CHOwnership & classification
Founded: 2014
Ownership
watson is a Swiss German-language online news portal launched on 22 January 2014 by the start-up FixxPunkt AG, with funding from publisher Peter Wanner of AZ Medien; its founding editor-in-chief was former 20 Minuten chief Hansi Voigt. Editorial control passed to CH Media, which became the majority owner of FixxPunkt AG in 2023. CH Media is a Swiss media company founded in 2018 as a joint venture between AZ Medien (the Wanner family) and the NZZ Media Group.
Funding
watson is financed commercially, primarily through online advertising and sponsored content, within the CH Media group. It is not state- or party-funded.
Affiliation & stance
Editorially it is broadly centre to centre-left and tabloid-style in tone. Because it is privately owned by a commercial publisher (CH Media / the Wanner family and NZZ group) with no party or state control, it is classified INDEPENDENT.
Editorial lean
- Our estimate
- Lean Left
- Measured from coverage
- Centerbased on 304
75/100
Factual
70/100
Objective
585
Articles
585
reports
Top stories
Most covered right now
Russia attacks Kiev with ballistic missiles: there are fires and casualties
'Mega-consumers' of food and energy cost the environment $5.7 billion a year
World Cup round-up: Messi breaks scoring record, Algeria survive, but Jordan are eliminated
UN: Israel continues to commit genocide by targeting children in Gaza
After a big surprise in the group, Uruguay and Saudi Arabia take first place
Iran says it’s closed key shipping route again
After the earthquake of the century Venezuela Death toll in Venezuela rises to over 1900
Watch fan reactions as Mexico beat South Africa 2–0 in the World Cup opener
Explosion in Monaco Three injured after suspected attack in Monaco
Recent coverage
In the tropical Pacific, El Niño conditions have set in, researchers say.
The article reports that researchers from New Zealand’s Earth Sciences organization (ESNZ) have identified conditions consistent with the El Niño climate phenomenon in the tropical Pacific. They warn that impacts on New Zealand’s weather are likely to intensify over the coming months. The ESNZ joined other organizations in Australia, Japan, and the U.S. in confirming the development of El Niño, which is expected to reach strong intensity between July and September. The effects are projected to peak during the Southern Hemisphere summer, spanning late 2023 into early 2024. According to lead researcher Chris Brandolini, this El Niño event is at least comparable in strength to five of the strongest recorded El Niños in modern history. The article outlines regional rainfall expectations, noting potential below-average precipitation in some areas and above-normal levels in others. It also mentions possible temperature fluctuations and increased wind variability later in the year. Additionally, it notes two lower-probability risks: sudden stratospheric warming and the occurrence of a tropical cyclone outside the typical season, both historically linked to El Niño. Brandolini connects the
Press conference in front of SUI-CAN Yakin: Football is not a wish concert
Ahead of Switzerland's crucial World Cup group stage match against Canada, both teams' coaches have stated they will not adjust their tactics based on the outcome of the game. Swiss coach Murat Yakin emphasized that football is not a 'wish concert,' indicating he expects a straightforward approach. Similarly, Canadian coach Jesse Marsch said his team would play as usual, aiming to win regardless of the situation. The match has significant implications for both teams, as the winner will secure first place in the group and gain an eight-day break before the knockout stages, while the loser will face a shorter four-day rest period. Both teams have drawn inspiration from basketball strategies, with Swiss player Yanic Niederhäuser training with NBA legend Steve Nash, who advised Canada's team on balancing defensive discipline with offensive freedom.
Extreme heat conference cancelled due to extreme heat
On July 3, 2026, the London School of Economics (LSE) canceled an event scheduled for June 24 to discuss the impacts of extreme heat due to dangerously high temperatures in London. The decision came amid a severe heatwave across Europe, exacerbated by climate change, which led to record-breaking temperatures, infrastructure damage, and numerous fatalities. The event was part of London Climate Week and was intended to feature prominent figures like Professor Lord Nicholas Stern. The LSE cited safety concerns, noting that its chosen venue lacked adequate cooling systems. During this period, emergency services in London faced unprecedented demand, with the London Ambulance Service responding to thousands of calls, many related to life-threatening conditions. Across Europe, the heatwave resulted in multiple deaths, including drownings in waterways and tragic incidents involving children trapped in vehicles. French officials highlighted the severity of the situation, emphasizing the need for greater preparedness against increasingly frequent and intense heatwaves.
The most important transfer news and rumours from the wider football world
The article provides an overview of the most important transfer news and rumors from around the world of football. It covers recent developments and speculation regarding player transfers, which are common topics during the transfer window period in professional football. Such news often includes confirmed moves, potential signings, and unverified rumors circulating among fans and media. These updates are typically sourced from various football clubs, agents, and reliable sports journalism outlets. The information serves to inform football enthusiasts about potential changes in team compositions and strategies.
