Trump warns $72bn Netflix‑Warner deal could cause trouble

U.S. President Donald Trump warned on Sunday that Netflix’s proposed $72 billion purchase of Warner Bros. Discovery could breach antitrust rules, raising fresh concerns for regulators.

Speaking at the John F. Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., Trump said the streaming giant already enjoys a “very big market share” and that the combined size of Netflix and Warner Bros. Discovery would “be a problem” for competition.

The two companies announced on Friday that they have reached an agreement that would bring iconic franchises such as Harry Potter, Game of Thrones, Looney Tunes, The Matrix and Lord of the Rings to Netflix, creating what they call a new media giant.

The U.S. Justice Department’s Antitrust Division, which oversees major mergers, is expected to review the deal closely. Officials could deem the transaction unlawful if the merged entity controls too large a slice of the streaming market.

Trump added that he would be personally involved in the decision on whether to approve the merger, repeatedly highlighting Netflix’s market dominance. He also praised co‑CEO Ted Sarandos, noting his recent visit to the Oval Office.

“I have a lot of respect for him. He’s a great person and has done one of the greatest jobs in the history of movies,” Trump said.

Sarandos, when asked about the deal, acknowledged that it surprised investors but argued it positions Netflix for success for decades to come.

The Writers Guild of America – East and West issued a joint statement urging regulators to block the merger, warning that the “world’s largest streaming company swallowing one of its biggest competitors” could eliminate jobs, suppress wages, raise subscription prices and diminish content diversity.

For Ghanaian viewers, a more consolidated streaming market could mean higher subscription fees and fewer choices, affecting local platforms such as iFlix Ghana and Showmax Africa. Consumer groups are likely to monitor the outcome closely.

The deal still awaits approval from competition authorities. Both companies have said they will cooperate with regulators, and the White House has been contacted for comment.

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