Blackstone is a multinational private equity firm based in New York City. Founded in 1985, it is one of the largest and most successful investment firms in the world, with assets under management of over $630 billion as of 2021. The firm primarily invests in real estate, private equity, credit, and hedge fund solutions, and has a portfolio of over 1,500 companies worldwide. It is known for its aggressive and strategic approach to investments, and has been involved in some of the most high-profile deals in recent history, including its acquisition of Hilton Hotels in 2007. Blackstone is led by its CEO and co-founder, Stephen Schwarzman.