Netflix ad tier has nearly 5 million monthly active users

LOS ANGELES, May 17 (Reuters) - Netflix Inc's  recently launched ad-supported tier reaches nearly 5 million active users per month, executives said on Wednesday in a pitch that emphasized the breadth of its programming to potential advertisers.
The streaming video pioneer launched a $7-per-month option with commercials last November in 12 markets, including the U.S., as an alternative to ad-free plans that start at $10 a month. It was designed to attract more customers and add a new revenue stream as competition for online viewers intensified.
On Wednesday, Netflix made its first presentation to advertisers at the annual ritual known as the upfronts, where networks aim to lock in ad commitments for upcoming shows. Walt Disney Co , Comcast Corp and other companies also are vying for digital ad dollars.
Jeremi Gorman, Netflix's president of worldwide advertising, said that global monthly active users had reached 5 million. Monthly active users count all adult profiles used on one account with ads. Children's profiles do not run commercials.
Netflix reported 232.5 million paying subscribers around the world as of the end of March.
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