Andre Amin Hakkak, born on January 5, 1973, in Tehran, Iran, has emerged as a powerhouse in the global finance industry. Now 52 years old, Hakkak is known not only for his immense wealth but also for his visionary approach to alternative investment strategies. From a modest immigrant background to becoming co-founder and CEO of White Oak Global Advisors, his story reflects strategic brilliance, discipline, and a deep commitment to innovation and philanthropy.
From Tehran to Wall Street: A Foundation Built on Education and Vision
Hakkak’s early years were shaped by his family’s relocation from Iran to the United States in pursuit of better opportunities. This transition laid the groundwork for a life that would later redefine private credit investment on a global scale. After settling in the U.S., Andre pursued education with intense focus. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Finance and Marketing from the Haas School of Business at UCLA, and later earned a Master’s in Finance from the University of Chicago. These degrees provided him with the analytical and strategic tools that would become central to his investment philosophy.
Early Career: Sharpening the Tools of Finance
Andre Hakkak began his professional career in the early 1990s at Robertson Stephens & Co., working as an investment banking analyst. This role introduced him to capital markets and gave him a firm grasp of financial instruments. By 1995, he had moved on to found Suisse Global Investments, where he served as portfolio manager. The firm tailored investment solutions for financial institutions across more than 30 countries, expanding Hakkak’s exposure to international markets.
In 2000, he launched Alpine Global, Inc., a strategic investment company focusing on real estate and alternative fixed income. As Chief Investment Officer, he led the company through several successful ventures before moving on to his most defining professional chapter.
The Rise of White Oak Global Advisors
In 2007, Andre Hakkak co-founded White Oak Global Advisors, a San Francisco-based investment firm that specializes in providing private credit and customized financing solutions to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Unlike traditional banks, White Oak fills critical gaps in the lending ecosystem by financing companies often overlooked by mainstream financial institutions.
Under Hakkak’s leadership, the firm has grown into a global financial force. As of 2024, White Oak Global Advisors manages over $10 billion in assets and has deployed more than $24 billion in capital, supporting over 20,000 SMEs. Hakkak serves as Co-Portfolio Manager and a key member of the Investment Committee, playing a direct role in strategic decisions and risk management.
Net Worth and Major Investments
Andre Hakkak’s net worth as of 2024 is estimated to be between $200 million and $10 billion, according to sources like Impact Wealth and Habit Advisors. The wide range reflects his diverse holdings across multiple sectors. The core of his wealth stems from his ownership stake in White Oak Global Advisors, but Hakkak also maintains a robust portfolio of investments in real estate, public equities, private equity, and technology ventures.
One major real estate asset is the family’s $13.6 million mansion in Coral Gables, Florida, purchased in 2020. The 17,215-square-foot residence features six bedrooms, nine bathrooms, a pool, outdoor kitchen, and other luxurious amenities. Properties like this not only serve as personal residences but also as long-term capital assets that contribute to his expansive wealth.
Family Life and Personal Interests
Andre Hakkak is married to Marissa Shipman, the CEO of Balm Cosmetics, a well-known beauty brand with a focus on cruelty-free and sustainable products. The couple met in 2012 and tied the knot in 2015. Together, they have two children, Ariana and Darius, and maintain a close-knit family dynamic focused on balance and shared values.
Outside of work, Hakkak is passionate about traveling, collecting contemporary art, and exploring global cultures. These interests reflect his broader worldview, one that merges cultural appreciation with financial acumen.
Giving Back: A Commitment to Philanthropy
In addition to his business success, Hakkak is a committed philanthropist. He supports various causes through the Hakkak Family Foundation, focusing on education, healthcare access, environmental sustainability, and social welfare programs. Millions of dollars have been channeled into nonprofit initiatives, scholarships, and community health programs across the United States and beyond.
His philanthropic strategy aligns with the values he promotes through his business: sustainability, impact, and equity. By investing in underserved communities, Hakkak is not only giving back but also helping shape a more inclusive economy.
A Voice in the Industry
Andre Hakkak is a respected thought leader in the finance world. He frequently appears at global finance conferences and contributes articles as an opinion columnist for CEOWORLD Magazine. His insights often cover emerging market trends, private credit opportunities, and the future of finance through artificial intelligence and machine learning.
As of 2025, Hakkak is actively exploring AI-powered solutions to streamline decision-making in portfolio management. His vision is to integrate cutting-edge technology with traditional investment principles, further expanding White Oak’s international footprint and impact.
Final Thoughts
From an immigrant child in Iran to one of the most powerful voices in global finance, Andre Hakkak’s journey is as inspiring as it is instructive. At 52 years old, he continues to break new ground—not just in wealth accumulation, but in shaping a financial system that works for more people. Whether it’s supporting SMEs through strategic capital or empowering underserved communities through philanthropy, Hakkak’s influence stretches far beyond boardrooms.
His story is proof that success is not just about numbers—it’s about values, vision, and impact. As he continues to innovate and expand globally, Andre Hakkak remains a name to watch in the evolving world of investment.
