Jeff Bezos executed a $5.4 billion sale of Amazon (Nasdaq: AMZN) stock Friday, around the same time as his wedding to journalist Lauren Sánchez during an elaborate Venice celebration, according to Securities and Exchange Commission filings.
The sale involved 25 million Amazon shares and was executed under a trading plan Bezos adopted in March, the filings show.
Bezos remains Amazon’s largest shareholder despite the sale. He holds about 9.6% of the company’s outstanding stock, according to recent proxy statements.
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The timing coincides with Amazon shares trading near record highs, with the stock surpassing $223 per share last week. Shares have gained more than 30% this year as the company benefits from artificial intelligence growth.
Friday’s transaction continues a pattern of stock sales by Bezos, who sold more than $13 billion in Amazon shares in 2024. He typically uses proceeds to fund Blue Origin, his space company, and philanthropic efforts, including climate and education initiatives.
Read: Jeff Bezos Sells More Amazon Shares, Marking $6 Billion Just This Month
The wedding celebration in Venice reportedly cost around $50 million and featured celebrity guests. Italian tourism officials estimated the event’s overall economic impact at nearly $1 billion.
Bezos stepped down as Amazon CEO in 2021 but serves as executive chairman. He moved from Seattle to Miami in 2023, a relocation that helps him avoid Washington state’s 7% capital gains tax.
The billionaire ranks No. 3 on the Bloomberg Billionaires Index with an estimated net worth of $244 billion. Amazon’s market value stands at approximately $2.3 trillion.
The SEC filing indicates Bezos can continue selling shares under the trading plan through May 29, 2026.
Information for this story was found via Bloomberg, and the sources and companies mentioned. The author has no securities or affiliations related to the organizations discussed. Not a recommendation to buy or sell. Always do additional research and consult a professional before purchasing a security. The author holds no licenses.
