Early Life and Education
Yuri Milner was born in Moscow, Russia, on November 11, 1961, into a Jewish family. His father was a professor, and his mother worked at a virological laboratory. Milner graduated from Moscow State University in 1985 with a degree in theoretical physics. He later studied at the Wharton School of Business in the United States.
Rise to Success
Milner began his career in the business world after his academic pursuits. He founded DST Global, a venture capital firm that has become a major player in the tech industry. DST Global has invested in numerous successful companies, including Facebook, Twitter, Spotify, and Airbnb. In 2009, Milner's DST Global invested in Facebook, a move that significantly boosted his financial success.
Key Business Strategies
Milner's investment strategy focuses on identifying promising internet and technology companies, particularly those in the late stages of development. His ability to recognize the potential of emerging technologies has been a key factor in his success. DST Global's investments in emerging markets, especially China, have also contributed to his wealth.
Philanthropy
Beyond his business ventures, Milner is deeply involved in philanthropy. He and his wife, Julia, founded the Breakthrough Prize, a set of international awards recognizing achievements in fundamental physics, life sciences, and mathematics. They also launched the Breakthrough Initiatives, which include the Breakthrough Listen project, a $100 million effort to search for extraterrestrial intelligence, and Breakthrough Starshot, a $100 million project for interstellar travel.