Core Insights - Spending on executive protection is increasing, indicating a growing concern for safety among high-profile individuals and companies [1] Group 1: Spending Trends - The rise in spending on executive protection includes not only traditional services like bodyguards and trained drivers but also a broader range of security measures [1] - Companies are investing in advanced technologies and services to enhance the safety of their executives, reflecting a shift in the approach to personal security [1] Group 2: Industry Implications - The increase in demand for executive protection services is likely to drive growth in the security industry, creating new opportunities for service providers [1] - As threats evolve, the industry may see a diversification of services offered, moving beyond physical protection to include cybersecurity and risk management solutions [1]

Three back-to-back violent incidents in the space of 10 months have awakened a new reckoning in corporate security that is fundamentally altering the way companies protect their executives, data from a new Goldman Sachs Ayco report found. The shocking New York City murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in December 2024 was followed by a July Midtown Manhattan shooting that claimed the lives of two security guards and two executives at Blackstone and Rudin Management. Last month, a lone gunman alle ...

Security Concerns & Preparedness - Corporate security leaders are re-evaluating preparedness and intelligence-led security programs for early threat detection, information sharing, and coordinated response [3][4] - Companies should proactively assess internal and external threats, distinguishing between those who pose a real threat and those who don't [5] - Companies need capabilities, tools, and internal communications to identify individuals showing undue interest in the company, building, or personnel, working with building security and law enforcement [6] Building Security & Response - Building security in major cities is generally good, but the incident highlights low-frequency, high-impact events where immediate response is challenging [8] - The presence of armed security personnel, even off-duty police officers, may not be sufficient against individuals with superior firepower [11] - Hardening buildings with visible security measures can deter potential threats, but the level of security should be a building-by-building decision [7][9] Mental Health & Gun Violence - The shooter had a documented mental health issue and legally obtained the weapon, raising questions about access to firearms for individuals with mental health concerns [12][13][14] - Law enforcement can confiscate weapons from individuals deemed a threat to themselves or others, but the effectiveness of such measures is under scrutiny [15] Impact & Tragedy - The shooting resulted in the death of a New York City police officer and three other people, including the CEO of Blackstone Real Estate Income Trust [1][17] - The incident occurred in a prominent Manhattan office building housing offices for major firms like the NFL, Blackstone, and KPMG, highlighting the vulnerability of corporate spaces [1]