Netflix says decade-long content push generated $325 billion for global economy

Netflix said on Tuesday it has invested more than $135 billion in films and television series over the past decade, highlighting the scale of its expansion as the company seeks to reinforce its dominance in the global streaming industry.

The Los Gatos, California-based company said its productions contributed more than $325 billion to the global economy during the same period and supported over 425,000 jobs worldwide.

Netflix disclosed the figures as part of a new initiative called “The Netflix Effect,” which examines the cultural, social, and economic impact of the company’s films and series across global markets.

“Today we’re launching the Netflix Effect — a comprehensive look at the economic, cultural and social impact of our films and series, and how it ripples out across economies, industries and everyday life, day after day, week after week,” co-Chief Executive Officer Ted Sarandos said in a statement.

Global reach expands

Netflix has evolved into one of the world’s largest streaming platforms, with more than 325 million paid subscribers as of the end of 2025.

The company said it has licensed films and television shows from more than 3,000 companies, including public broadcasters, while significantly expanding its non-English language programming.

According to Netflix, non-English titles now account for more than one-third of all viewing on the platform, compared with less than one-tenth a decade ago.

International productions, including Money Heist, Squid Game, and KPop Demon Hunters, have attracted major global audiences and helped broaden Netflix’s appeal beyond the US market.

The company’s growth comes as streaming platforms increasingly compete for international subscribers and premium original programming.

Leadership changes and new growth areas

The announcement also comes during a period of transition for Netflix.

Last month, co-founder and chairman Reed Hastings exited the company as Netflix continues exploring new growth areas, including gaming and live entertainment, amid slowing revenue growth in its core streaming business.

Netflix stock has fallen more than 6% this year as investors weigh concerns over slowing subscriber growth, rising competition, and regulatory scrutiny surrounding large digital platforms.

Texas lawsuit adds pressure

Separately, Netflix is facing legal challenges after Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton sued the company on Monday over allegations that it improperly collected consumer data without consent.

The lawsuit accuses Netflix of tracking viewers’ habits and preferences, sharing data with advertising technology firms, and using platform features designed to keep users engaged for longer periods.

Texas also alleged that Netflix falsely represented to consumers that it did not collect or share user data while employing “dark patterns,” including autoplay features that automatically begin new content after a programme ends.

A Netflix spokesperson rejected the allegations and said the company would defend itself in court.

“Respectfully to the great state of Texas and Attorney General Paxton, this lawsuit lacks merit and is based on inaccurate and distorted information,” the spokesperson said.

“Netflix takes our members’ privacy seriously and complies with privacy and data protection laws everywhere we operate.”

The case adds Netflix to a growing list of major technology and social media companies facing lawsuits over data collection and digital advertising practices.