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Global Rank
#437

Image: United States. Congress. Joint Committee on the Conduct of the War Sherman, William T. (William Tecumseh), 1820-1891 Thomas, George Henry, 1816-1870 Pope, John, 1822-1892 Foster, John G. (John Gray), 1823-1874 Pleasanton, A. J. (Alfred J.), 1824-1897 Hitchcock, Ethan Allen, 1798-1870 Sheridan, Philip Henry, 1831-1888 Ricketts, James B. (James Brewerton), 1817-1887 Wiard, Norman, 1826-1896 United States. Congress (39th, 1st session : 1865-1866). Senate | Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

J. Joe Ricketts & family

CEO, TD Ameritrade
UNITED STATES
Real-Time Net Worth
$8.289B
Estimated based on TD Ameritrade stock value as of April 20, 2026
0% (24h)
Age
84
Source
TD Ameritrade
Industry
finance-investments
Citizenship
UNITED STATES

Biography

John Joseph "Joe" Ricketts, born in 1941, is an American businessman and philanthropist. He is best known as the founder, former CEO, and former chairman of TD Ameritrade, a leading online brokerage firm. His career began in the financial sector, and through strategic foresight, he transformed TD Ameritrade into a financial powerhouse. Ricketts' net worth is estimated at $4.1 billion as of 2024. Beyond his business achievements, Ricketts and his family own the Chicago Cubs. Ricketts is also actively involved in philanthropy, supporting educational and conservation initiatives.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 4/20/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life and Education

John Joseph Ricketts was born and raised in Nebraska City, Nebraska. He graduated from St. Bernard's Academy in Nebraska City in 1959. He earned a bachelor's degree in economics from Creighton University in 1968.

Rise to Success

Ricketts' career began in the financial industry. In 1975, he co-founded First Omaha Securities with partners, investing $12,500 each. This firm evolved through mergers and became TD Ameritrade, an online brokerage that revolutionized the industry. He served as CEO from 1982 to 2001 and as chairman from 1982 to 2008.

Key Business Strategies

Ricketts pioneered the online trading platform, making it accessible and affordable for individual investors. This strategy enabled the company to grow rapidly. In 2006, TD Ameritrade acquired the U.S. operations of TD Waterhouse, further expanding its market presence.

Philanthropy

Ricketts is involved in various philanthropic endeavors. He has established The Ricketts Art Foundation, Opportunity Education Foundation, The Cloisters on the Platte Foundation, and The Ricketts Conservation Foundation. He founded Opportunity Education in 2005, aiming to improve education for children worldwide.

Career Milestones

1975

Co-founded First Omaha Securities

Co-founded First Omaha Securities, which later became TD Ameritrade.

1982

Became CEO of Ameritrade Holding Corp.

Took on the role of CEO at Ameritrade Holding Corp., which owns TD Ameritrade.

2009

Acquired Chicago Cubs

The Ricketts family acquired a 95% controlling interest in the Chicago Cubs and Wrigley Field.

2011

Retired from TD Ameritrade board

Stepped down from the board to focus on other business ventures.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education

Opportunity Education Foundation

Unknown

Supports educational initiatives globally, particularly for children in poverty.

Conservation

The Ricketts Conservation Foundation

Unknown

Focuses on conservation efforts.

Controversies & Challenges

2012

Controversial Emails

Controversy arose over emails with anti-Muslim and racist content.

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