Core Insights - Consumer discretionary stocks have underperformed the market for nearly two years, but streaming stocks initially resisted this trend until recently as consumers are now motivated to save money due to a higher cost of living in 2025 [1][2] Streaming Industry - Streaming's popularity surged as consumers cut traditional cable, but rising costs have led to streaming fatigue, with a notable increase in cancellations attributed to excessive advertising and password sharing [2] - The competition for consumer attention is intensifying as viewers seek value, contributing to the underperformance of streaming stocks in 2025 [3] - If lower interest rates stimulate consumer spending, it may present an opportunity for investors to identify which streaming services could benefit [3] Netflix - Netflix remains the leader in streaming, with its stock up approximately 30% in 2025, continuing a positive trend since May 2022, driven by metrics like subscriber growth, improved operating margins, and increasing ad revenue [3] - Despite its strong performance, Netflix's stock has fluctuated since its August earnings report, indicating potential fatigue in its upward momentum [4] - A recent advertising partnership with Amazon could provide additional revenue and support a year-end rally, although Netflix's high stock price raises concerns about retail investor interest [5] Disney - Disney's strategy to expand beyond its traditional parks and entertainment business into streaming has been met with challenges, particularly with Disney+ facing operational losses due to a lack of content [7][8] - Partnerships with ESPN and Hulu have bolstered Disney's content library, and while the streaming business is beginning to generate profit, it remains a concern for investors as the stock has not sustained summer gains [9] Paramount Skydance - Paramount Skydance, formed from the merger of Paramount Global and Skydance Media, has seen its stock rise nearly 87% since going public, driven by short covering despite a relatively low short interest of 11% [11] - The upcoming earnings report for Paramount Skydance is anticipated to clarify the company's performance and potential, as it has struggled to scale its content compared to competitors [12] - Analysts currently hold a consensus price target of $10.60 for Paramount Skydance, indicating skepticism about its future performance [13][14]