How Did Daniel Kretinsky Make His Money?

Daniel Kretinsky’s Profile Summary

Company	Energetický a průmyslový holding (EPH)
Position	Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Source of wealth	Energy sector investments, diversified holdings in media, retail, and sports.
Also known as	Daniel Křetínský
Age	49
Education	Doctoral degree in Law and Bachelor's degree in Political Science from Masaryk University.
Citizenship	Czech Republic
Residence	Prague, Czech Republic
Family	In a relationship with Anna Kellnerová
Website, Social Media	https://www.epholding.cz https://www.sparta.cz

Daniel Kretinsky’s biography

Daniel Křetínský was born on July 9, 1975, in Brno, Czechoslovakia (now the Czech Republic). He pursued higher education at Masaryk University, earning a Doctoral degree from the Faculty of Law and a Bachelor's degree in Political Science from the Faculty of Philosophy.

Křetínský began his professional career as a legal trainee at Gottweis & Partner in Brno. In 1999, he joined the J&T Investment Group, a private equity firm, where he advanced to become a partner by 2003.

In 2009, Křetínský co-founded Energetický a průmyslový holding (EPH), focusing on energy investments. Under his leadership as CEO and majority shareholder, EPH expanded to become one of the largest energy companies in Central and Eastern Europe, employing over 25,000 people.

Beyond the energy sector, Křetínský diversified his investments into media, retail, and sports. He holds significant stakes in various European companies, including a 28% share in International Distribution Services, the parent company of Royal Mail, and substantial investments in J Sainsbury and Foot Locker. In the sports arena, he co-owns AC Sparta Prague and holds a significant stake in West Ham United Football Club.

Křetínský's personal life includes a relationship with Anna Kellnerová, daughter of the late Petr Kellner, formerly the richest man in the Czech Republic. In 2015, he acquired Heath Hall, a historic mansion in London, for £65 million.

How did Daniel Kretinsky make money?

Daniel Křetínský's journey to becoming a billionaire began with his tenure at J&T Investment Group, where he gained valuable experience in private equity and strategic investments. Recognized for his analytical and business acumen, he quickly rose through the ranks to become a partner by 2003. His pivotal career moment came in 2009 when he co-founded Energetický a průmyslový holding (EPH), focusing on energy investments in Central and Eastern Europe.

Under his leadership as CEO, EPH expanded rapidly, acquiring undervalued energy assets, including power plants, gas storage facilities, and distribution networks. Křetínský demonstrated a talent for identifying underperforming assets and turning them into profitable ventures through operational efficiency and restructuring. By the mid-2010s, EPH had become one of the largest energy groups in Europe, generating significant revenue and solidifying Křetínský’s reputation as a leading figure in the sector.

Křetínský also diversified his wealth by investing in other industries. In retail, he acquired stakes in companies like J Sainsbury and Royal Mail, becoming one of the largest shareholders in these iconic brands. His foray into the sports world further expanded his portfolio; he co-owns AC Sparta Prague and holds a significant stake in West Ham United Football Club.

His investment strategy revolves around long-term value creation, emphasizing sectors with stable cash flow and growth potential. By carefully balancing risk and opportunity, Křetínský has built a multi-billion-dollar empire spanning energy, retail, media, and sports. His success is attributed to a methodical approach, in-depth market analysis, and the ability to execute transformative business strategies.
What is Daniel Kretinsky net worth?

As of 2025, Daniel Kretinsky’s net worth is estimated to be $9.8 B.

What is Daniel Kretinsky also known as?

Daniel Křetínský is often referred to as the "Czech Sphinx" due to his discreet and strategic investment style, which has significantly impacted various sectors across Europe.

Prominent achievements of Daniel Kretinsky

Under Křetínský's leadership, EPH expanded to become a leading energy group in Central Europe. He successfully diversified his investment portfolio, acquiring significant stakes in major European companies across various sectors, including energy, retail, and sports. His strategic investments have positioned him as a key player in the European business landscape.

What are Daniel Kretinsky’s key insights?

Philosophy and Insights: Daniel Křetínský emphasizes a strategic and analytical approach to investments, focusing on undervalued assets with potential for operational improvements. His philosophy is shaped by his upbringing in communist Czechoslovakia, leading him to believe in the inefficiency of centrally planned economies and the importance of free markets.

Daniel Kretinsky’s personal life

Daniel Křetínský has been in a relationship with Anna Kellnerová, an accomplished equestrian and daughter of the late Petr Kellner, who was the richest man in the Czech Republic.

Useful insights

Fundamental principles of investing

As someone deeply immersed in the world of finance, I firmly believe that learning the fundamental principles of investing is the cornerstone of financial literacy. The books I recommend here have shaped modern investment strategies, offering timeless wisdom that can benefit both beginners and seasoned investors. These are not just texts, but essential tools to help you navigate the complexities of the financial markets with confidence and insight.

Benjamin Graham – "The Intelligent Investor"
- Summary:
  
  Written by one of the most influential investment thinkers, this book outlines the principles of value investing. Graham emphasizes the importance of analyzing a company’s intrinsic value, long-term investment strategies, and avoiding emotional decisions driven by market fluctuations. The book also discusses defensive investing, focusing on preservation of capital and minimizing risk.
- Why read it:
  
  This is a must-read for anyone looking to understand the core philosophy behind successful long-term investing. Graham’s principles influenced generations of investors, including Warren Buffett, making it an essential guide to navigating stock market risks with a focus on minimizing losses.
Ray Dalio – "Principles"
- Summary:
  
  Ray Dalio, founder of one of the world’s largest hedge funds, shares the life and work principles that led to his immense success. The book covers Dalio’s unique management and investment strategies, focusing on radical transparency, truth-seeking, and the importance of learning from mistakes. It also provides practical insights into organizational behavior and personal growth, making it valuable beyond just investing.
- Why read it:
  
  Dalio's "Principles" is a treasure trove of wisdom for investors and business leaders who wish to improve their decision-making. It’s a guide on how to align personal and professional life through well-defined, actionable rules.