The release of millions of pages from the U.S. Justice Department's Jeffrey Epstein files has prompted a series of high-profile resignations among corporate leaders. Over three million documents, including emails, texts, and photos, surfaced in late January 2026, exposing continued associations with Epstein after his 2008 guilty plea for soliciting prostitution from a minor.

Børge Brende, president and CEO of the World Economic Forum, announced his resignation on February 26, 2026. The files showed correspondence with Epstein years after the financier's conviction, including a 2018 text where Brende wrote, “Thx my friend” and expressed hope to meet soon. Brende stated that the timing allowed the forum to proceed without distractions.

Thomas Pritzker, executive chairman of Hyatt Hotels Corporation, stepped down on February 16, 2026, after more than two decades in the role. Documents revealed emails with Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell discussing dinners, which Pritzker described as "terrible judgment."

Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem resigned as chairman and CEO of DP World Limited around February 13, 2026. The files documented years of friendship, including emails referencing pornography and escorts.

Kathy Ruemmler, Goldman Sachs' chief legal officer and general counsel, resigned effective June 30, 2026, following the February 12 announcement. Emails showed her close ties, including thanking "Uncle Jeffrey" for a gift.

Brad Karp, chairman of law firm Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison, resigned in early February 2026. Files included his praise for Epstein's home and defense efforts.

These departures follow earlier cases like Jes Staley's 2021 exit as Barclays CEO and Leon Black's from Apollo Global Management. Corporate boards now scour the files for risks to reputation and operations. No one has faced criminal charges from these revelations, but public and investor pressure has driven the exits.

The Epstein files continue to draw scrutiny two months after release, with analysts anticipating further fallout as details emerge.