a billion-dollar fortune. Since taking charge of Google in 2015, Pichai has witnessed remarkable growth, with the company's stock soaring over 400%, surpassing the S&P 500 and Nasdaq indices. This rise is further fueled by the recent surge in AI-driven growth in Google's cloud computing unit, with the company's first-quarter earnings surpassing expectations and introducing a dividend for the first time.
Pichai's journey is an inspiring tale of perseverance and dedication. Growing up in a modest two-room apartment in Chennai, India, Pichai and his brother slept on the living-room floor. They lacked basic amenities like a television or a car, and at times, even running water. However, a rotary telephone his father acquired when Pichai was 12 sparked his interest in technology. This, along with his curiosity about his father's job as an electrical engineer, inspired him to pursue a career in technology.
Pichai's curiosity and hard work led him to the prestigious IIT Kharagpur, where he excelled in his studies. He then secured a scholarship to Stanford University, where his father made a significant sacrifice, withdrawing $1,000 from the family's savings to cover Pichai's plane ticket and other expenses. This act of selflessness highlights the unwavering support Pichai received from his parents, who prioritized their children's education above all else.
After completing his studies at Stanford, Pichai won another scholarship to Wharton before joining Google in 2004. He quickly rose through the ranks, leading important projects like the launch of Google Chrome. In 2015, co-founder Larry Page announced his transition to CEO of the newly created parent company, Alphabet, while Pichai was promoted to CEO of Google.
By 2019, Pichai was named CEO of Alphabet, and with the stock options he received, he became one of the highest-paid executives in the world. His reported compensation in 2022 exceeded $200 million. According to Bloomberg, his current net worth is made up of $424 million in share holdings and around $600 million in share sales since he became Google CEO.
Pichai's story is a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and the unwavering support of loved ones. From humble beginnings to the helm of one of the world's most influential tech companies, Pichai's journey is an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs and leaders worldwide.