Charles Koch

Charles de Ganahl Koch is an American businessman, political donor and philanthropist. As of June 2018, he was ranked as the 12th-richest person in the world, with an estimated net worth of $50.7 billion. Koch has been co-owner, chairman and chief executive officer of Koch Industries since 1967, while his brother David Koch serves as executive vice president. Charles and David each own 42% of the conglomerate. The brothers inherited the business from their father, Fred C. Koch, then expanded the business. Originally involved exclusively in oil refining and chemicals, Koch Industries now includes process and pollution control equipment and technologies; polymers and fibers; minerals; fertilizers; commodity trading and services; forest and consumer products; and ranching. The businesses produce a wide variety of well-known brands, such as Stainmaster carpet, the Lycra brand of spandex fiber, Quilted Northern tissue and Dixie Cup.