In 2024, women worldwide are continuing to shatter glass ceilings and amass remarkable fortunes, with many taking the lead in diverse sectors such as technology, retail, mining, and shipping. These women have accrued their wealth through a combination of astute business strategies, inheritance, and entrepreneurial ingenuity. Let’s explore the top 10 wealthiest women globally in 2024, as acknowledged by Forbes.
1. Francoise Bettencourt Meyers and Family – $89.5 Billion
Industry: L'Oréal
Francoise Bettencourt Meyers ranks as the richest woman in the world, boasting a fortune of $89.5 billion. She inherited her wealth from her mother, Liliane Bettencourt, and currently serves as the chairwoman of L'Oréal, the leading cosmetics company in the world. The ongoing success of L'Oréal in sectors like beauty, skincare, and haircare has helped Bettencourt Meyers retain her position at the pinnacle. Additionally, her investments in other fields further bolster her wealth.
Key Takeaway: Francoise Bettencourt Meyers illustrates the significance of family legacy and leadership in growing and preserving wealth across generations.
2. Alice Walton – $89.2 Billion
Industry: Walmart
Alice Walton, the daughter of Walmart founder Sam Walton, is the second richest woman globally, with a fortune of $89.2 billion. Unlike her brothers, who take part in the management of Walmart, Alice has pursued her passion for art and philanthropy. She established the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art and has supported various cultural initiatives. Her wealth is primarily linked to Walmart's global prosperity.
Key Takeaway: Alice Walton exemplifies how family wealth can be directed towards philanthropic and personal ventures, leaving a lasting cultural influence.
3. Julia Koch and Family – $74.2 Billion
Industry: Koch Industries
Julia Koch, along with her children, inherited a substantial stake in Koch Industries, one of the largest privately-owned firms worldwide. The company is involved in numerous sectors, including chemicals, energy, and finance. Julia's wealth has increased as Koch Industries flourishes, significantly contributing to her financial standing.
Key Takeaway: Julia Koch’s fortune underscores the potential for family-owned enterprises to generate substantial wealth, particularly in sectors like energy and chemicals.
4. Jacqueline Mars – $47.6 Billion
Industry: Mars Inc.
Jacqueline Mars, the heiress of Mars Inc., possesses a net worth of $47.6 billion. Mars Inc. is a global powerhouse in confectionery, pet care, and food products, featuring well-known brands like M&M’s, Snickers, and Pedigree. Jacqueline co-owns the enterprise with her brothers and continues to see her wealth increase as Mars Inc. leads the consumer goods market.
Key Takeaway: Jacqueline Mars' fortune illustrates how family businesses, particularly within the food and consumer goods industries, can yield significant wealth and enduring financial viability.
5. Savitri Jindal & Family – $39.9 Billion
Industry: JSW Group
Savitri Jindal, chairperson of the JSW Group—a conglomerate with interests in steel, energy, and infrastructure—has a net worth of $39.9 billion. She inherited the firm from her late husband, Om Prakash Jindal, and has guided its continued expansion. The JSW Group is a key player in India’s industrial landscape, with a focus on enhancing its global presence.
Key Takeaway: Savitri Jindal’s wealth highlights the capacity of industrial and infrastructure companies to accumulate considerable wealth across generations.
6. Rafaela Aponte-Diamant – $34.8 Billion
Industry: Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) Group
Rafaela Aponte-Diamant holds a significant position in the shipping sector, having inherited a considerable fortune from her union with Gianluigi Aponte, who established Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC). MSC ranks as the world's second-largest container shipping line, and Rafaela's wealth is intricately linked to the company's worldwide growth. Additionally, her fortune is bolstered by various investments and business ventures, contributing to her impressive financial achievements.
Key Takeaway: Rafaela Aponte-Diamant’s wealth exemplifies how successful family-operated businesses in global industries, such as shipping, can create substantial long-term wealth.
7. MacKenzie Scott – $33.3 Billion
Industry: Amazon
MacKenzie Scott gained international attention when she became one of the richest women globally following her divorce from Amazon founder Jeff Bezos. As of 2024, her net worth is estimated at $33.3 billion. Scott has evolved into a well-known philanthropist, having donated billions to various charitable initiatives. She actively supports different sectors, including education, racial equity, and environmental issues.
Key Takeaway: MacKenzie Scott’s wealth and charitable contributions demonstrate the profound impact that can arise from both wealth accumulation and philanthropy.
8. Gina Rinehart – $31.5 Billion
Industry: Hancock Prospecting
Gina Rinehart is recognized as Australia’s wealthiest woman, possessing a fortune of $31.5 billion. She inherited Hancock Prospecting, a family-owned mining enterprise, from her father, Lang Hancock. The company’s strong presence in iron ore mining has significantly contributed to Rinehart’s wealth. Her fortune continues to rise in tandem with the increasing global demand for natural resources, reinforcing her status among the world's richest women.
Key Takeaway: Gina Rinehart’s achievements underscore how sectors like mining and natural resources can create significant wealth, especially amidst surging global demand.
9. Abigail Johnson – $31.3 Billion
Industry: Fidelity Investments
Abigail Johnson serves as the CEO of Fidelity Investments, a prominent global financial services organization. She inherited her wealth from her father, Edward Johnson II, and has successfully guided the firm to rank among the largest in the financial industry. Under her direction, Fidelity has broadened its services in areas such as retirement planning, brokerage options, and digital assets, further enhancing her substantial fortune.
Key Takeaway: Abigail Johnson’s influence in the financial services sector highlights the importance of sound financial management and investments in building enduring wealth.
10. Miriam Adelson & Family – $30.6 Billion
Industry: Las Vegas Sands
Miriam Adelson acquired a significant share of Las Vegas Sands, the well-known luxury resort and casino corporation, following her husband Sheldon Adelson's passing. The company oversees some of the most iconic resorts and casinos globally, located in places such as Las Vegas, Macau, and Singapore. Miriam’s wealth continues to increase as the company retains its status as a leader in the hospitality and gaming industries.
Key Takeaway: Miriam Adelson’s wealth illustrates how the luxury and entertainment sectors can facilitate considerable wealth, especially with successful, globally recognized brands.
Conclusion: Women Influencing the Future of Wealth
These ten women showcase the various pathways through which wealth is created and sustained across different industries. Be it through inheritance, business acumen, or philanthropic efforts, each has left a significant impact. They not only possess enormous fortunes but are also shaping the future landscape of business and society, demonstrating that women are progressively breaking barriers in industries traditionally dominated by men.
As the world advances, the accomplishments of these women and others like them will certainly motivate future generations
