Teo Swee Ann

CEO, Espressif Systems

Real-Time Net Worth

$1.65B

As of December 2025

Age

Source

Semiconductors

Industry

technology

Citizenship

Biography

Teo Swee Ann, a Singaporean, is a prominent figure in the technology industry, best known as the founder and CEO of Espressif Systems, a Shanghai-listed semiconductor firm. His wealth source stems from the success of Espressif Systems, which designs and sells low-power, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth-integrated chips for the Internet of Things (IoT) devices. Born on September 1, 1975, Teo, at age 50, has built a career marked by innovation and a strong work ethic. His achievements have earned him a net worth of $1.65 billion and a global billionaire ranking of 2278, as of December 2025. Teo's entrepreneurial journey includes prior experience at US chipmakers Transilica and Marvell Technology Group and China's Montage Technology. He is recognized as one of Singapore's richest individuals, ranking 37th in the country.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Teo Swee Ann was born in Singapore and graduated from Hwa Chong Junior College (now Hwa Chong Institution) in 1993. He went on to obtain a master's degree in electrical engineering from the National University of Singapore in 2000. His early career involved working as a semiconductor engineer at several firms before he ventured into entrepreneurship.

Rise to Success

Teo founded Espressif Systems in 2008 in Shanghai, a company specializing in low-powered and low-cost chips for IoT devices. Espressif's success is largely attributed to its flagship ESP32 chips, which power various goods such as speakers, wearable devices, and home appliances. In July 2019, Espressif had an IPO and the stock's rise since the IPO has significantly boosted its market capitalization, contributing to Teo's wealth.

Key Business Strategies

Teo's key strategies have been centered on innovation, open-source software, and a focus on the expanding IoT market. His company has established itself with cutting-edge Wi-Fi and Bluetooth-integrated devices, with the ESP8266 and ESP32 microchips being its flagship products. He has shown a keen interest in the use of open-source software.

Philanthropy

Information regarding Teo Swee Ann's specific philanthropic initiatives and amounts is not readily available through the search results.

Career Milestones

2008

Founded Espressif Systems

Established Espressif Systems in Shanghai, focusing on low-power, low-cost chips for IoT devices.

2019

Espressif IPO

Espressif sold 25% of its shares in an IPO that valued the company at $716 million.

2021

Listed on Forbes Singapore's 50 Richest

Included on the Forbes list of Singapore's 50 Richest.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Unspecified

Unknown

Undisclosed

Philanthropic activities not specified in search results.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"“I'd rather not talk about it.”"

Leadership Principles

Focus on Engineering

Immersing himself in the engineering world and enjoying the work

Candid Communication

Striving to maintain transparency at Espressif, allowing for open communication to resolve issues effectively.