President Donald Trump has raised fresh doubts about Netflix’s proposed acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD), warning that the streaming giant’s growing dominance “could be a problem” for market competition. His remarks, reported by Bloomberg, came just days after Netflix revealed its plan to acquire WBD in a blockbuster deal that has already sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry.
During a recent Q&A session with reporters, Trump stated, “Well, that’s got to go through a process, and we’ll see what happens. But it is a big market share. It could be a problem.” He further added that he intends to be “personally involved” in overseeing the federal review process — a statement that underscores how politically sensitive this merger could become.
Netflix’s Expanding Power in Streaming
If the deal gains approval, Netflix and HBO Max combined would command approximately 33 percent of the U.S. streaming market. This figure would place them far ahead of competitors such as Prime Video, which currently holds around 21 percent. Such consolidation would strengthen Netflix’s already-dominant position and likely draw close scrutiny from the Department of Justice’s antitrust division.
Netflix has attempted to reassure regulators and industry players by promising to “maintain Warner Bros.’ current businesses.” This includes HBO and HBO Max’s continued operations, ongoing theatrical film releases, and preservation of studio production lines. Still, industry experts caution that promises alone may not convince regulators, especially with concerns mounting over decreased competition, fewer creative opportunities for independent studios, and potential job losses.
Potential Market Impact of the Acquisition
| Streaming Platform | U.S. Market Share (2025) | Competitive Position |
|---|---|---|
| Netflix + HBO Max (Post-Merger) | 33% | Dominant market leader |
| Amazon Prime Video | 21% | Second-largest competitor |
| Disney+ | 19% | Strong entertainment portfolio |
| Paramount+ | 8% | Growing but smaller presence |
| Peacock & Others | 19% | Fragmented competition |
Such concentration of viewer share could force regulators to question whether the acquisition creates a monopoly-like structure in the streaming market. With content libraries, theatrical rights, and subscriber data consolidated under one corporate roof, competitors might find it increasingly difficult to keep up — both creatively and financially.
Political and Regulatory Headwinds Grow Stronger
Antitrust headwinds were expected from the outset. In November, Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos reportedly met with President Trump to make the case that the acquisition wouldn’t harm competition or violate antitrust standards. During that meeting, Trump is said to have remarked that WBD should sell to the “highest bidder” — a comment that Netflix interpreted as a positive sign of political neutrality from the White House.
However, Trump’s latest remarks suggest growing skepticism, possibly prompted by critics who warn that the merger would grant Netflix unprecedented control over what viewers watch and how content is distributed. If Trump remains personally involved, any approval process will likely move slowly and face relentless scrutiny from opposition lawmakers, trade unions, and consumer-rights watchdogs.
Paramount’s Possible Hostile Bid Adds More Drama
The regulatory discussion is not the only hurdle in Netflix’s path. Paramount, which previously expressed interest in acquiring WBD even before it was officially for sale, may attempt a hostile takeover of its own. Analysts view Paramount’s renewed ambition as a response to Netflix’s aggressive expansion and a strategic attempt to protect its own market position in the increasingly consolidated entertainment landscape.
Such a bid could further delay Netflix’s acquisition timeline, forcing shareholders to choose between two industry giants with very different visions for WBD’s future.
Hollywood Guilds and Unions Voice Alarm
Beyond corporate boardrooms, the Netflix-WBD deal has rattled Hollywood’s creative community. Unions and guilds across the industry fear that a Netflix-led WBD might cut down on theatrical releases, reducing box-office revenue, backend profit participation, and production jobs. The consolidation could shift the balance of power even more toward streaming-centric distribution models, threatening traditional theatrical experiences and the livelihoods tied to them.
Film industry professionals also worry that the merger could lead to fewer original productions as Netflix prioritizes cost control and subscription growth. For many creators, this signifies an era where financial algorithms may overshadow artistic risk-taking.
What Comes Next
As the Justice Department begins its review, the fate of Netflix’s proposed acquisition remains uncertain. With political scrutiny intensifying and competitor interest heating up, the streaming landscape may face a prolonged period of instability before any final decision is reached.
For now, the spotlight remains on President Trump’s stance — and whether his administration will allow Netflix to extend its reign over both home entertainment and Hollywood’s big screens.
