Etsy CEO’s 2024 Compensation and Advocacy Efforts

In a recent speech at Semafor’s 2025 World Economy Summit, Etsy CEO Josh Silverman addressed the potential impact of tariffs on Etsy sellers. Silverman emphasized the importance of advocating for these sellers, citing it as a key aspect of his role within the company. In 2024, Silverman received a compensation package totaling nearly $18 million, as disclosed in Etsy’s filing with the SEC.

During his presentation, Silverman highlighted Etsy’s active engagement in advocating for independent entrepreneurs in key political hubs like Washington, DC, and Brussels. He mentioned a productive meeting with the White House’s National Economic Council, where he discussed the implications of ending the $800 de minimis exemption, especially concerning the tech sector.

Silverman drew attention to the disparity in treatment between large corporations like Apple and small business owners, such as a single mother crafting goods from home. He questioned whether the same exemptions provided to tech giants should not also extend to individual artisans and micro-businesses operating on platforms like Etsy.

The SEC filing revealed that Silverman’s 2024 compensation amounted to $17,956,561, which included a base salary of $660,000. This figure stood out as it was 84 times higher than the median compensation received by all Etsy employees, excluding the CEO, which was $214,827.

Furthermore, a video of Silverman’s presentation at the summit was shared by Semafor on YouTube, allowing stakeholders to gain insights into the CEO’s perspective on tariffs and advocacy for Etsy sellers. The video captured Silverman’s interview at minute 45:54, offering a glimpse into his thoughts and strategies regarding these pertinent issues affecting the ecommerce landscape.

In summary, Silverman’s address shed light on the challenges faced by Etsy sellers in the current economic climate, particularly in relation to tariffs and exemptions. His commitment to representing the interests of independent entrepreneurs and engaging with policymakers underscores Etsy’s dedication to supporting its vibrant community of creators and small businesses.