In recent years, paid newsletter platforms like Substack, Revue, and Bulletin have provided opportunities for individuals and small publishers to distribute and monetize content. Some high-profile columnists have left major news organizations to run successful newsletter-based businesses, earning high six-figure salaries. Mainstream news organizations, such as Politico and Axios, have found that journalist-curated emails drive growth for various niches. Email newsletters remain important across countries, with an average of 17% using them weekly. The appeal of newsletters is mainly among older, richer, and more educated news consumers. Convenience, diverse perspectives, authorial tone, and unique content are key reasons for using email newsletters. Specialist media and individual journalists also contribute to the popularity of email newsletters. While most general news emails are free, some individuals have been able to charge for unique content or add value to subscription bundles. Paid newsletters are more common in the United States than in other countries. Overall, email newsletters remain an essential tool for publishers to build deeper relationships with loyal users and attract new subscribers. The human touch and convenience provided by email newsletters are increasingly valued in a world of information overload. New business models are emerging, indicating further opportunities for those combining unique content with convenience in this enduring medium.
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