Billionaire Profile
David Reuben
Global Rank
#217

Image: Leslie Ward | Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

David Reuben

CEO, Reuben Brothers
UNITED KINGDOM
Real-Time Net Worth
$13.198B
Estimated based on Reuben Brothers stock value as of March 6, 2026
0% (24h)
Age
87
Source
Investments, real estate
Industry
diversified
Citizenship
UNITED KINGDOM

Biography

David Reuben, born in 1938, is a British billionaire businessman and investor, primarily known for his investments in real estate and his co-founding role in Reuben Brothers. His source of wealth stems from investments in real estate and various other ventures. Reuben's career began in the scrap metal business, later expanding into metals trading and, most notably, real estate. He has achieved significant success in acquiring and developing prime properties, particularly in London. With an estimated net worth of $13.5 billion, David Reuben is a prominent figure in the global financial landscape. He is also known for his philanthropic efforts through the Reuben Foundation. Reuben resides in London, United Kingdom.

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

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

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.

Career Milestones

1960s

Began Career

David started his career in the scrap metal business.

1990s

Russian Aluminum Market

Ventured into the Russian aluminum market with his brother.

2000s

Focus on Real Estate

Shifted focus to the UK property market, acquiring key landmarks.

2002

Reuben Foundation Established

Established the Reuben Foundation to focus on healthcare and education.

2021

Newcastle United

Acquired a 10% stake in Newcastle United Football Club.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education and Healthcare

Reuben Foundation

$80M

Supports healthcare and education, including Reuben College at Oxford University and the Reuben Foundation Children's Cancer Centre at Great Ormond Street Hospital.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Leadership Principles

Strategic Adaptability

Avoids speculative ventures and seeks asset-backed opportunities with clear potential for appreciation.

Capital Preservation

Prioritizes capital preservation first, then growth, ensuring every investment decision is rooted in thorough analysis.

Controversies & Challenges

1990s

Russian Business Ventures

Trans-World Group was accused of involvement in illegal activities during their ventures in the Russian aluminum industry, but the Reubens denied the allegations.

2006

Olympic City Development

London Mayor Ken Livingstone accused David and Simon Reuben of jeopardizing the Olympic City development.

2023

Nickel Fraud

Hyphen Trading Ltd, a firm associated with the Reubens, was involved in a legal dispute with Trafigura over an alleged nickel fraud. The case was settled.