Finance presenter Alan Kohler retiring after three decades at ABC

Alan Kohler, the finance presenter with a 31-year tenure at ABC, is set to retire at the end of the year. Renowned for his work as a print journalist before transitioning to television, Kohler has left an indelible mark on Australian journalism. A former editor of The Australian Financial Review (AFR) and The Age, he was also an insightful columnist on finance.

Reflecting on his decision to retire, Kohler expressed his deep affection for the ABC, stating he finds it hard to imagine life without it. However, he is ready to spend more time with his family, including his six grandchildren. Kohler's journey with ABC began in 1995 when he joined as a business and economics correspondent for the 7.30 Report, later hosting Inside Business.

For the past 24 years, he has served as the lead 7pm News finance presenter, simplifying the complexities of financial markets for his audience with a distinctive format that often started with, "Now, here's an interesting graph." ABC managing director Hugh Marks lauded Kohler's extraordinary contribution to the organisation and the nation, praising his ability to convey intricate issues with clarity and warmth.

Kohler plans to continue his journalistic endeavors through a weekly column and a Friday podcast, That's Business. Throughout his career, Kohler has been an astute entrepreneur, launching The Eureka Report and later adding Business Spectator to his portfolio. Despite his diverse ventures, his unwavering loyalty to the ABC and his audience remains unchanged.