Early Life and Education
Robert Ziff was born in 1967 to William Bernard Ziff Jr., a media magnate, and Barbara Ingrid Beitz. His mother's parents were recognized as "Righteous Among the Nations" for their actions during World War II. Robert graduated magna cum laude from Harvard University with a degree in electrical and computer engineering. He later attended Cornell Law School, graduating first in his class in 1992 and serving as editor of the Cornell Law Review.
Rise to Success
In 1994, Robert Ziff and his brothers inherited the family fortune after their father sold Ziff-Davis for $1.4 billion. They established Ziff Brothers Investments, a family office that invested in various sectors, including equities, debt, real estate, commodities, private equity, and hedge funds. A notable investment was providing seed money to Daniel Och, which led to a 10% stake in Och-Ziff Capital Management. The firm ceased operations in 2014, and Robert now invests independently.
Key Business Strategies
Ziff's investment strategy is characterized by a long-term vision and a focus on diversification and risk management. He is known for his methodical approach to investing, which helped Ziff Brothers Investments thrive in volatile markets. The firm's focus was on various asset classes, demonstrating a diversified approach to wealth management and investment.
Philanthropy
Robert Ziff has a history of philanthropy, including establishing the Robert D. Ziff Professorship of Law at Cornell Law School in 2008 and endowing the Robert B. Kent Public Interest Fund at Cornell in 2017. He has also made contributions to various educational and charitable causes.