The Wall Street Journal Review: Is It Worth It?

Written by Kim PinnelliUpdated: 3rd Jan 2022
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The Wall Street Journal is a household name here in the United States. Whether you want to read a thought-provoking editorial or want to stay informed about financial markets, then a Wall Street Journal subscription is worth every penny.

From Silicon Valley to New York City and abroad, the WSJ is read by industry leaders, renowned investors, financial analysts, politicians, economists, technologists, and others who want to stay ahead of the curve and remain informed about current events.

The Wall Street Journal is one of the most widely respected and authoritative newspapers in the world.

Published by an award-winning team of journalists, the Wall Street Journal is loaded with valuable information, presents both sides of a story, and is radically transparent about current mainstream events.

Find out in this Wall Street Journal Review whether or not a subscription is worth your time and money.

Let’s dive in.

What Is the Wall Street Journal?

The Wall Street Journalis an award-winning newspaper that covers current events and publishes a renowned opinion section. This newspaper covers finance, economics, technology, politics, and everything in between.

Since its humble beginnings, the WSJ has gone on to win 37 Pulitzer Prizes and has a daily circulation of 2.26 million copies (digital & paper).

Like a vast majority of its competitors, the Wall Street Journal is headquartered in the media (and finance) capital of the world – New York City. It is owned and operated by Newscorp, which is owned by the Murdoch family.

History of the WSJ

Founded on July 8th, 1889, the Wall Street Journal has been in business for over 130 years. The WSJ was founded by Charles Dow, Edward Jones, and Charles Bergstresser with one goal in mind – to cover business and financial news.

The Journal’s detail, accuracy, and unorthodox editorial section allowed the publication to enjoy immediate success. Even to this day, the Wall Street Journal has not missed a beat.

From the Great Depression to World War II, and through the Financial Crisis, the Wall Street Journal has covered History.

What Is the Wall Street Journal Known For?

The Wall Street Journalis known for its thought-provoking opinion section, which is separate from its news section.

The opinion section is known to publish commentary that sparks debate and civil discourse.

Moreover, the WSJ is known to primarily cover business and the financial markets, which is why it has become a daily read amongst investors, business leaders, hedge fund analysts, investment bankers, politicians, and technologists.

Is the Wall Street Journal Worth It?

The Wall Street Journal is worth every penny if you want to remain informed about market-moving events, domestic and international affairs, politics, and big business.

Additionally, the opinion section will challenge you to think critically and analyze various events from a different perspective.

Whether you are a student, finance or business professional, investor, or citizen who likes to remain informed about current events, the Wall Street Journal is a must-read.

This reputable publication will keep you sharp and will help you better understand what moves the financial markets.

Should You Subscribe to the Wall Street Journal?

A Wall Street Journal subscription is valuable if you are an active investor, work in the fields of finance or business, or if you want to read opinion pieces that do not hold back.

Each day, the Wall Street Journal will keep you informed about the economy, what’s happening on the Hill, and in big business.

Pros and Cons of The Wall Street Journal

Pros:

  • An Award-Winning Opinion Section that is thought-provoking, engaging, and absolutely ruthless.
  • Detailed articles highlight market moving events.
  • Separates the News and Opinion Section. This allows the Journal to remain relatively unbiased and focus on the facts.

Cons:

  • The price of a WSJ subscription is $20-$40/Month.

Is Wall Street Journal or Financial Times Better?

As a reader of both, I tend to enjoy the Wall Street Journal a bit more. Why? The WSJ primarily covers news within the United States, whereas the Financial Times focuses more on international news.

And like my fellow WSJ readers, the opinion section is what separates this publication from the rest.

The journalists go into great detail and are not afraid to hold back, which is why this unfiltered opinion section has endured a handful of controversies.

Is the Wall Street Journal Conservative?

The Wall Street Journal’s editorial (opinion) section is known to lean right and support big business.

However, the news section is its own entity. It remains unbiased, a breadth of fresh air for those looking for a nonpartisan news resource.

Alternatives to the Wall Street Journal

#1. Motley Fool

For those looking for tailored investment advice, then look no further. The Motley Fool will help you make smart investments and out-compete the S&P 500.

Learn More:Motley Fool Review

#2. Barron’s Magazine

Barron’s is a personal finance magazine that will help you make smart money moves. This magazine will teach you strategies to pay off debt, how to structure a basic stock portfolio, and more.

Learn More: Barron’s Magazine Review

#3. Financial Times

Founded in 1888, the Financial Times is an award-winning publication that focuses on detailed financial analysis and news. Headquartered in the United Kingdom, FT covers international news and does not tailor towards a U.S. based audience.

Bottom Line: Wall Street Journal Review

The quality and detail presented in the Wall Street Journalis what separates it from the rest. In fact, this is largely the reason why it has attracted a legion of die-hard supporters and avid readers.

The WSJ has covered both the good and bad times of American History and is a must-read for active investors and financial professionals.

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Kim Pinnelli
Kim Pinnelli

Kim Pinnelli is a Senior Writer, Editor, & Product Analyst with a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance from the University of Illinois at Chicago. She has been a professional financial writer for over 15 years, and has appeared in a myriad of industry leading financial media outlets. Leveraging her personal experience, Kim is committed to helping people take charge of their personal finances and make simple financial decisions.