For centuries, women have confronted gender discrimination in various aspects of life, including politics, workplace, and within their homes. However, there’s a positive shift happening as more and more women are breaking stereotypes and taking the lead in establishing their own businesses. These women are not only role models for aspiring business leaders but also symbols of empowerment. In this article, we will discover the wealthiest women billionaires of the world and explore their unique journeys that led them to their extraordinary wealth.
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Women Billionaires in the World
In a world where money talks, there exists a remarkable group of women who have amassed extraordinary fortunes. These women have not only achieved success in their careers but have also earned a place among the richest people in the world. Let us now take a look at the life of these women billionaires, exploring how they built their fortunes and the impact their wealth has on the world.
1. Francoise Bettencourt Meyers
- Net Worth:Â $80.5 billion
- Industry:Â Fashion & Retail
Francoise Bettencourt Meyers, the granddaughter of the L’Oreal founder, holds the title of the world’s wealthiest woman. Her family’s stake in L’Oreal accounts for approximately 33% of the company’s stock. Since 1997, she has been an active member of L’Oreal’s board and currently chairs the family’s holding company.
In 2017, Francoise Bettencourt Meyers inherited the title of France’s leading L’Oreal heiress after her mother, Liliane Bettencourt, the world’s richest woman at the time, passed away at the age of 94. Aside from her corporate responsibilities, she also fulfills the role of president for her family’s philanthropic foundation, which focuses on advancing French achievements in the fields of science and arts.
Notably, in a joint effort, L’Oreal and the Bettencourt Meyers family joined hands to contribute $226 million towards the restoration of Notre Dame Cathedral, following the devastating fire in April 2019. She appears as one of the women billionaires in the world.
2. Julia Koch
- Net Worth: $59 billion
- Industry:Â Various
Julia Koch and her three children received a 42% ownership share of Koch Industries following the passing of her husband, David, in August 2019, when he was 79 years old. Originally from Iowa, Julia relocated to New York City during the 1980s, where she started her career as an assistant to renowned fashion designer Adolfo. Her work brought her into contact with a range of high-profile clients, including the likes of First Lady Nancy Reagan.
The connection between Julia and David began in 1991, when they were set up on a blind date. Fate brought them together once more six months later, leading to a blossoming relationship that culminated in their marriage in 1996. Alongside her late husband, Julia demonstrated their philanthropic spirit by donating $10 million to Mount Sinai Medical Center and another $10 million to Stanford Children’s Hospital, with the aim of advancing research into food allergies. No wonder she is one of the wealthiest women billionaires in the world.
3. Alice Walton
- Net Worth: $56.7 billion
- Industry:Â Fashion & Retail
Alice Walton, the single daughter of Sam Walton, the founder of Walmart, chose a different path from her brothers, Rob and Jim. Rather than working within the Walmart empire, she dedicated her efforts to the world of art curation. In 2011, she unveiled the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in her hometown of Bentonville, Arkansas. Crystal Bridges proudly houses an impressive collection of artwork by renowned artists such as Andy Warhol, Norman Rockwell, and Mark Rothko.
Furthermore, in 2022, the holistic health institute established by Walton in Bentonville just a year prior underwent a significant transformation. It was rebranded as the Alice L. Walton School of Medicine. She comes in our list of female billionaires.
4. Jacqueline Mars
- Net Worth: $38.3 billion
- Industry: Food & Beverage
Jacqueline Mars holds approximately one-third ownership in the well-known company Mars, which specializes in candy, food, and pet care products and was initially established by her grandfather. She dedicated nearly two decades of her career to working within the company and was an active member of its board until 2016. Interestingly, her son, Stephen Badger, currently occupies a seat on Mars’ board of directors. She is counted among the wealthiest women billionaires in the world.
Beyond her involvement in the family business, Jacqueline Mars is also engaged in various other pursuits. She serves as a board member for the National Archives and has previously been associated with the board of the Washington National Opera. Her brother, John, shares a similar ownership stake of around one-third in Mars, while the remaining portion is owned by the four daughters of her late brother, Forrest Jr.
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5. Miriam Adelson
- Net Worth: $35 billion
- Industry: Gambling & Casinos
Miriam Adelson, the widow of Sheldon Adelson, who served as the CEO and chairman of the Las Vegas Sands casino company until his passing at the age of 87 in 2021, now holds the majority ownership of this gambling empire, which is publicly listed on the New York Stock Exchange. The Las Vegas Sands operates casinos in both Singapore and Macao. Originally hailing from Israel, she pursued a career in medicine, specializing in the treatment of addiction.
Notably, as prominent supporters of the Republican Party, Miriam and Sheldon Adelson contributed a substantial $180 million to Republican campaigns and political action committees in the year 2020. In February 2022, Las Vegas Sands made a significant business move by selling its assets, including the Venetian Resort and the Sands Expo and Convention Center located on the Vegas Strip, to Apollo Global and VICI Properties for a staggering $6.25 billion. She is one of the richest women in the world.
