From The Bronx To Wall Street: My Fifty Years in Finance and Philanthropy

by Leon Cooperman

Overview

A Wall Street Legend Recounts His Fifty Years in the Stock Market, Hedge Funds, and Philanthropy

Wall Street mogul Leon Cooperman provides a brilliant business memoir encompassing a quarter-century with Goldman Sachs and then the management of his own successful hedge fund, Omega Advisors. Cooperman traces his life story from his roots as the son of immigrant parents in the Bronx through his days as an undergraduate at Hunter College, his subsequent graduate studies at the Columbia Business School, and beyond, all the way to his current role as a subscriber to Warren Buffet’s “Giving Pledge” and a committed philanthropist engaged in giving away the entirety of his multi-billion-dollar fortune. Along the way, Cooperman also spells out his philosophies and “best practices” for stock research and investment, rooted in the classic value-investing approach originated by Benjamin Graham and David Dodd. Additionally, Cooperman makes an impassioned defense of capitalism as the best of all possible economic systems. Cooperman’s narrative also includes meditations on taxes in general (and a wealth tax in particular) and challenges the thinking of political progressives who espouse policies which Cooperman believes would unduly restrain the free market.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781642256222
Publisher:	Advantage Media Group, Inc.
Publication date:	07/18/2023
Pages:	212
Sales rank:	623,154
Product dimensions:	6.40(w) x 9.50(h) x 1.70(d)

About the Author

Over a five-decade career, LEON COOPERMAN has loomed large as one of the most prominent players on Wall Street, first as a senior partner at Goldman Sachs, where he spent twenty-five years, and then as the founder and chief strategist of his own highly successful hedge fund, Omega Advisors. Born to immigrant parents in the Bronx, he is a graduate of Hunter College and the Columbia Business School. Mr. Cooperman has been the recipient of numerous awards and honors, including The Horatio Alger Award, honorary doctorates from both Hunter College and Roger Williams University, and the Columbia Business School’s Distinguished Leadership in Business Award. He and his wife, Toby, have two sons and three grandchildren, and live most of the year in Florida.

Table of Contents

Introduction

Part I: Formative Years
Chapter 1: First Generation
Chapter 2: Good Luck, Hard Work, and Intuition
Chapter 3: Columbia Business School

Part II: Goldman Years
Chapter 4: Early Years at Goldman Sachs
Chapter 5: Partnership Years at Goldman Sachs

Part III: Omega Years
Chapter 6: Omega—Leading by Example
Chapter 7: Deception—Clayton Lewis and the Azerbaijan Fiasco
Chapter 8: The Opera Ain’t Over till the Fat Lady Sings
Chapter 9: How to Love Thirty-Two-Hour Days

Part IV: Philanthropy
Chapter 10: Noblesse Oblige—the Philosophy of Philanthropy
Chapter 11: My Philanthropic Work Thus Far

Part V: Political Philosophy
Chapter 12: Capitalism Works
Chapter 13: Of Legado and Inhofe

Part VI Epilogue
Chapter 14: Summing Up
Appendix “The Moral Calculations of a Billionaire” by Eli Saslow

What People are Saying About This

From the Publisher

Lee never forgot where he’s from because in his heart he never left. He’s still the striving kid with something to show, despite a lifetime of success as a senior partner of Goldman Sachs, as one of the most successful hedge fund investors of his generation, and now as a hands-on philanthropist. He wears his passion for family, friends, and country on his sleeve. Wall Streeters have always valued Lee’s advice on markets; they and a broader group will see that his best advice is his life advice.

— Lloyd C. Blankfein
Chairman and CEO, Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (2006-18)

Lee’s life story – marked by humble beginnings, hard work, the courage to follow his passions, and the generosity to help others follow theirs – reflects the opportunities that America affords and the responsibilities that come with financial success. From The Bronx to Wall Street is a reminder of the promise of America and the duty we have to ensure it is open to all, including those who, like Lee, are the children of immigrants or immigrants themselves.

— Michael Bloomberg
Founder of Bloomberg L.P. and Bloomberg Philanthropies,and Mayor of New York City (2002-2013)

A must-read for anyone who believes in the American dream and wants to achieve it. Lee Cooperman is a Wall Street icon who shows us the value of hard work and tenacity and the importance of incredible generosity and philanthropy.

— Ken Langone
Co-Founder, The Home Depot

In a poignant account of his American Dream story, Lee Cooperman shares his lifelong commitment to opportunity and democracy with passion and wit. Known for his genius in identifying undervalued financial assets, Cooperman shares his less well-known talent for investing in hidden gems with his expansive philanthropy. This book exemplifies how Lee lives the Hunter College motto, mihi cura futuri, “the care of the future is mine.” His compelling Horatio Alger narrative tells, in a very entertaining style, how he turned his gift for doing well into a moving commitment to do “good”.

