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Nixon Tapes on Stock market

51 conversations · frequently with Nixon, Colson, Haldeman, Connally

March 5, 1971 · Nixon, Haldeman & Butterfield

President Nixon met with his senior advisors, including H. R. Haldeman and Henry Kissinger, to review administrative priorities following his March 4, 1971, press conference. The discussion focused on managing public and media reactions to the Vietnam War and Laos operations, as well as addressing ongoing Middle East diplomatic developments. Additionally, Kissinger updated the President on his efforts to challenge anti-administration sentiment among the academic and policy "establishment" during a recent appearance at the Brookings Institution.

March 17, 1971 · Nixon & Safire

President Nixon and speechwriter William Safire discussed utilizing recent stock market growth, specifically the 40% increase in the Dow-Jones index, to highlight the administration's economic success in public communications. The President also addressed his media strategy, instructing Safire to defend his record of accessibility by citing specific past interviews rather than appearing defensive. Nixon emphasized that the administration must proactively correct inaccurate premises regarding his media engagements and campaign rhetoric to better manage his public image.

April 14, 1971 · Nixon & Buchanan

President Nixon directed Patrick Buchanan to compile specific, compelling data points to bolster the administration's messaging on key domestic issues. The President requested dramatic statistics regarding the growth of minority-owned enterprises and the competitive standing of the American steel industry. Furthermore, he tasked Buchanan with consulting George Shultz and Paul McCracken to identify strong economic indicators, such as retail and automobile sales, housing starts, and record-breaking stock market performance, to project a narrative of upward economic momentum.

April 14, 1971 · Nixon & Buchanan

President Nixon directed Patrick Buchanan to compile dramatic, high-impact data points to bolster the administration's messaging on minority enterprise, steel industry competitiveness, and economic recovery. Nixon requested specific, positive statistics on housing starts, retail and automobile sales, and stock market performance to illustrate public confidence. The President tasked Buchanan with coordinating with advisors George Shultz and Paul McCracken to finalize these talking points for upcoming public use.

April 15, 1971 · Nixon & Flanigan

President Nixon and Peter M. Flanigan discuss the recent rise of the Dow Jones Industrial Average, noting that it has surpassed its January 1969 levels. Nixon expresses frustration that industry leaders like Donald Regan and Bernard Lasker are not publicly vocalizing optimism regarding this economic recovery. Consequently, Nixon tasks Flanigan with encouraging these figures to take a more positive public stance and potentially communicate their support to the White House.

April 15, 1971 · Nixon & Haldeman

President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman discussed economic recovery, specifically citing the performance of the stock market as a signal of public confidence that could bolster the administration's image. They focused on political strategy, emphasizing the need for Senator Robert Dole to champion the President's policies and effectively manage Republican criticism in the Senate regarding the China initiative. Finally, the President urged Haldeman to ensure active administration intervention in the Texas drought and grain shipment crisis to maintain a public perception of decisive, activist leadership.

April 15, 1971 · Nixon & Kissinger

President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discuss the recent positive performance of the stock market, noting that the Dow Jones Industrial Average has reached 932, surpassing its level from January 1969. Nixon directs Kissinger to contact Howard Stein to highlight this economic progress and influence public perception among Stein’s associates. Kissinger agrees to place the call the following day as requested.

April 16, 1971 · Nixon & Haldeman

President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman discuss the historic performance of the stock market and the strategic value of meeting with key financial industry leaders to signal economic confidence. Nixon instructs Haldeman to expand a proposed meeting with Bernard Lasker into a larger gathering of influential Wall Street figures, such as Gustave Levy and Donald Regan, to maximize the political impact. The President emphasizes that a broader group of “real wheels” would better project national buoyancy than a solitary meeting with a single associate.

