Top 10 Richest Women in the World in 2025

Women have shattered barriers and achieved incredible success across various industries, securing their places among the wealthiest individuals on the planet. The 2025 Forbes list of the richest women in the world highlights ten extraordinary women who have built their fortunes through inheritance, strategic business decisions, and philanthropy. Their wealth spans multiple industries, including cosmetics, retail, shipping, and finance. These women exemplify financial power and success. Here is a detailed look at the ten richest women in the world in 2025.

1. Françoise Bettencourt Meyers - $99.5 Billion

As the richest woman in the world, Françoise Bettencourt Meyers inherited her fortune from her grandfather, Eugène Schueller, the founder of L'Oréal. She and her family own over a third of the cosmetics giant. In addition to serving as the chairwoman of the family holding company, she has played a crucial role in expanding L'Oréal's global presence. Her wealth has grown significantly, solidifying her position as a leading figure in the beauty industry.

2. Alice Walton - $72.3 Billion

The daughter of Walmart founder Sam Walton, Alice Walton's fortune primarily comes from her stake in the world's largest retailer. Unlike her brothers, who are directly involved in Walmart's operations, Alice has focused on the arts. She founded the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville, Arkansas, which houses an impressive collection of American artwork. Her immense wealth continues to grow as Walmart thrives.

3. Julia Koch - $64.3 Billion

Julia Koch inherited her vast fortune from her late husband, David Koch, a co-owner of Koch Industries. She and her three children own a 42% stake in the company, which operates in industries such as chemicals, energy, and manufacturing. Julia is also well-known for her philanthropy, supporting initiatives in health and education.

4. Jacqueline Mars - $38.5 Billion

As an heiress to Mars Inc., the company behind beloved confectionery brands like M&M's and Snickers, Jacqueline Mars owns an estimated one-third of the business. Founded by her grandfather, Frank Mars, the company remains a global leader in the food industry. She has also been actively involved in philanthropy, particularly in education and the arts.

5. MacKenzie Scott - $36.5 Billion

MacKenzie Scott gained her wealth from her divorce settlement with Amazon founder Jeff Bezos. Since then, she has become one of the most influential philanthropists, donating billions of dollars to causes such as education, racial equality, and public health. Her dedication to giving back has set a new standard for billionaires worldwide.

6. Savitri Jindal - $33.5 Billion

Savitri Jindal serves as the chairperson emeritus of the OP Jindal Group, a conglomerate with significant interests in steel, power, and infrastructure. She inherited her wealth from her late husband, Om Prakash Jindal, who founded the company. Under her leadership, the business has continued to grow, making her one of the wealthiest women in India.

7. Rafaela Aponte-Diamant - $33.1 Billion

Rafaela Aponte-Diamant co-founded the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) with her husband, Gianluigi Aponte. MSC is now one of the world's largest shipping companies. Her role in expanding MSC's global operations has made her the richest self-made woman on the Forbes list.

8. Miriam Adelson - $32 Billion

Miriam Adelson inherited her fortune from her late husband, Sheldon Adelson, the founder and CEO of Las Vegas Sands Corporation. With wealth primarily derived from the casino and resort industry, she is also a physician and philanthropist, contributing significantly to medical research and education.

9. Gina Rinehart - $30.8 Billion

As the chairperson of Hancock Prospecting, Gina Rinehart oversees one of Australia's most successful mining companies. She inherited the business from her father, Lang Hancock, and expanded its operations in iron ore and coal. Her strong advocacy for the mining industry has helped her amass a significant fortune.

10. Abigail Johnson - $29 Billion

Abigail Johnson is the CEO of Fidelity Investments, a financial services company founded by her grandfather, Edward C. Johnson II. She has been with the company for over three decades and played a key role in its success. Under her leadership, Fidelity has become one of the world's largest asset management firms, overseeing trillions of dollars in assets.

Conclusion

These ten women have solidified their status as some of the most powerful figures in the world. Whether through inheritance, business acumen, or strategic investments, they have built and sustained immense wealth. As the global economy evolves, these influential women continue to shape industries and redefine financial success.