The world’s wealthiest families in 2024 showcase an extraordinary range of industries, from luxury goods and retail to energy and technology. These families have built vast empires, often spanning generations, through innovation, strategic investments, and maintaining control over their enterprises.
Top 20 Richest Families in the World, 2024
From the Walton family whose $347 billion fortune comes from Walmart, to the Al Nahyan family, who are worth $305 billion, the below are the 20 richest families in the world.
1. Walton Family
Net worth: $347 Billion
Source of wealth: Walmart
The Walton family remains the wealthiest family in the world, with a fortune rooted in Walmart, the largest retail chain globally. Founded by Sam Walton in 1962, Walmart revolutionized retail by offering low prices on a wide range of products. Today, Walmart operates in over two dozen countries with thousands of stores. Family members like Rob, Jim, and Alice Walton continue to oversee the business, ensuring its dominance in the retail sector. Beyond Walmart, the Waltons are heavily involved in philanthropy through the Walton Family Foundation, which funds initiatives in education, conservation, and economic mobility.
2. Al Nahyan Family
Net worth: $305 Billion
Source of wealth: Oil and global investments
The Al Nahyan family, rulers of Abu Dhabi, have built their immense wealth from the UAE’s oil reserves, which account for a significant portion of global energy exports. However, under the leadership of Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the family has diversified its portfolio with strategic investments in international real estate, technology, and renewable energy. The family’s influence extends beyond business; they are key political and cultural leaders in the Gulf region, promoting Abu Dhabi as a hub for innovation and diplomacy.
3. Arnault Family
Net worth: $191.8 Billion
Source of wealth: Luxury Goods
The Arnault family commands the world of luxury goods through LVMH, the largest luxury conglomerate, owning prestigious brands like Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior, and Dom Pérignon. Bernard Arnault, the patriarch, has meticulously grown the company through strategic acquisitions, transforming it into a global powerhouse. His children are actively involved in various roles within LVMH, ensuring the family’s legacy continues.
4. Hermès Family
Net worth: $151 Billion
Source of wealth: Luxury Goods
The Hermès family has maintained a firm grip on their iconic brand, which was founded in 1837 by Thierry Hermès. Known for its leather goods, scarves, and perfumes, Hermès has remained synonymous with luxury and exclusivity. Unlike many luxury brands, Hermès is privately held, ensuring that the family retains control. This strategy has allowed them to focus on quality and tradition rather than mass production, making Hermès one of the most respected names in fashion and accessories.
5. Koch Family
Net worth: $144 Billion
Source of wealth: Koch Industries
The Koch family fortune stems from Koch Industries, one of the largest privately-owned companies in the U.S. Initially an oil refining business, Koch Industries has expanded into chemicals, manufacturing, and even electronics. Charles Koch, the CEO, is a staunch advocate for free-market policies, which have shaped the company’s growth.
6. Al Thani Family
Net worth: $133 Billion
Source of wealth: Natural gas and investments
The Al Thani family, rulers of Qatar, have amassed extraordinary wealth thanks to the country’s natural gas reserves, which are among the largest in the world. Under their leadership, Qatar has diversified into areas like global sports (hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup), and real estate (notable investments in London and New York).
7. Mars Family
Net worth: $120 Billion
Source of wealth: Confectionery and pet care
The Mars family’s wealth is rooted in Mars, Inc., the maker of beloved candies like Snickers and M&M’s. The company, founded in 1911, has grown into a global powerhouse that also dominates the pet care industry with brands like Pedigree and Whiskas. Despite its size, Mars remains a private, family-owned company, allowing the Mars family to maintain control over operations and decisions.
8. Ambani Family
Net worth: $116 Billion
Source of wealth: Reliance Industries
The Ambani family, led by Mukesh Ambani, is the wealthiest person in Asia. Reliance Industries, originally focused on textiles, has diversified into oil refining, telecommunications (through Jio), and retail, making it one of India’s most influential companies. The Ambanis are known for their lavish lifestyle, including their residence, Antilia, the house is the second most expensive in the world after Buckingham Palace.
9. Al Saud Royal Family
Net worth: $112 Billion
Source of wealth: Oil and investments
The Al Saud family’s wealth is deeply tied to Saudi Arabia’s vast oil reserves, controlled through the state-owned company Saudi Aramco. The family, led by King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, is also investing in diversifying the economy through initiatives like Vision 2030. These include major projects in tourism, technology, and renewable energy, designed to reduce the nation’s dependence on oil.
