In the vast landscape of self-help and entrepreneurial literature, few books stand out as more than just reading material—they become valuable guides to action and achievement. Risks and Returns: Creating Success in Business and Life by Wilbur Ross is one such work, offering profound insights that extend beyond the pages to inspire real-world transformation. Blending autobiography, business wisdom, and actionable strategies, Ross provides a comprehensive blueprint for success in both business and life.
This book serves as a rich resource from one of the most prominent self-made figures in global business and public policy and as a practical manual for navigating the complexities of today’s competitive world.
Wilbur Ross, whose career spans Wall Street and Washington, D.C., distils a lifetime of business experience into this engaging narrative. From his modest beginnings in the New Jersey suburbs, to attending Yale University on financial aid, to his transformative role as the U.S. Secretary of Commerce, Ross’s story underscores the very principles that can help anyone achieve their goals. As Deborah Norville, New York Times bestselling author and anchor of Inside Edition, puts it, “The formula that took Ross from Weehawken, NJ to the White House is a good one for anyone who aspires to achieve.” This insight resonates deeply with anyone looking to forge their own path in business or life.
Wilbur Ross is a renowned investor, often referred to as the “King of Bankruptcy” due to his success in acquiring distressed companies and turning them around. His career spans decades in both private equity and public service, where he played pivotal roles in the restructuring of companies across various industries, particularly in steel, textiles, and coal. He also served as the U.S. Secretary of Commerce under President Donald Trump from 2017 to 2021.
Ross’s career trajectory and deep experience in turning troubled companies into profitable ventures provide a rich foundation for his insights into risk, return, and business strategies.
Risks and Returns isn’t just a technical manual for investors; it’s a masterclass in strategic risk taking combined with a life memoir that reflects on Ross’s business philosophy, highlighting the critical balance between risk-taking and securing returns. The book provides a comprehensive look at Ross’s own career, the industries he’s invested in, and the economic forces that shaped his decisions.
At its core, Risks and Returns emphasizes understanding risk—not as something to avoid, but as a critical component of successful investing. Ross argues that risk is inherent in every investment, but managing it effectively can create significant rewards. His work with distressed assets serves as a prime example of how understanding and embracing risk can lead to lucrative returns. Ross’s success has been largely attributed to his focus on distressed assets—companies that are financially troubled or in bankruptcy. By purchasing such companies at low prices and restructuring them, he’s been able to unlock significant value. The book highlights his process for assessing these opportunities, with a focus on patience, due diligence, and an understanding of the underlying value of an asset.
Ross’s strategies and dealmaking expertise forged relationships with high-profile figures such as Warren Buffet, King Charles, Carl Icahn, Mike Milken, the Rothschild’s, Steve Wynn, Lakshmi Mittal, and many other global leaders across politics, business and royalty. He also shares his experiences as a key player in a senior role with President Trump in the Oval Office. Wilbur had the rare ability to be a true leader, doing the right thing in the face of media critics, staying loyal to the country and its interests and demonstrating a strong backbone in the face of adversity.
As Larry Kudlow, host of Fox Business Network and former director of the National Economic Council, states, “Those looking to get ahead in life will learn from this book how a commitment to hard work, discipline, and thoughtful risk-taking pays off.” These principles are especially vital for the next generation of entrepreneurs navigating a crowded and competitive market.
Esteemed global leaders further bolster the book’s significance. Stephen A. Schwarzman, chairman, cofounder, and CEO of Blackstone, describes Risks and Returns as “a fast-paced autobiography describing his Horatio Alger rise to the heights of Wall Street and government service as secretary of commerce. It’s an exciting and instructive read.” Ken Griffin, founder and CEO of Citadel, highlights the book’s portrayal of Ross’s remarkable career: “This book offers an inspiring narrative that encapsulates the essence of Wilbur’s extraordinary career and the lessons it imparts.” Such endorsements solidify the book’s status as a must-read for those seeking to understand the inner workings of modern business.
Additionally, Leonard A. Lauder, chairman emeritus of The Estée Lauder Companies, Inc., calls it “a can’t-miss for anyone interested in achieving their goals—in all areas of life.” This widespread appeal confirms that Risks and Returns is not just a business book, but a timeless guide to success across all aspects of life.
Endorsed by influential figures like Schwarzman, Griffin, Lauder, Kudlow, Risks and Returns underscores its relevance as a modern-day success manual. Their voices amplify its central message: that success is attainable for those who approach risk with thoughtfulness and pursue excellence with unwavering commitment. It is a must read for business school students, future leaders and those who are successful and want to leave a greater legacy.
A Guide for Dreamers and Doers
Risks and Returns is more than a book—it’s a call to action for anyone determined to succeed. With a blend of powerful anecdotes, actionable advice, and the backing of the world’s most respected business leaders, Ross’s work challenges readers to take charge of their futures.
Let Risks and Returns be your guide as you transform the risks of today into the successes of tomorrow.
Order your copy of the book at https://www.risksandreturns.net/
