Should I buy Walt Disney stock in 2025?
Is Walt Disney stock a buy right now?
Walt Disney Company (NYSE: DIS) stands as a powerhouse in the global entertainment sector, blending a legendary content portfolio with a dynamic capacity for innovation. As of early May 2025, Disney shares are trading near $90.81, with an active average daily volume of 10.67 million shares, reflecting sustained market engagement from both institutional and retail investors. The stock has faced moderate downward pressure this year, influenced by competitive streaming dynamics and modest subscriber softness. Yet, recent quarterly results saw revenues reach $24.7 billion (up 5% year-over-year) and adjusted earnings per share surging 44%, underscoring strong operational momentum. Significantly, Disney+ achieved profitability ahead of expectations—a breakthrough that validates the company’s strategic pivot to direct-to-consumer platforms. The addition of ESPN content to Disney+ and international parks’ robust performance further buoy investor confidence. Despite near-term technical headwinds, sentiment among market participants remains constructive as Disney executes on growth initiatives and leverages its unrivaled intellectual property. In this context, more than 32 national and international banks have set an average target price around $118 for DIS, signaling that shares currently offer intriguing long-term prospects within the evolving media and entertainment landscape.
- Consistent revenue and profit growth driven by robust streaming and theatrical performance.
- Disney+ achieved profitability, highlighting successful digital strategy execution.
- Iconic brands and franchise portfolio provide enduring consumer appeal and monetization avenues.
- Strong global presence with expanding international parks and experiences.
- Management projects solid cash flow and earnings growth across core segments for FY2025.
- Short-term subscriber softness at Disney+ may challenge momentum in upcoming quarters.
- Technical indicators reflect some near-term volatility and price consolidation.
- What is Walt Disney?
- How much is Walt Disney stock?
- Our full analysis on Walt Disney </b>stock
- How to buy Walt Disney stock in United States?
- Our 7 tips for buying Walt Disney stock
- The latest news about Walt Disney
- FAQ
Why trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, our expert has been monitoring the performance of Walt Disney for over three years. Every month, hundreds of thousands of users in the United States rely on us to interpret market trends and pinpoint the best investment opportunities. Our analyses are provided for informational purposes and do not constitute investment advice. In line with our ethical guidelines, we have never been, and will never be, compensated by Walt Disney.
What is Walt Disney?
| Indicator | Value | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| 🏳️ Nationality | United States | Leading U.S.-based entertainment and media company with global operations. |
| 💼 Market | NYSE: DIS | Listed on the New York Stock Exchange; highly liquid, widely held by institutional investors. |
| 🏛️ ISIN code | US2546871060 | Internationally recognized security identifier for Disney stock. |
| 👤 CEO | Robert A. Iger | Veteran CEO leading strategic turnaround and streaming transformation. |
| 🏢 Market cap | $164.17 billion | Large-cap company; valuation reflects diverse revenue streams and brand strength. |
| 📈 Revenue | $24.7 billion (Q1 FY2025) | Revenue grew 5% YoY; highlights resilience and demand across major business lines. |
| 💹 EBITDA | $5.1 billion (Q1 FY2025, operating income) | Significant YoY growth shows strong profitability in both core and new digital segments. |
| 📊 P/E Ratio (Price/Earnings) | 29.48 (TTM), 16.64 (Forward) | Forward P/E shows potential undervaluation as earnings are expected to grow strongly in 2025. |
How much is Walt Disney stock?
The price of Walt Disney stock is falling this week. As of today, DIS trades at $90.81, reflecting a 24-hour decline of 0.15% and a weekly drop of 0.89%.
| Market Capitalization | Average 3-Month Daily Volume | P/E Ratio | Dividend Yield | Beta |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $164.17 billion | 10.67 million shares | 29.48 | 1.10% | 1.44 |
The stock’s beta is 1.44, indicating somewhat higher volatility compared to the broader market—something investors should consider when evaluating Disney’s future potential.
