Top 15 richest people in world have net worth over $100 billion
According to Bloomberg, there are now 15 individuals each worth over $100 billion, the highest number ever recorded.
According to Bloomberg, there are now 15 individuals each worth over $100 billion, the highest number ever recorded. This rise is fueled by advancements in artificial intelligence, luxury goods, and shifts in global markets.
Together, these 15 billionaires have a combined net worth of $2.2 trillion, up 13% this year, outpacing inflation and the stock market. They collectively control nearly 25% of the wealth of the world’s 500 richest people. While individual members have surpassed $100 billion before, this is the first time all 15 have simultaneously maintained their fortunes above this mark.
Over the past five months, L’Oreal heiress Francoise Bettencourt Meyers, Dell Technologies founder Michael Dell, and Mexican billionaire Carlos Slim have each reached this milestone, some crossing it multiple times.
Francoise Bettencourt Meyers, 70, became the first woman to achieve a 12-figure fortune in December. Her wealth increased following a strong performance of L’Oreal shares, making her the 14th richest with a net worth of $101 billion.
Michael Dell, 59, saw his wealth surpass $100 billion recently due to a surge in demand for AI-related technology, which boosted Dell Technologies' share prices to record levels. He is now 11th on Bloomberg’s wealth index with $113 billion.
Carlos Slim, 84, ranks 13th with $106 billion. The richest person in Latin America saw his wealth grow by $28 billion in 2023, aided by a boom in the Mexican peso which increased the value of his diverse business empire, ranging from construction to retail.
There are also familiar faces making a comeback. Gautam Adani, 61, rejoined the elite group after recovering from huge losses earlier in the year. His wealth rebounded as shares of his company, Adani Enterprises Ltd., increased with growing global interest in Indian businesses.
Bernard Arnault, 75, leads the list with a net worth of $222 billion. Arnault, founder and CEO of LVMH, derives most of his wealth from his stake in the world’s largest luxury-goods company.
Jeff Bezos, 60, follows with $208 billion. The founder of Amazon.com Inc. has seen his wealth grow largely due to his ownership of the world's largest online retailer.
Elon Musk, 52, ranks third with $187 billion. Although his wealth has decreased by more than $40 billion this year, Musk's fortune remains primarily tied to his shares in Tesla Inc., the world’s most valuable car manufacturer.
These billionaires continue to amass wealth despite economic fluctuations, showing the strong impact of technology, luxury, and emerging markets on global wealth distribution.
