Judge Stops Paramount and Warner Bros. Merger for Now

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A judge told Paramount and Warner Bros. to stop their $81 billion merger for two weeks. This gives states time to make their case in court.

Twelve states, led by California, sued to stop the merger. They say it would reduce competition in Hollywood and give consumers fewer choices.

The states asked Warner and Paramount not to finish the deal until a court could review their claims. When the companies said no, the states asked for a temporary stop, which the judge granted.

This could lead to a preliminary injunction that would block the deal.

California's Attorney General Rob Bonta said this is a crucial win. He believes the merger would give a few people too much power and hurt Americans.

If Warner and Paramount merge, they would own many TV networks, movies, and news operations. This includes HBO Max, Harry Potter, and CNN.

Paramount did not comment on the judge's order. But they have said they will strongly defend their purchase of Warner.

Paramount said the states' complaint is wrong and that the merger would actually increase competition. They also mentioned that the deal has been approved in other places.

The temporary stop will last at least 14 days and could be extended to 28 days. A hearing is set for August 3 to discuss the states' request to block the deal.

Time is running out. Many thought Paramount and Warner would try to finish the deal this week.

Before the judge's decision, the companies wanted to finish the hearing by the end of August. This would give them time to appeal by September 30, which is important for Paramount.

The states think this timeline is unfair. They believe Paramount should not be rewarded for taking a risk that might cost them money after September 30.

Paramount's purchase of Warner is worth almost $111 billion, including debt.

Eleven other states, plus the Writers Guild of America, are also trying to block the merger.

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