Salem Media is officially under new ownership after WaterStone completed its acquisition of the Christian and conservative media company. The transaction takes Salem private and sets the stage for long-term growth.
What We Know: WaterStone, operating as The Christian Community Foundation, acquired all outstanding Salem Media common stock for $1 per share. That price represented approximately a 250% premium over Salem’s trading price before the deal’s announcement. As a private company, Salem will continue operating its radio, digital, streaming, podcasting, television, and publishing platforms. Meanwhile, WaterStone plans to support investment and expansion across the company’s media properties. The partnership also brings together organizations with a shared commitment to Christian ministry and stewardship. Salem enters the deal following continued momentum across its national radio, streaming, and podcast platforms.
What They Said: “This is an exciting day for Salem and the beginning of an important new chapter for our company. Salem enters this partnership with strong momentum, an extraordinary portfolio of talent and brands, and more ways than ever to reach audiences across the country. With WaterStone alongside us, we are positioned to invest for the future while remaining firmly committed to the mission that has guided this company from the very beginning.” -Salem Media CEO David Santrella
“Today is not about changing what Salem is. It is about giving Salem an even stronger foundation to build on what it does best. What excites us about Salem is not only what the company has built, but how much opportunity remains ahead.” WaterStone President and Salem Media Board of Directors Chair Richard von Gnechten
“When Stuart Epperson and I founded Salem more than 50 years ago, we could not have imagined the reach and impact it would have today. Knowing Salem’s mission will be carried forward by a partner that shares our values gives me tremendous confidence in what comes next.” -Salem Media co-founder Edward Atsinger III
What Remains Unclear: The company hasn’t detailed specific investments, programming changes, or expansion plans following the acquisition. Salem also hasn’t indicated whether WaterStone will pursue additional acquisitions or strategic partnerships.
What It Means: The transaction gives Salem greater flexibility as a private company while preserving its existing media footprint. For WaterStone, the deal provides control of a major Christian and conservative media operation with national reach. Now, Salem can focus on growth without the same pressures associated with operating as a publicly traded company.
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Garrett Searight is Barrett Media’s News Editor, which includes writing daily news stories, features, and opinion columns. He joined Barrett Media in 2022 after a decade leading several radio brands in several formats, as well as a 5-year stint working in local television. In addition to his work with Barrett Media, he is a radio and TV play-by-play broadcaster. Reach out to him at Garrett@BarrettMedia.com.