Billionaire Profile

Global Rank

#1312

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Stephen Lansdown

CEO, Hargreaves Lansdown

Real-Time Net Worth

$3B

As of December 2025

Age

Source

Financial services

Industry

finance-investments

Citizenship

Biography

Stephen Lansdown CBE, a prominent figure in the financial services industry and sports, is the co-founder of Hargreaves Lansdown, a leading UK investment platform. Born in Bristol, England, in 1952, Lansdown's career began with accountancy before co-founding Hargreaves Lansdown in 1981, making investment more accessible. His estimated net worth is $3.0 billion, primarily from financial services. Beyond finance, he owns Bristol Sport, overseeing several sports teams in Bristol. His achievements include building a successful financial services firm and significant contributions to the local community through sports and philanthropy.

Wealth Over Time

Portfolio Holdings

Hargreaves Lansdown

HRGV•finance-investments

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Stephen Philip Lansdown was born on August 30, 1952, in Bristol, England. He was raised in a modest household, and attended Thornbury Grammar School. He trained as an accountant, a profession that equipped him with the knowledge and expertise to pursue business opportunities in the financial world.

Rise to Success

In 1981, Lansdown co-founded Hargreaves Lansdown with Peter Hargreaves, starting the business from a bedroom. Hargreaves Lansdown grew into one of the UK's largest and most respected investment service companies. The company went public in 2007, and Lansdown stepped down as chairman in 2009, retiring from the board in 2012. Lansdown's dedication, combined with sharp financial instincts, helped Hargreaves Lansdown evolve into a FTSE-listed company.

Key Business Strategies

The key to Lansdown's success has been his focus on simplifying investment for retail investors. The platform simplified investments for everyday Britons. The company's strategy was to cut out intermediaries, offering direct access to financial products at a lower cost.

Philanthropy

Lansdown is a significant supporter of local community initiatives, particularly in Bristol. He is also involved in several philanthropic causes.

Career Milestones

1981

Co-founded Hargreaves Lansdown

Co-founded the British financial services firm with Peter Hargreaves.

2002

Became Chairman of Bristol City Football Club

Became the chairman of Bristol City Football Club.

2007

Hargreaves Lansdown IPO

Hargreaves Lansdown went public on the London Stock Exchange.

2009

Stepped down as Chairman of Hargreaves Lansdown

Stepped down from his role as Chairman of Hargreaves Lansdown.

2017

CBE

Appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for services to business and the community in Bristol.

2021

Retired as Chairman

Retired as chairman in 2021.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Sports

Bristol Sport

Undisclosed

Bristol Sport, an umbrella organization aimed at promoting sports in the region.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"“There were many years when we didn't have much money, so now I do have money, I want to put it to good use.”"

Leadership Principles

Financial Transparency

Lansdown emphasizes the importance of clear and understandable financial services.

Community Investment

His commitment to the community through sports and other initiatives.