April 16, 1971 · Nixon & Shultz

President Nixon consulted with George P. Shultz regarding the administration's public messaging on recent positive economic indicators, specifically GNP growth and the rise in the stock market. The discussion focused on leveraging these favorable statistics to build public confidence without appearing to overstate the data or alienate CEA Chairman Paul McCracken. Shultz briefed the President on his upcoming speech, which would emphasize a steady economic course rather than reactionary policies like tax cuts.

April 16, 1971 · Nixon, Lasker & Gordon

President Nixon met with a delegation of Wall Street leaders, including Bernard Lasker, Albert Gordon, and Donald Regan, to discuss the state of the economy and the recent upswing in the stock market. The group presented the President with a bull statue as a gesture of their confidence in his economic policies and the administration's performance. Nixon and his guests analyzed positive economic indicators, such as growth in GNP, retail sales, and automobile manufacturing, while also touching upon the geopolitical implications of his foreign policy initiatives toward the People's Republic of China and the Soviet Union.

April 20, 1971 · Nixon & Haldeman

President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman discuss preparations for an upcoming meeting with legislative leaders, specifically regarding the administration's economic messaging. Nixon instructs Haldeman to have George P. Shultz, rather than Paul McCracken, deliver a brief and intentionally optimistic presentation on the economy to instill confidence. The President notes recent positive trends in the stock market as evidence that the public is beginning to favor optimistic long-range economic projections.

April 29, 1971 · Nixon & Haldeman

President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman met to discuss a range of administrative and political concerns, including personnel vetting for appointments and the management of media relations. They touched upon strategic matters regarding Vietnam withdrawal rates and the handling of anti-war protests and civil unrest. Additionally, they analyzed the importance of economic psychology, focusing on how stock market performance influences consumer confidence and investment behavior.

May 4, 1971 · Nixon & Haldeman

President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman met to discuss the status of anti-war protests and arrests in Washington, D.C., alongside the performance of the stock market. The President also reviewed procedures for an upcoming meeting with Republican congressional leadership, expressing a desire to avoid lengthy, unproductive sessions in favor of efficient, agenda-driven discussions. Nixon drew on his past experience with the Eisenhower administration to structure these meetings, aiming to maintain rapport with leadership while minimizing wasted time.

June 30, 1971 · Nixon & Haldeman

President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman discuss positive economic indicators, specifically a significant drop in the unemployment rate and recent upward activity in the stock market. Nixon expresses a desire to downplay media reaction to the employment figures, while they analyze the technical factors behind the market shift, attributing it to end-of-quarter mutual fund adjustments. The conversation concludes with a brief, dismissive reference to Henry Kissinger’s moral perspective regarding ongoing administration challenges.

August 16, 1971 · Nixon & Mitchell

President Nixon and John Mitchell discuss the successful delivery and public reception of the President's recent televised speech announcing a major wage-price freeze and international economic policy shift. The conversation highlights the strategic decision to prioritize domestic concerns like jobs and the cost of living over complex monetary explanations to ensure a compelling message. Nixon tasks Mitchell with coordinating with Treasury Secretary John Connally to ensure that interest rates and corporate dividend limits are emphasized during upcoming press briefings to maintain public support.

564-004Tape 5641 hr 23 min

August 16, 1971 · Nixon, Woods & Haldeman

President Nixon met with H. R. Haldeman and other aides to manage the political and economic response to his recently announced New Economic Policy. The discussions focused on coordinating with bipartisan congressional leadership to ensure support for the administration's program, highlighting the effectiveness of Treasury Secretary John Connally's public outreach, and monitoring the positive stock market reaction. A key objective was to frame the policy as a proactive leadership move that preempted more damaging legislative actions, while also preparing future speeches and briefings to maintain momentum and public confidence.

August 16, 1971 · Nixon, Haldeman & Ziegler

President Nixon met with H. R. Haldeman, John Connally, Charles Colson, and other advisors to assess the public and economic response to his recently announced domestic economic program. The participants discussed the reaction of the stock market, business community, and media to the wage and price freeze, while strategizing on managing political credibility and legislative support. The discussion also addressed necessary administrative adjustments to welfare reform and federal budget cuts, as well as preparations for upcoming briefings with Congressional leaders.

