Stewart Kenny is a name synonymous with Ireland’s gambling industry, best known for co-founding Paddy Power, one of Europe’s most successful and recognizable bookmakers. With an estimated net worth of $10 million as of 2025, Kenny’s career reflects both entrepreneurial achievement and a deep commitment to social responsibility.
While Paddy Power’s bold marketing and rapid expansion are part of his legacy, what sets Stewart Kenny apart is his transition from industry leader to a vocal critic of gambling’s darker side. Here’s a detailed look into his net worth, business contributions, and personal journey.
Who Is Stewart Kenny?
Stewart Kenny is an Irish entrepreneur and former business executive with decades of experience in the betting and gaming industry. While details of his early life remain private, Kenny rose to prominence in Ireland’s corporate world through his pivotal role in the creation and success of Paddy Power.
In 1988, Kenny helped orchestrate the merger of three Irish bookmakers — his own chain, Kenny O’Reilly, along with those of David Power and John Corcoran — giving birth to Paddy Power. The brand would go on to reshape Ireland’s betting industry, becoming a household name thanks to its customer-focused model and irreverent advertising campaigns.
Now in his early 70s, Stewart Kenny remains a respected figure not only for his contributions to Irish business but also for his candid stance on gambling-related harms.
Paddy Power’s Rise and Kenny’s Vision
Under Stewart Kenny’s guidance, Paddy Power revolutionized retail betting in Ireland and the UK. The company became known for its daring and often humorous marketing tactics, capturing the attention of both seasoned punters and casual fans alike.
As CEO and later Chairman, Kenny oversaw the expansion of Paddy Power’s betting shops throughout Ireland and into the UK. The company was also one of the early adopters of digital innovation, making significant investments in online and mobile betting platforms during the 2000s — a move that proved crucial in maintaining competitiveness as the industry evolved.
Kenny’s leadership was instrumental in preparing Paddy Power for its eventual merger with Betfair in 2016, forming Flutter Entertainment, which is now one of the world’s largest online gambling groups. While Kenny had exited his executive role before the merger, his influence in shaping the original Paddy Power remains evident today.
Stewart Kenny’s Net Worth in 2025
As of 2025, Stewart Kenny’s estimated net worth is $10 million. Much of his wealth stems from his early success with Paddy Power and the financial benefits of its growth during the late 1990s and early 2000s.
It is understood that Kenny divested much of his stake in Paddy Power prior to its merger with Betfair. While this decision may have limited his long-term equity share in Flutter Entertainment, it also provided him with the liquidity and freedom to focus on other pursuits, including advocacy and philanthropy.
Kenny’s financial portfolio has remained stable over the years, bolstered by wise investments and the significant earnings from Paddy Power’s pre-merger success. Unlike some entrepreneurs who embrace lavish lifestyles, Kenny is known for his modest approach to wealth, focusing instead on personal causes and public service.
A Unique Position: Industry Pioneer Turned Critic
Perhaps the most fascinating chapter in Stewart Kenny’s story is his evolution from betting industry pioneer to outspoken advocate for gambling reform. After stepping down from Paddy Power’s board, Kenny began speaking openly about his concerns regarding the unchecked growth of online gambling and the industry’s role in enabling addiction.
Kenny has repeatedly called for stricter regulations to protect vulnerable gamblers, including greater oversight of online betting platforms and limits on aggressive advertising. He has argued that the gambling industry, despite its economic benefits, has a moral responsibility to safeguard consumers — a message that has resonated with many, especially within Ireland and the UK.
His comments have been featured in national media and industry discussions, where he has pushed for change and highlighted the need for governments to intervene more decisively.
Personal Life: A Low-Profile Approach
Unlike many business leaders, Stewart Kenny has kept his personal life out of the spotlight. Now in his early 70s, Kenny resides in Ireland and leads a largely private life, appearing in public mainly to advocate for gambling reform or to participate in charitable causes.
There is little public information regarding his family, marriage, or children, reflecting his preference to stay out of celebrity culture. What is clear is that Kenny’s current focus lies in social responsibility, not personal publicity.
In recent years, he has been involved with mental health initiatives and programs aimed at supporting individuals affected by gambling addiction. His hands-on approach has garnered him respect from advocacy groups and community organizations alike.
Legacy and Long-Term Influence
Stewart Kenny’s legacy is layered. On one hand, he is rightly celebrated as one of Ireland’s most successful business minds — someone who helped shape Paddy Power into a brand that transcended sports betting. On the other hand, he is widely regarded as a rare example of a business leader willing to challenge the very industry that built his fortune.
His voice remains influential in conversations about gambling laws, corporate responsibility, and consumer protection. While no longer in an executive role, Kenny’s dual perspective — one grounded in both corporate success and personal accountability — continues to shape policy discussions in Ireland and abroad.
Conclusion
Stewart Kenny’s estimated $10 million net worth reflects a career marked by innovation and business foresight. Yet, his story is more than one of financial success. By stepping forward to champion gambling regulation and advocate for responsible gaming, Kenny has positioned himself as a principled figure in Ireland’s business landscape.
As Flutter Entertainment and the global gambling industry continue to expand, Stewart Kenny’s call for balance between profitability and consumer welfare remains both timely and impactful. Whether viewed as a successful entrepreneur or a vocal reformer, Kenny’s contributions will continue to influence the conversation for years to come.
