Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) announced plans to divide into two publicly traded companies—Streaming & Studios and Global Networks—prompting its stock to jump approximately 11–13%.
Transaction structure:
Streaming & Studios will encompass HBO, HBO Max, Warner Bros. Television & Motion Picture Group, DC Studios, and the company’s content library.
Global Networks will include CNN, TNT Sports, Discovery, Discovery+, and European free-to-air channels.
Leadership roles:
Current CEO David Zaslav will lead Streaming & Studios.
CFO Gunnar Wiedenfels will head Global Networks. Both remain in their roles until the split, anticipated by mid‑2026, pending board approval.
Stock performance:
Shares climbed between 11% and 13% on the announcement, with morning trading prices hovering slightly above $11.
Refined strategic focus: Separating streaming and studios from legacy cable operations aims to sharpen focus and flexibility amid evolving media consumption trends.
Financial clarity: The Global Networks division will hold a minority stake (~20%) in Streaming & Studios to support debt paydown, while Streaming can pursue growth free from network revenue pressures.
Industry precedent: The move echoes similar restructurings by Comcast/NBCUniversal and Lionsgate, aiming to unlock value from faster-growing streaming businesses.
Cable downturn: Cable and linear TV revenues continue to decline—Global Networks must navigate this tough environment despite independence.
Skeptical analysts: Some warn that splitting may be insufficient to reverse profitability concerns, particularly for legacy media segments with structural headwinds.
The stock surge highlights investor approval of the strategic split, which aims to untether high-growth streaming and studio assets from struggling cable businesses. While the long-term impact depends on execution and industry dynamics, the move signals a significant pivot in Warner Bros.