Tokyo: PlayStation-maker Sony raised its annual profit forecasts, driven by robust performance in its gaming division and a smaller-than-expected impact of US trade tariffs. The Japanese electronics and entertainment giant reported continued strong momentum in user engagement within the video game sector.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Sony’s shares surged over six percent in Tokyo after the announcement. The company revealed that monthly active users in June and total gameplay hours on PlayStation consoles increased by six percent year-on-year during the April-June quarter. Sony also noted that while the situation regarding additional US tariffs remains fluid, it plans to monitor and mitigate any potential impact.
The company has adjusted its net profit forecast for the 2025-26 financial year to 970 billion yen ($6.6 billion), up from a previous estimate of 930 billion yen. However, this forecast still falls short of the record net profit of 1.1 trillion yen achieved in the last financial year.
Atul Goyal, an equity analyst at Jefferies, commented that the upcoming release of “Grand Theft Auto VI” in May 2026 could significantly boost Sony’s gaming profits. The game, set in a Miami-like Vice City and featuring a female protagonist, will be available on the PlayStation 5 and Microsoft’s Xbox. Goyal noted that the PlayStation 5 is nearing the end of its typical lifecycle but emphasized Sony’s strategy to navigate tariff challenges and leverage major releases like GTA VI.
In addition to gaming, Sony’s music streaming business remains a key growth area, boasting a strong back catalogue and current artists like Beyonce and Lil Nas X. The company also highlighted a 23 percent year-on-year increase in net profit for the April-June quarter and raised its operating profit forecast.
Sony recently acquired a 2.5 percent stake in Japanese gaming franchise giant Bandai Namco, known for “Gundam” and “Pac-Man,” to expand its anime business. The 68 billion yen transaction aims to create new and emotionally engaging experiences for fans, as stated in a joint announcement by the companies.