Early Life and Education

Born in 1912 in Winchester, Tennessee, Templeton was a talented and ambitious young man. He pursued higher education at Yale University, where he graduated as one of the top students in his class. He then continued his studies at Oxford University, earning a master's degree in economics.

Innovative Investments

In 1937, Templeton established his first investment fund, which was considered revolutionary at the time. He believed that smart investments were not limited to the United States but could be made worldwide. His philosophy was: “Buy when others are despondently selling.”
During the 1940s, he began investing globally, often purchasing shares of companies that were largely overlooked by other investors. This approach led to exceptional results and earned him great respect in the financial world.

The Secret to Success

Templeton's investment strategy was based on two core principles:

• Long-term thinking – He always chose companies with high potential for future success.

• Contrarian mindset – While most investors avoided risk, Templeton saw opportunities.

In 1954, he launched the Templeton Growth Fund, a global investment portfolio that quickly became one of the leading funds in the financial sector, delivering an average annual return of 15% for over three decades.

Philanthropy

For Templeton, wealth was not just a financial resource—it was a tool for advancing education, science, and philanthropy. In 1987, he founded the Templeton Prize for Progress in Religion, which financially exceeds the Nobel Prize.

Later Years

In recognition of his financial innovations and philanthropic contributions, Templeton was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II.
He passed away in 2008, leaving behind a remarkable legacy and invaluable lessons for future generations.

Key Principles

• Focus on value – Most people focus on trends and forecasts, but true success lies in fundamental value.

• Those who truly want to achieve something find a way; others find excuses.

• Success is a continuous process of seeking answers to new questions.

Sir John Templeton’s life and work demonstrate that adaptability and courage can transform not only an individual’s life but also an entire industry. His legacy continues to inspire millions of investors worldwide.