7 Billion Reasons to Buy Walt Disney Stock in February

Core Viewpoint - Disney's recent post-earnings sell-off presents a significant buying opportunity for long-term investors despite concerns over its streaming service growth and challenges in its cable business [1][2]. Financial Performance - Disney reported solid overall results for the first quarter of fiscal 2026, but there are investor concerns regarding the slower growth of its streaming video on demand (SVOD) service, which is not sufficient to offset declines in its linear networks [2]. - The company is guiding for $19 billion in cash from operations for fiscal 2026, with capital expenditures projected at $9 billion, leaving $10 billion in free cash flow (FCF) for stock buybacks and dividend expenses [5]. Stock Buyback Program - Disney has announced a near-record stock buyback plan of $7 billion for fiscal 2026, which is double the amount from fiscal 2025 and the second-highest annual buyback plan in its history [5]. - The buyback program is expected to reduce the outstanding share count by approximately 67.5 million shares, or 3.8%, which is a significant reduction in a single year [9]. - This strategy reflects management's confidence in the stock's undervaluation and is seen as a more effective way to return cash to shareholders compared to increasing dividends [7][10]. Growth and Valuation - Despite the challenges in growth, Disney is generating consistent high FCF, and its streaming business has become profitable with improving margins [11]. - The company is projected to achieve double-digit adjusted earnings per share growth in fiscal 2026, making it an attractive value stock at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 15.7 [3][11].