The show was hosted by Varney, a long-time TV business journalist who for years had his own programme on CNN. Journal staff such as editorial page editor Paul Gigot joined Varney in discussing current affairs.

The decision has been taken as there were many differences between the two sides as to the programme's long term direction. CNBC and Dow Jones have extensive partnerships. Wall Street Journal and Dow Jones Newswires reporters frequently appear on the network and the two CO-own CNBC Europe and CNBC Asia Pacific.