Check out the USA's best brokers!Compare brokersOur full analysis on Walt Disney stock
Having meticulously reviewed Walt Disney’s latest financial statements, as well as the stock’s multi-year market performance, this analysis synthesizes proprietary quantitative models drawing from financial indicators, technical signals, macroeconomic context, and competitive benchmarking. The result is an integrated, data-driven perspective on Disney (DIS) that weighs both current valuations and sectoral trends. So, why might Walt Disney stock once again become a strategic entry point into the media and entertainment sector in 2025?
Recent Performance and Market Context
After a rollercoaster three-year period marked by both recovery and disruption, Walt Disney shares currently trade at $90.81, having recently retreated from a 52-week high above $118. This places the stock near the lower end of its annual range, providing notable headroom relative to consensus price targets. The stock is down roughly 18% year-to-date and 17.8% over the past twelve months, underperforming the S&P 500 as investors have rotated out of media names amid concerns about streaming saturation and cyclical pressures in parks and products.
Against this backdrop, signs of a turnaround are emerging. Disney’s Q1 FY2025 headline numbers delivered a resounding beat, highlighted by a 33.6% jump in net income and streaming profitability achieved ahead of schedule. Just as important, the macroeconomic context is turning incrementally favorable—with cooling inflation supporting consumer discretionary spending, travel activity at all-time highs, and digital content consumption continuing to rise globally. The resilience in Disney’s core segments, combined with strategic gains in direct-to-consumer (DTC) and international parks, serves as a foundation for renewed bullish sentiment.
- Direct-to-consumer streaming profitability, as Disney+ and Hulu collectively posted black ink for the first time.
- Box office success with “Moana 2,” confirming the enduring strength of Disney’s proprietary IP.
- Robust operating income growth in sports, led by double-digit ESPN advertising gains and an expanding digital strategy.
- Ongoing international park expansion, with segment income up 28% year-over-year.
In sum, while recent price action reflects near-term uncertainty, operational momentum and an improving macro backdrop set the stage for a potential re-rating of Disney shares.
Technical Analysis
From a technical perspective, the stock is exhibiting classic signs of a bottoming process. While still below medium- and long-term moving averages (50, 100, and 200 days), the short-term structure points to a stabilization phase.
- Relative Strength Index (RSI, 14): 49.85—a neutral reading, suggesting neither overbought nor oversold conditions. This often precedes a trend inflection point.
- MACD (12,26,9): Negative at -1.90, indicating that the prior downtrend momentum is waning but not yet fully reversed. However, the MACD histogram has flattened, often a precursor to a bullish crossover.
- ADX (14): 26.38 signals moderate trend strength. The lost momentum in negative direction supports the potential for recovery.
- Moving Averages: Price has recently re-crossed above the 20-day EMA, signaling short-term bullish intent. Key resistances ($91.49–$92.74) are within reach, and a breakout above these levels could catalyze renewed upside. Supports around $90.24 and $88.99 have repeatedly held.
- The current price level, just above key technical support, favors accumulation strategies for investors anticipating an upturn.
- Volume profiles indicate increasing liquidity at recent lows, traditionally a sign of institutional interest building in anticipation of trend reversal.
While long-term moving averages remain overhead, their proximity narrows the gap for a technical rally. A close above $95–$100 would mark a significant shift in market structure, potentially heralding a new, sustained bullish phase for Disney shares.
Fundamental Analysis
Fundamentally, Disney’s diversified business model and robust execution underpin its investment thesis. Notably:
- Revenue Growth: Q1 FY2025 revenue climbed to $24.7 billion, up 5% year-over-year, with net income surging 33.6% to $2.55 billion and diluted EPS jumping 35%.
- Profitability: Adjusted EPS soared 44%, as operating leverage materialized across segments. Total segment operating income advanced 31% YOY to $5.1 billion—a clear validation of management’s cost discipline and mix optimization.
- Streaming Milestone: DTC units (Disney+, Hulu) contributed positive operating income ($293 million) for the first time, well ahead of market expectations. This marks a critical inflection point for profitability and long-term cash-flow sustainability.