6. Rafaela Aponte-Diamant
- Net Worth: $31.2 billion
- Industry: Logistics
Rafaela Aponte-Diamant and her husband, Gianluigi, both own a 50% share in MSC, which happens to be the world’s largest shipping company. Their story began on a trip to the picturesque Italian island of Capri back in the 1960s when Gianluigi was working as a ship captain. Fast forward to 1970, and they ventured into the shipping business together, pooling resources to acquire their first vessel with the help of a $200,000 loan.
MSC doesn’t stop at just shipping; it also extends its reach into various sectors like holiday cruises through MSC Cruises, handling inland logistics with Medlog, and managing port operations via Terminal Investment Limited.
Rafaela plays a crucial role in adding a touch of elegance to MSC Cruises by overseeing the ship decoration. On the other hand, Gianluigi is the driving force as MSC’s executive chairman, guiding the company’s operations. And let’s not forget their son, Diego, who takes on the role of MSC’s president, continuing the family’s legacy in this global shipping giant. She appears as one of the women billionaires in the world.
7. Susanne Klatten
- Net Worth: $27.4 billion
- Industry:Â Automotive
Susanne Klatten is a notable figure in the business world, and she holds a significant stake in the renowned automaker, BMW, amounting to approximately 19% of the company. Her brother, Stefan Quandt, also has a substantial ownership of nearly 24% in BMW. Their mother, Johanna, was the third wife of the legendary industrialist Herbert Quandt, who played a pivotal role in guiding BMW to its leading position in the luxury automobile market.
In addition to her involvement in the automotive industry, Susanne Klatten has a background in economics and holds an MBA. She has been instrumental in the transformation of Altana AG, a company founded by her grandfather, into a highly respected player in the pharmaceutical and specialty chemicals sector on a global scale. Notably, she is the sole owner and deputy chair of Altana, which boasts an impressive annual sales figure of over $2.5 billion.
Klatten also has investments in companies like Entrust, which specializes in digital identity and data security, as well as the carbon and graphite producer, SGL Group. Her diverse portfolio reflects her entrepreneurial acumen and her commitment to various sectors in the business world. No wonder she is one of the wealthiest women billionaires in the world.
8. Gina Rinehart
- Net Worth: $27 billion
- Industry: Metals & Mining
Gina Rinehart, Australia’s wealthiest individual, amassed her fortune through the iron ore industry. As the daughter of Lang Hancock, a prominent iron ore explorer, she successfully revitalized her father’s struggling firm, Hancock Prospecting, eventually assuming the role of executive chairwoman in 1992. One of the crown jewels in the Hancock portfolio is the Roy Hill mining project, which commenced exports to Asia in 2015.
Rinehart efficiently managed to eliminate the substantial $7.2 billion debt incurred during the project. Notably, she’s also the country’s second-largest cattle producer, holding an extensive collection of properties across Australia. Beyond mining and agriculture, Rinehart has diversified her investments into rare earth minerals and the gas sector. She comes in our list of female billionaires.
9. MacKenzie Scott
- Net Worth: $24.4 billion
- Industry: Technology
MacKenzie Scott, a philanthropist and author, was formerly married to Amazon founder Jeff Bezos for 25 years. Their 2019 divorce granted her a 4% stake in the online retailer. Following their divorce, she took to Twitter to announce the terms and promptly joined the Giving Pledge in May 2019, committing to donate at least half of her wealth during her lifetime. Her website, Yield Giving, details the $14.4 billion she has generously contributed to nearly 1,600 nonprofits since 2020.
Notably, Scott adopts a “no strings attached” approach, allowing the recipient nonprofits full autonomy in utilizing the funds. She is also a former student of the acclaimed author Toni Morrison at Princeton and once worked as Morrison’s research assistant. She is counted among the wealthiest women billionaires in the world.
10. Iris Fontbona
- Net Worth: $23.1 billion
- Industry:Â Metals & Mining
Iris Fontbona inherited her late husband Andrónico Luksic’s wealth in mining and beverages when he passed away in 2005. Together with their three sons – Jean-Paul, Andrónico, and Guillermo (who sadly lost his battle with lung cancer in 2013) – she now manages their substantial business empire.
The family’s influence extends to Antofagasta Plc, a company listed on the London Stock Exchange and involved in copper mining in Chile. They also hold a significant majority stake in Quiñenco, a Chilean conglomerate publicly traded and active in various sectors like banking, beer, and manufacturing. Jean-Paul Luksic chairs Antofagasta, while Andrónico Luksic leads Quiñenco. She is one of the richest women in the world.
