Billionaire Profile
David Kaplan
Global Rank
#2243

Image: Canadian Film Centre from Toronto, Canada | CC BY 2.0 | via Wikimedia Commons

David Kaplan

CEO, Finance
UNITED STATES
Real-Time Net Worth
$1.769B
Estimated based on Finance stock value as of March 6, 2026
-2.64% (24h)
Age
58
Source
Finance
Industry
Finance & Investments
Citizenship
UNITED STATES

Biography

David Kaplan is a prominent figure in the finance industry, known for his strategic investments and financial acumen. As of November 2024, his net worth is estimated at $2.3 billion. He is a co-founder of Ares Management, a credit-focused alternative investment firm managing $419 billion in assets. Kaplan's career includes significant roles at Shelter Capital Partners and Apollo Global Management. He currently serves as a partner and co-chairman of Ares' private equity business, demonstrating his leadership in the financial sector.

Fact Checked
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Live Data
Updated 3/6/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life and Education

Details regarding David Kaplan's early life are not readily available. However, it is known that he holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from the University of Michigan.

Rise to Success

David Kaplan's career took off in the finance industry. He is best known as a co-founder of Ares Management Corporation. Kaplan joined Ares in 2003. Prior to Ares, he spent time at Shelter Capital Partners and Apollo Global Management. His strategic investments and financial expertise have been instrumental in Ares Management's success, contributing significantly to his current net worth of $2.3 billion. He currently serves as a partner and co-chairman of its private equity business alongside cofounder Bennett Rosenthal.

Key Business Strategies

Kaplan's success is rooted in astute investment strategies within the finance sector. His role as a co-founder and key executive at Ares Management, a major player in the alternative investment market, has enabled him to make substantial contributions. His leadership in Ares' private equity business further underscores his impact.

Philanthropy

Information regarding David Kaplan's specific philanthropic initiatives and amounts is not available in the search results.

Career Milestones

2003

Co-founder, Ares Management

Joined Ares Management, a credit-focused alternative investment firm.

2021-2025

CEO and Co-Chairman, Ares Acquisition Corporation II

Served as Chief Executive Officer and Co-Chairman of the board of directors of Ares Acquisition Corporation II.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Philanthropy

Not Available

Undisclosed

Information regarding David Kaplan's specific philanthropic initiatives and amounts is not available in the search results.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"Not Available"

Leadership Principles

Not Available

Not Available

Controversies & Challenges

2004

Involvement in CA Revenue Recognition

In 2004, a complaint filed by the SEC stated that David Kaplan participated in widespread practices that resulted in the improper recognition of revenue by CA during fiscal year 2000.