In the months since Donald Trump’s surprise election victory, financial markets around the world have surged. Bond yields rose rapidly, and last month the Dow Jones industrial average soared to close above 20,000 for the first time in history.
Throughout his campaign, Trump sold himself as an experienced entrepreneur, and vowed to deregulate the banking industry and usher in a new era of pro-business policies, including corporate tax cuts. He’s since created the wealthiest cabinet in the nation’s history and, within days of taking office, signed an executive order intended to slash regulation across all sectors. But, despite the market’s enthusiasm, many question if Trump’s capriciousness will get in the way.
In our cover story this month, we ask: Will the president’s approach drive Wall Street growth? Or does his unpredictable nature introduce a wild card element in an industry that does not like surprises?
We break down the potential effects of a Trump presidency on the market, and examine how it will impact New York City real estate.
Meanwhile, we take a close look at Trump’s cabinet, which has an estimated net worth of between $12 billion and $15 billion. We profile Charlie Kushner, and look at his return to prominence at Kushner Companies following his son’s departure for the White House. There’s TRD’s ranking of the top 40 investment sales firms, a look at why Queens became such a hot market last year, as well as an investor’s guide to the borough, which is the city’s most expansive and diverse.
Elsewhere in the issue, there are stories on the re-creation of Colliers International’s New York City operation, how zoning became a key element of the de Blasio administration, and the acrimonious relationship between Airbnb and the city.
Finally, in our Closing interview, Meridian Capital Group CEO Ralph Herzka talks about how he attributes much of his business success to his mother, whether he would ever take Meridian public, and how he’s managed to lock down multimillion dollar deals at spin class.
To read the February issue of TRD, click here or on the “Magazine” tab on the top left of the homepage. Enjoy! — Miriam Hall