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Paramount's Q1 Revenue Boosted by Streaming and Studio Gains Ahead of Warner Deal

Wall Street Journal US Business •
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Paramount Pictures posted a 2% jump in quarterly revenue, reaching $7.35 billion and beating the $7.28 billion consensus. First‑quarter profit climbed to $168 million, or 15 cents a share, up from $152 million a year earlier. Adjusted earnings per share hit 23 cents, well above the 15‑cent estimate in the last fiscal quarter, solidifying growth for its streaming arm.

The lift came from stronger streaming subscriptions and a rebound in its studio business, offsetting a dip in the TV media segment. Paramount, which owns CBS, Comedy Central, Nickelodeon and its eponymous studio, is preparing to merge with Warner Bros Discovery, the owner of HBO and CNN, after last month's shareholder approval in the near future.

In February, Paramount unveiled an $81‑billion takeover of Warner, outbidding Netflix. The deal, still subject to regulatory review, is expected to close by the end of Q3, according to a Monday statement. The combined entity would command a broader streaming catalogue and a larger advertising base, reshaping U.S. media consolidation for advertisers and subscribers alike.

Investors will watch the merger’s completion closely, as it could create a streaming titan rivaling Disney and Amazon. Meanwhile, Paramount’s quarterly gains suggest its diversified portfolio is resilient amid shifting consumer habits. The company’s ability to monetize both content and distribution will determine its long‑term competitive edge in a crowded market for stakeholders worldwide.