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Paramount Skydance still hasn't submitted a buyout bid for Warner Bros Discovery โ€” and here's why
New York Postยท 2025-09-24 11:00
Core Insights - Paramount Skydance is considering a buyout offer for Warner Bros. Discovery, but has not yet formally approached the company due to concerns about CEO David Zaslav potentially leveraging the situation to attract other bidders [1][5][9] - The anticipated buyout could initiate merger discussions valued at over $50 billion, supported by the financial backing of Larry Ellison, who has a net worth of $370 billion [2][4] - The Ellisons are strategizing on how to approach Zaslav to avoid a hostile bid, with potential outreach to media mogul John Malone, a significant shareholder in Warner Bros. Discovery [5][6][7] Company Strategies - Zaslav is reportedly in the process of restructuring Warner Bros. Discovery into two separate units: one for streaming and studio operations, and another for cable properties, aiming to maximize value through potential sales [10][19] - Zaslav has received interest in the streaming and studio segment from companies like Netflix and Amazon, indicating a competitive landscape for Warner Bros. Discovery [11][13] - The company has engaged Goldman Sachs to assist in exploring strategic options, including the potential sale of its divisions [13][19] Financial Context - Zaslav is aiming for a share price closer to $40, while the Ellisons' reported bid of $22 to $24 per share is considered too low by Zaslav [11][18] - Wall Street analysts have begun to raise their price targets for Warner Bros. Discovery, influenced by speculation surrounding the Ellisons' buyout intentions [17][18]