In a surprising twist in the world of wealth, Forbes has unveiled a record-breaking number of “hired hand billionaires” for 2025. Unlike the traditional billionaires who either built their empires from the ground up or inherited their fortunes, these 48 executives have struck gold while working for others. This number has jumped from just 29 last year, and it seems that the trend is only gaining momentum. With soaring stock prices and executive salaries heading to the stratosphere, the landscape of wealth accumulation is evolving before our eyes.
The rise in the ranks of these hired hands is quite the spectacle. Historically, most individuals accumulate wealth through hard work and traditional salaries—think of the diligent 9-to-5 worker. However, at the upper echelon of corporate America, things work a little differently. Today’s top executives enjoy extravagant paychecks, largely thanks to stock options. An analysis indicates that the average equity component of CEO pay packages has grown significantly over the past decade. In 2012, around 54% of a CEO’s compensation was in stock forms, but by 2023, that figure has climbed to an impressive 66%. It appears that executives aren’t just employees; they’re also arguably some of the most skilled poker players at the corporate casino.
Despite an overall downturn in average pay among the top 10 CEOs to about $125 million per year in 2023, their fortunes are significantly buoyed by the ongoing boom in the stock market. The S&P 500 has soared nearly 370% since 2010, proving once again that when the markets rise, so do the benefits for those who hold shares in these companies. Ironically, while the average American may struggle with pay increases, the CEOs’ previous stock awards have shot up, keeping the rich comfortably rich.
Hired hand billionaires, although still a rare breed, now make up 5% of America’s elite class, increasing slightly from 4% just last year. Once upon a time in 2010, only seven out of 403 billionaires were hired hands. Fast forward to 2025, and their numbers have risen dramatically. Among the new faces joining their ranks this year are high-profile executives such as Alphabet’s Sundar Pichai and SpaceX’s Gwyn Shotwell. It’s worth noting that the “hired hand” phenomenon isn’t merely because the economy is good; it indicates that companies are growing larger and creating new pathways to wealth for non-founders.
While many newcomers are reveling in their newfound billionaire status, not everyone made the cut this year. AMD’s Lisa Su found herself out of the ranks due to a downturn in her company’s stock performance. However, returning to the billionaire club are individuals like former Uber employee Ryan Graves, proof that sometimes it’s a rollercoaster ride to riches. Other notable names now basking in billion-dollar glory include John Winklreed, the former Goldman Sachs co-chief operating officer, and Larry Culp, the leader of GE Aerospace.
In summary, the world of wealth in America continues to shift, with hired hand billionaires establishing a more substantial foothold among the elite. The trend showcases a new approach to achieving billionaire status, where expertise and corporate leadership pave the way to immense wealth. As stock prices climb and compensation packages balloon, one can only wonder how many more individuals will join this exclusive club in the years to come. For a deeper dive into the complete list of these hired hand billionaires, enthusiasts can check out the detailed report on Forbes.com. The American dream is being redefined, and it’s clear that success wears a tailored suit and carries a briefcase full of stock options!
