As an aside, this is a curious situation that points to capitalism (in its current form) being something of a continuation of aristocracy but by other means: >

As an aside, this is a curious situation that points to capitalism (in its current form) being something of a continuation of aristocracy but by other means: > "Some employees can't afford to buy their equity at all, so that when their startup is acquired or goes public, they earn nothing from the outcome, looking on in silence while their colleagues become millionaires. The people who find themselves in this situation are, of course, disproportionately those who work in lower-paying roles, and who don't have family or friends to borrow from." A society in which each person is given something like a 'equity stake' at adulthood might work. It would be their decision as to how to use it - buy equity in a startup, pay for a college education, start a small business, etc. Maybe certain limitations on frivolous activities would make sense. It's similar to universal basic income, but more delivered in one chunk rather than as a pittance spread out over time. It would create a much more even playing field while still allowing for competitive success stories.