Stuart Varney Net Worth

Stuart Varney’s Net Worth and Career: A Deep Dive

Introduction: Stuart Varney’s Influence

Stuart Varney is a prominent British-born economic journalist and television host, widely recognized for his insightful commentary on financial markets and current events. With a career spanning several decades, Varney has become a familiar face to millions through his work with major news networks, including CNN, CNBC, and, most notably, Fox News and the Fox Business Network. This article provides a comprehensive overview of Stuart Varney’s career, net worth, personal life, and the controversies that have shaped his public persona.

Net Worth and Salary: Financial Overview

As of late 2024, Stuart Varney’s estimated net worth is $14 million. This financial standing reflects his successful career in broadcast journalism and his long-term association with high-profile media outlets. His primary source of income is his salary from Fox News and the Fox Business Network, where he hosts the popular show “Varney & Co.”

Salary

Stuart Varney’s annual salary from Fox News is approximately $4 million. This substantial income underscores his value to the network and his enduring popularity among viewers who tune in for his analysis of market trends and breaking news.

Early Life and Education: Roots in England

Stuart Varney was born on July 7, 1948, in Derby, Derbyshire, England. His formative years in the United Kingdom laid the groundwork for his future career in journalism. After completing his secondary education, Varney spent a year working in Nairobi, Kenya, an experience that broadened his perspective and provided early exposure to global affairs. He later attended the London School of Economics, a prestigious institution known for its rigorous academic programs in economics and related fields. Graduating from the London School of Economics equipped Varney with a solid understanding of economic principles, which has been essential to his work as a financial journalist.

Broadcast Journalism Career: From Hong Kong to Fox

Varney’s career in broadcast journalism began at Radio Hong Kong, where he honed his skills in reporting and presenting news. This initial experience provided a foundation for his subsequent roles at various television networks. His career progressed when he moved to KEMO-TV in San Francisco, where he worked before relocating to CNN.

In 1980, Varney was recruited to join the newly established Manhattan bureau of CNN. During his tenure at CNN, he hosted several financial programs, including “Your Money,” “Business Day,” and “Business Asia.” He also co-hosted “Moneyline,” a political and financial talk program with Willow Bay. His reporting on the stock market crash of 1987 was particularly noteworthy and contributed to CNN earning a Peabody Award for excellence in journalism.

After leaving CNN in 2001, Varney moved to CNBC, where he hosted “Wall Street Journal Editorial Board with Stuart Varney,” further solidifying his reputation as a respected financial journalist.

(Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images)

Fox News and Fox Business Network: A Media Powerhouse

In early 2004, Stuart Varney joined the business team at Fox News, marking a significant chapter in his career. His expertise in financial matters quickly made him a valuable asset to the network. Three years later, with the launch of the Fox Business Network, Varney became an anchor, further expanding his role within the Fox media empire.

In 2010, he began hosting “Varney & Co.” on the Fox Business Network, a show that has become synonymous with his name. The program offers extensive coverage of current events and the markets, attracting a loyal viewership. The show features a rotating cast of guest hosts, contributors, and correspondents. Ashley Webster frequently serves as a guest host, and other contributors include Susan Li and Lauren Simonetti, who have also held anchor positions. Over the years, “Varney & Co.” has hosted a diverse array of guests, ranging from political figures and celebrities to leading economists, solidifying its position as a go-to source for financial news and commentary.

Recurring guests on “Varney & Co.” include journalist Nicole Petallides and conservative political commentator Kayleigh McEnany. Other notable guests have included automotive designer Henrik Fisker, business and news reporter Sandra Smith, and Olympic champion soccer player Abby Wambach.

In addition to “Varney & Co.,” Varney appears regularly on the Fox Business show “Cashin’ In.” He has also made numerous appearances on Fox News’ “Your World with Neil Cavuto,” and has served as a guest host on that program on occasion.

Controversial Remarks

Throughout his career, Stuart Varney has occasionally faced criticism for his comments on various topics. In 2013, he generated controversy for disparaging remarks made on Fox News about financially disadvantaged people. The remarks drew significant criticism, and Varney himself acknowledged that he was “being mean to poor people.” Such instances highlight the challenges faced by media personalities in navigating sensitive social and economic issues.

Personal Life and Family: Relationships and Citizenship

Stuart Varney’s personal life has also been a subject of public interest. In 1992, he married Deborah, whom he reportedly met at a pub. The couple had six children together, four sons and two daughters. However, their marriage ended in divorce in 2014, reportedly due to Varney’s infidelity with a Florida woman named Jennifer Shibley, whom he had been involved with for nine years.

Despite his British roots, Varney has embraced American culture and politics, becoming a U.S. citizen in late 2015. This reflects his long-term residence in the United States since 1974 and his alignment with conservative political viewpoints.

Real Estate and Investments: Property Portfolio

Stuart Varney has a notable real estate portfolio. During the week, he resides in New Jersey to facilitate his commute to Fox’s studios in Manhattan. He owns a suburban home in Franklin Lakes, New Jersey, which he purchased in 1995 for $670,000. He also owns a condominium in Hoboken, New Jersey, which offers convenient access to Manhattan.

In addition to his residential properties, Varney owns an 1,100-acre farm in Deposit, New York. He acquired the former dairy beef farm in 2002. The property features approximately 250,000 trees, including red oak, maple, and black cherry. Varney harvests around 1,000 trees annually to be made into furniture. When speaking to the New York Forest Owners Association, he stated: “It reminds me very much of rural England: rolling hills, deciduous forest, four very distinct seasons.”

Varney has also expressed his appreciation for the vastness of his American property, noting that in his native England, such a large estate would be unattainable for all but the wealthiest individuals.

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Conclusion: The Legacy of Stuart Varney

Stuart Varney has carved a significant niche for himself in the world of broadcast journalism, particularly in the realm of financial news and analysis. His net worth reflects a successful career marked by insightful commentary, numerous media appearances, and a strong presence on major news networks. From his early days in radio to his current role as a host on Fox Business, Varney has consistently provided viewers with up-to-date information and analysis on complex financial matters. His journey from England to American citizenship, coupled with his diverse media experiences, continues to shape his legacy as one of the most recognizable figures in financial journalism.