August 16, 1971 · Lasker & Haldeman

Bernard J. "Bunny" Lasker contacted H.R. Haldeman to report on the surging New York Stock Exchange activity following President Nixon's August 15, 1971, economic address. The discussion focused on record-breaking Dow Jones gains and trading volume, which Lasker attributed to a newfound sense of national confidence. Lasker agreed to continue providing market updates to Rose Mary Woods to keep the White House informed of closing figures throughout the day.

August 16, 1971 · Nixon & Ehrlichman

President Nixon and John Ehrlichman reviewed the positive initial public and market reactions to the President's August 15 economic address. They discussed the significant surge in stock market volume and emphasized the need to maintain public confidence following the announcement. Additionally, Nixon praised Treasury Secretary John Connally's effective and firm performance during recent press briefings regarding the new economic policies.

August 16, 1971 · Nixon & Finch

President Richard Nixon and counselor Robert Finch discussed the overwhelmingly positive public and market reactions to the President’s August 15, 1971, economic address. The participants highlighted the favorable reception of John B. Connally’s press conference and noted that rising stock market figures served as a key indicator of restored public confidence. The brief conversation served to validate the administration's new economic initiatives by sharing anecdotal feedback from various supporters and associates.

August 16, 1971 · Nixon

President Nixon met with an unknown individual to coordinate his upcoming schedule, specifically regarding a planned golf outing and an address to the Knights of Columbus. The President discussed the status of his speech draft, which was being prepared by William Safire, and requested clarity on the timing for the event. Additionally, they briefly touched upon the current performance of the stock market.

August 16, 1971 · Nixon & Haldeman

President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman briefly conferred regarding stock market activity, specifically discussing the sale of 31 million shares. The President requested that documentation regarding this transaction be brought to him for review. Following this administrative exchange, Nixon indicated his intention to depart for a round of golf.

August 16, 1971 · Nixon, Haldeman & Sanchez

President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman met to assess the overwhelmingly positive press coverage and market reaction following the administration’s recent economic policy announcements. The discussion focused on leveraging the current momentum, including potential political strategies for dealing with Democratic opponents and coordinating a strategic, unannounced visit to the New York Stock Exchange. Additionally, the President reviewed pending matters such as textile negotiations with Japan and decided against meeting with the Mayor of West Berlin to avoid political complications.

August 17, 1971 · Nixon & Flanigan

President Nixon and Peter Flanigan discussed the administration's strategy for upcoming textile negotiations with Japan, emphasizing the need for a cautious approach following the President's August 15 economic announcement. Nixon instructed Flanigan to avoid providing premature assurances to industry leaders like Roger Milliken, arguing that the recent policy shifts had fundamentally strengthened the U.S. bargaining position. The conversation also covered the positive market reaction to the new economic policies, noting strong indicators in the stock market and home building sectors.

September 15, 1971 · Nixon & Haldeman

President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman spoke to coordinate upcoming scheduling and finalize social plans for key administration officials. They briefly touched on the status of the stock market and shared mutual criticism regarding the utility of Governors' Conferences. Additionally, they decided to host a dinner at Camp David for the Quadriad and other key economic principals in early October to celebrate the completion of Phase II economic policy preparations.

September 22, 1971 · Nixon & Colson

President Nixon and Charles Colson discussed the administration's strategy for managing negative economic headlines, specifically focusing on the recent Consumer Price Index (CPI) report and its impact on the stock market. Colson argued that the CPI figures were misleadingly calculated and did not reflect the success of the ongoing wage-price freeze, noting that he had coached Secretary of Labor James Hodgson to defend these figures publicly. The two also addressed the perceived bias within the Bureau of Labor Statistics and discussed the necessity of appointing a loyalist to oversee the agency to combat biased reporting on economic indicators.

