Charles Zegar: A Legacy of Innovation and Philanthropy

Charles Zegar, born in 1948 in New York City, is a distinguished American businessman and computer programmer, renowned for co-founding Bloomberg L.P., a global financial services and media company. Raised in a Jewish family, his mother, Lillian, was a musical comedy performer and opera singer, while his father, Henry Zegar, worked as a subway conductor for the New York City Transit Authority. This diverse cultural background instilled in Zegar a unique blend of creativity and discipline.

Zegar pursued higher education at Long Island University, earning a Bachelor of Arts and Science degree. He furthered his studies by obtaining a master’s degree in computer science from New York University (NYU). His academic journey laid a solid foundation for his future endeavors in the tech and financial sectors.

In 1982, Zegar co-founded Innovative Market Systems, later renamed Bloomberg L.P., alongside Michael Bloomberg, Tom Secunda, and Duncan MacMillan. The inception of this company marked a significant transformation in the financial industry, providing real-time market data and analytics to professionals worldwide. Zegar’s expertise in computer science was instrumental in developing the initial software for the Bloomberg Terminal, a product that revolutionized financial data services.

Beyond his professional achievements, Zegar is deeply committed to philanthropy. He is a signatory of The Giving Pledge, reflecting his dedication to donating a substantial portion of his wealth to charitable causes. Through the Zegar Family Foundation, he supports a wide array of initiatives, including science and medicine, environmental conservation, justice and human rights, human services, economic opportunity, nutrition and health, education, and arts and culture. His philanthropic efforts demonstrate a holistic approach to fostering positive societal change.

Zegar also contributes his expertise to various organizations. In 2017, he joined the Board of Directors of The SASB Foundation, bringing his extensive experience in investment data to the organization. His involvement underscores his commitment to promoting sustainability and responsible business practices.

In his personal life, Zegar has experienced both loss and new beginnings. Widowed from his first marriage, he found love again and, in 2001, married Merryl Judith Snow, an administrative judge. Their partnership extends into their philanthropic ventures, working together to support various causes through their foundation.

As of 2024, Charles Zegar’s net worth is estimated at $3.4 billion, reflecting his significant contributions to the financial and technological sectors. Despite his substantial wealth, Zegar remains grounded, focusing on leveraging his resources and expertise to make meaningful impacts in society.

In summary, Charles Zegar’s journey from a computer science graduate to a billionaire entrepreneur and philanthropist exemplifies a life dedicated to innovation, leadership, and altruism. His legacy continues to influence the financial industry and philanthropic circles, embodying a commitment to excellence and social responsibility.