Money.ca takeaways
- Select the right brokerage account that offers low fees, security, and user-friendly features to facilitate investing in Netflix stock
- Conduct thorough research on Netflix’s business model and financial metrics to make informed investment decisions
- Implement a diversified investment strategy, including options like index funds and ETFs, to manage risk effectively while considering fractional shares for smaller investments
Step-by-step guide to buying Netflix stock
You’re ready to snag some Netflix shares and be part of the streaming giant’s next big move. Whether you're binging your favourite series or betting on their next hit, here’s how to get started the smart (and beginner-friendly) way:
First things first: you’ll need a brokerage account. Think of this as your gateway to owning Netflix stock. If you’re in Canada, choose a broker that’s beginner-friendly and light on fees. Here are some solid picks:
Signing up is easy — just have your ID (like a passport or driver’s license) ready to go.
Once your account is ready, you’ll need to add funds to start investing. Most brokers offer these funding options:
- Bank transfer: Reliable, easy and often fee-free
- Debit or credit card: Faster, but watch out for any extra charges
- Wire transfer: Overkill unless you’re moving large amounts
Pro tip: Stick to electronic fund transfers to avoid unnecessary fees — they add up, trust me.
Here comes the fun part! Open your trading platform and type “NFLX” into the search bar. Netflix’s market details will pop up, including its current stock price. Think of it as browsing your favourite streaming library, but now you’re shopping for a piece of the company itself.
You’ve got two main choices for buying:
- Market order: Fast and simple. Your shares are purchased instantly at the current price.
- Limit order: Want more control? You can set a maximum price you’re willing to pay. The order will only go through if Netflix’s stock reaches that price.
Dive deeper: Market order vs. limit order
Decide how much to invest — whether it’s one or more full shares, or just a fraction (thanks to fractional shares) — then click “Buy”. Now you’re officially a Netflix shareholder. Congrats!
Owning Netflix stock is just the beginning. Keep an eye on how it performs using your brokerage’s tracking tools. Stay tuned for price changes, quarterly earnings reports and news about Netflix’s latest blockbuster series or subscriber growth numbers.
In other words, keep your finger on the pulse of the streaming world — because as we all know, there’s a lot going on in this industry.
Now sit back and let Netflix (and your investment) do the work — whether it’s delivering the next hit show or building long-term value.
Netflix stock price today
Is Netflix a good stock to buy?
Considerations before investing in Netflix stock
1. Volatility and recent performance
Netflix’s stock has always been a bit of a wild ride, which isn’t surprising for a high-growth company in such a cutthroat industry.
Over the past year, we’ve seen the stock swing up and down thanks to factors like subscriber growth, content budgets and broader economic trends. While it’s bounced back from some rough patches (remember those subscriber losses?), it’s still pretty sensitive to how the market feels and what its quarterly numbers look like.
2. Competition in the streaming market
Netflix is the streaming king, but the challengers aren’t holding back[5]. Disney+ is riding high on its killer content library and beloved franchises, while Prime Video gets a boost from Amazon’s massive ecosystem.
Even with all this heat, Netflix stays ahead with its global content focus, original programming and smart plays like rolling out ad-supported plans. In other words, it's not resting on its laurels.
3. Dividend and growth potential
If you’re looking for dividend payouts, Netflix isn’t a stock for you — it reinvests every dollar back into original content and global expansion. This approach fuels its ambitious growth plans, and with nearly 250 million paying subscribers and a proven track record of innovation, Netflix is set up for long-term success.
With that said, all this growth comes with a hefty price tag, so investors need to balance the company’s high content spending against the fierce competition.
Alternative ways to invest in Netflix
Investing directly in Netflix stock is exciting, but it’s not the only way to get in on the action.
Whether you’re looking for diversification, affordability or exposure to the broader streaming market, here are some options to consider:
Netflix ETFs
If you like the idea of spreading your risk, exchange-traded funds (ETFs) are a great way to go. These funds bundle Netflix with other companies, giving you a balanced portfolio in one shot. Here are a few popular picks:
- BMO Global Communications Index ETF (TSX: COMM): Includes Netflix alongside other big names in the communication and media sectors. You can buy this in on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) in Canadian dollars.
- Invesco QQQ Trust (QQQ): Tracks the top Nasdaq companies, including Netflix, giving you exposure to tech-heavy growth stocks
- Vanguard S&P 500 ETF (VOO): Offers a slice of Netflix as part of its broader coverage of the US stock market
With ETFs like these, you’re investing in Netflix’s potential while keeping your portfolio diversified.
Related reads: How to invest in ETFs & Best ETFs in Canada
Fractional shares
Not ready to drop the cash for a full share of Netflix? No problem. Fractional shares let you invest smaller amounts, so you can still own a piece of the action without breaking the bank.
Platforms like Wealthsimple and Interactive Brokers make it easy to get started, even if you’re working with limited capital.
Consider other streaming stocks
Why stop at Netflix when the entire streaming industry is booming?
Diversifying your investments across other key players can help you capture the sector’s overall growth.
Here are a few to check out:
- Disney (DIS): Disney+ benefits from a massive content library and global brand power
- Amazon (AMZN): Prime Video is just one piece of Amazon’s ecosystem, giving it diversified revenue streams
- Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD): Home to HBO Max, it combines blockbuster franchises with a strong presence in traditional media
By exploring other streaming giants, you’re not just hedging your bets — you’re giving yourself a front-row seat to the future of entertainment.
Managing your Netflix investment
Tracking and analyzing Netflix's stock performance
Keeping tabs on Netflix’s stock doesn’t have to be rocket science. With the right tools, you can stay informed and make decisions that match your goals.
Here’s how:
- Financial news platforms: Sources like Bloomberg and Reuters are great for staying updated with the latest Netflix news and market insights
- Stock analysis websites: Check out platforms like Stock Analysis for in-depth charts, financial metrics and analyst opinions
- Portfolio tracking apps: Apps like Yahoo! Finance or Morningstar let you track Netflix in real-time, get news alerts and see how it compares to other stocks in your portfolio
By combining these resources, you can keep a close eye on Netflix’s performance and see how it fits into your broader investment strategy.
Exit strategies for Netflix stock
Knowing when to sell Netflix stock is just as important as knowing when to buy.
Here are the key things to keep in mind:
- Financial goals: Selling should align with your long-term objectives, whether that’s reaching a specific return or rebalancing your portfolio.
- Stock performance: Keep track of big changes in Netflix’s stock price, company performance or shifts in the market that might influence your decision.
- Tax implications: In Canada, 50% of any capital gains are taxed at your marginal rate. Planning for this ahead of time can make a big difference to your net returns.
- Holding period: How long you’ve held the stock impacts how much tax you’ll pay. Long-term holdings often come with lower rates than short-term ones.
- Market conditions: Consider what’s happening in the broader economy and market trends that could impact Netflix’s stock performance.
If you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to talk to a financial advisor. They can help you craft an exit strategy tailored to your goals and keep you on track — no guesswork involved.
FAQs about investing in Netflix
Noel Moffatt is a Canadian fintech expert with a passion for simplifying personal finance. Based in St. John’s, NL, he draws on his background in finance, SEO, and writing to deliver clear explanations and actionable advice. Noel is dedicated to equipping readers with the knowledge and tools they need to make informed financial decisions, striving to make personal finance more accessible and understandable through his in-depth articles and reviews.
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