Netflix's first quarter builds on recent momentum as trade war drags down other tech companies

Core Viewpoint - Netflix has demonstrated strong performance in the first quarter of the year, surpassing analysts' expectations despite economic challenges posed by President Trump's policies [1][4]. Group 1: Subscriber Growth and Financial Performance - Netflix added 41 million subscribers globally last year, marking the largest annual gain in its 27-year history [2]. - The company has shifted its focus from reporting subscriber numbers to emphasizing profits, having surpassed 300 million global subscribers as of December [3]. - In Q1, Netflix reported earnings of $2.9 billion, or$6.61 per share, a 24% increase year-over-year, with revenue rising 13% to $10.54 billion, both exceeding forecasts [4]. Group 2: Market Context and Competitive Position - The tech industry has faced significant challenges due to tariffs and economic volatility, but Netflix's global streaming service has remained unaffected, leading to a 9$8 per month could help maintain consumer interest during economic downturns [9]. - The company reaffirmed its annual revenue prediction of approximately $44 billion, reflecting a 13% increase from 2024 [10].