President warns of growing streaming dominance
US President Donald Trump expresses concern over Netflix’s planned 72bn-dollar acquisition of Warner Brothers Discovery. He tells an audience in Washington that Netflix already controls a significant portion of the streaming market. He warns that combining the two companies could create serious competition issues. The firms announce on Friday that they reached an agreement to bring major Warner franchises, including Harry Potter and Game of Thrones, to Netflix. The deal still requires approval from competition authorities. Requests for comment to both companies and the White House remain unanswered.
Netflix aims to expand its global reach
Netflix grows from a DVD-by-mail service in 1997 into the world’s largest subscription streaming platform. The planned takeover ranks among the largest industry moves in recent years. It would further solidify Netflix’s dominant position. The agreement would bring franchises like Looney Tunes, The Matrix, and The Lord of the Rings to the platform. Both companies expect the deal to close after Warner Bros completes a planned business split in the second half of 2026.
Regulators weigh potential antitrust issues
The US Justice Department’s competition division could argue that the merger violates antitrust law if the combined company controls too much of the market. Trump says at the Kennedy Center that Netflix already holds a large market share and that figure would rise sharply if the deal proceeds. He adds that he will personally be involved in the approval process.
Trump praises Netflix co-CEO Sarandos
Trump says Netflix co-chief Ted Sarandos recently visited the Oval Office and praises his work. He describes Sarandos as a respected figure who has delivered major achievements in modern film. Sarandos admits the agreement may have surprised investors but says it positions Netflix for long-term growth.
Experts highlight structural differences
Media executive Blair Westlake says in a radio interview that the primary antitrust concern stems from combining Netflix with HBO’s streaming business. He notes that Netflix produces less content than Warner’s studios and owns a smaller library. Westlake expects the deal to receive approval but believes regulators will require concessions.
White House influence could shape outcome
Bill Kovacic, former chair of the Federal Trade Commission, says Trump’s remarks indicate the White House will guide discussions over any merger concerns. He warns this could bring an unprecedented level of presidential involvement to a process previously driven by technical review.
Netflix outbids key competitors
Netflix surpasses rivals, including Comcast and Paramount Skydance, to secure the Warner Bros agreement. Paramount Skydance previously tried to buy the entire company, including its cable networks. Warner Bros rejects that bid, opening itself to other offers. David Ellison of Paramount Skydance benefits from support from his father Larry Ellison, a close ally of Trump.
Writers’ unions call for merger to be blocked
The Writers Guild of America’s East and West branches urge regulators to halt the merger. They argue that the world’s largest streaming platform absorbing a major rival undermines antitrust laws. They warn that approval would cost jobs, lower wages, worsen working conditions, raise consumer prices, and reduce the variety and volume of content available to audiences.
