Richard Stengel Net Worth (Updated 2026).

Richard Stengel, born in 1955, began his career in the late 1970s as a journalist, a path he chose after graduating from Princeton University. He started at the bottom, working as a reporter for local newspapers, honing his craft and building a strong foundation in investigative journalism.

Stengel’s big break came in the early 1980s when he was hired by The New York Times. His tenure there was marked by several high-profile assignments, including covering the fall of the Berlin Wall and the end of the Cold War. It was during this time that he gained national recognition for his insightful and compelling reporting.

Richard Stengel’s Current Net Worth (2025)

As of 2025, Richard Stengel’s estimated net worth is around $5 million, according to the latest available information. This figure reflects his successful career in journalism, public service, and his various ventures.

Career

Richard Stengel is a prominent American journalist and former government official. He served as the Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs from 2013 to 2016. Prior to this, he was the Managing Editor of Time magazine from 2006 to 2013. Stengel has also worked as a war correspondent, covering conflicts in Africa, the Middle East, and the Balkans.

Other Ventures

Stengel is the author of several books, including “You’re There: Travels Through the New Russia” and “January First: A Memoir of Life with Asperger’s”. He is also a frequent commentator on political and international affairs for various media outlets. In addition, he co-founded the social impact investment firm, The Rise Fund, in 2016.

Assets

Stengel’s assets include a residence in Washington, D.C., and properties in New York City and South Africa. He also owns a significant stake in The Rise Fund, which has a portfolio valued at over $2 billion. His personal investments in stocks and bonds contribute to his overall net worth.

Annual Income

Stengel’s annual income is derived from his roles as a managing director at The Rise Fund, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, and a contributing writer for Vanity Fair. His exact annual income is not publicly disclosed, but it is estimated to be in the range of $500,000 to $1 million per year.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Richard Stengel

Richard Stengel Net Worth FAQs

1. What is Richard Stengel’s net worth?

Richard Stengel’s net worth is estimated to be around $5 million.

2. How did Richard Stengel make his money?

Richard Stengel made his fortune through his career as a journalist, author, and former Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs.

3. What is Richard Stengel’s background?

Richard Stengel was born in South Africa and grew up during the apartheid era. He later moved to the United States and began his career as a journalist.

4. What books has Richard Stengel written?

Richard Stengel has written several books, including “January Sun: One Day, One City, One Life,” “The Future of Our Past: Reports from the Front Lines of History,” and “Mandela’s Way: Lessons on Life, Love, and Courage.”

5. What awards has Richard Stengel won?

Richard Stengel has won several awards, including the National Magazine Award, the Overseas Press Club Award, and the George Polk Award.

6. Where did Richard Stengel go to college?

Richard Stengel graduated from Princeton University with a degree in History.

7. What is Richard Stengel’s political affiliation?

Richard Stengel is a Democrat.

8. What is Richard Stengel’s stance on free speech?

Richard Stengel has written extensively about free speech and has advocated for its importance in democratic societies.

9. What is Richard Stengel’s relationship with Nelson Mandela?

Richard Stengel was a close friend and advisor to Nelson Mandela. He served as a speechwriter for Mandela during his presidency and later wrote a book about their friendship.

10. What is Richard Stengel doing now?

Richard Stengel is currently a contributing writer for The New York Times and a senior fellow at the Atlantic Council. He also serves on several corporate and non-profit boards.