Paramount’s second quarter was marked by stability in overall sales and a notable positive market reaction, driven largely by outperformance on non-GAAP profitability metrics. Management attributed the improvement to the company’s streaming-first strategy, highlighting Paramount+ as a primary engine of growth. Co-CEO Chris McCarthy pointed to the success of original content and disciplined cost control, noting, “D2C revenue growth outpaced linear declines,” and emphasizing that subscriber engagement and churn improved alongside new franchise releases. The company’s ability to drive direct-to-consumer profitability helped offset continued challenges in its traditional TV business.
Is now the time to buy PARA? Find out in our full research report (it’s free).
Paramount (PARA) Q2 CY2025 Highlights:
- Revenue: $6.85 billion vs analyst estimates of $6.86 billion (flat year on year, in line)
- Adjusted EPS: $0.46 vs analyst estimates of $0.37 (24.6% beat)
- Adjusted EBITDA: $824 million vs analyst estimates of $749.8 million (12% margin, 9.9% beat)
- Operating Margin: 5.8%, up from -78.1% in the same quarter last year
- Market Capitalization: $12.02 billion
While we enjoy listening to the management's commentary, our favorite part of earnings calls are the analyst questions. Those are unscripted and can often highlight topics that management teams would rather avoid or topics where the answer is complicated. Here is what has caught our attention.
Our Top 5 Analyst Questions From Paramount’s Q2 Earnings Call
- There were no analyst questions taken on this quarter’s call, as management stated they would not be conducting a Q&A session due to the pending Skydance transaction.
- Typically, analyst questions would focus on direct-to-consumer profitability trends and the sustainability of cost reductions in the context of the streaming transition.
- Another common area of inquiry is the outlook for CBS and linear TV, especially in relation to ongoing advertising headwinds and affiliate fee trends.
- Analysts often probe management about the performance and pipeline of high-profile franchise releases and their impact on subscriber and revenue growth.
- With the Skydance acquisition pending, questions would likely have centered on integration plans, expected leadership changes, and strategic priorities under new ownership.
Catalysts in Upcoming Quarters
As we move into the next several quarters, our team will be monitoring (1) the rollout and audience response to major new streaming releases, (2) the pace and execution of integration initiatives following the Skydance transaction, and (3) efforts to maintain cost discipline as legacy television revenue continues to contract. The strategic direction set by new ownership will also be a key area of focus.
Paramount currently trades at $11.04, down from $12.56 just before the earnings. At this price, is it a buy or sell? See for yourself in our full research report (it’s free).
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