Apple co founder ronald wayne sold his 10 share in 1976 for 800 today it s worth over 58 billion

Apple co-founder Ronald Wayne sold his 10% share in 1976 for $800. Today, it’s worth over $58 billion.

In the early days of Apple, three individuals played a pivotal role in its establishment: Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak, and Ronald Wayne. Ronald Wayne, often overlooked in the Apple success story, had a 10% stake in the company during its inception. However, Wayne decided to sell his share for a mere $800 in 1976, a decision that would later prove to be a monumental missed opportunity.

Fast forward to the present day, and Apple has become one of the most valuable companies in the world. With a market capitalization exceeding $2 trillion, Apple’s success story has influenced industries and revolutionized technology. And as the value of Apple soared, so did the worth of Wayne’s 10% share.

At the time of writing this article, the 10% share would have been worth over $58 billion, a staggering contrast to the $800 Wayne received for his stake. This missed opportunity has become a highlight in the world of business, showcasing the potential impact of small decisions on future fortunes.

One might wonder why Wayne made this fateful decision. According to Wayne himself, he was concerned about the risks and liabilities associated with being a co-founder. He had witnessed previous business ventures fail and was wary of being personally liable for any potential debts or lawsuits that Apple might face. Therefore, he made the difficult choice to sell his share and distance himself from the company.

While Wayne’s decision was undoubtedly a prudent one considering his circumstances and concerns, it undoubtedly haunts him as one of the most expensive decisions in business history. His share in Apple would have made him one of the wealthiest individuals in the world today.

Nevertheless, Wayne shouldn’t be solely remembered for his missed opportunity. His contributions to Apple cannot be overlooked. As an established engineer and draftsman, Wayne designed the first Apple logo, wrote the company’s partnership agreement, and played a crucial role in establishing the company’s foundation. Despite selling his shares, Wayne’s early involvement in Apple’s history remains significant.

In conclusion, Ronald Wayne’s decision to sell his 10% share in Apple for $800 in 1976 has become a symbol of missed opportunities. While the value of his share today would exceed $58 billion, Wayne made a reasonable decision based on his concerns about potential risks. His involvement in the early days of Apple cannot be underestimated, and although he missed out on massive wealth, his impact on the company’s foundation remains undeniable.

Source: CNBC