Billionaire Profile
Mikhail Prokhorov
Global Rank
#236

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Mikhail Prokhorov

CEO, ONEXIM Group
RU
Real-Time Net Worth
$10.7B
As of December 2025
Age
60
Source
Investments
Industry
finance-investments
Citizenship
RU

Biography

Mikhail Prokhorov is a prominent Russian-Israeli businessman and investor, ranked #236 on Forbes' 2025 Billionaires list. His wealth primarily stems from investments, with a current net worth of $10.7 billion. Prokhorov's career began in the financial sector, leading to his co-founding of the Onexim Group, an investment fund with diverse interests. He gained international recognition as the former owner of the Brooklyn Nets NBA team. Beyond his business ventures, Prokhorov has been involved in politics and philanthropy, including establishing the Cultural Initiatives Foundation. He holds both Russian and Israeli citizenship.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life and Education

Mikhail Dmitrievich Prokhorov was born on May 3, 1965, in Moscow, Russia. His father was a lawyer and his mother was an engineer. He has one older sister, Irina, who manages his philanthropic activities. Prokhorov graduated from the Moscow Finance Institute in 1989 with a degree in international economic relations.

Rise to Success

Prokhorov's business career began in the early 1990s, partnering with Vladimir Potanin. Together, they acquired Norilsk Nickel in 1995, transforming it into a global leader in metals production. In 2007, he established the ONEXIM Group, a private investment fund. He sold his stake in Norilsk Nickel in 2008.

Key Business Strategies

Prokhorov's key strategies involved strategic investments in metals, banking, and insurance, as well as venturing into sports with the purchase of the Brooklyn Nets in 2010. He sold a 49% stake in the Nets in 2018 and the remaining stake in 2019.

Philanthropy

Prokhorov founded the Cultural Initiatives Foundation in March 2004. He has also supported various sports clubs. His sister, Irina Prokhorova, is involved in his philanthropic work.

Career Milestones

1989

Graduated from Moscow Finance Institute

Obtained a degree in international economic relations.

1995

Acquired Norilsk Nickel

Partnered with Vladimir Potanin to acquire a controlling stake in Norilsk Nickel.

2004

Founded Cultural Initiatives Foundation

Established a charitable foundation supporting Russian culture.

2007

Established ONEXIM Group

Launched a private investment fund.

2010

Purchased Brooklyn Nets

Became the first non-North American owner of an NBA team.

2012

Ran for Russian President

Ran as an independent candidate in the Russian presidential election.

2019

Sold Brooklyn Nets

Sold his remaining stake in the Brooklyn Nets.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Culture

Cultural Initiatives Foundation

Undisclosed

Supports Russian culture and integration into the global context.

Controversies & Challenges

2007

Courchevel Incident

Detained in France during a luxury vacation, accused of involvement with prostitutes; charges were later dismissed.

2011

Ousting from Right Cause Party

Removed as leader of the Right Cause party, accused of clashing with Kremlin officials.