Editorial Policy & Ethics

1. Verification & Multi-Source Confirmation

Startup Journal does not publish unverified market speculation or single-source funding leaks. Any report regarding an unannounced transaction, M&A deal, or executive leadership change must be independently verified by at least two distinct, credible sources with direct knowledge of the matter, or validated against government filings (MCA, SEBI, RBI).

2. Anonymous Sourcing Protocol

We prioritize on-the-record attribution wherever possible. When anonymous sources are granted confidentiality due to legitimate non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) or employment vulnerability, the managing editor must be briefed on the identity and motivation of the source. We never allow anonymous sources to launch personal character attacks against industry participants.

3. Conflicts of Interest & Stock Ownership

Editorial staff and contributing writers are strictly prohibited from holding direct equity, stock options, or advisory retainers in private technology companies they routinely report on. Any personal holdings in public equities (such as listed technology companies on NSE/BSE) are disclosed prominently at the foot of related analyses.

4. Commercial Separation & Sponsored Content

Our commercial and advertising partnerships have no influence over editorial assignments, story angles, or investigative reporting. Sponsored research reports and partner whitepapers are always explicitly demarcated with clear visual labels (“Sponsored Content” or “Partner Intelligence”) and are produced independently from our core newsroom.

5. Transparent Corrections Policy

When a factual inaccuracy occurs, we correct it promptly and transparently. A formal correction notice is appended to the bottom of the article detailing the date, time, and precise nature of the rectification. We do not stealthily edit substantive factual errors.

To flag a potential factual error or request a correction, email our standards editor at standards@startupjournal.in.