Pearson says in talks to sell The Economist share

British publishing company Pearson said Saturday it was in talks to sell its 50 percent stake in The Economist Group, owner of the prestigious Economist magazine. The announcement comes just two days after Pearson agreed to sell the Financial Times to Japanese media group Nikkei for $1.3 billion, 1.2 billion euros, saying that it wanted to focus solely on the education publishing sector which accounts for most of its business.The Financial Times cited people familiar with the matter saying The Economist Group stake was valued at $620 million.

Pearson confirms it is in discussions with The Economist Group Board and trustees regarding the potential sale of our 50 percent share in the Group.

a Pearson spokesman