How much does the creator of WhatsApp earn - briefly?
The creator of WhatsApp, Jan Koum, earned a significant sum when Facebook acquired the company in 2014. At the time of the acquisition, his net worth was estimated to be around $7.5 billion.
How much does the creator of WhatsApp earn - in detail?
The creator of WhatsApp, Jan Koum, has built an impressive financial empire through his innovative messaging platform. WhatsApp was founded in 2009 and acquired by Facebook (now Meta) in 2014 for a staggering $19 billion. This acquisition made Jan Koum a billionaire virtually overnight.
At the time of the sale, Jan Koum owned approximately 45% of WhatsApp's shares. Given the total value of the deal, his personal stake was worth around $8.5 billion. However, the financial benefits did not stop at the acquisition price. As part of the agreement with Facebook, Koum also received restricted stock units (RSUs) valued at approximately $3 billion. These RSUs vest over a period of four years, meaning he will receive portions of this amount in subsequent years.
In addition to his earnings from the sale and RSUs, Jan Koum has continued to receive compensation as an employee of Meta (formerly Facebook). According to public filings, his total compensation package includes a salary, bonuses, and stock options. Although the exact figures are not always disclosed, it is clear that his ongoing role at Meta contributes significantly to his overall earnings.
Beyond his financial success with WhatsApp, Jan Koum has also ventured into philanthropy. He has donated substantial sums to various charitable causes, including educational institutions and healthcare organizations. His commitment to giving back underscores his belief in the power of technology to transform lives and communities.
In conclusion, Jan Koum's earnings from the creation of WhatsApp are a testament to his visionary leadership and technical prowess. The $19 billion acquisition by Facebook not only secured his financial future but also positioned him as one of the most successful entrepreneurs in the tech industry.