Selling shares can either lead to wealth or loss, depending on market conditions, timing, and investment strategies. Girish Mathrubootham, co-founder and executive chairman of the SaaS firm Freshworks, is a prime example. In December 2024, he sold nearly 2.5 million shares, earning $39.6 million (Rs 336.41 crore). The sales occurred over multiple transactions with prices ranging from $15.33 to $16.50 per share.
Despite facing challenges, including his 12th-grade failure and relatives labeling him a “rickshaw puller,” Mathrubootham remained motivated. After a successful career at HCL and Zoho, where he rose to Vice President, he founded Freshworks in 2010. Under his leadership, the company expanded globally and was listed on Nasdaq, making 500 employees millionaires.
In 2024, Freshworks faced changes, including the cancellation of Mathrubootham’s CEO Performance Award. However, he was later granted a new equity award worth $19 million. Girish is also a key figure in venture capital, advising over 60 companies and founding SaaSBoomi and the Together Fund. His journey from setbacks to success is an inspiring story of perseverance and entrepreneurship.
