** Walt Disney DIS.N posted better-than-expected quarterly results and raised its annual profit forecast on Wednesday, led by gains in the streaming business, which is expected to be the centerpiece of its growth strategy in coming years

** On average, DIS is "buy" rated by 34 analysts, with a $138 median PT, as per data compiled by LSEG

New ESPN DTC Service May Boost Sports Growth

** Bernstein ("outperform", PT: $129) says "while it's too early to define a ceiling for Disney's DTC margins, we believe the company must continue investing in subs growth, even if that means a temporary slowdown in margin expansion"

** Jefferies ("buy", PT: $144) says concerns over subscriber disclosures being removed are likely overblown, with brokerage being positive on bundling and advertising strategies

** BofA Global Research ("buy", PT: $140) says "The new ESPN DTC service will be a robust offering...(and) should be a key contributor to sports growth in FY26 and beyond"

** Evercore ISI ("outperform", PT: $140) says "Disney isn't hitting the brakes – it's shifting into high gear", referring to Disney's continued focus on evolving and building on its portfolio through variety of strategic investments

(Reporting by Joel Jose in Bengaluru)

((joeljose@thomsonreuters.com))