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Cantor Fitzgerald CEO Sparks Outrage with Epstein Comments

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  Published in Business and Finance on Friday, January 30th 2026 at 20:09 GMT by The Raw Story
      Locales: UNITED STATES, UNITED KINGDOM

New York, NY - January 31, 2026 - Howard Lutnick, the CEO of financial services firm Cantor Fitzgerald, has ignited a firestorm of controversy with comments suggesting convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein "would have" been a beneficial figure in brokering peace in Gaza. The remarks, made during a Bloomberg interview on Friday, have drawn swift and intense criticism, reviving scrutiny of Cantor Fitzgerald's long-standing relationship with Epstein.

Lutnick's justification centered around Epstein's perceived access and network of contacts. "I mean, he obviously had a lot of access, and he knew a lot of people," Lutnick stated, leading him to believe Epstein possessed qualities that could have facilitated peace negotiations. This assertion immediately sparked outrage, with critics questioning the ethical implications of suggesting a convicted sex trafficker could contribute to such a sensitive and crucial endeavor.

The immediate backlash underscores the deep sensitivity surrounding Epstein's name and the severe nature of his crimes. Epstein was convicted in 2008 of sex trafficking of minors, though a more comprehensive case was cut short by his death in a jail cell in 2019, officially ruled a suicide. Numerous allegations of abuse, impacting many victims, continue to surface, adding layers to the controversy.

This isn't the first time Lutnick has faced questions about Cantor Fitzgerald's connection to Epstein. The firm previously faced scrutiny for accepting significant fees from Epstein for advisory services, even after his initial conviction. Lutnick has consistently defended these business dealings, citing the firm's fiduciary duty to maximize profits for its shareholders. However, critics argue this justification ignores the moral implications of profiting from a known predator.

The current controversy extends beyond simply revisiting past business practices. It raises broader questions about the normalization of individuals with deeply problematic backgrounds, particularly in positions of power and influence. To suggest someone convicted of such heinous crimes - crimes that inflicted lasting trauma on numerous victims - could be a positive force in conflict resolution is seen by many as deeply insensitive and damaging.

The debate has quickly moved to social media platforms, with the hashtag #Lutnick trending on X (formerly Twitter). Users are expressing anger and disappointment, highlighting the insensitivity towards Epstein's victims. Many are calling for a boycott of Cantor Fitzgerald and demanding greater accountability from its leadership. One user commented, "The fact that he's even considering Epstein as a potential peacemaker is horrifying. It shows a complete lack of empathy."

Legal and ethical experts are weighing in as well. "Lutnick's comments demonstrate a profound disconnect between financial pragmatism and moral responsibility," states Dr. Eleanor Vance, a professor of ethics at Columbia University. "While businesses may have legal obligations to their shareholders, they also have a social responsibility to avoid associating with individuals who have demonstrably harmed others."

The Gaza situation itself adds another layer of complexity. The ongoing conflict has resulted in immense suffering and loss of life, and any attempt to propose a solution is fraught with difficulty. Suggesting a figure like Epstein, with a history of exploitation and abuse, as a potential mediator is considered deeply offensive by many, particularly those directly affected by the conflict.

As of this writing, Cantor Fitzgerald has not issued a further statement beyond acknowledging the initial request for comment. The firm's silence is likely exacerbating the situation, allowing the criticism to continue to escalate. Whether Lutnick will issue an apology or further clarification remains to be seen. However, the damage to Cantor Fitzgerald's reputation is already significant and may have long-lasting consequences. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the enduring impact of the Epstein scandal and the ethical considerations companies must address when navigating relationships with controversial figures, even after their death.