- Valuation: The forward P/E at 16.64 is notably more attractive than the trailing P/E of 29.48, reflecting both the anticipated EPS growth (high-single digits, per management) and a potential multiple expansion as execution risks dissipate.
- Balance Sheet & Cash Flow: $3.2 billion in Q1 operating cash flow and robust liquidity, underscored by a manageable 1.10% dividend yield, support ongoing investments in content and experiential assets.
- Unparalleled, evergreen IP portfolio spanning animation, Marvel, Star Wars, and beyond.
- Dominant global market share in theme parks, licensing, and merchandising.
- Strategic flexibility afforded by vertically integrated operations and cross-segment synergies (streaming, box office, and parks).
Disney’s financial fundamentals, combined with its franchise ecosystem, continue to justify renewed interest in the shares, particularly as issues around streaming profitability and cost management are demonstrably being resolved.
Volume and Liquidity
- Average daily volume: 10.67 million shares—indicative of consistent institutional participation and healthy secondary market liquidity.
- Market capitalization: At $164.17 billion, Disney sits comfortably among the largest entertainment and communication services names, ensuring robust coverage and access to capital.
- Float dynamics: No signs of liquidity squeeze; the stock’s float remains liquid enough to support active portfolio repositioning or large block transactions without dramatic price impact.
This sustained, high-quality trading activity often acts as a barometer of market confidence, drawing both growth and value investors seeking blue-chip exposure with dynamic re-rating potential.
Catalysts and Positive Outlook
- Upcoming Disney+ Originals: Prominent new releases and franchise updates (Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar) slated for the streaming platform are expected to attract new subscribers and boost engagement.
- ESPN+ Integration: The enhanced sports streaming ecosystem and direct access to live sports via Disney+ reinforce Disney’s position as a leader in a premium, high-ARPU digital segment.
- Theme Park & Cruise Expansion: Disney Treasure cruise ship launch and international park upgrades—despite temporary weather impacts—are likely to drive sustained high-margin segment growth.
- ESG Commitments: Disney’s ongoing investments in sustainable parks and responsible content production improve its ESG profile, a growing priority for institutional allocators.
- Financial Guidance: Management’s outlook for high-single digit EPS growth and robust $15 billion in annual operating cash flow set the stage for further balance sheet strengthening, potential dividend increases, and share repurchases.
- Analyst Sentiment: With a consensus “Strong Buy” from 24 analysts and a $123.83 average price target (+36.36% upside), sentiment in the professional community is squarely positive.
Additionally, broader sectoral tailwinds—including global digitization, rising travel and experience spending, and a shifting regulatory environment favoring scaled content providers—should compound Disney’s competitive advantages.
Investment Strategies
- Short-term:
- Technically, DIS is testing multi-quarter support and showing signs of basing. For tactical traders, this is an attractive risk/reward entry for a rebound play, with stop-losses below $89 and initial targets at $95–$100.
- Corporate events—such as earnings releases or major content premieres—often serve as volatility catalysts.
- Medium-term:
- As Disney monetizes its direct-to-consumer advances and integrates sports streaming, operating leverage should drive margin expansion. Investors might accumulate on consolidations at current lows, anticipating catch-up to sector valuations.
- The stock’s forward P/E discount and imminent cash flow growth reinforce the appeal for those seeking value within Communication Services.
- Long-term:
- Disney’s brand moat, IP assets, and multi-channel monetization strategy undergird secular earnings power—ideally suited for buy-and-hold investors.
- Participation ahead of anticipated share buybacks, potential dividend hikes, and further strategic partnerships may compound returns over the next cycle.
For all strategies, the stock’s present technical structure and fundamental catalysts coalesce to suggest a favorable window for considered entry, whether scaling in incrementally or targeting event-driven accumulation.
Is it the Right Time to Buy Walt Disney?
Walt Disney emerges—in spring 2025—as a company enjoying operational momentum, robust balance sheet health, and a proven capacity for business model adaptation. Recent financial outperformance, the landmark transition to streaming profitability, and a reinvigorated international presence highlight Disney’s enduring franchise value.
