Billionaire Profile
Carl Icahn
Global Rank
#924

Image: AviateHistory | CC0 | via Wikimedia Commons

Carl Icahn

CEO, Icahn Enterprises L.P.
UNITED STATES
Real-Time Net Worth
$4.512B
Estimated based on Icahn Enterprises L.P. stock value as of March 6, 2026
-0.27% (24h)
Age
89
Source
Investments
Industry
finance-investments
Citizenship
UNITED STATES

Biography

Carl Icahn, born February 16, 1936, is an American businessman and investor, celebrated for his aggressive investment strategies and significant influence on Wall Street. Known initially as a 'corporate raider' in the 1980s, he later became a prominent activist investor. Icahn built his wealth through Icahn Enterprises, a publicly traded firm that serves as his primary investment vehicle. His approach involves acquiring substantial stakes in companies and advocating for changes to enhance shareholder value. Over the years, Icahn has been involved in many high-profile corporate battles, including TWA, and Apple, solidifying his reputation as a formidable figure in the business world. He is a New York City native who grew up in Far Rockaway, Queens.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 3/6/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Carl Celian Icahn was born on February 16, 1936, in Far Rockaway, Queens, New York City. He was the only child of his parents. His father was a lawyer and a Jewish cantor, and his mother was a teacher.

Rise to Success

Icahn's career began on Wall Street in 1961. He graduated from Princeton University in 1957 with a degree in philosophy. He then attended medical school at New York University but dropped out. In 1968, he purchased a seat on the New York Stock Exchange. Icahn gained a reputation as a 'corporate raider' during the 1980s, taking substantial equity stakes in companies and pushing for changes. Icahn Enterprises was founded in 1987.

Key Business Strategies

Icahn's business model is characterized by taking large stakes in companies he believes will benefit from changes in corporate policy. He then pressures management to make changes that will benefit shareholders, which ultimately benefits him. Icahn has been involved in numerous high-profile investments and corporate battles, including TWA, Apple, and CVR Energy.

Philanthropy

Icahn is a philanthropist, donating about $200 million to the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.

Career Milestones

1961

Began Career on Wall Street

Started his career in the financial industry.

1968

Purchased a seat on the New York Stock Exchange

Established his own brokerage firm, Icahn & Co.

1978

First major corporate takeover

Took a seat on the board of Tappan Company, and oversaw its sale.

1980s

Gained reputation as a corporate raider

Took significant stakes in companies like TWA, Texaco and USX

2004

Founded hedge fund

Started a hedge fund, Icahn Partners.

2016

Trump's Special Advisor

Served as an advisor on regulatory reform.

2024

Andrew Teno appointed CEO

Andrew Teno appointed CEO of Icahn Enterprises.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education

Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai

$200M

Donated to what is now the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"Some people get rich studying artificial intelligence. Me, I make money studying natural stupidity."

"I keep going. I enjoy the game."

Leadership Principles

Activist Investing

Identifies undervalued assets and pushes for changes to increase value.

Contrarian Approach

Takes bold positions in companies often ignored by others.

Value Creation

Focuses on unlocking shareholder value through strategic moves.

Controversies & Challenges

2023

Hindenburg Research Allegations

Accused Icahn Enterprises of inflated valuations and an unsustainable dividend.

2024

SEC Charges

SEC charged Carl Icahn and his company $2 million for allegedly hiding stock pledges.