Adani, Gautam

Career & Business Expansion

Early Venture: In 1981, returned to Ahmedabad to run his brother’s PVC film factory. He entered polymer trading during liberalization, establishing a trading firm by age 23
Adani Group: Founded in 1988, starting as a commodities trader; today it’s a ₹150 + billion‑market‑cap conglomerate covering ports, power, mining, renewable energy, airports, defence, media, real estate, FMCG, and more
Flagship Projects: Built India’s largest private port (Mundra), became its largest private thermal power producer (via Adani Power), and launched Adani Green Energy – home to one of the world’s largest solar installations

Wealth & Influence

Net Worth: Peaked at ~$127 billion in 2022; ranked Asia’s richest and among the world’s top richest. As of May 2025, his net worth was ~$68.4 billion, ranking 2nd richest in India
Recognition: Featured in Time 100 most influential (2022) and Forbes worldwide billionaire list

Political Ties & Controversies

Political Links: Known for close ties to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP-led governments, which have drawn accusations of crony capitalism
Hindenburg Scandal (2023): Accused of massive stock manipulation and fraud by U.S. short-seller Hindenburg Research, resulting in a ~$68 billion market cap loss. These claims were later dismissed by India’s Supreme Court, and Adani group stocks later recovered
U.S. Indictment (2024): A U.S. federal indictment alleges Adani and executives orchestrated a $265 million bribery scheme to mislead U.S. investors. Adani and his nephew face court proceedings in Brooklyn

Philanthropy & Foundations

Adani Foundation: Founded 1996; works across education, healthcare, skill training, rural livelihoods, and disaster relief in various Indian states
Giving Pledge: Committed to donating the majority of his wealth
Major Contributions: Donated ₹100 crore to PM‑CARES during COVID‑19, additional contributions to relief funds

Future Plans & Strategy

Massive Capex: Announced nearly $100 billion investment in the next 5 years towards infrastructure, green energy, airports, and healthcare
Streamlining Focus: Recently exited consumer goods JV (AWL Agri) in $1.3 billion deal to concentrate on core sectors