Benjamin Graham

Benjamin Graham (May 9, 1894 – September 21, 1976) was an American investor, teacher, and author whose investment philosophy revolutionized financial markets. Born in London and raised in New York, Graham studied mathematics and philosophy before turning to finance. During the 1929 stock market crash, he lost most of his wealth but recovered through disciplined, analytical investing. He developed the concept of 'value investing'—purchasing securities trading below their intrinsic value—which became the foundation of modern investment theory. As a professor at Columbia University, Graham taught generations of investors, most notably Warren Buffett, who credited Graham as his most influential mentor. His magnum opus, 'The Intelligent Investor' (first published in 1949), remains essential reading for serious investors and has sold millions of copies worldwide. Graham emphasized fundamental analysis, margin of safety, and emotional discipline in investing. His legacy fundamentally altered how professional and individual investors approach financial markets, establishing principles that remain relevant decades after his death.