In a significant shift among the world's wealthiest individuals, Larry Ellison, co-founder and chairman of Oracle, has achieved the remarkable feat of becoming the second richest person globally. This ascendancy marks a notable moment, as Ellison's fortune has now surpassed those of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg. His company's robust performance in cloud computing has been a primary catalyst for this financial milestone.
Ellison's net worth has seen an extraordinary increase, reaching an estimated $275.9 billion USD as of July 2025. This impressive growth, which includes an increase of over $56 billion USD in June alone, is largely a result of a substantial surge in Oracle's stock values. Reports indicate a 32% rise in June, propelled by strong financial disclosures and the escalating demand for advanced artificial intelligence solutions and cloud infrastructure for businesses. This reordering places Ellison directly behind Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, who maintains the top position, while Zuckerberg and Bezos now rank third and fourth, respectively, according to recent financial assessments.
Ellison, an 80-year-old visionary, established Oracle in 1977. Under his leadership, the company has transformed from a conventional database software provider into a dominant force in the global cloud computing arena. His substantial ownership stake, nearly 41% of Oracle's shares, has directly linked the company's triumphs to his personal wealth. This achievement vividly illustrates the dynamic and ever-changing landscape of wealth within the technology sector, where groundbreaking innovations in artificial intelligence and cloud services can swiftly redefine financial standings worldwide.
This development serves as a compelling reminder that dedication to innovation and strategic foresight can lead to extraordinary achievements. It underscores the immense potential that exists within the technology industry to not only generate vast wealth but also to drive progress and shape the future. The success of individuals like Larry Ellison can inspire us to pursue our goals with relentless determination, recognizing that perseverance and adaptability are key to navigating and excelling in an evolving world.