Sourcing, data and forecasting
Our standards for attribution, financial calculations, chart integrity, uncertainty and predictions.
Last updated: November 2, 2026
Source hierarchy and attribution
Use original documents and data where available, supplemented by credible independent reporting and relevant expertise. A company announcement establishes what the company says, not that every claim is independently verified. Identify exclusive reporting by its originating publisher. Link evidence close to the claim. A working link does not establish that a source supports the claim.
Evidence records
For material claims, retain the source URL or document identifier, title, retrieval date, relevant passage or table, applicable period and the claim it supports. Record conflicting evidence and how it was resolved. Keep restricted source material and personal information out of public downloads and public evidence notes.
Data and calculations
Identify the dataset release, geography, population, units, period, denominator, revisions and missing data. Distinguish nominal from inflation-adjusted values, percentage changes from percentage-point differences, and estimates from observations. Reproduce material calculations from saved inputs. A second person checks the method and interpretation. Automated arithmetic checks supplement this review.
Charts and comparisons
Charts must agree with source data and article text, show units and dates, and disclose transformations and material exclusions. Scales must not mislead. Provide accessible descriptions or tables where needed. Label hypothetical scenarios and distinguish them from measured outcomes.
Forecasts and uncertainty
Identify the forecast date, target, horizon, assumptions, method, downside or alternative scenario and evidence that would change the view. Probabilities require a defensible basis; avoid false precision. Preserve the original forecast and schedule a follow-up. Forecasts are not guarantees or personalised trading instructions.
Anonymous and disputed sources
Use named sources where possible. An editor must approve anonymity after assessing identity, access, motive, risk and corroboration. Explain anonymity to readers without exposing the source. Do not count dependent reports as separate confirmation. Material allegations require fair attribution and a documented opportunity to respond.
Copyright and permissions
Write independently and attribute other reporting. Do not reproduce articles, photographs, charts, database extracts or substantial quotations without an appropriate licence, permission or documented lawful basis. Attribution alone is not permission. Observe dataset and publisher terms, including restrictions on automated collection.