Bob Iger, the CEO of The Walt Disney Company, is really making a splash as he reaches the halfway point of his four-year contract. Disney has seen a whopping 74 percent increase in net income, bringing in a total of $460 million for the July to September quarter. It’s clear that under Iger’s leadership, Disney is flourishing. During an earnings call, Iger shared his pride in the company’s progress, specifically highlighting the success of their streaming division, which has now turned a profit for the second quarter in a row.
The streaming businesses at Disney, including Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+, have seen a significant boost in profitability, raking in $321 million this quarter. Not only that, but Disney+ Core and Hulu have also seen growth in subscribers, with 112.7 million and 52 million users respectively. An interesting tidbit is that around 60 percent of new Disney+ subscribers in the U.S. are choosing the more affordable ad-supported tier.
The success of Disney’s streaming platforms has had a positive impact on the company’s overall revenue, which has increased by 6 percent to $22.6 billion for the quarter. Blockbuster hits like “Inside Out 2” and “Deadpool & Wolverine” have contributed to the $316 million in operating income reported by Disney’s studio business. Iger stressed the importance of consumer touchpoints like streaming, parks, and cruise ships in adding value to Disney films.
Looking ahead, Disney is feeling optimistic about its growth prospects. They are expecting increased profits from the streaming division and double-digit earnings per share growth for fiscal 2026 and 2027. Despite rumors of potential media acquisitions, Iger made it clear that Disney is happy with its current assets and has no plans for further consolidation.
In conclusion, under Bob Iger’s guidance, Disney is going through a period of incredible growth and success. Thanks to the performance of its streaming businesses and blockbuster movies, Disney is on a path to even more success in the future. With a focus on innovation and engaging with consumers, Disney is set for continued prosperity in the years to come.
