Billionaire Profile
Ben Ashkenazy
Global Rank
#2369

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Ben Ashkenazy

CEO, Ashkenazy Acquisition Corporation
US
Real-Time Net Worth
$2.6B
As of December 2025
Age
56
Source
Real estate
Industry
real-estate
Citizenship
US

Biography

Ben Ashkenazy is an Israeli-American real estate developer and businessman, celebrated for his pivotal role in shaping commercial landscapes across the United States and beyond. Born in Israel and raised in New York, Ashkenazy initiated his real estate journey at the age of 17, purchasing his first property. He is the founder, CEO, and majority owner of Ashkenazy Acquisition Corporation, a New York City-based firm with a $12 billion property portfolio. Ashkenazy's career is marked by strategic acquisitions of iconic properties, including the Grosvenor House Hotel in London and New York's Plaza Hotel. As of February 2024, his net worth was estimated at $2.6 billion, reflecting his significant impact and resilience in the real estate sector.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Ben Ashkenazy was born in Israel and immigrated to the United States at the age of nine. Growing up in Lawrence, Long Island, New York, he was the son of Izzy Ashkenazy, a real estate businessman who owned a chain of retail stores. At a young age, Ben Ashkenazy expressed his ambition to become a businessman and own a real estate company.

Rise to Success

Ashkenazy's career in real estate began when he acquired his first property at the age of 17. In 1987, he founded Ashkenazy Acquisition Corporation. Under his leadership, the company has grown into a significant player in the real estate market, acquiring and managing a diverse portfolio of properties. He is known for transforming and revitalizing iconic landmarks.

Key Business Strategies

Ashkenazy's business strategies emphasize identifying and acquiring undervalued properties, often focusing on high-profile retail, hotel, and office assets. His company has acquired over 15 million square feet of real estate across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Ashkenazy has a reputation for strategic vision and hands-on leadership, which has solidified the firm's industry-leading status.

Philanthropy

Information regarding Ben Ashkenazy's specific philanthropy amounts is not readily available through the search results. However, his commitment to community development and support for various initiatives has been noted.

Career Milestones

1987

Founded Ashkenazy Acquisition Corporation

Established the real estate investment firm, which has grown to manage a substantial portfolio of properties.

2017

Acquired Grosvenor House Hotel

Purchased the iconic London hotel, demonstrating his interest in acquiring landmark properties.

2024

Secured $85 million refinancing for Arthouse Hotel

Obtained financing to support the continued operation and improvement of a historic hotel in New York City.

2025

Raised $750 Million war chest

Amassed substantial funds for acquisitions, targeting retail and hospitality properties.

2025

Acquired Orland Park Place

Acquired a Chicago power center for $60 Million.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Community

Community Development

Undisclosed

Focuses on enhancing local neighborhoods and supporting initiatives that promote growth and well-being.

Environment

Environmental Initiatives

Undisclosed

Prioritizes energy-efficient solutions and environmentally friendly initiatives.

Controversies & Challenges

2020

Union Station Lease Dispute

Ashkenazy Acquisition Corporation faced challenges with the lease on Washington, D.C.'s Union Station.

2024

Legal Battles with Apartment Owners

Ashkenazy faced lawsuits from condo and co-op owners over unpaid bills for retail spaces in their buildings.

2024

Settlement with the Gindi Family

Settled a contentious legal dispute with the Gindi family.