business π¬ Paramount might bail on California over merger fight π¬
David Ellison is ready to move Paramount out of California if the merger stalls due to antitrust suits. This potential relocation targets California if a settlement isn't reached with Attorney General Rob Bonta by September 30. The deal faces hurdles from 12 states, and Paramount could face $1.2 billion in fees by the March 2, 2027 trial date. Bonta called the relocation a blackmail attempt against the state. Paramount is considering new bases like Georgia, Texas, and Tennessee for its operations.