Microsoft is one of the most influential tech giants in the world, with a presence in various sectors, including personal computing, cloud services, artificial intelligence, gaming, and more. Founded in 1975 by Bill Gates and Paul Allen, it has evolved over the decades, shifting from a software-focused company to a global powerhouse in various industries. But who owns Microsoft today?
A Brief History of Microsoft Ownership
From its humble beginnings in a garage to becoming a multi-billion-dollar corporation, Microsoft’s ownership has seen a number of changes throughout its history. Initially, Bill Gates and Paul Allen were the primary owners, and the company’s fortunes skyrocketed with the launch of its Windows operating system in the 1980s.
In 1986, Microsoft went public, selling 24.7 million shares at $21 per share. Bill Gates retained a significant stake in the company, and for many years, he remained its largest individual shareholder. Over time, Gates gradually reduced his shareholding, but he continued to have significant control as both CEO and chairman until his departure from day-to-day operations.
Who Owns Microsoft Now?
As of 2025, Microsoft is a publicly traded company listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market under the symbol MSFT. This means its ownership is dispersed among various institutional investors, individual shareholders, and corporate stakeholders. Here’s a breakdown of who holds the major stakes in the company:
Institutional Investors
A significant portion of Microsoft’s ownership is held by institutional investors, which include pension funds, mutual funds, and other large entities. Some of the largest institutional shareholders include:
- Vanguard Group: One of the world’s largest asset management firms, Vanguard holds a large portion of Microsoft’s stock, representing around 7-8% of the total shares.
- BlackRock: Another major institutional investor, BlackRock, controls a similarly significant portion, typically in the 6-7% range.
- Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation: While no longer actively involved in the company’s operations, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Trust retains a sizable stake in Microsoft, often holding around 1-2% of the company.
These institutional investors hold their shares as part of large portfolios, and their influence helps steer the company’s direction through voting rights in annual meetings and board appointments.
Individual Shareholders
While individual shareholders no longer dominate Microsoft’s ownership, the company’s stock is still owned by millions of people worldwide. Employees, retirees, and everyday investors who purchase Microsoft shares via brokerage firms are all part of this category.
Microsoft has one of the most popular stocks among individual investors due to its consistent performance and growth, making it a top pick for those looking to invest in technology. It’s not uncommon for employees of Microsoft to hold shares as part of their compensation packages, and they may also benefit from the company’s performance over time.
Satya Nadella – The Current CEO
Satya Nadella, the current CEO of Microsoft, holds a significant amount of stock in the company. While he does not own a majority stake, his holdings are still noteworthy given his leadership role. Nadella has overseen a period of massive growth for Microsoft, particularly in cloud computing with the Azure platform, and has seen his personal wealth rise significantly as the company’s value has increased. Nadella’s compensation package also includes stock options, which align his interests with the company’s long-term performance.
Bill Gates
Although Bill Gates is no longer actively involved in Microsoft’s operations, he remains one of the largest individual shareholders, albeit with a reduced stake. Over the years, Gates has sold off or donated a significant portion of his shares. As of recent reports, Gates owns less than 2% of Microsoft’s total shares. His reduced stake reflects his growing focus on philanthropic endeavors, particularly through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, which has donated billions of dollars to global causes.
Paul Allen’s Legacy
Paul Allen, co-founder of Microsoft, passed away in 2018. His shares in Microsoft were inherited by his estate and family members. While his family still holds a portion of the shares, they do not play an active role in the day-to-day operations of the company. The Allen estate is also involved in a number of charitable endeavors.
Microsoft’s Evolution in Ownership
Unlike many tech companies that are controlled by a single founder or a small group of individuals, Microsoft’s ownership is highly diversified. Over time, it has shifted from a small tech startup controlled by its founders to a large, multinational corporation with a broad range of institutional and individual stakeholders.
The company’s structure allows for democratic decision-making through shareholder voting and board elections. While Bill Gates and Paul Allen were instrumental in Microsoft’s early years, it is now largely controlled by institutional investors who play a significant role in guiding the company’s strategic direction.
Conclusion
As of 2025, Microsoft is owned by a diverse group of shareholders, with major institutional investors like Vanguard and BlackRock holding the largest stakes. Bill Gates, despite his smaller shareholding, continues to be one of the most notable figures associated with the company. However, it is the leadership of Satya Nadella and the ongoing support from global investors that drive Microsoft’s continued success.
Though the face of Microsoft has changed significantly since its founding, its position as one of the world’s most powerful tech companies remains firmly intact. The ownership structure reflects the scale of the company, demonstrating its transformation into a corporate giant that impacts technology, business, and society on a global scale.
