NYT CEO Thompson on ‘Astonishing Surge’ in Subscriptions

The transcript discusses the New York Times' growth in digital subscriptions post-election, highlighting a significant increase in subscribers. It explores the shift from print to digital revenue, emphasizing the importance of maintaining independence and forming strategic partnerships with platforms like Facebook. The discussion also covers the challenges faced by traditional journalism in the digital age, including the impact of social media on news dissemination and the need for innovation.

What was the primary reason for the surge in New York Times subscriptions after the election?

• A new marketing campaign

• Discounted subscription rates

• Increased interest in political news

• Improved website design

What is the New York Times' long-term goal for digital subscribers?

• 5 million subscribers

• 10 million subscribers

• 15 million subscribers

• 20 million subscribers

How has the New York Times' approach to revenue per user changed?

• They are prioritizing subscriber base growth over ARPU

• They are decreasing subscription prices

• They are focusing on increasing ARPU immediately

• They have stopped tracking ARPU

What is the current trend in the New York Times' print advertising revenue?

• It is increasing

• It is unpredictable

• It is stable

• It is declining

What is expected to happen with digital advertising compared to print advertising at the New York Times?

• Digital advertising will remain smaller

• Digital advertising will overtake print advertising

• Print advertising will grow faster

• Both will decline

Why does the New York Times value its independence?

• To avoid corporate taxes

• To reduce operational costs

• To maintain credibility and accountability

• To increase advertising revenue

What role does Facebook play in the New York Times' strategy?

• It is not involved

• It is a valuable distribution partner

• It is a competitor

• It is a minor advertising platform

How has the New York Times been innovating in the digital space?

• By focusing solely on print media

• By partnering with platforms like Facebook and Samsung

• By reducing digital content

• By avoiding new technologies

What challenge does the New York Times face with the rise of social media platforms?

• Increased print subscriptions

• Decreased digital engagement

• Politicians bypassing traditional news

• Higher advertising costs

What is a concern regarding the use of social media by politicians?

• It reduces their audience reach

• It allows them to bypass traditional news scrutiny

• It encourages fact-checking

• It increases transparency