Comcast CEO Brian Roberts is considering a sweetened bid for Warner Bros. Discovery, despite opposition from the Trump administration. The cable giant's CEO is planning to join a second round of bidding next week, aiming to reach a valuation of $27 or $28 per share for the studio and streaming businesses. This potential offer surpasses Paramount Skydance's bid of around $25 per share and Netflix's initial bid, according to sources. However, Comcast's interest in only the streaming service and studio complicates the comparison with Paramount Skydance's offer. Roberts may need to seek equity partners or borrow funds to finance his bid. Political opposition from Trump, who opposes strengthening Comcast, adds another layer of complexity. The CEO might reconsider his strategy as the second-round bidding deadline of December 1st approaches. The outcome depends on the WBD board's decision and the Trump-appointed DOJ antitrust chief's probe, which could lead to a lengthy legal battle. The board and CEO David Zaslav must decide whether to proceed with the bid or sell to Paramount Skydance, which could provide a smoother regulatory process.
