Early Life and Education
Paul Elliott Singer was born on August 22, 1944, in Teaneck, New Jersey, to a Jewish family. He earned a B.S. in psychology from the University of Rochester in 1966 and a J.D. from Harvard Law School in 1969. After graduating, he worked as an attorney in the real estate division of the investment bank Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette.
Rise to Success
In 1977, Singer founded Elliott Management with seed capital of $1.3 million. Initially, the firm focused on convertible arbitrage. However, after the 1987 market crash, Elliott shifted its focus to activist investing, including distressed debt. Singer's strategy involved taking significant stakes in companies or institutions to influence outcomes, often pushing for business changes. Elliott Management grew into a financial powerhouse, managing over $76.1 billion in assets as of June 30, 2025.
Key Business Strategies
Elliott Management is known for its hands-on approach in underperforming companies, aiming to increase shareholder value. The firm's investment model focuses on distressed assets. This often involves purchasing debt from bankrupt firms. Singer has also been involved in shareholder activism, corporate restructurings, and has been described as a pioneer in buying up sovereign bonds on the cheap. A notable example includes the firm's 15-year legal battle with Argentina to recover bond payments. Elliott has expanded into private equity and has been involved in numerous campaigns aimed at technology companies.
Philanthropy
Singer is also involved in philanthropy. He signed The Giving Pledge, which commits individuals to donate more than half of their wealth within their lifetime. He founded the Paul E. Singer Family Foundation, supporting various charitable causes. The foundation's mission is to support American democracy, the future of Israel as a Jewish and democratic state, and Jewish continuity. The Foundation has donated to pro-Israel organizations, LGBT rights initiatives, and educational institutions.