The world's wealthiest individuals, now numbering 15 people with net worths exceeding $100 billion each, have reached a record high, as reported by Bloomberg. Together, these individuals have a combined net worth of $2.2 trillion, marking a 13% increase this year according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index.
This growth outpaces both inflation and the broader stock market performance, collectively controlling nearly a quarter of the wealth of the world's 500 richest people. While some members of this elite group have individually reached $100 billion before, it's the first time all 15 have simultaneously maintained fortunes above this threshold.
Recent additions to this group include Francoise Bettencourt Meyers, Michael Dell, and Carlos Slim, each crossing the $100 billion mark due to various factors such as strong performance in their respective industries or market surges.
Gautam Adani also rejoined the elite group after recovering from significant losses earlier in the year, rebounding with growing global interest in Indian businesses.
Leading the list is Bernard Arnault with a net worth of $222 billion, deriving most of his wealth from LVMH, the world's largest luxury-goods company. Jeff Bezos follows with $208 billion, primarily from Amazon.com Inc., while Elon Musk ranks third with $187 billion, primarily tied to his shares in Tesla Inc.
These billionaires' continued wealth accumulation underscores the enduring impact of technology, luxury, and emerging markets on global wealth distribution, despite economic fluctuations.
