Core Viewpoint - Paramount Skydance is preparing a significant bid for Warner Bros. Discovery, potentially valuing the company at up to $24 per share, with a proposed deal structure of 70% to 80% cash and the remainder in stock [1][3][4]. Group 1: Bid Details - The bid is expected to be in the range of $22 to $24 per share, significantly above Warner Bros. Discovery's current trading price of around $19 [1][4]. - The backing for the bid includes major cash support from Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison, who is the father of Paramount Skydance CEO David Ellison [1][9]. - Warner Bros. Discovery's stock saw a nearly 30% surge following the news of the planned bid, indicating strong market interest [5][11]. Group 2: Strategic Implications - Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav is reportedly seeking a bidding war to increase the company's valuation, aiming for a price target of $40 per share [4][5]. - The company has been burdened with debt since its 2022 merger and is struggling to compete with major streaming services like Netflix [12]. - The potential merger would create a powerful entity in the media landscape, combining assets such as HBO, CNN, and Warner Bros. Pictures with Paramount's existing portfolio [10][11]. Group 3: Market Context - The bid reflects the increasing pressure on legacy media firms as traditional cable subscriptions decline and streaming growth slows [11]. - Warner Bros. Discovery is considering splitting its operations into two publicly traded entities if its valuation expectations are not met [5][10]. - The proposed merger would require approval from regulatory bodies, including the Federal Communications Commission and the Department of Justice, with anticipated antitrust scrutiny [14].