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Forbes, the prestigious United States business magazine, has unveiled its latest list of the richest female billionaires for 2024. This year, women represent 13.3% of the total billionaire population, a slight increase from the previous year’s 12.8%.
The top richest women collectively possess an astounding net worth of nearly $1.8 trillion, reflecting a substantial growth of $240 billion from last year. Here, we present a closer look at these remarkable women who have made their mark in various industries, from cosmetics and retail to technology and mining.
Françoise Bettencourt Meyers
Françoise Bettencourt Meyers, the 70-year-old French businesswoman and philanthropist, retains her position as the world’s richest woman for the fourth consecutive year. With a staggering net worth of $99.5 billion, her wealth primarily stems from her nearly 35% stake in L’Oréal, the cosmetics giant founded by her grandfather. Bettencourt Meyers’ fortune is a testament to the enduring legacy of L’Oréal, which boasts annual revenues of $45 billion and iconic brands like Maybelline and Lancôme.
Alice Walton
Alice Walton, the 74-year-old heiress of Walmart, ranks as the second richest woman with a net worth of $72.3 billion. Unlike her siblings, Walton focused on art rather than the family business, establishing the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Arkansas. Her wealth has surged by $15.6 billion over the past year, thanks to a 34% increase in Walmart’s share price.
Julia Koch
With a fortune of $64.3 billion, Julia Koch, the widow of David Koch, is the third richest woman. She and her children inherited a 42% stake in Koch Industries, a conglomerate with interests ranging from oil refining to paper towels. Koch’s philanthropic efforts include her role as a trustee of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Jacqueline Mars
Jacqueline Mars, the 84-year-old heir of Mars Inc., is worth $38.5 billion, making her the fourth richest woman. Mars Inc. is a global leader in candy and pet food, with popular brands like M&Ms and Pedigree. Jacqueline shares ownership of the company with her family and continues to uphold her grandfather’s legacy.
MacKenzie Scott
MacKenzie Scott, the 53-year-old ex-wife of Jeff Bezos, is the fifth richest woman with a net worth of $35.6 billion. After her divorce, she pledged to donate most of her wealth, which includes a 4% stake in Amazon. Scott’s generosity has been evident in her recent $640 million donation to 361 organizations.
Savitri Jindal
Savitri Jindal, the 74-year-old chair of Jindal Group, is the sixth richest woman with a net worth of $33.5 billion. Following her husband’s death, she and her sons have successfully expanded the group’s interests in steel, power, and cement. Jindal’s fortune has risen significantly, propelling her up the Forbes list.
Rafaela Aponte-Diamant
With a fortune of $33.1 billion, Rafaela Aponte-Diamant, the 79-year-old co-founder of MSC, is the seventh richest woman. She and her husband started the world’s largest shipping line with a modest loan, and she now plays a key role in the company’s cruise operations.
Miriam Adelson
Miriam Adelson, the 78-year-old casino magnate, ranks eighth with a net worth of $32 billion. She inherited a majority stake in Las Vegas Sands from her late husband, Sheldon Adelson. A medical doctor by training, Adelson has donated over $1 billion to medical research.
Gina Rinehart
Gina Rinehart, the 70-year-old chair of Hancock Prospecting Group, is the ninth richest woman with a net worth of $30.8 billion. Inheriting the company from her father, Rinehart has expanded its mining and agriculture operations, maintaining her status as Australia’s wealthiest individual.
Abigail Johnson
Abigail Johnson, the 62-year-old CEO of Fidelity Investments, rounds out the top 10 with a net worth of $29 billion. Under her leadership, Fidelity has continued to thrive, managing assets worth $4.9 trillion. Johnson’s stake in the company, founded by her grandfather, has solidified her position among the richest women.
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