DOJ says states should post ‘proper bond’ in Paramount-WB merger case

David ZimmermannSeptember 16, 2026

The article discusses a legal dispute involving Paramount, which is requesting a federal court in California to require the plaintiffs to post a $1.88 billion bond. This bond would cover the potential financial losses Paramount might incur if the blocked merger between Paramount Skydance and Warner Bros. Finding is ultimately approved and Paramount wins the case. The Department of Justice has filed a statement of interest opposing the merger, suggesting the states should post a proper bond if confident about their antitrust lawsuit. Paramount’s request is based on Section 16 of the Clayton Act. Conversely, a coalition of 12 states led by California argues that only a nominal bond of $10,000 should be required. The article also includes promotional content for the Washington Examiner, encouraging readers to subscribe for full access to their coverage and analysis.

The Department of Justice filed a statement of interest in the court case challenging the merger between Paramount Skydance and Warner Bros. Discovery, arguing the states suing to block the transaction should post a “proper bond” if they’re confident in their antitrust lawsuit.

Paramount is asking a federal judge in California to require the plaintiffs to post a $1.88 billion bond that would cover the entertainment company’s financial losses stemming from the blocked merger, should the defendant win the case. Paramount cites the bond requirement under Section 16 of the Clayton Act as the basis for its argument. The 12-state coalition, led by California, says it should be on the hook only for a “nominal bond” worth $10,000 at most.