Netflix co-CEO Greg Peters appeared before a US Senate panel this week, facing pointed questions over the company’s recent content licensing agreement with Warner Bros. Discovery. Lawmakers raised concerns about how such deals could reshape competition in the already crowded streaming market.
Focus on Warner Bros Content Agreement
At the center of the hearing was Netflix’s move to license a selection of Warner Bros-owned titles, including older films and television series, for its platform. Senators questioned whether the agreement could limit consumer choice or disadvantage smaller streaming services struggling to compete with industry giants.
Antitrust and Consumer Impact Concerns Raised
Members of the Senate panel pressed Peters on whether large licensing arrangements between major media companies could undermine fair competition. Lawmakers emphasized worries that consolidation and exclusive deals may lead to higher subscription prices and reduced diversity in content offerings over time.
Netflix Defends Its Business Strategy
Responding to the criticism, Peters argued that the Warner Bros deal is non-exclusive and benefits consumers by keeping popular titles accessible. He maintained that Netflix continues to face intense competition from rivals such as Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and Apple TV+, calling the streaming market “highly dynamic.”
Broader Scrutiny of Big Tech and Media
The hearing forms part of a wider effort by US lawmakers to examine the influence of large technology and media companies. Streaming platforms, once seen as disruptors, are now increasingly viewed as powerful gatekeepers with significant control over entertainment distribution.
What Comes Next
While no immediate regulatory action was announced, senators signaled that further hearings and potential legislative measures could follow. Analysts say continued scrutiny could impact how streaming companies negotiate future content deals and partnerships.