Why did Warner Bros reject Paramount's bid?

Warner Bros rejected Paramount's £81billion bid because they deemed it "inadequate" and noted it would saddle the company with an excessive amount of debt.

What is Netflix's interest in Warner Bros?

Netflix is interested in acquiring Warner Bros to gain control of its vast back catalogue of films and TV titles, strengthening its streaming dominance.

How much debt would Paramount's acquisition create?

Paramount's proposed acquisition would reportedly saddle the company with £65billion in debt upon closing.

Home / Business and Economy / Warner Bros Rejects $81B Paramount Bid, Eyes Netflix

Warner Bros Rejects $81B Paramount Bid, Eyes Netflix

7 Jan

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Summary

Warner Bros rejected Paramount's £81billion bid as inadequate.
Paramount's offer faced criticism for its significant debt.
Warner Bros favors a rival acquisition proposal from Netflix.

Warner Bros Rejects $81B Paramount Bid, Eyes Netflix

Warner Bros Discovery has officially rejected a significant £81billion takeover bid from Paramount Skydance. The company's board stated that the offer was "inadequate" and heavily reliant on an "extraordinary amount of debt," specifically noting that the acquisition would saddle the smaller studio with £65billion in debt. This decision is a major setback for Paramount, which had secured a £30billion guarantee from billionaire Larry Ellison.

Instead, Warner Bros is reaffirming its commitment to a potential deal with streaming giant Netflix. Victory for Netflix would grant it control over Warner Bros' extensive film and television library, including popular titles from HBO. This move by Warner Bros paves the way for a potential acquisition by Netflix, a development that has been anticipated in Hollywood.

The competition for Warner Bros has been intense, with Paramount's offer representing one of the largest leveraged buyouts in history. Netflix's proposed deal, however, is now favored by Warner Bros' leadership. Should the Netflix acquisition proceed, it is expected to face rigorous scrutiny from competition regulators in the industry.