Forbes, Inc. Bundle
Who Owns Forbes, Inc.?
Understanding the ownership of a major media entity like Forbes, Inc. is key to grasping its editorial stance and business strategy. A significant change happened in 2014 when a Hong Kong-based investment group took a majority stake.
Founded in 1917, Forbes has a long history of covering business and finance. Its current revenue streams include digital and print advertising, sponsored content, subscriptions, and events, with advertising being the primary driver.
Who owns Forbes, Inc. today?
Who Founded Forbes, Inc.?
Forbes was established in 1917 by Bertie Charles Forbes, a Scottish immigrant and financial journalist who also served as its editor-in-chief until his passing in 1954. The company remained a family-owned enterprise for a significant portion of its existence, reflecting a deep-seated commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and free-market principles.
Founding Vision
Bertie Charles Forbes, the founder, envisioned a publication dedicated to business, finance, and entrepreneurial success. His editorial leadership guided the company's early direction.
Family Legacy
The company was largely family-owned throughout its history, with B.C. Forbes' sons playing key roles. This continuity fostered a consistent brand identity and mission.
Succession of Leadership
Bruce Charles Forbes took over after his father, focusing on operational improvements and marketing. His tenure saw a significant increase in the magazine's circulation.
Malcolm Forbes' Era
Following Bruce's passing, Malcolm Forbes assumed leadership as president and CEO, continuing the magazine's editorial direction and expanding its influence.
Steve Forbes' Leadership
Malcolm Stevenson Forbes, Jr., known as Steve Forbes, took the helm in 1990 as chairman and editor-in-chief, maintaining the family's stewardship of the company.
Early Ownership Structure
While specific initial equity details are not publicly available, the company's early structure was characterized by its family ownership, underscoring a long-term vision.
The early ownership of Forbes Inc. was deeply rooted in the Forbes family, with founder B.C. Forbes establishing a legacy that continued through his sons, Bruce Charles Forbes and Malcolm Forbes. This family-centric approach to Forbes ownership shaped the company's culture and strategic direction for decades, emphasizing a commitment to business journalism and the promotion of entrepreneurial values. The transition of leadership from father to sons, and eventually to Malcolm Forbes' son, Steve Forbes, highlights a consistent thread of family involvement in the Forbes media empire.
Key Figures in Early Forbes Ownership
The foundational years of Forbes Inc. were defined by the vision and leadership of its founding family. Understanding this early ownership is crucial to grasping the company's enduring identity.
- Bertie Charles Forbes: Founder and first editor-in-chief, establishing the publication in 1917.
- Bruce Charles Forbes: Eldest son, who led the company from 1954 to 1964, focusing on growth and circulation.
- Malcolm Forbes: Second son, who succeeded Bruce, serving as president, CEO, and editor-in-chief.
- Malcolm Stevenson Forbes, Jr. (Steve Forbes): Continued the family's leadership, assuming chairman and editor-in-chief roles in 1990.
Forbes, Inc. SWOT Analysis
- Complete SWOT Breakdown
- Fully Customizable
- Editable in Excel & Word
- Professional Formatting
- Investor-Ready Format
How Has Forbes, Inc.’s Ownership Changed Over Time?
Forbes' ownership has seen significant shifts, reflecting changes in the media industry. Key events include minority investments, majority stake acquisitions, and attempted public offerings, all shaping who owns Forbes today.
| Year | Event | Key Stakeholders Involved |
|---|---|---|
| 2006 | Formation of Forbes Media LLC | Elevation Partners (minority stake), Forbes family |
| 2014 | Majority stake acquisition | Integrated Whale Media Investments (IWM) (51%), Forbes family (retained significant stake) |
| 2021 | Planned SPAC merger (later terminated) | Magnum Opus Acquisition Limited |
| 2023 | Announced acquisition (later terminated) | Austin Russell, Sun Group, IWM, Forbes family |
| 2025 (as of July) | Current ownership | Integrated Whale Media Investment Inc., Highlander Management LLC |
The journey of Forbes ownership has been dynamic, with strategic partnerships and market conditions influencing its structure. From family involvement to international investment groups and attempted public market entries, understanding these transitions is crucial to grasping the current Forbes Inc owner.
