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Howard Wu
Owner, Urban Commons
Howard Wu is the co-founder and owner of Urban Commons, a hospitality and real estate development firm based in Pasadena, California. He has been involved in various projects, including the management of hotels and other properties. Wu's career has faced significant challenges, including a personal bankruptcy filing in early 2022, which occurred amid financial difficulties related to Urban Commons' operations, particularly with the Wagner Hotel in New York City.14
In August 2024, Wu, alongside co-founder Taylor Woods, was charged by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) with orchestrating two securities fraud schemes that allegedly defrauded investors of over $70 million. The SEC's complaint details how Wu and Woods misled investors regarding the management and financial status of several hotel properties, including the historic Queen Mary.23 The charges highlight serious allegations of misappropriation of funds and deceptive practices aimed at securing investments under false pretenses.
Wu's professional background includes a focus on real estate development, where he has managed a range of hospitality, retail, and residential projects. Despite the recent legal troubles and financial issues, he remains a significant figure in the real estate sector, particularly in hospitality management.5
