Disney(US:DIS) CNBC·2025-09-16 15:08Core Viewpoint - Webtoon Entertainment Inc. shares surged following a significant partnership with Disney to create a digital comic platform, marking a notable increase in stock value and potential for revenue diversification [1][2][3]. Group 1: Partnership Details - Webtoon and Disney have agreed to develop a digital platform for Marvel and Star Wars brands, offering over 35,000 comics from various Disney properties under a single subscription service for the first time [2]. - The deal represents a "material expansion" of a previous partnership, which could lead to a steady stream of recurring income for Webtoon [3]. Group 2: Market Reaction - Following the announcement, Webtoon shares jumped more than 36% in early trading, reaching a new 52-week high and on track for its second-largest one-day advance since going public [1]. - Including the recent rally, Webtoon shares have more than doubled in the past three months, indicating strong market confidence [5]. Group 3: Analyst Perspectives - Deutsche Bank analyst described the agreement as validating Webtoon’s platform as a preferred destination for major intellectual property distribution [3][4]. - Morgan Stanley analyst expressed skepticism regarding the immediate impact on Webtoon’s near-term earnings, highlighting the need for investment to build the new platform [4].