Rupert Murdoch’s News Corporation acquired Dow Jones from the Bancroft family for US$5.6 billion after many months of negotiations.

There are concerns about editorial integrity given the contrast between the Wall Street Journal’s (WSJ) sober style and Murdoch’s populist leanings.To allay fears, Murdoch has agreed to establish an oversight committee to ensure Dow Jones’ integrity and quality of product is maintained.

Dow Jones’ online properties are likely to benefit the most. While the WSJ’s US version is the largest paid news site globally, its Asia Pacific product which is bundled with the print edition is comparatively small when placed against its US sibling.

This deal will be an access point into the Asia Pacifc market as this is Murdoch's first real print presence in Asia-Pacific since selling out of Hong Kong’s South China Morning Post two decades ago.

This media deal of the year indicates Murdoch's sights on strengthening his influence in Asia Pacific and possibly boost their online offerings. Even though WSJ has gone through some drastic changes recently (resized to tabloid as well as revamped awsj.com), we can expect to see more changes in the near future.