This is an interactive visualization based on the Wikipedia article on CNBC. Read the full source article here. (opens in new tab)

The Financial Frontier

Inside CNBC's Broadcast Empire: Your Definitive Source for Global Financial Intelligence and Market Dynamics.

What is CNBC? 👇 Explore Programs 📺

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!


When you are ready...
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮

Understanding CNBC

Business News Authority

CNBC is a premier American business and financial news television channel. It is a subsidiary of the NBCUniversal News Group, which itself is a division of NBCUniversal, ultimately owned by Comcast. The network primarily broadcasts live programming focused on business news and market analysis during the morning, daytime trading hours, and early evening.

Global Reach and Content

Beyond its core U.S. operations, CNBC extends its influence through international branches such as CNBC Europe and CNBC Asia, alongside various global affiliates and franchise arrangements. Its programming extends beyond live news to include business-related documentaries and reality television series during non-trading hours.

Digital Presence

Complementing its broadcast services, CNBC operates a robust financial news website, CNBC.com. This platform provides a wealth of content, including news articles, video segments, podcasts, and subscription-based premium services, catering to a digitally engaged audience seeking in-depth financial intelligence.

Evolution of a Financial Network

Genesis and Early Years

CNBC's origins trace back to the Satellite Program Network (SPN), founded in 1979. After a period as Tempo Television, NBC acquired a transponder lease in 1988. Under Tom Rogers, the channel relaunched as the Consumer News and Business Channel (CNBC) on April 17, 1989. Initially a joint venture with Cablevision, NBC eventually acquired full ownership after a period of financial difficulty and a strategic merger with the Financial News Network (FNN) in 1991.

  • 1989: Relaunched as CNBC, initially a 50-50 joint venture with Cablevision.
  • 1991: Acquired the bankrupt Financial News Network (FNN), significantly expanding distribution.
  • 1993-1996: Roger Ailes led a turnaround, increasing revenue and overseeing strategic partnerships.

Global Expansion and Alliances

The network expanded its international footprint with the launch of CNBC Asia in 1995 and CNBC Europe in 1996. A significant strategic alliance with Dow Jones in 1997 integrated content from publications like The Wall Street Journal and led to the rebranding of CNBC's international operations.

  • 1995: Launched CNBC Asia.
  • 1996: Launched CNBC Europe.
  • 1997: Formed strategic alliance with Dow Jones, integrating content and operations.
  • 2005: NBC Universal regained full control of CNBC Europe and Asia from Dow Jones.

Market Position and Evolution

CNBC experienced significant ratings growth in the late 1990s and early 2000s, often surpassing competitors during market hours. While viewership declined post-dot-com bubble, the network adapted, launching new initiatives like the CNBC Investor Network and expanding its digital presence. It has faced increased competition, notably from Fox Business, while continuing to innovate with subscription services and digital content.

  • Late 1990s/Early 2000s: Peak ratings during the dot-com boom.
  • 2003: Moved headquarters to Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey.
  • 2006-2007: Ratings hit all-time highs amidst market volatility.
  • 2010s: Expansion of digital platforms and partnerships (e.g., Yahoo! Finance).
  • 2017: Fox Business overtakes CNBC in daytime viewership.
  • 2020-Present: Focus on objective news (Shepard Smith), subscription services (CNBC Pro, Investing Club), and brand evolution.

Core Programming and Content

Market Analysis

CNBC's primary focus is live coverage of financial markets. Key programs like Squawk Box, Fast Money, and Closing Bell provide real-time analysis, interviews with market participants, and commentary on economic events impacting global business.

  • Squawk Box
  • Fast Money
  • Closing Bell
  • Power Lunch
  • Worldwide Exchange

Documentaries & Reality

During non-trading hours, CNBC airs a variety of content including business-focused documentaries and reality television series. These programs often explore entrepreneurship, wealth, and the challenges within various industries.

  • American Greed
  • Secret Lives of the Super Rich
  • The Profit
  • Jay Leno's Garage

Sports Broadcasting

CNBC also serves as a platform for select NBC Sports programming, particularly during weekends or when other NBCUniversal channels have scheduling conflicts. This includes coverage of major sporting events like the Olympics, Premier League soccer, and various motorsports.

  • Olympic Games (various disciplines)
  • Premier League Soccer
  • NASCAR
  • IndyCar Series
  • Golf (LPGA Tour)
  • Rugby (Six Nations Championship)

Infrastructure and Presence

Headquarters and Studios

CNBC's primary headquarters and main television studios are situated in Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey. Additionally, the network maintains a significant studio presence at the Nasdaq MarketSite in Times Square, New York City, facilitating live market updates and broadcasts.

Airport Retail Operations

Through a licensing partnership with Paradies Lagardère, CNBC operates retail locations within airports across the United States. Branded as CNBC News, CNBC Express, and CNBC SmartShop, these stores offer CNBC-branded merchandise alongside convenience items, extending the brand's visibility.

Digital Services

CNBC offers premium digital subscription services, including CNBC Pro, which provides exclusive content and analysis. The CNBC Investing Club with Jim Cramer is another subscription-based offering, featuring commentaries and stock picks. These services complement the live and on-demand streaming available through platforms like CNBC+.

Critical Perspectives

Market Influence and Bias

CNBC has faced criticism for allegedly amplifying market trends, both bullish and bearish, particularly during periods like the dot-com bubble and the subprime mortgage crisis. Critics have suggested the network's coverage can influence market sentiment, a claim anchors have often countered by citing the sheer scale of the markets.

Media Critiques

Prominent media figures, such as Jon Stewart of The Daily Show, have been vocal critics of CNBC and its personalities, citing perceived biases and the nature of its commentary. The network has also been accused by the Obama administration of engaging in "cable chatter," referring to excessive and often one-sided discussions on specific topics.

Performance of Picks

Analysis of stock picks from personalities like Jim Cramer has drawn scrutiny. Reports have indicated that, at times, the performance of stocks recommended on shows like Mad Money has lagged behind major market indices such as the Dow Jones Industrial Average or the S&P 500.

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Edit and Print Materials from this study in the wiki2web studio
Click here to open the "Cnbc" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit

Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Learn about cnbc while playing the wiki2web Clarity Challenge game.
Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!

Play now

References

References

A full list of references for this article are available at the CNBC Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Important Disclaimers

AI-Generated Content Advisory

This content has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence model and is based on information sourced from Wikipedia. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and adherence to the provided source material, it may not be exhaustive or entirely up-to-date. The information is intended for educational and informational purposes only.

This is not financial advice. The information presented on this website should not be construed as investment, financial, or trading advice. CNBC's programming and content are subject to market dynamics and potential biases. Always conduct your own thorough research and consult with a qualified financial professional before making any investment decisions. Reliance on any information provided herein is solely at your own risk.

The creators of this page are not liable for any errors, omissions, or consequences arising from the use of this information.