Xin Hua She·2025-12-06 09:44Core Viewpoint - Netflix announced a $72 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery's film studio and streaming platform, which is seen as a potential seismic shift in the entertainment industry [1][2]. Group 1: Acquisition Details - If the acquisition is completed, Netflix will gain control of Warner Bros. studio, which holds rights to franchises like Harry Potter and Batman, as well as HBO, known for popular series such as Game of Thrones and The White Lotus, along with the HBO Max streaming platform [2]. - Paramount Global was the first to propose the acquisition and submitted three rounds of bids, but ultimately, Netflix's proposal was deemed the most comprehensive and met all of Warner Bros.' board requirements [5]. - Paramount's latest bid reached $78 billion, but Warner Bros. rejected it due to concerns over financing [4]. Group 2: Regulatory Concerns - The acquisition is expected to face scrutiny from U.S. regulatory bodies, with the Department of Justice likely to investigate how this deal could strengthen Netflix's dominance in the industry [7]. - Netflix and HBO Max together hold approximately 30% of the U.S. subscription streaming market, which raises concerns under new DOJ guidelines that consider mergers illegal if they exceed this market share [7]. - Netflix's co-CEO expressed confidence that the acquisition will be approved, arguing it would benefit consumers and innovation [9]. Group 3: Market Reactions - Investors showed skepticism regarding the acquisition, with concerns raised by the U.S. film industry lobbying group about potential losses in domestic box office revenue due to Netflix's preference for streaming over theatrical releases [9].