October 19

Charles E. Merrill was born in 1885 in New York City and graduated from Harvard University. In 1914 he co-founded Merrill Lynch, which grew to become a powerhouse in global finance. He pioneered modern brokerage services and emphasized transparent investment practices for individual investors. Merrill was also a dedicated philanthropist, supporting education and cultural institutions across the United States. His legacy endures through charitable foundations and the continued prominence of the firm he helped build. He passed away in 1956, leaving a lasting impact on finance and philanthropy.

Born in 1927, Stephen Keynes was the grandson of naturalist Charles Darwin and carried on his family's intellectual legacy. Educated at Eton and Cambridge University, he built a career in merchant banking and financial services. Keynes was a founding member of several charitable organizations dedicated to preserving the Darwin Archive and promoting scientific research. He served as chairman of the Cambridge University Library and held leadership roles in academic societies. Passionate about history and heritage, he contributed to cultural institutions across the UK. Keynes died in 2017, remembered for his blend of business acumen and dedication to philanthropy.

Terence Thomas enjoyed a distinguished career in banking, holding senior management positions at firms such as Kleinwort Benson. He was elevated to the peerage in 1997 as Baron Thomas of Macclesfield, sitting on the crossbenches of the House of Lords. In the Lords, he drew on his financial expertise to influence debates on economic regulation and commerce. Thomas also chaired charitable organizations focused on education and community development. Remembered for bridging the worlds of finance and public service, he left a legacy of thoughtful leadership before his death in 2018.

Yeslam bin Ladin is a Saudi Arabian-Swiss businessman born in 1950. He is the eldest son of construction magnate Mohammed bin Laden and has chaired the Saudi Investment Company (SICO) in Geneva. Bin Ladin's ventures span real estate development, hotel management, and Islamic finance products. He has also been involved in philanthropic efforts supporting education and healthcare initiatives. In 2004, he published a memoir recounting his family history and business experiences. Yeslam holds dual citizenship and maintains residences in Switzerland and Saudi Arabia.

Nir Barkat is an Israeli entrepreneur and politician who served as mayor of Jerusalem from 2008 to 2018. Before entering public office, he co-founded a successful technology company and became a leading figure in Israel's startup scene. As mayor, Barkat spearheaded urban revitalization projects and innovation initiatives to boost the city's economy. After two terms, he continued his public service as a member of the Knesset and advocate for technological advancement. Barkat is recognized for bridging business and government to foster sustainable development in Jerusalem.