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11. Abigail Johnson
- Net Worth: $21.6 billion
- Industry:Â Finance & Investments
Abigail Johnson assumed the role of CEO at Fidelity Investments in 2014, succeeding her father, and later became its chairman in 2016. The roots of Fidelity trace back to her grandfather, Edward Johnson II, who founded the esteemed mutual fund company in 1946. Abigail holds an approximate 28.5% ownership stake in the firm, which, as of September 2023, oversees a staggering $4.5 trillion in discretionary assets.
Notably, she has shown a forward-looking approach by embracing cryptocurrencies. In 2018, Fidelity introduced a platform tailored for institutional investors to engage in bitcoin and ether trading. Her journey at Fidelity began with summer stints during college, and she officially joined the company as an analyst in 1988 after earning her Harvard M.B.A. She appears as one of the women billionaires in the world.
12. Savitri Jindal
- Net Worth: $17.5 billion
- Industry:Â Metals & Mining
Savitri Jindal, the chairwoman of the Jindal Group, oversees a diversified conglomerate with interests in steel, power, cement, and infrastructure. Following the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the life of her husband and the group’s founder, Om Prakash Jindal, in 2005, their sons inherited and independently manage various businesses within the group.
Sajjan Jindal, based in Mumbai, plays a pivotal role in overseeing the group’s most significant assets, notably JSW Steel. In September 2023, he made JSW Infrastructure public. Meanwhile, Naveen Jindal, the younger of the two sons, is based in Delhi and is responsible for managing Jindal Steel & Power. No wonder she is one of the wealthiest women billionaires in the world.
13. Vicky Safra
- Net Worth: $16.7 billion
- Industry:Â Finance & Investments
Vicky Safra and her four adult children inherited their wealth from her late husband, banker Joseph Safra, who passed away in December 2020. Vicky, originally from Greece, is a Swiss resident with Greek citizenship. She comes in our list of female billionaires.
The eldest son, Jacob Safra, 46, oversees Swiss bank J. Safra Sarasin, Safra National Bank of New York, and the family’s global real estate. David Safra, 37, manages Banco Safra in Brazil and the Brazilian real estate holdings of J. Safra Group. Alberto Safra, 42, founded asset manager ASA Investments and filed a lawsuit in February, alleging dilution of his Safra National Bank stake, a claim disputed by the family. Esther Safra Dayan, 44, married Carlos Dayan, a Brazilian banker’s son, and resides in Sao Paulo.
14. Renata Kellnerova
- Net Worth: $16.5 billion
- Industry:Â Finance & Investments
Renata Kellnerova, the wife of the late Petr Kellner, who was once the wealthiest individual in the Czech Republic until his tragic passing in March 2021 at the age of 56. Kellner met with a devastating helicopter accident during a heliskiing expedition in Alaska. Presently, Kellnerova, along with her four children, holds the reins of PFF Group, a colossal conglomerate boasting assets valued at $44 billion.
The group’s interests span across various sectors, including financial services, telecommunications, media, and real estate. Additionally, she assumes the role of chairperson at The Kellner Family Foundation, a charitable institution dedicated to the cause of advancing education. She is counted among the wealthiest women billionaires in the world.
15. Beate Heister
- Net Worth: $15.8 billion
- Industry:Â Fashion & Retail
Beate Heister, the heiress to the Aldi retail empire, is the daughter of Karl Albrecht Sr., who passed away in 2014 at the age of 94. Her brother, Karl Albrecht Jr., is also a billionaire. Following World War II, the Albrecht brothers, Karl Sr. and Theo Sr., assumed control of their family’s small grocery store in Essen, Germany.
In 1961, they divided their ownership: Karl Sr. took the stores in southern Germany (Aldi Sued), along with the Aldi brand rights in the U.K., Australia, and the U.S. Today, Aldi boasts over 2,000 stores across 36 U.S. states, known for their low prices and no-frills shopping. Meanwhile, Theo Sr. acquired the stores in northern Germany and the rest of Europe, and in 1971, he purchased the U.S. grocery chain Trader Joe’s. She is one of the richest women in the world.
16. Charlene de Carvalho-Heineken
- Net Worth: $14.7 billion
- Industry:Â Food & Beverage
Charlene de Carvalho-Heineken is among the world’s wealthiest women due to her ownership of a 23% stake in the renowned beer company, Heineken. Her late father, the longtime CEO Freddy Heineken, passed down this substantial share to her in 2002. The Heineken family’s involvement in the company is strong, with Charlene’s husband, Michel de Carvalho, and their children, Charles, Alexander, and Louisa Brassey, all holding positions on Heineken’s boards.
Unfortunately, Charlene’s mother, Martha Lucille Heineken-Cummins, passed away on Christmas Eve in 2020, marking a significant moment for the family and the Heineken legacy. She appears as one of the women billionaires in the world.
