Steve Ballmer, the former CEO of Microsoft, earns hundreds of millions of dollars in annual dividends from his roughly 333 million-share stake in Microsoft (MSFT) — a position built up over decades as one of the company's earliest leaders.
Ballmer is estimated to own about 4% of Microsoft, or approximately 333 million shares, making him the largest individual shareholder. The stake is worth well over a hundred billion dollars at today's market price, while throwing off a steady, growing annual dividend income stream.
Since starting dividend payments in 2003, Microsoft has consistently raised its dividend, supported by its dominant Windows, Office, Azure, and AI businesses. The combination of buybacks and rising dividends makes it a cornerstone holding for long-term shareholders.
Despite the massive value of his Microsoft shares, Ballmer has shown little interest in selling. The dividends provide a reliable cash flow that funds his other ventures — including the NBA's Los Angeles Clippers — without ever touching the principal.
Ballmer's story shows the power of long-term ownership in a high-quality business. Patience, a meaningful stake, and a growing dividend can compound into life-changing income over decades.
Note: Dividend amounts and shareholding data are based on public filings and media reports, and are updated quarterly.