Wed Oct 08 02:07:33 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
The Rothschild family is reportedly looking to sell their 26.7% stake in The Economist Group, potentially valuing the company at around £800 million ($1.07 billion). The sale process is being managed by Lazard, and talks have begun with potential buyers in the US and UK. The Agnelli family’s Exor is another major shareholder with a 43.4% stake. The Economist reported a 2% revenue increase to £368.5 million and boasts 1.25 million subscribers, operating in 14 countries.
**News Article:**
**Rothschilds Reportedly Eyeing Sale of Significant Stake in The Economist Group**
**NEW DELHI (Oct 8, 2025)** – British philanthropist Lynn Forester de Rothschild is reportedly seeking to offload her family’s entire 26.7% stake in global media and information giant, The Economist Group, according to a report by Axios. The stake includes approximately 20% of voting shares in the venerable publication, founded in 1843.
The potential sale could value The Economist Group at a staggering £800 million ($1.07 billion), with the Rothschild stake alone estimated to be worth up to £400 million. Lazard is overseeing the process, and discussions are underway with potential buyers in the United States and the United Kingdom, including family offices and strategic investors. The sellers aim to complete the transaction by the end of the year.
The Economist’s other major shareholder is Exor, the financial arm of Italy’s Agnelli family, which holds a substantial 43.4% stake in the company.
The last major transaction involving The Economist occurred in 2015 when Pearson sold its 50% stake, ending its nearly 60-year ownership. The Economist Group recently reported a 2% increase in revenue to £368.5 million, with 1.25 million subscribers across its operations in 14 countries, including India.
Neither The Economist Group nor the Rothschild family have immediately responded to requests for comment. The potential sale marks a significant moment for the media landscape and could usher in a new era for the influential publication.