— Jennifer J. Raab
President, Hunter College

Editorial Reviews

Lee never forgot where he’s from because in his heart he never left. He’s still the striving kid with something to show, despite a lifetime of success as a senior partner of Goldman Sachs, as one of the most successful hedge fund investors of his generation, and now as a hands-on philanthropist. He wears his passion for family, friends, and country on his sleeve. Wall Streeters have always valued Lee’s advice on markets; they and a broader group will see that his best advice is his life advice.

— Lloyd C. Blankfein
Chairman and CEO, Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (2006-18)

Lee never forgot where he’s from because in his heart he never left. He’s still the striving kid with something to show, despite a lifetime of success as a senior partner of Goldman Sachs, as one of the most successful hedge fund investors of his generation, and now as a hands-on philanthropist. He wears his passion for family, friends, and country on his sleeve. Wall Streeters have always valued Lee’s advice on markets; they and a broader group will see that his best advice is his life advice.

— LLOYD C. BLANKFEIN
Chairman and CEO, Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (2006-18)

Lee never forgot where he’s from because in his heart he never left. He’s still the striving kid with something to show, despite a lifetime of success as a senior partner of Goldman Sachs, as one of the most successful hedge fund investors of his generation, and now as a hands-on philanthropist. He wears his passion for family, friends, and country on his sleeve. Wall Streeters have always valued Lee’s advice on markets; they and a broader group will see that his best advice is his life advice.

— LLOYD C. BLANKFEIN
Chairman and CEO, Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (2006-18)

Lee never forgot where he’s from because in his heart he never left. He’s still the striving kid with something to show, despite a lifetime of success as a senior partner of Goldman Sachs, as one of the most successful hedge fund investors of his generation, and now as a hands-on philanthropist. He wears his passion for family, friends, and country on his sleeve. Wall Streeters have always valued Lee’s advice on markets; they and a broader group will see that his best advice is his life advice.

— LLOYD C. BLANKFEIN
Chairman and CEO, Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (2006-18)

Lee never forgot where he’s from because in his heart he never left. He’s still the striving kid with something to show, despite a lifetime of success as a senior partner of Goldman Sachs, as one of the most successful hedge fund investors of his generation, and now as a hands-on philanthropist. He wears his passion for family, friends, and country on his sleeve. Wall Streeters have always valued Lee’s advice on markets; they and a broader group will see that his best advice is his life advice.

— Lloyd C. Blankfein
Chairman and CEO, Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (2006-18)

Lee never forgot where he’s from because in his heart he never left. He’s still the striving kid with something to show, despite a lifetime of success as a senior partner of Goldman Sachs, as one of the most successful hedge fund investors of his generation, and now as a hands-on philanthropist. He wears his passion for family, friends, and country on his sleeve. Wall Streeters have always valued Lee’s advice on markets; they and a broader group will see that his best advice is his life advice.

— Lloyd C. Blankfein
Chairman and CEO, Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (2006-18)

Lee never forgot where he’s from because in his heart he never left. He’s still the striving kid with something to show, despite a lifetime of success as a senior partner of Goldman Sachs, as one of the most successful hedge fund investors of his generation, and now as a hands-on philanthropist. He wears his passion for family, friends, and country on his sleeve. Wall Streeters have always valued Lee’s advice on markets; they and a broader group will see that his best advice is his life advice.

— Lloyd C. Blankfein
Chairman and CEO, Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (2006-18)

Lee never forgot where he’s from because in his heart he never left. He’s still the striving kid with something to show, despite a lifetime of success as a senior partner of Goldman Sachs, as one of the most successful hedge fund investors of his generation, and now as a hands-on philanthropist. He wears his passion for family, friends, and country on his sleeve. Wall Streeters have always valued Lee’s advice on markets; they and a broader group will see that his best advice is his life advice.
— Lloyd C. Blankfein,
Chairman and CEO, Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (2006-18)


Lee’s life story – marked by humble beginnings, hard work, the courage to follow his passions, and the generosity to help others follow theirs – reflects the opportunities that America affords and the responsibilities that come with financial success. From The Bronx to Wall Street is a reminder of the promise of America and the duty we have to ensure it is open to all, including those who, like Lee, are the children of immigrants or immigrants themselves.
— Michael Bloomberg,
Founder of Bloomberg L.P. and Bloomberg Philanthropies,and Mayor of New York City (2002-2013)


