"In one of the most groundbreaking deals the streaming world has ever seen, Netflix announced on Friday its acquisition of Warner Bros. with an enterprise value of $82.7 billion. This agreement involves both HBO Max and the HBO studio, marking one of the largest mergers in Hollywood's history. By making this move, Netflix is not just solidifying its top position but also significantly enhancing its content library, gaining access to well-known franchises such as DC Comics, "Game of Thrones," and "Harry Potter.""
"While Netflix boasted over 300 million paying subscribers in January, HBO Max, in combination with Discovery+, currently has around 128 million subscribers. Additionally, the scale of Netflix's offer is notable, as the streaming giant is investing $72 billion, which exceeds Warner Bros.' entire market valuation of $60 billion. However, this merger isn't without its challenges; it could face antitrust scrutiny. In November, senators Elizabeth Warren, Bernie Sanders, and Richard Blumenthal expressed concerns regarding the potential sale."
"Additionally, various industry players are expressing their views. According to Variety, an anonymous group reportedly sent a letter to Congress urging them to publicly oppose Netflix's offer. Warner Bros. Discovery officially put itself up for sale in October, burdened by debt and disappointing streaming growth. The company attracted interest from several suitors, with Paramount seen as the frontrunner. The acquisition is expected to finalize in the third quarter of 2026."
Netflix agreed to acquire Warner Bros. for an enterprise value of $82.7 billion, including HBO Max and the HBO studio, and gaining franchises such as DC Comics, "Game of Thrones," and "Harry Potter." Netflix had over 300 million paying subscribers in January, while HBO Max combined with Discovery+ has about 128 million. Netflix's $72 billion investment exceeds Warner Bros.' market valuation of $60 billion. The transaction may face antitrust scrutiny, with senators raising concerns and an anonymous industry group reportedly urging congressional opposition. Warner Bros. Discovery pursued a sale amid debt and weak streaming growth, with the deal expected to close in Q3 2026.
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