We had to reinvent or risk extinction: Anuj Singhal, CNBC-Awaaz

Anuj Singhal, Managing Editor of CNBC-Awaaz and CNBC-Bajar, has spent two decades navigating the complexities of financial journalism in India. In a candid conversation for the " e4m Headline Makers" series, Singhal delves into the evolving dynamics of accuracy and speed, decoding financial markets for diverse audiences and the rise of digital platforms reshaping media consumption. His insights offer a critical reflection on how legacy media can retain relevance amidst rapid digital transformation.

Excerpts:

Financial journalism demands both accuracy and instant analysis. How do you strike the balance between speed and credibility in today’s news environment?

This is indeed our biggest challenge today. When I started my career in 2003, there was just one business channel and we had ample time to confirm news before airing it. Now, with multiple business and digital channels racing to break news first, speed has become critical. However, our core value remains accuracy. We prioritize verified news from credible sources, especially exchange-driven information, which we ensure is immediate and precise. For news originating from informal channels like WhatsApp or Twitter, our approach is cautious—we confirm first, even if it means being second or third.

CNBC Awaaz caters largely to Hindi-speaking retail investors and businessmen. How do you simplify complex financial concepts without losing depth?

 Our guiding principle is simple—will our mothers understand this? If the content seems too complex, we rework it. We consciously simplify financial jargon, eliminating assumptions about audience knowledge. For example, common terms like CASA (current and savings account) aren’t universally understood, so we ensure clarity. The objective is inclusivity, reaching not only seasoned investors but also first-timers, women investors and young graduates entering the market.

How do legacy financial news channels maintain their trust and relevance in the face of growing YouTube and social media influencers?

 Reinvention has been key. Recognizing the digital shift, we boosted our presence on YouTube, Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. Today, CNBC Awaaz is the top business channel on most social media metrics. Personally, my digital engagement, especially through Instagram reels, has significantly grown, allowing me to directly connect with younger audiences. This digital pivot ensures we remain relevant and trustworthy amidst the noise of short-form content creators.

What major shifts have you noticed in viewer behavior, particularly among younger, mobile-first audiences?

The most significant shift is the shortening investment horizon. Earlier, investors thought long-term meant several years; today, it’s barely a trading day. This change, partially influenced by constant real-time market coverage, requires us to encourage responsible investment behaviors. The influx of new investors post-COVID-19 has also reshaped expectations, demanding faster yet accurate market analyses.

How do you approach editorial planning around major financial events like the budget or RBI policy?

Extensive preparation is fundamental. For budget coverage, planning begins three months prior. We meticulously organize expert panels, jury discussions and special programming, ensuring we are thoroughly prepared for any eventualities on budget day. Similar structured preparation goes into RBI policy discussions, emphasizing long-term investment perspectives during volatile market phases to mitigate panic.

Given the rise of algorithm-driven content, how do you view the role of editorial judgment in today’s newsroom?

The role of AI in journalism is inevitable. At CNBC-Awaaz, we actively integrate AI to enhance content delivery and analysis. Editorial judgment remains critical, yet editors must embrace AI as a complementary tool rather than a competitor. Resistance to AI might lead to obsolescence, making adaptation and integration necessary to maintain editorial relevance.

Is there a skills gap between traditional journalism training and what is required in today’s financial newsrooms?

 Formal journalism education isn’t my primary hiring criterion. Instead, I seek candidates who can thrive under live newsroom pressures, demonstrate teamwork, and possess adaptability. Real-world skills often outweigh formal qualifications in this dynamic media landscape.

Television journalism is notoriously high-pressure. How have you managed burnout over your lengthy career?

My daily routine includes strict boundaries—I start early but ensure a clear work-life balance. I delegate responsibilities, trusting my team fully, which helps prevent burnout. My personal metric for burnout is simple—if my enthusiasm diminishes, evident through delays in my disciplined morning routine, it signals the need for change. Fortunately, maintaining this balance keeps me motivated.

Finally, what strategies must financial journalism embrace to stay relevant and impactful?

Digital-first strategies and continual innovation are essential. Traditional formats no longer suffice; journalists must engage viewers across multiple digital platforms simultaneously. Furthermore, embracing AI to enhance content and operational efficiency is crucial. Financial journalism must continuously reinvent itself, ensuring it resonates with evolving viewer preferences and technological advancements.