Ultime notizie per Comcast (NASDAQ:CMCSA) Azioni

Comcast

Comcast is made up of three parts. The core cable business owns networks capable of providing television, internet access, and phone services to 63 million US homes and businesses, or nearly half of the country. About 50% of the locations in this territory subscribe to at least one Comcast service. Comcast acquired NBCUniversal from General Electric in 2011. NBCU owns several cable networks, including CNBC, MSNBC, and USA, the NBC network, the Peacock streaming platform, several local NBC affiliates, Universal Studios, and several theme parks. Sky, acquired in 2018, is a large television provider in the UK and has invested heavily in proprietary content to build this position. Sky is also a large pay-television provider in Italy and has a presence in Germany and Austria.

Comcast Corporation - Class A Common Stock

Comcast Corp

Highly anticipated movies "Wicked" and "Gladiator II" are being released on the same day and come shortly ahead of "Moana 2," setting up what could be a record-breaking Thanksgiving weekend for the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/11/41790068/amc-ceo-is-confident-and-optimistic-about-cinema-chains-future-as-q3-earnings-show-revenue-beat-rec">movie theater industry</a>.
What Happened: "Wicked" and "Gladiator II" open in domestic movie theaters on Nov. 22, in a move that some compared to the release of "Barbie" and "Oppenheimer" on the<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/24/07/39621420/wicked-gladiator-2-same-day-release-has-industry-vying-for-another-box-office-power-duo-bar"> same day last year.</a>
While "Glicked" or whatever acronym you want to use for seeing both movies the same day didn't catch on as big as last year's "Barbenheimer" did previously, expectations remain high for both movies.
"Wicked," which comes from Comcast Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CMCSA#NASDAQ">CMCSA</a>) unit Universal Pictures, is expected to post a domestic opening weekend total in the range of $125 million to $150 million, as <a href="https://deadline.com/2024/11/wicked-gladiator-box-office-preview-1236181463/">reported </a>by Deadline.
"Gladiator II," which comes from Paramount Global (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PARA#NASDAQ">PARA</a>)(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PARAA#NASDAQ">PARAA</a>), is expected to have a domestic opening weekend of more than $60 million.
Deadline reports strong initial audience scores for "Wicked" from those who saw early screenings of the film and pre-sales that are "through the roof."
As an R-rated movie, a total of $60 million or more could help "Gladiator II" become the highest-grossing R-rated film in November.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/24/11/41987956/airbnb-says-are-you-not-entertained-new-roman-colosseum-experience-coincides-with-gladiator-sequel">Airbnb Says &#8216;Are You Not Entertained?&#8217; New Roman Colosseum Experience Coincides With Gladiator Sequel</a>
Why It's Important: The strong expected opens for "Wicked" and "Gladiator II" could be good news for AMC Entertainment Holdings (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMC#NYSE">AMC</a>) and Cinemark Holdings (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CNK#NYSE">CNK</a>) and other movie theater operators in the U.S.
Along with those two movies, movie theaters could also benefit from the release of "Moana 2" from Walt Disney Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIS#NYSE">DIS</a>), which comes next Wednesday, ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday.
The three movies could help the domestic box office pass $300 million and hit all-time records for the holiday five-day weekend, <a href="https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/box-office-record-thanksgiving-feast-1236067367/">according </a>to The Hollywood Reporter.
With three strong movies all released shortly before Thanksgiving, estimates predict a strong domestic box office next week, which could be another bright spot in the post-COVID-19 recovery for movie theaters and movie companies.
A total of over $300 million, with most coming from the three films, could come close to the record. Here's a look at the current top-grossing five-day domestic Thanksgiving weekends and the highest-grossing film during the time period:
<ul>
<li>2018: $315.6 million, "Ralph Breaks the Internet" ($84.8 million)</li>
<li>2013: $294.2 million, "The Hunger Games: Catching Fire" ($109.9 million)</li>
<li>2017: $270.5 million, "Coco" ($72.9 million)</li>
<li>2019: $263.4 million, "Frozen II" ($125.0 million)</li>
<li>2016: $260.0 million, "Moana" ($125.0 million)</li>
</ul>
The report said current tracking predicts "Moana 2" will gross between $125 million and $150 million for the five-day holiday weekend domestically, which would break records for the time period.
The early Wednesday opening could contribute to the strong expectations for "Moana 2" as not all blockbusters haven't done this same holiday release window previously, the report added.
While the strong opening expectations for the three films could help the movie companies behind them, the big winners will likely be the movie theaters as they could see many customers coming in more than once during a period that might have only drawn one visit in past years due to this year's strong lineup.
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/24/07/39718738/elon-musk-predicts-gladiator-sequel-will-be-painfully-bad-embarrassingly-so-films-star-says">Elon Musk Predicts Gladiator Sequel Will Be &#8216;Painfully Bad. Embarrassingly So&#8217;: Film&#8217;s Star Says Movie Takes &#8216;New Direction&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Movie posters via IMDb

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'Wicked,' 'Gladiator II,' 'Moana 2' Could Break Thanksgiving Weekend Box Office: Stocks To Watch

Goldman Sachs analyst Michael Ng maintained a Buy rating on Comcast Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CMCSA#NASDAQ">CMCSA</a>) with a price target of $50.
On November 20, 2024, Comcast announced <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/11/42081224/comcast-plans-major-cable-networks-spinoff-msnbc-and-cnbc-to-form-new-public-company-report" rel="noreferrer noopener">plans to spin off</a> select cable networks and digital assets into a new publicly traded entity called SpinCo.
The proposed spin-off aims to streamline Comcast&#8217;s operations and enhance growth by separating its cable networks and complementary digital assets from its broader media and streaming divisions.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42116366/taiwan-semiconductor-plans-new-factories-annually-boosting-domestic-chip-production" rel="noreferrer noopener">Taiwan Semiconductor Plans New Factories To Boost Domestic Chip Production</a>
SpinCo assets generated approximately $7 billion in trailing twelve-month (TTM) revenue ending September 30, 2024, with an estimated EBITDA between $2 billion and $3 billion, the analyst said.
About 75% of SpinCo&#8217;s portfolio will focus on news and sports, while the remaining 25% covers general entertainment.
Comcast expects SpinCo to maintain a traditional cable network EBITDA margin of around 30%, driven by reduced Peacock-related losses and sports licensing costs.
Post-spin, Comcast&#8217;s remaining media assets (RemainCo) will include NBC broadcast, Peacock, regional sports networks, and Sky, generating an estimated $40 billion in annual revenue.
Peacock will likely remain largely unaffected by the spin, as only 2% of its content originates from SpinCo, while 98% will continue to come from RemainCo.
The spin-off positions SpinCo to pursue growth through organic initiatives and mergers or acquisitions, with a dedicated management team and tailored operational focus.
Mark Lazarus, the current chairman of NBCUniversal Media Group, will serve as SpinCo&#8217;s CEO, and Anand Kini, NBCUniversal&#8217;s CFO, will become SpinCo&#8217;s CFO and COO. Comcast expects the transaction to close within a year, pending regulatory approvals.
Ng highlighted the spin-off as a strategic move to refine Comcast&#8217;s focus on core growth drivers, including residential broadband, wireless services, and streaming.
SpinCo&#8217;s creation will likely improve CNBC and MSNBC monetization through digital subscription models and potential affiliate fee adjustments.
Ng views the separation as accretive to revenue growth while maintaining Comcast&#8217;s leverage neutrality.
Risks to the strategy include intensified cord-cutting, rising programming costs, and competitive pressures from streaming platforms.
Despite these challenges, Ng expects the spin-off to unlock shareholder value and position both SpinCo and RemainCo for sustainable growth.
Ng projected fiscal 2024 revenue of $123.42 billion and EPS of $4.24. The analyst estimates fiscal 2025 revenue of $123.43 billion and EPS of $4.43.
Price Action: CMCSA stock is up 1.59% at $43.68 at the last check on Thursday.
Also Read:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42071334/apples-100-million-gamble-tech-giant-moves-to-lift-indonesias-iphone-ban" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Apple&#8217;s $100 Million Gamble, Tech Giant Moves to Lift Indonesia&#8217;s iPhone Ban</a></li>
</ul>
Photo by rarrarorro on Shutterstock

