Spotify reported a 12% increase in paid subscribers, reaching 268 million in Q1, alongside a record operating profit. CEO Daniel Ek highlighted strong engagement and retention, crediting the freemium model for user flexibility during uncertain times.
The company had 678 million active users by March, a 10% year-on-year rise, meeting expectations. Paid subscribers slightly exceeded the 265 million forecast.
Operating profit surged 203% to 509 million euros ($580 million), though it fell short of the 548 million euro target due to 76 million euros in social charges offsetting gains from higher gross profit and lower personnel and marketing costs. Revenue grew 15% to 4.19 billion euros.
The Financial Times reported that Spotify plans price hikes in Europe and Latin America this summer.
In 2024, Spotify achieved its first annual profit of 1.1 billion euros by controlling costs and raising subscription fees in markets like the US. Its stock price has risen 34% since the year began.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
Spotify’s Q1 2025 performance reflects a company firing on all cylinders: growing subscribers, achieving record profits, and gaining investor confidence.
As the music streaming leader, Spotify’s ability to innovate and adapt will determine whether it can sustain its momentum in an increasingly complex global market.
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