In recent weeks, Mar-a-Lago has become a “central stage” for America’s corporate elite, with CEOs from across industries meeting with President Donald Trump. Kevin O’Leary believes most of them are “sucking up to Trump” because the president can create “good times” for businesses.
Business leaders have been lining up to network with DJT, who has portrayed his return as a pro-business presidency. The pace of these high-level meetings has accelerated since his election victory over Kamala Harris in early November, with executives eager to build relationships with the incoming administration.
Kevin O’Leary, chairman of O’Leary Ventures, commented on the surge in CEO activity, noting that leaders are motivated by Trump’s pro-business stance and anticipated policies. Speaking at The Evening Edit, O’Leary highlighted two main reasons behind the trend: the stable 21% corporate tax rate and the promise of deregulation.
“This is a great platform for Trump,” O’Leary said. “Everyone knows he’s pro-business.” “All of a sudden, CEOs are very willing to stick with Trump because he has the power, the mandate, the reach.”
Kevin O'Leary: "I'm licking my chops now"
In the interview, O’Leary drew attention to the improved economic outlook after Trump’s election victory. A recent survey shows global economic confidence is rising. This is in stark contrast to the concerns that prevailed during President Joe Biden’s term, which O’Leary criticized for policies that burdened American families.
The O'Leary Ventures chief, known as Mr. Fantastic, highlighted the speed with which Trump is addressing economic issues, describing his approach as a reflection of what voters have demanded.
“This mandate will be much better than the last one, much more stable and very good for business,” O’Leary said. “I’m licking my chops now. These are good times.”
O'Leary points out that Republican control of both houses of Congress, along with the presidency, boosts confidence among business leaders.
Executives from leading companies, including Netflix’s Ted Sarandos and Amazon’s Jeff Bezos, have visited Trump at his Mar-a-Lago resort. Sarandos, a longtime Democratic donor, and Bezos are among several leaders who have expressed a willingness to work with the incoming administration, even as they navigate past political divides.
TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew, who is facing a potential US ban on the popular app, met with Trump earlier this week. Meanwhile, leaders of Apple, Google and Meta are said to be seeking a more favorable regulatory environment under the new administration.
Despite their enthusiasm, business leaders have reservations about some aspects of Trump’s agenda, including potential sweeping tariffs and changes to manufacturing subsidies. Still, executives see Trump as a dealmaker who responds well to flattery and engagement, making him more likely to nurture relationships than risk public rebuke.
Nikki Haley, a former Republican presidential candidate who is now a vice president at consulting firm Edelman, urged CEOs to seize the opportunity to engage with Trump.
“It’s good to let him know what you’re working on, how you’re growing your business,” she said, emphasizing the value of one-on-one time with the president. “I don’t talk to any CEOs who are afraid of Trump,” she added.
Corporate America’s efforts to align with the incoming administration extend beyond the meetings. Companies like OpenAI, along with financial institutions like Bank of America and Goldman Sachs, attended Trump’s inauguration, signaling broad support from the business community.