In 2025, the global landscape of wealth continues to evolve, shaped by innovation, market dynamics, and shifting industries. This list of the top 20 wealthiest individuals showcases the world’s most influential billionaires, spanning sectors such as technology, finance, retail, and energy.
From self-made entrepreneurs to legacy heirs who have expanded their empires, these individuals not only command vast fortunes but also wield significant influence over global economies. As economic power shifts and new trends emerge, according to latest news this ranking offers insight into who’s leading the financial elite in 2025 and how they amassed—and are maintaining—their extraordinary levels of wealth.
20. Françoise Bettencourt-Meyers
Françoise Bettencourt-Meyers, heiress to the L’Oréal fortune, oversees the world’s largest cosmetics brand, originally founded by her grandfather. Her immense wealth stems from her family’s controlling interest in the company. Beyond business, she is actively engaged in philanthropy, particularly in scientific and cultural projects. Net Worth: $80 billion
19. Carlos Slim
Carlos Slim is Mexico’s most affluent businessman, having built his wealth primarily through telecommunications giants like Telmex and América Móvil. His business interests also extend into sectors such as construction, banking, and energy, making him a key figure in Latin America’s economy. Net Worth: $82 billion
18. Michael Dell
Michael Dell is the founder of Dell Technologies, a pioneer in the personal computing space. His strategic moves—including taking the company private and later returning it to public markets—have reinforced his reputation as a savvy entrepreneur. Net Worth: $83 billion
17. Jensen Huang
As a co-founder of NVIDIA, Jensen Huang has been instrumental in revolutionizing graphics processing and artificial intelligence. His company leads innovations in gaming, data centers, and autonomous technology. Net Worth: $83 billion
16. Mukesh Ambani
Mukesh Ambani chairs Reliance Industries, a major Indian conglomerate with operations in petrochemicals, telecom, and retail. His vision has transformed the company into a global player and made him India’s richest individual. Net Worth: $98 billion
15. Alice Walton
Alice Walton, daughter of Walmart’s founder Sam Walton, holds a substantial share in the retail giant. While not involved in daily operations, she channels her energy into art patronage and philanthropy. Net Worth: $99 billion
14. Michael Bloomberg
Michael Bloomberg, the founder of Bloomberg L.P., built a media and financial information empire. He also served as mayor of New York City and is a leading philanthropist focused on climate change, public health, and education. Net Worth: $105 billion
13. Jim Walton
Jim Walton, the youngest of the Walton siblings, derives much of his wealth from Walmart stock. He also plays a key role in the family’s financial services business, Arvest Bank. Net Worth: $112 billion
12. Robson Walton
Robson Walton, the eldest son of Sam Walton, served as Walmart’s chairman for more than two decades. His leadership was crucial in expanding Walmart into a global retail force. Net Worth: $113 billion
11. Bill Gates
Bill Gates co-founded Microsoft, fundamentally changing the technology landscape. He now dedicates much of his fortune to philanthropy through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, addressing global health, education, and poverty. Net Worth: $107 billion
10. Amancio Ortega
Amancio Ortega established Inditex, the parent company of Zara, and revolutionized the fashion industry with the fast-fashion model. His ability to quickly respond to consumer trends drove Zara’s international success. Net Worth: $114 billion
9. Steve Ballmer
Steve Ballmer, the former CEO of Microsoft, played a critical role in expanding the company’s enterprise software offerings. Post-Microsoft, he has grown his wealth through investments and as owner of the NBA’s Los Angeles Clippers. Net Worth: $115 billion
8. Sergey Brin
Sergey Brin co-founded Google and was instrumental in building the search engine and other technologies under the Alphabet umbrella. He remains influential in areas such as artificial intelligence and cloud computing. Net Worth: $121 billion
7. Larry Page
Larry Page, Google’s co-founder, helped develop search technologies that transformed how information is accessed online. His forward-looking investments include ventures in autonomous vehicles and sustainable energy. Net Worth: $126 billion
6. Bernard Arnault
Bernard Arnault heads LVMH, the world’s largest luxury goods conglomerate, home to iconic brands like Louis Vuitton and Dior. His strategic vision has made him a dominant figure in the fashion and luxury industry. Net Worth: $145 billion
5. Warren Buffett
Warren Buffett, often called the “Oracle of Omaha,” built his fortune through Berkshire Hathaway, a diversified investment powerhouse. Known for his long-term value investing approach, he’s pledged the majority of his wealth to philanthropy. Net Worth: $162 billion
4. Larry Ellison
Larry Ellison co-founded Oracle Corporation, a leader in enterprise software and database systems. In addition to tech, his wealth is bolstered by investments in Tesla and other ventures. Net Worth: $185 billion
3. Mark Zuckerberg
Mark Zuckerberg created Facebook, now Meta, and changed how people connect globally. His focus on virtual and augmented reality positions Meta at the forefront of digital innovation. Net Worth: $205 billion
2. Jeff Bezos
Jeff Bezos launched Amazon from his garage, evolving it into a global e-commerce and tech powerhouse. His other ventures include space exploration with Blue Origin and media through The Washington Post. Net Worth: $206 billion
1. Elon Musk
Elon Musk tops the list as the world’s wealthiest individual, thanks to his leadership in companies like Tesla, SpaceX, and Neuralink. Known for pushing the boundaries of technology, Musk is reshaping industries from transportation to AI. Net Worth: $381 billion