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17. Kwong Siu-hing
- Net Worth: $14.1 billion
- Industry:Â Real Estate
Kwong Siu-hing, the widow of Sun Hung Kai Properties co-founder Kwok Tak-seng, who passed away in 1990, took the helm as the company’s chairwoman from 2008 to 2011. This leadership transition occurred after her eldest son, Walter, was removed from the position due to a dispute with her two other sons, Thomas and Raymond. Currently, she retains her status as the largest shareholder in Sun Hung Kai. Raymond has held the role of chairman since Thomas’ imprisonment for a 5-year term in 2014 on bribery charges, though he was released in 2019. Sadly, Walter passed away in 2018. No wonder she is one of the wealthiest women billionaires in the world.
18. Diane Hendricks
- Net Worth: $13.7 billion
- Industry:Â Construction & Engineering
Diane Hendricks is the chairwoman of ABC Supply, a leading wholesale distributor of roofing, siding, and windows in the United States. Founded with her late husband, Ken, in 1982 in Beloit, Wisconsin, she has continued to lead the company since his passing in 2007. Under her leadership, ABC Supply made its largest acquisitions, purchasing Bradco in 2010 and L&W Supply in 2016. With a network of over 900 branch locations, the company achieved $18.5 billion in revenue in 2022. Notably, Hendricks has invested heavily in local economic development, revitalizing Beloit neighborhoods and attracting new businesses to the area. She comes in our list of female billionaires.
19. Laurene Powell Jobs
- Net Worth: $12 billion
- Industry:Â Technology
Laurene Powell Jobs, who inherited her wealth from her late husband, Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, is renowned for her impactful work. She founded and leads the Emerson Collective, focusing on impact investing, philanthropy, and advocacy in areas like environmental justice, healthcare, immigration, and education. In 2017, she acquired The Atlantic and invested in media outlets and nonprofit newsrooms like Axios, ProPublica, The Athletic, and the Committee to Protect Journalists.
Laurene also holds a minority stake in Monumental Sports, which owns the Wizards, Capitals, and Mystics. In 2022, she invested in the WNBA’s first capital raise. Notably, in 2021, she launched the Waverley Street Foundation, committing to donate $3 billion over a decade to address climate change and environmental justice with innovative solutions. She is counted among the wealthiest women billionaires in the world.
20. Judy Love
- Net Worth: $10.9 billion
- Industry:Â Fashion & Retail
Judy Love and her late husband Tom, who passed away in March 2023, established Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores in 1964. Nowadays, Judy and her four children are the proud owners of this truck stop and convenience store chain. Their sons, Greg and Frank, have been serving as co-CEOs since 2014. The journey began when the couple secured their first gas station in Watonga, Oklahoma, thanks to a $5,000 loan from Tom’s parents. Judy diligently managed the company’s finances and operations until 1975 when she decided to return to college. Today, Love’s boasts over 610 stores in 41 states and an estimated revenue of $26.5 billion. She is one of the richest women in the world.
21. Christy Walton
- Net Worth: $10.2 billion
- Industry:Â Fashion & Retail
Christy Walton became part of the world’s wealthiest family through her marriage to John Walton, a member of the Walmart Walton clan. Her connection to the retail giant came to her when her husband tragically passed away in a plane crash in 2005, leaving her with approximately one-sixth of his estate, while her son, Lukas Walton, inherited about one-third.
Notably, Christy played a significant role in supporting the Lincoln Project, a super-PAC that opposed former President Trump during the 2020 election by running ads in crucial swing states. She now lives a private life in the serene town of Jackson, Wyoming. She appears as one of the women billionaires in the world.
22. Wu Yajun
- Net Worth: $10.1 billion
- Industry:Â Real Estate
Wu Yajun, one of the co-founders of the Hong Kong-listed real estate developer Longfor Properties, decided to step down from her position as chairman in October 2022. She originally established the company alongside her former husband, Cai Kui, back in 1993. However, following their divorce in 2012, Cai Kui no longer maintains a role within the company. Wu, who holds an engineering degree, initially pursued a career in journalism before making her foray into the real estate industry. No wonder she is one of the wealthiest women billionaires in the world.
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23. Tanya Saade Zeenny
- Net Worth: $9.8 billion
- Industry:Â Logistics
Tanya Saade Zeenny, the daughter of the late shipping tycoon Jacques Saade, who passed away in 2018, plays a pivotal role in the family-controlled CMA CGM, one of the world’s leading shipping giants established by her father in 1978 in Marseille, France. Tanya, alongside her siblings Rodolphe Saade and Jacques Saade Jr., as well as her mother Naila, oversees the company’s operations.
In 1995, she initiated CMA CGM’s communication department and presently leads the corporate social responsibility department and the CMA CGM Foundation. The company, boasting a substantial $47 billion in revenue, operates a vast fleet of over 500 vessels, connecting 420 commercial ports in 160 nations worldwide. She comes in our list of female billionaires.
24. Marijke Mars
- Net Worth: $9.6 billion
- Industry:Â Food & Beverage
Marijke Mars, one of the four heirs to the Mars, Incorporated candy and pet food empire, inherited an estimated 8% share in the company after her father, Forrest Mars Jr., passed away in 2016. The company’s legacy traces back to their great-grandfather, Frank Mars, who founded the candy business in 1911.
