Howard Lutnick, the CEO of Cantor Fitzgerald, has faced immense personal tragedy throughout his life. Losing his mother at age 16 and his father at age 18, Lutnick and his siblings became inseparable as they navigated these heartbreaking losses together.
However, the most devastating blow came on September 11, 2001, when Lutnick's brother, Gary, and 657 colleagues at Cantor Fitzgerald lost their lives in the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center. Lutnick, who was spared that day as he was taking his son to kindergarten, vividly recalls the emotional toll of that tragic event.
Cantor Fitzgerald, located on the top five floors of the World Trade Center, lost every employee in the office that day. Determined to honor the memory of their late colleagues, Lutnick and his surviving employees made a remarkable decision on September 12 - they pledged to rebuild the company and support the families of those who were lost. Through their collective efforts, they raised an astounding $180 million over the next five years to assist the grieving families.
Lutnick's deep gratitude towards his employees is evident as he acknowledges how they helped him heal and find purpose in the aftermath of such profound loss. Despite his success in business, Lutnick has made a significant decision to divest from Cantor Fitzgerald and his other business interests within 90 days of confirmation.
Expressing a desire to give back and serve the American people, Lutnick sees this as an opportunity to use his resources for the greater good. His journey, marked by resilience and compassion, serves as a testament to the power of unity and generosity in the face of adversity.
