Netflix's (NASDAQ:NFLX) stock soared more than 10% today after the company delivered a strong Q3 2024 earnings report that beat expectations across the board. The streaming giant posted an EPS of $5.40, outpacing the $5.13 estimate, while revenue climbed to $9.82 billion, slightly above forecasts. This performance comes on the back of steady engagement, with users averaging two hours of viewing daily, driven by standout original content like "Perfect Couple" and "Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story." With results like these, Netflix is showing the market it's not just weathering the competitionit's setting the pace.

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Looking ahead, Netflix isn't slowing down. The company is projecting 2025 revenues between $43 billion and $44 billion, aiming for 11% to 13% growth fueled by a robust slate of new releases and stronger membership gains. Expect to see big hits like "Stranger Things" and "Squid Game" returning, alongside blockbuster films that will keep subscribers glued to the platform. Management also plans to expand the operating margin by six percentage points, signaling confidence in Netflix's ability to balance growth with profitability. For investors, this is a clear sign: Netflix is doubling down on what works while sharpening its strategy to convert more viewers into paying members.

But here's where things get interesting: Netflix's ad business is primed to become a bigger player. With ad revenue expected to double year-over-year starting in 2025, the company is stepping up its game by launching a first-party ad server and deepening partnerships with ad-tech leaders like The Trade Desk (NASDAQ:TTD). More than 50% of Q3 sign-ups in ad-supported markets chose the ad tier, pointing to a growing appetite for lower-cost options. The company is also expanding into live events, including marquee attractions like the Tyson-Paul fight and NFL football on Christmas Day. These moves aren't just about adding new revenue streamsthey're about positioning Netflix to capture a larger slice of the $600 billion global entertainment market and setting the stage for the next phase of growth.

This article first appeared on GuruFocus.