Sinclair Positions for Merger Pressure with EW Scripts

2 months ago

Valerie Titel

"Yeah, this one's really interesting. So, this also to do with local TV. We're seeing um Sinclair news that also on the back of regulatory filings, should I say, their 13D filings has taken a 18, sorry, excuse me, an 8% stake, an 8% stake in EW scripts. So, we're seeing the shares of EW scripts up 17%. Sinclair in the green as well up 2% after this news. So, the Wall Street Journal is reporting that these two companies have also been discussing a potential merger and that Sinclair has increased its stake in order to add pressure on Scripps to agree to a sale. Now, those not familiar with local TV networks, Sinclair is one of the largest owners of local TV stations. EW Scripts also owns a portfolio of local TV stations in over 40 markets. It's had some recent success due to its rights over WNBA games. Now, Sinclair's board in the past did sign off on a plan to examine potential acquisitions. So, it does seem like it's lining up that EW Scripts could be one of them, and this comes on the back of a more favorable regulatory background with Trump's new administration pick to the FCC, leaning towards allowing further consolidations in the local TV space."

Valerie outlines Sinclair's recent move of acquiring an 8% stake in EW Scripts, noting the significant market reaction and potential merger discussions that could pressure Scripps into a sale. She emphasizes how regulatory shifts favor local TV consolidations, suggesting a near-term catalyst that could positively impact Sinclair's positioning in the market.

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