Warner Bros. Discovery Announces Major Split: Two Companies by 2026

Warner Bros. Discovery to Split into Two Companies by 2026 Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) announced on Monday, June 9, 2025, its plan to split into two separate, publicly traded companies by mid-2026. This strategic move will divide the company's assets into two distinct entities. One company will focus on streaming and studio operations, encompassing services like HBO Max and Warner Bros. Pictures. The second company will manage the company's portfolio of global television networks, including prominent names such as CNN and TNT Sports. The split is intended to streamline operations and enhance shareholder value. The financial implications are significant. A CNBC report highlighted the distribution of debt, with the majority expected to fall under the network-focused company. The report also projected a substantial increase in EBITDA for the streaming and studio division. The host of the CNBC segment, [Host's Name], stated, "Most of the debt will be going with that unit that produces most of the free cash flow." This suggests a deliberate strategy to reduce the financial burden on the streaming and studio side, positioning it for growth. The international reach of Warner Bros. Discovery is also a key factor. The company has a significant presence in various international markets, with Poland being cited as a prime example. This global footprint will be divided between the two new companies, affecting their respective market positions and future strategies. The successful execution of this split could represent a significant restructuring in the media industry, demonstrating a clear response to the evolving landscape of streaming and traditional television.