Marijke Mars plays an active role on the company’s board of directors, contributing to its continued success. Mars, Incorporated is renowned for its candy brands such as Milky Way, Dove, and Skittles, as well as food products like Ben’s Original rice, and pet food brands Pedigree and Whiskas. She is counted among the wealthiest women billionaires in the world.
25. Pamela Mars
- Net Worth: $9.6 billion
- Industry:Â Food & Beverage
Pamela Mars, holding an 8% share in Mars, Inc. since her father’s 2016 passing, joined the company in 1986. Today, she serves as the Mars family representative in the pet care division. Mars, Inc., renowned for candy brands like Milky Way and Skittles, has recently expanded its presence in the pet care industry. In 2017 and 2018, the company made notable acquisitions, including VCA, AniCura, and the U.K. vet chain Linnaeus. Beyond sweets, Mars also produces Ben’s Original rice and pet food brands like Pedigree and Whiskas, diversifying their portfolio in the food and pet care sectors. She is one of the richest women in the world.
26. Valerie Mars
- Net Worth: $9.6 billion
- Industry:Â Food & Beverage
Valerie Mars and her three sisters inherited approximately an 8% share each of the renowned candy manufacturer Mars when their father, Forrest Mars Jr., passed away in 2016. This iconic company, founded by their great-grandfather Frank Mars in 1911, holds a special place in their family’s history.
Valerie’s journey with Mars began in 1992, and she has since risen to the position of Vice President of Corporate Development, while also being a member of the company’s board of directors. Mars is celebrated for its beloved candies like Milky Way, Dove, and Skittles, but it also extends its reach into products such as Ben’s Original rice and pet care items, including Pedigree and Whiskas. She appears as one of the women billionaires in the world.
27. Victoria Mars
- Net Worth: $9.6 billion
- Industry:Â Food & Beverage
Victoria Mars and her three sisters are the beneficiaries of a significant legacy, inheriting substantial 8% stakes in Mars, Incorporated, their family’s colossal candy and pet food empire, following the passing of their father, Forrest Mars Jr., in 2016. This illustrious company, boasting a robust $47 billion in sales, traces its origins back to the entrepreneurial vision of their great-grandfather, Frank Mars, who established the candy business in 1911.
Known worldwide for its delectable treats like M&Ms, Milky Way, and Skittles, Mars, Incorporated also diversifies its portfolio with offerings such as Ben’s Original rice and a range of pet foods, including Pedigree and Whiskas. No wonder she is one of the wealthiest women billionaires in the world.
28. Antonia Ax:son Johnson
- Net Worth: $9.2 billion
- Industry:Â Various
Antonia Ax:son Johnson, a fourth-generation scion, owns Axel Johnson, a diversified conglomerate founded by her great-grandfather in 1873. In 1982, she assumed leadership from her father, overseeing the privately held enterprise with interests spanning energy, real estate, industrial products, and grocery store chains.
While she handed over the chairman role to her daughter, Caroline Berg, in March 2015, Antonia maintains a significant presence on the company’s board and holds a substantial ownership stake. Notably, the conglomerate also holds a 50% share in Axfood AB, a significant player in the Scandinavian food industry. She comes in our list of female billionaires.
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29. Kirsten Rausing
- Net Worth: $8.9 billion
- Industry:Â Food & Beverage
Kirsten Rausing is a shareholder of TetraLaval, a packaging company, where she, alongside her brothers Finn and Jörn, serves on the board. Their family legacy is closely tied to Tetra Pak, the pioneering company responsible for aseptic packaging technology, which revolutionized the storage of beverages like milk and orange juice by replacing traditional glass bottles with cartons.
In 1995, Kirsten’s late father, Gad, acquired her uncle Hans’s share in TetraLaval for a staggering estimated sum of $7 billion. Additionally, Kirsten, Finn, and Jörn also hold stakes in International Flavors & Fragrances, diversifying their family’s business interests. She is counted among the wealthiest women billionaires in the world.
30. Tatyana Bakalchuk
- Net Worth: $8.8 billion
- Industry:Â Fashion & Retail
Tatyana Bakalchuk, once an English teacher and a mother of seven, embarked on her e-commerce journey with the inception of Wildberries in 2004. At the tender age of 28, she kick-started her venture from her Moscow apartment while taking maternity leave. It wasn’t long before her husband, Vladislav, an IT technician, joined her in this entrepreneurial endeavor.
In the initial stages, Tatyana focused on reselling clothing items from the well-known German retailer, Otto. Fast forward to today, Wildberries is a colossal e-commerce giant, processing an astounding seven million orders daily, with an impressive 1.5 billion total orders recorded in 2022. She is one of the richest women in the world.
