German TV giant ProSiebenSat.1 and publishing powerhouse Axel Springer are in early merger talks that could create a $16 billion media giant.
The Wall Street Journal reported on the early-stage talks.
The discussions come a decade after a previous deal failed amid regulatory opposition. Back then, Springer tried to buy ProSiebenSat.1, but Germany’s media watchdog and antitrust body opposed the deal. The German industry landscape has changed since then, the Journal highlighted.
Local industry folks have especially mentioned the rise of U.S. digital giants, such as Google.
http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/german-tv-print-giants-merger-807052