David Gottesman, a prominent American entrepreneur, left behind a significant legacy of wealth and philanthropy upon his passing in September 2022. With an illustrious career in investment advisory and a keen eye for lucrative opportunities, Gottesman amassed considerable wealth over the years.
In this article, we delve into the details of his net worth, his career milestones, and his impactful philanthropic endeavors.
David Gottesman Net Worth 2025
At the time of his death in September 2022, David Gottesman was estimated to have a net worth of $3 billion. Much of this wealth stemmed from his astute investments, particularly his ownership of 6,402 class A shares of Berkshire Hathaway stock.
Gottesman’s association with Berkshire Hathaway dates back to his early days as an investor, and his subsequent role on the company’s board further solidified his financial standing.
According to Forbes, “We estimate David Gottesman was worth $3 billion at the time of his death in September 2022, and that much of his fortune came from his 6,402 class A shares of Berkshire Hathaway stock where he was an early investor and sat on the company’s board.”
This significant wealth placed him among the ranks of America’s wealthiest individuals, showcasing his acumen in the world of finance.
The Journey of an Entrepreneur
David Sanford “Sandy” Gottesman was born on April 26, 1926, into a Jewish family in New York. His journey towards entrepreneurial success began with a strong academic foundation, culminating in a graduation from Trinity College and the attainment of an MBA from Harvard University.
Armed with a thirst for knowledge and a passion for finance, Gottesman founded First Manhattan Co. in 1964, an investment advisory firm that would become synonymous with his name.
First Manhattan Co. specializes in providing investment management services to a diverse clientele, including partnerships, trusts, institutional clients, individuals, and retirement accounts. Gottesman’s expertise and strategic insights propelled the company to prominence, establishing him as a formidable figure in the financial realm.
How Much is David Gottesman Worth?
One of the defining aspects of David Gottesman’s career was his longstanding friendship and partnership with Warren Buffett, the legendary investor and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway. Gottesman’s early investment in Berkshire Hathaway proved to be a lucrative decision, laying the foundation for his substantial wealth accumulation.
In 2003, he further solidified his commitment to the company by joining its Board of Directors, a testament to his influence and standing within the organization.
Beyond his achievements in the business world, David Gottesman was also known for his philanthropic endeavors. Alongside his wife, Ruth, he was actively involved in supporting various charitable causes, with a particular emphasis on education and healthcare.
In 2008, the couple donated $25 million to the Yeshiva University medical school, underscoring their commitment to advancing medical education and research.
Additionally, David Gottesman served as the Vice-Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the American Museum of Natural History in New York, further exemplifying his dedication to promoting education and cultural enrichment.
David Gottesman’s net worth of $3 billion at the time of his death in 2022 reflects his remarkable success as an entrepreneur and investor.
From humble beginnings to becoming a titan of the financial world, Gottesman’s journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs and philanthropists alike. His enduring legacy of wealth and generosity continues to impact countless lives, solidifying his status as a true visionary in the realms of business and philanthropy.