Legends Live @Citi

Citi hosted Dell Technologies Chairman and CEO Michael Dell for the latest session of Legends Live @Citi. Michael is one of the most influential entrepreneurs in modern technology. He founded Dell out of his college dorm room and, through scrappy innovation, relentless customer focus and steadfast conviction in his vision, grew it into the global technology powerhouse it is today. During the session, he shared candid reflections on building a customer‑first business, navigating disruption and leading one of the most significant transformations in tech history. He also discussed the accelerating impact of AI, the importance of continuous reinvention and his lifelong commitment to philanthropy alongside his wife, Susan, with a focus on building pathways that change lives throughout the world.

Citi hosted Blackstone Chairman, CEO and Co-Founder Steve Schwarzman for the latest session of Legends Live @Citi. Steve is a legendary figure in finance who transformed Blackstone from a boutique advisory firm into the world's leading alternative investment manager. During the session, he shared candid insights on building a high-performance culture, the entrepreneurial grit required to overcome early failures and the investment themes, like AI and data centers, shaping the future. He also discussed his influential philanthropic work, including the Schwarzman Scholars program designed to shape the next generation of global leaders, and his foundation’s focus on education, medical innovation and the responsible advancement of AI.

Citi hosted investor, business leader and sports team owner Josh Harris for another session of our global speaker series Legends Live @Citi. Josh is a distinguished leader, Founder of 26North and Co-founder of Apollo Global Management. His influence also extends deeply into professional sports, where he leads major franchises and organizations such as the Washington Commanders, Philadelphia 76ers, New Jersey Devils, Crystal Palace Football Club and Unrivaled Sports. During the session, he shared profound insights from his career, emphasizing the critical role of resilience, strategic investment and community engagement. He detailed his transformative vision for Washington D.C., outlining plans for a $4 billion private investment to construct a new stadium and an entire surrounding community, projected to generate billions in tax revenue, thousands of jobs, and comprehensive amenities including affordable housing, retail, hotels and office spaces. Josh also discussed the evolution of leadership and the unifying power of sports in today's world.

Citi hosted Mattel Chairman and CEO Ynon Kreiz for another session of our global speaker series Legends Live @Citi. Ynon Kreiz is a visionary leader who has led the remarkable transformation of Mattel from a traditional toy manufacturer into a global entertainment and intellectual property powerhouse. During the session, he shared insights on the groundbreaking success of the Barbie movie and the strategy behind leveraging iconic brands. He also gave us a glimpse into Mattel’s innovative roadmap, including news regarding the recently announced series based on the Magic-8 Ball and the work the firm is doing to thoughtfully integrate AI for cutting-edge play experiences for future generations.

Citi Global Chair of Banking Leon Kalvaria hosted Maria Bartiromo, award-winning journalist and trailblazer in financial news, for another session of our global speaker series, Legends Live @Citi. Maria is a true icon in financial journalism who became the first person to report live from the New York Stock Exchange floor. During the session, she shared her unique perspective on the current media landscape in the age of AI, and personal lessons on hard work and financial independence.

Citi Global Chair Banking Leon Kalvaria hosted Larry Fink for another session of our global speaker series, Legends Live @Citi. Larry is the Chairman and CEO of BlackRock, a global leader in investment and technology solutions, which he co-founded in 1988. Under his leadership, BlackRock has become the world's largest asset manager, dedicated to helping clients achieve their financial goals. Before BlackRock, Larry held leadership positions at The First Boston Corporation. He actively supports organizations including the World Economic Forum, NYU Langone Medical Center, the Museum of Modern Art and the International Rescue Committee. During the session, Larry shared his unique perspective on leadership and the incredible journey of building BlackRock into the powerhouse it is today.

Citi Global Chair Banking Leon Kalvaria hosted Ruth Porat for another session of our global speaker series, Legends Live @Citi. Since September 2023, Ruth Porat has led Alphabet and Google as President and Chief Investment Officer, overseeing corporate investments like Google Ventures, CapitalG, and the Other Bets portfolio. Previously, she served as CFO of Alphabet and Google (2015-2024) and began her career at Morgan Stanley, ultimately serving as CFO. During the session, Ruth shared valuable insights on the power of data and taking risks, the importance of innovation, the value of continuous learning and the need for clear communication.

Citi Global Chair of Banking Leon Kalvaria hosted David Rubenstein for the inaugural session of our global speaker series, Legends Live @Citi. David is co-founder and co-chairman of The Carlyle Group; principal owner of the U.S. Major League Baseball team, the Baltimore Orioles; author of numerous books about leadership, investing and American history; as well as a television host. Leon and David spoke about a wide range of topics, starting with Carlyle’s longstanding relationship with Citi, which goes back to the financing of the group’s first buyouts. David also shared his experience growing up as an only child in a blue-collar home in Baltimore, his approach to “patriotic philanthropy” and how he hopes to inspire his hometown by investing in the Orioles.