The richest families in the world have amassed incredible wealth through a variety of means, including founding and building successful businesses, investing wisely, and inheriting money from previous generations.
Here is a look at the top 10 richest families in the world in 2023, according to Forbes, and how they got so wealthy:
1. Walton family ($248.5 billion): Walmart
The Walton family built Walmart into the world’s largest retailer by offering low prices and convenient shopping experiences. Sam Walton founded the company in 1962, and it has grown rapidly ever since. Walmart now operates over 11,000 stores in 27 countries.
2. Mars family ($160 billion): Mars
The Mars family founded Mars, the world’s largest confectionery company, in 1911. The company has grown to become one of the most successful food companies in the world, producing a wide range of popular products, including M&M’s, Snickers, and Twix.
3. Koch family ($128.8 billion): Koch Industries
The Koch family built Koch Industries into a conglomerate that operates in a variety of industries, including oil and gas, chemicals, and manufacturing. Fred Koch founded the company in 1940, and it has grown to become one of the largest privately held companies in the United States.
4. Al Saud family ($105 billion): Saudi Royal Family
The Al Saud family owns Saudi Aramco, the world’s largest oil company. Saudi Aramco was founded in 1933, and it has grown to become one of the most profitable companies in the world. The Al Saud family’s wealth comes from their ownership of shares in Saudi Aramco.
5. Hermès family ($94.6 billion): Hermès
The Hermès family has owned Hermès, a luxury fashion house, since 1837. Hermès is known for its high-quality handbags, scarves, and other accessories. The Hermès family’s wealth comes from their ownership of Hermès.
6. Ambani family ($84.6 billion): Reliance Industries
The Ambani family built Reliance Industries into a diversified conglomerate that operates in a variety of industries, including oil and gas, telecommunications, and retail. Dhirubhai Ambani founded the company in 1966, and it has grown to become one of the largest private companies in India.
7. Wertheimer family ($79 billion): Chanel
The Wertheimer family has owned Chanel, a luxury fashion house, since 1925. Chanel is known for its high-end fashion and fragrances. The Wertheimer family’s wealth comes from their ownership of Chanel.
8. Cargill, MacMillan family ($65.2 billion): Cargill
The Cargill, MacMillan family owns Cargill, one of the world’s largest agricultural companies. Cargill was founded in 1865, and it has grown to become a global leader in the food and agriculture industry.
9. Thomson family ($53.9 billion): Thomson Reuters
The Thomson family owns Thomson Reuters, a media and information company. Thomson Reuters was founded in 1850, and it has grown to become one of the world’s leading providers of news and information products and services.
10. Hoffmann, Oeri family ($45.1 billion): Roche
The Hoffmann, Oeri family owns Roche, a Swiss pharmaceutical company. Roche was founded in 1896, and it has grown to become one of the world’s leading pharmaceutical companies.
These families have all built their empires through hard work, dedication, and a willingness to take risks. They have also been fortunate to have the right people and the right opportunities at the right time.
It is important to note that the wealth of these families is often spread out among multiple members of the family. Additionally, the value of their businesses can fluctuate over time.
Despite these caveats, it is clear that these families are among the wealthiest in the world. They have amassed incredible wealth through a variety of means, and their stories are often fascinating.
