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Howard Lutnick is more than just a name in the financial world—his life story is a remarkable journey of tragedy, resilience, and extraordinary leadership. As the chairman and CEO of Cantor Fitzgerald, a global financial services firm, Lutnick has become a symbol of how personal loss can fuel a mission of rebuilding and giving back.

A Tragedy That Reshaped a Life

On September 11, 2001, the world changed forever. For Howard Lutnick, it was deeply personal. Cantor Fitzgerald’s offices occupied the top floors of the North Tower of the World Trade Center. On that tragic day, 658 of the firm’s 960 New York-based employees lost their lives—including Lutnick’s own brother, Gary. Lutnick survived only because he had taken his son to his first day of kindergarten that morning.

The days that followed were devastating. Howard Lutnick, faced with unimaginable grief, also bore the weight of keeping the company alive. While many expected Cantor Fitzgerald to collapse under the magnitude of loss, Lutnick vowed to rebuild it—not only for the firm’s future but also to honor those who perished.

Rebuilding Cantor Fitzgerald

Howard Lutnick’s leadership in the wake of 9/11 is considered by many to be nothing short of extraordinary. He made the difficult decision to cut off pay to surviving employees temporarily in order to keep the company afloat—but simultaneously promised to share 25% of future profits with the families of those who had died.

Over the next five years, Cantor Fitzgerald fulfilled that promise, distributing more than $180 million to the families. Lutnick’s unwavering dedication to both his employees and their loved ones earned him respect and admiration across the financial and philanthropic worlds.

The Rise of BGC Partners and Expansion

In addition to rebuilding Cantor Fitzgerald, Lutnick helped establish BGC Partners, a spin-off focusing on financial technology and brokerage services. Under his guidance, BGC grew into a successful global firm. This move diversified Cantor’s business and ensured long-term stability—further cementing Lutnick’s reputation as a visionary leader in finance.

A Champion of Philanthropy

Howard Lutnick didn’t stop with rebuilding a company; he turned his personal tragedy into a mission of compassion. Through the Cantor Fitzgerald Relief Fund, he has overseen millions of dollars in donations to victims of natural disasters, veterans, underserved children, and more.

Each year on the anniversary of 9/11, Lutnick leads “Charity Day,” where 100% of Cantor’s trading revenue is donated to dozens of charities worldwide. To date, this initiative has raised over $190 million.

Conclusion

Howard Lutnick’s legacy is a powerful testament to the human spirit. From the ashes of tragedy, he built a company that not only survived but also gave back. His journey is one of strength, compassion, and the drive to honor those lost by improving the lives of the living.