Vivek Ramaswamy, who recently acquired an 8.3% stake in BuzzFeed, has urged the media company to hire figures like Tucker Carlson and Aaron Rodgers to introduce more diversity of thought and revitalize the struggling site. Ramaswamy's proposals include significant job cuts, board changes, and a strategic shift towards truth in reporting. BuzzFeed's shares surged by 20% last week following news of Ramaswamy's investment, despite internal resistance from CEO Jonah Peretti who dismissed Ramaswamy's criticisms and suggestions for an overhaul.
BuzzFeed's share price reacted positively to the news of Vivek Ramaswamy's 8.3% stake acquisition, soaring by around 20% last week. This significant increase in the stock price reflects investor enthusiasm or optimism about the potential changes and strategic direction Ramaswamy might advocate for at BuzzFeed3.
Vivek Ramaswamy criticized BuzzFeed for contributing to public distrust in the media, specifically pointing out the publication of the Steele dossier in 2017. This dossier contained unverified and salacious allegations against former President Donald Trump. Ramaswamy urged BuzzFeed to openly admit these and other past journalistic failures as a step towards redefining the company’s brand around the pursuit of truth2. This criticism is part of his broader call for major changes at BuzzFeed, including a complete overhaul of its content strategy2.