31. Carrie Wong Perrodo
- Net Worth: $8.8 billion
- Industry:Â Energy
Carrie Wong Perrodo, who hails from Singapore, found herself at the helm of the global oil company Perenco following the passing of her husband Hubert Perrodo in 2006. Perenco stands as one of the most significant privately-owned oil enterprises worldwide, boasting a presence in countries such as Gabon, Peru, Vietnam, and beyond. In the Perenco dynasty, Carrie’s eldest son, Francois, takes on the role of chairman, steering the company forward. Meanwhile, her daughter Nathalie manages the family’s interests in the wine industry, with a focus on investments in the renowned Bordeaux region. She appears as one of the women billionaires in the world.
32. Ann Walton-Kroenke
- Net Worth: $8.5 billion
- Industry:Â Fashion & Retail
Ann Walton-Kroenke, the daughter of Bud Walton, played a significant role alongside her uncle Sam in transforming Walmart into a massive retail powerhouse. Following Bud’s passing in 1995, she inherited a portion of his ownership in the company. While Ann is a registered nurse by profession, she is not actively engaged with Walmart in a board or executive capacity.
Ann’s spouse, Stan Kroenke, is a billionaire with a diverse portfolio in real estate and sports. He holds ownership in prominent sports teams, including the Los Angeles Rams, Denver Nuggets, Colorado Avalanche, Colorado Rapids, and even the Arsenal Football Club in the United Kingdom. No wonder she is one of the wealthiest women billionaires in the world.
33. Blair Parry-Okeden
- Net Worth: $8.4 billion
- Industry:Â Media & Entertainment
In 2007, Blair Parry-Okeden came into possession of a significant 25% share in Cox Enterprises when her mother, Barbara Cox Anthony, sadly passed away. Cox Enterprises, a colossal corporation with billions in sales, operates in the realms of communications, automotive, and media, and is headquartered in Atlanta. One of its key assets is Cox Communications, a renowned cable TV provider.
Notably, Blair’s brother, Jim Kennedy, holds the esteemed position of chairman emeritus within the company. Cox Enterprises has a rich history, dating back to its founding by Blair’s grandfather, James M. Cox, back in 1898, starting with the acquisition of the Dayton Evening News newspaper. She comes in our list of female billionaires.
34. Zheng Shuliang
- Net Worth: $8.4 billion
- Industry:Â Metals & Mining
Zheng Shuliang is the current vice chairman of China Hongqiao Group, a major aluminum producer in China, originally founded by her late husband, Zhang Shiping. Zhang played a key role in Hongqiao’s success during China’s economic reform era under Deng Xiaoping. After Zhang’s passing in 2019, their son, Zhang Bo, became the chairman of Hongqiao, a publicly traded company in Hong Kong. Their daughter, Zhang Hongxia, serves as the chairwoman of Weiqiao Textile, another Hong Kong-listed company specializing in textiles.
The family’s legacy endures, with their children taking on key roles in these prominent enterprises. She is counted among the wealthiest women billionaires in the world.
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35. Francine von Finck
- Net Worth: $8.3 billion
- Industry:Â Finance & Investments
Francine von Finck and her four children inherited their family’s fortune from her late husband, August von Finck, who passed away at 91 in November 2021. The wealth’s origins date back to Wilhelm von Finck, August’s grandfather, who founded a business in 1870, eventually becoming Merck Finck & Co., a private bank pivotal in the creation of Loewenbraeu breweries and the rise of Munich Re and Allianz. In 1990, August sold Merck Finck and his Allianz shares to Barclays Bank. He wisely reinvested the proceeds into a diversified portfolio, securing the family’s wealth’s continued growth and preservation. She is one of the richest women in the world.
36. Yang Huiyan
- Net Worth: $8.2 billion
- Industry:Â Real Estate
Yang Huiyan is now the sole chairperson of Country Garden, a leading property development company, succeeding her father Yeung Kwok Keung, who stepped down in February 2023. She acquired a 57% stake in the company in 2007, becoming the world’s youngest female billionaire. Yang’s sister, Yang Ziying, holds a position on the board, and her husband, Chen Chong, serves as a non-executive director.
In August 2023, Country Garden faced a setback, failing to meet interest payments on two offshore bonds, contributing to turmoil in China’s real estate market. Notably, Yang Huiyan donated $826 million worth of shares from Country Garden Services to a Hong Kong charity established by her sister in the same year. She appears as one of the women billionaires in the world.
37. Marie-Hélène Habert-Dassault
- Net Worth: $8.1 billion
- Industry:Â Various
Marie-Hélène Habert-Dassault is one of Serge Dassault’s four children and inherited his wealth after his 2018 passing. She previously presided over the Supervisory Board at the family’s conglomerate, Dassault Groupe, but stepped down in 2019. She now holds the position of Director of Communication and Partnerships at the conglomerate.
