Pearson to sell ‘Economist’ holding

British publishing group, Pearson is in talks to sell its 50% stake in The Economist to the other shareholders of the weekly newspaper, with one, Italy’s Agnelli family, confirming it wants to increase its stake.

The move comes on the heels of Pearson’s sale of the Financial Times to Japanese media group Nikkei, announced this week as its focuses on its education business.

“Pearson confirms it is in discussions with The Economist Group Board and trustees regarding the potential sale of our 50% share in the group,” a company statement said at the weekend.