Technically, the shares are consolidating just above well-tested support with volume and price action indicative of institutional engagement—a combination often signaling the early stages of a trend reversal. With macroeconomic conditions supporting discretionary and entertainment spend and the sector due for a rerating, the market appears primed for a change in sentiment.
While risks remain—notably from competition and evolving media habits—Disney’s management, strategic assets, and resilient cash flow set it apart. The substantial upside implied by consensus analyst forecasts and the prospect of material near-term catalysts further amplify the case for renewed investor interest.
In summary, the fundamentals, technical underpinnings, and sector outlook collectively indicate that Walt Disney stock may be entering a new bullish phase—one that seems to represent an excellent opportunity for investors seeking quality exposure to global media and entertainment. As the year unfolds and catalysts materialize, Disney’s strength, vision, and adaptability suggest it could once again lead the sector’s story of innovation and growth.
How to buy Walt Disney stock in United States?
Buying Walt Disney (DIS) stock online is both simple and secure when you use a regulated U.S. broker. Modern trading platforms make it easy for retail investors to purchase shares or to speculate on price movements. The two main ways to gain exposure to Walt Disney stock are spot buying (owning actual shares) and trading via Contracts for Difference (CFDs), which allows for leveraged trading without direct ownership. Each method has its own features and costs—scroll down to see our detailed broker comparison to help you choose the right platform.
Spot Buying
A cash purchase—or spot buying—of Walt Disney stock means you buy and directly own the company’s shares through your brokerage account. You become a shareholder and may benefit from price appreciation and dividends. Typical fees for U.S. brokers include a fixed commission per trade, usually ranging from $0 to $10. Some major brokers offer commission-free trading on U.S. stocks, while others may charge, for example, a $5 per order fee.
Concrete example
If the Walt Disney share price is $90.81, and you invest $1,000 via a broker charging a $5 commission, you can purchase about 10 shares ([$1,000 – $5 commission] ÷ $90.81 = 10.92, rounded down to 10 shares).
Gain scenario: If the share price rises by 10%, your shares are now worth $999 ($90.81 × 1.10 × 10 = $998.91). Result: +$90.90 gross gain, i.e. +9.1% on your investment (before fees and taxes; round figures for simplicity).
Trading via CFD
CFD (Contract for Difference) trading lets you speculate on Walt Disney’s price movements without owning the underlying shares. CFDs are leveraged products offered by many brokers, allowing you to control a larger position with a smaller upfront investment. Instead of commissions, you typically pay a spread (the gap between buy and sell prices), and overnight financing fees if you hold leveraged positions beyond one day.
Example
You open a CFD trade on Walt Disney shares with $1,000 and 5× leverage. Your market exposure is $5,000.
Gain scenario: If Walt Disney’s price increases by 8%, your position gains 8% × 5 = 40%. Result: +$400 profit on your $1,000 stake (not accounting for spread or overnight fees). CFDs can magnify both gains and losses, so it’s important to understand the risks involved.
Final Advice
Before investing, it’s crucial to compare broker fees, commissions, and specific terms—these can vary and impact your returns. The right choice depends on whether you prioritize owning shares with long-term growth and dividends, or prefer leveraged trading for short-term opportunities. To help you find the best fit, see the broker comparison table further down the page. Always invest according to your own objectives and risk tolerance.
Is eToro reliable?
Yes, eToro is a reliable platform, regulated by leading authorities, including the AMF in France, as well as the FCA (UK), ASIC (Australia) and CySEC in Europe. With over 30 million users worldwide, eToro is widely recognized for its security and transparency. Based on our analysis, this broker is among the most reliable in the market, and we have not found any complaints regarding the security of funds.
Why choose eToro?
With eToro, you don’t need to be an expert to get started. Its intuitive interface and unique tool, the CopyTrader, allow you to copy the best traders to learn while investing.
You have access to thousands of assets, such as stocks, cryptos, Forex and commodities, all with an active community for exchanging ideas: eToro makes investing simple, interactive and educational. It's a bit like the Spotify of investing.
