Billionaire Profile
Philippe Laffont
Global Rank
#454

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Philippe Laffont

CEO, Coatue Management
US
Real-Time Net Worth
$7.9B
As of December 2025
Age
58
Source
Hedge fund
Industry
finance-investments
Citizenship
US

Biography

Philippe Laffont is a prominent figure in the hedge fund industry, known for founding and managing Coatue Management, a technology-focused investment firm. With a net worth of $7.9 billion, Laffont has built his wealth through strategic investments in technology, media, and telecommunications companies. His career began at McKinsey & Company and Tiger Management before launching Coatue in 1999. Laffont, a 'Tiger Cub,' has achieved significant milestones, including early investments in successful tech firms, demonstrating his keen understanding of market trends. Coatue's assets under management are approximately $54 billion. He resides in New York and is recognized for his philanthropy and commitment to tech innovation.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life and Education

Philippe Laffont was born in France and later moved to the United States. He graduated from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) with degrees in Computer Science and Economics. His technical background laid a solid foundation for understanding the technology sector.

Rise to Success

Laffont began his career at McKinsey & Company and later became a research analyst at Julian Robertson's Tiger Management. In 1999, he founded Coatue Management, named after a beach in Nantucket, Massachusetts. Coatue initially managed $45 million in assets, and has grown to manage approximately $54 billion. Laffont's investment strategy focuses on long-term, tech-focused investments.

Key Business Strategies

Coatue Management invests in public and private markets, with a focus on technology, media, and telecommunications. Laffont is known for his in-depth research and analysis, identifying key technological trends, and backing innovative companies. His investments include Meta, Netflix, and Nvidia.

Philanthropy

Laffont is involved in philanthropic efforts through the Robin Hood Foundation and as a trustee for NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital.

Career Milestones

1999

Founded Coatue Management

Laffont launched Coatue Management, a technology-focused hedge fund.

2018

Achieved Billionaire Status

Forbes estimated his net worth to be $1.4 billion.

2025

Forbes 400

Ranked #176 on Forbes 400 list.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Poverty Reduction

Robin Hood Foundation

Undisclosed

Supports initiatives focused on poverty reduction.

Healthcare

NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital

Undisclosed

Serves as a trustee for the hospital.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

""There's plenty of great ideas, but the winners in the next 10 years are not going to be the FAANG stocks.""

Leadership Principles

Long-Term Perspective

Adopts a long-term investment horizon, believing in the potential of technology companies to deliver sustained growth.

Focus on Technology and Innovation

Focuses on firms that are at the forefront of innovation, such as those in the fields of artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and e-commerce.