In the high-stakes world of Davos, where global leaders grapple with geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties, U.S. President Donald Trump brought a dose of levity to the proceedings. During the World Economic Forum 2026, Trump addressed business leaders at a reception following exhaustive sessions, turning serious discussions into moments of laughter.
Trump kicked off with a self-deprecating quip about his prepared speech. ‘I’ve got this beautiful speech here,’ he said, prompting immediate chuckles from the audience. ‘The last thing we want to do is waste time reading it again.’ The room erupted, appreciating his candid style.
Spotting familiar faces, Trump joked about skyrocketing ticket sales due to celebrity attendance. ‘I just got a report on ticket sales like never before,’ he remarked, teasing the crowd’s star power. His playful jabs at senior officials, calling Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick polar opposites, drew more laughter. ‘I love it,’ he added with a grin.
Trump didn’t spare corporate titans either. He ribbed them on their booming valuations since his presidency began. ‘Your net worth has doubled, hasn’t it?’ he quipped. Spotting Apple CEO Tim Cook, he marveled at the company’s $650 billion investment pledge. ‘Think about it—$650 billion,’ he said, to thunderous applause and laughter.
Even on envy, Trump was humorous. ‘In a way, I’m jealous. Some people in this room, I can’t stand them, and they get so rich.’ He poked fun at security concerns from a recent Washington dinner, noting he walked down the street’s center despite the Secret Service’s dismay.
In a CNBC interview, Trump brushed off criticisms with wit. ‘If I cured cancer, they’d ask why not faster. If you walk on water, they say you can’t swim.’ On Federal Reserve leadership, he mocked construction costs, claiming he could do it for $25 million better.
Trump’s light touch extended to Greenland, dismissing Denmark’s objections casually. ‘They didn’t tell me. I don’t like hearing it from others.’ Known for unscripted remarks, Trump’s humor lightened Davos’ intense atmosphere, blending policy chats with bilateral talks and media spots seamlessly.