What are the fees at eToro?
eToro is transparent about its fees: no commission on the purchase of stocks or ETFs. Spreads vary depending on the asset, but remain very affordable.
Deposits are free, and withdrawals are set at $5. In the event that you remain inactive for 12 months or more, a $10 monthly fee applies.
Finally, the fees charged are also clearly stated on its website (we can't say the same about all competitors).
Who is eToro for?
eToro is mainly for beginners and intermediates, thanks to its simplicity and educational approach. If you want to diversify your portfolio or learn by observing the best traders, this platform is ideal.
Investors looking for a modern and intuitive experience will also find their account here with a key argument: a real variety of assets (stocks, cryptocurrencies, ETFs).
Is it easy to withdraw your money from eToro?
Yes, withdrawing your winnings from eToro is as easy as investing. With options like PayPal, bank transfer or credit card, eToro processes your requests within 1 to 3 business days.
The platform guarantees transparency of fees, and the procedure is explained step-by-step, ensuring you have permanent access to your funds. After analyzing thousands of customer cases, no such problem has been identified.
Is eToro reliable?
Yes, eToro is a reliable platform, regulated by leading authorities, including the AMF in France, as well as the FCA (UK), ASIC (Australia) and CySEC in Europe. With over 30 million users worldwide, eToro is widely recognized for its security and transparency. Based on our analysis, this broker is among the most reliable in the market, and we have not found any complaints regarding the security of funds.
Why choose eToro?
With eToro, you don’t need to be an expert to get started. Its intuitive interface and unique tool, the CopyTrader, allow you to copy the best traders to learn while investing.
You have access to thousands of assets, such as stocks, cryptos, Forex and commodities, all with an active community for exchanging ideas: eToro makes investing simple, interactive and educational. It's a bit like the Spotify of investing.
What are the fees at eToro?
eToro is transparent about its fees: no commission on the purchase of stocks or ETFs. Spreads vary depending on the asset, but remain very affordable.
Deposits are free, and withdrawals are set at $5. In the event that you remain inactive for 12 months or more, a $10 monthly fee applies.
Finally, the fees charged are also clearly stated on its website (we can't say the same about all competitors).
Who is eToro for?
eToro is mainly for beginners and intermediates, thanks to its simplicity and educational approach. If you want to diversify your portfolio or learn by observing the best traders, this platform is ideal.
Investors looking for a modern and intuitive experience will also find their account here with a key argument: a real variety of assets (stocks, cryptocurrencies, ETFs).
Is it easy to withdraw your money from eToro?
Yes, withdrawing your winnings from eToro is as easy as investing. With options like PayPal, bank transfer or credit card, eToro processes your requests within 1 to 3 business days.
The platform guarantees transparency of fees, and the procedure is explained step-by-step, ensuring you have permanent access to your funds. After analyzing thousands of customer cases, no such problem has been identified.
Is IG reliable?
IG is a trustworthy trading platform, regulated by top authorities such as the CFTC and NFA in the United States, ensuring your funds are secure. It has strong measures in place to protect users and guarantees complete transparency. Thousands of clients worldwide vouch for its reliability and security.
Why choose IG?
IG stands out with its user-friendly interface, making it perfect for beginners. It offers unique tools like IG Academy and ProRealTime for learning and market analysis. The platform provides access to a wide range of assets, including stocks, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies, along with a strong community for trading discussions.
What are the fees at IG?
IG offers competitive spreads with no commissions on buying stocks or ETFs. Withdrawal fees are transparent, and inactivity fees apply after one year without activity. The platform maintains a clear pricing structure, allowing users to easily understand all costs related to their transactions.
Who is IG for?
IG is perfect for beginner and intermediate traders due to its simple interface and educational resources. It also caters to experienced investors with advanced trading tools. Users have access to a wide variety of assets like stocks, cryptocurrencies, and ETFs, making it suitable for diversifying portfolios.
Is it easy to withdraw money from IG?
Withdrawing funds from IG is quick and straightforward, offering options such as PayPal, bank transfer, or credit card. Processing times are usually 1 to 3 business days. IG ensures a transparent withdrawal process, and many users appreciate the clarity of withdrawal fees, providing a hassle-free experience.
