The world’s wealthiest women in 2025 have amassed vast fortunes through business empires, inheritances, and investments. Their wealth spans industries such as retail, cosmetics, technology, and finance. In this article, we explore the 10 richest women in the world in 2025, their sources of wealth, and their impact on the global economy.
Key Takeaways
- The wealthiest women in 2025 come from diverse industries, including retail, beauty, and finance.
- Many of them inherited vast fortunes but have successfully expanded their wealth.
- Several of these women are involved in philanthropy, supporting various global causes.
- The rankings change due to market fluctuations, investments, and business performance.
1. Françoise Bettencourt Meyers – The Beauty Empire Tycoon
Net Worth: $98 billion
Source of Wealth: L’Oréal (Cosmetics)
Françoise Bettencourt Meyers remains the wealthiest woman in the world in 2025. As the heir to the L’Oréal empire, she has significantly expanded the company’s global reach. Her family’s deep investment in beauty and personal care has led to consistent growth, making L’Oréal one of the most valuable brands in the world.
Beyond business, Bettencourt Meyers is an active philanthropist, funding scientific research and environmental initiatives through the Bettencourt Schueller Foundation.
2. Alice Walton – The Retail Giant Heiress
Net Worth: $88 billion
Source of Wealth: Walmart (Retail)
Alice Walton, daughter of Walmart founder Sam Walton, is another dominant name in wealth rankings. Unlike her brothers, who focus on Walmart’s operations, Alice dedicates her time to the arts and philanthropy.
Her Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Arkansas is a major cultural hub, and she has donated billions to educational and healthcare projects. Her stake in Walmart, the world’s largest retailer, continues to generate enormous wealth.
3. Julia Koch – The Industrialist Billionaire
Net Worth: $76 billion
Source of Wealth: Koch Industries (Industrial Conglomerate)
Julia Koch, widow of David Koch, inherited a vast fortune from Koch Industries, one of the largest privately held companies in the U.S. She plays a significant role in expanding the company’s industrial, energy, and manufacturing sectors.
In addition to her business interests, Julia is deeply involved in medical research and philanthropy, supporting hospitals and scientific studies on neurological disorders.
4. Jacqueline Mars – The Sweetest Fortune
Net Worth: $50 billion
Source of Wealth: Mars, Inc. (Food and Confectionery)
Jacqueline Mars, part of the Mars family dynasty, controls one of the biggest confectionery companies in the world. The company, known for brands like M&M’s, Snickers, and Pedigree pet food, generates billions annually.
Beyond chocolates and pet food, she focuses on sustainable agriculture and food innovation, ensuring Mars, Inc. remains a leader in ethical business practices.
5. Miriam Adelson – The Casino and Media Mogul
Net Worth: $46 billion
Source of Wealth: Las Vegas Sands (Casinos & Hotels)
Miriam Adelson inherited Las Vegas Sands Corp. after the passing of her husband, Sheldon Adelson. She has continued to expand the casino empire, focusing on markets in Macau and Singapore.
Additionally, she owns a stake in media and political ventures, exerting influence in both business and public policy. Her philanthropic efforts focus on medical research and education.
6. Savitri Jindal – The Steel Queen of India
Net Worth: $42 billion
Source of Wealth: Jindal Group (Steel & Infrastructure)
Savitri Jindal, India’s richest woman, has successfully led Jindal Group, one of the country’s largest steel and energy conglomerates. Under her leadership, the company has expanded its global presence.
She is also a significant political figure in India, advocating for industrial and social development programs.
7. MacKenzie Scott – The Philanthropic Billionaire
Net Worth: $40 billion
Source of Wealth: Amazon (Technology & Investments)
MacKenzie Scott, former wife of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, has used her wealth for massive philanthropic donations. Over the past few years, she has given away billions to charities, supporting education, healthcare, and social justice initiatives.
Despite her generous donations, her investments have ensured her net worth remains among the highest in the world.
8. Abigail Johnson – The Financial Powerhouse
Net Worth: $39 billion
Source of Wealth: Fidelity Investments (Finance)
As the CEO of Fidelity Investments, Abigail Johnson continues to be a dominant figure in the finance industry. She has expanded Fidelity’s role in digital assets and investment technology, making it a leading financial institution.
Her influence in the finance sector has helped millions of people manage their wealth and retirement savings.
9. Rafaela Aponte-Diamant – The Shipping Magnate
Net Worth: $36 billion
Source of Wealth: MSC (Shipping & Logistics)
Rafaela Aponte-Diamant co-founded Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), one of the world’s largest container shipping companies. Under her leadership, MSC has expanded its global fleet, dominating the transportation and logistics industry.
Her expertise in global trade has made MSC a critical player in worldwide supply chain management.
10. Gina Rinehart – The Mining Billionaire
Net Worth: $35 billion
Source of Wealth: Hancock Prospecting (Mining)
Gina Rinehart is Australia’s richest woman, controlling Hancock Prospecting, a major mining and resources company. She has played a key role in Australia’s mining boom, focusing on iron ore and coal exports.
Her business strategies have led to massive economic growth, making Australia one of the world’s leading resource exporters.
The Impact of Women in Global Wealth
The women on this list not only inherit wealth but also expand and manage their businesses successfully. Their influence extends beyond finances, with major contributions in philanthropy, politics, innovation, and culture.
As the world continues to change, these women prove that leadership, strategic investments, and innovation are key to sustaining and growing wealth.