The billionaire hedge fund manager and founder of Pershing Square Capital Management, Bill Ackman, is typically mentioned when someone asks, “What companies does Ackerman own?” Ackman has established himself as a fearless, activist investor who doesn’t hesitate to take on sizable, concentrated stakes in businesses and advocate for reform. His investment approach is quite targeted and frequently focuses on high-quality, undervalued companies with room to grow in the long run.
Who Is Bill Ackman?
Bill Ackman founded Pershing Square Capital Management in 2004. Based in New York, the firm quickly gained attention for its high-conviction bets and activist campaigns. Ackman is known for taking significant stakes in companies and lobbying for operational or strategic changes to unlock shareholder value.
Some of his most famous investments include Chipotle, Canadian Pacific, Herbalife (famously shorted), and Valeant Pharmaceuticals (which didn’t go so well).
What Companies Does Ackman (Pershing Square) Own Today?
As of the most recent public 13F filings (typically released quarterly), Ackman’s Pershing Square holds a concentrated portfolio. These are some of the major companies he’s invested in:
1. Chipotle Mexican Grill (CMG)
Ackman first bought into Chipotle in 2016 after the company’s food safety scandal. Since then, the stock has rebounded spectacularly. Ackman has remained a believer, praising the company’s leadership and long-term growth strategy.
2. Lowe’s Companies (LOW)
Pershing Square invested in Lowe’s in 2018, citing its potential to improve operations and close the gap with Home Depot. Ackman’s influence helped lead to management changes and a renewed focus on performance.
3. Restaurant Brands International (QSR)
This is the parent company of Burger King, Popeyes, and Tim Hortons. Ackman has been a long-time investor and sees value in the company’s global franchise model.
4. Hilton Worldwide Holdings (HLT)
Ackman loves asset-light business models, and Hilton fits that bill. It’s a capital-light hotel brand that generates strong free cash flow and has global expansion potential.
5. Howard Hughes Corp. (HHC)
This real estate development firm has been a long-standing holding. Ackman has even taken a more direct role at times, including serving as Chairman of the Board. It’s a unique play on long-term land development and urban revitalization.
6. Universal Music Group (UMG)
In a slightly unexpected move, Ackman took a sizable stake in UMG when it was spun off from Vivendi. He views music royalties and intellectual property as a valuable, inflation-resistant asset class.
What’s Unique About Ackman’s Portfolio?
- Concentrated Bets: Unlike many hedge funds, Ackman doesn’t hold dozens of stocks. His top holdings usually represent large percentages of his total assets.
- Long-Term Focus: He’s not in it for a quick flip. Pershing Square often holds companies for many years.
- Activist Approach: Ackman isn’t passive. He often engages with management and the board to drive improvements.
Final Thoughts
So, while “Ackerman” doesn’t technically own these companies, Bill Ackman’s firm, Pershing Square, holds significant stakes in a carefully selected group of businesses. These investments reveal a disciplined approach—focusing on quality companies with clear paths to value creation.