Trump Says Netflix-Warner Deal 'Could Be A Problem'

US President Donald Trump has warned that Netflix’s proposed $83 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery could face regulatory hurdles, citing concerns about the company’s growing market power. Speaking in Washington, Trump said Netflix already holds a large share of the streaming market and that the combined company “could be a problem” from a competition standpoint.

The deal was announced on December 5 and is expected to close after Warner Bros. Discovery completes its business separation, targeted for the second half of 2026. Netflix, which began as a DVD-by-mail service in 1997, is now the world’s leading subscription streaming platform, and the acquisition would further strengthen its industry position.

The US Justice Department’s antitrust division is expected to closely review the deal, as officials may argue it could give the merged company too much control over the streaming market. Trump said he plans to be personally involved in the approval process and noted Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos’ recent visit to the Oval Office.

Netflix has said the deal would create jobs and expand opportunities for creators, while critics warn it could further concentrate power in an already crowded entertainment industry.