Billionaire Profile
Catherine Phillips
Global Rank
#1625

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Catherine Phillips

CEO, Shopify
CA
Real-Time Net Worth
$2.4B
As of December 2025
Age
74
Source
investments
Industry
finance-investments
Citizenship
CA

Biography

Catherine Phillips, a Canadian investor and philanthropist, has built a significant fortune through strategic investments, most notably in the e-commerce giant Shopify. With an estimated net worth of $2.4 billion, Phillips, now 74, has transitioned from a career as a psychologist specializing in helping cancer patients deal with stress to focusing on her investment portfolio and philanthropic endeavors. Her early investment in Shopify, alongside her husband John Phillips, proved to be a cornerstone of her wealth. Phillips's wealth stems primarily from her investments, reflecting a long-term approach to wealth creation and management. She is known for her insightful approach to investments.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life and Career

Catherine Phillips was born in Canada and pursued a career in psychology before transitioning to the world of investments. Her background as a psychologist, specializing in helping cancer patients, provided her with unique insights into human behavior and stress management, skills that may have aided her in navigating the complexities of the financial world. Phillips's early career focused on helping others, demonstrating a commitment to well-being.

Rise to Success

Phillips's rise to prominence in the investment arena is largely attributed to her early investment in Shopify, a Canadian e-commerce company. Alongside her husband, John Phillips, she recognized the potential of Shopify and made a strategic investment that would significantly contribute to her wealth. Her husband served on Shopify's board of directors from 2010 to 2023.

Key Business Strategies

The key to Catherine Phillips's success lies in her strategic investment choices. By identifying promising companies early on, she was able to capitalize on their growth. Her decision to invest in Shopify exemplifies her ability to recognize and support innovative businesses. This strategic approach, combined with a long-term investment horizon, has been a key factor in building her wealth.

Philanthropy

Catherine Phillips and her husband are actively involved in philanthropy through the Northpine Foundation. The foundation has donated hundreds of millions to 168 organizations focused on climate, refugees and formerly incarcerated individuals.

Career Milestones

2010

Shopify Investment

Invested in Shopify with husband John Phillips.

2013

Published 'Calm Your Mind, Warm Your Heart'

Authored a book on stress management.

2010-2023

Shopify Board of Directors

Husband John Phillips served on Shopify's board of directors.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Various

Northpine Foundation

$XB

Donated to 168 organizations focused on climate, refugees and formerly incarcerated individuals