Kate Upton has built an impressive fortune through her groundbreaking modeling career and smart business decisions. The American swimsuit model rose to fame with her iconic Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue covers. Today, Kate Upton’s net worth stands at an estimated $20-25 million. She earned this wealth through diverse income streams beyond traditional modeling work.
Her journey began in St. Joseph, Michigan, where she grew up before moving to Florida. She signed with Elite Model Management Miami at just 15 years old. Her viral moments and magazine covers transformed her into a household name across America. Kate Upton’s earnings come from modeling contracts, acting roles, and lucrative celebrity endorsement deals.
She starred in the Game of War Fire Age campaign and worked with prestigious brands. Her marriage to baseball star Justin Verlander created a power couple worth over $170 million combined. Her modeling career income and strategic investments secured her financial future. She balanced fame with smart money management throughout her career.
Profile Summary Table
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | Katherine Elizabeth Upton |
| Date of Birth | June 10, 1992 (age 34 as of 2026) |
| Place of Birth | St. Joseph, Michigan, USA |
| Height | 5 ft 10 in (178 cm) |
| Net Worth | $20-30 million |
| Primary Income Sources | Modeling (Sports Illustrated covers 2012-2017), acting (The Other Woman, Tower Heist), endorsements (Game of War, Bobbi Brown), brand deals |
| Spouse | Justin Verlander (m. 2017; MLB pitcher) |
| Children | Genevieve Upton Verlander (b. 2018); Bellamy Brooks Verlander (b. June 2025) |
| Parents | Shelley Upton (former Texas tennis champ); Jeff Upton (high school athletics director) |
| Family Ties | Uncle: Fred Upton (U.S. Representative); Great-grandfather: Frederick Upton (Whirlpool co-founder) |
| Career Start | Elite Model Management (2008); SI Swimsuit Rookie of the Year (2011) |
| Notable Achievements | 5x SI Swimsuit cover (2012, 2013, 2017, digital 2023); People’s “Most Beautiful” (2013) |
| Education | Holy Trinity Episcopal Academy, Melbourne, FL |
| Early Life | Moved to Florida at age 7; equestrian (3x American Paint Horse Reserve World Champion) |
| Real Estate | Beverly Hills estate bought $5.25M (2016), sold $11M (2022) |
| Agencies | IMG Models (NY/London/Milan), Chadwick (Sydney), MGM (Germany) |
Who Is Kate Upton?
Kate Upton stands as one of America’s most successful and influential supermodels of the 2010s. She broke into the fashion world with a refreshing approach to beauty standards. Unlike the rail-thin models dominating runways, Kate brought curves, confidence, and charisma to every photoshoot. Her breakthrough came when she appeared in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, where she quickly became a fan favorite. The Sports Illustrated Rookie of the Year title in 2011 was just the beginning of her meteoric rise. She didn’t stop at modeling; she expanded into acting, business ventures, and brand partnerships that significantly boosted her earnings.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Kate has become a champion for body positivity in fashion. She faced criticism early in her career for not fitting the traditional model mold. Rather than conforming, she embraced her natural figure and inspired millions of women worldwide. Her appearance on magazine covers like Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and Maxim proved that beauty comes in different forms. Today, she balances her thriving career with motherhood, married to MLB superstar Justin Verlander, creating a power couple that dominates both sports and entertainment headlines. Her influence extends beyond glossy magazine pages into social media, where she connects authentically with over 6 million followers who admire her journey.
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What is Kate Upton’s Net Worth?
Kate Upton’s net worth currently stands at an impressive $20-25 million as of 2026. This substantial fortune places her among the highest paid models 2014 and beyond, though her earnings have evolved over the years. Her wealth accumulation demonstrates smart financial planning combined with diverse revenue streams. Unlike many models who rely solely on runway work, Kate strategically built multiple income sources throughout her career. Her peak earning years between 2013 and 2015 saw her banking approximately $7 million annually through combined modeling career income, endorsements, and acting roles.
