Steve Cortes Bio, Age, Height, Wife, Net Worth
Steve Cortes is a prominent American political analyst and financial strategist known for his expertise as a writer and keynote speaker. Over the years, he has established a reputation for candor and clarity across major networks including CNBC, Fox News, and CNN, effectively bridging the worlds of finance and politics.

As a senior adviser for the presidential campaigns in both 2016 and 2020, Cortes has offered fearless insights through his book, Against the Herd, which challenges conventional wisdom with practical strategies. Today, he consults with leaders at his firm, Rise Strategies, specializing in economic policy, Hispanic outreach, and U.S. global positioning.
Quick Info |
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Real Name: | Steve Cortes |
Birth Date: | January 5, 1972 |
Age (as of 2025): | 53 Years |
Birthplace: | South Chicago, Illinois, USA |
Height: | 1.78 m (5 ft 10 in) |
Wife: | Holly Cortes |
Early Life
Steve Cortes was born to Colombian immigrant parents on January 5, 1972, in South Chicago, Illinois. Instilled with a strong work ethic and resilience, his father came from a ranching background in Colombia and pursued graduate studies in the U.S., while his mother juggled various jobs to support the family.
Growing up in a diverse working-class neighborhood, Cortes developed cultural sensitivity early on. He excelled academically and athletically at a local high school and later attended Georgetown University, where he earned a degree in Government in 1994. A standout athlete, he played defensive lineman on the varsity football team and was nominated for the prestigious Rhodes Scholarship, showcasing his leadership potential.
Career
Cortes began his career in the mid-1990s on Wall Street, trading government bonds, currencies, and ETFs. He ascended to chief strategist at BGC Partners before founding Veracruz TJM, which specializes in real-time market research for institutional investors.
In 2011, he published Against the Herd, offering innovative investment strategies that challenge prevailing market assumptions. His media career took off as he became a regular commentator on networks like CNBC, Fox Business, and Fox News.
Following the 2016 election, Cortes became a key player in political strategy, serving on the Donald Trump Hispanic Advisory Council and as a senior adviser for both the 2016 and 2020 campaigns. He is recognized for his contributions to Hispanic outreach and messaging related to immigration and deregulation.
Currently, Cortes continues his analysis and consulting work through Rise Strategies, and is a sought-after speaker and commentator in political forums and financial discussions.
Social Media Presence
Steve Cortes maintains a relatively low-profile online presence, opting not to engage on major social networks. His influence is instead disseminated through media appearances, articles published in platforms like RealClearPolitics and Human Events, as well as bylined columns in financial publications.
Though he does not interact directly on social media, Cortes’s views on political and market issues reach wider audiences through syndicated writings and speaking engagements.
Personal Life
Married to Holly Cortes since May 14, 1998, they have four children: three daughters and one son. Their son Bear Cortes, born September 23, 2006, recently graduated from MaCallie School. Their daughter Kingsley R. Wilson, born in 1999, served as the Deputy Department of Defense Press Secretary in early 2025. While details about Holly’s background remain private, Steve often highlights her dedication as a partner and mother.
Steve Cortes’ Net Worth
Steve Cortes’s net worth is estimated to be between $5-10 million, attributed to his extensive career in finance, speaking engagements, book sales, and consulting services. His successful tenure on Wall Street, along with ongoing media appearances and strategic consulting, contribute significantly to his financial success.
FAQs
What is Steve Cortes known for?
Steve Cortes is known for his work as a political analyst, financial strategist, author, and media commentator, particularly focused on the intersection of finance and politics.
Which presidential campaigns did Steve Cortes advise?
Cortes served as a senior adviser for the Donald Trump campaigns in both 2016 and 2020, with a role in Hispanic outreach.
What is the title of Steve Cortes’s book?
His book is titled Against the Herd, which discusses unconventional investment strategies.
Is Steve Cortes active on social media?
No, Steve Cortes does not maintain visible personal social media accounts but is active in media appearances and written publications.