American Express to Build New HQ at 2 World Trade Center

Credit card giant plans to house 10,000 employees in LEED-certified smart building by 2031.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

American Express (AXP) announced plans to construct a new global headquarters at 2 World Trade Center in lower Manhattan, reinforcing the credit card company's longstanding ties to New York City. The new 10,000-employee facility is slated to open by 2031 and will feature LEED sustainability certification and advanced smart building technologies.

Why it matters

The move solidifies American Express' commitment to maintaining a significant presence in New York City, where the company was founded in 1850. It also represents a major investment in lower Manhattan's ongoing redevelopment following the 9/11 attacks, with the new AXP headquarters joining other prominent tenants at the World Trade Center site.

The details

American Express will be the sole tenant of the new 2 World Trade Center building, occupying the entire 80-story tower. The company plans to consolidate several existing New York-area offices into the new LEED-certified facility, which will incorporate the latest smart building technologies to enhance employee productivity and sustainability.

  • American Express announced the new headquarters plan on February 25, 2026.
  • The new 2 World Trade Center building is expected to be completed and ready for occupancy by 2031.

The players

American Express (AXP)

A multinational financial services corporation that provides credit cards, charge cards, travel-related services, and financial advisory services.

2 World Trade Center

An 80-story office building that is part of the World Trade Center redevelopment in lower Manhattan, New York City.

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What’s next

American Express will work with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, the owner of the World Trade Center site, to finalize the details of the new headquarters lease and construction timeline.

The takeaway

American Express' decision to build its new global headquarters at 2 World Trade Center underscores the company's enduring commitment to New York City and the continued revitalization of lower Manhattan as a premier business district.