In a measured response to Tim Cook stepping down as CEO of Apple effective September 1, Donald Trump took to social media to acknowledge the outgoing chief’s tenure.
“I have always been a big fan of Tim Cook, and likewise, Steve Jobs… but nowhere near as well as it has under Tim,” Trump wrote, noting that his association with Cook dates back to a phone call during his first term. He added that Cook had reached out to discuss a “fairly large problem” that, according to Trump, required presidential intervention.
Trump said that interaction marked the beginning of an ongoing engagement, during which he claimed to have extended “three or four BIG HELPS” to Cook and Apple. He also described Cook as “an amazing manager and leader,” adding that he handled issues directly without relying on consultants. “Tim Cook had an AMAZING career, almost incomparable… Quite simply, Tim Cook is an incredible guy!!” he said.
The remarks follow Apple’s announcement that Cook will transition to the role of executive chairman after nearly 15 years as CEO. He will be succeeded by John Ternus, currently the company’s senior vice president of hardware engineering.
Cook, who was brought into Apple by Jobs in 1998 and took over as CEO in August 2011, will continue in his current role through the summer to support the transition. Post September 1, he is expected to remain involved in select areas, including engaging with policymakers globally.
During his tenure, Apple expanded into new hardware categories such as the Apple Watch, AirPods, and Vision Pro, while also strengthening its services business. The company’s market capitalisation вырос from about $350 billion to nearly $4 billion, with revenue also seeing significant growth over the years.
The leadership change comes at a time when global markets remain mixed. US equities edged higher despite geopolitical turmoil, while Asian markets showed varied trends. At the same time, geopolitical tensions between the US and Iran continue to evolve, even as there are indications of potential diplomatic engagement.
Against this backdrop, Cook’s transition marks a leadership shift at one of the world’s most valuable companies, closing a long chapter in Apple’s post-Jobs journey.
