How Did Yu Yong Make His Money?

Yu Yong’s Profile Summary

Company	Cathay Fortune Corporation
Position	Chairman and President
Source of wealth	Investments in mining, technology, and real estate sectors
Also known as	Yu Yong
Age	64
Education	Information not publicly available
Citizenship	China
Residence	Shanghai, China
Family	Married
Website, Social Media	No data

Yu Yong’s biography

Yu Yong, born on February 27, 1961, in Wafangdian, Liaoning Province, China, is a prominent Chinese businessman and entrepreneur. He is the founder, chairman, and president of Cathay Fortune Corporation, a Shanghai-based private equity firm specializing in investments across various sectors, notably mining, technology, and real estate.

Yu Yong's career is marked by strategic investments and significant contributions to China's industrial landscape. Under his leadership, Cathay Fortune Corporation became a major investor in China Molybdenum Co. (CMOC Group), one of the world's leading producers of molybdenum and other metals.

In 2012, Yu Yong made headlines with an AUD 830 million hostile takeover bid for Australia's Discovery Metals, aiming to expand his mining interests internationally. The bid, however, was withdrawn due to concerns about the Boseto copper project in Botswana.

Beyond mining, Yu Yong diversified his investments into the technology sector. He holds a stake in Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited (CATL), a global leader in lithium-ion battery development and manufacturing. His early investment in CATL underscores his foresight into the burgeoning electric vehicle market.

Yu Yong's business acumen has positioned him among China's wealthiest individuals. As of January 2025, his net worth is estimated at $10.3 billion, reflecting his successful ventures and strategic investments.

Despite his substantial wealth and influence, Yu Yong maintains a relatively low public profile. He resides in Shanghai, China, and continues to lead Cathay Fortune Corporation, steering its investments and expanding its global presence.

How did Yu Yong make money?

Yu Yong built his fortune through strategic investments in the mining and technology sectors, primarily through his private equity firm, Cathay Fortune Corporation. His business journey began when he founded Cathay Fortune in the early 2000s, recognizing the growing demand for critical metals like molybdenum, cobalt, and copper, essential components in industries such as energy, construction, and electronics.

One of his most significant investments was in China Molybdenum Co. (CMOC Group), a major producer of molybdenum, tungsten, and other rare metals. Yu Yong, through Cathay Fortune, acquired a controlling stake in the company and played a pivotal role in expanding its operations both domestically and internationally. Under his leadership, CMOC made several key acquisitions, including mining assets in Africa, Australia, and South America, securing its position as a global leader in the mining industry.

In addition to mining, Yu Yong diversified his portfolio by investing in Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited (CATL), one of the world's largest manufacturers of lithium-ion batteries. His early investment in CATL allowed him to capitalize on the growing demand for electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy storage solutions. The success of CATL has significantly boosted his wealth, given the company's dominant position in the EV battery market.

Yu Yong’s strategy has always focused on early entry into high-growth sectors, acquiring undervalued assets, and expanding operations to maximize returns. His investments in global mining projects and cutting-edge technology companies have been the foundation of his wealth. As of January 2025, his net worth is estimated at $10.3 billion, with the bulk of his fortune tied to his holdings in CMOC and CATL.

Yu Yong's business success is a result of his foresight in recognizing global trends in renewable energy and critical minerals, positioning himself at the forefront of industries that are essential to the world's energy transition.
What is Yu Yong net worth?

As of 2025, Yu Yong’s net worth is estimated to be $11.0 B.

What is Yu Yong also known as?

Yu Yong is recognized as a leading Chinese entrepreneur, primarily known for founding and leading Cathay Fortune Corporation, a prominent investment firm with significant stakes in mining and technology sectors, including CMOC Group and CATL.

Prominent achievements of Yu Yong

Yu Yong has successfully established Cathay Fortune Corporation as a leading investment firm with significant holdings in global mining and technology companies. His strategic investments have contributed to the growth of CMOC Group into one of the world's largest molybdenum producers and have supported CATL's rise as a leader in lithium-ion battery manufacturing.

What are Yu Yong’s key insights?

Yu Yong's business philosophy centers on strategic investments in high-growth industries, particularly mining and technology. He emphasizes early entry into emerging markets and diversification to mitigate risks and capitalize on global economic trends.

Yu Yong’s personal life

Yu Yong is married and resides in Shanghai, China. Further details about his family are not publicly disclosed.

Useful insights

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