Warner Bros. Discovery subscription rate hike for Max streaming service

Warner Bros. Discovery is increasing subscription rates for its Max streaming service ahead of the debut of season two of House of the Dragon. The price hikes affect ad-free tiers, with the lowest tier increasing to $16.99 a month. CEO David Zaslav received a significant pay increase despite financial and structural challenges facing the company.

Former CEO Scott Sheffield potentially facing criminal charges for suggesting oil production coordination

Scott Sheffield, former CEO of Pioneer Natural Resources, potentially facing criminal charges for suggesting coordination to drill less oil, barred from Exxon board, facing FTC referral to Justice Department. FTC expanding criminal referral program. Industry focus on capital discipline. Merger approval used as tool to punish unrelated behavior. CEOs getting raises despite economic challenges. Apollo making significant loans. Warner Bros. Discovery CEO working to retain NBA television rights amidst competition.