Dow Jones Deal Might Leave Barron’s Twisting in the Wind

The jockeying by Rupert Murdoch and the Bancrofts over Dow Jones, Inc. (DJ-NYSE) primarily concerns the future editorial integrity of the Wall Street Journal.  But what about the other properties?

The direction of Barron’s seems less secure. I have been a fan of the long running weekly since its one section was black and white, and find it a bit ironic that its future is in doubt just as it begins to regain its stride.  Michael Santoli, the heir apparent to Alan Abelson, has lead a renaissance, along with hard work of many other writers.  I have enthusiastically been tearing into each copy of late, after years of relative indifference to the content. My copy is once again dog eared by Monday’s open, after a period of it gathering dust after a quick perusal.

Indeed, the content is much improved over 2004, and the financial performance seems to be following.

When Dow Jones announced its quarterly earnings on Thursday, Barron’s was a bright spot amid The Journal’s declining revenue: in the print version, Barron’s ad revenue rose 26.3 percent from last year, according to TNS Media Intelligence/Magazine Publishers of America NYT

Perhaps Santoli et al are wondering what the future will bring.  I would not rule out seeing his byline one day at Minyanville, assuming they are not afraid to dig deep into their pockets. Or perhaps Bloomberg? Forbes?

The crew at Barron’s has done an admirable job navigating the rocky shoals that have scuttled many a ship. Their colors are flying high, and no doubt someone is paying attention.  The crew might not survive the upheaval intact, but several stars should continue to shine bright, no matter where they decide to bunk.

If Rupert does not offer them an attractive berth, someone else will.  Another diaspora may be about to begin.

Barron’s, With Less Insulation, May Nicely Survive Murdoch
New York Times

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