Under Armour founder and CEO Kevin Plank lauded President Donald Trump on Tuesday, saying he is "a real asset for the country."
"I think he's highly passionate," Plank told CNBC's "Fast Money Halftime Report."
"He wants to build things. He wants to make bold decisions and be really decisive. I'm a big fan of people that operate in the world of publish and iterate vs. think, think, think, think, think. So, there's a lot that I respect there.
"To have such a pro-business president is something that is a real asset for the country," he added.
Plank was one of 12 corporate CEOs in a meeting with Trump last month at the White House at which they talked about strategies to create more jobs in the U.S., Footwear News reported.
He emphasized he is optimistic about the next four years, saying "people can really grab that opportunity" Trump offers with his promise to cut corporate regulations and taxes.
However, Plank did caution to CNBC that some of Trump's polices could be problematic.
"The border tax would have an absolutely very, very difficult effect on all companies in the consumer space, particularly retailers," Plank said. "It's the No. 1 issue when you ask me about the new administration."
Business Insider reported, following the interview, Under Armour released a statement Wednesday saying: "We have always been committed to developing innovative ways to support and invest in American jobs and manufacturing.
"For years, Under Armour has had a long-term strategy for domestic manufacturing, and we recently launched our first women's collection made in our hometown of Baltimore.
"We engage in policy, not politics. We believe in advocating for fair trade, an inclusive immigration policy that welcomes the best and the brightest and those seeking opportunity in the great tradition of our country, and tax reform that drives hiring to help create new jobs globally, across America and in Baltimore," the statement continued.
"At Under Armour, our diversity is our strength, and we will continue to advocate for policies that Protect Our House, our business, our team, and our community."
According to Footwear News, Under Armour has hit difficult times with its latest earnings report, as well as its slumping share price, after enjoying a solid growth spree for the past few years.
But Plank told CNBC he nevertheless continues to be upbeat about the future of the company.
"North American retail is in a very difficult place," he said. "I think we've looked at some things we can probably do better as well."
© 2025 Newsmax. All rights reserved.