Netflix shares soar to all-time high as investors cheer subscriber growth, price hikes

Netflix's Subscriber Growth and Market Performance - Netflix shares soared 13% to an all-time high, driven by a record 18 9 million subscriber additions in the holiday quarter [1] - The company's global subscriber base now exceeds 300 million, solidifying its lead in the streaming industry [3] - Netflix's market capitalization was set to increase by over $50 billion, reaching approximately$370 billion [3] Strategic Focus on Sports and Content - Netflix's expansion into live sports, including a boxing match between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson and NFL games on Christmas Day, contributed to its success [4][5] - The Tyson-Paul bout was the most-streamed sporting event ever, driving significant sign-ups [5] - Netflix has secured US broadcast rights for the 2027 and 2031 FIFA Women's World Cups [7] Revenue and Pricing Strategy - Despite strong subscriber growth, revenue only rose 16%, slightly above estimates, due to lower ARPU countries and ad-supported tier sign-ups [8][9] - Netflix announced price hikes in markets including the US, aiming to boost revenue as it shifts focus from subscriber growth to other performance metrics [1][10] Analyst Perspectives - Analysts noted that Netflix's subscriber additions far exceeded expectations, defying industry odds [2] - The company is expected to start bidding for other major sports rights, leveraging its success with special events [6][7]