Former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer surpasses Bill Gates in wealth, becoming the sixth-richest person in the world.

Former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer surpassed Bill Gates in wealth for the first time, becoming the sixth-richest person in the world. This milestone occurred as Microsoft shares reached new record highs, with a 21% gain this year. The majority of Ballmer's $157.2bn net worth is tied to Microsoft shares, while Gates has diversified his $156.7bn fortune.