Joe Kernen CNBC Bio, Age, Wife, Daughter, Salary, Net Worth, Squawk Box
Joe Kernen is a prominent television personality, best known as the co-anchor of CNBC’s Squawk Box, one of the most popular financial news programs. With a career that spans over decades, Joe Kernen has become a respected figure in the world of financial journalism. Below is a detailed overview of his life, career, family, and professional achievements.

Quick Facts: Joe Kernen
Full Name | Joseph Richard Kernen |
Date of Birth | January 6, 1956 |
Age | 68 (as of 2024) |
Birthplace | Cincinnati, Ohio, USA |
Nationality | American |
Profession | Journalist, Television Host |
Height | 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm) |
Weight | Approx. 85 kg (187 lbs) |
Education | Bachelor’s in Molecular Biology, University of Colorado Boulder |
Postgraduate | Master’s in Molecular Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) |
Wife | Penelope Scott Kernen |
Children | 2 (including daughter Blake Kernen) |
Salary | Estimated $2 million annually |
Net Worth | Estimated $16 million |
Employer | CNBC |
Years Active | 1991 – Present |
Known For | Co-anchor of Squawk Box |
@JoeSquawk |
Early Life and Education
Joe Kernen was born on January 6, 1956, in Cincinnati, Ohio, where he grew up and developed an interest in both science and business. He pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Molecular Biology from the University of Colorado Boulder. Later, Joe went on to obtain a Master’s degree in Molecular Biology from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Before entering the world of finance and journalism, Joe worked as a stockbroker, which laid the foundation for his understanding of the financial markets.
Career at CNBC and Squawk Box
Joe Kernen joined CNBC in 1991, starting as a stockbroker with nearly a decade of experience working with financial institutions. His in-depth knowledge of the financial markets, combined with his scientific background, made him a perfect fit for a career in financial journalism.
Joe is currently the co-anchor of CNBC’s “Squawk Box,” one of the most-watched morning financial news shows. “Squawk Box” covers major news in business, finance, and politics, offering insights from industry leaders, analysts, and policymakers. Kernen’s straightforward and sometimes provocative style has made him a key figure on the show.
Over the years, Joe has covered numerous significant events in the financial world, including the dot-com bubble, the 2008 financial crisis, and major corporate news. His ability to break down complex financial topics for viewers has made him a trusted voice in the industry.
Personal Life: Wife and Daughter
Joe Kernen is married to Penelope Scott Kernen, a former commodities trader whom he met while working at CNBC. The couple tied the knot in 1998 and have been together ever since. They have two children, including a daughter, Blake Kernen, who has gained some attention in the media due to her appearances with Joe and her involvement in public discourse.
The family lives in a beautiful home in New Jersey. Joe often shares anecdotes about his family life during his shows, giving viewers a glimpse into his personal life.
Salary and Net Worth
As one of CNBC’s leading anchors, Joe Kernen earns an estimated annual salary of $2 million, placing him among the highest-paid financial journalists. His long career at CNBC, coupled with various investments and ventures, has helped him accumulate an estimated net worth of $16 million. Joe’s wealth is largely attributed to his career in financial journalism and his prior experience in stock trading.
Daughter: Blake Kernen
Joe Kernen’s daughter, Blake Kernen, has also gained some recognition. Blake co-authored a children’s book titled “Your Teacher Said What?!” alongside her father, which explores various economic concepts in a simplified manner for young readers. The father-daughter collaboration was well-received, further establishing Joe Kernen’s dedication to making financial education accessible.
Community Engagement
Joe Kernen is passionate about financial education and frequently advocates for economic literacy. He has also been involved in several charitable causes and public speaking engagements, focusing on educating the next generation about the financial markets.
Physical Appearance
Joe Kernen stands at 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm) and weighs around 85 kg (187 lbs). With his charismatic on-screen presence and engaging style, he continues to be a respected figure in financial news broadcasting.
Social Media Presence
Joe Kernen is active on Twitter, where he shares his insights on financial markets, business news, and occasionally personal updates. You can follow him on:
- Twitter: @JoeSquawk
His Twitter feed is a mix of financial analysis, commentary on current events, and interactions with viewers and guests from Squawk Box.
Conclusion
Joe Kernen’s career as a co-anchor of CNBC’s Squawk Box has made him one of the most respected financial journalists in the industry. With a background in science, experience as a stockbroker, and over two decades of broadcasting, Joe brings a unique perspective to his coverage of financial markets. His blend of expertise, humor, and ability to explain complex topics has earned him a loyal following among viewers. As he continues to host Squawk Box, Joe remains a key figure in shaping financial news.