Business Insider

Business Insider (BI) is an American financial and business news website founded in 2007. It is headquartered in New York City. Business Insider publishes original reporting and aggregates material from other outlets. As of my last update, it is owned by the German publishing house Axel Springer SE.

History

Business Insider was launched in February 2007 by Kevin P. Ryan, a well-known Internet entrepreneur, and former CEO of DoubleClick. Initially, it was named Silicon Alley Insider, focusing on the New York City tech scene. In 2009, it expanded its scope to broader business news and was renamed Business Insider.

Content and Coverage

Business Insider covers a wide range of topics including technology, finance, markets, entertainment, and lifestyle. The site is known for its fast-paced publishing and distinctive voice. It has also expanded into international editions, including markets such as the United Kingdom, Australia, India, Malaysia, and more, offering region-specific content.

Business Model

Business Insider operates on a mixed business model that includes advertising, subscription services, and syndication. In 2015, it launched BI Prime, a subscription service offering in-depth research and reports. This was part of a broader trend among digital media outlets to diversify revenue streams beyond advertising.

Acquisition by Axel Springer

In September 2015, Axel Springer SE acquired 88% of the Business Insider, Inc. shares for a reported $343 million. This acquisition was part of Axel Springer's strategy to expand its digital media portfolio and increase its presence in the English-speaking digital market.

Criticism and Controversy

Business Insider has faced criticism for its clickbait headlines and the quality of its short-form content. Critics argue that the pressure to drive web traffic has led to sensationalism. However, the site has also been praised for its engaging analysis and comprehensive coverage of the tech industry.

Impact

Business Insider has significantly impacted digital media and business journalism. It has been at the forefront of the shift towards online news consumption and has influenced how business news is reported and consumed globally. Its success has prompted traditional and digital media outlets to adapt to the changing landscape of news consumption.

See Also

• Axel Springer SE
• Digital media
• Business journalism
• Online news portal