Bob Iger, the CEO of The Walt Disney Company, is making waves as he approaches the midpoint of his four-year contract. With a 74 percent increase in net income to $460 million for the July to September quarter, Disney is thriving under his leadership. Iger expressed pride in the company’s progress during an earnings call, highlighting the success of their streaming division, which turned a profit for the second quarter in a row.
Disney’s streaming businesses, including Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+, saw a significant increase in profitability, reaching $321 million this quarter. The company also reported a growth in subscribers for Disney+ Core and Hulu, with 112.7 million and 52 million users respectively. Interestingly, around 60 percent of new Disney+ subscribers in the U.S. are opting for 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 rose by 6 percent to $22.6 billion for the quarter. Box office hits like “Inside Out 2” and “Deadpool & Wolverine” contributed to the $316 million in operating income reported by Disney’s studio business. Iger emphasized the importance of consumer touch points like streaming, parks, and cruise ships in driving value for Disney films.
Looking ahead, Disney is optimistic about its growth prospects, with expectations of increased profits from the streaming division and double-digit earnings per share growth for fiscal 2026 and 2027. Despite speculation about potential media acquisitions, Iger stated that Disney is content with its current assets and does not have plans for further consolidation.
In conclusion, under Bob Iger’s leadership, Disney is experiencing a period of growth and success, driven by the performance of its streaming businesses and blockbuster movies. With a strategic focus on innovation and consumer engagement, Disney is poised for continued success in the years to come.
