49. Sony’s Acquisition of Columbia Pictures
Year: 1989
Location: Japan
Company: Sony
Estimated Damage Value: $2.7 billion*
In 1989, Sony invested $3.4 billion in Columbia Pictures, one of the largest studios then. Despite high hopes, the studio struggled to produce significant hits in the initial five years, questioning the value of Sony’s investment.

Sony faced substantial financial losses early on with Columbia Pictures but remained committed. The unpredictable nature of the film industry suggests that this risky move could potentially balance out over time.