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    Patrick Byrne

    Patrick Byrne, renowned for founding Overstock.com, led the company as its CEO for over two decades, guiding it to become a premier online shopping destination. Since its inception in 1999, his stewardship has been crucial in achieving profitability within three years, an impressive feat in the competitive e-commerce landscape. This early success laid the foundation for the company's continued financial growth, marked by significant profitability in 2009 and a remarkable increase in revenue to $1.8 billion by 2016.

     

    Under his leadership, Overstock.com excelled in financial terms and led the way in technological innovation. In 2012, he spearheaded the integration of Bitcoin as a payment method, making Overstock.com the first major online retailer to embrace this emerging digital currency. This move was a testament to his foresight in recognizing the potential of blockchain technology, which later inspired him to establish Medici Ventures, a venture capital firm focused on blockchain advancements.

     

    In 2015, he further cemented his role as a digital finance innovator by becoming the first individual to purchase a digital bond on the Bitcoin blockchain. Building on this momentum, Overstock.com continued to break new ground in 2016 by becoming the first company to offer shares on an alternative trading system. He departed from Overstock.com in 2019, leaving a legacy of remarkable achievements and significant contributions to the e-commerce industry.

     

    Beyond his business ventures, he is a staunch advocate for classical liberalism, firmly believing in the importance of a free market and a robust education system for societal prosperity. In 2006, following Milton Friedman's passing, he assumed the chairman role of the Friedman Foundation for School Choice, now EdChoice. This organization is dedicated to expanding educational choices for families, mirroring his commitment to academic freedom. His leadership in EdChoice has been crucial in shaping educational opportunities for families nationwide, demonstrating his dedication to societal betterment through education and economic principles.

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