The survey, by Ipsos-RSL, also found that readers were employed in newer, cutting-edge industries and that they are also spending more time with the publication - more than two hours per issue - a reflection of the current concerns over global affairs.
Rupert Harrow, regional advertisement manager, credited the May 2001 redesign of The Economist - where the title finally went to full colour - for bringing in a younger audience "as the product became a little more accessible". He added that the rise in female readers reflected the increasing number of women in business and politics.
Despite jitters over the depressed economy, a new Gulf war and terrorism, the survey found that top business executives were still flying. Harrow said deals still needed to be closed. "Clients still have to be serviced and business needs to grow, which is where The Economist reader comes in."