Michael Burry
The Big Short - Predicted the 2008 Housing Crash
Michael Burry
Value Investing & Macro
Key Stats
Net Worth
$300+ Million
Origin
American
Lifespan
Born 1971 (55 years old)
Biography
Michael Burry is the hedge fund manager who famously predicted and profited from the 2008 subprime mortgage crisis. His story was chronicled in Michael Lewis's book "The Big Short" and the subsequent Academy Award-winning film.
Scion Capital
Burry founded Scion Capital in 2000 after working as a physician. His deep-value investing approach and independent research led him to discover the housing bubble before almost anyone else.
The Big Short
Starting in 2005, Burry began purchasing credit default swaps against subprime mortgage bonds. Despite pressure from investors to abandon the trade, he held firm. When the housing market collapsed, Scion Capital's returns exceeded 489%.
Unique Perspective
Burry has Asperger's syndrome, which he credits for his ability to focus intensely on data and see patterns others miss. He continues to make contrarian calls that often prove prescient.
Trading Philosophy
"I look for value wherever it can be found. I don't care what the crowd thinks."
Famous Trades
Subprime Mortgage CDS
Purchased credit default swaps against subprime mortgages years before the housing crash, generating extraordinary returns.
Legendary Profit
+489%
Legendary Quotes
"I look for value wherever it can be found. I don't care what the crowd thinks."
"The late 90s almost forced me to identify myself as a value investor."