Drexel Hamilton analyst Tony Wible said Liberty Global's (NFLX) announcement that it will integrate Netflix (NFLX) into all its set-top boxes signifies a shift for multichannel video programming distributors, or MVPD, focus, and changes the competitive advantages for other MVPDs. Wible said Liberty's move will force others to integrate Netflix, and those that don't will be at a competitive disadvantage. The analyst believes the most underappreciated aspect of Netflix integration will be the effect on viewing and the increased use in integrated homes as more content becomes accessible, perpetuating the vicious cycle that helps propel Netflix's business and driving competitors to switch their distribution model that favors the company. Wible rates Netflix a Buy with a $110 price target on shares.

Canaccord analyst Maria Ripps downgraded Netflix to Hold from Buy with a price target of $585, down from $720.

Check out this evening's top movers from around Wall Street, compiled by The Fly. HIGHER AFTER EARNINGSMetropolitan... To see the rest of the story go to thefly.com. See Story Here

Netflix said in its quarterly letter to investors: "We have built a hard to replicate combination of a strong slate, superior recommendations, broad reach and intense fandom, which drives healthy engagement on Netflix. Improvement in these key areas is the best way to delight our members and continue to grow our business." The company added: "Net cash generated by operating activities in Q1 was $2.2B and free cash flow totaled $2.1B (both flat with Q1'23). During the quarter, we paid down $400M of senior notes with cash on hand and we repurchased 3.6M shares for $2B. We finished the quarter with gross debt of $14B and cash and cash equivalents of $7B. We're still forecasting full year 2024 free cash flow of approximately $6B, assuming no material swings in F/X, and cash content spend of up to $17B."

Pre-earnings options volume in Netflix is 1.1x normal with calls leading puts 5:4. Implied volatility suggests the market is anticipating a move near 7.3%, or $44.89, after results are released. Median move over the past eight quarters is 9.6%.

Netflix (NFLX) is scheduled to report its first quarter 2024 financial results and business outlook on Thursday, April 18. A video interview... To see the rest of the story go to thefly.com. See Story Here