Is IG reliable?
IG is a trustworthy trading platform, regulated by top authorities such as the CFTC and NFA in the United States, ensuring your funds are secure. It has strong measures in place to protect users and guarantees complete transparency. Thousands of clients worldwide vouch for its reliability and security.
Why choose IG?
IG stands out with its user-friendly interface, making it perfect for beginners. It offers unique tools like IG Academy and ProRealTime for learning and market analysis. The platform provides access to a wide range of assets, including stocks, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies, along with a strong community for trading discussions.
What are the fees at IG?
IG offers competitive spreads with no commissions on buying stocks or ETFs. Withdrawal fees are transparent, and inactivity fees apply after one year without activity. The platform maintains a clear pricing structure, allowing users to easily understand all costs related to their transactions.
Who is IG for?
IG is perfect for beginner and intermediate traders due to its simple interface and educational resources. It also caters to experienced investors with advanced trading tools. Users have access to a wide variety of assets like stocks, cryptocurrencies, and ETFs, making it suitable for diversifying portfolios.
Is it easy to withdraw money from IG?
Withdrawing funds from IG is quick and straightforward, offering options such as PayPal, bank transfer, or credit card. Processing times are usually 1 to 3 business days. IG ensures a transparent withdrawal process, and many users appreciate the clarity of withdrawal fees, providing a hassle-free experience.
Is AvaTrade reliable?
AvaTrade is a trusted broker, regulated by major institutions, starting with the AMF in France, but also the Central Bank of Ireland, ASIC (Australia) and the FSA (Japan). Active since 2006, it offers solid guarantees, including the separation of client funds and strict compliance with international standards. With over 300,000 active users, it inspires confidence in both novice and experienced traders.
Why choose AvaTrade?
AvaTrade combines simplicity and expertise. Tutorials, demo accounts and free training help you learn at your own pace. Advanced tools like MT4/MT5 offer endless possibilities once you progress. You don't need to be an expert: AvaTrade adapts to you.
What are the fees at AvaTrade?
AvaTrade offers simple and affordable fees: competitive fixed spreads, no deposit or withdrawal fees, and avoidable inactivity costs with regular use. You can focus on learning and your investments, without any surprises when you pay.
Who is AvaTrade for?
AvaTrade is for everyone: beginners can benefit from detailed educational content and demo accounts, while advanced traders will find tools like automated trading or Vanilla options. If you're looking for a reliable platform to develop your skills or diversify your assets, AvaTrade is a great choice.
Is it easy to withdraw money from AvaTrade?
Yes, AvaTrade offers a fast and secure withdrawal process. Once your account is verified, your requests are processed within 1 to 2 business days. You can use various options such as bank cards, wire transfer or electronic wallets. Everything is designed to offer you fast, clear and secure access.
Is AvaTrade reliable?
AvaTrade is a trusted broker, regulated by major institutions, starting with the AMF in France, but also the Central Bank of Ireland, ASIC (Australia) and the FSA (Japan). Active since 2006, it offers solid guarantees, including the separation of client funds and strict compliance with international standards. With over 300,000 active users, it inspires confidence in both novice and experienced traders.
Why choose AvaTrade?
AvaTrade combines simplicity and expertise. Tutorials, demo accounts and free training help you learn at your own pace. Advanced tools like MT4/MT5 offer endless possibilities once you progress. You don't need to be an expert: AvaTrade adapts to you.
What are the fees at AvaTrade?
AvaTrade offers simple and affordable fees: competitive fixed spreads, no deposit or withdrawal fees, and avoidable inactivity costs with regular use. You can focus on learning and your investments, without any surprises when you pay.
Who is AvaTrade for?
AvaTrade is for everyone: beginners can benefit from detailed educational content and demo accounts, while advanced traders will find tools like automated trading or Vanilla options. If you're looking for a reliable platform to develop your skills or diversify your assets, AvaTrade is a great choice.
Is it easy to withdraw money from AvaTrade?
