Citadel founder urges New York business community to voice concerns over mayor's policies

Citadel founder Ken Griffin addressed a gathering of New York business leaders on Thursday, urging them to speak out about the city’s policy environment. He said the business community should “find their voice and fight for their city,” adding that failure to do so could lead to a loss of talent, which he described as a “catastrophe.”

Griffin, whose net worth is estimated at $48.3 billion, warned that proposals to raise taxes on high-income residents and luxury property owners could undermine New York’s economic competitiveness. He suggested that corporate leaders focus on the long-term future of the city rather than short-term political disputes.

The comments come amid ongoing debate between city officials and the business sector over tax policy. Mayor Zohran Mamdani has advocated for higher taxes on second homes valued over $5 million and has previously criticized Griffin’s personal wealth. The mayor recently reached out to Griffin to discuss policy matters, indicating a possible dialogue in the coming months.

Griffin referenced his experience relocating Citadel’s headquarters from Chicago to Miami in 2022, noting that business climate factors such as crime and taxes influence corporate decisions. He said he plans to continue discussions with the mayor, stating that “actions speak louder than words.”