The growth trajectory of Kate Upton’s earnings tells a fascinating story of strategic career management. When she first signed her IMG Models contract in her late teens, she earned modest sums compared to established supermodels. However, her viral moments and Sports Illustrated appearances catapulted her value exponentially. By 2014, she ranked among the top-earning models globally, with her Game of War Fire Age campaign alone bringing in millions. Her celebrity endorsement deals with brands like Express, Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, and Sam Edelman added substantial figures to her bank account. Smart celebrity real estate investments and a diversified celebrity investment portfolio have helped her wealth appreciate consistently over the past decade, securing her financial future beyond her modeling years.
Where Does Kate Upton Live?
Kate Upton and her husband Justin Verlander have made Jupiter, Florida, their primary residence, choosing this upscale coastal community for its privacy and luxury amenities. Their Jupiter, Florida, luxury home sits in one of the area’s most exclusive neighborhoods, offering waterfront views and world-class facilities. The property reportedly spans several thousand square feet with multiple bedrooms, a state-of-the-art home gym, and outdoor spaces perfect for their daughter Genevieve. Jupiter attracts many professional athletes and celebrities due to its proximity to spring training facilities and golf courses, making it ideal for the Verlander-Upton family lifestyle.
The couple’s choice of Florida over traditional celebrity hotspots like Los Angeles or New York City reflects their desire for a more grounded family life. Unlike many celebrities who invest in showy Beverly Hills mansion properties, Kate and Justin prioritized functionality and privacy. Their home serves as a peaceful retreat from the spotlight while still offering luxury. Industry estimates suggest their primary residence is valued in the multi-million dollar range, representing a significant portion of their luxury lifestyle assets. The celebrity real estate investments strategy they’ve employed focuses on long-term value appreciation rather than flashy purchases, demonstrating financial maturity that extends beyond their immediate earnings. Florida’s tax benefits also make it an attractive choice for high-earning couples looking to maximize their wealth retention.
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Who is Kate Upton’s Husband?
Kate Upton’s husband is Justin Verlander, one of baseball’s most decorated pitchers who has dominated Major League Baseball for nearly two decades. Verlander currently plays for the New York Mets after legendary stints with the Detroit Tigers and Houston Astros. He’s won multiple Cy Young Awards, pitched no-hitters, and secured World Series championships, building a Hollywood celebrity net worth estimated at over $150 million. The couple first met in 2012 during a commercial shoot and began dating shortly after. Their romance captured media attention as two superstars from different worlds found common ground in their dedication, work ethic, and family values.
The couple got engaged in 2016 and married in a stunning ceremony in Tuscany, Italy in November 2017. The Italian wedding featured close family and friends in an intimate celebration that reflected their preference for privacy despite their public profiles. In 2018, they welcomed their daughter Genevieve, who has become the center of their world. Kate often shares glimpses of family life on social media, showing the couple’s devotion to parenting alongside their demanding careers. Together, their combined net worth exceeds $170 million, making them one of sports and entertainment’s wealthiest couples. They support each other’s endeavors publicly, with Kate attending Justin’s games and Justin supporting her professional ventures, creating a partnership that balances two high-profile careers with family life.
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Kate Upton Biography
Katherine Elizabeth Upton was born on June 10, 1992, in St. Joseph, Michigan, into a family with impressive lineage and accomplishments. Her father, Jeff Upton, worked as a high school athletics director, instilling athletic values in Kate from a young age. Her mother, Shelley Upton, provided a nurturing environment that encouraged her children to pursue their passions. Kate grew up with three siblings in a close-knit family that valued achievement and hard work. Perhaps most notably, her great-grandfather founded Whirlpool Corporation, and her uncle Frederick Upton served as a U.S. Representative for Michigan’s 6th congressional district for over three decades, giving Kate connections to both business and political spheres.
During her childhood, the Upton family relocated to Melbourne, Florida, where Kate’s life took a transformative turn. Before modeling even crossed her mind, she was deeply invested in competitive horseback riding. She competed at the highest levels in American Paint Horse Association events, earning three APHA Reserve World Championships as a young equestrian. This competitive background taught her discipline, resilience, and the mental toughness required for high-pressure situations—skills that would prove invaluable in her modeling career. The transition from horses to high fashion seemed unlikely, yet Kate’s natural beauty and charisma caught the attention of scouts at a casting call. At just 15 years old, she signed with Elite Model Management Miami, marking the beginning of a journey that would take her from Florida teenager to international superstar.
