Steve Ballmer, former CEO of Microsoft
He has also received more than $12 billion from Microsoft dividends and share sales, according to an analysis of Bloomberg data. Ballmer has increased his philanthropic activity since leaving Microsoft, with the Ballmer family having given away more than $7.4 billion.
He said his decision to remain invested was connected to his loyalty to the company. Microsoft’s ex-CEO Steve Ballmer recalled an exchange with the late investor Charlie Munger in an interview. It was about why he kept holding Microsoft shares even as some former colleagues and business associates sold theirs. During a panel discussion at a golf club in Los Angeles, Munger, Warren Buffett ‘s former partner, asked Ballmer about his decision to retain the stock. Munger then asked him, “Why is it that when your partners and compatriots around there were selling their stock, you held onto yours? I know you’re not that smart. Ballmer’s response was equally brief: “No, but I’m not loyal. The exchange offered a glimpse into why Ballmer continued to hold a large Microsoft stake after leaving the company. Ballmer recounted the conversation while discussing his belief in Microsoft’s people and mission. He then described joining a golf club in Los Angeles after retiring from Microsoft, where a panel featuring Ballmer was organised, and attendees could ask questions. Munger, in his 90s at the time and with limited mobility, attended the event and raised his hand to ask Ballmer about his Microsoft holdings.