Apr 30, 2018
BNN Bloomberg breaks new ground as partnership launches
BNN Bloomberg launched Monday with a unique editorial partnership that gives Canadians unmatched business news coverage across television, digital and radio platforms.
“It just raises the game for BNN,” said George Cope, president and CEO of BCE Inc., in an interview. “I think for Canadians it now gives us the perfect combination of Canadian business news and access to the leader, from an international business news perspective.”
The partnership gives BNN Bloomberg exclusive rights to air Bloomberg's television content in Canada as well as access to more than 2,700 Bloomberg business journalists in 120 countries around the globe.
Bloomberg LP founder Michael Bloomberg said BNN’s strong track record makes it a good partner.
“BNN has a reputation for doing quality journalism and some innovative things,” Bloomberg said during a recent visit to Toronto. “The opportunity to work with BNN — to me — is as important as having another source of news or getting our news out to another audience.”
The rebranded channel will feature new shows including Bloomberg Markets — a flagship afternoon show co-produced by BNN Bloomberg and Bloomberg that is available globally and co-hosted by Amanda Lang in Toronto and Shery Ahn in New York.
Also launching is The Real Economy — an afternoon show hosted by Greg Bonnell that looks at how economic issues affect the lives of everyday Canadians.
Audience favourites like Market Call and Market Call Tonight continue but with new time slots.
The partnership extends beyond television and includes digital and radio assets. BNN Bloomberg Radio launches in Vancouver on AM 1410 and is available on the iHeartRadio Canada app and on HD radios. It is Canada’s first business radio station and will simulcast BNN Bloomberg’s television programming.
Bloomberg’s digital strength adds a unique value to the new partnership, according to Cope.
“I walk around with Bloomberg’s applications on my devices. I think it’s one of the greatest products that’s come to the marketplace,” he said.
Indeed, the online aspect of the partnership is vital, said Bloomberg.
“Whatever we are going to do tomorrow we can’t even envision it now,” he said. “You have to go out there and be open and not be tied into what you did before.”