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Comcast's Spin-Off to Boost Broadband and Streaming Growth: Goldman Sachs

Analysts are seeing Comcast Corp&#8216;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CMCSA#NASDAQ">CMCSA</a>) plan to restructure its media empire as a positive for investors. Craig Moffett, the senior managing director at MoffettNathanson has said that &#8220;investors have yearned for this&#8221; and carving off the cable television business will be good for its growth prospects.
He also said how the decline in the cost of capital to set up the cable infrastructure, is the only revolutionary aspect of this sector because building fiber in lower-density areas was &#8220;enormously expensive.&#8221;
What Happened: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/11/42081224/comcast-plans-major-cable-networks-spinoff-msnbc-and-cnbc-to-form-new-public-company-report">Comcast Corp will be spinning off </a>most of its cable television networks including MSNBC and CNBC into a separate publicly traded company.
The new company, to be led by current NBCUniversal Media Group chairman Mark Lazarus as CEO, will house popular channels including USA, Oxygen, E!, Syfy, and Golf Channel. NBCUniversal will retain control of Bravo, the NBC broadcast network, Peacock streaming service, NBC Sports, and Universal theme parks, reported CNN.
Also read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/11/42081224/comcast-plans-major-cable-networks-spinoff-msnbc-and-cnbc-to-form-new-public-company-report">Comcast Plans Major Cable Networks Spinoff, MSNBC And CNBC To Form New Public Company: Report</a>
The move comes as traditional cable networks face increasing pressure from streaming services. Travis Hoium, the founder at Asymmetric Investing, in an X post, highlighted how Comcast&#8217;s total domestic video customers have declined from 19.4 million in March 2021 to 12.8 million viewers in September 2024. This represents a total decline of 33.69% or 11.06% on an annualized basis, over these 14 months.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24CMCSA&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$CMCSA</a> It&#39;s hard to overstate how quickly cable is declining. I think fall 2025, when ESPN goes over the top, will be the end. <a href="https://t.co/K4GxKWFzvg">pic.twitter.com/K4GxKWFzvg</a>
&mdash; Travis Hoium (@TravisHoium) <a href="https://twitter.com/TravisHoium/status/1858849905483055141?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Despite industry headwinds, these channels remain profitable contributors to Comcast's bottom line. The spinoff is being positioned as a growth opportunity, with potential for future acquisitions in an industry primed for consolidation.
Why It Matters: "Cable is in secular decline, so it makes sense to try to carve off that piece of the business and highlight the remaining part of Comcast, which has a much better growth profile," said Moffett in an interview with <a href="https://www.barrons.com/articles/comcast-stock-cable-tv-spinoff-report-844f6a99?mod=barronsgooglenews">Barron</a>, who rates the stock as a Buy, with a price target of $57, indicating a 35% upside.
Moffett, a telecom, cable and satellite analyst in a LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/posts/national-cable-television-cooperative_how-many-of-the-changes-in-our-industry-are-activity-7265069169111425025-YJTw?utm_source=social_share_video_v2&amp;utm_medium=android_app&amp;utm_campaign=whatsapp">post</a> also said that the &#8220;cost of building wired infrastructure is still the dominant aspect of competition.&#8221;
&#8220;Building infrastructure in lower-density environments is enormously expensive. What is revolutionized is not the bendable fiber but the cost of capital which has fallen over the last decade. It has suddenly made it possible to imagine that you can build infrastructure in a lot of places that never would have made sense before,&#8221; he added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/insights/analyst-ratings/24/11/42088847/the-analyst-verdict-comcast-in-the-eyes-of-15-experts">The Analyst Verdict: Comcast In The Eyes Of 15 Experts</a>
Price Action: Shares of Comcast Corp were up 0.98% to $43.41 in the pre-market hours on Thursday, whereas were up by 0.26%, according to data from <a href="http://pro.benzinga.com">Benzinga Pro.</a>
As per <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/insights/analyst-ratings/24/11/42088847/the-analyst-verdict-comcast-in-the-eyes-of-15-experts">Benzinga&#8217;s recent report</a>, fifteen analysts have shared their evaluations of Comcast during the recent three months, expressing a mix of bullish and bearish perspectives.
The 12-month price targets assessed by analysts reveal further insights, featuring an average target of $49.65, a high estimate of $60.00, and a low estimate of $40.00. Witnessing a positive shift, the current average has risen by 3.01% from the previous average price target of $48.20.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="844" height="547" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/21074023/Comcast-Analyst-views.png" alt="" class="wp-image-658722" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/21074023/Comcast-Analyst-views.png 844w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/21074023/Comcast-Analyst-views-300x194.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/21074023/Comcast-Analyst-views-768x498.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 844px) 100vw, 844px" /></figure>
Read next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42080933/openai-ceo-sam-altman-reportedly-leading-150m-funding-for-rain-ai-a-startup-top-analyst-calls-one-of-the-legitimate-players-at-the-table-to-challenge-nvidias-ai-chip-dominance" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">OpenAI CEO Sam Altman Reportedly Leading $150M Funding For Rain AI: Startup Called ‘One Of The Legitimate Players At The Table' To Challenge Nvidia</a>
Photo via Wikimedia Commons

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Analyst Green-Lights Comcast Spinoff: How CMCSA's Restructure Plan Could Unlock Significant Shareholder Value

