The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) has had a long-standing tradition of having special guests ring the opening and closing bells to mark the start and end of the trading day. These bell ringers have included a wide range of individuals, from celebrities to Muppets.
Celebrities such as Kanye West, Jay-Z, Madonna, and Taylor Swift have all had the honor of ringing the bell at the NYSE. Their appearances have garnered attention and excitement from traders and onlookers alike. In addition to musicians and actors, business leaders and politicians, including Warren Buffett and Joe Biden, have also participated in this tradition.
But it’s not just humans who have had the opportunity to ring the bell. In 2018, the beloved Muppet characters from Sesame Street were invited to ring the bell in honor of the show’s 50th anniversary. The iconic characters, including Big Bird, Elmo, and Cookie Monster, brought joy and nostalgia to the trading floor.
The tradition of bell ringing at the NYSE dates back to the early days of the Exchange, when the bells were used to signal the start and end of trading. Over time, the tradition evolved to include special guests who are invited to ring the bell as a way to celebrate milestones, promote a cause, or simply bring attention to the Exchange.
Having celebrities and Muppets ring the bell at the NYSE serves as a fun and memorable way to mark important occasions and bring a touch of excitement to the trading floor. It highlights the intersection of entertainment and finance, showcasing the diverse range of individuals and characters who have made an impact on popular culture.
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