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Billionaire Profile
M
Global Rank
#1980

Image: Ponce de León, Néstor, 1837-1899 | Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Manuel Lao Hernández & family

CEO, Casinos
SPAIN
Real-Time Net Worth
$2.131B
Estimated based on Casinos stock value as of April 20, 2026
-0.5% (24h)
Age
81
Source
Casinos
Industry
Gambling & Casinos
Citizenship
SPAIN

Biography

Manuel Lao Hernández, born in Almería, Spain, in 1944, is a prominent Spanish entrepreneur celebrated for his significant contributions to the gaming and entertainment sectors. As the founder of Cirsa, Spain's largest casino company, he built a global empire, demonstrating exceptional business acumen and leadership. Through strategic vision and hard work, Lao Hernández transformed Cirsa into a multinational leader with operations in numerous countries. Today, his wealth is primarily derived from his investments managed through Nortia Capital Investment Holding.

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

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Manuel Lao Hernández was born in Doña María, Almería, Spain, in 1944. He moved to Terrassa, Barcelona, with his family at the age of 12. He started his career early, working in various jobs before developing an entrepreneurial spirit.

Rise to Success

Lao Hernández founded Cirsa in 1978. Initially focused on manufacturing and operating recreational machines, Cirsa expanded into casinos, bingo halls, and other gaming areas under his leadership. Through his vision and ability to anticipate market trends, Cirsa grew rapidly, becoming Spain's largest casino company and expanding internationally. In 2018, Blackstone acquired Cirsa.

Key Business Strategies

Key business strategies included expanding Cirsa's operations internationally to over 50 countries. This expansion was a pivotal achievement, establishing Cirsa as a global player in the gaming industry. Also, his Nortia investment firm manages interests in infrastructure, real estate, and leisure and entertainment.

Philanthropy

Manuel Lao Hernández is a philanthropist and has a foundation that organizes events.

Career Milestones

1978

Founded Cirsa

Founded Cirsa, which became Spain's largest casino company.

2018

Sold Cirsa

Sold Cirsa to Blackstone.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

General

MLH Foundation

Undisclosed

Founded the MLH Foundation

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Leadership Principles

Entrepreneurial Spirit

Strong entrepreneurial spirit, visionary, and hard-working.

Controversies & Challenges

2023

Tax Dispute

Cirsa was involved in a tax dispute over two Moroccan casinos.

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