Challenges Faced by Bill Ackman: Obstacles and Turning Points

Resilience and perseverance in the journey of Bill Ackman. A timeline of obstacles and growth.

Bill Ackman is an American billionaire and the founder and CEO of Pershing Square Capital Management, a hedge fund. Known for his activist investing approach, Ackman's net worth is estimated at $9.1 billion as of May 2025. He is a prominent figure in the world of finance.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

2002: Litigation with Shareholders

By 2002, Gotham Partners was involved in litigation with various external shareholders who also owned an interest in the companies in which Gotham invested.

2002: Researching MBIA

In 2002, Ackman researched MBIA to challenge Standard & Poor's AAA rating of its bonds, leading to significant legal expenses and scrutiny of the financial services company.

August 2013: Ackman Steps Down from J. C. Penney Board

In August 2013, Ackman resigned from the board of J. C. Penney following disagreements with other board members, ending his two-year campaign to transform the department store.

2015: Period of Weak Performance

Ackman faced a period of weak performance from 2015.

March 2017: Sale of Valeant Shares

In March 2017, Ackman sold his remaining shares in Valeant Pharmaceuticals to Jefferies for approximately $300 million, resulting in a substantial loss on his initial investment.

February 28, 2018: Exit from Herbalife Bet

On February 28, 2018, Ackman exited his near billion-dollar bet against Herbalife at a loss, concluding a long and contentious campaign against the company.

August 1, 2024: Withdrawal of Pershing Square IPO

On August 1, 2024, Ackman withdrew the IPO for Pershing Square after failing to raise the targeted $25 billion, securing only $2 billion. He subsequently announced plans to relaunch a version of the fund with a new transaction structure.