Stocks to Watch Host Spotlight: Emmy Winner Ashleigh Barry on Financial Journalism and Empowering Investors

Ashleigh Barry is a force in financial media. 

A multiple Emmy and Edward R. Murrow Award-winning journalist, she brings over 20 years of experience as an investigative journalist and television anchor for major networks like ABC, CBS, Fox News, NBC, and MSNBC. With a strong background in the public sector and federal government, she offers a unique perspective and unwavering journalistic integrity to Stocks to Watch, making it a trusted resource for investors.

Her expert market analysis and ability to break down complex financial news make her a standout voice in the industry, helping viewers understand the global economy and navigate market trends with confidence.

Through Stocks to Watch, Ashleigh has interviewed top executives and industry leaders, offering in-depth insights on key market trends. 

In this exclusive interview, we explore Ashleigh’s career journey and how she empowers investors with key insights to make informed decisions in an ever-evolving market.

What led you to financial media, and was there a defining moment in your career?

Throughout my career as an investigative journalist, I’ve always been drawn to uncovering the truth and making complex topics accessible to the public. Transitioning into financial media was a natural evolution. Financial markets, like investigative reporting, require a sharp eye for detail, accountability, and a commitment to transparency. 

What sets you apart in the communications and media space?

With a background in investigative journalism, senior leadership in the federal government, and as an executive partner in the commodities investor conference space, I bring a unique blend of credibility, strategic insight, and accountability. I ensure messaging is clear, impactful, and aligned with business objectives.

With your extensive experience in both investigative journalism and financial reporting across major networks, you’ve developed a sharp eye for evaluating companies. When interviewing executives, what key factors do you focus on to cut through the noise and get to the real story?

I look for three key elements: transparency, strategy, and execution. First, transparency: How candid is the executive about the company’s performance, challenges, and long-term vision? Second, strategy: what differentiates their business model, and do they have a clear roadmap for growth? Lastly, execution: are they delivering on their promises, and is there tangible evidence of progress? As a journalist, I’ve been trained to identify red flags, spot inconsistencies, and ask the tough questions that reveal the substance behind the corporate messaging. My goal is always to provide investors with insights they can trust.

How do you approach breaking down complex financial topics for a broad audience?

My approach is rooted in my experience translating intricate policy and investigative findings into compelling, digestible stories. I focus on clarity, context, and relevance. Every financial topic, whether it’s market trends, earnings reports, or investment strategies, boils down to key fundamentals that impact everyday investors.

Helping investors access credible, in-depth market insights is a key part of what you do. In a world of constant news cycles and information overload, what’s your best advice for investors looking to stay ahead of market shifts?

Quality over quantity is key. Instead of consuming every piece of financial news, focus on trusted sources with deep analysis rather than surface-level speculation. Follow industry leaders, read earnings reports directly, and track economic indicators that drive long-term market movements. Additionally, investors should develop a strong filter, just as in investigative reporting, verifying information and cross-checking sources can help separate meaningful insights from market noise.

As a Stocks to Watch host, you’ve had the chance to speak with top industry leaders and market experts. Based on those conversations, what’s one market trend or factor that investors should be paying closer attention to right now?

One trend that stands out is the increasing role of critical minerals and commodities in shaping global markets. As a former Federal Government Senior Executive and witnessing firsthand how governments push for energy transitions and supply chain security, industries from technology to defense are seeing unprecedented demand for key resources. Investors who understand the geopolitical and economic drivers behind commodities, whether it’s lithium for EVs, uranium for energy, or gold as a hedge against inflation, will be better positioned to navigate market fluctuations. The intersection of policy, innovation, and resource management is a space that investors should watch closely.

You’re known for your transparency and commitment to uncovering the truth. For first-time investors, what are some common pitfalls they should watch out for?

One of the biggest pitfalls is chasing hype without understanding fundamentals. New investors often get caught up in media buzz or digital media talk without thoroughly researching the financial health and leadership of a company. Another common mistake is failing to diversify, placing all their investments in one sector or asset class. And I will add that emotional decision-making, whether it’s panic selling during volatility or impulsive buying during a rally, can be costly. 

What sets Ashleigh Barry apart, beyond her credibility and unique perspectives, is her passion for simplifying investing and making it more accessible to the public. Nothing beats credible information when it comes to building and growing your portfolio. 

Investors need trusted sources to navigate market shifts. From stock market outlooks to in-depth commodity price analysis, doing your due diligence is key to making informed buying and selling decisions.

Stocks to Watch is your go-to source for reliable, timely information. Whether it’s tracking industry trends, market outlooks, or exclusive interviews with leaders and promising junior mining companies, Stocks to Watch ensures you have everything you need to make smarter investment choices—all in one place.

Want to see Ashleigh in action? Watch her interview with VinFast Auto, Vietnam’s first global automotive manufacturer, and one of her Women in Mining features, released in celebration of International Women’s Day.