Dassault Aviation, founded by her grandfather Marcel Dassault, is known for its aerospace expertise, tracing its origins to propeller manufacturing during World War I. The Dassault family boasts diverse assets, including the renowned French daily newspaper Le Figaro, vineyards, and a private aeronautic company. No wonder she is one of the wealthiest women billionaires in the world.
38. Nancy Walton Laurie
- Net Worth: $7.9 billion
- Industry:Â Fashion & Retail
Nancy Walton Laurie inherited a significant Walmart stake from her father, Bud Walton. His role, alongside Sam, in building Walmart was pivotal. After Bud’s 1995 passing, Nancy and her sister, Ann Walton Kroenke, became billionaires. Alongside their Walmart holdings, Nancy and her husband, Bill, have diverse real estate, multiple homes, and two yachts. They generously donated $10 million to the University of Memphis in 2013, where they both graduated. Nancy’s interest in dance grew during her daughter’s teens, and she served on Juilliard’s board of trustees, reflecting her passion for the arts. She comes in our list of female billionaires.
39. Marie Besnier Beauvalot
- Net Worth: $7.7 billion
- Industry:Â Food & Beverage
Marie Besnier Beauvalot, part of the dairy dynasty, holds a significant 20.7% stake in Lactalis, a renowned French dairy giant founded in 1933 in Laval, France. Her older brother, Emmanuel, serves as CEO and the principal shareholder. Lactalis, with $20 billion in sales, offers a wide range of products, including President brie, Milkmaid yogurts, and Valbreso Feta.
The Besnier family also has interests in Italy’s Parmalat and France’s Fromageries Bel, known for brands like Baby Bel, La Vache Qui Rit, and Boursin. Lactalis, Europe’s largest dairy producer, is expanding into new markets, including China and Southeast Asia. She is counted among the wealthiest women billionaires in the world.
40. Zhong Huijuan
- Net Worth: $7.6 billion
- Industry:Â Healthcare
Zhong Huijuan is the chair of Hansoh Pharmaceutical, a Chinese company specializing in diverse medications, including cancer, mental health, and diabetes treatments. Her spouse, Sun Piaoyang, heads Jiangsu Hengrui Medicine, a Shanghai Stock Exchange-listed pharmaceutical firm. Zhong, with her daughter Sun Yuan, holds over 75% of Hansoh.
Based in Lianyungang, China, the company debuted on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange in June 2019. Notably, Hansoh Pharmaceutical partnered with the Global Health Drug Discovery Institute, supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, in October 2022 to jointly develop an oral COVID-19 treatment. She is one of the richest women in the world.
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41. Wang Laichun
- Net Worth: $7.3 billion
- Industry:Â Technology
Wang Laichun is the chairperson of Luxshare Precision Industry, a prominent electronics manufacturer known for producing connectors used by companies like Apple. Prior to leading Luxshare, Wang gained valuable experience by working at Hon Hai Precision Industry, also known as Foxconn, for a decade.
In 1997, Wang decided to part ways with Foxconn and embarked on a new venture in 2004 when she joined forces with her brother, Wang Laisheng, to acquire Luxshare. Wang Laisheng currently serves as the vice chairman of the company, working alongside his sister. Wang Laichun’s dedication to her education is evident as she holds an Executive MBA (EMBA) degree from Tsinghua University in Beijing. She appears as one of the women billionaires in the world.
42. Judy Faulkner
- Net Worth: $7.1 billion
- Industry:Â Technology
In 1979, Judy Faulkner founded Epic Systems, a medical-record software company, from her Wisconsin basement. As of 2022, she remains the CEO and holds a substantial 47% ownership stake, with $4.6 billion in annual sales. Epic Systems supports medical records for over 250 million patients and serves renowned institutions like Johns Hopkins and the Mayo Clinic.
What distinguishes Epic is its commitment to developing all software internally, avoiding external funding or acquisitions. In 2015, Judy Faulkner pledged to dedicate 99% of her assets to a charitable foundation, exemplifying her journey from startup to healthcare software giant with a philanthropic vision. No wonder she is one of the wealthiest women billionaires in the world.
43. Tamara Hughes Gustavson
- Net Worth: $7.1 billion
- Industry:Â Service
Tamara Hughes Gustavson, a major shareholder of Public Storage, co-founded by her father B. Wayne Hughes in 1972, holds about 10% of the company’s shares. She’s been involved with Public Storage since 1983, serving on its board of directors since 2008. Tamara is also a board member of American Homes 4 Rent, another company her father founded, specializing in single-family rental homes.
Her philanthropic work includes the William Lawrence & Blanche Hughes Foundation, dedicated to childhood leukemia, and a decade-long stint as a USC board member, highlighting her commitment to education and her alma mater. The Gustavson family owns Spendthrift Farm, renowned for breeding ten Kentucky Derby winners. She comes in our list of female billionaires.
