In the dynamic world of mergers and acquisitions (M&A), where billions of dollars and countless jobs hinge on every decision, a vigilant eye and an astute mind are imperative. Anirban Sen, the Editor in Charge for U.S. M&A at Reuters in New York, embodies these qualities, guiding the coverage of some of the most significant deals in the financial world.
His journey from a humble beginning in Bangalore to becoming a linchpin in global business journalism is nothing short of inspirational.
The Journey Begins: From Bangalore to Global Recognition
Anirban Sen’s foray into journalism began in 2009 when he joined Reuters in Bangalore. His tenure there laid the foundation for his robust understanding of financial journalism.
In 2013, Anirban embarked on a new adventure, reporting on technology deals for leading business news outlets in India, including The Economic Times and Mint. This phase of his career honed his skills in investigative journalism and deepened his knowledge of the intricate world of business transactions.
However, the call of Reuters was too strong to resist, and in 2019, Anirban rejoined the organization, this time as the Editor in Charge, Finance. His leadership and vision were soon recognized, and he was appointed to helm the U.S. M&A coverage. Today, Anirban leads a team of reporters, ensuring that Reuters remains at the forefront of M&A news, delivering timely and accurate information to its vast audience.
The Art of Business Journalism: Insights from Anirban Sen
Anirban Sen’s expertise is not confined to his editorial role. He is also a mentor and an educator, sharing his wealth of knowledge with aspiring journalists. In a guest lecture at the Indian Institute of Journalism & New Media (IIJNM), Anirban delved into the nuances of business journalism, using his coverage of the resignation of Vishal Sikka, CEO of Infosys, as a case study.
Trigger Points and Unveiling the Story
The resignation of Vishal Sikka was a watershed moment in the corporate world, and Anirban’s coverage of the events leading up to it was meticulous.
He identified two key trigger points: the resignation of Ritika Suri, a close confidant of Sikka, and the first letter from N.R. Narayana Murthy to the board members expressing dissatisfaction with Sikka’s performance. These events provided the impetus for a deeper investigation into the underlying issues at Infosys.
Anirban emphasized the importance of dealing with raw information critically and cross-checking its validity. He demonstrated how to use resources like the Bombay Stock Exchange’s website to verify facts and identify reliable sources. Additionally, he highlighted the value of attending Annual General Meetings (AGMs) to establish direct contact with company officials.
Anirban Sen: Navigating Ethical Dilemmas
In journalism, ethical considerations are paramount. Anirban Sen stressed the need to balance the pursuit of truth with the responsibility towards sources.
He advised that a journalist’s primary objective should be to protect the designation and reputation of their sources. A story should not jeopardize a source, as maintaining trust can lead to future breakthroughs. He underscored the significance of consulting with editors and legal teams to navigate complex ethical landscapes.
Building and Sustaining Sources
Anirban’s lecture was a masterclass in source building, a critical skill for any journalist. He shared practical tips on starting conversations, investing time in cultivating relationships, and maintaining consistent communication.
LinkedIn, he noted, is an excellent platform for building a reliable network of sources, especially for beginners. Writing numerous articles and establishing a reputation in the industry can also help in gaining introductions to high-profile contacts.
Also Read : Samina Ali: Championing Feminism Through Fiction and Activism