Introduction
Friede Springer is a well-known media mogul with a massive fortune that draws attention from around the world. She amassed her wealth as the widow of Axel Springer, founder of one of the largest European publishing companies. Her net worth increases every year, so it is interesting to examine the sources and amount of her wealth.
Her Early Life and Education
Friede Springer was born on August 15, 1942, in Bad Oldesloe, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany. As a child of war-torn Germany, Springer’s upbringing was tough. She grew up in a small rental apartment with her mother and grandmother, who instilled in her the importance of education. She went on to study German, English, and theatre. She also studied at the University of Göttingen to obtain her BA degree.
Her Career Starts With Axel Springer
Friede Springer began her career as a secretary and later as a personal assistant to Axel Springer, the founder of the publishing company, Axel Springer SE. After Axel Springer died in 1985, Friede inherited his shares in the company, making her the largest single shareholder. Today, she still controls 50.5% of the company, with her son, the CEO of the company, controlling another 12.4%.
Her Wealth Through Axel Springer SE
Through Axel Springer SE, Friede Springer has a net worth of $5.4 billion, according to Forbes. Her wealth continues to increase due to her ownership in this company, which publishes newspapers, magazines, and operates online classifieds. The company has also recently expanded into television and radio broadcasting.
Her Real Estate Investments
In addition to her investments in Axel Springer SE, Friede Springer has made several real estate investments over the years. She owns a property in Berlin and a villa in Tuscany, Italy. She also owns a historic building located at Unter den Linden in Berlin, valued at $150 million.
Her Philanthropy Work
Friede Springer is known for her generosity, which is evident through her donations to various organizations. She donated € 100 million to the Berlin Charité hospital for medical research. She also donated € 50 million to endow a professorship in Jewish studies at Humboldt University of Berlin.
Her Recognition and Achievements
Friede Springer has been honored extensively for her contributions. She was awarded the title of Officer of the Legion of Honor in 2018 for her philanthropy work and the Order of Merit of Berlin in 2002 for her service to the city. She was also listed among Forbes Billionaires in 2020.
Her Controversies
Despite her philanthropic work, Friede Springer has faced several controversies. In 2002, she was charged with plagiarism by the Berliner Zeitung newspaper when it was discovered that many of her writings for a German women’s magazine had been copied from other publications.
Her Personal Life
Friede Springer’s personal life has been kept mostly private. She was married to Axel Springer from 1978 until his death in 1985, and they had no children together. She married German publisher Mathias Döpfner in 2018.
Conclusion
Friede Springer is a media mogul with a net worth of $5.4 billion. Her wealth comes from her ownership in Axel Springer SE, her real estate holdings, and her philanthropic work. Despite some controversies, she has been recognized for her contributions to society and awarded several honors.
FAQs
1. Is Friede Springer the richest woman in Germany?
Yes, Friede Springer is the richest woman in Germany according to Forbes.
2. What is Axel Springer SE?
Axel Springer SE is a publishing company based in Germany that publishes newspapers, magazines, and operates online classifieds.
3. What is Friede Springer’s net worth?
According to Forbes, Friede Springer’s net worth is $5.4 billion.
4. What organizations has Friede Springer donated to?
Friede Springer has donated to various organizations, including the Berlin Charité hospital for medical research and the establishment of a professorship in Jewish studies at Humboldt University of Berlin.
5. What controversies has Friede Springer faced?
Friede Springer was charged with plagiarism by the Berliner Zeitung newspaper when it was discovered that many of her writings for a German women’s magazine had been copied from other publications.