5. Bill Gates Age: 68Residence: United StatesCo-founder: Microsoft (MSFT )Net Worth: $154 billionMicrosoft Ownership Stake: 1.4% ($27.2 billion)Other Assets: $73.5 billion in cash and billions over multiple other companies36
While attending Harvard University in 1975, Bill Gates went to work alongside his childhood friend Paul Allen to develop new software for the original microcomputers. Following this project’s success, Gates dropped out of Harvard during his junior year and founded Microsoft with Allen.37 38
The largest software company in the world, Microsoft, also produces a line of personal computers, provides email services through its exchange server, and sells video game systems and associated game devices. It has recently invested heavily in cloud services.39 40 41
Gates shifted from the company's CEO to the role of board chair in 2008. He joined Berkshire Hathaway’s board in 2004. He stepped down from both boards on March 13,