Squawk Pod: 5 Things to Know Before the Opening Bell (January 9, 2026)

Episode Overview

This episode of Squawk Pod—hosted by CNBC’s Andrew Ross Sorkin—delivers a concise rundown of the top five business stories to know before the US stock market opens. Covering key corporate developments, M&A rumors, IPO moves, and a rare update from outer space, the podcast provides investors and professionals with the vital highlights and context needed to start their trading day informed.

Key Discussion Points and Insights

1. Merck in Talks to Acquire Revmed

(01:04 – 01:15)

• Merck is reportedly in discussions to buy the cancer drug maker Revmed for $28–$32 billion.
• According to the Financial Times, this would mark the largest pharma sector deal in almost three years.
• AbbVie has denied an earlier report (Wall Street Journal) that it was in talks to acquire Revmed, clearing the way for Merck’s ongoing discussions.
• Quote:
  “Financial Times saying a deal is likely several weeks away, but it would be the biggest in the pharma sector in nearly three years.” — Andrew Sorkin (01:09)

2. Strava Confidentially Files for IPO

(01:15 – 01:22)

• The fitness tracking app Strava has confidentially filed for an Initial Public Offering.
• News sourced from an insider who spoke to CNBC, confirming burgeoning market interest in digital health platforms.

3. Saks Pursuing Bankruptcy Financing

(01:22 – 01:31)

• The Wall Street Journal reports that the owner of iconic luxury retailer Saks is close to securing a $1 billion+ bankruptcy financing package.
• This strategic financial move comes amid sustained turbulence in the luxury retail sector.

4. Paramount/Skydance Seeking Investment for MTV

(01:31 – 01:43)

• Paramount/Skydance have engaged with companies and key music industry figures regarding a possible stake in MTV.
• This is part of a broader effort to reinvigorate one of entertainment’s most legendary brands.
• Quote:
  “Paramount Skydance has now held talks with companies and music industry figures about taking a stake in MTV as it looks to reinvigorate that network.” — Andrew Sorkin (01:36)

5. NASA Crew Member Medical Emergency

(01:43 – 01:53)

• At the International Space Station, a crew member’s “serious medical condition” has prompted NASA to plan an early return for all four astronauts aboard.
• The exact nature of the condition and the identity of the affected crew member remain undisclosed.

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On the Merck–Revmed potential deal:
  “It would be the biggest in the pharma sector in nearly three years.”
  — Andrew Sorkin (01:10)

• On Strava’s IPO quiet move:
  “Strava confidentially now filing for an IPO. It’s according to a source familiar with the matter.”
  — Andrew Sorkin (01:16)

• On resurgence for MTV:
  “About taking a stake in MTV as it looks to reinvigorate that network.”
  — Andrew Sorkin (01:39)

Timestamps – Important Segments

| Segment | Start Time | End Time | |-----------------------------------------------|------------|------------| | Merck–Revmed M&A Talks | 01:04 | 01:15 | | Strava IPO Filing | 01:15 | 01:22 | | Saks Bankruptcy Financing | 01:22 | 01:31 | | Paramount/Skydance & MTV Stake Discussions | 01:31 | 01:43 | | NASA Medical Issue at ISS | 01:43 | 01:53 |

Overall Tone and Takeaway

Andrew Sorkin delivers swift yet authoritative updates, distilling complex news into actionable intelligence for listeners. The tone is brisk, no-nonsense, and focused squarely on institutional investor priorities—offering just enough detail to spark deeper inquiry for those who need to know.

For another roundup of the day’s market drivers and high-impact headlines, check the next Squawk Pod episode wherever you get your podcasts.