777 Partners Founder Josh Wander Pleads Guilty to $500M Fraud Scheme
Josh Wander, co-founder of Miami-based investment firm 777 Partners, pleaded guilty to wire and securities fraud charges in a Manhattan federal court on October 15, 2026. The plea, which came one day before his trial was scheduled to begin, resolved a case involving alleged defractions of nearly $500 million from lenders and investors. Wander, whose firm previously attempted to acquire Everton FC and operated the Australian airline Bonza, admitted to falsifying financial documents and misusing funds. He faces a maximum sentence of 20 years per count, with sentencing set for March 1, 2027. The case highlights significant risks in private credit markets, including the double-pledging of collateral and the use of doctored screenshots to misrepresent cash reserves.