Kate Upton Career Beginnings
Kate Upton’s modeling career launched when she attended a casting call in Miami and caught the eye of Elite Model Management Miami scouts. She was only 15 years old, still balancing high school with her newfound profession. Her first major booking came with Dooney & Bourke, a respectable start for a teenage model trying to break into the competitive industry. However, the real turning point came in 2011 when a video of Kate dancing the “Cat Daddy” at a Los Angeles Clippers game went viral on YouTube. The clip showcased her fun-loving personality and natural charisma, attracting millions of views and introducing her to audiences beyond traditional modeling circles.
That same year, Kate appeared in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue for the first time, immediately making waves in the modeling world. Her curves and confidence challenged the prevailing stick-thin aesthetic dominating fashion at the time. The Sports Illustrated Rookie of the Year honor she received validated her unique appeal and signaled a changing tide in beauty standards. Her look was fresh, healthy, and athletic—a stark contrast to the waif models of previous decades. This recognition opened doors to IMG Models, one of the world’s most prestigious modeling agencies, which helped elevate her career to new heights. Critics and traditionalists questioned whether she fit the “model” mold, but Kate’s undeniable popularity with audiences and advertisers proved that her approach resonated with real people seeking relatable beauty.
Kate Upton Income Streams
Kate Upton’s earnings come from a strategically diversified portfolio of income sources that showcase her business acumen beyond just posing for cameras. Her primary revenue stream has always been modeling career income, which includes high-profile campaigns with major brands. She’s worked with Guess, where she followed in the footsteps of iconic models like Anna Nicole Smith and Claudia Schiffer. Her Express campaigns made her the face of the brand for multiple seasons, with her image appearing in stores nationwide. Beach Bunny Swimwear, Sam Edelman shoes, and Bobbi Brown Cosmetics all paid substantial fees for her endorsement and campaign work. Each campaign typically earned her six to seven figures, depending on exclusivity and usage rights.
Beyond traditional modeling, Kate Upton’s salary has been significantly boosted by lucrative celebrity endorsement deals that leverage her massive social media following and public appeal. The Game of War Fire Age campaign stands out as one of her most profitable ventures, with industry insiders estimating she earned several million dollars for appearing in commercials for the mobile game. This partnership demonstrated her crossover appeal from fashion into mainstream advertising and gaming culture. Her work as a Canada Goose ambassador aligned with her personal values, as the brand supports Polar Bears International, a conservation organization Kate actively promotes. She’s also monetized her fitness entrepreneur celebrity status through partnerships with wellness brands and the Strong4Me fitness app, where she shares workout routines and healthy living tips. Celebrity brand partnerships like these often include equity stakes or performance bonuses, multiplying her earnings beyond flat appearance fees.
Her acting career, while not her primary focus, has contributed meaningfully to her overall wealth. Her role in Tower Heist (2011), alongside Eddie Murphy and Ben Stiller, gave her Hollywood credibility. The Other Woman (2014), where she starred with Cameron Diaz and Leslie Mann, became a box office success, grossing over $196 million worldwide. Though her acting roles haven’t matched her modeling income, they’ve diversified her portfolio and increased her overall brand value. Her cameo in The Disaster Artist, which featured James Franco and told the story of the cult film “The Room,” showed her willingness to take on different types of projects. She’s also appeared in The Layover (2017) and made guest appearances on shows like Tosh. 0, each adding to her entertainment industry credentials and earnings.
Important Achievements and Significant Milestones
Kate Upton’s career is marked by groundbreaking achievements that redefined what success looks like for models in the 21st century. In 2011, she received the Sports Illustrated Rookie of the Year award, immediately establishing herself as a force in the modeling world. The following year brought her first Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue cover, shot in Antarctica in freezing conditions that tested her professionalism. That iconic cover became one of the best-selling issues in the magazine’s history, cementing her status as a superstar. She didn’t stop there—she appeared on the cover again in 2013, becoming only the sixth model to earn back-to-back covers, a feat that put her in elite company with legends like Elle Macpherson and Tyra Banks.