15 analysts have shared their evaluations of Comcast (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CMCSA#NASDAQ">CMCSA</a>) during the recent three months, expressing a mix of bullish and bearish perspectives.
The table below provides a snapshot of their recent ratings, showcasing how sentiments have evolved over the past 30 days and comparing them to the preceding months.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th align="right">Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Indifferent</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th align="right">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td align="right">7</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">6</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td align="right">6</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">5</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
The 12-month price targets assessed by analysts reveal further insights, featuring an average target of $49.65, a high estimate of $60.00, and a low estimate of $40.00. Witnessing a positive shift, the current average has risen by 3.01% from the previous average price target of $48.20.
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1732111270_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Decoding Analyst Ratings: A Detailed Look</h2>
The analysis of recent analyst actions sheds light on the perception of Comcast by financial experts. The following summary presents key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Analyst</th>
<th>Analyst Firm</th>
<th>Action Taken</th>
<th>Rating</th>
<th>Current Price Target</th>
<th>Prior Price Target</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Matthew Harrigan</td>
<td>Benchmark</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$60.00</td>
<td>$60.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Matthew Harrigan</td>
<td>Benchmark</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$60.00</td>
<td>$60.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tim Nollen</td>
<td>Macquarie</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$42.00</td>
<td>$40.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Barton Crockett</td>
<td>Rosenblatt</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$45.00</td>
<td>$45.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kannan Venkateshwar</td>
<td>Barclays</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$42.00</td>
<td>$40.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Steven Cahall</td>
<td>Wells Fargo</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$46.00</td>
<td>$43.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brandon Nispel</td>
<td>Keybanc</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$47.00</td>
<td>$44.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jeffrey Wlodarczak</td>
<td>Pivotal Research</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$54.00</td>
<td>$47.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Gregory Williams</td>
<td>TD Cowen</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$48.00</td>
<td>$50.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bryan Kraft</td>
<td>Deutsche Bank</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$50.00</td>
<td>$49.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tim Nollen</td>
<td>Macquarie</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$40.00</td>
<td>$40.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Matthew Harrigan</td>
<td>Benchmark</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$60.00</td>
<td>$55.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Maher Yaghi</td>
<td>Scotiabank</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Sector Outperform</td>
<td>$48.00</td>
<td>$47.75</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Matthew Harrigan</td>
<td>Benchmark</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$55.00</td>
<td>$55.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Maher Yaghi</td>
<td>Scotiabank</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Sector Perform</td>
<td>$47.75</td>
<td>$47.25</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: Analysts respond to changes in market conditions and company performance, frequently updating their recommendations. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise' or 'Lower' their stance, it reflects their reaction to recent developments related to Comcast. This information offers a snapshot of how analysts perceive the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Analysts assign qualitative assessments to stocks, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings convey the analysts' expectations for the relative performance of Comcast compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Analysts gauge the dynamics of price targets, providing estimates for the future value of Comcast's stock. This comparison reveals trends in analysts' expectations over time.</li>
</ul>
For valuable insights into Comcast's market performance, consider these analyst evaluations alongside crucial financial indicators. Stay well-informed and make prudent decisions using our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CMCSA/analyst-ratings?utm_source=Benzinga Insights">Stay up to date on Comcast analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>About Comcast</h2>
Comcast is made up of three parts. The core cable business owns networks capable of providing television, internet access, and phone services to 63 million US homes and businesses, or nearly half of the country. About 50% of the locations in this territory subscribe to at least one Comcast service. Comcast acquired NBCUniversal from General Electric in 2011. NBCU owns several cable networks, including CNBC, MSNBC, and USA, the NBC network, the Peacock streaming platform, several local NBC affiliates, Universal Studios, and several theme parks. Sky, acquired in 2018, is a large television provider in the UK and has invested heavily in proprietary content to build this position. Sky is also a large pay-television provider in Italy and has a presence in Germany and Austria.
<h3>Financial Milestones: Comcast's Journey</h3>
Market Capitalization Analysis: Above industry benchmarks, the company's market capitalization emphasizes a noteworthy size, indicative of a strong market presence.
Revenue Growth: Over the 3 months period, Comcast showcased positive performance, achieving a revenue growth rate of 6.49% as of 30 September, 2024. This reflects a substantial increase in the company's top-line earnings. When compared to others in the Communication Services sector, the company excelled with a growth rate higher than the average among peers.
Net Margin: Comcast's net margin excels beyond industry benchmarks, reaching 11.32%. This signifies efficient cost management and strong financial health.
Return on Equity (ROE): Comcast's ROE stands out, surpassing industry averages. With an impressive ROE of 4.29%, the company demonstrates effective use of equity capital and strong financial performance.
Return on Assets (ROA): Comcast's ROA surpasses industry standards, highlighting the company's exceptional financial performance. With an impressive 1.36% ROA, the company effectively utilizes its assets for optimal returns.
Debt Management: The company maintains a balanced debt approach with a debt-to-equity ratio below industry norms, standing at 1.18.
<h2>Analyst Ratings: Simplified</h2>
Experts in banking and financial systems, analysts specialize in reporting for specific stocks or defined sectors. Their comprehensive research involves attending company conference calls and meetings, analyzing financial statements, and engaging with insiders to generate what are known as analyst ratings for stocks. Typically, analysts assess and rate each stock once per quarter.
Some analysts publish their predictions for metrics such as growth estimates, earnings, and revenue to provide additional guidance with their ratings. When using analyst ratings, it is important to keep in mind that stock and sector analysts are also human and are only offering their opinions to investors.
If you want to keep track of which analysts are outperforming others, you can view updated analyst ratings along withanalyst success scores in <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a>.
Which Stocks Are Analysts Recommending Now?
Benzinga Edge gives you instant access to all major analyst upgrades, downgrades, and price targets. Sort by accuracy, upside potential, and more. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-checkout/?t=be8be9arja3be22bz21&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights">Click here to stay ahead of the market</a>.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

The Analyst Verdict: Comcast In The Eyes Of 15 Experts

Benchmark analyst Matthew Harrigan reiterates Comcast (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CMCSA#NASDAQ">CMCSA</a>) with a Buy and maintains $60 price target.

Benchmark Reiterates Buy on Comcast, Maintains $60 Price Target

New company to provide world-class news, sports and entertainment with significant scale and resources
Media veterans Mark Lazarus and Anand Kini to lead the new company
Comcast will continue its strategic focus on driving its core growth businesses, including residential broadband, wireless, business services and NBCUniversal's streaming, studios and theme parks
Tax-free transaction expected to be completed in approximately one year
Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CMCSA#NASDAQ">CMCSA</a>) today announced its intent to create a new publicly traded company comprised of a strong portfolio of NBCUniversal's cable television networks, including USA Network, CNBC, MSNBC, Oxygen, E!, SYFY and Golf Channel along with complementary digital assets including Fandango and Rotten Tomatoes, GolfNow and Sports Engine, through a tax-free spin-off. The well-capitalized independent company ("SpinCo") will have significant scale as a pure-play set of assets anchored by leading news, sports and entertainment content.
SpinCo will be an industry-leading news, sports and entertainment cable television business with a focused strategic direction. SpinCo's stable of marquee brands will provide a diverse and differentiated content offering that will reach approximately 70 million U.S. households.

Comcast Announces Intention To Create Leading Independent Media Business Through Spin-off Of Select Cable Television Networks; New Company To Provide World-Class News, Sports And Entertainment With Significant Scale And Resources

