Forbes Releases 2026 Ranking of the World's Top 10 Richest People
On January 1, 2026, Forbes unveiled its annual ranking of the world's top 10 richest individuals, with the tech industry once again dominating the list.
The Top 10 Richest People in the World
- Elon Musk: With an estimated fortune of €727.5 billion, Musk remains at the top of the list, leaving observers around the world in awe.
- Larry Page: With a fortune of €259.5 billion, Page comes in second, although his wealth has slightly decreased.
- Larry Ellison: With €251.7 billion, Ellison ranks third, maintaining a steady position.
- Jeff Bezos: Bezos' fortune stands at €240.9 billion, placing him fourth, with a slight decrease, but still a very comfortable position.
- Mark Zuckerberg: Zuckerberg's fortune is on the rise, solidifying his place in the top 10, demonstrating the success of Facebook and Meta.
The Concentration of Wealth in the Tech Industry
The concentration of wealth in the tech industry highlights its strategic importance. Innovation is everywhere, acquisitions are frequent, and digital platforms are growing rapidly. As a result, some entrepreneurs have risen to the top of the global financial hierarchy, leaving the rest of us amazed and slightly envious.
European Representation
Bernard Arnault, CEO of LVMH, ranks 7th with a fortune of €193.7 billion, proving that the luxury industry can rival the tech sector. His success demonstrates that luxury goods are not just a whim, but a significant source of wealth, comparable to that of American giants.
The Ever-Changing Nature of Wealth
Forbes reminds us that stock values are constantly fluctuating, and the wealth of these billionaires can change overnight. Since 1987, Forbes has been tracking the most spectacular fortunes on the planet. This 2026 edition highlights the staggering concentration of wealth, with Elon Musk's fortune exceeding twice that of Larry Page, the second-richest person on the list.
The Growing Wealth Gap
These figures shed light on the increasing gap between the ultra-rich and the rest of the world, a topic of debate in economic circles and on social media. Whether you think your bank account is average or not, there's always someone who has it better... or worse, depending on your perspective.