A Record Year for Billionaires: Wealth Surges to Unprecedented Heights in 2024

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Disclaimer: The following information is based on data provided by Forbes and is subject to their latest updates and revisions.



The billionaire class has experienced an exceptional year, with their fortunes reaching new heights despite global challenges such as war, political unrest, and inflation. As of 2024, there are more billionaires than ever before, totaling 2,781 individuals—141 more than last year and 26 more than the previous record set in 2021. These billionaires are also richer than ever, boasting a combined net worth of $14.2 trillion, which is $2 trillion higher than in 2023 and $1.1 trillion above the previous record in 2021.

Key Highlights:

  1. Surge in Wealth: Two-thirds of the billionaires have seen their net worth increase over the past year, with only a quarter experiencing a decline. The top 20 billionaires alone added $700 billion to their collective wealth since 2023.

  2. US Dominance: The United States leads with a record 813 billionaires worth a combined $5.7 trillion. This significant increase reflects the robust performance of American entrepreneurs and businesses.

  3. Global Rankings: China remains second with 473 billionaires (including Hong Kong) worth $1.7 trillion, despite economic challenges like weak consumer spending and a real estate downturn that wiped out $300 billion in wealth. India ranks third with 200 billionaires, marking another record.

  4. Methodology: Forbes calculated net worths using stock prices and exchange rates from March 8, 2024. For daily updated net worths of all 2,781 billionaires, check out Forbes' real-time billionaires rankings.

Top 15 Richest People in the World:

  1. Bernard Arnault & Family - $233 B (France, LVMH, Fashion & Retail)
  2. Elon Musk - $195 B (United States, Tesla, SpaceX, Automotive)
  3. Jeff Bezos - $194 B (United States, Amazon, Technology)
  4. Mark Zuckerberg - $177 B (United States, Facebook, Technology)
  5. Larry Ellison - $141 B (United States, Oracle, Technology)
  6. Warren Buffett - $133 B (United States, Berkshire Hathaway, Finance & Investments)
  7. Bill Gates - $128 B (United States, Microsoft, Technology)
  8. Steve Ballmer - $121 B (United States, Microsoft, Technology)
  9. Mukesh Ambani - $116 B (India, Diversified)
  10. Larry Page - $114 B (United States, Google, Technology)
  11. Sergey Brin - $110 B (United States, Google, Technology)
  12. Michael Bloomberg - $106 B (United States, Bloomberg LP, Finance & Investments)
  13. Amancio Ortega - $103 B (Spain, Zara, Fashion & Retail)
  14. Carlos Slim Helu & Family - $102 B (Mexico, Telecom)
  15. Francoise Bettencourt Meyers & Family - $99.5 B (France, L'Oréal, Fashion & Retail)

The 2024 list showcases the resilience and growth of the world's wealthiest individuals, who continue to thrive amidst global economic fluctuations. The surge in billionaire wealth underscores the significant influence of top entrepreneurs and business leaders in shaping the global economy.

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2024 Billionaires List: Record-Breaking Wealth and Growth Amid Global Challenges

Explore the latest data on the world's billionaires as Forbes reveals an unprecedented increase in both the number and wealth of the planet's richest individuals. The 2024 list highlights 2,781 billionaires, 141 more than last year, with a combined net worth of $14.2 trillion. Discover key insights, top rankings, and the methodology behind this record-breaking year for ten-figure fortunes.

Top Billionaires in 2024: Bernard Arnault, Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and More

Find out who tops the list of the world's richest people, with Bernard Arnault & Family leading at $233 billion. Learn about the significant contributions of billionaires from the US, China, and India, and how their fortunes have soared despite global economic challenges.


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