Sir John Templeton was a legendary investor and mutual fund pioneer who created some of the world's largest and most successful international investment funds. He was known for his contrarian approach and his famous strategy of buying at the "point of maximum pessimism."

Early Brilliance

In 1939, at the outbreak of World War II, Templeton borrowed $10,000 and bought 100 shares each of every stock trading below $1 on the New York Stock Exchange. He made substantial profits on 100 of the 104 companies, quadrupling his money.

Templeton Growth Fund

In 1954, Templeton founded the Templeton Growth Fund, which became one of the most successful mutual funds in history. A $10,000 investment in 1954 would have grown to over $2 million by 1992 when he sold the Templeton Funds.

Global Pioneer

Templeton was one of the first investors to look beyond U.S. borders, investing heavily in Japan in the 1960s when most Americans ignored foreign markets. This global perspective gave him a significant edge.

Philanthropy

After selling his funds to Franklin Resources in 1992, Templeton devoted his wealth to philanthropy, particularly through the Templeton Foundation, which supports research on the intersection of science and spirituality.