CNET Analyzing Ethics or Attacking Rivals?

I’d like to hear your thoughts on CNET’s look at whether journalists are starting to break the informal code that prevents conflicts of interest.

Their expose of well known MarketWatch journalist, Bambi Francisco, reads as more of an attempt to undermine a rival publication, than a serious look at whether traditional journalists should avoid getting involved with companies they write about.

Here’s the summary CNET uses to describe their story…

What’s new:

MarketWatch reporter Bambi Francisco was allowed by her bosses to take a stake in a matchmaker for start-ups and venture capitalists, an industry she has covered for more than a decade.

Bottom line:

The arrangement is rare among journalists who usually follow strict rules to prevent even the perception of a conflict of interest.

If you read the story, I’d like to know if you think I’m completely imagining this or not.

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