Core Insights - The article highlights the significant compensation packages of CEOs Alex Karp of Palantir and Hock Tan of Broadcom, both surpassing $1 billion in annual earnings, primarily driven by stock and option incentives [1][2][3] Group 1: CEO Compensation Trends - The number of CEOs in the U.S. with compensation exceeding $1 billion has decreased, making the achievement of earning $1 billion in a year more notable [2] - The current CEO compensation structure reflects a surge in the value of options and restricted stock as company valuations rise [2] Group 2: Alex Karp's Compensation - Alex Karp's substantial earnings stem from a one-time grant of options and restricted stock awarded in 2020, which unlocks over ten years [3] - Initially valued at $1.1 billion, Karp's compensation package has increased significantly, reaching an estimated total value of $14.7 billion due to the rise in Palantir's stock price [3] Group 3: Hock Tan's Compensation - Hock Tan's restricted stock was granted in three tranches, with the 2023 grant elevating him to the top of the S&P 500 CEO compensation rankings [4] - The valuation of Tan's stock awards increased from approximately $269 million to about $2 billion, coinciding with Broadcom's stock price nearly quadrupling [4] Group 4: Realized Gains - As of the end of 2024, Karp has realized approximately $530 million in gains, while Tan has realized around $224 million from their respective stock options [6]