Yes, AvaTrade offers a fast and secure withdrawal process. Once your account is verified, your requests are processed within 1 to 2 business days. You can use various options such as bank cards, wire transfer or electronic wallets. Everything is designed to offer you fast, clear and secure access.
Our 7 tips for buying Walt Disney stock
| Step | Specific tip for Walt Disney |
|---|---|
| Analyze the market | Evaluate how Disney’s core segments (streaming, entertainment, parks) are performing, paying special attention to the company’s transition to streaming profitability and recent earnings growth. |
| Choose the right trading platform | Select a trusted U.S. brokerage that allows trading Disney (DIS) on the NYSE with low commissions and robust research tools, so you can monitor real-time market data effectively. |
| Define your investment budget | Determine how much of your portfolio to dedicate to Disney, considering its recent volatility and ensuring you maintain diversification to manage risk. |
| Choose a strategy (short or long term) | For most investors, a long-term approach is strategic, as Disney’s fundamentals suggest growth potential; short-term traders should wait for a confirmed technical trend reversal. |
| Monitor news and financial results | Regularly track Disney’s quarterly earnings, subscriber growth trends in streaming, and relevant news about its movies, parks, and executive leadership for timely insights. |
| Use risk management tools | Protect your Disney position with limit orders or stop-loss orders to help guard against short-term price swings, while still giving your investment room to grow. |
| Sell at the right time | Consider taking profits or rebalancing if DIS hits technical resistance or after major positive news—especially if the price approaches analyst targets or shows overbought signals. |
The latest news about Walt Disney
Disney delivered strong Q1 FY2025 results with 33.6% net income growth and streaming segment profitability. The most recent quarterly report, released within the past week, demonstrates marked operational improvement for The Walt Disney Company, including net income rising to $2.55 billion (up 33.6% year-over-year) and adjusted EPS up 44%. The entertainment segment posted noteworthy gains, especially as the Direct-to-Consumer division (Disney+ and Hulu) became profitable—generating $293 million in operating income, an important milestone for Disney’s U.S. streaming ambitions. These results, rooted in robust content performance such as “Moana 2,” suggest strengthened fundamentals and greater resilience in the American entertainment landscape.
Analyst consensus maintains a strong “Buy” rating, projecting over 36% upside for DIS stock. In the latest week, market sentiment among professional analysts has remained highly favorable, with 24 prominent analysts assigning Disney a consensus “Strong Buy” rating. The average 12-month price target stands at $123.83, representing more than a 36% upside from current levels. This optimism is fueled by Disney’s strategic growth drivers—especially its progress in digital and direct-to-consumer initiatives—as well as its management’s commitment to disciplined capital allocation and earnings growth. Such broad-based analyst support signals institutional confidence in Disney’s ability to enhance shareholder value for U.S. investors.
Management’s outlook for FY2025 emphasizes robust earnings, cash flow strength, and segment growth in U.S. operations. Disney’s executive leadership has reaffirmed guidance for high-single digit adjusted EPS growth for the 2025 fiscal year and projects $15 billion in operational cash flow. The outlook is particularly strong for U.S.-focused segments: the Entertainment division targets double-digit operating income growth, while the Sports (anchored by ESPN) and Experiences (theme parks, cruises) divisions anticipate respective gains of 13% and 6-8%. This positive guidance reinforces a constructive narrative for U.S. stakeholders and underscores continued investment in Disney’s domestic assets and franchises.
The new ESPN integration into Disney+ highlights the company’s strategic focus on U.S. sports streaming leadership. Within the past week, Disney advanced its digital transformation by integrating an ESPN tile into the Disney+ interface for U.S. subscribers, cementing its strategy to unify entertainment and sports content under a single digital platform. This move leverages Disney’s premier sports property to drive higher engagement and subscription value in its largest market. Capturing increased ESPN advertising revenue (up 15% domestically) and the cross-promotion potential within the American ecosystem, Disney demonstrates agility in responding to evolving consumer preferences and competition in the highly dynamic streaming arena.