44. Rohiqa Cyrus Mistry
- Net Worth: $7 billion
- Industry:Â Various
Rohiqa Cyrus Mistry inherited her late husband Cyrus Mistry’s interests in the family’s business empire following his untimely passing in a car accident at 54 in September 2022, just weeks after his father’s demise in June 2022. Their most significant asset is an 18.4% share in Tata Sons, the holding company of the vast Tata conglomerate.
Cyrus previously served as chairman at Tata Sons for four years until his removal in October 2016. In his final months, he worked with his brother, Shapoor Mistry, to address the family business’s financial challenges, including selling key assets. She is counted among the wealthiest women billionaires in the world.
45. Edythe Broad
- Net Worth: $6.9 billion
- Industry:Â Various
Edythe Broad is a prominent American art collector and philanthropist who, until his passing in April 2021, shared a lifelong partnership with her husband, the billionaire businessman Eli Broad. Together, Edythe and Eli are renowned for their extensive philanthropic efforts, having established two foundations dedicated to advancing medical research, public education, and the realms of visual and performing arts.
These foundations have a rich history of contributing to various causes, marking over five decades of grant-making. Their collective commitment to making a difference in the world has resulted in the allocation of grants exceeding $4 billion, supporting initiatives that have left a lasting impact on society. She is one of the richest women in the world.
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46. Pauline MacMillan Keinath
- Net Worth: $6.9 billion
- Industry:Â Food & Beverage
Pauline MacMillan Keinath, holding an estimated 13% stake, is a major shareholder in Cargill, the world’s largest food company. Her family’s ties to Cargill date back to her great-grandfather, W.W. Cargill, who founded the business in 1865 with a single grain warehouse in Iowa. Whitney MacMillan, her late brother, was the last family member to serve as CEO, retiring in 1995. Remarkably, the Cargill family still owns about 90% of the company. In 2023, Cargill achieved remarkable sales of $177 billion, spanning various sectors such as food, agriculture, financial services, and industry. She appears as one of the women billionaires in the world.
47. Sandra Ortega Mera
- Net Worth: $6.9 billion
- Industry:Â Fashion & Retail
Sandra Ortega Mera, the daughter of Amancio Ortega, co-founder of Inditex and Zara, inherited her wealth from her late mother, Rosalia Mera, a co-founder of Inditex who passed away in 2013. She’s the second-richest individual in Spain, owning around 4.5% of Inditex, though not involved in its operations. Sandra focuses on the Fundación Paideia, a nonprofit founded by her mother, dedicated to vocational training for individuals with disabilities. She also holds a 5% stake in PharmaMar, a pharmaceutical company researching the potential of one of its cancer drugs in addressing the Covid-19 pandemic. No wonder she is one of the wealthiest women billionaires in the world.
48. Ronda Stryker
- Net Worth: $6.9 billion
- Industry:Â Healthcare
Ronda Stryker, a director at Stryker Corp, inherited 6% of the company from her parents and actively serves on the board. In 2011, she and her husband donated $100 million to establish the Homer Stryker Medical School at Western Michigan University. In 2016, they pledged $20 million to the Harvard Medical School Department of Global Health and Social Medicine to address global health disparities. In 2018, they made a historic $30 million gift to Spelman College, the largest ever from living donors. These contributions reflect their commitment to advancing medical education, promoting equitable healthcare, and empowering education for positive community change. She comes in our list of female billionaires.
49. Dannine Avara
- Net Worth: $6.8 billion
- Industry:Â Energy
Dannine Avara and her three siblings inherited Enterprise Products Partners, a major energy pipeline company founded by their late father, Dan Duncan, who was Houston’s wealthiest individual until his 2010 passing due to a brain hemorrhage. In 1968, Dan Duncan initiated the company with $10,000 and a single truck. Enterprise Products has since expanded, boasting a vast network of over 50,000 miles of pipelines for natural gas, oil, and petrochemical transportation. Notably, Randa Duncan Williams, one of Avara’s siblings, is the sole family member serving on the company’s board. She is counted among the wealthiest women billionaires in the world.
50. Denise Coates
- Net Worth: $6.8 billion
- Industry:Â Gambling & Casinos
Denise Coates is the co-CEO of Bet365, a leading online gambling company, alongside her billionaire brother, John. She began her journey in accounting but shifted to managing her family’s betting shops. She later sold these shops to Coral, recognizing the potential in online gambling. In 2000, she acquired the domain Bet365.com, and in 2001, she launched the website, creating Bet365’s online platform. Coates owns approximately half of the privately held Bet365. The company handles over $65 billion in bets annually. She is one of the richest women in the world.
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With this, we come to the end of the list of female billionaires. It highlights the remarkable achievements of women in the realm of business and entrepreneurship. Their success stories serve as an inspiration for the young generation and highlights the importance of gender diversity in all aspects of the economy and society.
Source: Forbes Billionaires 2023: The Richest People In The World
