But, he told reporters at a New York news conference he did not know there would be a suit when he discussed the matter with company officials last week. He said he had been told there was an allegation. The mayor had said at the time he knew "nothing whatsoever" about the suit.

The $144 million federal court suit was filed Wednesday in New York by three former female employees who claim their careers were ruined when they became pregnant. It accuses Bloomberg of creating "the systemic, top-down culture of discrimination" at his company.

Bloomberg defended his company policies, a "family friendly company," one he was proud of and one that had been handled right since he left to enter politics.

He said he had no day-to-day connection with Bloomberg LP except as a major stockholder.

He said the allegations had no merit.