Who Rules the Wealth Game? The Top 20 Richest People of 2024 Revealed

Elon Musk, as of 2024, boasts a staggering net worth of approximately $205.4 billion, making him the wealthiest individual globally. His wealth is primarily attributed to groundbreaking ventures in technology and innovation. Musk co-founded and leads several high-profile companies, including Tesla, SpaceX, Neuralink, and The Boring Company, which have collectively reshaped industries ranging from electric vehicles to space exploration..

Tesla and SpaceX are his crown jewels, driving his wealth and reputation. Tesla, a leader in electric vehicles, has revolutionized sustainable transportation, while SpaceX has transformed space travel, launching reusable rockets and setting its sights on Mars colonization.

Musk’s ventures extend to AI, tunneling, and energy solutions, reflecting his vision of a future shaped by technology and sustainability. Despite controversies, Musk remains a symbol of entrepreneurial ambition and innovation.

Larry Ellison, with a net worth estimated at $232 billion in 2024, stands as one of the wealthiest individuals in the world. Ellison is best known as the co-founder, executive chairman, and CTO of Oracle Corporation, a global leader in database management systems and cloud computing solutions. His journey to immense wealth stems from his innovative vision in the software industry and strategic investments across various sectors.

Oracle’s growth exploded during the 1980s and 1990s, securing its place as a tech giant. Today, Oracle generates billions annually, thanks to its cutting-edge enterprise solutions and cloud technologies.

Ellison is also a prominent investor, owning significant shares in Tesla and other ventures. His real estate portfolio, including the Hawaiian island of Lanai, showcases his lavish lifestyle. Ellison's story is a testament to relentless innovation, risk-taking, and an unyielding drive for success.

Jeff Bezos founded e-commerce giant Amazon in 1994 out of his garage in Seattle. He stepped down as CEO to become executive chairman in July 2021. He now owns a bit less than 10% of the company.

Jeff Bezos founded Blue Origin, a spaceflight company, in 2000. Shortly after, Blue Origin acquired a launch site in Texas and planned to launch the crewed suborbital spacecraft, New Shepard, in 2018 and the orbital launch vehicle, New Glenn, in 2020.

In 2013, Bezos purchased The Washington Post and its affiliated publications for $250 mn. By 2018, his net worth reached $112 bn, making him the wealthiest person globally.

Mark Zuckerberg, with a net worth of approximately $176.5 billion in 2024, is the co-founder and CEO of Meta Platforms (formerly Facebook). Born in 1984 in White Plains, New York, he displayed an early talent for programming. In 2004, while studying at Harvard University, he launched Facebook, initially a campus network, which grew into the world’s largest social media platform. Today, Meta oversees products like Instagram, WhatsApp, and Oculus, with Zuckerberg leading innovations in AI, virtual reality, and the metaverse. Known for his philanthropy, he and his wife, Priscilla Chan, pledged billions through the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative for global health and education.

Bernard Arnault heads LVMH, the luxury empire encompassing brands like Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior, and Bulgari. His leadership redefined the luxury market by balancing heritage with innovation. Arnault’s influence stretches beyond fashion, cementing him as a tastemaker in high-end goods and global luxury culture.

Larry Page, co-founder of Google, played a pivotal role in shaping the modern internet. As Alphabet’s CEO, his focus extended to AI and sustainability projects. Page's forward-thinking approach continues to impact how technology integrates into daily life.

The "Oracle of Omaha," Warren Buffett, leads Berkshire Hathaway, overseeing investments in insurance, energy, and consumer goods. Renowned for his value investing philosophy, Buffett’s approach emphasizes long-term growth and financial discipline. His charitable giving further solidifies his legacy.

Google’s co-founder Sergey Brin has been instrumental in developing its search engine and tech innovations. His focus on AI and investments in futuristic technologies ensures his ongoing influence in shaping the digital world.

Jensen Huang, the co-founder and CEO of NVIDIA, has redefined the computing and AI landscape. Born in Taiwan and raised in the U.S., Huang founded NVIDIA in 1993, steering it to become a global leader in graphics processing units (GPUs). Under his leadership, NVIDIA expanded beyond gaming into AI, data centers, and autonomous vehicles, shaping the future of technology. Huang's innovative vision, highlighted by the launch of revolutionary GPUs like the GeForce series and advancements in AI-driven technologies, has cemented his legacy as a transformative leader in tech. In 2024, his net worth surged due to NVIDIA's pivotal role in the AI boom.tfc 

Former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer now owns the Los Angeles Clippers and invests in technology startups. His business acumen continues to grow his fortune, even beyond the tech world.

Founder of Zara, Amancio Ortega revolutionized fast fashion with Inditex, bringing high-end designs to the masses. His streamlined production model reshaped the fashion industry, emphasizing affordability and accessibility.

Michael Dell, the founder and CEO of Dell Technologies, is a pioneer in the world of personal computing. Starting his journey in 1984 from his college dorm room, Dell transformed a small operation into one of the world's leading technology companies. Known for revolutionizing direct-to-consumer computer sales, he enabled affordable and customizable PCs. His visionary leadership expanded Dell Technologies into cloud computing, data storage, and IT services. As of 2024, his net worth is bolstered by Dell Technologies’ success in adapting to evolving tech demands. A philanthropist, he also supports global health and education initiatives through the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation.

Michael Bloomberg, founder of Bloomberg LP, revolutionized financial data services. His political career and philanthropy in climate change and public health underscore his multifaceted impact.

Bill Gates, Microsoft’s co-founder, remains a tech pioneer and philanthropist. Although less involved in Microsoft, his wealth supports global health, education, and sustainability initiatives through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Gates’ dedication to addressing global challenges highlights his enduring legacy.

As Walmart’s former chairman, Rob Walton's fortune stems from the world’s largest retailer. His strategic leadership expanded Walmart’s dominance in the retail sector, catering to millions globally

Jim Walton, another Walmart heir, continues the family’s legacy through retail and investments. His contributions emphasize Walmart’s role as a leader in affordable, accessible shopping.

Indian billionaire Mukesh Ambani chairs Reliance Industries, excelling in petrochemicals, telecommunications, and retail. With ventures like Jio, Ambani is revolutionizing digital connectivity in India, bridging technological gaps and empowering millions.

Alice Walton focuses on philanthropy and the arts, leveraging her Walmart fortune to support education and cultural institutions. Her dedication to social initiatives complements her financial success.

Mexican business tycoon Carlos Slim Helú dominates telecommunications in Latin America through his company América Móvil. His diversified investments span real estate, construction, and retail, cementing his status as one of the world's wealthiest.

Francoise Bettencourt Meyers, heiress to L’Oréal, oversees the world's largest cosmetics company. Her dedication to philanthropy and innovation continues to expand L’Oréal’s influence global.