Walt Disney (DIS) shares are once again trailing the broader market this year, marking the fourth time in the last five years the stock has underperformed. Weighed down by fierce streaming competition, cautious consumers, and persistent challenges in its film business, the House of Mouse has struggled to reignite investor enthusiasm. But all eyes may soon shift to Central Florida later this month, where a pivotal moment for the theme park industry is fast approaching.
On May 22, Universal parent Comcast (CMCSA) is set to open Epic Universe in Orlando, the first major theme park to debut in the U.S. in over two decades, since Disney’s own California Adventure launched in 2001. While Epic Universe has faced early hiccups during its paid previews, its grand opening later this month is expected to draw massive crowds, potentially lifting overall tourism in the region. For Disney World, this could be a double-edged sword.
