Robert Kiyosaki Net Worth (Money & Salary)

What Is Robert Kiyosaki’s Net Worth?

With a net worth of $100 million, Robert Kiyosaki is recognized as an American businessman, investor, author, motivational speaker, and financial commentator. His fame first surged due to the publication of “Rich Dad Poor Dad,” a pivotal book in the realm of personal finance. His career is marked by a variety of entrepreneurial activities paired with a dedication to financial education. Drawing from experiences with two father figures—his biological father, who adhered to traditional routes of academia and employment, and his friend’s father, an entrepreneur who shared valuable financial lessons—Kiyosaki shaped his distinctive philosophy.

The release of “Rich Dad Poor Dad” in 1997 saw it soar to international bestseller status, spawning a series of titles under the “Rich Dad” umbrella. These works emphasize financial independence, investing, real estate, and the vital role of financial literacy, often questioning conventional beliefs surrounding employment and income. Kiyosaki’s impact reaches far beyond writing; he has engaged in numerous business endeavors and educational projects, advocating for practical approaches to financial learning. Although he has faced some controversies and critiques, particularly related to his “Rich Dad” seminars, Kiyosaki continues to be a significant figure in personal finance and wealth-building.

Early Life

Born on April 8, 1947, in Hilo, Territory of Hawaii, Robert Kiyosaki was named Robert Toru Kiyosaki. He is a 4th-generation Japanese-American, referred to as a “Yonsei,” and the son of Ralph and Marjorie Kiyosaki. His father, an educator, held a Ph.D. when he passed away in 1991. In his later years, Kiyosaki would somewhat mock those who dedicated time to earn a Ph.D., indirectly criticizing his father for the challenges of poverty and unemployment he faced. He graduated from high school in 1965.

Post-high school, Kiyosaki entered Naval College and subsequently enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps, following his brother’s footsteps into military service during the Vietnam War. As a helicopter gunship pilot, he served in Vietnam from 1972 to 1973, claiming that his Marine experience instilled in him the essential character traits for thriving in the business environment.

Following his Vietnam tour, Kiyosaki pursued further education at a college in Hilo, Hawaii. With an MBA under his belt, he began his business journey, initially working as a sales associate for Xerox until 1968, before launching his first entrepreneurial venture.

Early Attempts at Entrepreneurship

Robert’s inaugural business involved selling nylon/velcro wallets, known as one of the first of their kind, achieving modest success before eventually folding. His next endeavor was a retail operation focused on t-shirts, for which he acquired licenses to produce merchandise for various rock bands, including hats and bags. This venture also met with failure and went bankrupt. By 1980, Kiyosaki redirected his energy toward educational pursuits.

Early Educational Businesses

Kiyosaki’s initial move into education came with the establishment of the Accelerated Learning Institute, marking his first venture into business education while also emphasizing social responsibility among students. He founded the company in 1985 and sold it in 1994.

In the mid-1990s, Kiyosaki began constructing an educational empire that would ultimately lead to his wealth. The foundation was laid with the publication of his first book, “If You Want to Be Rich and Happy, Don’t Go to School.” The title alone suggests a critical perspective on traditional education approaches.

Initially advocating college education as a route to success, Kiyosaki later urged readers to engage in real estate instead. At this time, Robert and his second wife were already deeply immersed in the real estate market.

The significant turning point occurred in 1997 when Kiyosaki established Cashflow Technologies, Inc., a financial education company that would oversee the “Rich Dad” brand and others. In the same year, Robert released his most renowned book, “Rich Dad Poor Dad.”

“Rich Dad Poor Dad”

Having sold over 32 million copies, the book was originally self-published. Following its rise in popularity, major publishers took notice, and it remained on the “New York Times” Best Sellers list for more than six years. Sales were further boosted when the host of “The Oprah Winfrey Show” mentioned the book. Clearly, this work launched Kiyosaki’s career, bringing him fame and financial success.

The narrative focuses on two fathers—one impoverished and the other wealthy, who amassed riches through wise investments and entrepreneurship. Eventually, Robert reveals that the “rich dad” is a fictional creation, while the “poor dad” is supposedly based on his actual father. “Rich Dad Poor Dad” presents a number of financial insights, particularly regarding real estate and entrepreneurship.

Though commercially successful, the book has faced considerable criticism. One major concern is that none of the financial success stories Kiyosaki cites are substantiated. No evidence supports his claims of achieving the financial status he discusses. Additionally, critics argue that the book lacks specificity and mocks American culture. Kiyosaki has since stated that the book was meant to be a motivational tool rather than a definitive guide to financial success.

Later Books

Following “Rich Dad Poor Dad,” Kiyosaki authored many more works. These include “Cashflow Quadrant: Rich Dad’s Guide to Financial Freedom,” as well as co-authored books with Donald Trump such as “Why We Want You to be Rich: Two Men, One Message.” More recent titles consist of 2020’s “Who Stole My Pension?: How You Can Stop The Looting,” 2022’s “Capitalist Manifesto: Money for Nothing – Gold, Silver, and Bitcoin For Free,” and 2023’s “Ravens: How To Prepare For And Profit From The Turbulent Times Ahead.” In total, Kiyosaki has released 26 books that have collectively sold over 41 million copies globally.

Seminars

Kiyosaki’s business model also places emphasis on conducting seminars. Often facilitated by other professionals in a franchise-like manner, some seminars are offered for free, whereas others can cost hundreds or even tens of thousands of dollars.

Criticism

Throughout the years, Robert has faced significant criticism. Many individuals assert that his seminars provide little concrete information. Kiyosaki has also participated in multi-level marketing ventures. Some contents of his books and seminars have promoted dubious or potentially illegal practices, such as insider trading and dropping out of college. Additionally, his company encouraged real estate investments in 2007, right before the 2008 economic recession.

Company Bankruptcy

The year 2012 saw Kiyosaki’s company, Rich Global LLC, file for bankruptcy following numerous class-action lawsuits. Attendees of his seminars claimed they were deceived, leading to lawsuits against the company concerning royalty disputes. After losing in court, the company was left in dire straits, prompting Kiyosaki to opt for bankruptcy, together with an order to pay nearly $24 million to The Learning Annex and its founder.