M&A news covering corporate mergers, acquisitions, deal announcements, regulatory approvals, and transaction valuations.
Mark Ruffalo rejected accusations of antisemitism on Bluesky, stating his criticism of a US media mega-merger was misrepresented. Meanwhile, lawmakers and a dozen state attorneys general have called for national security reviews and challenged the deal, citing potential job losses and industry consolidation.
California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass favor settling the antitrust lawsuit against the $111 billion Paramount Skydance and Warner Bros. Discovery merger ahead of trial. A judge has ordered both parties to identify two potential magistrates for mediation by next Wednesday as the March trial approaches.
Paramount requested a meeting with the California Attorney General to discuss settling the state's antitrust case against its Warner Bros. Discovery merger. The meeting includes senior executives and lawyers, though no assurance of meaningful negotiations exists as states allege the deal harms competition and raises consumer prices. Paramount has previously proposed commitments such as producing 30 films annually for three years, which Bonta has rejected.
Heirs to the Jack Daniel's fortune are actively resisting a $15 billion hostile takeover bid from a Louisville rival. This resistance follows internal turmoil, including a scathing letter from two heirs accusing management of self-enrichment and secrecy regarding failed merger talks. The crisis coincides with shrinking profits, a departing CEO, and a 60% drop in share value over five years.
Writers Guild leaders argue that Paramount Skydance's proposed $110.9 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery violates federal antitrust law by creating an unlawful monopoly in film and television writing. They contend the merger eliminates competitive bidding, harms writer compensation, and restricts public choice.
The Batista brothers, via J&F and Globe Investimentos, announced the acquisition of 100% of Nova AVB S.A., controlling Avibras Aeroco. The deal requires antitrust approval from CADE before finalization. Avibras is a major Brazilian defense manufacturer producing missiles and armored vehicles.
A consortium named 1892 Holdings, led by Amit Bhatia and including Jeff Bezos and Eduardo Saverin, has agreed to acquire approximately 38% of Liverpool FC from Fenway Sports Group. Bhatia will serve as vice-chair while FSG retains operational control.
American companies have spent more than $14 billion acquiring European asset and wealth management firms this year, marking the highest level of activity since at least 1995. This surge is driven by US buyers seeking scale to compete with low-cost passive funds and rising regulatory pressures facing European firms.
The article argues that Sherritt International's collapse following US sanctions on Cuba's Moa Nickel joint venture has triggered a global bidding war. It contends that the strategic value of Western-controlled cobalt is driving competition between a Texas-backed consortium and a London-based fund, with the White House playing a key role in determining the outcome.
The article argues that Mike Ashley's Frasers Group acquisition of Harvey Nichols reflects a strategic shift toward luxury retail, despite Ashley's discounting reputation. It contends that while Frasers has moved upmarket, its aggressive business tactics continue to alienate suppliers and damage brand relationships.