WaterStone has completed its acquisition of Salem Media, taking the U.S. Christian and conservative media company private. The Christian Community Foundation Inc., which operates as WaterStone, acquired all outstanding shares of Salem Media common stock for US$1 per share. Salem said the price represented an approximately 250% premium over its trading price before the transaction’s announcement.
Salem will continue operating its radio, digital audio, streaming, podcasting, television and publishing businesses under WaterStone’s ownership. The companies plan to pursue further investment and long-term growth across those platforms.
David Santrella, CEO of Salem Media, pointed to the company’s opportunities across its expanding media portfolio. “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,” he said. “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’s audio operations encompass national radio programming, streaming services and podcast platforms serving Christian and conservative audiences across the United States. Its talent roster includes broadcasters such as Jim Daly, David Jeremiah and Alistair Begg, alongside conservative hosts including Larry O’Connor, Mike Gallagher and Hugh Hewitt. The company will now develop those operations without the reporting obligations associated with public ownership.
Richard von Gnechten, president of WaterStone and chair of Salem Media’s board of directors, emphasized continuity following the acquisition. “Today is not about changing what Salem is,” he said. “It is about giving Salem an even stronger foundation to build on what it does best.”
These stories might interest you
RedTech Magazine July/August 2026 drives growth through connections
