Kirk Kerkorian Quotes

Powerful Kirk Kerkorian for Daily Growth

About Kirk Kerkorian

Kirk Kerkorian (June 6, 1917 – December 15, 2015), an American business magnate of Armenian descent, was a self-made titan in the realm of finance, real estate, and entertainment industries. Born to poor immigrant parents in Fresno, California, Kerkorian's life story exemplifies the American Dream. Known as "The Mogul" or "The Oracle of Las Vegas," Kerkorian gained prominence through shrewd investments and savvy business acumen. His interest in aviation began during his military service with the United States Army Air Forces, where he trained as a pilot. This passion led to the establishment of his first significant venture, Pacific Airmotive Corporation, which later became Trans World Airlines (TWA). Kerkorian's influence in entertainment commenced when he purchased MGM Studios in 1969 and orchestrated its resurgence through iconic films like "The Exorcist" and "Rocky." Later, he owned approximately 20% of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer. In the automotive industry, Kerkorian made his mark by acquiring a controlling stake in Chrysler Corporation twice – first in 1979 and again in 1998 – which he eventually sold for substantial profits. One of Kerkorian's most notable business strategies was the "bust-up," whereby he would acquire undervalued companies, restructure them, and then sell off their assets piecemeal to maximize returns. This approach often ruffled feathers in corporate America but yielded immense profits for Kerkorian. In 2015, Kerkorian passed away at the age of 98, leaving behind a legacy that echoes through multiple industries and continues to impact business practices today. Despite his reputation as a hard-nosed negotiator, many remember him fondly as a humble man who retained strong connections with his Armenian roots throughout his life.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"I'm not in business for recreation. I have to make money."

This quote underscores the fundamental principle that underpins entrepreneurial ventures: the primary objective is financial success, or "making money." It implies a focus on profitability and efficiency, and emphasizes the necessity of profit in business endeavors rather than viewing them as mere recreational activities or hobbies. In other words, it underscores the importance of profit-driven thinking for any successful businessperson.


"I've always felt that the way to make money is to buy something undervalued and wait."

The quote by Kirk Kerkorian, "I've always felt that the way to make money is to buy something undervalued and wait," suggests a strategy for generating wealth through investment, particularly in the stock market or real estate. This approach involves finding assets whose current market value is lower than their intrinsic worth, purchasing them at this discounted price, and then holding onto them for an extended period until the market recognizes their true value. The idea is that as the asset's value increases over time, so too will the investor's profits. In essence, Kerkorian emphasizes the importance of patience, due diligence, and seizing opportunities when they present themselves.


"When you're young, money isn't the most important thing."

The quote suggests that when one is young, material wealth or financial security may not be the primary focus in life. Instead, this stage of life is often characterized by personal growth, exploration, and the pursuit of passions or dreams, rather than amassing wealth. This view aligns with a philosophy that values experiences, relationships, learning, and self-discovery over monetary accumulation during the early years of life. It's important to note that this doesn't necessarily mean wealth shouldn't be pursued at all, but rather emphasizes that there is more to life than just financial gain when one is young.


"Business has its ups and downs, but if you like what you are doing, you can make a go of it."

This quote by Kirk Kerkorian suggests that even though business may experience periods of difficulty (ups and downs), if one is passionate about their work, they can persevere and find success. It encourages resilience in the face of adversity and emphasizes the importance of enjoying what one does as a key factor for achieving long-term success in business.


"The best deal is the one that never gets done."

The quote by Kirk Kerkorian, "The best deal is the one that never gets done," highlights the value of avoiding a transaction when it's not beneficial or when potential risks outweigh rewards. It suggests prudence and foresight in business dealings, emphasizing that sometimes, walking away from an opportunity can be the wisest choice for long-term success.


I'm a very passive investor.

- Kirk Kerkorian

Very, Investor, Passive

When you're a self-made man, you start very early in life. In my case it was at 9 years old when I started bringing income into the family. You get a drive that's a little different, maybe a little stronger, than somebody who inherited.

- Kirk Kerkorian

Income, Maybe, Very, Self-Made

I do stay busy. I like new challenges.

- Kirk Kerkorian

Challenges, New, Like, New Challenges

I don't try to get all the meat off the bone. When I get a good figure, I just move something. Too many people try to hit the peak price, and they hold on until it is too late.

- Kirk Kerkorian

Good, Too Late, Hold, Too Many People

I wish I could talk like Donald Trump or Steve Wynn. Hell, I'd love it.

- Kirk Kerkorian

Love, Trump, Donald, None

You have to ask a lot of questions and listen to people, but eventually, you have to go by your own instincts.

- Kirk Kerkorian

Own, Ask, Lot, Instincts

I'm far from being reclusive. I have 30- or 40-year friendships that I prefer to meeting new people. I go to an occasional party, but just because I don't go to a lot of events, and I'm not out in public all the time doesn't mean I'm anti-social or a recluse.

- Kirk Kerkorian

New People, Prefer, Reclusive

I'm a gambler at heart. That's my life.

- Kirk Kerkorian

Life, Heart, My Life, Gambler

I have some eye problems from when I was a pilot.

- Kirk Kerkorian

Eye, Problems, Some, Pilot

I used to think that if I made $50,000 I'd be the happiest guy in the world.

- Kirk Kerkorian

World, Think, Made, Happiest

I've always been a quiet guy.

- Kirk Kerkorian

Always, Guy, Been, Quiet

Life is a big craps game. I've got to tell you, it's all been fun.

- Kirk Kerkorian

Game, Big, Been, Life Is A

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