A must-read for anyone who believes in the American dream and wants to achieve it. Lee Cooperman is a Wall Street icon who shows us the value of hard work and tenacity and the importance of incredible generosity and philanthropy.
— Ken Langone,
Co-Founder, The Home Depot


In a poignant account of his American Dream story, Lee Cooperman shares his lifelong commitment to opportunity and democracy with passion and wit. Known for his genius in identifying undervalued financial assets, Cooperman shares his less well-known talent for investing in hidden gems with his expansive philanthropy. This book exemplifies how Lee lives the Hunter College motto, mihi cura futuri, “the care of the future is mine.” His compelling Horatio Alger narrative tells, in a very entertaining style, how he turned his gift for doing well into a moving commitment to do “good”.
— Jennifer J. Raab,
President, Hunter College

Lee’s life story – marked by humble beginnings, hard work, the courage to follow his passions, and the generosity to help others follow theirs – reflects the opportunities that America affords and the responsibilities that come with financial success. From The Bronx to Wall Street is a reminder of the promise of America and the duty we have to ensure it is open to all, including those who, like Lee, are the children of immigrants or immigrants themselves.

— Michael Bloomberg
Founder of Bloomberg L.P. and Bloomberg Philanthropies,and Mayor of New York City (2002-2013)

Lee’s life story – marked by humble beginnings, hard work, the courage to follow his passions, and the generosity to help others follow theirs – reflects the opportunities that America affords and the responsibilities that come with financial success. From The Bronx to Wall Street is a reminder of the promise of America and the duty we have to ensure it is open to all, including those who, like Lee, are the children of immigrants or immigrants themselves.

— Michael Bloomberg
Founder of Bloomberg L.P. and Bloomberg Philanthropies,and Mayor of New York City (2002-2013)

Lee’s life story – marked by humble beginnings, hard work, the courage to follow his passions, and the generosity to help others follow theirs – reflects the opportunities that America affords and the responsibilities that come with financial success. From The Bronx to Wall Street is a reminder of the promise of America and the duty we have to ensure it is open to all, including those who, like Lee, are the children of immigrants or immigrants themselves.

— Michael Bloomberg
Founder of Bloomberg L.P. and Bloomberg Philanthropies,and Mayor of New York City (2002-2013)

Lee’s life story – marked by humble beginnings, hard work, the courage to follow his passions, and the generosity to help others follow theirs – reflects the opportunities that America affords and the responsibilities that come with financial success. From The Bronx to Wall Street is a reminder of the promise of America and the duty we have to ensure it is open to all, including those who, like Lee, are the children of immigrants or immigrants themselves.

— MICHAEL BLOOMBERG
Founder of Bloomberg L.P. and Bloomberg Philanthropies,and Mayor of New York City (2002-2013)

Lee’s life story – marked by humble beginnings, hard work, the courage to follow his passions, and the generosity to help others follow theirs – reflects the opportunities that America affords and the responsibilities that come with financial success. From The Bronx to Wall Street is a reminder of the promise of America and the duty we have to ensure it is open to all, including those who, like Lee, are the children of immigrants or immigrants themselves.

— MICHAEL BLOOMBERG
Founder of Bloomberg L.P. and Bloomberg Philanthropies,and Mayor of New York City (2002-2013)

Lee’s life story – marked by humble beginnings, hard work, the courage to follow his passions, and the generosity to help others follow theirs – reflects the opportunities that America affords and the responsibilities that come with financial success. From The Bronx to Wall Street is a reminder of the promise of America and the duty we have to ensure it is open to all, including those who, like Lee, are the children of immigrants or immigrants themselves.

— MICHAEL BLOOMBERG
Founder of Bloomberg L.P. and Bloomberg Philanthropies,and Mayor of New York City (2002-2013)

Lee’s life story – marked by humble beginnings, hard work, the courage to follow his passions, and the generosity to help others follow theirs – reflects the opportunities that America affords and the responsibilities that come with financial success. From The Bronx to Wall Street is a reminder of the promise of America and the duty we have to ensure it is open to all, including those who, like Lee, are the children of immigrants or immigrants themselves.

— Michael Bloomberg
Founder of Bloomberg L.P. and Bloomberg Philanthropies,and Mayor of New York City (2002-2013)

A must-read for anyone who believes in the American dream and wants to achieve it. Lee Cooperman is a Wall Street icon who shows us the value of hard work and tenacity and the importance of incredible generosity and philanthropy.

— Ken Langone
Co-Founder, The Home Depot

A must-read for anyone who believes in the American dream and wants to achieve it. Lee Cooperman is a Wall Street icon who shows us the value of hard work and tenacity and the importance of incredible generosity and philanthropy.

