Prem Watsa, CEO of Fairfax Financial, is known as Canada's 'Warren Buffett'. Born in Hyderabad, he started with Rs 64 and now has a net worth of $2.2 billion.

From selling goods door-to-door to being hailed as Canada’s ‘Warren Buffett’, the story of Prem Watsa is a testament to the Indian entrepreneurial spirit. Watsa, the Chairman and CEO of the $97 billion Fairfax Financial Holdings, is a shining example of success on a global stage. Born in Hyderabad and an alumnus of IIT Madras, Watsa’s journey began with only Rs 64 when he landed in Canada to pursue his MBA at Western Ontario University.

To support his education, Watsa took up a job selling home appliances door-to-door, showcasing his trademark resilience and determination. This experience laid the foundation for his understanding of business and the value of hard work. His career in finance began in 1974 as a stock portfolio manager at Confederation Life Insurance Company, where he honed his skills in investment.

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A few years later, he established Hamblin Watsa Investment Council Limited, marking his foray into investment management. The defining moment came in 1985 when he gained control of Fairfax Financial, a Toronto-based financial services company. Under Watsa’s leadership, Fairfax flourished, expanding its footprint across North America, Europe, Asia, and West Asia, including significant investments in India.

Today, Watsa, with a net worth of Rs 17,217 crore ($2.2 billion), stands as Canada’s richest Indian, proving that with courage and determination, even the sky is not the limit. His extraordinary journey from humble beginnings to the pinnacle of the financial world serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs worldwide.

In recognition of his remarkable achievements and contributions, the Government of India had bestowed upon him the prestigious Padma Shri award in January 2020.