New York Times hits 13 million subscribers as digital ad revenue surges 32%

The New York Times Company (NYSE:NYT) delivered a robust first-quarter performance for 2026, marked by significant gains in its digital ecosystem and a sharp rise in profitability.

The company reported that total digital-only subscribers reached 13.08 million, following the addition of approximately 310,000 net new subscribers since the end of 2025.

This expansion drove a 16.1% year-over-year increase in digital-only subscription revenues.

The results highlight the success of the Times’ "bundle" strategy, which integrates News with Cooking, Games, Wirecutter, and The Athletic.

Digital-only average revenue per user (ARPU) rose 2.4% to $9.77, suggesting that more users are graduating from promotional rates to higher-priced multi-product tiers.

While subscription growth remained steady, digital advertising emerged as a standout performer, surging 31.6% year-over-year.

The company attributed this growth to strong marketer demand and an increase in advertising supply across its various digital platforms.

Additionally, affiliate, licensing, and other revenues grew 7.8%, bolstered by higher licensing fees.

The company’s focus on high-margin digital revenue led to a substantial jump in the bottom line.

Operating profit increased 54.5% year-over-year to $90.6 million, while adjusted operating profit rose 27.2% to $117.9 million.

This translated to an adjusted operating profit margin of 16.6%, an increase of approximately 200 basis points over the prior year.

Diluted earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter was $0.54, up from $0.30 in Q1 2025.

On an adjusted basis, EPS reached $0.61, comfortably exceeding analyst expectations.

The rise in earnings came despite an increase in operating costs, which grew 7.7% year-over-year.

The company noted that adjusted operating costs rose 9.4%, primarily driven by higher compensation and benefits related to its investment in journalism.