B. C. Forbes (1880 – 1954) was a Scottish-American financial journalist and the founder of Forbes magazine. His work helped shape modern business journalism by blending financial insight with human-interest storytelling.
Born in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, he studied at University College, Dundee, before moving to South Africa as a journalist. In 1904, he emigrated to New York, writing for the Journal of Commerce before becoming financial editor at the New York American.
In 1917, Forbes launched Forbes magazine, emphasizing entrepreneurship and capitalism. He remained editor-in-chief until his death, with his sons continuing his work. The magazine became a global authority on business. Forbes’ legacy endures, shaping financial journalism and economic discourse.