Early Life and Education
Susan Li’s story begins in China, where she was born, but her formative years took place in Toronto, Canada, where she was raised. Her early life is a tale of perseverance and determination, shaped by her mother, who immigrated to Canada and single-handedly managed the family. This maternal influence instilled in Li a sense of resilience, hard work, and ambition—qualities that would later fuel her career in business journalism.
Li’s academic journey led her to the prestigious University of Toronto, where she graduated with a degree in Economics. This academic foundation was crucial in providing her with an in-depth understanding of global markets, financial systems, and economic policies, which became central to her work as a journalist. It also set the stage for her to become a highly knowledgeable and respected voice in the world of business news.
Career Beginnings at the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC)
Susan Li’s foray into journalism began at the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC). She worked in various capacities, including as an associate producer and freelance reporter for both radio and television. This early exposure provided her with a diverse set of skills and experience, allowing her to adapt to different media formats and storytelling techniques. Her time at CBC served as a training ground where she developed her on-camera presence, reporting skills, and understanding of the broadcast industry.
Rising to Prominence at Bloomberg Television
Li’s big break came in 2006 when she joined Bloomberg Television. Tasked with hosting Asia Business Tonight, Bloomberg’s first-ever primetime evening newscast in the Asia-Pacific region, Li quickly established herself as a dynamic and authoritative presence in business journalism. The show’s success opened the door for further opportunities, and by 2010, she was hosting Bloomberg Edge and Morning Call, cementing her role as one of the network’s leading anchors.
One of her most distinguished roles was as the host of First Up with Susan Li, a morning business show that focused on market openings across Asia. Li’s engaging presentation style, combined with her ability to deliver complex financial news in an accessible manner, made the show a hit. She interviewed top business leaders, tracked global market movements, and provided expert analysis on major news stories, demonstrating her prowess as a business journalist.
Li also showcased her versatility by hosting Asia Stars, a program filmed onboard Hong Kong’s iconic Star Ferry as it crossed Victoria Harbour. This unique format highlighted her creativity and adaptability as she reported from unconventional locations. In addition, she co-hosted Asia Edge, a show that featured in-depth interviews and comprehensive news coverage, further solidifying her reputation as a trusted journalist in the Asia-Pacific region.
Her work at Bloomberg Television was widely recognized. In 2008, Li was nominated for the Best News Anchor award at the Asian Television Awards. In 2012, her show First Up won the Best News Programme Award at the 17th Asian Television Awards, where she received a “Highly Commended” mention as Best Anchor. These accolades marked her as a rising star in international business journalism.
During her tenure at Bloomberg, Li’s reach extended beyond Asia. She was a prominent figure in Bloomberg International's global programming, and her shows were viewed worldwide. She conducted high-profile interviews with notable leaders such as Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Baidu CEO Robin Li, BlackRock Chairman and CEO Larry Fink, author Malcolm Gladwell, and American casino developer Steve Wynn. Her coverage of key global events—including the 2008 Beijing Olympics, the Shanghai World Expo, the Chinese stock market bubble, and the Global Financial Crisis—solidified her reputation as a journalist capable of delivering timely and insightful reporting on critical issues.
Expanding Horizons at CNBC Asia
In 2014, Susan Li joined CNBC Asia, co-anchoring Asia Squawk Box, one of the channel’s flagship shows. Her expertise in economic and financial matters, combined with her on-air charisma, made her a natural fit for the role. She also hosted First Class, CNBC International's luxury travel show, which offered an inside look at the world of high-end travel and experiences.
Li’s profile continued to rise as she moderated sessions at major international events. Notably, she hosted a session at the 2014 APEC Summit in Beijing, speaking on stage immediately after Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin and before US President Barack Obama. This role positioned her as a respected figure in the business and political worlds, showcasing her ability to engage with top global leaders.
In 2015, Asia Squawk Box won the Best News Program award at the Asian Television Awards, with Li as co-host. Her work took her around the world, where she interviewed prominent figures such as Indian Finance Minister P. Chidambaram and Bank of Japan Governor Haruhiko Kuroda during the Asian Development Bank’s meetings. Additionally, she reported from the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, providing valuable insights into the discussions and decisions shaping the global economy.
A European Chapter at CNBC Europe
In September 2015, Li took her career to Europe, joining CNBC Europe as a co-anchor for Worldwide Exchange. Working alongside Wilfred Frost, son of the legendary journalist David Frost, she brought her expertise to audiences across Europe and beyond. Based in London, Li traveled extensively, covering stories from locations across Asia and Europe. Her ability to report on global financial markets and economic policies showcased her international reach and adaptability.
New Challenges at CNBC New York
In 2016, Li moved to CNBC’s headquarters in New York, where she took on the role of correspondent and relief presenter. During this time, she covered major business stories and conducted interviews with a diverse array of influential personalities. Among them were Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Morgan Stanley CEO James Gorman, actor Robert De Niro, chef Nobu Matsuhisa, and martial artist Jet Li. Her ability to navigate and connect with such a varied audience highlighted her versatility as a journalist.
After making significant contributions to CNBC, Li left the network in August 2017, ready for the next chapter in her career.
Making an Impact at Fox Business Network
Susan Li joined Fox Business as a business correspondent in April 2018. At Fox Business, Li’s focus remained on delivering high-quality, insightful journalism. She interviewed some of the biggest names in business, including Apple CEO Tim Cook, Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi, Airbnb founder Brian Chesky, and Binance CEO Changpeng Zhao during the FTX collapse. Her ability to engage these influential leaders and extract valuable insights demonstrated her continued growth and relevance in the industry.
In December 2022, Li’s Twitter account was temporarily suspended amid Elon Musk’s controversial suspension spree. Despite the setback, she remained resilient, showcasing her unwavering commitment to her work. Li has also used her platform to speak out against anti-Asian violence, becoming a vocal advocate for diversity and inclusion in the media industry.
Accolades and Achievements
Throughout her career, Li has earned numerous accolades, underscoring her excellence in journalism. Her show First Up won the Best News Programme Award at the 17th Asian Television Awards, where she was also recognized as Best Anchor. Her consistent dedication to quality journalism and insightful reporting has established her as a respected figure in the industry.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Excellence
Susan Li’s journey is one of perseverance, adaptability, and excellence. From her early days in Canada to becoming a global business journalist, she has consistently demonstrated her passion and commitment to her craft. Her story is not just about professional success; it’s about breaking barriers and using her influence to advocate for change and diversity in the media. As a prominent business journalist with an international reach, Susan Li continues to inspire and lead in the world of journalism, setting new standards for those who follow in her footsteps.ReadMore