The Journal. How Larry Ellison (Briefly) Became the World's Richest Person
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Sep 18, 2025 In this intriguing discussion, technology reporter Sebastian Herrera dives into Larry Ellison’s surprising resurgence in wealth and influence at 81. He highlights Ellison's competitive spirit from a humble upbringing and his journey with Oracle. The conversation covers his strategic pivot to AI, including a major deal with OpenAI that skyrocketed his fortune. Additionally, they explore his connections to Trump, Oracle's involvement with TikTok, and his ambitions in the entertainment industry, including potential moves on Paramount and Warner Bros.
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AI Deals Reboot Oracle's Relevance
- Oracle's recent AI cloud deals thrust the company back into relevance after years of being overlooked.
- The OpenAI contract exemplifies how large AI workloads can rapidly reshape a legacy cloud vendor's prospects.
Ellison Says He Likes To Win
- Larry Ellison says he likes to win and to test his limits, framing much of his drive and ambition.
- That competitive mindset has shaped his long career and public persona.
Humble Beginnings On Chicago's South Side
- Ellison was adopted and raised by his aunt and uncle on Chicago's south side, which he frames as formative hardship.
- He credits those disadvantages as fueling his drive to succeed.