Startup Originals Team
Baiju Prafulkumar Bhatt, an Indian-American entrepreneur and co-founder of stock trading platform Robinhood, has been recognized among the top 10 youngest billionaires in America in the Forbes 400 list for 2025. At 40 years old, he is the only person of Indian origin to make this distinguished group, with a net worth estimated at US$6–6.9 billion. This recognition reflects both his personal journey and the continued impact of his contributions to fintech.
Background & Education
- Bhatt was born to Gujarati immigrants and grew up in Poquoson, Virginia. His father worked in scientific research, and Bhatt’s early years included financial difficulties, especially when his father faced a severe health condition.
- Academically strong, he studied Physics at Stanford University, followed by a master’s degree in Mathematics in 2008.
Career & Robinhood
- In 2013, Bhatt co-founded Robinhood alongside Vlad Tenev, a platform that helped popularize commission-free stock trading in the United States.
- He served as co-CEO until late 2020, then transitioned to the role of Chief Creative Officer. In 2024, he stepped down from executive duties but remains on Robinhood’s board, holding about 6% ownership in the company.
Why He Was Named Among Youngest Billionaires
- Forbes estimates Bhatt’s net worth at approximately US$6-6.9 billion. His inclusion in the 2025 Forbes 400 among the youngest is due to growth in Robinhood’s valuation, an increase in stock price over the past year, expanding product offerings (including high-yield savings, IRAs, etc.), and strong revenue performance.
- His status as the only Indian-origin person in the “youngest billionaires” subset underscores his unique position within both the Indian diaspora and the fintech world.
Personal Journey & Challenges
- Despite his success, Bhatt’s early life had hardships. As a young child, his family endured financial strain due to his father’s medical treatment. These struggles included being unable to travel back to India after 1997 due to financial constraints.
- His upbringing, combined with strong academic performance, appears to have shaped his resilience and ambition.
Looking Ahead
- Though Bhatt stepped down from daily executive roles at Robinhood, he continues to influence the company as a board member and significant shareholder.
- Beyond Robinhood, he is also involved in ventures including Aetherflux, which aims to harness space-based solar energy and innovate in clean tech.
Conclusion:
Baiju Bhatt’s appearance in Forbes’ 2025 list of youngest billionaires is more than just recognition of wealth, it’s acknowledgment of his journey from modest beginnings, his role in transforming fintech through Robinhood, and his ongoing interest in future-facing innovation. His story stands as inspiration for many in the Indian diaspora and beyond who aspire to combine purpose with business success.
