German antitrust body approves RTL2, Warner Bros Discovery JV

German antitrust body approves RTL2, Warner Bros Discovery JV

The German antitrust body has approved the joint venture between RTL2 and Warner Bros. Discovery, signaling a strategic move to consolidate media assets and enhance market presence. The approval comes as part of a broader restructuring effort by Warner Bros. Discovery, which is splitting into two distinct entities: Warner Bros. and Discovery Global.

Warner Bros., the newly formed division, will manage the company’s film and television operations, including HBO, HBO Max, Warner Bros. Television, Warner Bros. Motion Picture Group, and DC Studios. Discovery Global, on the other hand, will oversee the company’s global TV brands, including CNN, TNT Sports, and Discovery Channel. The joint venture with RTL2 is expected to bolster Discovery Global’s international reach and content offerings [1].

The joint venture agreement allows RTL2 to leverage Warner Bros. Discovery’s extensive content library and distribution networks. RTL2, a leading German broadcaster, will gain access to Warner Bros. Discovery’s premium content, while Warner Bros. Discovery will benefit from RTL2’s strong market position in Germany and Europe. The collaboration aims to create synergies, reduce costs, and enhance content delivery across both companies’ platforms [1].

The approval of this joint venture is part of a growing trend in the media industry, where companies are separating fast-growing digital services from legacy cable assets. This strategic shift allows each entity to focus on its core competencies and adapt to the evolving media landscape [2]. The approval by the German antitrust body is a significant milestone in this transformation, as it ensures compliance with regulatory requirements and paves the way for the successful implementation of the joint venture.

As Warner Bros. Discovery continues to undergo its restructuring, the approval of the RTL2 joint venture is a key step forward. The company is expected to announce further details and strategic roadmaps in the coming months, with the full transition anticipated to be completed by mid-2026 [2]. This approval underscores the company’s commitment to streamlining operations, improving efficiencies, and adapting to the changing media landscape.

References:
[1] https://www.themovieblog.com/2025/07/warner-bros-discovery-restructuring-new-era/?preview_id=1005861
[2] https://community.designtaxi.com/topic/15104-warner-bros-discovery-sets-2026-split-into-warner-bros-and-discovery-global-with-new-executive-team/