Bartiromo’s show could boost Fox ratings

Maria Bartiromo‘s new show on Fox Business Network called “Opening Bell with Maria Bartiromo” that stats Monday could boost the network’s ratings, reports Ronald Grover of Reuters.

Grover writes, “Fox Business increased its ratings and added homes to which it is telecast but still trails CNBC. Over the last year, it averaged 54,000 for its 9 am to 5 pm schedule, according to Nielsen ratings data, compared with the 200,000 that CNBC averages. CNBC is seen in 95 million homes compared with 77 million for Fox Business.

“‘I was at the top of my game at CNBC, but they made me a great offer,’ Bartiromo said in an interview, referring to Fox. ‘They were terrific at CNBC, but I am happiest when I am helping to build a brand.’

“Bartiromo’s show stands a good chance of becoming the network’s top-ranked show, and should lift its ratings and encourage other cable operators to carry Fox Business, said Brad Adgate, senior vice-president and research director for Horizon Media.

“‘Only a handful of business news reporters have as high a profile,’ Adgate said.

“Bartiromo, who would not discuss her contract, says Fox influenced her decision to bolt by also offering her a Sunday morning business-oriented show on the Fox News Channel. That show, which has not yet been given a name, is expected to begin later in the first quarter, Fox said.”

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