Jay Clayton Net Worth (Updated 2026).

Jay Clayton, a prominent figure in the legal and financial world, began his career in the early 1990s, fresh out of law school. He started at the prestigious New York law firm, Sullivan & Cromwell, where he honed his skills in corporate law and securities regulation. Clayton’s meticulous work ethic and sharp intellect quickly earned him recognition among his peers.

Clayton’s big break came in 2004 when he joined the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as an enforcement attorney. His relentless pursuit of justice and commitment to investor protection led to several high-profile cases, including the prosecution of Bernard Madoff’s Ponzi scheme. Clayton’s exceptional work at the SEC catapulted him to fame in the legal and financial communities, paving the way for his appointment as the 32nd Chairman of the SEC in 2017.

Jay Clayton’s Current Net Worth (2025)

As of 2025, Jay Clayton’s current net worth is approximately $50 million, according to the latest available information.

Career

Jay Clayton, born in 1966, is a prominent American lawyer and the 34th Chair of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), serving from 2017 to 2021. Prior to his government role, Clayton was a partner at the law firm Sullivan & Cromwell LLP, where he spent over two decades specializing in corporate and securities law.

Other Ventures

After leaving the SEC, Clayton returned to private practice, joining the law firm Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP as a partner. He also serves on the board of directors for several public companies, including The Boeing Company and The Walt Disney Company.

Assets

Clayton’s assets include a substantial real estate portfolio, with properties in New York City and the Hamptons. He also has a significant investment portfolio, consisting of stocks, bonds, and other securities. Additionally, Clayton owns a collection of classic cars, including a vintage Porsche.

Annual Income

As Chair of the SEC, Clayton’s annual salary was $203,500. Since returning to private practice, his exact annual income is not publicly disclosed. However, partners at Skadden, Arps typically earn multi-million dollar salaries, indicating that Clayton’s income has likely increased since leaving the SEC.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Jay Clayton

Frequently Asked Questions: Jay Clayton Net Worth

1. What is Jay Clayton’s net worth?

As of the latest estimates, Jay Clayton’s net worth is approximately $50 million.

2. How did Jay Clayton make his money?

Jay Clayton made his fortune through his successful career as a lawyer and investment banker. He is the co-founder of the law firm Sullivan & Cromwell LLP and has represented numerous high-profile clients in complex financial transactions.

3. What is Jay Clayton’s background?

Jay Clayton was born in New York City and graduated from Harvard College and the University of Pennsylvania Law School. He began his career at Sullivan & Cromwell in 1993 and became a partner in 1999. He later served as the Chairman of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) from 2017 to 2021.

4. What is Jay Clayton’s role at Sullivan & Cromwell?

Jay Clayton is a co-founder and partner at Sullivan & Cromwell LLP, where he serves as the Chair of the firm’s Mergers & Acquisitions Group. He has extensive experience in representing clients in complex corporate transactions, including mergers, acquisitions, and capital raisings.

5. Has Jay Clayton ever held a political position?

Yes, Jay Clayton served as the Chairman of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) from 2017 to 2021. He was nominated for the position by President Donald Trump and confirmed by the U.S. Senate.

6. What is Jay Clayton’s involvement in the financial industry?

Throughout his career, Jay Clayton has been deeply involved in the financial industry. In addition to his work at Sullivan & Cromwell, he has represented numerous financial institutions and investment funds in various transactions and regulatory matters.

7. Has Jay Clayton written any books?

Yes, Jay Clayton is the author of the book “The Art of the Deal: The Full Donald J. Trump Biography.” The book was published in 2016 and provides an in-depth look at the life and career of former President Donald Trump.

8. What is Jay Clayton’s philanthropic work like?

Jay Clayton has been involved in various philanthropic efforts throughout his career. He has served on the boards of several non-profit organizations and has donated to various charitable causes, including education and healthcare.

9. What is Jay Clayton’s stance on cryptocurrency regulation?

As the former Chairman of the SEC, Jay Clayton was a vocal advocate for the regulation of cryptocurrencies and initial coin offerings (ICOs). He has expressed concern about the potential for fraud and manipulation in the cryptocurrency market and has called for greater oversight and enforcement by regulatory agencies.

10. What is Jay Clayton’s current role in the financial industry?

After stepping down as the Chairman of the SEC in 2021, Jay Clayton returned to his role as a partner at Sullivan & Cromwell LLP. He continues to represent clients in complex corporate transactions and regulatory matters.