Business news is a term for the reporting and dissemination of information related to businesses and their operations. This information can include, but is not limited to: financial performance (profits, losses, stock prices, mergers and acquisitions), new products or services, management changes, economic trends, global trade issues and more. Business news can be found in a variety of formats including newspapers, magazines, websites and television broadcasts. It is essential for businesses, investors, stakeholders and consumers to stay informed about the business industry in order to make intelligent decisions.
The word “business” can be defined as any activity or enterprise entered into for profit. This can be a private company or public organization such as the government or an agency. While not all businesses operate for profit, those that do can be classified as either for-profit or not-for-profit organizations. For-profit businesses return all profits to their owners, while not-for-profit organizations use the profits for achieving their stated goals.
A business can be a sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation or trust. Business activities can range from manufacturing and service to agriculture, retail and wholesale. The term business can also refer to the trading of goods and commodities, or investment in securities, real estate or other assets.
In the United States, major business news is reported by major print and online newspapers. In addition, there are a number of specialized business-related publications that cover specific industries and issues. These include investor and trade journals, and industry-specific websites. These publications are often more geared toward the professional reader and may not be as widely read as general interest publications such as newspapers or popular magazines.
The most commonly cited source for business news is the Wall Street Journal, which has been publishing since 1882. The newspaper has earned a reputation for quality journalism and is considered to be one of the foremost sources of business news in the world. Other important business publications include The New York Times, The Washington Post and USA Today.
Business news is a vital component of the media landscape and can influence consumer spending, investment decisions and even political outcomes. It is therefore crucial for journalists to understand the importance of business news and to report it accurately. This guide was created by specialists in business reference at the Library of Congress and is intended to assist researchers with finding business-related news from a variety of sources. It provides tips on how to find regional and international business news, as well as information on the scope of business-related content available in general news outlets and in specific business-focused resources.