Art Cashin, a revered figure on Wall Street and director of floor operations at the New York Stock Exchange, passed away recently, leaving a void in not only the financial world but also in the hearts of many who knew him. For many years, Cashin adorned the trading floor with his unique ritual of commemorating the year’s happenings through a New Year’s poem. His legacy was more than just a collection of rhymes; it was an emblem of his insightful observations on life, culture, and the ever-shifting tide of the markets. Now, as his sons, Arthur and Peter, attempt to carry forward this tradition without their father, they gift us a touching tribute that interlaces memories of the past with reflections on the present.
As 2024 unfolded, a sense of trepidation enveloped Wall Street. Without Art Cashin’s yearly verses to mark the passage of time, his absence felt particularly profound. The brothers Cashin decided to step into their father’s shoes, sharing their unique perspectives while honoring his memory. Their heartfelt attempt underscores how his influence permeated not just financial discourse, but the bond of family and community he fostered. The lines they crafted are both humorous and poignant, balancing wit with a sincere appreciation of life’s weightier matters.
The poem’s narrative took us through the rollercoaster of global events, starting with the notable occurrences of the Paris Olympics, which embraced innovation by floating the opening ceremony down the Seine. This imagery serves as a juxtaposition of a world that thrives on tradition while also embracing change. Events such as the turbulence in Ukraine and Gaza highlight the persistent strife in geopolitics, and it’s almost as if the Cashin brothers are subtly linking the personal reflections of their father’s passing to the wider uncertainties of the current global landscape.
Their words reflect a society in motion—incumbents losing reelection, a bull run on Wall Street, and cultural icons like Taylor Swift marking new chapters in their careers. It’s in these moments that we grasp the essence of Cashin’s reporting, a blending of the corporate and private, illustrating how layered and connected our experiences are.
Throughout the poem, tributes to various figures who have recently departed create a tapestry rich with cultural nostalgia. The passing of beloved personalities from Jim Simons to Hollywood’s iconic voices showcases the inevitable cycle of loss that accompanies life. Instead of merely lamenting these losses, however, the authors embrace a celebratory tone as they reminisce about these luminaries and their contributions to society. By weaving these memories into their New Year’s reflections, they emphasize the importance of remembering and honoring those who have shaped our worlds, both personally and collectively.
A poignant undercurrent throughout the tribute is the Cashin brothers’ connection to their father. While “Mr. Cashin” was a public figure known for his sharp financial acumen and historical insight, to Arthur and Peter, he was simply Dad. This duality serves to remind us that behind every public persona is a private story, a familial bond steeped in love, lessons, and loss. Their grief becomes a shared experience, transcendent and universal, allowing readers to reflect on their own relationships and the shared human condition.
As the New Year dawns and traditions evolve, the Cashin family’s tribute offers a meaningful glimpse into what truly matters: cherishing those we hold dear and remembering those who have shaped our lives. They gracefully remind us to embrace life, swinging between joy and sorrow, and to celebrate in unity. The hopefulness extended in their closing lines encapsulates a collective wish for abundance, community, and the shared longing for connection—further solidifying Art Cashin’s enduring legacy. As we raise our glasses to the upcoming year, may we carry forth the spirit of camaraderie and remembrance that the Cashin family exemplifies, honoring the past while looking courageously toward the future.