Walt Disney Co. Prepares for Strong Quarter Amid Challenges
Walt Disney Co. Strengthens Its Market Position
Walt Disney Co. (NYSE: DIS) is gearing up for what analysts predict to be a robust fourth quarter. The company's performance is expected to exceed revenue and profit forecasts thanks to a blend of increased theme park attendance, higher per-capita spending, and strategic pricing enhancements across its parks and streaming services.
Analysts' Optimistic Projections
Goldman Sachs analysts, led by Michael Ng, forecast fourth-quarter earnings per share (EPS) at $1.19, surpassing the Visible Alpha consensus of $1.04. They also anticipate an adjusted EBIT of $3.69 billion, compared to the expected $3.48 billion. This positive outlook arises from a 2% rise in domestic park attendance and a 5% increase in per-capita spending.
Revenue Expectations Across Various Segments
Goldman's revenue projection for the Experiences segment stands at $8.83 billion, slightly above the consensus estimate of $8.78 billion, indicating a notable 7% growth year-over-year. They attribute this growth to various factors, including the introduction of the Disney Treasure cruise ship earlier this year and the recent price increases at Walt Disney World, where most ticket prices rose by $5 to $10.
Cruise Offerings and Cross-Selling Strategies
Disney's initiatives extend beyond theme parks. The company has rolled out new cruise offerings and enhanced its cross-selling strategies, which include the Lightning Lane Premiere Pass and the opening of new Disney Vacation Club properties. These efforts are expected to foster long-term financial growth and expand the company's customer base.
Entertainment Revenue Projections
In terms of entertainment, Goldman predicts fourth-quarter revenue of $10.28 billion, just shy of the consensus estimate of $10.47 billion, primarily due to weak box office trends. However, the EBIT for this segment is projected at $879 million, which greatly exceeds the consensus estimate of $683 million.
Disney+ Subscription Growth
On the streaming front, Disney+ is expected to see net additions of approximately 1 million subscribers, falling short of the anticipated 2 million. Despite this, the bank maintains a core average revenue per user (ARPU) estimate of $7.85. Price increases in Disney+ subscription tiers have also been announced, expected to take effect in October, boosting margins significantly.
Pricing Strategies for Streaming and Hulu
The bank reports that prices for Disney+ with ads will increase from $9.99 to $11.99, while the Premium version will go up from $15.99 to $18.99. Hulu will also see an increase in its ad-supported tier by $2 to $11.99 a month, with its ad-free plan remaining at $18.99.
Addressing Concerns Amid Growth
Despite these positive indicators, some bearish investors are expressing concerns over potential declines in U.S. travel demand, delays in launching new cruise ships, additional dry docks, and revised financial reporting methods, particularly the lack of subscriber disclosures for streaming services.
Current Stock Performance
As for pricing action, DIS shares were noted to be trading up by 0.78% to $114.35 during the last check. This rise reflects investor confidence following these forecasts and strategies that could bolster the company's long-term growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current stock price of Walt Disney Co.?
The current stock price of Walt Disney Co. (DIS) is approximately $114.35.
What are the projected earnings for Disney this quarter?
Goldman Sachs projects a fourth-quarter EPS of $1.19 for Walt Disney Co.
How is Disney addressing the decline in box office performance?
Disney is focusing on boosting its streaming services and increasing ticket prices at its theme parks.
What impact will price hikes have on Disney+ subscriptions?
The price hikes are expected to bolster margins despite a slight shortfall in subscriber growth.
What are analysts' revenue forecasts for Disney's Experiences segment?
Analysts forecast the Experiences segment to generate revenue of $8.83 billion in the upcoming quarter.
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