Who is Douw Steyn?
Douw Steyn was a prominent South African billionaire businessman, known for his significant contributions to the insurance industry and real estate. Born in 1952 in Brits, North West, he spent his formative years in Johannesburg and later studied business in Germany before starting his entrepreneurial career. Steyn gained recognition for founding Auto & General Insurance in South Africa, launching the BGL Group in the UK, and developing the luxurious Steyn City estate in Johannesburg. He also shared a close friendship with Nelson Mandela, who stayed at his home after his release from prison.
Douw Steyn Career
Steyn began his career in the insurance sector in 1975 when he established Steyn’s Insurance Brokers in Johannesburg. Despite facing initial hurdles, such as difficulties in obtaining a brokerage license in South Africa, he successfully expanded his operations internationally. In 1984, he founded Auto & General, revolutionizing the insurance landscape by introducing telemarketing, paperless policies, and debit orders. His impact reached the UK, where he launched Budget Insurance and the BGL Group, the parent company of Compare the Market. In 2000, he further extended his business to Australia with Auto & General.
Additionally, Steyn was a visionary in real estate, developing Steyn City, a R6.5 billion luxury estate in Johannesburg, in 2015. His dedication to South Africa was reflected in his investments and philanthropic efforts, including the Douw Steyn Family Trust, which committed R370 million for COVID-19 relief initiatives.
Douw Steyn Net Worth
As of 2025, Douw Steyn’s net worth was estimated to be £3 billion (around R70 billion), placing him 58th on the UK Sunday Times Rich List. With a vast business empire spanning insurance, property, and hospitality, his wealth remained significant in 2025. Although he passed away at the age of 72, his financial legacy lives on through the global enterprises he established.
Douw Steyn Age
Douw Steyn was born in 1952 and passed away in 2025 at the age of 72.
Douw Steyn Family: Wife and Children
Steyn was married to Carolyn Steyn, a prominent philanthropist and supporter of the arts. Together, they raised three children, who, along with their families, continue to honor his memory. Steyn’s legacy as a businessman and devoted family man lives on through the businesses and charitable initiatives he founded.
Douw Steyn Height and Weight
While official records of Steyn’s height and weight are limited, he was recognized for his impressive presence in both the business realm and philanthropic circles. More significant than his physical size was the substantial influence he had on the industries he transformed and the communities he supported.
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