Billionaire Profile

Global Rank

#641

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Sky Xu

CEO, Shein

Real-Time Net Worth

$9.1B

As of December 2025

Age

Source

E-commerce

Industry

fashion-retail

Citizenship

Biography

Sky Xu, also known as Chris Xu, is the co-founder and CEO of Shein, a global e-commerce platform specializing in fast fashion. Born in China in 1984, Xu's career began in search engine optimization, which provided insights into online consumer behavior and the potential of e-commerce. Under his leadership, Shein has grown from a small online retailer into one of the world's largest fast-fashion companies, catering to a global audience with its trendy and affordable clothing. As of January 2025, Xu's net worth is estimated at $9.1 billion, a testament to his success in the e-commerce industry. His wealth source is e-commerce. Xu's achievements include building Shein into a global brand with a valuation of $100 billion in 2022. He is known for his private nature and rarely gives interviews, preferring to let Shein's success speak for itself.

Wealth Over Time

Portfolio Holdings

Shein

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Sky Xu, also known as Chris Xu or Xu Yangtian, was born in Shandong province, China, in 1984. Details of his early life are scarce, but reports suggest he came from a modest background. He attended Qingdao University of Science and Technology, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree.

Rise to Success

Xu's career began in search engine optimization (SEO) marketing, providing him with valuable insights into online consumer behavior. In 2008, he co-founded Nanjing Dianwei Information Technology, which served as a precursor to Shein. In 2011, Xu launched SheInside, an online wedding dress retailer based in Nanjing. Recognizing the potential of fast fashion, Xu rebranded the company as Shein. He focused on a data-driven approach, leveraging technology to identify trends and a supply chain model for rapid production and distribution.

Key Business Strategies

Shein's success is attributed to several key strategies. The company adopted a direct-to-consumer model, offering trendy clothing at competitive prices. Shein's ability to produce new styles quickly and its efficient supply chain management have been critical. The company also invested heavily in influencer marketing and social media, particularly on platforms like TikTok, to reach a global audience.

Philanthropy

Information on Sky Xu's philanthropic activities is limited due to his private nature. However, his company Shein has been involved in various initiatives. The exact amounts and details of these initiatives are not readily available in public sources. There is no readily available information on Xu's personal philanthropy.

Career Milestones

2008

Founded Nanjing Dianwei Information Technology

Co-founded a cross-border e-commerce business, which was a precursor to Shein.

2011

Launched SheInside

Launched an online wedding dress retailer in Nanjing, which later became Shein.

2015

Rebranded to Shein

The company's name was changed from SheInside to Shein.

2022

Shein Valuation Reached $100 Billion

Shein raised capital at a valuation of $100 billion.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Corporate Social Responsibility

Shein Initiatives

Undisclosed

Details of specific philanthropic initiatives are not readily available.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"Sky Xu prefers to keep a low profile and rarely makes public statements."

Leadership Principles

Data-Driven Decision Making

Sky Xu emphasizes a data-driven approach to fashion retail, leveraging technology to swiftly respond to consumer trends.

Supply Chain Efficiency

Focus on supply chain efficiency and affordability has been central to Shein's global success.

Controversies & Challenges

2022

Allegations of Supplier Disputes

Accusations of disputes with former business partners and the taking of company assets.

Ongoing

Environmental and Labor Concerns

Shein faces scrutiny over its environmental and labor practices within its fast-fashion model.