Ex-Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer is now richer than founder Bill Gates

Steve Ballmer surpassed Bill Gates in wealth primarily due to his significant stake in Microsoft, which has benefited from the artificial intelligence rally, making it the most valuable company in the world. Ballmer is Microsoft's largest shareholder, owning an estimated 333.25 million shares or around 4% of the company.

Steve Ballmer's estimated net worth is $157.2 billion, making him the sixth-richest person in the world and wealthier than Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates. His fortune has been boosted by Microsoft's surging stock, which has benefited from the artificial intelligence boom.