James Pallotta

James Pallotta is a prominent American investor and entrepreneur, best known as the founder of Raptor Group, a multi-asset investment firm, and the former chairman and owner of Italian football club AS Roma. His investment philosophy, primarily executed through Raptor Group, spans a diverse range of sectors including sports, media, technology, and consumer goods. Pallotta's career began in finance, notably serving as Vice-Chairman at Tudor Investment Corporation, a renowned hedge fund, where he honed his skills in managing substantial capital and identifying high-growth opportunities.

Raptor Group, founded by Pallotta, has made significant investments in companies that have since achieved considerable success. Notable early investments include stakes in digital sports entertainment and gaming company DraftKings and streaming hardware and software provider Roku. These investments highlight his foresight in identifying disruptive technologies and consumer trends. For instance, Raptor Group was an early participant in DraftKings' funding rounds, contributing to its growth into a major player in the fantasy sports and sports betting industry. Similarly, his firm's investment in Roku predated its widespread adoption, showcasing a keen eye for emerging media platforms.

Beyond technology, Pallotta's passion for sports is evident in his substantial involvement in professional sports franchises. His tenure as the owner of AS Roma from 2012 to 2020 saw significant financial and operational restructuring, culminating in the club's sale for approximately $700 million. He also holds a minority stake in the NBA's Boston Celtics, further cementing his presence in the sports investment landscape. While specific check sizes for individual venture deals are often private, Raptor Group's participation in growth equity rounds for companies like DraftKings and Roku suggests initial investments typically range from several million to tens of millions of dollars. Given his background and the scale of Raptor Group's operations, a typical first cheque for a growth-stage technology or media company would likely fall between $5 million and $50 million. His estimated net worth was reported to be $1.2 billion in 2014, underscoring his capacity for substantial capital deployment across various asset classes.