Key Ownership Milestones
Forbes' ownership evolution highlights its adaptation to market dynamics. Major stakeholders have shaped its trajectory, influencing its business model and strategic direction.
- Elevation Partners acquired a minority stake in 2006.
- Integrated Whale Media Investments purchased a 51% majority stake in 2014.
- A planned SPAC merger in 2021 did not materialize.
- An acquisition agreement in 2023 was terminated in November 2023.
- As of July 2025, Forbes Global Media Holdings Inc. is privately held by Integrated Whale Media Investment Inc. and Highlander Management LLC.
The Forbes company structure has been significantly influenced by its ownership history. In 2014, Integrated Whale Media Investments became the majority stakeholder, acquiring a 51% stake. This transaction valued the company at approximately $475 million, with the Forbes family retaining a substantial ownership interest and Steve Forbes continuing as Chairman and Editor-in-Chief. Elevation Partners fully exited its investment during this period. The intent behind IWM's acquisition was to integrate traditional media with digital platforms. Later, in August 2021, plans were announced for Forbes Global Media Holdings Inc. to go public via a merger with Magnum Opus Acquisition Limited, a SPAC, which would have valued the combined entity at an estimated $630 million. However, this SPAC transaction was terminated in June 2022 due to unfavorable market conditions. A subsequent announcement in May 2023 detailed an agreement for Austin Russell to acquire an 82% stake in Forbes Global Media Holdings for nearly $800 million. This deal aimed to bring majority ownership back to the U.S. and included provisions for IWM to retain a minority stake. This proposed sale was ultimately terminated in November 2023, attributed to insufficient financing. As of July 2025, Forbes Global Media Holdings Inc. operates as a private company, co-owned by Integrated Whale Media Investment Inc. and Highlander Management LLC. Forbes reported revenues of $259 million in 2021. For a deeper understanding of the company's past, explore the Brief History of Forbes, Inc.
Forbes, Inc. PESTLE Analysis
- Covers All 6 PESTLE Categories
- No Research Needed – Save Hours of Work
- Built by Experts, Trusted by Consultants
- Instant Download, Ready to Use
- 100% Editable, Fully Customizable
Who Sits on Forbes, Inc.’s Board?
As of July 2025, Forbes Global Media Holdings Inc. is co-owned by Integrated Whale Media Investment Inc. (IWM) and Highlander Management LLC. While specific details about the board composition and voting power are not publicly available due to its private status, key leadership roles are known.
| Name | Role | Affiliation |
|---|---|---|
| Steve Forbes | Chairman and Editor-in-Chief | Forbes |
| Peter Hung | Board Member and Board Secretary | Forbes Global Media Holdings Inc. |
| Peter Hung | President | Forbes Global Holdings |
| Sherry Phillips | CEO | Forbes |
Integrated Whale Media Investment Inc. (IWM), as a co-owner, is understood to wield significant voting power, influencing the strategic direction of the company. The absence of public proxy battles or activist investor campaigns suggests a stable ownership structure, typical for privately held entities. Peter Hung's roles as Board Secretary and President of Forbes Global Holdings indicate a focus on global licensing and branded venture businesses.
Understanding Forbes's Board and Voting Dynamics
The ownership structure of Forbes Inc. is primarily held by Integrated Whale Media Investment Inc. (IWM) and Highlander Management LLC. As a privately held entity, detailed information on voting power and board composition is not publicly disclosed.
- Integrated Whale Media Investment Inc. (IWM) is a significant co-owner.
- Highlander Management LLC is the other co-owner.
- Steve Forbes continues to serve as Chairman and Editor-in-Chief.
- Sherry Phillips is the current CEO, appointed as of January 1, 2025.
- Peter Hung holds positions as Board Member, Board Secretary, and President of Forbes Global Holdings.
- The company's private status limits public access to specific voting rights or dual-class share structures.
- Understanding the Target Market of Forbes, Inc. is crucial for appreciating its business strategy.
