2026 Skill Up

How do business reporters find, report, and write important stories? American Banker journalists will walk through two projects: an award-winning investigative piece about problems in the home-appraisal industry, and a tech story that involved developing a new beat.

The best reporters dominate their beats by staying so plugged in that sources eagerly return calls and by unearthing stories competitors miss. Join David Uberti and Krystal Hur, markets reporters at The Wall Street Journal, for a conversation about how they juggle quick-hit scoops with meaty features and deliver coverage that stays several steps ahead of the action. David focuses on the intersection of financial markets and the economy, while Krystal covers Berkshire Hathaway and more. 

Landing the story is only half the battle. In today’s crowded media landscape, the reporters who thrive are the ones who can also sell an idea, distill complex findings into compelling takeaways, leverage AI responsibly to accelerate their workflow, and build a recognizable byline across platforms.

In this interactive session, CNBC journalists pull back the curtain on how they evaluate pitches, shape narratives for maximum impact, and package reporting for TV, digital, and social audiences alike.

Walk away with concrete techniques for sharpening your pitch, elevating your on-air and on-platform presence, and positioning your work — and your career — for greater visibility.