U.S. stocks could open on a tentative note on Wednesday amid <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/11/42064198/putin-revises-nuclear-doctrine-for-broader-strikes-after-us-backed-ukrainian-attack-markets-drop-bonds-gain">simmering geopolitical tensions</a>. Futures of all three major indices were marginally up as investors weighed escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine, and earnings from AI bellwether Nvidia Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>).
U.S. equity markets have had a mixed week so far, with the Dow Jones facing pressure even as the S&amp;P 500 and Nasdaq witnessed sideway movements.
<figure class="wp-block-table"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Futures</td>
<td>Change (+/-)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nasdaq 100</td>
<td>0.11%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>S&amp;P 500</td>
<td>0.12%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dow Jones</td>
<td>0.19%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>R2K</td>
<td>-0.09%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
In premarket trading on Wednesday,&nbsp;the SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>) rose 0.13% to $591.05 and the&nbsp;Invesco QQQ ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QQQ#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>) gained 0.10% to $503.96, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/lxquj26b2sag" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Pro data</a>.
Cues From Last Session:
Markets had a second consecutive mixed session, with the Dow Jones closing lower by 0.3% while the S&amp;P 500 edged up. The Nasdaq gained over 1% in the run-up to Nvidia's earnings.
Crude oil prices continued to gain as Russia-Ukraine tensions escalated.
This geopolitical anxiety rubbed off on treasury yields as well, which edged up.
On the economic data front, housing starts in the U.S. declined by 3.1% to 1.311 million in October versus a revised 1.353 million in the previous month. U.S. building permits declined by 0.6% to an annual rate of 1.416 million in October.
Most sectors on the S&amp;P 500 closed on a positive note, with energy, communication services, and consumer discretionary stocks recording the biggest gains on Monday.
However, industrial stocks bucked the overall market trend, closing the session lower.
<figure class="wp-block-table"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Index</td>
<td>Performance (+/-)</td>
<td>Value</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nasdaq Composite</td>
<td>1.04%</td>
<td>18,987.47</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>S&amp;P 500</td>
<td>0.40%</td>
<td>5,916.98</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dow Jones</td>
<td>-0.28%</td>
<td>43,268.94</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Russell 2000</td>
<td>0.80%</td>
<td>2,324.83</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
Insights From Analysts:
Wedbush's Dan Ives expressed upbeat sentiment about Nvidia's earnings, saying that the AI giant could deliver earnings beat and raise guidance as well.
"We expect a drop the mic performance from Nvidia tomorrow night as Godfather of AI Jensen &amp; Co. are the only game in town with $1 trillion of AI Cap-Ex on the way with Nvidia&#8217;s GPUs the new oil and gold in this world."
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">We expect a drop the mic performance from Nvidia tomorrow night as Godfather of AI Jensen &amp; Co. are the only game in town with $1 trillion of AI Cap-Ex on the way with Nvidia&#39;s GPUs the new oil and gold in this world. We believe $2 billion beat/$2 billion guide higher&#x1f525;&#x1f3c6;&#x1f402;&#x1f37f;
&mdash; Dan Ives (@DivesTech) <a href="https://twitter.com/DivesTech/status/1858854901801009208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
While there is optimism among analysts about Nvidia and other AI stocks, the European Central Bank expressed caution about the possibility of an "AI bubble."
&#8220;This concentration among a few large firms raises concerns over the possibility of an AI-related asset price bubble,&#8221; the ECB said in its latest Financial Stability Review, underscoring the increasing dependence of the equity markets on select companies.
This could also be a cause of concern for equity markets beyond the U.S., noted the ECB.
"Also, in a context of deeply integrated global equity markets, it points to the risk of adverse global spillovers, should earnings expectations for these firms be disappointed."
Ryan Detrick, chief market strategist at Carson Group, on the other hand, remained optimistic about equity markets.
"Stocks historically do better in years 1 and 2 of a President who was re-elected vs a new President in office."
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Stocks historically do better in years 1 and 2 of a President who was re-elected vs a new President in office. <a href="https://t.co/ndj0ZbE4jp">pic.twitter.com/ndj0ZbE4jp</a>
&mdash; Ryan Detrick, CMT (@RyanDetrick) <a href="https://twitter.com/RyanDetrick/status/1858973644086772112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
"We are in the third year of this bull market and it is worth noting these years can be on the weaker side of things. Good news is if the bull continues (as we expect) years 4-6 are all quite strong," he added.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">We are in the third year of this bull market and it is worth noting these years can be on the weaker side of things. Good news is if the bull continues (as we expect) years 4-6 are all quite strong. <a href="https://t.co/HW2PqVo9QU">pic.twitter.com/HW2PqVo9QU</a>
&mdash; Ryan Detrick, CMT (@RyanDetrick) <a href="https://twitter.com/RyanDetrick/status/1858966050886611130?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-trade-futures">How To Trade Futures</a>
Upcoming Economic Data
Wednesday's economic calendar is fairly light.
<ul>
<li>Fed Gov. Lisa Cooks will speak at 11 a.m. ET.</li>
<li>Fed Gov. Michelle Bowman will speak at 12:15 p.m. ET.</li>
</ul>
Stocks In Focus:
<ul>
<li>Nvidia Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) stock edged up 0.3% in premarket trading on Monday after gaining 4.9% on Tuesday.</li>
<li>MicroStrategy Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSTR#NASDAQ">MSTR</a>) stock surged nearly 12% on Tuesday and gained another 2.7% in premarket trading on Wednesday after Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) continued to chalk gains.</li>
<li>Comcast Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CMCSA#NASDAQ">CMCSA</a>) is expected to spin off its TV cable channels into separate publicly traded companies. Its stock rose 2.4% in premarket trading.</li>
<li>Super Micro Computer Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SMCI#NASDAQ">SMCI</a>) stock fell over 4% in premarket trading after surging more than 31% on Tuesday after appointing a new auditor and submitting a plan to comply with the Nasdaq's listing requirements.</li>
<li>Nio Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NIO#NYSE">NIO</a>) was down by 1.5% in premarket trading after the Chinese EV player reported widening losses due to intense competition.</li>
<li>Target Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TGT#NYSE">TGT</a>) fell over 18% in premarket trading after the company posted $1.85 earnings per share in the third quarter, well below Street expectations of $2.30.</li>
<li>Investors are awaiting earnings results from Nvidia Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) today. Palo Alto Networks Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PANW#NASDAQ">PANW</a>), Snowflake Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SNOW#NYSE">SNOW</a>), and The TJX Companies, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TJX#NYSE">TJX</a>) today.</li>
</ul>
Commodities, Bonds And Global Equity Markets:
Crude oil futures surged in the early New York session, rising by 0.53% to hover around $69.61 per barrel.
The 10-year Treasury note yield increased to 4.426%.
Major Asian markets ended mixed on Wednesday, while European markets witnessed sideways movement in early trading.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/11/42083607/as-spirit-airlines-files-for-bankruptcy-experts-weigh-potential-impact-on-flight-prices-this-is-not-a-black-and-white-situation">As Spirit Airlines Files For Bankruptcy Experts Weigh Potential Impact On Flight Prices</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy: Wikimedia

Earnings

Futures

Economics

Federal Reserve

Pre-Market Outlook

Movers

$BTC

MSTR

NVDA

PANW

SMCI

SNOW

US Stocks Poised For Tentative Start As Geopolitical Tensions, Nvidia Earnings Keep Investors Cautious: Tech Bull Expects AI Bellwether To Deliver 'Drop The Mic Performance'

Comcast Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CMCSA#NASDAQ">CMCSA</a>) is set to announce a significant restructuring of its media empire, spinning off most of its cable television networks including MSNBC and CNBC into a separate publicly traded company.
What Happened: The new company, to be led by current NBCUniversal Media Group chairman Mark Lazarus as CEO, will house popular channels including USA, Oxygen, E!, Syfy, and Golf Channel. NBCUniversal will retain control of Bravo, the NBC broadcast network, Peacock streaming service, NBC Sports, and Universal theme parks, <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/2024/11/19/media/comcast-nbcuniversal-cable-spinoff-msnbc/index.html">reported</a> CNN.
The move comes as traditional cable networks face increasing pressure from streaming services. Despite industry headwinds, these channels remain profitable contributors to Comcast&#8217;s bottom line. The spinoff is being positioned as a growth opportunity, with potential for future acquisitions in an industry primed for consolidation.
During a recent investor call, Comcast president Mike Cavanaugh had hinted at the possibility, mentioning plans to evaluate creating &#8220;a new well-capitalized company&#8221; for the cable portfolio networks.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42079585/meta-google-and-microsoft-bet-big-on-ai-with-skyrocketing-capex-budgets-but-jensen-huangs-nvidia-poised-to-be-the-biggest-winner-says-analyst-only-game-in-town-with-1-trillion-of-ai-capex">Dan Ives Expects &#8216;Drop The Mic Performance&#8217; Tomorrow From Nvidia: Here&#8217;s Why</a>
Why It Matters: The restructuring notably separates MSNBC and CNBC from NBC News, potentially unwinding years of integration efforts within NBCUniversal&#8217;s news operations. The company is expected to detail its vision for the news division separation in Wednesday&#8217;s formal announcement.
The announcement comes as media companies navigate a rapidly evolving landscape. Walt Disney Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIS#NYSE">DIS</a>) CEO Bob Iger recently stated his <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/41999904/disney-ceo-bob-iger-slams-the-brakes-on-new-ma-amid-comcasts-cable-spinoff-we-dont-need-more-assets-to-compete-in-todays-disruptive-media-landscape">company doesn&#8217;t need additional assets</a> to compete effectively, having already consolidated through its 20th Century Fox acquisition.
Industry analysts have long anticipated such a move. &#8220;Investors have yearned for exactly this, or at least something close to it, for years,&#8221; <a href="https://variety.com/2024/tv/news/nbcuniversal-comcast-cable-spinoff-shut-down-warner-discovery-paramount-1236196378/">said</a> Craig Moffett of MoffettNathanson to Variety.
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42080933/openai-ceo-sam-altman-reportedly-leading-150m-funding-for-rain-ai-a-startup-top-analyst-calls-one-of-the-legitimate-players-at-the-table-to-challenge-nvidias-ai-chip-dominance">OpenAI CEO Sam Altman Reportedly Leading $150M Funding For Rain AI: Startup Called &#8216;One Of The Legitimate Players At The Table&#8217; To Challenge Nvidia</a></li>
</ul>
Photo via Wikimedia Commons
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Global