September 24, 1971 · Nixon & Colson

President Nixon and Charles Colson reviewed the positive public and market reaction to the President's recent media appearance and discussed strategies to maintain political momentum. They assessed the diminishing impact of the Vietnam War as a campaign issue and strategized on how to leverage upcoming Supreme Court appointments to solidify support among conservatives. Colson also committed to orchestrating public pressure from the White House to ensure both judicial vacancies are filled by conservative candidates.

October 6, 1971 · Nixon & Colson

President Nixon and Charles Colson reviewed positive economic indicators, including wholesale price drops and stock market gains, to assess the success of the administration's wage-price freeze and upcoming Phase II announcements. They also discussed legislative strategy regarding a tax package and the Mathias Amendment in the Senate, agreeing to stall if necessary to secure a favorable outcome. Additionally, Colson reported on polling data from Albert Sindlinger and Louis Harris, which indicated that public confidence in the President’s economic leadership remained strong and that union leader George Meany’s opposition was negatively impacting his standing among labor members.

October 6, 1971 · Nixon & Colson

President Nixon and Charles Colson discuss a significant surge in the stock market, which Colson attributes to the passage of a tax bill and the positive anticipation surrounding the President's upcoming Phase II economic policy speech. The two also verify positive data regarding wholesale prices, noting a rare decline that provides favorable optics for the administration's economic efforts. Colson reports that speechwriter William Safire is incorporating this favorable pricing data into the President's scheduled remarks.

October 7, 1971 · Nixon & Safire

President Nixon and speechwriter William Safire reviewed final revisions for a major upcoming address concerning the administration's Phase II economic policies. The discussion focused on refining specific phrasing regarding wholesale prices and business cost-savings to ensure the message was clear and firm for the public. Nixon emphasized that the policy must apply equitably across all sectors and expressed indifference toward potential short-term volatility in the stock market, which he characterized as neurotic.

October 19, 1971 · Nixon & Mitchell

President Richard Nixon and Attorney General John Mitchell discuss the recent volatility in the stock market and the public perception of the administration's economic policies, specifically regarding monetary tightening and inflation. The two men dismiss concerns over market fluctuations, noting that housing starts remain strong and that the current economic indicators should eventually lead to a market recovery. Additionally, they discuss personnel matters and potential political appointments, briefly touching upon the qualifications of candidates for judicial or administrative positions.

October 19, 1971 · Nixon & Rumsfeld

Donald Rumsfeld briefs President Nixon on a private discussion with pollster George Gallup, who indicated that Nixon’s approval ratings are expected to see a significant rise. The two also discuss economic strategy, specifically addressing volatility in the stock market and public uncertainty regarding the upcoming Phase II wage and price controls. Nixon emphasizes the necessity of uncertainty in the transition toward free-market controls while tasking Rumsfeld with finalizing appointments to the pay and price commissions, including the potential addition of Robert Ellsworth.

October 19, 1971 · Nixon & Rumsfeld

President Nixon and Donald Rumsfeld discuss public perception and political strategy, specifically focusing on the reliability of Gallup polling data compared to Harris polls. The conversation also addresses economic concerns regarding the stock market and the inherent uncertainty surrounding the administration's Phase Two wage and price control policies. Nixon emphasizes the trade-off between economic control and bureaucratic growth, defending the necessity of flexibility in their approach to managing the national economy.

November 3, 1971 · Colson

Charles W. Colson coordinated with staff and the President to monitor stock market performance throughout the trading day. He actively sought real-time updates regarding market trends, trading volume, and closing prices. The conversation culminated in Colson receiving confirmation that the market had closed with a significant gain of 14.6 points on a volume of 14 million shares.

