Rich Dad Poor Dad’ Author Robert Kiyosaki Details $1.2bn Investment Debt

Author and financial educator Robert Kiyosaki has revealed that he is carrying approximately $1.2 billion in debt accumulated through his real estate portfolio.

Speaking on the Get Rich Education podcast, the 79-year-old author of Rich Dad Poor Dad defended his use of leverage to acquire income-producing assets, though he cautioned against copying the strategy without a clear understanding of how debt operates.

His business partner, Kim Kiyosaki, clarified that the debt is tied to their broader real estate portfolio—which includes around 1,500 apartment units held alongside business partners meaning his personal liability is significantly lower. Reports estimate his personal portion to be between $30 million and $60 million.

Kiyosaki relies on borrowing against the equity in his properties to access cash without selling assets, housing these investments within limited liability companies to manage risk.

While financial experts acknowledge leverage as a standard wealth-building tool, they warn that high debt levels carry significant risks if property values or rental cash flows decline.