The Walt Disney Company (NYSE:DIS) stock surged to a new 52-week peak of $120.67, bringing its market capitalization to $216 billion. The milestone reflects a strong year of gains, with shares rising 18.4% over the past 12 months, underpinned by a 5.4% revenue growth and a price-to-earnings ratio of 24.3.
Disney’s solid performance is being attributed to its focused strategy, high-performing content slate, and continued momentum in its streaming and media divisions. Analysts remain largely optimistic, with price targets ranging broadly from $79 to $148, illustrating varied expectations for the entertainment giant’s future trajectory.
A key development bolstering investor sentiment is Disney’s move to fully acquire Hulu. The company will pay $438.7 million to NBCUniversal for its remaining 33% stake, following a formal valuation process. The deal is expected to close by July 24, 2025, and will be reflected in Disney’s fiscal Q3 results.
Wall Street has responded positively. Bernstein raised its price target for Disney to $125 while maintaining an Outperform rating, citing anticipated growth in earnings per share. Rosenblatt was even more bullish, lifting its target to $140 based on upward revisions in ad revenue and ESPN’s streaming prospects, reiterating a Buy recommendation.
Disney’s sports network ESPN also made headlines by acquiring a minority stake in the Premier Lacrosse League and its new Women’s Lacrosse League. The five-year partnership reflects ESPN’s push to expand its sports portfolio in the evolving streaming landscape.
Meanwhile, NBCUniversal is looking to make moves of its own, having placed a bid to acquire the broadcasting rights for Major League Baseball games that were previously held by ESPN. If successful, the games would air on NBC’s Peacock platform, signaling growing competition in the live sports streaming space.
Together, these strategic investments and content expansions have fueled renewed investor enthusiasm for Disney, as the company adapts to changing consumer habits and positions itself for continued growth across platforms.