On June 8th, 1999, the New York Stock Exchange was opened by a rather unusual guest - fictional character Austin Powers. Portrayed by actor Mike Myers in the popular spy comedy film series, Austin Powers made a memorable appearance on Wall Street that day, ringing the bell to signal the start of trading.

The event was part of a promotional campaign for the release of the movie "Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me," the second installment in the franchise. The film was a box office hit, grossing over $300 million worldwide, and further cemented Austin Powers' status as a cultural icon.

While it may seem strange for a fictional character to be given the honor of opening the New York Stock Exchange, it was all in good fun and helped generate buzz for the movie. The stunt was well-received by fans and the media, showcasing the power of marketing and promotion in the entertainment industry.

Despite being a fictional character, Austin Powers' influence extended beyond the big screen. The character's catchphrases, quirky fashion sense, and comedic antics have become ingrained in popular culture, inspiring Halloween costumes, memes, and even a slot machine game.

If you're interested in learning more about Austin Powers and his impact on popular culture, you can check out the official Austin Powers website for news, merchandise, and other fun content. You can also watch the movies on streaming platforms like Netflix to experience the hilarious adventures of this groovy spy.

So, the next time you think about the New York Stock Exchange, remember the day when Austin Powers, the International Man of Mystery, took on Wall Street and left a lasting impression on investors and moviegoers alike. Yeah, baby!

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