Media

Comcast Plans Major Cable Networks Spinoff, MSNBC And CNBC To Form New Public Company: Report

Analysts praised the agreement reached this week between Warner Bros. Discovery (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WBD#NASDAQ">WBD</a>) and the National Basketball Association (NBA) that will see an extension of the two companies&#8217; <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42044510/warner-bros-stock-jumps-after-securing-11-year-nba-deal-extension">partnership for 11 years</a>.
As part of the deal, TNT Sports will be licensed to other companies and Warner Bros. will get exclusive rights to NBA games in some international markets. The deal will also see ESPN, a unit of The Walt Disney Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIS#NYSE">DIS</a>), partner with Warner Bros. to license the popular basketball studio show "Inside the NBA."
The Analyst Takeaways: "This appears to be as positive of an outcome as investors could have hoped for, considering loss of domestic distribution," Bank of America&#8217;s Jessica Reif Ehrlich said in a Monday analyst note.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/technicals/24/11/42045237/stock-of-the-day-warner-bros-bounces-from-support-as-nba-agreement-finalized">Stock Of The Day: Warner Bros. Bounces From Support As NBA Agreement Finalized</a>
Ehrlich, calling the deal "a best case scenario," reiterated a Buy rating on Warner Bros. Discovery with a $12 price target.
Warner Bros. Discovery avoids having to pay expensive sports rights fees while still getting global rights to some hit shows, she explained.
The company will also receive licensing revenue from Disney for "Inside the NBA."
"In totality, we estimate today's announcements could yield a healthy annual profit for the company,&#8221; Ehrlich added.
Ehrlich said Warner Bros. Discovery will now televise exclusive Big 12 football and men's basketball games starting in the 2025 season.
"WBD continues to add sports rights to its portfolio which in the aggregate, should help partially offset the loss of the domestic NBA distribution."
Outside of the NBA deal, Ehrlich also sees Warner Bros. Discovery's upcoming renewal with Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CMCSA#NASDAQ">CMCSA</a>) as a potential future catalyst.
A recent renewal with Charter saw Warner Bros. Discovery still net a strong rate for TNT carriage fees, despite losing future NBA rights, the analyst added.
"If these terms can be more broadly replicated in the upcoming CMCSA renewal, that would go a long way in assuaging any remaining concerns."
Price Action: Warner Bros. Discovery stock is up 0.32% to $9.50 at last check Tuesday versus a 52-week trading range of $6.64 to $12.68. 
The company&#8217;s stock is down 19% year-to-date in 2024, but shares have risen over 25% in the last month.
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/11/41809105/warner-bros-discovery-q3-earnings-olympics-and-blockbusters-drive-gains-ceo-highlights-subscriber-s">Warner Bros. Discovery Q3 Earnings: Olympics and Blockbusters Drive Gains, CEO Highlights Subscriber Surge and New Partnerships &nbsp;</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

Analyst Color

Sports

Warner Bros. Discovery NBA Deal 'Best Case Scenario': Analyst Says Renewal Structure Could Boost Annual Profit

President-elect Donald Trump on Saturday picked Brendan Carr to become chairman of the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42029445/trump-names-pro-starlink-fcc-commissioner-brendan-carr-as-chairperson">Federal Communications Commission (FCC)</a>.
What To Know: Carr, the FCC's current top Republican commissioner, has worked at the organization since 2012 and is an outspoken supporter of free speech, deregulation and economic growth in the telecommunications sector. Carr wrote the FCC chapter of <a href="https://static.project2025.org/2025_MandateForLeadership_CHAPTER-28.pdf">Project 2025</a>, a conservative political initiative spearheaded by the Heritage Foundation.&nbsp;
Project 2025: In his chapter in Project 2025, Carr expressed his support for updating and eliminating obsolete regulations to empower the private sector in developing network infrastructure. He showed particular interest in promoting technologies like Elon Musk&#8217;s Starlink and Amazon.com, Inc.'s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) Kuiper satellite internet services.&nbsp;
Read More: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs/24/11/42044642/trump-appears-frustrated-as-elon-musk-chimes-in-on-treasury-secretary-adds-more-names-to-a-list-of-potential-picks">Trump Appears &#8216;Frustrated&#8217; As Elon Musk Chimes In On Treasury Secretary, Adds More Names To Short List&nbsp;</a>
"This technology can beam a reliable, high-speed Internet signal to nearly any part of the globe at a fraction of the cost of other technologies. This has the potential to significantly accelerate efforts to end the digital divide and disrupt the federal regulatory and subsidy regime that applies to communications networks. The FCC should expedite its work to support this new technology by acting more quickly in its review and approval of applications to launch new satellites," Carr wrote in Project 2025.&nbsp;
Over the past year, Carr disagreed with Democratic FCC commissioners for <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40672229/starlink-ineligible-for-nearly-900m-in-subsidies-says-fcc-spacex-ceo-elon-musk-says-it-is-flat-out-l">denying Starlink money</a> from a rural broadband subsidy program, including in this post on the social media platform, X:&nbsp;
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><a href="https://t.co/bYTx3nBpft">pic.twitter.com/bYTx3nBpft</a>
&mdash; Brendan Carr (@BrendanCarrFCC) <a href="https://twitter.com/BrendanCarrFCC/status/1851691626743370042?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Carr also called out Vice President Kamala Harris for little progress on a $42 billion program to expand broadband access, for which the U.S. Department of Commerce determined Starlink had only limited eligibility.&nbsp;
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">In 2021, <a href="https://twitter.com/VP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@VP</a> Kamala Harris agreed to lead the Administration's $42 billion program to expand Internet service to millions of Americans. After 1&#xFE0F;&#x20E3;,0&#xFE0F;&#x20E3;7&#xFE0F;&#x20E3;9&#xFE0F;&#x20E3; days: 0&#xFE0F;&#x20E3; people have been connected 0&#xFE0F;&#x20E3; dollars have been spent building Internet infrastructure 0&#xFE0F;&#x20E3; projects are underway <a href="https://t.co/AdUaSOEodK">pic.twitter.com/AdUaSOEodK</a>
&mdash; Brendan Carr (@BrendanCarrFCC) <a href="https://twitter.com/BrendanCarrFCC/status/1851411463895986185?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Carr told POLITICO that <a href="https://www.politico.com/news/2024/10/18/elon-musk-brendan-carr-fcc-starlink-00184260">he believes</a> much of the broadband program's $42 billion should be used to develop land-based connections, but perhaps as much as one-third could be used for satellite internet.&nbsp;
DOGE: President-elect Trump created a new Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and tapped Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy to lead the department's efforts to reduce wasteful federal spending and streamline government operations. The DOGE may help to advance Carr's agenda of deregulation and empowerment of the private sector, including Musk's Starlink satellites.&nbsp;
In a recent interview on "The Joe Rogan Experience" podcast, Trump highlighted Starlink's potential to disrupt traditional land-based broadband technologies and the subsidies for providers like AT&amp;T Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/T#NYSE">T</a>) and Comcast Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CMCSA#NASDAQ">CMCSA</a>).&nbsp;
"We're spending a trillion dollars to get cables all over the country, up to upstate areas where you have two farms, and they are spending millions of dollars to have a cable. Elon can do it for nothing," Trump said.&nbsp;
Read More:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/11/42046316/trump-set-to-hand-musk-golden-path-for-tesla-after-reversing-course-on-autonomous-vehicle-ban">Trump Set To Hand Musk &#8216;Golden Path For Tesla&#8217; After Reversing Course On Autonomous Vehicle Ban</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock&nbsp;

Government

Regulations

SPACE

Politics

AMZN

Trump's FCC Pick Could Cut 'Wasteful Broadband Spending' With Elon Musk's Starlink