Her third Sports Illustrated cover came in 2017, making her part of an even more exclusive club of triple cover models. Between these magazine milestones, People Magazine named her one of the “Most Beautiful” and “Sexiest Woman Alive,” while Maxim featured her prominently in their Hot 100 lists multiple times. She graced the covers of Vogue, Vogue Italia, and Vogue UK, crossing over from swimsuit modeling into high fashion—a transition many doubted she could make. Her appearance at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week events and on runways challenged critics who said she wasn’t “fashion” enough. She received a Teen Choice Award nomination and MTV Movie Awards nominations for her acting work, proving her versatility across entertainment mediums.
Beyond awards and covers, Kate’s impact on body positivity and beauty standards represents her most significant achievement. She faced relentless criticism about her weight, curves, and whether she belonged in fashion. Rather than shrinking from the spotlight, she became a vocal advocate for healthy body image and self-acceptance. Her success paved the way for models like Alexandra Daddario and others who don’t fit traditional mold standards. She participated in the Taco Bell All-Star Legends & Celebrity Softball Game, showing her fun-loving personality off the runway. At the Style Awards, she was recognized as Model of the Year, an honor that validated her influence on fashion culture. Her advocacy for Polar Bears International through her Canada Goose partnership demonstrates her commitment to causes beyond fashion. These achievements collectively showcase a career built not just on looks but on resilience, strategic thinking, and genuine connection with audiences worldwide.
Net Worth in Various Currencies
Understanding Kate Upton net worth in the global context helps illustrate her international appeal and earning power across markets. The table below converts her estimated $20-25 million fortune into major world currencies, demonstrating how her wealth translates in different economies. These conversions reflect approximate values based on 2024 exchange rates and provide a perspective on her financial standing globally.
| Currency | Estimated Value |
| USD (US Dollar) | $20-25 Million |
| EUR (Euro) | €18.4-23 Million |
| GBP (British Pound) | £15.8-19.8 Million |
| CAD (Canadian Dollar) | $27.2-34 Million |
| AUD (Australian Dollar) | $30.4-38 Million |
| INR (Indian Rupee) | ₹1,666-2,082 Crore |
| JPY (Japanese Yen) | ¥2.94-3.68 Billion |
| CHF (Swiss Franc) | CHF 17.6-22 Million |
Kate Upton Yearly, Monthly Income, and Salary
Breaking down Kate Upton’s salary into annual and monthly figures provides insight into her earning power at various career stages. During her peak years between 2013 and 2015, she reportedly earned approximately $7 million annually, making her one of the highest paid models 2014 according to Forbes and other celebrity wealth tracking organizations. This translates to roughly $583,000 per month during those peak periods, or about $19,000 per day. These astronomical figures came from combining multiple revenue streams simultaneously—modeling contracts, endorsements, acting roles, and appearance fees.
In more recent years, as Kate has become more selective about projects and focused on family life with Justin Verlander and their daughter, her annual income has stabilized around $3-5 million per year. This still translates to approximately $250,000-$420,000 monthly, far exceeding what most professionals earn in an entire year. Her current income breakdown roughly distributes as follows: 50-60% from modeling contracts and campaigns, 25-30% from celebrity endorsement deals and brand partnerships, 10-15% from acting projects and appearances, and 5-10% from business ventures and investments. Unlike many high-earners who see dramatic income drops as they age, Kate’s strategic celebrity investment portfolio and celebrity real estate investments provide passive income that supplements her active work. Her earnings fluctuate based on campaign schedules, with higher income quarters when major campaigns launch and lower periods when she focuses on family or personal projects.
Early Life and Family
Katherine Elizabeth Upton’s early years in St. Joseph, Michigan laid the foundation for her grounded personality despite future fame and fortune. Born to Jeff Upton and Shelley Upton on June 10, 1992, she grew up in a family that valued achievement, education, and community service. Her father’s role as a high school athletics director meant sports and competition were always part of family life. This environment taught Kate the importance of teamwork, dedication, and maintaining composure under pressure—skills directly transferable to the cutthroat modeling industry. Her mother provided emotional support and stability that would help Kate navigate the often superficial world of fashion with authenticity.
