There is no friendship in trade.

In this quote, Cornelius Vanderbilt asserts that there is no friendship in trade, highlighting the tension between personal relationships and business dealings. Vanderbilt suggests that when money and business are involved, they can corrupt the authenticity of a friendship. Friendship is based on mutual respect, trust, and affection, while trade often involves competition, self-interest, and the pursuit of profit, which can make genuine connections difficult to maintain.

Vanderbilt's perspective reflects the belief that in the business world, the goals of individuals and companies can sometimes come into conflict with the principles that underpin true friendship. When people engage in trade, their decisions and actions are often driven by personal gain, making it difficult to maintain the selflessness and loyalty that friendship requires. In this sense, business transactions might create a barrier to trust and emotional connection, making it hard for friendships to flourish.

The quote likely originates from Vanderbilt's own experience as a business magnate during the 19th century, where his success in the shipping and railroad industries was built on tough business decisions and cutthroat competition. As a businessman, he understood that the pursuit of profit often meant putting aside personal feelings and relationships. The quote serves as a reflection of the harsh realities of the business world, where personal emotions are sometimes sacrificed for the sake of financial success.

Ultimately, Vanderbilt's quote highlights the conflict between the idealism of friendship and the pragmatism required in trade. It suggests that when people are engaged in business or economic transactions, the traditional values of loyalty and trust in friendships may be undermined by the competitive nature of the trade itself.