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Paramount Demands $1.9 Billion Bond from 12 States Opposing Warner Bros Merger

economy-finance · 2026-08-18

Paramount has demanded a $1.9 billion bond from twelve U.S. states that are opposing its merger with Warner Bros. The states, led by Democratic attorneys general, along with the Writers Guild of America, have filed a lawsuit to block the merger. The merger, orchestrated by David Ellison's group, has been suspended pending trial, which is scheduled for March 2027. Paramount's demand for the bond is a legal maneuver to secure costs if the states' challenge fails. The merger would combine two major Hollywood studios, raising antitrust concerns. The trial date is set for March 2027.

Key facts

  • Paramount demands $1.9 billion bond from 12 U.S. states.
  • The states are opposing the merger with Warner Bros.
  • The lawsuit is filed by Democratic states and the Writers Guild of America.
  • The merger is led by David Ellison's group.
  • The merger is suspended until the trial.
  • The trial is scheduled for March 2027.
  • The merger would combine Paramount and Warner Bros.
  • Antitrust concerns are raised by the merger.

Entities

Institutions

  • Paramount
  • Warner Bros
  • Writers Guild of America

Locations

  • United States

Sources