Shark Tank's Kevin O'Leary sends key message on Harvard, 401(k)s

As time passes, it may become apparent that the Trump administration’s ban on foreign students at Harvard could have broader economic implications for the U.S. — including ripple effects on public companies and stock prices, which could eventually affect American workers’ 401(k) plans.

Kevin O’Leary, well-known as an investor on ABC’s “Shark Tank,” is generally supportive of many Trump administration policies, but his views on the Harvard controversy do not fit that pattern. On the subject of 401(k) plans, O’Leary offers some important words as well. 

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One potential concern is that if investors perceive the Harvard foreign student ban as a broader signal of restrictive immigration policies, they may adjust their portfolios accordingly. Companies that benefit from international talent — especially in tech and finance — could experience stock price volatility.

Many Americans’ 401(k) plans are tied to the stock market. If the ban leads to economic uncertainty or negatively affects key industries, it could impact stock prices and, consequently, retirement savings.

Related: Shark Tank’s Kevin O’Leary sends strong message on Social Security

Harvard has long been a vital source of international talent for the tech sector, with many foreign students going on to work at top firms or establish startups. 

The ban could interrupt this steady stream of skilled professionals, making it more challenging for companies to attract highly qualified engineers and researchers. Businesses dependent on global talent — particularly in AI, software development, and biotechnology — could see fluctuations in their stock prices.

A growing concern is China’s active efforts to recruit U.S. scientists and researchers, offering competitive incentives to bring them into its research institutions. Restrictions on foreign students at Harvard might further encourage this trend, potentially reshaping global industry leadership.

If American companies experience an outflow of talent to China, their ability to pioneer new technologies could slow, potentially triggering negative investor reactions and stock price volatility.

Because many 401(k) plans include investments in technology firms, many of those retirement savings accounts could be directly vulnerable.

O’Leary discusses his views on the Harvard dispute and offers advice for Americans on their 401(k) plans.

Kevin O’Leary of ‘Shark Tank’ talks Harvard and 401(k) plans

A recent Instagram post featured a video clip of O’Leary, who often lectures at Harvard Business School, speaking on Fox Business Network.

“It’s so clear as to what has to happen,” O’Leary said. “The president of Harvard has to call the president of the United States, get behind closed doors, and work out a deal.”

“Let me assure you of something about these international students,” O’Leary continued. “I teach them. These are the smartest students in the world. Harvard is the oldest educational institution. These students are extraordinary individuals, and they don’t hate America.”

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• Shark Tank’s Kevin O’Leary has message on Social Security, 401(k)s

O’Leary made clear his view that the international students he teaches at Harvard want to come to the United States and stay.

“They want to figure out a way that they can start a business in America,” O’Leary said. “We want them here. I want to invest in them. I’ve already invested in two of them. These are the brightest and the best from around the world, and they’re coming for the American dream.”

It’s likely O’Leary means to communicate that, because he wants to invest in the students, other major investors potentially do as well. 

If O’Leary’s hopes that Harvard and the Trump administration can work out a mutually beneficial deal come to fruition, that could be a good sign for Americans whose 401(k)s are invested in impacted companies.

In any case, O’Leary advises people participating in 401(k) plans to adjust expectations entering their retirement years — especially during uncertain times. 

Related: Shark Tank’s Kevin O’Leary makes bold prediction on U.S. economy

Kevin O’Leary explains a strategy for living well on 401(k) plans

In his book “Cold Hard Truth on Men, Women and Money,” O’Leary emphasizes the importance of financial discipline while living off of 401(k) income, other savings, and Social Security.

He explains that by the time one retires, they should already be comfortably adjusted to their new financial reality — one that allows them to live securely and happily within their means.

According to O’Leary, truly wealthy people identify their personal threshold of financial satisfaction — what they consider “enough” — and rarely surpass it.

“If you’re on a fixed income in retirement, whether you start tapping into your 401(k), pension, or annuity, you’ll already be mentally and financially adjusted to your new reality,” O’Leary wrote.

“Living within your means will feel natural. That’s how to reach financial freedom.”

Related: Veteran fund manager unveils eye-popping S&P 500 forecast

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