Streaming Deal: ZDF and ProSieben are teaming up on a new streaming pact, bringing ZDF’s ad-free news, docs and culture to Joyn users—another sign European pubcasters are banding together to fend off global platforms. Antitrust & M&A: A US judge paused Paramount Skydance’s $110B Warner Bros. Discovery merger, citing serious antitrust concerns from state AGs and extending uncertainty for the deal. Media Jobs: Australia’s Nine is offering voluntary redundancies across The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age as it pushes a digital-first shift amid a tougher ad market. Regulation & Kids Online: Ofcom is investigating TikTok’s age checks under the UK Online Safety Act, as the government moves toward tighter under-16 restrictions. Press Freedom: RSF highlights ongoing risks for journalists in Venezuela after earthquakes, including blocked sites and unclear legal status for released reporters. Cybersecurity Oversight: Pakistan’s PEMRA is forcing TV channels to submit cybersecurity roadmaps fast, with SOC/SIEM and CISOs due by early August. AI in Elections: A Nigerian media group urges newsrooms to verify AI-generated content before the 2027 vote to protect electoral credibility. Creator Economy: As ad budgets tighten, brands are leaning harder on creators and influencers, with Unilever signaling major budget shifts toward creator-led marketing. Local Media Industry: Pakistan’s new social media regulator SMPRA still isn’t operational due to lack of budget and office.