Netflix stock rating upgraded to buy on strong performance

EditorNatashya Angelica
Published 01/22/2025, 08:31 AM
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On Wednesday, Rosenblatt Securities analyst upgraded Netflix (NASDAQ:NFLX) stock from Neutral to Buy, setting a price target of $1,494. The upgrade comes after a strong performance in the fourth quarter of 2024, prompting a reassessment of the company's prospects. With the stock currently trading at $869.68 and showing an impressive 79% return over the past year, Netflix has demonstrated remarkable momentum.

Analyst highlighted Netflix's successful pivot to sports content, which is not only benefiting the streaming giant but also placing pressure on traditional TV rivals. According to InvestingPro, Netflix maintains a "GREAT" financial health score, supported by strong profitability metrics.

Netflix's growth strategy has been bolstered by the introduction of advertising and an increase in subscription pricing, which, according to Crockett, are contributing to higher engagement levels due to the company's broad content offerings.

The analyst indicated that these factors are setting Netflix up to potentially exceed its 2025 guidance for 14%-17% currency-neutral revenue growth and a 29% profit margin. The company's current revenue growth of 14.8% and gross profit margin of 45.25% suggest this trajectory is achievable. For deeper insights into Netflix's growth metrics and 16+ additional ProTips, consider exploring InvestingPro.

Analyst's optimism extends beyond the immediate future, suggesting that the momentum Netflix is currently experiencing is likely to carry forward into subsequent years. This positive outlook is reflected in the substantial increase in the price target, which is based on a 45x price-to-earnings ratio against the expected earnings per share in 2026.

The rationale for this valuation is supported by the anticipated robust growth in earnings per share and the market's tendency to reward leading companies with a premium.

The analyst admitted to underestimating Netflix's success in 2024 but now foresees greater opportunities for the company in 2025. This reassessment has led to a significant upward revision in valuation and the recommendation for investors to buy Netflix shares.

In other recent news, Netflix, the streaming giant, has been the subject of several analyst upgrades and price target increases following impressive revenue and earnings results. MoffettNathanson increased Netflix's price target to $850, citing expectations of accelerated revenue growth and EBIT margins for the years 2025 and beyond.

Similarly, Needham analysts raised their price target from $800 to $1,150, following the company's substantial increase in subscribers and a forecast of ad revenue doubling in 2025.

Goldman Sachs also adjusted its outlook, raising the price target to $960, following Netflix's strong fourth-quarter earnings, which surpassed both revenue and operating income expectations. Bernstein SocGen Group increased the price target from $780.00 to $975.00, following Netflix's impressive performance, surpassing expectations with recent subscriber additions.

Lastly, BofA raised its stock price target to $1,175, citing the company's consistent growth in subscriber numbers across all markets.

These adjustments reflect the recent developments and continued growth in Netflix's operations, including the expansion of its advertising-supported tier and the contributions from its gaming, live, and sports offerings. As these recent upgrades indicate, Netflix's robust financial performance and growth prospects continue to generate optimism among analysts.

This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.

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