The Waltons: Coronation of Global Family Wealth

The Walton dynasty once again reigns as the richest family in the world, surpassing royal families of the Persian Gulf, luxury fashion brands, and industrial powerhouses. With a remarkable increase in their fortune by 66% compared to the previous year, the heirs of the Walmart empire have a staggering $432 billion. This impressive sum not only solidifies their position at the top of the annual Bloomberg list of the wealthiest families but also exceeds the market value of some US giants like Home Depot, Procter & Gamble, and Netflix. Last year, the Al Nahyans from Abu Dhabi led with $305 billion, but this year they had to yield to the Waltons as their fortune grew to $324 billion – more than $100 billion behind the Waltons. The Al Thanis from Qatar hold third place with a fortune of $173 billion, followed by the French Hermès family with $171 billion. The legendary US industrialists, the Kochs, secure fifth place with an estimated $149 billion. The wealth increase of the Waltons is mainly driven by Sam Walton's three children – Jim, Rob, and Alice. Each of them increased their wealth by $43 billion and is now a member of the exclusive $100 billion club, each possessing over $112 billion. Lukas and Christy Walton complete the wealthy family with estimated fortunes of $40 billion and $18 billion, respectively. In total, the Waltons' wealth has grown by $150 billion, making a significant contribution to the total increase of $407 billion in the fortunes of the 25 richest families. The Waltons owe this financial catch-up primarily to an approximately 80% increase in the stock price of their retail empire. Sam Walton granted each of his four children 20% of Walmart's shares early on. Today, his three surviving children own over 11% of the retail giant, which is now valued at over $750 billion, and they have realized more than $15 billion through stock sales and dividends over the years.