The world’s richest individuals continue to reshape industries and economies. As of Forbes 2024 list, the top 10 richest people in the world showcase a diverse range of sectors, from technology and e-commerce to luxury goods and investments.
Elon Musk sits at the pinnacle as the richest person in the world with a staggering net worth of $208.4 billion. At 52 years old, Musk resides in Boca Chica, Texas, and holds US citizenship. He is the CEO of several high-profile companies, including Tesla and SpaceX. Musk’s fortune, significantly tied to his 23% stake in Tesla, saw a massive surge, making him the wealthiest person globally. In October 2022, Musk’s purchase of Twitter for $44 billion further cemented his influence in the tech world. Tesla’s remarkable market growth since its IPO in 2010 has been a significant contributor to his wealth.
Bernard Arnault and his family follow closely with a net worth of $202.1 billion. At 74, Arnault resides in Paris and holds French citizenship. He is the CEO and chairman of LVMH, the world’s largest luxury goods company. LVMH’s extensive portfolio includes iconic brands such as Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior, Moët & Chandon, and Sephora. Arnault’s strategic acquisition of Tiffany & Co. for $15.8 billion in January 2021 highlights his acumen in expanding his luxury empire. His children also play pivotal roles within the company, with his daughter Delphine recently appointed to lead Dior.
Jeff Bezos, with a net worth of $197.2 billion, ranks third. The 60-year-old, residing in Medina, Washington, founded e-commerce giant Amazon. In July 2021, Bezos stepped down as CEO but remains the company’s chairman. Bezos has also invested billions into his space exploration company, Blue Origin, and personally experienced space travel aboard one of its rockets. His ventures continue to shape the future of space travel and e-commerce.
Mark Zuckerberg, at 39 years old, has a net worth of $167.3 billion. Residing in Palo Alto, California, Zuckerberg co-founded Meta Platforms, previously known as Facebook, while he was a student at Harvard. Since taking Facebook public in 2012, Zuckerberg has maintained significant control, holding about 13% of the company’s stock. Beyond his business ventures, Zuckerberg and his wife Priscilla Chan have pledged $3 billion towards curing and managing diseases by 2100.
Larry Ellison secures the fifth spot with a net worth of $149.2 billion. The 79-year-old co-founded Oracle in 1977 and now serves as the executive chairman and Chief Technology Officer. Residing in Manalapan, Florida, Ellison’s investments extend beyond software, including significant stakes in companies like Salesforce.com and the acquisition of the Hawaiian island of Lanai for $300 million.
Larry Page, co-founder of Google, has a net worth of $143.8 billion. At 51, Page resides in Palo Alto, California, and remains a significant shareholder and board member of Alphabet, Google’s parent company. His investments also include Planetary Resources, a company focused on mining resources from asteroids, showcasing his interest in futuristic technologies.
Sergey Brin, with a net worth of $137.8 billion, co-founded Google alongside Page. The 50-year-old, residing in Los Altos, California, originally from Russia, played a crucial role in developing Google Glass and continues to influence Alphabet as a board member.
Warren Buffett, often referred to as the “Oracle of Omaha,” has a net worth of $134.9 billion. At 93, Buffett resides in Omaha, Nebraska, and leads Berkshire Hathaway, an investment conglomerate. Known for his philanthropic efforts, Buffett has pledged to donate 99% of his wealth, highlighting his commitment to giving back.
Bill Gates, with a net worth of $129.6 billion, is the co-founder of Microsoft. The 68-year-old, residing in Medina, Washington, has shifted his focus from business to philanthropy. Through the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Gates has made significant contributions to global health initiatives, particularly in HIV prevention in India.
Steve Ballmer, former CEO of Microsoft, rounds out the top 10 with a net worth of $123.4 billion. At 67, Ballmer resides in Hunts Point, Washington. After leading Microsoft from 2000 to 2014, Ballmer made headlines by purchasing the Los Angeles Clippers for $2 billion, setting a new record for an NBA team at that time.
These individuals not only represent immense wealth but also illustrate the dynamic nature of global industries and the profound impact of technological advancements and strategic investments on the global economy.
