Reported 12 months ago
Steve Ballmer, who initially didn't receive any company shares upon joining Microsoft, is now wealthier than the company's founder, Bill Gates. With a net worth of $157 billion, Ballmer has become the sixth richest person globally, surpassing Gates due to the surge in Microsoft's shares. While Gates diversified his investments and focused on philanthropy, Ballmer's wealth was primarily boosted by his 4% stake in Microsoft worth $22.5 billion that he held on to since leaving in 2014. Despite not having any initial shares, Ballmer's 8% stake and profit-sharing deal negotiation with Gates and Paul Allen contributed significantly to his current wealth.
Source: YAHOO