Michael Milken Net Worth (Updated 2026).

Michael Milken, often hailed as the “King of Junk Bonds,” began his career in the late 1960s, working at a small brokerage firm in Los Angeles. He quickly made a name for himself by identifying undervalued securities, a skill that would become his trademark. Milken’s innovative approach to investing, particularly in high-yield, high-risk bonds, caught the attention of Wall Street.

In the 1980s, Milken co-founded the investment firm Drexel Burnham Lambert, where he pioneered the use of “junk bonds” to finance corporate takeovers. These bonds, typically issued by companies with lower credit ratings, were seen as too risky by traditional investors. However, Milken believed in their potential, and his aggressive marketing and innovative structuring of these securities transformed the financial landscape.

Michael Milken’s Current Net Worth (2025)

As of 2025, Michael Milken’s net worth is estimated to be around $3.3 billion, according to Forbes. This makes him one of the wealthiest individuals in the United States.

Career

Michael Milken is known for his significant role in developing the market for high-yield bonds, often referred to as “junk bonds.” He spent 24 years at Drexel Burnham Lambert, where he rose to become the firm’s chairman and CEO. Milken was dubbed the “Junk Bond King” for his innovative work in this area. However, his career was marred by controversy in the late 1980s when he was indicted on securities and reporting violations. He eventually pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 10 years in prison, though he only served two.

Other Ventures

After his release from prison, Milken founded the Milken Institute, a nonpartisan think tank focused on economic policy. He also established the Prostate Cancer Foundation, which has raised over $750 million for research. Milken’s philanthropic efforts have been recognized with numerous awards, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States.

Assets

Michael Milken’s assets include a significant stake in the Milken Family Foundation, which he chairs, as well as investments in various real estate properties and businesses. He also owns a substantial collection of art, including works by artists like Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein. Milken’s primary residence is a sprawling estate in Santa Monica, California.

Annual Income

Michael Milken’s annual income is largely derived from his investments and his role as the chairman of the Milken Institute. His exact earnings are not publicly disclosed, but it’s estimated that his annual income is in the tens of millions of dollars. Additionally, he receives royalties from his book “The Power of Full Engagement,” which he co-authored with Jim Loehr.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Michael Milken

Frequently Asked Questions: Michael Milken Net Worth

1. What is Michael Milken’s net worth?

Michael Milken’s net worth is estimated to be around $3.6 billion.

2. How did Michael Milken make his fortune?

Michael Milken made his fortune as a financier and co-founder of Drexel Burnham Lambert, where he pioneered the use of high-yield bonds, also known as “junk bonds.”

3. What is Michael Milken’s role in the development of the junk bond market?

Michael Milken is often referred to as the “junk bond king” for his significant role in developing the junk bond market. He helped finance numerous leveraged buyouts and corporate takeovers in the 1980s.

4. What is Michael Milken’s educational background?

Michael Milken graduated from the University of California, Berkeley with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration. He also has a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School.

5. What is Michael Milken’s philanthropic work like?

Michael Milken is known for his philanthropic work, particularly in the areas of medical research and education. He founded the Milken Institute, a think tank focused on economic policy, and the Prostate Cancer Foundation.

6. What is the Milken Institute and what does it do?

The Milken Institute is a nonpartisan, nonprofit think tank determined to increase global prosperity by advancing collaborative solutions that widen access to capital, create jobs and improve health. It conducts research, conferences, and publications on a broad range of economic and social issues.

7. What is the Prostate Cancer Foundation and how is Michael Milken involved?

The Prostate Cancer Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to funding research on prostate cancer. Michael Milken is the co-founder and chairman of the organization, which has raised over $1 billion for research since its inception.

8. What is Michael Milken’s role in the entertainment industry?

Michael Milken has been involved in the entertainment industry as an investor and producer. He has been a producer on several films, including “The Insider” and “Erin Brockovich.”

9. What is Michael Milken’s involvement in politics and public policy?

Michael Milken has been involved in politics and public policy, particularly in the areas of healthcare and economic policy. He has advised several U.S. presidents and has testified before Congress on various issues.

10. What is Michael Milken’s current role and activities?

Michael Milken currently serves as the chairman of the Milken Institute and the Prostate Cancer Foundation. He continues to be involved in philanthropic efforts and is also a senior advisor to several companies and investment firms.