There are 2,781 billionaires in the world representing almost $14.2 trillion in wealth, according to SpoilaMag‘s data collected through Forbes, ResearchGate, and various other authentic sources. These are 141 more billionaires compared to 2023 and 26 more than the prior high reached in 2021. The ultra-wealthy have amassed even greater wealth – $2 trillion more than a year ago and $1.1 trillion above the previous record, also established in 2021.
The majority of the profits originate from the upper 20 percent, who have collectively accumulated $700 billion more in wealth since 2023, with the United States currently hosting a remarkable 813 billionaires worth a total of $5.7 trillion. China maintains its position as the second wealthiest, boasting 473 billionaires (including Hong Kong) with a combined wealth of $1.7 trillion, despite sluggish consumer spending and a collapse in real estate that eroded around $300 billion in wealth. India, with 200 billionaires (also a record), secures the third spot. Net worth calculations were based on stock prices and exchange rates as of March 8, 2024.
While all these wealth statistics are intriguing, there are certain facts about world’s top billionaires that very few know about. This post focuses on that particularly.
1. Bernard Arnault
- Transformed a modest construction enterprise into the foremost luxury conglomerate globally, boasting ownership of numerous renowned labels such as Louis Vuitton and Sephora.
- A passionate art collector and has contributed to making Paris a world hub for contemporary art.
Early Start: Prior to LVMH, Bernard Arnault assumed control of his family’s construction firm at a young age, expanding it considerably. This experience was instrumental when he later acquired and grew luxury brands.
Altruism: Bernard Arnault’s philanthropic endeavors, often overlooked due to his wealth, include substantial contributions to arts and culture, notably restoring Notre Dame Cathedral.
2. Elon Musk
- Famous for his lofty aspirations in space exploration and eco-friendly transport. His enterprises, Tesla and SpaceX, focus on electric vehicles, solar power, and Mars-bound rockets.
- An active tweeter with significant sway on social media and within tech circles.
From Physics to Business: Musk studied both physics and economics, earning degrees in each field. This distinctive mix influences his business and innovation strategies, frequently centering on scientific and technological problems.
Tunneling Vision: Aside from SpaceX rockets, Musk is also responsible for The Boring Company, which plans to develop underground tunnel systems for transit. This forward-thinking approach to solving traffic issues is yet another instance of his lofty aspirations.
3. Jeff Bezos
- Launched Amazon from his garage, transforming it into a massive retail and tech powerhouse that revolutionized shopping.
- He’s an ardent supporter of furthering space exploration, primarily via his company Blue Origin.
Media Mogul: Besides Amazon, Jeff Bezos owns The Washington Post, providing him a significant channel to extend his influence beyond just retail and technology.
4. Mark Zuckerberg
- Played a key role in the establishment of Facebook, a widely-used social networking service globally.
- Emerged as a significant player in conversations concerning privacy, online material, and the influence of social networks.
The Metaverse: Mark Zuckerberg has great faith in the metaverse’s possibilities, envisioning a digital realm for socializing and productivity. Meta Platforms, previously known as Facebook, is making significant investments in advancing this concept, but its ultimate impact is yet to unfold.
AI Focus: Mark Zuckerberg’s interests extend beyond social media to encompass artificial intelligence and its advantageous potential. Meta Platforms actively engages in AI exploration, aiming to enhance its offerings through AI-driven advancements.
5. Bill Gates
- Founded Microsoft with his friend Paul Allen in 1975.
- Bill Gates exited Microsoft to prioritize philanthropy alongside Melinda through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, addressing global health, poverty, and disease.
Tech Philanthropy: Bill Gates prioritizes global health via his foundation but stays active in tech philanthropy. His foundation backs tech-driven initiatives aiding developing countries.
6. Larry Page
- Partnered with Sergey Brin to establish Google renowned for its search engine and plethora of online offerings.
- Transitioned away from daily operational responsibilities at Google while maintaining engagement with Alphabet, the company’s overarching entity.
Flying Cars: Although no longer actively engaged in the project, Larry Page previously provided financial support to a company developing electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft named Kitty Hawk, highlighting his inclination towards ambitious endeavors and groundbreaking innovation extending beyond internet search platforms.
7. Sergey Brin
- Played a pivotal role in establishing Google alongside Larry Page.
- Recognized for his passion for advancements in technology and his dedication to charitable endeavors, notably within the realms of healthcare and learning.
Burning Man: Sergey Brin frequently joins in the festivities at Burning Man, an annual gathering centered around creativity, individuality, and self sufficiency.
8. Steve Ballmer
- Led Microsoft as CEO for an extensive tenure, fostering substantial company expansion.
- Currently holds ownership of the basketball team based in Los Angeles, known as the Clippers.
Acquisitions and Initiatives:
- In 2011, Ballmer orchestrated the $8.5 billion purchase of Skype, marking Microsoft’s largest acquisition ever.
- He ventured into the search engine market by launching Bing and secured a search collaboration agreement with Yahoo!.
9. Warren Buffett
- Has achieved unparalleled success in the realm of investment.
- Famed for value-based investing and grounded perspectives on business, he’s a luminary in the investment field.
Frugal Billionaire: Renowned for value investing and pragmatic business views, he’s a prominent figure in investment circles, valued for his grounded approach.
10. Larry Ellison
- Established Oracle, a prominent provider of database software solutions.
Sailing Champion: Larry Ellison’s enthusiasm extends to sailing, where he’s achieved victories in esteemed competitions. Additionally, he possesses Oracle Team USA, a participant in the renowned America’s Cup yacht race.
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