Walt Disney (DIS +1.81%) is a leader in the media and entertainment landscape. It owns some of the most valuable intellectual property in the industry, which it's able to monetize in various ways -- through TV shows on its streaming platforms, movies at the box office, and physical experiences at its theme parks.
The business needs no introduction. But the consumer discretionary stock has been a disappointment. If you'd invested $10,000 in Disney shares five years ago, here's how much you'd have today.
Image source: Walt Disney.
Disney has lost money for investors
Including its dividend, Disney shares have produced a total return of -25% in the past five years (as of Nov. 20), turning $10,000 into $7,500. Meanwhile, investors who simply bought an S&P 500 index fund would've doubled their money.
NYSE: DIS
Key Data Points
Streaming is the future
Disney has undergone dramatic changes, with its streaming operations growing rapidly and its cable networks in secular decline. Management has had to figure out where to invest its resources. However, it's clear that streaming is the future of the media industry, and Disney is well positioned with Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN.
Plus, the company's experiences segment is performing well, with sales up 6% and operating income up 13% in Q4 2025 (ended Sept. 27). Perhaps the next five years will be kinder to the stock.
