Ballmer Surpasses Gates in Wealth Ranking

Former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer has surpassed Bill Gates to become the sixth richest person in the world, with a net worth of $157 billion. This significant milestone is primarily due to a 21% increase in Microsoft's stock this year, driven by its partnership with OpenAI and the ongoing AI boom. Over 90% of Ballmer's wealth is tied to his Microsoft shares, while Gates has diversified his $156.7 billion fortune and donated nearly $60 billion to philanthropy. Gates' investments through Cascade Investment and his philanthropic efforts, including the $75 billion Gates Foundation, have gradually reduced his net worth. Ballmer's fortune has also been bolstered by his 2014 investment in the Los Angeles Clippers, now valued at $4.6 billion. This marks the first time an employee has surpassed the founder of a major tech company in wealth.