Bloomberg Terminals, often referred to simply as “Bloombergs,” are proprietary computer systems and software platforms provided by Bloomberg L.P. These terminals are widely used by financial professionals, including traders, analysts, portfolio managers, and other individuals working in the finance and investment industry. Bloomberg Terminals are known for their comprehensive financial data, news, and analytics, making them an essential tool for decision-making and research in the financial world.
History:
Bloomberg Terminals were developed by Bloomberg L.P., a financial data and media company founded by Michael Bloomberg in 1981. Michael Bloomberg, who later became the Mayor of New York City, initially aimed to provide real-time financial information to Wall Street professionals. The first Bloomberg Terminal was launched in December 1982, and it quickly gained popularity due to its innovative features and real-time data capabilities.
Key Features and Data Available from Bloomberg Terminals:
- Real-Time Market Data: Bloomberg Terminals provide real-time data on stock prices, bond yields, commodity prices, foreign exchange rates, and more. Traders rely on this data for timely decision-making.
- News and Research: Users can access financial news, research reports, and analyst recommendations. Bloomberg’s news service covers a wide range of global financial and economic events.
- Company Information: Users can retrieve detailed information about public and private companies, including financial statements, corporate news, earnings releases, and corporate actions.
- Market Analysis Tools: Bloomberg Terminals offer a suite of analytical tools for charting, technical and fundamental analysis, and portfolio management.
- Economic Indicators: Users can access economic data and indicators from around the world, including GDP growth rates, unemployment figures, and consumer price indices.
- Fixed Income Data: Bloomberg is renowned for its extensive fixed income data, including bond prices, yields, and credit ratings.
- Equity and Options Data: Users can monitor stock and options markets, track options pricing and strategies, and access information about dividends and earnings.
- Risk Management: Bloomberg Terminals provide tools for assessing portfolio risk, including Value at Risk (VaR) calculations and stress testing.
- FX and Currency Information: Currency traders use Bloomberg for foreign exchange rates, currency conversion, and forex news.
- Commodity and Energy Data: Information on commodity prices, futures contracts, and energy markets, including oil and natural gas.
- Regulatory Data: Bloomberg Terminals offer access to regulatory and compliance information, including data on financial regulations and compliance requirements.
- Weather Data: For industries sensitive to weather conditions, such as agriculture and energy, Bloomberg provides weather forecasts and historical data.
- Alternative Investments: Information on hedge funds, private equity, and other alternative investments, including performance metrics and strategies.
- Municipal Bonds: Data on municipal bonds, including issuance information, credit ratings, and yield curves.
- Global Market Indices: Users can track global market indices, including stock market indices like the S&P 500 and global bond indices.
Bloomberg Terminals have become an indispensable tool for professionals in the finance industry due to their wealth of data, analysis tools, and the ability to execute trades. While they come at a significant cost, the comprehensive and up-to-date information they provide justifies their use for financial decision-making and investment strategies.
How much do they cost?
Pricing is not public however there are various references and stories around the finance industry.
Bloomberg Terminal pricing can vary significantly based on several factors, including the type of user, the number of terminals purchased, and additional services or add-ons. Bloomberg L.P. typically offers subscription-based pricing for its terminals. Keep in mind that the prices mentioned here are approximate and subject to change, so it’s essential to contact Bloomberg directly for the most current pricing information. As of my last knowledge update in 2022, here is a general overview of Bloomberg Terminal pricing:
1. Single-Terminal Subscription:
- A single Bloomberg Terminal subscription can cost around $20,000 to $25,000 per user per year.
- This subscription provides one user access to the full suite of Bloomberg Terminal functions.
2. Multiple-Terminal Subscription:
- The cost per terminal often decreases when purchasing multiple terminals.
- For example, a two-terminals subscription may cost less per terminal than two separate single-terminal subscriptions.
3. Enterprise Solutions:
- For larger financial institutions, Bloomberg offers enterprise solutions that cater to the specific needs of the organisation.
- Pricing for enterprise solutions can vary widely based on the size and requirements of the institution.
4. Data Feeds and Add-Ons:
- Bloomberg offers various data feeds, add-ons, and additional services that come with their own pricing structures.
- These can include access to specific data sets, analytics tools, and more.
5. Bloomberg Anywhere:
- Bloomberg Anywhere is a mobile version of the Bloomberg Terminal, allowing users to access Bloomberg on the go.
- The cost for Bloomberg Anywhere is typically an additional fee on top of the standard Terminal subscription.
6. Customised Solutions:
- For clients with unique requirements, Bloomberg may provide customised solutions with tailored pricing models.
It’s important to note that Bloomberg Terminal users often have access to a wide range of financial data, news, research, and analysis tools, including real-time market data, historical data, and news services. The Bloomberg Terminal is known for its comprehensive coverage of financial markets and asset classes.
To get specific pricing details and explore different levels of service, potential subscribers should contact Bloomberg L.P. directly or visit their official website for the most up-to-date information. Keep in mind that Bloomberg Terminal subscriptions are a significant investment, and the pricing can vary based on user needs and the level of access required.
