RIYADH — The Saudi Research and Marketing Group (SRMG) has announced the launch of Asharq News, a multiplatform Arabic-language news service that will provide 24/7 coverage across the Arab world and beyond with a focus on regional and global economic affairs. Asharq News will present technology-enabled content in multiple formats and leverage cutting-edge tech in its delivery. An exclusive content agreement between SRMG and Bloomberg Media will power a key component of the channel, Asharq Business with Bloomberg, drawing on the American media giant’s comprehensive coverage from more than 2,700 journalists and analysts globally. The services will expand to include an Arabic edition of Bloomberg Businessweek magazine. Commenting on the launch, Jumana Al-Rashed, CEO of SRMG, said: “Today’s launch of Asharq News marks a new and exciting phase for the Arab media landscape. We are witnessing an unprecedented pace of change worldwide and keeping up to date with this change means recognizing the power of information and forging partnerships to harness that power.” Al-Rashed added: “SRMG and Bloomberg bring together the best of both worlds: the in-depth market knowledge of SRMG and Bloomberg’s rigorous, data-driven reporting. We are confident that through this collaboration, Asharq News will set new standards for business news delivery to Arabic-speaking viewers.” Highlighting the youth focus of Asharq News, she said: “We believe it is essential for young people to find trustworthy and insightful content to enable them to pursue their aspirations and contribute to shaping the future of the Arab world. To cater to the young generation, we aim to rely heavily on our digital platforms and social media, and we are confident that our content will respond to this challenge.” Al-Rashed praised the efforts of Nabeel Al-Khatib, General Manager of Asharq News, who has leveraged his long-standing experience to assemble a world-class team comprising the right blend of veteran journalists and young media professionals from over 40 nationalities. For his part, CEO of Bloomberg Media Group Justin Smith stressed that the Middle East is home to many dynamic economies and business communities. "Collaborating on Asharq Business with Bloomberg will allow us to deliver the best of Bloomberg’s insights and analysis to a new audience of business decision-makers across the Arab world.” Also, Arif Amiri, CEO of DIFC Authority welcomed the launch of Asharq News to the Center, saying: "Being part of DIFC will provide Asharq News with access to the largest financial ecosystem in the region, allowing it to report news reflecting the important global economic, financial and corporate information being generated by our clients.” Asharq News will offer its artificial intelligence-powered digital services via two websites. The first is dedicated to business news in collaboration with Bloomberg Media, while the second features general news and in-depth analysis. — SG