Both Netflix (NFLX 0.82%) and Walt Disney (DIS +1.72%) are powerhouses of entertainment content, but they also have in common that their stock prices have lagged the S&P 500 (^GSPC +0.25%) over the last year. However, with each having the potential to tap into a few revenue growth catalysts in 2026, that could change.Here's what to consider when evaluating which company could be the better buy in 2026 and beyond. Why Netflix could be the better buyWhen Netflix walked away from its attempt to acquire the bul ...

Core Insights - Ari Emanuel's company Mari has acquired TodayTix Group, a theater ticketing company, from Great Hill Partners, marking a strategic move into the Broadway market [1][3] - TodayTix Group, founded in 2013, has partnerships with over 10,000 theaters and cultural institutions, boasting more than 20 million members across the U.S., U.K., and Australia [2] - The acquisition aims to enhance Mari's portfolio by integrating technology and providing a direct connection to audiences, positioning Mari as a global leader in live experiences [3][6] Company Overview - Mari is a newly launched event and experiences company based in Beverly Hills, co-founded by Ari Emanuel, who is also known for co-founding Endeavor [3][4] - The company has backing from notable investors, including private equity firms Apollo and RedBird Capital Partners, and the Qatar Investment Authority [5] - Mari has previously acquired businesses from Endeavor, such as the contemporary art organization Frieze and the Miami Open tennis tournament [6] Leadership and Management - Ari Emanuel serves as the founder, chief executive, and executive chairman of Mari, while Mark Shapiro is a principal investor and board member [4][5] - Brian Fenty, co-founder and CEO of TodayTix Group, will continue in his role following the acquisition [6]

Industry Overview & Growth - The themed entertainment industry is valued at an estimated $76 billion and is projected to exceed $120 billion by 2033 [1] - Key players include Disney, Universal, Merlin Entertainment, and Chime Long Group, with Disney generating $34 billion in revenue alone [1][2] Competitive Landscape & IP - Disney's acquisition of Marvel IP faces usage restrictions at Universal Studios Orlando [3][4] - Other entertainment companies, like Netflix, are entering the themed entertainment space, leveraging their popular IP [4][5] - Universal engages in IP reviews every 2 to 3 years to assess its properties and the media landscape [26] Netflix's Expansion into Live Experiences - Netflix is expanding beyond streaming with live experiences, including permanent themed entertainment centers called Netflix House [5][6][7] - Netflix House locations are planned for King of Prussia mall, Galleria in Dallas, and Las Vegas in 2027 [7] - Netflix House will feature attractions like "Replay" (arcade), "Netflix Bites" (restaurant and bar), retail stores, theaters, and mini-golf based on Netflix shows [8][9] - In 2024, Netflix surpassed 300 million paying memberships, grew revenue by 16%, and its operating income exceeded $10 billion [10] - Netflix has created over 400 experiences in 300+ cities in the past five years [10] Theme Park Strategies & Challenges - Theme parks rely on repeat visitation driven by capital expenditure (CapEx) on new rides and attractions [27] - Some parks historically focused on thrill rides, potentially alienating broader family demographics [15][16] - Successful theme parks often start organically and reinvest continuously in the business [24][25] - Experience review is crucial for improving the park experience, addressing issues like long lines and distances between attractions [26][27]