Salem Media to Be Acquired by WaterStone

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, May 12, 2026 | 4:12pm CT

Salem Media

Salem Media has entered into a definitive agreement to be acquired by The Christian Community Foundation, a move that will take the company private and support its long-term growth across broadcast and digital platforms.

Under the terms of the deal, WaterStone will purchase all outstanding shares of Salem Media common stock for $1.00 per share, representing a premium of approximately 250% over the company's recent trading price.

Salem co-founder Edward Atsinger III said the company had been seeking a long-term successor aligned with its mission of delivering Christian and conservative content. He described WaterStone as a natural fit, citing shared values and a longstanding relationship between the organizations.

The transaction follows a period of growth for Salem, which reported local radio revenue gains of 2.8% in the first quarter, outperforming broader industry trends that saw declines of 3.4%, according to Miller Kaplan data cited in the announcement.

Salem has continued expanding its reach across radio, streaming, podcasting, and digital media, featuring a lineup that includes personalities such as Scott Jennings, Larry O'Connor, Alex Marlow, and Lara Trump, along with prominent Christian voices including Greg Laurie and Sean McDowell.

Chief Executive Officer David Santrella said the agreement reflects alignment between the two organizations and is expected to enhance Salem's ability to expand its mission-driven content.

WaterStone, which previously held a 49.5% voting interest in Salem through preferred stock investments, has worked with the company on strategic initiatives over the past 18 months.

The deal was unanimously approved by Salem's Board of Directors and is expected to close in August 2026, pending shareholder and regulatory approvals.