"Sony and Apollo Consider $29 Billion Bid for Paramount in Challenge to Ellison"

Sony and Apollo Global Management are preparing to make a significantly better offer for the acquisition of Paramount Global, potentially worth as much as $29 billion, challenging the current exclusive talks between Paramount and Skydance Media. Shareholders and analysts believe that the proposed offer would be more beneficial for Paramount shareholders and could lead to a more attractive bid, especially with Sony's involvement. The current Skydance deal faces severe backlash from Paramount's Board of Directors and important shareholders, leading to resignations and concerns about its potential impact on shareholder dilution. Despite the advanced talks, there is speculation about the possibility of other bidders and the potential for Paramount to chart back to growth independently.