Eduardo Saverin: The Billionaire Who Bet on Facebook
Eduardo Saverin the name became iconic after co-founding Facebook in 2004. Though his early withdrawal from the company caused controversy, his 2% ownership made him a billionaire multiple times over. Today, the Brazilian-born investor is thriving as a venture capitalist in Singapore, suggesting that there is life after Zuckerberg.
Eduardo Saverin: A Privileged Yet Driven Upbringing
Saverin attended Harvard, where he studied economics and became a member of the famous Phoenix Club. There, he met Mark Zuckerberg, forming a collaboration that would change both of their lives forever.
Before Facebook, Saverin demonstrated his commercial acumen by developing an online advertising platform for students. This early endeavor hinted at his talent for digital commercialization, which eventually influenced Facebook’s initial revenue model.
Eduardo Saverin: Harvard, Mark Zuckerberg, and a Fateful Meeting
In 2004, Saverin became Facebook’s first CFO, spending $30,000 for a 30% ownership. His business ties provided critical early finance, but disputes with Zuckerberg resulted in a substantial erosion of his shares. The court dispute influenced The Social Network’s portrayal of him as the “betrayed” co-founder.
From Silicon Valley Outcast to Global Investor
After settling with Facebook in 2009, Saverin’s remaining 2% ownership skyrocketed in value. By the 2012 IPO, his shares were worth more over $3 billion, representing an incredible return on his initial investment.
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Instead than relying on his riches, Saverin remade himself as a venture capitalist. His business, B Capital, now backs startups such as Grab and Ninja Van, demonstrating that his keen eye for technology trends extends beyond social media.
A Low-Key Family Life in Singapore
Saverin married Elaine Andriejanssen, a Singaporean entrepreneur, in 2015. The couple, who have two children, live a private existence, in sharp contrast to his early Facebook scandal. His 2011 transfer to Singapore (and subsequent citizenship) caused questions, but it mirrored his global perspective.
The $16 Billion Question
Saverin’s net worth now surpasses $16 billion, thanks to Facebook’s ongoing success and wise investments. Unlike many tech billionaires, he diversified early on, investing in real estate, companies, and even space enterprises.
His Singapore residency also provides tax benefits, but Saverin claims his decision was motivated by Asia’s thriving innovation environment, not just financial considerations. In any case, his money continues to increase.
What’s Next for the Quiet Billionaire?
Saverin’s recent investments in Web3 and finance businesses demonstrate his ability to stay ahead of the curve. While he will always be associated with Facebook, his future lay in discreetly supporting the next big thing—on his own terms.
