Paramount Skydance Stock Plunges 5.30% as Hostile WBD Bid Stalls, February 20 Deadline Looms

The share price fell to its lowest level since August 2025 today, with an intraday decline of 3.35%.

Paramount Skydance’s stock has dropped 5.30% over three consecutive days amid uncertainty surrounding its $30-per-share hostile bid for Warner Bros. Discovery. The company has opted not to raise its offer, despite extended negotiations and competing interest from Netflix. The tender deadline remains set for February 20, creating a critical timeline for shareholder decisions. Meanwhile, regulatory scrutiny of rival bids, including a UK review of Netflix’s proposal, adds complexity to the acquisition process. Paramount’s refusal to increase its offer, supported by backer Larry Ellison, reflects a strategic focus on valuation discipline but risks deterring WBD shareholders seeking higher returns.

The prolonged takeover battle highlights the high-stakes nature of media consolidation in the streaming era. Paramount’s bid aims to merge its legacy assets with WBD’s portfolio, but integration challenges and regulatory hurdles could delay or dilute synergies. The February 20 deadline will test investor patience, with outcomes likely to shape short-term volatility. While Ellison’s backing reinforces confidence in the bid’s feasibility, the absence of a higher offer may signal inflexibility, potentially undermining momentum. Market participants will closely monitor shareholder approval rates and regulatory developments, as these factors will determine whether the acquisition catalyzes growth or exposes Paramount to reputational and financial risks in a competitive landscape.