The Financial Times newspaper is recognized by its distinctive salmon pink-colored paper, but its reputation rests on the unique perspective and context it applies to news. Business owners are keenly aware that in the age of globalization, competitive pressures have intensified and the exhortation to "know your market" becomes more difficult--because that market no longer stops at national borders. Why not outsource part of your market-intelligence work by relying on a publication long recognized as an authoritative voice on international business matters? While business, finance and economics provide the core of Financial Times information, you'll also find cogent analysis of global politics and policy.

The Financial Times newspaper was founded in 1888 in London--then the hub of international finance--and emerged as the standard of international business news. In 1997 it introduced a U.S. edition, printed in 8 American cities from New York to Los Angeles, which ensures prompt home or office delivery. The Financial Times publication now has more than 1.4 readers around the world.

The Financial Times newspaper is printed 6 days a week. Anyone interested in business, finance or the economy could learn from reading the Financial Times publication. By reading this publication you can:

1. Keep up with the economy locally and globally.

2. Peruse commentaries and opinions from financial experts in the Financial Times editorial section.

3. Stay informed of the latest technological breakthroughs.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Read Financial Times cover stories online

Preview the Financial Times on its website, read popular columns, or find information about the Financial Times newspaper online.

I recommend: Browse through any Financial Times cover story on their website. Read information about their major 2007 expansion at Pearson.com. Investigate the infamous Lex columns that cover a wide variety of business and economic topics. Find global Financial Times headlines on their international website.

Fill the gaps in your news coverage with the Financial Times

The Financial Times can serve as a complement to U.S. periodical offerings. The UK-based publication has a world-wide network of correspondents located in more than 50 cities; this international perspective can prompt insights to help you navigate foreign markets and design promising business strategies.

I recommend: Compare content on the online sites for the Wall Street Journal and Financial Times, and see what industry insiders say about the Financial Times' successful business model.

Check out the extras from the Financial Times online

In addition to news and analysis, the paper's website, FT.com, offers interactive components (such as podcasts), helpful business tools, and blogs. A complement to the print edition is the monthly Financial Times magazine, How to Spend It, that focuses on high-end lifestyle issues.

I recommend: Experiment with helpful website tools, such as the currency converter. For a more lighthearted approach to business topics, check out the popular Undercover Economist blog.

Get a Financial Times newspaper subscription

You can go the traditional route with a print subscription or buy Financial Times online. If you choose a Financial Times newspaper subscription, decide on either an individual or corporate account. (The latter allows businesses to save money when they order the Financial Times for multiple users).

I recommend: Test drive FT.com before deciding on a subscription. You can register for free and view 5 articles a month. With a Financial Times newspaper subscription, the print edition is delivered six days a week. When you buy the Financial Times newspaper online you'll get unlimited access to Financial Times articles and a five-year archive of financial information on more than 40,000 companies.

Sponsor Financial Times magazine forums

The Financial Times publication holds forums every year. These well-attended forums are designed to provoke debates on important business issues. Your business can sponsor the forums and become a part of these major events. Some of the clients for the forums have included high-level government departments, major universities and influential worldwide corporations.

I recommend: Browse their Bespoke Forum page for more details. Sponsor a forum, or request updates about upcoming forums and their primary topics.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Receive further information about the Financial Times newspaper by calling their customer service hotline at 800-628-8088.