Larry Ellison, the cofounder and CTO of Oracle Corporation, is a visionary entrepreneur who has shaped the world of software and cloud computing. Known for his strategic investments and bold business decisions, Ellison has been a key figure in Oracle’s success and is one of the wealthiest individuals globally. His fortune was propelled by the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), which fueled the stock price of Oracle in 2025, making him one of the first people ever worth more than $400 billion.
Personal Stats
| Personal Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Source of Wealth | Oracle, Self Made |
| Self-Made Score | 9 |
| Philanthropy Score | 1 |
| Residence | Woodside, California |
| Citizenship | United States |
| Marital Status | In Relationship |
| Children | 4 |
| Education | Drop Out, University of Chicago; Drop Out, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign |
Early Life and Education
Born in 1944, Larry Ellison grew up in Chicago before moving to California. Although he attended both the University of Chicago and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Ellison never completed his college degree. He left university early to pursue his passion for computing, and soon after, he began working as a contractor for the CIA, building databases.
Founding Oracle and Building a Tech Empire
In 1977, Ellison co-founded Oracle, which initially specialized in database software. Under his leadership, Oracle grew from a small startup to a global software giant. The company became a leader in enterprise software, providing solutions to businesses around the world. Ellison’s vision and focus on innovative technology helped Oracle become synonymous with database management systems and cloud computing.
In 2014, after 37 years at the helm, Ellison stepped down as CEO of Oracle, transitioning to the role of Executive Chairman and CTO. Despite stepping down from the CEO role, he retained about 40% of Oracle’s stock, making him one of the richest individuals globally.
AI Boom and Expanding Influence
In 2025, Ellison’s wealth soared, largely due to an AI-driven boom that significantly boosted Oracle’s stock price. Ellison became the second person ever to surpass a $400 billion net worth, cementing his legacy as a technology pioneer. Oracle’s embrace of AI and cloud computing positioned it as a major player in the tech industry, with Ellison at the forefront of the innovation.
Investments and Acquisitions
Beyond Oracle, Ellison has made significant investments in various industries. He moved to the Hawaiian island Lanai in 2020, after purchasing nearly the entire island for $300 million in 2012. This move highlighted his commitment to sustainable living and long-term investments.
Ellison also owns The Washington Post and has played an influential role in entertainment. His son, David Ellison, has produced blockbuster films like The Terminator and Mission: Impossible, while his daughter, Megan Ellison, financed acclaimed films such as Zero Dark Thirty and American Hustle.
In 2025, Ellison became involved in Paramount Skydance, a media giant created after a merger between Paramount and Skydance Media, the latter co-founded by his son David. This $28 billion merger marked a significant expansion of Ellison’s influence in the entertainment sector.
Wealth History
As of 2025, Larry Ellison’s net worth is estimated at $259.6 billion, with a significant increase of $7.2 billion (2.87%) in real-time wealth. He ranks #3 on the 2025 Billionaires List and remains a key player in both technology and entertainment industries. Ellison’s wealth has fluctuated with the growth of Oracle, his investments in AI, and his acquisitions in various sectors.
Personal Life and Family
Ellison’s personal life has been a subject of public interest. He has four children and has been married twice. In 2019, Ellison divorced his second wife, Nicole Systrom, and is currently in a relationship. His philanthropic efforts, including the Bezos Earth Fund and other initiatives, reflect his commitment to addressing climate change and improving the world.
Vision for the Future
Larry Ellison’s ambition extends beyond software and cloud computing. His AI-driven focus is reshaping Oracle’s offerings, and he continues to invest in space exploration, sustainable living, and global media. He has also indicated that he plans to donate a significant portion of his wealth over his lifetime, echoing the philanthropic mindset of many tech billionaires.
In his own words, Ellison has said, “When people start telling you that you’re crazy, you just might be on to the most important innovation in your life.” This spirit of innovation continues to drive his endeavors and shapes his legacy in technology.