November 3, 1971 · Colson & Burns

Charles W. Colson attempted to reach Federal Reserve Chairman Arthur F. Burns to relay positive feedback regarding the market's response to Burns' recent policy announcement. Upon learning that Burns was attending a Cost of Living Council meeting, Colson left a message with Burns' office praising the Chairman's dividend decision. Colson noted that the market's 14-point rise was attributed to the statement, and he requested that this enthusiasm be conveyed to Burns as he prepared a supportive memorandum for President Nixon.

November 4, 1971 · Nixon & Colson

President Nixon and Charles Colson discuss preparations for a meeting with Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and the potential economic impact of upcoming unemployment statistics on the stock market. Nixon directs Colson to coordinate with Henry Kissinger to ensure high-level diplomatic outreach regarding the Gandhi visit. Additionally, the pair discusses maintaining pressure on the Pay Board to advance the administration’s economic objectives.

November 4, 1971 · Nixon & Colson

President Nixon and Charles Colson discuss ongoing negotiations regarding the Pay Board and the status of a potential Soviet grain deal involving Henry Kissinger and Anatoliy Dobrynin. The two also review recent stock market performance, noting that despite late-day profit taking, the market showed signs of upward momentum. Nixon expresses concern regarding the negative impact of reporting by Daniel Schorr on market stability while anticipating upcoming unemployment data.

November 11, 1971 · Nixon, Colson & Eisenhower

President Nixon and Charles W. Colson discussed the national economy, focusing on the recent reduction of the discount rate by Arthur Burns and the ongoing volatility of the stock market. They reviewed the progress of Pay Board regulations, emphasizing the need to frame these policies to avoid the appearance of yielding to labor interests. Additionally, Colson reported on Frank Fitzsimmons' offer to provide intelligence gathered by labor investigators regarding Edward M. Kennedy, which the President encouraged him to pursue.

November 11, 1971 · Nixon & Colson

President Nixon and Charles Colson discuss the state of the U.S. economy, specifically focusing on stock market fluctuations, consumer confidence, and the perceived inaction of business leaders. Nixon expresses frustration with the lack of bold leadership from the corporate sector, contrasting it with the resilience shown by average consumers on Main Street. The conversation serves as an informal policy review regarding economic sentiment and the administration's ongoing efforts to influence public and market perception.

November 15, 1971 · Nixon

President Nixon dictated a memorandum summarizing a previous discussion with George E. Allen regarding political strategy and the upcoming 1972 election. The two men reflected on historical anecdotes concerning Harry Truman, FDR, and Nikita Khrushchev to frame their thoughts on the efficacy of public works programs and the limited political impact of vice presidential running mates. Nixon concluded the dictation by assessing the state of the economy, specifically noting that the stock market's recent performance reflected a positive outlook on the success of his Phase II inflation control program.

November 16, 1971 · Nixon & Colson

President Nixon and Charles Colson discuss the administration's successful efforts to exert pressure on congressional leaders regarding foreign aid legislation, viewing the confrontation as a necessary exercise of presidential authority. They also review positive media coverage of the President's recent press conference and evaluate the state of the national economy. Colson reports on encouraging retail and housing data, suggesting that the recent stock market fluctuations reflect a healthy adjustment as investors react to the administration's anti-inflationary policies.

November 29, 1971 · Nixon

President Nixon consulted with an unidentified individual regarding the current state of the national economy. The discussion focused on indicators of market health, specifically referencing stock market activity and the status of gold reserves. The brief exchange served as a situational update on fiscal performance without resulting in recorded policy directives.

December 2, 1971 · Nixon & Colson

President Nixon and Charles Colson reviewed current economic conditions, focusing on the volatile stock market and the administration's efforts to influence public and business sentiment regarding the New Economic Policy. They discussed legislative strategy for an upcoming tax bill, including potential veto options and the need to secure support from key congressional leaders and business figures. Additionally, they touched upon labor relations, specifically managing invitations to a State Dinner to maintain political leverage with labor unions.

