Netflix Stock Has A January Superpower - And The Numbers Prove It

Netflix Inc. (NASDAQ:NFLX) has developed a striking seasonal pattern that traders have come to recognize: January has historically been its strongest month of the year, and by a wide margin.

Over the past two decades, Netflix shares have posted an average January gain of 14.7%, finishing the month higher in 71% of years.

That performance meaningfully outpaces both the broader S&P 500 and most large-cap technology peers over the same period, cementing January as a recurring sweet spot for the streaming giant.

Two Decades of January Strength For Netflix

A review of January returns going back to 2005 highlights both the magnitude and consistency of the trend.

While there have been notable drawdowns—such as 2022's 29.1% slide amid a broader growth-stock rout—the upside years have been dominant.

Standout rallies include gains of:

• +73.5% in 2012
• +78.5% in 2013
• +40.8% in 2018, and
• +26.8% in 2019.

Even in more recent years, Netflix has continued to deliver solid January performances, rising 20% in 2023, 15.9% in 2024, and 9.6% in 2025.

Why Does January Work So Well For Netflix?

One reason starts on the couch.

Holiday viewing often peaks in late December and early January. Families gather. Streaming hours rise. Netflix dominates attention during this period.

The company typically reports fourth-quarter earnings in mid-to-late January, and historically, those reports have frequently exceeded Wall Street expectations — particularly on subscriber growth and engagement.

While not every fourth-quarter earnings report triggered a rally — notable declines occurred in 2022 and 2019 — the upside reactions from Netflix shares have historically been larger and more frequent than the downside moves.

That asymmetry has helped fuel Netflix's January edge.

Netflix Q4 Earnings: Reporting Dates and Stock Reaction

What To Expect This Year?

Shares of Netflix are down by nearly 3% thus far in 2026. But looking ahead, the seasonal pattern remains in focus.

The streaming giant is expected to report fourth-quarter 2025 results on Jan. 20, after the close. Traders already know the historical setup.

While January gains are not a guarantee for Netflix, history shows they have been the closest approximation.

For two decades, the calendar has often worked in its favor.