John Malone believes SpaceX will eventually invest billions of dollars in Skydance. The media mogul shared his prediction while speaking at the Paley Center International Council Summit.
What We Know: Malone predicted that SpaceX could invest between $8 billion and $10 billion in Skydance, helping the company reduce its debt burden. The proposed investment could accompany a global output deal between the companies. Skydance CEO David Ellison has taken on significant debt as the company expands its media holdings, including its acquisition of Paramount. Malone pointed to the longstanding financial relationship between Ellison’s father, Larry Ellison, and Elon Musk as a potential indicator of future collaboration.
What They Said: “I think there’s a deal coming there,” Malone said, citing an eyebrow-raisingly specific $8 billion to $10 billion investment figure. “I predict, big prediction, that you’ll see a global output deal for Skydance with SpaceX, and an investment by SpaceX into Skydance, to delever Skydance and take a little bit of the burden off David Ellison’s shoulders, because he’s taking on a pretty big pile of debt … Who helped Elon finance Twitter when he bought it? Larry Ellison. How did Larry Ellison come up with some of the money to put into the creation of Skydance? Tesla stock. And I would not doubt for a minute that before very long you’re going to see an announcement.” -John Malone
What Remains Unclear: Neither SpaceX nor Skydance has publicly confirmed a potential investment or global output agreement. Malone also didn’t provide a timeline for when an announcement might come. It’s unclear what programming or content a potential agreement would cover, or what financial terms the companies might negotiate.
What It Means: A SpaceX investment could provide Skydance with additional capital as David Ellison continues integrating Paramount’s assets. Moreover, a global output deal could create new opportunities to distribute content across platforms and markets. However, until either company confirms discussions or announces an agreement, Malone’s prediction remains speculative.
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