United States President-elect, Donald Trump, made history on Thursday by ringing the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) for the first time.
The ceremonial honour coincided with Trump being named TIME Magazine’s 2024 Person of the Year, marking the second time he has received the recognition.
Trump, accompanied by his wife Melania, daughters Ivanka and Tiffany, and Vice President-elect JD Vance, called the occasion “a tremendous honour” as he addressed a cheering crowd chanting “USA” before raising his fist to open the trading day at NYSE.
The recognition from TIME is a testament to Trump’s political resurgence, transforming from an embattled former president who refused to concede his 2020 election defeat to decisively reclaiming the White House in November.
During his remarks at the NYSE, Trump highlighted key policies and appointees in his incoming administration, including Treasury Secretary nominee Scott Bessent. He also pledged expedited federal permits, including environmental approvals, for projects exceeding $1 billion.
“I think we’re going to have a tremendous run,” Trump said. “We have to straighten out some problems, some big problems in the world”, he said.
The NYSE regularly invites high-profile figures for the ceremonial start of trading, making Trump’s appearance a cultural and political marker. After the ceremony, he walked the trading floor, shaking hands with traders.
This marked Trump’s second time as TIME’s Person of the Year, following his recognition in 2016 when he first won the presidency. He was chosen over other finalists, including Vice President Kamala Harris, Elon Musk, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Kate, the Princess of Wales.
