The wealthiest billionaires in the world wield significant financial power and influence, playing a crucial role in shaping global economies and industries. Figures like Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos from the technology sector, alongside luxury goods magnates such as Bernard Arnault, have accumulated extraordinary wealth through innovation and strategic entrepreneurship.
Surprising Changes in Forbes’ Billionaires List
The 2024 Forbes billionaires list reveals some surprising shifts, particularly highlighting India’s rising status. Traditionally dominated by the United States and China, the list now reflects India’s growing prominence in the global wealth hierarchy.
India’s Growing Influence
This year’s list underscores the substantial wealth amassed by Indian billionaires like Mukesh Ambani and Gautam Adani, showcasing India’s increasing impact on the global stage. Below are the top 10 countries with the highest number of billionaires according to Forbes:
- United States
The U.S. leads the list with 813 billionaires, an increase from 735 last year, boasting a combined net worth of $5.7 trillion. Elon Musk retains the title of the richest person in the country, valued at $195 billion. - China
Despite a decrease in the number of billionaires, China remains second with 406 billionaires, down from 495 last year. Their total net worth is $1.3 trillion, down from $1.67 trillion. Zhong Shanshan is China’s wealthiest individual, worth $62.3 billion. - India
India has climbed to third place with 200 billionaires, up from 169 last year. The collective net worth of Indian billionaires has risen to $954 billion, a significant increase from $675 billion. Mukesh Ambani leads India’s wealthy with a net worth of $116 billion. - Germany
Germany ranks fourth with 132 billionaires, an increase from 126 last year. Their total net worth stands at $644 billion, up from $585 billion. Klaus-Michael Kuehne is the richest in Germany, valued at $39.2 billion.
- Russia
Russia has 120 billionaires, an increase from 105 last year, with a total net worth of $537 billion, up from $474 billion. The richest person in Russia is Vagit Alekperov, worth $28.6 billion. - Italy
Italy’s number of billionaires has grown to 73, up from 64 the previous year, with an aggregate net worth of $302 billion, rising from $216 billion. Giovanni Ferrero is the wealthiest individual in Italy, valued at $43.8 billion. - Brazil
Brazil has 69 billionaires, increasing by 18 from last year, with a combined net worth of $231 billion, up from $160 billion. Eduardo Saverin is Brazil’s richest, worth $28 billion. - Canada
Canada features 67 billionaires, a rise from 63 last year, with a total net worth of $315 billion, up from $245 billion. David Thomson and his family are the wealthiest in Canada, valued at $67.8 billion. - Hong Kong
Hong Kong has 67 billionaires, slightly increasing from 66 last year. Their combined net worth is $330 billion, down from $350 billion. Li Ka-shing is the richest person in Hong Kong, with a net worth of $37.3 billion.
United Kingdom
The UK has 55 billionaires, up from 52 last year, with a total net worth of $225 billion, increasing from $202 billion. Michael Platt is the wealthiest individual in the UK, valued at $18 billion.
