Future of Paramount: Potential Acquisitions and Streaming

As the media landscape braces for change, speculation grows around the future ownership of Paramount Pictures. Recent murmurs suggest that Skydance Media has increased its bid, while Warner Brothers Discovery (WBD) is also rumored to be interested in the acquisition, causing a notable surge in WBD stock. Meanwhile, the newly named sports streaming app 'Venue' stands at the heart of Warner's strategy, though its success is questioned due to unsubstantiated fan interest and an undetermined price point. Skepticism arises from the fact that theoretical interest doesn't always translate into actual subscriptions, especially when costs are involved. Furthermore, the potential lack of NBA coverage could significantly diminish Venue's appeal, given the importance of the league's games, previously aired on TNT. Analyst Alan from TV Rev highlights the critical nature of the NBA to WBD's sports offerings, suggesting that without it, their streaming package could struggle to attract subscribers. This assessment comes amid a holiday-shortened week, reflecting on the volatility and uncertainties of the evolving streaming market.