The world of wealth and affluence has always been a subject of fascination and curiosity. As of 2024, the list of the richest individuals showcases a blend of tech moguls, retail giants, and investment wizards.
Based on data from the Real-Time Billionaires List,, we delve into the lives and fortunes of the top 10 richest people in the world in 2024, exploring their journeys, businesses, and the factors contributing to their immense wealth.
1. Elon Musk
Net Worth: $215 billion
Elon Musk, the visionary entrepreneur behind Tesla, SpaceX, and the rebranded X (formerly Twitter), continues to hold the title of the world’s richest person. Born in Pretoria, South Africa, Musk’s early life was marked by challenges, including his parents’ divorce and bullying. His entrepreneurial journey began during the dot-com boom of the 1990s, leading to the founding of PayPal, which he sold to eBay for $1.5 billion.
Musk’s ventures into electric vehicles with Tesla and space exploration with SpaceX have revolutionized their respective industries. SpaceX, valued at nearly $180 billion, has quintupled its stock value in four years. Musk’s acquisition of Twitter in 2022, rebranding it as X, and his foray into artificial intelligence with xAI further illustrate his relentless pursuit of innovation. Despite controversies and a complex personal life, Musk’s influence and wealth remain unparalleled.
2. Jeff Bezos
Net Worth: $203.8 billion
According to the Real-Time Billionaires List, Jeff Bezos, the founder and chairman of Amazon, has reclaimed his position as the second-richest person in the world. Bezos started Amazon in 1994, transforming it from an online bookstore into a global e-commerce and cloud computing giant. His strategic vision and relentless focus on customer satisfaction have driven Amazon’s exponential growth.
In addition to Amazon, Bezos owns The Washington Post and Blue Origin, a space exploration company. His wealth has also been bolstered by his investments in various sectors, including real estate and technology. Despite stepping down as Amazon’s CEO in 2021, Bezos continues to play a significant role in the company’s strategic direction and innovation.
3. Bernard Arnault & Family
Net Worth: $194 billion
Bernard Arnault, the chairman and CEO of LVMH, the world’s largest luxury goods conglomerate, ranks third on the list. Under Arnault’s leadership, LVMH has grown into a global powerhouse with over 70 luxury brands, including Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior, and Tiffany & Co. Arnault’s strategic acquisitions and investments have solidified LVMH’s dominance in the luxury market.
Arnault’s journey into the luxury sector began with the acquisition of the struggling textile company Boussac Saint-Frères, which included Christian Dior. His aggressive business strategies and focus on brand prestige have earned him the nickname “The Terminator.” Beyond LVMH, Arnault’s investments in technology and real estate further contribute to his immense wealth.
4. Mark Zuckerberg
Net Worth: $173.5 billion
Mark Zuckerberg, the co-founder and CEO of Meta (formerly Facebook), ranks fourth among the world’s richest individuals. Zuckerberg launched Facebook in 2004 from his Harvard dorm room, revolutionizing social media and digital communication. Meta’s portfolio now includes Instagram, WhatsApp, and Oculus, making it a dominant force in the tech industry.
Despite facing regulatory challenges and controversies, Zuckerberg’s focus on innovation and expansion into virtual reality and the metaverse has driven Meta’s growth. His philanthropic efforts, particularly through the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, also highlight his commitment to social impact.
5. Larry Ellison
Net Worth: $162 billion
Larry Ellison, the co-founder, chairman, and CTO of Oracle Corporation, ranks fifth on the list. Ellison’s journey began in 1977 when he co-founded Oracle, a company that revolutionized database management systems. Under his leadership, Oracle has grown into a global technology giant, providing enterprise software and cloud solutions.
Larry Ellison’s net worth has been significantly boosted by Oracle’s stock performance, with the company’s shares hitting an all-time high in 2024. Beyond Oracle, Ellison’s investments in real estate, including his ownership of the Hawaiian island of Lanai, and his stake in Tesla, further contribute to his fortune.
6. Larry Page
Net Worth: $150 billion
Larry Page, the co-founder of Google, ranks sixth among the world’s richest individuals. Page, along with Sergey Brin, launched Google in 1998, transforming it into the world’s leading search engine and a tech behemoth. Alphabet, Google’s parent company, now encompasses a wide range of businesses, including YouTube, Android, and Waymo.
Page’s focus on innovation and long-term vision has driven Alphabet’s growth and diversification. His investments in futuristic technologies, such as autonomous vehicles and artificial intelligence, continue to shape the future of the tech industry.
7. Sergey Brin
Net Worth: $148 billion
Sergey Brin, the co-founder of Google, ranks seventh on the list. Brin’s contributions to Google’s development and growth have been instrumental in its success. As the president of Alphabet, Brin has overseen various innovative projects, including Google’s self-driving car initiative and its research in artificial intelligence.
Brin’s wealth is also bolstered by his investments in high-tech ventures, including a high-tech airship project. His commitment to innovation, ethics, and making a significant impact on the world underscores his approach to business and wealth creation.
8. Bill Gates
Net Worth: $128.5 billion
Bill Gates, the co-founder of Microsoft, ranks eighth among the world’s richest individuals. Gates’ journey began in 1975 when he co-founded Microsoft, leading it to become the world’s largest software company. His tenure as CEO and chairman saw the development of iconic products like Windows and Office.
Gates stepped down from Microsoft’s board in 2020 to focus on philanthropy through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. His substantial donations to global health, education, and poverty alleviation have significantly impacted his net worth. Despite this, Gates remains one of the wealthiest individuals, with investments in various companies and sectors.
9. Steve Ballmer
Net Worth: $121.2 billion
Steve Ballmer, the former CEO of Microsoft and current owner of the Los Angeles Clippers, ranks ninth on the list. Ballmer joined Microsoft in 1980 and served as CEO from 2000 to 2014, leading the company through significant growth and diversification. His leadership saw Microsoft navigate the aftermath of the dot-com crash and compete with tech giants like Google and Apple.
After retiring from Microsoft, Ballmer purchased the Los Angeles Clippers for $2 billion, a move that has significantly increased his wealth as the team’s value soared. Ballmer’s investments in technology and sports continue to contribute to his fortune.
10. Warren Buffett
Net Worth: $118 billion
Warren Buffett, the chairman and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, rounds out the top 10 richest individuals in the world. Known as the “Oracle of Omaha,” Buffett’s investment acumen and long-term value investing strategy have made him one of the most respected figures in finance. Berkshire Hathaway’s diverse portfolio includes investments in insurance, utilities, railroads, and consumer goods.
Buffett’s commitment to philanthropy is evident through his pledge to give away the majority of his wealth to charitable causes. Despite recent fluctuations in Berkshire Hathaway’s stock, Buffett’s wealth and influence in the investment world remain substantial.