Teddy Sagi, born in 1971, is an Israeli billionaire businessman with a global footprint. Based in the vibrant cities of London and Cyprus, Sagi is a renowned entrepreneur whose influence spans across various industries. With a personal wealth estimated at US$5 billion, Sagi’s business interests include real estate, gambling software, payments processing, and digital advertising.
His ventures include Playtech, Kape Technologies (owner of ExpressVPN), and the iconic Camden Market in London. In this article, we delve into the life, career, and contributions of Teddy Sagi, providing insights into his diverse business empire.
Early Life and the Making of an Innovator
Teddy Sagi’s journey began in Tel Aviv in 1971. He was the only child of Ami Sagi, a businessman who owned a travel agency, and Lizi, his mother, a cosmetician specializing in selling make-up. Growing up in Tel Aviv’s Shikun Lamed neighborhood, Sagi’s early years were shaped by the entrepreneurial spirit of his family. This foundation of business acumen and creativity would prove instrumental in his future endeavors.
However, Sagi’s path wasn’t without its challenges. In 1996, he faced legal issues in Israel, resulting in a nine-month prison sentence after being convicted of bribery and fraud. This experience became a pivotal point in his life, inspiring him to channel his determination and tenacity into his future pursuits.
The ‘Golden Visa’ and European Citizenship
In 2009, Sagi took a significant step by obtaining Cypriot citizenship through the ‘golden visa’ scheme offered by the Cyprus government. As Cyprus is part of the European Union, this move granted him a coveted Passport of the European Union, further expanding his horizons. The decision to become a citizen of Cyprus established a new chapter in his international business journey.
Since 2010, Teddy Sagi has shared his life with Yael Nizri, the 2006 Miss Israel, and together, they are proud parents of two daughters. Sagi’s personal life reflects the essence of his entrepreneurial success, and his family enjoys the luxuries that come with it. Notably, he owns the most expensive home in Israel, a stunning property located in the affluent neighborhood of Herzliya Pituah. This magnificent residence boasts 2,000 square meters of space, including a fitness room, wine cellar, sealed room, and an elevator leading directly to the beach. Sagi’s real estate portfolio extends to other properties in Herzliya, Tel Aviv, London’s Knightsbridge, Cyprus, and Berlin.
As of January 2022, Forbes estimated Teddy Sagi’s net worth at an impressive US$5.7 billion. This financial achievement places him among the most affluent individuals on the global stage. Sagi’s entrepreneurial spirit and diverse business ventures have solidified his position as a prominent figure in the world of business.
The Business Empire of Teddy Sagi
Playtech: A Gambling Software Giant
In 1999, Teddy Sagi founded Playtech, a pioneering gambling software company. The company went public in 2006 on the London Stock Exchange, valuing the business at around £550 million. Sagi’s initial stake of 81% at the time of Playtech’s IPO was later reduced to 4.6%. He subsequently directed his focus and investments toward hi-tech companies and real estate.
SafeCharge: A Leading Credit Card Clearing Company
Sagi became the majority shareholder, with 68% control, of SafeCharge, a credit card clearing company serving the online gambling industry. SafeCharge traded on London’s AIM, boasting a market cap of £385 million. In 2019, Nuvei Corporation acquired SafeCharge, completing the transaction for $889 million in cash.
Kape Technologies plc: A Cybersecurity Powerhouse
Kape Technologies, based in the United Kingdom, is a significant player in the cybersecurity software sector. The company owns VPN services and cybersecurity tools, including well-known names like CyberGhost, Private Internet Access (PIA), ZenMate, and Intego. Sagi’s involvement in Kape Technologies began when he acquired the start-up company Crossrider in late 2012 for $37 million. The company went public on AIM, reaching a value of $US 250 million.
In 2016, Kape Technologies shifted its focus towards cybersecurity and digital privacy. It ceased its browser SDK business to concentrate on the VPN sector, culminating in the acquisition of CyberGhost VPN in 2017. Kape Technologies continued to expand, acquiring Zenmate in 2018 and Private Internet Access in 2019.
Stucco Media: Revolutionizing eCommerce
In 2015, Teddy Sagi acquired the start-up company Stucco Media for $43 million. The acquisition was made by Market Tech and, to this day, remains under his ownership. Stucco Media is at the forefront of eCommerce website technology, reflecting Sagi’s innovative approach to digital business.
Glispa: Mobilizing Advertising
Another notable acquisition in 2015 was Glispa, a German start-up purchased by Sagi for €32 million. Glispa specializes in mobile phone advertising and serves as a pivotal player in the industry.
Mobfox: Expanding Mobile Advertising
In November 2018, Sagi further expanded his business empire by acquiring Mobfox, a mobile advertising company, from Matomy Media. The acquisition was valued at $7.5 million and cemented Sagi’s influence in the mobile advertising sector.
A Real Estate Mogul: Camden Market and Beyond
Camden Market: A Historic Acquisition
In March 2014, Teddy Sagi acquired Camden Market Holdings, the owner of Camden Market, Stables Market, and Camden Lock Developments. The purchase was valued at £400 million ($664 million), making it the biggest LSE IPO of 2015.
Sagi’s ongoing investments in the Camden Market area have further solidified his ownership of the four most important sections of this iconic London landmark. Camden Market ranks as London’s second most popular tourist attraction, following Buckingham Palace.
Other Real Estate Ventures
Sagi’s real estate interests go beyond Camden Market. In 2017, he acquired a 44% stake in Brack Capital Properties N.V, a listed real estate company focusing on residential and commercial properties in Germany. Additionally, Sagi ventured into the co-working shared workspace sector with an international brand, LABS. His diverse real estate portfolio continues to expand and make significant contributions to the industry.
The Wealth and Influence
Teddy Sagi’s financial achievements are nothing short of remarkable. According to Forbes, he boasts a net worth of $5.6 billion, positioning him as the fourth-richest individual in Israel. However, his name also appeared in the Pandora Papers, a significant revelation by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists, making him one of 565 Israelis listed in the document. Sagi manages his investments through Globe Invest, which acts as a family office and a holding company for his diverse and influential portfolio.
In conclusion, Teddy Sagi is a visionary entrepreneur who has made a lasting impact on the world of business, real estate, and technology. His diverse ventures reflect his entrepreneurial spirit and determination to continually explore new horizons.
From his early life challenges to becoming a billionaire with a global footprint, Teddy Sagi’s journey is a testament to what can be achieved through innovation, persistence, and a passion for excellence. Zatrun.com’s exclusive exploration of Teddy Sagi has shed light on the remarkable journey of this Israeli billionaire and his relentless pursuit of excellence.
