TLDR
- SPG stock dips to $185.64 after visionary CEO David Simon dies at 64
- David Simon built SPG into a $200M sq ft empire now his son leads it
- SPG names Eli Simon CEO after father David Simon passes away at 64
- SPG stock steadies near $185 as real estate giant transitions leadership
- David Simon’s 4,500% shareholder return legacy lives on under new CEO
SPG stock opened at nearly $190, but pulled back to $185.64 by afternoon. The drop follows the death of David Simon, the company’s Chairman, CEO, and President. SPG stock now trades up just 0.61% as the market absorbs the leadership change.
Simon Property Group, Inc., SPG
SPG Stock Reflects Market Reaction to CEO’s Passing
SPG stock peaked near $190 in early morning trading before a sharp sell-off hit around 9:00 AM. The stock then dropped to $184.52 before recovering into a tight consolidation range. SPG stock held steady near $185.64 for the remainder of the session with low volatility.
David Simon passed away on March 22, 2026, after a battle with cancer at age 64. The board confirmed his death and announced a leadership transition the same day. SPG stock responded with measured movement, reflecting confidence in the company’s succession plan.
The board appointed Eli Simon, David’s son, as the new CEO and President effective immediately. Eli will also continue serving as Chief Operating Officer and Director. Larry Glasscock steps in as Non-Executive Chairman to guide the board through the transition.
David Simon Built SPG Into a Global Real Estate Leader
David Simon joined the company in 1990 as Chief Financial Officer and became CEO in 1995 at just 33. He led SPG stock to a cumulative total shareholder return of more than 4,500% since its 1993 IPO. His leadership transformed a family real estate business into a global institution worth billions.
Under his direction, Simon Property Group grew to own over 250 properties across more than 200 million square feet. SPG stock consistently reflected the strength of his strategic acquisitions, including DeBartolo, Chelsea Property Group, and Taubman Centers. Each deal strengthened the portfolio and expanded the company’s global reach.
David steered SPG stock through the 2008 financial crisis and the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic with discipline and speed. He maintained A/A3 credit ratings throughout his tenure and returned billions to shareholders through dividends. Harvard Business Review named him one of the world’s best-performing CEOs in both 2010 and 2013.
SPG Stock Outlook as New Leadership Takes Charge
The board expressed full confidence in Eli Simon’s ability to lead the company forward. SPG stock performance will now depend on how smoothly the management transition unfolds. The company’s world-class portfolio and strong balance sheet provide a solid foundation for continuity.
Larry Glasscock stated that the board pledges to honor David Simon’s legacy through a continued commitment to excellence. SPG stock carries the weight of that legacy as it moves into a new chapter. The company assured shareholders, tenants, and partners that operations will continue without interruption.
Simon Property Group remains the largest retail real estate company in the world despite the leadership shift. SPG stock trades on the NYSE under the ticker SPG and continues to attract attention from the broader market. The company’s irreplaceable asset portfolio positions it well for long-term stability under new leadership.


