Paramount Global 'A'

A coalition of 12 states led by California Attorney General Rob Bonta sued to block Paramount’s $110 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, arguing the merger would lessen competition in theatrical distribution and cable programming. The U.S. DOJ and numerous foreign regulators cleared the deal, but a federal court has delayed closing pending a March 2027 trial, activating a contractual “Ticking Consideration” that could cost Paramount roughly $7 million per day after September 30, 2026. The legal fight has halted settlement talks, prompted demands for a multibillion-dollar bond, and raised talks of relocating Paramount from California if the dispute persists. » Plus sur forbes.com

A coalition of state attorneys general led by California AG Rob Bonta has filed an antitrust suit blocking Paramount’s $110 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, leaving David Ellison searching for remedies and settlements ahead of a March trial. Paramount has proposed concessions including guaranteed theatrical commitments and has discussed other remedies, while state prosecutors are seeking robust structural fixes and possibly divestitures of pay-TV networks. The dispute has prompted threats of relocating Paramount offices, accusations of bad-faith leaks, and a Paramount request that the states post a $1.88 billion bond to cover delay costs; closing delays would add substantial expenses and debt to the combined company. » Plus sur cnbc.com

California Attorney General Rob Bonta canceled a scheduled meeting with Paramount, saying the company leaked and misrepresented early settlement discussions and showed a "lack of good faith." Bonta is leading a multistate suit to block Paramount Skydance's proposed merger with Warner Bros. Discovery and has called for robust structural remedies. Paramount has delayed the deal closing to as late as June 2027 and the antitrust trial is set for March. » Plus sur cnbc.com