Trump Warns of Concerns Over $72bn Netflix-Warner Bros Merger

Trump says $72bn Netflix-Warner Bros deal 'could be a problem'

New York, December 09, 2025

Former President Donald Trump recently expressed concerns over the proposed $72 billion merger between Netflix and Warner Bros, warning that the deal “could be a problem” amid fears of reduced competition and growing market concentration in the entertainment industry.

Details of the Merger
The proposed acquisition involves Netflix, the world’s leading streaming platform, purchasing Warner Bros for an estimated $72 billion. This merger aims to combine Netflix’s extensive subscriber base and streaming technology with Warner Bros’ vast content library, which includes HBO, Warner Bros Pictures, and DC franchise properties.

Trump’s reservations center on the potential risks posed by such a large consolidation. His comments signal caution as the deal could reshape the competitive landscape of streaming and entertainment media significantly.

Strategic Importance and Market Impact
The merger would create a powerhouse in global streaming markets, offering unparalleled content depth and distribution scale. Combining Netflix’s digital infrastructure with Warner Bros’ content assets could lead to shifts in content pricing, production strategies, and consumer subscription options.

The consolidation is expected to intensify competitive pressures on rivals such as Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu. For consumers, this could mean fewer streaming choices and potential price adjustments resulting from diminished competition.

Regulatory and Political Context
Regulatory bodies in the United States, including the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Department of Justice (DOJ), are poised to scrutinize the merger closely for antitrust concerns. International regulators, such as the European Commission, will also assess the deal given its global implications.

Trump’s cautionary remarks reflect his ongoing skepticism towards mega-mergers in the tech and media sectors. He has historically voiced concern about market concentration and its impact on fair competition and economic balance.

Broader Implications
This merger underscores the challenges regulators face in balancing industry innovation, consumer interests, and competitive markets in rapidly evolving digital media landscapes. For business leaders, policymakers, and industry stakeholders, the outcome of this deal could set significant precedents for future consolidations in tech and entertainment.

Consumers may experience changes in subscription models and content diversity, while competitors might be compelled to explore new strategies, including partnerships or further mergers, to maintain market viability.

The Netflix-Warner Bros merger remains under intensive regulatory review, with potential to redefine streaming services and media ownership structures globally. The resolution will be closely watched as a crucial test of antitrust enforcement in an era of accelerating digital consolidation.