When Mexico’s richest man threw The New York Times a lifeline

This article is part of The Poynter 50, a series reflecting on 50 moments and people that shaped journalism over the past half-century — and continue to influence its future. As Poynter celebrates its 50th anniversary, we examine how the media landscape has evolved and what it means for the next era of news.

For years, The New York Times has been a juggernaut in the troubled newspaper industry — profitable and beloved by Wall Street, 10 million digital subscribers, a newsroom that has grown to more than 2,000. But back in 2009, though still making money, business was stalled, and the Times faced a looming debt-refinancing crisis.