Shares of Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WBD#NASDAQ">WBD</a>) are trading higher Monday. The company said it <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42044510/warner-bros-stock-jumps-after-securing-11-year-nba-deal-extension">has reached a deal</a> with the National Basketball Association. The agreement will extend the media partnership for an additional 11 years. Warner Bros also said that it has resolved all recent disputes related to the NBA's media agreement.
This development has made Warner Bros. our Stock of the Day.
Warner Bros sued the NBA in July. This occurred after the league gave broadcast rights to Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CMCSA#NASDAQ">CMCSA</a>), ESPN, and Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>). This was to be an 11-year deal worth $77 billion.
Warner Bros said this was a violation of their agreement. A clause in the contract stated that the company had the right to match offers from a third party.
The chart of Warner Bros illustrates an important technical analysis dynamic that is common in the financial markets. Certain price levels can have more importance than others. As you can see on the chart, this has been the case with the $9.25 level for the stock.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="526" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/18125142/wbd-1024x526.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-653534" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/18125142/wbd-1024x526.webp 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/18125142/wbd-300x154.webp 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/18125142/wbd-768x394.webp 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/18125142/wbd-1536x788.webp 1536w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/18125142/wbd.webp 1584w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/econ-s/24/11/42038707/gold-natural-gas-prices-rally-us-russia-tensions-escalate-over-ukraines-long-range-strikes">Gold, Natural Gas Prices Rally As US-Russia Tensions Escalate Over Ukraine&#8217;s Long-Range Strikes</a>
In November 2023, it was a support level. Then, in March, it turned into resistance.
This shift occurred because traders and investors who previously bought shares near the support level experienced losses when the stock price broke below that level. As the price attempted to recover, these investors sold their positions at the $9.25 level, creating resistance.
So, they placed sell orders at the same price that had been support. There were so many of these orders that it caused resistance to form and put a top on the price.
But when the stock broke through the resistance and moved higher, many of the traders and investors who sold at $9.25 decided to buy their shares back at the same price they were sold for.
When the stock dropped back to $9.25, they placed buy orders. There were so many of these orders that if reformed support at the same price that was resistance.
Successful traders know that it is important to understand a company's fundamentals. But they also understand that psychology can influence prices too. Remorseful buyers can turn what had been support into resistance. Regretful sellers can turn what had been resistance into support.
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Photo: Shutterstock

Technicals

Stock Of The Day: Warner Bros. Bounces From Support As NBA Agreement Finalized

Netflix Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NFLX#NASDAQ">NFLX</a>) made headlines over the weekend, both good and bad, thanks to its highly anticipated live boxing stream featuring Jake Paul and Mike Tyson. The younger Paul won <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/sports/24/11/42022601/mike-tyson-vs-jake-paul-netflixs-explosive-boxing-event-ends-with-pauls-victory">via unanimous decision.</a>
The event could be a huge win for Netflix as it ramps up live events, but Friday's fight night showed that sometimes demand is too high and can cause problems even for streamers.
What Happened: Friday&#8217;s fight card, postponed from an <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/sports/24/11/41985523/paul-vs-tyson-boxing-match-how-to-watch-betting-odds-what-the-stats-say-and-more" target="_blank" rel="noopener">earlier 2024 date,</a> featured the Paul vs. Tyson fight, which pitted one of the upcoming boxers and social media stars (Paul) against one of the most recognized and most awarded boxers in history (Tyson).
While Paul won the fight, many on social media Friday night labeled Netflix—or themselves as viewers—the real losers, as high traffic from the Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano fight preceding the main event caused Netflix to crash.
The hashtag #NetflixCrash trended on social media platform X Friday and more than one million people around the world, from 50 countries, reported issues with their stream according to DownDetector. TechCrunch <a href="https://techcrunch.com/2024/11/16/jake-paul-vs-mike-tyson-fight-shows-netflix-still-struggles-with-live-events/">said </a>11 p.m. ET was the peak time for issues, and around 530,000 U.S. customers reported issues with their stream.
While the issues seemed to ease during the Paul vs. Tyson fight, some customers may have abandoned watching altogether due to repeated disruptions or reports of problems experienced by other subscribers.
"Over 120 million people on Netflix. We crashed the site," Paul boasted after the fight.
Netflix said over 60 million people tuned in for the Paul vs. Tyson fight, setting records along the way.
While Netflix has experimented with live comedy specials, live award shows and a live roast of Tom Brady, this was the company's biggest test to date and the stumbles could be bad news ahead of two highly anticipated National Football League games on Christmas Day.
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/24/11/41821069/netflix-stock-hits-all-time-highs-company-confirms-stranger-things-season-5-for-2025">Netflix Stock Hits All-Time Highs, Company Confirms &#8216;Stranger Things&#8217; Season 5 For 2025</a>
What's Next: Netflix will air two games on Christmas Day, with the Kansas City Chiefs and Pittsburgh Steelers facing off at 1 p.m. ET and the Baltimore Ravens and Houston Texans facing off at 4:30 p.m. ET.
The games are <a href="https://www.netflix.com/tudum/articles/nfl-games-on-netflix">exclusive </a>on Netflix, outside of the local television markets for the teams playing in the two contests.
In case you were wondering if Friday's stumbles had Netflix or the NFL reconsidering the plans to stream games on Christmas Day, the streaming giant is already doubling down.
Netflix announced that Beyoncé will <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42038673/netflix-scores-big-beyonce-set-to-headline-nfl-christmas-halftime-show" target="_blank" rel="noopener">perform at halftime </a>during the Ravens—Texans game in her hometown of Houston. Beyoncé will perform songs from her recent "Cowboy Carter" album and feature unnamed special guests, Netflix said.
Beyoncé previously performed during halftime of two Super Bowls, one as a headliner and one during a headline performance from Coldplay.
While Super Bowls regularly attract over 100 million viewers, which could be bad news for Netflix, it's important to remember that the average NFL game is watched by fewer people than those who tuned in for the Paul and Tyson fight.
Amazon.com Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>), which is the exclusive home of "Thursday Night Football" games, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/sports/24/11/41918005/super-bowl-lix-betting-odds-kansas-city-chiefs-favorite-to-three-peat-can-detroit-lions-spoil-the-party-make-team-history">is averaging 13 million </a>viewers per NFL game this season through Week 9, up 4% from last season. Fox Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FOX#NASDAQ">FOX</a>)(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FOXA#NASDAQ">FOXA</a>), which airs games on Sunday, is averaging 18.65 million viewers per NFL game.
The most watched game of the current NFL season is the Week 1 matchup of the Chiefs and Ravens, which aired on Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CMCSA#NASDAQ">CMCSA</a>) units NBC and Peacock. The game<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/24/01/36647034/peacock-has-most-livestreamed-event-in-u-s-history-with-nfl-playoffs-exclusive-can-comcast-"> had an average</a> of 29.2 million viewers.
Last season, the NFL had a streaming exclusive NFL Playoffs game on Peacock. The matchup between the Miami Dolphins and Chiefs was watched by an average of 23 million people, up 6% to the prior year's playoff game and setting records along the way.
Netflix ended the third quarter with 282.72 million global paid subscribers. Now, if every single subscriber tunes into the NFL games on Christmas Day, Netflix could have serious problems, given the Paul and Tyson fight.
However, viewership for the Christmas Day games will probably be below 60 million, and given Netflix's more than one month to get things right, fewer problems will likely occur.
NFLX Price Action: Netflix stock is up 1% to $832.70 on Monday after starting the day down. Netflix stock has traded between $445.73 and $841.00 over the last 52 weeks. The stock is up 77.8% year-to-date in 2024.
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</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

FOXA

NFLX

Netflix Crash Hits Jake Paul-Mike Tyson Fight: Can Streaming Platform Handle Christmas Day NFL Action?

Macquarie analyst Tim Nollen maintains Comcast (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CMCSA#NASDAQ">CMCSA</a>) with a Neutral and raises the price target from $40 to $42.

