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Business leaders heading to dinner with President Trump A few weeks ago, during the Staysure PGA Seniors Championship at Trump International Scotland, I had the rare experience of dining with President Trump, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, and Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney. The headlines told part of the story, but much was left out. Four key takeaways stood out: 1) Many myths about President Trump don’t hold up Trump isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but some popular assumptions are off. First, the idea that he only appoints sycophants—my experience is that he values loyalty, but also talent and results, even from those who challenge him. The Trump Organization is filled with capable, detail-oriented leaders. Second, the notion that Trump and his team lack attention to detail is wrong; while Trump focuses on the big picture, his business operations are run with precision and professionalism. Even last week, hospitality details were meticulously handled. By contrast, in UK politics, a lack of loyalty to a shared vision has fuelled instability—something the current government must avoid. 2) A tale of two business environments Trump and Starmer are polar opposites, reflecting the differences between US and UK business climates. The US, like its President, projects confidence—supporting start-ups with lower costs, less red tape, and fewer barriers. From my perspective, Starmer seemed less at ease in a room full of business leaders, whereas Trump clearly draws energy from engaging with them. In the UK, high corporation tax and heavy regulation drive talent and wealth abroad. We have immense business talent, but competitiveness must improve if we want to encourage risk-taking and entrepreneurship. 3) Sport’s unique power to connect Amid geopolitical division, sport can unite like little else. Events like this bring together people with wildly different views, creating space for respectful conversation and even unexpected common ground. Golf here was more than a game—it was a catalyst for meaningful dialogue. 4) The UK’s entrepreneurial potential is held back Across conversations with business leaders, one theme is clear: optimism is scarce. The UK’s business community is strong, but without bold leadership, positive signalling, and genuine growth-focused policies, we risk decline. With the right mindset and environment, we can lead the world—but action is needed now.