Stefan Persson at a Glance
- Categories: Business > Billionaires, Business
- Net Worth: $14 Billion
- Birthdate: Oct 4, 1947 (76 years old)
- Birthplace: Stockholm
- Gender: Male
- Profession: Businessperson, Business magnate
- Nationality: Sweden
Stefan Persson’s Net Worth: A Deep Dive into the Wealth of the H&M Heir
Introduction: The Billionaire Behind H&M
Stefan Persson is a name synonymous with fashion and immense wealth. As the heir to the Hennes & Mauritz (H&M) empire, Persson has built upon his father’s legacy, transforming a small Swedish business into a global fashion powerhouse. But what is Stefan Persson’s net worth, and how did he achieve such significant financial success? This article delves into the life, career, and ventures of Stefan Persson, exploring his contributions to the fashion industry, his diverse business interests, and his impact on the world.
Stefan Persson’s net worth is estimated to be $14 billion, making him one of the wealthiest individuals in Sweden. He has also consistently ranked among the top 15 richest people globally. His wealth primarily stems from his significant ownership stake in H&M, a company that generates billions in annual revenue and operates thousands of stores worldwide.
Early Life and Education
Born Carl Stefan Erling Persson on October 4, 1947, in Stockholm, Sweden, Stefan’s life was intertwined with the world of fashion from the very beginning. His father, Erling Persson, founded Hennes & Mauritz (H&M) in the same year Stefan was born. Growing up amidst the burgeoning success of the family business, Stefan was exposed to the intricacies of the retail and fashion industries early on. He has a sister named Lottie.
For his higher education, Stefan Persson attended Stockholm University, where he earned an associate qualification. This foundational education provided him with a broad understanding of various subjects, which would later prove valuable in navigating the complexities of managing a global business.
The H&M Empire: A Fashion Legacy
In 1982, Stefan Persson took the reins of H&M from his father, Erling. Under his leadership, H&M experienced significant growth, expanding its presence from a primarily Scandinavian brand to a global fashion retailer. Persson served as the CEO of H&M until 1998, after which he transitioned to the role of chairman. His strategic vision and business acumen were instrumental in shaping H&M’s success.
H&M currently operates in over 70 markets, with more than 4,700 stores worldwide. The company has expanded beyond its initial focus on clothing to include home furnishings, accessories, and beauty products. H&M’s business model is centered around providing affordable, fashionable clothing to a broad consumer base, and it has proven incredibly successful, generating approximately $24 billion in annual revenue. Persson still remains the largest shareholder of H&M, with a 36% stake.
In May 2020, Karl-Johan Persson, Stefan’s eldest son, succeeded him as chairman of H&M, marking a generational transition within the company. This demonstrates the continuation of the family’s influence and commitment to the long-term success of H&M.

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Other Business Ventures and Investments
Beyond his primary role at H&M, Stefan Persson has diversified his investments across various sectors. He owns a substantial stake in Hexagon AB, a global technology company specializing in information technology solutions. Hexagon AB has made over 170 acquisitions, expanding its portfolio of businesses and technologies.
Persson also runs a privately held real estate company called Ramsbury Invest. Through Ramsbury Invest, he owns a significant portfolio of properties in cities such as Stockholm, London, and Paris. In 2009, he acquired the village of Linkenholt in Hampshire, England, adding to his extensive real estate holdings.
Personal Life and Family
Stefan Persson’s personal life reflects a commitment to family and philanthropic endeavors. From his first marriage to Pamela Collett, he has three children: Karl-Johan, Charlotte, and Tom, all of whom have achieved success in their respective fields. Karl-Johan served as the CEO and then chairman of H&M, following in his father’s footsteps. Charlotte is involved in the equestrian world and works with H&M sponsorships, while Tom works as a film producer.
Persson is married to his second wife, Denise Florman, and resides in Stockholm, Sweden.
Stefan Persson’s Legacy and Philanthropy
Stefan Persson has left a lasting impact on the fashion industry and the world. His leadership at H&M transformed the company into a global fashion leader. He also co-founded the Mentor Foundation, which works to combat youth substance abuse. Moreover, he and his family have been active philanthropists, contributing significantly to various causes.
The Persson family’s commitment to social responsibility is exemplified by their substantial donations to the H&M Foundation, which funds projects focused on humanitarian and environmental causes within the fashion industry. Since its creation, Persson and his family have donated over $100 million to the Foundation.
Conclusion: A Life in Fashion and Finance
Stefan Persson’s life story is a testament to the power of vision, hard work, and strategic investment. From inheriting a family business to building a global fashion empire, his journey is remarkable. His diverse business interests, commitment to philanthropy, and family values have cemented his legacy. Stefan Persson’s contributions to the world of fashion and finance are significant, and his story serves as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders worldwide.