Larry Ellison's wealth: How much does the tech mogul possess?

Larry Ellison: A Tech Titan's Journey from New York to Silicon Valley

Larry Ellison, born in 1944 in New York City, has had an extraordinary career in the tech industry. After dropping out of college twice, he eventually earned a degree in computer science from the University of Illinois.

In 1977, Ellison teamed up with two friends to start Software Development Laboratories (SDL) with the goal of creating a new kind of database management system. The following year, SDL released its first product, Oracle, which quickly became a game-changer in the industry. The company, later renamed Oracle Corporation, is now one of the largest software companies in the world, known for its database management systems, cloud services, and enterprise software solutions.

In the early 1990s, Ellison made a bold move by acquiring PeopleSoft, a company twice the size of Oracle. This acquisition helped Oracle expand its business and solidify its position as a leader in the software industry.

Recognising the future of computing was in the cloud, Ellison began investing heavily in cloud services. Today, Oracle Cloud is one of the most popular cloud services in the world.

Ellison's influence extends beyond the tech industry. He has been involved in philanthropy, donating millions of dollars to various causes, including medical research, education, and environmental conservation. In politics and public policy, Ellison has supported Donald Trump's 2020 re-election campaign and been a vocal critic of California's high taxes and regulations.

In addition to his role at Oracle, Ellison has been active in other ventures. After stepping down as Oracle's CEO in 2014, he has remained active as Oracle's Executive Chairman and CTO while founding new ventures, notably partnering with doctor David Agus to establish "Sensei," a chain of luxury resorts on his island Lanai focused on longevity and wellness, attracting high-profile visitors like Elon Musk and Tom Cruise. Ellison also owned around 35% of Oracle Corporation and served on the board of electric vehicle maker Tesla from December 2018 to August 2022.

Ellison's impact on the Hawaiian island of Lanai is also significant. In 2012, he purchased 98% of the island and has since invested in rebuilding the infrastructure and improving the tourism industry on the island.

Oracle's success under Ellison's leadership is evident in its financials. In the 2024 fiscal year, the company earned $53 billion in revenue according to its latest earnings report. Oracle now competes against software giants like Microsoft, Intel, and IBM, solidifying its position as a leader in the industry.

In a career spanning decades, Ellison has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to innovation, philanthropy, and business growth. His impact on the tech industry, philanthropy, and even the Hawaiian island of Lanai is undeniable.