Salem Media Goes Private Following WaterStone Deal

RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, August 20, 2026 | 2:08pm CT

Salem Media

Salem Media has completed its acquisition by The Christian Community Foundation, Inc., doing business as WaterStone, taking the Christian and conservative media company private. WaterStone acquired all outstanding shares of Salem Media common stock for $1 per share, representing approximately a 250% premium to Salem's trading price before the transaction was announced.

Salem said the deal begins a new chapter focused on long-term growth while maintaining the company's Christian and conservative media mission. The company will continue operating its radio, digital, streaming, podcasting, television and publishing businesses.

"This is an exciting day for Salem and the beginning of an important new chapter for our company," said Salem Media CEO David Santrella. "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."

Santrella said the WaterStone partnership will give Salem the ability to invest for the future while remaining committed to the mission that has guided the company since its founding.

Salem's programming portfolio includes Christian broadcasters Focus on the Family with Jim Daly, John MacArthur, Chuck Swindoll, David Jeremiah, Alistair Begg and Allen Jackson. Its conservative personalities include Scott Jennings, Larry O'Connor, Alex Marlow, Mike Gallagher, Hugh Hewitt and Lara Trump.

WaterStone President Richard von Gnechten, who also serves as Chairman of Salem Media's Board of Directors, said the acquisition is intended to strengthen Salem rather than change its direction.

"Today is not about changing what Salem is," von Gnechten said. "It is about giving Salem an even stronger foundation to build on what it does best."

Salem co-founder and board member Edward Atsinger III said he is confident the company's mission will continue under its new ownership. "When Stuart Epperson and I founded Salem more than 50 years ago, we could not have imagined the reach and impact it would have today," Atsinger said. "Knowing Salem's mission will be carried forward by a partner that shares our values gives me tremendous confidence in what comes next."

With the transaction completed, Salem and WaterStone said they will focus on strengthening the company's existing businesses while pursuing additional opportunities for investment and long-term growth.