January 29, 1972 · Nixon & Connally

President Nixon held a phone conversation with John and Nellie Connally to exchange get-well wishes following a flu outbreak that affected both the Connallys and several guests at a recent White House dinner. The President and John Connally discussed current economic conditions, specifically the strength of the stock market and the appointment of Marina von N. Whitman to the Price Commission. Additionally, Nixon recounted a protest incident at the dinner involving a member of the Ray Conniff Singers who spoke out against the Vietnam War, and the two finalized plans to reschedule their upcoming trip to Texas to later in the spring.

January 29, 1972 · Nixon & Connally

President Nixon and Nellie Connally discuss the health of John Connally, who is recovering from the flu, while also touching upon recent economic trends and market sentiment. Nixon recounts a tense incident at a White House performance where a singer disrupted the event with a protest against the Vietnam War and the Nixon administration, noting that the performer was subsequently removed. The two conclude by briefly coordinating personal scheduling matters and upcoming social engagements.

February 29, 1972 · Nixon & Haldeman

President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman debrief the successful conclusion of the President's trip to China, focusing on the positive public reception at Andrews Air Force Base and the favorable stock market performance. The conversation shifts to managing press relations, specifically addressing a critical Washington Post headline regarding Taiwan policy that drew concern from press secretary Ron Ziegler. Despite these media challenges, the participants reaffirm the overall success of the diplomatic mission and discuss the ongoing efforts of Henry Kissinger to brief domestic political leaders.

March 7, 1972 · Nixon & Colson

President Nixon and Charles Colson discuss the political fallout of the ITT controversy, dismissing it as a media-driven distraction that will soon fade. They also review the positive public reception of Nixon’s recent trip to the People's Republic of China, citing favorable polling and high approval ratings as evidence of its success. Finally, they analyze indicators of a strengthening national economy, specifically noting a surge in public market participation and encouraging reports from economic advisor Herbert Stein.

March 31, 1972 · Nixon & Colson

President Nixon and Charles Colson discussed the state of the economy, specifically analyzing positive trends in the stock market and retail sales despite negative press coverage. Nixon expressed frustration with media reporting, particularly Walter Cronkite’s interpretation of economic indicators, and directed Colson to arrange a meeting between the President and Cronkite to address the narrative. The two also touched upon 1972 campaign strategy in Illinois and Wisconsin and decided to transition toward a more aggressive, offensive political posture.

August 11, 1972 · Nixon & Haldeman

President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman discuss media strategy and public relations efforts regarding the administration’s political opposition. They evaluate recent statements by William P. Rogers, particularly his criticisms of Sargent Shriver and Ramsey Clark, while planning to have John Mitchell address the FBI-related issues to achieve greater impact than an alternative spokesperson. Additionally, the pair briefly reviews the positive performance of the stock market, which saw a significant point increase that day.

March 30, 1973 · Nixon, Shultz & Simon

This recording captures the technical preparations and subsequent broadcast of President Nixon’s televised address regarding Vietnam and domestic policy, followed by a post-speech meeting with George P. Shultz and William E. Simon. During the production, the President coordinated lighting and staging details with television technicians before delivering his national address, in which he discussed the end of the Vietnam War and outlined his administration's economic agenda, including a proposed price ceiling on meat and his intent to veto budget-breaking legislation. Following the broadcast, Shultz and Simon briefed the President on economic matters, specifically highlighting a recent upswing in the stock market.

929-017Tape 9291 hr 8 min

May 29, 1973 · Nixon, Haig & Shultz

President Nixon met with his economic advisors and staff to discuss growing concerns over inflation, the stock market, and the public's perception of the economy. The group analyzed the potential effectiveness of various measures, including a possible excise tax on gasoline, an investment tax credit, and a compulsory savings plan, while considering the political challenges of implementing such a package with Congress. Ultimately, the President decided against immediate, piecemeal action, opting instead to have his advisors develop a comprehensive economic package for review at a follow-up meeting.