Women in business have proven that they can shatter glass ceilings and make their mark on the global economy. From self-made tech moguls to heirs of global business empires, these women have not only built fortunes but also shaped industries, guided by innovation, strategy, and vision.
Let’s take a closer look at the top 10 women billionaires who have had an immense impact on their respective sectors:
1. Francoise Bettencourt Meyers – L’Oréal (Net Worth: $92.3 billion)
The richest woman in the world, Francoise Bettencourt Meyers, is the granddaughter of Eugène Schueller, the founder of L’Oréal. She inherited the majority of her fortune from her mother, Liliane Bettencourt, who passed away in 2017. Bettencourt Meyers, who chairs L’Oréal, has made significant investments in the company and serves on its board. Aside from her beauty empire, she’s also a philanthropist, supporting various arts and scientific projects.
Notable Facts:
- Owns 33% of L’Oréal
- Actively involved in the family’s philanthropic pursuits
- A renowned author and scholar of Greek mythology
2. Alice Walton – Walmart (Net Worth: $69.3 billion)
Alice Walton is the daughter of Walmart founder Sam Walton. Unlike her brothers, she was never involved in the daily operations of the retail giant but has focused on the arts. She is the founder of the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville, Arkansas. While her fortune largely stems from Walmart, Walton’s passion lies in art curation and philanthropy.
Notable Facts:
- A major art collector
- Crystal Bridges Museum is home to a world-class art collection
- Focused on public art and education initiatives
3. Julia Koch – Koch Industries (Net Worth: $62.2 billion)
After the death of her husband, David Koch, in 2019, Julia Koch inherited his fortune and became one of the wealthiest women in the world. Koch Industries is one of the largest privately-held companies in the U.S., with interests in chemicals, energy, and more. Julia is also involved in various philanthropic activities, supporting education, healthcare, and the arts.
Notable Facts:
- Major shareholder in Koch Industries
- Heavy focus on charitable contributions to education and medical research
4. Miriam Adelson – Las Vegas Sands (Net Worth: $33.4 billion)
Miriam Adelson, a prominent figure in the gaming and entertainment industry, inherited her wealth after the death of her husband, Sheldon Adelson, the founder of Las Vegas Sands Corporation. The company owns casino resorts in locations like Las Vegas and Macau, and Miriam has continued to lead the company and influence its direction. She’s also well known for her philanthropic work in medicine, particularly addiction treatment and research.
Notable Facts:
- Philanthropist in the fields of medical research and addiction recovery
- Involved in political advocacy, particularly in U.S. policy
5. MacKenzie Scott – Amazon (Net Worth: $36 billion)
MacKenzie Scott gained attention after her divorce from Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, but since then, she has become one of the world’s most prominent philanthropists. Scott, who received 25% of the couple’s Amazon stock, has donated billions of dollars to various causes, including racial equity, public health, and education. Her approach to giving is revolutionary, as she is committed to giving away the majority of her wealth in her lifetime.
Notable Facts:
- Known for her philanthropic giving
- Donated more than $14 billion to nonprofits in just 2 years
- A major advocate for equity and inclusion
6. Susanne Klatten – BMW (Net Worth: $31.4 billion)
Susanne Klatten is a major shareholder in BMW, the luxury carmaker, and is the richest woman in Germany. She inherited her fortune from her father, who co-founded the automotive giant. Klatten has diversified her wealth into various sectors, including chemicals and renewable energy, and she holds significant stakes in companies like Altana, a global pharmaceutical company.
Notable Facts:
- Focused on driving sustainability in the car industry
- Also invests in biotechnology and renewable energy
7. Yango Shanshan – Nongfu Spring (Net Worth: $28.4 billion)
Yango Shanshan is the founder of Nongfu Spring, a leading bottled water company in China. The company’s IPO in 2020 made Shanshan one of the richest women in the world. Her rise to success is a remarkable story of entrepreneurship in the beverage industry, and she has expanded her business into tea and health-related drinks.
Notable Facts:
- A self-made billionaire in the beverage sector
- Nongfu Spring is one of China’s largest bottled water producers
8. Kirsten Rausing – Tetra Pak (Net Worth: $23.8 billion)
Kirsten Rausing is a Swedish heiress who inherited her fortune from her grandfather, Ruben Rausing, the founder of Tetra Pak, a packaging company that revolutionized food preservation. Kirsten is one of the wealthiest women in Europe and has diversified her investments into agriculture, real estate, and renewable energy.
Notable Facts:
- Chairwoman of Tetra Laval Group
- Focus on sustainability and food security through her investments
9. Rosa and Maria Rojas – Grupo Lala (Net Worth: $23.7 billion)
Rosa and Maria Rojas are sisters who inherited a major stake in Grupo Lala, Mexico’s largest dairy company. The sisters have grown the company, expanding its footprint across Latin America and the U.S. They are part of the next generation of women entrepreneurs making waves in the Latin American business world.
Notable Facts:
- Largest dairy producer in Mexico
- A significant player in Latin American markets
10. Gina Rinehart – Hancock Prospecting (Net Worth: $21.8 billion)
Gina Rinehart is Australia’s wealthiest woman and one of the richest women in the world. She inherited Hancock Prospecting, a mining company, from her father. Rinehart has grown the company by acquiring additional mining assets and investments, particularly in iron ore. Her influence spans industries from mining to media.
Notable Facts:
- Major player in the Australian mining industry
- Known for her philanthropic efforts, including in education and the arts
These women have not only amassed incredible fortunes, but they’ve also become trailblazers in their industries. Through inheritance or self-made success, they are shaping the future of business and philanthropy, all while using their wealth to leave a positive impact on the world.
