Jared Kushner – and three Arab monarchies – are at the heart of the Paramount-WBD bid | Mohamad Bazzi

The GuardianThursday, December 11, 2025 at 11:00:14 AM
Jared Kushner – and three Arab monarchies – are at the heart of the Paramount-WBD bid | Mohamad Bazzi
  • Paramount Skydance has launched a $108.4 billion hostile bid for Warner Bros Discovery, intensifying the competition in the media landscape, particularly against Netflix, which previously proposed an acquisition valued at approximately $72 billion. Jared Kushner's involvement in financing this bid highlights the intersection of business and politics, especially given his ties to the Trump administration.
  • This development is significant for Paramount as it seeks to assert itself as a major player in the entertainment industry, potentially reshaping its portfolio and market position. The bid reflects a strategic move to acquire valuable assets and franchises, which could enhance Paramount's competitive edge in a rapidly evolving media environment.
  • The ongoing battle for Warner Bros Discovery underscores broader themes of consolidation in the media sector, where major players are vying for dominance amid changing consumer preferences and technological advancements. The involvement of political figures like Donald Trump adds a layer of complexity, raising questions about the influence of political connections in corporate acquisitions and the implications for regulatory scrutiny.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

Was this article worth reading? Share it

Recommended apps based on your readingExplore all apps
Continue Readings
The Next Rupert Murdoch? Inside David Ellison’s $108 Billion Bid For Warner Bros. Discovery
NeutralFinancial Markets
David Ellison has made a $108 billion bid for Warner Bros. Discovery, a move that echoes Rupert Murdoch's strategies in media acquisitions. This bid comes amid a competitive landscape where Paramount, Comcast, and Netflix are also vying for the company, indicating a significant shift in the entertainment industry.
Disappointing Oracle results knock $80bn off value amid AI bubble fears
NegativeFinancial Markets
Oracle's shares fell 15% following the release of disappointing quarterly financial results, leading to a loss of approximately $80 billion in market value, dropping from $630 billion to $550 billion. This decline has raised concerns about a potential bubble in artificial intelligence-related stocks, particularly affecting companies like Nvidia, which is viewed as a key indicator of the AI sector's health.
American Airlines cancels popular route, refunds available
NegativeFinancial Markets
American Airlines has canceled a popular route, offering refunds to affected customers, amid a decline in Canadian travel to the U.S. This trend follows a year of reduced cross-border trips, influenced by political rhetoric and economic factors.
Oracle shares slump 15% on increase in data centre spending
NegativeFinancial Markets
Oracle's shares plummeted by 15% following an increase in capital expenditure forecasts, as the company intensifies its focus on artificial intelligence infrastructure. This downturn reflects investor concerns about the sustainability of Oracle's aggressive spending strategy in the face of rising operational costs.
Why Oracle Is Worrying Investors About the A.I. Boom
NegativeFinancial Markets
Oracle's shares have declined significantly as investors express concerns over the company's heavy investment in artificial intelligence, particularly its partnership with OpenAI. This downturn reflects a growing anxiety that Oracle's strategic bets may not yield the expected returns, especially following disappointing earnings reports.
US Federal Reserve cuts rate by 25 basis points, but dissenting voices heard
NeutralFinancial Markets
The US Federal Reserve has reduced its benchmark interest rate by 25 basis points, responding to persistent inflation and slowing job growth amid a lack of government data due to a shutdown. This marks a significant monetary policy shift as the Fed navigates economic uncertainties.
For Trump, the Warner Megadeal Talks Are All About CNN
NeutralFinancial Markets
Former President Donald Trump is actively engaging in discussions surrounding a potential megadeal involving Warner Bros., with a particular focus on CNN's future within this context. His involvement signals a desire to influence the regulatory review process of the deal, which could have significant implications for the media landscape.
Trump Says CNN Should Be Sold as Part of Any Megadeal
NeutralFinancial Markets
Former President Donald Trump has suggested that CNN should be sold as part of any significant media merger, emphasizing the need for changes in the leadership of the cable network. This statement aligns with his broader involvement in media acquisitions, particularly as he positions himself in the ongoing discussions surrounding major deals in the entertainment industry.