Blackstone is an investment and advisory firm that strives to provide solutions that create lasting value for their investors, the companies in which they invest, and society at large. The firm was founded in 1985 by Stephen A. Schwarzman, their Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, and Peter G. Peterson, who retired as Senior Chairman in 2008. They began with a modest balance sheet of $400,000 but with a wealth of entrepreneurial ideas about creating a world-class investment and advisory business built on a foundation of uncompromising commitment to excellence. Their vision was to create a firm that put clients’ needs first, that was independent and conflict-free, adhered to the highest ethical standards, and sought to create long-term value for all stakeholders. Today, they are a firm of nearly 1,800 employees in 24 offices worldwide. But they are more than that. Their portfolio companies employ over 730,000 people across the globe, making us a major factor in economies around the world. In June of 2007, Blackstone completed its initial public offering and is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol BX.