Most Powerful Austinite
This Austin tech giant is one of Forbes' most powerful people in the world
Who are the most powerful people in the world? Forbes' authoritative annual list sheds light on "the global elite whose actions move the planet." And this year, it includes one Austin tech giant.
Forbes determined the movers and shakers based on their range of impact, financial resources, and spheres of influence. Michael Dell makes his debut at No. 59.
As the business magazine reminds us, Dell is a self-made billionaire at the helm of an international corporation — and it all started in Austin.
"Dell started the computer giant in his Texas dorm room in 1984 when he was just 19 with $1,000. Four years later, it went public with a market capitalization of $85 million. By the time he took it private again in 2013, the company was worth $25 billion," reads Forbes.
In that time, Dell has expanded the business' portfolio and cornered the market for several of the corporation's products. Dell has also become a champion of private ownership, which he believes allows companies the freedom to innovate.
The list of 73 powerhouses is dominated by political leaders and heads of corporations. One other Texan lands on the list: Exxon Mobil CEO, Rex Tillerson, who resides in Irving, ranks No. 25.