Putin recognizes the oil map for the first time
Russian President Vladimir Putin acknowledged for the first time that Russia is building 'some oil reserves' during a meeting focused on energy issues. He emphasized the need to strengthen domestic oil production and increase output. Meanwhile, Ukrainian forces continued their attacks on Russian energy infrastructure, detonating an oil purification plant in the southern Krasnodar region, which produces around four million tons of crude oil annually. The Krasnodar region is one of Russia's largest oil-producing areas located near the Black Sea. On Tuesday, Ukrainian forces launched large-scale air strikes on Sevastopol, the largest city on Crimea, including attacks on oil facilities. In response, Russia, which annexed Crimea in 2014, has restricted fuel sales to the public to counteract the energy shortages. According to reports, these attacks have had no impact on the front line. During an interview with a Russian state television station, Putin described the Ukrainian attacks on Russian oil infrastructure as an attempt to destabilize Russian society. He stated that Ukraine's goal was to halt the deployment of Russian military units to improve their position in arms control talks.
Skurrile state gifts Diplomatic curiosities: from the book to the camel
The article discusses unusual state gifts exchanged in diplomacy, highlighting examples from Swiss, French, Australian, Chinese, and American history. It begins by noting that state gifts are part of diplomatic tradition but often raise questions about their intent. The first example involves Swiss President Guy Parmelin gifting a book on Swiss constitutional history to U.S. trade representative Jamieson Greer, described as modest yet thoughtful. Another instance includes a delegation from Switzerland giving former U.S. President Trump a Rolex watch and a gold bar during a trade dispute. In Mali, a camel gifted to French President Hollande after the liberation of Timbuktu was later slaughtered by a local family due to misunderstanding. Australia presented Barack Obama with insurance against crocodile attacks, while China uses pandas as diplomatic tools. Lastly, Katar gifted Donald Trump a Boeing 747 worth $400 million, which sparked criticism. The piece concludes with a mention of Dutch Prime Minister Jan Peter Balkenende gifting U.S. President George W. Bush roller skates.
Winterthur closes indoor showers because of Legionella
The indoor pool in Winterthur has closed its showers due to the presence of legionella bacteria. This decision was made to ensure public health and safety, as legionella can cause serious respiratory infections if inhaled through water droplets. The closure affects the facility's shower areas, which are commonly used by visitors and staff. Authorities are likely conducting tests and implementing measures to eliminate the risk of legionella spread. Such closures are typically temporary until the issue is resolved.
Hernan is rescued from the rubble after more than a week
The article reports that Hernan was rescued after more than a week trapped in the rubble. The headline suggests a rescue operation that has been ongoing for over a week, indicating a potential disaster such as an earthquake or building collapse. The article appears to focus on the event itself without providing additional context or details about the circumstances leading to the entrapment or the specifics of the rescue efforts.
A game of Nati in unusual morning hours that caught my eye
The article reports on a Swiss national team football match that took place at an unusual early morning time, highlighting unexpected aspects that arose during the game. The piece focuses on the unique circumstances of the match, including the timing and any notable incidents or observations made by spectators and commentators. While the content appears to be focused on the event itself, there is no clear indication of political charge or bias in the framing of the story.
'We are on red alert': UN High Commissioner warns of new disaster in Sudan
The United Nations High Commissioner has issued a warning about a potential new catastrophe in Sudan, emphasizing the severity of the situation. The alert comes amid ongoing conflicts and humanitarian crises in the region. The UN official highlighted the urgent need for international attention and aid to prevent further escalation of the crisis. The situation in Sudan remains highly volatile, with reports of increased violence and displacement affecting large portions of the population. The warning underscores the growing concerns among global leaders and humanitarian organizations regarding the stability and safety of civilians in the area.
'Bonjour, Pardon, Merci' is the new song by Celine Dion
The article announces that Céline Dion has released a new song titled «Bonjour, Pardon, Merci», which is described as sounding like a French greeting. The piece highlights the song's title and its potential cultural significance, referencing Dion's status as a renowned singer. No additional details about the song's content, release date, or reception are provided beyond the title and its linguistic theme. The focus is purely on announcing the new track without further commentary.
Absolute ban on fires in and around Baselbieter forests
The canton of Basel-Landschaft has implemented an absolute ban on fires within and around its forests. This measure is likely aimed at preventing wildfires, which pose a significant threat to forest ecosystems, wildlife, and nearby communities. The decision comes amid heightened awareness of environmental risks and the increasing frequency of dry conditions that contribute to fire hazards. Such restrictions are common during periods of high fire danger and are typically enforced by local authorities to ensure public safety and protect natural resources.
How Trump Jr.'s Amazon of Weapons could bring in millions
The article discusses allegations that Donald Trump Jr. could be profiting millions through a potential weapons marketplace, referred to as «Amazon der Waffen» (Weapons Amazon). The focus is on the legal and ethical implications of such a venture, particularly in light of Trump's previous associations and potential conflicts of interest. It highlights concerns about transparency and accountability in business dealings involving high-profile political figures. The piece does not provide specific evidence of financial gain but raises questions about the regulatory environment surrounding such enterprises.
Overlooked
Under-reported & one-sided
