Robert Kiyosaki Net Worth (Money & Salary)

What Is Robert Kiyosaki’s Net Worth?

With a net worth of $100 million, Robert Kiyosaki is an American author, motivational speaker, businessman, financial commentator, and investor. He gained fame thanks to his book “Rich Dad Poor Dad,” which has become a foundational text in personal finance. His career features a variety of entrepreneurial endeavors along with a strong commitment to financial education. Kiyosaki’s philosophy draws from his relationships with two paternal figures: his biological father, who adhered to traditional education and job roles, and his friend’s father, who focused on entrepreneurial achievements and shared valuable financial knowledge.

Released in 1997, his bestselling book “Rich Dad Poor Dad” led to the creation of numerous other books under the “Rich Dad” umbrella. These titles concentrate on themes of financial independence, investing, real estate, and the significance of financial literacy, frequently contesting traditional views on jobs and income. Kiyosaki’s influence is not limited to writing; he has engaged in several business efforts and educational programs, advocating for hands-on financial education. Despite facing some controversies and criticisms, especially concerning his “Rich Dad” seminars, Kiyosaki continues to be a significant personality 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 the offspring of Ralph and Marjorie Kiyosaki and identifies as a 4th-generation Japanese-American, or “Yonsei.” His father was an educator who held a Ph.D. until his death in 1991. Kiyosaki would later mock individuals who pursued a Ph.D., implying criticism towards his father for experiencing poverty and unemployment in his later life. In 1965, Robert completed high school.

Following high school, Kiyosaki attended Naval College before enlisting in the U.S. Marine Corps after his brother joined the Air Force to participate in the Vietnam War. He served as a helicopter gunship pilot in Vietnam from 1972 until 1973. According to Robert, his experience as a U.S. Marine instilled in him the resilience necessary to thrive in the business realm.

After returning from Vietnam, Kiyosaki pursued higher education in Hilo, Hawaii. Upon earning his MBA, he stepped into the business world for the first time, starting as a sales associate at Xerox until 1968 when he launched his first business.

Early Attempts at Entrepreneurship

Initially, Kiyosaki’s entrepreneurship began with the sale of nylon/velcro wallets, among the earliest versions of such products, which saw moderate success before ultimately leading to bankruptcy. His second venture was a retail business selling t-shirts, where he licensed production rights for apparel from various rock bands, including hats, wallets, and bags. Unfortunately, this business also ended in bankruptcy. By 1980, Robert redirected his focus towards education.

Early Educational Businesses

Kiyosaki’s entry into education began with his establishment of the Accelerated Learning Institute. This venture represented his initial effort in business education, while also addressing social responsibility. He founded the company in 1985 and sold it in 1994.

During the mid-1990s, Kiyosaki commenced constructing the educational empire that would ultimately contribute to his wealth. This journey started with the release of his book: “If You Want to Be Rich and Happy, Don’t Go to School.” As implied by the title, the book took a critical stance toward traditional education.

Kiyosaki viewed college education as a route to success but instead urged his audience to engage in real estate. At this time, he and his second wife were deeply immersed in real estate ventures.

A significant moment in his journey occurred in 1997 when Kiyosaki established Cashflow Technologies, Inc., the financial education company responsible for managing the “Rich Dad” brand and more. That same year, Robert released his most well-known work, “Rich Dad Poor Dad.”

“Rich Dad Poor Dad”

The book, which has sold over 32 million copies, was initially self-published. After gaining traction, major publishers took it on, and it maintained a spot on the “New York Times” Best Sellers list for more than six years. Sales received a notable boost thanks to a mention on “The Oprah Winfrey Show.” Clearly, the book propelled Kiyosaki’s career forward, bringing him fame and financial gain.

The narrative revolves around two fathers—one impoverished and the other wealthy through smart investments and entrepreneurship. Robert later discloses that the “rich dad” is a fictional figure, while the “poor dad” supposedly reflects his own father. “Rich Dad Poor Dad” offers a series of financial insights, particularly focused on real estate and entrepreneurship.

Despite its commercial success, the book has faced various criticisms. A key concern is the lack of documentation for the financial success anecdotes Kiyosaki shares. No evidence substantiates his claims regarding personal involvement in the financial achievements he describes. Furthermore, the book has been critiqued for its vagueness and perceived mockery of American culture. Robert has since clarified that the intent was not to serve as a financial guide but to act as a source of motivation.

Later Books

Kiyosaki followed up “Rich Dad Poor Dad” with several additional titles. These include “Cashflow Quadrant: Rich Dad’s Guide to Financial Freedom” and co-authored works with Donald Trump, such as “Why We Want You to Be Rich: Two Men, One Message.” More recent releases encompass 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 authored 26 books, collectively selling over 41 million copies globally.

Seminars

Kiyosaki’s approach extends beyond writing to include seminars as a core part of his business model. Typically conducted by various experts utilizing a franchise-like model, these seminars vary in cost, with some being free and others ranging into the hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

Criticism

Over the years, Robert has faced significant criticism. A common complaint is that his seminars lack substantial, concrete information. Additionally, he has been associated with multi-level marketing ventures. Some of his works and seminars have promoted dubious or possibly illegal actions, including insider trading and dropping out of college. His company also suggested investing in real estate in 2007, right before the onset of the 2008 economic recession.

Company Bankruptcy

In 2012, Kiyosaki’s enterprise, Rich Global LLC, declared bankruptcy following a series of class-action lawsuits. These lawsuits were initiated by seminar attendees who felt misled. Furthermore, the company faced legal actions related to royalty disputes. With court losses contributing to the company’s financial troubles, Kiyosaki opted for bankruptcy, ultimately being ordered to pay almost $24 million to The Learning Annex and its founder.