William Stern (businessman)

William Stern (1907-2001) was a British businessman and property developer, known primarily for his rapid rise and subsequent dramatic fall in the real estate market during the 1970s.

Stern built a vast property empire financed largely by secondary banking and leveraging. He acquired numerous properties across the UK, taking advantage of a booming market and easy credit. His holdings included residential, commercial, and industrial properties.

However, the property market crash of 1973-1974, coupled with rising interest rates and tighter credit conditions, brought Stern's empire crashing down. He faced severe financial difficulties and ultimately went bankrupt in 1975. The collapse of his business had significant repercussions for the secondary banking sector, which had heavily financed his operations.

Following his bankruptcy, Stern largely disappeared from public life. His story is often cited as a cautionary tale of the risks associated with high leverage and speculative property investment.