Bob Iger, the CEO of The Walt Disney Company, is certainly making waves as he hits the midpoint of his four-year contract. Disney’s recent financial report shows a whopping 74 percent increase in net income, reaching $460 million for the July to September quarter. This is a clear sign that Disney is thriving under Iger’s leadership.
During an earnings call, Iger expressed his pride in the company’s progress, particularly highlighting the success of their streaming division. This division has been performing exceptionally well, turning a profit for the second quarter in a row.
Disney’s streaming businesses, which include Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+, have seen a significant increase in profitability, reaching $321 million this quarter. Additionally, there has been 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. Blockbuster 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. The company expects 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 leadership, Disney is enjoying a period of growth and success. The company’s focus on innovation and consumer engagement, along with its successful streaming businesses and blockbuster movies, has positioned Disney for continued success in the future.
