Tech

Netflix boosts revenue forecasts after strong Q2 performance

Netflix boosts revenue and margin forecasts, driven by membership growth, price hikes, and ad business success

Published

2 months ago

July 18, 2025

Ahron Young

Netflix boosts revenue and margin forecasts, driven by membership growth, price hikes, and ad business success

In Short:
– Netflix expects revenue of $44.8 billion to $45.2 billion this year after a strong second quarter.
– Popular shows and sustained subscriber growth have significantly enhanced Netflix’s market position and operating margin.

Netflix has raised its revenue and operating margin forecasts after a strong performance in the second quarter. The streaming service reported a revenue increase of 16% to $11.08 billion and a 46% rise in net profit to $3.1 billion, slightly surpassing its expectations. Factors contributing to this success included subscriber growth, price increases, and progress in its advertising segment.The company said that popular titles like “Squid Game” and “Ginny & Georgia” strengthened its position as a leading global streamer, even as traditional cable networks struggled. Netflix’s stock has nearly doubled within the past year, with a recent minor decline of 1.3% in after-hours trading.

The return of popular shows, including “Wednesday” and the final season of “Stranger Things”, is expected to further boost viewership.

Revenue Growth

Netflix now anticipates generating between $44.8 billion to $45.2 billion in revenue for the year, an increase from earlier projections.

The company’s operating margin rose to 34.1%, exceeding previous forecasts. Investment in programming, including international content, continues as the company aims to enhance subscriber retention. Shows like “Adolescence” and movies such as “Back in Action” have also drawn significant viewer engagement during the first half of the year.

Tech

Big Tech, foreign governments react to Trump’s H-1B visa fee

Trump imposes $100,000 fee on H-1B visas, sparking urgent response from Big Tech and foreign governments

Published

11 hours ago

September 21, 2025

Ahron Young

Trump imposes $100,000 fee on H-1B visas, sparking urgent response from Big Tech and foreign governments

In Short:
– Trump announced a $100,000 fee on new H-1B visa applications, starting next lottery cycle.
– Major companies urge H-1B holders to stay in the U.S. due to potential immigration issues.

Major technology companies and foreign governments are reacting to President Donald Trump’s announcement of a $100,000 fee on H-1B visas.

The charge will affect new applicants, not renewals or current holders, and is set to take effect in the next lottery cycle.The proposed fee could significantly impact technology and finance sectors reliant on skilled immigrants, particularly from India and China.

Companies such as Amazon, JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, and Microsoft are advising their H-1B visa holders to remain in the U.S. and be cautious about international travel due to potential immigration status issues.

Visa Implications

As Trump’s administration intensifies its immigration policies, major companies and officials abroad are assessing the implications.

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs noted potential humanitarian consequences, highlighting disruptions for families. South Korea’s foreign ministry is also reviewing impacts on its skilled workforce.

Trump’s initiative aims to prioritise American workers and deter visa system abuses, according to a White House spokeswoman.

The full effects of this policy shift remain to be seen, with many companies weighing their next steps in response to this change.

Tech

Trump and Xi progress on TikTok deal, plan meeting

Trump and Xi progress on TikTok deal, plan South Korea meeting to discuss trade and geopolitical tensions in six weeks

Published

2 days ago

September 20, 2025

Ahron Young

Trump and Xi progress on TikTok deal, plan South Korea meeting to discuss trade and geopolitical tensions in six weeks

In Short:
– Trump and Xi are progressing on a TikTok agreement and plan to meet in South Korea soon.
– Future discussions will address trade, security concerns, and regional tensions between the U.S. and China.

U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping made headway on a TikTok agreement and plan to meet in South Korea within six weeks.

Their call aimed to reduce tensions between the two superpowers, covering trade, illicit drugs, and the conflict in Ukraine. Despite suggestions of progress, a definitive agreement regarding TikTok remains unclear.

The leaders agreed to further discussions at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum in October.

Trump indicated that Xi would visit the U.S. later and that he would head to China next year.

Future Discussions

Trump confirmed that the TikTok deal is progressing, noting potential US control over the app’s algorithm.

Uncertainties remain, including ownership structure and control dynamics with ByteDance. Lawmakers express concerns over national security implications stemming from continued Chinese involvement.

Trump’s tariffs on Chinese exports have increased significantly, complicating relations further.

As trade discussions continue, regional tensions in Taiwan and the South China Sea remain on the agenda, though unaddressed in recent communications.

Tech

Heathrow faces delays due to cyber attack disruption

Heathrow warns of delays following cyber attack disrupting European airports

Published

2 days ago

September 20, 2025

Ahron Young

Heathrow warns of delays following cyber attack disrupting European airports

In Short:
– Heathrow Airport warns of potential delays due to a cyber-attack affecting European airports.
– Passengers should arrive early and check updates with their airlines for regular information.

Heathrow Airport has issued a warning regarding potential delays following a cyber-attack that has impacted several European airports. Passengers are advised to arrive early and check for updates with their airlines.

The cyber-attack, although primarily affecting systems in Europe, has caused ripple effects at Heathrow. Officials are working to restore normal operations as quickly as possible in coordination with European authorities.

Air Travel Impact

“It is still too early to say when the problem will be resolved,” it said.

Berlin Airport is also experiencing delays.

The attack targeted a business providing check-in and boarding systems for several airlines worldwide.

As a result, Brussels Airport staff are having to conduct manual check-in and boarding procedures due to the automated systems being down.

“This has a large impact on the flight schedule and will unfortunately cause delays and cancellations of flights,” it said in a statement on its website.

For further information on travel arrangements and logistics, please visit your respective airline’s website.