[jazzyk]

I have been a subscriber to the Economist for over 25 years. In recent years, I have noticed a subtle, but noticeable, change from the small-business-friendly to the statist, big-business-friedly tone .

A look at the ownership structure may explain the shift - The Economist is now 50%-owned by big business interests

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Economist_Group

BTW, they endorsed B. Obama for president twice, in 2008 and 2012, who has been, despite all the populist rhetoric, very friendly to Wall Street and big business (not a single Wall Street criminal has been indicted)

I still like them, for the excellent writing, but I find myself agreeing less with them over the past several years.

[meatysnapper]

Agreed, I used to read them regularly, but found them becoming noticeably more statist. Perhaps when I was younger and less well informed (or less cynical) they just sounded better?

Given their supposedly liberal (old-school) leanings, you'd expect a criticism of large businesses which you don't find anymore.