Hedge-fund founder testifies as ex-wife seeks $6.2 billion stake in Two Sigma

John Overdeck, 56, appeared again in a Newark courtroom to defend his ownership stake in Two Sigma Investments against claims by his estranged wife, Laura Overdeck. She is pursuing a 35% portion of the hedge fund, an amount that could translate to roughly $6.2 billion and potentially shift the balance of power with co-founder David Siegel at the $80 billion firm. Their marriage in 2002 lacked a prenuptial agreement, prompting a battle over whether Two Sigma counts as marital property.

Laura’s attorney, Theresa Lyons, pointed out that the fund’s assets under management have actually grown since the divorce petition, a point John acknowledged. Judge Bruce Buechler previously prohibited Laura from testifying after ruling she had hacked John’s email, limiting her ability to present expert witnesses. While the couple’s only physical asset in dispute is a Short Hills residence purchased for $3.6 million and now listed at $4.58 million, Laura also seeks equal shares of treasury funds, their foundation, and trusts for their three children.