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Canadian Billionaire Stephen Smith Acquires 26.9% Stake in The Economist

3/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Stephen Smith, the Canadian billionaire, acquired a 26.9% stake in The Economist Group from Lynn Forester de Rothschild.
The deal's value is undisclosed and subject to approval by the trustees and board.
Smith has a net worth of $7 billion and invests in the Canadian mortgage market.
For the year ending March 2025, The Economist Group reported revenue of £369 million, profit of £48 million, and subscriptions at 1.25 million.

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Story summary

Stephen Smith, the Canadian billionaire, acquired a 26.9% stake in The Economist Group from Lynn Forester de Rothschild.
The deal's value is undisclosed and subject to approval by the trustees and board.
Smith has a net worth of $7 billion and invests in the Canadian mortgage market.
For the year ending March 2025, The Economist Group reported revenue of £369 million, profit of £48 million, and subscriptions at 1.25 million.