocation. In the whirlwind of financial complexities, this journalist-investor remains watchful, ready for strategic moves.
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