Squawk Pod

Yale professor Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, an expert on corporate governance, weighs in on President Trump's remarks about Apple CEO Tim Cook, revealing tensions between corporate and political leaders. Mike Novogratz, a seasoned crypto advocate, discusses the increasing mainstream acceptance of blockchain as his company goes public. The conversation also touches on trade policies affecting U.S. businesses, the rising influence of cryptocurrency among younger investors, and the implications of ongoing developments in tech and finance.

Alexis Ohanian, co-founder of Reddit and founder of VentureFirm 776, recently invested in Chelsea Women FC, showcasing his commitment to women's sports. He discusses the bright future of women's soccer and the challenges of monetizing sports in the digital age. The conversation touches on the role of AI in enhancing fan experiences and the broader implications for technology in sports. Ohanian also offers insights into major market trends, including corporate acquisitions and the latest controversies affecting platforms like Reddit.

Retired U.S. Army General Stanley McChrystal, a noted leader and author, discusses America’s character amidst rising political division. He shares insights on leadership integrity and the impact of social media on societal values. Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy delves into the controversial offer of a Qatari plane to President Trump and the implications for U.S. foreign policy. They navigate the intricate relationship between legislative efforts and national security, highlighting the current political climate.

Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas) is pitching a universal savings account starting at birth, and he has a partner in Silicon Valley: Altimeter’s Brad Gerstner. Gerstner is in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as the Saudi-U.S. Investment Forum kicks off with President Trump, Elon Musk, OpenAI’s Sam Altman, Nvidia’s Jensen Huang, and many other CEOs and leaders. At the Newark Liberty International Airport, flights are delayed amid communication issues and a shortage of air traffic controllers. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy explains the many issues facing America’s air traffic system, including outdated technology and a backlog of air traffic controllers in training. Plus, House Republicans are inching closer to a tax plan.  Sen. Ted Cruz & Brad Gerstner - 15:37Sec. Sean Duffy - 35:07 In this episode:Sean Duffy, @SecDuffyTed Cruz, @SenTedCruzBrad Gerstner, @altcapBecky Quick, @BeckyQuickJoe Kernen, @JoeSquawkAndrew Ross Sorkin, @andrewrsorkinKatie Kramer, @Kramer_Katie

Scott Bessent, the U.S. Treasury Secretary, shares insights from the recent U.S.-China trade negotiations, revealing a pivotal 90-day pause on tariffs. He emphasizes the importance of ongoing dialogues and strategic decoupling to enhance supply chain resilience. Phil LeBeau, CNBC's auto and airline industry expert, discusses the chaos at Newark Airport, including ground delays and communication breakdowns affecting airlines. Together, they explore the broader implications of trade dynamics and the challenges within the transportation sector.

Max Levchin, CEO of Affirm and co-founder of PayPal, discusses the evolving landscape of consumer spending and the impact of buy now, pay later solutions. Michelle Caruso-Cabrera, a CNBC contributor and CEO of MCC Global Enterprises, shares insights from her recent trip to China, highlighting the complexities of U.S.-China trade relations. They explore the resilience of the U.S. economy compared to China's current challenges, and the implications of ongoing trade negotiations, and offer a glimpse into the future of payment models.

Ted Cruz, the U.S. Senator from Texas, shares insights on AI competition and discusses the implications of tariffs and price controls on Medicaid drugs. Scott Bok, former chair of the University of Pennsylvania’s board, reflects on the shifting political dynamics and culture on college campuses amid recent geopolitical tensions. The conversation also touches on President Trump’s trade deals and the current economic landscape, making for a captivating discourse on technology, politics, and education.

Dara Khosrowshahi, CEO of Uber, and Peter Orszag, CEO of Lazard and former economic director under Obama, tackle pressing topics. Khosrowshahi highlights Uber's expansion plans and the competitive delivery landscape, including legal tussles with DoorDash. Orszag shares insights on U.S.-China trade negotiations and their economic implications. They also discuss cultural differences in service ratings, especially in New York, and the impact of geopolitical tensions on market dynamics, including healthcare implications and corporate identity shifts.

Paul Tudor Jones, a legendary investor and founder of the Robin Hood Foundation, discusses the urgent need for AI security investments alongside its growth. He expresses his concerns about the broader implications of artificial intelligence. Ynon Kreiz, CEO of Mattel, shares how rising tariffs are affecting toy prices and the supply chain challenges faced by the company. Both guests delve into economic pressures on industries like pharmaceuticals and Hollywood, highlighting the interconnected nature of today’s market landscape.

Bill Ackman, CEO of Pershing Square Capital Management and a prominent activist investor, shares insights from the Berkshire Hathaway Shareholder Meeting. He discusses his bold $900 million investment in Howard Hughes, driven by his vision to create a diversified holding company akin to Berkshire Hathaway. The conversation includes reflections on Warren Buffett's leadership transition to Greg Abel and optimistic economic forecasts despite geopolitical tensions. Ackman also emphasizes the importance of company culture and strategic reforms in investment practices.