As of 2024, the world’s wealthiest women have amassed significant fortunes through inheritance, business ventures, and investments. Collectively, their net worth exceeds $1.8 trillion, reflecting a substantial increase from the previous year. Here is an overview of the top 10 richest women in the world in 2024:
11. Francoise Bettencourt Meyers and Family

- Net Worth: $99.5 billion
- Business: Francoise Bettencourt Meyers is the largest shareholder of L’Oréal, the world’s biggest cosmetics company, with brands like Maybelline, Garnier, and Lancôme. L’Oréal is renowned for innovation in beauty products, and Francoise plays a key role in strategic decision-making through her family’s holding company.
- Lifestyle: Based in Paris, Francoise lives a relatively private life. A devout Catholic, she spends her time writing and supporting cultural and scientific endeavors. Her family foundation also supports education and climate change initiatives.
2. Alice Walton

- Net Worth: $89.2 billion
- Business: Alice Walton’s wealth stems from Walmart, the world’s largest retailer with revenues exceeding $600 billion annually. She has a substantial stake in the company but does not take part in its day-to-day operations.
- Lifestyle: Alice lives in Texas and is deeply invested in the arts. Her Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is home to an extensive collection of American masterpieces. She also supports initiatives that aim to improve public education and health care systems in the U.S.
3. Julia Koch and Family

- Net Worth: $74.2 billion
- Business: Julia Koch inherited her wealth through Koch Industries, the second-largest privately held company in the U.S., with interests in manufacturing, energy, and chemicals. The company has also invested in tech startups and renewable energy solutions.
- Lifestyle: Julia resides in New York City and is known for her philanthropic work, particularly in medical research and education. She is actively involved in high-society events and sits on the board of numerous nonprofit organizations.
4. Jacqueline Mars

- Net Worth: $47.6 billion
- Business: Jacqueline Mars owns an estimated one-third of Mars Inc., a leader in confectionery, pet care, and food products. The company’s iconic brands include M&M’s, Snickers, Pedigree, and Uncle Ben’s.
- Lifestyle: Jacqueline is an avid equestrian and philanthropist. She splits her time between Virginia and her various international properties. Her philanthropic work focuses on wildlife conservation, education, and the arts.
5. Savitri Jindal and Family

- Net Worth: $39.9 billion
- Business: As the chairperson emerita of the O.P. Jindal Group, Savitri oversees operations in steel, power, cement, and infrastructure. The group is a key player in India’s industrial growth, with significant global exports.
- Lifestyle: Residing in Haryana, India, Savitri leads a modest life compared to her wealth. She is active in politics and often contributes to community development projects, particularly in education and healthcare for underprivileged communities.
6. Rafaela Aponte-Diamant

- Net Worth: $34.8 billion
- Business: Rafaela co-founded the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), which is the world’s largest container shipping company by capacity. MSC has diversified into luxury cruise lines, operating a fleet of high-end ships.
- Lifestyle: Rafaela splits her time between Switzerland and her yacht. Known for her love of design, she personally oversees the interiors of MSC’s luxury cruise ships. She also supports maritime education and training programs globally.
7. MacKenzie Scott

- Net Worth: $33.3 billion
- Business: MacKenzie Scott’s wealth comes from her divorce settlement with Jeff Bezos, which included 4% of Amazon’s stock. While not directly involved in Amazon, her investments have continued to grow alongside the company’s success.
- Lifestyle: MacKenzie is devoted to philanthropy, having donated over $14 billion to causes such as public education, racial equality, and public health. She lives a low-profile life in Seattle and focuses on writing and charity.
8. Gina Rinehart

- Net Worth: $31.5 billion
- Business: Gina Rinehart is the executive chairperson of Hancock Prospecting, a mining and agriculture powerhouse in Australia. The company is a leading exporter of iron ore and is heavily invested in cattle farming.
- Lifestyle: Gina resides in Perth, Australia, and is known for her outspoken views on politics and business. She enjoys a private life but occasionally makes headlines for her opulent parties and global travels.
9. Abigail Johnson

- Net Worth: $31.3 billion
- Business: Abigail Johnson is the CEO of Fidelity Investments, one of the largest financial services firms, with over $4.5 trillion in managed assets. Under her leadership, the company has embraced blockchain and other advanced technologies.
- Lifestyle: Abigail lives in Boston and is known for her focus on innovation in finance. She is a fitness enthusiast and often participates in marathons. Abigail also supports financial literacy programs globally.
10. Miriam Adelson and Family

- Net Worth: $29.8 billion
- Business: Miriam Adelson inherited her wealth through Las Vegas Sands, a global leader in casino resorts. The company’s properties include Marina Bay Sands in Singapore and The Venetian in Las Vegas.
- Lifestyle: Miriam splits her time between Las Vegas and Israel. A physician by profession, she supports medical research and Jewish causes through her foundation. She is a key figure in philanthropic circles and frequently hosts high-profile charity events.
The world’s richest women in 2024 showcase a blend of entrepreneurial spirit, strategic investments, and philanthropy. They have not only built or managed empires but also influenced industries ranging from technology and finance to cosmetics and mining. Their lifestyles reflect their values, balancing luxury with a strong commitment to making the world a better place.