— KEN LANGONE
Co-Founder, The Home Depot

A must-read for anyone who believes in the American dream and wants to achieve it. Lee Cooperman is a Wall Street icon who shows us the value of hard work and tenacity and the importance of incredible generosity and philanthropy.

— KEN LANGONE
Co-Founder, The Home Depot

A must-read for anyone who believes in the American dream and wants to achieve it. Lee Cooperman is a Wall Street icon who shows us the value of hard work and tenacity and the importance of incredible generosity and philanthropy.

— KEN LANGONE
Co-Founder, The Home Depot

A must-read for anyone who believes in the American dream and wants to achieve it. Lee Cooperman is a Wall Street icon who shows us the value of hard work and tenacity and the importance of incredible generosity and philanthropy.

— Ken Langone
Co-Founder, The Home Depot

A must-read for anyone who believes in the American dream and wants to achieve it. Lee Cooperman is a Wall Street icon who shows us the value of hard work and tenacity and the importance of incredible generosity and philanthropy.

— Ken Langone
Co-Founder, The Home Depot

A must-read for anyone who believes in the American dream and wants to achieve it. Lee Cooperman is a Wall Street icon who shows us the value of hard work and tenacity and the importance of incredible generosity and philanthropy.

— Ken Langone
Co-Founder, The Home Depot

In a poignant account of his American Dream story, Lee Cooperman shares his lifelong commitment to opportunity and democracy with passion and wit. Known for his genius in identifying undervalued financial assets, Cooperman shares his less well-known talent for investing in hidden gems with his expansive philanthropy. This book exemplifies how Lee lives the Hunter College motto, mihi cura futuri, “the care of the future is mine.” His compelling Horatio Alger narrative tells, in a very entertaining style, how he turned his gift for doing well into a moving commitment to do “good”.

— Jennifer J. Raab
President, Hunter College

In a poignant account of his American Dream story, Lee Cooperman shares his lifelong commitment to opportunity and democracy with passion and wit. Known for his genius in identifying undervalued financial assets, Cooperman shares his less well-known talent for investing in hidden gems with his expansive philanthropy. This book exemplifies how Lee lives the Hunter College motto, mihi cura futuri, “the care of the future is mine.” His compelling Horatio Alger narrative tells, in a very entertaining style, how he turned his gift for doing well into a moving commitment to do “good”.

— Jennifer J. Raab
President, Hunter College

In a poignant account of his American Dream story, Lee Cooperman shares his lifelong commitment to opportunity and democracy with passion and wit. Known for his genius in identifying undervalued financial assets, Cooperman shares his less well-known talent for investing in hidden gems with his expansive philanthropy. This book exemplifies how Lee lives the Hunter College motto, mihi cura futuri, “the care of the future is mine.” His compelling Horatio Alger narrative tells, in a very entertaining style, how he turned his gift for doing well into a moving commitment to do “good”.

— Jennifer J. Raab
President, Hunter College

In a poignant account of his American Dream story, Lee Cooperman shares his lifelong commitment to opportunity and democracy with passion and wit. Known for his genius in identifying undervalued financial assets, Cooperman shares his less well-known talent for investing in hidden gems with his expansive philanthropy. This book exemplifies how Lee lives the Hunter College motto, mihi cura futuri, “the care of the future is mine.” His compelling Horatio Alger narrative tells, in a very entertaining style, how he turned his gift for doing well into a moving commitment to do “good”.

— JENNIFER J. RAAB
President, Hunter College

In a poignant account of his American Dream story, Lee Cooperman shares his lifelong commitment to opportunity and democracy with passion and wit. Known for his genius in identifying undervalued financial assets, Cooperman shares his less well-known talent for investing in hidden gems with his expansive philanthropy. This book exemplifies how Lee lives the Hunter College motto, mihi cura futuri, “the care of the future is mine.” His compelling Horatio Alger narrative tells, in a very entertaining style, how he turned his gift for doing well into a moving commitment to do “good”.

— JENNIFER J. RAAB
President, Hunter College

In a poignant account of his American Dream story, Lee Cooperman shares his lifelong commitment to opportunity and democracy with passion and wit. Known for his genius in identifying undervalued financial assets, Cooperman shares his less well-known talent for investing in hidden gems with his expansive philanthropy. This book exemplifies how Lee lives the Hunter College motto, mihi cura futuri, “the care of the future is mine.” His compelling Horatio Alger narrative tells, in a very entertaining style, how he turned his gift for doing well into a moving commitment to do “good”.

— JENNIFER J. RAAB
President, Hunter College

From the Publisher