Business leaders express personal concerns about coronavirus

The cancellation of the Mobile World Congress due to the coronavirus outbreak has sent shockwaves through the business community, with CNBC’s Jim Cramer reporting that business leaders are personally worried about the situation.

Cramer revealed that executives he has spoken to are deeply concerned about the virus, with many opting out of attending the event in Barcelona, Spain, likening it to a cruise they are not willing to risk. This sentiment was echoed by the cancellation of the world’s largest trade show for the mobile phone industry, which had over 100,000 attendees in 2019.

Major companies such as LG, Sony, Ericsson, Nokia, Nvidia, Intel, and Amazon had already decided not to attend before the official cancellation, putting pressure on organizers. The decision to cancel the event speaks to the widespread impact of the outbreak, with more than 64,000 cases and 1,380 deaths reported globally.

The coronavirus has not only affected businesses but also disrupted daily life, with factories shutting down, airlines canceling flights, and cruise operators canceling trips. The cancellation of the Mobile World Congress highlights how executives are prioritizing their health and safety in the face of the outbreak.

As the situation continues to evolve, it is clear that the coronavirus is not only a health crisis but also a significant concern for the business community. The decision to cancel such a major event underscores the gravity of the situation and the need for caution in the face of this global health emergency.