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Billionaire Profile
Andrea Pignataro
Global Rank
#57

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Andrea Pignataro

CEO, ION Group
IT
Real-Time Net Worth
$36.5B
As of December 2025
Age
55
Source
Financial software
Industry
finance-investments
Citizenship
IT

Biography

Andrea Pignataro, a prominent figure in the financial technology sector, is the founder and CEO of ION Group, a leading financial software and data services company. Born in Italy and educated at the University of Bologna and Imperial College London, Pignataro began his career at Salomon Brothers before founding ION Group in 1998. His strategic focus on acquisitions has propelled ION Group to global prominence, serving over 60% of the world's largest financial institutions. As of November 2025, his net worth is estimated at $36.5 billion, ranking him as one of the wealthiest individuals in Europe and the second-richest in Italy. Pignataro is known for maintaining a low public profile, prioritizing innovation, and expanding ION Group's influence through strategic investments.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Andrea Pignataro was born in Bologna, Italy, in 1970. He graduated in economics from the University of Bologna and later earned a PhD in mathematics from Imperial College London.

Rise to Success

Pignataro began his career as a bond trader at Salomon Brothers in London in 1994. Recognizing the growing need for advanced technological solutions in the financial sector, he founded ION Group in 1998. ION Group initially provided software solutions for financial institutions. Under his leadership, the company expanded through strategic acquisitions. He has led multi-billion euro acquisitions including Cedacri, Cerved, and Prelios, expanding his financial technology empire.

Key Business Strategies

Pignataro's business strategy emphasizes innovation and growth through strategic acquisitions. This approach has allowed ION Group to stay ahead of competitors and provide comprehensive software solutions to major financial institutions. His focus on acquisitions has been critical to ION Group’s success.

Philanthropy

Details about Pignataro's philanthropy are limited, as he maintains a low public profile.

Career Milestones

1994

Bond Trader

Began career at Salomon Brothers.

1997

Founded ION Investment Group

Founded ION Investment Group in London.

1998

Founded ION Group

Founded ION Group, a financial software company.

2024

Acquired Prelios

Completed the acquisition of Prelios, a real estate company.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

N/A

Unknown

Undisclosed

Specific philanthropy information is not available.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"No notable quotes available."

Leadership Principles

Strategic Acquisitions

Focuses on aggressive growth through strategic acquisitions to stay ahead in the financial technology sector.

Comprehensive Solutions

Provides comprehensive software solutions that streamline financial operations for large institutions.

Controversies & Challenges

2025

Tax Evasion Investigation

Investigated by the Italian revenue agency for alleged tax evasion between 2013 and 2023. Settled for €280 million.