Netflix's $83B Warner Bros. deal hits antitrust roadblocks
Netflix just took a hit on Wall Street, with shares dipping to a seven-month low, as its approximately $83 billion plan to buy Warner Bros. Discovery faces serious antitrust questions.
The goal? To combine two streaming giants and bring even more big-name shows under one roof—but regulators are expected to scrutinize the deal.
What's in the deal—and why it's controversial
The merger would give Netflix control of huge assets like HBO and franchises such as Harry Potter and Friends.
Warner Bros. shareholders would get a mix of cash and Netflix stock, while networks like CNN and TBS would be spun off beforehand.
Still, some lawmakers worry this could mean less competition and higher prices for viewers—Congressman Darrell Issa has urged US authorities to block the deal, calling it potentially harmful to consumers.
If regulators block it, Netflix could be out $5.8 billion in breakup fees.