Netflix hikes prices: Watching Squid Game, Stranger Things season 5 be more expensive for Indian subscribers in 2025?

On January 21, Netflix reported a 19 million subscription growth in its quarterly results (October-December), taking it to over 300 million subscribers globally. Despite this massive growth, which was largely due to the return of the global hit Squid Game - the Korean show, which is the most-watched Netflix series ever – the streamer announced price hikes in key areas. The growth could also be attributed to the streamer's crackdown on password sharing. 

Also read: Squid Game season 3 release date leaked by Netflix Korea accidentally - Here's when and where we might get to watch the show 

Impact of price hike on Indian subscribers

Indian subscribers of Netflix will remain unaffected by the price hike announced in the streamer’s results. So, if you were worried about having to shell out more money to watch popular shows like Squid Game and Stranger Things, among many others, there’s no cause yet.

The price hike has been announced for the US, Canada, Argentina and Portugal, as of now, which, Netflix says, will enable it to reinvest in quality programming. For the US, the hike for Netflix's premium and standard memberships is $2 each taking it to $25 and $18, respectively, while the standard ad-supported plan will cost $8 per month, after a $1 hike.

Netflix subscribers in India benefitted from a reduction in subscription tariff effected in December 2021, which have remained unchanged since. While most of the cuts were in the range of 18-25%, one plan dropped by a massive 60%.

Also read: Ad-supported Netflix subscription tier to launch in November 

Netflix Indian plans and prices

Other salient features of Netflix quarterly results

Since the streamer’s ad-supported plans account for over 55% of subscription sign-ups in countries where it is offered, Netflix is actively looking at growing its ad business. Live programming, like WWE wrestling (for US viewers), NFL games, FIFA Women’s world cup (2027 – 2031), which have advertising potential, will be top priority.

Also read: Stranger Things 5 episode titles revealed - Hint at a dramatic swan song for Millie Bobby Brown led Netflix show 

Netflix’s forecast for 2025

The streamer projects revenue in the range of USD 43-44.5 billion, with a 29% operating margin.