The Upton family’s impressive background includes her great-grandfather’s founding of Whirlpool Corporation, one of America’s largest appliance manufacturers, giving Kate connections to business royalty. Her uncle Frederick Upton served Michigan in Congress for over 30 years, exposing Kate to political discourse and public service values. She grew up with three siblings—David, Laura, and Christie—in a household that encouraged individual pursuits while maintaining close family bonds. When the family moved to Melbourne, Florida, Kate’s life trajectory shifted dramatically. The warmer climate and proximity to major cities like Miami and Los Angeles put her closer to modeling opportunities that might never have emerged in Michigan. Despite these impressive connections, Kate’s parents emphasized humility and hard work, refusing to let family prestige define her path. This upbringing explains why she’s maintained a relatively scandal-free reputation and genuine personality throughout her career, unlike many celebrity children who struggle with privilege.
Table of Age, Weight, Height
Physical attributes matter in modeling, and understanding Kate’s measurements provides context for her groundbreaking impact on beauty standards. The table below outlines her vital statistics and personal details that have made her instantly recognizable worldwide.
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | Katherine Elizabeth Upton |
| Age | 34 years (as of 2026) |
| Date of Birth | June 10, 1992 |
| Zodiac Sign | Gemini |
| Height | 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) |
| Weight | Approximately 140 lbs (64 kg) |
| Body Measurements | 38-29-39 inches |
| Eye Color | Blue |
| Hair Color | Blonde |
| Shoe Size | 9 (US) |
| Dress Size | 8-10 (US) |
| Nationality | American |
Kate Upton Education
Kate Upton attended Holy Trinity Episcopal Academy in Melbourne, Florida, where she balanced academics with her growing passion for competitive horseback riding. Unlike many models who drop out of high school to pursue careers, Kate completed her education while simultaneously building her portfolio and attending casting calls. The private school environment provided structure and normalcy during her teenage years, even as modeling opportunities began emerging. She participated in school activities and maintained friendships outside the fashion world, grounding her identity beyond physical appearance.
However, Kate made the strategic decision to forgo a traditional college education to pursue modeling full-time at 15, when she signed her Elite Model Management Miami contract. This choice, while risky, ultimately paid off as her career exploded within a few years. Rather than formal higher education, she received intensive on-the-job training in the modeling industry, learning about contracts, negotiations, personal branding, and business management through experience. She’s spoken in interviews about educating herself in finance, investing, and entrepreneurship through reading, mentorship, and working with financial advisors. Her approach demonstrates that success doesn’t always follow conventional educational paths, though she’s emphasized the importance of continuous learning throughout life. The discipline and time management skills from her equestrian background translated well into her modeling career, proving that education takes many forms beyond classroom walls.
Professional Life
Kate Upton’s professional modeling career officially began when Elite Model Management Miami signed her at age 15, though her breakthrough didn’t come immediately. She spent the initial years building her portfolio, attending countless castings, and facing rejection—standard experiences for aspiring models. Her first significant campaign with Dooney & Bourke in 2010 provided valuable experience and modest income. The viral “Cat Daddy” dance video in 2011 changed everything, bringing her mainstream attention that translated into modeling opportunities. When the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue featured her that same year, she became an overnight sensation, though years of groundwork had prepared her for that moment.
Her IMG Models contract elevated her status, connecting her with prestigious brands and high-paying campaigns. She became the face of Guess, following legendary models like Claudia Schiffer and Anna Nicole Smith, who had held that coveted position. Her Express campaigns ran for multiple seasons, making her synonymous with the accessible fashion brand. She appeared in campaigns for Beach Bunny Swimwear, Sam Edelman shoes, and Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, each adding prestige and income to her growing portfolio. Her appearance at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week events legitimized her fashion credentials beyond swimsuit modeling. She gracedthe covers of Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and virtually every major fashion and lifestyle magazine, proving her versatility across editorial and commercial work. The Model of the Year Style Awards recognition at the Style Awards validated her influence on fashion culture and beauty standards.
