💰 Investors oftentimes will invest in companies that have undergone a management change, which can lead to new focus areas and growth opportunities. Follow benzinga Here’s a look at how Microsoft Corporation stock has performed since Bill Gates stepped down as CEO. When Gates stepped down as CEO, he maintained the Chairman of the Board title and also took on the title of Chief Software Architect for the company he founded. Gates said at the time the new role would help him spend more time on new software technologies. “It’s an exciting evolution for me and a very good transition for the company,” Gates said. Shares of Microsoft hit a high of $27.15 on Jan. 13, 2000, when it was announced that Gates had stepped down as CEO of the company. A $1,000 investment in Microsoft stock at the time could have purchased 36.82 shares. A two-for-one split in 2003 would have turned the investment into 73.64 shares. The $1,000 investment would be worth $17,751.66 today, based on a price of $24...