Macquarie Maintains Neutral on Comcast, Raises Price Target to $42

On Thursday, the Walt Disney Company (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/dis#NYSE">DIS</a>) reported its fiscal fourth quarter results that topped estimates as its entertainment segment shined in its full splendor, mirrored in box office success as well as streaming business&rsquo; growth and profitability.&nbsp;
Bob Iger is getting Disney back in shape.
For the September quarter, Disney reported revenue grew&nbsp;6% to $22.57 billion, topping LSEG&rsquo;s consensus estimate of $22.45 billion. &nbsp;Net income grew to $460 million, or 25 cents per share, from $264 million, with adjusted earnings per share amounting to $1.14, also surpassing LSEG&rsquo;s estimate of $1.10.&nbsp;&nbsp;Operating income grew 23% to $3.66 billion.
Fueled by box office success, the entertainment segment that is home to traditional TV networks, direct-to-consumer streaming and films grew 14% YoY to $10.83 billion. Inside Out 2 surpassed the success of Frozen II, becoming the highest-grossing animated movie of all time. Then, there was yet another success on the box office front with &ldquo;Deadpool &amp; Wolverine&rdquo; surpassing &ldquo;Joker&rdquo; from Warner Bros. Discovery (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/wbd#NASDAQ">WBD</a>) and taking the title of&nbsp;highest-grossing R-rated film of all time. Together, these two films added&nbsp;$316 million of profit during the quarter with the entertainment segment reporting and overall profit of $1.1 billion in profit. Executives also revealed that Disney became the first film studio to cross $4 billion globally this year.&nbsp;
Five years since Disney+ launched, it is now profitable. combined streaming business, which includes Disney+, Hulu and ESPN+, reported operating income of $321 million, which is an entirely different story compared to last year&rsquo;s comparable quarter when it reported a loss of $387 million. Like its streaming peers, Warner Bros. Discovery, as well as Netflix (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/nflx#NASDAQ">NFLX</a>), Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/cmcsa#NASDAQ">CMCSA</a>) and Paramount Global (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/para#NASDAQ">PARA</a>), Disney+ Core subscribers grew&nbsp;4%, to 122.7 million, with Hulu subscribers alone growing 2% to 52 million.&nbsp;However, average revenue per user for domestic Disney+ customers&nbsp;dropped as more than half of U.S. Disney+ subscribers are choosing the cheaper, ad-supported tier, which on the other hand, bodes well for Disney&rsquo;s advertising growth prospects. Overall, streaming entertainment ad revenue was up 14%/ while sports segment, made up primarily of ESPN, reported flat revenue.&nbsp;
Experiences segment that includes theme parks and consumer products, saw revenue grow 1% to $8.24 billion due to a slowdown, particularly in the U.S. following the post-pandemic surge in visitors and the lull is expected to continue throughout the following quarters. Comcast also reported lower attendance at its Universal theme parks. Due to fewer visitors, Comcast reported NBCUniversal&rsquo;s theme parks revenue dropped by 5.3% to about $2.3 billion. On the other hand, Comcast was fueled by the Summer Olympics that boosted its NBCUniversal revenue, as well as Peacock&rsquo;s subscriber count. Peacock that had the exclusive streaming rights gained 3 million subscribers, paid subscribers grew 29% YoY to 36 million and with revenue growing 82% to $1.5 billion, Comcast narrowed Peacock&rsquo;s losses.
Disney&rsquo;s fiscal 2025 guidance
Compared to the just finished fiscal year, Disney guided for high-single-digit adjusted earnings growth.However, due to higher pricing and the end of a promotional offer, Disney is expecting a &ldquo;modest decline&rdquo; in Disney+ Core subscribers during the fiscal first quarter. However, the bigger picture for the fiscal 2025 is bright with profit in the entertainment streaming business, which excludes ESPN+, is expected to see a YoY increase of roughly $875 million with fiscal 2026 being even brighter with a double-digit percentage rise. Despite the $130 million hit of hurricanes and Cruise Line prelaunch costs of $90 million&nbsp;that will weaken first fiscal quarter results, the experience segment is expected to see its profit grow 6% to 8% in the new fiscal year.&nbsp;
With the upcoming releases of &ldquo;Moana 2&rdquo; and &ldquo;Mufasa: The Lion King,&rdquo; Disney is kicking off the holiday season on a strong note. More importantly, with the streaming segment now being profitable, Disney reaffirmed an important pathway for long-term growth.
DISCLAIMER: This content is for informational purposes only. It is not intended as investing advice.
This article is from an unpaid external contributor. It does not represent Benzinga's reporting and has not been edited for content or accuracy.

Disney Shines In All Its Entertainment Glory

Charlie Giancarlo, CEO of Pure Storage, has raised concerns about U.S. tax laws pushing companies to relocate their operations abroad. This comes as businesses strive to maintain competitiveness in the global market.
What Happened: Giancarlo highlighted in an interview that current U.S. tax policies are forcing companies to consider moving their operations overseas. He pointed out that while tariffs have offered some relief, they are not the ultimate solution, Barron&#8217;s <a href="https://www.barrons.com/amp/articles/tech-pure-storage-ceo-interview-taxes-manufacturing-005625f7">reported</a> on Monday.
"It's a set of different tax laws and labor laws and so forth that make manufacturing in the U.S. economically a competitive disadvantage," he said.
Pure Storage has adopted a global manufacturing approach, with significant operations in Southeast Asia, Europe, and the U.S., collaborating with outsourcing partners like Foxconn (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HNHPF#OTC">HNHPF</a>). The company, which serves 60% of Fortune 500 firms, including Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>), Comcast Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CMCSA#NASDAQ">CMCSA</a>), and NASA, is closely monitoring potential tax reforms under President-elect Donald Trump. S&amp;P Global suggests that a reduced corporate tax rate could boost domestic production and reduce overseas business activities.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/11/42014985/matt-gaetz-to-be-confirmed-as-attorney-general-in-a-trump-administration-not-so-fast-polymarket-traders-say?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Matt Gaetz To Be Confirmed As Attorney General In A Trump Administration? Not So Fast, Polymarket Traders</a>
However, S&amp;P Global also notes the uncertainty surrounding the broader economic impact of such tax changes. Companies like Pure Storage are awaiting new tariffs and trade policies to assess the future U.S. tax landscape.
Why It Matters: The discussion around U.S. tax policies is gaining momentum as Donald Trump&#8217;s<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/24/11/41885777/how-trumps-tax-cuts-tariffs-animal-spirits-could-shape-sp-500-earnings"> return to the White House</a> brings potential pro-business policies into focus. Analysts are adjusting their forecasts for S&amp;P 500 earnings, considering Trump&#8217;s possible policy changes, which include tax cuts and deregulation. However, trade tariffs on Chinese imports remain a potential threat to corporate earnings.
Trump&#8217;s proposal to lower the federal corporate tax <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/startups/24/10/41291635/are-trumps-proposed-corporate-tax-cuts-the-key-to-unleashing-a-stock-market-boom-heres-what-history">rate from 21% to 15%</a> has sparked debate. Some view it as a catalyst for economic growth and a stock market boom, while others remain skeptical. Historical data suggests that such tax cuts could increase U.S. GDP by 0.4% and create approximately 93,000 full-time jobs, according to the Tax Foundation.
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Neuro</a>&nbsp;and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Image via Shutterstock

HNHPF

Meta, Comcast And NASA Supplier CEO Says US Tax Laws Are Driving Business Exodus, All Eyes On Trump For Policy Change

