America First Nomination: Howard Lutnick

Biography

Howard W. Lutnick is the chairman and CEO of Cantor Fitzgerald, BGC Group, and Newmark Group, which are global leaders in financial services, real estate, and brokerage. Under his leadership, these firms manage diverse and expansive asset portfolios across various sectors, significantly shaping the global financial and real estate landscapes. As of September 2018, Lutnick owned 60% of Cantor Fitzgerald, with a net worth estimated at over $1.5 billion. His companies employ more than 10,000 people worldwide. Lutnick’s qualifications to lead such influential companies stem from his vast experience navigating complex financial markets and his proven resilience in rebuilding Cantor Fitzgerald after the tragic loss of 658 employees, including his brother, in the 9/11 attacks. Following this, he established the Cantor Fitzgerald Relief Fund, which has raised more than $180 million for victims’ families. This experience, combined with his ability to drive substantial growth and innovation in the financial and real estate sectors, solidifies his expertise in managing high-stakes business environments. Lutnick’s leadership extends beyond financial success; he is known for his philanthropy and contributions to various social causes. He was named Financial Times’ Person of the Year in 2001 and Ernst & Young’s United States Entrepreneur of the Year in 2010. His impact also extends into the military and veterans’ community, where he actively supports initiatives and serves on the board of the National September 11 Memorial & Museum. Lutnick’s company, BGC Group, continues to have a profound economic effect, shaping financial services and real estate markets globally. Through strategic acquisitions, innovation, and an emphasis on talent development, Lutnick’s firms remain integral to the global economy.

America First Credentials

Supports

Economic Growth & Trade Reform

Advocating for President Trump’s tariff policies and championing strong trade protectionism to revitalize American industries. Believes tariffs are critical tools for protecting American workers and fostering fair global trade practices that put America first.

Cryptocurrency & Technological Innovation

Promoting cryptocurrency, particularly Bitcoin and Tether, with the belief that digital currencies should be treated as global commodities free from overly restrictive government regulations. This vision for technological innovation emphasizes advancing financial technologies to transform the U.S. and global economies.

Financial Sector Competitiveness

Strengthening U.S. capital markets through reduced taxes, deregulation of financial services, and enhancing investment incentives. Heavy-handed regulations on cryptocurrencies, arguing that such measures risk ceding leadership to foreign governments.

Opposes

Excessive Government Regulations

Hindering business innovation, growth, and competition, particularly in the financial and technology sectors due to overregulation. 

Unfair Trade Practices

Policies prioritizing foreign interests over American workers, and instead calling for stronger enforcement of tariffs to hold nations like China accountable for unfair competition and intellectual property theft.

America First Achievements

Howard Lutnick has driven significant America First accomplishments in commerce, trade, and economic policy, including:

Job Creation & Economic Revival

Spearheaded significant job creation by rebuilding Cantor Fitzgerald, BGC, and Newmark while keeping the firms headquartered in the United States and prioritizing domestic operations.

Resilient Leadership Post-9/11

Rebuilt Cantor Fitzgerald after the devastating losses of September 11, 2001, ensuring the firm’s survival and long-term success while providing $180 million in relief aid and healthcare coverage for affected families, setting a gold standard for corporate responsibility and crisis response.

Philanthropy & Civic Engagement

Dedicated his leadership to significant civic causes, including his roles with the National September 11 Memorial & Museum and various philanthropic organizations that advance public welfare and education in America.