Kate’s transition into acting demonstrated her ambition to expand beyond modeling’s limited shelf life. Her debut in the Tower Heist Movie Role (2011), alongside established actors like Eddie Murphy, Ben Stiller, and Timothée Chalamet, in a small part gave her Hollywood experience. The Other Woman Film Cast (2014) became her breakthrough acting role, where she starred with Cameron Diaz and Leslie Mann in a comedy that grossed nearly $200 million globally. Critics praised her comedic timing and screen presence, suggesting potential for more substantial acting work. The Layover Movie Actress credit (2017) and The Disaster Artist cameo with James Franco showed her willingness to take varied roles rather than being typecast. While she hasn’t pursued acting as aggressively as modeling, these projects diversified her income and maintained her relevance across entertainment sectors.
Her business ventures showcase her entrepreneurial spirit and understanding of brand building beyond physical appearance. The Game of War Fire Age campaign made her the face of one of mobile gaming’s most successful titles, reportedly earning her millions for commercial appearances and promotional work. This partnership demonstrated her crossover appeal into technology and gaming demographics traditionally underserved by fashion models. Her Canada Goose ambassador role aligned with her environmental values, as the luxury outerwear brand supports Polar Bears International, a cause Kate actively promotes. She partnered with Strong4Me on a fitness app, positioning herself as a fitness entrepreneur celebrity who promotes healthy living and sustainable wellness practices. These celebrity brand partnerships often include equity stakes, royalties, or performance bonuses that multiply earnings beyond flat fees. Her selective approach to partnerships ensures brand alignment with her personal values, maintaining authenticity that resonates with consumers increasingly skeptical of celebrity endorsements.
Social Media Accounts
Kate Upton’s digital presence plays a crucial role in maintaining her relevance and earning power in an era where social media influence often matters more than traditional media coverage. Her Instagram account boasts over 6.7 million followers, making her one of the most-followed models from her generation. Her content strategy focuses on authenticity rather than perfection, sharing behind-the-scenes modeling moments, family time with Justin Verlander and daughter Genevieve, fitness routines, and advocacy for causes she supports. This approach creates a genuine connection with followers who appreciate seeing her real life beyond glossy magazine spreads.
On Twitter/X, she maintains approximately 1.8 million followers, using the platform for real-time engagement, sports commentary (especially during Justin’s games), and social causes. Her Facebook page reaches over 5 million people, though engagement rates tend to be lower than on Instagram as the platform skews toward older demographics. She’s maintained a presence on TikTok, though less actively than younger models, occasionally sharing dance videos and fun moments that recall her viral “Cat Daddy” origins. Unlike many celebrities who employ social media teams, Kate’s posts feel personal and authentic, with occasional typos and casual language that make her relatable.
| Platform | Handle | Followers |
| @kateupton | 6.7+ Million | |
| Twitter/X | @KateUpton | 1.8+ Million |
| Kate Upton Official | 5+ Million | |
| TikTok | @kateupton | Growing presence |
Conclusion
Kate Upton net worth of $20-25 million reflects her strategic career decisions and diverse income sources. She revolutionized modeling standards while building a sustainable financial empire beyond magazine covers. Her modeling career income, celebrity endorsement deals, and celebrity investment portfolio demonstrate smart wealth management. The Sports Illustrated icon successfully transitioned from swimsuit model to respected actress and entrepreneur.
Her marriage to Justin Verlander creates a power couple dominating sports and fashion. Kate Upton’s earnings continue growing through selective partnerships and business ventures. She proves that authenticity and business savvy create lasting success in competitive industries. Her legacy inspires models worldwide to diversify income and control their careers.
FAQs
Who is Kate Upton?
Kate Upton is an American supermodel and actress famous for her Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue covers and body positivity advocacy.
What is Kate Upton net worth?
Kate Upton net worth is at $20-25 million as of 2026, earned through modeling, acting, and endorsement deals.
Who is worth more, Justin Verlander or Kate Upton?
Justin Verlander is worth significantly more, with an estimated net worth of $150+ million compared to Kate’s $20-25 million.
How much is Justin Verlander worth in 2025?
Justin Verlander’s net worth in 2025 is estimated at approximately $150-200 million from his MLB career and investments.
How much does Kate Upton make a year?
Kate Upton currently earns an estimated $3-5 million annually through selective modeling contracts, endorsements, and business ventures.
