Paramount launches hostile $78-billion bid for Warner Bros., with backing from Trump's son-in-law

Core Viewpoint - Paramount is making a $78 billion hostile takeover bid for Warner Bros. Discovery after being outbid by Netflix, which has offered $82.7 billion for the company, including debt [6][4]. Group 1: Paramount's Offer - Paramount's final bid was increased to $30 per share, representing a 139% premium over Warner's stock price of $12.54 on September 10 [14]. - The total enterprise value of Paramount's offer, including Warner's cable channels and debt, would be approximately $108.4 billion [14]. - Paramount's bid is backed by significant financial commitments, including $11.8 billion from Larry Ellison's family and $24 billion from Middle Eastern sovereign wealth funds [17][18]. Group 2: Netflix's Position - Netflix's offer includes a cash and stock deal valued at $72 billion, or $27.75 per share, and would take on over $10 billion in Warner Bros. debt [4]. - Netflix's co-CEO expressed confidence in their deal, stating it would benefit shareholders, consumers, and Hollywood workers [8]. - Concerns exist regarding regulatory approval for Netflix's acquisition due to its large market share [11][13]. Group 3: Regulatory and Market Implications - The involvement of political figures, including President Trump's family, complicates the regulatory landscape for both bids [5][19]. - Paramount is appealing directly to shareholders, bypassing Warner's board, and claims its offer is a "superior alternative" to Netflix's [7][9]. - The Warner Bros. board has expressed support for Netflix's bid, and shareholders will receive recommendations within 10 business days [6]. Group 4: Market Reactions - Following the news, shares of Warner Bros. increased by 4.4% to $27.23, while Paramount's shares rose by 9% to $14.57, and Netflix's shares fell by 3.4% to $96.79 [21].