Google CEO Sundar Pinchai testified at the federal financial conspiracy trial involving Ozy Media, refuting founder Carlos Watson's claims of a potential buyout by Google. Pinchai revealed that Google had considered hiring Watson for a senior news executive role in 2021 and investing $25 million in Ozy to facilitate his transition. However, Pinchai denied ever offering to purchase Ozy for $600 million.
Prosecutors alleged that Watson falsely claimed Pinchai had made a nine-figure buyout offer to another investor. Ozy Media, known for producing TV shows, podcasts, and a festival, faced scrutiny in 2021 over alleged misrepresentations of its audience reach and finances, leading to its collapse.
