Communications services companies rose amid deal activity.

Sony Pictures and investment firm Apollo Global Management submitted a $26 billion offer for Paramount Global, marking the second time Apollo has come in with a bid for the entertainment giant.

Paramount, controlled by media heiress Shari Redstone is weighing the Apollo bid against a rival offer from Larry Ellison-affiliated Skydance Media.

Canadian carrier BCE shares fell after it reported a slip in first-quarter earnings.


Write to Rob Curran at rob.curran@dowjones.com

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

05-02-24 1715ET