WBD Split: Value & Focus Explained
Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) is set to divide into two companies, streaming & Studios and Global networks, a move that immediately sent WBD stock surging by 8%. This strategic split, expected by mid-2026, is designed to boost focus on streaming and global networks, while also supporting the company’s efforts to reduce its $37 billion debt. Streaming & Studios, led by current CEO David Zaslav, will handle properties like HBO Max and warner Bros. studios. global Networks, helmed by Gunnar Wiedenfels, will oversee channels such as CNN and Discovery+.stay informed wiht News Directory 3 to follow these important developments in the media industry. Discover what’s next for this media giant.
Warner Bros. Discovery to Split into Two Companies; stock Surges
Updated June 11, 2025
Shares of Warner Bros.Discovery (WBD) surged 8% Monday after the media giant revealed plans to separate into two distinct publicly traded entities. The move aims to sharpen focus and improve strategic versatility in a rapidly changing media landscape.
The restructuring will create two companies: Streaming & Studios and Global Networks.The company hopes the Warner Bros. Discovery split will allow each entity to better pursue growth opportunities.
Streaming & Studios will include Warner Bros. Television, Warner Bros.Motion Picture group, DC Studios, HBO, HBO Max, and extensive film and television libraries. David Zaslav, current CEO of Warner Bros. Discovery, will lead Streaming & Studios.
Global networks will encompass television networks like CNN, TNT Sports, and Discovery, along with digital platforms such as Discovery+ and Bleacher Report. Gunnar Wiedenfels, the current CFO, will become president and CEO of Global Networks.
“By operating as two distinct and optimized companies in the future, we are empowering these iconic brands with the sharper focus and strategic flexibility they need to compete most effectively in today’s evolving media landscape,” said Zaslav.
Wiedenfels added that the Warner Bros. Discovery split will allow each company to leverage its strengths and specific financial profiles, enabling them to pursue vital investment opportunities and drive shareholder value.
The company anticipates completing the tax-free separation by mid-2026. Until then,the current warner Bros. discovery structure remains in place. To enhance its debt portfolio, the company has initiated tender offers and consent solicitations across its capital structure, backed by a $17.5 billion bridge facility from J.P. Morgan. This facility will be refinanced before the separation.
“Both companies will have a clear path to de-leveraging with significant cash flow and strong liquidity through cash and revolver availability,” officials said. Further, Global Networks will hold up to a 20% stake in Streaming & Studios to help to reduce debt.
The combined company currently carries approximately $37 billion in long-term debt. Warner Bros. and Discovery merged in 2022 to form warner Bros. Discovery.
Executives stated that the Warner Bros. Discovery split will enable both companies to be more agile and aggressive in pursuing growth opportunities aligned with their operational and financial objectives.
Streaming & Studios will concentrate on expanding HBO Max, currently available in 77 markets, with further launches planned for 2026. A key priority is achieving at least $3 billion in annual adjusted EBITDA for Warner Bros. studios.
Global Networks will focus on international expansion, enhancing live sports and news content, and growing the digital reach of Discovery+, Bleacher Report, and CNN.
What’s next
With the Warner Bros. Discovery split targeted for mid-2026, the next year offers potential growth for the stock. Analysts project a $13 per share price target, representing a potential 23% increase.