Netflix reported first-quarter profit that exceeded Wall Street forecasts, boosted by a recent price increase and a strong slate of programming across the globe, like the hit UK series Adolescence. The owner of the world’s most popular online TV network said in a statement Thursday that earnings rose 25% to $6.61 a share, easily beating analysts’ estimates of $5.68. Sales grew 13% to $10.5 billion, in line with projections. This is the first time Netflix has reported financial results without disclosing how many customers it added or lost — the main yardstick investors previously used to gauge the company’s performance. Management is forcing investors to judge its success or failure based on more traditional financial metrics. The company boosted operating income by 27% to $3.3 billion, beating expectations of $3 billion. Its operating margin of 31.7% was more than three percentage points above its own forecast.
For instant reaction and analysis, hosts Carol Massar and Tim Stenovec speak with Bloomberg News Entertainment Reporter Lucas Shaw and Mark Douglas, President and CEO of MNTN.
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