As of February 2025, Forbes’ Real-Time Billionaires List provides the most up-to-date rankings of the world’s wealthiest individuals. This dynamic list reflects the daily fluctuations in net worth due to market changes, business activities, and economic factors. Here, we delve into the top rankings and profiles of the world’s richest people as they stand today.
1. Bernard Arnault & Family
Bernard Arnault, the chairman and CEO of LVMH Moët Hennessy – Louis Vuitton SE, continues to hold the top position with an estimated net worth of $233 billion. Under his leadership, LVMH has solidified its status as the world’s leading luxury goods conglomerate, encompassing brands like Louis Vuitton, Dior, and Moët & Chandon. Arnault’s strategic acquisitions and expansion into emerging markets have been pivotal in his wealth accumulation.
2. Elon Musk
Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, maintains his position as the world’s second-richest individual with a net worth of $195 billion. Tesla’s advancements in electric vehicles and energy solutions, coupled with SpaceX’s achievements in space exploration, have significantly contributed to Musk’s fortune. His ventures into artificial intelligence and renewable energy continue to influence various industries.
3. Mark Zuckerberg
In January 2025, Mark Zuckerberg, co-founder and CEO of Meta Platforms (formerly Facebook), ascended to the third position, surpassing Oracle’s Larry Ellison. Zuckerberg’s net worth has seen substantial growth, reaching $177 billion, driven by Meta’s innovations in virtual reality and the metaverse. These developments have opened new avenues for digital interaction and commerce.
4. Jeff Bezos
Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon, holds the fourth spot with a net worth of $194 billion. Although he stepped down as CEO in 2021, Bezos remains actively involved in Amazon’s strategic initiatives and his other ventures, including Blue Origin and The Washington Post. Amazon’s continued dominance in e-commerce and cloud computing underpins his substantial wealth.
5. Larry Ellison
Larry Ellison, co-founder and chairman of Oracle Corporation, ranks fifth with a net worth of $133 billion. Oracle’s advancements in cloud technology and enterprise solutions have been instrumental in bolstering Ellison’s fortune. His investments in real estate and other sectors further diversify his wealth.
6. Warren Buffett
Warren Buffett, CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, is sixth on the list with a net worth of $118 billion. Known as the “Oracle of Omaha,” Buffett’s investment acumen has established him as one of the most respected figures in finance. His diversified holdings across various industries continue to yield significant returns.
7. Larry Page
Larry Page, co-founder of Google, holds the seventh position with a net worth of $111 billion. His contributions to technology and innovation through Alphabet Inc., Google’s parent company, have been pivotal in shaping the digital landscape. Page’s investments in futuristic technologies, including autonomous vehicles and artificial intelligence, underscore his forward-thinking vision.
8. Sergey Brin
Sergey Brin, co-founder of Google, ranks eighth with a net worth of $107 billion. Brin’s role in developing Google’s search algorithms and his involvement in Alphabet’s experimental projects have been central to his wealth accumulation. His focus on innovative technologies continues to drive his ventures.
9. Steve Ballmer
Steve Ballmer, former CEO of Microsoft and current owner of the Los Angeles Clippers, is ninth with a net worth of $101 billion. Ballmer’s tenure at Microsoft and his subsequent investments have significantly contributed to his wealth. His involvement in sports and philanthropy highlights his diverse interests.
10. Mukesh Ambani
Mukesh Ambani, chairman and largest shareholder of Reliance Industries, rounds out the top ten with a net worth of $100 billion. Reliance’s ventures in petrochemicals, telecommunications, and retail have been instrumental in Ambani’s wealth accumulation. His strategic initiatives have positioned Reliance as a key player in India’s economic landscape.
Emerging Trends and Notable Changes
The 2025 rankings reflect significant shifts influenced by technological advancements, market dynamics, and strategic business decisions. Notably, Mark Zuckerberg’s rise to the third position underscores the growing impact of the metaverse and virtual reality on global wealth distribution. Additionally, the sustained prominence of technology entrepreneurs highlights the sector’s critical role in wealth creation.
Philanthropy Among the Ultra-Wealthy
Many individuals on the list are also recognized for their philanthropic efforts. For instance, Warren Buffett and Bill Gates have been lauded for their substantial contributions to various causes, including global health and education initiatives. Their commitment to giving back serves as an example within the billionaire community.
