Athletes and entertainers expand wealth through diverse business investments

Elite athletes and entertainers are increasingly diversifying their wealth by investing in industries outside their primary fields, with a notable trend toward sports franchise ownership and various commercial sectors.

In Africa, celebrities are expanding into agribusiness, fintech, fashion, and media. Notable examples include Sadio Mané and Didier Drogba, who have interests in football and gold mining, and Burna Boy, who has moved into film production through Spaceship Films. Ghanaian stars such as Shatta Wale and Sarkodie have also ventured into sectors including rice production and ride-hailing.

Globally, high-profile athletes are acquiring stakes in major sports teams. LeBron James holds minority ownership roles in several entities through Fenway Sports Group, including Liverpool FC and the Boston Red Sox. Other significant investors include Tom Brady, who is a minority owner at Birmingham City, and Kylian Mbappé, who acquired an 80% stake in the French club SM Caen. Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Luka Modrić have also transitioned into club ownership or minority investment roles.