In 2004, 50 Cent was presented with an endorsement opportunity for a new company called Vitaminwater. Rather than accepting a cash payment, he chose to take an equity stake, becoming a minority owner and integrating the drink into his brand image. This innovative strategy reflected his forward-thinking approach and awareness of long-term financial gains.
He actively promoted the brand, contributing to a remarkable increase in sales from $100 million to $700 million in just three years. When Coca-Cola acquired Vitaminwater for $4.1 billion in 2007, 50 Cent's equity stake netted him an estimated $100 million, highlighting the significant value of his decision.