News Broadcasting
CNN launches ‘Asia Now’ as part of its AsiaPac revamp
MUMBAI: To boost its evening news programming slot, news network CNN is launching a new business programme, Asia Now, in two live one-hour editions.
Taking a cue from its morning programme format, CNN will telecast these editions at 4:30 pm and 7:30 pm on weekdays. The first of the editions will go on air on 11 August 2003 from CNN’s Asia headquarters in Hong Kong. The revamped telecast timings are a part of a complete makeover in Asia Pacific programming schedules that become effective from 11 August.
The one-hour programme offers a mix of news and analysis with a strong focus on business and market related information. This business show will also provide live reports on the European markets as they close and on The New York Stock Exchange as they open. The programme proposes to cover latest technology developments and profiles of business leaders under regular segments like Tech Watch and Challenging CEOs.
Andrew Stevens and Veronica Pedrosa
The business oriented show is co-anchored by veteran journalists Andrew Stevens and Veronica Pedrosa. Stevens has been reporting on Asian business and economic news for more than eight years and Pedrosa has over ten years of broad-based and global news coverage to her credit.
CNN International Asia Pacific senior VP Ian Macintosh was quoted in a press release as saying, “The show reflects our continuing investment in quality news programming.”
News Broadcasting
BBC to cut up to 2,000 jobs in biggest overhaul in 15 years
Cost pressures and leadership change drive major workforce reduction plan
LONDON: BBC has unveiled plans to cut up to 2,000 jobs, roughly 10 per cent of its global workforce, in what marks its biggest downsizing in 15 years.
The announcement was made during an all-staff meeting led by interim director-general Rhodri Talfan Davies, as the broadcaster moves to tackle mounting financial pressures and reshape its operations.
Between 1,800 and 2,000 roles are expected to be eliminated from a workforce of around 21,500. The cuts form part of a broader plan to save £500 million over the next two years, aimed at offsetting rising costs, stagnating licence fee income and weaker commercial revenues.
In a communication to staff, BBC interim director-general Rhodri Talfan Davies said, “I know this creates real uncertainty, but we wanted to be open about the challenge,” acknowledging the impact the move would have across the organisation.
The restructuring comes at a time of leadership transition. Former director-general Tim Davie stepped down earlier this month, with Matt Brittin, a former Google executive, set to take over the role on May 18, 2026.
While some cost-cutting measures are being implemented immediately, the majority of the structural changes are expected to roll out over the next few years, with full savings targeted by the 2027–2028 financial year.
The broadcaster had earlier signalled its intent to reduce its cost base by around 10 per cent over a three-year period, warning of “difficult choices” as it adapts to shifting economic realities and audience expectations.
With operating costs hovering around £6 billion annually, the BBC’s latest move underscores the scale of the financial challenge it faces, as it balances public service commitments with the need for long-term sustainability in an increasingly competitive media landscape.
