Outlook Business Desk
Amazon founder Jeff Bezos is reportedly interested in acquiring CNBC. As per The New York Post, the 61-year-old billionaire has discussed the idea with associates ahead of a potential spin-off by Comcast later this year.
According to The New York Post, a source close to Bezos said CNBC would “align well with his interests” and serve as a “neutral voice” in his media portfolio—especially after criticism over his ownership of the left-leaning Washington Post.
Bezos's reported interest comes at a time when CNBC’s parent company, Comcast, is preparing to spin off its underperforming cable assets. This may open the door for a possible acquisition by the billionaire.
Comcast Corporation plans to divest cable channels like Consumer News and Business Channel (CNBC), Microsoft National Broadcasting Company (MSNBC), and USA Network into a new publicly traded company called Versant by late 2025. Versant will be led by senior NBCUniversal executives Mark Lazarus.
Although Bezos is interested, another New York Post source said Versant has “no plans” to sell CNBC and wants to grow the business internally—making any acquisition far from certain.
Bezos has rebuilt ties with Donald Trump during his second term. Trump had earlier attacked him over The Washington Post’s editorial stance. But the tone changed after Bezos supported Trump’s inauguration, signalling a strategic reset in their relationship.
In late 2024, The Washington Post revoked its endorsement of Kamala Harris—causing major internal dissent. Top editors resigned, and over 3 lakh subscribers cancelled. Critics said the move signalled Bezos’s quiet shift in the paper’s political direction.
With Elon Musk and Trump falling out despite Musk’s huge donations, Bezos is capitalising on the moment. Blue Origin CEO Dave Limp has met White House officials, reportedly discussing potential federal contracts and increased influence in space policy.
While Jeff Bezos personally owns The Washington Post, his media reach extends further through Amazon. The company owns Prime Video, MGM Studios, Audible, and Twitch—giving Bezos major influence across film, streaming, audio, and digital content.