Elon Musk has expressed gratitude as major brands, including IBM (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IBM#NYSE">IBM</a>), Walt Disney Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIS#NYSE">DIS</a>), Comcast (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CMCSA#NASDAQ">CMCSA</a>), and Warner Bros.&nbsp;Discovery (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WBD#NASDAQ">WBD</a>), resumed advertising on X, formerly Twitter.
What Happened: On Friday, Musk took to X and expressed his appreciation to companies for recommencing advertising on X following a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/12/36056462/elon-musks-standoff-with-apple-disney-and-other-big-advertisers-forces-x-to-turn-to-smaller-ones">year-long boycott due to brand safety concerns</a>.
This information was shared by social media personality Mario Nawfal on X.
Musk responded to Nawfal's post,&nbsp;saying,&nbsp;&#8220;Just want to say that&nbsp;we super appreciate&nbsp;major brands resuming advertising on&nbsp;our platform!&#8221;
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/41872302/taylor-swift-fans-abandon-elon-musks-x-for-bluesky-how-trumps-election-victory-triggered-swifties-uprising?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Taylor Swift Fans Abandon Elon Musk&#8217;s X For Bluesky, Says Report: How Trump&#8217;s Election Victory Triggered Swifties Uprising</a>
He also expressed&nbsp;his gratitude to&nbsp;X CEO Linda Yaccarino and&nbsp;the entire X team&nbsp;for restoring&nbsp;advertisers&#8217; confidence.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Just want to say that we super appreciate major brands resuming advertising on our platform! Thanks <a href="https://twitter.com/lindayaX?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@lindayaX</a> and the whole &#120143; team for your hard work in restoring confidence in our platform and ensuring that advertising content only appears where advertisers want it shown. <a href="https://t.co/e508KrMo9g">https://t.co/e508KrMo9g</a>
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1857471850676367646?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Subscribe to the&nbsp;<a href="https://bztechtrends.beehiiv.com/subscribe" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Tech Trends newsletter</a>&nbsp;to get all the latest tech developments delivered to your inbox.
Why It Matters: In September, it was reported that more companies were <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40762349/x-faces-major-advertiser-exodus-amid-string-of-elon-musk-controversies">considering pulling ads from X</a> next year due to concerns that their <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/11/35842015/ibm-pulls-adverts-from-elon-musks-x-following-antisemitic-content-allegations">brands could be harmed by the platform&#8217;s content</a>.
A Kantar survey also&nbsp;revealed that 26% more marketers&nbsp;plan to decrease their spending&nbsp;on X ads in 2025,&nbsp;marking the largest recorded decline&nbsp;in ad spending for any major global platform.
However, following the U.S. 2024 Presidential election, it was reported that some advertisers are contemplating a return to X to gain favor with Musk and President-Elect Donald Trump.
This development also comes as&nbsp;Meta Platforms Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/24/11/41963996/mark-zuckerbergs-meta-eyes-2025-to-introduce-ads-on-threads-as-elon-musks-x-loses-favor-with-major-brands-report">plans to introduce ads</a> on its Threads early next year, potentially capitalizing on X&#8217;s loss of favor with major brands.
Check out more of Benzinga's Consumer Tech coverage by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/consumer-tech" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">following this link</a>.
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Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

Social Media

IBM, Disney And Other Large Advertisers Return To Elon Musk's X After A Year-Long Boycott: 'We Super Appreciate'

Amid Comcast Corp&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CMCSA#NASDAQ">CMCSA</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/10/41653550/comcast-q3-earnings-olympics-power-nbcuniversal-gains-peacock-hits-36m-subscribers-explores-forming">impending cable networks</a> spinoff,&nbsp;Walt Disney Co.&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIS#NYSE">DIS</a>) CEO Robert A. Iger has ruled out the need for further mergers and acquisitions.
What Happened: On Thursday, during <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/41971559/disneys-q4-boosted-by-streaming-gains-strong-box-office-and-solid-parks-performance">Disney&#8217;s fourth-quarter earnings</a> call, UBS analyst John Hodulik asked Iger about the potential for Disney to make similar moves.
In response, Iger pointed to Disney&#8217;s successful acquisition of assets from 20th Century Fox in 2017, driven by the rise of streaming. This strategic move has led to&nbsp;approximately 174 million global subscribers&nbsp;for Disney.
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/11/41868328/amazons-ai-investment-palantirs-winning-strategy-metas-bee-problem-and-palantirs-eye-popping-results-this-week-in-ai?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Amazon&#8217;s AI Investment, Palantir&#8217;s Winning Strategy, Meta&#8217;s Bee Problem, And Palantir&#8217;s &#8216;Eye-Popping&#8217; Results: This Week In AI</a>
&#8220;We, in many respects, have&nbsp;already consolidated. We don&#8217;t really&nbsp;need more assets right now,&nbsp;either from a distribution or&nbsp;from a content perspective to&nbsp;thrive in basically a disruptive&nbsp;media world,&#8221; Iger said.
Disney&#8217;s senior executive vice president&nbsp;and CFO, Hugh Johnston, also rejected the idea of divestitures, stating that he did not see a value-creating opportunity for Disney in this regard.
Subscribe to the&nbsp;<a href="https://bztechtrends.beehiiv.com/subscribe" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Tech Trends newsletter</a>&nbsp;to get all the latest tech developments delivered to your inbox.
Why It Matters: Disney&#8217;s fourth-quarter earnings were boosted by streaming gains, strong box office performance, and solid park performance. The company reported a 6% YoY revenue growth to $22.57 billion, marginally beating the analyst consensus of $22.35 billion.
Comcast is exploring a spinoff of its NBCU Cable Networks into a new company. This move was announced by Comcast president Mike Cavanagh at the company&#8217;s third-quarter earnings.
Comcast reported a revenue decline of 6.5% YoY to $32.07 billion at the time, beating the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/10/b41648656/comcast-reports-3rd-quarter-2024-results" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">analyst consensus estimate of $31.64 billion</a>.
Price Action: Disney shares closed Thursday's session with a 6.23% gain, finishing at $109.12. However, in after-hours trading, the stock saw a slight dip, settling at $108.50 as of the latest update.
In contrast, Comcast shares declined by 0.98% in Thursday&#8217;s session, closing at $43.48, according to data from <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/?gspk=YWRhbWVja2VydDUzMzY&amp;gsxid=zBMR4PKmcgBw" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Pro</a>.
Image via Shutterstock
Check out more of Benzinga's Consumer Tech coverage by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/consumer-tech" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">following this link</a>.
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Neuro</a>&nbsp;and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Bob Iger Slams The Brakes On New M&A Amid Comcast's Cable Spinoff: Disney Doesn't 'Really Need More Assets' To Compete

Comcast's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CMCSA#NYSE">CMCSA</a>) short percent of float has risen 7.28% since its last report. The company recently reported that it has 61.28 million shares sold short, which is 1.62% of all regular shares that are available for trading. Based on its trading volume, it would take traders 3.2 days to cover their short positions on average.
<h3>Why Short Interest Matters</h3>
Short interest is the number of shares that have been sold short but have not yet been covered or closed out. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock/">Short selling</a> is when a trader sells shares of a company they do not own, with the hope that the price will fall. Traders make money from short selling if the price of the stock falls and they lose if it rises.
Short interest is important to track because it can act as an indicator of market sentiment towards a particular stock. An increase in short interest can signal that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest can signal they have become more bullish.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-interest">List of the most shorted stocks</a>
<h3>Comcast Short Interest Graph (3 Months)</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1731616217_0.png" alt="short_fig" />
As you can see from the chart above the percentage of shares that are sold short for Comcast has grown since its last report. This does not mean that the stock is going to fall in the near-term but traders should be aware that more shares are being shorted.
<h3>Comparing Comcast's Short Interest Against Its Peers</h3>
Peer comparison is a popular technique amongst analysts and investors for gauging how well a company is performing. A company's peer is another company that has similar characteristics to it, such as industry, size, age, and financial structure. You can find a company's peer group by reading its 10-K, proxy filing, or by doing your own similarity analysis.
According to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/">Benzinga Pro</a>, Comcast's peer group average for short interest as a percentage of float is 9.85%, which means the company has less short interest than most of its peers.
Did you know that increasing short interest can actually be bullish for a stock? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-make-money-on-a-short-squeeze/">This post by Benzinga Money explains how you can profit from it.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and was reviewed by an editor.

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