Early Life and Education
Charles Zegar was born in 1948 in New York City to a Jewish family. His mother was a musical comedy performer and opera singer, and his father worked as a subway conductor. Zegar earned a Bachelor of Arts/Science from Long Island University and a Master of Science from New York University.
Rise to Success
Zegar's career took off when he co-founded Innovative Market Systems, later renamed Bloomberg L.P., in 1982, alongside Michael Bloomberg, Tom Secunda, and Duncan MacMillan. He played a crucial role in the company's success by leading the software development efforts for the Bloomberg Terminal. This innovative platform revolutionized how financial professionals access and analyze information, contributing significantly to Bloomberg's position in the financial industry. Zegar's contributions were instrumental in the development of the Bloomberg Terminal, a vital tool for accessing real-time market data, financial analysis, and trading tools.
Key Business Strategies
As one of the founders of Bloomberg L.P., Zegar focused on developing cutting-edge technology solutions that would provide real-time market data and financial analysis. This focus helped Bloomberg to gain a competitive edge in the market. The company's strategy of providing comprehensive financial information through the Bloomberg Terminal has been a key factor in its success. Bloomberg also expanded its services to include news, television, radio, and print media, catering to a broad audience interested in business and technology.
Philanthropy
Zegar is known for his philanthropic endeavors. He is a signatory of The Giving Pledge, committing to donate a significant portion of his wealth to charitable causes. He has established the Zegar Family Foundation and serves on the board of trustees for New York University, reflecting his commitment to supporting educational and other charitable initiatives.