FCC Approves Gulf Sovereign Wealth Funds' 49.5% Stake in Paramount
What happened
The Federal Communications Commission approved Paramount Skydance’s petition for indirect foreign ownership exceeding 25% on September 17, 2026.
The Context
- Regulatory Approval: The FCC's ruling allows up to 49.5% foreign equity ownership, addressing U.S. laws that typically cap foreign ownership of broadcast licensees at 25%.
- Geopolitical Implications: The approval reflects ongoing U.S. efforts to attract foreign investment while managing concerns over influence from governments with press freedom restrictions.
- Merger Financing: Paramount's $111 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery relies heavily on financing from Gulf sovereign wealth funds, with the Ellison family retaining voting control.
The Number
— This is the aggregate indirect foreign equity ownership permitted in Paramount post-investment, highlighting the scale of foreign financial influence in U.S. media.
Takeaway
As the merger progresses amid antitrust litigation, expect increased scrutiny on foreign investments in American media and potential shifts in regulatory landscapes.
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