CNBC to close Hong Kong operations, scrap international shows in major overhaul

CNBC, a leading US business television network, is set to close its Hong Kong office and discontinue several international daily shows as part of a significant operational overhaul across Asia and Europe. This decision, announced to staff on Wednesday via an internal memo, comes after months of evaluation of the financial viability and resource allocation of its international programming.

The company's management declared that "a number of very difficult decisions" needed to be made, leading to the closure of the Hong Kong bureau, while maintaining key hubs in London, Singapore, Beijing, and Abu Dhabi.

The decision to close the Hong Kong office, which will be effective immediately, impacts production, editorial, and technical capabilities. CNBC confirmed to the South China Morning Post that the cancellation of its local programming took effect the day before, and a small number of employees were affected. However, the company declined to provide specific details about the affected employees or the support they would receive.

Following this change, CNBC will continue to offer editorial coverage of Hong Kong, China, and the Asia-Pacific region through its teams in Singapore and reporters based in Beijing. The immediate cancellation of several flagship programs, including Inside India, The China Connection, and Europe Early Edition, marks the end of an era for these series. Additionally, CNBC plans to wrap up feature series like CNBC Meets and Built for Billions once their current broadcast runs conclude.

This strategic shift follows Comcast's recent division of its cable networks, including CNBC and MSNBC, into Versant Media Group at the beginning of the year. This restructuring led to earlier layoffs within the newsroom. Despite the closure of its physical presence in Hong Kong, CNBC reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a strong presence in international markets, ensuring continued service to global audiences.