Billionaire Profile
Charles Zegar
Global Rank
#987

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Charles Zegar

CEO, Bloomberg LP
US
Real-Time Net Worth
$4.1B
As of December 2025
Age
77
Source
Bloomberg LP
Industry
finance-investments
Citizenship
US

Biography

Charles Zegar is a prominent figure in the finance and investment industry, best known as one of the four co-founders of Bloomberg L.P.. Born in 1948, Zegar's career has been marked by his pivotal role in developing the software that powered the Bloomberg Terminal, a cornerstone of financial data and news delivery. As of 2024, his net worth is estimated at $4.1 billion. Zegar's wealth stems from his involvement with Bloomberg LP, a leading provider of financial software, data, and media services. He is also recognized for his philanthropic efforts, having signed The Giving Pledge and contributing through the Zegar Family Foundation.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

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.

Career Milestones

1982

Co-founded Innovative Market Systems (later Bloomberg L.P.)

Co-founded Innovative Market Systems, which later became Bloomberg L.P., with Michael Bloomberg, Tom Secunda, and Duncan MacMillan, and led software development efforts.

2020

Ranked on Forbes 400

Ranked No. 353 in the Forbes 400 list of the richest people in America.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Philanthropy

The Giving Pledge

Unknown

Committed to donating at least half of his wealth to charitable causes.

Philanthropy

Zegar Family Foundation

Unknown

Actively contributes through the Zegar Family Foundation.

Education

NYU Board of Trustees

Unknown

Serves on the board of trustees for New York University.