Early Life and Background
David Reuben was born in Bombay, British India (now Mumbai, India) in 1938, to a Baghdadi Jewish family. His father worked in the textile industry. In the 1950s, after their parents separated, David and his brother Simon moved to London with their mother. Due to the change in financial circumstances, the brothers attended state schools.
Rise to Success
David began his career in the scrap metal business. Later, the brothers invested in the Russian metals market in the early 1990s. They gained control of multiple aluminum production facilities through their company Trans-World Group. They later divested their Russian assets. David played a key role in acquiring prime real estate assets in London, including iconic properties such as Millbank Tower and The Burlington Arcade.
Key Business Strategies
The Reuben brothers focused on acquiring undervalued, high-potential properties. They diversified their investments into sectors like hospitality, logistics, and renewable energy. They are known for their strategic adaptability, avoiding speculative ventures and seeking asset-backed opportunities. They are known to prioritize capital preservation and long-term resilience.
Philanthropy
David and Simon Reuben are also known for their philanthropic efforts through the Reuben Foundation, which focuses on healthcare and education. The foundation supports various causes, including the creation of Reuben College at Oxford University.