O’Leary says Supreme Court ’caused a nightmare’ with tariff decision

February 21, 2026 - 22:37

Prominent investor Kevin O'Leary has issued a stark warning to American businesses following a recent Supreme Court decision, stating the ruling has "caused a nightmare" for companies nationwide. The Court's decision blocks the use of emergency presidential powers to impose tariffs, a tool previously employed by the Trump administration.

O'Leary's primary concern centers on the sudden uncertainty and what he terms a "major compliance cost" now burdening business owners. He argues that companies which had structured long-term supply chains and pricing models around previously established tariff regimes are now left in legal and financial limbo. This disruption, he contends, forces businesses to hastily re-evaluate contracts and sourcing strategies, incurring significant unexpected expenses.

The critique highlights a broader debate over regulatory stability and executive authority in trade policy. While the ruling addresses constitutional boundaries, the immediate business fallout is a wave of operational confusion. O'Leary emphasizes that the practical effect is a challenging environment for planning and investment, as the foundational rules for international trade can be abruptly overturned. This uncertainty, he warns, could have a chilling effect on business decisions and economic growth in the coming months.