10. Helu Family
Net worth: $90 Billion
Source of wealth: Telecommunications
Carlos Slim Helu, often called the “Warren Buffett of Mexico,” leads the Helu family. Their wealth is derived primarily from América Móvil, Latin America’s largest telecommunications company. The family also has interests in construction, mining, and financial services. Known for their strategic investments, the Helus have played a key role in shaping the economic landscape of Mexico and beyond.
11. Bettencourt Meyers Family
Net worth: $89 Billion
Source of wealth: L’Oréal
As the heirs to L’Oréal, the world’s largest cosmetics company, the Bettencourt Meyers family has redefined the beauty industry. Françoise Bettencourt Meyers, the matriarch, is actively involved in expanding the brand’s global presence, focusing on innovation and sustainability. With a vast portfolio of beauty and skincare brands like Lancôme, Garnier, and Maybelline, the family has maintained their dominance in the sector.
12. Wertheimer Family
Net worth: $81 Billion
Source of wealth: Chanel
The Wertheimer family owns Chanel, one of the most iconic luxury brands in the world. Founded in 1910 by Coco Chanel, the brand is now under the careful stewardship of Alain and Gérard Wertheimer. Known for timeless products like Chanel No. 5 perfume and classic handbags, the brand thrives on its exclusivity and craftsmanship. The Wertheimer brothers have kept Chanel private, ensuring that the brand remains focused on its rich heritage while embracing modern fashion trends.
13. Thomson Family
Net worth: $70 Billion
Source of wealth: Media
The Thomson family, led by David Thomson, controls Thomson Reuters, a global leader in information services and financial data. With roots tracing back to the founding of The Globe and Mail, the family’s influence spans journalism, financial analytics, and intellectual property. In 2018, Thomson Reuters announced it was selling a controlling stake in Refinitiv, a financial data provider, to Blackstone for $17 billion.
14. Cargill-MacMillan Family
Net worth: $60 Billion
Source of wealth: Cargill Inc.
The Cargill-MacMillan family’s wealth comes from Cargill, the largest privately-owned company in the U.S. Founded in 1865, the company plays a critical role in global agriculture, commodities trading, and food production. According to Forbes, 21 of the family members are billionaires.
15. Hartono Family
Net worth: $53.3 Billion
Source of wealth: Conglomerate
The Hartono family, Indonesia’s wealthiest family, built their empire through Djarum, a leading producer of clove cigarettes. Their business acumen extended to banking, where they hold significant stakes in Bank Central Asia (BCA), one of the largest banks in Southeast Asia.
16. Johnson Family
Net worth: $52.7 Billion
Source of wealth: Fidelity Investments
The Johnson family’s fortune originates from Fidelity Investments, one of the largest asset management companies globally. Under Abigail Johnson’s leadership, Fidelity has embraced innovation, including digital tools and cryptocurrency investments.
17. Boehringer, Von Baumbach Family
Net worth: $51.3 Billion
Source of wealth: Pharmaceuticals
The Boehringer and Von Baumbach families are the driving forces behind Boehringer Ingelheim, a global leader in pharmaceuticals. With a focus on developing treatments for chronic illnesses and animal health, the company has maintained steady growth.
18. Quandt Family
Net worth: $47.3 Billion
Source of wealth: BMW
The Quandt family is synonymous with BMW, one of the world’s most prestigious automotive brands. Their influence extends beyond luxury vehicles into advancements in electric mobility and sustainable transportation.
19. Albrecht Family
Net worth: $46.7 Billion
Source of wealth: Aldi (Retail)
The Albrecht family founded Aldi, a discount supermarket chain that transformed global grocery shopping. Known for its no-frills approach and low prices, Aldi operates thousands of stores worldwide.
20. Hoffmann-Oeri Family
Net worth: $45 Billion
Source of wealth: Roche (Pharmaceuticals)
The Hoffmann-Oeri family controls Roche, a leading pharmaceutical and diagnostics company based in Switzerland. With groundbreaking work in personalized medicine and cancer treatment, Roche has become a global healthcare leader.
Last Updated: November 2024
