Paramount launches hostile takeover bid of Warner Bros Discovery, says offer is ‘superior' to Netflix deal

Core Viewpoint - Paramount has launched an all-cash tender offer to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) for $30.00 per share, claiming it is a superior offer compared to Netflix's recent deal valued at $27.75 per share [1][2][3]. Group 1: Offer Details - The proposed transaction by Paramount includes the entirety of WBD, encompassing the Global Networks segment, which includes CNN and other cable assets [2][8]. - Paramount's offer equates to an enterprise value of $108.4 billion, representing a 139% premium over WBD's stock price of $12.54 as of September 10, 2025 [7]. - In contrast, Netflix's proposal involves a mix of cash ($23.25) and stock ($4.50), leading to an enterprise value of $82.7 billion [7]. Group 2: Strategic Rationale - Paramount's CEO, David Ellison, emphasized that WBD shareholders deserve the opportunity to consider a superior all-cash offer, which provides more certainty and a quicker path to completion [3][6]. - The company believes its proposal is more compelling due to its price, structure, and regulatory certainty compared to Netflix's offer, which is seen as inferior and exposing shareholders to risks [6][11]. Group 3: Regulatory and Competitive Landscape - Paramount is confident in achieving regulatory clearance for its offer, arguing that it enhances competition and is pro-consumer, unlike the Netflix transaction, which could face significant regulatory challenges [11][12]. - The company accused WBD of failing to engage with multiple proposals over 12 weeks, asserting that its offer represents the best outcome for shareholders [11][12]. Group 4: Timeline and Process - Paramount's tender offer has been unanimously approved by its Board of Directors and is set to expire at 5 p.m. ET on January 8, unless extended [16]. - The company has indicated the possibility of a hostile bid, citing concerns over WBD's transaction process and its duties to stockholders [16][17].