Paramount

Paramount is a global media and entertainment company that creates and distributes premium content across multiple platforms. Formed in 2019 through the merger of Viacom and CBS, and rebranded from ViacomCBS in February 2022, Paramount operates iconic studios, networks, and streaming services including CBS, Showtime, Paramount Pictures, Nickelodeon, MTV, Comedy Central, BET, and Paramount+.

Paramount's portfolio spans a wide range of content and services:

• Paramount+: A direct-to-consumer streaming service offering live sports, breaking news, and entertainment content

• Pluto TV: A free ad-supported streaming television service

• CBS: A major broadcast television network

• Paramount Pictures: A historic film studio with a library of over 1,000 titles

• Cable networks: Including MTV, Nickelodeon, BET, Comedy Central

• Showtime: A premium cable and streaming network

In recent years, Paramount has focused on expanding its streaming and direct-to-consumer offerings globally. The company launched Paramount+ in March 2021 and has rapidly grown its subscriber base, reaching over 32 million subscribers by December 2021. Paramount aims to have over 100 million streaming subscribers by 2024. The company has also expanded Paramount+ internationally, partnering with CANAL+ Group to launch in France in 2022. Paramount continues to invest heavily in content production across film, television, and streaming to fuel its multi-platform distribution strategy.

In July 2024, Paramount announced a merger agreement with Skydance Media to form "New Paramount." The transaction values New Paramount at an enterprise value of approximately USD 28 billion. Under the deal, Skydance's David Ellison will become Chairman and CEO of the combined company. The merger aims to strengthen Paramount's balance sheet, allow for investment in new initiatives, and reposition the company to improve profitability and growth. The transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2025, subject to regulatory approvals and other closing conditions.