The first quarter of 2026 ended with a familiar sight in the financial news landscape, as FOX Business Network (FBN) once again outpaced CNBC in total viewership across the board.
Data from Nielsen Media Research shows that the network held its ground as the most-watched business channel, marking its fifth consecutive quarterly victory in business day, market hours, and total day metrics.
The win was fueled by heavy hitters in the network’s lineup. Both Varney & Co. and Kudlow continued their long-term dominance, ranking as the top two programs in business television for the 16th quarter in a row.
Larry Kudlow’s 4 PM program, in particular, pulled in 278,000 viewers, a figure that sat 47% higher than CNBC’s Closing Bell.
It wasn’t just the veterans driving the numbers. The Big Money Show, which airs from 12 to 2 PM, saw its most successful quarter since it launched, averaging 224,000 viewers—a nearly 30% jump compared to last year.
READ: NewsNation Leaves Big Networks In The Rearview Mirror As Ratings Explode In March
This trend of growth extended across the midday block, with shows hosted by Charles Payne and Liz Claman seeing double-digit increases in their audience sizes.
In the early mornings, Mornings with Maria edged out a 4% gain year-over-year, while the evening block maintained a solid lead over its direct rivals. The Evening Edit and The Bottom Line both secured their eighth straight wins against CNBC competitors Fast Money and Mad Money.
The final numbers for the quarter show FBN averaging 249,000 viewers during the business day, an 11% lead over CNBC’s 224,000. During market hours, FBN maintained an average of 246,000 viewers. While CNBC continues to hold an edge in the 25-54 age demographic, FBN has solidified its position as the leader in total audience reach, a streak it has now maintained for over a year.
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