Netflix Inc. (NFLX) shares closed at $95.31 on Friday, March 13, 2026, up $1.00 or 1.06% from the previous day's close, as investors digested recent company developments and broader market sentiment in an otherwise choppy month for the streaming giant.

Netflix said it was appealing against the decision
AFP

The stock opened at $94.64, reached an intraday high of $95.68 and dipped to a low of $94.24 on volume of approximately 29.8 million shares, according to data from Nasdaq and Yahoo Finance. After-hours trading saw a slight pullback to around $94.97, down 0.36%.

Netflix's performance in early March has been mixed following a strong February rally. Shares surged 15.3% last month, largely driven by the company's decision to abandon its $83 billion all-cash bid for Warner Bros. Discovery assets, a move that relieved concerns over integration risks and debt. The scrapped deal, announced in late February, sparked a late-month run-up, with the stock gaining nearly 27% in the final five trading days of February as investors cheered the focus on core operations.

Analysts viewed the withdrawal positively, with JPMorgan upgrading the stock in early March and raising its price target to $120, citing disciplined capital allocation and growth potential in advertising-supported tiers. That upgrade contributed to a five-day rally that lifted shares nearly 25% at one point. However, March has brought volatility, with shares trading in a range from the low $90s to near $100, reflecting uncertainty over subscriber momentum and revenue guidance.

Netflix ended 2025 with 325 million paid subscribers worldwide, a milestone that supported full-year revenue of $45.2 billion (up 16% year-over-year) and diluted earnings per share of $2.53 (up 28%). The company projected 2026 revenue between $50.7 billion and $51.7 billion, implying 12% to 14% growth, while advertising revenue is expected to double to about $3 billion from $1.5 billion in 2025. Those figures helped fuel optimism earlier in the year, though some Wall Street forecasts noted decelerating growth due to higher content expenses.

Recent headlines have added layers to the narrative. Netflix confirmed development of a sequel to its hit animated film "KPop Demon Hunters," its most-watched movie ever, signaling continued investment in high-profile originals. The company also announced cuts to its global product team on March 13, part of ongoing efficiency efforts amid competitive pressures in streaming.

Broader industry dynamics remain in focus. Netflix's ad-supported tier continues to gain traction, with expectations of significant revenue acceleration. Meanwhile, the streaming landscape evolves with rivals like Disney+ and Amazon Prime Video pushing bundles and sports rights. Netflix's decision to walk away from the Warner Bros. deal has shifted attention to organic expansion, including potential AI integrations — the company reportedly spent up to $600 million acquiring Ben Affleck's AI startup in March.

The stock's 52-week range spans $75.01 (hit in late February 2026) to $134.12 (reached June 30, 2025), underscoring sharp swings. Year-to-date through mid-March, NFLX is up modestly from January levels around $90, but well below its 2025 peak. Market capitalization hovers near $402 billion, with a trailing price-to-earnings ratio around 37.7 and forward P/E near 30.

Investor sentiment reflects caution amid macroeconomic factors, including interest rate expectations and consumer spending on entertainment. Prediction markets on platforms like Polymarket show varied bets on where NFLX ends March, with some volume on outcomes above $105 or below $70.

Looking ahead, Netflix's next earnings report — expected in late April for the first quarter — will provide fresh subscriber data and updated guidance. Analysts monitor ad-tier penetration, password-sharing crackdown effects and content slate strength, including upcoming originals and licensed deals.

Despite recent dips, many view Netflix as resilient, with its global subscriber base and pricing power providing a high floor. The stock's valuation demands sustained execution in a maturing market, but its pivot to profitability and advertising has bolstered confidence.

As trading resumes Monday, March 16, eyes remain on whether Netflix can stabilize above $95 and build on February's momentum, or if broader tech sector pressures weigh further.