The richest people in the world are not just wealthy—they are the architects of modern industries and digital revolutions. From technological innovation to retail empires, these billionaires have changed the way we live, work, and connect. Here’s an in-depth look at the top 10 wealthiest individuals as of 2025 and how they amassed their extraordinary fortunes.
1. Elon Musk – $342 Billion
Age: 53
Country: United States
Industry: Automotive, Space, AI
Elon Musk leads the list with a staggering net worth of $342 billion. He is the mastermind behind Tesla, which revolutionized electric vehicles, and SpaceX, a private space exploration company. In addition, Musk’s latest venture, xAI, is making waves in the artificial intelligence space. His relentless innovation and risk-taking mentality have consistently pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in science and technology.
2. Mark Zuckerberg – $216 Billion
Age: 40
Country: United States
Industry: Technology
Mark Zuckerberg launched Facebook in his college dorm at Harvard in 2004. What began as a student directory has grown into a global tech empire under Meta Platforms, encompassing Instagram, WhatsApp, and virtual reality projects. His early vision and continued investment in digital connectivity have cemented his place among the richest people in the world.
3. Jeff Bezos – $215 Billion
Age: 61
Country: United States
Industry: Technology
Jeff Bezos turned a simple idea—selling books online—into one of the world’s largest e-commerce platforms, Amazon. Founded in 1994 in his Seattle garage, Amazon now spans logistics, cloud computing, entertainment, and AI. Bezos has also ventured into space with Blue Origin, proving his wealth is as dynamic as his ambitions.
4. Larry Ellison – $192 Billion
Age: 80
Country: United States
Industry: Technology
A pioneer in enterprise software, Larry Ellison co-founded Oracle Corporation and still serves as its chairman and CTO. Owning around 40% of Oracle, Ellison’s fortune also includes investments in health tech and a strong presence in real estate and aviation.
5. Bernard Arnault & Family – $178 Billion
Age: 76
Country: France
Industry: Fashion & Retail
Bernard Arnault is the face behind the luxurious LVMH empire, comprising over 75 brands including Louis Vuitton, Dior, and Sephora. His ability to blend innovation with tradition in the fashion industry has made him Europe’s wealthiest individual.
6. Warren Buffett – $154 Billion
Age: 94
Country: United States
Industry: Finance & Investments
Often referred to as the “Oracle of Omaha,” Warren Buffett built his fortune through value investing. As CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, he turned modest investments into billions. His approach to long-term wealth creation and financial prudence is studied by investors worldwide.
7. Larry Page – $144 Billion
Age: 52
Country: United States
Industry: Technology
Larry Page, cofounder of Google, has remained a significant force in the tech world even after stepping down as CEO of Alphabet in 2019. His investments in innovation, autonomous vehicles, and AI continue to grow his fortune and global influence.
8. Sergey Brin – $138 Billion
Age: 51
Country: United States
Industry: Technology
Sergey Brin, Page’s Google cofounder, also stepped down from his executive role but remains a key shareholder and board member of Alphabet. His interest in futuristic technologies, including space and health tech, underscores his lasting impact on the tech landscape.
9. Amancio Ortega – $124 Billion
Age: 89
Country: Spain
Industry: Fashion & Retail
Amancio Ortega is the force behind Inditext, the parent company of Zara, one of the most recognized fast-fashion brands globally. Starting from humble beginnings, Ortega built an efficient retail empire that thrives on rapid inventory turnover and global reach.
10. Steve Ballmer – $118 Billion
Age: 69
Country: United States
Industry: Technology
Steve Ballmer served as Microsoft’s CEO from 2000 to 2014, overseeing substantial growth in enterprise services. After retiring, he became a major investor and philanthropist. His continued stake in Microsoft and the booming tech sector keeps him firmly among the richest people in the world.
These billionaires have not only created vast fortunes but have also transformed the global economy. The richest people in the world are a mix of relentless innovators, strategic investors, and business moguls who have used their vision and timing to build enduring legacies.
