Edson de Godoy Bueno: Net Worth and Success Story
Edson de Godoy Bueno, a renowned Brazilian billionaire and businessman, boasts a significant net worth of $2.7 billion. This wealth primarily stems from Amil, a health plan company he founded in 1972 with his then-wife Dulce. While studying at Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Bueno honed his practical skills at a clinic, which he bought soon after graduating in 1971. This struggling clinic would eventually transform into Brazil's largest healthcare company, known today as Amil.
The Rise of Amil
Under Bueno's leadership, Amil grew rapidly, acquiring more than 15 companies in just a few years. The company's impressive growth and performance made it an attractive acquisition target. In 2012, United Health Group (UHG), a giant U.S. health insurer, purchased a 90% stake in Amil as part of its strategic expansion into Latin America for a staggering $4.9 billion.
Details of the Acquisition
UHG's acquisition entailed buying 30% of the publicly listed Amil shares from public shareholders and 60% from the Buenos. Despite selling the majority stake, the Buenos retained a 10% interest in Amil, and Edson continued to serve as the CEO. This transaction made Bueno the first foreigner to join UHG’s board and one of its largest individual shareholders, holding 0.8% of the shares.