President Donald Trump is heading to China next week, and if history is any guide, he won't be traveling alone. A reported list of business leaders expected to accompany him includes CEOs from some of the biggest names on Wall Street. While the list isn't final, it's already giving investors a reason to pay attention.
The trip, scheduled for May 14 and May 15, could have major implications for several public companies. Here's a look at the stocks that might be in the spotlight.
Boeing: The Headliner
Boeing (BA) CEO Kelly Ortberg is confirmed to join Trump, according to a source who spoke to CNBC. That's a big deal because Boeing has been working to secure orders for over 500 aircraft from China. If Ortberg can seal the deal, it could be a massive catalyst for the stock.
The Rest of the List
A Semafor report named several other companies that may be represented. The list includes:
The list hasn't been finalized, so more names could be added in the coming days. But the potential inclusion of Nvidia and Qualcomm is particularly interesting. Both companies have significant exposure to China, and the trip could help smooth over export restrictions and ensure partnerships remain intact.
For Nvidia, this isn't the first time a Trump trip has been a boon. During a May 2025 visit to the United Arab Emirates, Trump announced around $200 billion in deals, including a request from the UAE for 500,000 advanced AI chips from Nvidia annually. That kind of demand moves markets.
Apple's Delicate Dance
Apple is another name to watch. Outgoing CEO Tim Cook would likely be the one invited, given his close relationship with Trump. But there's also a chance that incoming CEO John Ternus could join to help build his own rapport with Chinese officials. China is a critical market for the iPhone, so any misstep could be costly.
Apple has hinted that Cook will remain involved in political and international relations even after stepping down as CEO. In a letter announcing the transition, the company said, "As executive chairman, Cook will assist with certain aspects of the company, including engaging with policymakers around the world."
Cook's attendance is far from guaranteed, though. He skipped Trump's UAE trip last year, and that decision may have backfired. According to 9to5Mac, Trump publicly called out Cook's absence during a speech, saying, "Tim Cook isn't here, but you are," while praising Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang. Shortly after, Trump threatened a 25% tariff on iPhones not made in America. That's the kind of pressure that makes attendance at this week's trip almost mandatory.
What's at Stake
Beyond the individual companies, the trip could yield broader outcomes. Deals could be announced, export restrictions could be eased, and tariffs could be updated. For investors, that means potential volatility—and opportunity—in the stocks mentioned.
Keep an eye on these names as the week unfolds. The official list of attendees could be the first clue about which companies are poised to benefit from Trump's diplomatic push.