Latest Corporate News

📅December 7, 2025 at 1:00 PM
Netflix’s proposed $82.7B acquisition of Warner Bros. dominates corporate headlines, while major antitrust scrutiny, political concerns, and industry skepticism accompany the deal; other key stories include a large EU fine for Elon Musk’s X and warnings on a major European financial loan.
1

Netflix to acquire Warner Bros. film, TV and HBO in $82.7B deal

Netflix has agreed to acquire Warner Bros.’ film and television studios, including HBO and HBO Max, in a deal valued at approximately $82.7 billion, combining two entertainment giants in one of Hollywood’s largest-ever mergers Source 2. The transaction includes $72B in equity and is expected to close in 12–18 months, pending regulatory approval and Warner Bros. Discovery’s planned spinoff of its global networks division Source 2Source 3.

2

Netflix–Warner Bros. deal faces major antitrust and political hurdles

The proposed merger is drawing heavy skepticism from the Trump administration and is expected to face intense antitrust scrutiny in the U.S. Source 3Source 4. Critics warn the combined company could dominate content spending and reshape Hollywood’s power structure, with a $5.8B breakup fee if the deal is blocked Source 3Source 4Source 5.

3

Warner Bros. Discovery to spin off global networks before Netflix deal

Warner Bros. Discovery plans to separate its Global Networks division (including CNN, TNT, and Eurosport) into a standalone company before completing the Netflix transaction Source 2Source 3. This spinoff, expected in Q3 2026, is a prerequisite for the regulatory review of Netflix’s acquisition of the studio and streaming assets Source 2Source 3.

4

Netflix pledges to keep Warner Bros. films in theaters

Netflix has committed to continuing theatrical releases for Warner Bros. films, including major franchises like DC superheroes, despite its streaming-first history Source 2Source 3. Executives say the studio’s operations will continue and that theatrical distribution will remain part of the strategy Source 2Source 5.

5

Elizabeth Warren warns Netflix–Warner Bros. deal threatens consumers

U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren has criticized the deal, arguing it would create a media giant controlling nearly half the streaming market, risking higher prices and fewer choices for consumers Source 5. She called for fair and transparent antitrust review to avoid influence-peddling in the approval process Source 5.

6

European Commission fines Elon Musk’s X €120 million

The European Commission has hit Elon Musk’s social media platform X with a €120 million fine for alleged violations of EU digital rules, marking a significant enforcement action against a major tech platform Source 1. The fine is part of broader EU efforts to hold large online platforms accountable under the Digital Services Act Source 1.

7

Euroclear warns reparations loan is 'very fragile' and risky

Euroclear, the financial infrastructure group, has issued a warning that a major reparations loan is in a 'very fragile' state and poses significant financial risks Source 1. The assessment highlights concerns about the stability and sustainability of the loan in the current economic environment Source 1.

8

Legendary architect Frank Gehry dies at age 96

Acclaimed architect and designer Frank Gehry has died at the age of 96, leaving behind a legacy of iconic buildings and innovative design work Source 1. Tributes have poured in from the architecture and design communities for one of the most influential figures in modern architecture Source 1.

9

Comcast and Paramount also bid for Warner Bros. assets

Comcast (owner of NBCUniversal and Sky) and Paramount were among the bidders competing with Netflix for Warner Bros. Discovery’s assets Source 3Source 5. Paramount reportedly sought full control of the company, while Netflix’s winning bid is for the studio and streaming operations only Source 3Source 5.

10

Netflix–Warner Bros. deal could reshape AI and content strategy

Analysts suggest the acquisition would help Netflix leverage premium entertainment content to train and power next-generation AI models for the entertainment industry Source 4. The deal positions Netflix as a dominant content owner at a time when AI is expected to intensify competition in video creation and engagement Source 4.