Michael Lee-Chin
Full Name and Common Aliases
Michael Lee-Chin is a Jamaican-Canadian businessman, investor, and philanthropist.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on September 28, 1948, in Kingston, Jamaica. As of this writing, Michael Lee-Chin is still alive.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Michael Lee-Chin's nationality is Jamaican-Canadian. He is a businessman and investor by profession.
Early Life and Background
Growing up in a humble background in Kingston, Jamaica, Michael Lee-Chin was raised with the values of hard work and financial responsibility by his parents. His early life experiences had a significant impact on shaping his future endeavors.
Major Accomplishments
Michael Lee-Chin's career spans over five decades, marked by numerous achievements:
In 1975, he started his own investment company, first known as Deshield & Lee Chin, and later renamed to Portland Holdings.
Under his leadership, the company grew into a global investment firm with assets worth billions of dollars. The company's diversified portfolio includes real estate, private equity, and alternative investments.
Notable Works or Actions
Michael Lee-Chin has been involved in various philanthropic efforts throughout his career:
He donated $12 million to the University of the West Indies (UWI) for the establishment of the Michael Lee Chin School of Business.
In 2009, he made a significant contribution to the University of Toronto's Rotman School of Management.
Impact and Legacy
Michael Lee-Chin's impact on the business world is undeniable. His entrepreneurial spirit, investment acumen, and philanthropic efforts have left a lasting legacy:
He has been recognized with numerous awards for his contributions to business and philanthropy.
In 2012, he was appointed an Officer of the Order of Jamaica (OJ) by the Jamaican government.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Michael Lee-Chin's quotes often focus on wealth creation, financial literacy, and the importance of giving back to society. His insights have inspired countless individuals worldwide:
He is a strong advocate for saving and investing in one's future.
Through his philanthropic efforts, he aims to make a positive impact on communities.
In conclusion, Michael Lee-Chin's life story serves as an inspiration to anyone looking to achieve success through hard work, strategic decision-making, and giving back.
Quotes by Michael Lee-Chin
From an early age my mother told me that there were so many of us that if I was to get anything in life I would have to get it myself. So I did.
I wouldn't be where I am, if not for Jamaica. My formative years were here. I wouldn't have the confidence that I have if I wasn't born here, because growing up here I knew I could become anybody I wanted to become. There was no ceiling on top of me.
Life is not linear; you have ups and downs. It's how you deal with the trough that defines you.
I wouldn't have become an engineer, I wouldn't have done what I did, had a hand not been held out to me. I have to remember who helped me when I needed help. The people of Jamaica helped me. I can't forget that. I would be ungrateful if I forgot.
You can't look at the intrinsic value of gold as you can a business. Gold doesn't give you cash flow, and, at the end of the day, cash flow is what is important. Gold doesn't give you dividends.
The mantra of the National Commercial Bank is 'building a better Jamaica.' If this bank is going to be everlastingly successful, it has to take on the ailments of this society.
My wealth came from growing businesses. I had wealth, but not liquidity. Basically I transferred illiquid shares of AIC for liquid shares of Manulife. Now I'm the biggest individual shareholder of Manulife.
If people perceive themselves as having very little opportunities to be fulfilled, then it cheapens their life and outlook. The solution is to reverse it; make sure they know opportunities abound.
I'm making a case against how money managers are handling customers' money. The objective of the customer is not being met if the fund managers are diversifying their assets into hundreds of businesses. If they do this, they are typically performing close to the indexes. But that's not the way wealth is created.