Eric Hovde Wikipedia, Biography, Age, Birthplace, Family, Net Worth, Political Career, Wife, Daughters, House
Eric Hovde Biography
Eric Hovde is a prominent American businessman and philanthropist from Wisconsin. He is the CEO of Hovde Properties and the Hovde Group, which focuses on real estate and financial services, particularly the turnaround of troubled community banks. Hovde’s business ventures have spanned across various industries, contributing to his significant financial success. His career in entrepreneurship began in his twenties, and he has since built and managed several companies.
In addition to his business achievements, Eric Hovde is heavily involved in philanthropy. Alongside his brother, he co-founded The Hovde Foundation, which supports causes such as homelessness, children’s welfare, and the fight against human trafficking. The foundation has established multiple “Hovde Homes” around the world, providing shelter and care for vulnerable children and families.
Hovde is also known for his political ambitions. He first ran for the U.S. Senate in Wisconsin in 2012 but was unsuccessful. However, he has re-entered the political arena and is running again for the U.S. Senate in 2024, aiming to unseat Democratic incumbent Senator Tammy Baldwin. His platform focuses on economic reform, drawing from his extensive experience in banking and real estate.
A lifelong Wisconsinite, Hovde is an outdoors enthusiast, a supporter of local sports teams like the Green Bay Packers and Milwaukee Bucks, and an advocate for Midwestern values. Despite his success, Hovde has remained closely connected to his roots in Wisconsin, where he resides with his family. He has also been an outspoken supporter of medical research, particularly for multiple sclerosis, a condition he was diagnosed with at age 27.
Eric Hovde Age
Eric Hovde was born in 1964, making him around 60 years old as of 2024
Eric Hovde Ethnicity
Eric Hovde is of Norwegian descent, as his great-grandparents emigrated from Norway to the United States.
Eric Hovde Parents and Siblings
Eric Hovde was born to Don Hovde and his mother (whose name is not widely disclosed in public sources). His father, Don, was a businessman who took over the family real estate business in 1955 after his own father started it during the Great Depression.
Eric has a brother, Steve Hovde, with whom he co-founded the Hovde Foundation. Together, they have expanded the family’s philanthropic efforts, particularly in supporting vulnerable children and funding research for Multiple Sclerosis.
Eric Hovde Educational Background
Eric Hovde pursued his education at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he graduated with a degree in economics.
Eric Hovde Career and Achievements
Eric Hovde has built an extensive career in finance, real estate, and philanthropy. As a seasoned businessman, he has founded and managed several companies throughout his life, with a primary focus on investment banking and asset management. Early in his career, Hovde founded Hovde Financial, which became a leading investment bank specializing in the financial services sector. His ability to identify and acquire troubled community banks and guide them toward recovery has been a hallmark of his career. By leveraging his expertise in the banking industry, he has turned numerous struggling banks into profitable institutions.
In 1998, Hovde expanded his career further by co-founding Hovde Capital Advisors, a private equity firm dedicated to investing in the financial services sector. The firm has acquired controlling interests in banks, thrifts, and other financial companies across the United States. Hovde’s private equity ventures have allowed him to not only generate wealth but also reshape the landscape of local banking in several regions.
One of Hovde’s most significant achievements is his leadership of Sunwest Bank, where he serves as CEO. Under his direction, Sunwest Bank expanded its operations across multiple states, including Arizona, California, and Florida. His experience in turning around struggling financial institutions contributed to Sunwest’s growth, as it became a prominent player in the commercial banking sector.
In addition to his financial ventures, Hovde has made a name for himself in real estate development. He serves as CEO of Hovde Properties, a real estate development firm based in Madison, Wisconsin. The company specializes in large-scale commercial and residential projects, focusing on creating sustainable and community-centered developments.
Hovde’s career is not limited to business alone; he is also a dedicated philanthropist. In 1998, Hovde co-founded the Hovde Foundation with his brother Steve. Initially focused on funding research for Multiple Sclerosis (MS), the foundation expanded its mission to provide support for vulnerable children around the world. Through its flagship initiative, Hovde Homes, the foundation has built homes for street children in countries such as Peru, Ghana, and Rwanda, providing shelter, education, and care for those in need.
Beyond his roles in business and philanthropy, Hovde’s career also includes political involvement. In 2012, he ran for the U.S. Senate in Wisconsin, narrowly losing in the Republican primary. Despite the setback, Hovde remained active in political circles, using his platform to advocate for economic reforms and public policies that align with his business and philanthropic values. He announced another bid for the U.S. Senate in 2024, challenging incumbent Senator Tammy Baldwin.
Throughout his career, Hovde has been a frequent commentator on economic issues, appearing on major news outlets such as CNBC and Bloomberg TV. His insights into the financial services industry, real estate markets, and broader economic trends have positioned him as a respected voice in the field. His ability to navigate complex financial landscapes while maintaining a focus on community impact sets him apart as a leader in both business and philanthropy.
Eric Hovde Net Worth
Eric Hovde has an estimated net worth of $531 Million as of 2024.
Eric Hovde House
Eric Hovde owns several properties, including notable real estate investments in both Wisconsin and California. One of his most prominent properties is a $7 million home in Laguna Beach, California, which he purchased in 2018.
In addition to his Laguna Beach estate, Hovde also owns property in Shorewood Hills, Wisconsin, which he bought for $1.75 million in 2011. Shorewood Hills is an upscale neighborhood near Madison, Wisconsin, where Hovde is based.
These properties are just a part of Hovde’s extensive real estate holdings, which include numerous investments through Hovde Properties, his real estate development company.
Eric Hovde Family: Wife and Children
Eric Hovde is married to Sharon Hovde. Together, they have two grown daughters and three grandchildren. The family resides in Madison, Wisconsin. Hovde and his wife are actively involved in charitable work, particularly in supporting medical research for multiple sclerosis (MS), a disease Eric was diagnosed with at the age of 27.
FAQs
Who is Eric Hovde?
Eric Hovde is an American businessman, philanthropist, and political figure. He is the CEO of Sunwest Bank and H Bancorp, and also manages real estate investments through Hovde Properties. He is currently running for the U.S. Senate from Wisconsin.
What political positions has Eric Hovde held?
Eric Hovde has not held any elected office, but he ran for the U.S. Senate in 2012 and is running again in 2024(
What businesses does Eric Hovde own?
Eric Hovde is the CEO of Sunwest Bank and H Bancorp, and he also owns Hovde Properties, a real estate development and investment company.
What philanthropic efforts is Eric Hovde known for?
Eric co-founded The Hovde Foundation with his brother, which focuses on building homes for vulnerable children, supporting research on multiple sclerosis, and working on several local charitable initiatives.
Where does Eric Hovde live?
Eric Hovde resides in Madison, Wisconsin with his wife and two daughters. He also has properties in other locations, including a $7 million home in Laguna Beach, California.
Who is Eric Hovde’s wife?
Eric Hovde is married to Sharon Hovde. They have been married since 1997 and have two daughters, Brita and Carlin.
What is Sunwest Bank?
Sunwest Bank is a commercial bank that operates in several states. Eric Hovde serves as its CEO, and it is one of the key assets contributing to his wealth.