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David Ellison Seeks $1.88 Billion Bond from States to Offset Delays in Paramount-Warner Bros. Discovery Merger

Paramount Skydance is seeking a $1.88 billion bond from the 12 states currently challenging its $111 billion merger with Warner Bros. Discovery. The administration announced that the merger has cleared regulatory hurdles in nearly 70 countries, but the U.S. antitrust case led by California Attorney General Rob Bonta remains a significant obstacle. To mitigate the financial impact of the litigation, David Ellison is requesting the bond to cover potential ticking fees and financing costs. Paramount stated that every month of delay carries substantial financial consequences, including a $7 million daily ticking fee. Additionally, a report from the L.A. County Department of Economic Opportunity warns that the merger could result in the loss of over 15,000 corporate roles. While the DGA and IATSE unions have urged for a settlement, other unions like the WGA and SAG-AFTRA have expressed concerns regarding employment and wages. Paramount is also considering selling CNN as a strategic move to resolve regulatory concerns and improve the economics of the transaction.

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