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Billionaire Profile
Klaus-Michael Kuehne
Global Rank
#55

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Klaus-Michael Kuehne

CEO, Kühne + Nagel International AG
DE
Real-Time Net Worth
$37.3B
As of December 2025
Age
88
Source
Shipping
Industry
logistics
Citizenship
DE

Biography

Klaus-Michael Kuehne, born in 1937, is a prominent German billionaire businessman renowned for his significant contributions to the logistics and shipping industries. As the honorary chairman and majority owner of Kühne + Nagel, a global logistics giant, he transformed the family business into a world leader. His strategic investments in Hapag-Lloyd and Lufthansa further solidified his influence in the transportation sector. With an estimated net worth of $37.3 billion, Kuehne is a major figure in the financial world and has also made substantial philanthropic contributions to education, culture, and sports, including founding the Kühne Logistics University. His career and achievements exemplify entrepreneurial success and a commitment to societal betterment.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Klaus-Michael Kühne was born on June 2, 1937, in Hamburg, Germany. He is the grandson of August Kühne, who co-founded the international transport company Kühne + Nagel in 1890. He completed an apprenticeship in banking and foreign trade.

Rise to Success

Kühne joined Kühne + Nagel as a junior partner in 1963 and became the CEO in 1996. Under his leadership, Kühne + Nagel expanded into a global logistics giant. He spearheaded the company's expansion, particularly in Europe and the Far East. He acquired a 30% share in Hapag-Lloyd through the Albert Ballin consortium. In 2022, he became the largest individual shareholder of Lufthansa.

Key Business Strategies

Klaus-Michael Kuehne focused on strategic acquisitions and investments to drive growth. He invested in digital infrastructure to streamline operations and reduce costs. He has also made investments in hospitality and real estate.

Philanthropy

Klaus-Michael Kuehne is the founder of the Kühne Foundation, contributing 5 million Swiss Francs annually to various causes. He also founded the Kühne Logistics University in Hamburg.

Career Milestones

1963

Joined Kühne + Nagel

Joined the family business as a junior partner

1996

CEO of Kühne + Nagel

Became CEO of Kühne + Nagel

2008

Partner in Hapag-Lloyd

Became a partner in Hapag-Lloyd through the Albert Ballin consortium

2011

Honorary Chairman of Kuehne + Nagel

Became Honorary Chairman of Kuehne + Nagel International AG

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education and Culture

Kühne Foundation

$5B

Supports education, culture, and medical research

Education

Kühne Logistics University

Undisclosed

Founded a private business school

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"“It is well known that the state cannot handle the economy properly.”"

"[Hamburger Sport Verein] is enormously close to my heart. I have been a fan from childhood, and I watch every match on television."

Controversies & Challenges

2024

Nazi-Era Expropriations

An investigative report revealed that Kuehne's fortune traces back to Nazi-era expropriations