Versant Restructures CNBC

CNBC is restructuring its newsroom by unifying its television and digital operations, resulting in nearly a dozen layoffs, including the departure of the website's managing editor, Jeff McCracken.

The changes stem from an overhaul led by Editor-in-Chief David Cho. Sources indicate the restructuring prepares the network for introducing a paywall on its website, aimed at shifting toward a more integrated, future-focused editorial structure.

A CNBC spokesperson emphasized that the adjustments align the newsroom for long-term growth rather than cost-cutting, stating: "The changes made today are to align CNBC’s newsroom structure for the future, they are not driven by cost cutting." The company plans to hire more than 40 new editorial roles over the next year across TV, digital, and direct-to-consumer platforms.

CNBC remains one of the most-watched cable networks, driven by its live coverage of financial markets and global business news.

The layoffs follow the recent spin-off of Versant Media Group, Inc.—CNBC's parent company—from Comcast. Versant began trading on Nasdaq in January 2026 under the ticker VSNT, and its shares have since declined more than 30%.

Versant owns a portfolio of cable networks including USA Network, MS NOW (formerly MSNBC), Oxygen, and others, along with digital properties such as Fandango and Rotten Tomatoes.