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U.S. Investor Calls for Delisting Chinese Companies Amid Escalating Trade Tensions
2025-04-11

In the midst of escalating trade tensions between the United States and China, prominent investor Kevin O’Leary has voiced strong opinions regarding Chinese companies listed on U.S. exchanges. As chairman of O’Leary Ventures, he argues that these entities should be removed due to their non-compliance with international regulations. This stance comes after China announced a significant increase in tariffs on American goods, marking another step in the ongoing trade war. O’Leary insists that delisting would place additional pressure on China to adhere to global standards, emphasizing transparency and compliance as critical factors for fair competition.

A Call for Action: Kevin O’Leary's Stance on Chinese Listings

In the wake of heightened economic disputes, noted entrepreneur Kevin O’Leary recently urged regulators to remove Chinese firms from major U.S. stock exchanges. Speaking during an interview on "Mornings with Maria," O’Leary highlighted the substantial market capitalization—estimated at $500 to $700 billion—that could face removal if such measures were enacted. He argued that this action would compel China to negotiate more equitably.

This development follows China’s recent decision to escalate tariffs on American imports, raising them from 84% to 125%. According to Beijing’s finance ministry, these moves respond directly to President Donald Trump’s imposition of similarly high duties on key Chinese exports. While asserting that further retaliatory measures are unlikely, China criticized the U.S.'s approach as both irrational and unilateral.

O’Leary framed his argument around the principle of regulatory fairness. Drawing from his experience taking companies public on platforms like NASDAQ and the New York Stock Exchange, he pointed out the stark contrast between stringent requirements imposed on Western enterprises versus the leniency afforded Chinese counterparts. He expressed frustration over competing under unequal conditions, where his businesses must comply fully with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), whereas Chinese competitors bypass crucial oversight mechanisms.

Perspective and Implications

From a journalistic standpoint, O’Leary’s proposition raises important questions about global financial integrity and equitable trading practices. His call for stricter enforcement underscores the need for balanced rules across borders, ensuring all participants play by the same set of guidelines. For readers, this debate serves as a reminder of how interconnected economies remain vulnerable to policy shifts and geopolitical dynamics. It also highlights the importance of maintaining trust within capital markets through consistent application of laws and standards.

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