The billionaire financier Carl Icahn.
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Dick Parsons agreed to do what we wanted most--a $20 billion buyback of the stock. He did what he promised, and the stock is up 30%. That helps all shareholders. Our fund made $250 million. It's a nice way to lose.
What don't people understand about you?
I know some won't believe this, but I'm really a nice guy. I get along with many of these CEOs behind the scenes. We have dinner. Not Christmas dinner--but a lot of them, while they may not admit it, agree with me.
You just turned 71. Is retirement on the horizon?
Well, a number of CEOs have offered to host my retirement party. But I'm just a competitive guy that grew up in Queens. I can't see myself spending the rest of my life in Florida playing golf.