Leon Black Net Worth (Updated 2026).

Leon Black, a name synonymous with wealth and influence in the world of finance, began his career in the early 1980s at the prestigious investment bank Drexel Burnham Lambert. Here, he honed his skills in the high-stakes world of mergers and acquisitions, working alongside legendary dealmaker Michael Milken. Black’s sharp mind and relentless work ethic quickly earned him a reputation as a formidable force in the industry.

In 1985, Black made a bold move that would catapult him to fame. He co-founded Apollo Global Management, a private equity firm that would go on to become one of the largest and most influential in the world. With Apollo, Black pioneered the use of high-yield debt to fund acquisitions, a strategy that would become known as “leveraged buyouts.” This innovative approach to dealmaking not only made Black and his firm incredibly successful but also revolutionized the way private equity firms operated.

Leon Black’s Current Net Worth (2025)

As of 2025, Leon Black’s estimated net worth is $9.0 billion, according to the latest available information. This figure reflects his extensive business career and investments.

Career

Leon Black is a prominent American businessman, best known as the co-founder and former CEO of Apollo Global Management, a leading global alternative asset manager. He co-founded Apollo in 1990 and served as its CEO until 2017. Black is widely recognized for his expertise in private equity and distressed investing.

Other Ventures

In addition to Apollo, Black has been involved in various other ventures. He serves on the boards of several prominent companies, including Hilton Worldwide and LyondellBasell. Black is also a significant art collector and has been involved in philanthropic efforts, particularly in education and healthcare.

Assets

Black’s assets include a significant stake in Apollo Global Management, as well as investments in various other companies and industries. He also owns a substantial collection of art, which is estimated to be worth hundreds of millions of dollars. Black’s real estate holdings include properties in New York City and the Hamptons.

Annual Income

As of 2021, Leon Black’s annual income was estimated to be around $20 million. This figure is primarily derived from his compensation as a senior executive at Apollo Global Management. However, his annual income can vary significantly depending on the performance of his investments and other business ventures.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Leon Black

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Frequently Asked Questions: Leon Black Net Worth

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1. What is Leon Black’s net worth?

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Leon Black’s net worth is estimated to be around $9.2 billion.

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2. How did Leon Black make his fortune?

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Leon Black made his fortune through private equity, real estate, and art investments. He co-founded Apollo Global Management, a private equity firm, in 1990.

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3. What is Apollo Global Management?

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Apollo Global Management is a leading global alternative investment manager. It was founded by Leon Black, Joshua Harris, and Marc Rowan in 1990.

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4. What is Leon Black’s role at Apollo Global Management?

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Leon Black served as the CEO of Apollo Global Management from its inception until 2017. He then served as the chairman until 2020. He stepped down from the board in 2021.

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5. What is Leon Black’s involvement in real estate?

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Leon Black has significant investments in real estate, including the iconic office tower at 767 Fifth Avenue in New York City, which he bought in 2007.

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6. What is Leon Black’s involvement in art?

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Leon Black is a prominent art collector. He is known for his collection of Impressionist and Modern art, which includes works by artists like Picasso, Matisse, and Monet.

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7. What is the most expensive artwork Leon Black has bought?

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The most expensive artwork Leon Black is known to have bought is “Woman III” by Willem de Kooning, which he purchased for $137.5 million in 2006.

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8. What is Leon Black’s educational background?

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Leon Black graduated from Harvard College in 1973 and received an MBA from Harvard Business School in 1975.

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9. What are Leon Black’s philanthropic efforts?

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Leon Black and his wife, Gabrielle, have been active in philanthropy. They have donated to various causes, including education, healthcare, and the arts, through their foundation, the Leonard and Gabrielle Davis Foundation.

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10. What is Leon Black’s current status at Apollo Global Management?

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As of 2021, Leon Black is no longer associated with Apollo Global Management. He stepped down from the board in 2021.