Billionaire Profile
D
Global Rank
#326

Image: Publications Office of the European Union | Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Daniel Kretinsky

CEO, Energy
CZECH REPUBLIC
Real-Time Net Worth
$10.01B
Estimated based on Energy stock value as of March 6, 2026
0% (24h)
Age
50
Source
Energy, investments
Industry
Finance & Investments
Citizenship
CZECH REPUBLIC

Biography

Daniel Kretinsky is a Czech billionaire businessman and lawyer known for his significant investments in the energy, media, retail, and sports industries. With an estimated net worth of $10.2 billion as of 2024, Kretinsky has built a vast empire. He is the CEO and 94% owner of Energetický a průmyslový holding (EPH), the largest energy group in Central Europe. His career began in law before transitioning to finance and ultimately building a diverse portfolio of assets. Kretinsky's achievements include expanding EPH into a major European energy player and making strategic investments in media, retail, and sports, showcasing his business acumen and strategic foresight.

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

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life and Education

Daniel Kretinsky was born on July 9, 1975, in Brno, Czechoslovakia. His father was a professor of computer science, and his mother was a judge. He studied law at Masaryk University, earning a Doctoral degree.

Rise to Success

Kretinsky began his career as a legal trainee before joining the J&T Investment Group in 1999, becoming a partner in 2003. In 2009, he co-founded Energetický a průmyslový holding (EPH), which has grown to become one of the largest energy groups in Europe. He expanded EPH by acquiring energy assets across Europe. Kretinsky's success is also marked by strategic investments in the media, retail, and sports sectors.

Key Business Strategies

Kretinsky's business strategy involves identifying undervalued assets and implementing operational improvements to increase profitability. He is known for his contrarian investment style and has made significant investments in various sectors, including energy, retail, and media. In 2024, he has acquired the Royal Mail.

Philanthropy

While specifics of his philanthropy are difficult to find, Kretinsky's investments in sports such as West Ham United and AC Sparta Prague indicate a commitment to the community.

Career Milestones

1999

Joined J&T Investment Group

Began career in finance and investments.

2003

Partner at J&T Investment Group

Promoted to partner, sharing in the profits of deals.

2004

Chairman of Sparta Prague

Became chairman of the Czech football club.

2009

Co-founded EPH

Launched Energetický a průmyslový holding (EPH), an energy investment company.

2021

West Ham United Shareholder

Became a shareholder in the English football club.

2024

Royal Mail Takeover

The takeover of Royal Mail by his EP Group has been approved by the government.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Sports

Support of AC Sparta Prague

Undisclosed

Financial support and management of the football club.

Controversies & Challenges

2012

EU Fine for Obstruction

EPH was fined by EU regulators for allegedly obstructing a raid by competition officials by tampering with emails.

2024

Royal Mail Takeover Concerns

Concerns regarding the Royal Mail takeover and potential impact on jobs and service.