Forbes, Inc. Business Model Canvas
- Complete 9-Block Business Model Canvas
- Effortlessly Communicate Your Business Strategy
- Investor-Ready BMC Format
- 100% Editable and Customizable
- Clear and Structured Layout
What Recent Changes Have Shaped Forbes, Inc.’s Ownership Landscape?
In recent years, Forbes has navigated a complex ownership landscape, marked by significant attempted transactions and a return to private ownership. These shifts reflect broader market dynamics and strategic decisions impacting the media company's trajectory.
| Event | Date | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Planned merger with Magnum Opus Acquisition Limited (SPAC) | June 2022 | Terminated due to unfavorable market conditions |
| Agreement for Austin Russell to acquire 82% stake | May 2023 | Terminated in November 2023 due to insufficient financing |
The period between 2022 and 2023 was particularly dynamic for Forbes. The planned public offering via a SPAC merger, valued at $630 million, was called off in June 2022. This decision came despite the company surpassing its financial targets for that year, highlighting the challenging economic climate. Subsequently, Forbes explored a sale of the business. An agreement was reached in May 2023 for Austin Russell to acquire a majority stake, valuing the company at nearly $800 million. However, this deal was terminated in November 2023, with Integrated Whale Media Investments citing financing issues.
Current Ownership Structure
As of July 2025, Forbes is privately owned by Integrated Whale Media Investments and Highlander Management LLC. The company has not disclosed financial details beyond the fiscal year 2021.
Revenue Streams and Digital Growth
Advertising remains the primary revenue source, though print advertising accounted for a smaller 7% of total revenue in 2022. Forbes is actively diversifying through events and subscriptions, and its digital presence is strong, with its website being among the most visited global news sites in November 2024.
Financial Performance Snapshot
In fiscal year 2021, Forbes reported revenue of $259 million. Print revenue's share of total revenue decreased from 16% in 2019 to 7% in 2022, indicating a shift towards digital and other revenue streams.
Strategic Focus and Future Outlook
The company's strategy includes expanding its digital footprint and developing new revenue streams. This focus aims to solidify its position in the evolving media landscape, aligning with its Mission, Vision & Core Values of Forbes, Inc.
Forbes, Inc. Porter's Five Forces Analysis
- Covers All 5 Competitive Forces in Detail
- Structured for Consultants, Students, and Founders
- 100% Editable in Microsoft Word & Excel
- Instant Digital Download – Use Immediately
- Compatible with Mac & PC – Fully Unlocked
- What is Brief History of Forbes, Inc. Company?
- What is Competitive Landscape of Forbes, Inc. Company?
- What is Growth Strategy and Future Prospects of Forbes, Inc. Company?
- How Does Forbes, Inc. Company Work?
- What is Sales and Marketing Strategy of Forbes, Inc. Company?
- What are Mission Vision & Core Values of Forbes, Inc. Company?
- What is Customer Demographics and Target Market of Forbes, Inc. Company?
Disclaimer
All information, articles, and product details provided on this website are for general informational and educational purposes only. We do not claim any ownership over, nor do we intend to infringe upon, any trademarks, copyrights, logos, brand names, or other intellectual property mentioned or depicted on this site. Such intellectual property remains the property of its respective owners, and any references here are made solely for identification or informational purposes, without implying any affiliation, endorsement, or partnership.
We make no representations or warranties, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, completeness, or suitability of any content or products presented. Nothing on this website should be construed as legal, tax, investment, financial, medical, or other professional advice. In addition, no part of this site—including articles or product references—constitutes a solicitation, recommendation, endorsement, advertisement, or offer to buy or sell any securities, franchises, or other financial instruments, particularly in jurisdictions where such activity would be unlawful.
All content is of a general nature and may not address the specific circumstances of any individual or entity. It is not a substitute for professional advice or services. Any actions you take based on the information provided here are strictly at your own risk. You accept full responsibility for any decisions or outcomes arising from your use of this website and agree to release us from any liability in connection with your use of, or reliance upon, the content or products found herein.