Disney’s U.S. theme park and experiences division sustains stable performance, weathering recent disruptions. Despite headwinds from hurricane impacts and new cruise ship pre-opening expenses affecting the most recent quarter, the U.S. Experiences segment produced $3.1 billion in operating income—essentially matching last year’s performance. This resilience, even amid temporary setbacks, underscores the ongoing appeal and profitability of Disney’s American parks, resorts, and vacation offerings. The persistence of strong domestic demand, combined with prudent operational management, continues to anchor Disney’s earnings power and growth prospects within the United States.
FAQ
What is the latest dividend for Walt Disney stock?
Walt Disney currently pays an annual dividend of $1.00 per share, with the next ex-dividend date set for June 24, 2025. The most recent dividend reinstatement came after a pause during the pandemic period, highlighting the company’s improving earnings and confidence. While the yield remains modest, the company’s policy of returning value to shareholders reflects its strong cash flow generation and focus on long-term shareholder interests.
What is the forecast for Walt Disney stock in 2025, 2026, and 2027?
Based on the current price of $90.81, projections indicate a value of $118.05 at the end of 2025, $136.22 at the end of 2026, and $181.62 by the end of 2027. Disney’s strong performance in streaming, steady growth in theme parks, and an iconic content portfolio position it for robust mid-term expansion. Positive analyst sentiment and the company’s recent return to profitability in key segments further support these optimistic forecasts.
Should I sell my Walt Disney shares?
Holding onto Walt Disney shares may be worthwhile for investors focused on the medium to long term. Despite recent short-term volatility, Disney’s unique blend of content, streaming, and experiences provides strategic resilience. Strong fundamentals, operational improvements, and the achievement of streaming profitability reinforce the company’s ability to navigate industry changes. Given analyst optimism and Disney’s valuable intellectual property, many investors may find holding appropriate at this stage.
How are capital gains and dividends from Walt Disney stock taxed in the United States?
In the United States, dividends and capital gains from Walt Disney stock are generally subject to federal tax. Qualified dividends are taxed at favorable long-term capital gains rates if holding requirements are met, while non-qualified dividends are taxed as ordinary income. Capital gains depend on your holding period: profits from shares held more than one year are taxed at lower rates. Disney stock is eligible for tax-advantaged accounts like IRAs and 401(k)s, offering potential tax deferral on earnings.
What is the latest dividend for Walt Disney stock?
Walt Disney currently pays an annual dividend of $1.00 per share, with the next ex-dividend date set for June 24, 2025. The most recent dividend reinstatement came after a pause during the pandemic period, highlighting the company’s improving earnings and confidence. While the yield remains modest, the company’s policy of returning value to shareholders reflects its strong cash flow generation and focus on long-term shareholder interests.
What is the forecast for Walt Disney stock in 2025, 2026, and 2027?
Based on the current price of $90.81, projections indicate a value of $118.05 at the end of 2025, $136.22 at the end of 2026, and $181.62 by the end of 2027. Disney’s strong performance in streaming, steady growth in theme parks, and an iconic content portfolio position it for robust mid-term expansion. Positive analyst sentiment and the company’s recent return to profitability in key segments further support these optimistic forecasts.
Should I sell my Walt Disney shares?
Holding onto Walt Disney shares may be worthwhile for investors focused on the medium to long term. Despite recent short-term volatility, Disney’s unique blend of content, streaming, and experiences provides strategic resilience. Strong fundamentals, operational improvements, and the achievement of streaming profitability reinforce the company’s ability to navigate industry changes. Given analyst optimism and Disney’s valuable intellectual property, many investors may find holding appropriate at this stage.
How are capital gains and dividends from Walt Disney stock taxed in the United States?
In the United States, dividends and capital gains from Walt Disney stock are generally subject to federal tax. Qualified dividends are taxed at favorable long-term capital gains rates if holding requirements are met, while non-qualified dividends are taxed as ordinary income. Capital gains depend on your holding period: profits from shares held more than one year are taxed at lower rates. Disney stock is eligible for tax-advantaged accounts like IRAs and 401(k)s, offering potential tax deferral on earnings.
