According to Vanguard, the world’s wealthiest families not only amass staggering fortunes but also wield significant influence across industries and continents. From retail giants to oil dynasties and luxury fashion houses, these families have built empires that define global commerce and culture.
Here’s a closer look at the top 10 richest families in the world in 2024, as ranked by Investopedia, exploring their net worth and business ventures.
Richest Families in the World
1. Al Nahyan Family
- Net Worth: $305 billion
- Industry: Industrial, Diversified Investments
The Al Nahyan family, the ruling and wealthiest family in Abu Dhabi, has amassed its wealth from vast investments in various sectors, including oil, real estate, and finance.
2. Walton Family
- Net Worth: $259.7 billion
- Industry: Consumer Retail (Walmart)
Heirs to the Walmart empire, the Walton family maintains their position through extensive global retail operations.
3. Hermès Family
- Net Worth:$150.9 billion
- Industry: Luxury Fashion
The Hermès family owns the iconic French luxury brand Hermès, known for its high-end fashion and accessories.
4. Mars Family
- Net Worth: $141.9 billion
- Industry: Confectionery, Pet Care
The Mars family is best known for their candy empire, including brands like M&M’s and Snickers, and has diversified into pet care.
5. Al Thani Family
- Net Worth: $133 billion
- Industry: Industrial, Diversified Investments
The Al Thani family, the ruling family of Qatar, derives its wealth primarily from control over Qatar’s vast oil and natural gas reserves, with significant investments in finance, real estate, and infrastructure.
6. Koch Family
- Net Worth: $127.3 billion
- Industry: Diversified Industrial
Owners of Koch Industries, one of the largest private companies in the world, the Koch family has interests spanning multiple sectors.
7. Al Saud Family
- Net Worth: $112 billion
- Industry: Industrial
The Saudi royal family, the Al Sauds, accumulate wealth from their control over Saudi Arabia’s oil reserves and diversified investments across various industries.
8. Ambani Family
- Net Worth: $104.3 billion
- Industry: Diversified Industrial (Reliance Industries)
The Ambani family’s wealth comes from Reliance Industries, with interests in telecommunications, retail, and digital services.
9. Wertheimer Family
- Net Worth: $89.6 billion
- Industry: Luxury Fashion (Chanel)
The Wertheimer family’s wealth mainly comes from their ownership of Chanel, a renowned luxury fashion house. Their successful management and expansion of the brand have significantly contributed to their wealth.
10. Thomson Family
- Net Worth: $71.1 billion
- Industry: Media (Thomson Reuters)
The Thomsons are major players in the media industry through their ownership of Thomson Reuters, providing news and financial market information.