Early Life
Samuel Yin, also known as Yin Yen-Liang, was born in Taipei, Taiwan, on August 16, 1950. He holds a Bachelor of Arts/Science from Chinese Culture University, a Master of Business Administration from National Taiwan University, and a Ph.D. from National Chengchi University. His early life in Taiwan laid the foundation for his future success.
Rise to Success
Yin is the head of the Ruentex Financial Group, which invests in Taiwan and China. Ruentex is most known for its construction investments, as well as the grocery and retail chain RT Mart. In 2017, Ruentex sold a 36% stake in Sun Art Retail Group to Alibaba for $2.8 billion. This transaction was the largest-ever acquisition by Alibaba and solidified Ruentex's position in the retail industry. Yin's career has seen him recognized as a promoter of entrepreneurship and startups in Taiwan and China. He was a key investor in the electric scooter startup Gogoro in 2014.
Key Business Strategies
Under Yin's leadership, Ruentex expanded its operations and diversified its interests. One of his most notable contributions has been his work with the Samuel and Esther Yin Foundation, which focuses on areas such as medical research, child welfare, and disaster relief.
Philanthropy
Yin is known for his philanthropic work and has pledged to donate 95% of his net wealth to charity. He established the Tang Prize in December 2012, funded by $100 million of his own capital. The prize promotes research beneficial to the world and humankind and promotes Chinese culture. Yin also supports several foundations, including the Yin Xun-Ruo Educational Foundation, the Yin Shu-Tien Medical Foundation, and the Guanghua School of Management in Peking. He donated $12.8 million to The Scripps Research Institute in 2016.