Trump Signals Antitrust Concerns Over Warner Bros-Netflix Deal
President TRUMP has raised antitrust concerns about Netflix's proposed $82.7 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, stating the combined streaming market share "could be a problem." His remarks followed a meeting with Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos, signaling potential regulatory scrutiny ahead.
Warner Bros. Discovery shares fell 1.7% in premarket trading as Trump confirmed he WOULD be involved in the regulatory decision. Conversely, Netflix shares rose 1.07%, reflecting market anticipation of deal dynamics. The transaction faces bipartisan pushback from lawmakers and Hollywood unions demanding antitrust oversight.
A $5.8 billion termination fee looms if regulators block the deal—a figure underscoring the high-stakes nature of consolidation in the streaming sector. Market reactions suggest investors are pricing in heightened regulatory risk for Warner Bros., while Netflix benefits from perceived bargaining leverage.
