Target’s stock drop due to ‘Pride’ controversy is a warning for Corporate America, says ‘Shark Tank’ investor.

Daniel ChaitinJune 6, 2023

Shark Tank Investor Kevin O’Leary Speaks Out on Target’s Market Plunge

“Shark Tank” investor Kevin O’Leary said companies are paying close attention to Target‘s “stunning” market plunge amid a “Pride” collection controversy.

Target’s recent market plunge has caught the attention of many, including Kevin O’Leary, the chairman of O’Leary Ventures and a well-known investor on the hit show “Shark Tank.” In an interview with Fox News host Jesse Watters, O’Leary discussed the impact of Target’s controversial Pride Month collection on the company’s market value.

The Challenge of Balancing Diversity and Corporate Interests

O’Leary explained that Target’s situation highlights the challenge that companies face in balancing their support for diversity with the interests of their employees, customers, and shareholders. He emphasized that companies must strike a delicate balance to avoid being punished by the market.

“If you start to get too distant or too far away from the primary mandate, the market has proven itself to really, really punish you,” O’Leary said. “And it’s woken up all kinds of boards.”

As O’Leary pointed out, companies like Target and Bud Light are struggling to stay tuned into the mood of their customers, which can turn sour in a matter of hours. Social media has made it easier than ever for consumers to voice their opinions and hold companies accountable for their actions.

The Power of Social Media

O’Leary emphasized the importance of social media in shaping public opinion and advised companies to add a committee to advise boards on viral trends. He also predicted that diversity officers will remain a fixture in companies, but their budgets and risks will be closely scrutinized.

“When you lose $11 billion of market cap, there’re a lot of unhappy cowboys out there. They’re called your investors.”

Target’s market plunge serves as a cautionary tale for companies that must navigate the complex landscape of diversity and corporate interests. As O’Leary noted, companies must be mindful of the power of social media and the impact it can have on their bottom line.