Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella’s total compensation spiked to almost $96.5 million for fiscal year 2025, nearly double his pay from two years ago. His base salary remained steady at $2.5 million, but larger stock awards led to the massive increase. Over 95% of his compensation was performance-based.

Nadella’s equity compensation is solely performance stock awards tied to long-term value creation, unlike standard market practice. Microsoft set his target performance stock award at $50 million for fiscal year 2025, reflecting his exceptional leadership and Microsoft’s performance. The company’s stock has increased by almost 25% this year.

Other Microsoft executives also saw significant pay bumps. CFO Amy Hood earned nearly $29.5 million, while Judson Althoff, CEO of the commercial business, made $28.2 million, and President Bradford Smith earned around $28.2 million. Microsoft announced job cuts earlier this year to adapt to market changes.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella’s annual pay climbs to $96.5M