What’s Happening:
The Economist released its 2019 annual report (operating on a fiscal year that ends March 31). Overall, the report shows that revenue hit a record high for the media brand, though it only grew by 1.3%. The Economist remains on stable ground financially, with areas of concern being slowed revenue growth in spite of the record high total, and an operating margin that fell for the third year in a row (down 3% for 2019).
Why it Matters:
As one of the oldest news publishers around, in business since 1843, the financial health of The Economist can provide insight for other publishers. The annual report illuminates what may or may not be working for the company as it continually shifts in the changing digital landscape.
