Scott Bessent, born in 1962 in Conway, South Carolina, is an American investor, board member, and educator. He is best known as the founder of Key Square Group, a global macro investment firm.
In November 2024, following Donald Trump’s victory in the U.S. presidential election, Reuters reported that Bessent was being considered for the role of Treasury Secretary in the incoming administration.
| Born | 1962 (age 61–62) Conway, South Carolina, U.S. |
|---|---|
| Education | Yale University (BA) |
| Political party | Republican |
Bessent grew up in Conway, South Carolina, and later attended Yale College, where he graduated in 1984. During his time at Yale, he was actively involved in student life, contributing to The Yale Daily News, serving as president of Wolf’s Head Society, and acting as treasurer for the Class of 1984.
Key Event | Details |
Early Career | Interned with Jim Rogers and worked at Brown Brothers Harriman and Kynikos Associates. |
Soros Fund Management (1991-2000) | Partnered at SFM, responsible for the British pound bet. |
Key Square Group (2015-present) | Founded Key Square with Michael Germino, focused on geopolitics and macro investing. |
Fundraising with George Soros | Secured a $2 billion anchor investment from Soros for Key Square Group. |
Key Role | Impact |
Partner at Soros Fund Management | Contributed to the firm’s $1 billion profit from British pound short. |
Chief Investment Officer at SFM | Led SFM’s investments before founding Key Square. |
Founder of Key Square Group | Established a successful global macro firm with large investor backing. |
Political Event | Description |
Support for Al Gore (2000) | Hosted a fundraiser for the Democratic candidate. |
Trump Fundraising (2016-2024) | Raised millions for Trump’s presidential campaigns. |
Economic Advisor to Trump (2024) | Advised Trump on economic policy and proposed a “Three Arrows” strategy. |
Political Role | Contributions |
Fundraiser Host | Raised significant funds for Trump’s 2024 campaign. |
Economic Policy Advisor | Influenced Trump’s economic strategy, including proposing key reforms. |
Role | Details |
Adjunct Professor at Yale University | Taught economic history courses from 2006-2011. |
University Council Member | Serves on Yale University’s council. |
Scholarship Endowment | Donated funds to establish multiple scholarships for Yale students. |
Position | Contribution |
Adjunct Professor | Taught courses in economic history at Yale. |
Yale University Council Member | Participates in university governance and provides strategic insights. |
Scholarship Donor | Donated funds for first-generation college students, students from South Carolina, and students from the Bronx. |
Project | Impact |
Restoration of Daniel Ravenel House | Awarded the Carolopolis Award for historic preservation. |
McLeod Rehabilitation Center (2022) | Donated to Shriners Hospital for children, enhancing rehabilitation services. |
Support for Harlem Children’s Zone | Contributed to educational programs in Harlem. |
Initiative | Focus |
Daniel Ravenel House Restoration | Preservation of historic architecture. |
McLeod Rehabilitation Center | Pediatric healthcare and rehabilitation. |
Harlem Children’s Zone Support | Educational support for underprivileged youth. |
Aspect | Facts |
Residence | Lives in Charleston, South Carolina. |
Family | Married to John Freeman; has two children. |
Personal Interests | Involved in community and philanthropic efforts in Charleston. |
Feature | Detail |
Family Life | Married with two children. |
Charleston Involvement | Actively engaged in local philanthropic activities. |
Scott Bessent’s net worth is estimated to be in the range of $200 million to $500 million.
Scott Bessent is a prominent figure in the finance world, known for his leadership in global macro investing and his contributions to education, philanthropy, and politics. From his influential role at Soros Fund Management to founding Key Square Group, Bessent has demonstrated a keen understanding of global markets. His work extends beyond finance into politics, where he has supported Donald Trump’s campaigns and advised on economic policy. Furthermore, his commitment to philanthropy and education, particularly through his involvement with Yale University and charitable foundations, showcases his broader impact on society. Bessent’s life and career reflect a dedication to both financial success and giving back to the community.