Versant Media Group Acquires AI Platform StockStory to Power CNBC Digital Growth

Strengthening Financial Analysis through AI

Versant Media Group (NASDAQ: VSNT) announced the acquisition of StockStory on Thursday, a move designed to integrate advanced artificial intelligence into the company’s business news and personal finance offerings. The deal specifically aims to enhance CNBC’s digital platforms by providing retail investors with faster, data-driven market insights and scalable analysis of public companies. This integration allows CNBC to deliver real-time, actionable data that helps its audience make more informed investment decisions. StockStory, which launched in 2020, uses machine learning and proprietary editorial frameworks to translate complex financial data into understandable investment recommendations. Its platform powers live rankings and smart filters that evaluate stocks based on returns, risk metrics, and Sharpe ratios. These technical capabilities will now be embedded directly into CNBC’s web and mobile services to support its next chapter of digital growth.

Leadership and Strategic Integration

As part of the transaction, StockStory Founder and CEO Adam Hejl will join the Versant team. He will report to Deep Bagchee, the Chief Product and Technology Officer for News at Versant. The StockStory staff will support ongoing product and technology initiatives, with an initial focus on enhancing CNBC’s digital investing capabilities.

The acquisition is part of a broader expansion strategy following Versant’s recent spinoff from Comcast in early 2026. Under the leadership of CEO Mark Lazarus, the company has been aggressive in the mergers and acquisitions space, recently acquiring Free TV Networks and INDY Cinema Group. This latest purchase reinforces the goal of extending core brands like CNBC into high-growth digital platforms.

Versant operates a diverse portfolio that includes MS NOW, USA Network, and the Golf Channel, alongside digital properties like Fandango and Rotten Tomatoes. By adding StockStory, the company continues its pivot toward a business model less reliant on traditional cable bundles. More information about the company's recent performance can be found at www.versantmedia.com.