2008 Man of the Year: John Paulson

We don't wear kneepads around here very often, but occasionally we fall in love. And not just with Erin Callan. I fell hard for Strategist Frank Veneroso as well; if you are running real money you really need to cough up the hard dollars on get on his good side.

John Paulson had a stellar 2008, and joins previous winners Eric Bolling and Peter Thiel as our Man of the Year. Paulson edged out a strong crop of contenders; perhaps 2009 will finally be Meredith Whitney's year after making our final cut the last two years.

Five years ago Paulson was running $600 million but thanks to his hot hand he has grown his AUM to $32 billion. Portfolio Magazine ran the most in-depth piece I have seen on him (although it lacks these goofy pics) and I don't have much to add - you can't argue with the numbers he has generated and he, unlike Jeff Gendell, is the last man standing.

We he step up his charitable activities in the future? Or perhaps lend a hand in cleaning up this mess? John Paulson has a chance to become more than a rich guy. Right now this country could use a few heroes. And all the better if they are solvent.

Congrats John Paulson. And if you need to hire a StockJockey you know where to find me. Although my vacation is stretching until Tuesday.

The Man Who Made Too Much
Portfolio

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