These standards apply to everything published under the Northstar Briefing name, in every format.

Accuracy and verification

We report only what we can support. Facts are checked against primary documents, data or first-hand sources wherever possible. Figures are attributed to their source, with the date and, where relevant, the method used. When information cannot be independently verified, we say so.

Before publication, every article is reviewed by at least one editor other than the author. Articles involving serious allegations, legal risk or sensitive personal information receive additional review by a senior editor [and legal counsel].

Sourcing

We prefer named, on-the-record sources. We grant anonymity only when a source faces a real risk of harm or retaliation, the information is important to readers, and it cannot be obtained another way. At least one editor must know the identity of every anonymous source. We explain to readers why anonymity was granted.

We do not pay sources for information. We do not fabricate, composite or embellish quotations, people or events. Quotations are reproduced accurately; any edits for length or clarity do not change meaning.

Reporting, analysis, opinion and sponsored content

  • News reports what happened, based on verified facts.
  • Analysis and Explainers interpret events and data, drawing reasoned conclusions from evidence. They are labelled as such.
  • Opinion pieces argue a point of view. They are clearly labelled and represent the author's view, not the publication's.
  • Sponsored content is paid for by a named third party, produced separately from the newsroom, and always labelled “Sponsored” with the sponsor's name. Newsroom journalists do not write sponsored content.

Markets and financial information

Market coverage is editorial reporting and analysis. We do not provide investment advice. Any prices or data cited are attributed, dated, and may be delayed; we never present delayed or illustrative figures as live data.

Images and media

Photographs are not altered beyond standard adjustments to exposure, colour and cropping that do not change their meaning. Illustrations and composite images are labelled. Every image carries a credit; we use only images we have created or are licensed to use.

Use of automated tools

[Describe the publication's policy on AI and automated tools — for example, whether and how they may be used for research, transcription, translation or drafting, and the requirement that a journalist verifies and is accountable for every published word.]

Conflicts of interest

Journalists disclose to their editors any financial, personal or political interest that could affect, or appear to affect, their work, and are reassigned where necessary. See our Ethics Policy.

Corrections

We correct errors of fact promptly and transparently. See our Corrections Policy.