In 2025, global wealth continues to be dominated by leaders in technology, luxury, and retail. According to the latest Forbes Billionaires List, there are 3,028 billionaires worldwide with a combined net worth of $16.1 trillion. The United States leads with 902 billionaires, followed by China, including Hong Kong, with 516, and India with 205. At the forefront are individuals who have transformed industries, driven innovation, and leveraged global markets to grow their fortunes. From Elon Musk’s dominance in electric vehicles and space technology to Mark Zuckerberg’s ventures into artificial intelligence and the metaverse, these billionaires exemplify how vision, strategy, and technological innovation can translate into extraordinary wealth.
Top 10 richest people in the world in 2025
World’s richest billionaires
Elon Musk remains the richest individual globally, with a net worth of $342 billion. His wealth is primarily driven by Tesla, SpaceX, and other ventures in energy and technology. Musk’s leadership in electric vehicles and space exploration has set him apart from other billionaires. With Tesla’s board approving a new pay package, Musk has the potential to become the first trillionaire in history if he meets the ambitious milestones in his contract. His ability to innovate in multiple industries simultaneously highlights the power of entrepreneurial vision and technological foresight in generating unprecedented wealth.Mark Zuckerberg, founder of Meta (formerly Facebook), is the second richest person with $216 billion. At 40, he continues to expand his fortune through investments in artificial intelligence and virtual reality, particularly through the metaverse. Zuckerberg’s strategic focus on emerging technologies demonstrates the importance of adapting to future trends to sustain and grow wealth.Jeff Bezos, Amazon’s founder, holds a net worth of $215 billion. His fortune is strengthened by Amazon’s global e-commerce dominance, cloud computing services via AWS, and expansion into logistics and entertainment. Bezos’ ability to scale operations internationally and diversify revenue streams ensures his continued presence among the world’s wealthiest individuals.Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison ranks fourth with $192 billion. At 80, Ellison continues to influence the software and cloud computing sectors. His ongoing focus on enterprise solutions and innovation ensures that Oracle remains a key player in the technology industry while maintaining his substantial wealth.
Bernard Arnault and family
Bernard Arnault and his family, owners of LVMH, rank fifth with $178 billion. Their portfolio includes globally renowned luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton, Dior, and Sephora. Arnault’s strategy of merging heritage with modern luxury trends allows the family to sustain a leading position in the high-end fashion and retail market.Warren Buffett, the 94-year-old investor and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, holds a net worth of $154 billion. Known as the “Oracle of Omaha,” Buffett has amassed wealth through long-term investments and value investing principles. His portfolio continues to deliver strong returns, demonstrating the enduring value of disciplined, strategic investment.Google co-founder Larry Page ranks seventh with $144 billion. His wealth has been enhanced by Google’s leadership in artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and search technologies. Page’s ongoing focus on technological innovation positions him as a key figure in shaping global digital infrastructure.Sergey Brin, also a co-founder of Google, is eighth with $138 billion. Brin remains dedicated to technological advancement, particularly in AI and new digital solutions. His work continues to have a profound influence on both the tech industry and the broader global economy.Spanish entrepreneur Amancio Ortega, founder of Zara, holds the ninth position with $124 billion. Ortega transformed the fashion industry with Zara’s fast-fashion model, making stylish apparel affordable worldwide. His business model exemplifies how operational efficiency and global scaling can generate immense wealth.Rounding out the top ten is Steve Ballmer, former Microsoft CEO, with a net worth of $118 billion. Ballmer gained his fortune from Microsoft and later from his ownership of the Los Angeles Clippers. His influence spans technology, sports, and business leadership, marking a successful transition from executive leadership to diversified investments.
